WO2022152958A1

WO2022152958A1 - Packaging typology detection system

Info

Publication number: WO2022152958A1
Application number: PCT/ES2022/070012
Authority: WO
Inventors: José Luis MORENO DE CASTRO; Zacarias TORBADO MARTÍNEZ; Jesús AGUIRRE MARZO; Daniel MENCHACA MARTÍNEZ; Inko ROMERO ZUBELDIA; Sergio ALFARO LAHOZ; Alejandro RITUERTO SIN; Daniel GARCÍA ROMEO; Belén DÍAZ BENITO; Andrés Escartín Barduzal
Original assignee: Ecoembalajes España, S.A.
Priority date: 2021-01-15
Filing date: 2022-01-14
Publication date: 2022-07-21
Also published as: ES2947871R1; ES2947871A2; EP4269278A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a packaging typology detection system (100) coupleable to a container (200), wherein the system comprises a mechanical module, a detection module, an electronic module, and a power supply module (140). The invention also relates to a container (200) comprising said packaging typology detection system (100).

Description

PACKAGING TYPE DETECTION SYSTEM

DESCRIPTION

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

The present invention belongs to the technical field of waste collection systems. In particular, the invention describes systems to provide collection capacity and selective detection of containers in recycling containers located on urban roads.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Recycling, or selective collection of waste, allows the recovery and reintegration of materials used in the production cycles of new products, which represents a significant and valuable reduction in the raw materials and energy necessary to obtain said new products. This, in turn, is associated with a series of benefits, among which are mainly a reduction in the pollution generated, the elimination or improvement of the sustainability of existing landfills, and an overall improvement in environmental health and well-being.

For years, there has been a growing international concern about the management of waste generated by a society with consumption habits at an increasingly accelerated rate. In this sense, during the last century a series of international conferences and treaties have been held dedicated to making the world population aware of the role that resource management plays in issues as critical to sustainability as climate change, as well as to dealing with to harmonize the actions of the different jurisdictions, both national and regional. In this sense, the United Nations Organization itself, through the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) has developed a guide for the Preparation of National Waste Management Strategies. All of this has led to the development and implementation of different recycling plans on a regional or local scale. The different strategies and local plans for selective collection basically consist of the separation of urban solid waste before it is deposited at collection points, usually located on public roads, and generally in the form of different types of containers, classified according to the category of waste, which store a certain volume of waste inside so that they can be collected by teams of local operators, and subsequently recycled.

Among all the waste products generated by the population, a special place is occupied by light packaging. In particular, this name groups together containers made up of different types of materials, among others: plastic containers (bottles of water, milk, hygiene products, yoghurt, etc.), brik-type containers (for drinks such as juices, wine, milk, etc.), plastic bags, aluminum cans (soft drinks, preserves, etc.), polystyrene trays or aluminum foil.

Due to such a diverse nature, prior to the specific recycling process of each product based on its composition, light packaging must be separated in a classification and selection stage in the waste reception areas of the treatment plants. In particular, the collected waste is transferred to the separation facilities where a triage of the collected waste mass is carried out through a combination of mechanical or automated separation processes and manual processes in order to separate and recover the different recoverable fractions and prepare them for subsequent recycling in the corresponding facilities depending on the type of material. During these screening and selection processes for recyclable material, a certain volume of rejects is generated, which results in a reduction in the performance of the global process of selective collection and subsequent treatment, and which will be destined for final disposal in a landfill, or incineration for energy use.

In view of all of the above, it becomes clear that the first link in the chain, that is, that of collaboration and citizen involvement, carrying out the first stage of classification and selection of waste, and in particular, of light packaging, is fundamental to ensure the efficiency, downstream, of the entire network of stages and intermediaries that participate in the recycling chain. For this reason, a crucial section to guarantee the effectiveness of the selective collection and waste treatment plans urban solids is dedicated to raising awareness and motivating the population through various environmental education strategies and campaigns to achieve their active participation in said plans.

In this context, one of the differentiating characteristics of the different waste treatment plans developed locally by cities or even municipalities are the characteristics (size, morphology, actuation mechanisms, etc.) of the containers, causing that there may be great differences in in terms of optimization and effectiveness of said plans between different localities, within the same territory, due to the facilities or obstacles for its correct use that the configuration of the containers may suppose for the citizens. For this reason, the role played by containers installed on public roads is of great relevance.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a container typology detection system attachable to a container according to claim 1, and a container according to claim 15. Preferred embodiments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims.

The container typology detection system attachable to a container of the invention comprises:

- a mechanical module comprising: a coupling interface configured to be detachably fixed to an opening of the container, the coupling interface further comprising an opening configured to allow access of containers to the inside of the container typology detection system; and a main body integrally joined through a proximal end to the coupling interface, projecting towards the interior of the container, defining a reception chamber configured to temporarily house the containers that access the interior of the system through the opening of the interface coupling; the main body further comprising an opening at a distal end facing into the container to allow containers leaving the system to be released into the container; - a detection module comprising at least one of the following sensor means: first sensor means configured to detect at least one product identification code arranged on a container; second sensing means configured to detect a metallic composition of a container; third sensing means configured to detect a polymeric composition of a container; and an electronics module comprising data processing means; wherein the first, second and/or third sensor means are configured to generate a data signal with detected information related to the type of container when it is temporarily housed in the receiving chamber; and to transmit said data signal to the data processing means; and where the data processing means are configured to determine at least one type of container based on: at least one product identification code and/or metallic composition of the container and/or polymeric composition of the container; Y

- a power supply module configured to supply power to the elements included in the detection module and in the electronics module.

The system of the invention is a system that can be inserted inside containers through an opening, and coupled to said opening for attachment to the containers, said containers preferably being selective collection containers for light containers that can be located, for example, on urban roads. Thus, the system of the invention provides the containers with capabilities to identify the nature and type of the containers introduced inside, based on the measurements and/or captures taken by a series of detection and sensing elements that extract information from the light packaging once introduced. The system can determine, based on said analysis, for example, if the container deposited is a PET soft drink bottle, an aluminum soft drink can, a steel soft drink can or another type of container.

