Remote registration of items for recycling or reuse

Abstract

Methods and techniques for remote registration of items for recycling or reuse are described herein. The remote registration of recyclable or reusable items may be performed by a patron at any suitable location. A patron may provide account information associated with the patron and item information indicative of one or more recyclable or reusable items. A code that can be provided to a return device may be generated to associate the item information and the account information.

Description

Atorney Docket No. E0406.70016WQ00Date of Deposit: December 29, 2025 - 1 - REMOTE REGISTRATION OF ITEMS FOR RECYCLING OR REUSERELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 740,799, filed December 31, 2024 under Attorney Docket No.E0406.70016US00 and entitled “REMOTE REGISTRATION OF ITEMS FOR RECYCLING OR REUSE,” which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] Aspects of the technology described herein relate to systems and methods for recycling transactions, including remote registration of items for recycling and reuse.RELATED ART

[0003] Recycling systems include programs for crediting patrons for returning items to a return location for recycling or reuse.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] According to an aspect of the of the present technology, a method of returning one or more recyclable or reusable items is provided. The method comprises: receiving, from a user device, item information indicative of the one or more items; receiving account information indicative of a patron that is using the user device; generating a code associating the account information and the item information; receiving, from a return device located at a return location, information indicative of the code being provided to the return device; and receiving return information indicative of at least one item of the one or more items being returned to the return location and the account information indicative of the patron.

[0005] According to an aspect of the present technology, a method for returning one or more recyclable or reusable items is provided. The method comprises: receiving, with a user device, account information indicative of a patron that is using the user device and item information indicative of one or more items to be returned; generating a code associating the account information and the item information; when the code is provided to a return device located at a return location, prompting the user to select at least one item of the one or more#14708047v2items that is being returned; transmitting, to a data center, the account information and the selected at least one item being recycled.

[0006] According to an aspect of the present technology a system for processing items for recycling and reuse. The system comprises: a data center hosting a data platform operatively coupled to a user device and a return device over a communication network, the return device being located in a return location and the data platform configured to: receive, from the user device, account information indicative of a patron that is using the user device and item information indicative of one or more items; generate a code associating the account information and the item information; receive, from the return device, information indicative of the code being provided to the return device; and receive, from the return device, return information indicative of the user returning at least one item of the one or more items to be recycled.

[0007] According to an aspect of the present technology a method for validating a return transaction of one or more recyclable or reusable items is provided. The method comprises: receiving at least one of the one or more items associated with the return transaction; receiving return information indicative of account information associated with a patron performing the return transaction and item information associated with the return transaction; and validating the return transaction based on a comparison of the return information and the received one or more items.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] Various aspects and embodiments of the application will be described with reference to the following figures. It should be appreciated that the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Items appearing in multiple figures are indicated by the same reference number in all the figures in which they appear.

[0009] FIG. 1A shows an example method for recycling items that were remotely registered by a user, according to some embodiments.

[0010] FIG. IB shows an example method for remote registration and return of items for recycling or reuse, according to some embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 1C shows an example method for validating a return transaction for items returned for recycling or reuse, according to some embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 2A shows a schematic diagram illustrating an example method for remotely registering items for recycling or reuse, according to some embodiments.#14708047v2

[0013] FIG. 2B shows a block diagram of a system for processing item returns for recycling after the items were registered remotely, according to some embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 3 shows an example web interface for a patron to enter verification information relating to the user, according to some embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 4A shows an example web interface for allowing a patron to edit account information associated with the user, according to some embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 4B shows an example interface for navigating an account associated with an account holder, according to some embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 4C shows an example interface for remotely registering items for recycling or reuse, according to some embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 5 shows a representation of an example schema for organizing information relating to a user, according to some embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates a computing system configured to perform aspects of the present technology, according to some embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Many states have enacted legislation requiring the beverage containers carry a redemption deposit to encourage recycling. For example, a number of states impose redemption deposits of up to fifteen cents for each can, bottle, and / or other container sold. In other states in which no redemption deposit is imposed, there have been extensive efforts to encourage voluntary recycling by patrons of various recyclable containers.

[0021] Typically, after the recyclable and reusable containers have been used, a patron transports the containers to a return center (e.g., at a retail location such as a supermarket, a stand-alone return center, a mobile return center). The patron typically is forced to wait while an attendant counts, sorts, and verifies the containers, or is forced to do it themselves at a kiosk located the return center, so that they may receive the redemption value for the containers. Given that the patron may be forced to wait for significant periods of time (sometimes in inclement weather conditions at an outdoor return location) in order to receive a relatively small value (five to fifteen cents per container), the patron can be dissuaded from returning the containers. This undermines efforts to encourage recycling.

