System for operating a waste container and method for operating a waste container

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for operating a garbage container, comprising a garbage container having an electronic control device and a first communication interface for transmitting and receiving data. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for operating a garbage container.

[0002] For the disposal of household waste, large garbage containers are often provided which are used by several households. Such garbage containers can, for example, belong to a residential community or a municipality. As a rule, only registered users should be granted access to such garbage containers, although access can be blocked, for example, if disposal costs are not paid. Such access can be implemented using a variety of electronic systems. A user of the garbage container must therefore be provided with a specific means of identification with which they can gain access to the garbage container. Such a means of identification can be a communications device, such as a smartphone. Using this identification data, the user's authorization to access the garbage container must be checked before the access to the garbage container is opened.This requires a data connection to a server that contains the relevant identification and authorization data.

[0003] Such garbage containers must therefore be able to communicate with a variety of other devices. For example, communication with a server identified by the garbage container is necessary. Furthermore, communication with the communication device for identification is necessary. One problem with such systems is that such communication is energy-intensive.

[0004] Energy supply is often problematic, particularly for garbage containers that are not assigned to a residential community but are located in public spaces, as the energy supply must be protected from access by unauthorized persons. Furthermore, energy suppliers require meters to record the energy used for billing purposes. The costs for these meters often exceed energy costs many times over, so alternative solutions are desired. Previously proposed solutions include, for example, decentralized power supply via batteries, solar cells, or generators (conversion of wind energy or mechanical energy supplied by users). However, these solutions are also cost-intensive and increase the size of the garbage container for the same storage capacity, which is also undesirable in public spaces.

[0005] Further costs arise due to the often intended use of mobile phone connections to transmit data between a server and a waste container. The waste container must be equipped with appropriate, power-consuming transmission technology for such data transmission. Such waste containers are therefore comparatively expensive and require power for communication via the mobile network, although this communication also generates costs and administrative overhead due to the fees charged by the mobile network operator.

[0006] In addition to the control device, such garbage containers also have other internal features, such as a locking device or various sensors. Accordingly, internal communication must also take place within the garbage container. This typically requires complex cabling, which increases the cost of the container. State-of-the-art garbage containers are known from EP2974984 A1, US 2015 / 298903 A1, EP1818281 A1, EP2377779 A1, US2015 / 307273 A1, DE102008005119 A1, and US2014 / 347166 A1.

[0007] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a system which eliminates or at least minimizes the above-mentioned disadvantages.

[0008] This object is solved by the independent claims, in particular the system according to claim 1 and the method according to claim 10.

[0009] An essential aspect of the invention is a system for operating a garbage container comprising a garbage container which has an electronic control device and a first communication interface for sending and receiving data, wherein a first data transfer to a further communication interface can be initiated via the first communication interface, which is provided in at least one further communication device that is not associated with the garbage container, wherein a further data transfer between at least one internal device can be initiated via the first communication interface, wherein the first and the further data transfer are based on wireless technology. Such a system has the advantage that both communication with an external communication device, for example for user identification, and communication with internal devices can take place via a single communication interface.This allows for significant savings in hardware and software costs. This ensures simple and efficient integration of various components of the waste container. Furthermore, the communication interface uses wireless technology for data transmission, thus avoiding costly cabling of the waste container.

[0010] According to the invention, the first and the further data transfer are a unidirectional or a bidirectional data transfer.

[0011] Unidirectional data transfer means that data is only transferred in one direction, i.e. from the first communication interface via the further communication interface to the second communication interface or from the second communication interface via the further communication interface to the first communication interface. Bidirectional data transfer means that data is exchanged in both directions. The possibility of bidirectional data transfer means that data can be transmitted from the internal device to the first communication interface and beyond to other internal devices, such as the control device, or even to external devices, such as a server. Conversely, data can also be transmitted from these devices to the internal device.Such data can be, for example, software or firmware updates.

[0012] A garbage container can be a so-called residual waste container or a recyclable waste collection container, such as paper, bottle or plastic containers.

[0013] The terms "first data transfer," "further data transfer," and "subsequent data transfers" are not to be understood as chronologically consecutive. Rather, these terms are intended to describe a specific type of data transfer.

[0014] According to the invention, a communication connection exists between the first communication interface and the control device, as well as between the control device and a storage device provided by the waste container. Such a communication connection is advantageously wired.

[0015] According to the invention, the waste container comprises at least one sensor device, which represents an internal device. Preferably, the further data transfer is a sixth data transfer, which can take place between the at least one sensor device and the first communication interface via a fifth communication channel. Preferably, the sixth data transfer can be unidirectional or bidirectional. A bidirectional data transfer allows, for example, the transmission of software or firmware updates to the at least one sensor device.

[0016] The at least one sensor device could advantageously include a sensor for monitoring the temperature inside the waste container. Such monitoring allows the outbreak of a fire in the container to be quickly detected and reported.

[0017] Furthermore, the sensor device could include a fill level sensor, ensuring timely emptying. The fill level sensor can perform a sonographic or optical fill level determination.

[0018] It would also be possible for the sensor device to include a motion sensor for movements inside the garbage container. This could, for example, detect trapped animals.

[0019] A sensor for detecting movement of the garbage container itself or a sensor for detecting force applied to the container could also be provided. Such sensors could detect and report vandalism.

[0020] Furthermore, a weight sensor could be provided to detect the weight of the trash thrown in. Such a sensor could be used to calculate the user's bill based on the weight of the trash thrown in. This would enable a "fair" billing for users.

[0021] It would also be conceivable to install sensors that detect the insertion of certain materials, such as metals. This could detect the unauthorized insertion of such materials into a residual waste container.

[0022] Furthermore, the sensor device can be an odor sensor, which can prevent excessive odor pollution in the area surrounding the waste container by carrying out early emptying.

[0023] Finally, the sensor device can also be a noise sensor.

[0024] According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one sensor device is a location-determining device, by means of which the location of the garbage container can be determined. Such a location-determining device makes it possible to locate the garbage container, for example, after theft or vandalism. Such a location-determining device could be a GPS device, for example.

[0025] To determine the location, BSSID (Basic Service Set Identification) data can also be advantageously retrieved from Wi-Fi access points located in the vicinity of the garbage container using a suitable location determination device. This BSSID data can then be transmitted to the server. The server can then evaluate this data to determine the location of the garbage container.

[0026] According to the invention, the further data transfer is a seventh data transfer. According to the invention, control data is transmitted to the at least one internal device in the form of a locking device of the garbage container by means of the seventh data transfer. According to the invention, the seventh data transfer takes place via a sixth communication channel and is unidirectional or bidirectional. Another internal device can preferably be an actuator, a locking device, a display device, an output device, or a fire extinguisher.

[0027] The seventh data transfer via the sixth communication channel is preferably based on wireless technology. However, it may also be necessary for an alternative data transfer to take place between the first communication interface and another internal device, which is transmitted via a wired communication channel.

