Patent Description:
The present invention came about following the recognition of the need to provide a more cost efficient reverse vending machine, yet simple, reliable and space saving. In particular, it was recognized the need to reduce overall cost of manufacturing such new machines by addressing such important issues to as minimizing the number of expensive components, such as e.g. camera, barcode reader, object sorter, object conveyor, object rotator, and token printer, as well as minimizing required space, especially as regards floor area.

However, in such recognition, it was revealed that the invention would become related to a plurality of aspects which all in their own respective manner would contribute to a desirable end result.

In a decade or so, environmental and economical concerns have spurred significant developments in the field of facilities for collecting cans, bottles, jars and other containers, preferably for recovering the material for recycling purposes. These days, fully automatic systems are available that are capable of receiving and storing many different types of used containers, or even parts of used containers.

Arrangements for handling recyclable items like returnable empty beverage containers are inter alia known from the European publications <CIT> (SIG Schweizerische Industrie-Gesellschaft), <CIT>, and the International Patent Application publication <CIT> (<CIT> and <CIT>).

Till now, available fully automated systems, so-called reverse vending machines (RVMs) and back-room systems, that are capable of receiving and storing used containers have been quite complex and expensive. They have, therefore, mostly been found in larger stores, shopping centers or supermarkets, or in special facilities put up for collecting recyclable items or objects.

Accordingly, for the customer who has recyclable items or objects in smaller quantities, and who may not have at disposal a proper vehicle to facilitate easy transportation of recyclable material to a larger store, shopping center or supermarket that may be located at a distance from the person's home, it is often easier to throw the recyclable items out with the garbage.

The currently available reverse vending machines normally deliver the received objects to a back-room receiving facility or a downstairs facility. The total installation is expensive, requires substantial space, is often complex to install and service, and has operational drawbacks, in particular from a cleaning point of view. Frequent cleaning of soiled operational parts, suitably with water or special cleaning agent, is very important to secure failsafe operation. Returnable beverage containers frequently contain beverage leftovers, which often happen to come into contact with operational parts, thus making such parts sticky and causing operational failure if not properly cleaned. Cleaning is more than often a messy operation, and care has to be made not to harm electrical components.

Most RVMs need to have the ability to inspect identifying features on the object, such as e.g. a bar code. If such features are not immediately seen by a dedicated detector, the object will need to be rotated to find if such features are indeed present. An object rotating mechanism is expensive and requires substantial space in the longitudinal or depth direction of the RVM. Further, if such RVMs are also to provide object sorting, an additional sorter has to be provided, adding further to the cost of the installation, and the dimension of the RVM as regards depth dimension is in some cases prohibitive when both a rotator and a sorter are to be included. Also, most owners of stores, shopping centers or supermarkets are concerned over RVMs requiring substantial and expensive space for collecting the containers received by the RVM, such space frequently being occupied by container collection tables.

The present invention therefore has as a principal object to meet a long felt need to provide an improved automated facility for collecting returnable objects or items, such as recyclable items of plastic, metal or glass, and for overcoming the well-known mentioned drawbacks, thus yielding a low cost facility which exhibits optimal use of limited space, in particular floor space, that may be available almost everywhere, enabling their placement even in smaller stores, convenience stores, local gas stations and public areas. Thereby, such facilities may be more conveniently available to customers. These features and other features to appear through reading of the specification are some of the objectives of the present invention.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a token system for installation in a reverse vending machine which is configured to detect and identify characteristic features of empty beverage containers and any return value related thereto, wherein the token system comprises:.

wherein the token is a reusable token, which is an optically readable token, an r. readable token or a magnetic stripe readable token.

Further embodiments appear from the related sub-claims <NUM>-<NUM>.

Reverse vending machines conventionally issue a specially printed token related to the return or redemption value of empty beverage containers received by the reverse vending machine (RVM), and the token is then taken to a rewarding unit or so-called checkout and payment station to get a cash reward or a cash deduction from a bill to be paid for other sales items or objects, e.g. groceries. However, it has also been a long felt desire to simplify dispensing of tokens in a RVM to avoid occasional and inherent printer failures well known to the expert in the art when tokens are to be printed with individual return value related data.

The present invention therefore relates to a token system for use with a reverse vending machine suitable for receiving empty packaging in the form of empty beverage containers.

Closely linked thereto is a token system related to a reverse vending machine which is configured to detect and identify features of an object, tokens being dispensable one-by-one from a token dispenser and configured to be related to an object being observable and detectable for object identification.

Security measures have over the past years been implemented in order to avoid recurring swindle attempt through presentation at the rewarding unit of home-made tokens with a redemption value printed thereon. Thus, the new tokens issued have also included a particular serial number, and both the redemption value and the serial number have been communicated from the RVM to a central computer, suitably located in the store or supermarket, in order to validate the token, and when the token has been presented at the rewarding unit, payment is made to the customer and the central computer then invalidates the token by removing the data from availability at the rewarding unit.

The tokens are usually made from thin paper from a roll of paper passing through a printer, suitably a thermal printer, before it is issued to the customer. Experience has, however, shown that use of such printed paper tokens has the drawback that the printer occasionally fails, the printer is expensive and needs maintenance service at regular intervals, and the paper from the paper roll is expensive and needs to be of a particular quality to yield as low failure rate as possible.

