GB2356482A

GB2356482A - Refuse hatch

Info

Publication number: GB2356482A
Application number: GB0010254A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Norbert Scheler; Georg Spiesl
Original assignee: ZANGENSTEIN ELEKTRO; Datasec Electronic GmbH
Current assignee: ZANGENSTEIN ELEKTRO; Datasec Electronic GmbH
Priority date: 1999-04-30
Filing date: 2000-04-28
Publication date: 2001-05-23
Also published as: GB0010254D0; GB2356482A8

Abstract

The invention is a refuse hatch (1) for buildings with connected chutes for the disposal and transport of refuse which terminate in at least one chamber, where the chute is accessible via a hatch for the disposal of refuse, and the hatch is connected to a guide via a carrier. The refuse hatch can only be opened by authorised persons, namely those persons who are in the profession of at least one valid transponder (2). Only after the transponder is positively identified can the refuse hatch be opened. The guide of the refuse hatch is arranged such that it can only be moved in one direction between the end positions, so that once the refuse hatch is opened it must then be opened to its full extent. The refuse hatch is easy to install in existing refuse disposal chute systems. Preferably, a microcomputer 4 controls the transponder reader 3 and door opening 10. Preferably, a plurality of doors, readers and microprocessors are connected to a computer 7 monitoring the system and providing charging information. The system may have light sources and detectors arranged to estimate the volume of rubbish entering the chute.

Description

2356482 REFUSE HATCH The present invention relates to a refuse hatch, for

buildings with connected chutes for the disposal and transport of refuse which terminate in at least one chamber.

Conventional hatch systems of this type presently have no means of monitoring hatch use in such a f orm that use of the hatch be restricted to authorised users, and/or calculated and charged for.

Cards with f ixed or editable data, which can be read or written on in direct contact using a reading device are described in many different publications. Such cards are in wide use today, for example in banks or ashealth insurance cards and access control cards.

The publications DE 39 28 107 (procedure for coding and availability of a chip card) and DE 40 12 931 (procedure and system for individual electronic identification of badges) describe complete systems including the cards. In these cases the identity of cards is tested using a mother card or pre-programmed badges. The cards also possess a temporal validity limit. DE 40 25 229 (coding system) describes a system where one card can be used for several readers. The number of cards must be limited to the number of cardholders. The user can program several identification parameters himself. However, if a card is lost, the reading system can also only be modified with considerable difficulty.

2 Especially as regards to the individually programmable parameters there is a great security def icit when cards are lost. The reference to an additional comparison of stored personal features substantially increases the 5 complexity and therefore the cost of the reading system. Wireless chip cards are described in publications including DE OS 42 27 551, DE OS 42 39 806, DE OS 42 42 112, DE OS 43 02 387 and DE OS 43 37 921. Power is supplied and data transferred using antennas in the reader device and in the card.

DE OS 40 03 212 and DE OS 43 27 342 describe industrial applications for identifying goods or the containers they are transported in.

In DE OS 43 27 342 mobile data carriers are attached to re-usable containers for transporting goods. The data carrier contains at least one device for transmitting and receiving data via electromagnetic waves to or from an external station, as well as a non-volatile memory which is connected to the transmitting and receiving device and connected to control circuits. This is designed for writing and reading data. The data carrier is enclosed in a thin, hermetically sealed, roughly rectangular housing.

A bag made of an elastic material such as plastic, which can be opened at its narrow top side, is attached to the outside of the transport container. The data carrier is placed in this bag.

An aim of embodiments of the present invention seeks to reduce or resolve the problem of conventional refuse hatches, whether referred to herein or otherwise.

