Authenticated Waste Bin With ToF Volume Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current waste collection systems lack the ability to accurately measure and tax based on actual waste volume produced, leading to inefficient and non-discriminatory taxation, and there is a need for a system that can be remotely controlled for authenticated waste delivery.
Innovation Solution
A waste storage bin equipped with an electronic board that authenticates users, estimates waste volume using ToF technology, and associates it with individual users, allowing for volume-based taxation and remote monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional waste collection systems are used, then taxation is based on premise possession rather than actual waste volume, but this leads to inefficient and non-discriminatory taxation that does not reflect actual waste production
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual waste volume estimation with automated electronic measurement systems. Sensors (ultrasonic, optical, or weight-based) automatically measure waste container volumes, eliminating the need for manual measurement and reducing system complexity despite adding measurement capability. The electronic board processes sensor data to calculate and record individual user waste volumes for taxation purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The waste storage bin performs self-measurement and self-recording of waste volumes. The integrated sensor system and electronic board automatically detect when waste containers are deposited, measure their volumes, and associate them with authenticated users without requiring external intervention. This self-service capability enables accurate volume-based taxation while simplifying operational complexity.
2Ease of operation
If waste storage bins are made accessible for delivery, then waste collection efficiency improves, but security concerns arise regarding unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication of users before allowing waste delivery. The biometric sensor (fingerprint, facial recognition, or iris scan) verifies user identity in advance, and only authenticated users can access the waste storage bin. This preliminary security check ensures easy access for authorized users while preventing unauthorized access, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and security.
3Loss of information
If multiple sensors are integrated for real-time monitoring, then operational information accuracy improves, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic board employs periodic sampling of sensor data rather than continuous monitoring. Sensors are activated at specific intervals or triggered by events (such as when the lid is opened or closed), allowing the system to collect necessary operational information while minimizing power consumption. The microcontroller enters low-power states between measurements, balancing information accuracy with energy efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate measurement and taxation of waste volume, facilitating efficient waste management and remote control of waste delivery operations.
Implementation Method 1
estimates the volume of the waste container delivered in the waste storage bin
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a waste storage bin comprising a waste containment body, a lid for closing the waste storage bin and an unloading door. The container is associated with an electronic board configured to receive signals indicative of the request to open the lid to deliver one or more waste containers inside the waste storage bin. The electronic board is also configured to allow the lid to be opened following the recognition of a user enabled to deliver waste and is connected to a sensor configured to estimate the volume of the waste container delivered, and to associate the delivered volume with the enabled user.