RFID Waste Bag Closure for Automated Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current waste handling systems face challenges in sorting waste effectively, as users often mix different types of waste in the same bag, leading to difficult reclamation and inefficient sorting processes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a closing means with an RFID identifier for waste bags allows for accurate sorting by enabling any bag to be used for waste transport, eliminating the need for separate containers for each waste type, and facilitating automated sorting based on RFID information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate waste bags of different colors are used for each waste type, then waste sorting is enabled, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to requiring multiple specialized containers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling a single type of waste bag to serve multiple waste categories through RFID tags. Instead of requiring physically different bags for different waste types, the same bag design can be tagged with different RFID identifiers to indicate various waste categories (recyclable, organic, hazardous, etc.), thus reducing the need for multiple specialized container types while maintaining sorting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag acts as an intermediary that carries sorting information without being part of the bag's physical structure. The tag mediates between the uniform bag and the sorting system, providing waste type identification through electromagnetic fields rather than physical characteristics like color or material, thereby simplifying the container system while enabling detailed sorting
2Extent of automation
If optical sorting apparatus is used to sort waste bags by color, then automatic sorting is achieved, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate in dirty environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical/mechanical sorting system with an electromagnetic field-based RFID detection system. Instead of using cameras and light to read bag colors (which fail in dirty conditions), RFID readers use electromagnetic fields to communicate with tags on bags, a method that is not affected by visual obstructions, dirt, or lighting conditions, thereby maintaining high reliability in challenging environments
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the detection parameter from optical properties (color, reflectivity) to electromagnetic properties (RFID signal frequency, modulation). This parameter change allows the sorting system to operate independently of visual conditions, making it reliable in dirty, dim, or variable lighting environments where optical systems fail
3Ease of manufacture
If knots are made in carrier bags to close them, then bags can be sealed, but reliability worsens when knots open during transportation causing waste to spread
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by placing RFID tags inside the bag before sealing, protected within the bag's structure. This positioning shields the tags from damage during transportation, and the bag's closure (whether knot, seal, or cap) can be designed to protect both the waste and the embedded tag, ensuring both waste containment and tag integrity throughout the supply chain
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
This solution ensures that waste bags remain closed during transport, enables more effective sorting than previous methods, and allows for the optimization of waste transport systems by measuring transfer speed and quantity using RFID identifiers.
Implementation Method 1
a closing means, which is provided with an RFID identifier
Data Source
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AI summary
Method in a waste handling system, in which method waste or recyclable material is transported in carrier bags, bags or sacks (1 ) from a disposal point for further processing A closing means (2), which is provided with an RFID identifier (3), is used in closing, or as verification of the closing of, the carrier bag, bag, sack or corresponding (1 ) used in the waste transport. The invention also relates to a closing means (2), which comprises an RFID identifier (3).