3 According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided apparatus for controlling the opening of a refuse hatch through which a refuse collection chamber may be accessed via a chute, the apparatus comprising a reader/writer device for location in the vicinity of the refuse hatch, at least one transponder carrying data which corresponds to data in at least one memory, a microcomputer for comparing the data on the transponder with the data in the memory, and an opener responsive to the outcome of said data comparison whereby the hatch may be opened only in the event that the transponder is positively identified as a valid transponder.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a refuse hatch for buildings with connected chutes for the disposal and transport of refuse, which terminate in at least one chamber, where the chute is accessible via a hatch for the disposal of refuse, and the hatch is connected to a guide via a carrier, wherein a reader/writer device is located in the vicinity of the refuse hatch which records the data on at least one transponder and supplies the transponder with electrical energy, the reader/writer device is connected to a microcomputer that compares the data on the transponder with the data in a memory and saves each positive comparison as a transaction, the microcomputer is connected to an opener which is activated electronically to unlock the refuse hatch and therefore the chute, the microcomputer is connected to a status contact which is switched when the refuse hatch is closed and the opener cannot be activated and the microcomputer is connected to at least one display mechanism which indicates its opening state.

4 The particular characteristic of the refuse hatch for buildings with connected chutes for the disposal and transport of refuse is that it can only be opened by authorised persons. Authorised persons are those persons who are in the possession of at least one valid transponder. A valid transponder carries data which corresponds to data contained in at least one memory connected to the reader/writer device via a microcomputer.

Only after the transponder is positively identified can the refuse hatch be opened. The test of the data on the transponder takes place exclusively using the reader/writer device and a connected microcomputer with at least one memory which is installed in the immediate vicinity of the refuse hatch.

A further advantage of the reader/writer device is the fact that it supplies the transponder with electrical energy. This eliminates the need for active authorisation cards, so that energy sources (e.g. chemical energy sources) are not necessary, and also means that the transponders can be used at all times. This eliminates the possibility that the refuse hatch will not work, due to insufficient electrical energy in the authorisation card. At the same time, the fact that no batteries are used reduces costs, and means that no expenses are incurred for environmentally friendly disposal.

Each use of the refuse hatch is simultaneously registered by the microcomputer as a transaction and recorded in the memory. The memory capacity is sufficiently large for data to be held for long periods before being queried or I uploaded. This ensures that a single, annual calculation of the cardholder's use of the refuse hatch is possible.

Memory or memories of a sufficiently large capacity can also be used to substantially extend this period if necessary.

The most current data can also be transferred on to the memory of the transponder via the reader/writer device, so that the data can also be read externally.

A status contact signals that refuse has been disposed of via the refuse hatch and causes a transaction to be recorded in the microcomputer.

is At least one display system simplifies use of the refuse hatch and also signals its readiness for operation.

The particular benefit of the invented system with a read and/or write device including a microcomputer with at least one memory and an opener is that it can be easily installed in existing refuse hatches.

Preferably, several microcomputers are either connected in a fixed manner or can be connected, either via a data line or via data lines and data concentration device to least one computer with an input/output apparatus, said at least one computer records and manages the data on at least one transponder and the transactions in the memory of the microcomputer and contains new data for transponder in at least one memory which is connected to the microcomputer.

6 Preferably, the microcomputers are either connected via a data line or via data lines and a data concentration device to at least one computer with at least one input/output apparatus, said at least one computer records and manages the data on at least one transponder and the transactions in the memory of the microcomputer and contains new data for transponder in at least one memory which is connected to the microcomputer, and continually adds up the accumulated weight and/or volume of refuse and signals when the refuse container must be collected.

The adaptations described in the two preceding paragraphs describe a computer connected to several microcomputers, facilitating easy reading of the data and fast analysis of the data in the microcomputers on the refuse hatch, which are connected to the computer. This means that fee calculation for more than one building can be carried out on a single computer. The calculation process is thus considerably simplif ied. The invented solution also has the advantage that the data on multiple microcomputers can be read using either a stationary or portable computer. A stationary computer is best suited to large systems, in smaller systems a laptop can be connected to the data line, for example in one building. The evaluation and calculation can then take place on another, stationary computer or on the laptop itself, which are each equipped with input and output devices.

Data concentration devices can also be connected between several microcomputers and the computer, so that the quantity of data transferred to the computer can be kept to a minimum. Such devices can be microcomputers for example.

7 Preferably, a clock is integrated in the microcomputer, thus enabling a time and date to be assigned to the data on the transponders and the transactions made.

