Abstract:
An apparatus for receiving waste contained in a container. The apparatus including a housing and a receiving mechanism coupled to the housing. The receiving mechanism is configured to receive the container. The apparatus further includes an analysis mechanism coupled to the housing; the analysis mechanism is configured to analyze the container.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/606,833, titled “An electronic machine for the collection of bio-plastic bottles designed to store food waste and used cooking oil for recycling,” filed on Mar. 5, 2012 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/610,766, titled “An electronic storage machine that weighs food waste and organic waste collected and then, calculates its weight and gives an instant incentive to the users of this system,” filed on Mar. 14, 2012, both of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]    The present invention relates generally to the field of waste collection. Leftover food scraps have beneficial uses. For example, food scraps may be composted into nutrient rich soil additives and may also be used for raw material for energy production by the extraction of oils or through anaerobic digestion for the production of bio-energy. Used cooking oil also has beneficial uses. For example, the used cooking oil may be processed into a bio-fuel such as biodiesel. Often, however, food scraps and leftover cooking oil go to waste by being thrown into the trash. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0003]    An exemplary embodiment relates to an apparatus for receiving waste contained in a container. The apparatus includes a housing and a receiving mechanism coupled to the housing. The receiving mechanism is configured to receive the container. The apparatus further includes an analysis mechanism coupled to the housing; the analysis mechanism is configured to analyze the container. The apparatus includes a first compartment within the housing. The first compartment is configured to store the container. The apparatus further includes a movement mechanism coupled to the housing. The movement mechanism is configured to transport the container from the receiving mechanism to first compartment. The apparatus includes a refrigeration unit coupled to the housing. The refrigeration unit is configured to refrigerate the first compartment. The apparatus includes a display coupled to the housing and a printer coupled to the housing. 
         [0004]    Another exemplary embodiment relates to an apparatus for receiving a waste. The apparatus includes a housing and a container within the housing. The container is configured to store the waste. The apparatus further includes a receiving area configured to receive the waste. The apparatus includes a grinding mechanism configured to grind the waste prior to the waste entering the container. The apparatus includes a conveyor configured to transport the waste from the receiving area to the grinding mechanism. The apparatus further includes a refrigeration unit coupled to the housing and configured to refrigerate the container. The apparatus includes a scale coupled to the housing and configured to weigh contents of the container. The apparatus further includes a display coupled to the housing and a printer coupled to the housing. 
         [0005]    Yet another exemplary embodiment relates to a method of providing an incentive to a user for depositing waste in a waste collection machine. The method includes receiving waste from the user in a receiving portion of the waste collection machine, wherein the waste includes any of food scraps and oil. The method further includes analyzing the received waste to determine a characteristic of the received waste. The method includes storing the received waste in a refrigerated compartment of the waste collection machine. The method further includes determining the incentive based on the characteristic of the received waste. The method includes providing the incentive to the user. 
         [0006]    The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being carried out in various ways. Alternative exemplary embodiments relate to other features and combinations of features as may be generally recited in the claims. 
         [0007]    The foregoing is a summary and thus by necessity contains simplifications, generalizations, and omissions of detail. Consequently, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other aspects, inventive features, and advantages of the devices and/or processes described herein, as defined solely by the claims, will become apparent in the detailed description set forth herein and taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
         [0008]      FIG. 1  is a front view of a waste collection machine according to an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0009]      FIG. 2  is a block diagram of the waste collection machine of  FIG. 1  according to an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0010]      FIG. 3  is a flow diagram of a process of providing a user an empty container through a machine configured to dispense empty containers and receive containers according to an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0011]      FIG. 4  is a flow diagram of a process of receiving a container of waste in a machine from a user according to an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0012]      FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a waste collection machine according to an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0013]      FIG. 6  is an interior view of the waste collection machine of  FIG. 5  according to an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0014]      FIG. 7  is a block diagram of the waste collection machine of  FIG. 5  according to an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0015]      FIG. 8  is a flow diagram of a process of receiving waste in a machine according to an exemplary embodiment. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       [0016]    Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting. Unless otherwise specified, “a” or “an” means “one or more.” 
