SMART WASTE MONITORING SYSTEM WITH INTEGRATED METHANE AND HAZARD DETECTION FOR EFFICIENT WASTE MANAGEMENT

Abstract

The present invention discloses a Smart Waste Monitoring System that integrates advanced sensor technology for efficient waste management and hazard detection. This system features a methane detection sensor that continuously monitors gas levels to prevent hazardous situations, alongside a temperature sensor to detect abnormal heat levels within waste bins. An ultrasonic waste level sensor and a weight sensor work together to provide accurate data on bin fill levels and waste density, enabling optimized collection schedules. Real-time data transmission via a GSM module allows for immediate alerts and centralized monitoring. Powered by a solar panel, the system ensures sustainability and independence from traditional power sources. By enhancing operational efficiency and safety, the system addresses critical urban waste management challenges, contributing to cleaner public spaces and environmental sustainability. Accompanied Drawing [Fig. 1]

Specification

Description:[001] The present invention relates to the field of waste management systems, specifically to a smart waste monitoring system that integrates advanced sensor technology for real-time monitoring and hazard detection. By optimizing waste management processes, this invention significantly reduces operational costs and improves overall urban safety and environmental sustainability.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present disclosure. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed disclosure, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[003] Waste management has become an increasingly critical issue in urban areas, where population growth and rapid urbanization have led to significant challenges in efficiently managing waste. Conventional waste management systems often rely on periodic collection schedules and manual inspections, which can result in overflowing bins, hazardous waste conditions, and inefficient resource utilization. The integration of technology into waste management practices, particularly through real-time monitoring and hazard detection, offers a promising solution to enhance efficiency and safety in urban environments. The present invention, aims to revolutionize waste management by combining advanced sensor technologies with real-time data transmission, addressing the pressing issues associated with waste disposal and collection.
[004] Recent advancements in smart waste management have introduced various sensor technologies designed to optimize collection routes and improve operational efficiency. However, many existing solutions lack a comprehensive approach to safety, environmental monitoring, and sustainability. For instance, basic waste monitoring systems utilize ultrasonic and weight sensors to measure waste levels in bins, providing data that can optimize collection routes. However, these systems often fail to incorporate advanced hazard detection features, such as monitoring for toxic gases or abnormal temperature levels, which are essential for ensuring public safety and preventing environmental hazards.
[005] Another approach seen in the industry includes GPS and GSM-based systems that track the location of waste bins to enhance collection schedules. While such technologies can improve operational efficiency, they typically do not address real-time hazard detection, which is crucial in high-risk urban areas where methane emissions and fire hazards are prevalent. Additionally, standalone methane detection systems have been implemented in industrial contexts, such as landfills, but their application in municipal waste management is limited. These sensors are often not integrated into a broader waste collection strategy, leading to missed opportunities for real-time monitoring of hazardous conditions.
[006] The limitations of these existing solutions highlight critical shortcomings in urban waste management systems. First, many current products focus solely on waste level detection or route optimization without incorporating hazard detection capabilities. This creates a risk for public health and safety, as hazardous situations, such as gas leaks or fires, can go undetected until they escalate into emergencies. Furthermore, the siloed features of existing systems prevent a holistic approach to waste management, where multiple sensor technologies could be combined to provide a more comprehensive overview of waste conditions. Many systems also fail to prioritize sustainability, lacking mechanisms to reduce environmental impacts or enhance the safe disposal of waste materials.
[007] The present invention addresses these shortcomings by integrating multiple sensor technologies, including methane detectors, ultrasonic sensors, weight sensors, and temperature sensors, into a unified system. By continuously monitoring for hazardous conditions such as methane emissions and abnormal temperature increases, the proposed system enhances safety in waste management operations. The real-time data transmitted via GSM technology allows waste management authorities to optimize collection routes based on actual bin usage, reducing fuel consumption and improving operational efficiency. This integrated approach not only mitigates the risk of hazardous incidents but also contributes to a more sustainable waste management system that minimizes environmental impact and operational costs.
[008] In conclusion, the system represents a significant advancement in the field of waste management by combining innovative sensor technologies with real-time hazard detection capabilities. By addressing the critical gaps in existing systems, the system enhances safety, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability, making it a vital solution for modern urban waste management challenges.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[009] This section is provided to introduce certain objects and aspects of the present disclosure in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify the key features or the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[010] The present invention relates to a smart waste monitoring system designed to optimize urban waste management through the integration of advanced sensor technologies. This system incorporates a methane detection sensor that continuously monitors for hazardous gas emissions, significantly mitigating the risk of toxic buildup and potential fire hazards. Additionally, the invention features ultrasonic sensors for real-time waste level detection and weight sensors to facilitate efficient collection scheduling. A temperature sensor actively monitors internal bin temperatures to identify abnormal heat levels, while a GSM module enables real-time data transmission to a centralized portal. This integrated approach enhances operational efficiency, reduces carbon emissions, and ensures timely waste collection, addressing critical challenges in urban waste management.