In this way, the system coupled to the container provides an early and on-site classification capacity for waste deposited in suitable containers to facilitate the subsequent selection work in the separation and treatment plants. Furthermore, in advantageous embodiments, the invention allows tracking of these containers deposited in specific containers by specific users and avoid manipulation or fraud in the counting and traceability of said deposits.

At the user level, an assisted container deposition process is provided that makes said process easier and less vulnerable to recycling, and clear as to the correspondence between the container that the user intends to dispose of and the type of container. selected.

In this way, the system of the invention helps to increase the overall efficiency of selective waste collection plans by contributing to greater efficiency in the phase corresponding to the first triage or screening of light packaging, minimizing the multiplier impact, in successive stages. of the recycling chain, which has the introduction of erroneous packaging.

In addition, citizen awareness can be reinforced with bonus plans by counting the number of containers deposited by a specific user. This system is implemented with technology that allows its traceability and prevents fraudulent uses that seek multiple bonuses for the same container deposited.

In one embodiment, the detection module comprises: the first sensor means configured to detect the at least one product identification code arranged on the container; the second sensor means configured to detect the metallic composition of the container; and the third sensor means configured to detect the polymeric composition of the container.

In other embodiments, the detection module comprises one of the first sensor means, the second sensor means or third sensor means or two of the first sensor means, the second sensor means and the third sensor means in any of the possible combinations.

In one embodiment, the detection module further comprises image capture means configured to generate a data signal with information detected by the image capturing means, and for transmitting said data signal to the data processing means.

In a preferred embodiment, the image capture means comprise a wide-angle camera.

Advantageously, the use of a wide-angle camera optimizes the image capture capacity. In particular, the use of this technology makes it possible to reduce the volume of the receiving camera and, therefore, of the main body of the mechanical module, since these cameras have a greater field of view (FOV) than conventional cameras. , which allows the camera to be positioned closer to the location that the containers will occupy inside the receiving chamber, that is, inside the system.

In one embodiment, the image capture means comprise artificial lighting means.

The ability to capture images in a closed and dark environment is greatly improved with the implementation of artificial lighting technology, for example flash type. More particularly, in an embodiment in which the system wirelessly transmits the images captured by the wide-angle camera to a remote server so that the remote server processes the images with "Deep learning" machine learning methods, the artificial lighting optimizes recognition of shapes and appearance of the photographed container.

In one embodiment, the detection module additionally comprises at least two motion detection sensors configured to detect the passage of a container through two different locations in the receiving chamber, a location closest to the proximal end of the main body and the other location closest to the distal end of the main body. According to this embodiment, the data processing means are configured to receive a signal from the at least two sensors and determine, based on said signal, the direction of movement of the container.

Advantageously, the presence of said sensors will allow the detection of a fraudulent deposit attempt within the system. In particular, it will be understood that a fraudulent deposit of a container is the movement of said container from a distal position, ie, close to the inside of the container, towards a proximal position, ie close to the opening through which the container entered. That is to say, said movement will be assumed contrary to the natural direction of introducing a light container into a container, from the outside, through an opening in a proximal area, towards the interior of the container, through a distal area of the main body. of the invention after traveling a certain length along the reception chamber. Therefore, said movement in the opposite direction will be associated with an irregular extraction operation of the light container.

In particular, the motion detection sensors are arranged so that their detection fields cover different locations on the inner surface of the main body, that is, different sections of the receiving chamber. Each of the motion detection sensors will communicate, by generating and sending corresponding signals, with the data processing means responsible for processing said signals to finally determine, based on the information provided by the sensors, the direction of motion. container movement

In a particular embodiment, the at least two motion detection sensors are optical sensors oriented towards the interior of the reception chamber.

In a particular embodiment, each of said motion detection sensors is located in a different section of the receiving chamber and/or is oriented to detect the passage of a container through at least one plane substantially transverse to the main body, said planes being located in different sections of the receiving chamber.

In a particular embodiment, the data processing means process the information received from the motion detection sensors to determine any of the following scenarios: i) If a motion detection sensor detects the passage of an object through a closer location to the proximal end of the main body, sending the corresponding signal to the data processing means, and subsequently a motion detection sensor detects the passage of an object through a location closer to the distal end of the body main, sending the corresponding signal to the data processing means, the data processing means will determine that the container advances inside the system in the correct direction, thus being a legitimate deposit.

i) If a motion detection sensor detects the passage of an object at a location closer to the distal end of the main body, sending the corresponding signal to the data processing means, and subsequently a motion detection sensor detects the passage of an object through a location closer to the proximal end of the main body, sending the corresponding signal to the data processing means, the data processing means will determine that the container advances inside the system in the opposite direction to the direction correct, thus identifying a fraudulent deposit.

In one embodiment, the system further comprises a user interaction module which, in turn, comprises a user interaction interface facing out of the container opening; and user authentication means configured to recognize a user.

In one embodiment, the user authentication means are configured to wirelessly interrogate a user identifier that can be a portable device with NFC and/or Bluetooth® technology, such as a card or a smart mobile phone.

In one embodiment, said identifier is general or common and is not associated with specific users, it simply meets a certain criterion to be identifiable or recognizable by the user authentication means. In another embodiment, said identifier is associated with a specific user previously registered on a web platform accessible by the user, eg through a web application. Thus, once these users are registered in the web application, they are registered in a database of registered users together with their identifiers so that the interrogation of said identifiers by the authentication means allows the association of an action deposit with a certain user. In one embodiment, the user authentication means are configured to detect the user identifier by means of an interrupt pin of the data processing means, which reacts and alerts to a proximity detection of a user identifier. In particular, said interruption is achieved by preparing the operation code of the authentication process so that it is pending an external signal. Upon detection of a user identifier, through, for example, communication with a portable device with NFC and/or Bluetooth® technology; or a countdown, such an external signal is generated that triggers the execution of the code, which interrupts the current cycle of work without waiting for its completion.

In one embodiment, the user interaction module additionally comprises information presentation means configured to provide information related to the determination of the type of container introduced inside the system carried out by the data processing means.