[0028] According to the invention, the control data can be generated based on a triggering event. Preferably, the control data can be generated at least partially by the control device and / or at least partially by a sensor device. Such a triggering event can take many forms. For example, it can be based on specific sensor data. Accordingly, the detection of a specific circumstance, such as temperature, heat, or fill level, by a sensor would generate specific sensor data, which are then advantageously evaluated in whole or in part by the control device. Based on the evaluation, corresponding control data can then be generated and transmitted to the specific device.

[0029] However, it would also be conceivable for the sensor device to already have an evaluation device that at least partially evaluates the sensor data and at least partially generates the control data. This control data is then transmitted to the specific device via the first communication interface and, if applicable, via the control device and first communication device.

[0030] However, the evaluation of the control data can preferably also be carried out by a server located at a distance from the waste container, which server first receives the sensor data via the first communication interface. The control data is then transmitted via the first communication interface to the at least one internal or at least one external device by means of the seventh data transfer.

[0031] For example, the fill level sensor could measure a certain level that would prevent further insertion. The sensor data corresponding to the fill level would then be evaluated by either the sensor device, the control device, the server, or another evaluation device. The correspondingly generated control data is then transmitted to the internal device in the form of a locking device, so that it locks the waste container, preventing further insertion. At the same time, another internal or external device in the form of a display or output device could be activated, indicating that the waste container is currently unusable.

[0032] Similarly, a fire in or near the dumpster could be detected using an odor or temperature sensor. The corresponding control data would then be transmitted to an internal or external fire extinguisher, which would then be activated.

[0033] However, the triggering event can advantageously also be a data transfer, a mere recognition of a specific communication device, the expiration of a predetermined time interval or similar.

[0034] According to the invention, the further communication device comprises a first communication device, which comprises the further communication interface in the form of a third communication interface. According to the invention, an emptying or service vehicle is equipped with the first communication device. According to the invention, a data transfer, advantageously using wireless technology, between the first communication interface and the third communication interface represents a triggering event. Preferably, the control device generates control data based on the triggering event, which is transmitted to the internal device in the form of a locking device, whereupon the locking device is unlocked. Accordingly, the system can advantageously provide for automatic unlocking of the waste container during an emptying process. Previously, such unlocking was instructed based on the detection of a lifting process.In this case, the emptying or service vehicle, or the first communication device, can be identified simply by data transfer. According to the invention, authorization takes place after a communication connection has been established between the first communication interface and the second communication interface. The control device detects the presence of an emptying vehicle and forwards corresponding control data to the corresponding locking device via the first communication interface. Such detection can occur, for example, through a "handshake" in an NFC connection or a so-called "pairing" in a Bluetooth® connection.

[0035] After the emptying process, the removal of the emptying vehicle can be detected, whereupon the control device outputs corresponding control data via the first communication interface to the corresponding locking device for locking. A preferred way of controlling external devices using wireless technology can, for example, be to control a barrier that blocks access to the waste container. After an emptying or service vehicle is detected using a wireless data transfer between the first communication interface and the third communication interface, corresponding control data can be transmitted to such a barrier, thereby allowing the emptying or service vehicle to pass through.

[0036] According to the invention, the system comprises a server spaced apart from the waste container, which server comprises a second communication interface. According to the invention, the first communication interface does not have a device for direct data transmission to the second communication interface. According to the invention, an indirect first data transfer between the first communication interface and the second communication interface and / or between the second communication interface and the first communication interface can be initiated via the at least one further communication interface.

[0037] According to the invention, after the waste container has been used, usage data can be stored by the control device in a storage device belonging to the waste container. According to the invention, the stored usage data can be transmitted to the server via the first data transfer. Such a system has the advantage that the waste container does not have to include a high-performance communications interface by means of which direct communication (e.g. via a mobile network) with the server is enabled. Rather, it is provided that communication channels provided by an additional communications device that is not belonging to the waste container are used for data exchange between the waste container and the server. The energy requirement for transmitting the data to the server via a preferably, at least partially, wireless network is therefore borne by the additional communications device.Likewise, the network usage fees incurred during the transmission are borne by the additional communication device. Thus, only one transmission of data from the garbage container or its (first) communication interface to the additional communication device is necessary. Such a communication device is preferably selected from certain communication devices that are located in the immediate vicinity of the garbage container or at regular intervals from the garbage container. The data could therefore be exchanged in both directions between the first communication interface and the second communication interface, with the data transfer taking place via the additional communication interface according to the invention.

[0038] The data transmitted via the first data transfer can, in principle, be of a very different nature.

[0039] The transmitted data can be user data stored in the storage device. Such user data is data generated through the use of the garbage container. This can be user data of a single user or include the user data of multiple users who have used the garbage container since the last initial data transfer. Typically, the user data is transmitted unidirectionally from the first communication interface via the further communication interface to the second communication interface.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the user can be identified using a communication device that itself has no communication connection to the server. During such offline use, the control device stores corresponding user data in the garbage container's storage device. Such user data can include the following data: identification data, data on the type and weight of the garbage deposited, deposit times, etc.

[0041] According to a further embodiment, the user is identified by means of a communication device that itself has a communication connection to the server. Advantageously, the user is identified by the communication device through communication between the communication device and the server. Accordingly, the user data can preferably be transmitted to the server via this communication device. However, it is advantageous if, during such online use, a backup copy of the user data is stored by the control device in the storage device of the garbage container. These backup copies can then be transmitted to the server during the next first data transfer and can be used by the server to verify the originally transmitted data. Such user data can also include the following data: identification data, data on the type and weight of the garbage deposited, deposit times, etc.

[0042] The data transmitted to the server via the first data transfer can advantageously also include sensor data originating from sensors located in the waste container or in the vicinity of the waste container. Such data would preferably be transmitted from the first communication interface via the further communication interface to the second communication interface.

[0043] Furthermore, it would be conceivable to transmit time data, system information, usage behavior, (unsuccessful) usage attempts, and (unsuccessful) login attempts via the first data transfer. Such data would preferably be transmitted from the first communication interface via the further communication interface to the second communication interface.

[0044] The data transmitted via the first data transfer may also include software or firmware updates for corresponding components of the waste container, which are provided by the server. Such data would preferably be transmitted from the second communication interface via the further communication interface to the first communication interface. For this purpose, it would be conceivable for individual packets to be transmitted to the storage device of the waste container via different communication devices.

[0045] Preferably, the data transmitted via the first data transfer may also include access lists, so-called white or black lists. Such access lists list the user authorizations. This is particularly relevant for the aforementioned offline use. If, for example, a user fails to pay the corresponding fees, their authorization can be revoked.

[0046] It would also be conceivable that the aforementioned transmitted data could be part of a bidirectional data transfer. For example, the server could first transmit a request for specific data to the garbage container, whereupon the container would provide the requested data. It would also be conceivable that the server could use the initial data transfer to perform remote diagnostics in the event of malfunctions or failures in the garbage container's systems.

[0047] According to the invention, a first communication device comprises a third communication interface. According to the invention, the unidirectional or bidirectional first data transfer between the first communication interface and the second communication interface takes place via the third communication interface. According to the invention, an emptying or service vehicle is equipped with the first communication device. According to the invention, the first communication device is part of a computing unit, a so-called on-board computer (OBC), of the emptying or service vehicle. Since such emptying or service vehicles inevitably come into the immediate vicinity of the garbage container at regular intervals, a first data transfer via a communication device located in such a vehicle is particularly advantageous. Furthermore, such a vehicle can easily provide the first communication device with a sufficient power supply.Preferably, the data transfer between the first and the third communication interface takes place via a first communication channel.

