Container recovery system and method

Abstract

A container recovery system configured to receive a batch of used containers, the container recovery system comprising: a first transport apparatus comprising a feed container transport device configured to transport used containers from a feed container opening to a redirection region, a redirection device configured to redirection used containers at the redirection region, the separating and conveying device is configured to convey the used containers from the redirection area to the collecting area; a separation device configured to transport a single used container from the collection area to a receiving area; and a second transport device configured to transport used containers from the receiving area to a sorting unit, where the redirection area is arranged at a position in a first direction a first distance from the feed container opening, and where the redirection area is arranged at a second distance from the feed container opening in a second direction. The feed container transport device is configured to transport used containers from the feed container opening to the redirection region, and the used containers pass through the collection region when viewed from above.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present inventive concept relates to a method and system for receiving a batch of used deposit return containers for recycling or reuse. More particularly, the present inventive concept relates to the field of container recovery systems that are arranged to separate a single used container from a batch of used deposit return containers and to sort the single used container as acceptable or unacceptable. Background Art

[0002] Devices for receiving, identifying and / or sorting objects, such as used beverage or food containers, can be used, for example, in reverse vending machines in supermarkets. Often, these devices receive containers one by one, and the user must therefore feed the containers to the device one by one.

[0003] An example of an apparatus suitable for receiving objects (such as used beverage or food containers) in bulk and transferring them for individual processing is disclosed in EP3481753A1. This patent describes an apparatus comprising: a first receiving area arranged to simultaneously receive and store a plurality of containers; and a second receiving area positioned at a higher vertical height than the first receiving area. The apparatus has a separate conveyor device comprising a container lifting member for conveying the containers from the first receiving area to the second receiving area. The lifting member is attached to the conveyor device and, when the conveyor device is activated, moves along a circumferential path around a first axis (x) and locks to the circumferential path. The first axis (x) is tilted at an angle of 1° to 45° relative to the horizontal. The objects are thus separated into individual objects and can be further conveyed for, for example, recording, counting, evaluation, sorting, storage, or recycling.

[0004] However, these devices may be perceived by the user as being somewhat noisy due to, for example, the jolting and whistling sounds produced by the batches of containers when handled by the separate conveyor.Another problem caused by the jolting and whistling of the containers is that the containers may become deformed, making them more difficult to handle.

[0005] It is desirable to suppress the noise produced by the machine that is perceived by the user.Therefore, there is a need for a less noisy device that is suitable for receiving more than one container simultaneously. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the above, an object of the present inventive concept is to provide a method and an apparatus that solve the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art.

[0007] The inventive concept is defined by the accompanying independent claims, wherein embodiments are set forth in the accompanying dependent claims, the following description and the accompanying drawings.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present inventive concept, there is provided a container recycling system configured to receive a batch of deposit return containers, such as used food containers or beverage containers, through a feed container opening, the container recycling system comprising:

[0009] The first conveying device includes a feed container conveying device, a redirecting device and a separation conveying device, wherein:

[0010] - the feed container transport device is configured to transport the used container from the feed container opening along a feed container path to a redirection area,

[0011] - the diverting device is configured to divert the used container at the diverting area, and

[0012] - the separating and conveying device is configured to convey the used containers from the redirection area to a collection area suitable for collecting the used containers in batches,

[0013] a separation device configured to separate a single used container from the batch of used containers and to transport the single used container from the collection area to a receiving area, the receiving area being positioned at a higher vertical height than the collection area, and

[0014] a second transport device configured to transport the used containers from the receiving area to a sorting unit configured to sort the individual used containers into categories selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unacceptable,

[0015] wherein the sorting unit is further configured to initiate delivery of only used containers that are sorted as accepted for further processing or storage as accepted containers,

[0016] wherein the redirecting area is arranged at a first distance from the feed container opening along a first direction, and wherein the feed container transport device is configured to transport the used container from the feed container opening to the redirecting area and the used container passes through the collection area when viewed from above.

[0017] According to a second aspect, there is provided a container recycling system configured to receive a batch of used deposit return containers, such as used food containers or beverage containers, through a feed container opening, the container recycling system comprising:

[0018] Active feed container conveyor,

[0019] a first path for providing the used containers from the feed container opening to the active feed container conveyor,

[0020] a separation device comprising a reservoir having a collection area suitable for collecting used containers in batches, the separation device being configured to separate a single used container from the batch of used containers and to transport the single used container from the collection area to a receiving area, the receiving area being positioned at a higher vertical height than the collection area,

[0021] a reservoir path for providing the used containers from the active feed container conveyor to the reservoir, and

[0022] a transport device configured to transport the single used container from the receiving area to a sorting unit configured to sort the single used container into a category selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unacceptable, and to start transporting only the used containers classified as accepted for further processing or storage,

[0023] wherein the container recovery system further comprises a redirecting gate movable between a redirecting position and an open position, wherein in the redirecting position the redirecting gate is arranged across the active feed container conveyor, wherein the active feed container conveyor is operable in a first direction to transport the used container received from the first path toward the redirecting gate, and wherein the redirecting gate, when in its redirecting position, deflects the used container from the active feed container conveyor to the storage path when the used container reaches the redirecting gate.

[0024] According to a third aspect, there is provided a container recycling system for processing used deposit return containers, such as used food containers or beverage containers, received in batches, the container recycling system comprising:

[0025] a separation device for separating said used containers received in batches into individual objects,

[0026] A conveying device comprising at least a first conveyor, and

[0027] An object sorting device comprises a sorting unit and a conveyor for conveying objects from the separation device to the sorting unit.

[0028] The container recovery system can operate in at least the following modes:

[0029] a receiving mode in which the conveyor device is configured to receive the used containers at a feed container area of ​​the conveyor device and to transport the used containers to a buffer area of ​​the conveyor device via at least the first conveyor, and

[0030] a separation mode in which the conveying device is configured to transport the used containers from the buffer area to the separation device at least via the first conveyor,

[0031] in

[0032] The first transmitter is a bidirectional transmitter configured to operate in a first direction in the receive mode and in a second direction in the split mode, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

[0033] In the context of this application, a container return system can be any system suitable for collecting, sorting, crushing, compacting, and / or conveying used deposit return containers for recycling or reuse. These containers include used food or beverage containers of any size and material, such as empty beverage bottles and cans, or glasses and / or cups, such as coffee cups, made of materials such as PET, aluminum, tin, or glass. Deposit return containers can be containers eligible for a refund upon return, such as the "Pfand" from Deutsche Depositsysteme GmbH (DPG). Such systems can be used by professional operators, such as those at recycling centers that collect used beverage containers from the restaurant industry. One example of such a system is the device for separating used beverage containers received in batches, as described in EP3481753A1. A container return system can also be a reverse vending machine (RVM), for example, located in a supermarket, where end consumers feed used food and beverage containers into the container return system. Typically, only the front of the container return system (including the feed container area) is visible and accessible to the end consumer, with the back-of-house facilities accessible only to store employees or other authorized personnel. In each system, there is a first conveyor, either active or passive, with which the used container comes into contact after passing through the feed container opening. The feed container area is the portion of the first conveyor that the used container comes into contact after passing through the feed container opening. Therefore, the feed container area is typically designed to receive and support the used container.

[0034] In each system, there is a first active conveyor, which the used container contacts after passing through the feed container opening. This first active conveyor can be, for example, unidirectional or bidirectional. The active feed container area is the portion of the first active conveyor that the used container contacts after passing through the feed container opening. Therefore, the active feed container area is typically designed to receive and support the container.

[0035] The term "used container" should be interpreted as meaning an empty container, for example, after (most of) its contents have been consumed, eaten, disposed of, or otherwise used. Sometimes, a used container is completely empty when it is fed to a container recycling system, while other times, the container is not empty but contains some liquid and / or a certain amount of previous contents. For example, the container contents may have been emptied many times, leaving only a residue that does not readily pour out when poured.

[0036] The container recovery system described herein can also be used to receive other types of recyclable or reusable containers. As a non-limiting example, a container recovery system according to the present invention can be configured to receive used containers for cosmetics, such as shampoo bottles and / or paint containers and / or chemical containers, and / or any other type of consumer or professional product containers.

[0037] The concept of the present invention is based at least in part on the following: a longer path from the feed container area to the collection area enables a more orderly and reliable supply of used containers to the collection area and the separation device. The used containers can be distributed more widely on the first conveying device. As a result, the batches of used containers received by the container recovery system at the feed container area do not arrive at the collection area at the same time. Therefore, compared with a configuration in which the used containers are directly received in the collection area, fewer used containers may be present in the collection area at the same time. This reduces the risk of used containers clogging up in the collection area and / or in the separation device. In addition, the long path reduces the noise generated by the separation device because fewer used containers in the collection area cause less container chaos during separation.

[0038] The container recovery system according to the first, second or third aspects enables such a long path to the separation device while allowing a limited footprint for the system. This advantageously allows personnel to easily access different parts of the system for maintenance or cleaning.

[0039] By "large quantity," it is meant that the container return system is capable of receiving more than one used container simultaneously, and preferably, the used containers can be of various shapes and sizes, such as cans, substantially cylindrical, square, or odd-shaped bottles or containers, TetraPak containers, and the like. Furthermore, the used containers can be made of different materials, such as plastic, paper, metal, or glass, or a combination thereof. The container return system can be adapted to handle all or some of the different standard sizes of containers in different countries; and is preferably configured to handle only a predetermined list of containers; if other containers are input, they will preferably be treated as foreign objects after inspection. For example, the system may be able to handle a mixture of 33 cl and 50 cl aluminum cans, as well as 33 cl, 50 cl, and 1.5 L PET bottles.

[0040] In relation to the present inventive concept, the expression "a container recovery system is adapted or configured to process a specific type of container" means that the container recovery system is adapted or configured to receive, transport and process the specific type of container. It should be understood that a container recovery system that processes a specific type of container is adapted or configured to receive, transport and process the specific type of container.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the diameter or width of the used containers that the container recovery system is configured to process and that are received and transported by the container recovery system is at least 20 mm or at least 50 mm, and / or at most 150 mm, or at most 200 mm, or at most 350 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the height (i.e., the longest side) of the used containers that the container recovery system is configured to process and that are received and transported by the container recovery system is at least 50 mm, or at least 75 mm and / or at most 200 mm, or at most 380 mm, or at most 500 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the weight of the used containers that the container recovery system is configured to process and that are received and transported by the container recovery system is at least 10 g, and / or at most 500 g, or at most 3 kg, or at most 5 kg. Additionally or alternatively, the volume of used containers that the container recovery system is configured to process and that are received and transported by the container recovery system is at least 10 ml, or at least 50 ml, or at least 100 ml and / or at most 3 L, or at most 5 L, or at most 8 L.

[0042] In some embodiments, the height (ie, longest side) of the smallest used container processed by the recycling system is less than the diameter of the largest used container processed by the container recycling system.

[0043] The expression "the used container is transported from the feed container area to the redirecting area and the used container passes through the collection area when viewed from above" means that when the collection area is orthogonally projected onto a vertical plane passing through the feed container area and the redirecting area, the projection lies between the feed container area and the redirecting area. In other words, the orthogonal projection of the collection area onto a line passing through the feed container area and the redirecting area lies between the feed container area and the redirecting area. In other words, when transported from the feed container area to the redirecting area, the used container passes through a vertical plane that passes through the collection area and is orthogonal to the first direction.

[0044] It should be noted that although the feed container path may partially or completely coincide with the first direction, the feed container path may also differ from the first direction, and at least a portion of the feed container path may deviate from the first direction. The feed container path may be straight, curved, or take any other shape.

