Description:BACKGROUND
[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a waste receptacle system and more particularly to, a digital deposit return system and a method for collection of used products.
[0002] Deposit Return Systems (DRS) is a mechanism in which consumers are incentivised to return the packaging used in the products that they purchased, therefore giving value to materials that otherwise will be littered or sent to landfills. DRS requires including an additional amount in the price of the product that the consumer purchases. This amount is considered as a deposit towards the packaging used for the product. The deposit is included in the price of the product that the brands sell. This deposit is then passed on to the wholesalers, retailers and eventually to the customer who procures the product. As a part of process, the price is collected towards the deposit, the fiduciary responsibility in managing the deposit is passed on to a neutral third party/authority or a DRS Operator. The deposit amount incentivizes the consumer to return the packaging to an authorized store or a reverse vending machine.
[0003] Conventionally, DRS has been implemented in several countries since the 1980’s. The geographies that have introduced DRS have witnessed return of containers that enables high quality of recycling. Collection from source has ensured improved quality of collected materials, thereby resulting in reduced material recovery and municipal cleaning costs. Despite the high recycling rates with the introduction of DRS, the mechanism is yet to become a global trend as these geographies deploy traditional methods like reverse vending machines and(or) manual collection processes, which not only requires high costs (both capex and opex) but are also difficult to scale. Moreover, such conventional DRS involves manual intervention in tracking the containers for recycling process and thereby delays in refunding the deposits to the consumers.
[0004] Hence, there is a need for an improved digital deposit return system and a method for collection of used products in order to address the aforementioned issues.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0005] In accordance with an embodiment of a present disclosure, a digital deposit return system for collection of used products is disclosed. The system includes a processing subsystem hosted on a server. The processing subsystem includes a container identification module configured to identify each instance of a container of the product purchased by a consumer through scanning of a unique identification code affixed on the container. The processing subsystem also includes a packaging return processing module operatively coupled to the container identification module, wherein the packaging return processing module is configured to receive the container of the product purchased by the consumer, upon consumption, at a collection center. The packaging return processing module is also configured to obtain scanning detail of the container of the product received at the collection center by scanning the unique code of the container of the product by at least one of a retailer or the consumer. The packaging return processing module is also configured to determine validation of the container of the product to ascertain for eligibility of deposit refund based on the scanning detail of the container of the product obtained. The processing subsystem also includes a refund initiation module configured to authenticate the consumer associated with collection of the container of the product from the collection center based on validation of the container of the product ascertained for the eligibility of the deposit refund. The refund initiation module is also configured to map the consumer with the container of the product received at the collection center for the deposit refund upon authentication of the consumer. The refund initiation module is also configured to identify a consumer bank account associated with the consumer upon mapping of the consumer with the container of the product. The refund initiation module is also configured to initiate a transaction for refunding the deposit to the consumer bank account associated with the consumer for recycling container of the product.
[0006] In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for operating a digital deposit return system for collection of used products is disclosed. The method includes identifying, by a container identification module of a processing subsystem, each instance of a container of the product purchased by a consumer through scanning of a unique identification code affixed on the container. The method includes receiving, by a packaging return processing module of the processing subsystem, the container of the product purchased by the consumer, upon consumption, at a collection center. The method also includes obtaining, by the packaging return processing module of the processing subsystem, scanning detail of the container of the product received at the collection center by scanning the unique code of the container of the product by at least one of a retailer or the consumer. The method also includes determining, by the packaging return processing module of the processing subsystem, validation of the container of the product to ascertain for eligibility of deposit refund based on the scanning detail of the container of the product obtained. The method also includes authenticating, by a refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, the consumer associated with collection of the container of the product from the collection center based on validation of the container of the product ascertained for the eligibility of the deposit refund. The method also includes mapping, by the refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, the consumer with the container of the product received at the collection center for the deposit refund upon authentication of the consumer. The method also includes identifying, by the refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, a consumer bank account associated with the consumer upon mapping of the consumer with the container of the product. The method also includes initiating, by the refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, a transaction for refunding the deposit to the consumer bank account associated with the consumer for recycling container of the product.
