U.S. patent application number 13/773317 was filed with the patent office on 2013-06-27 for security systems and methods for continuously monitoring the weight of a container.
This patent application is currently assigned to MJK HOLDING, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is MJK Holding, LLC. Invention is credited to David H. Jones, Douglas A. Kunnel.
Application Number | 20130166249 13/773317 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43050310 |
Filed Date | 2013-06-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130166249 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jones; David H. ; et
al. |
June 27, 2013 |
Security Systems and Methods for Continuously Monitoring the Weight
of a Container
Abstract
Various embodiments disclosed herein are directed to weight
monitoring systems for recovering, processing, monitoring, and
managing various commodities or products stored in a container.
Inventors: |
Jones; David H.; (Hawthorne,
CA) ; Kunnel; Douglas A.; (Irvine, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MJK Holding, LLC; |
Dover |
DE |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
MJK HOLDING, LLC
Dover
DE
|
Family ID: |
43050310 |
Appl. No.: |
13/773317 |
Filed: |
February 21, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13523254 |
Jun 14, 2012 |
8441365 |
|
|
13773317 |
|
|
|
|
12435207 |
May 4, 2009 |
8203459 |
|
|
13523254 |
|
|
|
|
11948821 |
Nov 30, 2007 |
8194129 |
|
|
12435207 |
|
|
|
|
60903000 |
Feb 21, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
702/173 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01G 9/00 20130101; G06Q
10/06 20130101; G01G 19/414 20130101; G01G 19/42 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
702/173 |
International
Class: |
G01G 9/00 20060101
G01G009/00 |
Claims
1. A weight management system, comprising: a weight monitoring
system measuring a weight of a secured container at a remote site,
the weight monitoring system transmitting the weight of the secured
container to a central monitoring site; and a central monitoring
system in communication with the weight monitoring system at the
remote site, the central monitoring system dispatching pickup of
the secured container when a predetermined percentage of a weight
capacity of the secured container is achieved.
2. The weight management system of claim 1, further comprising an
accounting system in communication with the central monitoring
system, the accounting system generating an invoice upon the
removal of the secured container from the weight monitoring system
at the remote site.
3. The weight management system of claim 1, further comprising a
tracking system for monitoring a current location of the secured
container.
4. The weight management system of claim 1, wherein the secured
container further comprises: two or more load sensors; and a data
transmission device for sending a message to the central monitoring
system when a load shift above a predetermined threshold is
detected in the secured container.
5. A method for weight management of one or more containers located
at one or more remote sites, the method comprising: securing a
container to a weight monitoring system located at a remote site,
the weight management system including a plurality of load sensors
for obtaining and monitoring a weight of the container, and a
central management server in communication with the weight
monitoring system; identifying the container at the remote site;
monitoring the weight of the container; transmitting a message to
the central management server when the weight of the container
reaches a predetermined weight; scheduling pickup of the container;
and invoicing a designated party based on the weight of the
container once the container is transported away from the remote
site.
6. The method of claim 5, further comprising preventing the loading
of any additional material into the container after the message is
transmitted to the central management server.
7. The method of claim 5, further comprising tracking the container
during transit.
8. The method of claim 7, further comprising transmitting an alert
to designated individuals in response to the container deviating
from a predetermined route.
9. The method of claim 7, further comprising: detecting a load
imbalance in the container during transit of the container; and
transmitting an alert to designated individuals in response to the
load imbalance.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/523,254, filed Jun. 14, 2012, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/435,207 filed
May 4, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,203,459, issued Jun. 19, 2012,
which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/948,821 filed Nov. 30, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,194,129 issued
Jun. 5, 2012, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/903,000 filed on Apr. 3, 2007, all of which are
hereby incorporated herein by reference.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright
owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of
the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the
Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise
reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0003] This description is related to weight monitoring systems and
related methods.
BACKGROUND
[0004] With the increasing value of commodities such as precious
metals, oil, gas, or grains, monitoring and verifying the weight of
these commodities is increasingly important. Accordingly, various
types of scales have been developed to obtain the weight of the
contents of a container. However, scales and other similar devices
have limited functionality since these devices provide little to no
security for the contents of the container. For example,
unscrupulous individuals may add ballast to increase the weight of
the container's contents to allegedly increase the value of the
container's contents. Alternatively, individuals may remove items
from the container's contents. Accordingly, there remains a need
for devices and systems for monitoring a container's contents.