[0045] By positioning the receiving area at a higher vertical height than the collection area, it is meant that the main part of the receiving area is arranged above the collection area. Thus, when used containers are transported from the collection area to the receiving area by the separation device, the used containers are transported from a lower vertical height to a higher vertical height. The height difference between the collection area and the receiving area may be at least 0.2 m, or at least 0.4 m, or at least 0.6 m, or at least 0.8 m, or at least 1.2 m, or at least 1.5 m. Additionally or alternatively, the height difference between the collection area and the receiving area may be at most 0.6 m, or at most 0.8 m, or at most 1 m, or at most 1.2 m, or at most 1.5 m, or at most 1.7 m, or at most 2 m. Additionally or alternatively, the height difference between the collection area and the receiving area may be between 900 mm and 1100 mm, or between 800 mm and 1200 mm, or between 500 mm and 2000 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the receiving area may be arranged at least 0.8 m, or at least 1.0 m, or at least 1.1 m, or at least 1.2 m, or at least 1.4 m, or at least 1.6 m, or at least 1.8 m above the floor. Additionally or alternatively, the receiving area may be arranged at most 2.2 m, or at most 2.0 m, or at most 1.8 m, or at most 1.6 m, or at most 1.4 m, or at most 1.2 m above the floor.

[0046] Typically, used containers are fed into / received by the container return system at a height that is typically selected to be easily accessible to the public. The height of the feed container area may be suitable for being reached by a person in a wheelchair.

[0047] Used containers classified as acceptable by the classification unit can be transported to a storage container. Alternatively, used containers classified as acceptable by the classification unit can be transported to different storage containers depending on the material and / or type of the container used. Alternatively, the used containers can be devalued before being transported to the storage container. For example, the used containers can be compacted and / or crushed before being transported to the storage container. Therefore, the container recycling system according to the first, second, or third aspects can optionally include a devalue device for devaluing the used containers.

[0048] In the following, some embodiments and further advantages related to the first, second and third aspects of the present invention will be discussed. Unless otherwise stated and as long as they are compatible, these embodiments and advantages apply to all aspects of the present invention.

[0049] In some embodiments, the feed container conveyor, the redirecting device and / or the separation conveyor all include a conveying device selected from the group consisting of an active conveyor, a slide, a free fall path and combinations thereof. Examples of active conveyors are belt conveyors, such as a V-conveyor (in which two belts are arranged in a V shape) and a flatbed conveyor (in which items can be conveyed by a movable belt or the like). A bidirectional conveyor is an embodiment of an active conveyor, and there are also unidirectional active conveyors as shown herein. The conveying devices can be arranged at substantially the same height (vertical height) or at different heights; and the feeding can be performed at substantially the same height; or from one height to a substantially different height, wherein the height difference is at least 0.2 m, or at least 0.4 m, or at least 0.6 m, or at least 0.8 m, or at least 1.2 m, or at least 1.5 m. Additionally or alternatively, the height difference may be at most 0.6 m, or at most 0.8 m, or at most 1 m, or at most 1.2 m, or at most 1.5 m, or at most 1.7 m, or at most 2 m.

[0050] In some embodiments, the feed container transport device is configured to transport the used container from the feed container opening to the redirection area and the used container passes the separation device when viewed from above. Additionally or alternatively, the feed container transport device is configured to transport the used container from the feed container opening via the feed container area to the redirection area.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first transport device comprises an active conveyor device having at least one active conveyor, wherein the active conveyor device forms at least a part of the feed container transport arrangement.

[0052] In some embodiments, the feed container transport includes a conveyor or first conveyor having a feed container area for receiving and supporting the used container received through the feed container opening.

[0053] In some embodiments, the transport of the used container along the feed container path also includes: transporting the container from the feed container opening via the active feed container area to the redirection area, and the feed container transport device includes an active conveyor device having at least one active conveyor, which is configured to transport the container along the feed container path or along at least a portion of the feed container path, and is configured to transport the container from the active feed container area to the redirection area.

[0054] In some embodiments, the sorting unit is configured to sort the single used container into a category selected from the group consisting of accepted, rejected, and unidentified.

[0055] The classification unit is further configured to:

[0056] - starting to transport used containers classified as rejected via a buffer area to a reject area, which is optionally partially or completely identical to said feed container area or said active feed container area, and

[0057] - Starting to transport used containers classified as unidentified to said collection area, optionally via said buffer area.

[0058] The sorting unit can positively identify used containers as used containers that cannot be processed by the container recycling system. These used containers are classified as rejected by the sorting unit and transported to a rejection area. According to one embodiment, the rejected used containers are transported back to the user; alternatively, the rejected used containers are transported back to a storage area.

[0059] A configuration where the reject area is partially or completely identical to the feed container area may allow for a simpler and / or more compact system. In contrast, a configuration where the reject area is separate from the feed container area requires additional transport means to transport the used containers to the separate reject area.

[0060] The reject area can be accessible to a user to allow the user to pick up used containers classified as rejected from the reject area. For example, in a configuration where the reject area is the same as the feed container area or the active feed container area, the reject area can be accessible to the user through the feed container opening. In a configuration where the reject area is different from the feed container area or the active feed container area, the reject area can be accessible to the user through a different opening of the container recovery system that is separate from the feed container opening.

[0061] By conveying the used containers classified as rejected to the reject area via the buffer area, the reverse vending machine can continue to operate before the rejected used containers are conveyed to the reject area.

[0062] Some used containers may not be recognized by the sorting unit. That is, the sorting unit cannot positively identify the used container as accepted or rejected, but rather classifies it as unrecognized. The unrecognized used containers are then transported back to the collection area to be transported again to the receiving area and further to the sorting unit.

[0063] Sorting may optionally include establishing a recycling value for each container accepted, which is awarded to the user in return for the container being collected by the container recycling system. The recycling value may be established, for example, by reading a code printed on or emitted from the container.

[0064] In some embodiments, the collection region is disposed at a second distance from the redirection region along a second direction that is substantially opposite to the first direction and / or wherein the second direction forms an acute angle with the first direction.

[0065] It should be noted that while the path between the redirecting region and the collection region may substantially or completely coincide with the second direction, the path from the redirecting region to the collection region may also differ from the second direction, and at least a portion of the path from the redirecting region to the collection region may deviate from the second direction. The path from the redirecting region to the collection region may be straight, curved, or take any other shape.

[0066] Alternatively, the separate conveying device may be configured to convey the used containers from the redirecting area to the collection area along a path following the second direction.

[0067] The second direction being substantially opposite to the first direction and / or forming an acute angle with the first direction is advantageous because it reduces the footprint of the system, at least in a horizontal direction orthogonal to the first direction. This may also provide easier access to different parts of the system for cleaning and / or maintenance purposes.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the first transport device comprises an active conveyor device comprising at least one bidirectional conveyor operable in forward and backward directions,

[0069] wherein the active conveyor device is arranged to receive used containers transported along the feed container path, and the active conveyor device arrangement is further configured to:

[0070] transporting the used container to the redirection area by operating the bi-directional conveyor in the forward direction, and

[0071] The used containers are transported from the redirection area to the collection area by operating the bi-directional conveyor in the rearward direction.

[0072] This provides a system that is simple and easy to implement.

[0073] An active transmitter that can only operate in one direction may be referred to as a unidirectional transmitter.

[0074] In some embodiments, the active conveyor device comprises at least one bidirectional conveyor operable in a forward and a backward direction, wherein the active conveyor device also forms part of the redirecting device and part of the separator device, such that the active conveyor device is arranged upstream of the redirecting area to receive used containers transported along the feed container path, and the active conveyor device is further configured to:

[0075] transporting the used container to the redirection area by operating the bidirectional conveyor in the forward direction,

[0076] redirecting the used container at the redirection area by switching operation of the bidirectional conveyor from the forward direction to the rearward direction, and

[0077] The used containers are transported from the redirection area to the collection area by operating the bi-directional conveyor in the rearward direction.

[0078] In other words, the bidirectional conveyor can at least partially perform the function of a feed container conveyor when operating in a forward direction, perform the function of a redirector when switching operation from the forward direction to the rearward direction, and perform the function of a separator conveyor when operating in the rearward direction.

[0079] In some embodiments, the container recovery system includes a bidirectional redirector conveyor operable in a forward and backward direction, the bidirectional redirector conveyor forming part of the redirecting device, part of the feed container conveying device, and part of the separation conveying device; the active conveyor device of the feed container conveying device is configured to convey the container from the active feed container area to the redirecting area when the bidirectional redirector conveyor is operated in the forward direction, and the separation conveying device includes an active conveyor device configured to convey the container from the redirecting area to the collection area or to a passive conveyor configured to convey the container to the collection area when the bidirectional redirector conveyor is operated in the backward direction. The active conveyor device of the feed container conveying device and the active conveyor device of the separation conveying device are optionally the same.

[0080] In some embodiments, the active conveyor apparatus includes at least one pre-conveyor configured to receive used containers transported along the feed container path and to convey the used containers to the bi-directional conveyor. This provides for better control of used beverage containers along the feed container path.

[0081] In some embodiments, the active conveyor device includes at least one front conveyor that forms part of the feed container conveying device and is configured to receive used containers conveyed along the feed container path upstream of the bidirectional conveyor and convey the used containers to the bidirectional conveyor.

[0082] In some embodiments, the active conveyor device of the feed container transport apparatus includes at least one pre-conveyor including the active feed container area and configured to transport the used containers from the active feed container area to the bi-directional redirector.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the front conveyor can be operated at a first speed and the bidirectional conveyor can be operated at a second speed. The second speed can be higher than the first speed to increase the distribution of used containers on the bidirectional conveyor.

[0084] The front conveyor and the bidirectional conveyor can be arranged at the same height (vertical height) or at different heights.

[0085] In some embodiments, the feed container transport device comprises an active conveyor apparatus having at least one active conveyor, the separation transport device comprises at least one active or passive conveyor, and

[0086] The path of at least one active conveyor of the active conveyor device and the path of at least one active conveyor or passive conveyor of the separation conveying device are spatially separated from each other, so that the first conveying device is suitable for simultaneously conveying used containers from the feeding container area to the redirecting area and from the redirecting area to the collection area.

[0087] This configuration enables a continuous supply of used containers to the container return system, in contrast to the bidirectional system described above, in which the user of the container return system has to wait for the conveyor to move in the forward direction before he can supply more containers to the receiving area, for example when the machine indicates that it is busy with already received containers and / or when the machine indicates that no more containers can currently be received via the inlet area, for example because the input fill level has been reached.

[0088] In some embodiments, the first conveying device includes an active conveyor device having at least one active conveyor, wherein the active conveyor device forms at least a part of the feed container conveying device, the separation conveying device includes at least one active conveyor or a passive conveyor, and the path of the at least one active conveyor of the active conveyor device and the path of the at least one active conveyor or the passive conveyor of the separation conveying device are spatially separated from each other, so that the first conveying device is suitable for simultaneously conveying used containers from the feed container area to the redirection area and from the redirection area to the feed container area.

[0089] In some embodiments, the first transport device includes a recycling conveyor device configured to receive used containers in the buffer area and transport the received used containers to the reject area.

[0090] The recovery conveyor device may optionally include a bidirectional conveyor, and the active conveyor device and the recovery conveyor device may optionally be completely or partially identical. In a configuration in which the recovery conveyor device and the active conveyor device are partially or completely identical, fewer conveyors are required. This allows used containers to be returned to the user at a rejection area that partially or completely overlaps with the feed container area. This results in a simpler front and / or interface with the user. The container recovery system can receive and further process used containers until the user no longer has used containers to feed into the system, and only then is the rejected used container returned to the user.

[0091] In a configuration where the recycle conveyor device and the active conveyor device are partially or completely identical, the recycle conveyor device / active conveyor device may comprise at least one bidirectional conveyor.

