Historically, RVMs have been limited to reading barcodes (EAN numbers) on used beverage containers to enable recognition of participating containers.

However, a significant technological breakthrough from Reverse Vending Corporation (RVC) is now available for vending cup recycling based on image recognition.

Image recognition

RVC says that it has received considerable interest from the UK vending industry, keen for a new way to collect and recycle used vending cups automatically, without the need to print on barcodes (which can be a costly process). As a result, the company has launched the reVend^TM 500 reverse vending recycling machine with an alternative method of recognising UBCs based on a unique image recognition system.

Simply place any used vending cup (including the large Mc Donald/Burger King/KFC drinks cups) in the receiving aperture of the reVend 500 and it will automatically recognise, collect and process the cup for recycling.

The reVend^TM image recognition system has an inbuilt camera system with lighting that recognises of all types of vending cups. The integrated image processing software examines and ‘profiles' the ubc and determines the type of used vending cup. The collected used vending cups become a non-contaminated resource, ready to continue through the recycling loop.

It is also possible for the recycler to receive an incentive voucher or points on a smart card as a reward for recycling the used vending cups. The incentive voucher can also be used to promote new sales of the beverage and display corporate or product advertising.

The machine can also be programmed to use the image recognition system to collect other used beverage containers - cans, PET plastic bottles and cartons - which are inserted in the same aperture, compacted and stored in separate collection bags.

The reVend^TM 500 machines have been tested using samples provided by the major vending cup manufacturers and distributors. Already programmed into the new RVM computer software is the full range of cups supplied to the vending industry by Huhtamaki (GB), RPC Tedeco-Gizeh, and Swisspack.

Statistical Analysis

The RVM's in-built computer software (with necessary protective ‘firewalls') is accessible remotely, facilitating statistical collection updates, voucher details and data changes via the Internet.

The machines are connected to the reVend network via ISDN, LAN, Internet and GPRS. The RVM automatically compiles statistical data of all used beverage containers received and recycled enabling the ‘host' to have an auditable record of its recycling activities and statistics.

This information can be displayed on the host's website and reported to the government, relevant environment authorities and trade associations, if required.

The Reverse Vending Corporation's strategic maintenance partner, Avery IT, will commission and install the reVend^TM 500 machine subject to client requirements.

Avery has over 300 trained engineers throughout the UK and provides a dedicated 24-hour maintenance service telephone number for any servicing requirements.

http://www.revend.co.uk/

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