The preceding paragraph describes a clock which is integrated and connected to the microcomputer and facilitates recording of the time of use of the refuse hatch. This means that the fee calculation is clear and comprehensible for both the tenant and the system operator, who can be either the landlord or the refuse disposal company.

Preferably, the memory takes the form of a volatile and/or a non-volatile memory and that the clock is connected to a chemical energy source which can be automatically activated in the event of power loss.

The preceding paragraph describes the protection of the data in the microcomputer in the event of power loss. At the same time they also ensure that the time of use is correctly recorded in the event of mains power failure.

Preferably, the reader/writer device consists of a coil capacitor oscillator (hereinafter referred to as an LC oscillator) as a sine wave generator, and of a serial circuit with a receiver coil, a demodulator, a selective amplifier and a comparator.

In the preceding paragraph the reader/writer device consist firstly of an LC oscillator and secondly of a serial circuit with a receiver coil, a demodulator, a selective amplifier and a comparator. The LC oscillator 8 has a transmitter coil and the demodulator has a receiver coil.

Preferably, the reader/writer device consists of an LC oscillator and of a serial circuit with a demodulator, a selective amplifier and a comparator, and that the coil of the LC oscillator is at the same time connected to the input of the demodulator.

In the preceding paragraph the reader/writer device consists firstly of an LC oscillator and secondly of a serial circuit with a receiver coil, a demodulator and a comparator. In this case only one coil is used, which functions as a transmitter coil in conjunction with the LC oscillator and as a receiver coil with the demodulator.

The reader/writer device for the transponders as described in the four preceding paragraphs is characterised by the fact that it records the data on the transponders without contact to them and simultaneously provides them with power.

In con3unction with a PIC processor as the microcomputer, the invented solution uses very little power (PIC is the Trade Name of the relevant processor chip sold by Microchip of the USA).

Preferably, a light barrier is arranged in the chute near the refuse hatch, so that refuse entered into the hatch interrupts the light beams of the light barrier.

9 Preferably, the photodetector of the light barrier is connected to the microcomputer, either directly or via a switching amplifier.

The light barrier described in the two preceding paragraphs ensures that a transaction is recorded only after refuse has been deposited via the hatch. Unintentional or mistaken use is not recorded as a transaction in the microcomputer.

Preferably, several light barriers are arranged in the direction of the chamber in the chute near the refuse hatch, so that refuse entered into the hatch interrupts at least one of the light beams of the light barriers.

Preferably, the light barriers are arranged in a fixed grid pattern.

Preferably, the photodetectors of the light barriers are connected either directly or via a switching amplifier to a microcomputer, which compares the data on the transponders to the data in a memory and estimates the volume of refuse using the length of the refuse bag and the cross-section area of the chute.

The preceding three paragraphs describe a number of light barriers, preferably arranged in a grid, which facilitate estimation of the amount of refuse disposed of via the hatch. This makes it possible to continuously record the amount of refuse in the collection chamber and arrange for collection when a specified amount has accumulated. This means collection only takes place when the containers are full, thus practically eliminating trips with refuse disposal vehicles which are not at full capacity. This minimises the number of trips made, thus substantially reducing the costs of refuse collection and pollution in the form of exhaust fumes.

Preferably, a separate area of the lower horizontal wall is separated from it with a plate on springs and that at least one of the springs contains a sensor which changes its electrical properties or causes a change in electrical potential if pressure is applied or it becomes subject to deformation, or that between the separate area and a fixed part of the building there is at least one sensor which changes its electrical properties or causes a change in electrical potential if pressure is applied or it becomes subject to deformation, and that the sensor is connected to the microcomputer.

The plate of the preceding paragraph enables the operator to measure the weight of refuse deposited in the refuse chute. This facilitates calculation by weight and optimises the utilisation of refuse collection vehicles. Sensors with piezoelectric materials are used to determine the weight.

Preferably, the opener is a hook-shaped element which can be moved electromagnetically and prevents movement of the refuse hatch when the opener is not activated.

The preceding paragraph describes an improved design of the opener, consisting of an electromagnetically movable, hook-shaped element which locks the refuse hatch when the opener is not activated.

