Ultrasonic Sensor Module for Garbage Receptacles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current garbage collection methods are inefficient as they often result in unnecessary costs due to premature collection of empty receptacles and missed collections when receptacles are full, leading to potential spills and environmental issues.
Innovation Solution
A detachable module apparatus for garbage receptacles that includes a sensor unit to measure garbage volume using ultrasonic waves and transmit data to a server, allowing for improved collection timing and reducing the need for replacing existing receptacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If regular garbage collection is performed regardless of fill level, then garbage collection is ensured, but unnecessary collection costs are incurred when receptacles are not yet filled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the sensor unit continuously monitors garbage fill levels and transmits data to a server. The server processes this information and sends collection instructions back to the management terminal only when the receptacle is actually full, creating a closed-loop feedback system that eliminates unnecessary collections while ensuring reliable garbage removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The garbage receptacle system performs self-monitoring through the integrated sensor unit that automatically detects fill levels and communicates status to the management system. This self-service capability allows the system to determine its own collection needs without external intervention, reducing unnecessary trips while maintaining reliable collection when needed.
2Productivity
If garbage receptacles are monitored for full status, then collection timing is optimized, but additional monitoring equipment and complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is segmented into independent functional modules: a sensor unit for detection, a communication unit for data transmission, and a server for processing. This modular segmentation allows the system to achieve optimized collection timing while keeping each component relatively simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit serves multiple functions: detecting garbage fill level, transmitting status data, and enabling the system to operate with existing receptacles through attachment. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by consolidating monitoring, communication, and compatibility features into a single integrated module.
3Measurement precision
If existing garbage receptacles are replaced with new monitored receptacles, then garbage volume sensing is achieved, but high replacement costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit acts as an intermediary device that attaches to existing garbage receptacles rather than requiring replacement of the receptacles themselves. This intermediary approach enables precise garbage volume measurement while maintaining compatibility with existing infrastructure, significantly reducing deployment costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit is designed to nest onto the exterior of existing garbage receptacles, with the monitoring module containing the sensor, communication unit, and power supply in a compact form factor. This nesting configuration allows precise measurement capability to be added to existing receptacles without requiring replacement or major modification.
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 module apparatus enhances garbage collection efficiency by accurately determining fill levels and reducing costs associated with unnecessary collection cycles, while maintaining compatibility with existing receptacles.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor unit may include an ultrasonic wave sensor which transmits ultrasonic waves into the inside of the garbage receptacle via the first hole and the second hole, and may measure the height of the garbage by receiving reflected ultrasonic waves
Implementation Method 2
measure the height of the garbage by receiving reflected ultrasonic waves
Implementation Method 3
The module apparatus for garbage collection may further include a solar cell which converts light energy or heat energy of solar light to electric energy, and charges the battery by using the electric energy
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a module apparatus for garbage collection and an operation method for the module apparatus. A module apparatus for garbage collection, according to the present invention, comprises: a case which is provided so as to be attached to a garbage receptacle and has a first hole on the lower end; an integrated circuit module which is accommodated inside the case; a battery for supplying power to the integrated circuit module; and a sensor unit which is electrically connected to the integrated circuit module and is for sensing the volume of garbage accumulated inside the garbage receptacle, wherein the first hole is aligned with a second hole formed on the garbage receptacle and the detection unit detects the volume of the garbage through the first and second holes.