Reject Bin Interlock System for Secure Object Traceability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reject bins for inspection devices, such as checkweighers, lack security and traceability features, allowing unauthorized access and unrecorded removal of rejected objects, which can lead to misplacement or unintended reintegration into the commerce stream.
Innovation Solution
A secure reject bin system with a magnetic or electro-mechanical closure controlled by the inspection device's controller, requiring authorized access through user ID or password, and logging access events, including entry and removal of objects, to ensure secure retention and tracking of rejected items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a reject bin is used to store rejected objects, then rejected objects can be collected and segregated, but the bin provides no security against unauthorized access and no traceability of object removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the reject bin with the inspection device controller, integrating security and traceability functions into the existing system. The controller manages access authorization, logs all access events, and tracks rejected objects, eliminating the need for separate security and tracking systems while maintaining system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical lock systems with an electronic access control system managed by the controller. Instead of physical keys or manual locking mechanisms, the system uses electronic authorization, digital logging, and automated tracking to provide security and traceability, reducing mechanical complexity while improving reliability.
2Reliability
If access control and logging systems are added to the reject bin, then security and traceability are improved, but the device complexity and operational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller automatically performs authorization verification, access logging, and object tracking without requiring manual intervention. The system self-manages security protocols, automatically records access events with timestamps and user identification, and maintains digital inventories of rejected objects, reducing the operational burden on users while maintaining high security standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback through the user interface, confirming authorization status, logging access events in real-time, and updating the status of rejected objects. This automated feedback mechanism simplifies operation by providing clear system responses without requiring users to manually track or verify security states.
3Reliability
If a secure closure mechanism is implemented on the reject bin, then unauthorized access is prevented, but the bin requires more complex control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The closure mechanism is integrated with the existing inspection device controller, sharing the same processing unit, memory, and user interface. This consolidation allows the secure closure to be managed through the same control software that operates the inspection device, eliminating the need for separate control hardware and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining strong security.
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
The system effectively prevents unauthorized access and ensures traceability of rejected objects, ensuring secure retention and accurate tracking of their disposal, thereby preventing misplacement and ensuring compliance with acceptance criteria.
Implementation Method 1
A reject bin interlock system (50) includes an interlocked reject bin (50) having a magnetic or electro-mechanical closure (55)
Data Source
AI summary
A combination of a hardware-secured reject bin and a programmed controller that together function to create an interlock that limits access to a reject bin to only those users with specific access rights. Access is gained by entering a user ID or some other authorized reject bin user access information into the user interface of a checkweigher controller or another controller in communication with a checkweigher controller. Access attempts and events may be tracked and the removal of objects from an interlocked bin may be recorded to provide for improved object traceability.