Method, device and system for recycling old textiles

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for recovering old textiles (3), preferably within the framework of textile recovery, having at least one old textile recovery device (1), which is configured to receive at least one old textile (3) from an individual (2), the method comprising at least the following steps: automatically identifying (100) the individual (2); the method comprises the steps of: automatically identifying (200) old textiles (3), preferably by an old textile recovery device (1) or by a mobile terminal (4), and vice versa, automatically assigning (300) the identified old textiles (3) to the identified person (2), preferably by an old textile recovery device (1), by a mobile terminal (4) or by a cloud (5), and automatically assigning (300) the identified old textiles (3) to the identified person (2), preferably by an old textile recovery device (1), by a mobile terminal (4) or by a cloud (5). And receiving (500), by the old textile recovery device (1), the identified old textile (3) from the identified person (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for recycling old textiles, an old textile recycling device, and several old textile recycling systems. Background Technology

[0002] The production of textiles has been known for a long time, including the production of clothing for humans. However, textiles can also be used for technical purposes.

[0003] While plant-based natural fibers such as cotton, flax, and hemp, or animal-based natural fibers such as wool, silk, and fur were initially used, mineral-based natural fibers such as asbestos and rock wool are now also known. Synthetic fibers made from “natural polymers,” such as cellulose-based regenerated fibers like viscose, lyocell, or rubber, and synthetic fibers made from “synthetic polymers,” such as polyacrylonitrile, polypropylene, polyester, polyamide, or polyurethane, are also widely used today. “Inorganic fibers” are also known, such as ceramic fibers, glass fibers, and metal fibers.

[0004] In each case, the fibers are spun into a linear structure, such as yarn. The yarn or filaments are then processed into a planar woven structure, also known as textile material, for example, by weaving. This planar woven structure can be further processed by cutting and sewing into, for example, clothing, also known as textiles. However, textile materials are also used in home and interior design, such as as covers for upholstered furniture, curtains, towels, bedding, tablecloths, or wiping cloths and cleaning cloths. Furthermore, textile materials, known as industrial textiles, have many technical applications.

[0005] Today, there is a great demand for textile materials, especially for clothing. This is because a large number of people wear clothes and want to change them, whether for hygiene reasons, personal taste, or visual appeal, to alter their appearance through different garments. Clothing also changes according to climate and season. Similarly, textile materials are used in households, so the more households there are, the greater the demand. Furthermore, textile materials are exchanged within households for cleaning or redesign, thus existing multiple times.

[0006] This leads to a continuous increase in the quantity of textile materials used and needed by humans, especially clothing, necessitating constant replacement. This results in a corresponding demand for fibers, yarns, and raw materials used in the production of textiles or clothing. The same applies to industrial textiles.

[0007] At the same time, the high demand for new textile materials, especially new clothing, also results in a corresponding large amount of used textile materials, particularly used clothing, that are no longer usable or at least no longer desired by the original users. This may be due to damage or contamination, but it could also be purely for personal taste or current fashion reasons.

[0008] Therefore, it has long been known that used textile materials, especially used clothing, can be reused. This can be called textile recycling.

[0009] This includes others using old textiles or clothing as secondhand items, which can be referred to as secondhand clothing, provided that others are interested in using them. Old textiles or clothing can also be used for purposes other than their original purpose, such as using old towels as wiping cloths.

[0010] Furthermore, old textiles or clothing, as well as production waste from the textile industry, can be processed into shredded fibers for use in applications such as nonwovens, papermaking, and insulation materials in industries like the automotive sector. This can be termed material recycling, as the material itself continues to be used in the form of shredded fibers. Chemical recycling is also known, where the chemical starting materials of the fibers are recovered. Finally, heat recovery can also be achieved through combustion, where energy used in production is recovered.

[0011] To date, the downside of textile recycling options is that many people simply don't use them. Instead, old textiles or clothes end up in household waste or waste bins, often as a resource loss except for the heat generated during incineration.

[0012] The drawback of existing old clothes containers used as recycling facilities for old textiles is that these containers are often contaminated, damaged, and / or overfilled. For example, they are set up and operated by charitable organizations such as the German Red Cross for the free distribution of old textiles or clothes. This impairs the quality of the collected old textiles or clothes, or the old textiles or clothes cannot be collected at all, thus resulting in a loss of resources. Summary of the Invention

[0013] One object of this invention is to increase the likelihood of recycling old textiles. In particular, the likelihood of textile recycling will be improved. Specifically, the likelihood of people participating in the recycling of old textiles or textile recycling should be improved. Additionally or alternatively, the incentives for people to participate in the recycling of old textiles or textile recycling should be increased. Additionally or alternatively, the recycling of old textiles or textile recycling will be improved, particularly simplified, for the recycling process or the operators of the recycling process. This should be possible, especially for old clothing. At a minimum, an alternative to the known likelihood of recycling old textiles or textile recycling should be created.

[0014] Therefore, the present invention relates to a method for recycling old textiles. As previously stated, the term "old textiles" is understood to be a flat textile structure that has been used, damaged, soiled, or otherwise no longer needed or desired by the user, also referred to as textile material, which also includes or should include clothing or garments, also referred to as textiles, which may or can be referred to as old textiles or old clothes. As described above, the recycling of old textiles can preferably be carried out as part of textile recycling in order to reuse the recycled old textiles in some form.

[0015] This method is carried out using at least one used textile recycling device, which is configured to receive at least one used textile item from an individual. Receipt can be achieved by the individual transporting the used textile to the recycling device and distributing it there, specifically by depositing or stuffing the used textile into the recycling device, thereby allowing the used textile to be collected, gathered, or received by the recycling device. The received used textile can then be stored or warehoused by the recycling device for subsequent retrieval and removal by an authorized individual (e.g., a service worker), and preferably supplied to the textile recycling process.

[0016] The method includes at least the following steps:

[0017] • Automatic identification of individuals, preferably through used textile recycling devices or mobile terminals.

[0018] • Automatic identification of used textiles, preferably through used textile recycling devices or mobile terminals, and vice versa.

[0019] • Automatically distribute identified used textiles to identified individuals, preferably via used textile recycling devices, mobile terminals, or the cloud, and

[0020] • Receiving identified used textiles from identified individuals through used textile recycling facilities.

[0021] Automated action refers to procedural steps or processes that occur automatically through technological means; it can be described as "operating automatically" without requiring personal action. Furthermore, a person can take actions before, during, and / or after the automatically executed method steps in order to enable or support their execution.

[0022] Automatic identification of individuals wishing to distribute used textiles to used textile recycling facilities can occur in any suitable manner. This can be done using the used textile recycling facility itself, but mobile terminals, such as smartphones in particular, can also be used as a technological means for individuals or others.

[0023] In any case, the individual can identify themselves through input, such as a username combined with a password, where input can be made using physical or graphical buttons on a touchscreen and / or through voice input or voice recognition. In this scenario, the detection and processing of the individual's input can be automated to respond to it, for example, by successfully identifying the individual, or by issuing an indication or error message indicating unsuccessful identification. In this case, the individual can become active by pressing or touching a button or by performing voice input.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally, an individual may identify themselves by at least one physical feature, which may be achieved, for example, through optical recognition of the face or fingerprint, or through the individual's voice recognition. In this case, the sensory detection and evaluation or recognition of the individual's physical features can represent the individual's automated identification. Optical recognition can be performed with the support of AI (artificial intelligence), which can improve the quality of optical recognition and accelerate its execution. Optionally, classification including confidence values ​​can be used for this purpose. In this case, the individual can make physical features available for sensory detection, positioning fingers relative to sensors or, if necessary, positioning sensors relative to the face.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, the individual may also identify themselves using documents, such as identity cards, passports, and / or identification cards assigned by old textile recycling facilities or processes. Documentary information suitable for identifying the individual may exist in a readable font or as an identifiable photograph of the individual, thus allowing for optical detection and subsequent evaluation; in this case, this can represent automatic identification of the individual. However, additionally or alternatively, the document may also contain optically machine-readable information, such as barcodes or QR codes, which must also be optically detected and evaluated. Additionally or alternatively, the document may also be read electronically, for example by means of electromagnetic waves or electromagnetic coupling, to read, for example, an RFID transponder; this can also represent automatic identification of the individual. In this case, the individual may take action to make the document available and detect or read the document via sensors, or accordingly locate the document relative to a corresponding sensor.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively, individuals can identify themselves using software or an application that may be associated with a used textile recycling device or process, as a QR code, for example, can be displayed on a smartphone and detected by the camera of the recycling device. Such an application can also establish a wireless data connection to the recycling device to perform individual detection or identification. This can also represent automatic identification of the individual. In this case, the individual can also operate the software or application and detect or read the software's output via sensors, or accordingly locate themselves relative to the corresponding sensors.

[0027] The automatic identification of used textiles distributed to the recycling facility can also be carried out in any suitable manner. This can be done using the recycling facility itself, or using a mobile terminal, such as a personal or another person's smartphone.

