Description:Field of the Invention

The present disclosure relates to an integrated system designed for the management of waste and the provision of notifications to a community regarding waste collection events. Specifically, the system aims at enhancing the efficiency of waste collection and segregation processes while promoting community awareness and education on waste segregation and recycling practices.
Background
The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
With the rapid increase in urbanization and population growth, efficient waste management has become a critical challenge for municipalities and communities worldwide. Traditional waste collection systems often suffer from inefficiencies such as irregular collection schedules, overflow of waste receptacles, and lack of segregation, leading to increased environmental pollution and resource wastage. Additionally, the absence of effective communication mechanisms between waste management authorities and the community results in low public participation in waste segregation and recycling initiatives. Thus, there exists a pressing need for an integrated waste management system that not only optimizes waste collection and segregation processes but also actively engages the community through effective communication and education on sustainable waste management practices.
Summary
The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application.
The present disclosure envisages an integrated waste management and notification system designed to address the aforementioned inefficiencies in traditional waste management practices. The system comprises a network of smart waste receptacles, a central server, a mobile application for community engagement, a waste collection vehicle with advanced segregation capabilities, and an educational module. By leveraging technology to monitor waste levels, optimize collection routes, and facilitate waste segregation at the source, the system ensures operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the incorporation of an educational module within the mobile application aims to enhance community awareness and participation in waste management efforts, thereby fostering a culture of sustainability.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a garbage guardian (100), considered for efficient waste management and notification, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates a method (200) for the garbage guardian (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 illustrates diagram which elaborates on the interactive components of the garbage guardian (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 illustrates a circuit diagram for a smart bin, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic diagram for a smart waste segregation system, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description
In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to claim those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
The term "Garbage Guardian: Revolutionizing Waste Management through IoT and Mobile App", as used throughout the present disclosure, relates to an integrated technological solution designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of waste collection, segregation, and disposal processes. The system employs advanced technologies such as sensors, central computing resources, mobile applications, and smart vehicles equipped with segregation units to monitor, analyze, and manage waste across various stages of the waste management lifecycle.
The term "plurality of waste receptacles" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to multiple containers designed for the temporary storage of waste materials. Each waste receptacle in the plurality is equipped with a sensor. The sensor is configured to detect the fill level of the receptacle and to transmit a fill level signal when the fill level reaches a predetermined threshold.
The term "central server" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a computing device or system responsible for receiving and processing data from the plurality of waste receptacles. The central server generates a notification signal in response to the received fill level signals. The central server is communicatively coupled to the plurality of waste receptacles.
The term "mobile application" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to software running on mobile devices, configured to receive notifications from the central server and inform the user community about waste collection events. The mobile application is communicatively coupled to the central server.
The term "waste collection vehicle" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a vehicle equipped with a smart segregation unit. The smart segregation unit comprises a separation mechanism designed to segregate waste into predetermined categories during the collection process. The waste collection vehicle is integrated with the smart segregation unit.
The term "routing module" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a software component or system designed to determine optimized collection routes for the waste collection vehicle based on the location and fill level of the plurality of waste receptacles. The routing module is configured to determine optimized collection routes for the waste collection vehicle.
The term "educational module" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a component of the mobile application designed to provide information related to waste segregation and recycling guidelines to the user community. The educational module is within the mobile application.
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of system (100), considered for efficient waste management and notification, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. A plurality of waste receptacles (102) forms the primary collection points within this system, each receptacle being equipped with sensors to detect the fill level and transmit corresponding signals upon reaching a predetermined threshold. Said plurality of waste receptacles (102) is operatively connected to a central server (104), which is configured to receive the fill level signals. The central server (104), upon receiving said signals, generates notification signals to a mobile application (106), thereby enabling the notification of a user community regarding waste collection events. Additionally, system (100) incorporates a waste collection vehicle (108), integrated with a smart segregation unit (110), to segregate waste into predetermined categories during the collection process. A routing module (112) is also included, said module being configured to determine optimized collection routes for the waste collection vehicle (108) based on the location and fill levels of the waste receptacles (102). Further, an educational module (114) is provided within the mobile application (106), offering information related to waste segregation and recycling guidelines, thereby promoting environmental awareness among the user community.
In an embodiment, the enhanced functionality of the waste management and notification system (100), is achieved through the integration of ultrasonic sensors within the waste receptacles (102). These sensors are meticulously engineered to measure the distance to the surface of accumulated waste, enabling precise determination of the receptacle's fill level. By deploying ultrasonic technology, the system efficiently monitors the fill status of each receptacle, ensuring timely waste collection. This advanced sensor technology not only optimizes the management of waste receptacles by preventing overflow but also contributes to the overall efficiency of the waste collection process by enabling proactive scheduling based on accurate fill level assessments.
In another embodiment, within the central server (104) of system (100), a specialized database is incorporated to meticulously log and analyze the fill levels of the waste receptacles (102) over time. This robust database serves as a critical component in the system's infrastructure, facilitating the predictive analysis of future waste generation patterns. By harnessing historical fill level data, the central server can forecast waste accumulation trends, thereby enhancing the strategic planning of waste collection schedules. This predictive capability not only optimizes resource allocation within the waste management system but also significantly reduces the environmental impact of waste overflow and collection inefficiencies.
In yet another embodiment, in the operation of system (100), the central server (104) plays a pivotal role in enhancing communication efficiency through the generation of notification signals specifically designed to alert the waste collection service. This targeted alert mechanism is integral to scheduling the timely emptying of waste receptacles (102) that have reached their predetermined fill threshold. By ensuring that waste collection services are promptly informed of the need for receptacle emptying, the system effectively minimizes the risk of overflow and maximizes the operational efficiency of waste management logistics.