         [0017]    Referring to  FIG. 1 , a waste collection machine  100  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Machine  100  includes housing  101 . Housing  101  includes window  102 . Refrigerated compartment  103  is visible through window  102 . Refrigerated compartment  103  includes at least one shelf  104  for holding containers  105 . Refrigerated compartment is cooled by refrigeration unit  122  (shown in  FIG. 2 ). Containers  105  may be full of liquids and/or solids or may be empty. Machine  100  may include a separate empty container storage compartment or area (not shown). The empty container storage compartment may be refrigerated. Alternatively, empty containers are stored on shelves  104 . Containers  105  are received into machine  100  through access compartment  106 . Further, containers  105  may be removed from machine  100  through access compartment  106 . Access compartment  106  provides external access to the interior of housing  101 . Access compartment  106  may include a hinged door or a pivoting deposit bin. Machine  100  includes container movement mechanism  107 . Container movement mechanism  107  is configured to place containers  105  received in access compartment  106  onto shelf  104 . Additionally, container movement mechanism  107  is configured to remove containers  105  from a shelf  104  and place the removed container  105  into access compartment  106  (e.g., removing an empty container off of shelf  104  and placing the empty container in access compartment  106  such that a user can remove the container from machine  100 ). Accordingly, a user of machine  100  can deposit containers  105  into machine  100  and remove containers  105  from machine  100  through access compartment  106 . 
         [0018]    Machine  100  includes various user-interface devices. Machine  100  includes display  108 . Display  108  may be an LCD, OLED, TFT, or any other suitable display. Display  108  presents operational information to a user of machine  100  through a graphical user interface. In some configurations, display  108  is a touch screen display and is configured to receive user input through an interactive graphical user interface. Machine  100  includes keypad  109 . Keypad  109  is configured to receive input from a user. Although keypad  109  is drawn as including fifteen buttons, any number of buttons may be included. 
         [0019]    Machine  100  is configured to receive payments from a user, provide payments to a user, and provide users with receipts of transactions. Machine  100  includes bill-in/out mechanism  110 . Bill-in/out mechanism  110  is configured to receive and return paper currency. Machine  100  includes coin-in mechanism  111  and coin-out mechanism  112 . Coin-in mechanism  111  is configured to receive coined currency, and coin-out mechanism  112  is configured to dispense coined currency to a user. Adjacent to coin-in mechanism  111  is button  113 , which when pressed is configured to return deposited coins. Machine  100  includes magnetic strip reader/writer  114 . Magnetic strip reader/writer  114  is configured to read a magnetic strip and reprogram a magnetic strip (e.g., the magnetic strip of a credit card, the magnetic strip of a debit card, the magnetic strip of a loyalty card, etc.). Machine  100  further includes NCF reader  115 , which is configured to read NFC information (e.g., an embedded RFID tag of a credit card, a transmitted RFID signal from a smartphone, etc.). Machine  100  includes printer  116  configured to print receipts, coupons, and/or vouchers. 
         [0020]    The front face of housing  101  may pivot away from the other portions of housing  101  to provide maintenance access to the internals of machine  100  (e.g., refrigerated compartment  103 , containers  105 , internal electronic components, coin hoppers, printer paper, bill stacks, etc.). Accordingly, hinges  117  are provided on housing  101 . The front face of housing  101  may be locked into the closed position by a locking mechanism. Housing  101  also includes advertising sections  118 . Advertising sections  118  may be holders for printed advertisements or displays. 
         [0021]    Machine  100  is generally configured to dispense containers  105 , receive containers  105  including food waste (e.g., used cooking oil, food scraps, etc.), and provide an incentive to a user depositing food waste (e.g., a financial incentive, a coupon, a voucher, etc.). Dispensed containers  105  may be empty containers for waste storage and later depositing back into machine  100 . Alternatively, dispensed containers  105  may be full of oil (e.g., cooking oil, motor oil, etc.) and are purchased by a user of the machine. Each deposited container  105  is analyzed by container sensors  124  (shown in  FIG. 2 ; e.g., a camera, a scale, a chemical sensor, etc.). In order to assist with container deposits, container withdrawals, and accounting tasks related to the receipt and dispensing of incentives, each container  105  is marked with a unique identifier. The unique identifier is stored as a machine readable code, such as barcode  119 , QR code  120 , and/or RFID tag  121 . Each deposited container  105  may be premarked with machine readable code corresponding to the unique identifier, in which case a label reader  125  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) placed near the access compartment is configured to scan the unique identifier. If a deposited container  105  does not contain a label indicating a unique identifier, a unique identifier is created and a container labeler  126  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) applies a label (e.g., a printed barcode  119 ) to container  105  prior to container  105  being stored in refrigerated compartment  103 . The identifiers are unique to each of the containers  105  and are used to identify the size, weight, contents, date information, and user identification information. 
