MEANS IN RETURN MACHINES FOR RECEIVING, HANDLING, SORTING AND STORING RETURNED ITEMS OR OBJECTS

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention is related in general to apparatus for handling items or objects, e.g. for receiving, sorting and storing returnable items or objects, such as empty beverage containers like bottles, cans or the like. The invention is particularly useful in connection with reverse vending machines, although certain aspects of the present invention may also find other fields of use.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention came about following the recognition of the need to provide a more cost efficient reverse vending machine, yet simple, reliable and space saving. In particular, it was recognized the need to reduce overall cost of manufacturing such new machines by addressing such important issues to as minimizing the number of expensive components, such as e.g. camera, barcode reader, object sorter, object conveyor, object rotator, and token printer, as well as minimizing required space, especially as regards floor area.

[0003] However, in such recognition, it was revealed that the invention would become related to a plurality of aspects which all in their own respective manner would contribute to a desirable end result.

[0004] In a decade or so, environmental and economical concerns have spurred significant developments in the field of facilities for collecting cans, bottles, jars and other containers, preferably for recovering the material for recycling purposes. These days, fully automatic systems are available that are capable of receiving and storing many different types of used containers, or even parts of used containers.

[0005] Arrangements for handling recyclable items like returnable empty beverage containers are inter alia known from the European publications EP 0 384 885 (SIG Schweizerische Industrie-Gesellschaft), EP 1311448, and the International Patent Application publication WO02 / 12096 (EP 1313656) (TOMRA SYSTEMS ASA) and EP 14677328 (TOMRA SYSTEMS ASA).

[0006] Till now, available fully automated systems, so-called reverse vending machines (RVMs) and back-room systems, that are capable of receiving and storing used containers have been quite complex and expensive. They have, therefore, mostly been found in larger stores, shopping centers or supermarkets, or in special facilities put up for collecting recyclable items or objects.

[0007] Accordingly, for the customer who has recyclable items or objects in smaller quantities, and who may not have at disposal a proper vehicle to facilitate easy transportation of recyclable material to a larger store, shopping center or supermarket that may be located at a distance from the person's home, it is often easier to throw the recyclable items out with the garbage.

[0008] The currently available reverse vending machines normally deliver the received objects to a back-room receiving facility or a downstairs facility. The total installation is expensive, requires substantial space, is often complex to install and service, and has operational drawbacks, in particular from a cleaning point of view. Frequent cleaning of soiled operational parts, suitably with water or special cleaning agent, is very important to secure failsafe operation. Returnable beverage containers frequently contain beverage leftovers, which often happen to come into contact with operational parts, thus making such parts sticky and causing operational failure if not properly cleaned. Cleaning is more than often a messy operation, and care has to be made not to harm electrical components.

[0009] Most RVMs need to have the ability to inspect identifying features on the object, such as e.g. a bar code. If such features are not immediately seen by a dedicated detector, the object will need to be rotated to find if such features are indeed present. An object rotating mechanism is expensive and requires substantial space in the longitudinal or depth direction of the RVM. Further, if such RVMs are also to provide object sorting, an additional sorter has to be provided, adding further to the cost of the installation, and the dimension of the RVM as regards depth dimension is in some cases prohibitive when both a rotator and a sorter are to be included. Also, most owners of stores, shopping centers or supermarkets are concerned over RVMs requiring substantial and expensive space for collecting the containers received by the RVM, such space frequently being occupied by container collection tables.OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention therefore has as a principal object to meet a long felt need to provide an improved automated facility for collecting returnable objects or items, such as recyclable items of plastic, metal or glass, and for overcoming the well-known mentioned drawbacks, thus yielding a low cost facility which exhibits optimal use of limited space, in particular floor space, that may be available almost everywhere, enabling their placement even in smaller stores, convenience stores, local gas stations and public areas. Thereby, such facilities may be more conveniently available to customers. These features and other features to appear through reading of the specification are some of the objectives of the present invention.SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a token system for installation in a reverse vending machine which is configured to detect and identify characteristic features of empty beverage containers and any return value related thereto, wherein the token system comprises: a token reader capable of reading a token when presented to the reader from outside of the reverse vending machine by a user, characterized in that the token is a personal token which a customer brings to the reverse vending machine and from which identity data is transferrable to the reverse vending machine; a processor for relating the return value to the personal token and for transferring directly or via a central computer installation to a rewarding unit or a check-out unit information related to the personal token and said return value in order to validate the personal token, wherein the token is a reusable token, which is an optically readable token, an r.f. readable token or a magnetic stripe readable token.

[0012] Further embodiments appear from the related sub-claims 2-5.

[0013] Reverse vending machines conventionally issue a specially printed token related to the return or redemption value of empty beverage containers received by the reverse vending machine (RVM), and the token is then taken to a rewarding unit or so-called checkout and payment station to get a cash reward or a cash deduction from a bill to be paid for other sales items or objects, e.g. groceries. However, it has also been a long felt desire to simplify dispensing of tokens in a RVM to avoid occasional and inherent printer failures well known to the expert in the art when tokens are to be printed with individual return value related data.

[0014] The present invention therefore relates to a token system for use with a reverse vending machine suitable for receiving empty packaging in the form of empty beverage containers.

[0015] Closely linked thereto is a token system related to a reverse vending machine which is configured to detect and identify features of an object, tokens being dispensable one-by-one from a token dispenser and configured to be related to an object being observable and detectable for object identification.