[0048] According to a further preferred embodiment, a second communication device comprises a fourth communication interface. The unidirectional or bidirectional first data transfer between the first communication interface and the second communication interface can preferably take place via the fourth communication interface. Advantageously, the second communication device is assigned to a user. The second communication device is preferably a portable data processing device, preferably with a display device, for example a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, or a laptop. Such a configuration has the advantage that a user of the waste container can already use such a second communication device, such as a smartphone, for the identification process during online use.A smartphone, in particular, is preferred as a communication device because it is widely used and has a variety of communication interfaces that could be used to establish a data connection to the garbage container on the one hand and / or the server on the other. Furthermore, a smartphone has a display device via which information could be sent to the user. Data is preferably transferred between the first and fourth communication interfaces via a second communication channel.

[0049] According to the invention, the unidirectional or bidirectional first data transfer between the first communication interface and the second communication interface takes place both via the first communication device, or the third communication interface, and via the second communication device, or the fourth communication interface.

[0050] However, the present invention is not limited to a specific type of communication device. A corresponding communication device simply needs to have an additional communication interface capable of communicating with the first communication interface of the garbage container and the second communication interface of the server and forwarding the data accordingly.

[0051] A communication channel is understood to be a transmission path. Such a transmission path connects a transmitter and a receiver. This transmitter or receiver is advantageously part of the respective communication interface or a corresponding additional device. Accordingly, it is advantageous if the communication device and the waste container are equipped with a corresponding transmitter or receiver of the respective technology. Complementary transmitter-receiver pairs are preferably present in the waste container and communication device, as well as in the communication device and server. A complementary transmitter-receiver pair in the waste container and server is not required and is preferably not present.

[0052] According to a further preferred embodiment, a second data transfer can be initiated between the first communication interface and the fourth communication interface to identify a user before using the garbage container. Advantageously, the second data transfer between the first and fourth communication interfaces takes place via the second communication channel. The second data transfer is preferably bidirectional and can contain identification data of the user and / or identification data of the garbage container intended for use. Preferably, after the second data transfer, a third data transfer takes place between the fourth communication interface of the second communication device and the second communication interface of the server. This third data transfer advantageously comprises the identification data of the user and / or identification data of the garbage container intended for use.Preferably, the third data transfer between the fourth communication interface and the second communication interface takes place via an eighth communication channel.

[0053] The server preferably further comprises an authentication manager and a database. The authentication manager preferably assigns the received identification data to the user's authorization data, which is stored in the database. Based on this assignment, access to the garbage container intended for use can be granted or denied to this user. The corresponding authorization data is preferably transmitted from the second communication interface via the fourth communication interface to the first communication interface of the garbage container. The control device of the garbage container can then advantageously initiate access to the garbage container based on the authorization data. Such an identification process is preferably referred to as online use.

[0054] According to a further preferred embodiment, the waste container comprises a receiving device, which represents an internal device. Preferably, the further data transfer can take place between the receiving device and the first communication interface in the form of a fourth data transfer via a third communication channel. A receiving device is understood to be a device suitable for receiving a user's identification data. The fourth data transfer can also be a unidirectional or bidirectional data transfer.

[0055] Preferably, a fifth data transfer of identification data can be initiated between the receiving device and an identification device via a fourth communication channel to identify a user before using the waste container. No data connection to the server is established for user identification. Such use is advantageously referred to as offline use.

[0056] Advantageously, such an identification device can be a transmitter that transmits the user's identification data via wireless technology. Advantageously, a specific code or similar is transmitted to the receiving device via the fifth data exchange. The identification device can be a transmitter specifically designed for use with the waste container, which is provided to users by the operator.

[0057] However, it would also be conceivable for the identification device to be a passive element, such as an (RFID) chip card, magnetic card, or similar. The identification data is contained or stored on such a passive element. In this case, the receiving device would be an active element that reads the identification data from the identification device. Such an identification device can also be provided to users by the operator specifically for use of the waste container.

[0058] However, it would also be conceivable for the identification device to be a second communication device, such as a smartphone. Some users prefer offline use but still want to identify themselves with a second communication device, since such a device, such as a smartphone, is usually always at hand. Typically, the second communication device, such as a smartphone or similar device, has functions capable of transmitting corresponding identification data to the receiving device.

[0059] It would also be conceivable for such a receiving device to be capable of receiving other user identification data. For example, the receiving device could be an input device for a code, such as a numeric keypad. The receiving device could also be a reader for biometric data such as fingerprints or iris recognition, or a facial recognition device.

[0060] The data received by the receiving device is transmitted via the fourth data transfer using the third communication channel to the first communication interface and then to the control device. The third communication channel preferably uses wireless technology. This allows the receiving device to be placed anywhere, even in the immediate vicinity outside the garbage container. Furthermore, costly cabling can be eliminated.

[0061] The fourth data transfer can be unidirectional or bidirectional. Bidirectional data transfer allows, for example, the transfer of software or firmware updates to the receiving device.

[0062] The user data generated during offline use is stored by the control device in the garbage container's storage device. This user data can advantageously be transferred to the server via the next first data transfer.

[0063] The server can then create invoices, statistics, or similar based on the user data.

[0064] Advantageously, at least one access list, a so-called white or black list, is stored in the storage device for offline use. Such an access list includes user authorization data. Preferably, the identification data received by the receiving device is assigned to the authorization data by the control device. Based on the authorization data, access to the garbage container can be granted or denied. The access lists can advantageously be updated during the first data transfer. For example, a user who has exceeded a certain limit on the amount of garbage deposited can have their authorization revoked until a corresponding additional payment has been made.

[0065] According to a preferred embodiment, the data transfer via communication channels one to six is based on wireless technology. This wireless technology preferably has a comparatively short range. The wireless technology preferably has a range of less than 300 m, preferably less than 100 m, preferably less than 50 m, preferably less than 30 m, preferably less than 10 m, preferably less than 5 m, preferably less than 3 m, preferably less than 1 m, particularly preferably less than 50 cm. The wireless technology is advantageously selected from a group comprising NFC technology (near field communication), RFID technology (radio-frequency identification), WLAN technology (wireless local area network), Bluetooth® technology, and optical transmission technology.

[0066] Both NFC and RFID technology use high-frequency alternating magnetic fields for data transmission. RFID technology is generally a so-called "connectionless" transmission. It uses a passive transponder that is powered by the alternating field of a reader. NFC technology also provides a so-called "connected" transmission. In connected transmission, or peer-to-peer transmission, a transmission is established between two equivalent transmitters.

[0067] A large number of commercially available smartphones are now equipped with NFC technology. NFC technology achieves a data transfer rate of 106 to 424 kbit / s. Data transmission is based on amplitude modulation of a high-frequency magnetic field with a standardized frequency of 13.56 MHz. Only two participants can participate in a data transfer: a so-called initiator, which acts as the sender of information, and a receiver, which receives this information.