         [0022]    Referring to  FIG. 2 , a block diagram of controller  201  of machine  100  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Machine  100  includes controller  201 . Controller  201  includes processor  202  and memory  203 . Memory  203  stores programming modules that, when executed by processor  202 , control the operation of machine  100 . Controller  201  is in communication with and operatively connected to container movement mechanism  107 , display  108 , keypad  109 , bill-in/out mechanism  110 , coin-in mechanism  111 , coin-out mechanism  112 , coin return button  113 , magnetic strip reader/writer  114 , NFC transceiver  115 , and printer  116 . Controller  201  is further in communication with and is further operatively coupled to container sensors  124 , label reader  125 , container labeler  126 , refrigeration unit  122 , door locks  123 , and communications module  204 . Communication module  204  is configured to transmit and receive data to and from outside sources (e.g., a central server). Communication module  204  is wired or wireless. Communication module  204  utilizes any of the 802.11 standard networking protocol (e.g., 802.11a/b/g/n), CDMA, GSM, LTE, Bluetooth®, and/or Ethernet. Controller  201  receives instructions from external computing devices through communication module  204  (e.g., operation schedules, shutdown commands, requests for information and statuses, etc.). Controller  201  also sends commands and data to external computing devices through communications module  204 . For example, when controller  201  determines that shelves  104  are full, controller  201  may initiate a message to the operator of machine  100  indicating that shelves  104  need to be emptied. Further, controller  201  may upload regular reports, such as usage history, pay-out information, numbers of deposited containers, numbers of containers removed, etc. 
         [0023]    Machine  100  and all of the components of machine  100  are powered by power supply  205 . The electrical source of power supply  205  is any of grid power, battery power, and/or solar power. It is contemplated that multiple power sources are used (e.g., a primary power source of solar power and a backup power source of grid power in the event the solar power source cannot provide enough electrical energy to operate machine  100 ). 
         [0024]    Referring to  FIG. 3 , a flow diagram detailing a process  300  of providing a user an empty container through a machine configured to dispense empty containers and receive containers (e.g., machine  100 ) is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The method begins when the machine detects the user&#39;s presence at the machine (step  301 ). The user&#39;s presence is may be detected by user interaction with a user input (e.g., a touchscreen, a keypad, etc.). Generally, the interaction indicates that the user wishes to receive a container from the machine. Alternatively, the user&#39;s presence may be detected by a motion detector or a camera mounted on the machine. In yet another alternative arrangement, the user&#39;s presence is detected when the user provides loyalty account identification (e.g., by swiping a loyalty card through a magnetic strip reader of the machine, by tapping an NFC enabled loyalty card on an NFC transceiver of the machine, by transmitting loyalty account information from an NFC enabled mobile device such as a smartphone to the NFC transceiver of the machine, etc.). Once the user&#39;s presence is detected, the machine is activated (step  302 ). 
         [0025]    After being activated, the machine queries the type of container the user wishes to receive (step  303 ). The machine displays a query through a display of the machine to the user. The query asks the user to input the desired container and the desired quantity. Along with the query, the machine uses the display to indicate the types of containers available and the quantity of each type of container available for dispensing. Accordingly, during the query, the displayed information includes an indication of the available container types available and each container type characteristic. For example, the machine may have multiple container sizes available for dispensing (e.g., one liter, two liter, one gallon, etc.) and containers specifically designed to store different types of waste (e.g., containers designed to store liquid waste, containers designed to store solid waste, etc.). The displayed information may include a price for each type of container. The price may be a refundable deposit (i.e., the price may be refunded when the user depots the received container back into the machine) or a purchase cost (of either an empty container or a container filled with oil). Further, the displayed information may further indicate the maximum quantity of each container available. In some arrangements, the machine is configured to dispense a single type of container. In such an arrangement, the query only consists of a quantity inquiry. 
         [0026]    In response to the user query, the machine receives a user selection (step  304 ). The user selection indicates at least a type of container the user wants the machine to dispense (e.g., whether the user wants an empty container or a container filled with oil, the size of the container, any other desirable container characteristics). The user selection may also include a quantity of containers to dispense. In response to the user selection, the machine may indicate a total price of the transaction and that the user must pay prior to the machine dispensing the containers. If the machine does not receive a response to the query within a designated time-out period (e.g., in thirty seconds, in one minute, in five minutes, etc.), the machine returns to an inactive state and returns to step  301 . 
         [0027]    The machine receives payment information (step  305 ). The user can pay for the selected container by inserting money (i.e., coins or bills) into a money-in device of the machine. Alternatively, the user can provide payment information relating to a payment account (e.g., credit or bank account information) to pay for the bottle by swiping a credit card or a prepaid card through a magnetic strip reader of the machine. In another alternative, the user can provide payment information by tapping a payment card having an NFC tag against an NFC transceiver of the machine. In yet another alternative, the user can provide payment information by tapping an NFC enabled mobile device (e.g., a smartphone) running a payment application (e.g., Google Wallet, ISIS, a proprietary machine payment application, etc.). Still further, the user may have a coupon or a voucher for a free or discounted container, in which case the coupon or voucher can be provided to a scanner of the machine such that the price may be adjusted. In some arrangements, the machine may not require a fee for receiving a bottle. In such an arrangement, step  305  is skipped. 