Given some of the disadvantages of the prior art tokens, aspects of the present invention have as an object to provide for a token system that avoids printing of tokens in an RVM, yet provides the required security against swindle attempts and avoids the use of any printer and related printer maintenance.

In the following, aspects of the present invention will be explained by way of examples and by reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals indicate the same elements, although as regards some elements, different reference numerals have been used for elements having same properties of functioning and for practical reasons.

<FIG> illustrates in an exemplary embodiment a reverse vending machine (RVM) <NUM> which exemplifies main aspects of the present invention,. i.e. object storage chamber <NUM>; object supporting, rotating, sorting and conveyor unit <NUM>; camera-aided detector device <NUM>; supplementary item/ object collector means <NUM>; token dispenser <NUM>; token reader <NUM> , safety apparatus <NUM>, and drive means <NUM>; <NUM>'. In the more detailed disclosure to follow, the operational means <NUM> - <NUM> just mentioned will for practical reasons be denoted by other reference numerals. Direction is also made to <FIG> showing the figure of <FIG>, however with more reference numerals inserted to identify location of some of the various operational means which are extensively disclosed in the disclosure to follow in connection with <FIG>.

<FIG> depicts a first light source <NUM> and a second light source <NUM>, the light source <NUM> suitably consisting of a plurality of light sub-sources <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The light sources <NUM> and <NUM> are separately configured to illuminate a first region <NUM> and a second region <NUM> of an object, e.g. a returnable item <NUM>;<NUM>';<NUM>",<NUM>"\ A single camera <NUM> is provided to view at least part of the regions <NUM> and <NUM>. The first light source <NUM> is configured to assist the camera <NUM> in viewing of contour of objects, items or articles <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>'" of different cross section , e.g. empty beverage packaging such as cans and bottles against a light reflective area or background <NUM> forming a bright, light emitting background. The light from the first light source <NUM> is directed towards the object (e,g. one of those labeled <NUM> through <NUM>‴) as parallel light using a lens <NUM>. The second light source <NUM> is configured to assist camera viewing by the camera <NUM> for detection and recognition of any identity features located on the object in viewing sector labeled <NUM>.

Said identity features are suitably at least one of: bar code, graphic symbol and alphanumeric characters.

Although it would be feasible to use two cameras instead of a single camera, the use of a single camera yields less technical complexity, a simpler and more maintenance friendly structure, in addition to requiring less space in order to carry out the required functions. Further, from a components cost aspect and installation cost, the above example also offers a substantial advantage over a two-camera solution.

When a camera views e.g. an object contour or identifying features thereon, the camera sensor matrix provides a string of matrix pixel signals to be processed in order to identify or recognize such contour or features, including the possibility of letting the camera read and causing identification of e.g. a bar code.

As seen from <FIG>, the first light source <NUM> illuminates the first region <NUM> via a light path which includes an optical beam splitter (or view splitter) <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>), <NUM> (<FIG>) or <NUM> (<FIG>), at least one inclined mirror <NUM> and the lens <NUM>. However, it is noted that in the most preferred versions, there is suitably used two mirrors <NUM> and <NUM>, as shown on <FIG>, in the light path.

<FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> depict a light beam splitter <NUM>; <NUM> located in an inclined posture in the camera field of view <NUM> and covers at least part of said field of view, suitably approximately half of the camera field of view. <FIG> depicts an optical beam splitter <NUM> which covers the complete camera field of view.

It is seen from <FIG> that camera viewing of the first region <NUM> via one mirror <NUM> or two mirrors <NUM>, <NUM> is suitably made with line of sight towards the object shifted by an angle α of <NUM>°± <NUM>° relative to camera line of sight towards the object when viewing the second region <NUM>. In the drawing <FIG> the angle α is shown as <NUM>°. However, by arranging the mirrors <NUM>, <NUM> differently, it is evident that the angle range of <NUM>°± <NUM>° is possible.

In the case that there is used an optical beam splitter <NUM> or <NUM> which is within only half or less of the camera field of view, there is the possibility that when the camera is set to view the second region or part thereof, the splitter is suitably assisted by a vision blocker <NUM>; <NUM> to prevent the camera from viewing both directly in the sector <NUM> and through the splitter, the splitter providing a less clear viewing. If the vision blocker <NUM>; <NUM> is omitted, then the camera will be able to view the entire region <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the camera in a configuration set to view the second region <NUM> completely via the beam splitter <NUM>. This implies that the camera <NUM> views either the first region <NUM> via the splitter, the mirrors <NUM>, <NUM> and the lens <NUM>, and secondly the second region <NUM> through the splitter. In this latter situation, the light source <NUM> is fully or partly activated, and the light source <NUM> is deactivated.

The light source <NUM>, suitably comprising a plurality of light sub-sources <NUM> - <NUM>, is notably located in a region between the beam splitter <NUM>; <NUM>; <NUM> and an object supporting means in the form of said compact conveyor and sorter <NUM>. In the examples shown on <FIG>, <FIG>, the object supporting means <NUM> is shown only schematically, but in more detail on <FIG>.

