Smart trash can with AI integration and odor control

Abstract

An intelligent waste separation device consisting of a moisture sensor module for classifying wet or dry waste at the inlet, a fan-operated path selector for directing the waste into separate chambers based on the classification, an odor neutralization module with replaceable cartridges containing at least one activated carbon filter and a shielded sterilization stage, and a control unit for combining the sensor inputs and triggering the routing and odor treatment.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to automated waste separation devices with integrated moisture measurement, air-assisted control, AI camera classification, odor neutralization by filtration / biological processes and IoT analytics for private and commercial use. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Automated waste containers that distinguish between wet and dry waste and direct it to separate compartments improve recycling efficiency and hygiene. However, many systems rely on simple sensors and fixed chutes, which can lead to misclassification, cross-contamination, and unpleasant odors in high-traffic areas. AI-powered detection using integrated cameras and trained models extends classification to include plastics, metals, and organic waste, enabling greater accuracy and adaptive updates as new packaging types are introduced. Effective odor control in compact systems often combines physical adsorption (activated carbon), sterilization (UV-C / ozone in compliance with safety regulations), and biological air purification (biofilters / biotrickling) to reduce VOCs, H₂S, and ammonia. This ensures sustainable odor reduction with low energy and material consumption.A device that combines sensor-controlled wet / dry detection, fan-driven conveying paths for targeted dripping, AI-supported image processing for premium models, and configurable odor control in recyclable housings contributes to improving urban hygiene and user acceptance, while IoT analytics support fill level control, contamination alerts, and fleet management. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates to BioSegreeBin, an intelligent waste sorting system with a humidity sensor module for detecting the humidity level at the inlet, a fan-driven airflow selector for controlling waste distribution into separate chambers, and an odor neutralization module with interchangeable filter options (activated carbon / HEPA), sterilization (UV-C in shielded channels), and biological filter media (compact biofilter media) for treating the ambient air. A premium version integrates an AI camera module trained on common waste categories to optimize sorting, as well as a mobile app for analysis, model updates, and real-time status. The housing is made of robust, recyclable materials and is available in sizes from 10 to 100 liters. The control unit processes sensor signals and AI outputs to control deflectors and fans, logs disposal processes, and adjusts thresholds over time.IoT connectivity enables fill level warnings, contamination alerts, and the diagnosis of odor events for homes and facilities. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0004] The inlet area houses a presence detector (e.g., infrared) and a moisture sensor that touches or scans objects to perform wet / dry classification. Ultrasonic sensors monitor the fill level of the chambers to optimize collection routes and prevent overflows, as is the case with smart waste bins. A fan-driven conveying system generates a controlled airflow through ducts leading to the wet and dry chambers. Dampers or servo flaps switch the airflow according to classification, providing gentle pneumatic assistance that reduces jams and more efficiently conveys lightweight items without the complex mechanical pushers of simpler sorting systems. The premium AI module includes an integrated camera and an edge model trained on waste images to identify materials (e.g.,to identify different types of waste (plastic, paper, metal, organic waste) and improve sorting accuracy beyond moisture detection. The model outputs override or supplement sensor decisions and can be updated wirelessly via the mobile app, consistent with literature on intelligent waste sorting systems that combine sensor technology and tracking. The odor neutralization module is cartridge-based: A primary activated carbon stage adsorbs VOCs, optionally combined with a HEPA filter for bioaerosol retention. A shielded UV-C chamber sterilizes the recirculated air within predefined exposure limits. An optional, compact biofilter cartridge with moist, microbe-rich filter material biologically treats unpleasant odors (e.g., H₂S, ammonia) at low airflow, thus complying with guidelines and biofiltration concepts for odor control.Air in the headspace circulates through the odor module via a low-noise fan. Sensors (TVOC, H₂S indicator, humidity, temperature) control fan operating time and cartridge lifespan. The system logs odor events for maintenance planning in accordance with odor management guidelines. The control unit manages safety interlocks: the UV-C lamp is deactivated when the lid is opened, and suction sensors pause the fans during cartridge insertion. Various energy modes reduce power consumption in standby mode while ensuring regular odor purging to prevent odor buildup. The chambers consist of removable inserts in sizes from 10 to 100 liters. Smooth, antimicrobial surfaces and sealed lids minimize residue and volatile odors. The main housing is made of recyclable polymers or coated metals, making it durable and easy to maintain.IoT features include Wi-Fi / BLE for app pairing, dashboards displaying fill levels, separation rates, and odor status, as well as collection notifications. Premium fleet dashboards enable remote system analytics and firmware / model updates, as is common in smart urban waste management systems. Thanks to its modular architecture, odor filters (activated carbon only, UV-C + activated carbon, biofilter), AI cameras, and metal / inductive or capacitive sensors can be swapped out for finer classification—all according to the specifications of sensor-based separation systems. Compliance features support local odor regulations and hygiene standards. Maintenance steps and consumable replacement intervals are driven by sensor-based usage patterns.

Claims

[1] An intelligent waste separation device comprising a moisture sensor module for classifying wet or dry waste at the inlet, a fan-operated path selector for directing the waste into separate chambers based on the classification, an odor neutralization module with replaceable cartridges containing at least one activated carbon filter and a shielded sterilization stage, and a control unit for aggregating the sensor inputs and triggering the routing and odor treatment. [2] Device according to claim 1, further comprising an AI camera module trained on waste categories to refine route planning, a mobile application for analysis and remote updates, and IoT connectivity for level monitoring, odor diagnostics, and maintenance notifications. [3] Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the odor neutralization module optionally comprises a compact biofilter cartridge with microbial media for the biological removal of malodorous compounds in the recirculated headspace air, as well as sensors and control logic for controlling the airflow and cartridge lifespan. [4] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing is made of durable, recyclable materials and is available in sizes from 10 to 100 liters with removable inserts, safety locks for sterilization stages and energy-efficient operating modes.