[0022] Previous approaches to streamlining the recycling process have employed bags having a scannable sticker encoding patron information for the patron to be credited. To return recyclable or reusable items, a patron can scan a bag containing a number of items. At the return#14708047v2location and / or the return item processing facility, the facility can then identify the patron to be credited via the bag (e.g., via the scannable sticker on the bag). The items in the bag are then identified and registered, either by the return location or the processing facility, for proper crediting of value to the patron. However, the stickered bag approach may limit the ability of recycling processing facilities to properly credit some patrons or identify some types of fraud. Namely, while streamlining the process for the patron returning the items, the return location or the return item processing facility must now register the items and properly associate them with the patron, leaving open some possibility of missed items or items being credited to the wrong patron.

[0023] Accordingly, the inventors have developed systems and techniques for providing a streamlined and efficient process for returning items for recycling or reuse that enables proper crediting and reduces fraud in recycling transactions. Rather than requiring a patron to perform the time-consuming portion of registering the items for return at a return location — either themselves, or waiting for an available attendant to register the items for them — the systems and techniques described herein enable the remote registration of items for return. The techniques for remote registration described herein enable a patron to register items from anywhere, including at home, at work, at the return location, or any other suitable location. A patron may use a web application or mobile application to input information about the items for return, and associate the items for return with account information, such as their personal account if they have one. Once the item information has been provided and associated with the account information, the system may generate a code (e.g., alphanumeric code, 1 -dimensional or 2-dimensional scannable code). In that way, to return the items to the return location, the user can simply drop off the items and provide the associated code at the return location in a streamlined manner, further encouraging patrons to return items for recycling or reuse.

[0024] The inventors have further recognized and appreciated that conventional systems may have difficulty managing, tracking, and processing returns for a wide range of recycling or reuse applications. For example, recycling and return programs may span a vast number of markets, including but not limited to, shipping boxes, food and drink containers, personal healthcare product containers, recyclable publications, reusable electronics, used clothing, or any other suitable markets. Further, certain recycling and return programs may be specific to a particular business or environment. For example, an airport may include kiosks that allow travelers to rent electronic items or reusable food and beverage containers at one airport or in one terminal, and allow the traveler to return the items to another airport or in another terminal.#14708047v2

[0025] Accordingly, the systems and techniques described herein enable reliable processing and validation of return transactions. Namely, the techniques and systems allow for processing and validation of return transactions based on information from different steps of the process. For example, during remote registration, the patron indicates that they are going to make a return of the particular items registered. Returning the items and providing the generated code at a return location indicates that the patron did in fact make the return. The information can then be validated by a return item processing facility, once the returned items are received and processed by the return item processing facility. In that way, the systems and techniques described herein may ensure proper crediting to patrons making the returns and may help prevent fraudulent return transactions.

[0026] FIG. 1A shows an example method 100 for recycling items that were remotely registered by a user, according to some embodiments. Method 100 includes: (1) at step 102, receiving account information indicative of an account holder; (2) at step 104, receiving item information indicative of one or more items to be recycled; (3) at step 106, generating a code associating the account information and the item information; (4) at step 108, receiving information indicative of the code being provided to a return device at a return location; and (5) receiving return information indicative of at least one item of the one or more items being returned.

[0027] At step 102, account information indicative of an account holder is received. In some embodiments, the account information is received from a user device based on user input provided by a patron. The patron may be the account holder themselves, or may be a person that the account holder authorizes to use the account but who may not manage the account themselves. In some embodiments, the patron may be a person who is not currently an account holder but who is registering for an account. In some embodiments, the account information may be received by a data center. The data center may host an account management system that maintains accounts for account holders.

[0028] In some embodiments, the patron may provide account information to register for an account, the account information including a first name, last name, address, telephone number, date of birth, banking information (e.g., routing number, account number), and security information (e.g., mother’s date of birth, first high school attended, first pet’s name).

[0029] For example, FIG. 3 shows an example interface 300 for a patron to enter verification information relating to the account holder, according to some embodiments.Interface 300 includes a number of boxes 301 and 302 for inputting account information, and#14708047v2buttons 303, 304, and 305 for submitting account information. In the first instance, a patron may select Create New Account button 305 to input account information for a new account.

[0030] Selecting button 305 may bring the patron to interface 400 shown in FIG. 4A. FIG. 4A shows an example interface for allowing a patron to add or edit account information associated with the account holder, according to some embodiments. Interface 400 allows a patron to enter a number of data elements relating to a particular patron. For example, a patron’s name may be entered into field 401, an address may be entered in fields 403-406, and a telephone number may be entered in field 407. Button 408 may allow the patron to designate whether the patron’s account is currently active.