[0028] The identification or detection of used textiles can also be achieved through personal input, whereby the individual can provide information suitable for identifying the textiles. This input can be made using, for example, physical or graphical buttons on a touchscreen and / or through voice input or voice recognition. In this case, the detection of the personal input and the processing of the detected input to respond to it also occur automatically, for example, by successfully identifying the used textile, or by issuing an indication or error message to the individual indicating that the identification of the used textile was unsuccessful. In this case, the individual can also assist in the automatic identification of used textiles by pressing or touching buttons or speaking.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, used textiles can be identified by at least one appearance feature, which can be achieved, for example, by means of optical recognition of the used textile as a whole, particularly when unfolded by an individual. For example, detected image data can be evaluated so that the contours, colors, materials, and / or appearance of the used textile surface can be used, or at least contribute to, its identification. Patterns, textures, etc., on the surface of the used textile can also be used to identify it. Furthermore, material analysis of the used textile can be performed, for example, by means of NIR spectroscopy (near-infrared spectroscopy), particularly by means of a suitable sensor system for the used textile recycling device. This type of analysis can be supported by a weight sensor system used to determine the weight of the used textile, particularly after it has been received by the recycling device, by weighing all the collected used textiles together and determining the weight change when receiving another used textile, so that the amount of material in the used textile can also be determined. In this case, image detection of the appearance of the used textile and its evaluation or identification can represent automatic identification on behalf of an individual, who can position the used textile and the optical sensor used for optical recognition relative to each other.

[0030] Unlike identifying individuals who can represent definite results, in identifying used textiles, determining or identifying the product type or category of the used textiles may be sufficient. According to the invention, the identification of unique used textiles is not necessarily important compared to the identification of individuals, although this is possible. The product type of textile materials is understood here as a group of products with similar properties, such as pillows, towels, curtains, etc., or product types such as outerwear, underwear, sportswear, etc. Therefore, product type refers to the basic category of clothing. Product category of textile materials refers to a more specific subdivision within a particular product type of textile material. For example, outerwear can be divided into product categories such as trousers, skirts, dresses, shirts, jackets, coats, etc.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively, the identification or detection of used textiles can be achieved using documentation, such as labels, orders, invoices, and / or identification cards assigned to used textile recycling devices or processes. Documentary information suitable for identifying used textiles can exist in readable fonts and / or as identifiable photographs or illustrations of the used textiles, thus allowing for optical detection and subsequent evaluation; in this case, this can represent automatic identification of used textiles. However, additionally or alternatively, the documentation can also contain optically machine-readable information, such as barcodes or QR codes, particularly on labels, which can also be optically detected and evaluated. Additionally or alternatively, the documentation can also be read electronically, for example by means of electromagnetic waves or electromagnetic coupling, to read, for example, RFID transponders; this can also represent automatic identification of used textiles. In this case, individuals can also locate the used textiles and the sensors used for identification relative to each other.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, old textiles can be detected or identified using software or an application that can be used to distribute them to old textile recycling devices or processes. This is because at least old textiles and preferably several or all textile materials, particularly personal clothing, are stored or stored in the application, and individuals can choose whether textile materials can be distributed to the old textile recycling device as old textiles. Then, based on the individual's selection from their virtual textile material library or their "virtual wardrobe," a QR code can be generated, displayed on a smartphone, and detected by the old textile recycling device's camera. Such an application can also establish a wireless data connection to the old textile recycling device to perform the detection or identification of old textiles. This can also represent the automatic identification of old textiles. In this case, the individual can also use the application.

[0033] In each case, a digital product pass, such as a serial number, can be assigned to the identified used textile before or at least from the point of identification, enabling the used textile to be tracked at least along further paths, particularly during subsequent textile recycling. As a result, tracking can be made, in particular, during or along the recycling path. This can be achieved using anti-counterfeiting logs of the used textile, for example, with the aid of blockchain, which can be used for auditing purposes, for example.

[0034] As previously stated, automatic identification of individuals and / or used textiles can be achieved through one of the aforementioned options, but also through several redundant options. The results can then be used for mutual verification to increase the security of the steps that have been successfully or correctly performed for automatic identification of individuals and / or used textiles. This can increase the robustness of the statements or results.

[0035] The steps for automatic identification of individuals and / or used textiles can also be performed by technical means, enabling activities requiring hardware, such as keystrokes input by the individual, cameras for detecting optical data, and scanners for electromagnetic coupling with RFID transponders, to be performed by the used textile recycling device, a mobile terminal, and / or by another technical means available to the individual at the location of the used textile recycling device. The detected data can then be transmitted, particularly wirelessly, to another technical means, such as the used textile recycling device or the mobile terminal, to perform or complete the automatic identification there. However, the detected data can also be additionally or alternatively, particularly wirelessly, transmitted to remote technical means, such as software in the cloud located away from the used textile recycling device, to perform or complete the automatic identification there. This software or cloud can, in particular, be part of textile recycling, which also includes the operation of the used textile recycling device, or the used textile recycling device is integrated therein.

[0036] The steps of the method for automatically identifying individuals and automatically identifying used textiles according to the present invention can be performed in this order, but can also be performed in the reverse order, which can increase the flexibility for the individual as a user.

[0037] In each case, the identified used textiles are then automatically assigned to the identified individuals using appropriate technical means, as a further automated method step or process according to the method of the invention.

[0038] This method can be performed by a used textile recycling device. To this end, the used textile recycling device can have already performed the aforementioned steps of automatically identifying individuals and automatically identifying used textiles, particularly in part through the control unit of the used textile recycling device, so that the results of these two steps are already present, particularly in memory, and can be directly further processed.

[0039] As described above, the control unit can connect to the internet via a wireless data connection such as WiFi to exchange data with software in the cloud, for example. However, the control unit's software can also be updated via a wireless data connection, known as an over-the-air (OTA) update. This can also be done as an OTA update with rollback functionality, allowing a return to a previous version in case of problems. The same applies to firmware and / or ML (machine learning) model updates. The control unit can also have edge / cloud failover capabilities, allowing the operation of applications and services to be migrated from the edge infrastructure to the cloud infrastructure (or vice versa) in the event of errors or failures. This ensures that services remain available and usable even if a portion of the infrastructure fails. This can be achieved through offline buffering and downstream synchronization. Additionally or alternatively, the control unit and / or wireless data transmission can have security aspects such as end-to-end encryption and / or signing. In any case, the used textile recycling device or its control unit also provides the possibility of remote operation and / or remote evaluation or diagnostics.

[0040] Alternatively, the used textile recycling device may perform only one of the first two steps: automatic identification of the individual and automatic identification of the used textiles, so that the information or the result is already available. Then, the other method step can be performed elsewhere, and preferably by the aforementioned mobile terminal or its application, and the result has been transmitted, particularly wirelessly, to the used textile recycling device.

[0041] Alternatively, the mobile terminal may have already performed the aforementioned steps of automatically identifying individuals and automatically identifying used textiles, particularly in part by the control unit of the mobile terminal, so that the results of these two steps already exist, particularly in memory, and can be directly further processed.

[0042] Alternatively, at least one or both of the first two steps of automatically identifying individuals and automatically identifying used textiles can be performed by the aforementioned software or cloud, allowing the results of that step or both steps to remain there and be wirelessly transmitted to the used textile recycling facility and / or mobile terminal for further use there. Alternatively, the identified used textiles can also be automatically assigned to the identified individuals via software or the cloud. In this case, the results of that step can be provided to the used textile recycling facility.

[0043] In each case, the identified old textiles of the identified individual are then received by the old textile recycling device. For this purpose, the old textiles can be transferred from the identified individual to the old textile recycling device, which can be achieved, in particular, by inserting them into the collection container of the old textile recycling device through the input opening of the device's housing.

[0044] Preferably, multiple collection containers may also exist within the used textile recycling unit. These containers can be individually opened to individuals for use and filling one after another, simplifying emptying or replacement by service personnel. Furthermore, the multiple collection containers may be allocated different used textiles, for example, based on manufacturer, product type, product category, material type, or usage status, and can be released and blocked accordingly based on identified used textiles, allowing for direct sorting of used textiles based on these criteria upon receipt. Alternatively, this can be achieved by transferring used textiles through a single input opening to the used textile recycling unit, and subsequently automatically distributing them to appropriate collection containers within the unit according to these criteria, for example, via switches, as in the case of packaging sorting.

[0045] As a simple implementation, after automatic identification of the individual and the used textiles, the individual can directly input the textiles. Preferably, the identification of the individual can be confirmed as successful, so that the individual understands that the necessary information exists to automatically allocate the identified used textiles to the identified individual, allowing the individual to now transfer the used textiles to the used textile recycling device, and it can be assumed that the allocation has actually occurred successfully or will continue. To provide greater security for the individual in this regard, if necessary, a message can also be sent to the individual indicating that the allocation has occurred successfully. In each case, the individual can then leave the location of the used textile recycling device, or identify another used textile and transfer it to the used textile recycling device, in which case the need for re-automatic identification of the individual can be eliminated.

[0046] An alternative implementation can be achieved in such a way that this type of input opening can be essentially blocked so that it is possible to precisely check that only the identified used textiles can be transferred to the used textile recycling device. In this case, the input opening or input baffle can only be released if the preceding steps of automatically identifying the individual and automatically identifying the used textiles, and automatically assigning the identified used textiles to the identified individual, are successful. This release of the input opening or input baffle can preferably be limited to precisely receiving the identified used textiles, ensuring that each individual used textile received can also be identified and assigned to the individual to be received.