11 Preferably the refuse hatch is arranged in a frame so that it can be moved, and that the frame also carries the reader/writer device, that a guide plate is attached to at least one vertical edge of the frame, that the guide plate extends into or towards the refuse chute, that the guide plate has an arch-shaped opening, that the opening contains a sliding block, that the sliding block is connected to the carrier in a movable fashion, that the sliding block is equipped with at least one rotatable lever and that a spring is arranged between the lever, and the sliding block to push the lever towards one edge of the opening.

The preceding paragraph describes a driving mechanism for the refuse hatch. A rotary, sprung lever attached to a sliding block in the arch-shaped opening in the guide plate facilitates adjustment of the movement of the refuse hatch. The spring determines the force needed to open the refuse hatch. This prevents the refuse hatch from being opened with no counterforce.

Preferably, the opening has several opposite pairs of recesses, that the opposite recesses are the same size, that the sliding block is equipped with two rotatable levers which are aligned towards the edges of the opening, that at least one spring is connected to the levers to push them towards the nearest edge of the opening, that the first and last pairs of recesses on the refuse hatch are designed so that the levers and the symmetrical axis of the opening form a 900 angle and that the other pairs of recesses are designed so that the levers and the symmetrical axis of the opening form an angle less than or greater than 900.

12 The use of several levers on the sliding block in the guide plate in connection with the recesses as described in the preceding paragraph means that the refuse hatch can S only be moved in one direction (opened or closed) between the end positions. When the refuse hatch is opened it must then be opened to its fullest extent. When the refuse hatch is moving, the levers point in the opposite direction to that in which the refuse hatch is moved.

When the refuse hatch is moved in the other direction the springs cause the levers to snap into the appropriate recesses, thus braking the refuse hatch so that it can not be moved in that direction. This practically eliminates manipulation during use of the refuse hatch.

is Preferably, a pair of recesses are arranged immediately after the first pair of recesses in the direction of movement of the refuse hatch, and that this pair is designed so that the levers and the symmetrical axis of the opening form an angle less than or greater than 900.

The arrangement described in the preceding paragraph supports this function. If the refuse hatch is only slightly opened, it cannot be locked again before it has been opened to its fullest extent.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a refuse hatch incorporating control apparatus according to any of the ninth or subsequent paragraphs hereof.

13 Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a view of the refuse hatch.

Figure 2 is a block diagram of the refuse hatch.

Figure 3 illustrates the theoretical structure of the 10 guide mechanism including the sliding block and levers.

Figure 4 illustrates the theoretical structure of the opening of the guide plate.

The refuse chute is suitable for buildings with connected chutes which terminate in at least one chamber and are used for the disposal and transport of refuse. The user can access the chute via a manually movable refuse hatch Next to the refuse hatch (1) is a reader device (3), which is located either in a separately attached casing or behind a separating wall. This serves firstly to supply power to and secondly to read the data on at least one 25 transponder (2). Both these processes are contact-free. To do this the transponder (2) is presented to the reader device (3). The function is displayed to the user with a suitable display system consisting of a light emitting diode (9a).

The reader device (3) for contact-free reading of the data in at least one transponder (2), where the power to the transponder (2) is supplied contact-free by the reader 14 device (3), consists in the first embodiment of the present invention of a separate LC oscillator as a sine wave generator and a serial circuit with a receiver coil, a demodulator, a selective amplifier and a comparator.

The LC oscillator is a field effect transistor sine wave generator with a frequency of 125 kHz + 5%. The gate of the field effect transistor is connected to a reference potential firstly via a resistor and secondly via a serial circuit consisting of a capacitor and a coil with a tap.

The tap of the coil is connected to the source of the field effect transistor and the source is connected to an operating voltage supply via a second resistor. This arrangement guarantees a low power consumption of <_ 3 mA, which is nevertheless sufficient to power a transponder (2). The demodulator takes the form of a point rectifier and the comparator that of an inverting Schmitt trigger. The power consumption of the demodulator, the comparator and the selective amplifier together is: 2 m.A.

