Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PROVIDING A WIRELESS UNLOCKING SYSTEM
FOR A GROUP OF BATTERY-POWERED STORAGE DEVICES
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present disclosure is related to Provisional Application No.
63/066,471, filed
August 17, 2020 (Docket No. S027-7059US2), and Provisional Application No.
63/065,747,
filed August 14, 2020 (Docket No. S027-7059US0), and Provisional Application
No.
63/066,474, filed August 17, 2020 (Docket No. S027-7059US3) and each of which
are
incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure introduces a group of battery-powered devices that each
include a
control module that manages the operation of the compactor and includes within
the control
module the coding and functionality to manage a locking mechanism. A user can
provide
identification information via a reader on one of the devices and unlock any
of the devise in
the group of devices.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Trash containers are distributed in various communities to enable
people to dispose of
waste. These containers have a number of different structures and different
functions.
Generally speaking, many trash containers are locked by a locking mechanism
that prevents
individuals from accessing the trash bin or other internal components
configured inside the
trash containers. A locking mechanism is typically associated with a door on
the trash
container. The locking mechanism is often opened by a single key
configuration. Keys
that are the same can be distributed to people with authority to access the
trash container.
One problem with this approach is that if any unauthorized individual finds
one of the keys,
that person can open any trash container as the same key opens up numerous
trash containers.
Assume an unauthorized person gains access to a trash container. If the trash
container is
monitoring access to the interior of the unit, it may report access by an
individual to a central
server. If the access does not involve a maintenance person emptying a trash
bin but
perhaps the unauthorized person is looking for bottles or cans, the servicing
schedule for that
trash container can be compromised and can thereby become much less efficient.
The data
related to the access incident will lead to inaccurate historical data for
operation of the
particular unit.
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[0004] In another example, each trash container or a group of trash containers
can have
respective dedicated unique keys capable of opening the trash container. One
problem with
this approach is that it increases the complexity of managing and distributing
the proper
unique key to open a respective trash container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] In order to describe the manner in which the various advantages and
features of the
disclosure can be obtained, a more particular description of the principles
described above
will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are
illustrated in the
appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only example
embodiments of
the disclosure and are not to be considered to limit its scope, the principles
herein are
described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use
of the drawings
in which:
[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates an example system embodiment;
[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates an example architecture for remotely controlling
electrically-
powered compactors or other publically available object;
[0008] FIG. 3 illustrates an example storage device;
[0009] FIG. 4 illustrates the locking system of a storage device;
[0010] FIG. 5 illustrates a grouping of storage devices that coordinate
locking functionality;
[0011] FIG. 6 illustrates a method embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 7 illustrates a remote server communicating with one or more local
devices;
[0013] FIG. 8 illustrates another method embodiment;
[0014] FIG 9 illustrates yet another method embodiment;
[0015] FIG. 10 illustrates another method embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 11 illustrates a method embodiment related to a pair of devices;
[0017] FIG. 12 illustrates a method related to remote server control of
locking operations of
devices; and
[0018] FIG. 13 illustrates another method of using a remote server to manage
locking
operations for one or more devices.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] Certain aspects and embodiments of this disclosure are provided below.
Some of
these aspects and embodiments may be applied independently and some of them
may be
applied in combination as would be apparent to those of skill in the art. In
the following
description, for the purposes of explanation, specific details are set forth
in order to provide a
thorough understanding of embodiments of the application. However, it will be
apparent that
various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. The
figures and
description are not intended to be restrictive.
[0020] The ensuing description provides example embodiments only, and is not
intended to
limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather,
the ensuing
description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art
with an
enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be
understood
that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements
without
departing from the spirit and scope of the application as set forth in the
appended claims.
Overview
[0021] The present disclosure introduces a new system or structure that can be
used to enable
access to the interior of a trash container, a trash compactor, a storage
device, or some other
object_ Examples provided herein can be in the context of a trash compactor
but unless
specifically required, such as in a claim, such references are meant to be
broader in terms of
any container that includes a control module that controls storage device
functions and that is
programmed to include the locking management functionality. This disclosure
provides an
improved access control system for servicing and collection of items in a
storage container.
The solution solves the various problems outlined above related to keys and
how they can be
used to govern or manage access to the storage containers. Indeed, with the
solution
provided herein, no physical keys are necessary and the process of managing
who is
authorized to access a storage device with a mobile phone, RFID card, or other
means is
simplified.
100221 There are various embodiments or examples shown. Any feature from any
example
can be mixed with any other feature of an example or embodiment. One aspect
disclosed
herein covers a single device that communicates with a remote server and that
has a control
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module for managing a locking mechanism on the single device. Various aspects
of data
communication and locking management are addressed in this first aspect.
[0023] Another aspect relates to a plurality of devices and how they work
together to control
and manage respective locking mechanisms. For example, a pair of devices might
include a
first device that has a reader and a control module and the second device is
"dumb" in that it
does not have these hardware components but has its locking operations
controlled by the
first device. The second device can have a control module but not a control
module that is
configured with all the functionality to authorize a user via a reader
component on the second
device. A user can then utilize a device or some kind of input to authenticate
themselves
with the reader on the first device and one or more of the respective control
modules and
locking mechanisms on each device of the pair of devices (or three or more
devices) can
coordinate and unlock any of the devices. In this manner, only one of the
devices will need
the reader component that reduces the overall cost of the group of devices.
[0024] In yet another example disclosed herein, a remote server includes
management
software for managing a plurality of local devices and/or groups of devices
and provides such
data as authorization lists, blacklists, master keys, and so forth to
centrally manage the
locking procedures and operations for individual or groups of devices
remotely. These and
other ideas are developed herein generally under the theme of managing the
locking and
unlocking control of devices, including, but not limited, to storage devices
and battery-
powered devices.
[0025] In one example embodiment, a storage device such as a trash compactor
can be a
solar-powered trash compactor that includes a solar panel, a battery, a
control module, and a
locking mechanism in connection with a door. The control module in the solar-
powered
trash compactor controls the operational and functional aspects of the trash
compactor. For
example, the control module can manage a compaction cycle based on battery
power and
may shut down some functionality of the trash compactor upon determining that
the battery
level is below a threshold. As disclosed herein, this disclosure focuses on
the locking
operation of the storage device and can include, as managed by the control
module, also
adjusting the locking functionality based on battery power.
[0026] The service provided herein with respect to locking control can be
enabled on a
subscription basis. For example, clients who use storage devices with the
access control
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systems disclosed herein may pay a subscription fee to utilize or activate the
access control
capability.
[0027] In the trash containers described in the Introduction above, the
weaknesses in the
previous approaches include the locking mechanisms being configured to either
be opened or
unlocked via a general key which can work on any trash compactor or dedicated
key for a
respective trash compactor or a group of trash compactors. The locking
mechanism is
typically mechanical in nature and simply unlocks a door or access panel to
the interior of the
trash compactor when the appropriate key is used. As noted above, the use of
physical keys
can be problematic for a number of different reasons. The disclosure herein
presents a new
locking mechanism and system that includes a locking component that is in
electronic
communication with the control module of the solar-powered storage device_ The
locking
functions in this disclosure are managed via program code that is added to the
existing
control module for the solar-powered storage device. Adding locking control
functionality
to the control module of a solar-powered storage device represents a novel
approach to
managing access to the interior of the storage device. Previously, the locking
mechanism
was independent of any control module and fully contained in the mechanical
structure of the
lock itself
[0028] The new locking mechanism disclosed herein, in one example, can include
an
electronic component such as a near field communication component or a radio
frequency
identification component. The locking mechanism is controlled or managed by
the control
module in the solar-powered storage device. The locking mechanism can include
a lock
itself and an electronic reader component. The electronic reader component can
interact
with an RFID (radio-frequency identification) card or a mobile device and
thereby receive
identification information for the individual that desires to gain access, as
instructed by the
control module, to the interior of the solar-powered storage device. The
control module of
the solar-powered storage device can include a listing of individuals that are
authorized to
gain access to the interior of the solar-powered storage device. Thus, a
maintenance person
with the appropriate authorization can utilize a mobile phone, an RFID card,
bio-metric data
such as a fingerprint or faceprint, or some other mechanism to interact with
the electronic
reader component to cause the locking mechanism to unlock and thus to gain
access. The
control module of the solar-powered storage device can then confirm whether
the individual
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is authorized to gain access to the interior of the unit. If no, then the
electronic locking
mechanism does not unlock. If the individual is authorized to gain access,
that the
electronic locking mechanism unlocks and enables the user to gain access to
the interior of
the solar-powered storage device.
[0029] In another aspect, a magnet can be configured in connection with an
access door.
The magnet can be configured to hold the door in a closed position even when
the electronic
locking mechanism is in an unlocked state or unlocked position. The magnet
thereby
requires the person seeking access to pull on the access door to gain access
to the interior.
The magnet can prevent accidental opening of the door in case an inadvertent
triggering of
the electronic locking mechanism occurs, such as when a maintenance person
might be
walking by the solar-powered trash compactor and their mobile phone is near
enough to the
electronic locking component to unlock the lock.
[0030] In one example, a storage device (such as a solar-powered trash
compactor or a
battery-powered storage device) can include a processor, a storage bin
configured within the
storage device, a solar panel (optionally), a battery that stores energy, a
sensor component
that senses items in the storage bin, an electronic locking mechanism that
enables access to an
interior portion of the storage device and a control module in control
communication with the
electronic locking mechanism. The control module, when executed by the
processor as
powered by the battery or when providing instructions to the processor,
manages the sensor
component and is in communication with the electronic locking mechanism. The
electronic
locking mechanism can be powered by the battery. A reader component can be in
communication with the control module. The reader component can be powered by
the
battery and can communicate with or receive signals or data from an external
entity to obtain
authorization to unlock the storage device via the electronic locking
mechanism.
[0031] The system can track each user's access and store the information
locally and then
transmit the information to a central or network-based server to coordinate,
aggregate and/or
report such data.
[0032] In one aspect, the storage device can include a processor, a storage
bin configured
within the storage device, a battery that stores energy for operation of the
storage device, a
sensing component that determines a fullness level of the storage bin or some
other
characteristic of the storage bin and an electronic locking mechanism that
enables access to
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an interior portion of the device. A control module can have instructions
(stored in a
memory) which, when executed by the processor, manages various functions
operational in
the storage device including the sensing component. The control module can be
in
communication with the electronic locking mechanism. A reader component can
communicate with an external entity to obtain access authorization request
information.
The control module can allow or deny access to the device based on stored
authorization
allowances or an authorization list of users obtained from a remote server.
[0033] An example method can include receiving identification information via
an external
entity from a reader component on a battery-powered storage device. The reader
component
can be connected to a control module that manages compaction using a compactor
component or some other component in the battery-powered storage device and
the control
module can control an electronic locking mechanism. Based on the
identification
information, via the control module, the method can include unlocking the
electronic locking
mechanism in the battery-powered storage device.
[0034] In another example, a group of two or more devices can be in
communication with
each other to enable an authorization step and an unlocking step to occur
within the group but
not necessarily all on the same device. One of the devices can include a
reader component
and a control module having unlocking and locking functionality. The other
device or
devices in a group may not have a reader component or the control module
having the
locking and unlocking control functions and take instructions from the device
having these
components.
[0035] A pair of devices can include a first device and a second device that
communicate
lock control signals. The first device can have both a reader component and a
control
module that controls both (1) a first operation of the first device (such as a
sensor control or
compaction control) and (2) a first locking component of the first device for
accessing a first
door of the first device. A second device can be in communication with the
first device.
The second device can have a second locking component for the second device
for accessing
a second door of the second device. The second device in one aspect does not
having a
reader component.
[0036] The devices can be storage devices, mailboxes, lamp posts, solar-
powered devices,
trash compactors, or a combination of different types of devices. In another
example related
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to a pair of compaction devices, the pair of devices can include a first
storage device having a
first solar panel, a first battery connected to the first solar panel, a first
control module
powered by the first battery, a first compaction component controlled by the
first control
module and powered by the first battery, a first electronic locking mechanism
and a first
reader component and a second storage device. The second storage device can
include a
second solar panel, a second battery connected to the second solar panel, a
second control
module powered by the second battery, a second compaction component controlled
by the
second control module and powered by the second battery, a second electronic
locking
mechanism and a second reader component. The first control module can be in
communication with the second control module. One of the first reader
component or the
second reader component can enable one or both the first electronic locking
mechanism and
the second electronic locking mechanism.
[0037] An example of a central or remote control system for managing locking
operations for
a plurality of local devices can be as follows. A system can include a
processor and a
computer-readable storage device storing instructions which, when executed by
the
processor, cause the processor to perform operations. The operations can
include receiving
an identification of a local device having a control module that manages a
reader component
and a locking mechanism and transmitting an authorization list to the local
device that
identifies authorized users that can gain access to the local device via the
locking mechanism
through interacting with the reader component. The control module on the local
device can
manage multiple functions of the local device including management of the
reader
component and the locking mechanism. The system can also remotely control and
manage
authorizations to access groups of devices in which one device in a respective
group includes
the necessary hardware components and control module functionality to enable a
user to be
authenticated by interacting with one device in the group but have access to
unlock a door on
any of the devices in the group.