It will now be briefly highlighted some features of the object supporting means <NUM> in a specific context of camera aided viewing of an object, e.g. the object <NUM>, located on the object supporting means <NUM>, said supporting means is in the form of the rotary drum <NUM> (see <FIG>) with the auxiliary roller <NUM>. The drum <NUM> and the roller <NUM> will controllably, but forcibly rotate the object <NUM> on a portion <NUM>' or <NUM>" of the circumference of the drum. The drum <NUM> has at least one radial inwardly directed, adjustable space or cavity <NUM> for receiving the object <NUM> after its rotation on said circumference portion and for transporting the object <NUM> through rotation of the drum to an output location, e.g. at generally indicated by arrows <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>'. The camera <NUM> will be able to view and cause detection of the presence of the object <NUM> when it has dropped into the adjustable space <NUM>. This has a safety function aspect and also a security function aspect. , i.e. to prevent any swindle attempt. This means that the drum <NUM> will not start turning until the camera <NUM> actually observes and causes detection of the object being present in the space <NUM> and with the movable element <NUM> operating as a movable bottom in its fully retracted state.

The direction which the drum will then turn is determined by set criteria which are compared to recognize characteristic features of the object. This will be more fully explained and considered in connection with the disclosure of <FIG>. Further, in case the contour of the object is to be viewable from above, rather than sideways, it would be advantageous to let at least a part of the rotary drum <NUM> be provided with a coating which is retro-reflective to light, in particular at the portions labeled <NUM>' and <NUM>" of the drum <NUM>. Such a situation is in particular suitable in connection with the example shown on <FIG> and will be further explained later.

The single camera is generally denoted by <NUM>, <NUM>', the reference <NUM>' symbolizing viewing by the camera <NUM> via e.g. a beam splitter <NUM> and mirrors <NUM>, <NUM> (see <FIG>).

<FIG> shows the use of a single camera <NUM> and with an optical beam splitter <NUM> inclined relative to a lens <NUM>. A light source <NUM> provides for illumination of the object, e.g. <NUM>, through lens <NUM> to provide parallel light rays towards the supporting means <NUM>, which has its drum parts <NUM>' and <NUM>" (see <FIG>) provided with retro-reflective material or property enabling light not hit by the object to be retro-reflected back to camera <NUM> via the lens <NUM> and the splitter <NUM> to provide an image of the contour of the object. When it is desirable to view and read identifying features on the object, such as e.g. bar-code, a light source <NUM> is activated, the light source suitably being of the same type as the light source <NUM>. At the same time, light source <NUM> may be deactivated, if required. <FIG> shows an example which in operation is similar to that of <FIG>. A single camera <NUM> is used with an optical beam splitter <NUM> inclined relative to a lens <NUM>. A light source <NUM> provides for illumination of the object, e.g. <NUM>, through lens <NUM> to provide parallel light rays towards a light reflective background or area <NUM> enabling light not hit by the object to be retro-reflected back to camera <NUM> via the lens <NUM> and the splitter <NUM> to provide an image of the contour of the object. When it is desirable to view and read (or detect) identifying features on the object, such as e.g. bar code, a light source <NUM> is activated, the light source suitably being of the same type as the light source <NUM>, i.e. comprising a plurality of light sub-sources. At the same time the light source <NUM> is activated, light source <NUM> may be deactivated, if required. <FIG> is a modification of the example of <FIG>, the major difference being the non-existence of the lens <NUM>, thus yielding that the object contour is not viewed by means parallel light rays. <FIG> clearly demonstrate that the first and second regions <NUM>, <NUM> are partly overlapping, and figs. -<NUM>-<NUM> indicate full overlapping.

<FIG> is identical to the example shown on <FIG>, apart from the light source <NUM> and the retro-reflective background <NUM> having been deleted and replaced by a light emitting, illuminated or backlit panel <NUM>, the panel <NUM> thus forming a bright background. Ambient light may in some applications be sufficient in order that the camera views a bright background.

The panel <NUM> will provide the bright background against which e.g. the object <NUM> is to be viewed by the single camera <NUM>.

A similar situation is present with the example of <FIG>, which is identical to the example shown on <FIG>, apart from the light source <NUM> and the retro-reflective background area <NUM> having been deleted and replaced by a light emitting area, suitably in the form of the panel <NUM> to form a bright background against which e.g. the object <NUM> is to be viewed by the single camera <NUM> to provide for e.g. detection of object contour. The further examples depicted on <FIG> and <FIG> are also related to the use of a light emitting panel <NUM> to form said bright background and against which camera viewing of an object can be made, as will be further explained.

<FIG> is a modification of the examples of <FIG>. It is noted that the lens <NUM>, which is suitably of same type as lens <NUM> in <FIG> or lens <NUM> in other drawing figures, is present in order to let a single camera <NUM> view and detect object contour, e.g. contour of object <NUM> against the panel <NUM> which in this example constitutes the first light source. The second light source is that labeled <NUM>, which could be constituted by two or more light sub-sources. The camera <NUM> uses the lens <NUM> to enable viewing through use of parallel rays, in order to get as accurate contour image of the object as possible. The light source <NUM> is activated when the camera is to view and read identity features, like e.g. bar code <NUM>', located on the object. Suitably, panel <NUM> is then not exhibiting a light emitting surface or background area, or its light emitting intensity could suitably be reduced. Other structural details shown on <FIG> will be further explained later with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is an example with a single camera <NUM> which is capable of viewing an object, e.g. an empty beverage bottle or can <NUM>;<NUM>'; <NUM>" or <NUM>'" against a light emitting background area, such as the panel <NUM> as described earlier. In order for the camera <NUM> to view and read identifying features located on the object, e.g. a bar-code <NUM>"" on object <NUM>, it is preferable to use a second light source <NUM>. When the light source <NUM> is activated, it would be preferable, though not essential, to reduce light intensity from the panel <NUM> or even turn off emission of light from the panel <NUM>. The light source <NUM>, which is similar or identical to the light source <NUM>, could be constituted by two or more sub-sources.