[0068] NFC technology also provides "connectionless" transmission similar to RFID technology. This type of transmission is often referred to as passive transmission. Here, only the initiator generates the high-frequency magnetic field. The receiver can transmit data using load modulation. In this process, energy from the magnetic field is absorbed by a specially tuned oscillating circuit in the receiver, which then causes the initiator to react.

[0069] In "connected" or active transmission, both the initiator and the receiver generate a high-frequency magnetic field. First, a so-called "handshake" is performed, in which authentication takes place and various settings, such as the optimal transmission speed, are selected. Subsequently, the data exchange takes place. This transmission, known as "active-active" or "peer-to-peer," represents a preferred embodiment. Due to the two-way authentication, this active transmission is considered significantly more secure than "passive" transmission (in which at least one communication partner does not actively transmit the high-frequency magnetic field).

[0070] According to a further preferred embodiment, the data transfer between the third and the second communication interface takes place via a seventh communication channel. Preferably, the data transfer between the fourth and the second communication interface takes place via an eighth communication channel. Advantageously, the seventh and the eighth communication channel are based, at least in sections, on a wireless technology with a comparatively long range, preferably with a maximum range of more than 30 m, preferably more than 100 m, preferably more than 500 m, preferably more than 1 km, particularly preferably several km. Preferably, the seventh and the eighth communication channel are based on a transmission technology selected from a group comprising WLAN connection, mobile radio connection, 2G (GSM) connection, 3G (UMTS) connection, GPRS connection, 4G (LTE, WiMax) connection, and 5G connection.Of course, other connections, such as radio connections, for example in the ISM band, can also be considered.

[0071] Communication channels one to six thus belong to a first group, which preferably uses wireless technology with a comparatively short range. Communication channels seven and eight thus belong to a second group, which preferably, at least in sections, uses wireless technology with a comparatively long range. The different configuration of the groups of communication channels enables the respective communication channels to have different ranges and / or transmission powers. This makes it possible to establish asymmetric communication, in which the ranges and / or transmission power of the communication channels of the first group are preferably significantly lower than those of the communication channels of the second group.

[0072] As a result, the energy requirement for communication between the first and the further communication interface via the first or second communication channel is significantly reduced compared to direct communication between the first and the second communication interface. Communication between the first and the second communication interface is still ensured with the integration of the communication device, whereby the increased energy requirement for communication to and from the second communication interface via the seventh or eighth communication channel is covered by the communication device and / or other network participants (e.g., LAN or WLAN router, Internet provider, network infrastructure of a mobile communications provider).

[0073] According to a further preferred embodiment, the further communication device, for example the first or second communication device, has a data processing device configured to modulate data for transmission on different communication channels and / or to encode and / or decode the data received from respective communication interfaces before forwarding them to the respective other communication interface. The data transmitted by the first data transfer is essentially forwarded unchanged by the further communication device. However, modulation of the data may be necessary due to the different transmission technology used on the subsequent communication channel.

[0074] According to a further preferred embodiment, communication interfaces one to four have a control device that performs a test procedure for error detection and monitoring during data transmission. Such a test procedure can, for example, be a parity check or something similar.

[0075] Advantageously, the first data transfer can be initiated within specific time intervals. However, it would also be conceivable to initiate the first data transfer based on another triggering event. Such a triggering event can also be generated by sensor data, such as exceeding a certain fill level. A malfunction of a component of the waste container can also be such a triggering event. Finally, the need to perform firmware or software updates can also represent such a triggering event. The first data transfer can therefore take place using the next available communication device. The first data transfer can also be performed in real time.

[0076] Likewise, data transfers two to seven can be initiated at specific time intervals. These data transfers can also be performed in real time or based on a specific trigger event mentioned above.

[0077] According to a preferred embodiment, the waste container has a lock device with a locking device. The locking device is preferably an electric locking mechanism. The lock device preferably has a limited receiving volume, so that only a limited amount of waste can be thrown into the container when opened once. Optionally, one or more devices for determining the added and / or existing amount of waste can be provided in the lock and / or the receiving area of the waste container. For example, these could be devices for determining weight and / or volume.

[0078] Advantageously, the waste container has a power supply that supplies the electrical and electronic devices and components with electricity. The power supply is preferably a battery. Alternatively or additionally, a solar cell or similar device could also be provided.

[0079] Another essential aspect of the invention is a method for operating a waste container, which has an electronic control unit and a first communication interface for sending and receiving data, the method comprising the following steps: Registering a trigger event via the first communication interface by means of a data transfer, generating at least part of control data by the control device or receiving at least part of control data via the first communication interface, transmitting the control data to an internal or external device by means of a data transfer, whereby the data transfer for registering the trigger event takes place via a communication channel based on wireless technology.

[0080] The process can be equipped with all the features already described above within the framework of the system, individually or in combination with each other, and vice versa.

[0081] According to a preferred embodiment, the wireless technology has a range of less than 300 m, preferably less than 100 m, preferably less than 50 m, preferably less than 30 m, preferably less than 10 m, preferably less than 5 m, preferably less than 3 m, preferably less than 1 m, particularly preferably less than 50 cm. Advantageously, the wireless technology is selected from a group comprising NFC technology, RFID technology, WLAN technology, Bluetooth® technology, and optical transmission technology.

[0082] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, the waste container comprises at least one sensor device, which represents an internal device. Preferably, the data transfer is a sixth data transfer, which can take place between the at least one sensor device and the first communication interface via a fifth communication channel. Preferably, the sixth data transfer can be unidirectional or bidirectional. A bidirectional data transfer allows, for example, the transmission of software or firmware updates to the at least one sensor device.

[0083] The at least one sensor device could advantageously include a sensor for monitoring the temperature inside the waste container. Such monitoring allows the outbreak of a fire in the container to be quickly detected and reported.

[0084] Furthermore, the sensor device could include a fill level sensor, ensuring timely emptying. The fill level sensor can perform a sonographic or optical fill level determination.

[0085] According to the invention, the data transfer is a seventh data transfer. According to the invention, control data is transmitted to the at least one internal device in the form of a locking unit of the garbage container by means of the seventh data transfer. According to the invention, the seventh data transfer takes place via a sixth communication channel and can be unidirectional or bidirectional.

[0086] According to the invention, the control data is generated based on a triggering event. Preferably, the control data is generated at least partially by the control device and / or at least partially by a sensor device. Such a triggering event can take many forms. For example, it can be based on specific sensor data. Accordingly, the detection of a specific circumstance, such as temperature, heat, or fill level, by a sensor would generate specific sensor data, which are then advantageously evaluated in whole or in part by the control device. Based on the evaluation, corresponding control data can then be generated and transmitted to the specific device.

[0087] However, it would also be conceivable for the sensor device to already have an evaluation device that at least partially evaluates the sensor data and at least partially generates the control data. This control data is then transmitted to the specific device via the first communication interface and, if applicable, via the control device and first communication device.

