Tiltable Tab Waste Detection Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detection devices for selective sorting containers are complex, fail to detect non-JRM waste concealed between sheets, and have high power consumption, making them inefficient for long-term use and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A detection device with a plate and tiltable tabs that lift when an object is introduced, using sensors to determine if the lift exceeds a threshold, and a processing module to differentiate between JRM waste and other materials based on flexibility and volume, with low power consumption features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex detection devices (punch, UV lighting, character recognition) are used to detect non-JRM waste, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device is segmented into multiple independent tiltable tabs arranged in a matrix, where each tab can be independently actuated by waste objects. This segmentation allows the system to detect different types of waste (rigid vs. flexible) through localized tab responses rather than requiring a single complex detection mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex optical detection systems (UV lighting, character recognition) and mechanical punching systems with a simpler mechanical tab-lifting mechanism coupled with electronic sensors. The detection is achieved by monitoring whether tabs remain coplanar or become tilted, providing a less complex alternative to optical and mechanical punching systems.
2Measurement precision
If complex detection devices are used to identify concealed non-JRM waste, then detection accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system uses periodic sampling of tab positions rather than continuous monitoring. The control unit checks whether tabs are coplanar at specific moments, which reduces power consumption compared to continuous optical or mechanical detection systems while maintaining sufficient detection accuracy for identifying concealed waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The waste objects themselves serve as the actuating force that tilts the tabs. Rigid waste objects naturally cause tabs to tilt when placed on the plate, eliminating the need for external actuators or complex detection mechanisms. The system leverages the inherent properties of the waste objects to perform the detection function.
3Reliability
If multiple sensors detect tab coplanarity to identify concealed waste, then detection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensors are merged into a coordinated detection system where all sensors monitor the coplanarity of the tab array as a whole. Rather than treating each sensor independently, the control unit evaluates the collective state of all tabs to determine whether non-JRM waste is present, combining detection capabilities while maintaining manageable system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The array of tiltable tabs serves multiple detection functions simultaneously: it detects rigid vs. flexible waste, identifies concealed waste objects, and provides information about waste volume. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection mechanisms for different waste types, thereby reducing overall device complexity while improving detection reliability.
4Productivity
If the plate and tabs are inclined at more than 10° to facilitate waste movement, then waste flow is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plate and tabs are inclined at a standardized angle (more than 10°) to create a uniform gravitational field that facilitates waste movement. This equipotential approach uses gravity as a natural force to move waste through the detection zone without requiring complex mechanical conveyors or additional actuators, thereby improving productivity while maintaining relatively simple structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (10) for detecting a non-compliant object, comprising a plate (20), having a portion (30) that is recessed when viewed from above, on which plate the object is intended to move, and individually-inclinable tabs (32E, 32I, 32C) intended to be raised by the said object, at least one of the tabs being folded back against the recessed portion in the absence of the said object, and a detection circuit suited to determining whether the amplitudes by which the tabs are raised exceed a threshold value.