From a viewing of <FIG> it will be appreciated that turning of the object to be inspected, e.g.. to suitably find an identifying feature to be detected, is made by means of the object supporting means <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>' as shown on in more detail on <FIG> and <FIG>, respectively. Further, it could be of advantage to let the first and second light sources, e.g. <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>', <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM> have different spectral range or composition. Also, it would be possible to have the second light sources <NUM>; <NUM>; <NUM>; 359composed of two or more sub-sources. Further, the sub-sources could have different spectra range or composition, either all different, different in pairs or in groups. Such features of the light sources and possible sub-sources are of importance to be able to detect e.g. identifying features on the objects appearing e.g. with different colours, different reflective properties etc..

Further aspects are now to be explained with reference to <FIG>. In the particular case of the examples of <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, as well as <FIG>, it would be suitable to split the camera video image in two with a part <NUM> related to the first region <NUM> and another part <NUM> related to the second region <NUM>. In the examples of <FIG> and <FIG> it may be visualized the possibility of dedicating half of the camera video image to region <NUM> and the other half to region <NUM>, or alternatively have alternating full video images of regions <NUM> and <NUM>. For the examples of <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> the choice is alternating full video images only.

Camera viewing of the first region of the object <NUM> related to its contour <NUM> can in addition include observation or rather recognition of mere presence or absence of said identifying features <NUM>, e.g. bar code located on the object.

The focus of the camera will not be exactly on the features <NUM>, but the camera will at least sense or detect with relation to the partial image <NUM> whether the features <NUM>, here labeled <NUM>' are indeed present or not, although on the partial image <NUM> appearing "blurred" or a bit out of focus. If the features <NUM> are not visible on the image part <NUM>, but visible on part <NUM>, this will indicate necessity to rotate the object one way or the other through a maximum angle of <NUM>°. The comparison between the two images <NUM> and <NUM> in this respect has some impact on the required amount of rotation of the object in order to be able to view and read the feature <NUM> properly in region <NUM>, and consequently has also importance with regard to processing time in order to find the feature <NUM>, read and record it.

When using in this manner a single camera for camera viewing of both said first and second regions, the camera has preferably, but not necessarily its image field subdivided into said at least two partial images <NUM>, <NUM>, the first partial image <NUM> being dedicated to object contour detection and/ or detection of presence or absence of said identifying features, and the second partial image <NUM> being dedicated to observation and reading of said identifying features.

It is readily understood that the principle of detecting presence or absence of identifying features in region <NUM> and the need for rotation of the object is equally well useful when the camera switches between viewing regions <NUM> and <NUM>.

As indicated in the introductory part of the specification it is important also to focus on safety aspects when using an apparatus as extensively disclosed in the present specification and on the drawings, in particular to avoid injury to persons operating the apparatus or to avoid functional breakdown or jamming of the apparatus.

Therefore, this example focused on implementation of safety measures which are provided from actions obtained by operating a hardware circuit which is adapted to read predefined or dedicated pixels on the sensor matrix of the camera, i.e. reading hardware assigned physical pixels of the camera sensor matrix when a camera image is made.

This will yield a reliable safety measure related to possible operational hazards, thus e.g. preventing a motor from operating through halting its rotation or removing current supply thereto to thereby remove its torque.

This aspect is therefore through use of camera functionality able to provide an efficient hardware implemented light curtain functionality, as will be more closely explained in the following description with reference to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>.

In the present example there is used a camera image , such as e.g. image <NUM> or <NUM> for detection of so-called "border crossing", i.e. an event in a field of view of the camera.

As indicated above, it is important to provide for personnel or an operator (e.g. a supermarket customer) operational safety of an apparatus , e.g. a reverse vending machine, and also protect in such apparatus machinery, having movable parts, against externally created interference that could cause operational damages or personal injuries, or operational or personal hazard. With a light curtain functionality it is possible to disable operation or stop the machinery altogether immediately and inhibit further operation until the cause of such operational disruption has been attended to.

With reference to <FIG>, as well as <FIG> and <FIG> there is on the bright or light emitting background <NUM>; <NUM> located at least one array or column <NUM> of repeatedly occurring dark markings <NUM>', e.g. black squares at an in-feed region receiving objects in direction <NUM> at which objects are fed into the apparatus for viewing, detection, turning and sorting, as previously disclosed. Further, there may on the background <NUM>; <NUM> be located at least one array or row <NUM>" of repeatedly occurring dark markings <NUM>‴. At least one such row may be useful if the entry or in-feed region causes objects to be fed in a direction <NUM>'. However, if the insertion opening <NUM> is so configured that it may be possible for a human hand to be inserted there-through and into the viewing chamber, so as to move into the viewing chamber essentially from above and thereby avoid obscuring viewing of the array <NUM>, the array <NUM>" is present to assist in providing additional light curtain functionality.