[0092] In some embodiments, the recycling conveyor device and the active conveyor device are different. Therefore, the recycling conveyor device can be a single conveyor device including a buffer area. Therefore, used containers classified as rejected can be pushed, sent or otherwise transported to the buffer area of ​​the recycling conveyor device. The recycling conveyor device can be arranged at the same vertical height as the active conveyor device, for example, close to and / or parallel to the active conveyor device. The recycling conveyor device can be arranged on the same side of the separation device as the active conveyor device, or on the opposite side of the active conveyor device from the active conveyor device. The recycling conveyor device can be arranged at a vertical height different from the active conveyor device, for example, above or below the active conveyor device.

[0093] In some embodiments, the first transport device includes a set of bidirectional conveyors arranged in sequence.

[0094] In some embodiments, the active conveyor apparatus of the first transport apparatus comprises a set of bidirectional conveyors arranged in sequence.

[0095] In some embodiments, the active conveyor apparatus of the feed container transport device comprises a set of bi-directional conveyors arranged in sequence.

[0096] In some embodiments, the active conveyor device of the separation transport device includes a set of bidirectional conveyors arranged in sequence.

[0097] Thereby, a good control of the flow of used containers is provided in both directions of the bidirectional conveyor, eg in the forward and backward direction.

[0098] The continuous bi-directional conveyors of the active conveyor apparatus may be operated at different speeds, for example to control the distribution of used containers on the conveyor.

[0099] In some embodiments, the first transport apparatus further comprises a separator door movable between at least a first position and a second position,

[0100] In the first position of the separator door, the used containers are not restricted from being transported between the feed container area and the redirection area, and the door prevents the used containers from reaching the collection area, and

[0101] In the second position of the separator door, the used containers are not restricted from transporting between the redirecting area and the collection area, and wherein the door prevents the used containers from reaching the feed container area from the redirecting area.

[0102] In some embodiments, the separation and conveying device also includes a separator door that can be moved between at least a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position of the separator door, the used containers are not restricted from being conveyed between the active feeding container area and the redirecting area, and the door prevents the used containers from reaching the collection area, and in the second position of the separator door, the used containers are not restricted from being conveyed between the redirecting area and the collection area, and wherein the door prevents the used containers from reaching the feeding container area from the redirecting area.

[0103] Thus, precise control is provided when used containers are transported to the collection area. It is also prevented that used containers are mistakenly transported back to the feed container area. This separator door can further facilitate that the used container to be transported from the redirection area to the collection area is transported partially along the same path as the container is transported from the feed container area to the redirection area. For example, the first conveying device may include one, two or more bidirectional conveyors for transporting used containers from the feed container area to the redirection area in a forward direction when the separator door is in its first position. In the second position of the separator door, the separator door can be arranged to span the bidirectional conveyor so that the used container transported from the redirection area in a backward direction by the bidirectional conveyor is deflected to the collection area when it contacts the separator door. The separator door is usually arranged to span the last bidirectional conveyor of the separator conveying device, that is, the bidirectional conveyor arranged closest to the collection area.

[0104] In some embodiments, the first conveying device further comprises a buffer door having at least a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position of the buffer door, used containers arranged in the buffer area are prevented from leaving the buffer area, and in the second position of the buffer door, the used containers are not restricted from moving from the buffer area to the collection area and / or the rejection area.

[0105] This provides precise control over the transport of used containers to and from the buffer area. This buffer gate further enables greater control over the transported containers. For example, the buffer area can be located at one end of a feed container conveyor system comprising one or a series of conveyors (with the feed container area located at the other end of the feed container conveyor system). Alternatively, all or some of the rejected containers can be transported from the inspection area to the buffer area for further inspection. In the first position of the buffer gate, the buffer gate can be arranged across the conveyors of the feed container conveyor system, with the buffer area on one side of the buffer gate. This has the dual effect of preventing used containers from being transported from the feed container area to the buffer area by the feed container conveyor system, and also preventing any used containers in the buffer area from leaving the buffer area. In this position, the buffer gate allows containers in the feed container area to reach the redirection area, allowing recently received containers to be processed while previously received containers (which have preferably already been inspected) are contained in the buffer area.

[0106] In some embodiments, a buffer gate forms part of the diverting device. For example, in its first position, the buffer gate can be arranged across the conveyor of the feed container conveyor so that used containers conveyed along the feed container path are diverted toward the separation conveyor upon reaching the buffer gate. Such a buffer gate can be referred to as a diverting gate.

[0107] In some embodiments, the buffer gate does not form part of the redirecting device. For example, the first conveying device may include a buffer gate and a single redirecting gate. This may be advantageous in configurations where the recovery conveyor device and the active conveyor device are different.

[0108] In some embodiments, the separation device comprises at least one container lifting member for transporting used containers from the collecting area to the receiving area along a curved separation path, wherein the container lifting member is preferably arranged on an inner side of the curved separation path.

[0109] The container lifting member may be sized to accommodate transporting used containers of various sizes and shapes.

[0110] The curved separation path enables good control of the used containers transported by the separation device while maintaining a low footprint of the reverse vending machine.

[0111] In some embodiments, the first path and the reservoir path each comprise a conveying device selected from the group consisting of an active conveyor, a slide, a free-fall path, and combinations thereof.

[0112] In some embodiments, the delivery device of the reservoir path is made of the same material as the reservoir.The delivery device may partially or completely form an integral part of the reservoir.

[0113] In some embodiments, the final displacement of the single used container when transported from the collection area to the receiving area has a vertical component and at least a first lateral component, the first lateral component being substantially orthogonal to the first direction, and

[0114] The reservoir path is arranged to provide the used container to the reservoir at an input side of the reservoir, which input side is arranged in front of the collection area along the direction of the first lateral component.

[0115] In other words, the input side and the receiving area are on different sides of a vertical plane passing through the collecting area and parallel to the first direction (ie orthogonal to the first lateral component).

[0116] In some embodiments, the final displacement of the single used container when transported from the collection area to the receiving area has a vertical component and at least a first lateral component, the first lateral component being substantially orthogonal to the first direction, and

[0117] The reservoir path is arranged to provide the used container to the reservoir at an input side of the reservoir, which input side is arranged behind the collection area in the direction of the first lateral component.

[0118] In other words, the input side and the receiving area are on the same side of a vertical plane passing through the collecting area and parallel to the first direction (ie orthogonal to the first lateral component).

[0119] In some embodiments, the conveying device comprises a set of bidirectional conveyors arranged in sequence, wherein the bidirectional conveyors are optionally flat conveyors, preferably having a width of 250 mm to 500 mm.

[0120] This provides good control of the used containers.This further allows the used containers to be distributed by operating the continuous bi-directional conveyor at different speeds.

[0121] In some embodiments, the conveying apparatus includes a set of bidirectional conveyors arranged at different heights.

[0122] Thus, the container recovery system can receive used containers while in the separation mode.

[0123] In some embodiments, each transmitter in the set of bi-directional transmitters is independently operable.

[0124] This allows for design freedom and, for example, makes it possible to design a system in which, by running at least two conveyors in the same direction but at different speeds, the distribution of containers is facilitated both when the conveyors are running forward and when they are running backward. Furthermore, the system makes it possible to transport objects at one speed in one direction while simultaneously transporting them at another speed in the opposite direction.

[0125] In some embodiments, the separation device is configured to transport the single objects to the object sorting device,

[0126] The object classification unit is configured to classify the single object into a category selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unacceptable, and

[0127] The sorting device is further configured to initiate transport of the individual objects that are sorted as unacceptable to a buffer area of ​​the conveyor device.

[0128] In more detail, the sorting device can be configured to start transporting some or all of the objects classified as unacceptable to the buffer area. The unacceptable classification can, for example, include one, two or all of the subgroups of rejected, to be rejected, unidentified and the like.

[0129] The arrangement according to the above has the advantage that, instead of feeding the containers directly to a recycling opening or recycling bin, the containers can be fed to a buffer area and thereafter to a separator for re-sorting at a sorting unit, if, for example, the image of the container is not clear enough for a camera to determine whether the container is valid, and if an optional further check is also positive, a reward is given to the user, or the container is deemed invalid and returned to the user or stored as invalid or unrecognized or similar.

[0130] According to one embodiment, items classified as accepted are stored as accepted containers, while items not classified as accepted are removed, stored as unidentified items, or returned to the user.

[0131] In some embodiments, the separation device and optionally the conveyor are configured to convey the used containers to the sorting unit at a higher level than the buffer area of ​​the transfer device.

[0132] In other words, the sorting unit is arranged at a higher level than the buffer area of ​​the sorting device.

[0133] In some embodiments, the container recovery system is further operable in a reject mode, in which the conveyor apparatus is configured to transport the used containers to a reject area, which is optionally partially or completely identical to the feed container area.

[0134] In some embodiments, the container recovery system is configured to start a timer upon entering the separation mode, the timer being reset each time the object sorting unit sorts an object as accepted, and

[0135] The container recovery system is configured to switch from the detach mode to the reject mode when the timer exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0136] In other words, if a predetermined time interval has elapsed without the classification unit classifying an object as accepted, it can be assumed that only unacceptable objects remain.

[0137] The above arrangement is advantageous because it enables the system to stop processing received items if too many foreign objects have been fed to the system.

[0138] In some embodiments, the conveying apparatus further comprises a separator door having at least a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position of the separator door, the used containers are not restricted from moving between the feed container area and the buffer area, and wherein the separator door prevents the used containers from reaching the separation apparatus, and

[0139] In the second position of the separator door, the used containers are not restricted from moving between the conveyor device and the separation device, and wherein the separator door prevents the used containers from reaching the feed container area from the buffer area of ​​the conveyor device.

[0140] In some embodiments, the container recovery system further comprises a control unit configured to control the speed and / or direction of each bi-directional conveyor of the conveyor apparatus.

[0141] In some embodiments, the container recovery system further comprises a control unit configured to control a speed and / or direction of each conveyor in the conveying apparatus, the first conveying apparatus, and / or the second conveying apparatus.

[0142] In some embodiments, the set of bidirectional conveyors includes a first bidirectional conveyor and a second bidirectional conveyor, and the second bidirectional conveyor is configured to operate at a higher speed than the first bidirectional conveyor in the receiving mode and / or the separating mode, so that used containers transferred from the first bidirectional conveyor to the second bidirectional conveyor are spaced farther apart from each other on the second bidirectional conveyor than on the first bidirectional conveyor.

[0143] According to a fourth aspect of the present inventive concept, there is provided a method for processing a deposit return container, such as a used food container or beverage container, by a container recycling system, the container recycling system comprising:

[0144] The first conveying device includes a feed container conveying device, a redirecting device and a separation conveying device,

[0145] Separation equipment,

[0146] a second transport device, and

[0147] taxonomic units,

[0148] The method comprises the following steps:

[0149] - receiving used containers in batches at the feed container area,

[0150] - transporting the used containers from the feed container area along a feed container path to a redirection area by the feed container transport device,

[0151] - redirecting the used container at the redirection area by means of the redirecting device,

[0152] - transporting the used containers from the diversion area to a collection area suitable for collecting the used containers in batches by means of the separating transport device,

[0153] - separating single used containers from the batch of containers by means of the separation device and transporting the single used containers by means of the separation device from the collection area to a receiving area, the receiving area being located at a higher vertical height than the collection area,

[0154] - transporting the used containers to the sorting unit by means of the second transport device,

[0155] - sorting said single used container into a category selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unacceptable by said sorting unit,

[0156] - start shipping through said sorting unit only when the used containers are sorted as accepted for further processing or storage,

[0157] wherein the redirecting area is arranged at a first distance from the feeding container area along a first direction, and

[0158] The step of transporting the used containers from the feed container area along a feed container path to the redirection area by the feed container transport device includes transporting the used containers past the collection area when viewed from above.

[0159] In some embodiments, the method includes receiving used containers in batches at the feed container area through a feed container opening, and transporting the used containers from the feed container opening along the feed container path to the redirection area via the feed container transport device.

[0160] In some embodiments of the method, the first transport device may comprise an active conveyor device having at least one active conveyor, wherein the active conveyor device forms at least a part of the feed container transport arrangement.