The reader device (3) for contact-free reading of the data in at least one transponder (2), where the power to the transponder (2) is supplied contact-free by the reader device (3), consists in the second embodiment of the present invention of an LC oscillator with a field effect transistor as a sine wave generator, and a serial circuit with a demodulator, a selective amplifier and a comparator. The coil of the LC oscillator is connected to the input of the demodulator, so that it functions both as a transmitter coil to power the transponder (2) and as a receiver coil for the data on the transponder (2). The coil takes the form of an air-core coil. The LC oscillator consists of a field effect transistor, where the gate of the field effect transistor is connected to a reference potential firstly via a resistor and secondly via a serial circuit consisting of a capacitor and a coil with a tap. The tap of the coil is connected to the source of the field effect transistor and the source is connected to an operating voltage supply via a second resistor, with a second capacitor connected parallel to the coil. The oscillator frequency is 125 kHz + 5%. The power consumption of the LC oscillator is:! 3 mA.

The demodulator takes the form of a point rectifier and the comparator that of an inverting Schmitt trigger. The power consumption of the demodulator, the selective amplifier and the comparator together is: 2 mA.

The transponder (2) is contained in a custom-designed casing, usually in the form of a card, a key, a key fob or a badge.

The reader device (3) is connected via a data line to microcomputer (4),which is connected to or contains at least one memory (5). The microcomputer (4) compares the data on at least one transponder (2) with the data in the memory (5). If the comparison is positive, f irstly an electric opener (10) connected to the microcomputer (4) is activated and secondly the opening is recorded as a transaction in the memory (5) via the microcomputer (4). The unlocking of the opener (10) is indicated by a display apparatus in the form of a light emitting diode (9b).

using a clock (8) which is integrated in the microcomputer (4) the transaction is simultaneously associated with the current time and data. The opener (10) consists of a hook which can be moved electromagnetically and which is 16 latched into a groove in a guide for the refuse hatch (1) when the refuse hatch (1) is closed.

When the refuse hatch (1) is closed a status contact (11) is opened (or closed) and assumes the opposite state when the refuse hatch (1) is opened.

The microcomputers (4) in, for example, one building are connected via a f ixed or removable data line (6) to at least one computer (7) In the first case the computer (7) is a personal computer and in the second case the computer (7) is a laptop.

The computer (7) has at least one input/output apparatus in the form of a keyboard, a screen, a memory and a printer. The computer (7) records the data on at least one transponder (2) and the transactions contained in the memory (5) of the microcomputer (4) At the same time, new transponder (2) data can be downloaded into the microcomputers (4).

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the construction and implementation of this version of the refuse hatch are the same as that described previously except that the refuse chute is equipped with at least one light barrier consisting of a light source and a photodetector. The light barrier is located in the refuse chute so that the light beams cross the chute, preferably in two corners of the chute. The refuse bags normally have a rounded cross-section, so that the light barrier is easy to install in existing chutes, as any parts of the light barrier which protrude slightly from the wall of the chute do not seriously hinder the passage of the refuse.

17 This means that it is extremely unlikely that the refuse can become struck in the chute.

The light barrier's photodetector is connected to the microcomputer (4) either directly or via a switching amplifier, so that any interruption of the light beam is recorded. The light source can emit light continuously, or only when the opener (10) is activated.

Another variation of this embodiment contains light barriers which are arranged in a specific grid successively in the chute. By recording the number of light beams broken by the refuse bag immediately after light beams again strike the first photodetector, it is possible to estimate the volume of the refuse using the cross-section area of the chute. This value is transferred via the data line from the microcomputer (4) to the computer (7) and then added up to calculate the degree to which the chamber at the end of the chute is filled. This enables the operator to optimise collection of the refuse by a disposal company, therefore facilitating maximum utilisation of the refuse disposal vehicles.

In the subsequent example designs the reader device (3) as described in the first and second embodiments is a reader/writer device, which means that the current data can be recorded not only in the memory, but also in the transponder itself. Calculation can then be performed in both the microcomputer and the transponders.

In the following embodiment part of the lower horizontal wall is separated with a plate.

18 In a f irst variant this plate is arranged opposite the wall on one or more springs. At least one of the springs contains a sensor which changes its electrical properties or causes a change in electrical potential if pressure is applied or it becomes subject to deformation.