Detailed Description
100381 This disclosure now provides more details with respect to the locking
system for
storage devices as disclosed herein. While solar-powered trash compactors are
discussed as
an example device, other solar-powered or battery-powered storage devices
could also have
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the electronic locking mechanism connected to a control module. For example, a
FedEx
package device that stores packages to be picked up and delivered by a carrier
can be solar-
powered and include a control module that can be upgraded to include locking
control
functionality. Mailboxes or other storage containers can also be updated to
include the
concepts disclosed herein. Other devices could include the locking
functionality as well, such
as safes, vehicles, buildings, and so forth. Therefore, unless specifically
required, any
reference to a solar-powered trash compactor, a storage device, storage
device, a battery-
powered device, or other term is meant to have the broader interpretation to
encompass
systems beyond just solar-powered trash compactors. The system disclosed
improves the
ability to control access authorization for individuals who can unlock a
storage device and
gain access to the interior for various purposes. The disclosure now turns to
FIG 1.
100391 With reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary system and/or computing device
100 includes
a processing unit (CPU or processor) 120 and a system bus 110 that couples
various system
components including the system memory 130 such as read only memory (ROM) 140
and
random access memory (RAM) 150 to the processor 120. The computer components
disclosed in FIG. 1 can be used in connection with any device, control system,
control
module, locking system or any other computer-related component disclosed
herein in
connection with the functional control of a storage device or access to other
devices,
buildings, and so forth. The system 100 can include a cache 122 of high-speed
memory
connected directly with, in close proximity to, or integrated as part of the
processor 120.
The system 100 copies data from the memory 130 and/or the storage device 160
to the cache
122 for quick access by the processor 120. In this way, the cache provides a
performance
boost that avoids processor 120 delays while waiting for data These and other
modules can
control or be configured to control the processor 120 to perform various
operations or
actions. Other system memory 130 may be available for use as well. The memory
130 can
include multiple different types of memory with different performance
characteristics. It
can be appreciated that the disclosure may operate on a computing device 100
with more than
one processor 120 or on a group or cluster of computing devices networked
together to
provide greater processing capability. The processor 120 can include any
general purpose
processor and a hardware module or software module, such as module 1 162,
module 2 164,
and module 3 166 stored in storage device 160, configured to control the
processor 120 as
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well as a special-purpose processor where software instructions are
incorporated into the
processor. The processor 120 may be a self-contained computing system,
containing
multiple cores or processors, a bus, memory controller, cache, etc. A multi-
core processor
may be symmetric or asymmetric. The processor 120 can include multiple
processors, such
as a system having multiple, physically separate processors in different
sockets, or a system
having multiple processor cores on a single physical chip. Similarly, the
processor 120 can
include multiple distributed processors located in multiple separate computing
devices, but
working together such as via a communications network. Multiple processors or
processor
cores can share resources such as memory 130 or the cache 122, or can operate
using
independent resources. The processor 120 can include one or more of a state
machine, an
application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a programmable gate array
(PGA) including
a field PGA.
[0040] The system bus 110 may be any of several types of bus structures
including a memory
bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a
variety of bus
architectures. A basic input/output (BIOS) stored in ROM 140 or the like, may
provide the
basic routine that helps to transfer information between elements within the
computing device
100, such as during start-up. The computing device 100 further includes
storage devices
160 or computer-readable storage media such as a hard disk drive, a magnetic
disk drive, an
optical disk drive, tape drive, solid-state drive, RAM drive, removable
storage devices, a
redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID), hybrid storage device, or the
like. The
storage device 160 can include software modules 162, 164, 166 for controlling
the processor
120. The system 100 can include other hardware or software modules. The
storage device
160 is connected to the system bus 110 by a drive interface. The drives and
the associated
computer-readable storage devices provide nonvolatile storage of computer-
readable
instructions, data structures, program modules and other data for the
computing device 100.
In one aspect, a hardware module that performs a particular function includes
the software
component stored in a tangible computer-readable storage device in connection
with the
necessary hardware components, such as the processor 120, bus 110, display
170, and so
forth, to carry out a particular function. In another aspect, the system can
use a processor
and computer-readable storage device to store instructions which, when
executed by the
processor, cause the processor to perform operations, a method or other
specific actions.
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The basic components and appropriate variations can be modified depending on
the type of
device, such as whether the device 100 is a small, handheld computing device,
a desktop
computer, or a computer server. When the processor 120 executes instructions
to perform
"operations", the processor 120 can perform the operations directly and/or
facilitate, direct, or
cooperate with another device or component to perform the operations.
[0041] Although the exemplary embodiment(s) described herein employs the hard
disk 160,
other types of computer-readable storage devices which can store data that are
accessible by a
computer, such as magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, digital versatile
disks (DVDs),
cartridges, random access memories (RAMs) 150, read only memory (ROM) 140, a
cable
containing a bit stream and the like, may also be used in the exemplary
operating
environment Tangible computer-readable storage media, computer-readable
storage
devices, or computer-readable memory devices, expressly exclude media such as
transitory
waves, energy, carrier signals, electromagnetic waves, and signals per se.
[0042] To enable user interaction with the computing device 100, an input
device 190
represents any number of input mechanisms, such as a microphone for speech, a
touch-
sensitive screen for gesture or graphical input, keyboard, mouse, motion
input, speech, RFID
card input fingerprint or faceprint input or any biometric input, near-field
communication
component, multi-modal input, gesture input, Bluetooth protocol input, multi-
modal input
sensor, motion sensor input, and so forth. In one example, the input device
190 can include
the various devices or components described herein that can be configured on a
storage
device and that can receive identification information associated with an
individual that wants
to unlock the storage device.
[0043] An output device 170 can also be one or more of a number of output
mechanisms
known to those of skill in the art. In some instances, multimodal systems
enable a user to
provide multiple types of input to communicate with the computing device 100.
The
communications interface 180 generally governs and manages the user input and
system
output. There is no restriction on operating on any particular hardware
arrangement and
therefore the basic hardware depicted may easily be substituted for improved
hardware or
firmware arrangements as they are developed.
[0044] For clarity of explanation, the illustrative system embodiment is
presented as
including individual functional blocks including functional blocks labeled as
a "processor" or
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processor 120. The functions these blocks represent may be provided through
the use of
either shared or dedicated hardware, including, but not limited to, hardware
capable of
executing software and hardware, such as a processor 120, that is purpose-
built to operate as
an equivalent to software executing on a general purpose processor. For
example the
functions of one or more processors presented in FIG. 1 may be provided by a
single shared
processor or multiple processors. (Use of the term "processor" should not be
construed to
refer exclusively to hardware capable of executing software.) Illustrative
embodiments may
include microprocessor and/or digital signal processor (DSP) hardware, read-
only memory
(ROM) 140 for storing software performing the operations described below, and
random
access memory (RAM) 150 for storing results. Very large scale integration
(VLSI)
hardware embodiments, as well as custom VLSI circuitry in combination with a
general
purpose DSP circuit, may also be provided.
[0045] The logical operations of the various embodiments are implemented as:
(1) a
sequence of computer implemented steps, operations, or procedures running on a
programmable circuit within a general use computer, (2) a sequence of computer
implemented steps, operations, or procedures running on a specific-use
programmable circuit;
and/or (3) interconnected machine modules or program engines within the
programmable
circuits. The system 100 shown in FIG. 1 can practice all or part of the
recited methods, can
be a part of the recited systems, and/or can operate according to instructions
in the recited
tangible computer-readable storage devices. Such logical operations can be
implemented as
modules configured to control the processor 120 to perform particular
functions according to
the programming of the module. For example, FIG. 1 illustrates three modules
Modl 162,
Mod2 164 and Mod3 166 which are modules configured to control the processor
120.
These modules may be stored on the storage device 160 and loaded into RAM 150
or
memory 130 at runtime or may be stored in other computer-readable memory
locations.
[0046] One or more parts of the example computing device 100, up to and
including the
entire computing device 100, can be virtualized. For example, a virtual
processor can be a
software object that executes according to a particular instruction set, even
when a physical
processor of the same type as the virtual processor is unavailable. A
virtualization layer or a
virtual "host" can enable virtualized components of one or more different
computing devices
or device types by translating virtualized operations to actual operations.
Ultimately
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however, virtualized hardware of every type is implemented or executed by some
underlying
physical hardware. Thus, a virtualization compute layer can operate on top of
a physical
compute layer. The virtualization compute layer can include one or more of a
virtual
machine, an overlay network, a hypervisor, virtual switching, and any other
virtualization
application.
[0047] The processor 120 can include all types of processors disclosed herein,
including a
virtual processor. However, when referring to a virtual processor, the
processor 120
includes the software components associated with executing the virtual
processor in a
virtualization layer and underlying hardware necessary to execute the
virtualization layer.
The system 100 can include a physical or virtual processor 120 that receive
instructions
stored in a computer-readable storage device, which cause the processor 120 to
perform
certain operations. When referring to a virtual processor 120, the system also
includes the
underlying physical hardware executing the virtual processor 120. The
computing
components disclosed herein can apply to a storage device, a mobile device, a
network-based
server that manages a fleet of storage devices or other devices for
controlling or managing
access to respective devices, even of different types.
[0048] Having disclosed some components of a computing system, the disclosure
now turns
to FIG. 2, which illustrates an exemplary architecture for controlling solar-
powered storage
devices such as trash compactors both locally and remotely via a network.
While a number of
different functions are disclosed with respect to a storage device 204, this
disclosure will
focus on the use of the locking system 264 and the ID sensor 266 that can
sense or interact
with an ID device 268. The locking features will be developed more fully
below. Other
functionality described in connection with a control system or control module
for the device
204 will highlight that the locking mechanism or locking functionality is
introduced into the
control system or control module 210 of the storage device 204. The control
system 210
can control one or more of the other functions of the storage device 204, such
as the camera
224 or temperature sensors 222G. In addition to one or more of these other
functions, the
control system or control module 210 will also include the ability to manage
access to the
device 204.
[0049] The storage device 204 can be a solar-powered storage device for
collecting waste,
such as trash and recyclables, for example. While a storage device 204 is
illustrated, other
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publicly available objects, such as light posts, stoplights, or other objects
can be similarly
controlled, powered and locked or unlocked as disclosed herein. As
illustrated, the storage
device 204 can be, for example, a solar, wind, geo-thermal, or battery-powered
device and/or
compactor. Preferably, the storage device 204 can recharge while in an
inactive state.
Moreover, storage device 204 can include a motor 226 for performing various
operations,
such as compaction operations.
[0050] Not shown in the figures is the actual structure for compaction.
However, in
general, the system in FIG. 2 will include a control system or control module
210 to utilize
power in the battery 236 to run a motor 226 that performs compaction on the
trash within a
bin inside the storage device 204. Further, storage device 204 can be remotely
controlled
via remote control device (RCD) 244. The RCD can be another node in a mesh
network or
can be a controlling device accessed via a network 202 which is not a node. To
this end, the
storage device 204 can include transmitter 206 and receiver 208 for
communicating with
RCD 244 via the network 202. In particular, transmitter 206 and receiver 208
can
communicate with transmitter 240 and receiver 242 on RCD 244, and vice versa.
Here,
transmitters 206 and 240 can transmit information, and receivers 208 and 242
can receive
information, such as control information or a listing of authorized users who
can access the
storage device 204. Other control information can include a schedule for
turning on the
locking mechanism. This way, the storage device 204 and RCD 244 can be
connected to
transmit and receive information, such as instructions, commands, statistics,
alerts,
notifications, files, software, data, and so forth. The storage device 204 can
also
communicate with other devices, such as a server and/or a collection vehicle,
via transmitter
206 and receiver 208. Similarly, RCD 244 can communicate with other devices,
such as a
server and/or a user device 246, 252, via transmitter 240 and receiver 242.
[0051] Moreover, storage device 204 and RCD 244 can communicate with each
other and/or
other devices via network 202. The network 202 can include a public network,
such as the
Internet, but can also include a private or quasi-private network, such as an
intranet, a home
network, a virtual private network (VPN), a shared collaboration network
between separate
entities, etc. Indeed, the network 202 can include many types of networks,
such as local
area networks (LANs), virtual LANs (VLANs), corporate networks, wide area
networks, a
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cell phone transmitter and receiver, a WiFi network, a Bluetooth network, and
virtually any
other form of network.
[0052] In one example, another storage device 272 communicates with the
storage device
204. The pair of devices 204, 272 can coordinate the unlocking of one or more
of the
devices through a person using the ID device 268 that interacts with the ID
sensor or reader
component 266 on storage device 204. In other words, a kiosk or pairing of two
or more
storage devices (or any other kinds of devices) can coordinate identifying an
individual and
unlocking one of the devices in the grouping. Thus, the individual can use ID
device 268
for identification by interacting with components of the storage device 204
but it may be the
second storage device 272, or another remote device 254 that is unlocked as
the devices
communicate and coordinate authorization and unlocking functions_ One or more
control
modules 210 on each respect device can communicate authorizations and
instructions to each
other for performing the identification step or an unlocking step in the
process. For
example, the ID device 268 can interact with the ID sensor 266 of the storage
device 204.
The storage device 204 can authorize the individual. The storage device 204
can transmit
via the transceiver 270 the authorization data to a second storage device 272.
The ID sensor
266 can be positioned anywhere on the storage device 204 where a user can
interact with the
ID sensor 266 using an ID device 268 as described herein. For example, the ID
sensor
might be on a top surface of the storage device 204.