[0031] Fields 409 and 410 may allow the patron to enter information which forms the basis for a security question to be used to verify the patron’s identity. For example, the security question(s) may prompt the patron to provide their mother’s date of birth, first high school attended, first pet’s name, and / or any other suitable security question. Box 409 allows the patron to select a security question, and box 410 allows the patron to enter the appropriate answer.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, the patron’s identity may be verified in any suitable manner. For example, the patron’s identity may be verified by the patron providing a phone number, email, or input for a biometric security method (e.g., fingerprint, face ID). In examples that use the patron’s phone number or email to verify the identity, entering the patron’s phone number or email may cause the system to send a verification code to the patron’s phone or email, and the patron may verify their identity by entering the verification code into a relevant field.

[0033] Fields 411-414 allow the patron to designate whether another account is linked to the recycling account, such that value may be transferred from the recycling account to the designated account. Using field 411, the patron may designate that any value be kept in the recycling account as “cash” which may later be withdrawn. Field 412 allows the patron to designate a checking account to be linked, and field 413 allows the patron to link a savings account. Using field 414, the patron may designate a charity to be linked. If a checking or saving account is designated in boxes 412-413, the patron may enter the routing an account numbers in fields 415-416.

[0034] Upon completing the entry of information in interface 400, the user may click button 417 to “add / edit” the information. The information is transferred to a data center hosting a database for storing account information related to various account holders. Alternatively, the patron may click button 418 to “exit” the interface 400 without entering or saving the information.#14708047v2

[0035] Upon subsequent uses, rather than creating a new account, the patron may instead enter login information to login to the created account. Returning to FIG. 3, a patron may enter a username in field 301 and a password in field 302 to access a particular account associated with the user. Upon entering information into fields 301 and 302, the patron may click button 303 to “submit” this information so that the patron’s identity may be verified. Alternatively, the patron may click button 304 to “reset” (e.g., remove or clear) information entered into fields 301 and 302. Upon verification of the patron’s identity, an interface associated with the account holder’s account may be presented, for example, interface 420 of FIG. 4B. Additionally or alternatively, the patron may login with alternative information, for example, a phone number , email, dualfactor authentication process, or biometric identification (e.g., fingerprint, face ID), or a combination of information for such approaches.

[0036] FIG. 4B shows an example interface 420 for navigating an account associated with a patron, according to some embodiments. Interface 420 may display any account information associated with the account logged into through interface 300, for example, name address, phone number, or any other information described herein associated with the patron. Interface 420 also includes a number of buttons 422 and 424, although more or less buttons may be included. Selecting button 422 may bring the patron to an “Add / edit Customer” interface, such as interface 400 described above with respect to FIG. 4A. Selecting button 424 may bring the patron to a “Register Items” interface, where the patron can remotely register one or more items for subsequent recycling such as interface 440 described below with respect to FIG. 4C.

[0037] Returning to FIG. 1A, at step 104, item information is received (e.g., from a patron) indicative of one item or multiple items to be recycled. The item information may include any suitable information associated with the item(s) being returned for use in the return and recycling process. For example, the item information may include an item ID, item serial number, item type, and / or any other suitable information. The item information may be used by various return item processing facilities to identify the specific item being returned, as well as identify the type of item being returned so that it can be properly processed and recycled by a relevant return item processing facility. For example, the types of items being returned may include shipping containers, food and beverage containers, electronic items, rented items from a particular location, all of which may be processed and recycled using different methods. Further, the item ID and / or serial number may be used by the relevant return item processing facilities to identify and validate that the item being registered remotely is the item actually being returned so that the transaction can be validated and the patron returning the items can be properly credited.#14708047v2

[0038] The item information may be received from a patron in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the item information may be received from a user device (e.g., mobile device, stationary computing device) upon the patron manually entering some or all of the item information. For example, the patron may enter an item ID, serial number, and / or item type into a mobile or web application executed on the user device. In some embodiments, only some of the item information may be entered (e.g., the item serial number) and other item information (e.g., item type, item ID) may be received from a database disposed separately from the user device upon identification of the entered item information.

[0039] Additionally or alternatively, rather than all of the item information being entered manually, the item information may be received via a code associated with the item. For example, the patron may scan a 1 -dimensional or 2-dimensional code on an item container using a camera or other optical sensor on the user device. The patron may scan a barcode on the item (e.g., a barcode on an individual beverage container) or may scan a barcode on a container holding multiple items (e.g., a barcode on a box holding multiple beverage containers) when all of the items in the container are being returned. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the code may be received by the user device wirelessly. For example, the user device may receive an electronic ID associated with the item(s) to be returned, e.g., via near field transmission or Bluetooth technologies.