In a second variant this plate is connected to a f ixed part of the building with at least one sensor which changes its electrical properties or causes a change in electrical potential if pressure is applied or it becomes subject to deformation.

The sensors in these two variants are connected to the microcomputer (4), so that the weight of the refuse disposed of can be recorded, stored, evaluated and processed.

In a further alternative embodiment, the implementation of a reader/writer device (3) including possible recording of the refuse weight or volume corresponds to that described in the previous embodiments.

In this embodiment, the refuse hatch (1) is arranged in a frame (101) using at least one hinge for movement. The refuse hatch (1) itself can be adapted so that it opens inwards or outwards from the refuse chute.

The frame (101) also holds the reader/writer device (3) (see figure 1). A guide plate is f itted to one of the vertical edges of the frame (101). This is aligned towards the refuse chute and has an arch- shaped opening (111) which forms the guide. A sliding block (12) is 19 located in the opener (111) which is connected to the carrier in a movable fashion. The components of the sliding block (12) are two rotatable levers (13a, 13b), which are aligned to the edges of the opening (111) which functions as a guide. The levers (13a, 13b) are elliptical, triangular, wedge-shaped or flat elements, where the rotating point of the levers (13a, 13b), are outside the longest symmetrical axis and point along the direction of the longer edge. A spring (14) presses the levers (13a, 13b) towards whichever edge of the opening (111) is nearest. The spring (14) itself is a spiral spring, the ends of which are connected to one of the levers (13a, 13b). This means the levers (13a, 13b) can be moved in two directions towards each other. The is illustration in figure 3 shows this arrangement.

The opening (111) in the guide plate has several successive recesses (15, 16), arranged in opposite pairs (see figure 4). Each opposite pair of recesses (15, 16) is the same size. The first and last pairs of recesses (15) on the refuse hatch (1) are designed so that the levers (13a, 13b) and the symmetrical axis of the opening (11) form a 900 angle (see figure 4). The pairs arranged between them (16) are designed so that the levers (13a, 13b) and the symmetrical axis of the opening (11) form an angle less than or greater than 900. The first pair of recesses of this type is directly behind the first pair of recesses arranged in the direction ofmovement of the refuse hatch (1).

The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features lo and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extend to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

21

Claims

1. Apparatus for controlling the opening of a refuse hatch through which a refuse collection chamber may be accessed via a chute, the apparatus comprising a reader/writer device for location in the vicinity of the refuse hatch, at least one transponder carrying data which corresponds to data in at least one memory, a microcomputer for comparing the data on the transponder with the data in the memory, and an opener responsive to the outcome of said data comparison whereby the hatch may be opened only in the event that the transponder is positively identified as a valid transponder.

2. A refuse hatch for buildings with connected chutes for the disposal and transport of refuse, which terminate in at least one chamber, where the chute is accessible via a hatch for the disposal of refuse, and the hatch is connected to a guide via a carrier, wherein a reader/writer device is located in the vicinity of the refuse hatch which records the data on at least one transponder and supplies the transponder with electrical energy, the reader/writer device is connected to a microcomputer that compares the data on the transponder with the data in a memory and saves each positive comparison as a transaction, the microcomputer is connected to an opener which is activated electronically to unlock the refuse hatch and therefore the chute, the microcomputer is connected to a status contact which is switched when the refuse hatch is closed and the opener cannot be activated and the microcomputer is connected to at least one display mechanism which indicates its opening state.

22

3. A refuse hatch according to claim 2 or control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein several microcomputers are either connected in a f ixed manner or can be connected, either via a data line or via data lines and data concentration device to least one computer with an input/output apparatus, said at least one computer records and manages the data on at least one transponder and the transactions in the memory of the microcomputer and contains new data f or transponder in at least one memory which is connected to the microcomputer.

4. A refuse hatch according to claim 2 or claim 3, or control apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 3 wherein a clock is integrated in the microcomputer, thus enabling a time and date to be assigned to the data on the transponders and the transactions made.

5. A refuse hatch or control apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the memory takes the form of a volatile and/or a non-volatile memory and that the clock is connected to a chemical energy source which can be automatically activated in the event of power loss.