[0047] Advantageously, by blocking the input opening or the input baffle, it is also possible to prevent garbage and other waste from being transferred to the old textile recycling device through the input opening, which can improve the cleanliness of the received old textiles.

[0048] Preferably, whether the input baffle is blocked can be identified from one side of the used textile recycling device, i.e., if an individual is unintentionally unable to move to reach the input opening. This can lead to a corresponding instruction being issued to the individual from the used textile recycling device or from a mobile terminal, such as regarding a malfunction or unavailability of the used textile recycling device. Additionally or alternatively, service personnel can be informed of the blockage of the input baffle of the used textile recycling device so that they can access the used textile recycling device and clear the blockage. Furthermore, this event can be stored or recorded for investigating its cause, observing the operational behavior of the used textile recycling device, and / or for statistical reasons.

[0049] The method according to the invention is based on the understanding that, until now, the recycling of old textiles has only provided people with the possibility of transferring old textiles to old textile recycling facilities, the collection rooms of which are always accessible. While this simplifies and speeds up individual use, experience shows that old textile recycling facilities are also used for waste disposal, which impairs the quality of the collected old textiles and reduces the capacity of the collection rooms. Furthermore, the individuals distributing old textiles remain anonymous, which has the disadvantage of not being able to acknowledge their contribution to the recycling of old textiles, and, where appropriate, to participate in or promote textile recycling, which can improve environmental protection.

[0050] Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to detect which specific individual has distributed which (if appropriate) used textile to a used textile recycling device. This can prevent an individual from distributing items other than used textiles to the used textile recycling device. In particular, apart from intentional misuse by an individual, this situation can be reliably prevented if the possibility of receiving the identified used textile through the used textile recycling device is only for the identified used textile being released, or otherwise blocked.

[0051] According to the invention, detection of which particular individual has distributed which used textiles to a used textile recycling facility can be used, either alternatively or additionally, to assign their distribution of used textiles or their contribution to textile recycling or environmental protection to that individual. This can be used to provide rewards to individuals as an incentive to redistribute used textiles to used textile recycling facilities or to participate in textile recycling, as will be described in more detail below.

[0052] In each case, according to the invention, communication can be realized or used between all relevant technical means of the method according to the invention, such as used textile recycling devices, mobile terminals, and / or the cloud. In this case, communication can also be carried out between several used textile recycling devices, which can be said to be within the framework of the operator's fleet management of used textile recycling devices, for exchanging information about the status of the used textile recycling devices, such as the filling level of the used textiles they collect as the distribution of the load, etc.

[0053] In each case, the operator's used textile recycling unit can have a standardized interface or API (Application Programming Interface) to third-party systems to simplify or support data exchange for operations such as trading collected used textiles, billing, and / or communicating with sustainability platforms. Furthermore, event-based notifications, such as those regarding the current fill level, the maximum fill level reached (which could be considered a warning), or the fill level exceeded (which could be considered an error message), can also be output through this standardized interface or API. This can also occur if damage or malfunction of the used textile recycling unit is detected there.

[0054] The aspects, features, and / or advantages of the method according to the invention described above and below can also be implemented by means of a corresponding used textile recycling device and / or a corresponding mobile terminal or a computer program (also referred to as an application) executed thereon and / or a corresponding cloud or a computer program executed thereon, either alone or in combination with each other. The corresponding used textile recycling device and the corresponding mobile terminal can be collectively referred to as a used textile recycling system. This, in turn, also applies to the aspects, features, and / or advantages of the used textile recycling device and / or the corresponding used textile recycling system according to the invention, which can also be implemented or realized by the method according to the invention.

[0055] According to one aspect of the invention, the method further includes the following steps:

[0056] • The parameters of the identified individual are automatically changed based on the received used textiles, preferably via a used textile recycling device, via a mobile terminal, or via the cloud.

[0057] The parameters of the identified individual can be understood as any information that can be used to describe and / or influence that individual's behavior regarding the use or disposal of textile materials or used textiles. In this way, feedback can be provided to the individual regarding his / her own behavior in using or disposing of textile materials or used textiles. In particular, incentives can be provided to improve or conduct the disposal of textile materials or used textiles.

[0058] This aspect of the invention is based on the understanding that recycling old textiles by means of known methods or recycling devices has so far been anonymous and largely based on personal beliefs. For many, this may not be sufficient to include their old textiles as part of the recycling process or to distribute them separately to recycling devices, as this typically involves the time spent traveling to and from the location of the recycling device. This may be too complicated for many.

[0059] If, according to the present invention, the recycled or distributed used textiles are now allocated to a specific individual, such allocation can be used to create an incentive for that individual to distribute all or more of the used textiles within the framework of the recycling process or to a used textile recycling facility.

[0060] To this end, a parameter can be assigned to individuals or their identities, particularly based on the individual's self-identification as described above. This parameter can represent the intensity and / or quality of the individual's participation in the recycling process. For example, this parameter could be a points account for collecting points for each distributed used textile, wherein the number of points can depend on the used textile and / or the individual, as will be described in more detail below. These points can then be converted into monetary amounts, vouchers, etc. In particular, such a points account could be a points account from a retailer's loyalty points system already assigned to individuals, so that its characteristics can also be used in conjunction with the method according to the invention.

[0061] The steps of this method can also be implemented by old textile recycling devices, mobile terminals, or the cloud or software running therein, so as to take advantage of the corresponding features and advantages already described in this regard.

[0062] In each case, one parameter can be precisely changed, specifically one parameter as described below, or several parameters can be changed, also specifically as described below. This increases design freedom.

[0063] In each case, changes to one or more parameters can also be used elsewhere and communicated for this purpose. For example, if needed, operators of used textile recycling facilities can be anonymously notified of changes to parameters of the corresponding used textile recycling facilities when distributing used textiles, particularly among multiple facilities. These changes can be combined with time information, if necessary, to assess the use or utilization rate of the used textile recycling facility or multiple facilities. Information regarding changes to one or more parameters can be used, additionally or alternatively, in subsequent processes of textile recycling. Additionally or alternatively, information regarding changes to one or more parameters can also be communicated to the relevant manufacturers of the textile materials.

[0064] According to another aspect of the invention, the parameters of the identified individual are the quantity of used textiles, monetary amount, deposit amount, voucher amount, loyalty points amount, and / or environmental impact value.

[0065] These can be various specific possibilities for using the parameters of the identified individual in order to create incentives for that individual to distribute all or more of the old textiles within the framework of the recycling process or separately to the old textile recycling facility.

[0066] Therefore, as a relatively simple parameter, the amount of used textiles that an individual has contributed to the process can be detected. This can also generate statistical data that can represent, for example, the average amount of used textiles that the individual provides to the process monthly or annually.

[0067] Alternatively or additionally, this parameter can be a monetary amount, which can be changed or increased if an individual distributes old textiles during the recycling process or to an old textile recycling facility. In this case, the monetary amount can preferably depend on the quality, material composition, product type, and / or product variety, so that this is taken into account accordingly.

[0068] Alternatively or additionally, a deposit may be collected when purchasing textile materials, which may serve as a parameter for returning old textiles during the recycling process or be refunded upon return to the old textile recycling facility.

[0069] Alternatively or additionally, the parameter could be the voucher amount, particularly the voucher amount from the manufacturer of the old textiles being distributed, in order to generate an incentive to purchase new textile materials from that manufacturer, while using the voucher amount or the accumulated sum of vouchers as the parameter.

[0070] Alternatively or additionally, the parameter can be the amount of loyalty points that can be used in the context of a retailer's loyalty points system, as previously described.

[0071] Alternatively or additionally, this parameter can be an individual's environmental impact value, or simply environmental value, which can represent a measure of the degree or extent to which an individual's actions affect or contribute to environmental pollution. Such a parameter can be considered positive because environmentally friendly behaviors, particularly environmentally friendly consumption, can earn points for an individual, making these behaviors measurable and rewarding. Conversely, such a parameter can also be considered negative because an individual accumulates points due to their consumption of natural resources or their generation of harmful environmental impacts, such as CO2, which can be reduced through environmentally friendly actions, such as participating in a recycling process or distributing used textiles to recycling facilities.

[0072] According to another aspect of the invention, parameters of the identified individual are automatically changed based on the identified used textiles, the identified individual, the time of receiving the identified used textiles, and / or the location of the used textile recycling device.

[0073] Therefore, the parameters can change in different ways, for example, depending on the type or variety of products distributed by the individual. For instance, pants might cause a greater parameter variation than wipes or socks because pants might represent a larger amount of textile material than wipes or socks. Accordingly, while the quantity of used textiles distributed could increase by a value of "1" as the number of items in each case, the loyalty points amount could differ significantly, for example, by a factor of 10 or more.

[0074] Additionally or alternatively, the quality of old textiles, which can be determined, for example, by personal instruction or by optical identification of old textiles, can also be used to consider parameters, such as loyalty points for clothing in relatively good condition under conditions of large variation, and to reward such clothing, for example, because such clothing can be sold as clothing that can still be used as a wiping cloth at most.