[0040] FIG. 4C shows an example interface 440 for remotely registering items for recycling or reuse, according to some embodiments. Interface 440 may include one or more methods for remotely registering items for recycling or reuse. As discussed above, in some embodiments, patrons may be able to manually enter item information associated with at least one item to be recycled. In fields 442, 444, and 446, the patron may enter the item ID, serial number, and / or item type, respectively. The fields may be configured in any suitable manner. For example, fields 442 and 444 may be boxes in which the patron may type the relevant information. Field 446 may similarly be a box in which the item type may be typed into, or may be configured as a drop down, selectable list of different possible item types.

[0041] As noted above, additionally or alternatively to entering item information manually, the patron may scan an item to register the item. Selecting button 450 may trigger the user device to activate one or more sensors for capturing item information. In some embodiments, button 450 may open a camera or other optical sensor of the user device and cause it to capture item information. For example, the camera may take a picture of the item from which the system can determine the item being registered. In some examples, the item information may be identified against a list of items stored in a memory of the system. In some #14708047v2examples, image data from the picture of the item may be provided as input to a machine learning model trained to identify the item from the image data. Once the item is identified, the item may be compared against a list of recyclable items or a list of items being accepted at a particular return location or a combination thereof. In some examples, the camera or optical sensor may be configured to scan a barcode or other code on the item or item container to capture the item information. In some examples, selecting button 450 may trigger near field or Bluetooth sensors configured to capture item information from items with relevant components (e.g., a Bluetooth communication chip in an electronic item).

[0042] Once the item information has been received at the user device, the item information may be received by the data center from the user device. In that way, the data center maintains accounts for the patrons, and may additionally facilitate remote item registration based on the item information received from the user device.

[0043] Returning to FIG. 1A, at step 106, a code may be generated, the code associating the account information and the item information. In that way, when the patron returns the items to a building at a return location, they only provide the generated code to a return device or kiosk, rather than registering each of the items individually at the return location.

[0044] The code may be generated in any suitable form. In some examples, the code may be an alphanumeric code which can be given to an attendant at the return location for entry into a return device, or entered directly into a return device by the patron. Alternatively or additionally, the code may be a scannable code that can be scanned by an attendant or directly by the return device. For example, the scannable code may be a one-dimensional (ID) or two-dimensional (2D) scannable code, such as a barcode (ID) or 2D quick-response (QR) code.

[0045] In some embodiments, the user device used to register the one or more items may generate the code. In some embodiments, the data center hosting the account management system may generate the code and may transmit the generated code to the user device.

[0046] FIG. 2A shows a schematic diagram illustrating an example method for remotely registering items for recycling or reuse, according to some embodiments. Patron 200 may provide to a user device 210 account information 202 (e.g., login information) and item information 204 associated with one or more items 205 to be recycled. Once the account information 202 and item information 204 is received by the user device 210, a code 220 is generated (either by the user device 210 or by a data center and subsequently transmitted to the user device) associating the item and account information. Code 220 is depicted as a ID barcode, but as noted above, any suitable form(s) of a code may be generated.#14708047v2

[0047] Returning to FIG. 1A, having generated the code, the patron may bring the item(s) to be returned for recycling or reuse to a return location at their convenience. At step 108, information indicative of the code being provided to a return device at a return location is received. For example, the data center may receive the information from the return device when the code is provided to the return device. Receiving the code may cause certain machines at the return location to operate. For example, the code may cause a door to unlock so that the items being returned can be placed in a specific area, bin, or room.

[0048] The return device may be any suitable return device for receiving the code generated at step 106. For example, the return device may be a kiosk displaying a user interface with fields in which the patron may type an alphanumeric code generated at step 106. As such, in some examples, the return device may include a computer to which the code can be provided. In some examples, the return device may include one or more sensors such as cameras or optical sensors for scanning a scannable code (e.g., ID or 2D barcodes). In some examples, the return device may be configured to communicate via near field or Bluetooth communication protocols to receive the code directly from the user device.

[0049] The return device may be located in any suitable return location. For example the return location may be a location which is familiar and convenient to patrons, such as at a retail location (e.g., grocery or liquor stores, retail stores). Alternatively or additional, the return location may be situated in any other suitable location or building, for example, in an airport retail location (e.g., convenience store, item vending machine), gas station, stand-alone return building. Further, the return location may be situated in or on a mobile building such as a mobile return building that can be moved directly to patrons or moved between various different other return locations (retail stores, gas stations, airport terminals).

[0050] In the various return locations, the code may be provided directly to the return device by the patron. Additionally or alternatively, the code may be provided to a human attendant at the return location. The attendant may then provide the code to the return device.

