U.S. patent application number 17/401883 was filed with the patent office on 2022-02-17 for system and method of providing a wireless unlocking system for a group of battery-powered storage devices.
The applicant listed for this patent is BIG BELLY SOLAR LLC. Invention is credited to Nisha Khand, Thomas Richard Olsen, Jeffrey Thomas Satwicz, Ethan Matthew Schwartz, David John Skocypec.
Application Number | 20220051502 17/401883 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005825515 |
Filed Date | 2022-02-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220051502 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Schwartz; Ethan Matthew ; et
al. |
February 17, 2022 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PROVIDING A WIRELESS UNLOCKING SYSTEM FOR A
GROUP OF BATTERY-POWERED STORAGE DEVICES
Abstract
A pair of devices includes a first device and a second device
that communicate lock control signals. The first device can have
both a reader component and a control module that controls both (1)
a first operation of the first device (such as a sensor control)
and (2) a first locking component of the first device for accessing
a first door of the first device. A second device can be in
communication with the first device. The second device can have a
second locking component for the second device for accessing a
second door of the second device. The second device in one aspect
does not having a reader component or a control module that
independently controls the second locking component.
Inventors: |
Schwartz; Ethan Matthew;
(Sharon, MA) ; Olsen; Thomas Richard; (Natick,
MA) ; Khand; Nisha; (Malden, MA) ; Satwicz;
Jeffrey Thomas; (Winchester, MA) ; Skocypec; David
John; (Medfield, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BIG BELLY SOLAR LLC |
Needham |
MA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005825515 |
Appl. No.: |
17/401883 |
Filed: |
August 13, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
63066471 |
Aug 17, 2020 |
|
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|
63065747 |
Aug 14, 2020 |
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63066474 |
Aug 17, 2020 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06K 7/10297 20130101;
G06K 7/10366 20130101; G07C 9/29 20200101 |
International
Class: |
G07C 9/29 20060101
G07C009/29; G06K 7/10 20060101 G06K007/10 |
Claims
1. A pair of storage devices comprising: a first storage device
having a first battery storing energy for operating the first
storage device, a first control module powered by the first
battery, a first sensor component controlled by the first control
module and powered by the first battery, a first locking mechanism
and a first reader component; and a second storage device having a
second battery storing energy for operating the second storage
device, a second control module powered by the second battery, a
second sensor component controlled by the second control module and
powered by the second battery, a second locking mechanism and a
second reader component, wherein the first control module is in
communication with the second control module, wherein one of the
first reader component or the second reader component enables both
the first locking mechanism and the second locking mechanism.
2. The pair of storage devices of claim 1, wherein a wireless
communication link enables communication between the first control
module and the second control module.
3. The pair of storage devices of claim 1, wherein the first reader
component and the second reader component each comprise one of an
RFID reader, a near-field communication component, a Bluetooth
reader component, a gesture sensing or detecting component, a
facial recognition component, a bio-metric reader, a
touch-sensitive display, a keypad, a multi-modal input component,
and a motion detection component.
4. The pair of storage devices of claim 1, wherein one of the first
control module and the second control module stores additional
instructions to adjust a temporary period of time, based on a
battery power level that a door is unlocked.
5. The pair of storage devices of claim 1, wherein the first
control module causes the first reader component to function at
certain periods of time when a battery power level is below a
threshold.
6. The pair of storage devices of claim 1, wherein at least one of
the first control module and the second control module stores a
listing of authorized external entities that can unlock at least
one of the first storage device and the second storage device.
7. The pair of storage devices of claim 1, wherein at least one of
the first control module and the second control module stores a
listing of black-listed external entities that cannot unlock at
least one of the first storage device and the second storage
device.
8. The pair of storage devices of claim 1, wherein one of the first
storage device and the second storage device will unlock and remain
unlocked when a respective low battery condition exists.
9. The pair of storage devices of claim 1, wherein an external
entity that interacts with the first reader component will only be
able to unlock one of the first storage device or the second
storage device if the first storage device or the second storage
device is respectively deemed ready for a collection or needs
service.
10. The pair of storage devices of claim 1, wherein an external
entity that interacts with the first reader component will only
unlock the device during specific hours of a day.
11. The pair of storage devices of claim 1, further comprising: a
first separate service compartment on the first storage device that
is accessible only to authorized external entities.
12. The pair of storage devices of claim 1, wherein the first
storage device operates the first locking mechanism directly off of
a solar panel when battery failure occurs.
13. A pair of devices comprising: a first device, the first device
having a battery, a first reader component and a first control
module that controls both (1) a first operation of the first device
and (2) a first locking component of the first device for accessing
a first door of the first device; and a second device in
communication with the first device, the second device having a
second locking component for the second device for accessing a
second door of the second device, the second device not having a
reader component operating with a control module that controls the
second locking component, wherein access to the first device and
the second device are both controlled by use of the first reader
component and the first control module on the first device such
that the first device and the second device can be unlocked
simultaneously, one at a time, or individually based on access
rules implemented by the first control module.