It has also been indicated by dotted lines on <FIG> that e.g. two columns of markings and two rows of markings could be possible, although the number of rows and/ or columns could be more than two.

Alternative or supplementary to the interspaced markings <NUM>', <NUM>"' indicated on <FIG>, there could be located markings <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> in the form of solid lines, as indicated on <FIG>.

It is possible to have a column or row configuration of markings or a joint column and row configuration.

<FIG> exhibits two half-images <NUM> and <NUM>, as previous discussed, whereas <FIG> exhibits a generalized full image <NUM> as provided by the available pixels on a camera image sensor matrix <NUM>' (see <FIG>). The dotted line <NUM> and/ or <NUM>' on <FIG> (not shown on <FIG> for clarity reason) denotes, relative to the camera image, a fraction or fractions of matrix pixels being a selected part of the available sensor matrix pixels. Said fraction <NUM> of sensor matrix pixels is dedicated to detection of the array or column of markings, as well as any events observable by said fraction of pixels and which could trigger an action, such as stopping operation of a motor, e.g. motor <NUM> or <NUM> with reference to <FIG>and <FIG>. Similarly, said fraction <NUM>' of sensor matrix pixels is dedicated to detection of the array <NUM>" or row of markings, as well as any events observable by said fraction of pixels and which could trigger an action, such as stopping operation of a motor, e.g. motor <NUM> or <NUM> with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. As indicated above, the arrays <NUM> and <NUM>" of markings <NUM>' and <NUM>'" could both be present, yielding that both fractions <NUM> and <NUM>' will be active for detection of markings and observable events.

A background area <NUM>; <NUM> is located in the camera field of view, and as shown on e.g. <FIG>, said background area in a part thereof exhibits the array <NUM> of distinguished markings <NUM>'.

As indicated on e.g. <FIG> and <FIG>, and derivable from <FIG>, the background area <NUM>; <NUM> is located in a camera viewing chamber of a reverse vending machine. The chamber or input receiving area has entry opening (see <NUM> on <FIG>) into which an object <NUM> in the form of an empty beverage container to be viewed by the camera, is insertable. From <FIG> is noted that the array <NUM> of markings is located at an entry opening or region <NUM> of said viewing chamber <NUM>. The in-feed direction for objects is indicated by reference numeral <NUM> on <FIG>. As indicated on <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> the array of markings is in a predefined pattern, suitably a column <NUM> of mutually spaced markings <NUM>'. However, as disclosed above there could be as an alternative or in combination with the pattern <NUM> an additional predefined pattern <NUM>" of mutually spaced markings <NUM>‴ extending as e.g. an upper row, to provide an addition light curtain and to safeguard against any safety hazards caused by someone trying to put e.g. a hand into the viewing chamber from above, as e.g. indicated by reference numeral <NUM>'.

As indicated above, the fraction <NUM> and/ or fraction <NUM>' of sensor matrix pixels <NUM>' in the camera <NUM> will be dedicated to providing an image of said markings <NUM>' and / or <NUM>'" against said background area. The fraction <NUM> and/ or fraction <NUM>' of pixels will be readable by an operating unit <NUM>, the response of which is dictated by its hardware functions and inputs to the unit <NUM>. The operating unit <NUM> is operatively linked with the camera <NUM> to read said fraction of sensor matrix pixels. Further, the operating unit <NUM> is linked to a digital processing and control unit <NUM>, said unit <NUM> controlling operation of the camera, i.e. when a camera image is to be taken.

The operating unit has a set of stored reference pixel signal values which are respectively related to pixels in said fraction of sensor matrix pixels, and which are related to said background area <NUM>; <NUM> and said array <NUM> of distinguished markings thereon.

The operating unit <NUM> is capable of comparing a read pixel signal value from a respective pixel in said fraction of pixels with corresponding reference signal value assigned to such respective pixel, and to output respective comparison signal, however said operating unit <NUM> having an output <NUM>'; <NUM>" capable of changing signal state of delivered signal <NUM>, suitably into a disabling or deactivating signal when said comparison signal or for that matter a set of such comparison signals departs from a predefined condition.

The signal <NUM>, when in a disabling or deactivating state, is effective to cause disablement or halted operation of functional equipment <NUM>; <NUM> having movable parts, e.g. a motor and its motor controlled parts. The operating unit <NUM> will, when the comparison satisfies the predefined condition, provide a signal <NUM> which enables the equipment to remain in operation. Such equipment could e.g. be found in a reverse vending machine as disclosed in the description and shown on the drawings.

As indicated above, the operating unit <NUM> is made to execute hardware functions, and the operating unit can be of a logic network of a type well known to any skilled person in the art and connected to execute the required functions. The operating unit can made from a plurality of discrete functional building blocks or a single integrated circuit (IC) as an application specified integrated circuit (ASIC) , e.g. as a so-called Gate Array, or as an implementation in a programmable circuit, so-called Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA).

