Classifications

• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F3/00—Vehicles particularly adapted for collecting refuse
  • B65F3/005—Hand-operated refuse vehicles
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F1/00—Refuse receptacles; Accessories therefor
  • B65F1/14—Other constructional features; Accessories
  • B65F1/1468—Means for facilitating the transport of the receptacle, e.g. wheels, rolls
  • B65F1/1473—Receptacles having wheels
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
  • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
  • B07C5/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or feature; Sorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F1/00—Refuse receptacles; Accessories therefor
  • B65F1/0033—Refuse receptacles; Accessories therefor specially adapted for segregated refuse collecting, e.g. receptacles with several compartments; Combination of receptacles
  • B65F1/0053—Combination of several receptacles
  • B65F1/006—Rigid receptacles stored in an enclosure or forming part of it
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F3/00—Vehicles particularly adapted for collecting refuse
  • B65F3/14—Vehicles particularly adapted for collecting refuse with devices for charging, distributing or compressing refuse in the interior of the tank of a refuse vehicle
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F3/00—Vehicles particularly adapted for collecting refuse
  • B65F3/24—Vehicles particularly adapted for collecting refuse with devices for unloading the tank of a refuse vehicle
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F9/00—Transferring of refuse between vehicles or containers with intermediate storage or pressing
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
  • B65G47/00—Article or material-handling devices associated with conveyors; Methods employing such devices
  • B65G47/34—Devices for discharging articles or materials from conveyor 
  • B65G47/44—Arrangements or applications of hoppers or chutes
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
  • B65G47/00—Article or material-handling devices associated with conveyors; Methods employing such devices
  • B65G47/34—Devices for discharging articles or materials from conveyor 
  • B65G47/46—Devices for discharging articles or materials from conveyor  and distributing, e.g. automatically, to desired points
  • B65G47/51—Devices for discharging articles or materials from conveyor  and distributing, e.g. automatically, to desired points according to unprogrammed signals, e.g. influenced by supply situation at destination
  • B65G47/5195—Devices for discharging articles or materials from conveyor  and distributing, e.g. automatically, to desired points according to unprogrammed signals, e.g. influenced by supply situation at destination for materials in bulk
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
  • B65G65/00—Loading or unloading
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
  • B65G65/00—Loading or unloading
  • B65G65/30—Methods or devices for filling or emptying bunkers, hoppers, tanks, or like containers, of interest apart from their use in particular chemical or physical processes or their application in particular machines, e.g. not covered by a single other subclass
  • B65G65/34—Emptying devices
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
  • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
  • B07C2501/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material to be sorted
  • B07C2501/0054—Sorting of waste or refuse
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F1/00—Refuse receptacles; Accessories therefor
  • B65F1/12—Refuse receptacles; Accessories therefor with devices facilitating emptying
  • B65F1/122—Features allowing the receptacle to be lifted and subsequently tipped by associated means on a vehicle
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F2210/00—Equipment of refuse receptacles
  • B65F2210/138—Identification means
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F2210/00—Equipment of refuse receptacles
  • B65F2210/165—Remote controls
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F2210/00—Equipment of refuse receptacles
  • B65F2210/184—Weighing means
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F2220/00—Properties of refuse receptacles
  • B65F2220/12—Properties of refuse receptacles nestable
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65F—GATHERING OR REMOVAL OF DOMESTIC OR LIKE REFUSE
  • B65F2250/00—Materials of refuse receptacles
  • B65F2250/11—Metal
  • B65F2250/112—Steel
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
  • B65G2201/00—Indexing codes relating to handling devices, e.g. conveyors, characterised by the type of product or load being conveyed or handled
  • B65G2201/04—Bulk
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
  • B65G2203/00—Indexing code relating to control or detection of the articles or the load carriers during conveying
  • B65G2203/02—Control or detection
  • B65G2203/0208—Control or detection relating to the transported articles
  • B65G2203/0258—Weight of the article
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
  • B65G65/00—Loading or unloading
  • B65G65/23—Devices for tilting and emptying of containers
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
  • G01G—WEIGHING
  • G01G19/00—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups
  • G01G19/08—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups for incorporation in vehicles
  • G01G19/12—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups for incorporation in vehicles having electrical weight-sensitive devices
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02W—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO WASTEWATER TREATMENT OR WASTE MANAGEMENT
  • Y02W30/00—Technologies for solid waste management
  • Y02W30/10—Waste collection, transportation, transfer or storage, e.g. segregated refuse collecting, electric or hybrid propulsion

Definitions

• This invention relates to carts for receiving debris from ajobsite, as well as systems and methods for using such carts to process debris.
• the system can have at least one cart, a lifting apparatus, and a first conveyor assembly (e.g., an upstream conveyor assembly).
• Each cart can have a base, a plurality of wheels extending downwardly from the base relative to a vertical axis, and a plurality of walls extending upwardly from the base. The walls and the base of each cart can cooperate to define a debris- receiving space.
• the lifting apparatus can have at least one arm assembly configured to engage a portion of the base of a respective cart of the at least one cart when the cart is in a resting position.
• the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus can be selectively rotatable relative to a rotational axis to move the cart about and between the resting position and an unloading position.
• the cart can reach the unloading position following rotational movement of the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus along an arcuate path having an arc length ranging from about 130 degrees to about 170 degrees.
• the first conveyor assembly can be configured to receive debris from the at least one cart when the at least one cart is in the unloading position.
• the system can further comprise a plurality of bins capable of receiving debris.
• Each bin can have a base assembly having a base that can be configured for selective movement about and between an open position and a closed position, and an actuator that can be operatively coupled to the base and operable to effect selective movement of the base about and between the open position and the closed position.
• Each bin of the plurality of bins can have a plurality of walls coupled to and extending upwardly from the base. The plurality of walls and the base can cooperate to define an interior space.
• the system can further include a downstream conveyor assembly configured to deliver debris toward the plurality of bins.
• the downstream conveyor assembly can have a top surface that is positioned in communication with at least one wall of each bin of the plurality of bins to facilitate delivery of debris into the interior space of each bin.
• the base can be configured to dispense debris from the interior space of the bin through the base.
• the method can include providing at least one cart to a jobsite, transporting the at least one cart from the jobsite to a debris processing facility, and effecting engagement between at least one arm assembly of a lifting apparatus and a first cart of the at least one cart.
• Each cart can have a base, a plurality of wheels extending downwardly from the base relative to a vertical axis, and a plurality of walls extending upwardly from the base. The walls and the base of each cart can cooperate to define a debris-receiving space.
• the debris processing facility can include a lifting apparatus and a first conveyor assembly.
• the method can include selectively rotating the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus relative to a rotational axis to move the first cart from a resting position to an unloading position.
• the first cart reaches the unloading position following rotational movement of the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus along an arcuate path having an arc length ranging from about 130 degrees to about 170 degrees.
• the first conveyor assembly can receive debris exiting the first cart.
• the first conveyor assembly (e.g., upstream conveyor assembly) can then deliver the debris onto a downstream conveyor assembly, which in turn, can transport the debris to a position corresponding to (e.g., in alignment or communication with) at least one bin of the plurality of bins such that the debris can be moved into the at least one bin of the plurality of bins.
• the actuator associated with the base assembly of each bin can be activated to effect movement of the base of the bin from the closed position toward the open position. With the base situated in the open position, the debris from the at least one bin can be unloaded into at least one container positioned below the at least one bin.
• a debris cart having a base, a plurality of wheels extending downwardly from the base relative to a vertical axis, a plurality of walls extending upwardly from the base of the base assembly, and a plurality of receptacles extending downwardly from the base.
• the plurality of walls cooperate with the base to define a debris-receiving space.
• the plurality of walls can include opposed front and back walls and opposed first and second side walls.
• the first and second side walls extend between and are connected to the front and back walls.
• Each wall of the plurality of walls has a rounded upper edge.
• the front and back walls have respective outer surfaces.
• the outer surfaces of the front and back walls are axially tapered at a first taper angle relative to the vertical axis.
• the first and second side walls have respective outer surfaces. Moving from the rounded upper edge of each side wall to the base, the outer surfaces of the first and second side walls are axially tapered at a second taper angle relative to the vertical axis.
• the plurality of receptacles can include: a first set of receptacles having at least one row of receptacles aligned relative to a longitudinal axis extending through the opposed first and second side walls of the cart; and a second set of receptacles having at least one row of receptacles aligned relative to a transverse axis extending through the opposed walls of the cart.
• FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary cart as disclosed herein;
• FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the cart of FIG. 1;
• FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side elevational of the cart of FIG. 1, taken at line 3-3;
• FIG. 4 is a right side elevational view of the cart of FIG. 1 ;
• FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the cart of FIG. 1 ;
• FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view of the cart of FIG. 1 ;
• FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of a plurality of carts positioned in a stacked configuration as disclosed herein;
• FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary system for processing debris as disclosed herein;
• FIG. 8B is a side elevational view of an exemplary lifting apparatus as disclosed herein;
• FIG. 8C is a front elevational view of the lifting apparatus of FIG. 8B;
• FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary system for processing debris as disclosed herein;
• FIG. 1 OA is a side view of an exemplary bin having a base situated in a closed position as disclosed herein;
• FIG. 10B shows the exemplary bin of FIG. 10A, with the base moved to an open position as disclosed herein;
• FIG. IOC is a rear view of the exemplary bin of FIG. 10A;
• FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary system for processing debris that includes a plurality of bins as disclosed herein;
• FIG. 12 is a side view of an exemplary system for processing debris, showing a downstream conveyor assembly having a top surface that is positioned in communication with at least one wall of a bin as disclosed herein;
• FIG. 13 is a side view of an exemplary system for processing debris, showing an arrangement in which a downstream conveyor assembly is situated between opposing bins as disclosed herein;
• FIGS. 14A-14F are schematic diagrams of an exemplary bin, showing the sequential movement of the base from the closed position (FIG. 14A) toward the open position (FIGS. 14B-14C), followed by discharge of debris from the interior space of the bin (FIGS. 14D-14E), and subsequent return of the base to the closed position as disclosed herein (FIG. 14F); and
• FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary system for processing debris as disclosed herein.
• Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to "about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect comprises from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.
• first conveyor assembly and “upstream conveyor assembly” are used interchangeably to refer to a conveyor assembly that is configured to receive debris from at least one cart when the cart is in an unloading position, as described herein.
• second conveyor assembly and “downstream conveyor assembly” are used interchangeably to refer to a conveyor assembly that receives debris from a first conveyor assembly or an upstream conveyor assembly as disclosed herein.
• the second conveyor assembly and the downstream conveyor assembly can be configured to deliver debris toward a plurality of bins, as described herein.
• debris refers to any discarded material, including, for example and without limitation, waste materials, rubbish, and the remains of broken down or destroyed materials.
• a system 100 for processing debris can comprise at least one cart 10.
• the cart 10 can have a base 20, a plurality of wheels 70 extending downwardly from the base relative to a vertical axis 12, and a plurality of walls 22, 30, 36, 42 extending upwardly from the base.
• the base can optionally have a rectangular shape, although other shapes are possible.
• the wheels 70 can permit selective movement of the cart 10 to achieve desired positioning and orientation of the cart.
• the wheels 70 can comprise casters as are known in the art.
• the plurality of wheels 70 can comprise four casters positioned proximate respective corners of the base 20 as shown in FIGS. 1-6.
• the casters can be polyurethane casters, such as, for example and without limitation, six-inch polyurethane casters as are known in the art. It is contemplated that the use of casters can provide stability to the cart 10 while also making the cart easier to roll and reducing floor markings.
• the casters can comprise a pair of swivel casters positioned proximate either the first or second side wall and a pair of rigid/fixed casters positioned proximate the other side wall. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the walls 22, 30, 36, 42 and the base 20 of each cart 10 can cooperate to define a debris-receiving space 50.
• each cart 10 can be provided with a lid that contains and conceals debris within the cart as the cart is selectively moved around a jobsite or debris processing location.
• each cart 10 can comprise a lid formed from hard plastic as is known in the art.
• each cart 10 can comprise a lid formed from a rimmed lid comprising soft elastic material as is known in the art. It is contemplated that the lid of each cart can comprise a single-piece lid or a plurality of lid portions that are independently moveable and that cooperate to define the lid.
• each cart 10 can be provided with one or more exterior bumper assemblies as are known in the art to reduce and/or eliminate scuffing or damage to walls and other surfaces as the carts are moved throughout a jobsite or debris processing location.
• the plurality of walls of each cart 10 can comprise opposed front and back walls 22, 30 and opposed first and second side walls 36, 42 that extend between and are connected to the front and back walls.
• each wall of the plurality of walls of each debris cart 10 can have a rounded upper edge 52. It is contemplated that the rounded (e.g., capped) edges of each cart 10 can prevent and/or reduce hand or limb injury during use of the cart.
• the front and back walls 22, 30 of each cart have respective outer surfaces 26, 32 and respective inner surfaces 28, 34. In these aspects, as shown in FIG.
• the outer surfaces 26, 32 of the front and back walls can be axially tapered at a first taper angle 54 relative to the vertical axis 2.
• the first taper angle 54 can range from about 0.3 degrees to about 10 degrees, from about 0.4 degrees to about 5 degrees, or from about 0.5 degrees to about 1.5 degrees.
• the first and second side walls 36, 42 can have respective outer surfaces 38, 44 and respective inner surfaces 40, 46.
• the outer surfaces 38, 44 of the first and second side walls can be axially tapered at a second taper angle 56 relative to the vertical axis 2.
• the first taper angle 54 can range from about 0.3 degrees to about 10 degrees, from about 0.4 degrees to about 5 degrees, from about 0.5 degrees to about 3 degrees, or from about 0.5 degrees to about 1.5 degrees.
• the front and back walls 22, 30 of the cart 10 can have a variable length that varies from a first length 64 at a top portion of the cart to a second length 66 at the base 20 of the cart.
• the first length 64 can range from about 30 inches to about 70 inches, from about 35 inches to about 65 inches, from about 40 inches to about 60 inches, from about 40 inches to about 45 inches, or from about 50 inches to about 60 inches.
• the first length can be about 55 inches and the second length can be about 53 inches.
• the first length can be about 43 inches and the second length can be about 40 inches.
• the first and second side walls 36, 42 of the cart 10 can have a variable width that varies from a first width 60 at a top portion of the cart to a second width 62 at the base 20 of the cart.
• the first width 60 can range from about 15 inches to about 45 inches, from about 20 inches to about 40 inches, from about 25 inches to about 35 inches, from about 25 inches to about 30 inches, or from about 30 inches to about 35 inches.
• the first width can be about 32 inches and the second width can be about 30 inches.
• the first width can be about 28 inches and the second width can be about 26 inches.
• it is contemplated that the first width can be about 32 inches and the second width can be about 30 inches.
• the first width can be about 28 inches and the second width can be about 26 inches.
• the walls of the cart 10 can have a consistent height 58 ranging from about 40 inches to about 60 inches or from about 45 inches to about 55 inches.
• the height 58 can be about 51 inches.
• the tapering of the walls 22, 30, 36, 42 of the carts 10 disclosed herein can provide for easy release of materials positioned within the debris- receiving space 50. As shown in FIG. 7, it is contemplated that the tapering of the walls 22, 30, 36, 42 of the carts 10 disclosed herein can permit stacking of groups of carts, thereby providing for easy storage and/or transport of the carts while minimizing the amount of space occupied by the carts. Thus, it is contemplated that the tapering of the walls of the carts 10 can serve both an ornamental and a functional purpose.
• At least one of the side walls 36, 42 of the cart 10 can comprise a slot 48 that permits access to material positioned within the debris- receiving space 50 of the cart.
• the slot can have a trapezoidal or substantially trapezoidal shape as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3-4. However, it is contemplated that any shape can be used to form the slot 48.
• the slot can extend downwardly from portions of the rounded upper edge 52 of the cart 10.
• the side wall 36, 42 can entirely enclose the slot 48.
• the slot can be provided with a cover.
• each debris cart 10 can comprise a plurality of receptacles extending downwardly from the base 20. It is contemplated that the receptacles can optionally have a rectangular or substantially rectangular shape; however, it is contemplated that any shape complementary to the lifting apparatus (e.g., a round shape) can be used.
• the plurality of receptacles can comprise a first set of receptacles 80a, 80b having at least one row of receptacles aligned relative to a longitudinal axis 4 extending through the opposed first and second side walls 36, 42 of the cart and being perpendicular to the vertical axis 2.
• the plurality of receptacles can further comprise a second set of receptacles 82a, 82b having at least one row of receptacles aligned relative to a transverse axis 16 extending through the opposed front and back walls 22, 30 of the cart and being
• each set of receptacles can comprise a plurality of rows of aligned receptacles.
• the cart 10 can comprise at least one floor lock 90, such as a conventional floor lock brake as is known in the art.
• the floor lock 90 can extend downwardly from the base 20 and be configured for selective engagement by a worker (for example, by a worker's foot) to activate the floor lock.
• the floor lock 90 can be positioned between (optionally, centered between) a pair of wheels 70 (e.g., casters) on one side of the cart 10.
• the wheels 70 can comprise a pair of swivel casters positioned on the same side of the cart as the floor lock 90, thereby permitting optimum control of the cart.
• the cart 10 can comprise a plurality of folding (e.g., hinged) handles 95 that are secured to at least one side wall 36, 42 of the cart.
• folding handles 95 can permit manual control of the movement of the cart 10, while the folding of the handles ensures that the carts have a reduced profile during transport and stacking (for example, in tight spaces).
• handles 95 can be secured to both side walls 36, 42.
• each cart can be assigned a unique identifier and provided with indicia of the unique identifier.
• exemplary forms of indicia include barcodes, radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags, sensors, and the like. In use, it is contemplated that these forms of indicia can be used to track the location of a particular cart 10 and provide a system controller 160 as further disclosed herein with the ability to associate information with the unique identifier of the cart.
• the cart 10 can be constructed entirely from steel, thereby limiting and/or preventing side bulging and mechanical failure.
• the walls of the cart 10 can be seem-welded to prevent and/or minimize liquid escape from the debris-receiving space 50.
• the system 100 can further comprise a lifting apparatus 120 having at least one arm assembly configured to engage a portion of the base 20 of a respective cart 10 of the at least one cart when the cart is in a resting position.