[0075] Additionally or alternatively, when changing parameters, the identified individual can also be considered so as to provide a larger change in parameters as an initial reward to individuals participating in the method according to the invention for the first time. Furthermore, if a person now also distributes clothing, whereas previously they only distributed a certain type of product, such as home textiles like towels or pillowcases, they could therefore receive a reward for a larger change in parameters. This can increase the incentive for people to distribute used textiles as part of the recycling process or to used textile recycling facilities.

[0076] Additionally or alternatively, the timing of when used textiles are received by the recycling facility can also affect parameter variations. For example, higher variations in loyalty point systems can occur during times or periods when the recycling facility is typically used less, thus increasing these variations should serve as an incentive to achieve more even utilization of the recycling facility, thereby avoiding peak hours or long queues. This can also be applied to the location of recycling facilities to achieve more even utilization of multiple facilities.

[0077] In each case, this may be the same or different for different parameters used together.

[0078] According to another aspect of the invention, the automatic identification of used textiles includes the automatic identification of specific used textiles, the product type of used textiles, the product category of used textiles, the manufacturer of used textiles, and / or the material composition of used textiles.

[0079] Therefore, according to the present invention, a unique piece of used textile can be identified so that, for example, if the used textile is distributed or returned to a used textile recycling facility during the recycling process, the amount of the deposit can be refunded. For this purpose, the used textile can have a unique identifier, such as a value assigned only once, which can be specifically displayed as a QR code on a label. This can be achieved additionally or alternatively by means of an RFID transponder.

[0080] Additionally or alternatively, the product type and / or product category of the used textiles can exist as information. This information can be obtained, for example, by means of optical identification of the used textiles, since, for example, trousers can be optically distinguished from towels or socks.

[0081] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the manufacturer of the used textiles can be identified, which can be based on markings on the used textiles and / or on tags with personally readable information, but additionally or alternatively, it can also be achieved in the form of codes and / or by means of RFID transponders.

[0082] Additionally or alternatively, the material composition of old textiles can also be identified, for example, based on information that may be present on personally readable tags, but may also be additionally or alternatively in coded form and / or by means of RFID transponders. Additionally or alternatively, the material composition of old textiles can also be obtained by optically identifying them.

[0083] According to another aspect of the invention, the identified used textiles are automatically assigned to the identified individuals by means of a transponder on the used textiles, preferably by means of an RFID transponder.

[0084] In this way, the characteristics and advantages of transponders, especially RFID transponders, can be transformed and utilized in the implementation of the method according to the invention. The reading of the transponder can be achieved by a used textile recycling device using a corresponding scanner. This also applies to personal mobile terminals.

[0085] According to another aspect of the invention, the method further includes the following steps:

[0086] • The input opening of the old textile recycling device is only opened to receive old textiles if the old textiles and the individuals have been previously identified and assigned to each other.

[0087] This makes it possible to keep the input opening of the old textile recycling device essentially closed, in order to prevent, for example, the input of garbage, and to make it accessible only if the combination of old textiles and individuals has been identified and assigned to each other, so that the identified old textiles can then be received, as previously stated.

[0088] According to another aspect of the invention

[0089] • After receiving the old textiles, block the input opening of the old textile recycling device.

[0090] In this way, after receiving the identified old textiles, the input opening of the old textile recycling device can be blocked again to prevent the input of garbage, etc., until the new combination of old textiles and individuals can be identified and distributed to each other.

[0091] The present invention also relates to a used textile recycling device, preferably for use in the method described above, which is configured to identify individuals and used textiles preferably by means of a public identification unit or, in each case, by means of a different identification unit, wherein the used textile recycling device has an input opening for receiving the identified used textiles from the identified individuals, and wherein the used textile recycling device, preferably a control unit of the used textile recycling device, is configured and set to distribute the identified used textiles to the identified individuals.

[0092] Therefore, the present invention, previously explained by means of the method according to the invention, can also be implemented and used directly or solely by means of a used textile recycling device. Preferably, the used textile recycling device according to the invention can be used to implement the above-described method according to the invention.

[0093] As previously mentioned, the identification of used textiles and individuals can be performed by the used textile recycling device itself, making the relevant information readily available there. For this purpose, two distinct identification units can be used: a wireless receiver for the used textile recycling device to communicate with an individual's smartphone for identifying the individual using an application (preferably according to the method of the invention), and an RFID scanner for the used textile recycling device using an RFID transponder to identify the used textiles.

[0094] Similarly, the identified used textiles can be distributed to the identified individuals by the used textile recycling facility, so that the used textile recycling facility is available or able to provide the results of these activities or methodological steps.

[0095] According to one aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device, preferably a control unit of the used textile recycling device, is also configured and set to change the parameters of the identified individual based on the received used textiles.

[0096] Therefore, the corresponding characteristics and advantages previously explained by means of the method according to the invention can also be realized and utilized by means of old textile recycling devices.

[0097] The present invention also relates to a used textile recycling system, preferably used in the method described above, having a used textile recycling device and a mobile terminal, wherein the used textile recycling device has an identification unit configured to identify used textiles, wherein the mobile terminal includes an identification unit configured to identify an individual, and vice versa, wherein the used textile recycling device has an input opening for receiving identified used textiles from the identified individual, wherein the used textile recycling device, preferably a control unit of the used textile recycling device, or the mobile terminal, preferably a control unit of the mobile terminal, is configured and set to distribute the identified used textiles to the identified individual.

[0098] Therefore, the present invention, previously explained by means of the method according to the invention, can also be realized and used by means of a combination of an old textile recycling device and a personal mobile terminal, such as, in particular, his smartphone or a smartphone application.

[0099] In this scenario, the identification process takes place between the old textile recycling device and the mobile terminal, with one identification performed by one device and the other by another.

[0100] The distribution of identified used textiles to the identified individuals can be performed by used textile recycling devices or mobile terminals. For this purpose, the data required for identification performed by another device can be transmitted, particularly wirelessly.

[0101] According to one aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device, preferably a control unit of the used textile recycling device, or a mobile terminal, preferably a control unit of the mobile terminal, is further configured and set to change the parameters of the identified individual based on the received used textiles.

[0102] Therefore, the corresponding features and advantages previously explained by means of the method according to the invention can also be realized and utilized by means of an old textile recycling device or by means of a mobile terminal. In this case, this can preferably be achieved by one of the two devices, which also performs the task of distributing the identified old textiles to the identified individuals in order to save the cost of data transmission.

[0103] The present invention also relates to a used textile recycling system, preferably for use in the method described above, having a used textile recycling device and a mobile terminal, wherein the mobile terminal is configured to identify individuals and used textiles preferably by means of a public identification unit or, in each case, by means of a different identification unit, wherein the used textile recycling device has an input opening for receiving the identified used textiles from the identified individuals, wherein the mobile terminal, preferably a control unit of the mobile terminal, is configured and set to distribute the identified used textiles to the identified individuals.

[0104] Therefore, this invention can be implemented and used primarily by means of mobile terminals, particularly smartphones or smartphone applications. The used textile recycling device can only handle the physical receipt of used textiles. This makes the used textile recycling device particularly simple and economical. Furthermore, this increases the convenience for the individual user, as the individual can typically also use the mobile terminal for other activities and services, thus enabling the use of the mobile terminal.

[0105] According to one aspect of the invention, the mobile terminal, preferably a control unit of the mobile terminal, is also configured and set to change the parameters of the identified individual based on the received old textiles.

[0106] Therefore, the corresponding features and advantages previously explained by means of the method according to the invention can also be realized and utilized essentially by means of a mobile terminal.

[0107] According to another aspect of the invention, the parameters of the identified individual are the quantity of used textiles, monetary amount, deposit amount, voucher amount, loyalty points amount, and / or environmental impact value.

[0108] In this way, the corresponding characteristics and advantages of the method according to the invention, as described above, can also be realized and used in the used textile recycling device and / or the used textile recycling system according to the invention.

[0109] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device, preferably a control unit of the used textile recycling device, and / or a mobile terminal, preferably a control unit of the mobile terminal, is further configured and set to change parameters of the identified individual based on the identified used textile, the identified individual, the time of receiving the identified used textile, and / or the location of the used textile recycling device.

[0110] In this way, the corresponding characteristics and advantages of the method according to the invention, as described above, can also be realized and used in the used textile recycling device and / or the used textile recycling system according to the invention.

[0111] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device has an input opening that is configured to receive used textiles only if the used textiles and the individuals have been previously identified and assigned to each other.

[0112] In this way, the corresponding characteristics and advantages of the method according to the invention, as described above, can also be realized and used in the used textile recycling device and / or the used textile recycling system according to the invention.

[0113] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device is preferably configured, by means of a movable and blockable input baffle, to block the input opening of the used textile recycling device after receiving the used textiles.

[0114] In this way, the corresponding characteristics and advantages of the method according to the invention, as described above, can also be realized and used in the used textile recycling device and / or the used textile recycling system according to the invention.

[0115] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device has an input identification device configured to identify the received used textiles.

[0116] In this way, the used textile recycling device can identify or monitor whether or when used textiles are received. This allows the used textile recycling device to automatically identify, for example, once the receipt of one or more used textiles is identified, the release input opening is blocked again.