[0161] In some embodiments of the method, the method includes receiving used containers in batches at the feed container area through a feed container opening, and transporting the used containers from the feed container opening along a feed container path via an active feed container area to the redirection area through the feed container transport device, wherein the feed container transport device includes an active conveyor device having at least one active conveyor, which is configured to transport the containers along the feed container path or along at least a portion of the feed container path, and is configured to transport the containers from the active feed container area to the redirection area.

[0162] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a method for controlling a container recovery system, the method comprising:

[0163] a receiving step comprising controlling the conveyor device to transport the used containers received in batches at the feed container area toward the buffer area of ​​the conveyor device, and comprising driving the first conveyor in the first direction, and

[0164] The separation step comprises:

[0165] controlling the conveyor device to transport the used containers to the separation device to be separated into individual objects, and comprising driving the first conveyor in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and

[0166] The separation device is controlled to transport the single object to the conveyor.

[0167] The above description of the container recovery systems of the first, second, and third aspects can also be applied to the methods according to the fourth and fifth aspects. Therefore, the methods according to the fourth and fifth aspects can be suitably performed using the container recovery systems described in conjunction with the first, second, and / or third aspects. It should be understood that any features, embodiments, and advantages of the first, second, and third aspects can be implemented in the methods according to the fourth or fifth aspects of the present invention, as long as they are compatible with the methods.

[0168] In some embodiments, the method further comprises the following steps:

[0169] - sorting said single used container by said sorting unit into a category selected from the group consisting of accepted, rejected and unrecognized,

[0170] - starting the transport of used containers classified as rejected by the sorting unit via a buffer area to a reject area, which may optionally be partially or completely identical to the feed container area or the active feed container area, and

[0171] - Initiating the transport of used containers classified as unidentified to the collection area by the sorting unit, optionally via the buffer area.

[0172] In some embodiments, the feed container transport device comprises an active conveyor apparatus having at least one active conveyor, the separation transport device comprises at least one active conveyor or a passive conveyor, and

[0173] the path of the at least one active conveyor of the active conveyor device and the path of the at least one active conveyor or passive conveyor of the separation transport device are spatially separated from one another,

[0174] And the method further comprises the steps of simultaneously carrying out the transport of used containers from the feed container area to the redirection area and the transport of used containers from the redirection area to the collection area.

[0175] In some embodiments, the first transport apparatus comprises an active conveyor apparatus including at least one bi-directional conveyor operable in forward and reverse directions, the method further comprising the steps of:

[0176] receiving, by the active conveyor device, used containers conveyed along the feed container path,

[0177] operating the bi-directional conveyor in the forward direction to transport the used containers to the redirection area, and

[0178] The bi-directional conveyor is operated in the rearward direction to transport the used containers from the redirection area to the collection area.

[0179] In some embodiments, the active conveyor apparatus comprises at least one bidirectional conveyor operable in forward and reverse directions, wherein the active conveyor apparatus further forms part of the redirecting device and part of the separating conveying device, the method further comprising the steps of:

[0180] - receiving, by the active conveyor device, used containers conveyed along the feed container path upstream of the redirection zone,

[0181] - operating the bidirectional conveyor in the forward direction to transport the used containers to the redirection area,

[0182] - redirecting the used container at the redirection area by switching operation of the bidirectional conveyor from the forward direction to the rearward direction, and

[0183] - operating the bidirectional conveyor in the rearward direction to transport the used containers from the redirection area to the collection area.

[0184] In some embodiments, the container recovery system includes a bidirectional redirector conveyor operable in forward and reverse directions, the bidirectional redirector conveyor forming part of the redirecting device, part of the feed container conveyor and part of the separation conveyor, and

[0185] The separation and transport device includes an active conveyor device,

[0186] The method further includes:

[0187] When the bidirectional redirector is operated in the forward direction, the active conveyor device of the feed container transport device transports the container from the active feed container area to the redirection area, and

[0188] When the bidirectional redirector is operated in the rearward direction, the containers are conveyed from the redirecting area to the collection area by the active conveyor device of the separate conveyor, or to a passive conveyor configured to convey the containers to the collection area,

[0189] Wherein, the active conveyor device of the feed container conveying device and the active conveyor device of the separation conveying device can optionally be the same.

[0190] In some embodiments, the method further comprises a classification step, the classification step comprising:

[0191] controlling the conveyor to convey the single object to the object sorting unit,

[0192] controlling the classification unit to classify the single object into a category selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unaccepted, and

[0193] The sorting device is controlled to start conveying the single object sorted as unacceptable to the buffer area of ​​the conveyor device.

[0194] In some embodiments, the method further comprises:

[0195] The step of determining the time that has elapsed since a single object was classified as accepted by the object classification unit, and when the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined threshold, controlling the conveyor device to transport the used container to a reject area, which is optionally partially or completely the same as the feed container area. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0196] The inventive concept, some non-limiting embodiments and further advantages of the inventive concept will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0197] Figure 1a is a perspective view showing portions of a container recovery system involved in the transport and handling of used deposit return containers, the perspective view primarily showing the rear side and a first lateral side of the machine.

[0198] Figure 1b It shows that Figure 1a A perspective view of parts of the same container recovery system is shown, the perspective view primarily showing a second lateral side of the machine and the rear side of the machine.

[0199] Figure 1c It shows Figure 1a and Figure 1b A top view of some portions of a container recovery system is shown.

[0200] Figure 1d It shows that Figures 1a to 1c A perspective view of the working principle of the same container recovery system shown in FIG. Figure 1a The perspective view is the same.

[0201] Figure 1e It shows that Figures 1a to 1d A perspective view of the same container recovery system is shown, wherein, for example, the front panel of the reservoir is not shown in this view.

[0202] Figure 2 The relative positions of the feed container area or feed container opening 3 , the redirecting area 8 and the collecting area 9 in the system 1 according to the inventive concept are schematically shown as seen from above.

[0203] Figure 3 A perspective view of a second embodiment of a system according to the inventive concept is shown.

[0204] Figure 4 A perspective view of a third embodiment of a system according to the inventive concept is shown.

[0205] Figure 5 A perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a system according to the inventive concept is shown.

[0206] Figure 6 A perspective view of a system according to the inventive concept is shown.

[0207] Figure 7 A perspective view is shown of another embodiment of a system according to the inventive concept.

[0208] Figure 8 A perspective view is shown of another embodiment of a system according to the inventive concept. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0209] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some embodiments of the present invention are shown. However, the present invention can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The skilled artisan will recognize that features of different embodiments may be combined to advantage as long as they are compatible.

[0210] Figures 1a to 1e Different views of a container recovery system 1 are shown, which is configured to receive a batch of used deposit return containers or used containers through a feed container opening 15. The container recovery system includes a first conveying device 4, which includes feed container conveying devices 3, 5, 16, a redirecting device 20, and a separating conveying device 7, 18. The feed container conveying devices 3, 16 are configured to transport the used containers along a feed container path ( Figure 1d A, B in FIG) are transported from the feed container opening 15 via the feed container area 3 to the redirection area 8. The active feed container area is arranged at the upstream end of the active feed container conveyor 16, i.e. Figure 1b The active feed container conveyor is shown at the left end, as this is where the object first comes into contact with the active conveyor.

[0211] The diverting device 20 is configured to divert the used containers at the diverting area 8 , and the separating and conveying devices 7 , 18 are configured to convey the used containers from the diverting area 8 to an uptake area 9 suitable for collecting used containers in batches.

[0212] The container recycling system also includes a separation device 10, which is configured to separate a single used container from the batch of used containers and is configured to transport the single used container from the collection area 9 to a receiving area 11, and the receiving area 11 is positioned at a higher vertical height than the collection area.

[0213] The second conveying device 12 is configured to convey the used containers from the receiving area 11 to a sorting unit 13, which is configured to sort the single used containers into categories selected from a group including at least accepted and unacceptable, wherein the sorting unit is further configured to start conveying only the used containers classified as accepted for further processing or storage of the accepted containers.

[0214] Furthermore, the redirecting area 8 is arranged at a first distance from the feed container area 3 in the first direction 14 and the feed container transport device 3 , 16 is configured to transport used containers from the feed container opening 15 to the redirecting area 8 and, when viewed from above, the used containers pass through the collection area 9 .

[0215] In a typical installation, the system 1 is installed in, for example, a supermarket, where the user-facing front panel 25 including the feed container opening 15 is the only part of the system 1 visible to the end user. The rest of the system is located in a back-room facility accessible only to authorized personnel. Figure 1c Schematically shown in FIG is a wall 26 that separates the front portion of the system 1 facing the user from the back room facilities.

[0216] The end user can feed the system 1 with empty containers 2, for example, by emptying a bag filled with empty containers 1 into the feed container opening 15. Once the user has fed all of the empty containers 2 into the system 1, he or she receives a receipt recording the return value or redemption value of the empty containers 2, calculated by the system 1 or a processing device connected thereto. This receipt can be redeemed for cash or a discount, for example, at a checkout at a supermarket where the system is located, or at another physical or virtual location. The receipt can be a printed receipt. Alternatively, the registration and / or transfer or redemption value can be accomplished digitally.

[0217] In more detail, such as Figures 1a to 1eThe illustrated system can be configured to receive batches of used containers through a feed container opening 15. The system includes an active feed container conveyor 16, a first path 3 for providing the used containers from the feed container opening 15 to the active feed container conveyor 16 via the feed container area 3, and a separation device 10 including a reservoir 18 having a collection area 9 adapted to collect the used containers 2 in batches. The separation device 10 can be configured to separate a single used container 2 from the batch of used containers and transport the single used container 2 from the collection area 9 to a receiving area 11, which is positioned at a higher vertical height than the collection area 9. The storage path 7 is used to provide the used container 2 from the active feed container conveyor 16 to the storage 18, and the conveying device 12 is configured to convey the single used container 2 from the receiving area 11 to the sorting unit 13, which is configured to sort the single used container 2 into a category selected from a group including at least accepted and unacceptable, and only start conveying the used containers 2 classified as accepted for further processing and storage.

[0218] The container recovery system 1 may also include a redirecting gate 20 movable between a redirecting position and an open position, wherein in the redirecting position, the redirecting gate 20 is arranged across the active feed container conveyor 16, wherein the active feed container conveyor 16 is operable in a first direction 14 to convey the used container 2 received from the first path 3 toward the redirecting gate 20, and when in its redirecting position, the redirecting gate 20 deflects the used container 2 from the active feed container conveyor 16 to the storage path 7 when the used container 2 reaches the redirecting gate 20. The system 1 is supported, for example, by a frame structure 21. Typically, the system is enclosed by a housing, or at least partially enclosed by a housing. The housing has been removed in the figures to better illustrate the different elements and features of the system 1.

[0219] Figure 1d Arrows A to F in FIG. 1 show the main flows of used containers in the system 1 as follows:

[0220] - Arrow A: the used container 2 received through the feed container opening 15 slides and / or falls along the first path 3 towards the active feed container conveyor 16;

[0221] - Arrow B: transport of used containers 2 on the active feed container conveyor 16 from the feed container area 3 towards the diverter door 20;

[0222] - Arrow C: upon contact with the redirection gate 20 , the used container 2 is deflected away from the active feed container conveyor 16 and into the reservoir 18 ,

[0223] - Arrow D: flow of used containers 2 or the use of containers 2 directed towards the collection area 9 of the reservoir by the shape of the reservoir 18,

[0224] - Arrow E: one or several used containers 2 are pushed by the lifting member 22 of the separation device 10 along the curved separation path 23 from the collection area 9 to the receiving area 11 where they are transferred to a conveyor, for example a V-shaped conveyor 12,

[0225] Arrow F: Used containers 2 are transported on a V-shaped conveyor 12 from the receiving area 11 to a sorting unit 13 .

