Method and system for automatically processing reusable containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The processing of reusable containers is inefficient and labor-intensive, requiring manual handling and incurring high labor costs, which hinders the widespread adoption of reusable containers due to environmental concerns.
Innovation Solution
An automatic system and method for processing reusable containers, including a loading and batching module with a scanning system, a washing and rinsing module, a drying module, and a stacking module, utilizing identification information and automated transferring mechanisms to collect, wash, sanitize, dry, and stack containers without manual handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual processing of reusable containers is used, then operation simplicity is maintained, but labor cost increases and processing efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic container processing system is divided into distinct functional modules: loading module for receiving containers, washing module for cleaning, drying module for removing moisture, and stacking module for organized storage. Each module performs a specific task independently, allowing the system to achieve high automation and productivity while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
2Ease of operation
If disposable containers are used, then convenience is improved, but material waste increases and environmental pollution worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables reusable containers to serve themselves through automated processing. Containers are automatically loaded, washed, dried, and stacked without requiring manual intervention for each container. This self-service approach maintains the convenience of disposable containers while eliminating the environmental harm by enabling repeated use of durable containers.
3Productivity
If automatic processing system is implemented, then labor cost decreases and processing efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic processing system is designed with multi-functional modules that can handle various types of reusable containers. The loading module, washing module, drying module, and stacking module are configured to accommodate different container shapes, sizes, and materials, allowing the system to maintain high productivity across diverse container types while avoiding the need for multiple specialized systems.
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
Reduces labor costs and improves efficiency, making the use of reusable containers more popular and environmentally friendly by minimizing manual operations and waste.
Implementation Method 1
The loading area comprises a scanning system, an user interface display and a door, wherein the scanning system comprises a reader for reading identification information registered on a used container
Implementation Method 2
a washing and rinsing module for washing and rinsing the reusable containers from the loading and batching module
Implementation Method 3
a carousel belt being configured to move the reusable containers along a ventilated tunnel with hot air
Implementation Method 4
a drying module for drying the reusable containers from the washing and rinsing module
Implementation Method 5
the at least one transferring module comprises an operating arm equipped with suction cups or grippers
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4
AI summary
An automatic system (100) for processing reusable containers comprising: a loading and batching module (102) for loading and collecting the reusable containers to be processed; a washing and rinsing module (104) for washing and rinsing the reusable containers from the loading and batching module; a drying module (106) for drying the reusable containers from the washing and rinsing module; a stacking module (108) for stacking the reusable containers from the drying module; and at least one transferring module (110) for enabling the transferring of the reusable containers between the loading and batching module, the washing and rinsing module, the drying module and the stacking module.