Patent ID: 7110590
Filing Date: 2006-09-19
Classification: B07C,G07F

Abstract:
1. A method of handling an empty beverage container having opposed first and second ends of different properties, the container having an axis extending between the first and second ends, said first end defined as a bottom end of the container and said second end defined as a mouth region of the container, the method comprising the step of moving the container, from a return vending machine inlet, in a direction towards an outlet thereof, wherein the method comprises the further steps of: detecting by means of a video camera the container when moved in a lying posture into or past a detection zone of the video camera and the manner by which the container is inserted at said inlet, determining whether the container is moved into the detection zone with its first end first or with its second end first, and either transporting the container to said outlet if it is delivered into the detection zone with its first end first, or causing the container to be returned to the inlet if it is delivered into the detection zone with its second end first.