Advantageously, the information presentation means will serve as a guide so that the user who is carrying out the process of depositing containers finds the sequence of steps clear and, in the end, makes sure of the correspondence between the container that he wishes to discard and the container you selected.

In particular, in the event that the container entered into the system meets the criteria established for that deposit, for example, if it is a PET plastic bottle, or an aluminum soda can, the user will be informed of the success of the operation. Otherwise, that is, if the deposit is not made as expected (e.g. due to a mistake in the type of container, etc.), the user will also be duly informed.

In one embodiment, the information presentation means comprise at least one of: LED-type light indicators, and/or emitters of acoustic signals and/or a screen.

In one embodiment, the electronics module comprises wireless communication means configured to transmit to a remote server information related to the determination of the type of container introduced inside the system, where said information is at least one of: product identification code; metallic composition of the container; polymeric composition of the container; captured image of the identified user registration container; temporary container deposit mark.

In a more particular embodiment, the wireless communication means comprise a modem of the GSM, or GPRS, or LORA, etc. type.

The remote server can correlate the information received with container typology data to determine that the container entered into the system is indeed a lightweight container that meets the requirements to be inserted in the container in question.

Advantageously, in addition to confirming and registering that a determined user has successfully deposited a package inside a container, through the system of the invention, the remote server will be able to process all the information to update the profile information of the registered user who has carried out the action. In this way, it will be possible, for example, to reward said user through an online computer application or one installed on their own mobile device based on a defined reward system to encourage citizen participation in selective waste collection plans.

Thanks to these wireless communication means configured to communicate with a remote server, the authentication means can send the result of the interrogation to said remote server, where the database of registered users exists. The information is remotely processed to determine the user's authentication, that is, to check if he is registered in the web application.

In one embodiment, the electronics module further comprises data storage means that comprise a container typology database classified based on at least one of: product identification codes, metallic container composition and polymeric container composition ; and wherein the data processing means are configured to determine at least one container typology by comparing the information received from the sensor means in the form of a signal with the container type database stored in the data storage means.

In one embodiment, these data storage means have a list of registered users locally, in such a way that the result of the interrogation is processed locally to determine if the user is registered in the web application.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition detection carried out by the second and third sensing means is performed in situ, that is, locally. In particular, the second sensor means are calibrated around a value that provides adequate sensitivity to detect the metallic composition of the container, and the third sensor means collect chemical information from the container that is compared with a library of spectral signatures, stored in the data storage media, to select the pattern to which said collected information corresponds. For its part, the detection of the product identification code by means of the first sensor means, and the image recognition is carried out remotely, on a server to which the relative information is transmitted wirelessly.

In one embodiment, the data storage means store information related to at least one determination of the type of container introduced inside the system, where said information is at least one of: product identification code; metallic composition of the container; polymeric composition of the container; captured image of the identified user registration container; temporary mark of reception of the container.

After completing the detection and analysis of a container, the system will be able to locally record all the information relevant to its characteristics, as well as assign a time stamp and a profile of a specific user, thus providing a valuable feedback on the use of the system that serves to extract statistical information regarding the degree of participation and efficiency of recycling programs.

Storing the information locally is advantageous in the case where, in an embodiment that includes wireless communication means, there are, for reasons beyond the system itself, connectivity problems with the wireless network.

In one embodiment, the mechanical module comprises: a first lockable gate configured to prevent or allow the passage of containers through the opening of the mechanical module's coupling interface; and first actuator means controlled by the data processing means for locking or unlocking the first gate; wherein the data processing means are further configured to control the first actuator means according to any of the following instructions: if a container is inside the reception chamber being analyzed by the detection module, block the first gate to prevent the passage of containers into the system; and/or if the presence of a container inside the reception chamber is not detected, unlocking the first gate to allow the passage of a container inside the system; and/or if the registration of a user is detected by the user identification means, unlocking the first gate to allow the passage of containers into the system.

In a particular embodiment, the first lockable gate has the shape of a flat disk and is configured to move in a plane perpendicular to the direction of entry, describing a circular path pivoting around a point, to slide from a rest position in which it prevents the passage of containers through the opening of the coupling interface of the mechanical module to a displaced position in which it allows it.

In one embodiment, the mechanical module comprises: a second hinged gate configured to retain and release a container on its way out of the system through the opening at the distal end of the main body; Y second actuator means controlled by the data processing means to control the lowering of the second gate; wherein the data processing means are also configured to control the second actuator means according to any of the following instructions: if a container is inside the reception chamber being analyzed by the detection module, retain it with the second gate preventing its dejection; and/or if a container is inside the reception chamber and the determination of the type of container inserted has been completed, folding down the second gate to allow the container to be released from inside the system into the container.

In a particular embodiment, the second hinged gate, that is, the exit gate of the system towards the interior of the container, comprises a frame assembly with a spring hatch, where the assembly moves with respect to a horizontal axis as a hinge for his downfall. The second actuator means act on the assembly allowing the free movement of the hatch, depending on the spring force, upon the impact of an object with a mass greater than a certain threshold for, in a second gate position, closing the opening of the distal end of the body, prevent damage to the system.

Advantageously, an embodiment that comprises a first lockable gate and a second hinged gate allows differential control of the intermediate steps of the container analysis process.

In one embodiment, the operation of both gates is independent, providing greater versatility of configurations that can be adopted by the system. Preferably, during the analysis process carried out by the detection module, both gates would remain fixed or blocked by closing both openings, that of the coupling interface and the distal end, of the receiving chamber.

In one embodiment, the first and second actuator means are coupled to act together by a rocker-type element. In a more particular embodiment, the first and second actuator means are coupled by means of a rocker system driven by a single motor, thus allowing the movement of the first and second gates to be controlled in a synchronized manner.

In one embodiment, the mechanical module comprises a frame and an ejector mechanism. The frame is attached to the main body and configured to provide support for it.

The ejector mechanism comprises the first actuating means and the second actuating means, wherein said first actuating means comprise a first arm, and wherein said second actuating means comprise a second arm, said first and second arms being articulated by means of a link.