[0007] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the disclosure will follow by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended figures. It is to be appreciated that these figures depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the appended figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying figures in which:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a digital deposit return system for collection of used products in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 2(a) is a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of a digital deposit return system for collection of used products of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0010] FIG. 2 (b) is a schematic representation of another exemplary embodiment of a digital deposit return system for collection of used products of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0011] FIG. 2(c) is a schematic representation of yet another exemplary embodiment of a digital deposit return system for collection of used products of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a computer or a server in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0013] FIG. 4(a) is a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method for operating a digital deposit return system for collection of used products of FIG.1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0014] FIG. 4(b) is a flow chart representing the continued steps of method for operating a digital deposit return system for collection of used products of FIG. 4(a) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0015] Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0016] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the figures and specific language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to those skilled in the art are to be construed as being within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0017] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such a process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices, sub-systems, elements, structures, components, additional devices, additional sub-systems, additional elements, additional structures or additional components. Appearances of the phrase "in an embodiment", "in another embodiment" and similar language throughout this specification may, but not necessarily do, all refer to the same embodiment.
[0018] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are only illustrative and not intended to be limiting.
[0019] In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0020] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a digital deposit return system and a method for collection of used products. The system includes a processing subsystem hosted on a server. The processing subsystem includes a container identification module configured to identify each instance of a container of the product purchased by a consumer through scanning of a unique identification code affixed on the container. The processing subsystem also includes a packaging return processing module operatively coupled to the container identification module, wherein the packaging return processing module is configured to receive the container of the product purchased by the consumer, upon consumption, at a collection center. The packaging return processing module is also configured to obtain scanning detail of the container of the product received at the collection center by scanning the unique code of the container of the product by at least one of a retailer or the consumer. The packaging return processing module is also configured to determine validation of the container of the product to ascertain for eligibility of deposit refund based on the scanning detail of the container of the product obtained. The processing subsystem also includes a refund initiation module configured to authenticate the consumer associated with collection of the container of the product from the collection center based on validation of the container of the product ascertained for the eligibility of the deposit refund. The refund initiation module is also configured to map the consumer with the container of the product received at the collection center for the deposit refund upon authentication of the consumer. The refund initiation module is also configured to identify a consumer bank account associated with the consumer upon mapping of the consumer with the container of the product. The refund initiation module is also configured to initiate a transaction for refunding the deposit to the consumer bank account associated with the consumer for recycling container of the product.
[0021] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a digital deposit return system (100) for collection of used products in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system (100) includes a processing subsystem (105) hosted on a server (108). In one embodiment, the server (108) may include a cloud server. In another embodiment, the server (108) may include a local server. The processing subsystem (105) is configured to execute on a network (not shown in FIG. 1) to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules. In one embodiment, the network may include a wired network such as local area network (LAN). In another embodiment, the network may include a wireless network such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, near field communication (NFC), infra-red communication (RFID) or the like.
[0022] The processing subsystem (105) includes a container identification module (110) configured to identify each instance of a container of the product purchased by a consumer through scanning of a unique identification code affixed on the container. In one embodiment, the product may include at least one of a fashion product, a clothing product, a home furnishing product, a consumer electronic product, a food product or a combination thereof. In some embodiment, each instance of the container may include at least one of a type of the container, deposit amount estimated for refund, status of refund or a combination thereof. As used herein, the term ‘container’ is defined as any packaging used to contain a product which could be food, clothing, electronics and the like. Packaging could be a plastic bottle or pouch or bag or container, aluminium or metal cans, cardboard boxes, glass bottles and the like. In one embodiment, the unique identification code may include a quick response (QR) code.
[0023] The processing subsystem (105) also includes a packaging return processing module (120) operatively coupled to the container identification module (110), wherein the packaging return processing module (120) is configured to receive the container of the product purchased by the consumer, upon consumption, at a collection center. As used herein, the term ‘collection center’ is defined as a location where the consumers can drop the containers post consumption. In one embodiment, the collection center may include a retail store, a community garbage bin, a personal garbage bin or a reverse vending machine (RVM). As used herein, the term ‘retail store’ is defined as a brick-and-mortar store, where a retailer or an owner of the retail store sells products to consumers in small quantities. They buy products from the wholesaler or distributor of a brand and sell to the consumers. Similarly, the term ‘community garbage bin’ is defined as a closed garbage can into which the consumer can drop the container post consumption. This bin can be installed in public places such as gated communities, parks, holy shrines, parks, community centers. Again, the term ‘reverse vending machine’ is defined as a machine that allows a person to insert a used or empty glass bottle, plastic bottle or aluminium can in exchange for a reward.