The operating unit <NUM> may include a watchdog timer <NUM> which is designed to check that reading of pixel signals from said fraction of pixels and comparison with reference pixel signal values are made at a minimum rate of iteration. The reading of pixels is initiated from the processing and control unit <NUM>. If said minimum rate of iteration is below a set value, the operating unit <NUM> may output said signal <NUM> in a state thereof causing disablement or shut-down of operation of equipment controlled by the unit <NUM>.

The signal <NUM> in a deactivating state will normally be present until such a point of time when a new surveillance image taken meets all preset criteria for not issuing such deactivation type of signal.

In order to provide proper operation, it is considered that there should be a synchronization of the camera and a light source providing a bright or illuminated background area. Preferably there is used a light reflective material <NUM> at the camera field of view onto which said dark squares <NUM>' have been applied. However, if the background <NUM> is a back-lit or illuminated panel, it could be visualized synchronized operation thereof with the operation of the camera.

In order to provide a proper safety function, it is appreciated that surveillance images of the chamber or area <NUM> will have to be generated frequently. Using the camera <NUM>, it will by means of the operating unit <NUM> and with aid of the unit <NUM> be checked first if a complete bright line exists, i.e. all matrix pixel values above a predefined dark level threshold. If this is the case, there will be a search for alternating dark and bright areas along a predefined column, such as column <NUM>. In a preferred example, the detected image of dark areas <NUM>' should be within minimum and maximum length requirements to pass acceptance. Further, the bright areas must be of a minimum length before accepted. Also, the image must end with an accepted bright area. Finally, an accumulated number of accepted dark areas must equal a predefined number.

<FIG> is a system block diagram specifically related to the light curtain functionality, and should be considered essentially as part of the block schematic shown on <FIG>. The camera <NUM> is controlled by a digital processor <NUM> associated with the operating unit. This processor is in <FIG> denoted as a processing and control unit <NUM>. Line <NUM> denotes camera control, and the camera delivers image data signals on line <NUM> to the operating device <NUM>. The operating device <NUM> has a watchdog timer <NUM> connected thereto. The unit <NUM> suitably controls triggering of camera imaging, as well as synchronization of the camera and any background illumination. Image data are conveyed from the operating unit <NUM> to the processor <NUM> via line <NUM>, and the processor <NUM> provides the operating unit <NUM> with certain control signals via line <NUM>. The processor <NUM> is suitably the main processor of the overall system, although this is not necessarily so.

Most importantly, to avoid the drawbacks known from prior art and as mentioned in the introduction, the dedicated set of sensor matrix pixels forming a fractional part of the total number of sensor matrix pixels is not selected through use of software, but is instead related to a limited number of physical pixels or elements on the camera image sensor matrix. As the light curtain function is important from an operational safety point of view, it is therefore absolutely essential that the light curtain function is not at all software based.

From <FIG> it is noted that the bright background <NUM> ; <NUM> has an aperture <NUM> therein in order to let the camera read via said aperture illuminated marking <NUM> on a token <NUM> to be dispensed in a controlled manner. Such token <NUM> is configured to be related to observed objects , e.g. <NUM>; <NUM>' ; <NUM>" ; <NUM>'" which are supported and to be removed by an object supporting means, e.g. of a type shown on <FIG> or <FIG>.

Suitably, said camera is configured to alternately, selectively or repeatedly a) cause detection of object contour, said light curtain related markings <NUM>' and <NUM>'" and events related thereto, and said token marking <NUM>, and b) cause reading of identifying features, e.g. <NUM>"" or <NUM> located on the object <NUM>; denoted on <FIG> by reference <NUM>.

All examples of <FIG> can be used with the light curtain function, but the light curtain functionality is not limited to the configuration shown on these drawing figures.

As noted from <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> the background area, e.g. <NUM> or <NUM> may have an aperture <NUM> therein in order to allow the camera which views the first region <NUM> to detect illuminated, pre-printed or pre-provided marking <NUM> on a token <NUM> which is arranged to be dispensed in a controlled manner from stack of tokens. Such a token could be related to information such as both a token serial number and a return or redemption value of an object or objects which have been viewed and considered by an RVM. On image part <NUM> it is indicated how the camera may view such marking, denoted by <NUM>' through the viewable aperture <NUM>'.

In order to obtain an efficient reading of such marking <NUM> without using an additional light source, the markings on the tokens are suitably made from a retro-reflective material. Alternatively, the token itself could be made from a retro-reflective material and the markings in such a case from non-retro-reflective material.

As shown on <FIG>, <FIG> said markings are camera readable via a mirror <NUM> located adjacent the aperture <NUM> in background area <NUM>; <NUM>. This may be a practical solution if tokens, e.g. in the form of cards, are dispensable from a dispenser unit <NUM>. If cards are merely to be inserted into a guide <NUM> in the front of a RVM (see <FIG> and <FIG>) to be read by the camera and then withdrawn, the card guide may be located at the back of the light reflective area <NUM> or the panel <NUM>, so as to place the card with its face having markings <NUM> parallel to the back of the area <NUM> or panel <NUM>.