[0016] Security measures have over the past years been implemented in order to avoid recurring swindle attempt through presentation at the rewarding unit of home-made tokens with a redemption value printed thereon. Thus, the new tokens issued have also included a particular serial number, and both the redemption value and the serial number have been communicated from the RVM to a central computer, suitably located in the store or supermarket, in order to validate the token, and when the token has been presented at the rewarding unit, payment is made to the customer and the central computer then invalidates the token by removing the data from availability at the rewarding unit.

[0017] The tokens are usually made from thin paper from a roll of paper passing through a printer, suitably a thermal printer, before it is issued to the customer. Experience has, however, shown that use of such printed paper tokens has the drawback that the printer occasionally fails, the printer is expensive and needs maintenance service at regular intervals, and the paper from the paper roll is expensive and needs to be of a particular quality to yield as low failure rate as possible.

[0018] Given some of the disadvantages of the prior art tokens, aspects of the present invention have as an object to provide for a token system that avoids printing of tokens in an RVM, yet provides the required security against swindle attempts and avoids the use of any printer and related printer maintenance.

[0019] In the following, aspects of the present invention will be explained by way of examples and by reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals indicate the same elements, although as regards some elements, different reference numerals have been used for elements having same properties of functioning and for practical reasons.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] In the drawings: fig. 1 shows in a perspective view, an exemplary mode of a reverse vending machine with object storage chamber; object supporting, rotating, sorting and conveyor means; camera-aided detector device; supplementary item / object collector means; token dispenser; token reader; safety apparatus; and drive means, fig. 2 is a principle sketch of a first embodiment of a camera-aided viewing device for viewing an object with regard to contour of the object and identifying features or indicia on the object, fig. 3 is a principle, though slightly more detailed sketch of the first embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device showing in more detail a first object supporting, rotation, sorting and conveying means, fig. 4is a principle sketch of a second embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device, fig. 5 is a principle sketch of a third embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device, fig. 6 is a principle sketch of a fourth embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device, fig. 7 is a principle sketch of a fifth embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device, fig. 8 is a principle sketch of a sixth embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device, fig. 9 is a principle sketch of a second object supporting, rotation, sorting and conveying means, fig. 10 is a principle sketch of a seventh embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device, fig. 11 is a principle sketch of an eight embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device, fig. 12 is a principle sketch of a ninth embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device, fig. 13 is a principle sketch of a tenth embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device, fig. 14a shows a camera image with two image parts, and fig. 14b shows a camera surveillance image with a set of dedicated camera image sensor matrix pixels indicated, fig. 14c shows a simplified circuit diagram forming part of the block schematic diagram in fig. 23, fig. 15 is a principle sketch to illustrate camera reading of bar-code on a token in a token storage device, fig. 16 is an exemplifying token, fig. 17a is a partial view of a supporting device and a background area or panel, fig. 17b is a variant of the background area or panel shown on fig. 17a, fig. 18a is a sketch of a first embodiment of a token reading means, fig. 18b is a sketch of a second embodiment of a token reading means, fig. 19 is a perspective view of a part of the view of fig. 15, figs. 20 - 22 are perspective views of a token dispenser seen from below, from the side and above, and substantially from above, respectively, fig. 23 is a block schematic diagram of electrically or electronically operative elements in a system incorporating the invention, fig. 24 shows in a perspective view a reverse vending machine with object storage chamber; object supporting, rotating, sorting and conveyor means; item collector means; token dispenser; token reader; and drive means, SPECIFIC DESCRIPTIONRVM overview

[0021] Fig. 1 illustrates in an exemplary embodiment a reverse vending machine (RVM) 1 which exemplifies main aspects of the present invention, .i.e. object storage chamber 2; object supporting, rotating, sorting and conveyor unit 3; camera-aided detector device 4; supplementary item / object collector means 5; token dispenser 6; token reader 7 , safety apparatus 8, and drive means 9; 9'. In the more detailed disclosure to follow, the operational means 2 - 9 just mentioned will for practical reasons be denoted by other reference numerals. Direction is also made to fig. 24 showing the figure of fig. 1, however with more reference numerals inserted to identify location of some of the various operational means which are extensively disclosed in the disclosure to follow in connection with figs. 2 -24.Single Camera Viewing Device

[0022] Fig. 2 depicts a first light source 300 and a second light source 301, the light source 301 suitably consisting of a plurality of light sub-sources 302, 303, 304, 305 . The light sources 300 and 301 are separately configured to illuminate a first region 306 and a second region 307 of an object, e.g. a returnable item 10;10';10",10"\ A single camera 308 is provided to view at least part of the regions 306 and 307. The first light source 300 is configured to assist the camera 308 in viewing of contour of objects, items or articles 10, 10', 10", 10'" of different cross section , e.g. empty beverage packaging such as cans and bottles against a light reflective area or background 313 forming a bright, light emitting background. The light from the first light source 300 is directed towards the object (e,g. one of those labeled 10 through 10‴) as parallel light using a lens 314. The second light source 301 is configured to assist camera viewing by the camera 308 for detection and recognition of any identity features located on the object in viewing sector labeled 315.

[0023] Said identity features are suitably at least one of: bar code, graphic symbol and alphanumeric characters.

[0024] Although it would be feasible to use two cameras instead of a single camera, the use of a single camera yields less technical complexity, a simpler and more maintenance friendly structure, in addition to requiring less space in order to carry out the required functions. Further, from a components cost aspect and installation cost, the above example also offers a substantial advantage over a two-camera solution.