The second arm is integrally connected to the second gate, which acts as a retaining element for containers inside the reception chamber. Said second arm will reversibly move the second gate from an initial position where it plugs the opening at the distal end of the reception chamber to a final position where it unblocks said opening, leaving the passage through it free.

In this embodiment, the main body additionally comprises a slot arranged along a certain length in a lower section thereof, according to the direction of gravity, which communicates the interior of the reception chamber with the ejector mechanism. The ejector mechanism further comprises a blade, preferably in the form of a blade or rib, configured to pass through said slot provided in the main body, to access the interior of the reception chamber and push a container housed therein towards the opening of the distal end. . The displacement of the second hinged gate by means of the second arm towards its final position is coordinated with the movement of the leaf, so that after an actuation of the ejector mechanism, the leaf facilitates the release of the container inside the container.

Advantageously, the frame and the ejector mechanism comprising the first and second actuator means and the link provide support, coupling structural, and mechanical interaction capacity to the user. In particular, the first arm of the first actuator means extends towards a proximal end such that, in operative configuration, it projects a distance out of the system and the container through the coupling interface. Said proximal end of the first arm forms a lever that allows actuation of the ejector mechanism, the first arm being attached at its opposite end to a proximal end of the link.

In one embodiment, the lever segment exposed to the user through the docking interface describes a linear path of downward pull defined by a guide slot or slot located in the docking interface of the system.

To communicate the actuation movement of the first arm to the second arm by means of the link, the second arm is articulated to a distal end of the link by means of the end of the second arm opposite to the end by which it is integrally joined to the second gate folding In particular, one of the two ends of the link is configured to move along a guide arranged on the frame by actuating the lever, and thus the movement exerted by a user on the first arm through the segment The lever is transferred to the second arm through its connection with the distal end of the link, in such a way that it allows the second hinged gate to be moved from the initial position where it plugs the opening of the distal end of the reception chamber to the final position in which it allows the passage of a container through said opening

At the same time, this opening movement of the reception chamber by means of the displacement of the second hinged gate causes the rotation and consequent sweeping movement of the leaf, which is integrally joined to the second arm, inside the reception chamber. reception, through the slot provided in the main body.

In one embodiment, the mechanical module coupling interface comprises a plate that is attached to the opening of the container by detachable fixing means, such as by means of screws. In one embodiment, the plate additionally comprises at least one locking tab arranged on the perimeter edge configured to project a distance from said perimeter edge preventing the sliding of the main body of the mechanical module through the opening of the container.

In one embodiment, the receiving chamber defined by the main body of the mechanical module has a substantially cylindrical structure that extends along a longitudinal direction and that is inclined to favor falling under the action of gravity along the cylindrical receiving chamber and throughout the system.

In one embodiment, the main body comprises a ridged area at its distal end.

Advantageously, the presence of said grooved area helps to prevent vandalism and careless use of the detection system. In particular, said grooved zone ensures the obstruction of an attempt to illicitly extract a container from inside the container to the outside, by interposing said grooved zone in the return path of the containers from inside the container, for example, by using a string tied to the container.

In a particular embodiment, the grooved area of the main body is a serrated edge.

In one embodiment, the distance between incisions of the serrated edge is less than a characteristic dimension of a lightweight package to be deposited in the container.

In a particular embodiment, the serrated edge is formed by alternating protrusions with incisions, both substantially V-shaped.

According to this embodiment, this geometry will offer an abrupt and tortuous profile, which hinders the return trip of a light container from the interior of the container towards the entrance opening to the same, by any means, especially in the case in which the container is tied to some type of rope-type element. In this case, in an attempt to carry out an illicit extraction operation in which a package is to be extracted from inside the container, said rope would be inserted in any of the serrated edge recesses, and the container locked with the body of the serrated area.

In a particular embodiment, the grooved area covers only a portion of the lower half of the distal end of the main body, the lower half being that intended to come into substantially contact, by gravity, with the container as it passes through.

According to this embodiment, said grooved area, in the same way as the main body, has a substantially cylindrical structure that projects a certain length from the distal end of the main body, but encompassing only a certain circular sector around the point of lowest height. according to the direction of gravity. Thanks to this structure and arrangement of the grooved area, the contact of the free container with the grooved area is ensured in its falling movement along the main body and, at the same time, the obstruction is ensured, by means of the interposition of said grooved area preventing upward or withdrawal movement from inside the container, for example, by using a rope tied to the container.

Advantageously, a configuration of the system where the grooved zone is designed considering only the portion of the main body that will be in contact with the container in its path of falling towards the interior of the container allows the mechanical structure of said system to be optimized. That is, the total weight is reduced, a more compact geometry is provided, and manufacturing materials are saved.

In one embodiment, the cylindrical section of the receiving chamber is 140mm. diameter.

In one embodiment, the main body comprises a transparent section configured to allow the first sensor means to view a container arranged inside the receiving chamber.

In one embodiment, the transparent section is made of methacrylate. In one embodiment, the transparent section is disposed along an uppermost portion of the receiving chamber, according to the direction of gravity.

In one embodiment, the main body of the mechanical module comprises a housing configured to house the elements of the electronics module and of the power supply module.

In one embodiment, the second sensing means configured to detect a metallic composition of a container comprises a coil wound around the main body of the mechanical module along at least a cross-sectional portion thereof.

In one embodiment, the wound coil is made of copper and is powered to generate a magnetic field that oscillates around 6kHz, which makes it possible to differentiate between aluminum (field change above 6kHz) and ferromagnetic steel (field change below 6kHz). of 6kHz).

In one embodiment, the section comprising the wound coil is a section near the distal end of the main body of the mechanical module.

In one embodiment, the third sensor means configured to detect a polymeric composition of a container comprise an infrared sensor of the NIR type.

In one embodiment, the NIR-type infrared sensor is located in a section near the distal end of the main body of the mechanical module, facing inside the receiving chamber.

In one embodiment, the power module comprises at least one battery. The battery will preferably be a L¡FePO4 battery.