In case a light emitting background panel <NUM> is used, the panel <NUM> constitutes the first light source which is primarily dedicated to assist camera viewing of object contour. However, light from the second light source will not necessarily impinge upon the marking <NUM> of a token <NUM> viewable through the aperture <NUM>, but if such light in fact impinges upon the marking, it may either be non - parallel light rays or insufficient light in order for the camera to clearly see and cause detection of the markings. In such a case, it is suitable to use an optical beam splitter <NUM>, as depicted on <FIG> and a separate light source <NUM>.

In the case of using an optical beam splitter covering part of the camera field of view, as shown in <FIG>, <NUM> and <FIG>, the camera <NUM> is suitably configured to take an image of both of said first and second regions simultaneously. However, image taking may just as well be based on taking an image of said first and second regions alternately, or selectively taking a partial image of said first region or said second region.

In the case where an optical beam splitter covers completely the camera field of view, as seen from <FIG> and <FIG>, the camera <NUM> is configured to take an image of both of said first and second regions simultaneously to form a two part image, as e.g. shown on <FIG>. However, it would also be feasible to consider taking a full image of said first and second regions alternately, or selectively taking a partial image of said first region or said second region.

In the examples of <FIG>, as well as <FIG> and <FIG>, the camera <NUM>; <NUM>; <NUM>; <NUM>; <NUM> could suitably take images alternately or selectively, although it could be visualized taking two partial images of the viewing region simultaneously, one dedicated to contour recognition and the other to identifying features on the object. The examples of figs. <NUM> and <FIG> in addition provides for reading of marking on a token, as disclosed e.g. in relationship to <FIG>.

It has been disclosed above that the second light source <NUM>, or for that matter also the light sources <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> can be constituted by a plurality of light sub-sources, and the light source <NUM> has been indicated to have e.g. four such sub-sources <NUM> - <NUM>, although there could be fewer sub-sources or more. For the other sources <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> three or four sub-sources have been indicated, without labeling each. The reason for more than one light sub-source is that light reflexes from the object or position of the light sub-source relative to the identifying feature on the object may cause the reading of the feature to be difficult or even impossible. In view thereof the light sub-sources are suitably selectively activated, although activation would be possible individually, in pairs or in groups, or in a cycle.

<FIG> illustrate a preferred card dispenser <NUM> to be used for dispensing tokens, e.g. cards <NUM>. The dispenser <NUM> has a dispensing outlet <NUM> for dispensing cards <NUM> one-by-one from a stack of cards contained in a storage compartment <NUM>. The markings <NUM> on the cards <NUM> are viewable through an opening <NUM> in the bottom of the dispenser. A pusher member <NUM> is provided to push out cards one-by one by a reciprocal motion of the pusher member or slide <NUM>, the reciprocal motion being provided by a controllable motor <NUM> having control wires <NUM> for controlling power to the motor. Suitably, the motor <NUM> has a pinion (not shown) in engagement with a rack <NUM> on the pusher or slide to enable the reciprocal movement thereof.

<FIG> depicts an overall system in which the various aspects of the present invention are implemented.

The reverse vending machine (RVM) has said processing and control unit <NUM> which receives video data from the camera <NUM> via a video analyzer <NUM>. The camera <NUM> is also linked to the operation unit <NUM>, and the operation unit includes the watchdog timer <NUM> and a motor control. The motor #<NUM> and its control, denoted <NUM>, are related to the drive of the supporting means <NUM>, <NUM>, or the unit <NUM> as disclosed earlier. A motor overload sensor <NUM> is also provided to inhibit operation of motor #<NUM> in case of jam not detected by the operational unit <NUM> or a jam detector <NUM>. The sensor <NUM> could be in the form of a pressure sensitive bar, or the roller <NUM> could have its weight sensor <NUM> (in <FIG> denoted by <NUM>) modified in order to also indicate pressure against the roller caused by a jam due to an object not fully located in the recess or space <NUM>.

The operation unit <NUM> is, as disclosed earlier linked with the camera <NUM> and the processing and control unit (processor) <NUM>, and in the present example the unit <NUM> controls the motor controls <NUM> and <NUM> directly, although such control could be via the processor <NUM>.

As indicated earlier, optically readable cards will normally be read by e.g. camera <NUM>. However, if a card is a magnetic readable/ writable card or an r. readable/ writable card, there will be the need of a card reader / card encoder unit <NUM>. The card dispenser <NUM> as disclosed earlier is on <FIG> denoted by <NUM>.

Suitably, the tokens are ready made, pre-coded cards, like the cards <NUM> which are dispensable one by one from the dispenser means <NUM>; <NUM> (<FIG>) and which upon the feed-out from the dispenser <NUM> via output <NUM>' is code-read by a code reader/ encoder <NUM>, in particular if the card is a magnetic stripe or r. Alternatively, if the card is an optically readable card, the card is read by the camera <NUM> via aperture <NUM> and inclined mirror <NUM>' as more closely disclosed in connection with <FIG>, <FIG> (see references <NUM> and <NUM>).

If the card is a magnetic stripe card or an r. card and with no information on the card when it is located in the dispenser, the code reader/ encoder <NUM> will be able to encode the card with a card code, such as e.g. a serial number or other identity, or the combination of a card code or serial number or other identity and a redemption value to be rewarded or paid, as the cards are fed out from the dispenser one-by-one.