• the resting position can correspond to a position in which the wheels 70 of the cart 10 are resting on a flat surface.
• the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus 120 can be selectively rotatable relative to a rotational axis 123 to move the cart about and between the resting position and an unloading position.
• the lifting apparatus 120 can comprise an axle 124 through which the rotational axis 123 passes. As shown in FIG. 8A, the cart 10 can reach the unloading position following rotational movement of the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus 120 along an arcuate path having an arc length 130 ranging from about 105 to about 175 degrees and more preferably, from about 130 degrees to about 170 degrees.
• the lifting apparatus 120 can comprise an actuator coupled to the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus.
• the actuator can be configured to effect selective rotational movement of the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus 120.
• the actuator can be any conventional actuator that is capable of creating rotational movement of the lifting apparatus 120.
• the actuator can be a hydraulic actuator; however it is contemplated that other rotational actuators (e.g., pneumatic, mechanical, or
• electromechanical actuators can be used.
• the system can comprise a housing 250 that at least partially encloses or surrounds the lift apparatus 120.
• the housing 250 can comprise at least one wall (e.g., a plurality of walls) that surrounds at least a portion of the area where active rotational movement of the carts occurs.
• the housing 250 can improve the safety of unloading operations by shielding system operators from the active unloading area.
• the housing 250 can define a lift door 252 as further disclosed herein. In these aspects, the lift door can receive individual carts prior to unloading.
• opening, closing, and locking of the lift door can be selectively controlled as disclosed herein by the system controller, which can be communicatively coupled to an actuator (e.g., a linear actuator, such as a hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, or electromechanical actuator) that is configured to selectively move the lift door about and between an open position and a closed position.
• an actuator e.g., a linear actuator, such as a hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, or electromechanical actuator
• the lift door can be closed (and locked) to restrict inadvertent entry of additional carts until processing of a particular cart is completed.
• the housing can comprise containment walls that extend along at least a portion of the length of the conveyor assembly disclosed herein.
• each arm assembly of the lifting apparatus 120 can comprise an arm 122, which can be secured or otherwise coupled to axle 124, and at least one engagement element 128 coupled to the arm and configured to engage the base 20 of the cart 10.
• each receptacle 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b of the cart can be configured to receive a corresponding engagement element 128 of the lifting apparatus 120.
• the at least one engagement element 128 can be configured to engage either the first set of receptacles 80a, 80b or the second set of receptacles 82a, 82b of each cart 10 depending upon the orientation of the cart.
• each engagement element 128 can extend at least partially within each receptacle of a corresponding set of receptacles.
• the arm assembly rotates relative to the arcuate path. As shown in FIG. 8A, the engagement elements 128 and the base 20 of the cart 10 are initially positioned in a horizontal (0 degree) orientation.
• the engagement elements 128 and the base 20 of the cart 10 are positioned at an obtuse angle (corresponding to arc length 128) relative to the ground, with the inner surface of the base 20 (and the debris-receiving space 50) facing the ground, thereby permitting gravity-assisted unloading of debris from the cart.
• the at least one engagement element 128 of each arm assembly can be pivotally coupled to the arm 122 of the arm assembly.
• FIG. 8B depicts an exemplary pivot point 125 where the at least one engagement element 128 can be pivotally coupled to the arm 122.
• the arm assembly can further comprise a mount 126 to which the at least one engagement element 128 is secured (e.g., mounted), and the mount can be pivotally coupled to the arm 122 at the pivot point 125, thereby pivotally coupling the at least one engagement element to the arm.
• the pivot point 125 can comprise a conventional pivotal connection, such as, for example and without limitation, a pin connection.
• the pivotal connection can permit adjustment of the position of the at least one engagement element 128 to provide for optimal positioning of the engagement elements relative to the cart 10.
• the mount 126 and the engagement elements 128) can be rotated at the pivot point 125 to adjust the vertical location of the engagement elements.
• the arm 122 can optionally comprise a plurality of openings or slots spaced along the length of the arm, with each opening (or group of aligned openings) being configured to receive a pin to thereby permit adjustment of the location of the pivot point 125 (by allowing for pivotal coupling of the mount 126 at a variety of locations relative to the length of the arm).
• the at least one engagement element 128 can be configured for selective axial movement relative to the rotational axis 123.
• the arm 122 can be slidingly coupled to a pin to permit axial movement of the arm 122 (and consequently, the mount 126 and engagement elements 128) relative to the rotational axis 123.
• the mount 126 can be slidingly coupled to a pin secured at a distal portion of the arm 122 to permit axial movement of the mount (and consequently, the engagement elements 128) relative to the rotational axis.
• the pivot point 125 can optionally provide for selective vertical and/or horizontal movement of the at least one engagement element 128, thereby ensuring optimal engagement with a cart 10 as further disclosed herein.
• one or more actuators can be coupled to the mount, the arm, and/or the engagement elements to effect desired rotational or axial movement of the engagement elements as disclosed herein.
• the mount and/or engagement elements can be locked in a desired position relative to the arm using conventional locking mechanisms.
• the engagement elements can be selectively replaceable.
• a first engagement element assembly can be detached from the mount and/or arm and replaced with a second engagement element assembly that is more compatible with a given type of cart.
• the at least one engagement element can be secured to the mount using conventional fasteners as are known in the art.
• the at least one engagement element can be integrally formed with or permanently secured to the mount 126.
• each engagement element can be independently axially moveable relative to at least one other engagement element.
• the engagement elements can be slidingly coupled to a portion of the mount and/or a portion of the arm to permit selective, independent movement of the engagement elements relative to the rotational axis 123.
• individual engagement elements can be selectively axially moved relative to the rotational axis 123 to create desired spacing between the engagement elements, as may be required when carts having varying receptacle configurations are used.
• the at least one engagement element 128 can comprise a plurality of elongate fingers as shown in FIGS. 8B-8C.
• the plurality of elongate fingers can be oriented parallel or substantially parallel to one another to define a "fork" configuration.
• engagement between the plurality of elongate fingers can occur when each finger is received within at least a portion of each receptacle within a corresponding row of receptacles.
• the system 100 can further comprise a first conveyor assembly 140 configured to receive debris from the at least one cart 10 when the at least one cart is in the unloading position.
• the system 100 can still further comprise a second conveyor assembly 150.
• the second conveyor assembly 150 can be positioned downstream of the first conveyor assembly 140 such that the first conveyor assembly 140 is configured to deliver debris to the second conveyor assembly at a selectively adjustable rate. It is contemplated that the conveyor can support and operate at multiple, selectively adjustable speeds (e.g., normal speed, slow speed, and jog mode).
• the jog mode can trigger the conveyor belts to move a specified distance (e.g., two feet), pause for a period of time (e.g., 30 seconds) and then repeat this sequence of movement and pausing. It is contemplated that the jog mode can ensure that the volume of debris delivered to the second (e.g., downstream) conveyor is maintained at a manageable level for performing downstream debris processing tasks.
• the system 100 for processing debris can comprise a plurality of bins 170 capable of receiving debris 230. In these aspects, and as shown in FIGS.
• each bin of the plurality of bins 170 can include a base assembly 172 and at least one wall (e.g., a plurality of walls 178, 180, 182, 184).
• the base assembly 172 can comprise a base 174 (e.g., a panel or door) and an actuator 175.
• the base 174 can be configured for selective movement about and between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the base 174 can cooperate with the at least one wall (e.g., the plurality of walls) to define a receptacle for debris received within the bin 170, with the base 174 providing support below the debris within the bin.
• the base 174 can move (e.g., translate, rotate, pivot, and the like) relative to the at least one wall of the bin to thereby define an opening through which debris can pass (in a downward direction).
• the base 174 can have a rectangular shape, although other shapes are possible.
• the actuator 175 can be operatively coupled to the base 174.
• the actuator 175 can be operable to effect selective movement of the base about and between the open position and the closed position.
• the actuator 175 can effect movement of the base relative to a transverse axis 156, which can be perpendicular to a conveyor axis 154, as further described herein.
• the actuator 175 can be configured to effect selective axial movement of the base 174.
• the actuator 175 can be configured to effect a selective rotational movement of the base 174.
• the actuator 175 can be any conventional actuator that is capable of effecting rotational or linear movement of the base.
• the actuator 175 can be a hydraulic actuator; however it is contemplated that other rotational or linear actuators (e.g., pneumatic, mechanical, or electromechanical actuators) can be used.
• the base assembly can comprise at least one roller or wheel 176 that is coupled to the base 174 and that engages a guide rail extending parallel or substantially parallel to the transverse axis (and, optionally, operatively associated with the actuator 175).
• the guide rail can be configured to facilitate movement of the base 174 along the direction of movement.
• opposing rollers/wheels 176 and corresponding opposing guide rails can be provided on opposite sides of each bin.
• the plurality of walls 178, 180, 182, 184 of each bin 170 when present, can comprise opposed front and back walls 178, 180 and opposed first and second side walls 182, 184 that extend between and are connected to the front and back walls.
• each wall of the plurality of walls 178, 180, 182, 184 of each bin 170 can have a rounded upper edge. It is contemplated that the rounded (e.g., capped) edges of each bin 170 can prevent and/or reduce hand or limb injury during use of the cart.