SUMMARY
[0005] Briefly, and in general terms, various embodiments are
directed to a weight monitoring system for recovering, processing
and monitoring various commodities or products stored in a
container. In one embodiment, the weight monitoring system includes
a container having an identification tag provided on a surface of
the container, a support device for receiving the container, a
weight monitoring system, and a security system for monitoring the
container. The weight monitoring system also includes a plurality
of load sensors coupled to the support device, in which the
plurality of load sensors monitors any weight variance of the
container.
[0006] In another embodiment, a weight monitoring system includes a
system for processing a material and storing the material within a
secured container. The weight monitoring system also includes a
system for monitoring a weight of the secured container as the
processed material is placed within the secured container. The
weight monitoring system further includes a computer system in
communication with the weight monitoring system, in which the
computer system is adapted to generate an invoice based on the
weight of the processed material within the secured container prior
to removing the secured container from the weight monitoring
system.
[0007] In yet another embodiment, the weight monitoring system
includes a system for processing and loading a material into a
secured container. The weight monitoring system also includes a
system for detecting weight variances of the processed material
placed within the secured container. A web interface is also in
communication with the weight monitoring system, in which the web
interface is capable of obtaining a current value of the processed
material. A computer system is also in communication with the
weight monitoring system and the web interface. The computer system
is adapted to assign and book a current monetary value to the
processed material stored within the secured container.
[0008] In another embodiment, a weight management system includes a
weight monitoring system in communication with a central monitoring
system. The weight monitoring system measures a weight of a secured
container at a remote site, and the weight monitoring system
transmits the weight of the secured container to the central
monitoring system. The central monitoring system dispatches pickup
of the secured container when a predetermined percentage of a
weight capacity of the secured container is achieved.
[0009] In addition to weight management systems, various methods
for securely recovering materials are disclosed herein. According
to one method, a secured container is locked onto a weight
monitoring system having a plurality of load sensors for monitoring
weight variances of the secured container. The secured container is
identified, and the tare weight of the container is also obtained.
A recovery transaction is then initiated. An alert is sent to one
or more designated parties in response to a detected variance in
container weight that is outside a predetermined weight variance
during the recovery transaction. When the recovery process is
terminated, recovery data is transmitted to one or more designated
parties, in which the recovery data includes, at a minimum, data
related to the weight of the material contained within the secured
container. Additionally, a party is then invoiced based on the
recovery data.
[0010] Another method is directed to realizing assets for a
company. According to one method, a secured container having a tare
weight is locked onto a weight monitoring system. The weight
monitoring system includes a plurality of load sensors for
obtaining and monitoring a weight of the secured container. A
recovery transaction is initiated, and scrap metal is recovered
from a site. The recovered scrap metal is then stored in the
secured container. A net weight of the stored scrap metal in the
secured container is obtained, and a value of the scrap metal is
calculated. The value of the scrap metal is based upon the net
weight of the scrap metal and a monetary value of the scrap metal
per unit of weight. Once the value of the scrap metal is
calculated, the value of the scrap metal is booked as an asset of
the company.
[0011] Another method is directed to managing one or more
containers located at one or more remote sites. In one method, a
secured container having a tare weight is locked onto a weight
monitoring system. The weight monitoring system includes a
plurality of load sensors for obtaining and monitoring a weight of
the secured container. The weight monitoring system is also in
communication with a central management server. The container is
identified at the remote site, and the weight of the container is
monitored. A message is transmitted to a central management server
when the weight of the container contents reaches a predetermined
weight. Pickup of the container is scheduled in response to the
transmitted message, and a designated party is invoiced based on
the weight of the container once the container is transported away
from the remote site.
[0012] Other features and advantages will become apparent from the
following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, which illustrate by way of example, the
features of the various embodiments.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0013] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a weight
monitoring system.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of another embodiment of a weight
monitoring system.
[0015] FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate various embodiments of a
weight-obtaining system.
[0016] FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate alternate embodiments of a
weight-obtaining system.
[0017] FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate various embodiments of container
usable with a weight monitoring system.
[0018] FIG. 6A is a block diagram of a computer system for one
embodiment of a weight monitoring system.
[0019] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of one embodiment of a
computer system associated with one embodiment of a weight
monitoring system.
[0020] FIG. 7 is a front view of one embodiment of a label
generated by the weight monitoring system.
[0021] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a data management system used
with a weight monitoring system.
[0022] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a processing system used with a
weight monitoring system.
[0023] FIG. 10 is a side view of one embodiment of a centrifuge
used in the processing system of FIG. 9.
