U.S. patent application number 15/421314 was filed with the patent office on 2017-05-25 for waste receptacle.
The applicant listed for this patent is Edison Nation Medical, LLC. Invention is credited to Aubrey Nathan Beal, Lloyd Stephen Riggs, Michael Morgan Starkey.
Application Number | 20170144836 15/421314 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 57886397 |
Filed Date | 2017-05-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170144836 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Starkey; Michael Morgan ; et
al. |
May 25, 2017 |
WASTE RECEPTACLE
Abstract
A waste cart includes a base housing; a center upright having a
proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is secured
to the base housing; a top housing secured to the distal end of the
center upright, wherein the top housing has two or more disposal
openings for two or more separate disposal portions including, a
first waste portion which has a first metal detector and an
indicator for providing a notification when a metal item passes
through the opening; and a second waste portion which includes a
second metal detector and an indicator for providing a notification
when a metal item passes through the opening; an electronics module
which operates each metal detector independently; and an alarm
indicator operationally associated with the electronics module
which is activated when the electronics module detects the passage
of a metal item through an opening into a waste portion.
Inventors: |
Starkey; Michael Morgan;
(Kent, OH) ; Riggs; Lloyd Stephen; (Auburn,
AL) ; Beal; Aubrey Nathan; (Scottsboro, AL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Edison Nation Medical, LLC |
Charlotte |
NC |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
57886397 |
Appl. No.: |
15/421314 |
Filed: |
January 31, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14815605 |
Jul 31, 2015 |
|
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15421314 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65F 1/004 20130101;
B65F 1/1415 20130101; G08B 21/24 20130101; B65F 1/06 20130101; B62B
3/04 20130101; B65F 2210/1525 20130101; B62B 2202/20 20130101; B65F
2210/128 20130101; B65F 1/1473 20130101; B65F 2240/145 20130101;
B62B 3/106 20130101; B65F 1/1484 20130101; B62B 2202/22 20130101;
B62B 3/02 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65F 1/14 20060101
B65F001/14; B65F 1/06 20060101 B65F001/06; G08B 21/24 20060101
G08B021/24; B65F 1/00 20060101 B65F001/00 |
Claims
1-20. (canceled)
21. A waste cart, comprising: (a) a top housing in which two
disposal openings extend; (b) a base housing comprising a plurality
of wheels for moving the waste cart across a floor of a room; (c) a
support extending between the base housing and the top housing and
supporting the top housing above the base housing at a height
accommodating retention of two waste bags such that waste passing
through a said disposal opening is received within a respective one
of the two waste bags; (d) a coil arrangement contained within the
top housing and including (i) a transmitter coil comprising a wire
loop that extends around and encircles a perimeter of the top
housing, and (ii) two receiver coils each comprising wire loops, a
first one of which receiver coils extends around and encircles a
perimeter of a first one of the disposal openings and a second one
of which receiver coils extends around and encircles a perimeter of
a second one of the disposal openings; (e) an electronics module
connected to and operationally associated with the coil arrangement
and configured to detect passage of a metal item through either of
the disposal opening; and (f) an indicator system connected the
electronics module, by which an indication is provided of such a
detection of passage of a metal item.
22. The waste cart of claim 21, wherein the electronics module is
located within the base housing.
23. The waste cart of claim 22, wherein the support contains
electrical connections extending between the base housing and the
top housing for connecting the electronics module and coil
arrangement.
24. The waste cart of claim 21, wherein the receiver coils of the
coil arrangement are arranged generally horizontally, and wherein
the coil arrangement further comprises two additional receiver
coils arranged generally vertically and located between the first
and second disposal openings.
25. The waste cart of claim 21, further comprising a kick switch
located on the base housing and configured to turn on and off by
foot detection of a metal item that passes through either of the
disposal openings by the electronics module and coil
arrangement.
26. The waste cart of claim 21, further comprising a battery
located within the base housing for powering detection of a metal
item that passes through either of the disposal openings by the
electronics module and coil arrangement.
27. A waste cart, comprising: (a) an upper section comprising a top
housing in which first and second disposal openings extend, the
upper section being configured to retain first and second bags for
receiving waste therein that passes through the first and second
disposal openings, waste passing through the first disposal opening
being received within a first bag and waste passing through the
second disposal opening being received within a second bag; (b) a
lower section comprising a plurality of wheels for moving the waste
cart across a floor of a room; (c) a middle section extending from
the lower section and structurally supporting the upper section
above the lower section at a height accommodating bag retention
from the upper section for filling with waste; (d) a coil
arrangement contained within the top housing and including (i) a
transmitter coil comprising a wire loop that extends around and
encircles a perimeter of the top housing, and (ii) a pair of
receiver coils each comprising wire loops, a first one of which
receiver coils extends around and encircles a perimeter of the
first disposal opening and a second one of which receiver coils
extends around and encircles a perimeter of the second disposal
opening; (e) an electronics module connected to and operationally
associated with the coil arrangement and configured to detect
passage of a metal item through either of the disposal openings;
and (f) an indicator system connected the electronics module, by
which an indication is provided of a detection of such passage.
28. The waste cart of claim 27, wherein pulse induction is used in
the electronics module and coil arrangement to detect passage of a
metal item through either of the disposal openings.
29. The waste cart of claim 27, wherein the pair of receiver coils
of the coil arrangement are arranged generally horizontally, and
wherein the coil arrangement further comprises a second pair of
receiver coils arranged generally vertically and located between
the first and second disposal openings.
30. The waste cart of claim 27, wherein the middle section is
configured to be secured to the top section, and wherein the top
section is configured to be secured to the middle section.
31. The waste cart of claim 27, wherein the lower section further
comprises a base housing that contains the electronics module.