• the front and back walls 178, 180 of each bin 170 can have respective outer surfaces and respective inner surfaces.
• the first and second side walls 182, 184 can have respective outer surfaces and respective inner surfaces.
• the inner surface of at least one of the walls 178, 180, 182, 184 (optionally, a plurality of the walls or each of the walls) can be inwardly sloped (moving in a downward direction) to promote the exit of debris from the bin when the base is in the open position.
• the front and back walls 178, 180 of the bin 170 can have different heights. It is contemplated that the height of the front wall 178 can be greater than the height of the back wall 180. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the height of the back wall 180 can be greater than the height of the front wall 178. Optionally, in these aspects, it is contemplated that the height of the front wall 178 can range from about 30 inches to about 70 inches, from about 35 inches to about 65 inches, from about 40 inches to about 60 inches, from about 40 inches to about 45 inches, or from about 50 inches to about 60 inches.
• the height of the back wall 180 can range from about 30 inches to about 70 inches, from about 35 inches to about 65 inches, from about 40 inches to about 60 inches, from about 40 inches to about 45 inches, or from about 50 inches to about 60 inches.
• the height of the front wall 178 can be about 40 inches and the height of the back wall can be about 55 inches.
• the first and second side walls 182, 184 of the bin 170 can have a variable height that varies from a first height proximate the front wall 178 to a second height proximate the back wall 180 of the bin 170.
• the first height of the side walls 182, 184 can range from about 30 inches to about 70 inches, from about 35 inches to about 65 inches, from about 40 inches to about 60 inches, from about 40 inches to about 45 inches, or from about 50 inches to about 60 inches.
• the second height of the side walls 182, 184 can range from about 30 inches to about 70 inches, from about 35 inches to about 65 inches, from about 40 inches to about 60 inches, from about 40 inches to about 45 inches, or from about 50 inches to about 60 inches.
• the walls of the bin 170 can have a consistent height ranging from about 30 inches to about 70 inches or from about 45 inches to about 55 inches.
• the system 100 can further comprise a downstream conveyor 150 (or a second conveyor) configured to deliver debris 230 toward the plurality of bins 170.
• the downstream conveyor 150 can be configured to deliver the debris toward the plurality of bins 170 at a selectively adjustable rate.
• the downstream conveyor assembly 150 can have a top surface 152 that can be positioned in communication with at least one wall of each bin of the plurality of bins 170 to facilitate delivery of debris into the interior space 186 of each bin.
• the top surface 152 of the conveyor assembly 150 can be provided at the same height, or substantially the same height, as the wall of the bin positioned adjacent the conveyor assembly 150, thereby providing for unobstructed delivery of debris into the bin (in a direction transverse to the conveyor axis 154). It is contemplated that as the base 174 of each bin 170 moves from the closed position toward the open position, the base can be configured to dispense debris from the interior space 186 of the bin through the opening created when the base is positioned in the open position.
• the system 100 can further comprise a support assembly 194, as shown in FIG. 1 1.
• the support assembly 194 can include at least one rail 192 that can extend horizontally relative to the downstream conveyor assembly 150 (parallel to a conveyor axis 154 of the conveyor assembly as further disclosed herein).
• the support assembly 190 can include a plurality of support posts 194 that support the at least one rail 192 in a desired vertical position. The plurality of support posts 194 can be coupled to and extend downwardly from the at least one rail 192. It is
• the plurality of bins 170 can be securely coupled to the at least one rail 192 (e.g., fixedly mounted and spaced apart relative to the conveyor axis 154).
• the plurality of bins 170 can be distributed on opposing sides of the conveyor assembly 150 as shown in FIG. 13; alternatively, it is contemplated that the bins can be positioned along a single side of the conveyor assembly.
• the support assembly 190 can be configured to support the downstream conveyor assembly 150 at an elevated position.
• the system 100 can comprise a system controller 160 having at least one processor 162 and at least one memory 164 in communication with the at least one processor.
• the system controller 160 can be communicatively coupled (optionally, via a wireless connection, such as over an Internet or cellular communication network, wireless telemetry, or radio- frequency communications, or, alternatively, via a wired connection, such as a
• each bin of the plurality of bins 170 can comprise a weight measurement apparatus 200.
• the weight measurement apparatus 200 can comprise a load cell (optionally, a plurality of load cells).
• the weight measurement apparatus can be positioned in contact with an upper end of a shaft that extends upwardly from the base 174 and is coupled to the base such that it applies a force against the load cell that is proportional to, or indicative of, the weight of debris within the bin.
• the weight measurement apparatus 200 can be configured to produce an output 204 corresponding to a weight of debris within the respective bin.
• the load cell can be calibrated using conventional methods to ensure that the output produced by the load cell is indicative of the actual weight of debris within the bin.
• the weight measurement apparatus 200 e.g., a load cell
• the system controller 160 can be configured to receive and store the output 204 from the weight measurement apparatus 200 of each respective bin of the plurality of bins 170.
• system controller 160 can comprise at least one programmable logic controller (PLC) communicatively coupled to the actuator 175 of each bin of the plurality of bins 170.
• PLC programmable logic controller
• the system controller 160 can comprise a plurality of PLCs, with each PLC being communicatively coupled to a respective actuator 175 of a respective bin 170.
• other exemplary system controllers 160 can be used, including computing devices as are known in the art, such as computers, workstations, smartphones, handheld computing devices, tablets, and the like.
• the system controller 160 can be configured to effect movement of the base of the bin from the closed position to the open position in an automated manner.
• the disclosed system 100 can further comprise a plurality of sensors 210, with each sensor of the plurality of sensors 210 being positioned in association with (e.g., proximate to) a respective bin of the plurality of bins 170 and configured to produce an output 212 indicative of a desired amount of debris within the respective bin 170.
• each sensor of the plurality of sensors 210 can be in communication with the system controller 160 such that the system controller can be configured to receive the output 212 from the respective sensor 210.
• the plurality of sensors can comprise a plurality of height measurement sensors (e.g., non-contact displacement sensors or optical sensors), with each height measurement sensor secured proximate or within a respective bin and configured to measure a height of debris within the bin.
• the height measurement sensor or the system controller 160, after receiving a corresponding output from the height measurement sensor
• the disclosed system 100 can comprise an indicator 214 positioned in communication with the sensor 210 and configured to receive the output 212 from the sensor or to receive an instruction from the system controller 160 corresponding to the output from the sensor.
• the indicator 214 can produce, display, or otherwise provide an alert corresponding to the output.
• the indicator 214 can be any indicator known in the art, such as a display device, a light source, a speaker, or the like.
• the alert can include an audible alert, a visual alert, a signal transmitted to a remote device 218, or a combination thereof.
• the remote device can be communicatively coupled to the indicator 214. It is contemplated that the remote device can be
• the remote device can be a computer, a mobile phone, a remote control, a tablet, or a handheld device. Following activation of the alert, the remote device can be configured to produce an activation signal. In this aspect, the activation signal can be transmitted to the actuator 175.
• the actuator can effect movement of the base 174 from the closed position toward the open position to permit unloading (e.g., the downward exit) of the debris 230 from the interior space 186 of the respective bin of the plurality of bins 170. It is contemplated that the disclosed system 100 can further comprise at least one container 240 positioned below a bin of the plurality of bins 170 and configured to receive the debris 230 that is unloaded from the bin.
• the disclosed plurality of bins 170 and the downstream conveyor assembly 150 can be used in a system comprising the at least one cart 10 and the lifting apparatus 120 described herein.
• the downstream conveyor assembly 150 can be configured to receive debris after the debris has been unloaded from the at least one cart 10.
• the system can comprise an upstream conveyor assembly 140 (or first conveyor assembly) configured to receive debris from the at least one cart 10 when the at least one cart is in the unloading position.
• the downstream conveyor 150 can be configured to receive the debris from the upstream conveyor 140.
• the disclosed system 100 can comprise a user interface 208 that can be communicatively coupled to an indicator 214 and configured to allow a user to selectively control the activation of the indicator.
• the user interface 208 can comprise a switch, a button, a touchscreen, a toggle, a keyboard, a joystick, or combinations thereof.
• a system operator can directly provide inputs into the user interface to effect activation of an indicator, such as for example, when the system operator observes a bin (and, optionally, analyzes outputs from the weight measurement apparatus and other sensors) and makes a determination that the desired amount of debris is present within the bin.
• the disclosed system can be used in a method for processing debris.
• the method can comprise providing at least one cart to a jobsite.
• the method can comprise transporting the at least one cart from the jobsite to a debris processing facility.
• the debris processing facility can comprise a lifting apparatus and a first conveyor assembly as disclosed herein.
• the method can comprise effecting engagement between at least one arm assembly of a lifting apparatus and a first cart of the at least one cart.
• the method can further comprise selectively rotating the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus relative to a rotational axis to move the first cart from a resting position to an unloading position as disclosed herein.
• an actuator is coupled to the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus, and the actuator can effect the selective rotational movement of the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus.
• the first conveyor assembly receives debris exiting the first cart.
• the method can further comprise selectively adjusting a speed of the first conveyor assembly to deliver debris to a second conveyor assembly at a desired rate.