[0088] However, the evaluation of the control data can preferably also be carried out by a server designated by the waste container, which initially received the sensor data via the first communication interface. The control data is then transmitted via the first communication interface to the at least one internal or at least one external device by means of the seventh data transfer.

[0089] For example, a fill level sensor could measure a certain level, which would prevent further insertion. The sensor data corresponding to the fill level would then be evaluated by either the sensor device, the control device, the server, or another evaluation device. The correspondingly generated control data is then transmitted to the internal device in the form of a locking device, so that it locks the waste container, preventing further insertion. At the same time, another internal or external device could be activated, in the form of a display or output device, indicating that the waste container is currently unusable.

[0090] Similarly, a fire in or near the dumpster could be detected using an odor or temperature sensor. The corresponding control data would then be transmitted to an internal or external fire extinguisher, which would then be activated.

[0091] However, the triggering event can advantageously also be a data transfer, a mere recognition of a specific communication device, the expiration of a predetermined time interval or similar.

[0092] According to a further preferred embodiment of the method, the further communication device comprises a first communication device, which comprises the further communication interface in the form of a third communication interface. Preferably, an emptying or service vehicle is equipped with the first communication device. Advantageously, a data transfer using wireless technology between the first communication interface and the third communication interface represents a triggering event. According to the invention, the control device generates control data based on the triggering event, which is transmitted to the internal device in the form of a locking device, whereupon the locking device is unlocked. Accordingly, the system can advantageously provide for automatic unlocking of the waste container during an emptying process.Previously, such unlocking was instructed based on the detection of a lifting operation. In this case, the emptying or service vehicle, or the first communication device, can be identified through a data transfer. Accordingly, it is advantageous if authorization takes place after a communication connection has been established between the first communication interface and the second communication interface. The control device detects the presence of an emptying vehicle and forwards corresponding control data to the corresponding locking device via the first communication interface. Such detection can occur, for example, through a "handshake" with an NFC connection or a so-called "pairing" with a Bluetooth® connection.

[0093] After the emptying process, the removal of the emptying vehicle can be detected, whereupon the control device outputs corresponding control data via the first communication interface to the corresponding locking device for locking.

[0094] According to a further preferred embodiment, the method comprises a data transmission between the waste container and a server spaced apart from the waste container, which server has a second communication interface, the method comprising the following steps: Establishing a data connection by means of a communication channel between the first communication interface and a further communication interface of a further communication device that is not part of the waste container; authorizing the data connection; initiating an indirect first data transfer between the first communication interface and the second communication interface and / or between the second communication interface and the first communication interface via at least one further communication interface.

[0095] This method allows communication between the garbage container and the server without the garbage container requiring an energy- and cost-intensive communication interface to enable direct communication with the remote server. Instead, a data connection existing between one communication device, which has a further communication interface, and the server can be (co-)used for indirect communication between the garbage container and the server. Establishing a data connection involves setting up a data connection. The initiator can be the first or the further communication interface. Furthermore, it can be advantageous to verify the accuracy of the transmitted data.

[0096] According to the invention, the garbage container has a storage device on which usage data is stored after the garbage container has been used. According to the invention, the stored usage data is transmitted via the first data transfer.

[0097] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the method, a first communication device comprises a third communication interface. The unidirectional or bidirectional first data transfer between the first communication interface and the second communication interface preferably takes place via the third communication interface. According to the invention, an emptying or service vehicle is equipped with the first communication device, wherein the first communication device is part of a computing unit, a so-called on-board computer (OBC), of the emptying or service vehicle. Since such emptying or service vehicles inevitably come into the immediate vicinity of the waste container at regular intervals, a first data transfer via a communication device located in such a vehicle is particularly advantageous.Furthermore, such a vehicle can easily provide the first communication device with sufficient power. Preferably, data transfer between the first and third communication interfaces takes place via a first communication channel.

[0098] According to a further preferred embodiment of the method, a second communication device comprises a fourth communication interface. The unidirectional or bidirectional first data transfer between the first communication interface and the second communication interface can preferably take place via the fourth communication interface. Advantageously, the second communication device is assigned to a user. The second communication device is preferably a portable data processing device, preferably with a display device, for example a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, or a laptop. Such an embodiment has the advantage that a user of the waste container can already use such a second communication device, such as a smartphone, for the identification process during online use.A smartphone, in particular, is preferred as a communication device because it is widely used and has a variety of communication interfaces that can be used to establish a data connection to the garbage container on the one hand and / or the server on the other. Furthermore, a smartphone has a display device via which information can be sent to the user. Preferably, the transfer of data between the first and fourth communication interfaces takes place via a second communication channel.

[0099] According to a further preferred embodiment of the method, the unidirectional or bidirectional first data transfer between the first communication interface and the second communication interface can take place both via the first communication device, or the third communication interface, and via the second communication device, or the fourth communication interface.

[0100] According to a further preferred embodiment of the method, the data transfer between the third and the second communication interface takes place via a seventh communication channel, wherein the data transfer between the fourth and the second communication interface takes place via an eighth communication channel, wherein the seventh and the eighth communication channel are based at least in sections on a wireless technology with a maximum range of more than 30 m, preferably more than 100 m, preferably more than 500 m, preferably more than 1 km, particularly preferably several km and a transmission technology which is selected from a group comprising WLAN connection, mobile radio connection, 2G (GSM) connection, 3G (UMTS) connection, GPRS connection, 4G (LTE, WiMax) connection, 5G connection.

[0101] Authorizing a data connection can include recognizing the additional communication device by the first communication interface or by the control device of the waste container. Such a process involves associating transmitted identification data with stored data. Such authorization can, for example, be used to determine whether the additional communication device belongs to a waste disposal or service vehicle. If a waste disposal vehicle is present, the control device can, for example, preferably open a locking device, allowing the waste container to be emptied.

[0102] However, such authorization can also be purely system-related, such as a "handshake" in an NFC connection, in which various settings, such as the optimal transmission speed, are selected. A so-called "pairing" in a Bluetooth connection can also be such an authorization.

[0103] According to a preferred embodiment, the method may comprise controlling access to a waste container for a user, comprising the following further steps: a) Initiating a transfer of identification data from the first communication interface to a second communication device that can be assigned to a user and has a fourth communication interface before using the garbage container; b) Transmitting the identification data for the garbage container and the user from the second communication device that has the fourth communication interface to a server that has a second communication interface; c) Receiving the identification data via the second communication interface and feeding the identification data to an authentication manager of the server; d) Assigning user data from a database of the server to the identification data by the authentication manager; e) Generating authorization data for granting or denying access to this garbage container for this user;f) transmitting the authorization data from the second communication interface to the fourth communication interface and / or the second communication device and optionally converting the signal in the second communication device; g) transmitting the authorization data from the fourth communication interface and / or the second communication device to the first communication interface; h) granting or denying the user access to this waste container depending on the authorization data received at the first communication interface.

[0104] In another preferred method variant, different communication channels are used for steps a) and b). This allows the range of the communication channels and the energy consumption of the communication interface used for this purpose to be adapted to the respective needs. This enables particularly energy-efficient and cost-effective (indirect) communication between the first and second communication interfaces.