14. A method comprising: receiving identification information from
an external entity via a reader component on a first storage
device, wherein the reader component is connected to a control
module that manages at least one component in the in the first
storage device and wherein the control module also controls a first
locking mechanism that controls access to the first storage device
and a second locking mechanism configured on a second storage
device, the second locking mechanisms controlling access to the
second storage device; determining that a user associated with the
identification information is authorized to access one of the first
storage device or the second storage device based on a
locally-stored authorization list; and unlocking one of the first
locking mechanism on the first storage device and the second
locking mechanism on the second storage device.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the second storage device does
not comprise a second-device reader component.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein the locally-stored
authorization list is stored at the first storage device and
wherein the locally-stored authorization list provides
authorization information on one or more of a per-device, per user,
per group of devices, per time, or per unlocking need basis.
17. The method of claim 14, further comprising: receiving, from a
remote server, the locally-stored authorization list.
18. The method of claim 14, wherein the locally-stored
authorization list further defines timing information regarding
when at least one of the first storage device and the second
storage device are eligible to be unlocked.
19. The method of claim 14, wherein the control module stores
access rules and control instructions that can cause the first
locking mechanism and the second locking mechanism to open
simultaneously, independently, or in a sequence.
20. The method of claim 14, further comprising: registering the
second storage device with the first storage device to enable
management of the second locking mechanism by the control module of
the first storage device.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present disclosure is related to Provisional Application
No. 63/066,471, filed Aug. 17, 2020 (Docket No. S027-7059US2), and
Provisional Application No. 63/065,747, filed Aug. 14, 2020 (Docket
No. S027-7059US0), and Provisional Application No. 63/066,474,
filed Aug. 17, 2020 (Docket No. S027-7059US3) and each of which are
incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure introduces a group of battery-powered
devices that each include a control module that manages the
operation of the compactor and includes within the control module
the coding and functionality to manage a locking mechanism. A user
can provide identification information via a reader on one of the
devices and unlock any of the devise in the group of devices.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Trash containers are distributed in various communities to
enable people to dispose of waste. These containers have a number
of different structures and different functions. Generally
speaking, many trash containers are locked by a locking mechanism
that prevents individuals from accessing the trash bin or other
internal components configured inside the trash containers. A
locking mechanism is typically associated with a door on the trash
container. The locking mechanism is often opened by a single key
configuration. Keys that are the same can be distributed to people
with authority to access the trash container. One problem with this
approach is that if any unauthorized individual finds one of the
keys, that person can open any trash container as the same key
opens up numerous trash containers. Assume an unauthorized person
gains access to a trash container. If the trash container is
monitoring access to the interior of the unit, it may report access
by an individual to a central server. If the access does not
involve a maintenance person emptying a trash bin but perhaps the
unauthorized person is looking for bottles or cans, the servicing
schedule for that trash container can be compromised and can
thereby become much less efficient. The data related to the access
incident will lead to inaccurate historical data for operation of
the particular unit.
[0004] In another example, each trash container or a group of trash
containers can have respective dedicated unique keys capable of
opening the trash container. One problem with this approach is that
it increases the complexity of managing and distributing the proper
unique key to open a respective trash container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] In order to describe the manner in which the various
advantages and features of the disclosure can be obtained, a more
particular description of the principles described above will be
rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are
illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these
drawings depict only example embodiments of the disclosure and are
not to be considered to limit its scope, the principles herein are
described and explained with additional specificity and detail
through the use of the drawings in which:
[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates an example system embodiment;
[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates an example architecture for remotely
controlling electrically-powered compactors or other publically
available object;
[0008] FIG. 3 illustrates an example storage device;
[0009] FIG. 4 illustrates the locking system of a storage
device;
[0010] FIG. 5 illustrates a grouping of storage devices that
coordinate locking functionality;
[0011] FIG. 6 illustrates a method embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 7 illustrates a remote server communicating with one or
more local devices;
[0013] FIG. 8 illustrates another method embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 9 illustrates yet another method embodiment;
[0015] FIG. 10 illustrates another method embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 11 illustrates a method embodiment related to a pair of
devices;
[0017] FIG. 12 illustrates a method related to remote server
control of locking operations of devices; and
[0018] FIG. 13 illustrates another method of using a remote server
to manage locking operations for one or more devices.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] Certain aspects and embodiments of this disclosure are
provided below. Some of these aspects and embodiments may be
applied independently and some of them may be applied in
combination as would be apparent to those of skill in the art. In
the following description, for the purposes of explanation,
specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough
understanding of embodiments of the application. However, it will
be apparent that various embodiments may be practiced without these
specific details. The figures and description are not intended to
be restrictive.
[0020] The ensuing description provides example embodiments only,
and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or
configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of
the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art
with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary
embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may be
made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing
from the spirit and scope of the application as set forth in the
appended claims.
Overview
[0021] The present disclosure introduces a new system or structure
that can be used to enable access to the interior of a trash
container, a trash compactor, a storage device, or some other
object. Examples provided herein can be in the context of a trash
compactor but unless specifically required, such as in a claim,
such references are meant to be broader in terms of any container
that includes a control module that controls storage device
functions and that is programmed to include the locking management
functionality. This disclosure provides an improved access control
system for servicing and collection of items in a storage
container. The solution solves the various problems outlined above
related to keys and how they can be used to govern or manage access
to the storage containers. Indeed, with the solution provided
herein, no physical keys are necessary and the process of managing
who is authorized to access a storage device with a mobile phone,
RFID card, or other means is simplified.
[0022] There are various embodiments or examples shown. Any feature
from any example can be mixed with any other feature of an example
or embodiment. One aspect disclosed herein covers a single device
that communicates with a remote server and that has a control
module for managing a locking mechanism on the single device.