• the method can further comprise returning the first cart to the resting position after debris is unloaded from the first cart onto the first conveyor assembly.
• the method can further comprise disengaging the first cart from the lifting apparatus and effecting engagement between at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus and a second cart of the at least one cart.
• the method can further comprise selectively rotating the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus relative to the rotational axis to move the second cart from the resting position to the unloading position.
• the at least one arm assembly comprises at least one engagement element as disclosed herein
• the at least one engagement element can engage the base of the first cart to effect engagement between the at least one arm assembly and the first cart.
• the at least one engagement element can also effect engagement between additional carts as further disclosed herein.
• each cart comprises at least one receptacle as disclosed herein
• each engagement element of the lifting apparatus can be received within a corresponding receptacle of a respective cart (e.g., the first cart) to effect engagement between the at least one arm assembly and the cart.
• the at least one receptacle of each cart comprises first and second sets of receptacles as disclosed herein
• the at least one engagement element can engage either the first set of receptacles or the second set of receptacles depending upon the orientation of the cart in the resting position.
• the method can further comprise sorting the debris on the second conveyor assembly.
• sorting can be performed manually.
• at least a portion of the sorting can be performed in an automated manner using conventional sorting equipment.
• the method can further comprise detecting the indicia of the unique identifier of the first cart prior to moving the first cart from the resting position to the unloading position.
• the indicia of the unique identifier can be detected using conventional barcode-scanning equipment (e.g, scanning guns), RFID detection equipment, or optical recognition equipment and/or software.
• scanning guns e.g., scanning guns
• RFID detection equipment e.g., RFID sensors
• optical recognition equipment e.g., optical recognition equipment
• any known scanning and/or detecting device or equipment can be used to detect a complementary form of indicia.
• the indicia can be detected at other times and locations throughout the method.
• a remote scanner 104 can be used to detect (scan) the indicia at the time of delivery of a cart to a given jobsite.
• a remote scanner 106 can be used to detect (scan) the indicia again at the time the cart is returned from ajobsite for subsequent delivery to a debris processing facility.
• the remote scanners 104, 106 disclosed herein can comprise any conventional remote scanning/reading device as is known in the art, including, for example and without limitation, barcode or RFID readers/scanners (including pen-type, laser scanners, CCD/LED readers, camera-based scanners, and the like), remote computing devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets or PDAs) that are equipped with barcode or RFID reading/scanning hardware (either built-in or added on), or remote computing devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, or PDAs) that are equipped with software that, when executed by the processing unit of the device, uses a built-in camera of the device to scan barcodes, RFID tags/codes, QR codes, and/or Data Matrix codes as are known in the art.
• barcode or RFID readers/scanners including pen-type, laser scanners, CCD/LED readers, camera-based scanners, and the like
• remote computing devices e.g., smartphones, tablets or PDAs
• smartphones, tablets or PDAs that are
• remote scanners 104, 106 can be communicatively coupled to the system controller as disclosed herein using any conventional method, including a communication port (e.g., a USB port) or wirelessly through an Internet, cellular, or Bluetooth connection.
• a communication port e.g., a USB port
• wirelessly through an Internet, cellular, or Bluetooth connection e.g., a Wi-Fi connection.
• the method can comprise measuring a weight of the first cart.
• the weight of the first cart (and subsequent carts) can be measured before debris is unloaded from the cart, thereby providing for determination of the weight of debris loaded into the cart at the jobsite.
• the first cart and subsequent carts can be provided to the lifting apparatus on a platform 1 10 that comprises a scale 115 positioned proximate the lifting apparatus.
• the method can comprise producing an image of the cart prior to positioning of the cart in the unloading position.
• the image can be produced using a first camera 1 18 as is known in the art.
• the method can comprise producing an image of debris unloaded from the cart onto the first conveyor assembly.
• the image can be produced using the first camera 1 18 or a second camera 145 as is known in the art.
• the method can comprise positioning a plurality of bins 170 along the downstream conveyor assembly 150 (or the second conveyor assembly) such that the top surface 152 of the downstream conveyor assembly is in communication with at least one wall of each bin of the plurality of bins 170 to facilitate delivery of debris into the interior space 186 of each bin.
• the method can comprise transporting the debris along the top surface 152 of the downstream conveyor assembly 150 relative to a conveyor axis 154. It is contemplated that the debris can be selectively sorted on the top surface 152 of the downstream conveyor assembly 150. In additional aspects, the debris can be selectively moved into at least one bin of the plurality of bins 170.
• the debris can be manually sorted by a worker or plurality of workers positioned proximate the downstream conveyor assembly 150 and the plurality of bins 170. As the debris is advanced along the conveyor assembly 150, the worker(s) can manually direct debris into respective bins to achieve a desired distribution of debris within the bins.
• the debris can be sorted in an automated fashion using sorting equipment (e.g., diverters and guide arms) that is selectively deployed to direct debris into a desired bin.
• sorting equipment e.g., diverters and guide arms
• the system controller 160 can be communicatively coupled to the diverters and guide arms, and the system controller 160 can be configured to selectively adjust the arrangement of the sorting equipment to define a desired pathway for the flow of debris into a particular bin.
• the system controller 160 can be configured to adjust the flow of debris based upon continuous monitoring of the amount of debris within each bin of the plurality of bins.
• the method can comprise producing an image of debris moved into the at least one bin 170.
• the image can be produced using a third camera 198 or a plurality of cameras 198. It is contemplated that each camera 198 can be securely positioned in a location that permits imaging of at least one bin of the plurality of bins. Optionally, a single camera 198 that is capable of imaging each bin can be provided. In these aspects, it is contemplated that the camera 198 can be positioned at a vertical location above the plurality of bins (e.g., mounted to a wall or ceiling of a facility where the debris is processed as disclosed herein). Alternatively, a plurality of cameras 198 can be provided, with each camera being positioned to image one or more designated bins of the plurality of bins.
• the plurality of cameras can be positioned at a vertical location above the plurality of bins (e.g., mounted to a wall or ceiling of a facility where the debris is processed as disclosed herein).
• each camera 198 of the plurality of cameras can be coupled or mounted to or within a respective bin in a position permitting imaging of the contents of the bin.
• the method can comprising activating the actuator 175 to effect movement of the base 174 of at least one bin from the closed position toward the open position.
• the debris can be unloaded from the at least one bin into at least one container 240 that is positioned below the at least one bin.
• the weight of the at least one bin can be measured prior to activation of the actuator 175.
• a signal indicative of the measured weight can be transmitted to a system controller 160 as disclosed herein.
• the speed of the downstream conveyor assembly 150 can be selectively adjusted prior to unloading the debris from the at least one bin.
• the base 174 of each bin of the at least one bin can be returned to the closed position.
• the actuator 175 can be activated to effect movement of the base 174 from the open position toward the closed position.
• the downstream conveyor assembly 150 can receive debris after the debris has been unloaded from the at least one cart 10.
• the upstream conveyor assembly can receive debris exiting the first cart, and the downstream conveyor assembly 150 can receive the debris from the upstream conveyor assembly 140.
• the disclosed systems can include a plurality of carts delivered to a jobsite for processing or, more particularly, a plurality of carts associated with a specific invoice or specific client or client account (hereinafter, "a plurality of associated carts").
• a plurality of associated carts the debris from each cart of the plurality of carts (e.g., each cart of a plurality of associated carts) can be unloaded as described herein.
• the debris can be transported toward the plurality of bins.
• the downstream conveyor assembly can receive the debris from the first cart of the plurality of carts.
• the upstream conveyor can receive the debris exiting the first cart of the plurality of carts. It is further contemplated that the upstream conveyor can transport the debris toward the downstream conveyor. Once the downstream conveyor receives debris from the upstream conveyor, the downstream conveyor can transport the debris toward the plurality of bins.
• the debris from the first cart of the plurality of carts can be selectively sorted or distributed into the plurality of bins as desired, using either manual or automated means. In these aspects, the process is repeated until the debris from the final cart of the plurality of associated carts has been distributed into the plurality of bins. If desired, the weight of each bin can then be measured, and a total weight of debris within the plurality of bins can be determined. As can be appreciated, this total weight, which can be determined by the system controller as further disclosed herein, can be indicative of the total combined weight of the plurality of associated carts.
• the system 100 can comprise a system controller 160 having at least one processor 162 and at least one memory 164 in communication with the at least one processor.
• exemplary system controllers include computing devices as are known in the art, such as computers, workstations, smartphones, handheld computing devices, tablets, programmable logic controllers, and the like.
• FIG. 9 shows that the various components of the disclosed system 100 can comprise their own respective processors and/or memories that communicate with the processors and memories of other system components to function as a system controller.
• the system controller 160 can be communicatively coupled (optionally, wirelessly, such as over an Internet or cellular communication network) to various components of the system 100 to receive information and/or control the performance of the system.
• the system controller 160 can be communicatively coupled to the remote scanners 104, 106 to receive information regarding a cart (such as location, identify of the cart, or characteristics/features of the cart) as the cart is delivered to ajobsite or returned from the jobsite.
• the system controller 160 can be communicatively coupled to the scale 1 15 to receive information from the scale regarding the weight of a cart.
• the disclosed methods can comprise transmitting information regarding the weight of the first cart to a system controller as disclosed herein.