If the cards to be used for reward of empty beverage containers deposited in the RVM are not to be delivered from a card dispenser, such token could be a personal token which the customer brings with him to the RVM and uses to transfer card identity data from the card to the RVM. If the card is an optically readable card, it can be read by the camera <NUM> and as indicated further by reference <NUM>' when inserted into a slot (see reference <NUM>; <FIG>) and viewable through an aperture (see reference <NUM>'; <FIG>) in the light retro-reflective area (see reference <NUM>; <FIG>). If the card is an r. readable card, the card could be readable by an r. reader <NUM>", and if the card is a magnetic stripe readable card, the card could be readable by a magnetic stripe reader <NUM>‴.

The cards, irrespective of being optically readable, r. readable or encodable, or magnetic stripe readable or encodable, could be in the form of a reusable token, in particular because the cards are in any case validated and after reward has been paid, invalidated. The token could be retrieved from a stack or a band of cards. If a band of cards or a zig-zag arranged band of cards is used, the dispenser <NUM> (<NUM> on <FIG>) should suitably be replaced by a conventional type of dispenser for such card arrangement. Also, different type of encoder <NUM> may be required. In any case, the card should have at least an alphanumerical, machine readable code.

If the token is a card which is optically readable, the card should have a pre-made code thereon, suitably consisting of a bar code or other optically readable code readable by an optical reader such as the camera <NUM>. As indicated earlier, the bar code or other optically readable code is preferably retro-reflective to light. Such configuration of the card makes an additional light source for viewing the code on the card superfluous. Conversely, the card could be made of a retro-reflective material and the bar code be made of a non-reflective material.

The processor <NUM> will either directly, or via a central computer installation <NUM> transfer to a rewarding or check-out and payment station <NUM> information related to a readable token code and information related to said return value. Transfer of information to and from the processor to the computer <NUM> and the station <NUM> is suitably via a local area network (LAN) <NUM>. The station <NUM> has a card reader <NUM> to read the card before reward or redemption value is paid. The card is then invalidated through use of a token invalidation means <NUM> associated with the station <NUM> or through internal operation in the unit <NUM> and/ or the computer <NUM>. In an alternative example the processor <NUM> communicates with a "tick-off unit <NUM>, which could be in the form of a mini-computer, such as so-called PDA. This could be a solution useful for a small store, through which there is conveyed to the unit <NUM> from the processor displayable information such as visible card identity and sum to be paid. Upon payment of the required money, the operator ticks off the particular item displayed, which is then made void or invalid, cancelled in the unit <NUM> and/ or computer <NUM>, and suitably removed from the display on the unit <NUM>.

The RVM has suitably a display <NUM> to properly guide or inform an RVM user how to operate. If the display is a touch screen, the customer may communicate with the processor <NUM>. The container weight sensor <NUM> indicated on <FIG>, , is provided to engage an end <NUM> of an axle <NUM>' (see <FIG>) of the roller <NUM>, so as to spot whenever a too heavy beverage container is fed into the RVM through an opening <NUM> on the RVM. The term "too heavy" in this context is meant to imply that the unit <NUM>, upon receiving information related to shape and identity features, will compare these data with library data in the unit <NUM>, and thereby determine whether the object in fact should weigh less or not. This has been disclosed in more detail earlier. Also as indicated, the weight sensor could suitably form or supplement the jam sensor <NUM>.

An interlock-mechanism <NUM> is provided for safety reasons. The mechanism is suitably a set of sensors and switches to ensure that the RVM cannot be operated unless all units are in proper place and all cabinet panels are in proper mounted position and cabinet doors are locked.

A power supply <NUM> is provided, suitably linked to power consuming units via the unit <NUM>.

A motor and control unit <NUM> is provided to cause the volume of a collection container <NUM> to be adjusted by winding or unwinding a flexible side and bottom <NUM>'. However, although <FIG> shows a collection container <NUM>, it would be understood by the average expert in the art that other operational equipment could be installed and operated instead of the collection container. Such equipment could include one or more from the group of: conveyor; pusher unit; rotation means; compactor; disintegrator; sorter means. The positioning and evidently the configuration of such equipment in cooperation with the motor <NUM> could be substantially different from that of the collection container <NUM>. The collection container is particularly suitable for heavier objects, e.g. bottles of glass.

Reference numeral <NUM> in <FIG> denotes a position sensor which is used to detect rotary positions of the drum <NUM>.

The reference numeral <NUM> denotes generally a storage compartment for receiving objects delivered from the supporting, sorting, conveying and push-out unit200. The storage chamber or compartment <NUM>, as shown also in <FIG>.

Claim 1:
A token system for installation in a reverse vending machine (<NUM>) which is configured to detect and identify characteristic features of empty beverage containers (<NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>‴) and any return value related thereto, wherein the token system comprises:
a token reader (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>‴) capable of reading a token when presented to the reader (<NUM>) from outside of the reverse vending machine by a user, characterised in that the token is a personal token which a customer brings to the reverse vending machine and from which identity data is transferable to the reverse vending machine
a processor for relating the return value to the personal token and for transferring directly or via a central computer installation to a rewarding unit or a check-out unit information related to the personal token and said return value in order to validate the personal token
wherein the token is a reusable token, which is an optically readable token, an r.f. readable token or a magnetic stripe readable token.