[0053] Instructions can be provided to unlock the second storage device 272
using the
respective locking system of the second storage device 272. Unlocking
instructions can be
coordinated across control modules of the various storage devices in the
grouping or in the
pair of storage devices. In one aspect, an application or the user interface
can be presented
on a user device 268 or on a display 232 which enable the user to select which
storage device
to unlock or to provide other user interactions with the system to achieve the
desired results
of the user. In one aspect, the authorization data stored at the storage
device 204 can
include not only an authorization of the individual but access instructions or
restrictions.
For example, one user may only be authorized to open the second storage device
272 and not
the storage device 204. Thus, individual restrictions can be enforced in this
configuration
that are not possible when just using a simple key for access.
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[0054] Transmitter 206 and receiver 208 can be connected to printed circuit
board (PCB)
which can be part of the control system or control module 210, which controls
various
functions on device 204. In some embodiments, the RCD 244 can be incorporated
within
the PCB. In FIG. 2, the RCD 244 is electrically connected to the PCB via
transmitters 206,
240 and receivers 208, 242. The RCD 244 can be connected to transmitter 240
and receiver
242 via a two-way communication port, which includes transmitter 240 and
receiver 242.
The control system or control module 210 can control electrical functions
performed by the
storage device 204, including those focused on herein which relate to the
locking and
unlocking of the storage device 204. Electrical functions can include, for
example, running
compactions by actuating a motor 226; sensing waste or recyclables volume
inside the device
204 using a sensor at regular or programmable intervals, such as a sonar-based
sensor 222A,
a proximity sensor, and/or photoeye sensors 222B-C; changing status lamps 230
at regular
and/or programmable thresholds to/from a color indicating that the device 204
is not full
(e.g., green), to/from a color indicating that the device 204 is almost full
(e.g., yellow),
to/from a color indicating that the device 204 is full (e.g., red); operating
a locking system
264 and an ID sensor or ID reader 266 which communicates or receives data from
an ID
device 268. For devices that are not trash compactors, other functionality can
be included,
such as reports on how many packages are in a bin for a carrier to pick up, or
whether to turn
a traffic light on or off, or whether to open a door to a building, and so
forth.
[0055] The ID sensor 266 can also be characterized as an ID reader or reader
component that
can interact with an ID device 268. The ID device 268 actually represents a
number of
different identification entities. The ID device 268 can represent a mobile
device such as an
Apple iPhone or an Android device, a radio frequency identification card
(RFID), a
fingerprint or a faceprint or other bio-metric input, speech, a voice, a multi-
modal input in
which different types of input are provided to the ID sensor 266 to obtain
authorization, and
so forth. The ID sensor 266 will receive the identification information and
compare the
information to a database or listing of authorized users. The network 202 can
provide or
download the listing to the storage device 204 of authorized people including
specific
restrictions for each individual so that local authorization decisions can be
made. Upon
authorization, the control system or control module 210 can cause a locking
system 264 to
unlock a door and provide access to the interior of the storage device 204 to
the user.
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[0056] The system can track access on an individual user or identification
basis. Such data
can be reported by the storage device 204 to a remote device 252 or
application 254 that can
aggregate the data. For example, a cloud software system can track or record
who accessed
which device and when. Other sensor data can be transmitted as well to the
cloud system
for analysis. Such data can also be incorporated into a machine learning
algorithm or
tracking system that schedules the removal of items from respective storage
devices 204.
Such systems can be adjusted or modified based on the data received related to
unlocking
operations. Other data can also be coordinated with unlocking functions. For
example,
sensor data from a sensor 222H can be coordinated to confirm that trash in a
bin within the
storage device 204 has been removed in connection with an unlocking operation.
[0057] When access is denied to the storage device 204 such as when an
unauthorized person
tries to access a device, such interaction can also be reported to a network
server for analysis.
[0058] In one aspect a user can be provided access to specific storage devices
within a
geographical area or based on some classification (for example, size, quality
of service
parameter, subscription status, time since last service, device status). Cards
can be provided
to service people such that they are given proper access to the respective
appropriate storage
devices. Authorization can also be provided to mobile devices of the users who
need
access. A mobile device can have a communication protocol that can imitate the
signal of
an RFID card. The access can then also be changed or modified on an individual
basis in
the architecture through updates transmitted to respective storage devices.
[0059] The storage device 204 can include a transceiver 270 that can enable
communication
with another storage device 272 as well. The communication can be wired or
wireless using
any protocol that can achieve the communication. The communication can enable
two or
more storage devices to coordinate their respective locking systems 264 such
that, for
example, a user at a group of two or more storage devices 264, 272 can provide
their ID 268
once to an ID sensor 266 and have one or more of the grouped storage devices
204, 272
unlocked. The two or more devices 264, 272 can exchange authorization
information or
data to enable the flexibility of different devices performs different parts
of the process to
ultimately grant access for a user to one of the devices 264, 272.
[0060] The RCD 244 can enable remote control and/or alteration of the
functions performed
or operated by the control system or control module 210, including placing the
device 204 in
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an active and/or passive state. The RCD 244 can also provide access to, and
control over,
the various components 206, 208, 210, 212, 214A-B, 216, 218, 220, 222A-H, 224,
226, 228,
230, 232, 234, 236, 238 of the device 204. Users can use a networked device,
such as
smartphone 246 and/or remote device 252, to communicate with the RCD 244 in
order to
manage and/or control the device 204. For example, a user can communicate with
the RCD
244 via the remote device 252 to change a threshold value on the control
system or control
module 210, which can control, for example, a collection timing; the
compaction motor 226;
the use of energy on a lighted advertising display, such as display 232; the
status lamps 230;
the sensors 222A-H; the camera 224; unlocking functionality 264, etc. The
remote device
252 can include virtually any device with networking capabilities, such as a
laptop, a portable
media player, a tablet computer, a gaming system, a smartphone, a global
positioning system
(GPS), a smart television, a desktop, etc. In some embodiments, the remote
device 252 can
also be in other forms, such as a watch, imaging eyeglasses, an earpiece, etc.
[0061] The remote device 252 and RCD 204 can be configured to automatically
modify the
control system or control module 210 operating parameters. However, users can
also
manually modify the control system or control module 210 operating parameters
via the
remote device 252 and RCD 204. The operating parameters can be modified in
response to,
for example, evolving industry benchmarks; user inputs; historical data, such
as the data
gathered from a separate database 250A-B; forecasted data, such as upcoming
weather
characteristics; traffic conditions; a collection schedule; a collection
route; a proximity of a
collection vehicle; a time and/or date; a location; a capacity, such as a
capacity of the device
204 and/or a capacity of a collection vehicle; a fullness state of the device
204; lapsed time
between collections; lapsed time between compactions; usage conditions of the
device 204;
energy usage; battery conditions; statistics; a policy; regulations; a
detected movement of an
object, such as an object inside or outside of the device 204; collection
trends; industry and/or
geographical standards; zoning policies and characteristics; real-time
information; user
preferences; and other data. The data from the remote device 252 can be
relayed to the
RCD 244, and the data from the RCD 244 can be relayed, via the network 202, to
the device
204 and/or the remote device 252 for presentation to the user.
[0062] The user can control the RCD 244 and/or access and modify information
on the RCD
244 via a user interface, such as a web page, an application 254, a monitor
256, and/or via
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voice messages and commands, text messages, etc. The remote device 252 can
include a
user interface, which can display, for example, graphs of collection
statistics and trends (e.g.,
collection frequency, usage, temperature, access history, access trends,
access denials, etc.),
collection reports, device settings, collection schedules, collection
configurations, historical
data, status information, collection policies, configuration options, device
information,
collection routes and information, alerts, etc. This way, users can access
information to
make educated decisions about how to set and/or reset operating parameters on
the control
system or control module 210; to control, for example, which sensors are used
to gather data,
which thresholds to set; to control outputs from the status lamps 230 and
other components;
to control who accesses a device or the times of device access or other
policies, etc. Users
can change settings on the device 204, such as optimal collection timing,
timing of sensor
actuation; and/or modify parameters, such as desired capacity and fullness
thresholds; using a
scroll down menu, click-and-slide tools, interactive maps displayed on the
remote device 252,
touch screens, forms, icons, text entries, audio inputs, text inputs, etc. In
response, the RCD
244 can automatically reconfigure the control system or control module 210
settings,
recalibrate sensors and displays, change operating parameters, change access
policies on a
device, individual, group of individuals, or group of devices basis, etc.
[0063] The RCD 244 can include a two-way communication port that includes
transmitter
240 and receiver 242, which can wirelessly communicate with the control system
or control
module 210 of the device 204, via the transmitter 206 and receiver 208 on the
device 204,
which are connected electrically to the control system or control module 210.
On scheduled
and/or programmable intervals, the control system or control module 210
transmitter 206 can
send data to a central server, such as data server 248, via the network 202.
The same
transmitter 206 and receiver 208 can be used to communicate with other nodes
(whether
devices, benches, or other public objects) in a mesh network. Moreover, the
RCD's 244
receiver 242 can be configured to query the data server 248, which can also be
connected to
the remote device 252, for incoming data. The data server 248 can communicate
data from
databases 250A-B. If there is no data to be received by the receiver 208, the
control system
or control module 210 can be configured to promptly return to a low-power
mode, where the
transmitter 206 and receiver 208 circuits are turned off, until another
scheduled, received,
initiated, and/or programmed communication event. Such a low-power mode can be
the
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same as an -inactive" mode, or can be distinct from an "inactive" mode because
the
sensor/transmitter being used are distinct from the transmitter 206 and
receiver 208. If there
is data to be received by the receiver 208, such as a command to turn the
device 204 off and
then back on, a command to change the thresholds upon which compactions are
operated, a
command to change the thresholds for providing status updates and/or
determining fullness
states, etc., then the RCD receiver 242 can download the new data from the
data server 248,
via the RCD 244, to the control system or control module 210, altering its
operating
configuration. The RCD receiver 242 can also be configured to send data to the
data server
248 to acknowledge the receipt of data from the control system or control
module 210, and to
send selected data to the remote device 252, the smartphone 246, and/or any
other device, for
presentation to a user. Access control functionality can also be adjusted with
respect to and
one or more of a threshold, a time period a lock is held open, a time period
in which a reader
component is operational or when a user would be enabled to gain access to the
device, and
so forth.
[0064] The data server 248 can also display the data to a user on remote
device 252,
smartphone 246, or any other device. The data can be a password-protected web
page, a
display on the smartphone 246, a display on the monitor 256, etc. Remote
control using the
RCD 244 to reconfigure operating thresholds, sensor use, sensor hierarchy,
energy usage,
etc., can enable the device 204 to alter characteristics that control its
energy generation,
energy consumption, access control policies or parameters, and/or the
collection and
management logistics, further enabling sound operation of the device 204.
[0065] The RCD 244 can be configured to communicate over a wireless network
with the
control system or control module 210, and transmit data to the data server
248, so the data
can be stored for viewing and manipulation by a user via any web-connected
computer,
phone, or device. The RCD 244 can also be configured to receive data from the
data server
248, and transmit the data back to the control system or control module 210.
The control
system or control module 210 can be electrically connected to a variety of
sensors, such as
sensors 222A-H, within the device 204. Through the RCD 244, the control system
or
control module 210 can also be wirelessly connected to the databases 250A-B,
and/or other
external databases, such as a weather database, which may, for example, reside
on a National
Oceanographic and Atmospheric (NOAA) server, a database of trucks and
locations and
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schedules, which may reside on a waste hauler's server, a database of traffic
conditions, etc.
A user can also change which of the sensors 222A-H are used in setting
thresholds, among
other things, in response to, for example, user commands and/or changes in
outside data, such
as weather data or truck location data.
[0066] The control system or control module 210 can also communicate with a
temperature
sensor 222G to gather temperature information, which can be transmitted to the
RCD 244 via
the PCB transmitter 206. The temperature information can be used, among other
things, to
fine tune operational functions and energy consumption of the device 204. For
example, the
control system or control module 210 can be reconfigured to run less
compaction per day,
such as four to eight compactions, in cold weather, since batteries are less
powerful in cold
weather_
Coinciding with cold weather, the winter days are shorter, thus solar energy
and
battery power is limited. In order to conserve power on low-sunlight
days, the RCD 244
can adjust the control system or control module 210 normal fullness
sensitivity levels, so that
collections are prompted to be made earlier. For example, if the control
system or control
module 210 typically runs 20 compactions before changing status lamps from
green to
yellow, a signal that suggests optimal collection time, the RCD 244 can adjust
the thresholds
of the control system or control module 210 to run 10 compactions before
changing from a
green state to a yellow state, thus changing the total energy consumption of
the compactor
between collections.
In a busy location, the control system or control module 210 can be
configured to sense device fullness every minute, whereas in a less busy
location, the control
system or control module 210 can be configured to sense fullness once a day.
[0067] In some embodiments, the RCD 244 can also alter the timing of events
using
algorithms based on the results of historical events. For example, the RCD 244
can be
initially configured to sense fullness once per minute, but based on resulting
readings, it can
then alter the timing of future readings. Thus, if three consecutive readings
taken at one-
minute intervals yield a result of no trash accumulation, the RCD 244 can
increase the timing
between readings to two minutes, then three minutes, etc., based on the
various readings.
The RCD 244 can also be configured to adjust sensing intervals based on the
level of fullness
of the device 204, so it would sense more frequently as the device 204 fills,
in order to reduce
the margin of error at a critical time, before the device 204 overflows. This
"learning
feature" can save energy by ultimately synchronizing the sensor readings with
actual need to
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sense. The RCD 244 can also alter thresholds of status lamps 230 based on
collection
history, the need for capacity as determined by the frequency of red or yellow
lights on the
device 204, temperatures, expected weather and light conditions, expected
usage conditions,
etc. The status lamps 230 can be LED lights, for example. Access control can
also have
various timing elements established and adjusted based on battery level or
other factors.