• the method can further comprise using the system controller to associate the measured weight of the first cart with the unique identifier assigned to the cart. It is contemplated that the system controller can link the measured weight and other information concerning a particular cart with the corresponding cart identifier in data (e.g., data tables) stored in a memory as further disclosed herein. It is further contemplated that the system controller 160 can be
• the disclosed methods can comprise producing an image of the cart and/or an image of the debris provided from the first cart to the first conveyor assembly.
• the method can further comprise transmitting the image of the cart and/or the image of the debris to the system controller.
• the method can still further comprise using the system controller to associate the image of the cart and/or the image of the debris with the unique identifier assigned to the cart (and, optionally, storing the images along with other data associated with the unique identifier of the cart).
• system controller 160 can be communicatively coupled to the actuator of the lifting apparatus 120 as disclosed herein.
• the system controller 160 can selectively control the rotation of the lifting apparatus 120 to thereby control the movement of each cart about and between the resting position and the unloading position.
• the system controller 160 can be communicatively coupled to the first conveyor assembly 140 and/or the second conveyor assembly 150.
• the system controller 160 can selectively control the speed of one or both of the first and second conveyor assemblies 140, 150. It is contemplated that the system controller 160 can be communicatively coupled to the actuator of at least one bin of the plurality of bins, as further disclosed herein.
• the system controller can be communicatively coupled to the plurality of sensors positioned proximate each bin to receive an output indicative of a desired amount of debris within the respective bin.
• the disclosed methods can comprise transmitting information regarding the weight of at least one bin to a system controller as disclosed herein. It is further contemplated that the system controller can be communicatively coupled to the indicator to receive an alert related to the amount (e.g., height) of debris within a bin.
• the memory 164 of the system controller 160 can store data and other information obtained during the processing of debris as disclosed herein. Such data can be retrieved as desired to produce invoices, reports, and other deliverables related to the debris collected in a cart or group of carts as disclosed herein.
• the system controller 160 can transmit debris processing data to a central computing device or server that is communicatively coupled to the system controller, and the transmitted data can then be retrieved (optionally, retrieved from a remote location using an Internet or network connection) from the central computing device or server for further downstream usage and/or analysis.
• the data and other information provided to a central computing device or central server can be used to produce invoices, reports, and other deliverables related to the debris collected in a cart or group of associated carts as disclosed herein.
• a central computing device can have a processing unit that is configured to automatically generate such invoices, reports, and/or other deliverables based on data received from the system controller or other system components.
• the above-described capabilities of a central computing device can be achieved by the system controller 160 itself (without the need for a central computing device or central server).
• the system controller 160 can permit retrieval of debris processing data (e.g., data associated with a particular cart identifier or a plurality of associated cart identifiers) for downstream usage and/or analysis, including the generation of invoices, reports, and other deliverables as disclosed herein.
• the processor of the system controller 160 can be configured to automatically generate such invoices, reports, and/or other deliverables based on data stored in the memory of the system controller.
• the system controller 160 can generate or permit retrieval of information necessary to generate invoices or reports concerning a plurality of associated carts, such as carts that were used at a particular job site during a particular job.
• the disclosed systems and methods can provide various advantages in comparison to conventional debris processing techniques.
• the disclosed systems and methods can be used to deliver carts to a jobsite via a straight truck with a conventional lift gate, rather than by the roll-off mechanisms typically required for placement of dumpsters.
• the disclosed systems and methods can eliminate the need for a large designed area for loading and placement of a dumpster. Instead, carts can be delivered at a variety of locations throughout ajobsite, and following delivery, the carts can be selectively dispersed (rolled) throughout the jobsite as required, with minimal effort.
• the disclosed systems and methods allow for placement of debris directly into a cart, regardless of the location of the debris within the jobsite, thereby eliminating the need for piling and "double handling" of debris.
• the cart can be rolled directly to a truck for transport— there is no need for transferring the material from the cart to a dumpster. Due to the flexibility provided by the carts, it is contemplated that the cart retrieval point (where carts are picked up by a truck) can be different than the cart delivery point (where carts were first delivered to the jobsite).
• individual carts can be designed for specific materials to thereby produce greater recycling yields; in contrast, current techniques typically require that all materials be placed into a common dumpster.
• the disclosed systems and methods can provide for greater control over the access to carts, thereby enhancing the security over the content of the carts while limiting or preventing the placement of non-jobsite waste into the carts.
• the tracking and monitoring systems disclosed herein can be used to track the specific sources of discarded debris, with carts having been distributed among specialized jobsites.
• an order for at least one cart can be placed for a specific jobsite.
• a dispatch ticket can be created with a unique ticket number.
• Each cart is provided with indicia associating the cart with the ticket number.
• the desired number of carts can be scanned and assigned to the jobsite location.
• the carts can then be delivered to the jobsite. Following delivery, the carts can be rolled to desired work areas at the jobsite. Debris materials can be placed into the carts.
• carts can optionally be designated for specific materials, source separating, for higher recycling yield.
• Full carts can be rolled to a loading dock or other area for pickup, which can occur at a location different than the drop-off location.
• the indicia (barcode/RFID) associated with each cart can be scanned for jobsite identification and inventory tracking. Filled carts can then be brought to the recycling facility.
• the carts can be rolled from the truck onto a platform and placed in queue for processing.
• Each cart can be moved onto a scale, which is positioned proximate a lifting apparatus.
• the lifting apparatus can comprise a hydraulic actuator arm with a fork mechanism. Immediately before the cart lift mechanism begins to operate, the barcode/RFID of the cart is scanned, the cart is weighed, and the cart is photographed.
• the forks lift the cart in an arcuate path corresponding to an arc length of about 160 degrees.
• the debris/materials fall from the cart (via gravity) onto a feeder conveyor.
• the feeder conveyor can meter the materials onto the sorting conveyor line.
• the cart can be brought back down to the platform and removed manually from the forks. The process can be repeated for each cart. Empty carts can be available for reuse.
• the debris/materials can be photographed to document the content of each cart.
• the recorded data can be joined to the barcode/RFID and jobsite location information. Mechanical sorting and/or hand sorting of the debris can be performed. Materials can be selected based on current market conditions of recyclability and value. The recorded data can then be used for invoicing and recycling report generation.
• a driver can scan each cart when loaded into a truck at a customer's location.
• the truck can be weighed upon arrival at a debris processing facility.
• the net weight can be automatically calculated from the vehicle and cart tare weights.
• the net weight can be used for billing purposes.
• the truck can then be unloaded at a staging dock.
• the carts can be kept in groups by ticket or truck.
• a system controller can perform a system check on startup.
• the operator can then select the first cart from a group (or ticket) to be weighed, open the lift door, and push the cart into the lift.
• Scanners can be located on both sides of the lift doorway to scan the cart while in motion. Photo-eye sensors can be used to activate the scanners.
• the operator can close the door, and the lift door can automatically lock. Once the door is locked, a light on the lift door can become activated, indicating that the door has been successfully locked. The scale can then be triggered to retrieve the gross weight of the cart.
• a form can appear on a display device to allow the operator to enter the cart number manually. If all carts from the group are downloaded to the system controller and displayed on the touch screen, then a successful scan has been achieved. Once the door is locked, the lift can be activated. The cart can then be marked completed on the touch screen of the display device.
• the content of the cart i.e., the debris
• the content of the cart can be unloaded onto the upper conveyor assembly. Once the content is unloaded, at least one image can be taken of the content. Proximity sensor(s) can be used to activate the cameras. After images have been taken, the content can then be sorted into bins (e.g., twelve bins). The process can be repeated until all carts from the group have been weighed. The last cart of the group can be detected by the controller, which can cause the controller to begin monitoring the movement of the belt. Enough distance can be provided for the debris from the final cart to reach the end of the downstream conveyor assembly. Once the content of all carts have been distributed into the bins, the bin weights can be taken, and then the scales can be set to zero.
• the system controller can store the gross weight of the cart, the images, and the weights of the plurality of bins in a database (e.g., a SQL database), which can be designed by the customer.
• a database e.g., a SQL database
• the lift door can remain locked until completion of the weighing of a group of associated carts to prohibit the next group from being processed. After the weighing of all associated carts is completed, the central controller can be configured to permit opening of the lift door.
• Sort line operators can be positioned along the downstream conveyor assembly. When a sort line operator's assigned bin is full, the sort line operators can request that the bin be emptied by pushing a button.
• the button can comprise a light source which can be activated when the button is pushed.
• the system can include a second light in communication with the button and positioned underneath each bin. When the button is compressed (i.e., pressed), the second light becomes activated, alerting the ground crew to empty the bin.
• a forklift operator can have a mobile device with a custom software application. The custom software application can display the bins that need to be emptied.
• the forklift operator can move a container underneath the respective bin, and push a button on the mobile device to activate the actuator to effect movement of the base from the closed position toward the open position.
• operation of the lift and the upstream and downstream conveyor assemblies can be stopped until the base is returned to the closed position.
• the system controller can store the partial weight of the group.
• the scale can be set to zero.
• the system controller can be programmed to have a "finish short” button. This can discard the cart gross weight and allow the group to be finished short.
• the maximum weight for the lift can be identified, the bins and commodities can be displayed, and the operator can select which bin will receive the net weight from the lift scale.