         [0028]    While providing payment information, the machine may prompt the user to register for an account or to log into his account with the machine&#39;s provider. The account enables the operator of the machine to track user activities such as what types and quantities of containers the user has taken out of the machine, what types and quantities of containers the user has deposited into the machine, how often the user uses the machine, the amount of waste deposited into the machine. The operator of the machine may use this information to provide a loyalty benefit program. For example, the operator of the machine may provide a free container after a certain number of containers have been purchased or deposited. 
         [0029]    After receiving payment for the container, the machine retrieves the user-selected container (step  306 ). The machine retrieves the container by maneuvering a container movement mechanism of the machine (e.g., container movement mechanism  107 ). The container movement mechanism is configured to pick up, move, and place containers within the housing of the machine. Each container&#39;s location within the housing is stored in a controller of the machine. The controller identifies the proper container to be dispensed, maneuvers the movement mechanism into a position to pick up the container, instructs the mechanism to pick up the container, and maneuvers the movement mechanism to place the container into a dispensing area of the machine. The dispensing area of the machine is user accessible (i.e., the user can remove the container from the machine&#39;s housing once the container is placed into the dispensing area of the machine). Each container may contain a unique identifier (e.g., barcode  119 , QR code  120 , or NFC tag  121 ). While retrieving the container, the controller of the machine may associate the container&#39;s unique identification code to the user&#39;s account. Further, container information may be stored in a memory of the machine such that the machine can later transmit a report to the machine&#39;s operator (e.g., via communication module  204 ). 
         [0030]    After moving the container into the dispensing area of the machine, the machine dispenses the container (step  307 ). The dispensing area may be located behind a locked door of the machine. In such an arrangement, the machine unlocks the door such that the user can access the dispensing area and remove the container. If a container remains in the dispensing area for a threshold period of time, the machine may issue an audible and/or visual notification to the user (e.g., flashing a light at the user, emitting a beeping noise to the user, etc.). 
         [0031]    After dispensing the container, the machine determines if the user overpaid (step  308 ). If the user provided too much money, to the machine (e.g., by providing a one dollar bill when the container deposit or cost is fifty cents), the machine dispenses change to the user (step  309 ). As noted above, in some arrangements, the machine does not require a fee for dispensing a container. In such an arrangement, step  308  and step  309  are skipped. After the container has been dispensed and any necessary change has been dispensed, the machine prints a receipt (step  310 ). The receipt is printed through a printer of the machine. Alternatively, the user may opt to receive the receipt via e-mail or text message. In this case, the controller of the machine formats and sends the receipt via a communications module of the machine (e.g., communication module  204 ). After the receipt is provided, the machine returns to a standby mode and waits for another user&#39;s presence, in which case the method repeats. 
         [0032]    Referring to  FIG. 4 , a flow diagram detailing a process  400  of receiving a container of waste in a machine (e.g., machine  100 ) from a user is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The method begins when the machine detects the user&#39;s presence at the machine (step  401 ). The user&#39;s presence is may be detected by user interaction with a user input (e.g., a touchscreen, a keypad, etc.). Generally, the interaction indicates that the user wishes to deposit a container into the machine in exchange for an incentive (e.g., a coupon, a credit, money, etc.). Alternatively, the user&#39;s presence may be detected by a motion detector or a camera mounted on the machine. In yet another alternative arrangement, the user&#39;s presence is detected when the user provides loyalty account identification (e.g., by swiping a loyalty card through a magnetic strip reader of the machine, by tapping an NFC enabled loyalty card on an NFC transceiver of the machine, by transmitting loyalty account information from an NFC enabled mobile device such as a smartphone to the NFC transceiver of the machine, etc.). Once the user&#39;s presence is detected, the machine is activated (step  402 ). 
         [0033]    After being activated, the machine queries the user for transaction information (step  403 ). The machine displays the query through a display of the machine to the user. The query asks the user to provide user account information and container deposit information. The user account information may have been previously provided upon the initial interaction with the machine in step  401 . The query includes a request for the user to provide information about the container to be deposited including the contents of the container, whether the container is marked with a system identification (e.g., barcode  119 , QR code  120 , NFC tag  121 , etc.), whether the container is a non-system container (e.g., a used container from a gallon of milk, a used soda bottle, etc.). At this point, the machine may also query the user as to whether the user has any promotional vouchers or coupons (e.g., a double deposit value coupon). The user provides the machine the requested information through user input devices on the machine (e.g., a keypad, a touchscreen, a barcode scanner, etc.) (step  404 ). 