[0051] Having received information indicative of the code being provided to the return device, at step 110, return information indicative of at least one item of the one or more items being returned is received. Providing the code to return device may indicate that the remotely registered item(s) is / are being returned, without needing any more information. As such, step 110 may occur automatically after the code is provided to the return device.

[0052] However, in some circumstances, the patron may not be returning all of the items that they remotely registered. For example, the patron may have lost or forgotten at least one of the items that were registered remotely. As such, in some embodiments, the user may be #14708047v2prompted to input the return information, either via their user device or the return device. The patron may be prompted on their mobile device or on the return device to indicate whether they are returning all or only some of the items that have been remotely registered and associated with the account information. When the patron indicates that only some of the items remotely registered are being returned, the patron may then be further prompted to indicate which of the items are actually being returned. For example, the user device (or the return device) may display a selectable list of items that were remotely registered and the patron may select one or more of the items on the selectable list. In that way, when the items are processed by an returned item processing facility, the items actually returned during the return transaction can be properly validated, rather than the returned item processing facility having to sort through the items to determine which were actually returned. In that way, the returns can be properly validated and the patron properly credited for returning the items.

[0053] FIG. IB shows an example method 120 for remote registration and return of items for recycling or reuse, according to some embodiments. Method 120 includes (1) receiving, with a user device, account information indicative of a patron using the user device; (2) receiving, with the user device, item information indicative of one or more items to be recycled; (3) generating a code associating the account information and the item information; (4) providing the code to a return device at a return location; and (5) providing return information indicative of at least some of the one or more items actually being returned.

[0054] At step 122, a user device may receive account information indicative of a patron using the user device. As described above, in the first instance, the account information provided by a patron may include any suitable information for creating a new account, whereas further instances, the account information may only include login information such as a username and password.

[0055] At step 124, the user device may receive item information indicative of one or more items to be recycled. The item information provided by the patron may either be manually entered, or may be electronically scanned using a camera or other optical sensor. In some embodiments, the item information may be transmitted over a wireless communication protocol such as near field transmission or Bluetooth communication protocols.

[0056] At step 126, a code is generated associating the received account information and the received item information. In that way, when the patron returns the items to a return location, the patron may only scan the code to indicate the items are being returned, rather than having to perform the time consuming process of registering items at the return location itself. In some embodiments, the code may be generated by the user device. In some embodiments, the code #14708047v2may be generated by a data center and may subsequently be received by the user device from the data center over a communication network.

[0057] At step 128, the generated code may be provided to a return device at a return location. As discussed above, the code may be provided in any suitable manner. For example, an alphanumeric code may be manually entered into the return device, either directly by the patron or by an attendant at the return location. In some examples, the return device may include a camera or optical sensors for scanning a scannable code, either directly by the patron (e.g., using a mobile device, or the return device) or by the attendant.

[0058] At step 130, return information indicative of at least some of the one or more items actually being returned is provided. For example, the patron may be prompted to indicate whether some or all of the items remotely registered are being returned. When the patron indicates that only some of the items are being returned, the user may be prompted to indicate which items are being returned (e.g., using a selectable list of all the remotely registered items associated with the account information). In that way, the return transaction can be properly validated and the patron properly credited.

[0059] FIG. 1C shows an example method 140 for validating a return transaction for items returned for recycling or reuse, according to some embodiments. Method 140 includes: (1) receiving one or more items being returned for recycling associated with a return transaction; (2) receiving return information indicating the account information and item information associated with the return transaction; and (3) validating the return transaction based on a comparison of the return information and the received one or more items.

[0060] At step 142, a return item processing facility may receive one or more items being returned for recycling, where the one or more items are associated with a return transaction. For example, a return transaction may include a patron registering items for return and returning some or all of the registered items to a return location as described by any method herein. The return item processing facility may receive the returned items from the return location and process the items that were returned. In some embodiments, processing the items may include identifying the items being returned. For example, the return item processing facility may identify the items based on item information such as serial number, item ID, and or item type.

[0061] The return item processing facility may be any suitable facility at which the returned items are processed. In some embodiments, the return item processing facility may be a stand-alone processing facility, for example, a recycling facility. In some embodiments, the return item processing facility may be the same as the return location at which the items are #14708047v2returned. In some circumstances, a return item may be a rental item that can be returned directly to the location or a similar location as from which it was rented. For example, airports might provide kiosks at which a patron can rent an electronic item. The patron may return the rented electronic item to the same or similar kiosk at the airport and the kiosk may facilitate the processing of the return.

[0062] Each of the identified items may be associated with a single return transaction, or may be associated with different return transactions. Further, in some embodiments, the items may be received from multiple return locations for bulk processing of all the returned items and return transactions. Identification of which return transaction each item is associated with may be performed as part of step 146 described below.

