Belt cleaning

Abstract

An arrangement comprising: an RVM for receiving containers, an RVM transportation arrangement comprising a modular belt, a control unit configured to determine that a cleaning session is to be initiated based on one of at least a time parameter and an activity parameter, and upon determination that a cleaning session is to be initiated being configured to actuate a cleaning liquid transportation arrangement to dispose cleaning liquid through a nozzle towards an upper portion of said modular belt arranged at or in the vicinity of one end of said respective transporting conveyor.

Description

[0001] BELT CLEANING

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present inventive concept generally relates to RVM arrangements and more specifically to an RVM arrangement being provide with an automatic cleaning arrangement and a method for cleaning RVM arrangements.

[0004] Background

[0005] Environmental and economic concerns have spurred significant developments in the field of facilities for collecting used items such as bottles, cans, cups, bowls, jars, buckets and / or other containers, preferably for recovering the material for recycling purposes. Today, fully automatic systems are available that are capable of receiving and optionally storing many different types of used containers, or parts of used containers. In RVMs returned items are often exchanged for money or vouchers or other valuables or tokens. If so, there is many times a national standard which regulates: which objects (with respect to e.g. types, sizes and materials) that are to be collected by means of the RVM, which redemption that is to be given in return and preferably how the financial transactions within the redemption system is to be handled.

[0006] When used containers are returned, they may contain residues of sweet food and / or beverages e.g. Coke. During e.g. the transportation and compaction of the used container these residues might leak or being poured or squeezed out of the container. The sugar in these residues easily sticks to the mechanical parts, builds up and, over time, the abrasive nature of the sugar particles might wear down the parts of RVM arrangement leading to higher maintenance, and small pieces of e.g. used container material might get stuck in the in the sticky residues. Build ups of used container residues may also impair an efficient transport of the used containers, leading to jamming of movable parts and / or containers, and may lead to an unpleasant smell in the vicinity of the RVM arrangement. Another concern is loose parts such as bottle caps, label pieces and small foreign objects that accidentally might be introduced into the machine by the customer together with the used emptied containers. Such items might get stuck in the sticky residues and over time jam moveable parts.

[0007] Summary of the invention

[0008] An object of the present inventive concept is to alleviate at least some of the above problems, and to provide a solution that to at least some extent, improves the prior art in one or more regards. This, and other objects, which is understood from the disclosure below, is accomplished by means of the solutions defined in the accompanying claims.

[0009] According to a first aspect, there is provided an RVM arrangement configured to receive a bulk of used containers, which RVM arrangement comprises: a set of transporting conveyors comprising at least one transporting conveyor, wherein each transporting conveyor in said set of transporting conveyors comprises a transporting surface, driving means and a modular belt, and is configured to receive and transport at least a portion of said bulk of used containers from a first part of the transporting conveyor to a second part of the transporting conveyor by means of said transporting surface, wherein said modular belt is attached to said driving means and said transporting surface is one of:

[0010] • coinciding with an upper portion of said modular belt, and

[0011] • coinciding with a surface portion of a transporting member, which transporting member is attached to said modular belt,

[0012] - a cleaning liquid transportation arrangement comprising a set of nozzles comprising at least one nozzle, which cleaning liquid transportation arrangement is configured to be in fluid communication with at least one cleaning liquid reservoir and is configured to transport cleaning liquid from said at least one cleaning liquid reservoir to each one of said at least one nozzles,

[0013] - at least one control unit configured to determine that a cleaning session is to be initiated based on at least one of a time parameter and an activity parameter, wherein the time parameter is indicative of at least the elapsed time since the last cleaning session and the activity parameter is indicative of at least the activity rate of said RVM arrangement since the last cleaning session, and upon determination that a cleaning session is to be initiated configured to actuate said cleaning liquid transportation arrangement to provide said cleaning liquid to said at least one nozzle, wherein each one of said at least one nozzle is configured to direct cleaning liquid towards and wet a respective portion of said modular belt of a respective transporting conveyor in said set of transporting conveyors, which respective portion coincides with an upper side of the modular belt arranged at or in the vicinity of one end of said respective transporting conveyor.

[0014] According to a second aspect, there is provided a method for cleaning an RVM arrangement comprising the steps of: providing: at least one RVM (110) configured to receive used containers (102) through an RVM inlet (111), to determine, by a validation arrangement (112), if each of said received used containers is acceptable or non- acceptable, and to transport, by at least one transporting conveyor (120a, b), at least a portion of said used containers from a first part of the transporting conveyor to a second part of the transporting conveyor, wherein each transporting conveyor in said set of transporting conveyors comprises a transporting surface (121a, b), driving means and a modular belt (123a, b), wherein said modular belt is attached to said driving means and said transporting surface is one of:

[0015] • coinciding with an upper portion of said modular belt (123a), and

[0016] • coinciding with a surface portion of a transporting member (125), which transporting member is attached to said modular belt (123b), a cleaning liquid transportation arrangement (180) comprising a set of nozzles having at least one nozzle (185a, b), which cleaning liquid transportation arrangement is in fluid communication with at least one cleaning liquid reservoir (181) and is configured to transport cleaning liquid from said at least one cleaning liquid reservoir (181) to each nozzle (185a, b) in said set of nozzles, at least one control unit (470) configured to actuate said cleaning liquid transportation arrangement (180) to provide said cleaning liquid to at least one nozzle in said set of nozzles, said method comprising the steps of: determining (1010), by said control unit (470), that a cleaning session is to be initiated based on at least one of a time parameter and an activity pa rarmeter, which time parameter is indicative of the elapsed time since the last cleaning session and which activity parameter is indicative of at least the activity rate of said RVM arrangement since the last cleaning session,

[0017] - upon determination that a cleaning session is to be initiated actuating said cleaning liquid (1020) transportation arrangement (180) to dispose cleaning liquid via said set of nozzles, wherein each nozzle (185a, b) in said set of nozzles is configured to direct (1030) cleaning liquid (184) towards a respective portion (186a, b) of said modular belt (123a, b) of a respective transporting conveyor (120a, b) in said set of transporting conveyors, which respective portion coincides with an upper side of the modular belt (123a, b) arranged at or in the vicinity of one end of said respective transporting conveyor.

[0018] In relation to this inventive concept, the term "modular belt" refers to an elongated, optionally looped, belt which is formed of linked belt pieces. The term "modular belt" may e.g. refer to a conveyor belt the surface of which is used for transporting objects, it may also refer to a chain like modular belt formed of belt pieces e.g. having a centre cut out.

[0019] Effects and features of the first and second aspects are largely analogous, and embodiments and examples mentioned in relation to one of the aspects are largely compatible with the other aspect. Hence, all advantages detailed in herein pertaining to the first aspect or any embodiments thereof applies to the second aspect or any embodiments thereof. It is further noted that the inventive concepts relate to all possible combinations of features unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0020] One advantage related to the above aspects is that the cleaning may be performed with a significantly increased frequency, without demanding any increased attention from the staff, or that a member of the staff remembers to execute the cleaning manually. Another advantage related to the above aspects is that it may be performed even when there is a shortage of staff. A further advantage is that even when there is a shortage of staff, the cleaning may be performed so often that the RVM arrangement is significantly cleaner and therefor the downtime of the machine is notably reduced. It is also advantageous that that cleaning may be performed outside opening hours, and / or that cleaning of hard to reach areas are significantly facilitated. Also, the above aspects provides an increased control and / or facilitates regulating of the amount of water used for cleaning.

[0021] The above aspects are advantageous as they provide a multi-purpose use of cleaning liquid, such as tap water, where the cleaning liquid is used for cleaning, moistening, and lubricating parts exposed to sugary substances, which reduces friction, enhances machine efficiency and minimizes downtime.

[0022] The above aspects are also advantageous in that they provide a strategically placed nozzles, to enable thorough cleaning also in hard-to-reach areas.