[0024] In a specific embodiment, the personal garbage bins and the community garbage bins may include a self-sustaining bin connected to the server, wherein the personal garbage bin is configured to automatically unlock when the consumer scans the dynamic unique code generated on the consumer application using the camera installed on the personal garbage bin. In such embodiment, the personal or the community garbage bins connected to the central server would automatically unlock when the consumer scans the dynamic QR code generated on the consumer app using the camera installed on the Bin. The personal or the community garbage bin includes several components such as a power supply, bin opening operation, level alert system, IoT module and the like. For operation of the garbage bins, a consumer needs to scan the QR Code on the garbage bin using the smartphone camera. That would identify the bin, its location and then would instruct the consumer to scan the QR Code on the container. Once, the QR code of the bin is scanned, the consumer further needs to scan the QR code of the container which is intended to be discarded.
[0025] If the QR code for the container is valid, a processor of the garbage bin sends the opening command to the actuator motor of the lid. The lid is a flap made up of metal or plastic which further rotates in a vertical direction. In a preferred embodiment, the processor may be a Raspberry Pi. Once the processor sends the signal to the flap, the flap opens to certain degrees, just enough for the container to pass through. The flap is kept open for 4-5 seconds and after the flap is opened, the consumer drops the container before the flap closes. If the consumer fails to drop the container within a given time frame, then they need to initiate the process again. Verification is performed of the dropped container to check if the consumer has dropped the same container as scanned. The garbage bin has a tray like object known as collection tray, just below the point where the flap is opening, such that the dropped container gets collected into it. The garbage bin also has a camera that is mounted on the top of the bin below the main processing unit, which focusses vertically downwards inside the bin. This camera further captures the image of the container present on the collection tray and sends it to the processor for verification. Subsequently, the processor extracts image information from the scanned QR code of the Plastic Waste. Using image processing technique, the processor checks the similarity between, image from the QR code and image captured. Based on this similarity, the processor provides the verification status to the consumer. The collection tray has an actuator operated flap on its bottom, such that when the flap is open anything present inside the tray falls down into the actual garbage bin. Once the plastic waste present on the collection tray is verified, the flap below the tray opens up and the plastic waste falls into the garbage bin.
[0026] The packaging return processing module (120) is also configured to obtain scanning detail of the container of the product received at the collection center by scanning the unique code of the container of the product by at least one of a retailer or the consumer. In one embodiment, the scanning detail may include a deposit amount refunded to the consumer upon returning the container of the product. The packaging return processing module (120) is also configured to determine validation of the container of the product to ascertain for eligibility of deposit refund based on the scanning detail of the container of the product obtained. The packaging return processing module for the consumer authenticates the validity of the container purchased by enabling scanning of the QR code on the container.
[0027] The processing subsystem (105) also includes a refund initiation module (130) configured to authenticate the consumer associated with collection of the container of the product from the collection center based on validation of the container of the product ascertained for the eligibility of the deposit refund. The refund initiation module (130) is also configured to map the consumer with the container of the product received at the collection center for the deposit refund upon authentication of the consumer. The refund initiation module is also configured to identify a consumer bank account associated with the consumer upon mapping of the consumer with the container of the product. The refund initiation module (130) is also configured to initiate a transaction for refunding the deposit to the consumer bank account associated with the consumer for recycling container of the product. For example, the refund initiation module (130) for the local retailer authenticates the validity of the container that the consumer would return by scanning the QR code on the container. The local retailer would also be able to authenticate the consumer by scanning the dynamic QR code generated by the consumer on consumer’s mobile application. On successful validation of the container and the consumer, the transaction would be completed by the local retailer. Alternatively, consumers would also be able to return the container by dropping it into the garbage bins installed in public places across the geography. The garbage bins are self-sustaining bins connected to the central server that would automatically unlock when the consumer scans the QR code on the bin after they have scanned the QR Code on a valid container. The garbage bins upon authentication opens the vent for the consumer to deposit the container, identify that an object has been deposited and to communicate the transaction details to the central server.
[0028] Therefore, it is to be noted in the foregoing discussion, the self-sustaining bins may be unlocked by several means. In other words, the consumer may access the self-sustaining bins through the following means:
1) When the consumer scans the QR code that is generated on the consumer application using the camera installed on the personal garbage bin.
2) When the consumer scans the QR code on the garbage bin using his/her smartphone camera (through the consumer application).