Various aspects of data communication and locking management are
addressed in this first aspect.
[0023] Another aspect relates to a plurality of devices and how
they work together to control and manage respective locking
mechanisms. For example, a pair of devices might include a first
device that has a reader and a control module and the second device
is "dumb" in that it does not have these hardware components but
has its locking operations controlled by the first device. The
second device can have a control module but not a control module
that is configured with all the functionality to authorize a user
via a reader component on the second device. A user can then
utilize a device or some kind of input to authenticate themselves
with the reader on the first device and one or more of the
respective control modules and locking mechanisms on each device of
the pair of devices (or three or more devices) can coordinate and
unlock any of the devices. In this manner, only one of the devices
will need the reader component that reduces the overall cost of the
group of devices.
[0024] In yet another example disclosed herein, a remote server
includes management software for managing a plurality of local
devices and/or groups of devices and provides such data as
authorization lists, blacklists, master keys, and so forth to
centrally manage the locking procedures and operations for
individual or groups of devices remotely. These and other ideas are
developed herein generally under the theme of managing the locking
and unlocking control of devices, including, but not limited, to
storage devices and battery-powered devices.
[0025] In one example embodiment, a storage device such as a trash
compactor can be a solar-powered trash compactor that includes a
solar panel, a battery, a control module, and a locking mechanism
in connection with a door. The control module in the solar-powered
trash compactor controls the operational and functional aspects of
the trash compactor. For example, the control module can manage a
compaction cycle based on battery power and may shut down some
functionality of the trash compactor upon determining that the
battery level is below a threshold. As disclosed herein, this
disclosure focuses on the locking operation of the storage device
and can include, as managed by the control module, also adjusting
the locking functionality based on battery power.
[0026] The service provided herein with respect to locking control
can be enabled on a subscription basis. For example, clients who
use storage devices with the access control systems disclosed
herein may pay a subscription fee to utilize or activate the access
control capability.
[0027] In the trash containers described in the Introduction above,
the weaknesses in the previous approaches include the locking
mechanisms being configured to either be opened or unlocked via a
general key which can work on any trash compactor or dedicated key
for a respective trash compactor or a group of trash compactors.
The locking mechanism is typically mechanical in nature and simply
unlocks a door or access panel to the interior of the trash
compactor when the appropriate key is used. As noted above, the use
of physical keys can be problematic for a number of different
reasons. The disclosure herein presents a new locking mechanism and
system that includes a locking component that is in electronic
communication with the control module of the solar-powered storage
device. The locking functions in this disclosure are managed via
program code that is added to the existing control module for the
solar-powered storage device. Adding locking control functionality
to the control module of a solar-powered storage device represents
a novel approach to managing access to the interior of the storage
device. Previously, the locking mechanism was independent of any
control module and fully contained in the mechanical structure of
the lock itself.
[0028] The new locking mechanism disclosed herein, in one example,
can include an electronic component such as a near field
communication component or a radio frequency identification
component. The locking mechanism is controlled or managed by the
control module in the solar-powered storage device. The locking
mechanism can include a lock itself and an electronic reader
component. The electronic reader component can interact with an
RFID (radio-frequency identification) card or a mobile device and
thereby receive identification information for the individual that
desires to gain access, as instructed by the control module, to the
interior of the solar-powered storage device. The control module of
the solar-powered storage device can include a listing of
individuals that are authorized to gain access to the interior of
the solar-powered storage device. Thus, a maintenance person with
the appropriate authorization can utilize a mobile phone, an RFID
card, bio-metric data such as a fingerprint or faceprint, or some
other mechanism to interact with the electronic reader component to
cause the locking mechanism to unlock and thus to gain access. The
control module of the solar-powered storage device can then confirm
whether the individual is authorized to gain access to the interior
of the unit. If no, then the electronic locking mechanism does not
unlock. If the individual is authorized to gain access, that the
electronic locking mechanism unlocks and enables the user to gain
access to the interior of the solar-powered storage device.
[0029] In another aspect, a magnet can be configured in connection
with an access door. The magnet can be configured to hold the door
in a closed position even when the electronic locking mechanism is
in an unlocked state or unlocked position. The magnet thereby
requires the person seeking access to pull on the access door to
gain access to the interior. The magnet can prevent accidental
opening of the door in case an inadvertent triggering of the
electronic locking mechanism occurs, such as when a maintenance
person might be walking by the solar-powered trash compactor and
their mobile phone is near enough to the electronic locking
component to unlock the lock.
[0030] In one example, a storage device (such as a solar-powered
trash compactor or a battery-powered storage device) can include a
processor, a storage bin configured within the storage device, a
solar panel (optionally), a battery that stores energy, a sensor
component that senses items in the storage bin, an electronic
locking mechanism that enables access to an interior portion of the
storage device and a control module in control communication with
the electronic locking mechanism. The control module, when executed
by the processor as powered by the battery or when providing
instructions to the processor, manages the sensor component and is
in communication with the electronic locking mechanism. The
electronic locking mechanism can be powered by the battery. A
reader component can be in communication with the control module.
The reader component can be powered by the battery and can
communicate with or receive signals or data from an external entity
to obtain authorization to unlock the storage device via the
electronic locking mechanism.