[0068] In FIG. 2, the RCD 244 can be enabled, via the control system or
control module 210,
to read, for example, a temperature sensor 222G; an encoder sensor 222D, which
can
measure movement of a compaction ram by utilizing an "encoder wheel" which is
mounted
on a motor shaft; one or more photoeye sensors 222B-C, door sensors; a sensor
which
measures current from the solar panel and a sensor which can measure current
from the
battery 236 to the motor 226; a hall effect sensor 222F, which can detect
movement of, for
example, a door; an infrared (IR) sensor 222E, a camera 224, etc. In addition,
the thresholds
set by the RCD 244 can be based on historical and real-time information, user
preferences,
industry norms, weather patterns and forecasts, and other information. The RCD
244 can
reset the control system or control module 210 normal thresholds hourly,
daily, weekly,
monthly, yearly, or at adjustable intervals, based on a variety of information
and user
decisions.
[0069] The RCD 244 can also alter the control system or control module 210
normal
hierarchy of sensor usage. For example, if the control system or control
module 210 is
configured to run a compaction cycle when one or more of the photoeyes 222B-C
located
inside the device 204 are blocked, the RCD 244 can reconfigure the sensor
hierarchy by
reconfiguring the control system or control module 210 to run compaction
cycles after a
certain amount of time has passed, by reading the position of the encoder
sensor 222D at the
end of a cycle, by reading one or more photoeye sensors 222B-C, by calculating
a sensor
hierarchy based on historical filling rates, by a change in user preferences,
etc. Using an
aggregate of data from other devices located worldwide in a variety of
settings, the RCD's
244 configurations can depend on constantly evolving parameters for optimizing
energy
utilization, capacity optimization, and operational behavior, among other
things. The RCD
244 innovation and growing database of benchmarks, best practices and
solutions to
inefficiency, enables the device 204 to adapt and evolve.
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[0070] Based on the data from the control system or control module 210, the
sensors, inputs
by the users (e.g., the customer or the manufacturer) via the RCD 244, and/or
based on other
data, such as historical or weather data, the RCD 244 can change the control
system or
control module 210 thresholds, operational parameters, and/or configuration,
to improve the
performance of the device 204 in different geographies or seasons, or based on
different user
characteristics or changing parameters. Thus, the system and architecture can
be self-
healing.
[0071] The RCD 244 can also be configured to change the control system or
control module
210 normal operating parameters. For example, the RCD 244 can be configured to
cause
the control system or control module 210 to run multiple compaction cycles in
a row, to run
energy through a resistor 220 to apply a strong load upon the battery 236,
which can supply
the energy. The RCD 244 can measure battery voltage at predetermined or
programmable
intervals, to measure the "rebound" of the battery 236. A strong battery will
gain voltage
quickly (e.g., the battery will almost fully recover within 15 minutes or so).
A weak battery
will drop significantly in voltage (e.g., 3-5 volts), will recover slowly, or
will not recover to a
substantial portion of its original voltage. By changing the normal parameters
of the control
system or control module 210, the battery 236 can be subjected to a heavy load
during a test
period, which will determine the battery's strength without jeopardizing
operations. The
RCD 244 can then be configured to relay a message to the user that a battery
is needed, or to
use the battery differently, for example, by spacing out compactions in time,
reducing the
degree of voltage decline within a certain time period, shortening the time
period in which a
lock is held open, establishing short timeframes in which the locking
mechanism can be
operated, etc. Based on the message and any additional information from the
RCD 244, the
user can then order a new battery by simply clicking on a button on a web
page, for example.
The RCD 244 can also alter the control system or control module 210 to do more
compactions or other energy-using functions (like downloading software) during
the daytime,
when solar energy is available to replenish the battery 236 as it uses energy.
[0072] Since the RCD 244 can be connected to databases, and can be informed by
the control
system or control module 210 on each device of conditions or status
information at the
respective device, the RCD 244 can also be used to relay data collected from
the databases or
control system or control module 210 for other types of servicing events. In
other words,
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the RCD 244 can obtain, collect, maintain, or analyze status, operating, or
conditions
information received from the control system or control module 210 of one or
more devices
and/or one or more databases storing such information, and relay such data to
a separate or
remote device, such as a remote server or control center. For example, the
RCD 244 can
be configured to relay a message to a waste hauler to collect the device 204
if two or more
parameters are met simultaneously. To illustrate, the RCD 244 can relay a
message to a
waste hauler to collect the device 204 if the device 204 is over 70% full and
a collection truck
is within 1 mile of the device 204. Authorization data for the maintenance
person in that
truck can be downloaded to the device 204 to enable access. In other words,
authorization
can be more dynamic and related to other parameters such as location-based
data for a person
who should gain access for a period of time. The access can be provided for a
limited time
period. The RCD 244 can then send a message to the remote device 252 to alert
a user that
a collection had been made, and the cost of the collection will be billed to
the user's account.
[0073] In addition, the RCD 244 can change the circuitry between the solar
panel 234 and the
battery 236, so that solar strength can be measured and an optimal charging
configuration can
be selected. The charging circuitry 214A-B is illustrated as two circuitries;
however, one of
ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that some embodiments can
include more or
less circuitries. Charging circuits 214A-B can be designed to be optimized for
low light or
bright light, and can be switched by the RCD 244 based on programmable or pre-
determined
thresholds. Also, while solar information can be readily available (e.g.,
Farmers' Almanac),
solar energy at a particular location can vary widely based on the
characteristics of the site.
For example, light will be weaker if reflected off a black building, and if
the building is tall,
blocking refracted light For this reason, it can be useful to measure solar
energy on site, as
it can be an accurate determinant of actual energy availability at a
particular location. To do
this, the battery 236 and solar panel 234 can be decoupled using one or more
charging relays
212. In other aspects, a very high load can be placed on the battery 236 to
diminish its
voltage, so that all available current from the solar panel 234 flows through
a measureable
point. This can be done, for example, by causing the device 204 to run
compaction cycles,
or by routing electricity through a resistor, or both.
[0074] There are a variety of other methods which can be used to create a
load. However,
putting a load on the battery 236 can cause permanent damage. Thus, the RCD
244 can also
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be configured to disconnect the battery 236 from the solar panel 234, instead
routing
electricity through a resistor 220. This can allow for an accurate measurement
of solar
intensity at a particular location, without depleting the battery 236, which
can help assess the
potential for running compactions, communicating, powering illuminated
advertisements, and
powering other operations. In some embodiments, the control system or control
module 210
can be reconfigured by the RCD 244 to run continuous compaction cycles for a
period of
time, measure solar panel charging current, relay the data, and then resume
normal
operations. Different configurations or combinations of circuits can be used
to test solar
intensity, battery state or lifecycle, and/or predict solar or battery
conditions in the future.
[0075] The RCD 244 can also track voltage or light conditions for a period of
days, and alter
the state of load and charging based on constantly changing input data For
example, the
RCD 244 can configure the timer 218 of the control system or control module
210 to turn on
the display 232 for advertising for a number of days in a row, starting at a
specific time and
ending at another specific time. However, if the battery voltage declines over
this period of
time, the RCD 244 can then reduce the time of the load (the display 232) to
every other day,
and/or may shorten the time period of the load each day. The locking mechanism
can have
its parameters adjusted in various ways to reduce the load on the battery 236.
Further, the
RCD 244 can collect information on usage and weather patterns and reconfigure
the control
system or control module 210 normal operating regimen to increase or reduce
the load (for
example, the advertisement on the display 232) placed on the battery 236,
based on the
information collected. For example, if it is a Saturday, and expected to be a
busy shopping
day, the RCD 244 can allow a declining state of the battery 236, and can
schedule a period in
the near future where a smaller load will be placed on the battery 236, by,
for example, not
running the advertisement on the coming Monday. In doing so, the RCD 244 can
optimize
the advertising value and energy availability to use energy when it is most
valuable, and
recharge (use less energy) when it is less valuable. In order to maximize
solar energy
gained from a variety of locations, the RCD 244 can cause the control system
or control
module 210 to select between one of several charging circuits. For example, if
it is
anticipated that cloudy conditions are imminent, the RCD 244 can change the
circuit that is
used for battery charging, in order to make the charger more sensitive to
lower light
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conditions. In a sunny environment, the charger circuit used can be one with
poor low-light
sensitivity, which would yield more wattage in direct sunlight.
[0076] The architecture 200 can also be used for monitoring functions, which
can enable
users to access information about the device 204 and collection process. With
this
information, users can make judgments that facilitate their decision-making,
helping them
remotely adjust settings on the device 204 to improve performance and
communication. For
example, the RCD 244 can be configured to enable users to easily adjust
callback time, which
is the normal time interval for communication that is configured in the
control system or
control module 210. The RCD 244 can enable the user to alter this time
setting, so that the
device 204 communicates at shorter or longer intervals. Once the control
system or control
module 210 initiates communication, other parameters can be reconfigured, such
as awake
time, which is the amount of time the receiver is in receiving mode. This
enables users to
make -on the fly" changes. In some cases, the control system or control module
210 can
shut down after sending a message and listening for messages to be received.
In these cases,
it can be difficult to send instructions, wait for a response, send more
instructions and wait for
a response, because the time lapse between normal communications can be a full
day.
However, by remotely adjusting the setting through the RCD 244, the user can
make
continuous adjustments while testing out the downloaded parameters in real
time, and/or
close to real time. This can enhance the ability of the user to remotely
control the device
204.
[0077] Further, the RCD 244 can alter the current of the photoeyes 222B-C, in
a test to
determine whether there is dirt or grime covering the lens. Here, the RCD 244
can
reconfigure the normal operating current of the photoeyes 222B-C. If the lens
is dirty, the
signal emitter photoeye will send and the signal receiver will receive a
signal on high power,
but not on low power. In this way, a service call can be avoided or delayed by
changing the
normal operating current to the photoeyes 222B-C. This can be a useful
diagnostic tool.
100781 In some embodiments, regular maintenance intervals can be scheduled,
but can also
be altered via information from the RCD 244. The RCD 244 can be configured to
run a
cycle while testing motor current. If motor current deviates from a normal
range (i.e., 2
amps or so), then a maintenance technician can be scheduled earlier than
normal. The RCD
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244 can send a message to the user by posting an alert on the users web page
associated with
the device 204.
[0079] Other settings can be embodied in the device 204 as well. For example,
the control
system or control module 210 can sense that the device 204 is full. The RCD
244 can then
configure the control system or control module 210 to have a web page, or
another display,
present a full signal. The RCD 244 can alter when the full signal should be
presented to the
user. For example, after accessing a database with historical collection
intervals, the RCD
244 can reconfigure the control system or control module 210 to wait for a
period of time,
e.g., one hour, before displaying a full signal at the web page. This can be
helpful because,
in some cases, a "false positive" full signal can be signaled by the control
system or control
module 210, but this can be avoided based on historical information that
indicates that a
collection only a few minutes after the last collection would be highly
aberrational. The
RCD 244 can thus be configured to override data from the control system or
control module
210. Instead of sending a full signal to the user, the RCD 244 reconfigures
the control
system or control module 210 to ignore the full signal temporarily, and delay
the display of a
full-signal on the user's web page or smart phone, in order for time to go by
and additional
information to be gathered about the device's actual fullness status. For
example, when a
collection is made and ten minutes later, the fullness sensor detects the
device 204 is full, the
fullness display message on the web page can be prevented from displaying a
full status. In
some cases, a plastic bag can be full of air, causing the proximity sensor in
the device 204 to
detect a full bin. Within a certain time period, e.g., twenty minutes in a
busy location, a few
hours in a less busy location, as determined based on the historical waste
generation rate at
the site, the bag can lose its air, and the proximity sensor can sense that
the bin is less full
than it was twenty minutes prior, which would not be the case if the bin was
full with trash
instead of air. Thus, -false positive" information can be filtered out.
[0080] Likewise, tests and checks can be performed so that false negative
information is
avoided as well. For example, if a bin regularly fills up daily, and there is
no message that it
is full after two or three days, an alert can appear on the user's web page
indicating an
aberration. Thresholds for normal operating parameters and adjustments to
normal can be
set or reset using the RCD 244, or they can be programmed to evolve through
pattern
recognition. Although many operating parameter adjustments can be made through
the web
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portal, adjustments can also be made automatically. This can be controlled by
a software
program that aggregates data and uses patterns in an aggregate of enclosures
to alter control
system or control module 210 settings on a single enclosure. For example, if
the collection
data from 1,000 enclosures indicates that collection personnel collect from
bins too early 50%
of the time when compaction threshold setting is set to "high", compared to
10% of the time
when compaction settings are set at "medium," then the RCD 244 can reprogram
the
compaction thresholds to the medium setting automatically, so that collection
personnel can
be managed better, limiting the amount of enclosures that are collected
prematurely.