6. A refuse hatch according to any of claims 2 to 5, or control apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the reader/writer device consists of an LC oscillator as a sine wave generator, and of a serial circuit with a receiver coil, a demodulator, a selective amplifier and a comparator.

7. A refuse hatch according to any of claims 2 to 6, or control apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 6, 23 wherein the reader/writer device consists of an LC oscillator and of a serial circuit with a demodulator, a selective amplifier and a comparator, and that the coil of the LC oscillator is at the same time connected to the 5 input of the demodulator.

B. A refuse hatch according to any of claims 2 to 7, or control apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein a light barrier is arranged in the chute near the refuse hatch, so that refuse entered into the hatch interrupts the light beams of the light barrier.

9. A refuse hatch or control apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the photodetector of the light barrier is connected to the microcomputer, either directly or via a switching amplifier.

10. A refuse hatch according to any of claims 2 to 9, or control apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 9, wherein several light barriers are arranged in the direction of the chamber in the chute near the refuse hatch, so that refuse entered into the hatch interrupts at least one of the light beams of the light barriers.

11. A refuse hatch according to any of claims 2 to 10, or control apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the light barriers are arranged in a fixed grid pattern.

12. A refuse hatch or control apparatus according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the photodetectors of the light barriers are connected either directly or via a switching amplifier to a microcomputer, which compares the data on 24 the transponders to the data in a memory and estimates the volume of refuse using the length of the refuse bag and the cross-section area of the chute.

13. A refuse hatch according to any of claims 2 to 12, or control apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 12, wherein a separate area of the lower horizontal wall is separated f rom it with a plate on springs and that at least one of the springs contains a sensor which changes its electrical properties or causes a change in electrical potential if pressure is applied or it becomes subject to deformation, or that between the separate area and a fixed part of the building there is at least one sensor which changes its electrical properties or causes a change in electrical potential if pressure is applied or it becomes subject to deformation, and that the sensor is connected to the microcomputer.

14. A refuse hatch or control apparatus according to any of claims 8 to 13, wherein the microcomputers are either connected via a data line or via data lines and a data concentration device to at least one computer with at least one input/output apparatus, said at least one computer records and manages the data on at least one transponder and the transactions in the memory of the microcomputer and contains new data for transponder in at least one memory which is connected to the microcomputer, and continually adds up the accumulated weight and/or volume of refuse and signals when the refuse container must be collected.

15. A refuse hatch according to any of claims 2 to 14, or control apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 14, wherein the opener is a hook-shaped element which can be moved electromagnetically and prevents movement of the refuse hatch when the opener is not activated.

16. A refuse hatch according to any of claims 2 to 15, or control apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 15, wherein the refuse hatch is arranged in a frame so that it can be moved, and that the frame also carries the reader/writer device, that a guide plate is attached to at least one vertical edge of the frame, that the guide plate extends into or towards the refuse chute, that the guide plate has an arch-shaped opening, that the opening contains a sliding block, that the sliding block is connected to the carrier in a movable fashion, that the sliding block is equipped with at least one rotatable lever and that a spring is arranged between the lever, and the sliding block to push the lever towards one edge of the opening.

17. A refuse hatch or control apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the opening has several opposite pairs of recesses, that the opposite recesses are the same size, that the sliding block is equipped with two rotatable levers which are aligned towards the edges of the opening, that at least one spring is connected to the levers to push them towards the nearest edge of the opening, that the first and last pairs of recesses on the refuse hatch are designed so that the levers and the symmetrical axis of the opening form a 900 angle and that the other pairs of recesses are designed so that the levers and the symmetrical axis of the opening form an angle less than or greater than 900.

26

18. A reuse hatch or control apparatus according to claim 17, wherein a pair of recesses are arranged immediately after the first pair of recesses in the direction of movement of the refuse hatch, and that this pair is designed so that the levers and the symmetrical axis of the opening form an angle less than or greater than 900.

19. A refuse hatch incorporating control apparatus according to any of the preceding claims.

20. A refuse hatch substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

21. Control apparatus for a refuse hatch, the control apparatus being substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.