[0031] The system can track each user's access and store the
information locally and then transmit the information to a central
or network-based server to coordinate, aggregate and/or report such
data.
[0032] In one aspect, the storage device can include a processor, a
storage bin configured within the storage device, a battery that
stores energy for operation of the storage device, a sensing
component that determines a fullness level of the storage bin or
some other characteristic of the storage bin and an electronic
locking mechanism that enables access to an interior portion of the
device. A control module can have instructions (stored in a memory)
which, when executed by the processor, manages various functions
operational in the storage device including the sensing component.
The control module can be in communication with the electronic
locking mechanism. A reader component can communicate with an
external entity to obtain access authorization request information.
The control module can allow or deny access to the device based on
stored authorization allowances or an authorization list of users
obtained from a remote server.
[0033] An example method can include receiving identification
information via an external entity from a reader component on a
battery-powered storage device. The reader component can be
connected to a control module that manages compaction using a
compactor component or some other component in the battery-powered
storage device and the control module can control an electronic
locking mechanism. Based on the identification information, via the
control module, the method can include unlocking the electronic
locking mechanism in the battery-powered storage device.
[0034] In another example, a group of two or more devices can be in
communication with each other to enable an authorization step and
an unlocking step to occur within the group but not necessarily all
on the same device. One of the devices can include a reader
component and a control module having unlocking and locking
functionality. The other device or devices in a group may not have
a reader component or the control module having the locking and
unlocking control functions and take instructions from the device
having these components.
[0035] A pair of devices can include a first device and a second
device that communicate lock control signals. The first device can
have both a reader component and a control module that controls
both (1) a first operation of the first device (such as a sensor
control or compaction control) and (2) a first locking component of
the first device for accessing a first door of the first device. A
second device can be in communication with the first device. The
second device can have a second locking component for the second
device for accessing a second door of the second device. The second
device in one aspect does not having a reader component.
[0036] The devices can be storage devices, mailboxes, lamp posts,
solar-powered devices, trash compactors, or a combination of
different types of devices. In another example related to a pair of
compaction devices, the pair of devices can include a first storage
device having a first solar panel, a first battery connected to the
first solar panel, a first control module powered by the first
battery, a first compaction component controlled by the first
control module and powered by the first battery, a first electronic
locking mechanism and a first reader component and a second storage
device. The second storage device can include a second solar panel,
a second battery connected to the second solar panel, a second
control module powered by the second battery, a second compaction
component controlled by the second control module and powered by
the second battery, a second electronic locking mechanism and a
second reader component. The first control module can be in
communication with the second control module. One of the first
reader component or the second reader component can enable one or
both the first electronic locking mechanism and the second
electronic locking mechanism.
[0037] An example of a central or remote control system for
managing locking operations for a plurality of local devices can be
as follows. A system can include a processor and a
computer-readable storage device storing instructions which, when
executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform
operations. The operations can include receiving an identification
of a local device having a control module that manages a reader
component and a locking mechanism and transmitting an authorization
list to the local device that identifies authorized users that can
gain access to the local device via the locking mechanism through
interacting with the reader component. The control module on the
local device can manage multiple functions of the local device
including management of the reader component and the locking
mechanism. The system can also remotely control and manage
authorizations to access groups of devices in which one device in a
respective group includes the necessary hardware components and
control module functionality to enable a user to be authenticated
by interacting with one device in the group but have access to
unlock a door on any of the devices in the group.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] This disclosure now provides more details with respect to
the locking system for storage devices as disclosed herein. While
solar-powered trash compactors are discussed as an example device,
other solar-powered or battery-powered storage devices could also
have the electronic locking mechanism connected to a control
module. For example, a FedEx.RTM. package device that stores
packages to be picked up and delivered by a carrier can be
solar-powered and include a control module that can be upgraded to
include locking control functionality. Mailboxes or other storage
containers can also be updated to include the concepts disclosed
herein. Other devices could include the locking functionality as
well, such as safes, vehicles, buildings, and so forth. Therefore,
unless specifically required, any reference to a solar-powered
trash compactor, a storage device, storage device, a
battery-powered device, or other term is meant to have the broader
interpretation to encompass systems beyond just solar-powered trash
compactors. The system disclosed improves the ability to control
access authorization for individuals who can unlock a storage
device and gain access to the interior for various purposes. The
disclosure now turns to FIG. 1.
[0039] With reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary system and/or
computing device 100 includes a processing unit (CPU or processor)
120 and a system bus 110 that couples various system components
including the system memory 130 such as read only memory (ROM) 140
and random access memory (RAM) 150 to the processor 120. The
computer components disclosed in FIG. 1 can be used in connection
with any device, control system, control module, locking system or
any other computer-related component disclosed herein in connection
with the functional control of a storage device or access to other
devices, buildings, and so forth. The system 100 can include a
cache 122 of high-speed memory connected directly with, in close
proximity to, or integrated as part of the processor 120. The
system 100 copies data from the memory 130 and/or the storage
device 160 to the cache 122 for quick access by the processor 120.