[0105] In a further preferred variant of the method, a low-energy wireless technology with a range of less than 300 m is used for step a). This method variant is particularly preferred because step a) has been identified as particularly critical with regard to the energy requirements of the waste container and the costs of data transmission. Short-range wireless technologies typically allow low energy consumption while still achieving a comparatively high data rate. Furthermore, such wireless technologies are typically free of charge, so that at least for this section of the communication between the first and second communication interfaces, no costs are incurred. A transmission technology selected from a group comprising NFC technology, RFID technology, and optical transmission technology is particularly preferred for this purpose.The resulting advantages have already been described above on the device side.

[0106] A further preferred method variant is one in which, for step b), wireless technology with a maximum range of more than 30 m is used, at least in sections. In this context, the maximum range is understood to be the range of communication between two communication interfaces under normal conditions without obstacles arranged between the communication interfaces. Such a range typically allows the (wireless) transmission of data from the communication device at least to the nearest transfer point, via which the data (possibly via a local area network (LAN)) is fed into a wide area network (WAN) and can be forwarded to the second communication interface. The transfer point or access point can be, for example, a WLAN router or a transmission tower of a mobile communications provider.A large range of the wireless technology used at least in sections for step b) thus enables a large radius of movement for the user while maintaining the wireless connection and, consequently, also a great deal of variability in selecting a location for the garbage container. For even greater location variability and extensive independence from existing infrastructure, the range of the wireless technology used at least in sections for step b) is preferably over 100 m, preferably over 500 m, preferably over 1 km, and particularly preferably several km. The use of a transmission technology selected from a group that includes WLAN connections, mobile radio connections, GSM connections, UMTS connections, GPRS connections, LTE connections, and DECT has proven particularly suitable.

[0107] In terms of the method, it is preferred that the authorization data transmitted in step g) from the fourth communication interface and / or the second communication device to the first communication interface comprise a one-time or rolling code. This is preferred to prevent unauthorized persons from reading the authentication data and using this data to gain unauthorized access to the garbage container. By using a one-time or rolling code, the current access granting data is unusable for the next access attempt, and unauthorized access using this data is no longer possible at a later time.

[0108] Further advantages, objects, and features of the present invention will be explained in the following description of the accompanying figures. Similar components may have the same reference numerals in the various embodiments.

[0109] The figures show: Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of the system for providing messages to a user of a garbage container according to one embodiment; Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the system for providing messages to a user of a garbage container according to another embodiment; Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of the system for providing messages to a user of a garbage container according to another embodiment.

[0110] In the Figures 1 to 3a system (1) for operating a waste container (2) comprising a waste container (2) which has an electronic control device (3) and a first communication interface (4) for sending and receiving data is shown, wherein a first data transfer (10) to at least one further communication interface (8, 12, 15) can be initiated via the first communication interface (4), which is provided in at least one further communication device (9, 11, 14) which is not associated with the waste container (2), wherein a further data transfer (38) between at least one internal device (27, 32, 33) can be initiated via the first communication interface (4), wherein the first (10) and the further data transfer (38) are based on wireless technology.

[0111] Furthermore, in the Figures 1 to 3a method is shown for operating a waste container (2) which has an electronic control unit (3) and a first communication interface (4) for sending and receiving data, the method comprising the following steps: Registering a trigger event via the first communication interface (4) by means of a data transfer, generating at least part of control data by the control device (3) or receiving at least part of control data via the first communication interface (4), transmitting the control data to an internal or external device by means of a data transfer, whereby the data transfer for registering the trigger event takes place via a communication channel based on wireless technology.

[0112] The waste container (2) can comprise at least one sensor device (27), wherein the further data transfer is a sixth data transfer (28), which can take place between the at least one sensor device (27) and the first communication interface (4) via a fifth communication channel (29). The sixth data transfer (28) can be unidirectional or bidirectional.

[0113] The further data transfer can also be a seventh data transfer (28), wherein control data is transmitted to the at least one internal device (32) of the waste container (2) or to at least one external device (33) by means of the seventh data transfer (30). The seventh data transfer (30) takes place via a sixth communication channel (31) and is unidirectional or bidirectional. The at least one internal device (32) is a locking device.

[0114] The control data are generated on the basis of a triggering event, wherein the control data are generated at least partially by the control device (3) and / or at least partially by a sensor device (27).

[0115] The further communication device (9, 11, 14) is a first communication device (9, 11) which comprises the further communication interface in the form of a third communication interface (8, 12). An emptying or service vehicle is equipped with the first communication device (9, 11). A data transfer between the first communication interface (4) and the third communication interface (8, 12) thus represents a triggering event, whereupon the control device (3) generates control data based on the triggering event, which is transmitted to the internal device (32) in the form of a locking device, whereupon the locking device is unlocked. This ensures simple and effective emptying of the waste container.

[0116] The system (1) can have a server (6) spaced apart from the waste container, which server comprises a second communication interface (7). The first communication interface (4) has no device for direct data transmission to the second communication interface (7), and an indirect first data transfer can be initiated between the first communication interface (4) and the second communication interface (7) and / or between the second communication interface (7) and the first communication interface (4) via the at least one further communication interface (8, 12, 15). According to the invention, after the waste container (2) has been used, usage data is stored by the control device (3) in a storage device (5) associated with the waste container. This stored usage data is then in turn transmitted to the server (6) via the first data transfer (10).

[0117] Accordingly, the method for operating a waste container can preferably further comprise a method for data transmission between a waste container (2), which has an electronic control device (3), a first communication interface (4) for sending and receiving data and a storage device (5), and a server (6) spaced apart from the waste container (2), which server has a second communication interface (7), the method comprising the following steps: Establishing a data connection by means of a communication channel (13, 17) between the first communication interface (4) and a further communication interface (8, 12, 15) of a further communication device (9, 11, 14) which is not a component of the waste container (2); authorizing the data connection; initiating an indirect first data transfer (10) between the first communication interface (4) and the second communication interface (7) and / or between the second communication interface (7) and the first communication interface (4) via at least one further communication interface (8, 12, 15).

[0118] In the embodiment according to Figure 2The system (1) comprises a first communication device (9, 11) and a third communication interface (8, 12), wherein the unidirectional or bidirectional first data transfer (10) between the first communication interface (4) and the second communication interface (7) can take place via the third communication interface (8, 12). The first communication device (9, 11) is provided in an emptying or service vehicle. The data transfer takes place between the first (4) and the third communication interface (8, 12) via a first communication channel (13).

[0119] In the embodiment according to Figure 3the system (1) comprises a second communication device (9, 14) and a fourth communication interface (8, 15), wherein the unidirectional or bidirectional first data transfer between the first communication interface (4) and the second communication interface (7) can take place via the fourth communication interface (8, 15). The second communication device (9, 14) is assigned to a user, wherein the second communication device (9, 14) is a portable data processing device, preferably with a display device (16), for example a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet or a laptop. The transfer of data between the first (4) and the fourth communication interface (8, 15) takes place via a second communication channel (17).