Automatic reprogramming, governed by software programs, can be applied to
other aspects,
such as user response to dynamic elements of the device 204, such as lighted
or interactive
advertising media displayed on the device 204. For example, if users respond
to an LCD-
displayed advertisement shown on the device 204 for "discounted local coffee"
80% of the
time, the RCD 244 can configure all devices within a certain distance, from
participating
coffee shops, to display the message: "discounted local coffee.-
[0081] In some embodiments, the RCD 244 can include a data receiving portal
for the user
with information displays about an aggregate of devices. Here, the user can
access real-time
and historical information of, for example, devices on a route, and/or devices
in a given
geography, and/or access control or history. The data can be displayed for the
user on a
password-protected web page associated with the aggregate of devices within a
user group.
The device 204 can also display, for example, bin fullness, collections made,
the time of
collections, battery voltage, motor current, number and time of compaction
cycles run, graphs
and charts, lists and maps, access control historical information, etc. This
data can be
viewed in different segments of time and geography in order to assess device
and/or fleet
status, usage, and/or trends. The user's web page can show, for example, a pie
chart
showing percentage of bins collected when their LED was blinking yellow, red
and green, or
a histogram showing these percentages as a function of time. These statistics
can be
categorized using pull down menus and single-click features. A single click
map feature,
for example, is where summary data for a particular device is displayed after
the user clicks
on a dot displayed on a map which represents that device. This can allow the
user to easily
view and interact with a visual map in an external application.
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[0082] The RCD 244 can be configured to display calculated data, such as -
collection
efficiency," which is a comparison of collections made to collections
required, as measured
by the utilized capacity of the device 204 divided by the total capacity of
the device 204
(Collection Efficiency = utilized capacity / total capacity). The user can use
this
information to increase or decrease collections, increase or decrease the
aggregate capacity
across an area, etc. Typically, the user's goal is to collect the device 204
when it is full ¨
not before or after. The user can click buttons on their web page to show
historical trends,
such as collection efficiency over time, vehicle costs, a comparison of
vehicle usage in one
time period versus vehicle usage in another time period, diversion rates, a
comparison of
material quantity deposited in a recycling bin versus the quantity of material
deposited into a
trash bin. Other statistics can be automatically generated and can include
carbon dioxide
emissions from trucks, which can be highly correlated to vehicle usage. Labor
hours can
also be highly correlated with vehicle usage, so the web page can display a
labor cost statistic
automatically using information generated from the vehicle usage monitor. As
the user
clicks on buttons or otherwise makes commands in their web portal, the RCD 244
can change
the PCB control system or control module 210 operating parameters, usage of
sensors,
unlocking functionality, etc., and/or measurement thresholds in response. The
RCD 244 can
also be configured to automatically display suggested alterations to the
fleet, such as
suggestions to move devices to a new position, to increase or decrease the
quantity of devices
in a given area, to recommend anew size device based on its programmed
thresholds,
resulting in an improvement in costs to service the fleet of devices.
[0083] Heat mapping can also be used to provide a graphical representation of
data for a
user. Heat mapping can show the user the level of capacity in each part of an
area, for
example a city block, or it can be used to show collection frequency in an
area. In each
case, the heat map can be generated by associating different colors with
different values of
data in a cross sectional, comparative data set, including data from a
plurality of enclosures.
The heat map can be a graphical representation of comparative data sets. In
some
embodiments, red can be associated with a high number of a given
characteristic, and
"cooler" colors, like orange, yellow and blue, can be used to depict areas
with less of a given
characteristic. For example, a heat map showing collection frequency or
compaction
frequency across 500 devices can be useful to determine areas where capacity
is lacking in
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the aggregate of enclosures - a relative measure of capacity. In this case,
the highest
frequency device can be assigned a value of red. Each number can be assigned
progressively cooler colors. In other embodiments, the red value can be
associated with a
deviation from the average or median, for example, a darker red for each
standard deviation.
The heat maps can be shown as a visual aid on the user's web page and can
color-code
regions where "bottlenecks" restrict vehicle and labor efficiency. A small red
region can
show graphically, for example, that if the user were to replace only ten
devices with higher-
capacity compactors, the collection frequency to a larger area could be
reduced, saving travel
time. Heat maps can be a helpful visual tool for showing data including, but
not limited to,
data showing -most collections" in a given time period, "most green
collections," which can
visually demonstrate the number of bins collected too early (before they are
actually full),
"most compactions," which can show on a more granular level the usage level of
the bin,
"most uses," which can represent how many times the insertion door of the bin
is opened or
utilized, "most alerts,- which can show visually the number of "door open
alerts,- which can
show when doors were not closed properly, "voltage alerts," which can show
visually which
devices are of low power, etc. While specific measurements are described
herein to
demonstrate the usefulness of heat mapping, there are other sets of data that
can be
represented by the heat maps, which are within the scope and spirit of this
disclosure.
[0084] The heat map can also be used to present a population density in one or
more areas, as
well as a representation of any other activity or characteristic of the area,
such as current
traffic or congestion, for example. This information can also be shared with
other
businesses or devices. For example, the RCD 244 can analyze the heat map and
share
population statistics or activity with nearby businesses or municipalities.
The RCD 244 can,
for example, determine a high population density in Area A on Saturday
mornings and
transmit that information to a nearby locale to help the nearby locale prepare
for the
additional activity. As another example, if the device is placed in a park,
the RCD 244 can
determine population and activity levels at specific times and alert park
officials of the
expected high levels of activity so the park officials and/or those managing
the device can
plan accordingly.
[0085] The RCD 244 can also be used for dynamic vehicle routing and compaction
and/or
device management. Because the RCD 244 can be a two-way communicator, it can
both
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send and receive information between various devices and databases, using a
mesh network.
This can allow the user to cross-correlate data between the fleet of devices
and the fleet of
collection vehicles. The RCD 244 can receive data from the user and/or the
user's vehicle.
For example, the RCD 244 can receive GPS data or availability data and use it
to change
parameters on a given device or aggregate of devices. The RCD 244 can receive
this data
from the user's GPS-enabled smartphone, for example. Similarly, the RCD 244
can send
data to the user, a user device, a smartphone, etc., about the status of the
device 204. With
this two-way data stream, collection optimization can be calculated in real
time or close to
real time. For example, a collection truck is traveling to the east side of a
city and has 30
minutes of spare time. The RCD 244 can receive information about the truck's
whereabouts, availability and direction, and query a database for device real
time and
historical fullness information and determine that the truck can accommodate
collections of
twenty device locations. The RCD 244 can then display a list of twenty device
locations
that the truck can accommodate. The user can view a map of the twenty
recommended
locations, see a list of driving directions, etc. The map of driving
directions can be
optimized by adding other input data, such as traffic lights, traffic
conditions, average speed
along each route, etc. At the same time, as the truck heads to the east side
of the city, the
RCD 244 can reconfigure devices on the west side to change compaction
thresholds, so that
capacity is temporarily increased, freeing up additional time for the truck to
spend in the east
section. Alternatively, the RCD 244 can reconfigure a device to temporarily
display a `Tull"
message to pedestrians, helping them find a nearby device with capacity
remaining. The
RCD 244 can, in the case where the device requires payment, increase pricing
to the almost-
full device, reducing demand by pedestrians or other users. This same logic
can be effective
in situations where trucks are not used, for example, indoors at a mall or
airport. The
demand for waste capacity can vary, so having remote control over the device
204 can allow
users to change settings, parameters, and/or prices to make the collection of
waste dynamic
and efficient.
[0086] The location of the device 204 and other devices can be determined via
triangulation
and/or GPS, for example, and placed on a map in the interactive mapping
features.
Moreover, the location of an indoor device can be obtained from indoor WiFi
hot spots, and
the indoor device can be placed on a map in the interactive mapping features.
As a staff
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member accomplishes tasks (i.e., cleaning a bathroom) and moves inside a
facility, the staff
member's location can be tracked, and the fullness and location of nearby
devices can be
plotted on a map or given to the staff member by other means, as instructions
to add a
collection activity to the list of tasks. Whether by GPS, Wifi, Bluetooth,
etc., triangulation
between communication nodes can serve to locate a device on a map, and
measurements of
fullness of devices can be used to create work instructions for staff members
or truck drivers,
so that efficient routes and schedules can be created to save time.
[0087] To better manage the collection process, user groups can be separated
between trash
and recycling personnel. In many cities, there are separate trucks used to
collect separate
streams of waste, such as trash and recyclables. For this reason, it can be
helpful to
configure the user's web page to display data based on a waste stream. The
data can also be
divided in this fashion and displayed differently on a smartphone, hand-held
computer, and/or
other user device. In addition, data can be displayed differently to different
users. For
example, the manager of an operation can have "administrative privileges,- and
thus can
change the location of a particular device in the system, view collection
efficiency of a
particular waste collector, view login history, and/or view industry or
subgroup benchmarks,
while a waste collector with lower privileges can only view device fullness,
for example.
The RCD 244 or another device can also be configured to print a list of
devices to collect
next, a list of full or partially full bins, etc. For example, the remote
device 252 can be
configured to print a list of devices to collect in the remaining portion of a
route.
[0088] The disclosure now turns to FIG. 3, which illustrates an exemplary
storage device
300. The storage device 300 can be configured to dynamically adjust sensors
and
compaction operations, as further described below.
[0089] The storage device 300 includes a bin 302 for storing content items,
and a door 306
for opening the storage device 300 to throw or deposit items in the bin 302.
An ID sensor or
reader component 320 can be provided which enables a user to provide
identification via the
ID device 330 to the storage device 300. For example, an RFID card, a mobile
phone
through near-field communication, a biometric input such as a fingerprint or a
faceprint, and
so forth. A control module (not shown) is configured within the
storage device 300 and
includes a listing as provided by a remote server of authorized individuals
who can enter the
storage device 300. A locking mechanism 322 is in communication with the
control module
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and the reader component 320 and will unlock the locking mechanism 322 for a
predetermined period of time. For example, the locking mechanism 322 may be
open for 3-
6 seconds. After the period of time, the locking mechanism 322 returns to a
locked state or
locked position. A magnet 324 can be configured to hold the door 306 closed in
case the
unlock request was inadvertent. The door 306 and other locking components can
be
configured at any location on the storage device 300. For example, the door
306 may be
configured on a side wall, front wall or rear wall. The locking mechanism 322
may enable
the user to open up a top portion of the storage device 300 to gain access to
the interior. The
particular structure of the door 306 is not critical to the concepts disclosed
herein. For
example, an alternate door 326 is shown on the side with a magnet 328 used to
prevent the
door from swinging open upon the door 326 being unlocked by a locking
mechanism 322.
[0090] In addition, each of the sensor modules can include an emitter and
receiver.
Moreover, the storage device 300 can include compactor software or firmware
configured to
run self-diagnostics on each of the sensor modules and the normal paths, to
ensure the storage
device 300 is running properly and to report any errors to the management
console.
[0091] In some configurations, the storage device 300 can also include a sonar
sensor 308 to
detect objects in the device 300 and calculate the fullness state of the
device 300. The signal
transmitted and sensed in order to determine trash levels can be any frequency
(IR, visual
range, etc.) and at any pulse rate. Further, any number and combination of
sensors,
transmitters, and receivers could be applied in various places within the
device 300. The
storage device 300 can also include other types of sensors 304, such as an
infrared sensor, a
temperature sensor, a hall effect sensor, an encoder sensor, a motion sensor,
a proximity
sensor, reader component 320, etc. The sonar sensor 308 and sensors 304 can
sense fullness
at regular intervals, and/or based on manual inputs and/or a pre-programmed
schedule, for
example. Moreover, the sonar sensor 308 and sensors 304 are electrically
connected to the
printed circuit board (PCB), control system or control module 316. Further,
the sonar
sensor 308 and sensor 304, locking mechanism 322 and reader component 320 can
be
actuated, powered and/or controlled by the control system or control module
316, which can
be configured to control the various operations of the storage device 300.
[0092] The control system or control module 316 can control electrical
functions performed
by the storage device 300. The electrical functions controlled by the control
system or
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control module 316 can include, for example, running compactions by actuating
a motor;
sensing waste or recyclables volume inside the device 300 using a sensor at
regular or
programmable intervals, such as sensors 304; changing status lamps 318 at
regular and/or
programmable thresholds to/from a color indicating that the device 300 is not
full (e.g.,
green), to/from a color indicating that the device 300 is almost full (e.g.,
yellow), to/from a
color indicating that the device 300 is full (e.g., red); collecting data and
transmitting the data
to another device; receiving data from another device; managing a power mode;
measuring
and managing a current; performing diagnostics tests; managing a power source;
controlling
access to the storage device 300 via the reader component 320 and the locking
mechanism
322, etc. The motor controller 310 can enable voltage to be applied across a
load in either
direction. The control system or control module 316 can use the motor
controller 310 to
enable a DC motor in the device 300 to run forwards and backwards, to speed or
slow, to
"brake" the motor, etc.
[0093] The storage device 300 includes a transmitter 312 and a receiver 314
for sending and
receiving data to and from other devices, such as a server or a remote control
device.
Accordingly, the storage device 300 can transmit and receive information such
as
instructions, commands, statistics, alerts, notifications, files, software,
data, and so forth.
The transmitter 312 and receiver 314 can be electrically connected to the
control system or
control module 316. This way, the transmitter 312 can transmit data from the
control
system or control module 316 to other devices, and the receiver 314 can
receive data from
other devices and pass the data for use by the PCB 316. In this regard, a user
who is
checking the status of the device could drive down the street near the device
(say within a
wireless range, such as Bluetooth or WIFT, for example), not even get out of
their vehicle, but
receive a signal indicating that all is well, that the trash needs to be
emptied, or that a repair
or cleaning is needed. Authorization information can also be provided such
that the person
receiving the notice is already authorized to unlock the storage device 300
and to just use
their mobile phone on a near-field communication reader 320.