In an embodiment, the smart segregation unit (110), a cornerstone of system (100)'s waste collection vehicle (108), is ingeniously equipped with a sophisticated combination of conveyor belts, scanners, and air jets. This integrated system is designed to segregate recyclable materials from non-recyclable waste, thereby significantly enhancing the efficiency of recycling processes. Through the precise operation of conveyor belts and scanners, the unit effectively categorizes waste, while targeted air jets separate materials based on predefined criteria. This advanced segregation capability underscores the system's commitment to sustainable waste management practices by maximizing recyclable recovery and minimizing environmental pollution.
In another embodiment, an aspect of the mobile application (106), an integral component of system (100), is its reporting functionality, which empowers users to actively report issues related to waste receptacles (102). This participatory approach not only fosters community engagement in maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of the waste management infrastructure but also enhances the responsiveness of service operations to address receptacle issues promptly. By facilitating user-reported feedback, the system effectively leverages community vigilance to ensure the highest standards of waste management services.
In an embodiment, the waste collection vehicle (108) of system (100) is strategically outfitted with GPS tracking technology, enabling real-time monitoring of its location by the central server (104). This GPS integration offers critical insights into the vehicle's operational status and location, facilitating efficient route management and coordination. The real-time tracking capability ensures that waste collection processes are executed with optimal precision and timeliness, reflecting the system's commitment to leveraging advanced technologies for enhanced waste management solutions.
In another embodiment, the system (100)'s routing module (112) is its utilization of machine learning algorithms to dynamically refine and optimize waste collection routes. This continuous improvement mechanism leverages historical data and operational insights to enhance route efficiency, thereby reducing operational costs and environmental impact. By applying machine learning techniques, the system not only adapts to changing waste generation patterns but also ensures that waste collection services are delivered in the most efficient manner possible.
In an embodiment, the educational module (114), embedded within the mobile application (106) of system (100), is characterized by its dynamic content update feature. This module is periodically refreshed to reflect the latest in local recycling regulations and guidelines, ensuring that the user community remains well-informed about sustainable waste management practices. By providing up-to-date educational content, the system actively contributes to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and awareness among its users, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of community-based recycling efforts.
FIG. 2 illustrates a method (200) for garbage guardian (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. Beginning with step (202) the utilization of sensors within waste receptacles (102), the system effectively detects when the fill levels reach predetermined thresholds. In step (204), these sensors then transmit signals to the central server (104), which, in response, generates notification signals to inform both the waste collection services and the community at large through the mobile application (106). In step (206), this process streamlines the collection of waste by alerting services when receptacles are full and keeps the community informed and engaged in waste management processes. Further enhancing its efficiency in step (208), system (100) employs a smart segregation unit (110) within the waste collection vehicle (108), which categorizes waste into recyclable and non-recyclable materials during collection. In step (210) segregation is important for recycling efforts and reducing landfill waste. Additionally, the routing module (112) plays a pivotal role by analyzing data to determine the most efficient routes for waste collection, optimizing operational efficiency, and reducing carbon footprint. In step (212), the educational module (114) in the mobile application, which provides valuable information on waste segregation and recycling, promoting environmental awareness and responsibility among the community. This comprehensive waste management method embodies a cycle of efficiency, sustainability, and community participation, ensuring a significant reduction in waste-related issues.
FIG. 3 illustrates diagram which elaborates on the interactive components of the garbage guardian (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The diagram shows the monitoring of fill levels in waste receptacles, indicated by bins with a signal emanation, designating the detection function of said receptacles. A mobile application interface is depicted, comprising two user interfaces: one for the garbage collector and another for citizens, both receiving notifications to collect waste and providing information on waste collection overflow, missed pickup, and recycling guidelines. Waste segregation is indicated to occur on the waste collection vehicle, featuring a smart segregation unit, demonstrating the waste segregation process. The diagram emphasizes the communication between the monitoring of the waste receptacles and the mobile application interface, highlighting the system's capability to send notifications for waste collection and provide educational content to the user community.
FIG. 4 illustrates a circuit diagram for a smart bin component of the garbage guardian (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. Centrally featured is an Arduino Uno board, functioning as the microcontroller for the setup. An ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04) is connected to said Arduino board via jumper wires, which are responsible for power supply (VCC and GND) and signal transmission (Trig and Echo). A mini breadboard is utilized for constructing temporary prototypes, allowing for experimental circuit designs. A Wi-Fi module, possibly an ESP8266, furnishes wireless connectivity, enabling the Arduino to send and receive data over a network. Such a setup is indicative of a smart waste management system, where said ultrasonic sensor would detect the content level within a bin, and the Wi-Fi module would transmit this data for monitoring or alerting purposes.
FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic diagram for a smart waste segregation system, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The schematic diagram of the smart waste segregation system, delineating the interconnection of components required to facilitate said system. An Arduino Uno is depicted as the main microcontroller board, connecting to a breadboard for assembling electronic components. Two ultrasonic sensors are shown, positioned on the left side of the breadboard, utilized for object detection and distance measurement via ultrasonic waves. A Bluetooth module is present for wireless communication with Bluetooth-enabled devices. A servo motor (TowerPro MG995) is connected by a pink wire, employed for precise angular positioning within the segregation process. A battery icon indicates independent power supply capabilities, suggesting that the system is not solely reliant on the Arduino's USB connection for power. Said diagram details the component connections to the Arduino Uno, highlighting the power, ground, and signal linkages essential for the operation of a smart segregation unit within the waste management and notification system 100.
Example embodiments herein have been described above with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods and apparatuses. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by various means including hardware, software, firmware, and a combination thereof. For example, in one embodiment, each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘processing means’ or ‘microprocessor’ or ‘processor’ or ‘processors’ includes, but is not limited to, a general purpose processor (such as, for example, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor implementing other types of instruction sets, or a microprocessor implementing a combination of types of instruction sets) or a specialized processor (such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a network processor).
The term “non-transitory storage device” or “storage” or “memory,” as used herein relates to a random access memory, read only memory and variants thereof, in which a computer can store data or software for any duration.
Operations in accordance with a variety of aspects of the disclosure is described above would not have to be performed in the precise order described. Rather, various steps can be handled in reverse order or simultaneously or not at all.
While several implementations have been described and illustrated herein, a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein may be utilized, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the implementations described herein. More generally, all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific implementations described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing implementations are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, implementations may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Implementations of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