[0024] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the interior of the
centrifuge shown in FIG. 10.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] Various embodiments are directed to a weight monitoring
system that monitors the contents of a container in order to
prevent any tampering altering of the container's contents. For the
sake of brevity, the weight monitoring system will be discussed in
terms of recovering and securing scrap metal. However, it is
contemplated that the weight monitoring system may be utilized for
any product or commodity in which a product's value is based on
weight. For example, the weight monitoring system may be used in
monitoring weight of fluids such as, but not limited to, crude oil
or gasoline. The weight monitoring system may also be used to
monitor the weight (or variances in the weight) of any commodity or
product in which the value is weight-based.
[0026] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference
numerals denote like or corresponding parts throughout the drawings
and, more particularly to FIG. 1, there is shown one embodiment of
a weight monitoring system 10 having a weight-obtaining system 12
and a security system 14. Generally, the weight monitoring system
10 uses a secured container 14 to ensure that the container's
contents are not readily accessible. In one embodiment, the weight
obtaining system 12 includes a container 14 and a weight-obtaining
device 16 such as, but not limited to, a scale, one or more load
sensors, or weighing devices known or developed in the art. In one
embodiment, the security system 18 includes, by way of example but
not by way of limitation, a locking mechanism to secure the
container to the weight-obtaining system 16, one or more cameras,
and/or one or more sensors.
[0027] As shown in FIG. 2, the weight monitoring system 10 may
include additional systems for carrying out additional functions.
For example, the system 10 includes a processing system 20 for
converting unprocessed scrap metal into a final, processed
material. The processing system 20 may include one or more devices
for cleaning, shredding, crushing, pucking, or baling the scrap
metal before it is placed within a secured container 14.
Additionally, the weight monitoring system 10 may also include an
accounting system 22 for booking assets, invoicing parties, and
other accounting/data collection functions. In yet another
embodiment, the weight monitoring system 10 includes a tracking
system 24 for managing the transportation of the containers. In one
embodiment, the weight monitoring system 10 is a self-contained
system having its own power supply. For example, the weight
monitoring system 10 may have its own generator and/or one or more
batteries. Alternatively, the weight monitoring system 10 may
include solar panels and/or wind turbines for generating
electricity.
[0028] FIG. 3A illustrates one embodiment of a weight monitoring
system 10 having a support surface 26 for receiving a container 14
and a plurality of weight-obtaining devices 30 positioned below the
support surface. In one embodiment, the support surface 26 is a
generally flat platform that is sized to receive a container 14.
The platform may include one or more slots, grooves, recesses,
locks, hooks, elevated or recessed rails, or similar devices to
secure the container to the platform surface. As shown in FIG. 3A,
the support surface 26 includes a pair of elevated rails 28 for
engaging a container's rollers or wheels. As those skilled in the
art will appreciate, the rails 28 are sized and spaced to receive a
container 14. In one embodiment, the rails 28 are provided on an
adjustable platform 32 so that distance between the rails may be
varied to accommodate containers 14 of different sizes as shown in
FIG. 3B. In yet another embodiment, the rails 28 are directly fixed
to the ground as shown in FIG. 3C. In other embodiments, the
support surface 26 may be shaped or take the form of a container,
tray, and/or bowl as shown in FIG. 3D.
[0029] As shown in FIGS. 3A-3D, a plurality of load sensors 30 are
placed below the support surface 26, below the elevated rails 28,
or between the support surface and the elevated rails. The
plurality of load sensors 30 are used to obtain the weight of the
container 14 as well as any scrap metal placed within the
container. As shown in FIG. 3A, the load sensors 30 are positioned
at opposite ends of each rail 28. In other embodiments, the load
sensors 30 may be positioned at the middle of the rails 28. In yet
another embodiment, four load sensors 30 are positioned at the four
corners of the support surface 26. In yet another embodiment, a
single load sensor 30 is placed in the middle or center of the
support surface 26. As those skilled in the art will appreciate,
any number of load sensors 30 may be used to obtain the weight of
the container 14 and the container's contents.
[0030] Additionally, the load capacity and sensitivity of the load
sensors 30 may be varied depending upon the weight and capacity of
the container 14. For example, more sensitive load sensors 30 may
be used for lower weights and/or smaller variations in weight.
Alternatively, more robust load sensors 30 may be used to obtain
the weight of large shipping or roll-away containers 14. In yet
another embodiment, the weight-obtaining device 16 may use a
combination of sensitive and robust load sensors 30. Depending on
the application, the load sensors 30 may also be weight certified
or non-certified sensors.