[0025] When a camera views e.g. an object contour or identifying features thereon, the camera sensor matrix provides a string of matrix pixel signals to be processed in order to identify or recognize such contour or features, including the possibility of letting the camera read and causing identification of e.g. a bar code.

[0026] As seen from figs. 2-5, the first light source 300 illuminates the first region 306 via a light path which includes an optical beam splitter (or view splitter) 316 (figs. 2 and 3), 318 (fig. 4) or 319 (fig. 5), at least one inclined mirror 320 and the lens 314. However, it is noted that in the most preferred versions, there is suitably used two mirrors 320 and 321, as shown on figs. 2 - 4, in the light path.

[0027] Figs. 2, 3 and 5 depict a light beam splitter 316; 319 located in an inclined posture in the camera field of view 322 and covers at least part of said field of view, suitably approximately half of the camera field of view. Fig. 4 depicts an optical beam splitter 318 which covers the complete camera field of view.

[0028] It is seen from figs. 2 - 5 that camera viewing of the first region 306 via one mirror 320 or two mirrors 320, 321 is suitably made with line of sight towards the object shifted by an angle α of 90°± 30° relative to camera line of sight towards the object when viewing the second region 307. In the drawing figs. 2 - 5 the angle α is shown as 90°. However, by arranging the mirrors 320, 321 differently, it is evident that the angle range of 90°± 30° is possible.

[0029] In the case that there is used an optical beam splitter 316 or 319 which is within only half or less of the camera field of view, there is the possibility that when the camera is set to view the second region or part thereof, the splitter is suitably assisted by a vision blocker 323; 324 to prevent the camera from viewing both directly in the sector 315 and through the splitter, the splitter providing a less clear viewing. If the vision blocker 323; 324 is omitted, then the camera will be able to view the entire region 307.

[0030] Fig. 4 shows the camera in a configuration set to view the second region 307 completely via the beam splitter 318. This implies that the camera 308 views either the first region 306 via the splitter, the mirrors 321, 320 and the lens 314, and secondly the second region 307 through the splitter. In this latter situation, the light source 301 is fully or partly activated, and the light source 300 is deactivated.

[0031] The light source 301, suitably comprising a plurality of light sub-sources 302 - 305, is notably located in a region between the beam splitter 316; 318; 319 and an object supporting means in the form of said compact conveyor and sorter 200. In the examples shown on fig. 2, 5 -7, the object supporting means 200 is shown only schematically, but in more detail on fig. 3.

[0032] It will now be briefly highlighted some features of the object supporting means 200 in a specific context of camera aided viewing of an object, e.g. the object 10, located on the object supporting means 200, said supporting means is in the form of the rotary drum 220 (see fig. 3) with the auxiliary roller 243. The drum 220 and the roller 243 will controllably, but forcibly rotate the object 10 on a portion 220' or 220" of the circumference of the drum. The drum 220 has at least one radial inwardly directed, adjustable space or cavity 222 for receiving the object 10 after its rotation on said circumference portion and for transporting the object 10 through rotation of the drum to an output location, e.g. at generally indicated by arrows 224, 226 and 226' . The camera 308 will be able to view and cause detection of the presence of the object 10 when it has dropped into the adjustable space 222. This has a safety function aspect and also a security function aspect., i.e. to prevent any swindle attempt. This means that the drum 220 will not start turning until the camera 308 actually observes and causes detection of the object being present in the space 222 and with the movable element 223 operating as a movable bottom in its fully retracted state.

[0033] The direction which the drum will then turn is determined by set criteria which are compared to recognize characteristic features of the object. This will be more fully explained and considered in connection with the disclosure of fig. 15. Further, in case the contour of the object is to be viewable from above, rather than sideways, it would be advantageous to let at least a part of the rotary drum 220 be provided with a coating which is retro-reflective to light, in particular at the portions labeled 220' and 220" of the drum 220. Such a situation is in particular suitable in connection with the example shown on fig. 6 and will be further explained later.

[0034] The single camera is generally denoted by 308, 308', the reference 308' symbolizing viewing by the camera 308 via e.g. a beam splitter 318 and mirrors 321, 320 (see fig. 4).

[0035] Fig. 6 shows the use of a single camera 340 and with an optical beam splitter 341 inclined relative to a lens 343. A light source 342 provides for illumination of the object, e.g. 10, through lens 343 to provide parallel light rays towards the supporting means 200, which has its drum parts 220' and 220" (see fig. 3) provided with retro-reflective material or property enabling light not hit by the object to be retro-reflected back to camera 340 via the lens 343 and the splitter 341 to provide an image of the contour of the object. When it is desirable to view and read identifying features on the object, such as e.g. bar-code, a light source 344 is activated, the light source suitably being of the same type as the light source 301. At the same time, light source 342 may be deactivated, if required. Fig. 7 shows an example which in operation is similar to that of fig. 6. A single camera 345 is used with an optical beam splitter 346 inclined relative to a lens 347. A light source 348 provides for illumination of the object, e.g. 10, through lens 347 to provide parallel light rays towards a light reflective background or area 313 enabling light not hit by the object to be retro-reflected back to camera 345 via the lens 347 and the splitter 346 to provide an image of the contour of the object. When it is desirable to view and read (or detect) identifying features on the object, such as e.g. bar code, a light source 349 is activated, the light source suitably being of the same type as the light source 344, i.e. comprising a plurality of light sub-sources. At the same time the light source 349 is activated, light source 348 may be deactivated, if required. Fig. 8 is a modification of the example of fig. 7, the major difference being the non-existence of the lens 347, thus yielding that the object contour is not viewed by means parallel light rays. Figs. 2-5 clearly demonstrate that the first and second regions 306, 307 are partly overlapping, and figs. -6-8 indicate full overlapping.