[0063] At step 144, the return item processing facility may receive return information indicating the account information and item information associated with the return transaction. In some embodiments, the return item processing facility may receive the return information from a data center over a communication network, the data center storing information for the various return transactions to be performed. In some embodiments, the return item processing facility may receive the return information from a return device at the return location. In some embodiments, portions of the return information may be received from each of the two sources. For example, the return item processing facility may receive the item information from the return device at a return location and account information from the data center.

[0064] At step 146, the return item processing facility may validate the return transaction based on a comparison of the return information and the received one or more items. The item information provided as part of the return information may indicate which items where returned by a particular patron as part of the return transaction. The item information may identify the items by item ID, serial number, and / or item type. The item information may thus be compared to the received items that were identified as part of step 142 to ensure that those items were actually returned as part of the return transaction. In that way, the return item processing facility may properly validate the return transaction and credit the patron indicated by the account information provided with the return information.

[0065] In some embodiments, multiple return transactions may be processed at the same time based on the return information and various other associated information. For example, each item identified in step 142 may be compared with return information associated with one or more return transactions to identify which return transaction the item is associated with. The return transactions may then be validated individually once each returned item is properly associated with the corresponding return transaction.#14708047v2

[0066] In some embodiments, the validation may additionally be based on other information associated with the return transaction and / or information provided by the patron. For example, when remotely registering items, the patron may indicate which return location that they plan to return the items to, and / or a general range of time that they plan to return the items during, condition of the item being returned (e.g., damaged, used). Once the items are actually returned to a return location, the return information associated with the return transaction may additionally include the return location and the time of the return. In that way, the return information can be validated by comparing the return location and the time of the return to the information provided by the patron. This may be especially helpful when validating multiple return transactions from different return locations.

[0067] Once the return transaction(s) is / are validated, the patrons making the return transactions may be properly credited based on the validated return transaction.

[0068] FIG. 2B shows a block diagram of a system for processing item returns for recycling after the items were registered remotely, according to some embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the system includes user device 210 (e.g., a mobile device) return device 230 (e.g., a redemption kiosk), data center 232, and return item processing facility 234. The various components of the system listed above may be configured to communicate any information described herein over one or more communication networks 240.

[0069] User device 210 is configured to receive any user input from patron 200 as described herein. For example, during item return processing, user device 210 may receive user input from patron 200 indicating an item selection 206 for items being returned. In some embodiments, user device 210 is further configured to display a generated code 220 associating item information and account information associated with patron 200 for providing the code 220 (e.g., an alphanumeric code or scannable code) to return device 210.

[0070] Return device 230 may be configured to communicate locally with user device 210 to receive code 220. For example, return device 230 may be equipped with one or more cameras or optical sensors to scan code 220 to begin the return process. As described above, return device 230 may be located at any suitable return location, for example, retail locations, airport terminals, gas stations, convenience stores, stand-alone redemption centers, or mobile redemption centers.

[0071] Data center 232 may be configured to host an account management system for managing account information and return information associated with the various patrons. In addition to managing the account information, the data center may manage the remote registration of items and return transaction information performed by patrons.#14708047v2

[0072] For example, during remote registration of items for return, data center 232 may receive and process account information provided by a patron to the user device 210. In the first instance, data center 232 may receive account information provided by the patron to create a new account. Data center 232 may store the account information for the new account in database 233 for retrieval during remote registration and return transactions. During remote registration, data center 232 may receive account information including login information associated with a patron. Upon the login information being verified, data center 232 may retrieve the account information associated with the patron from database 233 and transmit the account information to the relevant components (e.g., user device 210, return device 230, return item processing facility 234.

[0073] Further, after a return transaction has been verified by a return item processing facility 234, data center 232 may be configured to manage crediting of the return value to the patron. As such, in some embodiments, data center 232 may be configured to communicate with a patron’s financial institution 236 to provide the value of the verified return to the patron. In some embodiments, the account information stored in database 233 may include banking information associated with the patron (e.g., bank routing number, bank account number). To credit the patron, data center 232 may retrieve the banking information from database 233 to provide a direct deposit of the return value into a patron’s account at financial institution 236.

[0074] Return item processing facility 234 may manage and handle processing of the items returned by patrons in various return transactions. After the items returned are received at the return location (in situations where the return location facilitates processing of the returned items) or are transported to return item processing facility 234 (e.g., by automobile, truck, plane, or other vehicle), the facility may determine one or more characteristics of the items being returned. For example, return item processing facility 234 may compare information obtained from the items (e.g., by scanning a barcode) with item information stored in item database 235 to identify the type of item, the material from which the item is formed, and the distributor to which the material should be delivered, or any other suitable characteristics or information. Database 235 may additionally receive and store return information associated with a return transaction. In that way, once the items are received by return item processing facility 234, the return transaction can be properly and accurately validated, and the patron properly credited.