[0031] In one embodiment, the weight-obtaining system 12 may also
include a drive mechanism for loading a container 14 onto and/or
off the support surface 26. The drive mechanism may be a
chain-driven, screw-driven, rack and pinion, or winch system. The
drive mechanism may be hand-powered or may be powered by electric,
pneumatic, hydraulic, or internal combustion motors. Optionally,
the drive mechanism may include one or more gears and/or a
transmission.
[0032] As shown in FIGS. 3A-D, the weight monitoring system 10
includes a single support surface 26. In another embodiment, the
weight monitoring system 10 has a plurality of support surfaces 26
for engaging and securing a plurality of containers 14. As shown in
FIG. 4A, the plurality of support surfaces 26 may be arranged in a
carousel fashion. Alternatively, the plurality of support surfaces
26 may be arranged in a linear fashion as shown in FIG. 4B. In one
application, the plurality of containers 14 may be used to load
different types of materials (e.g., individual container for
titanium, aluminum, and steel). Alternatively, the multiple
containers 14 may be used to increase capacity to store recovered
scrap metal (as well as recovery efficiency) by eliminating the
need to remove a full container 14 from the support surface 26 and
subsequently load an empty container onto the support surface.
[0033] According to one embodiment, the support surface 26 and/or
rails 28 are sized to receive industry standard roll-off
containers. In another embodiment, the weight monitoring system 10
is capable of receiving smaller bins in a wide variety of sizes and
configurations. The containers 14 are generally rectangular in
shape having a bottom surface 34 and at least one wall 36 that
defines an area capable of holding solid and/or semi-solid
materials, or fluids. As shown in FIG. 5A, the container 14
includes a bottom surface 34 and four walls 36. Optionally, the
container 14 includes one or more doors 38 for accessing the
contents of the container. The doors 38 may include mechanical
locks, electronic locks, combination locks, cylinder locks, or any
other lock known or developed in the art. In yet another
embodiment, the container 14 includes a top 40 secured to the four
walls 36. In one embodiment, the top 40 of the container includes
an opening 42 for receiving material. Optionally, the opening 42
may be reversibly sealed with a lid, plug, or other device for
limiting access to the contents of the container 14. The lid or
plug may be pivotally coupled to the top 40 so that the lid covers
the opening 42 in a first position and exposes the opening in a
second position. Alternatively, the lid or plug may be welded or
otherwise secured over the opening 42 of the top 40.
[0034] In various embodiments, the container 14 may include one or
more rollers 44 rotatably coupled to the bottom of the container
for moving the container (e.g., loading or unloading the container
onto or off a weight monitoring system or a truck). Alternatively,
the container 14 includes one or more rails 46 coupled to the base
of the container 14 as shown in FIG. 5B. In another embodiment, one
or more pockets 48 for moving and/or lifting the container 14 as
shown in FIG. 5C.
[0035] As shown in FIG. 5A, the container 14 also includes an
identification tag 50 located on one or more of the outer surfaces
of the container. The identification tag 50 may include a bar code,
color code, or numerical code, alphanumeric code, or other forms of
identifying an object known and developed in the art. In one
embodiment, the tare weight of the container 14 is also provided on
the identification tag 50. In another embodiment, the
identification tag 50 also includes a radiofrequency tag (RFID).
The RFID may contain information about the container size,
container capacity, tare weight of the container, origin,
manufacturer name, or other information that a user may desire to
store or associate with the RFID. In another embodiment, the
identification tag 50 may also be associated with or include a
global positioning system (GPS) receiver.
[0036] Referring back to FIGS. 1-2, the weight monitoring system 10
includes a security system 18. The security system 18 includes one
or more devices to prevent the removal of the container 14, scrap
metal from the container, or contamination of the scrap metal
stored in the container. In order to prevent the removal of the
container 14 from the weight monitoring system 10, the support
surface 26 includes a locking mechanism to secure the container 14
to the support surface. The locking mechanism may be a wheel block
or a wheel chuck that is secured to the support surface 26 by a
mechanical lock, electronic lock, combination lock, cylinder lock,
or any other lock known or developed in the art. In another
embodiment, the drive mechanism that is used to position the
container 14 on the support surface 26 may include a driveshaft
lock or other lock that prevents the movement of the container. In
yet another embodiment, the lock mechanism is a pivotable hook that
engages a portion of the container 14 such as, but not limited to,
a lip of the container, an opening on the bottom of the container,
or container rail 46. In another embodiment, the security system 18
controls or activates a brake mechanism associated with the rollers
44 of a container. The brake mechanism may be a simple brake shoe
that contacts the rollers 44. Alternatively, the brake mechanism is
a drum or disc brake associated with the rollers 44.
