SMART DUSTBIN FOR PREVENTING FOOD WASTAGE

Abstract

ABSTRACT The present disclosure introduces a smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 which is designed to minimize food waste in communal dining settings. The system comprises of a camera 102 that captures images of leftover food on plates, and a CPU 106 that analyzes the waste percentage in real-time. Sensors 104 detect the user's presence, triggering the camera and controlling the lid mechanism 108, which prevents disposal if food waste exceeds a preset threshold. The dustbin is equipped with dry and wet waste compartments 110 for proper segregation. A wireless communication module 112 transmits data to a cloud-based system, where cloud-based software 114 generates reports for both users and mess managers, promoting accountability and encouraging waste reduction. These reports are assessable to users through mobile user interface 118. The invention aims to foster responsible consumption habits by preventing unnecessary food disposal at the point of consumption. Reference Fig 1

Specification

Description:Smart Dustbin for Preventing Food Wastage
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present innovation operates in the domain of smart waste management systems, specifically a smart dustbin equipped with sensors, image recognition, and cloud-based technology for preventing food wastage in communal dining settings.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In communal dining settings such as mess halls and event venues, food wastage is a significant issue, with excess food on plates often discarded without much thought. Standard-sized plates encourage users to take more food than they can consume, leading to considerable waste. Additionally, leftover food is frequently mixed with other types of waste in a single container, making it challenging to manage and contributing to improper waste disposal, odor problems, and the attraction of pests. Improperly handled food waste also contributes to environmental degradation by increasing greenhouse gas emissions from landfills. There is a growing need for an innovative solution to prevent food wastage and ensure proper waste segregation at the point of disposal.

[0003] Currently, various food waste management systems exist, such as composting, converting waste into energy, and donating excess food to organizations. Some systems, like those provided by Winnow, Kitro, and Leanpath, track, weigh, and analyze food waste in commercial kitchens. However, these systems address the issue only after food waste has been generated, focusing on managing rather than preventing it. Moreover, these tools are typically designed for use in kitchen settings and may not be as effective in communal dining areas where users directly dispose of their plates.
[0004] The present invention of "Smart Dustbin for Preventing Food Wastage" addresses these shortcomings by offering a proactive system. Unlike existing systems that track food waste after disposal, this dustbin uses image recognition technology and sensors to analyze leftover food on plates in real time. As users approach the bin to dispose of their plates, the system calculates the percentage of leftover food and prevents disposal if the amount of waste exceeds a certain threshold by keeping the bin's lid locked. This feature encourages users to minimize food waste during consumption and ensures proper segregation of waste into separate compartments for dry and wet materials.

[0005] The "Smart Dustbin for Preventing Food Wastage" offers a practical, user-friendly approach to reducing food waste, promoting accountability, and contributing to better resource management. Its novel design and features make it an efficient tool for addressing the growing problem of food waste in communal dining environments.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The primary object of the invention is to prevent food wastage by analyzing the leftover food on plates before disposal and stopping unnecessary waste disposal.

[0007] Another object of the invention is to promote responsible consumption habits by providing users with real-time feedback on their food waste, encouraging them to reduce wastage.

[0008] Another object of the invention is to improve waste segregation by offering separate compartments for dry and wet waste, ensuring proper disposal and recycling processes.
[0009] Another object of the invention is to reduce odor and pest problems in communal dining areas by managing food waste more effectively, thus creating a cleaner and more hygienic environment.

[00010] Another object of the invention is to provide real-time data analysis and reporting to mess managers, enabling them to monitor food waste trends and make informed decisions to improve efficiency.

[00011] Another object of the invention is to reduce the environmental impact of food waste by preventing excess food from being disposed of improperly, thus minimizing landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions.

[00012] Another object of the invention is to offer a user-friendly and automated system that integrates image recognition and sensor technology for seamless operation in communal dining settings.

[00013] Another object of the invention is to promote awareness about the financial implications of food wastage by providing users with data on the monetary value of their wasted food.

[00014] Another object of the invention is to enhance the accountability of users in communal dining settings by reporting individual food waste data through cloud-based systems.

[00015] Another object of the invention is to encourage sustainable dining practices and support public initiatives aimed at reducing food waste in large-scale dining facilities such as mess halls, schools, and event venues

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[00016] In accordance with the different aspects of the present invention, smart dustbin for preventing food wastage is presented. It is designed to prevent food wastage in communal dining settings by utilizing image recognition and sensor technology. It captures an image of leftover food on plates before disposal, analyzes the waste, and locks the lid if significant food waste is detected. The system segregates dry and wet waste, provides real-time feedback to users, and reports waste data to mess managers via cloud-based technology. This proactive system promotes responsible consumption, reduces environmental impact, and fosters sustainable dining habit.

[00017] Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments constructed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.

[00018] It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[00019] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.

[00020] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:

[00021] FIG. 1 is component wise drawing for smart dustbin for preventing food wastage.

[00022] FIG 2 is working methodology of smart dustbin for preventing food wastage.


DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00023] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.

[00024] The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of smart dustbin for preventing food wastage and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilised. The description sets forth the various structures and/or functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.

[00025] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.

[00026] The terms "comprises", "comprising", "include(s)", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, or system that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or system. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.

[00027] In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and which are shown by way of illustration-specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[00028] The present disclosure will be described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail since they would obscure the description with unnecessary detail.

[00029] Referring to Fig. 1, smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 is disclosed, in accordance with C of the present invention. It comprises of camera 102, sensors 104, CPU 106, lid mechanism 108, dry and wet waste compartments 110, wireless communication module 112, cloud-based software 114, power supply 116 and mobile user interface 118.
[00030] Referring to Fig. 1, the present disclosure provides details of smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 which is an innovative waste management system designed to reduce food wastage in communal dining settings. It features image recognition technology, sensors, and a cloud-based reporting system that analyzes leftover food on plates before disposal. The system 100 captures the user's plate image, calculates the amount of food waste, and prevents disposal by locking the bin's lid if significant waste is detected. The dustbin has two compartments for segregating dry and wet waste, ensuring proper waste management. Key components are camera 102, sensors 104, CPU 106 for data analysis, and wireless connectivity for transmitting real-time waste reports to both users and mess managers.

[00031] Referring to fig. 1, smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 is provided with a camera 102, which plays a critical role in capturing images of the plate when a user approaches the dustbin. Positioned strategically above the disposal area, camera 102 captures a clear image of the leftover food for real-time analysis. This data is transmitted to CPU 106 for further processing. The camera's integration with sensors 104 ensures that it only activates when the plate is detected, optimizing power consumption and efficiency..

[00032] Referring to fig. 1, smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 is provided with sensors 104, which detect the presence of a plate or the user's approach to the disposal area. These sensors are responsible for activating camera 102 and controlling the lid mechanism 108. The sensors 104 communicate with the CPU 106, providing real-time input to determine whether the lid should open or remain locked, depending on the amount of waste detected.

[00033] Referring to fig. 1, smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 is provided with a CPU 106, which is the central hub of the system. It processes the data received from camera 102 and sensors 104 to calculate the percentage of food waste on the plate. Based on this analysis, CPU 106 sends signals to the lid mechanism 108 to either allow or prevent disposal. It also communicates with wireless communication module 112 to report waste data to users and mess managers. The CPU 106 plays a pivotal role in the system's smart functionality by analyzing data and managing overall operations.

[00034] Referring to fig. 1, smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 is provided with a lid mechanism 108, which controls the opening and closing of the dustbin. This mechanism is directly connected to CPU 106, which decides whether to lock or unlock the lid based on the waste analysis. If a significant amount of food waste is detected, the lid remains locked, preventing the user from discarding the food. The lid mechanism 108 works in coordination with sensors 104 to ensure timely operation, contributing to the overall goal of reducing food wastage.

[00035] Referring to fig. 1, smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 is provided with dry and wet waste compartments 110, designed for segregating waste. Once the CPU 106 approves disposal, the waste is directed into these separate compartments for proper recycling and management. Dry and Wet Waste Compartments 110 are essential for ensuring that food waste and other materials are managed separately, aiding in proper disposal and minimizing environmental impact. These compartments work in tandem with the lid mechanism 108 to ensure efficient waste handling.

[00036] Referring to fig. 1, smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 is provided with a wireless communication module 112, which allows the system to transmit real-time data to both users and mess managers. This module connects to the cloud via the internet, sending reports generated by CPU 106 regarding the amount of food waste and user behavior. Wireless communication module 112 enables remote monitoring and data-driven decisions, making it a key component for tracking food waste trends and promoting accountability.

[00037] Referring to fig. 1, smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 is provided with cloud-based software 114, which is used to store, analyze, and report data on food waste. This software 114 works with wireless communication module 112 to provide access to the real-time data collected by CPU 106. The software 114 enables users and mess managers to view waste patterns, generate reports, and take actions to reduce waste. Cloud-based Software 114 enhances the system's functionality by offering a platform for continuous monitoring and optimization of waste management strategies.

[00038] Referring to fig. 1, smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 is provided with a power supply 116, which powers all the components of the system, including camera 102, sensors 104, and CPU 106. The power supply is typically a DC power source or battery, ensuring the system operates efficiently even in off-grid conditions. Power Supply 116 is essential for the continuous and autonomous functioning of the smart dustbin, enabling all components to work together seamlessly.

[00039] Referring to fig. 1, smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 is provided with mobile user interface 118, which enables real-time interaction between the user and the system. It provides notifications about food waste data, including the amount of food left on the plate and whether the disposal is allowed. The mobile user interface 118 is integrated with the cloud-based software 114 to receive data transmitted by wireless communication module 112, ensuring users are constantly updated on their consumption habits. Additionally, it allows users to access historical reports on their food waste, promoting accountability and responsible behavior. The interface 118 is user-friendly and provides clear, actionable feedback to reduce food wastage. It also supports mess managers by providing aggregated data on overall food waste trends.