[0036] Fig. 10 is identical to the example shown on fig. 2, apart from the light source 300 and the retro-reflective background 313 having been deleted and replaced by a light emitting, illuminated or backlit panel 350, the panel 350 thus forming a bright background. Ambient light may in some applications be sufficient in order that the camera views a bright background.

[0037] The panel 350 will provide the bright background against which e.g. the object 10 is to be viewed by the single camera 308.

[0038] A similar situation is present with the example of fig. 11, which is identical to the example shown on fig. 4, apart from the light source 300 and the retro-reflective background area 313 having been deleted and replaced by a light emitting area, suitably in the form of the panel 350 to form a bright background against which e.g. the object 10 is to be viewed by the single camera 308 to provide for e.g. detection of object contour. The further examples depicted on fig. 12 and 13 are also related to the use of a light emitting panel 350 to form said bright background and against which camera viewing of an object can be made, as will be further explained.

[0039] Fig. 12 is a modification of the examples of fig.7. It is noted that the lens 353, which is suitably of same type as lens 347 in fig. 7 or lens 314 in other drawing figures, is present in order to let a single camera 356 view and detect object contour, e.g. contour of object 309 against the panel 350 which in this example constitutes the first light source. The second light source is that labeled 349, which could be constituted by two or more light sub-sources. The camera 356 uses the lens 347 to enable viewing through use of parallel rays, in order to get as accurate contour image of the object as possible. The light source 349 is activated when the camera is to view and read identity features, like e.g. bar code 309', located on the object. Suitably, panel 350 is then not exhibiting a light emitting surface or background area, or its light emitting intensity could suitably be reduced. Other structural details shown on fig. 12 will be further explained later with reference to fig. 16.

[0040] Fig. 13 is an example with a single camera 358 which is capable of viewing an object, e.g. an empty beverage bottle or can 10;10'; 10" or 10'" against a light emitting background area, such as the panel 350 as described earlier. In order for the camera 358 to view and read identifying features located on the object, e.g. a bar-code 10"" on object 10, it is preferable to use a second light source 359. When the light source 359 is activated, it would be preferable, though not essential, to reduce light intensity from the panel 350 or even turn off emission of light from the panel 350. The light source 359, which is similar or identical to the light source 349, could be constituted by two or more sub-sources.

[0041] From a viewing of figs. 10 - 13 it will be appreciated that turning of the object to be inspected, e.g.. to suitably find an identifying feature to be detected, is made by means of the object supporting means 220, 220, 243 or 260, 262, 270, 271, 273, 273' as shown on in more detail on figs. 3 and 9, respectively. Further, it could be of advantage to let the first and second light sources, e.g. 300, 301; 300', 301; 342, 344; 348, 349; 350, 301; 350, 354; 350, 349; 350, 359 have different spectral range or composition. Also, it would be possible to have the second light sources 301; 344; 349; 359composed of two or more sub-sources. Further, the sub-sources could have different spectra range or composition, either all different, different in pairs or in groups. Such features of the light sources and possible sub-sources are of importance to be able to detect e.g. identifying features on the objects appearing e.g. with different colours, different reflective properties etc.

[0042] Further aspects are now to be explained with reference to fig. 14. In the particular case of the examples of figs. 2, 3 and 5, as well as fig. 10, it would be suitable to split the camera video image in two with a part 360 related to the first region 306 and another part 361 related to the second region 307. In the examples of figs. 4 and 11 it may be visualized the possibility of dedicating half of the camera video image to region 306 and the other half to region 307, or alternatively have alternating full video images of regions 306 and 307. For the examples of figs. 6, 7 and 13 the choice is alternating full video images only.

[0043] Camera viewing of the first region of the object 362 related to its contour 363 can in addition include observation or rather recognition of mere presence or absence of said identifying features 364, e.g. bar code located on the object.

[0044] The focus of the camera will not be exactly on the features 364, but the camera will at least sense or detect with relation to the partial image 360 whether the features 364, here labeled 364' are indeed present or not, although on the partial image 360 appearing "blurred" or a bit out of focus. If the features 364 are not visible on the image part 361, but visible on part 360, this will indicate necessity to rotate the object one way or the other through a maximum angle of 180°. The comparison between the two images 360 and 361 in this respect has some impact on the required amount of rotation of the object in order to be able to view and read the feature 364 properly in region 307, and consequently has also importance with regard to processing time in order to find the feature 364, read and record it.

[0045] When using in this manner a single camera for camera viewing of both said first and second regions, the camera has preferably, but not necessarily its image field subdivided into said at least two partial images 360, 361, the first partial image 360 being dedicated to object contour detection and / or detection of presence or absence of said identifying features, and the second partial image 361 being dedicated to observation and reading of said identifying features.

[0046] It is readily understood that the principle of detecting presence or absence of identifying features in region 306 and the need for rotation of the object is equally well useful when the camera switches between viewing regions 306 and 307.Operational Safety Means

[0047] As indicated in the introductory part of the specification it is important also to focus on safety aspects when using an apparatus as extensively disclosed in the present specification and on the drawings, in particular to avoid injury to persons operating the apparatus or to avoid functional breakdown or jamming of the apparatus.

[0048] Therefore, this example focused on implementation of safety measures which are provided from actions obtained by operating a hardware circuit which is adapted to read predefined or dedicated pixels on the sensor matrix of the camera, i.e. reading hardware assigned physical pixels of the camera sensor matrix when a camera image is made.