[0037] In another embodiment, the security system 18 includes one
or more devices for monitoring the weight-obtaining system 12 and,
optionally, the area surrounding the weight-obtaining system. The
security system 18 may periodically or continuously monitor a
container 14 locked to the support device 26. The security system
18 monitors the container 14 so that there is no unauthorized
removal of scrap metal from the container. Additionally, the
security system 18 may be used to ensure that no unwanted material
(e.g., ballast or fluids) is added to the container 14 (and thereby
unscrupulously increase the weight and "value" of the container's
contents).
[0038] According to one embodiment, the security system 18 includes
one or more cameras (photographic and/or video) that are positioned
around the container 14 and/or weight-obtaining system 12. In
another embodiment, one or more motion detection sensors are
positioned around the container 14. The motion detectors may be in
operable communication with lights or an audible alarm. In yet
another embodiment, the security system 18 includes one or more
cameras and one or more motion detector sensors. The security
system 18 may be set at any particular times (e.g., after work
hours, weekends, when the device is not in use, or the like). In
the event that there is an intrusion into the container or a
predefined area surrounding the container, visual and/or auditory
warnings are emitted. Optionally, the security system 18 may
generate a message (e.g., email, text message, or phone call) that
is also sent to one or more designated individuals when the
security system is tripped. The electronic message may also include
a photograph or video footage of the intrusion.
[0039] In another embodiment, the security system 18 includes
features that limit access to a control panel and/or computer
system that is associated with the weight monitoring system 10. For
example, the security system 18 may include card access locks that
require a key card to access a computer system, release the
container 14 from the support device 26, or activate the
weight-obtaining system 12. It is also contemplated that the key
cards have different levels of access. For example, a machine
operator may only be able to access the computer system to initiate
the weight monitoring and/or scrap metal recovery process whereas a
manager may have a key card that gives the manager the rights to
unlock the container 14 from the support device 26 or access the
computer system to generate reports or invoices.
[0040] Alternatively, a personal identification number (PIN) or
other challenge and response system may be used to gain access to
the control panel and/or the computer system. In another
embodiment, the security system 18 includes biometric devices for
identifying an individual via fingerprints, iris scans, retinal
scans, facial recognition, hand geometry, hand veins, finger veins,
facial thermograms, odor or scent, palm prints, footprints, or any
combination thereof Alternatively, the security system 18 includes
devices to detect behavioral biometric data such as, but not
limited to, an individual's signature, keystroke dynamics, voice
recognition, or any combination thereof
[0041] Optionally, the security system 18 may also include a
communication system 54. The communication system 54 may be used to
send messages or alerts to the local authorities or designated
individuals in the company in response to a security breach
detected by the security system 18. The communication system 52 may
include a computer, a phone line, wireless hardware, and/or network
hardware to transmit voice and/or electronic messages (e.g.,
emails, text messages, picture messages, video messages, or the
like). Alternatively, the security system 18 may utilize the
communication equipment that is associated with a computer system
of the weight monitoring system 10.
[0042] Additionally, the security system 18 may be used during the
scrap metal recovery process. For example, the security system 18
may be used to verify the identity of the container by reading the
identification tag 50 or RFID associated with the container 14.
Alternatively, the security system 18 may take a photographic or
video image of the identification tag 50. The photographic or video
image may then be compared against a company's records to verify
the container's identity. Additionally, the security system 18 may
be used to compare the listed tare weight of the container to the
actual weight of the container. In the event there is a discrepancy
between the tare weight and the actual weight of the empty
container, the container may be flagged for further follow-up.
Optionally, a message is sent to one or more designated individuals
in response to the container discrepancy.
[0043] The security system 18 may be used to detect irregular
weight changes and signal an appropriate response such as, but not
limited to, emitting an audible signal, alarm, or calling or
sending a message to the appropriate individuals. For example, a
dramatic weight loss, which may be indicative of someone stealing
material from the container 14, may trigger a message to be sent to
the local authorities as well as the designated individuals in the
company. Alternatively, the message or signal may be emitted in
response to an abnormal jump in the weight of the container's
contents. For example, during the scrap metal recovery process, a
dramatic rise in the weight of the container as compared to the
filling rate of the container may be indicative of an individual
adding ballast or fluids into the container to increase the weight
of the container.
[0044] In yet another embodiment, the security system 18 also
includes an emergency shut-off switch. The switch may halt the
recovery process in response to a security breach, natural disaster
(e.g., earthquake, hurricane, flood), or an onsite injury.