[0117] This type of input identification device can be specifically arranged in the area of ​​the input opening through which used textiles can enter the interior of the used textile recycling device or into a collection container located there. Various sensor systems can be used for this purpose. For example, whether the input baffle is closed can be identified by an electrical contact that can be opened and closed, where the latter state can be considered as the input of used textiles. This can be similarly achieved by a switch or button on the input baffle, which can only be actuated when the input baffle is closed. Additionally or alternatively, light barriers, distance sensors, and / or motion sensors, particularly infrared sensors, can be used to detect the movement of the input baffle and / or the used textiles within the used textile recycling device, thereby identifying the input of used textiles.

[0118] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device, preferably a control unit of the used textile recycling device, and / or a mobile terminal, preferably a control unit of the mobile terminal, is further configured and set to identify specific used textiles, the product type of the used textiles, the product category of the used textiles, the manufacturer of the used textiles, and / or the material composition of the used textiles.

[0119] In this way, the corresponding characteristics and advantages of the method according to the invention, as described above, can also be realized and used in the used textile recycling device and / or the used textile recycling system according to the invention.

[0120] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device, preferably a control unit of the used textile recycling device, and / or a mobile terminal, preferably a control unit of the mobile terminal, is further configured and set to...

[0121] • Using a transponder, preferably an RFID transponder, and / or

[0122] • With the help of image recognition, and / or

[0123] • Using one-dimensional barcodes, and / or

[0124] • Using QR codes, preferably using QR codes, and / or

[0125] • Utilizing font recognition

[0126] To identify the old textiles (3).

[0127] As mentioned earlier, this can represent a variety of specific possibilities for identifying old textiles.

[0128] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device and / or mobile terminal further includes an output element, preferably a display element, particularly preferably a touch screen, which is configured and set to output.

[0129] • Identify the individuals being identified, and / or

[0130] • Identify the identified old textiles, and / or

[0131] • One-dimensional barcodes and / or QR codes, preferably QR codes, and / or

[0132] • Status information of the used textile recycling device, preferably the fill level of the collection container of the used textile recycling device, and / or

[0133] • Menu guide, and / or

[0134] • Instructions for actions to be performed by an individual, and / or

[0135] • Confirmation of the actions performed by an individual

[0136] • Preferably and / or the unchanged parameters of the identified individual,

[0137] • Preferably and / or the parameters of the identified individual are changed.

[0138] • Preferably and / or the changes in the parameters of the identified individual

[0139] The identified individuals are output.

[0140] This can represent a variety of specific possibilities for outputting information to an individual. Accordingly, the individual can be notified and / or requested to perform an action, such as as part of a menu guide and / or as an instruction, such as transferring old textiles to an old textile recycling facility. The output information can also include a combination or allocation of the identified individual and the identified old textiles, preferably including additional information such as date, location, etc.

[0141] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device and / or mobile terminal further includes an input element, preferably an operating element, particularly preferably a touch screen, which is configured and set to obtain...

[0142] • Identify the individuals being identified, and / or

[0143] • Identify the identified old textiles, and / or

[0144] • Individual actions

[0145] As input for the identified individual.

[0146] As mentioned earlier, this can represent a variety of specific possibilities for the input.

[0147] According to another aspect of the invention, the old textile recycling device is configured to operate independently in an electric manner, preferably by means of a rechargeable energy storage device and / or by means of an electrical energy source, particularly preferably by means of a solar cell.

[0148] This allows the operation of the used textile recycling unit to be independent of a power source. This can be used as an emergency power source and as an additional power source in addition to an electrical connection to the power grid. Alternatively, it can be operated continuously or independently with electricity, enabling the installation and use of the used textile recycling unit in locations without a power supply or grid, such as parking lots in supermarkets, thus saving the cost and expense of establishing a power connection to the grid.

[0149] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device, preferably the control unit of the used textile recycling device, is configured and set to operate independently in terms of control.

[0150] Therefore, as mentioned earlier, the operation of the used textile recycling device can be carried out independently, i.e., without the need for data connections to higher-level and spatially separated control units. In particular, connections to the internet or mobile radio networks can be eliminated. The corresponding data can be temporarily stored and transferred from and / or to the outside of the used textile recycling device only when needed. This ensures that the used textile recycling device can still operate even in the event of a data connection failure.

[0151] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device is configured to detect a measurement of atmospheric humidity within the used textile recycling device by means of a humidity sensor, wherein the used textile recycling device, preferably a control unit of the used textile recycling device, is configured and set to generate a blower for generating airflow through a vent based on the detected air humidity.

[0152] Therefore, unacceptably high humidity levels inside the used textile recycling facility can be avoided, which could lead to mold growth on the collected textiles. To this end, the humidity inside the facility can be detected by sensors, and ventilation devices or blowers can be operated accordingly to maintain a sufficiently low humidity level, thus preventing mold formation. In this case, the internal temperature can also be considered using an additional temperature sensor inside the recycling facility. Furthermore, odor filters and / or particulate or dust filters can be arranged in the airflow to perform appropriate filtration before the air reaches the outside of the recycling facility. In this way, the surrounding environment of the recycling facility can be protected from odors or foul smells and / or dust.

[0153] Preferably, independent of ventilation devices that rely on air humidity, the collected old textiles can be disinfected additionally or alternatively by irradiating them with UV radiation (ultraviolet radiation), thereby killing bacteria and viruses.

[0154] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device has an access opening to a removable collection container, wherein the collection container is collected by a collection container holder of the used textile recycling device in order to collect the received used textiles.

[0155] As mentioned earlier, this allows the collected old textiles to be gathered in a collection container, making them easier to remove, which can be done together in the collection container rather than loosely in individual pieces.

[0156] According to another aspect of the invention, the entry opening of the used textile recycling device is configured to be closable.

[0157] This prevents unauthorized third parties from accessing the used textiles obtained inside the recycling facility. Authorized personnel, such as service staff, can open the enclosure, such as the door with an opening, using a key to gain access to the used textiles obtained inside the recycling facility.

[0158] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device has a fill level detector, which is configured and set to detect the fill level of the collection container.

[0159] For this purpose, distance sensors, such as ultrasonic or laser sensors, can be used to detect the amount of used textiles collected or stored inside the used textile recycling device, which can then be used by the control unit of the used textile recycling device, particularly for output to individuals. This is especially useful for preferably removable collection containers that can be arranged inside the used textile recycling device to receive or collect the collected used textiles.

[0160] For example, if the fill level is too high to collect more used textiles, fill level information can be used to prevent the used textile recycling unit from collecting further used textiles. Additionally or alternatively, service personnel can be notified that a certain fill level has been reached, making the removal of used textiles worth the effort of their arrival, or that the maximum fill level can be expected to be reached in the near future, thus avoiding disruption to the operational preparation of the used textile recycling unit.

[0161] According to another aspect of the invention, the used textile recycling device, preferably a control unit of the used textile recycling device, and / or a mobile terminal, preferably a control unit of the mobile terminal, is further configured and set to...

[0162] • An indication that the collection container is full is output, preferably by means of an output element, and / or

[0163] • To prevent the possibility of receiving another identified old textile.

[0164] This could represent specific possibilities for utilizing information about the identified fill levels, as already partially described above.

[0165] Preferably, the used textile recycling device according to the invention may further include an alarm system and / or sensors for identifying unauthorized access or damage, so as to trigger an alarm and / or send a notification to the operator of the used textile recycling device in such cases. This can increase the security of the used textile recycling device.

[0166] The present invention also relates to a computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a mobile terminal, preferably a smartphone, cause the mobile terminal to perform at least one step of the method described above:

[0167] • Automatically identify individuals, and / or

[0168] • Automatically identify old textiles, and / or

[0169] • Automatically assign the identified used textiles to the identified individuals.

[0170] In this way, the method according to the invention can be implemented at least in part by means of instructions that can be provided to the mobile terminal as a computer program or a computer program product, that is, where they can be read or loaded, for example in main memory or on a computer-readable storage medium. This makes it possible to provide and transmit the computer program so that the method according to the invention can be executed at least in part on the mobile terminal.

[0171] The present invention also relates to a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program as described above stored thereon.

[0172] Computer-readable storage media can be any data carrier that can be used as a storage medium, whether it is incorporated as part of a mobile terminal or designed and used separately. For example, this can be a data storage device, such as the hard disk storage of a mobile terminal, or a storage medium that can be removed from or detached from the mobile terminal, such as a USB flash drive, external hard disk storage, etc. The storage medium can be part of an edge computer or a cloud computer. In any case, the aforementioned computer programs can be stored, transmitted, or made available in this manner. Attached Figure Description

[0173] The following, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, schematically illustrates and explains in more detail one embodiment and other advantages of the invention.