[0023] A further advantage is that the cleaning liquid transportation arrangement may easily be provided as a kit, which with few or no modifications may be put into place also in existing machines. Alternatively, a panel may be removed on the existing machine or a cut out may be provided in a wall thereof, whereafter the kit including the nozzles is provided on one side of the opening and wets the conveyors from this position. Alternatively, some parts of the kit e.g. the cleaning liquid reservoir is arranged on one side of the opening, while other parts e.g. the at least one nozzle is arranged on the other side of the opening and the cleaning liquid tubes extends there between. An additional advantage is that the cleaning may be controlled also manually, providing not only a moistening and lubrication based on a time-driven schedule, with a cleaning frequency and sequence determined by expertise; but also a manual mode for more thorough cleaning with increased water consumption when determined necessary.

[0024] Yet another advantage is that regular and effective cleaning ensures the belt remains free of debris and contaminants, leading to fewer interruptions and maintenance needs; it also helps prevent wear and tear on machine components, extending their operational lifespan. Additionally, by optimizing the washing schedule, the system can avoid unnecessary energy use, leading to overall energy savings. Furthermore, with a cleaner and well-maintained system, there are fewer breakdowns and service calls, reducing the need for technicians to travel, which in turn lowers carbon emissions. Also, implementing water recycling methods may significantly reduce the amount of fresh water needed, promoting more sustainable water use.

[0025] In search for an improved cleaning liquid transportation arrangement, the inventors have investigated various set-ups, and with the cleaning liquid transportation arrangement presented herein found an advantageous balance between e.g. transportation efficiency, water efficiency and cleaning efficiency. During their investigation the inventors have e.g. noted that the more water the better the cleaning effect, and an addition of a detergent may also contribute to more quickly achieve a clean belt, as this dissolves sugar and reduce friction between objects. However, the inventors have also observed that adding water may cause adhesion due to capillary forces, especially when dealing with square containers having larger surface areas, which may be inclined to stick to a flat, wet sliding surface. Furthermore, the inventors have also come to the conclusion that provided the cleaning is performed at regular intervals, as described in more detail herein, a well working RVM can be achieved and maintained with a significantly lowered water consumption. Additionally, by automatically providing cleaning liquid at regularly occurring intervals, the residues from the received empty containers are partially or fully dissolved and preferably partly of fully transported away from the modular belt, and the residues may also to a large or at least to some degree be prevented from solidifying.

[0026] As used herein the term "used container residues" refer to the residues or scrap present on or in the used containers when entered into the RVM and optionally to small pieces of used container material that for some reason has been separated from the used container during the handling of the used container within the RVM. Disadvantages related to used container residues are discussed in the background.

[0027] In relation to this inventive concept the RVM may be configured to receive one, two or a plurality of items selected from a group comprising bottles, cans, cups, bowls, jars, buckets and other types of containers, preferably for recovering the material for recycling purposes. In relation to this disclosure, the term a used container of a predetermined type refers to a type of container e.g. cup or bottle and optionally also a type of container of a specific material, shape, colour and / or brand, which optionally may be provided with a validation mark to facilitate the recognition of that the used container is of this predetermined type. A used container may be formed of a material such as metal, paper, plastic and combinations thereof, e.g. a tetra pak; and being e.g. a small or large juice box, a plastic cup, a PET-bottle, a plastic bowl, a tin can, metal can and / or an aluminium can, e.g. a drinks can or a food can. According to one example, only containers of predetermined types and fulfilling a national standard are validated as accepted by the validation arrangement. Additionally or alternatively, only containers being provided with a validation mark selected from a group of at least one validation mark, is determined as valid.

[0028] Generally, the RVM is configured to receive the used containers in bulk, see e.g. WO 2024 / 165696, WO 2018 / 007524; as opposed to an RVM configured to receive the used containers in single feed, i.e. configured to receive them one-by-one, see e.g. WO 2020 / 089436 Al, WO 2012 / 177148. These documents also describe different set-up of the RVM arrangements with respect to e.g. the validation arrangement, RVM transport arrangement and the compacting arrangement. Generally, the RVM arrangement comprises a control unit which e.g. is one central processing device or several distributed processing devices. At least one of these processing devices is preferably arranged within the housing of the RVM arrangement, and the processing devices may communicate with each other and other devices by wire and / or wirelessly. According to one example the control unit is fully or partly cloud based. Additionally or alternatively, the control unit is arranged within the housing of the RVM arrangement.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the transporting part of each transporting conveyor is arranged between said first part and the second part of the transporting conveyour, and said respective portion of the modular belt is arranged upstream or downstream of said tranporting part of the respective transporting conveyor.

[0030] Rather contra intuitively, the inventors have realised that it is many times disadvantageous to spray on the area where objects are transported although this is where the soil and debris commonly occur. Instead, a better effect is achieved if wetting an upper side of the belt which is partly or fully outside the area where the containers are transported. One explanation being that dry empty containers many times requires less force to urge off the belt compared to wet ones, this effect is particularly notable for containers having a squared bottom surface.

[0031] According to one embodiment, at least a sub-portion of said respective portion coincides with a curved portion of said modular belt. This is advantageous as when the modular belt is curved the linked belt pieces normally opens up so the cleaning liquid may more easily reach the side surfaces of the belt pieces.

[0032] According to one embodiment, at least one nozzle in said set of nozzles is configured such the width of said respective portion is confined to an area which width is smaller than the full width of the modular belt, and optionally smaller than 85 % or 80 % or 75% or 70 % or 65 % of the full width of the modular belt. Additionally or alternatively, the width of the respective portion is at least 50 % of the full width of the full width of the modular belt. Alternatively, at least one nozzle in said set of nozzles is configured such the width of said respective portion extends across the full width of the modular belt, i.e. w is equal to or larger than W.

[0033] According to one example, the nozzle is arranged at a distance within a range of 50 mm to 400 mm, e.g. within the range of 100 mm to 250 mm, or within the range of 100 mm to 200 mm, e.g. 140 mm to 170 mm from the conveyor belt.

[0034] The inventors have realised that water may be saved by using the drift of water to clean the belt even outside the surface directly sprayed or wetted by the nozzle. In more detail, the inventors have realised that it is sufficient to spray a portion, of the modular belt, and while the belt is running the cleaning liquid that drifts to the lateral parts of the belt will be enough to clean, moister and / or lubricate the same. Also, when confining the direct incidence of the cleaning liquid to a smaller part of the belt, the risk of spraying sensitive parts of the arrangement such as electronics is reduced. The respective portion is optionally centred on the belt in the lateral direction, but preferably includes the centre of the belt as seen in the lateral direction.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the belt is run for a sufficiently long time so that the full length of the belt is run past the spraying nozzles one or two times, and cleaning liquid is provided across at most 60 % or at most 70 % or at most 80 % of the full width of the belt. While the belt is running, the cleaning liquid spreads across the across the full belt.

[0036] According to one exemplifying embodiment, at least one nozzle of said set of nozzles provides an elongated fan of cleaning liquid, and wherien said at least one nozzle optionally is a flat fan nozzle. Additionally or alternatively, the spraying angle of the at least one nozzle is within the range of 50° to 80° or within the range of 50° to 90° or within the range of 65° to 80°. A wider belt requires a larger spray angle and / or a higher number of nozzles compared to a smaller of the same material. The nozzles and spray angles may be selected such that a portion of the belt, e.g. at one or both of the lateral edges of the belt is kept free of the spray cone, or kept free of the theoretical spray cone as defined by the data sheet. This portion that is kept free of the spray cone or the theoretical spray cone may be referred to as a free portion of the belt. The free portion of the belt extends e.g. no more than 10 mm inwards at one or both (lateral) edges of the belt. According to one example the width of the free portion is thus no more than 10 mm at one or both lateral edges of the belt. The width of the free portion may be within the range of 3 mm to 15 mm, or within the range of 5 mm to 60 mm, or within the range of 30 mm to 50 mm at one or both lateral edges of the belt. In other words, the spray cone or the theoretical spray cone does not reach the free portion of the belt while the belt is running.

[0037] From a water conservation aspect it is many times preferred to spray an elongated area, which is preferably directed transverse to the transporting direction of the conveyor. Additionally or alternatively, the sprayed area preferably has a substantially even distribution of cleaning liquid across the sprayed area.