[0226] Back to Figure 1a The sorting unit 13 has an opening 81 arranged around the end of the V-shaped conveyor 12 so that the used container 2 transported from the receiving area 11 by the V-shaped conveyor 12 passes through the opening 81. The used container 2 is then received by the conveyor 82.

[0227] Generally, in any container recovery system, the sorting unit may be of the type described in WO 2012 / 177148 A1 for example and / or include a camera viewing arrangement as described in WO 2006 / 080851 A2, as two non-limiting examples.

[0228] exist Figures 1a to 1e In the illustrated embodiment, the sorting unit 13 may include a camera, scanner, or other sensor to obtain information about the used containers 2 required for sorting. Multiple cameras, scanners, and / or other sensors may be arranged in series or in parallel. The sorting unit 13 may include a single-loop system. The sorting unit 13 is configured to obtain information about the used containers 2 and sort the used containers 2 while they are on the conveyor 82. The used containers 2 are then transported to the forward conveyor 83.

[0229] After reaching the forward conveyor 83, Figure 1d The flow of used containers 2 shown can continue in one of three ways (arrows IH) depending on the sorting of the used containers 2 by the sorting unit 13 .

[0230] - Arrow I: the used container 2 classified as accepted is transported out of the system 1 as an accepted container for further transport or storage;

[0231] - Arrow G: Used containers 2 that are classified as rejected are diverted laterally to leave the forward conveyor 83. The rejected used containers 2 then fall and / or slide to the buffer area 63 of the active feed container conveyor 16. If the redirecting gate 20 is in its redirecting position, the buffer area 63 is separated from the rest of the active feed container conveyor 16 by the redirecting gate 20. Used containers that are classified as rejected can be transported from the buffer area 63 to the reject area. For example, the feed container area can be used as a reject area at the end of a process when the user no longer feeds used containers into the system 1. By operating the feed container conveyor 16 in a direction opposite to the first direction, rejected used containers can be transported to the feed container / reject area while the redirecting gate 20 is in an open position. Additionally or alternatively, rejected used containers can be transported to a separate reject area (not shown in the figure).

[0232] - Arrow H: The used container 2 classified as unidentified is diverted laterally to leave the forward conveyor 83. The unidentified used container 2 then falls and / or slides back into the storage 18. Thus, the unidentified used container will be transported back to the sorting unit 13 along arrows D, E, and F. The subsequent passage through the sorting unit 13 may allow the sorting unit 13 to positively classify the used container as accepted or rejected.

[0233] The diverting device for diverting used containers from the forward conveyor along arrows G or H is not shown in the figure. It should be noted that for diverting used containers 2 from the active feed container conveyor 16 to the reservoir 18, it is sufficient for the flow of used containers to reach the diverting gate 20, and it is not necessary for each individual object 2 to come into contact with the diverting gate 20. In other words, if several used containers 2 are transported on the feed container conveyor 16, one object 2 can be diverted to the reservoir 18 by contact with the diverting gate 20, while the next object 2 can be diverted to the reservoir 18 by contact with the previous object 2 without contacting the diverting gate 20.

[0234] In order to facilitate the feeding of batches of empty containers 2 into the system 1, the feed container area 3 may comprise a portion protruding from the front panel of the system 1 facing the user. Figure 1a The feed container area 3 shown includes vertical side walls 27 and an inclined bottom surface 28. The feed container area 3 is designed to receive and support used containers or batches of empty containers. In this embodiment, one or more containers are supported while sliding downward along the first path 3. The front panel and corresponding portions of the side walls together define a feed container opening, and the visible portions of these corresponding portions are shown in FIG. Figure 1aFurthermore, the feed container area 3 forms a path to the active feed container conveyor 16 and used containers 2 discarded by the user through the feed container opening 15 thus fall or slide towards the feed container conveyor 16 by gravity.

[0235] In the following, the system 1 will be described with reference to the x-direction, the y-direction, and the z-direction marked on the drawings.

[0236] The user-facing front panel 25 is arranged parallel to the xz plane. The feed container conveyor 16 extends in the y direction from the feed container area 3 for substantially the entire length of the system 1 in the y direction. In this embodiment, the feed container conveyor 16 is an active bi-directional conveyor.

[0237] Figure 1a The feed container conveyor 16 is substantially horizontal and generally flat.

[0238] The feed container conveyor 16 may have a width of 330 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the width of the feed container conveyor 16 may be between 300 mm and 400 mm or between 250 mm and 500 mm. In general, the width of any conveyor of a system according to the present invention may be 330 mm, or may be between 300 mm and 400 mm, or may be between 250 mm and 500 mm. The feed container conveyor 16 may be provided with side walls 29 to prevent used containers 2 transported thereon from falling to the sides of the conveyor 16. A section of such side walls 29 may be provided at Figure 1a , while other sections of the side walls have been omitted for clarity of the drawing.

[0239] The redirecting door 20 is movable between an open position and a redirecting position. The redirecting door 20 is pivotable about an axis extending perpendicular to the surface of the feed container conveyor 16 and located near one side of the conveyor 16. Thus, the redirecting door 20 is pivotable between an open position, in which the redirecting door forms part of a side wall of the feed container conveyor 16, and a redirecting position, as shown in FIG. Figure 1b As shown, the redirection position is as follows Figure 1a As shown. In its redirecting position, the redirecting gate 20 is positioned across the feed container conveyor 16 at an angle relative to the direction of extension of the feed container conveyor. The angle between the redirecting gate 20 and the feed container conveyor 16 causes used containers 2 conveyed on the feed container conveyor 16 to be deflected to the side of the feed container conveyor 16 upon contact with the redirecting gate 20. As shown, the angle between the redirecting gate 20 and the feed container conveyor 16 in its redirecting position can be approximately 45°. This angle will depend on the length of the redirecting gate.

[0240] exist Figures 1a to 1eIn the embodiment of the present invention, the used containers fall or slide into the reservoir 18 when leaving the feed container conveyor 16. In other words, in this embodiment, the used containers are transported from the feed container conveyor 16 to the reservoir 18 in a free-fall path and / or sliding surface that forms part of the reservoir 18.

[0241] The reservoir 18 has an elongated shape and extends approximately parallel to the feed container conveyor 16 in the y direction. Therefore, the reservoir 18 is narrower in the x direction than in the y direction. The bottom surface 30 of the reservoir 18 is curved so that the lowest point of the reservoir 18 is located in the central part of the reservoir 18 with respect to the y direction. The collection area 9 corresponds approximately to the lowest point of the reservoir. The reservoir 18 has a front side that is farthest from the feed container conveyor 16 in the x direction and a rear side that is closest to the feed container conveyor 16 in the x direction. The reservoir is provided with a front panel 31 and a rear panel 32. Figure 1e The front panel 31 and bottom surface 30 of the reservoir have been removed. Figure 1e The feed container conveyor 16 is also not visible. The rear panel 32 is shaped so that a used container 2 that is misaligned when reaching the receiving area and / or the V-conveyor 12 can be caught by the rear panel 32 if it falls to either side of the receiving area / V-conveyor (in the x-direction) and thus directed back to the collection area 9.

[0242] The shape of the reservoir 18 (i.e., the shape of the bottom surface 30, the front panel 31, and the back panel 32 of the reservoir 18) is suitable for guiding the used containers 2 received from the feed container conveyor 16 toward the collection area 9. In addition, the shape of the reservoir 18 helps to align the used containers 2 so that they are arranged longitudinally in the collection area 9, i.e., their longest dimension is parallel to the front panel 31 of the reservoir 18.

[0243] The separation device 10 includes a container lifting member 22 for transporting used containers from the collection area 9 to the receiving area 11. The container lifting member 22 is driven by a chain 33 along a curved separation path 23. The separation path 23 is defined by a slot 34 in the inner surface of the reservoir. Therefore, the chain 33 is arranged on the outside of the reservoir 18. The container lifting member 22 can be attached to the chain 33 so that when moving along the separation path 23, the container lifting member is on the inside of the reservoir 18, at least in the lower part of the separation path.

[0244] The separation device 10 may comprise 1 to 20, 1 to 15, 2 to 25, 5 to 15 or 5 to 10 lifting members 22. The number of lifting members 22 may depend on the size of the separation device, i.e. on the length of the separation path 23. The lifting members 22 may be equally or unequally spaced.

[0245] The lifting member 22 may have a size and shape suitable for transporting used containers of different sizes and shapes from the collection area 9 to the receiving area 11. Where there is more than one lifting member 22, the size and / or shape of the lifting members 22 may be the same, but need not be.

[0246] As shown in FIG1 , the lifting member 22 can, for example, take the form of a plate or paddle. Additionally or alternatively, the lifting member 22 can extend perpendicular to the bottom surface 30 of the reservoir 18 during at least a portion of its movement along the separation path 23. The lifting member 22 can have a support surface 35 for pushing the used container 2 along the separation path 23. The lifting member 22 and / or the support surface 35 can be rectangular, oval, flat, cup-shaped, or any combination thereof, such as rectangular and flat. They can be solid or have a small opening.

[0247] Figure 2 The expression "passing through the collecting area when viewed from above" as used in accordance with the present invention is exemplified. Figure 2 As shown, the redirecting area 8 or B is arranged at a first distance from the feed container opening 3 or A along the first direction 14. Here, the feed container conveyor 5 is a flat, active conveyor for conveying used containers from the feed container opening 3 along a feed container path parallel to the first direction 14 to the redirecting area 8. The redirecting device 20 takes the form of a redirecting gate arranged across the feed container conveyor 5, so that the used containers conveyed on the feed container conveyor are deflected towards the separation conveyor 7. In turn, the separation conveyor 7 is arranged to convey the used containers 2 from the redirecting area 8 to the collection area 9 or C. Arrow 23 indicates the separation path along which the used containers 2 are conveyed from the collection area 9 to the receiving area 11.

[0248] Dashed line 50 passes through the center portion of the feed container area 3 or A and the redirection area 8 or B, respectively. Figure 2 As clearly shown in FIG, the orthogonal projection 51 or D of the collection area 9 onto this line 50 is between the feed container area 3 or A and the redirection area 8 or B.

[0249] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the orthogonal projection D of the collection area C on the line passing through the central part of the feeding container area and the central part of the redirecting area is located between the feeding container area A and the redirecting area B, when the container is transported from the feeding container opening to the redirecting area, as viewed from above, the container is transported through the collection area, wherein the above-mentioned line is parallel to the first direction.

[0250] Below, we will refer to Figures 3 to 8Other embodiments of the systems 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160 are discussed. In the drawings, elements of the systems 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160 that are identical or directly correspond to elements of the system 1 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0251] Figure 3 A second embodiment of a system 110 is shown, which is similar to the system 1 described above. Similar to system 1, system 110 includes a feed container opening 15 through which a batch of used containers is received; an active feed container conveyor 16; and a first path for providing used containers from the feed container opening 15 to the active feed container conveyor (arrow A). The active feed container conveyor 16 transports the used containers in a first direction 14 (arrow B). The second embodiment of system 110 is also provided with a redirection door 20 movable between a redirection position and an open position.

[0252] The system 110 of the second embodiment differs from the system 1 of the first embodiment in that the reservoir path includes an active conveyor 60 for delivering used containers 2 from the active feed container conveyor 16 to the reservoir 18. The active conveyor 60 is arranged parallel to the active feed container conveyor 16 and at a slightly lower elevation. As a result, used containers redirected by the redirecting gate 20 are deflected onto the active conveyor 60 (arrow C'). Furthermore, the active conveyor 60 operates in a second direction 61 that is substantially opposite to the first direction 14'.

[0253] Another difference between system 110 and system 1 is the configuration of the separation apparatus. In the second embodiment of system 110, the lifting member 22 of the separation apparatus 10' is arranged on a hollow disk 62. Hollow disk 62 is rotatable about an axis, locking the lifting member into a circular path. An active conveyor 60 is arranged to transport used containers via hollow disk 62 to a reservoir 18 (arrow D').