In one embodiment, the power module comprises at least one solar panel, preferably a flexible solar panel.

Flexible solar panels, unlike the usual rigid panels, use materials that withstand certain deformation to allow them to adapt to surfaces with some curvature. In this way, the solar panels will have greater adaptability to be able to be integrated directly into the container, on practically any of its external surfaces (and even on the user interaction interface), thus avoiding damage by occupying certain spaces that may be subject to to handling, for example, during waste collection processes by local operator teams. In these cases, the lifting and subsequent emptying of the container is caused, generally by means of mechanisms implemented in large collection trucks, which poses a risk of suffering knocks or jolts that could cause the rigid plates to break.

In addition, the flexible plates can incorporate a regulator that facilitates the integration of the assembly and its subsequent handling for repairs and maintenance. On the other hand, the appearance and structure of the integrated set will be more compact, which improves the perception of said set from an aesthetic perspective that can result in a dissuasive effect to avoid misuse.

In an embodiment in which there is at least one battery and at least one solar panel in the power module, the energy obtained by the solar panel can be used to recharge the battery.

Advantageously, the system according to this embodiment will have improved autonomy and greater flexibility of urban location in remote areas, since it will remain correctly powered to carry out all the functions that require electrical energy without the need to be connected to the electrical network.

In a second inventive aspect, a container is defined that includes a container typology detection system that can be coupled to a container according to any of the embodiments of the first inventive aspect.

In a particular embodiment, the container is a selective collection container for light packaging located on urban roads.

In a particular embodiment, the container to which the detection system is attached is a reverse vending machine. All features and/or method steps described herein (including the claims, description, and drawings) may be combined in any combination, except for mutually exclusive combinations of such features.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the invention will become clearer from the detailed description that follows of a preferred embodiment, given solely by way of illustrative and non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying figures. .

Figures 1 a-1 b These figures show a perspective view of the front and rear, respectively, of an embodiment of a container typology detection system that can be attached to a container.

Figures 2a-2b These figures show a perspective view of the front and rear, respectively, of an embodiment of a container typology detection system coupled to a container.

Figure 3 This figure shows a perspective view of the front part of an embodiment of a container typology detection system with a first gate at the opening of the system.

Figure 4 This figure shows an example of a container typology detection system coupled to a container.

DETAILED DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

Figures 1a and 1b show a perspective view of the front and rear, respectively, of an example of an embodiment of a container type detection system (100) that can be coupled to a container (200) according to the invention. The front part is defined as the part of the system (100) accessible to a user to introduce a container, and that will coincide with the proximal end (114) of the main body (113) of the container. mechanical module of the system (100). For its part, the rear part corresponds to the distal end (117) of said main body (113).

Said mechanical module of the system (100) is introduced, together with all the mechanical elements of the system (100) inside a container (200) through an opening of the same, an opening that can be the same as the one to which the system (100) is subsequently coupled for its fixation with respect to the container (200). To be attached to said opening, the mechanical module comprises a coupling interface (not shown in Figures 1a and 1b) configured to be releasably attached to the opening of the container (200). The mechanical module comprises, in turn, an opening (112) configured to allow the access of containers to the interior of the system (100) to proceed with their analysis and subsequent release into the interior of the container (200) to which the system (100) it is docked in an operational configuration.

A main body (113) can be seen that in the final assembly configuration would be solidly joined through its proximal end (114) to said coupling interface. The main body (113) contributes to shaping the system (100) and, in a preferred embodiment, is inserted completely through the opening of the container (200), projecting towards the interior of the same from the opening (112) of the coupling interface, thus defining a receiving chamber (115). Said reception chamber (115) configures the housing where a user deposits the containers, which are temporarily retained after accessing the interior of the system (100) through the opening (112) while the detection and classification actions are carried out.

For the release of the containers into the container (200), Figure 1b shows an opening (116) located at the distal end (117) of the main body, said opening (116) being oriented towards the interior of the container. (200) in operational configuration, that is, with the system (100) coupled to a container (200).

In addition to the elements of the mechanical module, which give shape to the system (100) and serve as a physical interface for coupling the system (100) to the container (200) and for housing and supporting the containers, it can be seen that the system (100) comprises a plurality of sensor elements (121, 122, 123) that make up the detection module. In particular, in Figure 1a the first sensor means (121) mounted on a support structure coupled to the upper part of the main body (113) are observed. Said first sensor means (121) are configured to detect at least one product identification code placed on a container, such as a barcode or a QR code. Furthermore, it is observed that the main body (113) comprises a transparent section located immediately below the first sensor means (121). Said transparent section is mainly composed of methacrylate, and is configured to visually communicate the first sensor means (131) with the interior of the reception chamber (115).

In both Figure 1a and Figure 1b, second sensor means (122) configured to detect a metallic composition of a container are also observed. In particular, the second sensing means 122 of the shown embodiment comprises a copper coil wound around the main body 133 of the mechanical module along a cross-sectional portion thereof. As can be seen, said cross section corresponds to the section close to the distal end (117), where the container will be housed and kept at rest, once it is inside the system (100), for analysis. More particularly, the wound coil is powered to generate a magnetic field that oscillates around 6kHz, which makes it possible to differentiate between aluminum (field disturbance above 6kHz) and ferromagnetic steel (field disturbance below 6kHz). .

Finally, Figure 1a and Figure 1b also show third sensor means (123) coupled to a lower part of the main body (113). Said third sensor means (123) are configured to detect a polymeric composition of a container, such as PET. In particular, the third sensor means (123) of the embodiment shown comprise an infrared sensor of the NIR type, located in the same way as the second sensor means (122), that is, in a cross section close to the distal end (117) , where the container will be housed and kept at rest, once it is inside the system (100), for its analysis. Additionally, in the same way that occurred with the first sensor means (121), it is observed that the main body (113) comprises an opening, or transparent portion, which allows access and communicates the third sensor means (123) with the interior of the receiving chamber (115) to analyze the polymer composition of a deposited or received container.