• the system controller can be provided in communication with a user interface, which allows a system operator to control operation of the system through the system controller.
• the system controller can receive a user- input initiating a "Re-Dump" procedure, which can be used if any material is remaining in the cart after the initial cycle of lifting the cart and emptied debris onto the upstream conveyor assembly.
• the lift can shake the cart (e.g., by back-and-forth movement and/or vibrational force), either before or after the cart is inverted, to cause any remaining debris to become dislodged from the cart and fall onto the conveyor assembly.
• this shaking feature can be incorporated into all lifting and unloading sequences of carts using the lift apparatus such that the lift apparatus shakes each cart as part of the standard debris unloading process.
• a system for processing debris comprising: at least one cart having a base, a plurality of wheels extending downwardly from the base relative to a vertical axis, and a plurality of walls extending upwardly from the base, wherein the walls and the base of each cart cooperate to define a debris-receiving space; a lifting apparatus having at least one arm assembly configured to engage a portion of the base of a respective cart of the at least one cart when the cart is in a resting position, wherein, following engagement between the at least one arm assembly and the cart, the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus is selectively rotatable relative to a rotational axis to move the cart about and between the resting position and an unloading position, and wherein the cart reaches the unloading position following rotational movement of the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus along an arcuate path having an arc length ranging from about 130 degrees to about 170 degrees; and a first conveyor assembly configured to receive debris from the at least one
• Aspect 2 The system of aspect 1 , wherein the lifting apparatus comprises an actuator coupled to the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus, wherein the actuator is configured to effect selective rotational movement of the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus.
• each arm assembly of the lifting apparatus comprises: an arm; and at least one engagement element coupled to the arm and configured to engage the base of the cart.
• Aspect 4 The system of aspect 3, wherein each cart defines at least one receptacle extending downwardly from the base, wherein each receptacle of the cart is configured to receive a corresponding engagement element of the lifting apparatus.
• Aspect 5 The system of aspect 4, wherein the plurality of walls of each cart comprise: opposed front and back walls; and opposed first and second side walls, wherein the first and second side walls extend between and are connected to the front and back walls, wherein the at least one receptacle of each cart comprises a first set of receptacles having at least one row of receptacles aligned relative to a longitudinal axis extending through the opposed first and second side walls of the cart.
• Aspect 6 The system of aspect 5, wherein the at least one receptacle of each cart further comprises a second set of receptacles having at least one row of receptacles aligned relative to a transverse axis extending through the opposed walls of the cart.
• Aspect 7 The system of aspect 6, wherein the at least one engagement element is configured to engage either the first set of receptacles or the second set of receptacles of each cart depending upon the orientation of the cart.
• Aspect 8 The system of any one of aspects 3-7, wherein the at least one engagement element of each arm assembly is pivotally coupled to the arm of the arm assembly.
• Aspect 9 The system of any one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a second conveyor assembly, wherein the first conveyor assembly is configured to deliver debris to the second conveyor assembly at a selectively adjustable rate.
• a method for processing debris comprising: providing at least one cart to a jobsite, each cart having a base, a plurality of wheels extending downwardly from the base relative to a vertical axis, and a plurality of walls extending upwardly from the base, wherein the walls and the base of each cart cooperate to define a debris-receiving space; transporting the at least one cart from the jobsite to a debris processing facility, the debris processing facility comprising a lifting apparatus and a first conveyor assembly; effecting engagement between at least one arm assembly of a lifting apparatus and a first cart of the at least one cart; and following engagement between the at least one arm assembly and the first cart, selectively rotating the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus relative to a rotational axis to move the first cart from a resting position to an unloading position, wherein the first cart reaches the unloading position following rotational movement of the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus along an arcuate path having an arc length ranging from about 130 degrees
• Aspect 1 1 The method of aspect 10, wherein an actuator is coupled to the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus, and wherein the actuator effects selective rotational movement of the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus.
• Aspect 12 The method of aspect 11, further comprising returning the first cart to the resting position after debris is unloaded from the first cart onto the first conveyor assembly.
• Aspect 13 The method of aspect 12, further comprising: disengaging the first cart from the lifting apparatus; effecting engagement between at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus and a second cart of the at least one cart; and following engagement between the at least one arm assembly and the second cart, selectively rotating the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus relative to the rotational axis to move the second cart from the resting position to the unloading position.
• each arm assembly of the lifting apparatus comprises: an arm; and at least one engagement element coupled to the arm, wherein the at least one engagement element of the arm assembly engages the base of the first cart to effect engagement between the at least one arm assembly and the first cart.
• Aspect 15 The method of aspect 14, wherein each cart defines at least one receptacle extending downwardly from the base, and wherein each engagement element of the lifting apparatus is received within a corresponding receptacle of the first cart to effect engagement between the at least one arm assembly and the first cart.
• Aspect 16 The method of aspect 15, wherein the plurality of walls of each cart comprise: opposed front and back walls; and opposed first and second side walls, wherein the first and second side walls extend between and are connected to the front and back walls, wherein the at least one receptacle of each cart comprises: a first set of receptacles having at least one row of receptacles aligned relative to a longitudinal axis extending through the opposed first and second side walls of the cart; and a second set of receptacles having at least one row of receptacles aligned relative to a transverse axis extending through the opposed walls of the cart.
• Aspect 17 The method of aspect 16, wherein the at least one engagement element engages the first set of receptacles of the first cart to effect engagement between the at least one arm assembly and the first cart.
• Aspect 18 The method of aspect 16, wherein the at least one engagement element engages the second set of receptacles of the first cart to effect engagement between the at least one arm assembly and the first cart.
• Aspect 19 The method of any one of aspects 10-18, further comprising selectively adjusting a speed of the first conveyor assembly to deliver debris to a second conveyor assembly at a desired rate.
• Aspect 20 The method of aspect 19, further comprising sorting the debris on the second conveyor assembly.
• Aspect 21 The method of any one of aspects 10-20, wherein each cart is assigned a unique identifier and provided with indicia of the unique identifier, wherein the method further comprises: detecting the indicia of the unique identifier of the first cart prior to moving the first cart from the resting position to the unloading position; measuring a weight of the first cart; transmitting information regarding the weight of the first cart to a system controller; using the system controller to associate the measured weight of the first cart with the unique identifier assigned to the first cart; producing an image of the debris provided from the first cart to the first conveyor assembly; transmitting the image of the debris to the system controller; and using the system controller to associate the image of the debris with the unique identifier assigned to the first cart.
• a debris cart comprising: a base; a plurality of wheels extending downwardly from the base relative to a vertical axis; and a plurality of walls extending upwardly from the base of the base assembly, wherein the plurality of walls cooperate with the base to define a debris-receiving space, the plurality of walls comprising: opposed front and back walls; and opposed first and second side walls, wherein the first and second side walls extend between and are connected to the front and back walls, wherein each wall of the plurality of walls has a rounded upper edge, wherein the front and back walls have respective outer surfaces, and wherein, moving from the respective rounded upper edges of the front and back walls to the base, the outer surfaces of the front and back walls are axially tapered at a first taper angle relative to the vertical axis, and wherein the first and second side walls have respective outer surfaces, and wherein, moving from the rounded upper edge of each side wall to the base, the outer surfaces of the first and second side walls are axially tapered
• a system for processing debris comprising: a plurality of bins capable of receiving debris, each bin comprising: a base assembly having a base that is configured for selective movement about and between an open position and a closed position, and an actuator operatively coupled to the base and operable to effect selective movement of the base about and between the open position and the closed position; and a plurality of walls coupled to and extending upwardly from the base, wherein the plurality of walls and the base cooperate to define an interior space; a downstream conveyor assembly configured to deliver debris toward the plurality of bins, wherein the downstream conveyor assembly has a top surface that is positioned in communication with at least one wall of each bin of the plurality of bins to facilitate delivery of debris into the interior space of each bin, wherein as the base of each bin moves from the closed position toward the open position, the base is configured to dispense debris from the interior space of the bin through the base.
• Aspect 24 The system of aspect 23, further comprising a support assembly having a rail extending horizontally relative to the downstream conveyor assembly, and a plurality of support posts coupled to and extending downwardly from the rail, wherein the plurality of bins are securely coupled to the rail.
• Aspect 25 The system of aspect 23 or aspect 24, further comprising a system controller having at least one processor and at least one memory in communication with the at least one processor, wherein the system controller is communicatively coupled to the actuator of each bin of the plurality of bins.
• Aspect 26 The system of aspect 25, wherein each bin of the plurality of bins comprises a load cell configured to produce an output corresponding to a weight of debris within the respective bin.
• Aspect 27 The system of aspect 26, wherein the system controller is configured to receive and store the output from the load cell of each respective bin of the plurality of bins.
• Aspect 28 The system of aspect 26, wherein the system controller comprises at least one programmable logic controller communicatively coupled to the actuator of each bin of the plurality of bins.
• Aspect 29 The system of any one of aspects 23-28, further comprising a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor of the plurality of sensors is positioned proximate a respective bin of the plurality of bins, wherein each sensor is configured to produce an output indicative of a desired amount of debris within the respective bin.
• Aspect 30 The system of aspect 29, further comprising an indicator in communication with the sensor and configured to receive the output from the sensor, wherein, upon receipt of the output, the indicator produces an alert corresponding to the output.