3) When the consumer first scans the QR code on a valid container and then scans the QR code on the self-sustaining bin.
[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the processing subsystem (105) further includes an incentivisation module (140) which is configured to track number of each of the container of the product returned by the consumer within a definite time period. The incentivisation module (140) is also configured to determine a predefined threshold value attained corresponding to each of the container of the product returned by the consumer within the definite time period upon consumption. In addition, the incentivisation module (140) incentivizes the consumer with one or more incentives when the number of the container of the product returned is higher than the predefined threshold value, thereby facilitating in determining amount of plastic waste generated by the consumer within the definite time period. In one embodiment, the one or more incentives may include at least one of bonus points, coupons, virtual cash, offers, gifts, certificates, awards or a combination thereof.
[0030] FIG. 2 (a) is a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of a digital deposit return system for collection of used products of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Considering a non-limiting example, wherein the system (100) is utilised in metropolitan cities for disposal and segregation of domestic waste to keep the environment clean and green. As garbage disposal and collection is quite tedious process and also there is a lack of public cooperation. An automated solution such as system (100) helps in an industrialized and fast paced world where individuals are not focussing on segregating the waste, and the ecological environment is being destroyed. The system (100) incentivizes the consumers to return the packaging used in the products that they purchased by instant transfer of the deposit into their bank accounts.
[0031] The system (100) has various approaches for disposal of the wastes and refunding the deposit to the consumers. Let’s assume that, in one of the approaches, the system (100) is utilised for deposit refund on return of containers at a collection point. In such a scenario, the participating brands can leverage their existing supply chain of retailers and empower them to collect the containers from the consumers at their stores.
[0032] Once, the consumer buys a product for consumption, the consumer would be able to authenticate the validity of the container (104) by scanning the QR code on the container. They would do so using the consumer mobile application. On successful scan, the QR code would be communicated to the server (108) where the QR code would be authenticated. On successful validation, the consumer would know the deposit amount to be refunded and the status of the refund. A container identification module (110) a processing subsystem (105), further identifies each instance of a container of the product purchased by the consumer through scanning of a unique identification code affixed on the container. In the example used herein, the product may include at least one of a fashion product, a clothing product, a home furnishing product, a consumer electronic product, a food product or a combination thereof. Here, the processing subsystem (105) which is hosted on a cloud server (108) is configured to execute on a wireless network (115) to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules.
[0033] The package return processing module (120) also helps the retailer at the collection point, to scan the QR code of the container to validate if it qualifies for refund using the retailer mobile application. Further, the server (108) communicates to the retailer if the container were valid. Once the validation is completed, the retailer identifies the consumer by scanning the dynamic QR code generated on the consumer application from their application. In one embodiment, the retailer may first identify the consumer by scanning the dynamic QR code and then validate the container.
[0034] In addition to proceed with the refund process, a refund initiation module (130) of the processing subsystem (105) authenticates the consumer associated with collection of the container of the product from the collection center based on validation of the container of the product ascertained for the eligibility of the deposit refund. The refund initiation module (130) is also configured to map the consumer with the container of the product received at the collection center for the deposit refund upon authentication of the consumer. Also, the refund initiation module is configured to identify a consumer bank account associated with the consumer upon mapping of the consumer with the container of the product. Based on the identification of the consumer bank account, the refund initiation module (130) is also configured to initiate a transaction for refunding the deposit to the consumer bank account thereby facilitating in recycling container of the product. On successful completion of the transaction, the retailer collects the container from the consumer. The inventory levels at the retailer would be updated in the system and the collector would be notified of the same. The deposit is automatically and instantly transferred to the consumer bank account from the account maintained by the DRS operator.
[0035] Further, the processing subsystem (105) also includes an incentivisation module (140) which is configured to track number of each of the container of the product returned by the consumer within a definite time period. The incentivisation module (140) is also configured to determine a predefined threshold value attained corresponding to each of the container of the product returned by the consumer within the definite time period upon consumption. In addition, the incentivisation module (140) incentivizes the consumer with one or more incentives when the number of the container of the product returned is higher than the predefined threshold value, thereby facilitating in determining amount of plastic waste generated by the consumer within the definite time period. For example, the one or more incentives may include at least one of bonus points, coupons, virtual cash, offers, gifts, certificates, awards or a combination thereof.