[0075] Once processed, the return item processing facility 234 may perform one or more recycling acts for recycling the returned items, or may deliver the items to the proper facility. The recycling acts may include densification including shredding, crushing, otherwise destroying the item. Return item processing facility may further store information related to the #14708047v2recycling of the item in database 235 including an indication that the item was destroyed and the return value to be credited to the patron who returned the item for transmitting to data center 232. Additionally or alternatively, the return item processing facility may facilitate transport of the returned items to the proper party waiting to receive the returned item. For example, the returned item processing facility may provide the items (with or without densifying or otherwise destroying the items) to a party that would receive value from the recycled items. For example, items for recycling might be transported to a materials company or manufacturing company that uses recycled materials. In other examples, certain rented items or items that can be returned without densification (e.g., rented electronics, clothing) may be sent by the processing facility to the rental location or other retail location (e.g., a thrift shop, airport kiosk).

[0076] In the event that the information on the item (e.g., the barcode) cannot be read or successfully compared to information in database 235, the item may be initially rejected. Items which are initially rejected may be manually processed to determine whether value should be provided in exchange. For example, an operator may visually inspect the item. If the operator determines that value should be provided in exchange for the container, the operator may employ an input device (e.g., a handheld scanner, mouse, keyboard) to cause information relating to the item to be entered and stored in database 235. This information can then be associated with the relevant return transaction for validation.

[0077] If the operator determined that the item is one for which no value should be provided (e.g., if the item is being redeemed for deposit in a state other than the one which it was purchased, or in a state that does not provide redeemable value for recyclable returns), the operator may cause the item to be densified, but a value may not be associated with the item or return transaction in database 235.

[0078] FIG. 5 shows a representation of an example schema 500 for organizing information relating to a user, according to some embodiments. Schema 500 includes representations of patron table 505, patron transaction table 510, transaction table 515, item information table 504, and code information table 520. In some embodiments, schema 500 may be implemented and utilized by data center (e.g., data center 232 of FIG. 2B) to host an account management system and handle remote registration of items for return.

[0079] Patron table 505 stores various data identifying individual patrons, including a patron identifier, first name, last name, address and telephone number. Patron table 505 may also store other information associated with the patron’s account such as a mother’s maiden name, first high school attended, or other information that may be employed to support security and verification functions described herein. In addition, patron table 505 may further store #14708047v2banking information associated with the patron including the bank routing number, bank account number, direct deposit information, cash refund information, charity information, and / or account balance information, which may be used to support transfers of value from the patron’s recycling account to other accounts and transferees.

[0080] Patron transaction table 510 may maintain a cross-reference between the patron identifier and transaction identifier associated with a return transaction. As such, foreign keys 512 and 514 may be employed to maintain consistency between patron table 505 and patron transaction table 510, and patron transaction table 510 and transaction table 515, respectively.

[0081] Transaction table 515 stores information relating to return transactions. In addition to a transaction identifier, transaction table 515 stores an amount for the transaction, which may be preliminarily defined based upon a remote registration of items for return, or when a patron actually returns some or all of the registered items to a return location. The transaction amount may be later updated after a return item processing facility processes the returned items. Transaction table 515 may also store an identifier for an attendant who may process the return transaction, the return location, a patron identifier, and the time and date of the return transaction.

[0082] Item information table 504 may store item information provided by a patron during the remote registration of the items. For example, the item information table 504 may store the item identifier, serial number, and / or item type provided during remote registration.

[0083] Code table 520 may maintain a cross-reference between the patron ID and the item information so that a code (e.g. code 220 of FIG. 2A) may be generated in a way that associates the item information with the account information.

[0084] Having described several embodiments of the techniques described herein in detail, various modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and improvements are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing description is by way of example only, and is not intended as limiting. The techniques are limited only as defined by the following claims and the equivalents thereto.

[0085] FIG. 6 illustrates a computing system configured to perform aspects of the present technology, according to some embodiments. Computer system 600 includes processor 610, memory 620, non-volatile storage 630, and a display 640. The processor may perform one or more functions of the remote registration processes described herein, and / or any other suitable process of the return processes described. Processor-executable instructions for the processor may be stored, for example, in non-volatile storage 630, and data may be stored, for example, in #14708047v2memory 620. Alternatively, instructions for the processor may be stored in memory 620 and data may be stored in non-volatile storage 630. In some embodiments, the memory 620 and nonvolatile storage 630 may bot store instructions and / or data. The memory and / or non-volatile storage may be a disk (e.g., an optical disk), a compact disk (cd), a solid-state memory, or any other memory, and in some embodiments may be configured to store processor-executable instructions which, when executed by processor 610, cause the processor to perform any of the methods described herein. It should be appreciated that memory 620 and non-volatile storage 630 are non-transitory media in at least some embodiments. Optionally, a display 640 may be provided, for example so that patrons, return location attendants, and / or any other suitable user may interact with the processor.