[0045] In addition to the weight-obtaining system 12 and the
security system 18, the weight monitoring system 10 includes a
computer system 60. As shown in FIG. 6, the computer system 60
includes a user interface 62 having a display 64 such as, but not
limited to, a cathode ray tube, liquid crystal display, or other
display device. The user interface 62 also includes one or more
input mechanisms 66 such as, but not limited to, a keyboard,
keypad, one or more buttons, mouse, trackball, touch screen, touch
glass, or other user input device known or developed in the art.
The computer system 60 further includes a computer processing unit,
memory, operating system, and one or more software programs. The
operating system may be Windows-based, Linux-based, Unix-based, a
Mac operating system, or other operating systems known or developed
in the art.
[0046] In one embodiment, the computer system 60 has wireless
and/or wired communication capabilities with an onsite or offsite
network. The communication capabilities allow the computer system
60 to receive updates, reprogramming, diagnostics, maintenance, or
any combination thereof. The communication capabilities also allow
the computer system 60 to send data to one or more designated
parties, computer systems, or other networks. Any messages or
packets of information sent over the network may be encrypted using
a rotating algorithm, changing random keys, RSA, hashing, or other
encryption techniques known or developed in the art. In one
embodiment, the computer system 60 has a data storage unit (e.g.,
one or more servers) that is remote (e.g., a separate onsite and/or
offsite location) from the computer system.
[0047] The computer system 60 may also include one or more printers
68 for generating reports, invoices, or labels. In one embodiment,
a printer 68 is associated with the user interface 62 and is local
to the weight-obtaining system 12. A printer 68 may also be
remotely located on the backend of the computer system 60. As shown
in FIG. 7, the label 70 may include information such as, but not
limited to, container identification, user identification, weight
monitoring system identification, time and date stamps,
identification of material (e.g., aluminum, platinum, crude oil, or
the like) tare weight, gross weight (container and material
weight), and net weight. The label 70 may also include bar codes or
other machine readable code that represents the information printed
on the label.
[0048] The computer system 60 includes a user interface 62 that may
be local to the weight-obtaining system 12. For example, the user
interface 62 may be positioned near the support surface 26. In
another embodiment, the computer system 60 and the user interface
62 are located remotely from the weight-obtaining system 12. For
example, the computer system 60 may be located in another location
in the same facility or the computer system is located at a
different facility. The computer system 60 is generally in
communication with all the components of the weight monitoring
system 10. Alternatively, the computer system 60 may only be in
communication with the components of the weight-obtaining system
12.
[0049] In those embodiments in which the computer system 60 is
local to one or more of the components or systems of the weight
monitoring system 10, a secure housing 72 for weather protection
and to prevent unauthorized access to the computer system as shown
in FIG. 6B. Optionally, the computer system 60 as well as the other
components of the weight monitoring system 10 include a dedicated
power supply 74 to prevent the system from being defeated,
disabled, or tampered with by cutting the power supply.
Additionally, a dedicated power supply 74 allows the weight
monitoring system 10 to be self-contained as well as portable.
[0050] Since the computer system 60 is in communication with the
load sensors 30 of the weight monitoring system 10, the computer
system can send alerts (e.g., email, text message, voice message,
instant message) when a particular net weight is achieved or if a
weight imbalance is detected within the container 14. Additionally,
the computer system 60 may send a message to designated individuals
prior to a weight limit being achieved in order to prevent
overloading of the container 14. Accordingly, the designated
individuals may take steps to halt the loading of items into the
container 14. In another embodiment, the computer system 60
remotely locks the doors 28 of the container 14 to prevent further
access or overloading of the container. In another embodiment, the
computer system 60 activates a mechanism to cover the top of the
container 14 to prevent any additional items to be placed within
the container.
[0051] In another embodiment, a data management system 80 is in
communication with the various components of one or more weight
monitoring systems 10 as shown in FIG. 8. The data management
system 80 includes a secure network 82, a central server 84, and
one or more user interfaces 86 in communication with the central
server. Alternatively, the data management system 80 may utilize
the user interface 62 or computer associated with the computer
system 60. The network 82 may be an Ethernet network, Wi-Fi
network, or other networks known or developed in the art.
[0052] The data management system 80 may periodically request or
receive weight information from a weight monitoring system 10.
Alternatively, the data management system 80 will receive weight
information related to a particular container 14 when the container
14 has achieved a predetermined weight, reached a particular
capacity level (e.g., 80% of container's maximum capacity), when
the container is full, or any combination thereof. Additionally,
data may be automatically sent to the central server 84 when the
container 14 is removed from the support device 26. In addition to
weight information, the data transmitted may also include the
container identification, user identification, weight monitoring
system identification, time and date stamps, type of material
stored in the container, or any combination thereof.