[0036] FIG. 2 (b) is a schematic representation of another exemplary embodiment of a digital deposit return system for collection of used products of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Considering another non-limiting example, wherein the system (100) is utilised for garbage disposal in public places like parks, zoos, holy shrines, community centers, malls, fairs, railway stations, airports, bus stands, to avoid littering of the place while incentivizing the consumers to drop the containers at designated locations. In such a scenario, suppose, if the consumer buys a product for consumption, then the consumer would be able to authenticate the validity of the container (104) by scanning the QR code on the container. They would do so using the consumer mobile application. On successful scan, the QR code would be communicated to the server (108) where the QR code would be authenticated. On successful validation, the consumer would know the deposit amount to be refunded and the status of the refund. A container identification module (110) a processing subsystem (105), further identifies each instance of a container of the product purchased by the consumer through scanning of a unique identification code affixed on the container. Further, the consumer can find the nearby collection points from the consumer application. They get the idea to visit the nearest collection point such as the community garbage bin to drop the container. The community garbage bins are self-sustaining bins connected to the central server (108) that would automatically unlock when the consumer scans the QR code on the community garbage bin after they have scanned the QR Code on a valid container.
[0037] Further, the package return processing module (120) and the refund initiation module (130) enables the community garbage bin system to validate the consumer, open the vent for the consumer to deposit the container, identify that an object has been deposited and to communicate the transaction details to the server (108). On successful return of the container, the inventory levels in the community garbage bin are updated in the system and the collector is notified of the same. The deposit is automatically and instantly transferred to the consumer bank account from the account maintained by the DRS operator.
[0038] FIG. 2 (c) is a schematic representation of another exemplary embodiment of a digital deposit return system for collection of used products of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Considering a non-limiting example, wherein the system (100) is utilised for garbage disposal in public places and deposit refund on return of containers (104) to reverse vending machine (RVM). Let’s assume, that the system is implemented in scenarios where the already installed reverse vending machines can be integrated. This would primarily be used for the collection of beverage bottles like glass bottles, plastic bottles and aluminium cans of water, aerated drinks and juices. Here, once the consumer buys the product for consumption, the consumer would be able to authenticate the validity of the container (104) by scanning the QR code on the container. They would do so using the consumer mobile application. On successful scan, the QR code would be communicated to the server (108) where the QR code would be authenticated. On successful validation, the consumer would know the deposit amount to be refunded and the status of the refund.
[0039] A container identification module (110) a processing subsystem (105), further identifies each instance of a container of the product purchased by the consumer through scanning of a unique identification code affixed on the container. Upon scanning of the QR code of the container, the consumer can find the nearby reverse vending machines.
[0040] The package return processing module (120) enables the consumer to return the bottle into the reverse vending machine. The RVM reads the QR on the container and pass the information to the server (108). The server (108) identifies the consumer. Further upon identification of the consumer, the deposit is automatically and instantly transferred to the consumer bank account from the account maintained by the DRS operator with the help of a refund initiation module.
[0041] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a computer or a server (200) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The server (200) includes processor(s) (230), and memory (210) operatively coupled to the bus (220). The processor(s) (230), as used herein, means any type of computational circuit, such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing microprocessor, a very long instruction word microprocessor, an explicitly parallel instruction computing microprocessor, a digital signal processor, or any other type of processing circuit, or a combination thereof.
[0042] The memory (210) includes several subsystems stored in the form of executable program which instructs the processor (230) to perform the method steps illustrated in FIG. 1. The memory (210) includes a processing subsystem (105) of FIG. 1. The processing subsystem (105) further has following modules: a container identification module (110), a packaging return processing module (120), a refund initiation module (130) and an incentivisation module (140).