[0174] Figure 1 A diagram of a used textile recycling system according to the present invention is shown, which combines a used textile recycling device according to the present invention with a mobile terminal and a cloud for performing the method according to the present invention;

[0175] Figure 2 A flowchart of the method according to the present invention is shown;

[0176] Figure 3 A perspective view of the inclined front portion of the old textile recycling device according to the present invention is shown;

[0177] Figure 4 Shown from the front Figure 3 The old textile recycling device has an exemplary size and an individual next to it for size comparison;

[0178] Figure 5 It showed no individual Figure 4 The diagram on the right;

[0179] Figure 6 It shows Figures 3 to 5 A perspective view of the upper area of ​​the old textile recycling facility;

[0180] Figure 7 It shows Figures 3 to 6A perspective view of the old textile recycling device tilted from the rear and above;

[0181] Figure 8 It shows Figure 3 The illustration shows an opening with a collection container.

[0182] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 A partially transparent image, in which the collection container holder extends out, and there is no collection container;

[0183] Figure 10 It shows Figure 9 A perspective view of the retracted collection container holder;

[0184] Figure 11 It shows Figure 8 The illustration shows a fully extended collection container holder with a collection container; and

[0185] Figure 12 It shows Figure 11 Detailed images.

[0186] All the above diagrams are viewed using a Cartesian coordinate system. The longitudinal axis X extends, also known as depth X or length X. The transverse axis Y, also known as width Y, extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. The vertical axis Z extends perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y, also known as height Z, and corresponds to the direction of gravity or gravitational force, respectively. The longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y together form the horizontal axes X and Y, also known as the horizontal planes X and Y. Detailed Implementation

[0187] Figure 1 The illustration shows a used textile recycling system 1, 4 according to the present invention, which has a used textile recycling device 1 according to the present invention combined with a mobile terminal 4 and a cloud 5 for performing the method according to the present invention. Figure 2 A flowchart of the method according to the present invention is shown.

[0188] In order to make it easier or more attractive for individuals 2 to provide used textile materials, particularly used clothing, as old textiles 3 rather than residual waste, to recycling or textile recycling, according to the present invention, on the one hand, the previously mentioned old textile recycling device 1 is provided, and on the other hand, the previously mentioned mobile terminal 4 is provided, which together form the previously mentioned old textile recycling system 1, 4.

[0189] The old textile recycling systems 1 and 4 can also additionally have a cloud 5 or a computer program running in the cloud 5 as software or as a computer program, such as Figure 1The following is an example shown and described below. Optionally, the present invention or the method according to the invention can also be implemented by a separate used textile recycling device 1. Optionally, the basic steps of the method according to the invention can also be implemented by a mobile terminal 4, and the corresponding used textile recycling device 1 is only used to receive used textiles 3.

[0190] The used textile recycling device 1, also known as the disposal cabinet 1, has a collection container 16 inside. Figure 1 Not shown in the image, see [link / reference]. Figure 8 , 11 12), which is used to receive or collect used textiles 3. Individual 2 can access the collection container 16 through the input opening 11 of the used textile recycling device 1. The input opening 11 has an input baffle 11c, which can be released or blocked by the used textile recycling device 1 to make the input opening 11 accessible or inaccessible. To the left of the input opening 11, the used textile recycling device 1 has an output / input element 12 in the form of a display / operation element 12 arranged on top of another, which is implemented as a touch screen 12. An identification unit 17 is arranged above it, which can be converted into an optical image detection unit 17 or an RFID scanner 17.

[0191] The smartphone 4 of the individual 2 can be used as a mobile terminal 4. In each case, the mobile terminal 4 can have a housing 40, which can externally surround and protect the components of the mobile terminal 4. In the housing 40, an output / input element 41 in the form of a display / operation element 41 is provided facing the individual 2, which is also implemented as a touch screen 41. The recognition unit 42 is also arranged in the upper region of the opposite rear side (not shown) of the housing 40, which can also be converted into an optical image detection unit 42.

[0192] Both the used textile recycling device 1 and the mobile terminal 4 can directly establish a wireless data connection A with each other, for example via Bluetooth, and can also establish a wireless data connection A with a mobile radio network or the Internet, for example via WiFi, so as to communicate with each other and exchange information, including data, instructions, etc. They can also communicate with software in the cloud 5 via the wireless data connection A to the mobile radio network or the Internet.

[0193] To increase the incentive for individuals 2 to supply used textiles 3 (e.g., used hoodies) to textile recycling, rather than to leave them in household waste or leftover garbage where the resources are at least substantially lost, according to the invention, in one aspect, the used textile recycling device 1 can be provided, for example, in a supermarket parking lot or a public place. Furthermore, individuals 2 can download the software as an application to a mobile terminal 4 and install it there. Both the used textile recycling device 1 and the mobile terminal 4 are connected to the cloud 5 or the software residing therein via a wireless data connection A.

[0194] The method according to the invention can now be performed, for example, in such a manner that an individual 2 accesses the used textile recycling device 1 with his mobile terminal 4 and the used textiles 3 to be distributed. The input opening 11 of the used textile recycling device 1 is blocked in principle or under normal conditions by means of its blocking input baffle 11c to prevent unwanted waste from being put into the collection container 16.

[0195] Upon arriving at the location of the used textile recycling device 1, the individual 2 can demonstrate that they are identifiable in order to participate in the method or textile recycling according to the invention. For this purpose, a step can be performed, for example, by the automatic identification of individual 2 by mobile terminal 4, as individual 2 there invokes the textile recycling application and logs in with a password.

[0196] Before or after this, the 200 used textiles 3 can be automatically identified, for example, by the used textile recycling device 1, because the individual 2 holds a portion of the used textile 3 (e.g., its tag), which includes an RFID transponder with a unique identifier, on the RFID scanner 17 of the used textile recycling device 1, so that the RFID transponder of the used textile 3 can be read there. Additionally or alternatively, the QR code from the tag of the used textile 3 can be detected by the optical image detection unit 17 of the used textile recycling device 1.

[0197] Now, the data read from the QR code of the old textile 3 by the RFID scanner 17 or the optical image detection unit 17 of the old textile recycling device 1 can be transmitted to the mobile terminal 4 via the wireless data connection A, so that the automatic identification result 100 of the individual 2 and the automatic identification result 200 of the old textile 3 are both stored in the mobile terminal 4 or its memory, and can be processed by the control unit there. This can be achieved by automatically assigning 300 of the identified old textile 3 to the identified individual 2 to form a combined dataset. If necessary, additional information such as the location of the old textile recycling device 1, the date of day, and the time of day can be added to the dataset.

[0198] If automatic allocation 300 occurs, the mobile terminal 4 can notify the used textile recycling device 1 that this is the case, i.e., automatic allocation 300 has been successful. Therefore, the used textile recycling device 1 can be notified that the used textiles 3 are available on site for allocation to the used textile recycling device 1. Accordingly, the used textile recycling device 1 can release 400 into the input opening 11.

[0199] Then, individual 2 can put or insert the old textile 3 into the input opening 11 of the old textile recycling device 1. For this purpose, the movable input baffle 11c can now pivot to release the input opening 11. The old textile 3 can then fall into the collection container 16 behind the input opening 11. This is achieved by the old textile recycling device 1 receiving the old textile 3 500.

[0200] Subsequently, after receiving 500 used textiles 3, the input opening 11 of the used textile recycling device 1 may become blocked 600 until a new successful automatic dispensing 300 occurs. In this case, the used textile recycling device 1 or its control unit can identify or determine, by means of input identification that can be converted by means of, for example, a light barrier, a distance sensor or a motion sensor, that exactly one used textile 3 was input and thus received by the used textile recycling device 1 after the input opening 11 was released 400.

[0201] After the used textile recycling device 1 receives or identifies the used textile 3, the parameters of the identified individual 2 can be automatically changed by 700 based on the received used textile 3. In the considered example, this can be achieved through the cloud 5. To this end, the used textile recycling device 1 can notify the cloud 5 via wireless data connection A that exactly one of the identified used textile 3 has been identified and disposed of. Furthermore, the mobile terminal 4 of the cloud 5 can notify the identified individual 2 of the result of the automatic allocation 300 of the identified used textile 3 via wireless data connection A.

[0202] Now, Cloud 5 can add parameters to the identified individual 2. These parameters could be, for example, a voucher amount, which is added to reward the individual 2 for distributing used textiles 3. For instance, when purchasing new clothes, a voucher amount can be redeemed from the manufacturer of the distributed used textiles 3 to reduce the purchase price. This incentivizes the individual 2 to distribute the used textiles 3 to the used textile recycling unit 1 instead of throwing them into the waste bins. In this case, the voucher amount can depend on the individual 2, and for example, it can be higher if the individual 2 is participating in the textile recycling process for the first time. Furthermore, the voucher amount can depend on the used textiles 3, and for example, it can be higher for larger garments (e.g., hoodies) than for smaller garments (e.g., socks or a pair of socks).

[0203] Figure 3 A perspective view of the inclined front portion of the old textile recycling device 1 according to the present invention is shown. Figure 4 Shown from the front Figure 3 The old textile recycling device 1 has an exemplary size and an adjacent individual 2 for size comparison. Figure 5 It shows that there is no individual 2. Figure 4The diagram on the right. Figure 6 It shows Figures 3 to 5 A perspective view of the upper area of ​​the old textile recycling device 1. Figure 7 It shows Figures 3 to 6 A perspective view of the old textile recycling device 1 tilted from the rear and above. Figure 8 It shows Figure 3 The illustration shows that the entrance opening 14 is open, with a collection container 16. Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 A partially transparent image, in which the collection container holder 15 extends out and the collection container 16 is not present. Figure 10 It shows Figure 9 Perspective view of the retracted collection container holder 15. Figure 11 It shows Figure 8 The illustration shows a fully extended collection container holder 15 with a collection container 16. Figure 12 It shows Figure 11 Detailed view.