32. The waste cart of claim 31, wherein the middle section contains
electrical connections that extend between the top housing and base
housing and connect the electronics module and the coil
arrangement.
33. The waste cart of claim 27, wherein the indicator system
comprises a visual alarm indicator.
34. The waste cart of claim 33, wherein the visual alarm indicator
is located on the top housing.
35. The waste cart of claim 27, wherein the indicator system
comprises a speaker that provides an auditory indication of a
detection of passage of a metal item through either of the disposal
openings.
36. The waste cart of claim 27, wherein the lower section further
comprises a kick switch for turning on and off by foot detection of
a metal item that passes through either of the disposal openings by
the electronics module and coil arrangement.
37. The waste cart of claim 27, further comprising a battery for
powering detection of a metal item that passes through either of
the disposal openings by the electronics module and coil
arrangement.
38. The waste cart of claim 27, further comprising means for
powering the waste cart.
39. The waste cart of claim 27, further comprising means for
disabling the indication of a detection of passage of a metal item
through either of the disposal openings while the cart is being
moved.
40. A waste cart, comprising: (a) a top housing in which first and
second disposal openings extend; (b) a base housing comprising a
plurality of wheels for moving the waste cart across a floor of a
room; (c) a support extending between the base housing and the top
housing and supporting the top housing above the base housing at a
height accommodating retention of two waste bags such that waste
passing through a said disposal opening is received within a
respective one of the two waste bags; (d) a coil arrangement
contained within the top housing and including (i) a transmitter
coil comprising a wire loop that extends around and encircles a
perimeter of the top housing, and (ii) two receiver coils each
comprising wire loops, one of which receiver coils extends around
and encircles a perimeter of said first disposal opening; (e) an
electronics module connected to and operationally associated with
the coil arrangement and configured to detect passage of a metal
item through the first disposal opening; and (f) an indicator
system connected the electronics module, by which an indication is
provided of such a detection of passage of a metal item.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is a continuation of, and claims the
benefit under 35 U.S.C. 120 to, U.S. patent application Ser. No.
14/815,605, filed Jul. 31, 2015, the disclosure of which is
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a waste cart capable of
detecting metallic objects as they pass through the cart's openings
as disclosed herein below. The medical environment tends to
generate three main forms of trash: sharps, biohazard materials,
and ordinary trash. Hospital staff tends to waste money by
negligently discarding equipment after surgery, typically by
unintentionally depositing metal items (e.g., surgical tools) into
the trash along with disposable garments (surgical "scrubs") and
other potentially hazardous biological waste. The incorporation of
a metal detector with a trash can helps to alleviate this
problem.
[0003] Medical environments outside the hospital (e.g., doctors'
offices, hospital rooms, and surgical suites) must also put proper
protocols into place for the safe disposal of "sharps". Federal
regulations (e.g., 49 CFR 173.134) define a "sharp" as any object
that may be contaminated with a pathogen and that is capable of
cutting or penetrating skin or a packaging material (and thus
leading to injury or disease transmission or both). Sharps include
items such as needles, scalpels, broken glass, culture dishes, etc.
Federal regulations (e.g., 49 CFR 173.197) require that sharps be
placed in containers that are rigid, leak resistant, impervious to
moisture, strong enough to prevent tearing or bursting during
normal conditions of transport, and puncture resistant.
[0004] U.S. hospitals produce an estimated 6,600 tons of waste
daily and 4,000,000,000 pounds annually Within the hospital,
operating rooms tend to generate two main forms of trash: single
use sterilized equipment and regular garbage which is sometimes
needlessly bagged as hazardous waste. The well-recognized red bags
are intended to be used for medical waste that requires more
cautious--and thus more expensive--disposal procedures. Some
research indicates, however, that up to 90% of items disposed in
special red bags are simply regular trash that could be stored in a
clear bag and disposed of more conveniently. Thus, a more efficient
segregation and disposal of trash could provide significant cost
savings in the healthcare industry.
[0005] Medical disposal and detector systems currently available
have a number of shortcomings. In some, the openings are unfinished
and expose the contents of a biohazard bag. The structural
materials wear and lack the rigidity of conventional industrial
disposals. Because a sterile environment is a fundamental hospital
goal, certain types of plastics--especially inexpensive ones--do
not necessarily reassure the user as to their cleanliness. Some
plastics interact slightly with hospital cleaning materials and
develop an undesired sticky texture. In some cases the structures
are angular with protruding surfaces and corners, which in turn can
catch on medical clothing and draping.
[0006] Many structures are singular in their function, so that
separate items are needed for the several types of expected waste,
which in turn tends to crowd the medical space in an undesired, or
in some cases an unsafe or unsanitary, manner.
[0007] Appropriate devices must also meet medical regulations for
safely storing biohazard materials. The Bloodborne Pathogens
Standard of the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) uses the term "regulated waste" to refer to waste items such
as: [0008] liquid or semi-liquid blood or other potentially
infectious materials (OPIM); [0009] items contaminated with blood
or OPIM and which would release these substances in a liquid or
semi-liquid state if compressed; [0010] items that are caked with
dried blood or OPIM and are capable of releasing these materials
during handling; [0011] contaminated sharps; and [0012]
pathological and microbiological wastes containing blood or OPIM.
With these standards in place, disposal devices generally accept
the standard "red bag" used in the hospital environment. The device
must be waterproof so that it can be cleaned easily and completely
and those portions of devices that are in contact with hazardous
materials must be formed of a material that is impermeable rather
than porous.
[0013] Changing a bag in conventional devices can be both time
consuming and inefficient due to their structure and configuration.