[0049] This will yield a reliable safety measure related to possible operational hazards, thus e.g. preventing a motor from operating through halting its rotation or removing current supply thereto to thereby remove its torque.

[0050] This aspect is therefore through use of camera functionality able to provide an efficient hardware implemented light curtain functionality, as will be more closely explained in the following description with reference to figs. 14a, 14b, 14c, 17a, 17b and 23.

[0051] In the present example there is used a camera image , such as e.g. image 360 or 385 for detection of so-called "border crossing", i.e. an event in a field of view of the camera.

[0052] As indicated above, it is important to provide for personnel or an operator (e.g. a supermarket customer) operational safety of an apparatus , e.g. a reverse vending machine, and also protect in such apparatus machinery, having movable parts, against externally created interference that could cause operational damages or personal injuries, or operational or personal hazard. With a light curtain functionality it is possible to disable operation or stop the machinery altogether immediately and inhibit further operation until the cause of such operational disruption has been attended to.

[0053] With reference to figs. 17a and 17b, as well as figs. 14a and 14b there is on the bright or light emitting background 313; 350 located at least one array or column 385 of repeatedly occurring dark markings 385', e.g. black squares at an in-feed region receiving objects in direction 388 at which objects are fed into the apparatus for viewing, detection, turning and sorting, as previously disclosed. Further, there may on the background 313; 350 be located at least one array or row 385" of repeatedly occurring dark markings 385‴. At least one such row may be useful if the entry or in-feed region causes objects to be fed in a direction 388'. However, if the insertion opening 425 is so configured that it may be possible for a human hand to be inserted there-through and into the viewing chamber, so as to move into the viewing chamber essentially from above and thereby avoid obscuring viewing of the array 385, the array 385" is present to assist in providing additional light curtain functionality.

[0054] It has also been indicated by dotted lines on fig. 17a that e.g. two columns of markings and two rows of markings could be possible, although the number of rows and / or columns could be more than two.

[0055] Alternative or supplementary to the interspaced markings 385', 385"' indicated on fig. 17a, there could be located markings 395, 396 and 397 in the form of solid lines, as indicated on fig. 17b.

[0056] It is possible to have a column or row configuration of markings or a joint column and row configuration.

[0057] Fig. 14a exhibits two half-images 360 and 361, as previous discussed, whereas fig.14b exhibits a generalized full image 386 as provided by the available pixels on a camera image sensor matrix 401' (see fig. 14c). The dotted line 387 and / or 387' on fig. 14b (not shown on fig. 14a for clarity reason) denotes, relative to the camera image, a fraction or fractions of matrix pixels being a selected part of the available sensor matrix pixels. Said fraction 387 of sensor matrix pixels is dedicated to detection of the array or column of markings, as well as any events observable by said fraction of pixels and which could trigger an action, such as stopping operation of a motor, e.g. motor 404 or 422 with reference to figs. 23and 24. Similarly, said fraction 387' of sensor matrix pixels is dedicated to detection of the array 385" or row of markings, as well as any events observable by said fraction of pixels and which could trigger an action, such as stopping operation of a motor, e.g. motor 404 or 422 with reference to figs. 23 and 24. As indicated above, the arrays 385 and 385" of markings 385' and 385'" could both be present, yielding that both fractions 387 and 387' will be active for detection of markings and observable events.

[0058] A background area 314; 350 is located in the camera field of view, and as shown on e.g. fig. 17a, said background area in a part thereof exhibits the array 385 of distinguished markings 385'.

[0059] As indicated on e.g. figs. 3 and 17a, and derivable from fig. 23, the background area 313; 350 is located in a camera viewing chamber of a reverse vending machine. The chamber or input receiving area has entry opening (see 425 on fig.23) into which an object 10 in the form of an empty beverage container to be viewed by the camera, is insertable. From fig. 17a is noted that the array 387 of markings is located at an entry opening or region 425 of said viewing chamber 210. The in-feed direction for objects is indicated by reference numeral 388 on fig. 14b. As indicated on figs. 14a, 14b and 17a the array of markings is in a predefined pattern, suitably a column 385 of mutually spaced markings 385'. However, as disclosed above there could be as an alternative or in combination with the pattern 385 an additional predefined pattern 385" of mutually spaced markings 385‴ extending as e.g. an upper row, to provide an addition light curtain and to safeguard against any safety hazards caused by someone trying to put e.g. a hand into the viewing chamber from above, as e.g. indicated by reference numeral 388'.

[0060] As indicated above, the fraction 387 and / or fraction 387' of sensor matrix pixels 401' in the camera 400 will be dedicated to providing an image of said markings 385' and / or 385'" against said background area. The fraction 387 and / or fraction 387' of pixels will be readable by an operating unit 408, the response of which is dictated by its hardware functions and inputs to the unit 408. The operating unit 408 is operatively linked with the camera 401 to read said fraction of sensor matrix pixels. Further, the operating unit 408 is linked to a digital processing and control unit 400, said unit 400 controlling operation of the camera, i.e. when a camera image is to be taken.

[0061] The operating unit has a set of stored reference pixel signal values which are respectively related to pixels in said fraction of sensor matrix pixels, and which are related to said background area 313; 350 and said array 387 of distinguished markings thereon.

[0062] The operating unit 408 is capable of comparing a read pixel signal value from a respective pixel in said fraction of pixels with corresponding reference signal value assigned to such respective pixel, and to output respective comparison signal, however said operating unit 408 having an output 408'; 408" capable of changing signal state of delivered signal 393, suitably into a disabling or deactivating signal when said comparison signal or for that matter a set of such comparison signals departs from a predefined condition.