• Aspect 31 The system of aspect 30, wherein the alert comprises an audible alert, a visual alert, a signal transmitted to a remote device, or a combination thereof.
• Aspect 32 The system of aspect 31 , further comprising a remote device that receives the alert, wherein the remote device is a computer, a mobile phone, a remote control, a tablet, or a handheld device.
• Aspect 33 The system of aspect 32, wherein, following activation of the alert, the remote device is configured to produce an activation signal, wherein upon receipt of the activation signal by the actuator, the actuator effects movement of the base from the closed position toward the open position to permit unloading of the debris from the interior space of the respective bin of the plurality of bins.
• Aspect 34 The system of aspect 33, further comprising at least one container that is positioned below a bin of the plurality of bins and configured to receive debris that is unloaded from the bin.
• Aspect 35 The system of any one of aspects 23-34, further comprising: at least one cart having a base, a plurality of wheels extending downwardly from the base relative to a vertical axis, and a plurality of walls extending upwardly from the base, wherein the walls and the base of each cart cooperate to define a debris-receiving space; a lifting apparatus having at least one arm assembly configured to engage a portion of the base of a respective cart of the at least one cart when the cart is in a resting position, wherein, following engagement between the at least one arm assembly and the cart, the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus is selectively rotatable relative to a rotational axis to move the cart about and between the resting position and an unloading position, and wherein the cart reaches the unloading position following rotational movement of the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus along an arcuate path having an arc length ranging from about 130 degrees to about 170 degrees, wherein the downstream conveyor assembly is configured to receive debris
• Aspect 37 The system of any one of aspects 23-36, wherein the downstream conveyor assembly is configured to deliver debris toward the plurality of bins at a selectively adjustable rate.
• a method of processing debris comprising: positioning a plurality of bins along a downstream conveyor assembly having a top surface, each bin comprising a base assembly having a base that is configured for selective movement about and between an open position and a closed position, and an actuator operatively coupled to the base and operable to effect selective movement of the base about and between the open position and the closed position, and a plurality of walls coupled to and extending upwardly from the base, wherein the plurality of walls and the base cooperate to define an interior space, and wherein the top surface of the downstream conveyor is positioned in
• Aspect 39 The method of aspect 38, further comprising measuring the weight of the at least one bin prior to unloading the debris.
• Aspect 40 The method of aspect 39, further comprising transmitting the weight of the at least one bin to a system controller.
• Aspect 41 The method of any one of aspects 38-40, further comprising returning the base to the closed position following the step of unloading the debris from the at least one bin.
• Aspect 42 The method of any one of aspects 38-41 , further comprising selectively adjusting a speed of the downstream conveyor assembly prior to unloading the debris from the at least one bin.
• Aspect 43 The method of any one of aspects 38-42, further comprising selectively sorting the debris on the top surface of the downstream conveyor assembly.
• Aspect 44 The method of any one of aspects 38-43, further comprising: providing at least one cart to a jobsite, each cart having a base, a plurality of wheels extending downwardly from the base relative to a vertical axis, and a plurality of walls extending upwardly from the base, wherein the walls and the base of each cart cooperate to define a debris-receiving space; transporting the at least one cart from the jobsite to a debris processing facility, the debris processing facility comprising a lifting apparatus and an upstream conveyor assembly; effecting engagement between at least one arm assembly of a lifting apparatus and a first cart of the at least one cart; and following engagement between the at least one arm assembly and the first cart, selectively rotating the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus relative to a rotational axis to move the first cart from a resting position to an unloading position, wherein the first cart reaches the unloading position following rotational movement of the at least one arm assembly of the lifting apparatus along an arcuate path having an arc length
• Aspect 45 The method of aspect 44, wherein, with the first cart in the unloading position, the upstream conveyor assembly receives debris exiting the first cart, and wherein the downstream conveyor assembly receives the debris from the upstream conveyor assembly.
• Aspect 46 The method of aspect 44, wherein each cart is assigned a unique identifier and provided with indicia of the unique identifier, wherein the method further comprises: detecting the indicia of the unique identifier of the first cart prior to moving the first cart from the resting position to the unloading position; measuring a weight of the first cart; transmitting information regarding the weight of the first cart to a system controller; using the system controller to associate the measured weight of the first cart with the unique identifier assigned to the first cart; producing an image of the debris provided from the first cart to the upstream conveyor assembly; transmitting the image of the debris to the system controller; and using the system controller to associate the image of the debris with the unique identifier assigned to the first cart.
• Aspect 47 The method of aspect of 46, wherein the at least one cart comprises a plurality of carts, and wherein the method further comprises unloading debris from each cart of the plurality of carts, transporting the debris from each cart of the plurality of carts toward the plurality of bins, selectively distributing the debris from each cart of the plurality of carts into the plurality of bins, measuring the weight of each bin of the plurality of bins, and determining a total weight of debris within the plurality of bins.
• a debris bin comprising: a base assembly comprising: a base that is configured for selective movement about and between an open position and a closed position, and an actuator operatively coupled to the base and operable to effect selective movement of the base about and between the open position and the closed position; and a plurality of walls coupled to and extending upwardly from the base, wherein the plurality of walls and the base cooperate to define an interior space, wherein as the base of each bin moves from the closed position toward the open position, the base is configured to dispense debris from the interior space of the bin through the base.
• a method for processing debris comprising: transporting a plurality of carts to a jobsite, each cart having a base, a plurality of wheels extending downwardly from the base relative to a vertical axis, and a plurality of walls extending upwardly from the base, wherein the walls and the base of each cart cooperate to define a debris-receiving space, wherein each cart is assigned a unique identifier and provided with indicia of the unique identifier; detecting the indicia of the unique identifier of each cart of the plurality of carts to be unloaded at the jobsite; unloading the plurality of carts at the jobsite; using a system controller to associate the unique identifier of each unloaded cart with the jobsite; and following receipt of debris within each cart of the plurality of carts, transporting the plurality of carts from the jobsite to a debris processing facility.
• Aspect 50 The method of aspect 49, wherein the plurality of carts are transported to the jobsite and unloaded using a straight truck with a lift gate.
• Aspect 51 The method of aspect 49 or aspect 50, wherein the method does not include unloading a dumpster at the jobsite.
• Aspect 52 The method of any one of aspects 49-51 , wherein the plurality of carts are delivered at a plurality of delivery locations within the jobsite.
• Aspect 53 The method of aspect 52, wherein the plurality of carts are retrieved from a plurality of retrieval locations, wherein at least one retrieval location of the plurality of retrieval locations does not correspond to a delivery location of the plurality of delivery locations.
• Aspect 54 The method of any one of aspects 49-53, further comprising, following receipt of debris within each cart of the plurality of carts, rolling the plurality of carts to a truck to permit transport of the plurality of carts to the debris processing facility.
• Aspect 55 The method of aspect 54, wherein the method does not comprise transferring material from the plurality of carts to a dumpster.
• Aspect 56 The method of any one of aspects 49-55, wherein at least one cart of the plurality of carts is visibly marked for receipt of a specific type of materials.
• Aspect 57 The method of aspect 56, wherein the specific type of materials is recyclable materials.
• Aspect 58 The method of any one of aspects 38-43, wherein each cart is assigned a unique identifier and provided with indicia of the unique identifier, the method further comprising: providing at least one cart to ajobsite, each cart having a base, a plurality of wheels extending downwardly from the base relative to a vertical axis, and a plurality of walls extending upwardly from the base, wherein the walls and the base of each cart cooperate to define a debris-receiving space; transporting the at least one cart from the jobsite to a debris processing facility; detecting the indicia of the unique identifier of a weight of the first cart; measuring a weight of the first cart; transmitting information regarding the weight of the first cart to a system controller; and using the system controller to associate the measured weight of the first cart with the unique identifier assigned to the first cart.
• Aspect 59 The method of aspect 58, further comprising: producing an image of the debris provided from the first cart to the upstream conveyor assembly;
• Aspect 60 The method of aspect 58 or aspect 59, wherein the at least one cart comprises a plurality of carts, and wherein the method further comprises unloading debris from each cart of the plurality of carts, transporting the debris from each cart of the plurality of carts toward the plurality of bins, selectively distributing the debris from each cart of the plurality of carts into the plurality of bins, measuring the weight of each bin of the plurality of bins, and determining a total weight of debris within the plurality of bins.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Handcart (AREA)
• Discharge Of Articles From Conveyors (AREA)
• Refuse Receptacles (AREA)
• Refuse Collection And Transfer (AREA)
• Information Retrieval, Db Structures And Fs Structures Therefor (AREA)

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• 2018
  • 2018-04-12 CN CN202210625498.5A patent/CN115285552A/zh active Pending
  • 2018-04-12 EP EP18784670.4A patent/EP3609813A4/en active Pending
  • 2018-04-12 WO PCT/US2018/027328 patent/WO2018191512A1/en not_active Ceased
  • 2018-04-12 CN CN201880034739.0A patent/CN110709339B/zh active Active
  • 2018-04-12 JP JP2020506304A patent/JP7228565B2/ja active Active
  • 2018-04-12 SG SG11201909523S patent/SG11201909523SA/en unknown

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