         [0034]    After receiving the user input, the machine indicates to the user that it is ready to receive the container, and the machine receives the container (step  405 ). Generally, the user places the container in a receiving area of the machine. After receiving the container, the machine detects container characteristics (step  406 ). The machine is configured to detect the shape and the size of the container. The size may be detected through a camera system, a laser scanner, or another system configured to detect the shape and size of the container. The machine is further configured to weigh the container in order to determine the weight of the contents of the container. Additionally, the machine may be configured to detect contents of the container (e.g., through a camera system if the container is clear, by puncturing the container with a chemical probe and resealing the puncture hole, etc.). Further, the machine is configured to detect and read any unique container identifications in the form of barcodes, QR codes, and/or NFC tags on the container. The unique container identification may indicate that the container is linked to a particular account. Further the controller of the machine may cross reference the container identification with a database containing container information (container size, container shape, container tare weight, container dispense date, etc.). If the deposited container does not include a unique container identification, the machine creates a label and applies the label to the container (i.e., prints a label having a barcode or QR code and affixes the coded label to the container), such that a service person can scan the label and determine container information such as the container&#39;s weight, contents, size, deposit date, an associated user account, etc. 
         [0035]    After detecting container characteristics, the machine determines whether to accept or reject the container (step  407 ). If the container is to be rejected, the machine indicates to the user that the container is not acceptable through a display of the machine (step  408 ). The indication may include a reason for the container&#39;s rejection. The container may be deemed unacceptable if it contains unaccepted waste product (e.g., metal, non-organic waste, etc.). The container may also be deemed unacceptable if it is of an incompatible size with the machine&#39;s storage and/or movement mechanism (i.e., the container is too big, too small, or oddly shaped). After indicating that the container is not acceptable, the container is dispensed back to the user (step  409 ). 
         [0036]    If the container is to be accepted, the machine calculates an incentive for the user (step  410 ). The incentive may be money, coupons, and/or vouchers. The amount and type of incentive provided is customizable and based on parameters provided by the operator of the machine. The incentive may increase as the quantity of waste deposited in the machine increases. For example, a user depositing one pound of food waste in the machine may receive a lower valued incentive than a user who deposits two pounds of food waste in the machine. Alternatively, the machine may pay out a static incentive regardless of the amount of waste deposited. In some configurations, the machine may pay a higher incentive rate for a first type of identifiable waste and a lower incentive rate for a second type of identifiable waste. For example, the machine may pay thirty cents per pound for deposited used cooking oil and ten cents a pound for deposited food scraps. The amount of the incentive is generally proportional to the weight of the deposited waste. 
         [0037]    After calculating the incentive, the machine stores the container (step  411 ). The machine stores the container by grabbing the container with a container movement mechanism (e.g., container movement mechanism  107 ) and by maneuvering the container movement mechanism to a location within the machine&#39;s housing. The container movement mechanism is configured to pick up, move, and place containers within the housing of the machine. Prior to movement, the controller identifies an area within the housing for storage of the container. Once a location is identified, the controller instructs the movement mechanism to pick up, move, and place the contain in the designated location. The container&#39;s location within the housing is stored in a memory of the machine. 
         [0038]    After storing the container and calculating the incentive, the machine dispenses the incentive to the user (step  411 ). The incentive may be in the form of a printed voucher or coupon, in which case the incentive is printed at a printer of the machine. Alternatively, the incentive may be in the form of a monetary incentive. In the case of a monetary incentive, the machine may inquire how the user wishes to receive the incentive. The user can select receive the monetary incentive as bills or coins dispensed from the machine or as a credit to a credit card or bank account. If the user selects to receive the monetary incentive as dispensed cash or coins, the machine is configured to dispense the appropriate amount of coins through a coin-out mechanism and/or the appropriate amount of paper currency bills through a bill-out mechanism. If the user selects to receive the monetary incentive as a credit to a credit card or bank account, the user is required to provide the credit card or bank account information. The machine receives the account information when the user swipes a credit or debit card through a magnetic card reader of the machine. Alternatively, the user provides the account information by tapping a card having an NFC tag against an NFC transceiver of the machine. In yet another alternative, the user provides the account information by tapping an NFC enabled mobile device (e.g., a smartphone) running a payment application (e.g., Google Wallet, ISIS, a proprietary machine payment application, etc.). 
         [0039]    After the incentive is dispensed or the container is rejected and dispensed to the user, the machine prints a receipt of the transaction (step  413 ). The receipt is printed through a printer of the machine. Alternatively, the user may opt to receive the receipt via e-mail or text message. In this case, the controller of the machine formats and sends the receipt via a communications module of the machine (e.g., communication module  204 ). After the receipt is provided, the machine returns to a standby mode and waits for another user&#39;s presence, in which case the method repeats. 