I/We claims:

A waste management and notification system (100) comprising:
a plurality of waste receptacles (102), each receptacle equipped with a sensor configured to detect the fill level of said receptacle and to transmit a fill level signal upon said fill level reaching a predetermined threshold;
a central server (104) communicatively coupled to said plurality of waste receptacles (102) to receive said fill level signal and to generate a notification signal in response thereto;
a mobile application (106) communicatively coupled to said central server (104) and configured to notify a user community about waste collection events based upon said notification signal;
a waste collection vehicle (108) integrated with a smart segregation unit (110), said smart segregation unit (110) equipped with a separation mechanism to segregate waste into predetermined categories during the waste collection process;
a routing module (112) configured to determine optimized collection routes for said waste collection vehicle (108) based upon the location and fill level of said plurality of waste receptacles (102); and
an educational module (114) within said mobile application (106) configured to provide information related to waste segregation and recycling guidelines to said user community.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said sensor is an ultrasonic sensor configured to measure the distance to the waste surface to determine the fill level.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said central server (104) includes a database to log the fill levels of said waste receptacles (102) over time to predict future waste generation patterns.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said notification signal is further configured to alert the waste collection service to schedule the emptying of said receptacle.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said smart segregation unit (110) includes a combination of conveyor belts, scanners, and air jets to segregate recyclables from non-recyclable materials.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said mobile application (106) further includes a reporting feature that allows users to report issues with waste receptacles (102).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said waste collection vehicle (108) is equipped with GPS tracking to facilitate real-time tracking by said central server (104).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said routing module (112) utilizes machine learning algorithms to continuously improve the efficiency of said optimized collection routes.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said educational module (114) is updated periodically to reflect changes in local recycling regulations and guidelines.
A method for managing waste using a garbage guardian (100), comprising the steps of:
detecting, via sensors, the fill level of a plurality of waste receptacles (102);
transmitting, from said waste receptacles (102) to a central server (104), a fill level signal when said fill level reaches a predetermined threshold;
generating, by said central server (104), a notification signal in response to said fill level signal;
notifying, through a mobile application (106), a user community about waste collection events based on said notification signal;
segregating, by a smart segregation unit (110) integrated within a waste collection vehicle (108), collected waste into predetermined categories;
determining, by a routing module (112), optimized collection routes for said waste collection vehicle (108) based on the location and fill level of said waste receptacles (102); and
providing, via an educational module (114) in said mobile application (106), information related to waste segregation and recycling guidelines to said user community.