[011] Furthermore, the invention promotes environmental protection and sustainability by providing accurate data for resource management, thereby supporting circular economy initiatives. It is adaptable for various applications, including smart city infrastructure integration, industrial and commercial waste processing, and rural or remote area waste management. The ability to provide real-time alerts for hazardous conditions, coupled with the optimization of waste collection routes, ensures cleaner public spaces and mitigates public health risks. By reducing methane emissions and preventing waste-related pollution, this invention offers a comprehensive solution for modern waste management challenges, contributing to safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly urban environments.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[012] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in, and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[013] In the figures, similar components, and/or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label with a second label that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label.
[014] Fig. 1 illustrates working flowchart associated with the proposed system, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[015] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit, and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[016] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without some of these specific details.
[017] Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits, systems, networks, processes, and other components may be shown as components in block diagram form in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments.
[018] Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as a process that is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed but could have additional steps not included in a figure. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can correspond to a return of the function to the calling function or the main function.
[019] The word "exemplary" and/or "demonstrative" is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" and/or "demonstrative" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms "includes," "has," "contains," and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as an open transition word without precluding any additional or other elements.
[020] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" or "an instance" or "one instance" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
[021] In an embodiment of the invention, the present invention relates to an innovative smart waste monitoring system that leverages cutting-edge sensor technology for efficient waste management. This system is designed to address the challenges of urban waste management by integrating real-time monitoring capabilities with advanced hazard detection features. At the core of the system is a robust network of sensors that provide continuous data on waste levels, environmental conditions, and potential hazards, enabling proactive management of waste collection operations.
[022] The key hardware components of the system include a methane detection sensor, temperature sensor, ultrasonic waste level sensor, weight sensor, GSM module for real-time data transmission, and a solar panel for energy sustainability. Each component plays a crucial role in the overall functionality of the system, allowing for efficient waste management while ensuring public safety and environmental protection.
[023] The methane detection sensor, which is a highly sensitive CH4 sensor, continuously monitors for the presence of methane gas in and around waste bins. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that poses significant health and safety risks, particularly in urban environments. By integrating this sensor into the waste management system, it is possible to detect dangerous levels of methane emissions promptly. The data collected is transmitted to a centralized database via the GSM module, alerting waste management authorities to any hazardous conditions that require immediate attention.
[024] In conjunction with the methane sensor, the temperature sensor employs either a thermistor or thermocouple to monitor internal temperatures within waste bins. Anomalies in temperature, such as abnormal rises that may indicate spontaneous combustion risks, are detected in real time. The temperature sensor provides crucial data that, when combined with methane levels, enables a comprehensive assessment of hazardous conditions within the waste stream.
[025] Waste level detection is accomplished through the use of ultrasonic sensors, which operate by emitting ultrasonic waves and measuring the time it takes for the sound to reflect back after hitting the waste surface. This data allows the system to calculate the fill level of each bin accurately. Coupled with weight sensors that measure the actual weight of the waste, the system can determine both the volume and density of the contents. This dual approach ensures that waste collection schedules can be optimized based on actual usage patterns, significantly reducing operational costs.
[026] The GSM module is integral to the system, as it facilitates real-time communication between the sensors and a centralized database. This module enables the seamless transfer of sensor data to a cloud-based platform where waste management operators can monitor conditions remotely. This centralized approach ensures that all relevant data is aggregated, analyzed, and utilized for decision-making processes in real time.
[027] A solar panel is included in the design to enhance the system's sustainability. By harnessing solar energy, the system can operate independently of traditional power sources, making it particularly advantageous for deployment in remote or off-grid areas. The solar panel outputs a voltage range between 7V to 12V, providing sufficient energy to power the sensors and communication modules effectively.
[028] The interconnection of these components forms a comprehensive network that supports efficient waste management practices. For example, when the methane sensor detects elevated gas levels, it triggers alerts through the GSM module, allowing waste management authorities to respond swiftly. Simultaneously, the temperature sensor may indicate a risk of fire, prompting immediate action to mitigate potential hazards.
[029] Table 1 below summarizes the interconnections and interactions between the system components:

[030] This interconnected system significantly enhances the efficacy of waste management operations. By providing real-time insights into waste conditions, it allows municipal authorities to optimize collection routes, reduce unnecessary trips, and minimize operational costs. Furthermore, by addressing methane emissions and temperature anomalies, the system proactively mitigates public health risks and environmental pollution.
[031] In addition to the aforementioned features, the system's design accommodates various applications across different environments. For instance, in urban settings, it can reorganize collection routes based on bin fullness and safety alerts, while in rural areas, a simplified version can be implemented with basic sensors for non-volatile waste. Moreover, the system can be adapted for use in commercial and industrial waste processing facilities, where hazardous waste monitoring is crucial.
[032] The environmental benefits of this invention extend to supporting circular economy initiatives by ensuring efficient waste processing and reducing landfill dependency. By promoting timely collection and preventing overflow, the system contributes to cleaner public spaces and enhances community health. Furthermore, its design incorporates resource efficiency through solar power, lowering the carbon footprint associated with traditional waste collection methods.
[033] The implementation of this smart waste monitoring system aligns with smart city infrastructure objectives, enabling cities to leverage technology for sustainable urban living. By integrating with existing smart city frameworks, the system enhances data accessibility and encourages collaborative waste management strategies among municipal departments.
[034] In conclusion, the present invention provides a comprehensive solution to the complex challenges of urban waste management. By integrating advanced sensors, real-time data transmission, and sustainable energy solutions, it not only improves operational efficiency but also addresses critical public safety and environmental concerns. The efficacy of this interconnected system in optimizing waste collection processes, mitigating hazardous conditions, and promoting sustainability positions it as a pivotal innovation in the field of waste management.
, Claims:1. A smart waste monitoring system for efficient waste management, comprising:
a) a methane detection sensor for continuously monitoring methane gas levels in and around waste bins;
b) a temperature sensor for monitoring internal temperatures within the waste bins;
c) an ultrasonic waste level sensor for detecting the fill level of the waste in the bins;
d) a weight sensor for measuring the weight of the waste in the bins;
e) a GSM module for transmitting real-time data from the sensors to a centralized database;
f) a solar panel for providing sustainable energy to the system components.
2. The smart waste monitoring system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the methane detection sensor is a CH4 sensor configured to trigger an alert when methane levels exceed a predetermined threshold, thereby enhancing public safety by preventing hazardous conditions.
3. The smart waste monitoring system as claimed in claim 1, further includes a cloud-based platform for aggregating, analyzing, and visualizing data from the sensors, enabling waste management authorities to monitor conditions remotely.
4. The smart waste monitoring system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the temperature sensor is selected from the group consisting of thermistors and thermocouples and is capable of detecting temperature anomalies indicative of potential fire hazards.
5. The smart waste monitoring system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic waste level sensor utilizes ultrasonic waves to measure the time taken for the waves to reflect back, thus calculating the fill level of the waste in real time.
6. The smart waste monitoring system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the weight sensor provides data that, when combined with the fill level data from the ultrasonic sensor, allows for optimization of waste collection schedules based on actual waste volume and density.
7. The smart waste monitoring system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the cloud-based platform generates alerts for waste management authorities when the methane detection sensor or temperature sensor detects conditions that exceed predefined safety thresholds.
8. The smart waste monitoring system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the solar panel is configured to power all components of the system, enabling the system to operate independently in remote or off-grid areas.
9. The smart waste monitoring system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the components of the system are interconnected to form a comprehensive network, facilitating real-time communication between the sensors and the centralized database for enhanced waste management practices.
10. The smart waste monitoring system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system is adaptable for use in various environments, including urban, rural, commercial, and industrial applications, thereby supporting diverse waste management strategies.

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