         [0040]    Referring to  FIG. 5 , a waste collection machine  500  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Machine  500  is generally configured to receive and store food waste and to provide an incentive for a user to deposit food waste into machine  500 . Machine  500  includes housing  501 . Housing  501  houses necessary components of machine  500 . Housing  501  includes door  502 . Door  502  provides access to the interior of housing  501 . Door includes handle  503  and lock  504 . Housing  501  includes receiving portion  505 . Receiving portion  505  is configured to enable a user to deposit materials into machine  500 . Receiving portion  505  may include door  506 . Door  506  automatically opens to provide access to receiving portion  505  or closes to prevent access to receiving portion  505  (e.g., it may be desirable to prevent access to receiving portion  505  when machine  500  is processing waste in order to reduce the chance of injury to the user). Housing  501  may include bottle opening  507  configured to receive cans or bottles to be recycled. Housing  501  includes waste return portion  508 . Waste return portion  508  is configured to receive waste or objects that are rejected by machine  500 . For example, while depositing food scraps into receiving portion  505 , a user may accidentally deposit a metal item (e.g., a set of keys), which are separated from the food scraps and returned to the user at waste return portion  508 . Housing also includes advertising panel  509 . Advertising panel  509  may be positioned on any part of housing  501 . Advertising panel  509  is configured to hold a printed advertisement. Alternatively, advertising panel  509  is a display (e.g., LCD, OLED, TFT, or any other suitable display), configured to display any of an advertisement, promotional information, local news, local weather, the time, etc. 
         [0041]    User interaction portion  510  is mounted to housing  501 . Alternatively, user interaction portion  510  is integrated with housing  501  such that all user inputs and outputs are substantially flush with at least one surface of housing  501 . User interaction portion  510  includes display  511  and keypad  512 . Display  511  may be an LCD, OLED, TFT, or any other suitable display. Display  511  may include a touchscreen configured to receive a user input. Keypad  512  is configured to receive a user input. Accordingly, display  511  and keypad  512  are configured to provide communication between a user and machine  500 . User interaction portion  510  also includes magnetic strip reader/writer  513 , which is configured to read a magnetic strip and to reprogram a magnetic strip (e.g., the magnetic strip of a credit card, the magnetic strip of a debit card, the magnetic strip of a loyalty card, etc.). User interaction portion  510  includes money in/out mechanism  514 . Money in/out mechanism  514  is configured to receive coins and paper currency from a user and to provide coins and paper currency to a user. User interaction portion  510  includes printer  515 . Printer  515  is configured to print receipts and/or vouchers (e.g., a coupon, a store credit, etc.). Additionally, user interaction portion includes scanner  516 . Scanner  516  is configured to scan a barcode, two-dimensional barcode, or an RFID tag. For example, a user may have a received a double incentive coupon having a barcode to use machine  500  or the user has a machine  500  loyalty card with an RFID chip, either of which may be scanned during use of machine  500  to activate certain features or to alter the standard incentive. 
         [0042]    Referring to  FIG. 6 , an interior view of machine  500  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Food waste  520  deposited by a user into machine  500  through receiving portion  505  falls onto conveyor  521 . Conveyor  521  is configured to move food waste  520  into grinding chamber  522 . When food waste  520  reaches the end of conveyor  521 , it falls into grinding chamber  522 . Grinding chamber  522  may include a chute or funnel to assist in directing food waste  520  into grinding chamber  522 . Conveyor  521  is magnetized such that magnetic object  523  (e.g., keys) does not fall off of conveyor  521  and into grinding chamber  522 . Magnetic object  523  is returned to the user through waste return  508 . Conveyor  521  may include a sensor configured to provide a feedback signal that indicates the presence of magnetic object  523  on conveyor  521  to controller  540 . Upon detection of a magnetic object, machine  500  is configured to alert the user (e.g., through a flashing light, through a message presented on display  511 , or through an audible alarm). 
         [0043]    Food waste  520  that falls into grinding chamber  522  is ground into small and substantially uniform pieces. Grinding chamber  522  grinds food waste  520  such that food waste  520  is broken down into small pieces for more efficient storage in container  524 . Grinding chamber  522  utilizes impellers mounted on a spinning disk that forces food waste against a stationary grinding ring or blade. Alternatively, grinding chamber  522  utilizes spinning blades to chop food waste  520  into small pieces. In yet another alternative arrangement, grinding chamber  522  includes a pair of opposing rollers that grind food waste  520  into a smaller size. After being ground or chopped into small, substantially uniform pieces, food waste  520  falls into container  524 . Container  524  and grinding chamber  522  may be connected with a pipe. A pump may be used to assist in moving the ground food waste from grinding chamber  522  into container  524 . Container  524  includes tank sensor  525  configured to provide a feedback signal indicative of the level of waste in container  524  to controller  540 . Scale  526  measures the weight of container  524  and provides a feedback signal indicative of the weight to controller  540 . 