[0120] In the embodiment according to Figure 1the first data transfer (10) can take place both via the third communication interface (8, 12) of the first communication device (9, 11) and via a fourth communication interface (8, 15) of a second communication device (9, 14).

[0121] To identify a user before using the waste container (2), a second data transfer (18) can be initiated between the first communication interface (4) and the fourth communication interface (8, 15). Furthermore, a subsequent third data transfer (19) can be initiated between the fourth communication interface (8, 15) and the second communication interface (7) of the server (6). The second data transfer (18) of identification data takes place between the first (4) and the fourth communication interface (8, 15) via the second communication channel (17). The third data transfer (19) takes place between the fourth communication interface (8, 15) and the second communication interface (7) via an eighth communication channel (20).

[0122] According to one embodiment, said method may comprise controlling access to the waste container (2) for a user, comprising the following further steps: a) initiating a transfer of identification data from the first communication interface (4) to a second communication device (9, 14) that can be assigned to a user and has a fourth communication interface (8, 15) before using the garbage container (2); b) transmitting the identification data for the garbage container (2) and the user from the second communication device (9, 14) that has the fourth communication interface (8, 15) to a server (6) that has a second communication interface (7); c) receiving the identification data via the second communication interface (7) and supplying the identification data to an authentication manager (35) of the server (6); d) assigning user data from a database (36) of the server (6) to the identification data by the authentication manager (35); e) generating authorization data for granting or denying access to this garbage container (2) for this user;f) transmitting the authorization data from the second communication interface (7) to the fourth communication interface (8, 15) and / or the second communication device (9, 14) and optionally converting the signal in the second communication device (9, 14); g) transmitting the authorization data from the fourth communication interface (8, 15) and / or the second communication device (9, 14) to the first communication interface (4); h) granting or denying the user access to this waste container (2) depending on the authorization data received at the first communication interface (4).

[0123] The waste container (2) can optionally comprise a receiving device (21). A fourth data transfer (22) can take place between the receiving device (21) and the first communication interface (4) via a third communication channel (23), wherein the fourth data transfer (22) can be unidirectional or bidirectional. To identify a user, a fifth data transfer (26) of identification data can be initiated between the receiving device (21) and an identification device (24) via a fourth communication channel (25) before the waste container (2) is used. Such an identification process is a so-called offline use of the waste container (2).

[0124] The waste container (2) can comprise at least one sensor device (27). A sixth data transfer (28) can take place between the at least one sensor device (27) and the first communication interface (4) via a fifth communication channel (29), wherein the sixth data transfer (28) can be unidirectional or bidirectional.

[0125] According to one embodiment, control data can be transmitted from the first communication interface (4) to at least one internal device (32) of the waste container (2) or to at least one external device (33) by means of a seventh data transfer (30). The seventh data transfer (30) takes place via a sixth communication channel (31) and can be unidirectional or bidirectional. The control data are generated at least partially by the control device (3) or at least partially by a sensor device (27). The at least one internal device (32) or the at least one external device (33) can be an actuator, a locking device, a display device, an output device, or a fire extinguisher.

[0126] According to a further embodiment, the data transfer via communication channels one to six (13, 17, 23, 25, 29) is based on a wireless technology, wherein the wireless technology has a range of less than 300 m, preferably less than 100 m, preferably less than 50 m, preferably less than 30 m, preferably less than 10 m, preferably less than 5 m, preferably less than 3 m, preferably less than 1 m, particularly preferably less than 50 cm, wherein the wireless technology is selected from a group comprising NFC technology, RFID technology, WLAN technology, Bluetooth ®< technology and optical transmission technology.

[0127] According to a further embodiment, the data transfer between the third (8, 12) and the second communication interface (7) takes place via a seventh communication channel (34). The data transfer between the fourth (9, 14) and the second communication interface (7) takes place via an eighth communication channel (20). The seventh (34) and the eighth communication channel (20) are based, at least in sections, on a wireless technology with a maximum range of more than 30 m, preferably more than 100 m, preferably more than 500 m, preferably more than 1 km, particularly preferably several km, and a transmission technology selected from a group comprising WLAN connection, radio connection, mobile radio connection, 2G connection, 3G connection, GPRS connection, 4G connection, and 5G connection.

[0128] According to a further embodiment, the further communication device (9, 11, 14) has a data processing device which is set up for modulating data for transmission on different communication channels (13, 17, 34, 20) and / or for encoding and / or decoding the data received from the respective communication interfaces (4, 7, 8, 12, 15) before forwarding them to the respective other communication interface (4, 7, 8, 12, 15).

[0129] The following provides an overview listing the various communication channels, data transfers, and the communication interfaces (CS) / devices involved. Furthermore, the preferred transmission technology / wireless technology is indicated. Communication channel Data transfer Participating communication interfaces (KS) / facilities Range of wireless technology first (13) first (10) first KS (4) / third KS (8, 12) short second (17) first (10), second (18) first KS (4) / fourth KS (8, 15) short third (23) fourth (22) first KS (4) / receiving device (21) short further (38) fourth (25) fifth (25) Receiving device (21) / Identification device (24) short fifth (29) sixth (28) first KS (4) / sensor device (27) short further (38) sixth (31) seventh (30) first KS (4) / internal (32) or external facility (33) short further (38) seventh (34) first (10) third KS (8, 12) / second KS (7) long eighth (20) first (10) fourth KS (8, 15) / second KS (7) long third (19)

[0130] The present invention can preferably solve the problem of the automatic unlocking request when the emptying vehicle approaches. Furthermore, people without a smartphone can be enabled to open the garbage container (2). The advantageous use of a receiving device (21) can preferably be used to communicate with the control device (3) via a radio connection. Conventional RFID media, including RFID cards, key fobs, NFC units, can be used to communicate with the receiving device (21). This additional receiving device (21) can also be used to identify people with a smartphone for opening the container, but not to transmit the data to the host if not desired. Sensor technology (27) (e.g.: level sensor, odor sensor, noise sensor, temperature sensor, acceleration sensor, voice sensor) can advantageously be integrated to transmit information to the control device (3).Finally, the control device (3) can advantageously evaluate this information and forward it or control the corresponding actuators (32) (e.g., blocking access). This avoids wired solutions. It also eliminates the need for additional sensors, which are required to detect emptying. Previously known systems have the disadvantage of requiring additional cabling and limiting the installation space for components. Emptying algorithms require a high level of software complexity, and maintenance of the individual systems is complex. A fully integrated digital waste disposal system is advantageously provided.