[0038] According to one exemplifying embodiment, the cleaning liquid transporting arrangement is optionally configured to spray at most 0.1 L / min or at most 0.2L / min, or at most 0.35L / min or at most 0.5 L / min or at most 0.7 L / min or at most 1 L / min or within the range of 0.05 L / min to 0.5 L / min or within the range of 0.3 to 0.8 L / min per nozzle within the range of 0.45 to 0.6 L / min per nozzle.

[0039] According to one exemplifying embodiment, said modular belt is a looped belt, which looped belt is preferably formed of interlinked belt modules, and wherein the control unit is preferably configured to actuate said cleaning liquid transportation arrangement, a respective transporting conveyor and a respective nozzle to provide cleaning liquid to said modular belt of said respective transporting conveyour during at least one full loop of the modular belt.

[0040] According to one embodiment, said driving means is configured to actuate a movement of said modular belt and thereby a movement of said transporting surface, which movement includes a movement of said transporting surface from said first part of the conveyor to said second part of the conveyour. According to one embodiment, the RVM arrangement is configured to accept used containers of at least one predetermined type, such as PET-bottles and / or cans, wherein said activity parameter is indicative of at least one of:

[0041] - the number of used containers received by the RVM arrangement since the last cleaning session,

[0042] - the number of used containers of one predetermined type received by the RVM arrangement since the last cleaning session,

[0043] - a sensor value indicative of the power required to drive the modular belt,

[0044] - a sensor value indicative of the contamination level of the modular belt.

[0045] According to one embodiment, measuring a parameter indicative of the motor load provides for adapting the cleaning intensity and / or frequency in real-time dependent on the motor load. Additionally or alternatively, it provides for tailored washing sequences, where washing sequences and intensities may be customized to specific areas with independently researched frequency and duration.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the RVM arrangement is configured close down the receiving and processing of used containers at predetermined intervals, such as daily, and at a predetermined time thereafter resume the receiving and processing of used containers, wherein said time parameter is further indicative of at least one of:

[0047] - the time when the RVM arrangement is configured to close down the receiving and processing of used containers,

[0048] - the time when the RVM arrangement is configured to resume the receiving and processing of used containers,

[0049] - a predetermined interval at which cleaning sessions are to be initiated,

[0050] - at least one predetermined time at which a cleaning session is to be initiated.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the RVM arrangement is closed down e.g. during the night, and during this time it is not operational to receive used containers. According to another alternative, the RVM arrangement is ready or open to receive used containers 24 / 7. The RVM arrangement may be scheduled to closed down at other predetermined intervals than once a day during the night, e.g. at weekends or any other predetermined interval e.g. longer than 4 or 6 or 8 or 10 hours. That an RVM arrangement enters into a sleep mode is generally not the same as the RVM arrangement being scheduled to close down.

[0052] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, the RVM arrangement is configured close down the receiving and processing of used containers at predetermined intervals, such as daily or weekly, and at a predetermined time thereafter resume the receiving and processing of used containers, wherein said time parameter is further indicative of at least one of:

[0053] - the time when the RVM arrangement is configured to close down the receiving and processing of used containers, e.g. 10 pm,

[0054] - the time when the RVM arrangement is configured to resume the receiving and processing of used containers, e.g. 9 am, or e.g. 10 hour after closing down

[0055] - a predetermined interval at which cleaning sessions are to be initiated, e.g. once every 2 hours or once every 4 hours,

[0056] - at least one predetermined time at which a cleaning session is to be initiated, e.g. 10 minutes before resuming operation, or every 12thhour, or at set time e.g. 2 am and 2 pm.

[0057] According to on example, the time based parameter is indicative of a time interval since the last cleaning, e.g. with 1.5 h to 3 h, or within 1 h to 5 h, within which the next cleaning session is to be initiated. Additionally or alternatively, the time based parameter is indicative an elapsed time since the last cleaning, e.g. 2 h, after which the next cleaning session is to be initiated. Additionally or alternatively, the time based parameter is indicative of a predetermined time, e.g. at 3.00 pm and 4.30 pm, at which a cleaning session is to be initiated. Additionally or alternatively, the time based parameter is indicative of the time interval with which the cleaning session is to be initiated, e.g. every 2 hours or within every 1 to 4 h.

[0058] As stated above the RVM arrangement may be configured to be closed down daily e.g. during the night and e.g. closed sometime between 5 pm and 11.30 pm, and reopened again sometime between 5.30 am and 12 am. According to one example the RVM arrangement is configured to perform a deep cleaning, a regular or a light cleaning in conjunction to the closing of the machine, e.g. which cleaning is performed e.g. within an interval of 1 hour before until 1 hour after the machine is closed. According to one example, the time parameter is indicative of the time the RVM closes, how long before and / or after the closing time the clean session is to be initiated, and optionally the type of cleaning session e.g. deep, normal or light. According to one example the different types of cleaning sessions differ in the amount of cleaning liquid and / or the type of cleaning liquid and / or the temperature of the cleaning liquid that is provided through the nozzles.

[0059] Cleaning the RVM arrangement based on an activity parameter is advantageous as it prevents or reduces an increased build-up of empty container residues caused by a high activity rate of the RVM.

[0060] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, each RVM is configured to accept used containers of at least one predetermined type, such as PET-bottles and / or cans. Further, each of said at least one RVM is optionally configured to receive a set of at least one used container from a user, which set of at least one used container is processed during a user session, during which user session at least the number of received acceptable used containers is determined. Also according to this exemplifying example, said activity parameter is indicative of at least one of:

[0061] - the number of user sessions each compacting arrangement or each RVM has been involved in since the last cleaning session,

[0062] - the number of used containers received by each compacting arrangement or each RVM since the last cleaning session,

[0063] - the number of used containers of one predetermined type received by each compacting arrangement or each RVM since the last cleaning session.

[0064] A cleaning session of the RVM arrangement is initiated at predetermined intervals, e.g. after every 10 or 50 or 100 reverse vending sessions, or after 100 or 500 or 1 000 or 3 000 or 6 000 containers have been received, or at least after a predetermined time since the last cleaning session, e.g. 1 h or 2 h or 3 h or 4 h or 5 h, whichever interval is the shortest. According to one example, a cleaning session is initiated after X' number of reverse vending sessions, where X' is a number within the range of 10 to 65, or within the range of 40 to 100, or within the range of 75 to 150. According to one example, a cleaning session is initiated after X” containers have been received, where X” is a number within the range of 90 to 1000, or within the range of 500 to 3000, or within the range of 1 000 to 6 000. According to one example, a cleaning session is initiated within a predetermined time interval X'”, where X'” is a time within the interval of 1-5 hours or within the interval of 1-3 hours or within the interval of 2-5 hours, within the interval of 2-4 hours. During such a cleaning session cleaning liquid is provided or sprayed out of one, two or a plurality of nozzles onto the modular conveyor belt. A cleaning session can be actuated while the RVM arrangement is processing received used containers and / or when the RVM arrangement is idle.

[0065] The time parameter and activity parameter may be freely selected to fit the RVM arrangement at hand. According to one example, the time parameter and the activity parameter are selected such that a deep cleaning of the RVM arrangement is performed 15 min before the machine opens for operation in the morning. Thereafter a normal cleaning is performed once every 3 hours or after 20 user sessions since the last cleaning, whichever is the shortest. Additionally, a deep cleaning of the RVM arrangement is performed 15 min after the machine closed for operation in the evening. Also, a light cleaning is performed 3 hour after the machine closed for operation in the evening, which is 4 hours before the machine opens in the morning. Thus, as the activity rate partly decides the cleaning interval, one RVM might be cleaned three times as often as another RVM dependent on e.g. user behavior.

[0066] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, the pump is automatically activated approximately once per hour for 40 seconds or two full rotations of the belt. Here the feeder belt takes 18 seconds to complete one round, 40 seconds allows for two full belt rotations. During a customer session, the feeder belt can either stop or return objects to the customer. Optionally, to avoid sending back moist objects, the cleaning is put on hold when the machine is in operation. The running time of the washing sequence is preferable adjustable to accommodate different markets and store opening hours.

[0067] The activity parameter may e.g. be set so a cleaning session starts when there has been 10 or 20 or 30 return sessions or user sessions since the last cleaning. The activity parameter may e.g. be set so a cleaning session starts after a predetermined number of return sessions or user session, which predetermined number of return sessions or user sessions is in the interval of 5 to 50 sessions, or in the interval of 7 to 30 sessions, or in the interval of 10 to 25 sessions. These user sessions or return sessions may denote the number of sessions a specific RVM and / or a specific compacting device has been involved in.