[0094] Status lamps 318 can provide an indication of the status of the storage
device 300.
For example, the status lamps 318 can indicate the fullness state of the
storage device 300.
To this end, the status lamps 318 can be configured to display a respective
color or pattern
when the storage device 300 is full, almost full, not full, etc. For example,
the status lamps
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318 can be configured to flash red when the storage device 300 is full, yellow
when the
storage device 300 is almost full, and green when the storage device 300 is
not full.
Moreover, the status lamps 318 can be LED lights, for example.
100951 The status lamps 318 can also be configured to flash in various
patterns to indicate
various other conditions. For example, the status lamps 318 can be configured
to flash at
the same time and in combination to show that the device 300 is full. The
status lamps 318
can also be configured to flash in different patterns or times or colors to
show troubleshooting
status information for example. In some cases, the status lamps 318 can be
configured to
flash in a predetermined manner to show that a door of the device is open, a
component is
damaged, an obstacle is stuck, an operation is currently active, etc. A
display could also
show the name of a person authorized to open the door 306/326 or other locking
instructions
or information.
[0096] As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize. the device
300 can include
other components, such as motors, sensors, batteries, solar panels, displays,
relays, chargers,
GPS devices, timers, fuses, resistors, remote control devices, cameras, etc.
However, for the
sake of clarity, the device 300 is illustrated without some of these
components.
[0097] In some configurations, the storage device 300 can be configured to
implement dirt-
sensing technology. The dirt sensing technology can use firmware or other
software
instructions to monitor the signals, such as infra-red signals, through the
sensors on the
device 300, and use this data to determine how dirty the detection sensors
have become.
For example, in some cases, a "clean" sensor 304D can take around six 38kHz
pulses
transmitted from a transmitter 304C before the signal is detected. As the
sensor becomes
more and more dirty it typically takes longer to detect the signal, and may
even take twenty
38kHz pulses, for example. This data can be used to provide a scale of how
dirty the sensor
has become and provide feedback to the user before the sensor becomes
completely blocked.
Once the sensor is blocked, the capacity of the compactor can be reduced since
compactions
may no longer performed. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily
recognize, the
frequencies and number of pulses discussed herein are provided for non-
limiting illustration
purposes. In fact, the frequencies used and number of pulses associated with
specific dirt
levels can vary based on a number of factors, such as hardware and preference
settings.
Moreover, other applications, frequencies and number of pulses are
contemplated herein.
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[0098] Furthermore, since the voltage of a battery does not generally indicate
the actual
capacity in a battery, it can be beneficial to understand what capacity is
available to ensure
accurate machine operation and dead battery notification. To this end, the
machine
firmware can analyze voltage drops that occur after a compaction occurs at
what current, and
can determine a ratio which can provide feedback and indications of the true
battery capacity.
The machine firmware can also analyze how fast voltage is dropping based on
current
wireless usage and predict when an alternative node in the mesh network, and
particularly the
paired node, should be switched to. For example, if the machine firmware
detects that the
system will have sufficient capacity for 3 hours of work in 20 minutes, the
system can
configure a switch between nodes to take place in 20 minutes. If the system
calculates the
other node, in an active state, will reach a critical power level in 15
minutes, the system can
cause a transfer to an active state take place sooner than might otherwise
have occurred so
that coverage continues. The firmware can use a ratio to limit compactions,
sensor activity,
wireless/cellular activity, and/or notify the management console of the
battery state. As
previously mentioned, the management console can be a console on the actual
storage device
300 and/or a remote device, such as a server, for example.
[0099] FIG. 4 illustrates another example of a storage device 400 that
includes a processor
401, a storage bin 414 configured within the storage device 400, a solar panel
412, a battery
416 that stores energy from the solar panel 412, a compaction component 418
that compacts
items in the storage bin 414, a lock mechanism 406 which enables access to an
interior
portion of the storage device 400, a control module 402 which, when executed
by the
processor as powered by the battery 416, manages the compaction component 418
and is in
communication with the lock mechanism 406 and a reader component 404 that is
in
communication with the control module 402. The reader component 404
communicates
with an external entity 420 (such as a mobile phone, an RFID card, a bio-
metric input, speech
input, gesture input, multi-modal input, etc.) to obtain authorization to
unlock the storage
device 400 via the lock mechanism 406. In one aspect, an application has been
downloaded
on the mobile device 420 of the user and that includes user interfaces and
functionality used
to interact with the reader component 404. The reader component 404 can
include one of an
RFID reader, a near-field communication component, a Bluetooth reader
component, a
gesture sensing or detecting component, a facial recognition component, a bio-
metric reader,
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a touch-sensitive display, a keypad, a multi-modal input component and a
motion detection
component. Upon triggering the locking mechanism 406, the control module 402
can
maintain the lock component 406 in an unlock position for a predetermined
period of time,
after which the lock component 406 locks or changes to a locked position or
state to prevent a
door 408 from being opened by a user.
[0100] When the reader component 404 communicates with the external entity 420
to obtain
authorization to unlock the storage device 400, the control module 402 can
obtain
identification data associated with the external entity 420 and report at
least the identification
data to a remote server 422. The storage device can further include a magnet
410 and a door
408. The magnet 410 can be configured to hold the door 408 closed upon the
lock
mechanism 406 unlocking the door 408. In this manner, the door 408 would not
swing open
upon an accidental unlocking of the storage device 400.
[0101] The external entity 420 can be authorized to unlock the storage device
400 on one or
more of an individual station level, a group of stations level, a customer
level, an individual
person level, or a multiple customer level. In one aspect, the control module
402 stores a
listing on the storage device 400 of authorized external entities that can
unlock the storage
device 400. The listing stored in the storage device 400 can be updated based
upon a
communication between the storage device 400 and the remote server 422. In
this manner,
the unlocking capability and authorization can be instantaneous (handled
locally at the
storage device 400) rather than requiring a network communication confirmation
from a
remote device 252.
[0102] The control module 402, upon initial setup of the storage device 400,
can enable
unlocking of the lock mechanism 406 upon the reader component 404 reading a
disposable
external entity 420 that can include, for example, an ID card shipped with the
storage device
400. In this manner, upon initiating the storage device 400 with the
disposable external
entity 420, the storage device 400 can communicate with the remote server 422
and receive
the listing of authorized external entities that can unlock the storage device
400. The system
can be shipped with a battery that is disconnected such that the lock would
not work. A
plastic shim can be used or wedged into the locking mechanism such that it is
prevented from
locking upon initial setup. Once the battery is connected and the locking
mechanism is
active, the disposable ID card can be used to unlock the system and initiate
the downloading
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of the authorized access list. In one aspect, in this initiation mode, prior
to the first access
control list being downloaded, only the disposable external entity 420 or any
ID card could be
used to unlock the system. Once the authorized user list is downloaded, then
the disposable
external entity 420 no longer would have access after the initialization. The
control module,
upon initial setup of the storage device and before communication between the
storage device
and the remote server, can enable unlocking of the electronic locking
mechanism upon the
reader component interacting with any external entity of any acceptable
format, regardless of
specific ID information. In this manner, the device will always be unlockable
at initial setup
until the unit can communicate with the remote server and receive and store an
authorization
list of users or entities.
[0103] In another aspect, a master ID entity could be used to open any storage
device. Such
information or access control can be stored in the control module or a memory
of the device.
[0104] The control module 402 can store instructions to adjust a temporary
period of time,
based on a battery power level, that a door 408 is unlocked upon triggering
the lock
mechanism 404. Holding the locking mechanism 404 in the unlocked position
takes battery
power. The control module 402 can cause the electronic locking mechanism 404
to function
below a compaction shut off voltage defined in the control module 402. For
example, the
control module 402 can cause the compaction component to shut off because the
battery level
is too low. However, the control module 402 can be programmed to cause the
electronic
locking mechanism 404 and the associated reader component 404 to remain
operational as
long as possible. The control module 402 can cause the reader component 404 to
function
at certain periods of time when a battery power level is below a threshold as
well. In once
example, the storage device 400 can include likely times during which
historically or based
on a schedule that an authorized user may desire to unlock the storage device
400. The data
can include probabilities of when the storage device 400 may be opened. The
control
module 402 can progressively keep the electronic locking mechanism 404 and the
associated
reader component 404 operations starting with the most probable time frames
when an
authorized user might arrive. Thus, a controlled shutdown can occur which
maintains the
unlocking capability beyond other components that are shut down. The control
module 402,
as the battery power continues to be reduced, may shut down the electronic
locking
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mechanism 404 and the associated reader component 404 during times with less
probability
of access being attempted.
[0105] In another aspect, if the normal operation of the system is to hold the
locking
mechanism 404 in the unlock position or state for a period of 5 seconds, then
the battery
saving algorithm or operation of the control module 402 can cause the locking
mechanism
404 to be held in the unlock position for a shorter period of time. Thus, in a
low battery
mode based on a threshold value, the time in which the unlock position is held
can be reduced
to 2 or 3 seconds. Further, the period of time can be progressively shortened
as well
depending on the battery power level.
[0106] The control module 402 may also send out notifications to a central
control system
252 or to previous users or current users on the authorization list about the
battery power and
a predicted loss of ability to unlock the storage device 400. In one aspect,
the storage device
400 at a certain threshold or not could communicate with one or more
individuals who are
authorized to access the storage device 400 to schedule a time to unlock the
storage device
400. The storage device 400 could then shut down the electronic locking
mechanism 404
and the associated reader component 404 until the appointed time.
[0107] In yet another aspect, the system could include a port (such as USB
port) that could be
used by an authorized user to power the electronic locking mechanism 404 and
the associated
reader component 404. Thus, if the power was too low on the storage device
400, a user
could use their own mobile device, or a portable battery, and plug into the
storage device 400
to provide just enough power to operate the electronic locking mechanism 404
and the
associated reader component 404. A wireless connection could also be used to
provide
power from a mobile device or battery to the electronic locking mechanism 404
and the
associated reader component 404.
[0108] In one aspect, any communication protocol that enables two devices 400,
420 to
communicate data with each other can be used. For example, a protocol similar
to what is
used with Google Pay or Apple Pay at a point of sale NFC device could be used
to establish a
short distance wireless communication between the mobile device 420 and the
storage device
400.
[0109] In one aspect, a storage device can include a processor, a storage bin
configured
within the storage device, a battery that stores energy for operation of the
storage device, a
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sensing component that determines a fullness level of the storage bin and an
electronic
locking mechanism that enables access to an interior portion of the device. A
control
module can have instructions (stored in a memory) which, when executed by the
processor,
manages the sensing component and is in communication with the electronic
locking
mechanism. A reader component can communicate with an external entity to
obtain access
authorization request information. The control module can allow or deny access
to the
device based on stored authorization allowances obtained from a remote server.
[0110] In one aspect, the storage device can unlock and remain unlocked in the
event of a
low battery condition. A threshold could be met where there is just sufficient
energy in the
battery to unlock the device before the battery goes dead or hits a threshold.
The system
could also switch to pure solar power where the unlocking mechanism is powered
directly
from a solar panel. For example, the storage device can operate the electronic
locking
mechanism directly via a solar panel in the event of battery failure or some
other condition.
[0111] The external entity in one aspect may only unlock the device if the
storage device is
deemed ready for a collection. Whether the device is deemed "ready" for
collection could
be based on one or more of a timing of the day, a status of a storage bin
(fullness level), a
service level agreement, a payment schedule, a route or location of a
collection truck, a
pattern of previous collections, a machine-learning algorithm output, a
battery level, a
sunlight level, a future weather prediction, and so forth. A remote server may
set the status
of the storage device as in a mode for collection or not. The decision can
also be made
locally by the storage device.
[0112] In one aspect, the external entity will only be able unlock the device
during specific
hours of the day. The timing of when unlocking is possible can be managed by
the control
module and/or a remote server. A separate service compartment can also be
provided to the
storage device which can be accessible only to authorized external entities.
The separate
compartment may not provide access to an internal storage bin but to other
items like
envelopes or other items.
[0113] FIG. 5 illustrates a group 500 of storage devices 502, 504, 506 with a
configuration
that enables locking control to be shared or communicated between different
devices. In
one aspect, the number of storage devices can be two or more. Thus, while
three are shown
in FIG. 5, the number can be two, three, four, five, or more. In one example,
a pair 502, 504
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of storage devices can include a first storage device 502 having a first solar
panel 508, a first
battery 538 connected to the first solar panel 508, a first control module 546
powered by the
first battery 538, a first compaction component (not shown in FIG. 5)
controlled by the first
control module 544 and powered by the first battery 538, a first locking
mechanism 520 and a
first reader component 514. The pair 502, 504 of storage devices can include a
second
storage device 504 having a second solar panel 510, a second battery 540
connected to the
second solar panel 510, a second control module 546 powered by the second
battery 540, a
second compaction component (not shown) controlled by the second control
module 546 and
powered by the second battery 540, a second locking mechanism 522 and a second
reader
component 516. The storage devices 502, 504 can provide different
functionality from the
compaction of trash. In such a case, the storage devices 502, 504 may not
include the
compaction component.