Systems that require significant user strength are unacceptable in
the hospital environment because much work is done by smaller
persons. For example, on a percentile basis, in order to capture
99% of potential users, the device should be easily handled by a
middle-age female. Additionally, existing devices may preclude
access to the full bag or to new bags, are sometimes improperly
balanced, may not withstand the weight strain of an overly full or
leaning load, and do not offer any method of separating large and
small biohazard materials, or provide a separate area for disposing
of non-biohazard materials.
[0014] Additionally, loss of expensive metallic items such as
tools, templates, and other devices plague industries which are
unrelated to medicine such as machine shops, automobile garages,
assembly plants, laboratories, manufacturing plants, and similar
facilities. These industries will benefit equally from a newly
improved waste cart.
[0015] Hence, a need exists for a waste cart capable of detecting
metallic objects as they pass through the cart's openings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] A waste cart comprises: a base housing; a center upright
having a proximal end and a distal end wherein the proximal end is
secured to the base housing; a top housing secured to the distal
end of the center upright, the top housing having two or more
disposal openings for two or more separate disposal portions; a
first waste portion which has a first metal detector and an
indicator system for providing a notification when a metal item
passes through the opening; a second waste portion which includes a
second metal detector and an indicator system for providing a
notification when a metal item passes through the opening; an
electronics module which operates each metal detector independently
or in conjunction with each other; and an alarm indicator
operationally associated with the electronics module which is
activated whenever the electronics module detects the passage of a
piece of metal into a waste portion.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is
shown in the drawings a form that is presently preferred; it being
understood, however, that this invention is not limited to the
precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.
[0018] FIG. 1 is a front view of one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0019] FIG. 2 is a top-down view of one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0020] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0021] FIG. 4 is a side view of one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0022] FIG. 5 is a bottom-up perspective view of one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 6 is a bottom-up view of one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 7 is an exploded side view of one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0025] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the top components of one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the tower components of one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 10 is a bottom-up perspective view of the base of one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 11 is a diagram of a detection algorithm of one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an ADC reading showing a
characteristic curve of one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0030] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an ADC reading showing
positive and negative deflections of one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0031] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an ADC reading showing a
characteristic curve and sampling points of one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0032] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an ADC reading showing a
characteristic curve and a detection threshold window of one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an ADC reading showing a
characteristic curve and illustrating one embodiment of a positive
deflection in the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an ADC reading showing a
characteristic curve and illustrating one embodiment of a negative
deflection in the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an ADC reading showing a
characteristic curve and illustrating one embodiment of background
compensation in the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an ADC reading showing a
characteristic curve and illustrating one embodiment of signal
clipping in the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of a method for
holding the coils of one embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0039] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0040] FIG. 23 is an illustration of a perpendicular coil
arrangement and the associated detection fields of one embodiment
of the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a perpendicular coil
arrangement of one embodiment of the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 25 is a mid-level diagram of one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0043] FIG. 26 is a diagram of the master/slave synchronization
setup of one embodiment of the present invention.
[0044] FIG. 27 is a diagram of the installed wiring synchronization
setup of one embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 28 is a side view of an RFID detector used in one
embodiment of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0046] The present invention now will be described more fully
hereinafter in the following detailed description of the invention,
in which some, but not all embodiments of the invention are
described. Indeed, this invention may be embodied in many different
forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set
forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this
disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements.
[0047] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of
the invention. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and
all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As
used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended
to include the plural forms as well as the singular forms, unless
the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further
understood that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when
used in this specification, specify the presence of stated
features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do
not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other
features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups
thereof.
[0048] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and
scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly
understood by one having ordinary skill in the art to which this
invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such
as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be
interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their
meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present
disclosure and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly
formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
[0049] In describing the invention, it will be understood that a
number of techniques and steps are disclosed. Each of these has
individual benefit and each can also be used in conjunction with
one or more, or in some cases all, of the other disclosed
techniques. Accordingly, for the sake of clarity, this description
will refrain from repeating every possible combination of the
individual steps in an unnecessary fashion. Nevertheless, the
specification and claims should be read with the understanding that
such combinations are entirely within the scope of the invention
and the claims.
[0050] Looking at FIGS. 1 through 10 and 20-22, there is
illustrated one embodiment of a movable waste cart 10 which is
capable of detecting metallic objects as they pass through the
cart's openings 56. The waste cart 10 is comprised of a mostly
non-metallic composition. The waste cart 10 is comprised of three
primary sections which include: [0051] (1) a base housing 20 which
is proximally closer to the ground, [0052] (2) a center upright
body 40 which is the region disposed between the top housing 50 and
base housing 20, and [0053] (3) a top housing 50 which is the
region furthest vertically from the base housing 20.
[0054] The base housing 20 includes an upper surface 22 and a lower
surface 24. The center upright body 40 is secured to and emanates
upward from the upper surface of the base housing 20. A battery
cover 25 is located on the lower surface of the base housing. In
one embodiment of the present invention, the base housing 20 is
essentially hollow and includes an inner cavity 30 which houses
some or all of the electronic components utilized by the waste cart
10. In another embodiment, the inner cavity 30 houses the
electronics module 90, battery 89 (FIG. 25), and other electrical
components.
[0055] The center upright body 40 has a proximal end 42 and a
distal end 44 where the proximal end is secured to the base housing
20 and the distal end is secured to the top housing 50.
[0056] The top housing 50 is mainly circular in nature and is
bisected, with two or more cart openings for two or more separate
disposal portions. The openings may be symmetrical. In a variation
of the cart 10 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a divider 59 extends
within and bisects opening 57. A first waste portion 70 has a first
metal detector 71 and an indicator system with a visual alarm
indicator 65 for providing a notification when a metal item passes
through the first opening 56. A second waste portion 75 includes a
second metal detector 76 and an indicator system with another
visual alarm indicator 65 for providing a notification when a metal
item passes through a second waste opening 57. An electronics
module 90 operates metal detector 71 and metal detector 76
independently, and an audio alarm indicator operationally
associated with the electronics module is activated whenever the
electronics module detects the passage of a piece of metal into a
waste portion. In the one embodiment of the present invention in
FIGS. 1-10 and 20-22, the two visual alarm indicators 65 are
situated along the bisection line for visual indication. The top
housing 50 is made up of a top coil housing 52 secured to a bottom
coil housing 54 leaving a hollow cavity 55 within to house the
transmitter coil(s) and receiver coil(s). The bottom housing 54 is
secured to the distal end 44 of the center upright body 40.