In this way, the cache provides a performance boost that avoids
processor 120 delays while waiting for data. These and other
modules can control or be configured to control the processor 120
to perform various operations or actions. Other system memory 130
may be available for use as well. The memory 130 can include
multiple different types of memory with different performance
characteristics. It can be appreciated that the disclosure may
operate on a computing device 100 with more than one processor 120
or on a group or cluster of computing devices networked together to
provide greater processing capability. The processor 120 can
include any general purpose processor and a hardware module or
software module, such as module 1 162, module 2 164, and module 3
166 stored in storage device 160, configured to control the
processor 120 as well as a special-purpose processor where software
instructions are incorporated into the processor. The processor 120
may be a self-contained computing system, containing multiple cores
or processors, a bus, memory controller, cache, etc. A multi-core
processor may be symmetric or asymmetric. The processor 120 can
include multiple processors, such as a system having multiple,
physically separate processors in different sockets, or a system
having multiple processor cores on a single physical chip.
Similarly, the processor 120 can include multiple distributed
processors located in multiple separate computing devices, but
working together such as via a communications network. Multiple
processors or processor cores can share resources such as memory
130 or the cache 122, or can operate using independent resources.
The processor 120 can include one or more of a state machine, an
application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a programmable
gate array (PGA) including a field PGA.
[0040] The system bus 110 may be any of several types of bus
structures including a memory bus or memory controller, a
peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of bus
architectures. A basic input/output (BIOS) stored in ROM 140 or the
like, may provide the basic routine that helps to transfer
information between elements within the computing device 100, such
as during start-up. The computing device 100 further includes
storage devices 160 or computer-readable storage media such as a
hard disk drive, a magnetic disk drive, an optical disk drive, tape
drive, solid-state drive, RAM drive, removable storage devices, a
redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID), hybrid storage device,
or the like. The storage device 160 can include software modules
162, 164, 166 for controlling the processor 120. The system 100 can
include other hardware or software modules. The storage device 160
is connected to the system bus 110 by a drive interface. The drives
and the associated computer-readable storage devices provide
nonvolatile storage of computer-readable instructions, data
structures, program modules and other data for the computing device
100. In one aspect, a hardware module that performs a particular
function includes the software component stored in a tangible
computer-readable storage device in connection with the necessary
hardware components, such as the processor 120, bus 110, display
170, and so forth, to carry out a particular function. In another
aspect, the system can use a processor and computer-readable
storage device to store instructions which, when executed by the
processor, cause the processor to perform operations, a method or
other specific actions. The basic components and appropriate
variations can be modified depending on the type of device, such as
whether the device 100 is a small, handheld computing device, a
desktop computer, or a computer server. When the processor 120
executes instructions to perform "operations", the processor 120
can perform the operations directly and/or facilitate, direct, or
cooperate with another device or component to perform the
operations.
[0041] Although the exemplary embodiment(s) described herein
employs the hard disk 160, other types of computer-readable storage
devices which can store data that are accessible by a computer,
such as magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, digital versatile
disks (DVDs), cartridges, random access memories (RAMs) 150, read
only memory (ROM) 140, a cable containing a bit stream and the
like, may also be used in the exemplary operating environment.
Tangible computer-readable storage media, computer-readable storage
devices, or computer-readable memory devices, expressly exclude
media such as transitory waves, energy, carrier signals,
electromagnetic waves, and signals per se.
[0042] To enable user interaction with the computing device 100, an
input device 190 represents any number of input mechanisms, such as
a microphone for speech, a touch-sensitive screen for gesture or
graphical input, keyboard, mouse, motion input, speech, RFID card
input, fingerprint or faceprint input or any biometric input,
near-field communication component, multi-modal input, gesture
input, Bluetooth protocol input, multi-modal input sensor, motion
sensor input, and so forth. In one example, the input device 190
can include the various devices or components described herein that
can be configured on a storage device and that can receive
identification information associated with an individual that wants
to unlock the storage device.
[0043] An output device 170 can also be one or more of a number of
output mechanisms known to those of skill in the art. In some
instances, multimodal systems enable a user to provide multiple
types of input to communicate with the computing device 100. The
communications interface 180 generally governs and manages the user
input and system output. There is no restriction on operating on
any particular hardware arrangement and therefore the basic
hardware depicted may easily be substituted for improved hardware
or firmware arrangements as they are developed.
[0044] For clarity of explanation, the illustrative system
embodiment is presented as including individual functional blocks
including functional blocks labeled as a "processor" or processor
120. The functions these blocks represent may be provided through
the use of either shared or dedicated hardware, including, but not
limited to, hardware capable of executing software and hardware,
such as a processor 120, that is purpose-built to operate as an
equivalent to software executing on a general purpose processor.
For example the functions of one or more processors presented in
FIG. 1 may be provided by a single shared processor or multiple
processors. (Use of the term "processor" should not be construed to
refer exclusively to hardware capable of executing software.)
Illustrative embodiments may include microprocessor and/or digital
signal processor (DSP) hardware, read-only memory (ROM) 140 for
storing software performing the operations described below, and
random access memory (RAM) 150 for storing results. Very large
scale integration (VLSI) hardware embodiments, as well as custom
VLSI circuitry in combination with a general purpose DSP circuit,
may also be provided.
[0045] The logical operations of the various embodiments are
implemented as: (1) a sequence of computer implemented steps,
operations, or procedures running on a programmable circuit within
a general use computer, (2) a sequence of computer implemented
steps, operations, or procedures running on a specific-use
programmable circuit; and/or (3) interconnected machine modules or
program engines within the programmable circuits. The system 100
shown in FIG. 1 can practice all or part of the recited methods,
can be a part of the recited systems, and/or can operate according
to instructions in the recited tangible computer-readable storage
devices. Such logical operations can be implemented as modules
configured to control the processor 120 to perform particular
functions according to the programming of the module. For example,
FIG. 1 illustrates three modules Mod1 162, Mod2 164 and Mod3 166
which are modules configured to control the processor 120. These
modules may be stored on the storage device 160 and loaded into RAM
150 or memory 130 at runtime or may be stored in other
computer-readable memory locations.