[0053] Optionally, data is not only sent to the central server 84,
but the data is also sent to designated people such as, but not
limited to, account manager, floor supervisor, one or more
principals, executives, or the like. The designated recipients may
be added or removed through the central server 84. The data is sent
in the form of an email, text message, voice message, instant
message, or other forms of data communication known or developed in
the art. The data transmissions to the central server 84 and the
designated party may be encrypted and authenticated using known
techniques in the art.
[0054] The data transmissions may also be sent to other systems in
communication with the central server 84 such as, but not limited
to, accounting 88 or tracking 90 systems. When the accounting
system 88 receives a data transmission, the accounting system may
generate an invoice that is sent to the intended recipient of the
container 14. The invoice is based upon the net weight of the
container 14 as it leaves the weight monitoring system 10, thereby
resulting in an accurate and verifiable price that is priced by a
pre-arranged formula. According to one embodiment, the price of the
material per weight is agreed upon prior to recovery of the
material. In another embodiment, the price of the material is
obtained by using selected indices posted on a website or a
designated database. Accordingly, a vendor or supplier may request
that the recovery process terminate before the container is full to
take advantage of a high price of the collected materials.
[0055] Another embodiment of the weight monitoring system 10 may
include a tracking system 90 for tracking a container 14. In one
embodiment, the container 14 includes a global positioning receiver
for identifying the location of a container 14. Accordingly, a
service provider or dispatcher can follow the location of the
container 14. Additionally, a warning may be sent to the dispatcher
in the event the container 14 has been diverted from a
predetermined route. Thus, the dispatcher may take the necessary
steps to determine the cause of the diversion.
[0056] The tracking system 90 may also be used to manage the
various containers 14 that a service provider may have out in the
field. The tracking system 90 is able to send a message to the
dispatcher that the container 14 has reached a predetermined
weight, thereby signalling the dispatcher to schedule a pickup of
the container. In one embodiment, the tracking system 90 includes
software that will obtain the weight of the containers out in
service and establish a pick-up schedule based upon the rate that
the containers are being filled (e.g., rate of weight gain on a
daily or hourly basis). The weight data obtained by the tracking
system 90 may be sent to a trucking and/or container company to
ensure that a truck having the proper weight capacity is used to
pick up the filled container 14. Additionally, the weight data may
be used to notify the trucking company that a larger or smaller
container may be needed on site. For example, if containers are
typically overloaded or under utilized, a larger or smaller
container 14 may be brought to the site when the full container is
hauled away from the site.
[0057] When the containers are picked up, the net weight of the
container's contents and pickup data (e.g., time and date,
location, truck driver, status of container (i.e., damaged)) may be
transmitted to the central server. Optionally, the containers used
with the tracking system 90 may also include one or more load
sensors 30 that can detect if there is a load shift (outside of an
allowable norm) in the container 14. If a load shift has occurred,
the tracking system 90 may send a message to the driver of the
vehicle as well as the dispatcher.
[0058] According to another embodiment, the weight monitoring
system 10 may include a processing system 92 for processing the
material before being loaded into the container 14. The processing
equipment provides an additional level of accuracy when determining
the weight of the material to be recovered by removing any
contaminants associated with the material. As shown in FIG. 9, the
processing system 92 may include a pre-processing storage system
94, a sorting system 96, and a cleaning system 98. Once the product
is sorted and cleaned, the product is stored within a secured
container 14.
[0059] In one embodiment, the pre-processing storage system 94 is a
bin holding the raw scrap metal. In another embodiment, the
pre-processing storage system 94 may be a secured container 14 that
is monitored by the security system 18. The secured container 14
and security system 18 ensures that the entire process from
recovering, processing and shipping scrap metal is monitored.
Accordingly, the pre-processing storage system 94 may include a
weight-obtaining system 12 having one or more load sensors 30 to
obtain the gross weight of the raw material before processing.
Accordingly, if the system 10 monitors the weight of the raw
material, net weight of the processed material, and the weight of
the waste material, the operator is able to determine if there is
any weight discrepancies due to the introduction of foreign
substances (e.g., ballast to make the container heavier) or
unexplained product loss (e.g., due to theft).