[0057] Bag supports 61 are situated at the two furthest points
along the bisection line 62 of each of the openings 56,57 of the
top coil housing 52 to aide in holding of inserted waste bag 64.
The bag supports 61 make use of friction to help maintain a bag 64
in position after it has been secured within an opening 56,57 of
the waste cart 10. One embodiment includes a plurality of bag
supports 61 located along the upper surface of the top coil housing
52. The top housing 50 may also include a plurality of bag
retainers 63 (FIGS. 3 and 4). The bag retainers 63 function by a
person pushing part of the bag 64 within the bag retainer 63 and a
spring action of the bag retainer helps to maintain the bag in
position. Ensconced within the top housing 50 is a set of three
coiled lengths of electrical wire. One of the coils, the
transmitter 100, encircles the full perimeter of the top housing
50. Each of the remaining two coils, i.e., the receivers 110, are
disposed singularly around the perimeter of each of a respective
one of the openings 56,57. The center upright body 40 provides
structural support for the top housing 50 and provides a means for
containing the electrical connections extending between the top
housing 50 and the base housing 20.
[0058] As stated previously, the electronics module 90 is contained
within the base housing 20. The electronics module 90 is connected
(operationally associated) with the coils 100,110 and is connected
to a plurality of visual alarm indicators 65 located on the top
housing 50 and to an audio alarm indicator 67 (i.e. a speaker),
which provides auditory indication when a metallic object passes
through an opening 56,57. In one embodiment of the present
invention, logic is provided to automatically power down the waste
cart 10 after a defined period of time in order to conserve battery
power. A means for powering the waste cart 10, while connected to
structural power (i.e., a wall outlet) or while mobile, are
provided within the base housing 20. The waste cart 10 can be
powered either by being plugged into structural wiring or via an
internal battery when not plugged in. The switch over from one
power source to another occurs without the intervention of the user
and does not affect the operation of the system. A plurality of
caster wheels 35 are attached to the lower surface 24 of the base
housing 20 to allow the waste cart 10 to be easily moved. In one
embodiment of the present invention, the cart is intended to be
used as the primary location for disposal of all objects not
considered to be defined as sharps. In another embodiment, the cart
is intended to be used as the primary location for disposal of all
objects, including those defined as sharps.
[0059] The motion of a conductor (i.e., a metallic object or any
materials that will conduct electricity) through a magnetic field
results in minute currents being generated within the conductor. As
the object passes through the electric field, there is an
electrical current induced in the object which can then be detected
by the cart 10. The magnetic field can be generated by a permanent
magnet or by the application of the flow of electricity to a coil
of conductors. As a conductor enters into the magnetic field, the
field will induce currents of electrons that will swirl within the
conductor much like the small swirling currents in a flowing body
of water. These currents remain as the external field exists. If
the field is removed, the currents within the conductor will remain
temporarily. As there is no input of energy to support the
currents, the currents will decay over a period of time. With
conductors possessing high conductivity, these currents will decay
slower than those in a lower conductivity conductor. With the
external field removed, and before the currents have disappeared,
the eddy currents will themselves develop a magnetic field. In the
opposite manner of energizing a coil to produce a magnetic field,
if a coil of conductors is placed within a magnetic field, a
voltage will be generated along the length of the coil. This theory
is used to detect the presence of metal near a conductor coil.
[0060] There are two primary methods for utilizing these components
to detect metal: continuous wave (CW) or pulse induction (Pl). In a
CW system, a continuous signal is generated by a coil transmitter
which develops a magnetic field around the coil. A receiver coil
110 is able to pick up the signal from the coil transmitter and the
two signals are compared. If an object that can carry a magnetic
field enters into proximity to the coil transmitter 100, the signal
between the coil transmitter 100 and the receiver coil 110 is
disrupted. This disruption is the basis for CW detection
systems.
[0061] A system operating on a Pl will pulse an environment
generating a cyclic magnetic field (FIG. 23). When the transmitter
coil 100 is turned off, any conductor that was within the
transmitter coil's magnetic field will generate a magnetic field as
it decays. A receiver coil 110 is able to then detect the decaying
magnetic field from the object and in the control system is able to
distinguish that an object was present. FIG. 23 illustrates the
pairs of magnetic fields 120. Looking now to FIG. 24, there is
illustrated an embodiment of the perpendicular coil arrangement
115.
[0062] Looking now to FIG. 25, there is illustrated a mid-level
diagram of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 25
includes an illustration of the electronics module 90 which is
operationally associated with an acceleration motion detection
module or accelerometer 83. The electronics module 90 is
operationally associated with switch 80 and one or more visual
power indicators 81. The electronics module is also operationally
associated with a visual motion detection camera 82 which aids in
deactivating the detection process while the cart 10 is in motion.
FIG. 25 also details an arrangement of the transmitter coil 100, a
pair of detection coils 110, a pair of detection indicators 65, a
pair of perpendicular coils 115, and an audio alarm indicator 67,
all of which are operationally associated with the electronics
module 90. Also included in FIG. 25 are a main plug 85, a cord reel
86, a fuse 87, a power supply 88, and a battery 89.