[0086] Processor-executable instructions may be in many forms, such as program modules, executed by one or more computers or other devices. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform tasks or implement abstract data types. Typically, the functionality of the program modules may be combined or distributed.

[0087] The terms “program” or “software” are used herein in a generic sense to refer to any type of computer code or set of processor-executable instructions that can be employed to program a computer or other processor (physical or virtual) to implement various aspects of embodiments as discussed above. Additionally, according to one aspect, one or more computer programs that when executed perform methods of the disclosure provided herein need not reside on a single computer or processor, but may be distributed in a modular fashion among different computers or processors to implement various aspects of the disclosure provided herein. Various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more processes, of which examples have been provided. The acts performed as part of each process may be ordered in any suitable way. Thus, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.

[0088] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified#14708047v2within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.

[0089] The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.

[0090] Use of ordinal terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed. Such terms are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term).

[0091] The phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” “having,” “containing”, “involving”, and variations thereof, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and additional items.

[0092] The terms “approximately” and “about,” or any similar term, may be used to mean within ±20% of a target value in some embodiments, within ±10% of a target value in some embodiments, within ±5% of a target value in some embodiments, within ±2% of a target value in some embodiments. The terms “approximately” and “about” may include the target value.#14708047v2

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A method of returning one or more items, the one or more items being recyclable or reusable, the method comprising:receiving, from a user device, item information indicative of the one or more items; receiving account information indicative of a patron that is using the user device; generating a code associating the account information and the item information; receiving, from a return device located at a return location, information indicative of the code being provided to the return device; andreceiving return information indicative of at least one item of the one or more items being returned to the return location and the account information indicative of the patron.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the return information comprises:receiving, from the user device, the return information indicative of the at least one items being returned based at least in part on user input selecting the at least one item being returned.

3. The method of claim 1, the method further comprising:transmitting the return information to a processing facility;receiving, from the processing facility, validation information validating the first return information and / or second return information.

4. The method of claim 1, where the code is a scannable code.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the return device is configured to scan the scannable code using one or more optical sensors.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein the scannable code is a 2-dimensional (2D) barcode.

7. A method for returning one or more items, the one or more items being recyclables or reusables, the method comprising:receiving, with a user device, account information indicative of a patron that is using the user device and item information indicative of one or more items to be returned;generating a code associating the account information and the item information;#14708047v2when the code is provided to a return device located at a return location, prompting the user to select at least one item of the one or more items that is being returned;transmitting, to a data center, the account information and the selected at least one item being recycled.

8. The method of claim 7, where the code is a scannable code.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the return device is configured to scan the scannable code using one or more optical sensors.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the scannable code is a 2-dimensional (2D) barcode.

11. The method of claim 7, wherein receiving item information comprises using an optical sensor of the user device to generate image data associated with the one or more items to be returned and identifying the item information based at least in part on the image data.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein identifying the item information based at least in part on the image data comprises comparing the image data to a predetermined list of items.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the predetermined list of items comprises a list of recyclable items.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the predetermined list of items comprises a list of items accepted by the return location.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein identifying the item information based at least in part on the image data comprises providing the image data as input to a machine learning model configured to identify the one or more items to be returned based at least in part on the image data.

16. A system for processing items for recycling and reuse, the system comprising:a data center hosting a data platform operatively coupled to a user device and a return device over a communication network, the return device being located in a return location and the data platform configured to:#14708047v2receive, from the user device, account information indicative of a patron that is using the user device and item information indicative of one or more items;generate a code associating the account information and the item information; receive, from the return device, information indicative of the code being provided to the return device; andreceive, from the return device, return information indicative of the user returning at least one item of the one or more items to be recycled.

17. The system of claim 16, where the code is a scannable code.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the return device is configured to scan the scannable code using one or more optical sensors.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein the data platform is configured to receive the return information from the user device based on the patron selecting at least one item of the one or more items being returned to the return location.

20. A method for validating a return transaction of one or more items, the one or more items being recyclables or reusables, the method comprising:receiving at least one of the one or more items associated with the return transaction; receiving return information indicative of account information associated with a patron performing the return transaction and item information associated with the return transaction; andvalidating the return transaction based on a comparison of the return information and the received one or more items.#14708047v2

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