[0068] Additionally or alternatively, the activity parameter may be indicative of the total number of used containers, or the number of used containers of one or at least two specific types, that have been received by a specific RVM or group of RVMs since the last cleaning session.

[0069] The time parameter and activity parameter may be freely selected to fit the RVM arrangement at hand. According to one example, the time parameter and the activity parameter are selected such that a deep cleaning of the RVM arrangement is performed 15 min before the machine opens for operation in the morning. Thereafter a normal cleaning is performed once every 2 hours or after 10 user sessions since the last cleaning, whichever is the shortest. Additionally, a deep cleaning of the RVM arrangement is performed 15 min after the machine closed for operation in the evening. Also, a light cleaning is performed 3 hour after the machine closed for operation in the evening, which is 4 hours before the machine opens in the morning. Alternatively, the cleanings are performed at the times described above, but all cleanings are normal cleanings.

[0070] Irrespective of the time parameter and activity parameter; according to at least one exemplifying embodiment cleaning liquid is provided through all nozzles at each cleaning session. Alternatively, the cleaning liquid is provided to only a sub-set of the cleaning nozzles during each cleaning session. In other words, during this cleaning session the cleaning liquid is provided to and through one sub-set, or a first sub-set of the cleaning nozzles, while the cleaning liquid is not provided through a second sub-set of the cleaning nozzles. The first and second sub-sets together forms all the cleaning nozzles. According to a third alternative cleaning liquid is sometimes provided to all cleaning nozzles during a cleaning sessions, e.g. during a daily deep cleaning session, and sometimes only to a sub-set of cleaning nozzles, e.g. when only a subset of the RVMs have had a high activity rate.

[0071] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, said cleaning liquid is selected from the following: tap water, water, water mixed with a detergent, water mixed with an anti-freezing agent, a composition comprising alcohol, a solvent and combinations thereof.

[0072] The inventors have realised that plain tap water, having a temperature within any of the ranges cold to 15°, 15° to room temperature, room temperature to 30°, 30° to luke warm, luke warm to 40°, 40° to 50° is advantageous for cleaning, moistening and / or lubricating the belt. Optionally, tap water may be used without any addiditives such as a detergent, as this many times elimates the need for rinsing after the cleaning liquid has been used.

[0073] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, the cleaning liquid is provided during a time interval of at least 5, 10, 15, 20, or 30 seconds, and / or over at least one full length of the modular belt. Optionally, over at least two full lengths of the modular belt.

[0074] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, wherein said cleaning liquid reservoir is configured to hold between 0.2 L - 10 L, or between 0.2 L - 25 L of cleaining liquid, and preferably between 1 L and 5 L, or between 1 L and 15 L of cleaining liquid, and wherein the RVM arrangement is optionally provided with a compartment configured to hold the the liquid reservoir at least during the cleaning session.

[0075] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, at least a sub-portion of said portion is off-set from the horizontal direction with at least 10 degrees, or within the range of 10 to 90 degrees, as seen along the modular belt path. The term modular belt path denotes the path the modular belt follows when the belt is run in the forward direction.

[0076] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, at least one nozzle in said set of nozzles is arranged above the respective modular belt and optionally to the side of the modular belt.

[0077] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, least one of said nozzles in said set of nozzles is configured to provide an incident direction of the cleaning liquid offset by 45 + / - 30 degrees from the vertical direction as seen along the modular belt path.

[0078] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, at least one nozzle in said set of nozzles is configured to provide an incident direction of the cleaning liquid off-set by 75 + / - 20 degrees from the vertical direction as seen along the modular belt path.

[0079] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, the modular belt path of at least one transporting conveyor in said set of transporting conveyors is flat between said first part and said second part of the transporting conveyor.

[0080] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, a substantial part of the modular belt path of at least one transporting conveyor in said set of transporting conveyors describes a concave curve between said first part and said second part of the transporting conveyor.

[0081] According to at least one exemplifying embodiment, each transporting conveyor is configured to receive said containers at said first part and dispatch said containers at the second part of the transporting conveyor.

[0082] Optionally, the RVM feeds the valid containers to a compactor, which compacts the container by e.g. pressing and / or tearing.

[0083] The use of tap water, or running water, is advantageous as it eliminates the need for making sure that the reservoir is timely refilled. Alternatively, the cleaning reservoir is a movable container that is filled with e.g. tap water by the personnel. This alternative is advantageous e.g. when tap water is not readily accessible to the RVM arrangement. The cleaning liquid reservoir may optionally be equipped with a level sensor that is part of an arrangement which prompts the personnel to refill the cleaning liquid reservoir when a predetermined level has been reached, or that prompts the personnel that the liquid is not consumed at the expected rate or that the liquid level is static or decreasing slower than expected why maintenance may be needed due to e.g. a nozzle being clogged, or that prompts the personnel that the liquid is not consumed at the expected rate or that the liquid level decreasing faster than expected why maintenance may be needed due to e.g. a leakage.

[0084] Generally, the cleaning method and the RVM arrangement have been described in relation to an RVM arrangement having a modular belt. However, advantages of the the cleaning system is not limited to modular belt, but the cleaning liquid transportation arrangement is also useful for an RVM Arrangement having e.g. a continuous belt such as a textile belt and / or a V-conveyor.

[0085] The invention is defined by the appended independent claims, with embodiments being set forth in the appended dependent claims, in the following description and in the drawings. It is to be understood that this inventive concept is not limited to the particular components, parts of the arrangement, or steps of the methods described herein, as these are just described as examples which may be adapted to the situation at hand. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the articles "a", "an", "the", and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a unit" or "the unit" may include several devices, and the like. Furthermore, the words "comprising", "including", "containing" and similar wordings do not exclude other elements or steps.

[0086] Brief description of the drawings The present disclosure will now be described in more detail, with reference to the appended drawings showing example embodiments, wherein:

[0087] Fig. la is a schematic partial side view of an RVM arrangement configured to receive a bulk of containers;

[0088] Fig. lb is a schematic partial side view of the RVM arrangement of Fig. la, where also the cleaning liquid transportation arrangement is shown;

[0089] Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the cleaning liquid transportation arrangement of Fig. lb.

[0090] Fig. 3a is a schematic partial view of the flat modular belt and the related liquid transportation arrangement of Fig. lb;

[0091] Fig. 3b is a schematic partial view of the hoisting modular belt and the related liquid transportation arrangement of Fig. lb;

[0092] Fig. 4 is a schematic side view showing the position of the nozzle spraying the hoisting modular belt.

[0093] Figs. 5a-d are drawings of the experimental set-up with nozzles having different spread angles, which spread-angles are 65°, 80°, 95° and 110°, respectively.

[0094] Figs 6a-c show the experimental result for a nozzles having a spread-angle of 65°, 80° and 110°, respectively.

[0095] Fig 6d shows a combined result of what is shown in Figs 6a-c.

[0096] All figures are schematic, not necessarily to scale, and mainly show parts which are necessary in order to elucidate the inventive concept, wherein other parts may be omitted or merely suggested. Throughout the figures, the same reference signs designate the same, or essentially the same features.

[0097] Detailed description of the drawings

[0098] In the following description, the inventive concept is described with reference to an RVM arrangement for receiving used containers. The present disclosure is also described with reference to a method of cleaning an RVM arrangement. It should be noted that this by no means limits the scope of the inventive concept, which is also applicable in other circumstances for instance with other types or variants of devices and steps than the embodiments described in relation to the appended drawings. Further, that specific components are mentioned in relation to one embodiment does not mean that those components cannot be used to an advantage together with other embodiments of the disclosure. Also, that a specific component is mentioned in relation to one embodiments, does not mean that this embodiment can not be used also without this component.

[0099] In a typical installation, the RVM arrangement is installed, for example in a supermarket, with a user-facing front panel, including an infeed opening 111. The rest of the system is located in the store or in a backroom facility only accessible to authorized personnel. Below, one specific RVM arrangement is described to exemplify an installation of the cleaning liquid transportation arrangement. However, the transportation paths is described to facilitate the understanding of the drawing, but the cleaning liquid transportation arrangement may be installed in any RVM arrangement where a cleaning is desired.