[0063] The signal 393, when in a disabling or deactivating state, is effective to cause disablement or halted operation of functional equipment 404; 422 having movable parts, e.g. a motor and its motor controlled parts. The operating unit 408 will, when the comparison satisfies the predefined condition, provide a signal 393 which enables the equipment to remain in operation. Such equipment could e.g. be found in a reverse vending machine as disclosed in the description and shown on the drawings.

[0064] As indicated above, the operating unit 408 is made to execute hardware functions, and the operating unit can be of a logic network of a type well known to any skilled person in the art and connected to execute the required functions. The operating unit can made from a plurality of discrete functional building blocks or a single integrated circuit (IC) as an application specified integrated circuit (ASIC) , e.g. as a so-called Gate Array, or as an implementation in a programmable circuit, so-called Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA).

[0065] The operating unit 408 may include a watchdog timer 403 which is designed to check that reading of pixel signals from said fraction of pixels and comparison with reference pixel signal values are made at a minimum rate of iteration. The reading of pixels is initiated from the processing and control unit 400. If said minimum rate of iteration is below a set value, the operating unit 408 may output said signal 393 in a state thereof causing disablement or shut-down of operation of equipment controlled by the unit 408.

[0066] The signal 393 in a deactivating state will normally be present until such a point of time when a new surveillance image taken meets all preset criteria for not issuing such deactivation type of signal.

[0067] In order to provide proper operation, it is considered that there should be a synchronization of the camera and a light source providing a bright or illuminated background area. Preferably there is used a light reflective material 313 at the camera field of view onto which said dark squares 385' have been applied. However, if the background 350 is a back-lit or illuminated panel, it could be visualized synchronized operation thereof with the operation of the camera.

[0068] In order to provide a proper safety function, it is appreciated that surveillance images of the chamber or area 210 will have to be generated frequently. Using the camera 401, it will by means of the operating unit 408 and with aid of the unit 400 be checked first if a complete bright line exists, i.e. all matrix pixel values above a predefined dark level threshold. If this is the case, there will be a search for alternating dark and bright areas along a predefined column, such as column 385. In a preferred example, the detected image of dark areas 385' should be within minimum and maximum length requirements to pass acceptance. Further, the bright areas must be of a minimum length before accepted. Also, the image must end with an accepted bright area. Finally, an accumulated number of accepted dark areas must equal a predefined number.

[0069] Fig. 14c is a system block diagram specifically related to the light curtain functionality, and should be considered essentially as part of the block schematic shown on fig. 23. The camera 401 is controlled by a digital processor 400 associated with the operating unit. This processor is in fig. 23 denoted as a processing and control unit 400. Line 389 denotes camera control, and the camera delivers image data signals on line 390 to the operating device 408. The operating device 408 has a watchdog timer 403 connected thereto. The unit 400 suitably controls triggering of camera imaging, as well as synchronization of the camera and any background illumination. Image data are conveyed from the operating unit 408 to the processor 400 via line 392, and the processor 400 provides the operating unit 408 with certain control signals via line 392. The processor 400 is suitably the main processor of the overall system, although this is not necessarily so.

[0070] Most importantly, to avoid the drawbacks known from prior art and as mentioned in the introduction, the dedicated set of sensor matrix pixels forming a fractional part of the total number of sensor matrix pixels is not selected through use of software, but is instead related to a limited number of physical pixels or elements on the camera image sensor matrix. As the light curtain function is important from an operational safety point of view, it is therefore absolutely essential that the light curtain function is not at all software based.

[0071] From fig. 15 it is noted that the bright background 313 ; 350 has an aperture 365 therein in order to let the camera read via said aperture illuminated marking 366 on a token 367 to be dispensed in a controlled manner. Such token 367 is configured to be related to observed objects , e.g. 10; 10' ; 10" ; 10'" which are supported and to be removed by an object supporting means, e.g. of a type shown on fig. 3 or fig. 9.

[0072] Suitably, said camera is configured to alternately, selectively or repeatedly a) cause detection of object contour, said light curtain related markings 385' and 385'" and events related thereto, and said token marking 366, and b) cause reading of identifying features, e.g. 10"" or 364 located on the object 10; denoted on fig. 14a by reference 362.

[0073] All examples of fig. 2 - 13 can be used with the light curtain function, but the light curtain functionality is not limited to the configuration shown on these drawing figures.A Token System

[0074] As noted from figs. 3, 12, 15, 17a, 17b, 18 and 19 the background area, e.g. 313 or 350 may have an aperture 365 therein in order to allow the camera which views the first region 306 to detect illuminated, pre-printed or pre-provided marking 366 on a token 367 which is arranged to be dispensed in a controlled manner from stack of tokens. Such a token could be related to information such as both a token serial number and a return or redemption value of an object or objects which have been viewed and considered by an RVM. On image part 360 it is indicated how the camera may view such marking, denoted by 366' through the viewable aperture 365'.

[0075] In order to obtain an efficient reading of such marking 366 without using an additional light source, the markings on the tokens are suitably made from a retro-reflective material. Alternatively, the token itself could be made from a retro-reflective material and the markings in such a case from non-retro-reflective material.

[0076] As shown on figs. 15, 18a and 19 said markings are camera readable via a mirror 368 located adjacent the aperture 365 in background area 313; 350. This may be a practical solution if tokens, e.g. in the form of cards, are dispensable from a dispenser unit 369. If cards are merely to be inserted into a guide 370 in the front of a RVM (see figs. 3 and 18b) to be read by the camera and then withdrawn, the card guide may be located at the back of the light reflective area 313 or the panel 350, so as to place the card with its face having markings 366 parallel to the back of the area 313 or panel 350.