[0254] Once the used containers 2 have been transported to the receiving area 11 by the separation device 10', the used containers 2 are processed by the system 110 in a manner similar to the system 1. First, the used containers are transported to the sorting unit 13 (arrow F). The used containers 2 classified as accepted by the sorting unit 13 are further transported along arrow I on the conveyor 83 for further processing or storage. The used containers 2 classified as not accepted by the sorting unit 13 can be diverted along arrow G' or arrow H'. In more detail, the used containers 2 classified as rejected can be diverted along arrow G', after which they are received at the buffer area 63 of the active feed container conveyor. When the redirecting gate 20 is in its redirecting position, the redirecting gate separates the buffer area 63 of the active feed container conveyor 16 from the flow of used containers 2 transported from the feed container opening to the redirecting gate 20. Used containers classified as rejected can be transported to the rejection area, as described with respect to Figures 1a to 1e The used container 2 classified as unidentified can be diverted along arrow H', after which it is received by the active conveyor 60. The unidentified used container is then transported back to the storage 18.

[0255] A dividing wall (not shown) may be provided between the active feed container conveyor 16 and the active conveyor 60 to ensure that used containers diverted along arrows G' and H' are received by the correct conveyor. It should also be noted that for clarity of the drawing, sections of the side and end walls surrounding the active feed container conveyor 16 and the active conveyor 60 have been omitted.

[0256] Figure 4 A third embodiment of a system 120 is shown which differs from the second embodiment of the system 110 in that the active conveyor 60' towards which the used containers 2 are deflected by the redirection door 20 is arranged at an acute angle relative to the active feed container conveyor 16 rather than parallel thereto.

[0257] The flow of used containers in the system 120 along arrows A to C' and F to I is similar to that of the combined Figure 3 described.

[0258] The configuration of the separation device 10 ′ of the third embodiment of the system 120 is similar to that of the second embodiment of the system 110 . Figure 4 Attachment points 22a for the lifting member 22 are shown, but the lifting member 22 is not shown.

[0259] A guide element 64 is further provided at the end of the active conveyor 60 ′ in order to deflect the used containers transported by the active conveyor 60 ′ into the reservoir 18 through the hollow disc 62 of the separation device 10 ′ (arrow D′).

[0260] The used container 2 classified as rejected by the classification unit 13 can be diverted along the arrow G''. The rejected used container 2 then slides or bounces on the first guide surface 65 before being received in the buffer area 63 of the active feed container conveyor 16. The used container classified as rejected can be transported to Figures 1a to 1e Describe the rejection region.

[0261] The used container 2 classified as unidentified by the classification unit 13 can be diverted along the arrow H''. Thereafter, the unidentified used container 2 falls onto the second guide surface 66, which guides the unidentified used container onto the active conveyor 60'. The arrow indicates the fall from the guide surface 66 to the conveyor 60'.

[0262] Thereafter, the unidentified used containers are first conveyed back into the separation device 10 ′, which in turn conveys the used containers to a receiving area for further conveyance to a sorting unit.

[0263] Figure 5 The fourth embodiment of the system 130 shown differs from the second and third embodiments in that the separation device 10 ″ comprises a lifting member 22 arranged on a rotating plate instead of a hollow disc. Figure 4 As shown, Figure 5 Only the attachment point 22a is shown, but the lifting member 22 is not shown.

[0264] exist Figure 5 The feed container opening 15 is not visible because it is hidden behind the separation device 10". The used containers 2 received through the feed container opening are transported on the active feed container conveyor 16 towards the redirecting gate 20 (arrow B). Upon contact with the redirecting gate 20, the flow of used containers 2 is deflected towards the active conveyor 67 arranged perpendicular to the active feed container conveyor 16. The vertical conveyor 67 in turn conveys the used containers to the active conveyor 68 arranged perpendicular to the vertical conveyor 67 and parallel to the active feed container conveyor 16 (arrow C'). The active conveyor 68 is configured to convey the used containers 2 towards a guide element 69, which is arranged across the active conveyor 68 to deflect the used containers transported on the active conveyor 68 to the storage of the separation device 10 (arrow D').

[0265] As in the previous embodiment, the used containers may proceed along arrow I, or be diverted along arrows G or H, depending on the classification provided by the sorting unit 13. Rejected used containers diverted along arrow G may be received in the buffer area 63 of the active feed container conveyor 16. Used containers classified as rejected may be transported to the relevant Figures 1a to 1eUnidentified used containers diverted along the arrow H can be received on the active conveyor 68 and thus transported back to the separation device 10 ″ and thereafter transported again to the sorting unit 13 .

[0266] exist Figure 5 In FIG. 5 , the guide elements and / or surfaces necessary to guide the used containers diverted along arrows G and H to the active feed container conveyor 16 and the active conveyor 68, respectively, are omitted.

[0267] For example Figure 6 The container recovery system shown includes a set of bidirectional conveyors 16', 70, each of which can be operated in a forward and backward direction; wherein one of the bidirectional conveyors in the set of bidirectional conveyors is a bidirectional redirector 70, which forms part of the redirection device, part of the feed container conveying device and part of the separation conveying device. Furthermore, the feed container conveying device comprises an active conveyor device 16', 70 configured to convey the container along a portion of the length of the feed container path, wherein the active conveyor device of the feed container conveying device is configured to convey the container from the active feed container area A to the redirecting area 71 when the bidirectional redirecting conveyor 70 and preferably any preceding bidirectional conveyor are operated in the forward direction, and wherein the separation conveying device comprises an active conveyor device 70, 16' configured to convey the container from the redirecting area 71 to the collection area or to a passive conveyor configured to convey the container to the collection area when the redirecting bidirectional conveyor and preferably any following bidirectional conveyor 16' are operated in the backward direction. Figure 6 As shown, the active conveyor device of the feed container conveyor and the separation conveyor is the same, i.e., comprises the same bidirectional conveyor. Optionally, the feed container conveyor may include one or more pre-conveyors, which may be active or passive; and the pre-conveyors do not form part of the separation conveyor.

[0268] Figure 6 The system 140 includes a combination of Figure 5 The described separation device is similar to the separation device 10 ″. The system 140 has a conveying device comprising an active feed container conveyor 16 ′ as a bidirectional conveyor and a second bidirectional conveyor 70 including a buffer area 71 . The active feed container conveyor 16 ′ and the second bidirectional conveyor 70 are arranged in sequence.

[0269] The object sorting device comprises a sorting unit 13 and a conveyor 12 for conveying used containers from the sorting device 10 ″ to the sorting unit 13 .

[0270] The system 140 is also provided with a separator / redirector door 20 movable between a first position and a second position. Figure 6 (shown in FIG), the separator / redirection gate is aligned with the edge of the active feed container conveyor 16' in front of the separator device 10". This prevents used containers from passing from the active feed container conveyor 16' to the separator device 10". However, the flow of used containers on the active feed container conveyor 16' and the buffer area 71 is not restricted.

[0271] Figure 6 , the separator / redirection gate 20 is shown in a second position, arranged across the active feed container conveyor 16'. In the separator / redirection gate's second position, the separator / redirection gate 20 blocks the flow of used containers between the feed container area and the buffer area 71. The flow of used containers between the buffer area 71 and the separation device 10" is not restricted.

[0272] When operating the system 140 in the receiving mode, the separator / redirection gate 20 is in its first position. The active feed container conveyor 16' and the second bidirectional conveyor 70 operate in the first direction 14. Thus, used containers 2 are received through the feed container opening 15 (arrow A) and conveyed by the active feed container conveyor 16' toward the second bidirectional conveyor 70. The second bidirectional conveyor 70 conveys the used containers to the buffer area 71 (arrow B').

[0273] When operating system 140 in separation mode, separator / redirecting gate 20 is in its second position. Therefore, when operating system 140 in separation mode, used containers 2 are no longer available for receipt, and end users must wait for system 140 to process batches of used containers 2. Conveyors 16', 70 operate in a second direction 61, opposite to first direction 14. Consequently, used containers 2 located in buffer area 71 are transported toward separator / redirecting gate 20 (arrow C''). In other words, conveyor 70 acts as a redirecting device. Upon contact with separator / redirecting gate 20, the used containers are deflected into the storage of separation device 10'' (arrow D'').

[0274] The separation device 10 ″ transports the used containers to the receiving area 11 . The V-shaped conveyor 12 then transports the used containers to the sorting unit 13 (arrow F). Used containers classified as accepted can be further transported by the conveyor 83 along the arrow I, as described with respect to the previous embodiment. Used containers classified as rejected and / or unidentified containers can be diverted along the arrow G″ toward the conveyor 70 . The rejected and / or unidentified containers can then be transported back to the separation device 10 ″. Additionally or alternatively, the rejected and / or unidentified used containers can be transported back to the user.

[0275] Figure 7 Another embodiment of the system 150 is shown in FIG. Figure 6 However, in system 150, the feed container opening is not provided at the feed container opening as shown in FIG. Figure 7 The used containers received by the conveyor 70 (shown in FIG) are received by the front conveyor 72 arranged directly above and parallel to the first conveyor 16' and the second conveyor 70. With this configuration, the front conveyor 72 can operate in the first direction 14, while the first conveyor 16' and the second conveyor 70 operate in the second direction. The front conveyor 72 transports the used containers to the conveyor 70 (arrow B'). The conveyors 70, 16' transport the used containers toward the separator / redirection gate 20. When the separator / redirection gate 20 is in its second position (as in combination with FIG), the used containers are transported to the conveyor 70. Figure 6 (As shown, the system 150 is arranged across the conveyor 16 ′, thereby allowing a continuous supply of used containers 2. The used containers are deflected along arrow D″ into the storage of the separation device 10 ″. In other words, the end user does not need to wait for the system 150 to complete processing a batch of used containers 2 before feeding new used containers into the system 150.

[0276] The used containers have been transported to the receiving area 11 by the separation device 10 ″ and the flow of the used containers can continue along the arrows F, G″, I, as described with respect to FIG. Figure 6 Generally, in any embodiment of the system, guide surfaces may be provided to guide the used container, for example, to slide onto the correct conveyor after having been diverted. Not all of these guide surfaces are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0277] Figure 8 Shown with Figures 1a to 1e The system 1 shown is similar to the system 160. The difference is that the active feed container conveyor 16 is shorter in the system 160 so that the active feed container conveyor fits within the frame structure 21. Therefore, the active feed container conveyor 16 can have any suitable length to fit / interconnect with the rest of the system. Figure 8 System 160 also includes an optional sensor 200 for determining the fill level of reservoir 18. Sensor 200 can be an optical sensor with a field of view 201 of reservoir 18, including, for example, a matrix detector and, optionally, a time-of-flight sensor. Sensor 18 is configured to determine the distance between a container in reservoir 18 and sensor 200. By comparing the determined distance with a reference measurement, for example, obtained with an empty reservoir 18, the fill level of reservoir 18 can be determined. The field of view 201 of sensor 200 can be adapted or modified using a lens (not shown). Sensor 200 can be configured to simultaneously measure distances at multiple points within field of view 201 (e.g., in an 8×8 grid). The principles of time-of-flight sensors will be familiar to those skilled in the art. To improve measurement accuracy, sensor 200 can be configured to filter out the lifting member 22 of separation apparatus 10.

[0278] Information about the fill level of reservoir 18 can be used to improve the operation of the system. For example, separation device 10 may perform optimally when the fill level of reservoir 18 does not exceed a predetermined threshold. Thus, system 160 can be configured to stop active feed container conveyor 16 when the fill level of reservoir 18 reaches a predetermined threshold, thereby stopping the flow of used containers 2 into reservoir 18. Operation of separation device 10 continues while active feed container conveyor 16 is stopped until the fill level of reservoir 18 again falls below the predetermined threshold. Active feed container conveyor 16 can then be restarted.

