Reusable receptacles collection container
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Solution Overview
Problem
Event organizers face challenges in efficiently collecting and managing reusable receptacles, such as beakers, at events, requiring high-capacity collection containers that minimize intervention, ensure receptacles are empty and dishwasher-ready, and incorporate user participation with minimal space usage.
Innovation Solution
A collection container system with a disposal module, reusable receptacle receivers, and a transport system that orients and stacks receptacles horizontally, using recognition modules and propulsion systems to sort and collect different types of receptacles, and includes collection cartridges for temporary storage, allowing for efficient packing and user involvement through payment systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If reusable receptacles are collected in traditional vertical stacking, then they occupy less horizontal space, but the collection container requires greater height and frequent emptying
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the traditional vertical stacking arrangement into horizontal stacking, fundamentally changing the spatial dimension used for storage. This allows the collection container to utilize horizontal space more efficiently, reducing the required height while maintaining or increasing overall capacity. The receptacles are stacked side-by-side in multiple layers rather than one on top of another, optimizing the height-to-capacity ratio.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a multi-level nested structure where receptacles are stacked horizontally in multiple tiers or layers within the collection container. Each layer contains multiple receptacles arranged horizontally, and layers are stacked vertically to maximize space utilization. This nested arrangement allows efficient packing while maintaining reduced height compared to traditional vertical stacking.
2Productivity
If manual collection of reusable receptacles is used, then device complexity is minimized, but productivity and efficiency of collection decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service collection mechanism where users automatically deposit their own used receptacles into the collection container through a user interface. The system includes automatic recognition modules that identify receptacle types, propulsion systems that transport receptacles to stacking positions, and automated horizontal stacking mechanisms. This eliminates the need for manual collection by event organizers while maintaining user participation through simple deposit actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical collection operations with automated systems including recognition modules (optical or RFID), propulsion systems (conveyors or robotic arms), and automated stacking mechanisms. These systems use sensors, controllers, and actuators to automatically sort, transport, and stack receptacles, substituting human labor with automated mechanical and electronic systems.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple types of reusable receptacles are collected together, then collection capacity is maximized, but sorting and identification complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the collection process into separate segments for different receptacle types using multiple dedicated receivers. Each receiver is equipped with specific recognition capabilities tailored to particular receptacle types (e.g., different sensor configurations or RFID readers). This segmentation allows the system to handle multiple receptacle types simultaneously without requiring complex real-time sorting, as each type has its own designated collection path and receiver.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary classification at the point of deposit, where recognition modules immediately identify receptacle types as they are inserted. The system pre-sorts receptacles by directing them to appropriate receivers based on their type, rather than collecting all receptacles together and sorting them later. This preliminary action simplifies the overall sorting complexity by resolving classification early in the collection process.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2B
Figure 3a~3d
AI summary
The invention relates to a collection container comprising: - at least one disposal module, wherein the disposal module comprises a disposal opening in the collection container, suitable for allowing first reusable receptacles; - at least one first reusable receptacle receiver, configured to receive and stack first reusable receptacle into first stacks; - a receptacle transport system, for transporting the first reusable receptacles, and, from the disposal module to the at least one first reusable receptacle receiver wherein: - the at least one first reusable receptacle receiver is orientated horizontally, thereby stacking the first reusable receptacle into horizontal first stack. The invention further provides in a kit comprising such a collection container and reusable receptacles.