[0043] The container identification module (110) is configured to identify each instance of a container of the product purchased by a consumer through scanning of a unique identification code affixed on the container. The packaging return processing module (120 is configured to receive the container of the product purchased by the consumer, upon consumption, at a collection center. The packaging return processing module (120) is also configured to obtain scanning detail of the container of the product received at the collection center by scanning the unique code of the container of the product by at least one of a retailer or the consumer. The packaging return processing module is also configured to determine validation of the container of the product to ascertain for eligibility of deposit refund based on the scanning detail of the container of the product obtained. The refund initiation module (130) is configured to authenticate the consumer associated with collection of the container of the product from the collection center based on validation of the container of the product ascertained for the eligibility of the deposit refund. The refund initiation module is also configured to map the consumer with the container of the product received at the collection center for the deposit refund upon authentication of the consumer. The refund initiation module (130) is also configured to identify a consumer bank account associated with the consumer upon mapping of the consumer with the container of the product. The refund initiation module (130) is also configured to initiate a transaction for refunding the deposit to the consumer bank account associated with the consumer for recycling container of the product. The incentivisation module (140) configured to track number of each of the container of the product returned by the consumer within a definite time period. The incentivisation module (140) is also configured to determine a predefined threshold value attained corresponding to each of the container of the product returned by the consumer within the definite time period upon consumption. In addition, the incentivisation module (140) incentivizes the consumer with one or more incentives when the number of the container of the product returned is higher than the predefined threshold value, thereby facilitating in determining amount of plastic waste generated by the consumer within the definite time period.
[0044] The bus (220) as used herein refers to be internal memory channels or computer network that is used to connect computer components and transfer data between them. The bus (220) includes a serial bus or a parallel bus, wherein the serial bus transmits data in bit-serial format and the parallel bus transmits data across multiple wires. The bus (220) as used herein, may include but not limited to, a system bus, an internal bus, an external bus, an expansion bus, a frontside bus, a backside bus and the like.
[0045] FIG. 4(a) is a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method for operating a digital deposit return system for collection of used products of FIG.1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4(b) is a flow chart representing the continued steps of method for operating a digital deposit return system for collection of used products of FIG. 4(a) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method (300) includes identifying, by a container identification module of a processing subsystem, each instance of a container of the product purchased by a consumer through scanning of a unique identification code affixed on the container in step 310. In one embodiment, identifying each instance of the container of the product purchased by the consumer may include identifying at least one of a type of the container, deposit amount estimated for refund, status of refund or a combination thereof. In some embodiment, the product may include at least one of a fashion product, a clothing product, a home furnishing product, a consumer electronic product, a food product or a combination thereof.
[0046] The method (300) includes receiving, by a packaging return processing module of the processing subsystem, the container of the product purchased by the consumer, upon consumption, at a collection center in step 320. The method (300) also includes obtaining, by the packaging return processing module of the processing subsystem, scanning detail of the container of the product received at the collection center by scanning the unique code of the container of the product by at least one of a retailer or the consumer in step 330. In one embodiment, obtaining the scanning detail of the container of the product received at the collection center may include obtaining the scanning detail of the container of the product received at a retail store, a community garbage bin, a personal garbage bin or a reverse vending machine (RVM). In some embodiment, obtaining the scanning detail of the container of the product may include obtaining at least one of a deposit amount refunded to the consumer upon returning the container of the product, nearby multiple collection centers for deposition of the container, working of container return process, past transactions associated with the return of the container, refunds received or a combination thereof.
[0047] The method (300) also includes determining, by the packaging return processing module of the processing subsystem, validation of the container of the product to ascertain for eligibility of deposit refund based on the scanning detail of the container of the product obtained in step 340.
[0048] The method (300) also includes authenticating, by a refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, the consumer associated with collection of the container of the product from the collection center based on validation of the container of the product ascertained for the eligibility of the deposit refund in step 350. The method (300) also includes mapping, by the refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, the consumer with the container of the product received at the collection center for the deposit refund upon authentication of the consumer in step 360.
[0049] The method (300) also includes identifying, by the refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, a consumer bank account associated with the consumer upon mapping of the consumer with the container of the product in step 370. The method (300) also includes initiating, by the refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, a transaction for refunding the deposit to the consumer bank account associated with the consumer for recycling container of the product in step 380.
[0050] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a digital DRS that empowers the PIBOs (Producers, Importers and Brand Owners) to incentivise the consumers to return the end-of-life products across multiple categories and industries that otherwise would end up in landfills.
[0051] Moreover, the present disclosed system digitises the solution of collecting of used products starting from collection tracking, deposit balance and inventory tracking, enabling logistics providers to plan collection of the containers, sale of the collected material, compliance of brands, logistics providers for enabling access to information that should enable them to comply with the reporting requirements mandated by the respective authorities.
[0052] Furthermore, the present disclosed system, empowers the e-commerce and food delivery companies to reuse their packaging used for delivery of the products by incentivizing their customers to return the packaging after consumption.