[0131] All features disclosed in the application documents are claimed as essential to the invention, provided that they are new, individually or in combination, compared to the prior art. List of reference symbols

[0132] 1System 2Waste container 3Electronic control device 4First communication interface 5Storage device 6Server 7Second communication interface 8Further communication interface 9Further communication device 10First data transfer 11First communication device 12Third communication interface 13First communication channel 14Second communication device 15Fourth communication interface 16Display device 17Second communication channel 18Second data transfer 19Third data transfer 20Sixth communication channel 21Receiving device 22Fourth data transfer 23Third communication channel 24Identification device 25Fourth communication channel 26Fifth data transfer 27Sensor device 28Sixth data transfer 29Fifth communication channel 30Seventh data transfer 31Sixth communication channel 32Internal device 33External device 34Seventh communication channel 35Authentication manager 36Database 37Data processing device 38further data transfer

Claims

1. System (1) for operating a waste container (2) comprising a waste container (2) which has an electronic control device (3), a first communication interface (4) for sending and receiving data and at least one internal device (27, 32, 33) , a server (6) spaced apart from the waste container, which comprises a second communication interface (7), at least one further communication device (9, 11, 14) which is not associated with the waste container (2) and comprises at least one further communication interface (8, 12, 15), and an emptying or service vehicle; wherein a first data transfer (10) to the at least one further communication interface (8, 12, 15) can be initiated via the first communication interface (4), wherein a further data transfer (38) between the at least one internal device (27, 32, 33), wherein the further data transfer (38) is a seventh data transfer (30), which takes place via a sixth communication channel (31) and is unidirectional or bidirectional, wherein the further communication device (9, 11, 14) is a first communication device (9, 11), which comprises the further communication interface in the form of a third communication interface (8, 12), wherein the emptying or service vehicle is equipped with the first communication device (9, 11), wherein the first communication device (9, 11) is a part of a computing unit of the emptying or service vehicle, wherein the first data transfer (10) between the first communication interface (4) and the third communication interface (8, 12) represents a triggering event and wherein the control device (3) is set up to recognise the presence of the emptying or service vehicle by authorising the first data transfer (10), wherein the control device (3) is set up to generate control data on the basis of the triggering event, which control data can be transmitted to the internal device (32) in the form of a locking device by means of the seventh data transfer (38) when the presence of the emptying or service vehicle is recognised, whereupon the locking device is unlocked , wherein the first communication interface (4) has no device for direct data transmission to the second communication interface (7), wherein the indirect first data transfer between the first communication interface (4) and the second communication interface (7) and / or between the second communication interface (7) and the first communication interface (4) can be initiated via the at least one third communication interface (8, 12, 15), wherein the unidirectional or bidirectional first data transfer (10) between the first communication interface (4) and the second communication interface (7) takes place via the third communication interface (8, 12), and wherein the control device (3) can store usage data in a storage device (5) associated with the waste container after the waste container (2) has been used, wherein the stored usage data can be transmitted to the server (6) via the first data transfer (10).

2. System according to claim 1, characterised in that, the waste container (2) comprises at least one sensor device (27), which is a further internal device (32), wherein the further data transfer is also a sixth data transfer (28), which can take place between the at least one sensor device (27) and the first communication interface (4) via a fifth communication channel (29), wherein the sixth data transfer (28) can be unidirectional or bidirectional.

3. System according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that, the control data that can be generated due to a triggering event can be generated at least partially by the control device (3) and at least partially by the sensor device (27).

4. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that, the data transfer between the first (4) and the third communication interface (8, 12) takes place via a first communication channel (13).

5. System according to claim 3 or 4, characterised in that, a second communication device (9, 14) comprises a fourth communication interface (8, 15), wherein the unidirectional or bidirectional first data transfer between the first communication interface (4) and the second communication interface (7) can take place via the fourth communication interface (8, 15), wherein the second communication device (9, 14) is assigned to a user, wherein the second communication device (9, 14) is a portable data processing device, preferably with a display device (16), for example a mobile telephone, a smartphone, a tablet or a laptop, wherein the transfer of data between the first (4) and the fourth communication interface (8, 15) takes place via a second communication channel (17).

6. System according to claim 5, characterised in that, a second data transfer (18) can be initiated between the first communication interface (4) and the fourth communication interface (8, 15) to identify a user before the waste container (2) is used and a subsequent third data transfer (19) can be initiated between the fourth communication interface (8, 15) and the second communication interface (7) of the server (6), wherein the second data transfer (18) of identification data between the first (4) and the fourth communication interface (8, 15) takes place via the second communication channel (17), wherein the third data transfer (19) between the fourth communication interface (8, 15) and the second communication interface (7) takes place via an eighth communication channel (20).

7. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that, the waste container (2) comprises a receiving device (21), wherein a fourth data transfer (22) can take place between the receiving device (21) and the first communication interface (4) via a third communication channel (23), wherein the fourth data transfer (22) can be unidirectional or bidirectional, wherein a fifth data transfer (26) of identification data can be initiated between the receiving device (21) and a identification device (24) by means of a fourth communication channel (25) to identify a user before using the waste container (2).

8. System according to claim 7, characterised in that, the data transfer via the communication channels one to six (13, 17, 23, 25, 29,) is based on a wireless technology, wherein the wireless technology has a range of less than 300 m, preferably less than 100 m, preferably less than 50 m, preferably less than 30 m, preferably less than 10 m, preferably less than 5 m, preferably less than 3 m, preferably less than 1 m, particularly preferably less than 50 cm, wherein the wireless technology is selected from a group comprising NFC technology, RFID technology, WLAN technology , Bluetooth® technology and optical transmission technology.

9. System according to any one of claims 4 to 8, characterised in that, the data transfer between the third (8, 12) and the second communication interface (7) takes place via a seventh communication channel (34), wherein the data transfer between the fourth (9, 14) and the second communication interface (7) takes place via an eighth communication channel (20), wherein the seventh (34) and the eighth communication channel (20) are based at least in sections on a wireless technology with a maximum range of more than 30 m, preferably more than 100 m, preferably more than 500 m, preferably more than 1 km, particularly preferably several km, and a transmission technology which is selected from a group comprising WLAN connection, radio connection, mobile radio connection, 2G connection, 3G connection, GPRS connection, 4G connection, 5G connection.

10. Method for operating a waste container (2) with a system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the following steps: - registering a trigger event via the first communication interface (4) by means of the first data transfer (10) between the first communication interface (4) and the third communication interface (8, 12); - generating of at least part of the control data by the control device (3); - recognising the presence of the emptying or service vehicle by the first data transfer (10); - transmission of the control data to the internal device (32) in the form of a locking device by means of a seventh data transfer (38) when the presence of the emptying or service vehicle has been recognised; wherein the data transfer for registering the triggering event takes place via a first communication channel (13) based on wireless technology.

11. Method according to claim 10, characterised in that, the wireless technology has a range below 300 m, preferably below 100 m, preferably below 50 m, preferably below 30 m, preferably below 10 m, preferably below 5 m, preferably below 3 m, preferably below 1 m, particularly preferably below 50 cm, wherein the wireless technology is selected from a group comprising NFC technology, RFID technology, WLAN technology, Bluetooth® technology and optical transmission technology.

12. Method according to claim 10 or 11, characterised in that, the method comprises data transmission between the waste container (2) and a server spaced from the waste container and having a second communication interface, the method comprising the following steps: - establishing a data connection by means of a communication channel (13, 17) between the first communication interface (4) and a further communication interface (8, 12, 15) of a further communication device (9, 11, 14), which is not part of the waste container (2); - authorising the data connection; - initiating of an indirect first data transfer (10) between the first communication interface (4) and the second communication interface (7) and / or between the second communication interface (7) and the first communication interface (4) via at least one further communication interface (8, 12, 15).