[0279] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure is in no way limited to the preferred embodiments described above. On the contrary, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps besides those listed in the claims. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. In addition, a skilled person, in practicing the claimed invention, will be able to understand and implement variations to the disclosed embodiments by studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

[0280] List of implementation items

[0281] Item 1: A container return system configured to receive a batch of used deposit return containers, such as used food containers or beverage containers, through a feed container opening, the container return system comprising:

[0282] Active feed container conveyor,

[0283] a first path for providing the used containers from the feed container opening to the active feed container conveyor,

[0284] a separation device comprising a reservoir having a collection area suitable for collecting used containers in batches, the separation device being configured to separate a single used container from the batch of used containers and to transport the single used container from the collection area to a receiving area, the receiving area being positioned at a higher vertical height than the collection area,

[0285] a reservoir path for providing the used containers from the active feed container conveyor to the reservoir, and

[0286] a transport device configured to transport the single used container from the receiving area to a sorting unit configured to sort the single used container into a category selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unacceptable, and the sorting unit configured to start transporting only the used containers that are classified as accepted for further processing or storage,

[0287] wherein the container recovery system further comprises a redirecting gate movable between a redirecting position and an open position, wherein in the redirecting position the redirecting gate is arranged across the active feed container conveyor, wherein the active feed container conveyor is operable in a first direction to transport the used container received from the first path toward the redirecting gate, and wherein the redirecting gate, when in its redirecting position, deflects the used container from the active feed container conveyor to the storage path when the used container reaches the redirecting gate.

[0288] Item 2: The container recovery system of Item 1, wherein the first path and the reservoir path each include a conveyor selected from the group consisting of an active conveyor, a slide, a free-fall path, and combinations thereof.

[0289] Item 3: The container recovery system of item 1 or 2, wherein the final displacement of the single used container when transported from the collection area to the receiving area has a vertical component and at least a first lateral component, the first lateral component being substantially orthogonal to the first direction, and

[0290] Therein, the reservoir path is arranged to provide the used container to the reservoir at an input side of the reservoir, which input side is arranged in front of the collection area along the direction of the first lateral component.

[0291] Item 4: The container recovery system of item 1 or 2, wherein the final displacement of the single used container when transported from the collection area to the receiving area has a vertical component and at least a first lateral component, the first lateral component being substantially orthogonal to the first direction, and

[0292] Therein, the reservoir path is arranged to provide the used container to the reservoir at an input side of the reservoir, which input side is arranged behind the collection area in the direction of the first lateral component.

[0293] Item 11: A container recycling system for processing used deposit return containers received in batches, such as used food containers or beverage containers, the container recycling system comprising:

[0294] a separation device for separating said used containers received in batches into individual objects,

[0295] A conveying device comprising at least a first conveyor, and

[0296] An object sorting device comprising a sorting unit and a conveyor for conveying objects from the separation device to the sorting unit,

[0297] The container recovery system (1) can be operated in at least the following modes:

[0298] a receiving mode in which the conveyor device is configured to receive the used containers at a feed container area of ​​the conveyor device and to transport the used containers to a buffer area of ​​the conveyor device via at least the first conveyor, and

[0299] a separation mode in which the conveying device is configured to transport the used containers from the buffer area to the separation device at least via the first conveyor,

[0300] in

[0301] The first transmitter is a bidirectional transmitter configured to operate in a first direction in the receive mode and in a second direction in the split mode, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

[0302] Item 12: The container recovery system according to Item 11, wherein the conveying device comprises a set of bidirectional conveyors arranged in sequence, wherein the bidirectional conveyors are optionally flat conveyors, preferably 250 mm to 500 mm wide.

[0303] Item 13: The container recovery system according to Item 11 or 12, wherein the conveying device includes a set of bidirectional conveyors arranged at different heights.

[0304] Item 14: The container recovery system of Item 12 or 13, wherein each conveyor in the set of bi-directional conveyors is independently operable.

[0305] Item 15: The container recovery system according to any one of items 11 to 14, wherein

[0306] The separation device is configured to transport the individual objects to the object sorting device,

[0307] The object classification unit is configured to classify the single object into a category selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unaccepted, and

[0308] The sorting device is further configured to initiate transport of the individual objects that are sorted as unacceptable to a buffer area of ​​the conveyor device.

[0309] Item 16: A container recovery system according to any one of Items 11 to 15, wherein the separation device and optionally the conveyor are configured to convey the used containers to the sorting unit at a higher height than the buffer area of ​​the transfer device.

[0310] Item 17: A container recovery system according to any one of Items 11 to 16, wherein the container recovery system can also operate in a reject mode, in which the conveyor device is configured to transport the used containers to a reject area, which is optionally partially or completely the same as the feed container area.

[0311] Item 18: The container recovery system according to Item 17, wherein

[0312] The container recovery system is configured to start a timer upon entering the separation mode,

[0313] Each time the object classification unit classifies an object as accepted, the timer is reset, and

[0314] The container recovery system is configured to switch from the detach mode to the reject mode when the timer exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0315] Item 19: The container recovery system of any one of the preceding items, wherein the conveyor further comprises a separator door having at least a first position and a second position,

[0316] In the first position of the separator door, the used container is not restricted from moving between the feed container area and the buffer area, and wherein the separator door prevents the used container from reaching the separation device, and

[0317] In the second position of the separator door, the used containers are not restricted from moving between the conveying device and the separating device, and wherein the separator door prevents the used containers from reaching the feed container area from the buffer area of ​​the conveying device.

[0318] Item 20: The container recovery system according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising a control unit configured to control the speed and / or direction of each bidirectional conveyor of the transport device.

[0319] Item 21: A container recovery system according to any one of Items 12 to 20, wherein the set of bidirectional conveyors includes a first bidirectional conveyor and a second bidirectional conveyor, and wherein the second bidirectional conveyor is configured to operate at a higher speed than the first bidirectional conveyor in the receiving mode and / or the separating mode, so that used containers transferred from the first bidirectional conveyor to the second bidirectional conveyor are separated farther from each other on the second bidirectional conveyor than on the first bidirectional conveyor.

[0320] Item 22: The container recovery system of any one of the preceding items, wherein the container recovery system is a reverse vending machine.

[0321] Item 23: A method for controlling a container recovery system according to any one of items 11 to 22, the method comprising:

[0322] a receiving step comprising controlling the conveyor device to transport the used containers received in batches at the feed container area toward the buffer area of ​​the conveyor device, and comprising driving the first conveyor in the first direction, and

[0323] The separation step comprises:

[0324] controlling the conveyor device to transport the used containers to the separation device to be separated into individual objects, and comprising driving the first conveyor in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and

[0325] The separation device is controlled to transport the single object to the conveyor.

[0326] Item 24: The method according to Item 23, further comprising a classification step, wherein the classification step comprises:

[0327] controlling the conveyor to convey the single object to the object sorting unit,

[0328] controlling the classification unit to classify the single object into a category selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unaccepted, and

[0329] The sorting device is controlled to start conveying the single object sorted as unacceptable to the buffer area of ​​the conveyor device.

[0330] Item 25: The method according to Item 24, further comprising

[0331] the step of determining the time that has elapsed since a single object was classified as accepted by said object classification unit, and

[0332] When the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined threshold, the conveyor device is controlled to transport the used containers to a reject area, which may optionally be partially or completely identical to the feed container area.

[0333] Item 101: A container return system configured to receive a batch of deposit return containers, such as used food or beverage containers, through a feed container opening, the container return system comprising

[0334] The first conveying device includes a feed container conveying device, a redirecting device and a separation conveying device, wherein:

[0335] - the feed container transport device is configured to transport the used container along a feed container path from the feed container opening to a redirection area,

[0336] - the diverting device is configured to divert the used container at the diverting area, and

[0337] - the separating and conveying device is configured to convey the used containers from the redirection area to a collection area suitable for collecting the used containers in batches,

[0338] a separation device configured to separate a single used container from the batch of used containers and to transport the single used container from the collection area to a receiving area, the receiving area being positioned at a higher vertical height than the collection area, and

[0339] a second transport device configured to transport the used containers from the receiving area to a sorting unit configured to sort the single used containers into a category selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unaccepted,

[0340] wherein the sorting unit is further configured to start delivering only used containers that are sorted as accepted, to be further processed and stored as accepted containers,

[0341] in

[0342] The redirecting area is arranged at a first distance from the feed container opening in a first direction, and wherein the feed container transport device is configured to transport the used container from the feed container opening to the redirecting area and the used container passes through the collection area when viewed from above.

[0343] Item 102: The container recycling system of item 101, wherein the sorting unit is configured to sort the single used container into a category selected from the group consisting of accepted, rejected, and unrecognized,

[0344] Wherein, the classification unit is further configured as:

[0345] - starts conveying used containers classified as rejected through the buffer area to a reject area, which is optionally partially or completely identical to said feed container area, and

[0346] - Starting to transport used containers classified as unidentified to said collection area, optionally via said buffer area to said collection area.

[0347] Item 103: A container recovery system according to item 101 or 102, wherein the collection area is arranged at a second distance from the redirection area along a second direction, the second direction being substantially opposite to the first direction and / or the second direction forming an acute angle with the first direction.

[0348] Item 104: A container recovery system according to any one of items 101 to 104, wherein

[0349] The feed container transport device comprises an active conveyor device having at least one active conveyor,

[0350] The separation conveying device includes at least one active conveyor or passive conveyor, and

[0351] The path of at least one active conveyor of the active conveyor device and the path of at least one active conveyor or passive conveyor of the separation conveying device are spatially separated from each other, so that the first conveying device is suitable for simultaneously conveying used containers from the feeding container area to the redirecting area and from the redirecting area to the collection area.

[0352] Item 105: The container recovery system of any one of items 101 to 103, wherein the first transport apparatus comprises an active conveyor apparatus including at least one bi-directional conveyor operable in forward and rearward directions,

[0353] wherein the active conveyor device is arranged to receive used containers transported along the feed container path, and the active conveyor device is further configured to:

[0354] The used containers are conveyed to the redirecting area by operating the bidirectional conveyor in the forward direction, and the used containers are conveyed from the redirecting area to the collection area by operating the bidirectional conveyor in the rearward direction.

[0355] Item 106: The container recovery system of Item 105, wherein the active conveyor apparatus comprises at least one forward conveyor configured to receive used containers conveyed along the feed container path and convey the used containers to the bi-directional conveyor.

[0356] Item 107: The container recovery system according to any one of items 102 to 106, wherein the first transport device includes a recovery conveyor device configured to receive used containers at the buffer area and configured to transport the received used containers to the reject area,

[0357] Wherein, the recovery conveyor device optionally includes a bidirectional conveyor, and the active conveyor device and the recovery conveyor device optionally are completely identical or partially identical.

[0358] Item 108: The container recovery system of any one of items 101 to 107, wherein the first transport device comprises a set of bidirectional conveyors arranged in sequence.

[0359] Item 109: The container recovery system of any one of items 101 to 108, wherein the first conveyor device further comprises a separator door movable between at least a first position and a second position,

[0360] In the first position of the separator door, the used container is not restricted from moving between the feed container area and the redirection area, and the door prevents the used container from reaching the collection area, and

[0361] In the second position of the separator door, the used containers are not restricted from moving between the redirecting area and the collection area, and wherein the door prevents the used containers from reaching the feed container area from the redirecting area.

[0362] Item 110: A container recovery system according to any one of Items 101 to 109, wherein the first conveying device further includes a buffer door having at least a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position of the buffer door, used containers arranged in the buffer area are prevented from leaving the buffer area, and in the second position of the buffer door, the used containers are not restricted from moving from the buffer area to the collection area and / or the rejection area.

