Reverse Vending Machine Vertical Storage and Single Camera Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reverse vending machines are costly, complex, and require substantial space, making them unsuitable for smaller locations, and they face operational challenges such as frequent cleaning and potential safety hazards due to sticky components and the need for expensive hardware like cameras and printers.
Innovation Solution
A compact, cost-effective facility with a vertically oriented storage system and a conveyor mechanism that eliminates the need for a vertical conveyor, using a single camera for contour and feature detection, and a token system that avoids printing, ensuring safety through camera-based light curtain functionality and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a vertical conveyor is used to fill storage space, then storage capacity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the vertical conveyor from the system entirely. Instead of using a complex vertical conveyor to fill storage space, the invention uses gravity-fed vertical storage containers that are filled from the top, eliminating the need for complex conveying mechanisms while maintaining storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional horizontal conveyor approach by implementing vertical storage containers that are filled from the top. This inversion allows containers to be stacked vertically and filled using simple gravity-assisted insertion rather than complex horizontal conveying and lifting mechanisms.
2Extent of automation
If multiple components (camera, barcode reader, object sorter, object conveyor, object rotator, token printer) are used for full automation, then automation capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single camera system that performs multiple functions: detecting object contours, reading barcodes, and validating tokens. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate barcode readers and token validators, significantly reducing component count while maintaining full automation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated system. The camera system integrates object detection, barcode reading, and token validation functions. The storage containers also combine storage and dispensing functions in a single unit, eliminating the need for separate conveyor and dispensing mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If object rotator and sorter are added for sorting capability, then sorting function is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements sorting in the vertical dimension rather than using complex horizontal sorting mechanisms. Different types of containers are stored in different vertically stacked containers, and the system dispenses from appropriate vertical containers based on object type identification, eliminating the need for horizontal sorters and rotators.
4Ease of operation
If token printer is used for providing tokens, then token dispensing is improved, but reliability decreases due to printer failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the expensive and unreliable token printer with a simple token dispenser that uses pre-made token cartridges. These disposable or replaceable cartridges eliminate the complexity and failure points of thermal printing mechanisms while maintaining token dispensing functionality.
5Quantity of substance
If substantial space is allocated for container collection tables and storage, then storage capacity is improved, but floor area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal floor-based storage to vertical space utilization. Multiple storage containers are stacked vertically, allowing the system to accommodate large quantities of containers while occupying minimal floor space. The vertical configuration enables high-density storage in a compact footprint.
Data Source
AI summary
The reverse vending machine (RVM) receives, handles, sorts, and stores returnable items or objects. The RVM includes an item supporting, rotating, sorting and conveyor unit, an upright storage chamber for such items, a safety apparatus to avoid operational hazards, a camera aided detection device for detecting at least one of a bar code on and other characteristics, e.g. contour, of an item, a simplified token system , and a drive system with a releasable power coupling for operating the sorting device and a further storage device.