[0077] In case a light emitting background panel 350 is used, the panel 350 constitutes the first light source which is primarily dedicated to assist camera viewing of object contour. However, light from the second light source will not necessarily impinge upon the marking 366 of a token 367 viewable through the aperture 365, but if such light in fact impinges upon the marking, it may either be non - parallel light rays or insufficient light in order for the camera to clearly see and cause detection of the markings. In such a case, it is suitable to use an optical beam splitter 371, as depicted on fig. 12 and a separate light source 372.

[0078] In the case of using an optical beam splitter covering part of the camera field of view, as shown in figs. 2, 35 and 10, the camera 308 is suitably configured to take an image of both of said first and second regions simultaneously. However, image taking may just as well be based on taking an image of said first and second regions alternately, or selectively taking a partial image of said first region or said second region.

[0079] In the case where an optical beam splitter covers completely the camera field of view, as seen from figs. 4 and 11, the camera 308 is configured to take an image of both of said first and second regions simultaneously to form a two part image, as e.g. shown on fig. 14a. However, it would also be feasible to consider taking a full image of said first and second regions alternately, or selectively taking a partial image of said first region or said second region.

[0080] In the examples of figs. 6 - 8, as well as figs. 12 and 13, the camera 340; 345; 351; 356; 358 could suitably take images alternately or selectively, although it could be visualized taking two partial images of the viewing region simultaneously, one dedicated to contour recognition and the other to identifying features on the object. The examples of figs. 712 and 13 in addition provides for reading of marking on a token, as disclosed e.g. in relationship to fig. 15 - 19.

[0081] It has been disclosed above that the second light source 301, or for that matter also the light sources 344, 349 and 359 can be constituted by a plurality of light sub-sources, and the light source 301 has been indicated to have e.g. four such sub-sources 302 - 305, although there could be fewer sub-sources or more. For the other sources 344, 349 and 359 three or four sub-sources have been indicated, without labeling each. The reason for more than one light sub-source is that light reflexes from the object or position of the light sub-source relative to the identifying feature on the object may cause the reading of the feature to be difficult or even impossible. In view thereof the light sub-sources are suitably selectively activated, although activation would be possible individually, in pairs or in groups, or in a cycle.

[0082] Figs. 20 - 22 illustrate a preferred card dispenser 369 to be used for dispensing tokens, e.g. cards 367. The dispenser 369 has a dispensing outlet 373 for dispensing cards 367 one-by-one from a stack of cards contained in a storage compartment 374. The markings 366 on the cards 367 are viewable through an opening 375 in the bottom of the dispenser. A pusher member 376 is provided to push out cards one-by one by a reciprocal motion of the pusher member or slide 376, the reciprocal motion being provided by a controllable motor 377 having control wires 378 for controlling power to the motor. Suitably, the motor 377 has a pinion (not shown) in engagement with a rack 379 on the pusher or slide to enable the reciprocal movement thereof.RVM Operational System Overview

[0083] Fig. 23 depicts an overall system in which the various aspects of the present invention are implemented.

[0084] The reverse vending machine (RVM) has said processing and control unit 400 which receives video data from the camera 401 via a video analyzer 402. The camera 401 is also linked to the operation unit 408, and the operation unit includes the watchdog timer 403 and a motor control. The motor #1 and its control, denoted 404, are related to the drive of the supporting means 325, 327, or the unit 333 as disclosed earlier. A motor overload sensor 405 is also provided to inhibit operation of motor #1 in case of jam not detected by the operational unit 408 or a jam detector 406. The sensor 405 could be in the form of a pressure sensitive bar, or the roller 243 could have its weight sensor 253 (in fig. 23 denoted by 419) modified in order to also indicate pressure against the roller caused by a jam due to an object not fully located in the recess or space 222.

[0085] The operation unit 408 is, as disclosed earlier linked with the camera 401 and the processing and control unit (processor) 400, and in the present example the unit 408 controls the motor controls 404 and 422 directly, although such control could be via the processor 400.

[0086] As indicated earlier, optically readable cards will normally be read by e.g. camera 401. However, if a card is a magnetic readable / writable card or an r.f. readable / writable card, there will be the need of a card reader / card encoder unit 411. The card dispenser 361 as disclosed earlier is on fig. 15 denoted by 412 .

[0087] Suitably, the tokens are ready made, pre-coded cards, like the cards 367 which are dispensable one by one from the dispenser means 369; 412 (fig.23) and which upon the feed-out from the dispenser 412 via output 412' is code-read by a code reader / encoder 411, in particular if the card is a magnetic stripe or r.f. card. Alternatively, if the card is an optically readable card, the card is read by the camera 401 via aperture 424 and inclined mirror 424' as more closely disclosed in connection with figs. 15, 18a and 19 (see references 365 and 368).

[0088] If the card is a magnetic stripe card or an r.f. card and with no information on the card when it is located in the dispenser, the code reader / encoder 411 will be able to encode the card with a card code, such as e.g. a serial number or other identity, or the combination of a card code or serial number or other identity and a redemption value to be rewarded or paid, as the cards are fed out from the dispenser one-by-one.