[0063] The current waste cart 10 is an improvement on a previous
version of a metal detecting waste bin. The previous version of the
device consisted of a single opening with all circuitry and
components contained within the top cap of the cart. The device
operated on the CW system of metal detection and could only
reliably detect ferrous objects. The cart contained a counter, an
on/off switch, and a variety of other controls. The cart required a
calibration period that was approximately 30 seconds.
[0064] The waste cart 10 of the present invention demonstrates the
following improvements over the existing art: [0065] The waste cart
10 now has the ability to detect both ferrous and non-ferrous
objects which include but are not limited to: iron, steel,
stainless steel, titanium, copper, aluminum, silver, and gold.
[0066] The waste cart 10 is able to discern between high
conductivity objects such as aluminum and lower conductivity
objects such as steel. [0067] The waste cart 10 has the ability to
retain a significant ability to detect objects while in close
proximity to environmental interferers. This is achieved by
measuring the response from the receiver coils and adjusting the
threshold gain accordingly, essentially increasing the ADC range in
FIG. 19. [0068] The waste cart 10 needs only a very short period of
time from completely off to be ready to detect (in the range of 0.1
to 10 seconds, 0.1 to 6 seconds, 0.1 to 4 seconds, 0.1 to 2
seconds, or any combination thereof). [0069] One embodiment of the
waste cart 10 possesses two openings which can be configured to
detect on both sides or be set to detect on a single side. [0070]
The design of the waste cart 10 facilitates the full use of the
volume of a waste bag 64 allowing it to bulge beyond the perimeter
of the base housing 20 and top housing 50 of the waste cart 10.
[0071] The design of the waste cart 10 removes the need to lift a
potentially heavy waste bag vertically out of the bin, and instead
allows a bag to be removed, horizontally. [0072] The waste cart 10
is turned on with a kick switch. [0073] The only task a user must
do to bring the waste cart 10 to full operation is to kick the
on/off foot switch. [0074] The waste cart 10 possesses an RFID
reader which is able to read RFID tags as they pass through the
openings 56,57. [0075] The waste cart 10 possesses the ability to
disable the alarm if the cart is being moved within a room. [0076]
The waste cart 10 has the ability to be configured with multiple
sets of coils 100,110 which can be turned on to reduce the
detection window to help reduce external interferer influences. For
example, in the above-described embodiment of the present
invention, turning on additional coils refers to the optional
perpendicular coils 115. The perpendicular coils possess a
detection field which is perpendicular to the standard orientation
of the fields of coils 100,110. Using some signal processing, the
perpendicular detection field can be used to validate a detection
vs external interferers such as rebar in the floor. The effect is
much like a Venn diagram of the sets of detection fields which help
to narrow the spatial detection field.
[0077] One embodiment of the present invention discloses a waste
disposal system 10 comprising a base housing 20; a center upright
body 40 which has a proximal end 42 and a distal end 44, wherein
the proximal end 42 is secured to the base housing 20; a top
housing 50 which is secured to the distal end 44 of the center
upright; wherein the base housing 20, center upright body 40, and
the top housing 50 each is formed of a material that is amenable to
disinfectant in the hospital environment and has surfaces contoured
for easy cleaning in the hospital environment. The top housing 50
has at least two separate disposal portions: a first waste portion
70 for waste other than sharps, the first waste portion 70 having
an opening 57 large enough to receive waste that is typically other
than sharps in the hospital environment; and a second waste portion
75 for waste other than sharps, the second waste portion 75 having
an opening 56 large enough to receive waste that is typically other
than sharps in the hospital environment. A barrier 58 separates the
first waste portion 70 from the second waste portion 75, within
which part of a metal detector is located and an indicator system
for providing a notification when a metal item is unintentionally
placed in an opening, wherein the metal detector includes a
receiver coil 110 and a transmitter coil 100 oriented perpendicular
to the passage of waste to allow for more accurate detection in the
passageways while simultaneously limiting the detection above and
below the coils. An electronics module 90 operates each of two
metal detectors independently of one another, and an audible alarm
indicator is operationally associated with the electronics module
90, which is activated whenever the electronics module detects the
passage of a piece of metal through one or more of the waste
openings 56,57.
[0078] In one embodiment, the above waste disposal system may be
configured wherein the coils are set up in either a constant wave
(CW) configuration or a pulse induction (Pl) configuration. In
another embodiment, the waste disposal system utilizes a quadrapole
arrangement, wherein a single transmitter coil 100 encircles both
the first waste opening 56 and the second waste opening 57 and a
first receiver coil is set to detect metal and a second coil is set
to cancel external effects. In still another embodiment, the above
waste disposal system further includes a blocking shield to help
isolate one region magnetically from another. The blocking shield
is comprised of Mu-metal.
[0079] Metal Detection
[0080] The control circuitry operates in a cyclical nature with a
detection period representing a transmitted pulse, sampling of
values and accessory processes. Each detection period lasts 10
milliseconds and has a rate of 100 Hz.