[0100] The end-user may feed empty containers 102 into the RVM arrangement

[0101] 110, for example by emptying a bag filled with empty containers 102 into the infeed opening 111. Once the user has fed all the empty containers into the RVM arrangement, (s)he may receive a receipt noting the return value, or redemption value, of the empty containers 2 as calculated by the RVM arrangement or a processing device connected thereto. The receipt may for example be exchanged for cash or a discount at the check-out of the supermarket in which the system is located or at another physical or virtual location. The receipt may be a printed receipt. Alternatively, the registration and / or transfer or redemption value may be done digitally.

[0102] In more detail, the RVM arrangement such as the one shown in Figs. la,b may be configured to receive a bulk of used containers through an infeed opening

[0103] 111. The system comprises a first active infeed conveyor, a singulation arrangement comprising a reservoir having an uptake area adapted to collect used containers in bulk. The singulation arrangement may be configured to single out individual used containers from said bulk and transport said individual used containers from said uptake area to a receiving area, which receiving area is positioned at a higher vertical level than said uptake area. A reservoir path for providing said used containers from said active infeed conveyor to said reservoir, and a transporting arrangement configured to transport said individual used containers from said receiving area to a classification unit 113, which classification unit 113 is configured to classify said individual used containers 102 into a category selected among the group comprising at least accepted and not accepted, and to initiate a transport for further processing or storage of only the used containers 102 classified as accepted.

[0104] The RVM arrangement may further comprises a redirection gate 112 movable between a redirecting position and an open position, in which redirecting position said redirection gate is arranged across said active infeed conveyor, wherein said active infeed conveyor is operable in a first direction to transport said used containers received from said first path towards said redirection gate, and which redirection gate, when in its redirecting position, deflects used containers from said active infeed conveyor to said reservoir path upon said used containers reaching said redirection gate.

[0105] The RVM arrangement is e.g. supported by a frame structure 21. Typically, the RVM arrangement is enclosed, or at least partially enclosed, by a housing. The housing is removed in the figures to better show the different elements and features of the system 1.

[0106] Arrows A-F in Fig. la,b illustrate the main flow of used containers in the system 1 as follows:

[0107] - arrow A: used containers 102 received through the infeed opening 111 slide and / or fall down along the first path towards the active infeed conveyor;

[0108] - arrow B: used containers 102 are transported on the active infeed conveyor from the infeed area towards the redirection gate 112 (indicated by a line);

[0109] - arrow C: upon contact with the redirection gate, the used container 102 is deflected to exit the active infeed conveyor and enter the reservoir,

[0110] - arrow D: the used container or flow of used containers is guided by the shape of the reservoir towards the uptake area of the reservoir,

[0111] - arrow E: one or a few used containers is / are pushed by an elevating member 125 of the singulation arrangement in a curved singulation path from the uptake area to the receiving area where it is transferred to a conveyor, e.g. a V- conveyor,

[0112] - arrow F: the used container 102 is transported on the V-conveyor from the receiving area to the classification unit. The classification unit 113 has an opening arranged around an end of the V- conveyor, such that a used container 102 transported by the V-conveyor from the receiving area passes through said opening. The used container 102 is then received by a conveyor.

[0113] Generally, in any container return system, a classification unit may for example be of the type described in WO2012 / 177148A1 and / or comprise a camera viewing device described in W02006 / 080851A2, as two non-limiting examples.

[0114] In the embodiment shown in Figs. la,b the classification unit may comprise a camera, scanner, or other sensor for obtaining information of the used container 102 needed to make the classification. Several cameras, scanners, and / or other sensors may be arranged in series or in parallel. The classification unit 113 may comprise a OneRing system. The classification unit 13 is configured to obtain information of the used container 102 and classify the used container 102 while the used container 102 is on conveyor. Thereafter, the used container 102 is transported to forwarding conveyor.

[0115] Having reached the forwarding conveyor, the flow of used containers 2 illustrated in Fig. la,b may continue in one of three ways (arrows l-H), depending on the classification given to the used container 102 by the classification unit 113.

[0116] - arrow I: used containers 102 classified as accepted are transported out of the RVM arrangement for further transport or storage as accepted containers;

[0117] - arrow G: used containers 102 classified as rejected are diverted laterally to exit the forwarding conveyor. The rejected used containers 102 then fall and / or slide to a buffer area of the active infeed conveyor. The buffer area is separated from the rest of the active infeed conveyor by the redirection gate, provided the redirection gate is in its redirecting position. The used containers classified as rejected may be transported from the buffer area to a rejection area. For example, the infeed area may be used as a rejection area at the end of a session, when a user has no more used containers to feed into the RVM arrangement. The rejected used containers may be transported to the infeed / rejection area by operating the infeed conveyor in the opposite direction to the first direction, while the redirection gate is in the open position. Additionally or alternatively, rejected used containers may be transported to a separate rejection area (not shown in the figures). - arrow H: used containers 102 classified as unrecognized are diverted laterally to exit the forwarding conveyor. The unrecognized used containers 102 then fall and / or slide back into the reservoir 18. Thereby, the unrecognized used containers will thus be transported back to the classification unit 13 along arrows D- E-F. The subsequent pass through the classification unit 13 may allow the classification unit 13 to positively classify the used container as either accepted or rejected.

[0118] Diverting means for diverting used containers from the forwarding conveyor along arrows G or H are not shown in the figures.

[0119] It should be noted that for the used containers 2 to be redirected from the active infeed conveyor 16 to the reservoir 18, it is sufficient that the flow of used containers reaches the redirection gate 20 and not necessary that each individual object 2 enters into contact with the redirection gate 20. In other words, if several used containers 2 are transported on the infeed conveyor 16, one object 2 may be deflected to the reservoir 18 through contact with the redirection gate 20, while the next object 2 is deflected to the reservoir 18 through contact with the previous object 2, without touching the redirection gate 20.

[0120] To facilitate the feeding of a bulk of empty containers 2 into the system 1, the infeed area 3 may comprise a portion protruding from the user-facing front panel of the system 1. In more detail the infeed area 3 illustrated in Fig. la comprises vertical side-walls 27 and an inclined bottom surface 28. The infeed area 3 is designed to receive and support the used container(s), or bulk of empty containers. In this example the one or more containers are supported while sliding down along the first path 3. Respective portions of the front panel and the side walls together define an infeed opening, the visible parts of these respective portions are marked by thicker lines in Fig. la. Further, the infeed area 3 forms a path to the active infeed conveyor 16, and used containers 2 dropped through the infeed opening 15 by a user thus fall or slide by gravity towards the infeed conveyor 16.

[0121] In the following, the system 1 will be described with reference to the x, y, and z directions marked on the drawings.

[0122] The user-facing front panel 25 is arranged parallel to the xz plane. The infeed conveyor 16 extends in the y direction from the infeed area 3 substantially the entire length of the system 1 in the y-direction. In the present embodiment, the infeed conveyor 16 is an active bi-directional conveyor.

[0123] The infeed conveyor 16 of Fig. la is substantially horizontal and is generally flat. More detailed information about this RVM arrangement may be found in WO 2024 / 165696, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0124] The first part of the infeed conveyor is where the containers are received by the infeed conveyor (hidden in this view), and the second part (122a') of the infeed conveyor is where the containers leave the infeed conveyor (H).

[0125] The first part (122b') of the hoisting conveyor is where the containers are picked up from the reservoir (D), and the second part (122b'') of the hoisting conveyor is where the containers leave the hoisting conveyor ( where E ends). In Fig lb the active part of the hoisting conveyor is indicated by reference numeral 101b. The transporting part of each transporting conveyor is arranged between said first part and the second part of the transporting conveyour and may include static parts like the lateral sides of the conveyor, wheras the transporting surface is the movable suface of the conveyour arranged between said first and second portion of the conveyour, which movable surface is used for transporting returned objects 102.