Finally, in figure 1a a second opening is observed in the upper part of the main body (113) of the mechanical module that gives access to the interior of the reception chamber (115). In particular, in this embodiment, the detection module additionally comprises image capture means (not shown), which preferably comprise a wide-angle camera with artificial lighting, such as a flash type, to obtain photographs of the containers inside the camera. reception (115).

Said image capture means may be coupled together with the first sensor means (121) to the support structure. Said support structure on which the first sensor means (121) are mounted is collapsible, in such a way that the first sensor means (121) and the image capture means are located close to the distal end (117). , simultaneously orienting the detection area of the first sensor means (121) and the image capture means towards the opening (112) of the reception chamber (115). In this way, a user can manually present the container in the vicinity of said opening

(112) for a first stage of recognition, both code and container geometry, to subsequently release the container inside the system (100) for the detection of its metal and polymer composition. In relation to said first recognition stage in the vicinity of the opening (112), in a modified embodiment, alternative to the one shown in figures 1a and 1b, the detection area of the first sensor means (121) is oriented towards the outside of the container in which the system (100) is installed. In particular, the first sensor means (121) communicate, from their location, with the outside of the container through a transparent section located in a coupling interface like the one shown in figure 2a.

In addition to the elements included in the mechanical and detection modules, respectively, in figure 1b it can be seen that the system (100) comprises an electronics module which, in turn, comprises data processing means (131) in the form of a printed circuit board (PCB) attached to the main body

(113) next to the coil that forms part of the second detection means (122). In In particular, the elements of the detection module, that is, the first (121), second (122) and/or third (123) sensor means are configured to generate a data signal with the information detected relative to the type of container inserted into inside the system (100). Said signal is sent to said data processing means (131) for further processing.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in figures 1a and 1b, the data processing means (131) are in communication with storage means that are also part of the electronics module, and that comprise a container typology database, classified based on: product identification codes, and/or the metallic composition of the container, and/or the polymeric composition of the container; and wherein the data processing means are configured to determine at least one type of container by comparing the information received from at least one of the sensor means in the form of a signal with the database of types of container stored in the means of data storage.

On the other hand, the electronics module of the embodiment shown in figures 1a and 1b comprises wireless communication means integrated in the printed circuit board (PCB) configured to establish wireless communication between the system (100) and a server remote. In this way, the system (100) has the capacity to share information regarding the parameters of the different packaging analyzes that are carried out within the system (100). In particular, the system (100) shown in figures 1a and 1b provides the remote server with the following information on the type of containers: product identification code; metallic composition of the container; polymeric composition of the container.

More particularly, the system 100 also wirelessly transmits the images captured by the wide-angle camera to the remote server. This allows the remote server to process the images with "Deep learning" machine learning methods.

Finally, in both figures 1a and 1b a power supply module (140) is observed, arranged in the same section in which the data processing means (131) are located, that is, on the coil of the second sensor means ( 122) rolled up on the main body (113), but with another angular position. In particular, the power supply module shown comprises a battery configured to provide power to the elements comprised in the detection module and in the electronics module.

Although three different sensing means are included in the embodiment shown in Figures 1a and 1b, in other embodiments the system 100 may include a different number of sensing means.

Figures 2a and 2b show a perspective view of the front and rear, respectively, of an embodiment of a container typology detection system (100) coupled to a container (200). In the example of embodiment shown, unlike what happened with the example shown in figures 1a and 1b, the mechanical module of the system (100) shows details of a coupling interface (111) configured to be fixed in a detachable way to a container opening (200). Said coupling interface (111) is coupled to the container (200) by means of Heria screws, it is integrally joined to the proximal end (114) of the main body (113), and comprises an opening (112) for the insertion of containers towards inside the system (100). In particular, the coupling interface (111) has an essentially rectangular structure, with rounded edges, whose perimeter defines an interface area sufficient to cover in excess the contour of the opening of the container (200), in such a way that the excess portion of the coupling interface (111) that extends from the contour of the opening of the container (200) allows to correctly frame the coupling interface (111) on said opening by contacting the surrounding surface of the opening of the container (200). ). In this way, access to the interior of the container (200) is prevented through that opening other than through the opening (112) of the coupling interface (111) itself.

In Figure 2b it can be seen that, on the inside of the coupling between the coupling interface (111) and the opening of the container (200), there are locking tabs arranged on the inside face of the rectangular plate on the perimeter of contact with the original opening of the container, preferably separated at the upper and lower edges of said perimeter. These tabs project a distance to preventing removal, by sliding, of the main body (113) through the opening of the container (200).

In both Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b, the receiving chamber (115) defined inside the system (100) has a substantially cylindrical structure along the longitudinal direction of the main body (113). In particular, in the example shown, the receiving chamber (115) has a cylindrical section of 140mm. in diameter, which is sufficient to ensure the passage of light containers.

Additionally, it is observed that, in the configuration coupled to the container (200), the main body (113) and, therefore, the reception chamber (115), has a downward inclination with respect to the plane defined by the interface plate coupling (111) engaged in the opening of the container (200). Said inclination favors the natural fall of the containers inserted inside the system (100), under the action of gravity, along the reception chamber (115).

In both Figure 2a and Figure 2b it can be seen that the main body (113) of the mechanical module comprises a housing in the form of a trapezoidal protuberance. Said housing protects inside all the sensitive elements of the detection module, the electronics module and the power supply module.

In figure 2b it can be seen that the mechanical module comprises a hinged gate (119) configured to retain a container inside the reception chamber (115) in order to facilitate its analysis by the elements of the detection module. In the same way, under certain conditions, said hinged gate (119) will release said container, allowing it to exit the system (100) through the opening (116) of the distal end (117) of the main body (113). The actuation of the gate (119) is controlled by actuator means (not shown in the image) controlled in turn by the data processing means. In particular, the data processing means are configured to control said actuator means according to any of the following instructions.

On the one hand, if a container is inside the reception chamber (115) being analyzed by the elements of the detection module, the data processing means will prevent the gate (119) from collapsing in such a way that the container is retained inside the reception chamber (115) until its analysis is finished.