[0046] One or more parts of the example computing device 100, up to
and including the entire computing device 100, can be virtualized.
For example, a virtual processor can be a software object that
executes according to a particular instruction set, even when a
physical processor of the same type as the virtual processor is
unavailable. A virtualization layer or a virtual "host" can enable
virtualized components of one or more different computing devices
or device types by translating virtualized operations to actual
operations. Ultimately however, virtualized hardware of every type
is implemented or executed by some underlying physical hardware.
Thus, a virtualization compute layer can operate on top of a
physical compute layer. The virtualization compute layer can
include one or more of a virtual machine, an overlay network, a
hypervisor, virtual switching, and any other virtualization
application.
[0047] The processor 120 can include all types of processors
disclosed herein, including a virtual processor. However, when
referring to a virtual processor, the processor 120 includes the
software components associated with executing the virtual processor
in a virtualization layer and underlying hardware necessary to
execute the virtualization layer. The system 100 can include a
physical or virtual processor 120 that receive instructions stored
in a computer-readable storage device, which cause the processor
120 to perform certain operations. When referring to a virtual
processor 120, the system also includes the underlying physical
hardware executing the virtual processor 120. The computing
components disclosed herein can apply to a storage device, a mobile
device, a network-based server that manages a fleet of storage
devices or other devices for controlling or managing access to
respective devices, even of different types.
[0048] Having disclosed some components of a computing system, the
disclosure now turns to FIG. 2, which illustrates an exemplary
architecture for controlling solar-powered storage devices such as
trash compactors both locally and remotely via a network. While a
number of different functions are disclosed with respect to a
storage device 204, this disclosure will focus on the use of the
locking system 264 and the ID sensor 266 that can sense or interact
with an ID device 268. The locking features will be developed more
fully below. Other functionality described in connection with a
control system or control module for the device 204 will highlight
that the locking mechanism or locking functionality is introduced
into the control system or control module 210 of the storage device
204. The control system 210 can control one or more of the other
functions of the storage device 204, such as the camera 224 or
temperature sensors 222G. In addition to one or more of these other
functions, the control system or control module 210 will also
include the ability to manage access to the device 204.
[0049] The storage device 204 can be a solar-powered storage device
for collecting waste, such as trash and recyclables, for example.
While a storage device 204 is illustrated, other publicly available
objects, such as light posts, stoplights, or other objects can be
similarly controlled, powered and locked or unlocked as disclosed
herein. As illustrated, the storage device 204 can be, for example,
a solar, wind, geo-thermal, or battery-powered device and/or
compactor. Preferably, the storage device 204 can recharge while in
an inactive state. Moreover, storage device 204 can include a motor
226 for performing various operations, such as compaction
operations.
[0050] Not shown in the figures is the actual structure for
compaction. However, in general, the system in FIG. 2 will include
a control system or control module 210 to utilize power in the
battery 236 to run a motor 226 that performs compaction on the
trash within a bin inside the storage device 204. Further, storage
device 204 can be remotely controlled via remote control device
(RCD) 244. The RCD can be another node in a mesh network or can be
a controlling device accessed via a network 202 which is not a
node. To this end, the storage device 204 can include transmitter
206 and receiver 208 for communicating with RCD 244 via the network
202. In particular, transmitter 206 and receiver 208 can
communicate with transmitter 240 and receiver 242 on RCD 244, and
vice versa. Here, transmitters 206 and 240 can transmit
information, and receivers 208 and 242 can receive information,
such as control information or a listing of authorized users who
can access the storage device 204. Other control information can
include a schedule for turning on the locking mechanism. This way,
the storage device 204 and RCD 244 can be connected to transmit and
receive information, such as instructions, commands, statistics,
alerts, notifications, files, software, data, and so forth. The
storage device 204 can also communicate with other devices, such as
a server and/or a collection vehicle, via transmitter 206 and
receiver 208. Similarly, RCD 244 can communicate with other
devices, such as a server and/or a user device 246, 252, via
transmitter 240 and receiver 242.
[0051] Moreover, storage device 204 and RCD 244 can communicate
with each other and/or other devices via network 202. The network
202 can include a public network, such as the Internet, but can
also include a private or quasi-private network, such as an
intranet, a home network, a virtual private network (VPN), a shared
collaboration network between separate entities, etc. Indeed, the
network 202 can include many types of networks, such as local area
networks (LANs), virtual LANs (VLANs), corporate networks, wide
area networks, a cell phone transmitter and receiver, a WiFi
network, a Bluetooth network, and virtually any other form of
network.
[0052] In one example, another storage device 272 communicates with
the storage device 204. The pair of devices 204, 272 can coordinate
the unlocking of one or more of the devices through a person using
the ID device 268 that interacts with the ID sensor or reader
component 266 on storage device 204. In other words, a kiosk or
pairing of two or more storage devices (or any other kinds of
devices) can coordinate identifying an individual and unlocking one
of the devices in the grouping. Thus, the individual can use ID
device 268 for identification by interacting with components of the
storage device 204 but it may be the second storage device 272, or
another remote device 254 that is unlocked as the devices
communicate and coordinate authorization and unlocking functions.