[0126] The below described RVM arrangement utilizes researched positioned nozzles to clean, moisten and lubricate components exposed to e.g. sugary substances and debris from used containers. The cleaning transportation arrangement is adaptable to various areas within RVMs and RVM storage arrangements, ensuring a more convenient and more effective maintenance, as well as prolonged lifetime of the machine and modules. Additionally, as the improved cleaning prolongs the lifetime of machine parts and prevents jamming, there is less the downtime and service calls. Also, there is normally a reduced energy consumption a periodic runs are avoided.

[0127] The RVM arrangement has a cleaning liquid transportation arrangement 180, where one example is schematically shown in Fig. 2, which is in fluid communication with at least one cleaning liquid reservoir 181, such as a water tap or a container, a flask or a jerrycan made of e.g. metal and / or plastic and holding e.g. at least 1 L or at least 3 L and / or at most 10 L or at most 6 L. From the cleaning liquid reservoir there are e.g. cleaning liquid passages or tubes, which passages or tubes are in connection with a actuator or pump 183. The liquid transportation arrangement is configured to transport cleaning liquid, e.g. via said tubes, from said at least one cleaning liquid reservoir 181 onto at least one belt, and the cleaning liquid transportation arrangement comprises at least one cleaning liquid outlet or cleaning nozzle or nozzle 185a, b. According to the example shown in Fig. lb and Fig. 3a, 3b the cleaning liquid is provided within the housing of the RVM arrangement and throughout a respective portion 186a, b of the modular belt. The modular belts may be cleaned individually or simultaneously, or a combination of both. They may e.g. be cleaned individually during the day and simultaneously e.g. when the RVM arrangement is closed at night.

[0128] As seen in Figure lb the respective portions are arranged at a surface of the belt not used for transportation of containers. Consequently, the belt can be provided with cleaning liquid without providing cleaning liquid directly on the containers; which in turn provides the dual advantages of being able to give the containers back to the customers without them being wet, and being able to redirect the containers more easily on the conveyor belt.

[0129] The RVM arrangement preferably has at least one control unit 470 configured to actuate said cleaning liquid transportation arrangement 180 to provide said cleaning liquid to at least one of said cleaning liquid nozzles 185a, b e.g. when a cleaning session is to be initiated. The cleaning liquid transportation arrangement shown in Fig. 2 is provided with an actuator or pump, which is configured to cause the cleaning liquid to pass from the reservoir 181 to one or both of the nozzles 185a, b e.g. based on a signal or data from said at least one control unit.

[0130] A cleaning session of the RVM arrangement is initiated at predetermined intervals, e.g. after every 20 or 50 or 100 reverse vending sessions, or after 500 or 1 000 or 3 000 or 5 000 or 8 000 containers have been received, or at least after a predetermined time since the last cleaning session, e.g. 1 h or 2 h or 3 h or 4 h or 5 h, whichever interval is the shortest. During such a cleaning session cleaning liquid is provided or sprayed out of one, two or a plurality of nozzles onto the modular conveyor belt. A cleaning session can be actuated while the RVM arrangement is processing received used containers and / or when the RVM arrangement is idle. The time parameter and activity parameter may be freely selected to fit the RVM arrangement at hand. According to one example, the time parameter and the activity parameter are selected such that a deep cleaning of the RVM arrangement is performed 15 min before the machine opens for operation in the morning. Thereafter a normal cleaning is performed once every 3 hours or after 20 user sessions since the last cleaning, whichever is the shortest. Additionally, a deep cleaning of the RVM arrangement is performed 15 min after the machine closed for operation in the evening. Also, a light cleaning is performed 3 hour after the machine closed for operation in the evening, which is 4 hours before the machine opens in the morning. Thus, as the activity rate partly decides the cleaning interval, one RVM might be cleaned three times as often as another RVM dependent on e.g. user behavior.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the pump is automatically activated approximately once per hour for 40 seconds or two full rotations of the belt. Here the feeder belt takes 18 seconds to complete one round, 40 seconds allows for two full belt rotations. During a customer session, the feeder belt can either stop or return objects to the customer. Optionally, to avoid sending back moist objects, the cleaning is put on hold when the machine is in operation. The running time of the washing sequence is preferable adjustable to accommodate different markets and store opening hours.

[0132] The automatic cleaning system is advantageous as it enables a regular cleaning also of areas that is hard to reach for the personnel.

[0133] Optionally, a cleaning or deep cleaning can be initiated by the personnel by e.g. pressing a button on the machine or a control device, e.g. when someone has noticed that this could be helpful e.g. to resolve a jamming. If so desired, the personnel can prompt the machine to run the cleaning until the cleaning liquid reservoir is empty.

[0134] Figure 3a shows a portion of a flat modular belt having a width W. The respective portion 186a, or the directly wetted area, i.e. the area which is wetted throughout by cleaning liquid coming directly from the nozzle, has a width w. The elongated respective portion extends in a direction orthogonal to the transportation direction of the conveyor. According to one example the width of the respective portion is within the range of 50 % - 85 % of W. According to one example, the nozzle is arranged within a range of 50 mm to 400 mm, e.g. within the range of 100 mm to 250 mm, or within the range of 100 mm to 200 mm, e.g. 140 mm to 170 mm from the conveyor belt. According to one example, the spraying angle is within the range of 50° to 80°, and the cleaning liquid transporting arrangement is optionally configured to spray 0.15L / min, or 0.2L / min or within the range of 0.05 L / min to 0.5 L / min. The nozzle is e.g. JBR 65 0150 from PNR Nordic AB, arranged 150 mm from the modular belt and having a spraying angle of 65°.

[0135] Although only a centre portion of the belt is sprayed with cleaning liquid, the full belt is cleaned, moistened and / or lubricated due to this water spreading to the sides while the modular belt is run.

[0136] Figure 3b shows a portion of chain-like modular belt or a hoisting modular belt provided with paddles 125 for transporting and hoisting the containers. Each paddle has a transporting surface 121b, which first urges the container forward and thereafter lifts it upwards. In this RVM arrangement there is a screen between the modular belt 123b and the containers. The respective portion 186a, or the directly wetted area, i.e. the area which is wetted throughout by cleaning liquid coming directly from the nozzle, is arranged in the vicinity of a curved portion of the modular belt. Cleaning this part of the RVM arrangement is advantageous as it reduces the risk for that the modular belt or chain will stick or jam. Optionally the same type of nozzle and the same volumes and / or pressures may be used to clean this modular belt as was described in relation to the flat modular belt of Figure 3a. Figure 3b also illustrates how the the linked belt pieces opens up at the curve of the belt and exposes the side surfaces of the belt pieces, reference is e.g. made to the belt piece denoted 123 the side surface of which faces upwards. In relation to this invention an upper side or upper side of a belt, denotes a surface which is at least partially directed upwards. Thus the visible main surface of the link indicated by reference numeral 123 is an upper surface, while the visible main surface of link preceding this link in the transporting direction is not an upper side as it is partially directed downwards. Both in Figure 3a and in Figure 3b the respective nozzle is arranged above the modular belt as seen in direction of gravity. A nozzle is arranged to the side of the belt if no part of the belt is arranged beneath it as seen in direction of gravity. According to this example, the nozzle spraying the flat belt is a flat fan nozzle, while the nozzle spaying the hoisting modular belt is a is a circular or elliptical nozzle.

[0137] Preferably, the nozzles are arranged such that the cleaning liquid directly wets a curved end of the belt where the surfaces between the is more exposed to the cleaning liquid. This arrangement facilitates a more though cleaning of the movable belt.

[0138] Fig. 4 is a schematic illustration of the RVM arrangement shown if Figure la, where the nozzle related to the hoisting modular belt is positioned so that the direction of the cleaning liquid is only off-set from the horizon with less the 10°. In relation to this invention, the term "direction of the cleaning liquid" may refer to the direction of the center stream, i.e. the stream in the center of the liquid leaving the nozzle, if applicable. In this position a part of the respective portion 186b coincides with a curved portion of the modular belt. The personnel fills the cleaning liquid reservoir at regular interval, and optionally a sensor system signals when the container needs to be refilled. A volume of e.g. within the range of 3 L to 8 L is advantageous as it is easy to carry and handle. The RVM arrangement is preferably provided with a compartment or bracket for holding the reservoir. Optionally, the cleaning water reservoir may be provided with a funnel to aid the filling of the cleaning liquid container. The funnel may optionally be provided with a filter.