[0081] Looking to FIG. 11, there is illustrated one embodiment of a
detection algorithm used in the present invention. The detection
cycle starts at step 140 with the energizing of the transmitter
coil (as seen in FIG. 12). Step 141 represents an increase in the
startup counter which records the number of times the cart 10 has
started up. Step 142 represents the calibration and setting the
reference number and calibrating the digital to analog converter
(DAC) to center. Step 143 represents the end of a transmitted
pulse. Step 144 represents the acquisition of an analog to digital
converter (ADC) value which then leads to step 145 wherein it is
determined whether that value is greater than the center value set
in step 142, taking into account a standard deviation. If the ADC
value in step 145 is greater than the center reference the startup
counter is reset and the DAC value is determined (step 147). If the
DAC value equals zero, then we move on to step 148, which is to
increase the center. Proceeding to step 149, where it is determined
whether the reference is less than 250. If it is not then there is
an inability to detect (step 150), and if it is then we return to
step 144, with an acquisition of the ADC value. If the DAC value
from step 147 does not equal zero, then we proceed to step 151,
wherein there is a decrease in the RX input voltage, which takes us
to step 152, wherein the ADC value is taken and we proceed to step
145 again. If the ADC value is not greater than the center value at
step 145, taking into account standard deviation, then we proceed
to step 153 which determines whether the value is less than the
center minus the acceptable deviation. If the result of step 153 is
negative, then we move on to step 160 which is no detection. If the
result of step 153 is positive then the startup counter is reset
and we move on to step 154, where it is determined whether the DAC
value is equal to 255. If the answer is yes, then we move on to
step 157, which is to decrease the center. Proceeding to step 158,
it is determined whether the reference is greater than 5. If it is
not then there is an inability to detect (step 159) and if it is,
then we return to step 144, with an acquisition of the ADC value.
If the DAC value is not equal to 255 in step 154, we proceed to
step 155 which is to increase the PIC input voltage. We then
proceed to step 156, wherein the ADC value is taken again, after
which we return to step 153 to determine whether the ADC value is
less than the center value minus the standard deviation. In one
embodiment of the present invention, steps 147 through 160 are
utilized as background compensation.
[0082] In FIG. 12, the solid black line represents the value read
from the sum of the two detection coils 110, this is the ADC value.
This read value is a conversion of analog voltage level from the
sum of the two detection coils 110 being processed through an
Analog to Digital Converter (ADC). The physics relating to the ADC
limit the range the ADC can read which shows as the flat line when
the transmitter is operating. Once the transmitter is turned off,
there is a period where the ADC is shut off to let the electronics
settle. After a period of time, the ADC is turned back on. The
solid black line illustrates the characteristic detected voltage
curve read by the ADC without a detectable object within the
detection field.
[0083] The two detection coils 110 are balanced and operate in
unison to discriminate the detection side. The coils are balanced
to assist in the fine discrimination of changes of voltages. A
metallic object passing through the field of the coil connected to
the positive leg of the summing junction would result in a positive
deflection of the ADC value. Conversely, as a metallic object
passes through the detection coil connected to the negative leg of
the summing junction, the result would be a negative deflection in
the ADC value. This behavior is shown in FIG. 13. The entire curve
deflects as a metallic object passes through either of the
detection coils, but there is generally a proportionally greater
change in the ADC value closer to the shut off of the transmitter
than there is farther from the transmitter shutoff.
[0084] The system operates very quickly and processor time must be
managed appropriately to ensure accurate readings. Rather than take
ADC values along the entire detection period, sampling values are
established, shown in FIG. 14. The vertical lines S1, S2, and S3
represent a system with three sampling points; however, additional
or fewer points can be read. The vertical lines illustrate the
period in time when an ADC value is taken. The circular dots in
FIG. 14, are representative of the ADC value being read.
[0085] In an effort to reduce noise which is present in any system,
the averages of these points are taken over a period of sixteen
samples. There is a trade off in performance when averaging the
samples. A sample occurs during each detection cycle, therefore
averaging sixteen samples requires sixteen cycles to transpire. If
there is a detectable value that is read, that value must be
present in the detection field long enough for its effect to pass
through the averaging processing and register a detection. If too
many samples are used, the system could miss quickly traveling
objects. If too few samples are taken, the effect of noise can lead
to false positives. The system relies on sensitive electronics
looking at very minute deviations in voltages which make noise a
significant factor in the performance balancing.
[0086] For discussion of detections, this description will be
referring to sampling point "S1" in the figures but the sample
statements hold true to any of the detection points. The system
acquires the averaged ADC values at each of the sample points.
These averages become the resting value. If the average deviates
from this value, the system recognizes the behavior as a detection
caused by a metallic object passing through one of the coils. Noise
is still a factor, even with averaging, which to compensate a
deviation window is established, seen in FIG. 15. The ADC value may
vacillate within this window without causing a detection. If,
however, the value is great enough, the system will recognize this
situation as a detection. This deviation can either be positive
FIG. 16 or negative FIG. 17 depending on which detection coil the
metallic object has passed through.
[0087] The detection circuitry reads any field generated by any
metallic object. This may be a metallic object passing through the
detection coils 110 or it could be an object next to the device,
defined as an interferer. Under ideal operating conditions, the
system is set so the signals within the detection coils 110 are far
greater than that of the surrounding objects. Significantly large
interferers or quantities of interferers in close proximity to the
detection coils can appear as if they were an object passing
through the detection coils and signal a false positive. To address
this issue, the system takes advantage of the difference in time
base between a proper signal and interference from the environment.
An object passing through the openings as if it were being thrown
away will have a relatively quick transient change when compared to
the signal change of the entire waste cart 10 being moved around a
room. If the cart is moved in close proximity to a large
interferer, the control system will recognize a change in ADC value
and signal a detection. As the ADC value remains the same, the
system will recognize this value as most likely an interferer and
adjust its threshold value to establish a new reference value with
a proper window as shown in FIG. 18. In FIG. 18 the solid grey line
represents the previous characteristic ADC response. The dashed
grey line represents the characteristic signal when the cart is
placed next to an interferer. The detection window is adjusted by
the system to compensate for the change in environmental
response.
[0088] There are instances where an interferer may be too close or
too powerful of a response that the signal reaches the limits of
the ADC and the signal becomes clipped FIG. 19. This clipping is
unavoidable since the ADC can only operate within physical limits
of the chip. In the case illustrated in FIG. 19, any further
deflection of the curve will not be seen by S1 or S2 since they are
within the clipped region. The signal at S3 however, still retains
some of its ability to detect changes and can therefore still
detect certain larger objects passing through the coils. If the
cart ends up in a situation where it is not able to perform
properly it will let out a cycling tone to let the user know it is
not able to operate correctly, 150 and 159.