         [0044]    Machine  500  includes refrigeration unit  527 . Refrigeration unit  527  regulates the temperature of all components inside of housing  501 . Alternatively, refrigeration unit  527  only regulates the temperature of container  524 . Refrigeration unit  527  is activated and deactivated by controller  540  based on feedback signals from temperature sensor  528 . Temperature sensor  528  monitors the temperature within housing  501 . Alternatively, temperature sensor  528  monitors the temperature of container  524 . 
         [0045]    Machine  500  includes cleaning unit  529 . Cleaning unit  529  is configured to spray a cleaning solution within housing  501  through sprayers  530 . Accordingly, cleaning unit  529  may include an integral cleaning solution storage tank. Alternatively, cleaning unit  529  is connected to an external water source (e.g., an external water tank, external plumbing system, etc.) and water is used to dilute a cleaning solution concentrate stored in a container within cleaning unit  529 . Cleaning unit  529  includes a pump configured to pump the cleaning solution through sprayers  530 . Sprayers  530  are aimable such that the cleaning solution may be sprayed onto any portion of housing  501  or onto any component within housing  501  (e.g., onto conveyor  521 , onto or into grinding chamber  522 , onto or into container  524 , etc.). The sprayed cleaning solution may be a disinfectant, a deodorizer, a degreaser, an antibacterial solution, or any combination thereof. Additionally, the sprayed cleaning solution washes debris off of components within housing  501 . Further, cleaning unit  529  may provide cleaning solution directly to grinding chamber  522 , container  524 , and any piping connecting the two. Debris and used cleaning solution are captured by basin  531 , which funnels the debris and cleaning solution out of housing through drainage pipe  532 . Drainage pipe  532  may drain into a secondary waste tank or directly into an external sewage system. 
         [0046]    Referring to  FIG. 7 , a block diagram of controller  540  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Controller  540  generally controls the operation of machine  500 . Controller  540  includes processor  541  and memory  542 . Memory  542  stores programming modules that, when executed by processor  541 , control the operation of machine  500 . Controller  540  is in communication with and operatively connected to display  511 , keypad  512 , scanner  516 , magnetic strip reader/writer  513 , money in/out mechanism  514 , printer  515 , conveyor  521 , door  506 , grinding chamber  522 , tank sensor  525 , scale  526 , refrigeration unit  527 , temperature sensor  528 , and cleaning unit. Accordingly, controller  540  is configured to operate these components to receive input from a user, provide output to the user, receive waste from the user, process and store the received waste, and provide an incentive and/or a receipt to a user based on the amount of waste deposited. 
         [0047]    Controller  540  is further in communication with and operatively connected to communication module  543 . Communication module  543  is configured to transmit and receive data to and from outside sources (e.g., a central server). Communication module  543  is wired or wireless. Communication module  543  utilizes any of the 802.11 standard networking protocol (e.g., 802.11a/b/g/n), CDMA, GSM, LTE, Bluetooth®, and/or Ethernet. Controller  540  receives instructions from external computing devices through communication module  543  (e.g., operation schedules, shutdown commands, requests for information and statuses, etc.). Controller  540  also sends commands and data to external computing devices through communication module  543 . For example, when controller  540  determines that container  524  is full, controller  540  may initiate a message to the operator of machine  500  indicating that container needs to be replaced or emptied. Further, controller  540  may upload regular reports that include information such as usage history, pay-out information, amount of deposited waste, amount of remaining cleaning solution, etc. 
         [0048]    Machine  500  and all of the components of machine  500  are powered by power supply  544 . The electrical source of power supply  544  is any of grid power, battery power, and/or solar power. It is contemplated that multiple power sources are used (e.g., a primary power source of solar power and a backup power source of grid power in the event the solar power source cannot provide enough electrical energy to operate machine  500 ). 
         [0049]    Referring to  FIG. 8 , a flow diagram detailing a process  800  of receiving waste in a machine (e.g., machine  500 ) and providing an incentive is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The method begins when the machine detects the user&#39;s presence at the machine (step  801 ). The user&#39;s presence is may be detected by user interaction with a user input (e.g., a touchscreen, a keypad, etc.). Generally, the interaction indicates that the user wishes to deposit waste into the machine in exchange for an incentive (e.g., a coupon, a credit, money, etc.). Alternatively, the user&#39;s presence may be detected by a motion detector or a camera mounted on the machine. In yet another alternative arrangement, the user&#39;s presence is detected when the user provides loyalty account identification (e.g., by swiping a loyalty card through a magnetic strip reader of the machine, by tapping an NFC enabled loyalty card on an NFC transceiver of the machine, by transmitting loyalty account information from an NFC enabled mobile device such as a smartphone to the NFC transceiver of the machine, etc.). Once the user&#39;s presence is detected, the machine is activated (step  802 ). 