[0139] A spill container for collecting all or at least a portion of the cleaning liquid that may drain from the belt, and optionally recirculating the same into the cleaning liquid reservoir, is preferably arranged beneath the at least one modular belt, to collect the cleaning liquid that drops or flows downwards. The recirculation path may be provided with a filter for restricting debris from reaching the cleaning liquid reservoir. The container may optionally be provided with a sensor that monitors the fill level, and which is part of an arrangement that prompts the personnel to empty the spill container when a predetermined level has been reached. Alternatively, the spill tray may be in fluid communication with a drain.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the RVM-arrangement comprises at least one sensor for measuring the degree of cleanness or soiliness of different part of the RVM arrangements, e.g. the transporting conveyors. One value indicative of the cleanness or soiliness of the conveyor is the motor load required for running conveyor belt, an unusually high motor load may indicate that it is tougher to run the belt e.g. due to sugary residues and debris. Another value indicative of the cleanness or soiliness of the conveyor is the color of the modular belt and / or the transporting surface, which may be recorded by a camera or a light sensitive diode registering the reflectivity of the surface it is looking at. A white surface may e.g. turn brownish. When the reading of the at least one sensor indicates that the degree of cleanness or soiliness is at a level where a cleaning, deep cleaning or two repeated cleanings is required; this could be prompted to the personnel. If such an extra cleaning does not solve the problem; the RVM arrangement could prompt the personnel to call for a visit by a service technician or the RVM arrangement could automatically call for such a visit.

[0141] According to one embodiment measuring a parameter indicative of the motor load provides for adapting the cleaning intensity and / or frequency in realtime dependent on the motor load. Additionally or alternatively, it provides for tailored washing sequences, where washing sequences and intensities may be customized to specific areas with independently researched frequency and duration.

[0142] Furthermore, optionally the nozzles may be provided at other areas of the arrangement that needs regular cleaning such as the sorting area, chutes and the backroom system to reduce friction and dissolve sugar.

[0143] To illustrate the working principle of the belt cleaning and the influence of the i.e. spray angle on the cleaning result, some test results are reported below.

[0144] Fig. 5a is a schematic side view of the the experimental set-up used in the experiment shown in Figs. 6a-c, where it is e.g. shown that the nozzle is arranged 150 mm from the belt.

[0145] Fig 5b is a drawing of the experimental set-up used in the experiment shown in Fig. 6a, where the belt width is 350 mm, the nozzle is arranged at a distance of 150 mm from the belt and the nozzle has a spread angle of 65°. The thin lines arranged at a distance of 200 mm apart mark the intersection between the spray cone and the belt. Hence, in theory the liquid does not reach directly [(350-200) / 2 = 75 mm] the outer 75 mm of the belt. Fig 5c is a drawing of the experimental set-up used in the experiment shown in Fig. 6b, where the belt width is 350 mm, the nozzle is arranged at a distance of 150 mm from the belt and the nozzle has a spread angle of 80°. The thin lines, each arranged at a distance of 50 mm from the edge of the belt mark the intersection between the spray cone an the blet. Hence, in theory the liquid does not reach the outer 50 mm of the belt.

[0146] Fig 5d is a drawing where the belt width is 350 mm, the nozzle is arranged at a distance of 150 mm from the belt and the nozzle has a spread angle of 90°. The thin lines, each arranged at a distance of 8 mm from the edge of the belt mark the intersection between the spray cone and the belt. Hence, in theory the liquid does not reach the outer 8 mm of the belt.

[0147] Fig 5e is a drawing of the experimental set-up used in the experiment shown in Fig. 6c, where the belt width is 350 mm, the nozzle is arranged at a distance of 150 mm from the belt and the nozzle has a spread angle of 110°. The thin lines, each arranged at a distance of 23 mm outside the edge of the belt mark the intersection between the spray cone an the blet. Hence, in theory the liquid reaches 23 mm outside the edges of the belt.

[0148] Nozzle flow test:

[0149] Table 1

[0150] The above Table 1 gives the water consumption of the respective nozzles. It was noted that when two adjacent 80° nozzles were used the flow rate for the respective nozzle was a bit reduced, compared to when only one nozzle was used.

[0151] Fig 6a shows photographs of the belt after it has been sprayed by the nozzle with a flow rate of 0.65 L / min. The flow rate was determined by determining the water level in the reservoir before and after the test. The nozzle is a 65° flat fan nozzle, and the name of the nozzle is JBR 0150 Bl by Foshan Geqiang Plastic Hardware Co., Ltd. The left most photograph illustrate the state of the belt before the spraying was started, where the belt has been soiled with blackcurrant cordial / blackcurrant syrup / blackcurrant squash. The second left most photograph gives the state of the belt after it had been sprayed with water for 1 min. The rest of the photographs give the state of the belt after it has been sprayed for a total time of 2 min, 3 min and 3.42 min, respectively. After 3 min the belt is regarded as sufficiently clean and the total water consumption was at that time 1.95 L.

[0152] Fig 6b shows photographs of the belt after it has been sprayed by the nozzle with a flow of 0.55 L / min. The nozzle is an 80° flat fan nozzle, and the make of the nozzle is Foshan Geqiang Plastic Hardware Co., Ltd . The left most photograph illustrate the state of the belt before the spraying was started, where the belt has been soiled with blackcurrant cordial / blackcurrant syrup / blackcurrant squash. The second left most photograph gives the state of the belt after it had been sprayed with water for 1 min. The rest of the photographs give the state of the belt after it has been sprayed for a total time of 2 min, 3 min and 4 min, respectively. After 3 min the belt is regarded as sufficiently clean and the total water consumption was at that time 1.65 L.

[0153] Fig 6c shows photographs of the belt after it has been sprayed by the nozzle with a flow of 0.68 L / min. The nozzle is an 110° flat fan nozzle, and the make of the nozzle is Foshan Geqiang Plastic Hardware Co., Ltd . The left most photograph illustrate the state of the belt before the spraying was started, where the belt has been soiled with blackcurrant cordial / blackcurrant syrup / blackcurrant squash. The second left most photograph gives the state of the belt after it had been sprayed with water for 1 min. The rest of the photographs give the state of the belt after it has been sprayed for a total time of 2 min, 3 min and 4 min, respectively. After 4 min the belt is regarded as sufficiently clean and the total water consumption was at that time 2.72 L.

[0154] Fig 6d shows a combined result of what is shown in Figs 6a-c. As can be seen in the figures also the nozzle with the smallest spread provides a cleaning of the full belt if run sufficiently long. It seems as the 80° is the most economic nozzle of the nozzles reported in this test.

[0155] From the test runs the inventors have come to i.a. the following conclusions: Spread Angle

[0156] • Preferred: Lower spread angle (narrow spray pattern).

[0157] • Reason: Provides higher pressure at the belt center, resulting in faster and more efficient cleaning. Reduces overspray into unintended machine areas. Water-Preserving Nozzles

[0158] • Optional: Can be considered if water conservation is a priority.

[0159] • These nozzles are more sensitive to debris and contamination, increasing the risk of clogging, which could cause an uneven spray pattern and even a full stop in the nozzle. Water-preserving nozzles seem to require robust filtration and regular maintenance.

[0160] Suggested Selection Criteria

[0161] • Primary Goal: Controlled spraying for targeted cleaning.

[0162] High spread angles are preferably avoided, as they tend to clean outside the target area, thereby reduce cleaning efficiency and might risk decreasing the operational life of one or more components.