[00040] Referring to Fig 2, there is illustrated method 200 for smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100. The method comprises:

At step 202, method 200 includes the user approaching the smart dustbin 100 with their used plate containing leftover food;

At step 204, method 200 includes sensors 104 detecting the user's presence and activating camera 102 to capture an image of the plate with the leftover food;

At step 206, method 200 includes camera 102 transmitting the captured image to CPU 106, where the percentage of food waste is calculated using image recognition technology;

At step 208, method 200 includes CPU 106 determining whether the food waste is above a pre-set threshold for disposal;

At step 210, method 200 includes CPU 106 sending a signal to Lid Mechanism 108 and if the food waste exceeds the threshold, the lid remains locked, preventing disposal;

At step 212, method 200 includes the user being notified via the integrated system and mobile user interface 118 that they cannot dispose of the plate due to excessive food waste;

At step 214, method 200 includes CPU 106 transmitting the food waste data to wireless communication module 112, which sends the information to the cloud for reporting;

At step 216, method 200 includes Cloud-based Software 114 compiling the food waste data and generating reports for both users and mess managers, promoting accountability and awareness about food wastage;

At step 218, method 200 includes the user being allowed to dispose of their plate if the food waste falls below the threshold, with Lid Mechanism 108 unlocking the bin for disposal into the respective dry and wet waste compartments 110;

At step 220, method 200 includes mobile user interface 118 displaying the food waste reports and notifications in real-time to users and mess managers to encourage responsible consumption.

[00041] In the description of the present invention, it is also to be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified or limited, the terms "fixed" "attached" "disposed," "mounted," and "connected" are to be construed broadly, and may for example be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrally connected, either mechanically or electrically. They may be connected directly or indirectly through intervening media, or they may be interconnected between two elements. The specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention can be understood in specific cases to those skilled in the art.

[00042] Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "have", "is" used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non- exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural where appropriate.

[00043] Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will , Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 comprising of
camera 102 to capture images of the plate for food waste analysis;
sensors 104 to detect the user's presence and trigger camera activation;
CPU 106 to process the image data and calculate food waste percentages;
lid mechanism 108 to control the opening and closing of the dustbin based on waste analysis;
dry and wet waste compartments 110 to segregate food waste and other materials for proper disposal;
wireless communication module 112 to transmit waste data to the cloud for reporting and analysis;
cloud-based software 114 to store and manage real-time data on food waste for users and mess managers;
power supply 116 to provide the necessary energy for the operation of all system components;
mobile user interface 118 to provide real-time notifications and reports on food waste to users through a mobile application.


2. The smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein sensors 104 are configured to detect the presence of a user and trigger the camera to capture an image of the plate.

3. The smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein CPU 106 is further configured to prevent the disposal of the plate by locking the Lid Mechanism 108 if the food waste exceeds a predetermined threshold.

4. The smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein system comprises of dry and wet waste compartments 110 that are configured to segregate food waste from other types of waste for proper disposal and recycling.

5. The smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein wireless communication module 112 is configured to transmit data to a cloud-based server for real-time reporting of food waste to users and mess managers.

6. The smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein cloud-based software 114 is configured to store and analyze food waste data and generate reports for tracking and managing waste trends.

7. The smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein lid mechanism 108 is configured to unlock and allow disposal when the percentage of food waste is below a preset threshold.

8. The smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein mobile user interface 118 is configured to provide real-time notifications and detailed reports to users and mess managers about food waste data, enabling them to monitor consumption habits and promote waste reduction.

9. The smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein power supply 116 is configured to provide energy for the operation of the camera, sensors, CPU, and other components.

10. The smart dustbin for preventing food wastage 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein method comprises of
user approaching the smart dustbin 100 with their used plate containing leftover food;

sensors 104 detecting the user's presence and activating camera 102 to capture an image of the plate with the leftover food;

camera 102 transmitting the captured image to CPU 106, where the percentage of food waste is calculated using image recognition technology;

CPU 106 determining whether the food waste is above a pre-set threshold for disposal;

CPU 106 sending a signal to Lid Mechanism 108 and if the food waste exceeds the threshold, the lid remains locked, preventing disposal;

user being notified via the integrated system and mobile user interface 118 that they cannot dispose of the plate due to excessive food waste;

CPU 106 transmitting the food waste data to wireless communication module 112, which sends the information to the cloud for reporting;

cloud-based software 114 compiling the food waste data and generating reports for both users and mess managers, promoting accountability and awareness about food wastage;
user being allowed to dispose of their plate if the food waste falls below the threshold, with Lid Mechanism 108 unlocking the bin for disposal into the respective dry and wet waste compartments 110;

mobile user interface 118 displaying the food waste reports and notifications in real-time to users and mess managers to encourage responsible consumption.

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