One or more control modules 210 on each respect device can
communicate authorizations and instructions to each other for
performing the identification step or an unlocking step in the
process. For example, the ID device 268 can interact with the ID
sensor 266 of the storage device 204. The storage device 204 can
authorize the individual. The storage device 204 can transmit via
the transceiver 270 the authorization data to a second storage
device 272. The ID sensor 266 can be positioned anywhere on the
storage device 204 where a user can interact with the ID sensor 266
using an ID device 268 as described herein. For example, the ID
sensor might be on a top surface of the storage device 204.
[0053] Instructions can be provided to unlock the second storage
device 272 using the respective locking system of the second
storage device 272. Unlocking instructions can be coordinated
across control modules of the various storage devices in the
grouping or in the pair of storage devices. In one aspect, an
application or the user interface can be presented on a user device
268 or on a display 232 which enable the user to select which
storage device to unlock or to provide other user interactions with
the system to achieve the desired results of the user. In one
aspect, the authorization data stored at the storage device 204 can
include not only an authorization of the individual but access
instructions or restrictions. For example, one user may only be
authorized to open the second storage device 272 and not the
storage device 204. Thus, individual restrictions can be enforced
in this configuration that are not possible when just using a
simple key for access.
[0054] Transmitter 206 and receiver 208 can be connected to printed
circuit board (PCB) which can be part of the control system or
control module 210, which controls various functions on device 204.
In some embodiments, the RCD 244 can be incorporated within the
PCB. In FIG. 2, the RCD 244 is electrically connected to the PCB
via transmitters 206, 240 and receivers 208, 242. The RCD 244 can
be connected to transmitter 240 and receiver 242 via a two-way
communication port, which includes transmitter 240 and receiver
242. The control system or control module 210 can control
electrical functions performed by the storage device 204, including
those focused on herein which relate to the locking and unlocking
of the storage device 204. Electrical functions can include, for
example, running compactions by actuating a motor 226; sensing
waste or recyclables volume inside the device 204 using a sensor at
regular or programmable intervals, such as a sonar-based sensor
222A, a proximity sensor, and/or photoeye sensors 222B-C; changing
status lamps 230 at regular and/or programmable thresholds to/from
a color indicating that the device 204 is not full (e.g., green),
to/from a color indicating that the device 204 is almost full
(e.g., yellow), to/from a color indicating that the device 204 is
full (e.g., red); operating a locking system 264 and an ID sensor
or ID reader 266 which communicates or receives data from an ID
device 268. For devices that are not trash compactors, other
functionality can be included, such as reports on how many packages
are in a bin for a carrier to pick up, or whether to turn a traffic
light on or off, or whether to open a door to a building, and so
forth.
[0055] The ID sensor 266 can also be characterized as an ID reader
or reader component that can interact with an ID device 268. The ID
device 268 actually represents a number of different identification
entities. The ID device 268 can represent a mobile device such as
an Apple iPhone or an Android device, a radio frequency
identification card (RFID), a fingerprint or a faceprint or other
bio-metric input, speech, a voice, a multi-modal input in which
different types of input are provided to the ID sensor 266 to
obtain authorization, and so forth. The ID sensor 266 will receive
the identification information and compare the information to a
database or listing of authorized users. The network 202 can
provide or download the listing to the storage device 204 of
authorized people including specific restrictions for each
individual so that local authorization decisions can be made. Upon
authorization, the control system or control module 210 can cause a
locking system 264 to unlock a door and provide access to the
interior of the storage device 204 to the user.
[0056] The system can track access on an individual user or
identification basis. Such data can be reported by the storage
device 204 to a remote device 252 or application 254 that can
aggregate the data. For example, a cloud software system can track
or record who accessed which device and when. Other sensor data can
be transmitted as well to the cloud system for analysis. Such data
can also be incorporated into a machine learning algorithm or
tracking system that schedules the removal of items from respective
storage devices 204. Such systems can be adjusted or modified based
on the data received related to unlocking operations. Other data
can also be coordinated with unlocking functions. For example,
sensor data from a sensor 222H can be coordinated to confirm that
trash in a bin within the storage device 204 has been removed in
connection with an unlocking operation.
[0057] When access is denied to the storage device 204 such as when
an unauthorized person tries to access a device, such interaction
can also be reported to a network server for analysis.
[0058] In one aspect a user can be provided access to specific
storage devices within a geographical area or based on some
classification (for example, size, quality of service parameter,
subscription status, time since last service, device status). Cards
can be provided to service people such that they are given proper
access to the respective appropriate storage devices. Authorization
can also be provided to mobile devices of the users who need
access. A mobile device can have a communication protocol that can
imitate the signal of an RFID card. The access can then also be
changed or modified on an individual basis in the architecture
through updates transmitted to respective storage devices.
[0059] The storage device 204 can include a transceiver 270 that
can enable communication with another storage device 272 as well.
The communication can be wired or wireless using any protocol that
can achieve the communication. The communication can enable two or
more storage devices to coordinate their respective locking systems
264 such that, for example, a user at a group of two or more
storage devices 264, 272 can provide their ID 268 once to an ID
sensor 266 and have one or more of the grouped storage devices 204,
272 unlocked. The two or more devices 264, 272 can exchange
authorization information or data to enable the flexibility of
different devices performs different parts of the process to
ultimately grant access for a user to one of the devices 264,
272.