         [0050]    After being activated, the machine provides the user access to a deposit area of the machine (e.g., by opening door  506  of machine  500 ) (step  803 ). The machine then instructs the user to deposit the waste into the deposit area through a display of the machine, and the machine receives the deposited waste (step  804 ). The machine determines if any magnetic metal was received with the deposited waste (step  805 ). If metal was received, the machine indicates the presence of metal to the user (step  806 ). The machine alerts the user to the presence of metal (e.g., a set of keys accidentally deposited with the waste), through an audible alarm and/or through a message presented to the user on a display of the machine. After alerting the user, the metal is separated from the waste and returned to the user through a metal return mechanism (step  807 ). For example, the metal may be magnetically separated as the waste is routed to a processing station (e.g., by magnetic conveyor  521  of machine  500 ). 
         [0051]    The machine processes the waste in a processing station of the machine (step  808 ). The waste is processed for more efficient storage. For example, food scraps, such as a bone or an apple core, may take up an unnecessary amount of space in a storage container due to awkward sizes and shapes. The machine processes the waste into smaller pieces by grinding, pulverizing, compressing, and/or chopping. After processing, the machine stores the waste in a storage container (step  809 ). The waste may fall naturally from the processing station into the storage container. Alternatively, a pump may facilitate the movement of the waste into the storage container. The machine determines the amount of waste the user deposited (step  810 ). The machine includes a scale configured to weigh the container before and after each deposit of waste is made. The change in weight of the container represents the amount of waste deposited by the user. 
         [0052]    The machine calculates an incentive for the user based on the amount of waste deposited (step  811 ). The incentive may be money, coupons, and/or vouchers. The amount and type of incentive provided is customizable and based on parameters provided by the operator of the machine. The incentive may increase as the quantity of waste deposited in the machine increases. For example, a user depositing one pound of food waste in the machine may receive a lower valued incentive than a user who deposits two pounds of food waste in the machine. The amount of the incentive is generally proportional to the weight of the deposited waste. 
         [0053]    After calculating the incentive, the machine dispenses the incentive amount to the user (step  812 ). The incentive may be in the form of a printed voucher or coupon, in which case the incentive is printed at a printer of the machine. Alternatively, the incentive may be in the form of a monetary incentive. In the case of a monetary incentive, the machine may inquire how the user wishes to receive the incentive. The user may opt to receive the monetary incentive as bills or coins dispensed from the machine or as a credit to a credit card or bank account. If the user selects to receive the monetary incentive as dispensed cash or coins, the machine is configured to dispense the appropriate amount of coins through a coin-out mechanism and/or the appropriate amount of paper currency bills through a bill-out mechanism. If the user selects to receive the monetary incentive as a credit to a credit card or bank account, the user is required to provide the credit card or bank account information. The machine receives the account information when the user swipes a credit or debit card through a magnetic card reader of the machine. Alternatively, the user provides the account information by tapping a card having an NFC tag against an NFC transceiver of the machine. In yet another alternative, the user provides the account information by tapping an NFC enabled mobile device (e.g., a smartphone) running a payment application (e.g., Google Wallet, ISIS, a proprietary machine payment application, etc.). 
         [0054]    After the incentive is dispensed to the user, the machine provides a receipt of the transaction (step  813 ). The receipt is printed through a printer of the machine. Alternatively, the user may opt to receive the receipt via e-mail or text message. In this case, the controller of the machine formats and sends the receipt via a communications module of the machine (e.g., communication module  543 ). After the receipt is provided, the machine returns to a standby mode and waits for another user&#39;s presence, in which case the method repeats. 
         [0055]    It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the systems and methods as shown in the exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the enclosure may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Additionally, in the subject description, the word “exemplary” is used to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any embodiment or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or designs. Rather, use of the word “exemplary” is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present inventions. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from scope of the present disclosure or from the spirit of the appended claims. 
         [0056]    The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems, and program products on any machine-readable media for accomplishing various operations. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented using existing computer processors, or by a special purpose computer processor for an appropriate system, incorporated for this or another purpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products comprising machine-readable media for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. When information is transferred or provided over a network or another communications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or wireless) to a machine, the machine properly views the connection as a machine-readable medium. Thus, any such connection is properly termed a machine-readable medium. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing machines to perform a certain function or group of functions. 
         [0057]    Although the figures may show a specific order of method steps, the order of the steps may differ from what is depicted. Also two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variation will depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision step.