[0114] The first control module 544 can be in communication with the second
control
module 546 via a wireless or a wired communication link. One of the first
reader
component 514 or the second reader component 516 can enable both the first
locking
mechanism 520 and/or the second locking mechanism 522. For example, a
maintenance
person can be at pair 502, 504 of storage devices and use an RFID card, mobile
phone, key,
or other external entity 544 to identify who they are at the first reader
component 514 of the
first storage device 502. The identification can be communicated from the
first storage
device 502 to the second storage device 504. The identification can be further
communicated to the third storage device 506 or other devices as well. One or
more listings
of authorized individuals stored on one or more of the storage devices 502,
504, 506 can be
accessed to enable any one of the respective locking mechanisms 520, 522, 524
to be
unlocked based on the single interaction with one of the reader components
514, 516, 518.
In this manner, for example, the person could be authorized on one storage
device and unlock
one or more of the storage devices 502, 504, 506 in the group with one access
action. Other
types of devices can also be coordinated together as well. For example, an
authorization to
access storage device 502 using reader component 514 could also be coordinated
with a
mailbox or traffic light control system to enable the user to unlock different
containers or
systems in connection with the storage device 502.
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[0115] A wireless communication link can be used for communication between the
first
control module 544 and the second control module 546, as well as other control
modules 548.
In one aspect, the first reader component 514 and the second reader component
516, as well
as other reader components 518, each can be one of an RFID reader, a near-
field
communication component, a Bluetooth reader component, a gesture sensing or
detecting
component, a facial recognition component, a bio-metric reader, a touch-
sensitive display, a
keypad, a multi-modal input component, a multi-modal input component, and a
motion
detection component. QR codes, near-field communication tags, or other devices
can also
be used in connection with a mobile device to gain access to the interior of a
storage device
502, 504, 506.
[0116] The first control module 544 and the second control module 546 can
store instructions
to adjust a temporary period of time, based on a battery power level, that a
door is unlocked.
As the battery power level is reduced, the period of time that the door is
unlocked can also be
reduced as it takes power to hold the locking mechanism 520, 522, 524 in the
unlocked
position. In one aspect, the first control module 544 causes the first reader
component 514
to function at certain periods of time when a battery power level is below a
threshold. This
also is another energy saving approach when the battery power level is low.
One or more of
these energy saving functions can be implemented. At least one of the first
control module
544 and the second control module 546 can store a listing of authorized
external entities that
can unlock at least one of the first storage device 502 and the second storage
device 504.
[0117] In one example, the group of storage devices 502, 504, 506 may all run
on a single
battery 538. In this case, a user may gain access or authorize themselves
using storage
device 504 and its reader component 516 but the system may then grant access
or unlock the
door 532 on storage device 502 since that is where the battery 538 is for the
group of storage
devices 502, 504, 506.
[0118] In a grouping scenario, the magnet concept is helpful where a user may
cause two
doors to be unlocked from two storage devices 502, 504 but the user is only
there to remove
trash from one storage device 502 and not recyclable material from another
storage device
504. The recyclable storage device 504 may have its door 534 unlocked but the
magnet 528
would maintain the door 534 in the closed position for safety and after a few
seconds, say 5
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seconds for example, the locking mechanism 522 would switch from the unlock
state to the
locked state.
[0119] In the scenario of two storage devices 502, 504 where the battery level
is running low,
the system may only unlock the storage device 502, 504 that needs servicing
and not unlock
the door on the other storage device. This will reduce the drain on the
battery as holding the
locking mechanism in the unlocked position takes battery power.
[0120] In another example, an embodiment can cover a pair of devices including
a first
device 502. The first device 502 can have both a reader component 514 and a
control
module 544 that controls both (1) a first operation of the first device 502
(such as a sensor
control) and (2) a first locking component 520 of the first device 502 for
accessing a first
door 532 of the first device 502_ A second device 504 can be in communication
with the
first device 502. The second device 504 can have a second locking component
522 for the
second device for accessing a second door 534 of the second device 504. The
second device
in one aspect does not having a reader component or a control module that
independently
controls the second locking component. In this manner, a group of devices can
be managed
with respect to access control where only one device of the group needs the
reader
component and the control software. The devices can communicate with each
other and
provide instructions related to locking or unlocking. For example, one control
module on
one device might be programmed to provide authorization and instructions to a
second device
that has a control module configured to receive unlocking instructions. Access
to the first
device 502 and the second device 504 can both be controlled by use of the
reader component
514 and the control module 544 on the first device 502 such that the first
device 502 and the
second device 504 can be unlocked simultaneously, one at a time, or
individually based on
access rules implemented by the control module.
[0121] The same principles can also apply to additional devices 506, etc., in
which one (or
more), but not all, of the devices can have the reader component and control
module
functionality and can thus be used to manage access to all of the devices in
the group.
[0122] In another aspect, a pair of storage devices can include a first
storage device 502
having a first battery 538 storing energy for operating the first storage
device 502, a first
control module 544 powered by the first battery 538, a first sensor component
controlled by
the first control module 544 and powered by the first battery 538, a first
locking mechanism
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520 and a first reader component 514. A second storage device 504 can include
a second
battery 540 storing energy for operating the second storage device 504, a
second control
module 546 powered by the second battery 540, a second sensor component
controlled by the
second control module 546 and powered by the second battery 540, a second
locking
mechanism 522 and a second reader component 516. The first control module 544
can be in
communication with the second control module 546. One of the first reader
component 514
or the second reader component 516 (If the second device 504 has such a
component) enables
both the first locking mechanism 520 and the second locking mechanism 522 to
be
controlled.
[0123] The first reader component 514 and the second reader component 516 can
each
include one of an RFID reader, a near-field communication component, a
Bluetooth reader
component, a gesture sensing or detecting component, a facial recognition
component, a bio-
metric reader, a touch-sensitive display, a keypad, a multi-modal input
component, and a
motion detection component. In one aspect, one of the first control
module 544 and the
second control module 546 can store additional instructions to adjust a
temporary period of
time, based on a battery power level, that a door is unlocked. The period of
time for
operation or to turn on the capability of unlocking the respective devices can
also be provided
based on a time of day, a battery level threshold, a collection schedule, a
status or state of a
respective device such that it is ready for collection (sensor indicated a
full level) or in need
of service. In one aspect, an external entity that interacts with the first
reader component
may only unlock the device during specific hours of a day, or only while it is
light. Other
examples of timing control can also be provided, such as after a large sales
day or holiday.
[0124] At least one of the first control module 544 and the second control
module 546 can
store a listing of authorized external entities that can unlock at least one
of the first storage
device and the second storage device. The different devices can be unlocked
independently,
simultaneously, based on respective batter powers in the group of devices,
upon request of a
user, and so forth.
[0125] At least one of the first control module 544 and the second control
module 546 can
store (as received from a remote server) a listing of black-listed external
entities that cannot
unlock at least one of the first storage device 502 or the second storage
device 504.
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[0126] In one aspect, one of the first storage device and the second storage
device can unlock
and remain unlocked when a respective low battery condition exists. This
enables service to
be provided to the device such that it is not set in the lock position without
any battery power
to unlock the device.
[0127] An external entity can interact with the first reader component 514 and
may only be
able to unlock one of the first storage device 502 or the second storage
device 504 if the first
storage device 502 or the second storage device 504 is respectively deemed
ready for a
collection or needs service. The definition of "ready" can vary and having
such meaning as
a full level of a storage been as sensed by a sensor, or that a component
indicates that it needs
service or has stopped working. For example, a solar panel or a sensor may
stop working
and an action could be taken such as unlocking the door to enable service on
the device_
[0128] In one aspect, one or more of the devices 502, 504, 506 can include a
separate service
compartment that is accessible only to authorized external entities. This
separate
compartment can store envelopes, paper, tools, electrical components, spare
parts, or any
other items. In another aspect, the first storage device 520 can operate the
locking
mechanism 520 directly off of a solar panel when battery failure occurs. In
another aspect,
power can be communicated from one device to another device to provide power
to unlock
the other device. Power can be transferred in a wired fashion or in a wireless
fashion
between devices as necessary.
[0129] FIG. 6 illustrates an example method 600. A method can include
receiving
identification information via an external entity from a reader component on a
solar-powered
or battery-powered storage device (602). The reader component can be connected
to a
control module that manages at least one component in the storage device such
as a
compaction component in the solar-powered compaction device. Further, the
control
module can control a locking mechanism. The method further can include, based
on the
identification information and via the control module, unlocking the locking
mechanism in
the solar-powered or battery-powered storage device (604).
[0130] In one aspect, the method or the system can include the concept where
individual
storage devices can receive their respective listings of authorized users.
Then an entity can
deliver RFID cards or enable mobile devices 268 to be authorized when they
interact with the
reader component 266. There can be an overlay of the devices 268 that is on
top of the
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underlying system authorization process or listings that are downloaded and
stored on
individual devices. In another aspect, the system could be triggered based on
the interaction
of a mobile device 268 and the reader component 266 on the storage device 204
to cause a
connection to be established between a mobile device 268 of the user and a
remote server
252. Data regarding the identification of the user and of the particular
storage device 204
can be transmitted to the remote server 252 and a wireless authorization can
provided from
the remote server to the storage device 204 or to the mobile device 268 to
unlock the locking
mechanism on the storage device 204.
[0131] In another aspect, the method can include any of the other
functionality described
herein, such as controlling the active status of a locking mechanism and/or a
reader
component based on battery level. Any concept, component, module or step can
be used in
connection with any other concept, component, module or step disclosed herein.
Each
embodiment or example is meant to be exemplary and not as a mutually exclusive
embodiment.
[0132] FIG. 7 illustrates a network 700 having a remote or centralized server
702 that
communication via a network 704 with one or more local devices Dl, D2, D3, D4,
D5, D6,
D7, D8 and D9. The remote server 702 operates a software platform and control
components that manage the locking and unlocking authorizations and
functionality of one or
more of the local devices Dl-D9. The devices D1-D9 can be any of the types of
devices
disclosed herein and can include groupings as well. For example, a pair of
devices Dl-D2
can be co-located or grouped together such that one device, say Dl, is a
"dumb" device that
does not have a reader component or the locking/unlocking management
technology built
into its local control module. Paired device D2 can communicate with Dl. D2
can have
the necessary reader component and control module that can include
authorization lists or
instructions received from the remote server 702 for managing authorizations
to access one or
both of Dl and D2. D7, D8 and D9 illustrate a group of three devices that are
in
communication with each other. The locking mechanisms on the respective
devices can be
independently controlled and reader component and a control module on one (or
more) of the
devices, for example D8, can be used to control opening all of the devices D7-
D9
simultaneously, one at a time in sequence, or any one individually based on
the access and
authorization rules stored locally or accessed from the remote server 702.
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101331 The remote server 702 can further perform a number of different
management
functions with respect to authorizations and the lock control of respective
devices D1-D9.
In one example, the system can have "master keys" where if an external entity
has a certain
password or "magic" password programmed into it, the system will unlock the
door without
having that ID stored on the local access list. A password can be manually
entered or
provided in another modality. Such passwords will be reserved for super users
like large
service providers or company employees that need to access any station in a
large geography
or the world.
[0134] Master keys can be used further as follows. If a master key, password,
or other
entity operating to enable access to a user not specifically on an authorized
user list, were to
get into an unauthorized user's hand, it could then be used to open any device
Dl-D9. In
order to combat this potential threat, the remote server 702 can transmit a
locally stored
"black list" that would prevent specific ID from accessing a station, even if
it had the magic
password. Thus, is a magic password were known to have been made public or
been stolen,
the system 702 can add that identification to a "black list" stored on the
various devices DI-
D9. In this manner, a master key, authorization lists, and black
lists can all be used to
control authorization procedures by local devices.
[0135] If a device D1-D9 loses communication with the remote server 702, it
will not be able
to update its authorized user list. In this scenario, the local control module
can include
functionality to enable any ID of any acceptable format, independent of
specific ID
information or confirmation of the user being on an authorized user list, to
unlock the device.
Thus, a maintenance person can open that station to perform service work to
restore
communication.
[0136] One aspect of the use of the remote server 702 or operations on local
devices D1-D9
includes alerts. The system can provide multiple alerts to indicate error or
misuse. For
example, one alert can include "Electronic lock not responding to control
module", "Too
many card swipes", "Collection outside of scheduled hours" and so forth. These
alerts can
be based on detected events from local devices Dl-D9. Any device can transmit
an alert
through the network 704 to the remote server 702. An alert can be transmitted
to an external
entity such as a mobile device used to seek access to a respective device.
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[0137] Another aspect of the remote server 702 can be collection tracking. In
one aspect,
the server 702 can receive data from various devices D1-D9 and can count any
door opening
as a collection. Additional functionality can be provided however. With
different external
entity IDs, the system 702 can differentiate between a waste collector and
someone
performing service maintenance. By differentiating amongst different people
opening up a
device, and to have more accurate data on when collections or service events
occurred, the
system 702 can track who performed a collection or opening of the device and
provide
reports on one or more of the various types of openings, timing, how long the
device was
opened, whether a bin was emptied or some other task was performed, and so
forth. FIG. 8
illustrates a method embodiment 800. This method relates to functions for
enabling a user
to force a storage device to request and receive from a remote server 702 an
updated
authorization list for access to the device. The method can include one or
more of
receiving identification information from an external entity via a reader
component on a
storage device (802), wherein the reader component is connected to a control
module that
manages at least one component in the in the storage device and wherein the
control module
also controls a locking mechanism that controls access to the storage device.
The method
includes deteimining that a user associated with the identification
information is not
authorized to access the storage device based on a locally-stored
authorization list (804),
receiving data from the user (806), based on the data from the user, receiving
an updated
authorization list from a remote server (808) and applying the updated
authorization list to
determine whether to grant the user access to the storage device (810).