On the other hand, if a container is inside the reception chamber (115), having completed its analysis, that is, having completed the determination of the type of container introduced, the data processing means will order the means actuators lower the gate (119) to allow the release of the container from the interior of the system (100) to the interior of the container (200).

Although no graphical details are shown, the example system 100 of Figures 2a and 2b also comprises a user interaction module. Said user interaction module comprises a user interaction interface located on the docking interface plate (111), and oriented towards the outside of the opening of the container (200), to facilitate access to users. The user interaction module also comprises user authentication means configured to wirelessly recognize a user. In particular, in one embodiment, a user identifier will be interrogated wirelessly, which can be a portable device with NFC and/or Bluetooth® technology, such as a card or a smart mobile phone. Preferably, the user interaction module also comprises information display means to provide the user with information regarding the process of identification, reception and analysis of the container that he introduces inside the system (100). In addition, there may be signage on said interface that marks the place where the user should approach their identifier.

Although no graphic details are shown in figures 2a and 2b, in a preferred embodiment, the information presentation means comprise a touch interaction screen, as well as LED-type light indicators and/or loudspeakers for the emission of acoustic signals.

Figure 3 shows, in a complementary manner to the example shown in figures 2a and 2b, details of a lockable hatch (118) arranged in the opening (112) that gives access to the interior of the reception chamber (115) of the system. (100). In particular, the lockable gate (118) has the shape of a flat disk, made of polymeric material, and is configured to move in a plane perpendicular to the container entry direction, describing a circular path pivoting around a point, to slide from a rest position in which it prevents the passage of containers through the opening (112) of the coupling interface (111) of the mechanical module inside the system (100), to a displaced position in which it allows said passage of containers into the system (100).

Also in this case, the actuation of the lockable gate (118) is controlled by actuator means (not shown in the image) controlled in turn by data processing means. In particular, the data processing means are configured to control said actuator means according to any of the following instructions.

If a container is inside the reception chamber (115) being analyzed by the elements of the detection module, the actuating means will keep the gate (118) blocked, preventing it from sliding out of its rest position, in such a way that the opening (112) is completely obstructed and the passage of containers into the reception chamber (115) is prevented.

If the presence of a container inside the reception chamber (115) is not detected, the actuator means will unlock the gate (118), causing it to slide out of its rest position, describing a circular path, in the same way way as a peephole, to allow the passage of a container into the system (100).

If the registration of a user is detected by the user identification means, the actuator means will unlock the gate (118) to allow the passage of containers into the reception chamber (115).

Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a container typology detection system (100) coupled to a selective collection container (200) of the type located on the street, more particularly a container (200) of packaging recycling. It can be seen that said container (200) comprises an additional opening apart from the opening (112) arranged in the coupling interface (111) of the system (100), in such a way that the conventional deposit of containers is facilitated, in the case of not wishing to insert the container into the container (200) through the system (100). Additionally, the presence of some solar panels (201) can be observed in the upper part of the container. Said solar panels are flexible solar panels and are in connection with the power supply module of the system (100).

The following clauses define additional embodiments of the invention:

Clause 1. Container typology detection system (100), attachable to a container (200), where the system comprises a mechanical module, a detection module, an electronics module and a power module (140); wherein the mechanical module comprises: a coupling interface (111) configured to be releasably attached to an opening of the container (200), the coupling interface (111) further comprising an opening (112) configured to allow access of containers inside the container typology detection system (100); and a main body (113) integrally joined through a proximal end (114) to the coupling interface (111), projecting towards the interior of the container (200), defining a receiving chamber (115) configured to temporarily house the containers that access the interior of the system (100) through the opening (112) of the coupling interface (111); the main body (113) further comprising an opening (116) at a distal end (117) oriented towards the interior of the container (200) to allow containers leaving the system (100) to be released into the interior of the container (200). ); wherein the detection module comprises at least one of the following sensor means: first sensor means (121) configured to detect at least one product identification code arranged on a container; second sensing means (122) configured to detect a metallic composition of a container; third sensing means (123) configured to detect a polymeric composition of a container; and where the electronics module comprises data processing means where the first (121), second (122) and/or third (123) sensor means are configured to generate a data signal with detected information related to the type of container when it is temporarily housed in the reception chamber ( 115), and to transmit said data signal to the data processing means (131); wherein the data processing means (131) are configured to determine at least one type of container based on: at least one product identification code and/or the metallic composition of the container and/or the polymeric composition of the container; and where the power module (140) is configured to provide power to the elements comprised in the detection module and in the electronics module.

Clause 2. System (100) according to the previous Clause, wherein the detection module further comprises image capture means (124) configured to capture an image, to generate a data signal with said image, and to transmit said data signal data to the data processing means (131).

Clause 3. System (100) according to the previous Clause, in which the image capture means (124) comprise a wide-angle camera.

Clause 4. System (100) according to any of the previous Clauses, wherein the system further comprises a user interaction module comprising a user interaction interface oriented towards the outside of the container opening (200) and authentication means of user.

Clause 5. System (100) according to the previous Clause, where the user authentication means are configured to wirelessly interrogate a user identifier, such as a portable device with NFC and/or Bluetooth® technology.

Clause 6. The system (100) according to any of Clauses 4 to 5, wherein the user interaction module additionally comprises information presentation means configured to provide information related to the determination of the type of container inserted inside the container. system (100). Clause 7. System (100) according to any of the previous Clauses, where the electronics module comprises wireless communication means configured to transmit to a remote server information related to the determination of the type of container inserted inside the system (100) , where said information is preferably at least one of: product identification code; metallic composition of the container; polymeric composition of the container; captured image of the container; identified user registration; and/or temporary container deposit mark.

Clause 8. System (100) according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the electronics module additionally comprises data storage means that comprise a container typology database classified based on at least one of: identification codes of product, metallic composition of container and polymeric composition of container; and where the data processing means (131) are configured to determine at least one type of container by comparing the information received from the sensor means in the form of a signal with the database of types of container stored in the storage means of data.