GARBACE GUARDIAN: REVOLUTIONIZING WASTE MANAGEMENT THROUGH IOT AND MOBILE APP

A comprehensive system based on waste management through Iot and Mobile App is disclosed, comprising multiple waste receptacles equipped with sensors for detecting and transmitting fill levels, a central server for processing these signals, a mobile application for community notification, a waste collection vehicle with a smart segregation unit for waste categorization, a routing module for optimizing collection paths, and an educational module to instruct the user community on segregation and recycling. This system aims to streamline waste collection and segregation processes, optimize operational efficiencies, and enhance community engagement in sustainable waste management practices.

Drawings
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FIG. 1
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FIG. 2
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FIG. 3
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FIG. 4
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FIG. 5
, Claims:I/We claims:

A waste management and notification system (100) comprising:
a plurality of waste receptacles (102), each receptacle equipped with a sensor configured to detect the fill level of said receptacle and to transmit a fill level signal upon said fill level reaching a predetermined threshold;
a central server (104) communicatively coupled to said plurality of waste receptacles (102) to receive said fill level signal and to generate a notification signal in response thereto;
a mobile application (106) communicatively coupled to said central server (104) and configured to notify a user community about waste collection events based upon said notification signal;
a waste collection vehicle (108) integrated with a smart segregation unit (110), said smart segregation unit (110) equipped with a separation mechanism to segregate waste into predetermined categories during the waste collection process;
a routing module (112) configured to determine optimized collection routes for said waste collection vehicle (108) based upon the location and fill level of said plurality of waste receptacles (102); and
an educational module (114) within said mobile application (106) configured to provide information related to waste segregation and recycling guidelines to said user community.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said sensor is an ultrasonic sensor configured to measure the distance to the waste surface to determine the fill level.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said central server (104) includes a database to log the fill levels of said waste receptacles (102) over time to predict future waste generation patterns.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said notification signal is further configured to alert the waste collection service to schedule the emptying of said receptacle.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said smart segregation unit (110) includes a combination of conveyor belts, scanners, and air jets to segregate recyclables from non-recyclable materials.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said mobile application (106) further includes a reporting feature that allows users to report issues with waste receptacles (102).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said waste collection vehicle (108) is equipped with GPS tracking to facilitate real-time tracking by said central server (104).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said routing module (112) utilizes machine learning algorithms to continuously improve the efficiency of said optimized collection routes.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said educational module (114) is updated periodically to reflect changes in local recycling regulations and guidelines.
A method for managing waste using a garbage guardian (100), comprising the steps of:
detecting, via sensors, the fill level of a plurality of waste receptacles (102);
transmitting, from said waste receptacles (102) to a central server (104), a fill level signal when said fill level reaches a predetermined threshold;
generating, by said central server (104), a notification signal in response to said fill level signal;
notifying, through a mobile application (106), a user community about waste collection events based on said notification signal;
segregating, by a smart segregation unit (110) integrated within a waste collection vehicle (108), collected waste into predetermined categories;
determining, by a routing module (112), optimized collection routes for said waste collection vehicle (108) based on the location and fill level of said waste receptacles (102); and
providing, via an educational module (114) in said mobile application (106), information related to waste segregation and recycling guidelines to said user community.

GARBACE GUARDIAN: REVOLUTIONIZING WASTE MANAGEMENT THROUGH IOT AND MOBILE APP