[0138] The data from the user can include one or more of the identification
information, a
combination of the identification information and a second type of input, a
single-mode input
and a multi-modal input. The second type of input can include by way of
example a magnet
input to a sensor on the storage device. Thus, if a user is not authorized to
unlock a device,
the user can provide their User ID via the external entity while at the time
or in succession
can hover a magnet over a sensor component on the device. The two inputs can
cause an
operation to be implemented which forces the device to request and receive
from a remote
server 702 an updated authorized user list. The device could then apply the
new list
automatically based on the previous receipt of the ID, or can require the user
again to provide
their user ID to test against the updated authorization user list. Asking for
an updated list
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can also be an option presented on a touch-sensitive screen in which the user
interacts with an
object such as a button to request the updated list.
[0139] FIG. 9 illustrates another method embodiment 900 related to the use of
master keys.
The method includes providing, from a remote server, an authorization list to
a local device
that governs access to the local device (902) and providing data to the local
device which
enables access to the local device based on a master key independent of the
authorization list
(904). Other steps can include providing a black list of specific IDs that are
prevented from
accessing the local device (906) and providing access to any identification in
any acceptable
format when the device loses communication with the remote server (908).
[0140] FIG. 10 illustrates a method 1000 associated with the collection of
data in a
configuration like that shown in FIG. 7. The method includes classifying a
first group of
individuals who can access a local device (1002) and classifying a second
group of
individuals that can access the local device (1004). For example, one group
can be waste
collectors and another group can provide mechanical service to the units. The
method can
include receiving data from a plurality of local devices at a remote server
identifying which
individuals from the first group and the second group of individuals accessed
each respective
device (1006) and generating a report on the access to the plurality of local
devices based on
the data received and the classifications (1008). As noted above, the data
that can be
reported on can include many different types of data associated with accessing
the various
devices. For example, one or more of the following factors can be applied to
the analysis or
reporting: the person who accessed each device, the type of access, sensor
data before and
after the access, a time of day, how long the device was unlocked, a time
between a notice
going out to a person and when the person arrived and unlocked a device, and
so forth.
[0141] FIG. 11 illustrates a method 1100 that relates to managing the locking
operations for a
group of devices. The method can include receiving identification information
from an
external entity via a reader component on a first storage device (1102). The
reader
component can be connected to a control module that manages at least one
component in the
in the first storage device. The control module can also control a first
locking mechanism
that controls access to the first storage device and a second locking
mechanism configured on
a second storage device, the second locking mechanisms controlling access to
the second
storage device.
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[0142] The method can include determining that a user associated with the
identification
information is authorized to access one of the first storage device or the
second storage
device based on a locally-stored authorization list (1104) and unlocking one
of the first
locking mechanism on the first device and the second locking mechanism on the
second
storage device (1106). When it is the second locking mechanism that is
unlocked, the
unlocking can be based on a signal transmitted from the first storage device
to the second
storage device.
[0143] In one aspect, the second storage device does not include a second-
device reader
component. The locally-stored authorization list can be stored at the first
storage device and
the locally-stored authorization list can provide authorization information on
one or more of a
per-device, per user, per group of devices, per time, or per unlocking need
basis. The
control modules for the different devices may be different as one may include
commands and
another control module may only be configured to receive unlocking
instructions from the
other device.
[0144] The locally-stored authorization list further can define timing
information regarding
when at least one of the first storage device and the second storage device
are eligible to be
unlocked. The control module can store access rules and control instructions
that can cause
the first locking mechanism and/or the second locking mechanism to open
simultaneously,
independently, at a certain time, based on a specific event or parameter, or
in a sequence.
The method can further include registering the second storage device with the
first storage
device to enable management of the second locking mechanism by the control
module of the
first storage device.
[0145] FIG_ 12 illustrates an example method 1200 related to using a remote
server to
manage a group of or a plurality of local devices. A method includes
receiving, at a remote
server, an identification of a local device, the local device having a control
module that
manages a reader component and a locking mechanism (1202) and transmitting an
authorization list to the local device that identifies authorized users that
can gain access to the
local device via the locking mechanism through interacting with the reader
component
(1204). The control module on the local device can manage multiple functions
of the local
device including management of the reader component and the locking mechanism.
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[0146] Upon triggering the locking mechanism, the control module of the local
device can
maintain the locking mechanism in an unlock position for a predetermined
period of time,
after which the unlock position changes to a lock position. In one aspect,
when the reader
component of the local device communicates with an external entity to obtain
authorization
to unlock the local device, the control module can obtain identification data
associated with
the external entity and report at least the identification data to the remote
server.
[0147] The method can further include transmitting an updated authorization
list to the local
device that identifies a new group of authorized users that can gain access to
the local device
via the locking mechanism through interacting with the reader component
(1206). In
another aspect, the method can also include transmitting a black list to the
local device that
identifies one or more users not allowed to gain access to the local device
via the locking
mechanism through interacting with the reader component (1208).
101481 The authorization list can define access control data for both the
local device and a
second local device in communication with the local device. Other devices can
be covered as
well such that the group can consist of three or more devices.
[0149] The method can also include transmitting a master key list to the local
device, the
master key list defining super users who can gain access to the local device
independent of
being listed on the authorization list. This can cover a maintenance person
perhaps from the
manufacturer of the storage devices or other person who needs access who might
not
specifically be on the authorization list. In yet another example, the
remote server may
receive a request for an updated access list and respond by transmitting an
updated access list
to the local device from which the request came.
[0150] FIG_ 13 illustrates another method embodiment 1300. A method includes
establishing, via a remote server, communication with a plurality of local
devices, each
device of the plurality of local devices having a respective control module, a
respective
reader component and a respective locking mechanism (1302) and transmitting to
each device
of the plurality of local devices a respective authorization list which
identifies authorized
users who can gain access to the respective local device based on a respective
authorized user
interacting with the respective reader component (1304). The respective
control module can
cause the respective locking mechanism to unlock upon authorization locally
based on the
respective authorization list.
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[0151] As introduced in FIG. 1 above, some of the component can be electrical
or computer
components. In some cases, such a computing device or apparatus may include a
processor,
microprocessor, microcomputer, or other component of a device that is
configured to carry
out the steps of the methods disclosed above. In some examples, such computing
device or
apparatus may include one or more antennas for sending and receiving RF
signals. In some
examples, such computing device or apparatus may include an antenna and a
modem for
sending, receiving, modulating, and demodulating RF signals, as previously
described.
[0152] The components of the computing device can be implemented in circuitry.
For
example, the components can include and/or can be implemented using electronic
circuits or
other electronic hardware, which can include one or more programmable
electronic circuits
(e.g., microprocessors, graphics processing units (GPUs), digital signal
processors (DSPs),
central processing units (CPUs), and/or other suitable electronic circuits),
and/or can include
and/or be implemented using computer software, firmware, or any combination
thereof, to
perform the various operations described herein. The computing device may
further include
a display (as an example of the output device or in addition to the output
device), a network
interface configured to communicate and/or receive the data, any combination
thereof', and/or
other component(s). The network interface may be configured to communicate
and/or
receive Internet Protocol (IP) based data or other type of data.
[0153] The methods discussed above are illustrated as a logical flow diagram,
the
operations of which represent a sequence of operations that can be implemented
in hardware,
computer instructions, or a combination thereof. In the context of computer
instructions, the
operations represent computer-executable instructions stored on one or more
computer-
readable storage media that, when executed by one or more processors, perform
the recited
operations. Generally, computer-executable instructions include routines,
programs, objects,
components, data structures, and the like that perform particular functions or
implement
particular data types. The order in which the operations are described is not
intended to be
construed as a limitation, and any number of the described operations can be
combined in any
order and/or in parallel to implement the processes.
101541 Additionally, the methods disclosed herein may be performed under the
control of
one or more computer systems configured with executable instructions and may
be
implemented as code (e.g., executable instructions, one or more computer
programs, or one
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or more applications) executing collectively on one or more processors, by
hardware, or
combinations thereof As noted above, the code may be stored on a computer-
readable or
machine-readable storage medium, for example, in the form of a computer
program
comprising a plurality of instructions executable by one or more processors.
The computer-
readable or machine-readable storage medium may be non-transitory.
[0155] The term "computer-readable medium" includes, but is not limited to,
portable or
non-portable storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other
mediums capable of
storing, containing, or carrying instruction(s) and/or data. A computer-
readable medium
may include a non-transitory medium in which data can be stored and that does
not include
carrier waves and/or transitory electronic signals propagating wirelessly or
over wired
connections. Examples of a non-transitory medium may include, but are not
limited to, a
magnetic disk or tape, optical storage media such as compact disk (CD) or
digital versatile
disk (DVD), flash memory, memory or memory devices. A computer-readable medium
may have stored thereon code and/or machine-executable instructions that may
represent a
procedure, a function, a subprogram, a program, a routine, a subroutine, a
module, a software
package, a class, or any combination of instructions, data structures, or
program statements.
A code segment may be coupled to another code segment or a hardware circuit by
passing
and/or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents.
Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. may be passed, forwarded, or
transmitted via
any suitable means including memory sharing, message passing, token passing,
network
transmission, or the like.
[0156] In some embodiments the computer-readable storage devices, mediums, and
memories can include a cable or wireless signal containing a bit stream and
the like
However, when mentioned, non-transitory computer-readable storage media
expressly
exclude media such as energy, carrier signals, electromagnetic waves, and
signals per se.
[0157] Specific details are provided in the description above to provide a
thorough
understanding of the embodiments and examples provided herein. However, it
will be
understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be
practiced without
these specific details. For clarity of explanation, in some instances the
present technology
may be presented as including individual functional blocks comprising devices,
device
components, steps or routines in a method embodied in software, or
combinations of
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hardware and software. Additional components may be used other than those
shown in the
figures and/or described herein. 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 in
order to avoid obscuring the embodiments.
[0158] Individual embodiments may be described above as a process or method
which 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 can 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.
[0159] Processes and methods according to the above-described examples can be
implemented using computer-executable instructions that are stored or
otherwise available
from computer-readable media. Such instructions can include, for example,
instructions and
data which cause or otherwise configure a general purpose computer, special
purpose
computer, or a processing device to perform a certain function or group of
functions.
Portions of computer resources used can be accessible over a network. The
computer
executable instructions may be, for example, binaries, intermediate format
instructions such
as assembly language, firmware, source code. Examples of computer-readable
media that
may be used to store instructions, information used, and/or information
created during
methods according to described examples include magnetic or optical disks,
flash memory,
USB devices provided with non-volatile memory, networked storage devices, and
so on.
101601 Devices implementing processes and methods according to these
disclosures can
include hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware
description
languages, or any combination thereof, and can take any of a variety of form
factors. When
implemented in software, firmware, middleware, or microcode, the program code
or code
segments to perform the necessary tasks (e.g., a computer-program product) may
be stored in
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a computer-readable or machine-readable medium. A processor(s) may perform the
necessary tasks. Typical examples of form factors include laptops, smart
phones, mobile
phones, tablet devices or other small form factor personal computers, personal
digital
assistants, rackmount devices, standalone devices, and so on. Functionality
described herein
also can be embodied in peripherals or add-in cards. Such functionality can
also be
implemented on a circuit board among different chips or different processes
executing in a
single device, by way of further example.
[0161] The instructions, media for conveying such instructions, computing
resources for
executing them, and other structures for supporting such computing resources
are example
means for providing the functions described in the disclosure.
[0162] In the foregoing description, aspects of the application are described
with reference
to specific embodiments thereof, but those skilled in the art will recognize
that the application
is not limited thereto. Thus, while illustrative embodiments of the
application have been
described in detail herein, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts
may be otherwise
variously embodied and employed, and that the appended claims are intended to
be construed
to include such variations, except as limited by the prior art. Various
features and aspects of
the above-described application may be used individually or jointly. Further,
embodiments
can be utilized in any number of environments and applications beyond those
described
herein without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the
specification. The
specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded as illustrative
rather than
restrictive. For the purposes of illustration, methods were described in a
particular order.
It should be appreciated that in alternate embodiments, the methods may be
performed in a
different order than that described.
[0163] Where components are described as being -configured to" perform certain
operations, such configuration can be accomplished, for example, by designing
electronic
circuits or other hardware to perform the operation, by programming
programmable
electronic circuits (e.g., microprocessors, or other suitable electronic
circuits) to perform the
operation, or any combination thereof.
101641 The phrase "coupled to" refers to any component that is physically
connected to
another component either directly or indirectly, and/or any component that is
in
communication with another component (e.g., connected to the other component
over a wired
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or wireless connection, and/or other suitable communication interface) either
directly or
indirectly.
[0165] Claim language or other language reciting "at least one of- a set
and/or "one or
more" of a set indicates that one member of the set or multiple members of the
set (in any
combination) satisfy the claim. For example, claim language reciting -at least
one of A and
B" or "at least one of A or B" means A, B, or A and B. In another example,
claim language
reciting "at least one of A, B, and C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" means
A, B, C, or A and
B, or A and C, or B and C, or A and B and C. The language "at least one of' a
set and/or
"one or more- of a set does not limit the set to the items listed in the set.
For example,
claim language reciting "at least one of A and B- or "at least one of A or B"
can mean A, B,
or A and B, and can additionally include items not listed in the set of A and
B.
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