[0363] Item 111: A container recovery system according to any one of Items 101 to 110, wherein the separation device includes at least one container lifting member for transporting used containers from the collection area to the receiving area along a curved separation path, wherein the container lifting member is preferably arranged on the inner side of the curved separation path.

[0364] Item 112: A method for processing a deposit return container, such as a used food container or beverage container, through a container return system, the container return system comprising:

[0365] The first conveying device includes a feed container conveying device, a redirecting device and a separation conveying device,

[0366] Separation equipment,

[0367] a second transport device, and

[0368] taxonomic units,

[0369] The method comprises the following steps:

[0370] - receiving used containers in batches at the feed container area,

[0371] - transporting the used container along a feed container path from the feed container area to a redirection area by the feed container transport device,

[0372] - redirecting the used container at the redirection area by means of the redirecting device,

[0373] - transporting the used containers from the diversion area to a collection area suitable for collecting the used containers in batches by means of the separating and transporting device,

[0374] - separating single used containers from the batch of used containers by means of the separation device and transporting the single used containers from the collection area to a receiving area by means of the separation device, the receiving area being located at a higher vertical height than the collection area,

[0375] - transporting the used containers to the sorting unit by means of the second transport device,

[0376] - sorting said single used container into a category selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unacceptable by said sorting unit,

[0377] - only used containers classified as accepted are sent through said sorting unit for further processing or storage,

[0378] in

[0379] The redirecting region is arranged at a first distance from the feed container region in a first direction, and

[0380] The step of transporting the used containers along a feed container path from the feed container area to the redirection area by the feed container transport device includes transporting the used containers past the collection area when viewed from above.

[0381] Item 113: The method according to Item 112 further includes the following steps

[0382] - sorting, by said sorting unit, said single used container into a category selected from the group consisting of accepted, rejected and unrecognized,

[0383] - starting the transport of used containers classified as rejected by said sorting unit through a buffer area to a reject area, which may optionally be partially or completely identical to said feed container area, and

[0384] - Start of transport of used containers classified as unidentified to the collection area by the sorting unit, optionally via the buffer area to the collection area.

[0385] Item 114: The method according to item 112 or 113, wherein the feed container transport device includes an active conveyor device having at least one active conveyor,

[0386] The separation conveying device includes at least one active conveyor or passive conveyor, and

[0387] the path of the at least one active conveyor of the active conveyor device and the path of the at least one active conveyor or passive conveyor of the separation transport device are spatially separated from one another,

[0388] The method further comprises the steps of simultaneously carrying out the transport of used containers from the feed container area to the redirection area and the transport of used containers from the redirection area to the collection area.

[0389] Item 115: The method of item 112 or 113, wherein the first transport device comprises an active conveyor device including at least one bi-directional conveyor operable in forward and reverse directions, the method further comprising the steps of:

[0390] receiving, by the active conveyor device, used containers conveyed along the feed container path,

[0391] operating the bi-directional conveyor in the forward direction to transport the used containers to the redirection area, and

[0392] The bi-directional conveyor is operated in the rearward direction to transport the used containers from the redirection area to the collection area.

Claims

1. A container recycling system configured to receive a batch of deposit return containers through an opening of a feed container, wherein the deposit return containers are, for example, used food containers or beverage containers, the container recycling system comprising: The first conveying device includes a feed container conveying device, a redirecting device and a separation conveying device, wherein: - the feed container transport device is configured to transport the used container along a feed container path from the feed container opening to a redirection area, - the diverting device is configured to divert the used container at the diverting area, and - the separating and conveying device is configured to convey the used containers from the redirection area to a collection area suitable for collecting the used containers in batches, a separation device configured to separate a single used container from a batch of used containers and to transport the single used container from the collection area to a receiving area, the receiving area being positioned at a higher vertical height than the collection area, and a second transport device configured to transport the used containers from the receiving area to a sorting unit configured to sort the single used containers into a category selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unaccepted, wherein the sorting unit is further configured to start delivering only used containers that are sorted as accepted for further processing or storage as accepted containers, in The redirecting area is arranged at a first distance from the feed container opening along a first direction, and wherein the feed container transport device is configured to transport used containers from the feed container opening to the redirecting area, and the used containers pass through the collection area when viewed from above.

2. The container recovery system according to claim 1, wherein Transporting the used containers along the feed container path further comprises: transporting the container from the feed container opening through an active feed container area to the redirection area, and The feed container transport device includes an active conveyor device having at least one active conveyor, which is configured to transport the container along the feed container path or along at least a portion of the feed container path, and the active conveyor device is configured to transport the container from the active feed container area to the redirection area.

3. The container recovery system according to claim 2, wherein: The classification unit is configured to classify the single used container into a category selected from the group consisting of accepted, rejected, and unrecognized, wherein the classification unit is further configured to: - starting to transport used containers classified as rejected via the buffer area to a reject area, optionally partially or completely identical to the active feed container area, and - starting to transport the used containers classified as unidentified to the collection area, optionally transporting the used containers classified as unidentified to the collection area via the buffer area.

4. The container recovery system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The collecting region is arranged at a second distance from the redirecting region in a second direction, the second direction being substantially opposite to the first direction and / or forming an acute angle with the first direction.

5. A container recovery system according to claim 3 or claim 4 when dependent on claim 3, wherein The separation conveying device includes at least one active conveyor or passive conveyor, and The path of at least one active conveyor of the active conveyor device and the path of at least one active conveyor or passive conveyor of the separation conveying device are spatially separated from each other, so that the first conveying device is suitable for simultaneously conveying used containers from the feeding container area to the redirecting area and conveying used containers from the redirecting area to the collection area.

6. The container recovery system according to claim 5, wherein: The first conveying device comprises a buffer gate forming part of the redirecting device, the buffer gate having at least a first position and a second position, In the first position of the buffer door, the buffer door prevents used containers arranged in the buffer area from leaving the buffer area, and In the second position of the buffer door, the buffer door does not restrict movement of used containers from the buffer area to the reject area.

7. The container recovery system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein The container recovery system comprises a bidirectional redirect conveyor operable in a forward direction and a rearward direction, the bidirectional redirect conveyor forming part of the redirecting device, part of the feed container conveying device and part of the separation conveying device, in, The active conveyor device of the feed container transport apparatus is configured to transport the container from the active feed container area to the redirection area when the bidirectional redirector is operated in the forward direction, and wherein the separate conveying device comprises an active conveyor device configured to convey the container from the redirecting area to the collection area or to a passive conveyor configured to convey the container to the collection area when the bidirectional redirecting conveyor operates in the rearward direction; Wherein, the active conveyor device of the feed container conveying device and the active conveyor device of the separation conveying device can optionally be the same active conveyor device.

8. The container recovery system according to claim 7, wherein: The active conveyor arrangement of the feed container transport device includes at least one leading conveyor, the leading conveyor including the active feed container area, and the leading conveyor is configured to transport used containers from the active feed container area to the bidirectional redirecting conveyor.

9. The container recovery system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein: The separator conveyor further comprises a separator door movable between at least a first position and a second position, In the first position of the separator door, the separator door does not restrict used containers from being transported between the active feed container area and the redirection area, and the separator door prevents used containers from reaching the collection area, and In the second position of the separator door, the separator door does not restrict used containers from being transported between the redirecting area and the collection area, and wherein the separator door prevents used containers from reaching the feed container area from the redirecting area.

10. A container recovery system according to claim 3 or any one of claims 4 to 9 when dependent on claim 3, wherein The first transport device includes a recovery conveyor device configured to receive used containers at the buffer area and transport the received used containers to the reject area.

11. A container recovery system according to claim 2 or any one of claims 3 to 10 when dependent on claim 2, wherein: The active conveyor arrangement of the feed container transport device comprises a set of bidirectional conveyors arranged in sequence.

12. A container recovery system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The separation device comprises at least one container lifting member for transporting used containers from the collecting area to the receiving area along a curved separation path, wherein the container lifting member is preferably arranged on the inner side of the curved separation path.

13. A method for processing a deposit return container, such as a used food container or beverage container, through a container recycling system, the container recycling system comprising: The first conveying device includes a feed container conveying device, a redirecting device and a separation conveying device; Separation equipment; Second transport equipment; as well as taxonomic units, The method comprises the following steps: - receiving used containers in batches at the feed container area, - transporting the used containers along a feed container path from the feed container area to the redirection area by the feed container transport device, - redirecting the used container at the redirection area by means of the redirection device, - transporting the used containers from the diverting area to a collection area suitable for collecting the used containers in batches by means of the separating transport device, - separating a single used container from a batch of used containers by means of the separating device and transporting the single used container by means of the separating device from the collection area to a receiving area, the receiving area being located at a higher vertical height than the collection area, - transporting the used containers to the sorting unit by means of the second transport device, - sorting said single used container into a category selected from the group consisting of at least accepted and unacceptable by said sorting unit, - only used containers that have been classified as accepted are sent through the classification unit for further processing or storage, in The redirecting region is arranged at a first distance from the feed container region in a first direction, and The step of transporting the used containers along the feed container path from the feed container area to the redirection area by the feed container transport device includes transporting the used containers past the collection area when viewed from above.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The method comprises: - receiving used containers in batches at said feed container area through a feed container opening, - transporting the used container by the feed container transport device along a feed container path from the feed container opening via the active feed container area to the redirection area, In which, the feed container transport device includes an active conveyor device having at least one active conveyor, the active conveyor device is configured to transport the container along the feed container path or along at least a portion of the feed container path, and the active conveyor device is configured to transport the container from the active feed container area to the redirection area.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the steps of: - sorting said single used container by said sorting unit into a category selected from the group consisting of accepted, rejected and unrecognized, - starting the transport of used containers classified as rejected by the sorting unit via a buffer area to a reject area, which is optionally partially or completely identical to the active feed container area, and - starting to transport the used containers classified as unidentified to the collection area by the sorting unit, optionally starting to transport the used containers classified as unidentified to the collection area via the buffer area.

16. The method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein The separation conveying device includes at least one active conveyor or passive conveyor, and the path of the at least one active conveyor of the active conveyor device and the path of the at least one active conveyor or passive conveyor of the separate transport device are spatially separated from one another, The method further comprises the following steps: The transport of used containers from the feed container area to the redirecting area and the transport of used containers from the redirecting area to the collection area are caused to occur simultaneously.

17. The method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein The container recovery system comprises a bi-directional redirect conveyor operable in a forward direction and a rearward direction, the bi-directional redirect conveyor forming part of the redirecting device, part of the feed container conveying device and part of the separation conveying device, and The separation and transport device includes an active conveyor device, in, The method further comprises: When the bidirectional redirector is operated in the forward direction, containers are conveyed from the active feed container area to the redirection area by the active conveyor device of the feed container transport apparatus, and When the bidirectional redirector is operated in the rearward direction, the containers are conveyed from the redirecting area to the collection area or to a passive conveyor configured to convey the containers to the collection area by the active conveyor device of the separation conveyor, Wherein, the active conveyor device of the feed container conveying device and the active conveyor device of the separation conveying device can optionally be the same active conveyor device.

18. A container recycling system for processing used deposit return containers received in batches, such as used food containers or beverage containers, the container recycling system comprising: a separation device for separating used containers received in batches into individual objects; a conveying device comprising at least a first conveyor; as well as An object sorting device comprising a sorting unit and a conveyor for conveying objects from the separation device to the sorting unit, The container recovery system (1) is capable of operating in at least the following modes: a receiving mode in which the conveyor apparatus is configured to receive used containers at a feed container area of ​​the conveyor apparatus and the conveyor apparatus is configured to transport the used containers to a buffer area of ​​the conveyor apparatus by means of at least the first conveyor, and a separation mode, in which the conveying device is configured to transport used containers from the buffer area to the separation device by means of at least the first conveyor, in, The first transmitter is a bidirectional transmitter configured to operate in a first direction in the receive mode and in a second direction in the split mode, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

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