Claims

33CLAIMS1. An RVM arrangement (110) configured to receive a bulk of used containers (102), which RVM arrangement comprises: a set of transporting conveyors comprising at least one transporting conveyor (120a, b), wherein each transporting conveyor in said set of transporting conveyors comprises a transporting surface (121a, b), driving means and a modular belt (123a, b), and is configured to receive and transport at least a portion of said bulk of used containers from a first part of the transporting conveyor to a second part of the transporting conveyor by means of said transporting surface, wherein said modular belt is attached to said driving means and said transporting surface (121a, b) is one of:• coinciding with an upper portion of said modular belt (123a), and• coinciding with a surface portion of a transporting member (125), which transporting member is attached to said modular belt (123b), a cleaning liquid transportation arrangement (180) comprising a set of nozzles comprising at least one nozzle (185a, b), which cleaning liquid transportation arrangement is configured to be in fluid communication with at least one cleaning liquid reservoir (181) and is configured to transport cleaning liquid from said at least one cleaning liquid reservoir to each one of said at least one nozzles, at least one control unit (470) configured to determine that a cleaning session is to be initiated based on at least one of a time parameter and an activity parameter, wherein the time parameter is indicative of at least the elapsed time since the last cleaning session and the activity parameter is indicative of at least the activity rate of said RVM arrangement since the last cleaning session, and upon determination that a cleaning session is to be initiated configured to actuate said cleaning liquid transportation arrangement to provide said cleaning liquid to said at least one nozzle,34 wherein each one of said at least one nozzle (185a, b) is configured to direct cleaning liquid towards and wet a respective portion (186a, b,) of said modular belt of a respective transporting conveyor in said set of transporting conveyors, which respective portion coincides with an upper side of the modular belt (123 a,b) arranged at or in the vicinity of one end of said respective transporting conveyor.

2. An RVM arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the transporting part (101a, b) of each transporting conveyor (120a, b) is arranged between said first part and the second part of the transporting conveyour, and said respective portion (186a, b) of the modular belt (123a, b) is arranged upstream or downstream of said tranporting part of the respective transporting conveyor.

3. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a sub-portion of said respective portion (186a, b) coincides with a curved portion of said modular belt (123a, b).

4. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one nozzle (185a, b) in said set of nozzles is configured such that the width of said respective portion (186a, b) is confined to an area which width is smaller than the full width of the modular belt (121a, b), and optionally smaller than 85 % or 80 % or 75% or 70 % or 65 % of the full width of the modular belt.

5. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one nozzle (185a, b) of said set of nozzles provides an elongated fan of cleaning liquid, and wherien said at least one nozzle preferably is a flat fan nozzle.

6. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said modular belt (123a, b) is a looped belt, which looped belt is preferably formed of interlinked belt modules (124a, b), and wherein the control unit (470) is preferably configured to actuate said cleaning liquid transportation arrangement (180), a respective transporting conveyor (120a, b) and a respective nozzle (185a, b) to provide cleaning liquid (184a, b) to said modular belt (123a, b) of said respective transporting conveyour (120a, b) during at least one full loop of the modular belt.

7. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said driving means is configured to actuate a movement of said modular belt and thereby a movement of said transporting surface, which movement includes a movement of said transporting surface from said first part of the conveyor to said second part of the conveyour.

8. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the RVM arrangement is configured to accept used containers (102) of at least one predetermined type, such as PET-bottles and / or cans, wherein said activity parameter is indicative of at least one of:- the number of used containers received by the RVM arrangement since the last cleaning session,- the number of used containers of one predetermined type received by the RVM arrangement since the last cleaning session,- a sensor value indicative of the power required to drive the modular belt,- a sensor value indicative of the contamination level of the modular belt.

9. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the RVM arrangement is configured to receive a set of at least one used container from a user, which set of at least one used container is processed during a user session, during which user session at least the number of received acceptable used containers is determined, and wherein the activity parameter is at least indicative of the number of user sessions the RVMarrangement has been involved in since the last cleaning session.

10. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the RVM arrangement is configured close down the receiving and processing of used containers at predetermined intervals, such as daily, and at a predetermined time thereafter resume the receiving and processing of used containers, wherein said time parameter is further indicative of at least one of:- the time when the RVM arrangement is configured to close down the receiving and processing of used containers,- the time when the RVM arrangement is configured to resume the receiving and processing of used containers,- a predetermined interval at which cleaning sessions are to be initiated,- at least one predetermined time at which a cleaning session is to be initiated.

11. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said cleaning liquid is selected from the following: tap water, water, water mixed with a detergent, water mixed with an anti-freezing agent, a composition comprising alcohol, a solvent and combinations thereof.

12. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning liquid is provided during a time interval of at least 5, 10, 15, 20, or 30 seconds, and / or over at least one full length of the modular belt.

13. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said cleaning liquid reservoir (181) is configured to hold between 0.2 L - 10 L of cleaining liquid, and preferably between 1 L and 5 L of cleaining liquid, and wherein the RVM arrangement is optionally provided with a compartment (182) configured to hold the the liquid reservoir at least during the cleaning process.3714. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a sub-portion of said portion (186a, b) is off-set from the horizontal direction with at least 10 degrees, or within the range of 10 to 90 degrees, as seen along the modular belt path.

15. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one nozzle (185a, b) in said set of nozzles is arranged above the respective modular belt (123a, b) and optionally to the side of the modular belt.

16. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein least one of said nozzles (185a) in said set of nozzles is configured to provide an incident direction of the cleaning liquid off-set by 45 + / - 30 degrees from the vertical direction as seen along the modular belt path.

17. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims 1-6, wherein at least one nozzle (185b) in said set of nozzles is configured to provide an incident direction of the cleaning liquid off-set by 75 + / - 20 degrees from the vertical direction as seen along the modular belt path.

18. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the modular belt path of at least one transporting conveyor (120a) in said set of transporting conveyors is flat between said first part and said second part of the transporting conveyor.

19. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a substantial part of the modular belt path (187) of at least one transporting conveyor in said set of transporting conveyors (120b) describes a concave curve between said first part and said second part of the transporting conveyor.3820. An RVM arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each transporting conveyor (120a, b) is configured to receive said containers at said first part and dispatch said containers at the second part of the transporting conveyor.

21. A method for cleaning an RVM arrangement comprising the steps of: providing: at least one RVM (110) configured to receive used containers (102) through an RVM inlet (111), to determine, by a validation arrangement (112), if each of said received used containers is acceptable or non- acceptable, and to transport, by at least one transporting conveyor (120a, b), at least a portion of said used containers from a first part of the transporting conveyor to a second part of the transporting conveyor, wherein each transporting conveyor in said set of transporting conveyors comprises a transporting surface (121a, b), driving means and a modular belt (123a, b), wherein said modular belt is attached to said driving means and said transporting surface is one of:• coinciding with an upper portion of said modular belt (123a), and• coinciding with a surface portion of a transporting member (125), which transporting member is attached to said modular belt (123b), a cleaning liquid transportation arrangement (180) comprising a set of nozzles having at least one nozzle (185a, b), which cleaning liquid transportation arrangement is in fluid communication with at least one cleaning liquid reservoir (181) and is configured to transport cleaning liquid from said at least one cleaning liquid reservoir (181) to each nozzle (185a, b) in said set of nozzles, at least one control unit (470) configured to actuate said cleaning liquid transportation arrangement (180) to provide said cleaning liquid to at least one nozzle in said set of nozzles, said method comprising the steps of:39 determining (1010), by said control unit (470), that a cleaning session is to be initiated based on at least one of a time parameter and an activity pararmeter, which time parameter is indicative of the elapsed time since the last cleaning session and which activity parameter is indicative of at least the activity rate of said RVM arrangement since the last cleaning session,- upon determination that a cleaning session is to be initiated actuating said cleaning liquid (1020) transportation arrangement (180) to dispose cleaning liquid via said set of nozzles, wherein each nozzle (185a, b) in said set of nozzles is configured to direct (1030) cleaning liquid (184) towards a respective portion (186a, b) of said modular belt (123a, b) of a respective transporting conveyor (120a, b) in said set of transporting conveyors, which respective portion coincides with an upper side of the modular belt (123a, b) arranged at or in the vicinity of one end of said respective transporting conveyor.

22. A method according to claim 18, wherein the determination that a cleaning session is to be initiated is also based on an activity parameter indicative of the activity rate of said RVM arrangement since the last cleaning session.

23. A method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the amount of cleaning liquid that is provided at each of said cleaning sessions is within the range of 0.25 L to 10 L, or within the range of 0.75 L to 5 L.

24. A method according to any one of the claims 18-20, wherein the cleaning liquid that is provided during a time interval of at least 1, 5, 10 or 15 seconds.

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