[0204] The previously mentioned used textile recycling device 1 has a housing 10, which essentially collects and encloses the components of the used textile recycling device 1 externally to protect it from external influences and access. The housing 10 has a front side 10a, a right side 10b, a left side 10c, a rear side 10d, an upper side 10e or top 10e, and a lower side 10f or bottom 10f. The housing 10 or the used textile recycling device 1 is secured to a base (not shown) at its corners (not shown) by four feet 10g.

[0205] The front side 10a of the housing 10 has the aforementioned insertion opening 11 in its upper region, which has a blocking insertion baffle 11c. In this case, the insertion baffle 11c is inclined relative to the horizontal axes X and Y, i.e., retracted relative to the front side 10a of the housing 10, so that the insertion baffle 11c can, due to its weight, rest against the baffle block 11b toward the front side 10a of the housing 10. From there to the front side 10a of the housing 10, the housing 10 is closed by means of the opening ramp 11a, see, for example, [see...] Figure 6 .

[0206] In order to power the used textile recycling device 1 or its electrical and electronic components in an energy-efficient and independent manner, the upper side 10e or top 10e of the housing 10 has an electrical energy source 13 in the form of a solar cell 13. The technology required for this purpose, such as a charging controller and / or inverter, may be present within the housing 10 and communicate with the control unit of the used textile recycling device 1.

[0207] Ventilation slots 10ba, 10bb, 10ca, and 10cb are respectively arranged in the lower and upper regions of the two sides 10b and 10c of the housing 10. Specifically, the lower ventilation slot 10ba is located on the right side 10b of the housing 10, the upper ventilation slot 10bb is located on the right side 10b of the housing 10, the lower ventilation slot 10ca is located on the left side 10c of the housing 10, and the upper ventilation slot 10cb is located on the left side 10c of the housing 10. The lower ventilation slots 10ba and 10ca and the upper ventilation slots 10bb and 10cb are arranged at the same height along the vertical axis Z and are therefore opposite each other along the transverse axis Y. In this way, a certain degree of ventilation can be achieved in a simple manner inside the housing 10 or the old textile recycling device 1 (unspecified) to reduce the humidity there and thus prevent mold from forming on the old textiles 3 collected there.

[0208] To improve this, if necessary, a humidity sensor (not shown) can be present within the housing 10, particularly in the area of ​​or above the collection container 16, to detect or determine the predominant air humidity there. Furthermore, a blower (not shown) can be positioned inside the used textile recycling device 1, particularly in the area of ​​or above the collection container 16, to generate airflow between the upper ventilation slots 10bb, 10cb, which are opposite each other along the transverse axis Y. Accordingly, the air humidity within the housing 10 or the used textile recycling device 1 can be measured by the humidity sensor, and the blower can be operated or adjusted by the control unit of the used textile recycling device 1 based on the detected air humidity to maintain a sufficiently low air humidity, thereby reliably preventing mold formation. For this purpose, an ultraviolet lamp can be additionally arranged above the collection container 16 to further kill bacteria and viruses by means of ultraviolet light, thereby improving the hygiene of the used textiles 3.

[0209] In the considered embodiment, the collection container 16 for collecting or obtaining the old textiles 3, which has been mentioned several times, is constructed as a textile collection container 16, the sturdy textile material of which forms a parallelepiped shape and a collection space 16a that is fully open at the top, so that the old textiles 3 can be collected by falling into it from above along the vertical axis Z, see, for example Figure 12 The two upper edges (unspecified) of the collection container 16 extending along the longitudinal axis X each have three elongated retaining rings 16b to hold it there, for example, see [reference needed]. Figure 12 .

[0210] To retain the collection container 16 inside the used textile recycling device 1, a collection container holder 15 is provided there, having a pair of collection container seats 15a that extend parallel to each other along the longitudinal axis X and are spaced apart from each other along the transverse axis Y. The two collection container seats 15a are movably connected to the housing 10 of the used textile recycling device 1 along the longitudinal axis X by means of corresponding pull-out units 15c in the form of telescopic rails 15c, similar to a drawer pull-out system. The collection container seats 15a are fixedly connected to each other in a U-shape in both directions by means of a collection container frame 15b, upward along the transverse axis Y and along the vertical axis Z, and along the longitudinal axis X. Away from the interior of the housing 10, the transverse region (not shown) of the collection container frame 15b in each case has an arcuate handle 15d in the form of a handle bracket 15d for a service person to grasp and pull out from the interior of the housing 10 along the longitudinal axis X through an access opening 14 on the front side 10a of the housing 10, so that the collection container 16 can be more easily removed from the collection container holder 15 and emptied or replaced.

[0211] To protect the collection container 16 or the old textiles 3 collected therein from unauthorized access, i.e., when no service personnel are present or during operation, the access opening 14 on the front side 10a of the housing 10 can be closed and locked or sealed by a pivot door 14a. The door can be operated or pivoted by a service personnel using a handle 14aa.

[0212] Illustrated symbols (from the instruction manual section)

[0213] A wireless data connection

[0214] X: longitudinal axis; depth; length

[0215] Y-axis (horizontal axis); width

[0216] Z represents the vertical axis; height.

[0217] X and Y horizontal planes; horizontal plane

[0218] 1.4 Used textile recycling system

[0219] 1. Used textile recycling equipment; discard bins

[0220] 10. Shell

[0221] 10a Front side of housing 10

[0222] 10b Right side of housing 10

[0223] The lower ventilation slot on the right side 10b of the housing 10ba.

[0224] The upper ventilation slot on the right side 10b of the housing 10bb

[0225] 10c Left side of housing 10

[0226] The lower ventilation slot on the left side 10c of the housing 10ca

[0227] 10cb Upper ventilation slot on the left side 10c of housing 10

[0228] 10d Rear side of housing 10

[0229] 10e Upper side or top of housing 10

[0230] 10f The lower side or bottom of housing 10

[0231] 10g support legs for casing 10

[0232] 11. Entry opening (front side 10a of housing 10)

[0233] 11a Insert the inclined plane of opening 11

[0234] 11b Insert the baffle block with opening 11.

[0235] 11c Input baffle

[0236] 12. Output / input components; display / operation components; touch screen

[0237] 13. Electrical energy; solar cells

[0238] 14. Entry opening (front side 10a of housing 10)

[0239] 14a Enter the door through opening 14

[0240] 14aa The handle of door 14a leading to opening 14

[0241] 15. Collection container holder

[0242] 15a Collection Container Base

[0243] 15b Collection Container Frame

[0244] 15c Pull-out unit; telescopic rail

[0245] 15D controller; controller stand

[0246] 16 (Textiles) Collection Containers

[0247] 16a Collection Space

[0248] 16b retaining ring

[0249] 17. Identification unit; optical image detection unit; RFID scanner

[0250] 2 people

[0251] 3. Old textiles; old clothes

[0252] 4. Mobile terminals; smartphones

[0253] 40. Outer shell

[0254] 41. Output / input components; display / operation components; touch screen

[0255] 42. Identification unit; optical image detection unit; RFID scanner

[0256] 5 Clouds

[0257] 100 Automatically recognize individuals 2

[0258] 200 Automatically identifies old textiles 3, and vice versa.

[0259] 300 Automatically assigns the identified used textiles 3 to the identified individuals 2

[0260] 400 The input opening 11 of the old textile recycling device 1 is released.

[0261] 500 The identified used textiles are received from the identified individual 2 through the used textile recycling device 1. 600 After receiving 500 pieces of used textiles 3, the input opening 11 of the used textile recycling device 1 is blocked. 700 Automatically changes the parameters of the identified individual 2 based on the received old textiles 3.

Claims

1. A method for recycling old textiles (3), preferably within the framework of textile recycling, It has at least one used textile recycling device (1), which is configured to receive at least one used textile (3) from an individual (2). in, The method includes at least the following steps: • Automatic identification (100) of the individual (2), preferably via the old textile recycling device (1) or via a mobile terminal (4), • Automatic identification (200) of the old textiles (3), preferably through the old textile recycling device (1) or through the mobile terminal (4), or vice versa. • The identified used textiles (3) are automatically distributed (300) to the identified individuals (2), preferably via the used textile recycling device (1), via the mobile terminal (4), or via the cloud (5), and • The old textiles (3) identified by the identified individual (2) are received (500) by the old textile recycling device (1).

2. The method according to claim 1, in, The method further includes the following steps: • The parameters of the individual (2) identified by (700) are automatically changed according to the received old textiles (3), preferably through the old textile recycling device (1), through the mobile terminal (4) or through the cloud (5).

3. The method according to claim 2, in, The parameters for the identified individual (2) are the quantity of used textiles (3), monetary amount, deposit amount, voucher amount, loyalty points amount and / or environmental impact value.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, in, The parameters of the identified individual (2) are automatically changed (700) based on the identified used textiles (3), the identified individual (2), the time of receiving (500) the identified used textiles (3) and / or the location of the used textile recycling device (1).