[0089] If the cards to be used for reward of empty beverage containers deposited in the RVM are not to be delivered from a card dispenser, such token could be a personal token which the customer brings with him to the RVM and uses to transfer card identity data from the card to the RVM. If the card is an optically readable card, it can be read by the camera 401 and as indicated further by reference 411' when inserted into a slot (see reference 370; fig. 3) and viewable through an aperture (see reference 370'; fig. 3) in the light retro-reflective area (see reference 313; fig. 3). If the card is an r.f. readable card, the card could be readable by an r.f. reader 411", and if the card is a magnetic stripe readable card, the card could be readable by a magnetic stripe reader 411‴.

[0090] The cards, irrespective of being optically readable, r.f. readable or encodable, or magnetic stripe readable or encodable, could be in the form of a reusable token, in particular because the cards are in any case validated and after reward has been paid, invalidated. The token could be retrieved from a stack or a band of cards. If a band of cards or a zig-zag arranged band of cards is used, the dispenser 369 (412 on fig. 23) should suitably be replaced by a conventional type of dispenser for such card arrangement. Also, different type of encoder 411 may be required. In any case, the card should have at least an alphanumerical, machine readable code.

[0091] If the token is a card which is optically readable, the card should have a pre-made code thereon, suitably consisting of a bar code or other optically readable code readable by an optical reader such as the camera 401. As indicated earlier, the bar code or other optically readable code is preferably retro-reflective to light. Such configuration of the card makes an additional light source for viewing the code on the card superfluous. Conversely, the card could be made of a retro-reflective material and the bar code be made of a non-reflective material.

[0092] The processor 400 will either directly, or via a central computer installation 413 transfer to a rewarding or check-out and payment station 414 information related to a readable token code and information related to said return value. Transfer of information to and from the processor to the computer 413 and the station 414 is suitably via a local area network (LAN) 415. The station 414 has a card reader 416 to read the card before reward or redemption value is paid. The card is then invalidated through use of a token invalidation means 407 associated with the station 414 or through internal operation in the unit 400 and / or the computer 413. In an alternative example the processor 400 communicates with a "tick-off unit 417, which could be in the form of a mini-computer, such as so-called PDA. This could be a solution useful for a small store, through which there is conveyed to the unit 417 from the processor displayable information such as visible card identity and sum to be paid. Upon payment of the required money, the operator ticks off the particular item displayed, which is then made void or invalid, cancelled in the unit 400 and / or computer 413, and suitably removed from the display on the unit 417.

[0093] The RVM has suitably a display 418 to properly guide or inform an RVM user how to operate. If the display is a touch screen, the customer may communicate with the processor 400. The container weight sensor 419 indicated on fig. 23, , is provided to engage an end 247 of an axle 243' (see fig. 3) of the roller 243, so as to spot whenever a too heavy beverage container is fed into the RVM through an opening 425 on the RVM. The term "too heavy" in this context is meant to imply that the unit 400, upon receiving information related to shape and identity features, will compare these data with library data in the unit 400, and thereby determine whether the object in fact should weigh less or not. This has been disclosed in more detail earlier. Also as indicated, the weight sensor could suitably form or supplement the jam sensor 405.

[0094] An interlock-mechanism 420 is provided for safety reasons. The mechanism is suitably a set of sensors and switches to ensure that the RVM cannot be operated unless all units are in proper place and all cabinet panels are in proper mounted position and cabinet doors are locked.

[0095] A power supply 421 is provided, suitably linked to power consuming units via the unit 400.

[0096] A motor and control unit 422 is provided to cause the volume of a collection container 426 to be adjusted by winding or unwinding a flexible side and bottom 426'. However, although fig. 24 shows a collection container 426, it would be understood by the average expert in the art that other operational equipment could be installed and operated instead of the collection container. Such equipment could include one or more from the group of: conveyor; pusher unit; rotation means; compactor; disintegrator; sorter means. The positioning and evidently the configuration of such equipment in cooperation with the motor 422 could be substantially different from that of the collection container 426. The collection container is particularly suitable for heavier objects, e.g. bottles of glass.

[0097] Reference numeral 423 in fig. 23 denotes a position sensor which is used to detect rotary positions of the drum 220.

[0098] The reference numeral 100 denotes generally a storage compartment for receiving objects delivered from the supporting, sorting, conveying and push-out unit200. The storage chamber or compartment 100, as shown also in fig. 24.

[0099] Modification of the various elements, means and devices related to the aspects of the present invention would be conceivable within the scope of the invention as defined in the attached claims.

Claims

1. A token system for installation in a reverse vending machine (1) which is configured to detect and identify characteristic features of empty beverage containers (10, 10', 10", 10‴) and any return value related thereto, wherein the token system comprises: a token reader (7, 308, 356, 411, 411', 411", 411‴) capable of reading a token when presented to the reader (7) from outside of the reverse vending machine by a user, characterised in that the token is a personal token which a customer brings to the reverse vending machine and from which identity data is transferable to the reverse vending machine a processor for relating the return value to the personal token and for transferring directly or via a central computer installation to a rewarding unit or a check-out unit information related to the personal token and said return value in order to validate the personal token wherein the token is a reusable token, which is an optically readable token, an r.f. readable token or a magnetic stripe readable token.

2. The token system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the token has an alphanumerical, machine readable code.

3. The token system as claimed in any one of claims 1-2, wherein the token code is stored in an r.f.-chip and is readable by an r.f.-circuit detector.

4. The token system as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, for use with an optically readable token, wherein the token has a code consisting of a bar code or other optically readable code readable by an optical reader such as a camera.

5. The token system as claimed in any one of claims 1-4, wherein the token code is stored in a magnetic stripe readable by a magnetic operative reader.