Clause 9. System (100) according to any of the previous Clauses, wherein the mechanical module (110) comprises: a first gate (118), lockable, configured to prevent or allow the passage of containers through the opening of the coupling interface (111); and first actuator means controlled by the data processing means (131) for locking or unlocking the first gate (118); wherein the data processing means (131) are further configured to control the first actuator means according to any of the following instructions:

- if a container is inside the reception chamber (115) being analyzed by the detection module, block the first gate (118) to prevent the passage of containers into the system (100); me

- if the presence of a container inside the reception chamber (115) is not detected, unlocking the first gate (118) to allow the passage of a container inside the system (100); me

- if the registration of a user is detected by the user authentication means (152), unlocking the first gate (118) to allow the passage of containers into the system (100).

Clause 10. System (100) according to any of the previous Clauses, where the mechanical module comprises: a second gate (119), folding, configured to retain and release a container on its way out of the system (100) through the opening ( 116) of the distal end (117) of the main body (113); and second actuator means controlled by the data processing means (131) to control the lowering of the second gate (119); wherein the data processing means (131) are further configured to control the second actuator means according to any of the following instructions:

- if a container is inside the reception chamber (115) being analyzed by the detection module, prevent the second gate (119) from being lowered to retain the container; me

- if a container is inside the reception chamber (115) and the determination of the type of container inserted has been completed, fold down the second gate (119) to allow the container to be released from inside the system (100 ) inside the container (200).

Clause 11. System (100) according to any of the previous Clauses, wherein the receiving chamber (115) defined by the main body (113) of the mechanical module has a substantially cylindrical structure that extends along a longitudinal direction and which is inclined to favor the fall under the action of gravity along the cylindrical receiving chamber (115) and along the system (100). Clause 12. System (100) according to any of the previous Clauses, wherein the second sensor means (122) comprise a coil wound around the main body of the mechanical module along at least a cross-sectional portion thereof.

Clause 13 System (100) according to any of the previous Clauses, where the third sensor means (123) comprise an infrared sensor of the NIR type.

Clause 14. System (100) according to any of the previous Clauses, where the power supply module comprises at least one solar panel.

Clause 15. Container (200) comprising a system (100) according to any of Clauses 1 to 14.

Claims

- 34 - CLAIMS

1.- Container typology detection system (100), coupled to a container (200), where the system comprises a mechanical module, a detection module, an electronics module and a power module (140); wherein the mechanical module comprises: a coupling interface (111) configured to be releasably attached to an opening of the container (200), the coupling interface (111) further comprising an opening (112) configured to allow access of containers inside the container typology detection system (100); and a main body (113) integrally joined through a proximal end (114) to the coupling interface (111), configured to project towards the interior of the container (200), defining a receiving chamber (115) configured to house temporarily the containers that access the interior of the system (100) through the opening (112) of the coupling interface (111); the main body (113) further comprising an opening (116) at a distal end (117), wherein the opening (116) is configured to be oriented towards the interior of the container (200) to allow containers leaving the system (100) are released into the container (200); wherein the detection module comprises at least one of the following sensor means: first sensor means (121) configured to detect at least one product identification code arranged on a container; second sensing means (122) configured to detect a metallic composition of a container; third sensing means (123) configured to detect a polymeric composition of a container; and where the electronics module comprises data processing means (131); wherein the first (121), second (122) and/or third (123) sensor means are configured to generate a data signal with detected information related to the type of container when it is temporarily housed in the chamber - 35 - receiving (115), and for transmitting said data signal to the data processing means (131); wherein the data processing means (131) are configured to determine at least one type of container based on: at least one product identification code and/or the metallic composition of the container and/or the polymeric composition of the container; and where the power module (140) is configured to provide power to the elements comprised in the detection module and in the electronics module.

2. System (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the detection module further comprises image capture means (124) configured to capture an image, to generate a data signal with said image, and to transmit said data signal. data to the data processing means (131).

3. System (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the image capture means (124) comprise a wide-angle camera.

4. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system further comprises a user interaction module comprising a user interaction interface, the user interaction interface being configured to be oriented towards the outside of the container opening (200) and user authentication means.

5. System (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the user authentication means are configured to wirelessly interrogate a user identifier, such as a portable device with NFC and/or Bluetooth® technology.

6. The system (100) according to any of claims 4 to 5, wherein the user interaction module further comprises information display means configured to provide information relating to the determination of the type of container inserted inside the container. system (100).

7. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electronics module comprises wireless communication means configured to transmit to a remote server information related to the determination of the type of container introduced inside the system (100) , where said information is preferably at least one of: product identification code; metallic composition of the container; polymeric composition of the container; captured image of the container; identified user registration; and/or temporary container deposit mark.

8. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electronics module further comprises data storage means comprising a container typology database classified based on at least one of: identification codes of product, metallic composition of container and polymeric composition of container; and where the data processing means (131) are configured to determine at least one type of container by comparing the information received from the sensor means in the form of a signal with the database of types of container stored in the storage means of data.

9. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical module (110) comprises: a first gate (118), lockable, configured to prevent or allow the passage of containers through the opening of the coupling interface (111); and first actuator means controlled by the data processing means (131) for locking or unlocking the first gate (118); wherein the data processing means (131) are further configured to control the first actuator means according to any of the following instructions:

10. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical module comprises: a second gate (119), folding, configured to retain and release a container on its way out of the system (100) through the opening ( 116) of the distal end (117) of the main body (113); and second actuator means controlled by the data processing means (131) to control the lowering of the second gate (119); wherein the data processing means (131) are further configured to control the second actuator means according to any of the following instructions:

11. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving chamber (115) defined by the main body (113) of the mechanical module has a substantially cylindrical structure that extends along a longitudinal direction and which is inclined to favor the fall under the action of gravity along the cylindrical receiving chamber (115) and along the system (100). - 38 -

12. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second sensor means (122) comprise a coil wound around the main body of the mechanical module along at least a portion of the cross section thereof.

13- System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the third sensor means (123) comprise an infrared sensor of the NIR type.

14. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the power supply module comprises at least one solar panel.

15. Container (200) comprising a system (100) according to any of claims 1 to 14.