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The automatic identification (200) of the used textile (3) includes the automatic identification (1200) of the specific used textile (3), the product type of the used textile (3), the product category of the used textile (3), the manufacturer of the used textile (3) and / or the material composition of the used textile (3).

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The identified old textile (3) is automatically distributed (300) to the identified individual (2) by means of the transponder of the old textile (3), preferably by means of an RFID transponder.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least the following further steps: • The input opening (11) of the old textile recycling device (1) is released (400) to receive (500) the old textile (3) only when the old textile (3) and the individual (2) have been previously identified and assigned to each other.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising at least the following steps: • After receiving (500) the old textile (3), block (600) the input opening (11) of the old textile recycling device (1).

9. A used textile recycling device (1), preferably used in accordance with the method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, It is configured to identify individuals (2) and old textiles (3) preferably by means of a common identification unit (17) or by means of a different identification unit in each case. in, The used textile recycling device (1) has an input opening (11) for receiving identified used textiles (3) from identified individuals (2), and The used textile recycling device (1), preferably a control unit of the used textile recycling device (1), is configured and set to distribute the identified used textiles (3) to the identified individuals (2).

10. The used textile recycling device (1) according to claim 9, in, The used textile recycling device (1), preferably the control unit of the used textile recycling device (1), is also configured and set to change the parameters of the identified individual (2) according to the received used textiles (3).

11. A used textile recycling system (1,4), preferably used in accordance with the method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, It has a used textile recycling device (1) and It has a mobile terminal (4), in, The used textile recycling device (1) has an identification unit (17) configured to identify used textiles (3). The mobile terminal (4) includes an identification unit (42) configured to identify an individual (2), and vice versa. The used textile recycling device (1) has an input opening (11) for receiving identified used textiles (3) from identified individuals (2). The used textile recycling device (1), preferably a control unit of the used textile recycling device (1), or the mobile terminal (4), preferably a control unit of the mobile terminal (4), is configured and set to distribute the identified used textiles (3) to the identified individuals (2).

12. The used textile recycling system (1,4) according to claim 11, in, The used textile recycling device (1), preferably the control unit of the used textile recycling device (1), or the mobile terminal (4), preferably the control unit of the mobile terminal (4), is also configured and set to change the parameters of the identified individual (2) according to the received used textiles (3).

13. A used textile recycling system (1,4), preferably used in accordance with the method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, It has a used textile recycling device (1) and It has a mobile terminal (4), in, The mobile terminal (4) is configured to identify the individual (2) and the used textiles (3) preferably by means of a common identification unit (42) or, in each case, by means of a different identification unit. The used textile recycling device (1) has an input opening (11) for receiving identified used textiles (3) from identified individuals (2). The mobile terminal (4), preferably the control unit of the mobile terminal (4), is configured and set to distribute the identified old textiles (3) to the identified individual (2).

14. The used textile recycling system (1,4) according to claim 13, in, The mobile terminal (4), preferably the control unit of the mobile terminal (4), is also configured and set to change the parameters of the identified individual (2) according to the received old textiles (3).

15. The used textile recycling device (1) according to claim 10 or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to claim 12 or 14, in, The parameters for the identified individual (2) are the quantity of used textiles (3), monetary amount, deposit amount, voucher amount, loyalty points amount and / or environmental impact value.

16. The used textile recycling device (1) according to claim 10 or 15, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 12, 14 or 15, in, The used textile recycling device (1), preferably the control unit of the used textile recycling device (1), and / or the mobile terminal (4), preferably the control unit of the mobile terminal (4), is also configured and set to change the parameters of the identified individual (2) based on the identified used textile (3), the identified individual (2), the time of receiving the identified used textile (3), and / or the location of the used textile recycling device (1).

17. The used textile recycling device (1) according to any one of claims 9, 10, 15 or 16, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 11 to 16, in, The used textile recycling device (1) has an input opening (11) which is configured to receive the used textile (3) only if the used textile (3) and the individual (2) have been previously identified and assigned to each other.

18. The used textile recycling device (1) according to any one of claims 9, 10, or 15 to 17, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 11 to 17, in, The used textile recycling device (1) is preferably configured, by means of a movable and blockable input baffle (11c), to block the input opening (11) of the used textile recycling device (1) after receiving the used textile (3).

19. The used textile recycling device (1) according to any one of claims 9, 10, or 15 to 18, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 11 to 18, in, The used textile recycling device (1) has an input identification device configured to identify the received used textiles (3).

20. The used textile recycling device (1) according to any one of claims 9, 10, or 15 to 19, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 11 to 19, in, The used textile recycling device (1), preferably the control unit of the used textile recycling device (1), and / or the mobile terminal (4), preferably the control unit of the mobile terminal (4), is also configured and set to identify a specific used textile (3), the product type of the used textile (3), the product category of the used textile (3), the manufacturer of the used textile (3), and / or the material composition of the used textile (3).

21. The used textile recycling device (1) according to any one of claims 9, 10, or 15 to 20, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 11 to 20, in, The used textile recycling device (1), preferably the control unit of the used textile recycling device (1), and / or the mobile terminal (4), preferably the control unit of the mobile terminal (4), is also configured and set to utilize a transponder, preferably an RFID transponder, and / or • With the help of image recognition, and / or • Using one-dimensional barcodes, and / or • Using QR codes, preferably using QR codes, and / or • Utilizing font recognition To identify the old textiles (3).

22. The used textile recycling device (1) according to any one of claims 9, 10, or 15 to 21, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 11 to 21, in, The used textile recycling device (1) and / or the mobile terminal (4) further include an output element (12; 41), preferably a display element (12; 41), particularly preferably a touch screen (12; 41), which is configured and set to output. • Identify the individuals identified (2), and / or • Identify the identified old textiles (3), and / or • One-dimensional barcodes and / or QR codes, preferably QR codes, and / or • The status information of the used textile recycling device (1) is preferably the filling level of the collection container (16) of the used textile recycling device (1), and / or • Menu guide, and / or • The instructions for the actions to be performed by the individual (2), and / or • Confirmation of the actions performed by the individual (2), • Preferably and / or the unchanged parameters of the identified individual (2), • Preferably and / or the parameters of the identified individual (2) are changed. • Preferably and / or the changes in the parameters of the identified individual (2) The identified individuals (2) are output.

23. The used textile recycling device (1) according to any one of claims 9, 10, or 15 to 22, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 11 to 22, in, The used textile recycling device (1) and / or the mobile terminal (4) further include an input element (12; 41), preferably an operating element (12; 41), particularly preferably a touch screen (12; 41), which is configured and set to obtain • Identify the individuals identified (2), and / or • Identify the identified old textiles (3), and / or • The actions of the individuals (2) As input to the identified individual (2).

24. The used textile recycling device (1) according to any one of claims 9, 10, or 15 to 23, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 11 to 23. in, The used textile recycling device (1) is configured to operate independently in an electric manner, preferably by means of a rechargeable energy storage device and / or by means of an electric energy source (13), particularly preferably by means of a solar cell (13).

25. The used textile recycling device (1) according to any one of claims 9, 10, or 15 to 24, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 11 to 24. in, The used textile recycling device (1), preferably the control unit of the used textile recycling device (1), is configured and set to operate independently in terms of control.

26. The used textile recycling device (1) according to any one of claims 9, 10, or 15 to 25, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 11 to 25, in, The used textile recycling device (1) is configured to detect the measurement of atmospheric humidity inside the used textile recycling device (1) by means of a humidity sensor. The used textile recycling device (1), preferably the control unit of the used textile recycling device (1), is configured and set to generate a blower for generating airflow through the vents (10ba, 10bb, 10ca, 10cb) based on the detected air humidity.

27. The used textile recycling device (1) according to any one of claims 9, 10, or 15 to 26, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to any one of claims 11 to 26. in, The used textile recycling device (1) has an access opening (14) leading to a removable collection container (16). The collection container (16) is collected by the collection container holder (15) of the old textile recycling device (1) in order to collect the received old textiles (3).

28. The used textile recycling device (1) according to claim 27 or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to claim 27, in, The entry opening (14) of the old textile recycling device (1) is configured to be closable.

29. The used textile recycling device (1) according to claim 27 or 28, or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to claim 27 or 28. in, The used textile recycling device (1) has a fill level detector, which is configured and set to detect the fill level of the collection container (16).

30. The used textile recycling device (1) according to claim 29 or the used textile recycling system (1, 4) according to claim 29, in, The used textile recycling device (1), preferably the control unit of the used textile recycling device (1), and / or the mobile terminal (4), preferably the control unit of the mobile terminal (4), is also configured and set to output an indication that the collection container (16) is full, preferably by means of an output element (12; 41), and / or • To prevent the possibility of receiving another identified old textile (3).

31. A computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a mobile terminal (4), preferably a smartphone (4), cause the mobile terminal (4) to perform at least one step of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 8: • Automatic identification (100) of the individual (2), and / or • Automatic identification (200) of the old textiles (3), and / or • The identified old textiles (3) are automatically assigned (300) to the identified individuals (2).

32. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program product according to claim 31 stored thereon.

Images