[0089] Perpendicular Coils
[0090] The current coil arrangement places the coils in a plane
parallel to the ground. In this orientation, the detection
circuitry and coils are more sensitive to metallic objects both
above (towards the ceiling) and below (towards the floor) the
coils. To help reduce the influence of interferers, a second set of
coils, disposed perpendicular to the coils parallel to the ground
(FIGS. 23 and 24) can be activated. The overlap between the two
operational sets of coils acts to define the region of most
sensitive detection. The theory was tested via setting a commercial
coil based metal detector product in this arrangement. The detector
was not sensitive to metallic objects in the floor or ceiling but
possessed a higher sensitivity to metallic objects about the
circumference of the main detector coils. In one embodiment of the
present invention, both sets of coils operate in alternate turns of
detection. A logic scheme was constructed that coordinates the
detection of both sets of coils, effectively narrowing the
detection space to an optimal size.
[0091] Cart Movement Sensing
[0092] A metal detector relies on the disturbances of electrical
fields to determine if a metallic object is present or not within
its field of detection. This operation makes it nearly impossible
to distinguish between a metallic object being moved into the field
or if the field is being moved into close proximity of the
detector. This situation is pertinent to the current device in that
if the device is moved into close proximity to a metallic object,
say a table or cabinet, the detector will register this object as a
detected object and signal detection. This detection is undesirable
in that the waste cart 10 is intended to detect objects passing
into the field surrounding each opening 56,57 at the top of the
cart. A detection resulting from the waste cart being moved into
close proximity of a metallic object would be viewed as a false
detection and appear as an error in the cart. To address this
issue, methods have been implemented to disable the detection
function while the cart is in motion.
[0093] One of the methods for disabling the alarm while the cart is
in motion is by means of an accelerometer 83. The accelerometer
causes disablement of the detection and/or notification while the
cart is being moved from one location to another. It has been
assumed that while the cart is being moved, there is a small
likelihood of a user passing an article of waste through the
detection field. Assuming this is the case, since the sensor will
disable the detection and/or notification while in motion, it will
not be apparent to the user if they move the cart into close
proximity to a metallic object thus causing the circuitry to
register a detection as it was a false detection to begin with.
[0094] Another method for detecting motion of the cart is with a
downward facing optical detector or motion camera 82. This detector
registers the surface of the floor. If the cart is moved, the
detector will disable the detection and/or notification until the
cart has stopped moving and the detector recalibrates to the new
environment. The detection preferably would be disabled while the
cart is in motion and would also be disabled during the calibration
once it has stopped.
[0095] Either method is able to disable the detection and/or
notification while the cart is in motion. However this is
accomplished, it has been identified that it may be advantageous to
signal the user that the cart is in motion and any articles passing
through the cart will not be detected and/or noticed. This
signaling of the user can be visual or auditory.
[0096] Cart Cross Talk
[0097] In one embodiment of the present invention, two waste carts
10 exist in a relatively close proximity to one another. When this
occurs, each cart has the ability to create a false detection on
the other cart. Methods for dealing with this cross talk have been
explored. As described earlier, each cart accomplishes metal
detection by creating a magnetic field by applying an electrical
current through a wire loop for a short amount of time. Once, the
current is shut off, the cart records the magnetic fields of any
metallic objects within proximity to the cart. This scheme happens
in a cyclic fashion at a set frequency. If two carts are placed in
close proximity of each other, the likelihood of the detection
cycles overlapping is small as the detection cycle is a small
percentage of the frequency period. As systems are not perfect, the
frequency on one cart will be slightly off from the other cart.
This will cause the detection point in one cart to drift in
relation to the other cart. If one cart happens to be recording the
magnetic field of the surroundings looking for metallic objects
when the other cart is creating a magnetic field, a detection will
be recorded on the first cart. It is thus imperative that the
detection period for each cart is kept away from the detection
period of the other cart.
[0098] The most basic method at achieving interval spacing has been
utilizing the 60 Hz AC wall power signal to acts as a clock for all
of the systems. There are generally three phases of power that
enter a building. Each of the phases is 120 degrees out of phase
with the next. The carts could use the AC wall frequency to set
when the signaling and detecting phases occur and not interfere
with other carts (shown schematically in FIG. 27).
[0099] A more complex method of detection spacing involves the
carts being able to communicate with other carts nearby. Through a
wireless protocol, a cart would be designated as a master cart 170
charged with setting the detecting timing for any carts (slave
carts, 175) within distance of the master cart 170 (shown
schematically in FIG. 26). With the detection timing set and
actively monitored, there would be less chance of false detections
due to cross talk.
[0100] Power Line Filtering
[0101] The installation wiring and associated electrical equipment
result in a relatively noisy environment for the metal detectors to
operate in. To combat this issue, the frequencies of the power
lines have been selectively filtered out. This allows for more
consistent operation across multiple environments.
[0102] Isolation of Detection and Power Circuitry
[0103] When powered from installation wiring, the unfiltered power
causes noise in the detection system. To help compensate for this
noise, the detection circuitry and power handling circuitry is
electrically separated. This results in higher achievable accuracy
and less false detection.
[0104] RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification)
[0105] It was determined through operational studies that it would
be advantageous for the carts to be able to track items with
attached RFID tags. This would allow for the carts to detect and
track items which may not be metallic. To accomplish this, the
carts are fitted with an RFID antenna and detection circuitry 125
(FIG. 28). As an RFID tagged item passes through the opening, the
RFID circuitry energizes the tag. The tag broadcasts the
information on the tag. The RFID circuitry 125 detects the
broadcasted information and is able to register that the item has
passed through the opening and into the waste bag.