[0060] In one embodiment, the processing system 94 includes devices
for sorting and cleaning the raw material such as, but not limited
to one or more sorting tables, air separators, magnetic separators,
or one or more centrifuges. In another embodiment, the processing
system 94 includes devices for cleaning or decontaminating the raw
material. In yet another embodiment, the processing system 94
includes one or more devices for analyzing the material composition
(e.g., alloy analysis) of the raw materials. The processing system
94 may also include one or more devices for changing the form/shape
of the raw material. These devices include, but are not limited to,
crushers, rotary shredders, centrifuges (for separating liquid from
the material), puckers, briquetters, or balers. In yet another
embodiment, the processing system 94 includes devices for moving
the raw material from one device to another and/or loading the
processed product into the container such as, but not limited to,
conveyors, augers, or the like.
[0061] According to one embodiment, a centrifuge 100 is used to
separate scrap metal from any associated fluids (e.g., water,
coolants, lubricants, oils, water-soluble petroleums, or the like).
As shown in FIG. 10, the centrifuge 100 includes a main body 102
tilted at an angle. The angle of the centrifuge 100 allows dry
scrap metal to be propelled out of the centrifuge due to
centrifugal forces, thereby eliminating the need for a blower to
remove dried scrap metal. In one embodiment, the main body 102 of
the centrifuge 100 is tilted at an angle of about 38.degree. from
horizontal. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the
centrifuge 100 may be oriented at any angle from horizontal to
vertical (i.e., 90.degree. from horizontal). Optionally, the
centrifuge may include a blower or vacuum to facilitate the removal
of dried material from the centrifuge.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 10, the main body 102 of the centrifuge 100
is generally conical in shape. A lid 104 secured to the first end
of the main body 102. In one embodiment, the lid 104 includes an
inlet 106 for receiving unprocessed (e.g., wet scrap metal) within
the main body 102 of the centrifuge 100. As shown in FIG. 10, the
inlet 106 is positioned around the center of the lid 102. An outlet
108 is positioned tangentially to the outer surface of the main
body 102 of the centrifuge 100. When pieces of the scrap metal are
dried, the scrap metal becomes airborne and exits out of the
centrifuge 100 through the outlet 108. Piping or other conduits 109
are connectable to the outlet 108. In one embodiment, the piping
leads to a secured container 14.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 10, a housing 110 is connected to the main
body 102 of the centrifuge 100. The housing 110 includes the drive
mechanism 112 (e.g., motor, driveshaft, transmission, gears,
bearings, etc.) for spinning a drum 114 within the main body 102 of
the centrifuge 100.
[0064] At the base of the main body 102 of the centrifuge 100, an
opening 116 is provided to allow the liquids separated from the
scrap metal drain from the centrifuge. The fluids may be stored in
a pan or one or more containers. The collected fluids may be
recycled for use in machining or manufacturing process. Optionally,
the collected fluids may be further processed so that the valuable
lubricants may be used again. Alternatively, the processed fluids
may be sold or returned to a manufacturer or processor.
[0065] FIG. 11 illustrates a rotatable drum 114 that is positioned
within the main body 102 of the centrifuge 100. The rotatable drum
114 includes a generally conical body 118. A driveshaft (not shown)
or other force transmission element is coupled to the base of the
drum 114. A generally circular band 120 having a plurality of
openings 122 is positioned at the top of the conical body 118, and
a lip 124 is attached to the circular band 120. The openings 122
are used to separate the metal from the fluids. In another
embodiment, the entire surface of the drum 114 may include a
plurality of openings 122 for separating fluid from the scrap
metal. In one embodiment, the lip 124 is generally perpendicular to
the generally circular band 120. In another embodiment, the lip 124
is angled relative to the circular band 120. As shown in FIG. 11,
one or more paddles 126 protrude from the surface of the rotatable
drum 114, but it is also contemplated that other embodiments of the
rotatable drum do not include any paddles.
[0066] When wet scrap metal is placed within the centrifuge 100,
the wet scrap metal drops to the base of the drum 114. As the scrap
metal is spun, the liquid moves up the side of the drum 114 and
exits through the generally circular band 120. As the metal dries
within the drum 114, the pieces of scrap metal become airborne due
to centrifugal forces, move up toward the first end of the main
body 102, and exit through the outlet 108. The lip 124 prevents any
scrap metal from falling back towards the base of the main body
102.
[0067] One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that not
all weight monitoring systems will have all these components and
may have other components in addition to, or in lieu of, those
components mentioned here. Furthermore, while these components are
viewed and described separately, various components may be
integrated into a single unit in some embodiments.
[0068] The various embodiments described above are provided by way
of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the
claimed invention. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize
various modifications and changes that may be made to the claimed
invention without following the example embodiments and
applications illustrated and described herein, and without
departing from the true spirit and scope of the claimed invention,
which is set forth in the following claims.
* * * * *