Refuse Vehicle Camera Sorting System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refuse vehicle systems lack efficient methods for identifying and sorting different types of refuse in real-time, leading to inefficiencies in collection and potential misplacement of recyclables.
Innovation Solution
A system equipped with a camera and processing circuitry that uses image analysis and RFID technology to predict the type of refuse in a container and automatically operate the lift apparatus to sort it into appropriate compartments or notify a route planning system for alternative collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual identification and sorting of refuse types is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and collection efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical identification methods with an automated image analysis system using cameras and processing circuitry. The system captures images of refuse containers, analyzes visual features (color, shape, size, markings), and automatically determines refuse types, eliminating the need for manual inspection while significantly improving collection efficiency and sorting accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The refuse vehicle system performs self-identification and self-sorting of refuse types without requiring external manual intervention. The onboard camera and processing circuitry autonomously analyze container characteristics, determine refuse composition, and control the lift apparatus to sort refuse into appropriate compartments, making the system self-sufficient and highly productive
2Measurement precision
If real-time refuse type prediction is implemented, then sorting accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis of refuse container characteristics (color, shape, size, markings) before the actual sorting operation. By pre-identifying the refuse type through image capture and feature analysis, the system prepares the sorting action in advance, ensuring high accuracy in refuse type determination and enabling precise, real-time sorting decisions
Solution Approach 2:
The image analysis process is segmented into distinct feature detection steps: capturing container color, measuring dimensions, recognizing shapes, and detecting markings. This segmentation of the analysis process into manageable feature categories allows the system to achieve high measurement precision through systematic evaluation of multiple container characteristics
3Productivity
If automated lift apparatus operation is used, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processing circuitry receives real-time feedback from the camera system about refuse container characteristics and automatically adjusts the lift apparatus operation accordingly. The system uses the analyzed image data to control the timing and positioning of the lift apparatus, creating a closed-loop feedback system that improves sorting speed while managing complexity through intelligent control
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 real-time identification and sorting of refuse, improving collection efficiency and ensuring proper segregation of recyclables, thereby optimizing waste management operations.
Implementation Method 1
a radio frequency identification (RFID) configured to wirelessly emit energy to an RFID tag of the refuse container
Data Source
AI summary
A includes a camera and processing circuitry. The camera can be oriented outwards from the refuse vehicle and is configured to obtain image data of a refuse container. The processing circuitry can be configured to obtain the image data. The processing circuitry can also configured to predict, based on the image data, a type of refuse in the refuse container. The processing circuitry can also be configured to, responsive to determining that the refuse vehicle is configured to collect the type of refuse in the refuse container, operate a lift apparatus of the refuse vehicle to empty the refuse in the refuse container into a hopper of the refuse vehicle.