[0106] The invention described herein also includes any method of
using the waste cart/medical waste disposal system to detect
metallic objects and/or prevent the loss of equipment and
supplies.
[0107] Any method described herein may incorporate any design
element contained within this application and any other
document/application incorporated by reference herein.
[0108] In one embodiment of the present invention, the waste cart
10 is intended to be used in the operating room after a surgery has
been conducted and the patient has been removed from the room. It
has been determined that valuable equipment is being accidentally
and/or inadvertently thrown away during the clean up after a
medical procedure. This loss is accidental wherein equipment
becomes lost with the medical drapery used in a medical procedure
and is not found by the time the drapes have been thrown away. The
waste cart 10 has been designed to help mitigate the loss from this
modality.
[0109] In another embodiment of the present invention, the waste
cart 10 is intended to be used within any environment where
valuable items are thrown away which have a metallic component
capable of being detected by a waste cart as described herein.
Those environments include, but are not limited to, machine shops,
automobile garages, assembly plants, laboratories, manufacturing
plants, and similar facilities.
[0110] In one embodiment, the waste cart 10 is fit with two waste
bags 64 about the two openings 56,57 on the cart. A bag 64 is
passed over the two bag supports 61 at the corners of one of the
half circle openings 56,57. The bag 64 is pulled taught, twisted
near one of the outer perimeter bag retainers 63 and pressed into
the bag retainer. The waste cart 10 will be used as a standard
waste receptacle prior to and during a procedure. At the conclusion
of a procedure, the patient is removed from the room and the
cleanup commences. Once the patient has been removed the waste cart
10 is positioned for ease of use. The cart is then turned on via
the power switch 80 (i.e., kick switch). A visual indicator (not
illustrated) on the sides of the cart will illuminate when on to
signal to the user that the cart is ready to receive waste. The
cart is then ready to detect metallic objects passing through it.
To the user this appears instantaneous, not requiring a long
calibration period prior to use. Waste is placed into the openings
56,57 of the cart as it would be a normal waste receptacle. If a
metallic object passes through the opening 56,57 then an audible
tone will be played through the speaker 67 and the visual
indicators 65 on the top housing 50 of the cart will light up.
After all waste has been disposed of or when a bag 64 has been
filled, the technician removes the bag from the bag retainer 63 on
the side of the top housing 50 and pulls the full bag from the side
of the cart. A fresh bag can be replaced if desired or necessary.
The waste cart 10 is wiped down to clean any foreign matter from
its surface and turned off. If the waste cart 10 is not turned off,
it will automatically turn off if left without a detection for 15
minutes. A retractable power cord can be extended to reach the
nearest power receptacle for charging of the internal battery.
[0111] In another embodiment, the present invention includes a
method for detecting metallic objects as they pass through a waste
cart 10 including the steps of: [0112] (a) providing the waste cart
10 comprising a base housing 20, a center upright body 40 which has
a proximal end 42 and a distal end 44, the proximal end 42 being
secured to the base housing 20, a top housing 50 secured to the
distal end 44 of the center upright 40, wherein the top housing 50
has two or more disposal openings 56,57 for two or more separate
disposal portions comprising, a first waste portion 70 for waste
other than sharps which has a first metal detector 71 and an
indicator system for providing a notification when a metal item
passes through the opening 57, and a second waste portion 75 which
optionally includes a second metal detector 76 and an indicator
system for providing a notification when a metal item passes
through the other opening 56, an electronics module 90 which
operates each metal detector independently of one another and an
alarm indicator 65,67 operationally associated with the electronics
module 90 which is activated whenever the electronics module 90
detects the passage of a piece of metal through one or more of the
waste openings 56,57; [0113] (b) activating the electronics module
90 and metal detectors 71,76; [0114] (c) collecting waste generated
during a procedure by placing the waste through the disposal
openings into either the first or second waste portions 70,75;
[0115] (d) activating the alarm indicator in the event that one of
the metal detectors indicates the passage of a metallic object
though a detection field; [0116] (e) retrieving the metallic object
from the first or second waste portions 70,75; and [0117] (f)
repeating steps (b) through (e) until the desired waste is
collected.
[0118] In one embodiment, the waste disposal system used in the
above method may be configured wherein the coils are set up in
either a constant wave (CW) configuration or a pulse induction (Pl)
configuration. In another embodiment, the waste disposal system
used in the above method utilizes a quadrapole arrangement, wherein
a single transmit coil 100 encircles both the first waste opening
56 and the second waste opening 57 and a first receive coil is set
to detect metal and a second coil is set to cancel external
effects. In still another embodiment, the above waste disposal
system used in the above method further includes a blocking shield
to help isolate one region magnetically from another. The blocking
shield is comprised of Mu-metal.
[0119] Regarding step (c) of the method described herein, a
"procedure" encompasses a variety to tasks including a medical or
surgical procedure, the manufacture of a device or component, the
assembly of a device or component, the repair of a device or
component, or any other activity within any environment where
valuable items have a metallic component capable of being detected
by a waste cart as described herein.
[0120] In describing the invention, it will be understood that a
number of techniques and steps are disclosed. Each of these has
individual benefit and each can also be used in conjunction with
one or more, or in some cases all, of the other disclosed
techniques. Accordingly, for the sake of clarity, this description
will refrain from repeating every possible combination of the
individual steps in an unnecessary fashion. Nevertheless, the
specification and claims should be read with the understanding that
such combinations are entirely within the scope of the invention
and the claims.
[0121] The present invention may be embodied in other forms without
departing from the spirit and the essential attributes thereof,
and, accordingly, reference should be made to the appended claims,
rather than to the foregoing specification, as indicating the scope
of the invention. The invention illustratively discloses herein
suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element which is
not specifically disclosed herein.
* * * * *