[0053] In addition to that, the present disclosed system enable the brands and packaging companies to reuse the packing used for their products for subsequent sales and enhanced to ensure that material collected goes back to the right packaging company instead of the recycler and would ensure that the re-use of the product is clearly tracked until its subsequent sale.
[0054] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
[0055] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.
[0056] The figures and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, the order of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts need to be necessarily performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. , Claims:1. A digital deposit return system (100) for collection of used products comprising:
a processing subsystem (105) hosted on a server (108), wherein the processing subsystem (105) is configured to execute on a network (115) to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules comprising:
a container identification module (110) configured to identify each instance of a container of the product purchased by a consumer through scanning of a unique identification code affixed on the container;
a packaging return processing module (120) operatively coupled to the container identification module (110), wherein the packaging return processing module (120) is configured to:
receive the container of the product purchased by the consumer, upon consumption, at a collection center;
obtain scanning detail of the container of the product received at the collection center by scanning the unique code of the container of the product by at least one of a retailer or the consumer; and
determine validation of the container of the product to ascertain for eligibility of deposit refund based on the scanning detail of the container of the product obtained;
a refund initiation module (130) operatively coupled to the packaging return processing module (120), wherein the refund initiation module (130) is configured to:
authenticate the consumer associated with collection of the container of the product from the collection center based on validation of the container of the product ascertained for the eligibility of the deposit refund;
map the consumer with the container of the product received at the collection center for the deposit refund upon authentication of the consumer;
identify a consumer bank account associated with the consumer upon mapping of the consumer with the container of the product; and
initiate a transaction for refunding the deposit to the consumer bank account associated with the consumer for recycling container of the product.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the product comprises at least one of a fashion product, a clothing product, a home furnishing product, a consumer electronic product, a food product or a combination thereof.
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each instance of the container comprises at least one of a type of the container, deposit amount estimated for refund, status of refund or a combination thereof.
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the unique identification code comprises a quick response code.
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the collection center comprises a retail store, a community garbage bin, a personal garbage bin or a reverse vending machine.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the personal garbage bin comprises a self-sustaining bin connected to the server, wherein the personal garbage bin is configured to automatically unlock when the consumer scans the dynamic unique code generated on the consumer application using the camera installed on the personal garbage bin.
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the scanning detail comprises at least one of a deposit amount refunded to the consumer upon returning the container of the product, nearby multiple collection centers for deposition of the container, working of container return process, past transactions associated with the return of the container, refunds received or a combination thereof.
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processing subsystem (105) comprises an incentivisation module (140) operatively coupled to the packaging return processing module (120) and the refund initiation module (130), wherein the incentivisation module (140) is configured to:
track number of each of the container of the product returned by the consumer within a definite time period;
determine a predefined threshold value attained corresponding to each of the container of the product returned by the consumer within the definite time period upon consumption; and
incentivize the consumer with one or more incentives when the number of the container of the product returned is higher than the predefined threshold value, thereby facilitating in determining amount of plastic waste generated by the consumer within the definite time period.
9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the one or more incentives comprises at least one of bonus points, coupons, virtual cash, offers, gifts, certificates, awards or a combination thereof.
10. A method (300) comprising:
identifying, by a container identification module of a processing subsystem, each instance of a container of the product purchased by a consumer through scanning of a unique identification code affixed on the container (310);
receiving, by a packaging return processing module of the processing subsystem, the container of the product purchased by the consumer, upon consumption, at a collection center (320);
obtaining, by the packaging return processing module of the processing subsystem, scanning detail of the container of the product received at the collection center by scanning the unique code of the container of the product by at least one of a retailer or the consumer (330);
determining, by the packaging return processing module of the processing subsystem, validation of the container of the product to ascertain for eligibility of deposit refund based on the scanning detail of the container of the product obtained (340);
authenticating, by a refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, the consumer associated with collection of the container of the product from the collection center based on validation of the container of the product ascertained for the eligibility of the deposit refund (350);
mapping, by the refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, the consumer with the container of the product received at the collection center for the deposit refund upon authentication of the consumer (360);
identifying, by the refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, a consumer bank account associated with the consumer upon mapping of the consumer with the container of the product (370); and
initiating, by the refund initiation module of the processing subsystem, a transaction for refunding the deposit to the consumer bank account associated with the consumer for recycling container of the product (380).

Dated this 09th day of August 2022

Signature

Jinsu Abraham
Patent Agent (IN/PA-3267)
Agent for the Applicant