[0060] The RCD 244 can enable remote control and/or alteration of
the functions performed or operated by the control system or
control module 210, including placing the device 204 in an active
and/or passive state. The RCD 244 can also provide access to, and
control over, the various components 206, 208, 210, 212, 214A-B,
216, 218, 220, 222A-H, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, 234, 236, 238 of
the device 204. Users can use a networked device, such as
smartphone 246 and/or remote device 252, to communicate with the
RCD 244 in order to manage and/or control the device 204. For
example, a user can communicate with the RCD 244 via the remote
device 252 to change a threshold value on the control system or
control module 210, which can control, for example, a collection
timing; the compaction motor 226; the use of energy on a lighted
advertising display, such as display 232; the status lamps 230; the
sensors 222A-H; the camera 224; unlocking functionality 264, etc.
The remote device 252 can include virtually any device with
networking capabilities, such as a laptop, a portable media player,
a tablet computer, a gaming system, a smartphone, a global
positioning system (GPS), a smart television, a desktop, etc. In
some embodiments, the remote device 252 can also be in other forms,
such as a watch, imaging eyeglasses, an earpiece, etc.
[0061] The remote device 252 and RCD 204 can be configured to
automatically modify the control system or control module 210
operating parameters. However, users can also manually modify the
control system or control module 210 operating parameters via the
remote device 252 and RCD 204. The operating parameters can be
modified in response to, for example, evolving industry benchmarks;
user inputs; historical data, such as the data gathered from a
separate database 250A-B; forecasted data, such as upcoming weather
characteristics; traffic conditions; a collection schedule; a
collection route; a proximity of a collection vehicle; a time
and/or date; a location; a capacity, such as a capacity of the
device 204 and/or a capacity of a collection vehicle; a fullness
state of the device 204; lapsed time between collections; lapsed
time between compactions; usage conditions of the device 204;
energy usage; battery conditions; statistics; a policy;
regulations; a detected movement of an object, such as an object
inside or outside of the device 204; collection trends; industry
and/or geographical standards; zoning policies and characteristics;
real-time information; user preferences; and other data. The data
from the remote device 252 can be relayed to the RCD 244, and the
data from the RCD 244 can be relayed, via the network 202, to the
device 204 and/or the remote device 252 for presentation to the
user.
[0062] The user can control the RCD 244 and/or access and modify
information on the RCD 244 via a user interface, such as a web
page, an application 254, a monitor 256, and/or via voice messages
and commands, text messages, etc. The remote device 252 can include
a user interface, which can display, for example, graphs of
collection statistics and trends (e.g., collection frequency,
usage, temperature, access history, access trends, access denials,
etc.), collection reports, device settings, collection schedules,
collection configurations, historical data, status information,
collection policies, configuration options, device information,
collection routes and information, alerts, etc. This way, users can
access information to make educated decisions about how to set
and/or reset operating parameters on the control system or control
module 210; to control, for example, which sensors are used to
gather data, which thresholds to set; to control outputs from the
status lamps 230 and other components; to control who accesses a
device or the times of device access or other policies, etc. Users
can change settings on the device 204, such as optimal collection
timing, timing of sensor actuation; and/or modify parameters, such
as desired capacity and fullness thresholds; using a scroll down
menu, click-and-slide tools, interactive maps displayed on the
remote device 252, touch screens, forms, icons, text entries, audio
inputs, text inputs, etc. In response, the RCD 244 can
automatically reconfigure the control system or control module 210
settings, recalibrate sensors and displays, change operating
parameters, change access policies on a device, individual, group
of individuals, or group of devices basis, etc.
[0063] The RCD 244 can include a two-way communication port that
includes transmitter 240 and receiver 242, which can wirelessly
communicate with the control system or control module 210 of the
device 204, via the transmitter 206 and receiver 208 on the device
204, which are connected electrically to the control system or
control module 210. On scheduled and/or programmable intervals, the
control system or control module 210 transmitter 206 can send data
to a central server, such as data server 248, via the network 202.
The same transmitter 206 and receiver 208 can be used to
communicate with other nodes (whether devices, benches, or other
public objects) in a mesh network. Moreover, the RCD's 244 receiver
242 can be configured to query the data server 248, which can also
be connected to the remote device 252, for incoming data. The data
server 248 can communicate data from databases 250A-B. If there is
no data to be received by the receiver 208, the control system or
control module 210 can be configured to promptly return to a
low-power mode, where the transmitter 206 and receiver 208 circuits
are turned off, until another scheduled, received, initiated,
and/or programmed communication event. Such a low-power mode can be
the same as an "inactive" mode, or can be distinct from an
"inactive" mode because the sensor/transmitter being used are
distinct from the transmitter 206 and receiver 208. If there is
data to be received by the receiver 208, such as a command to turn
the device 204 off and then back on, a command to change the
thresholds upon which compactions are operated, a command to change
the thresholds for providing status updates and/or determining
fullness states, etc., then the RCD receiver 242 can download the
new data from the data server 248, via the RCD 244, to the control
system or control module 210, altering its operating configuration.
The RCD receiver 242 can also be configured to send data to the
data server 248 to acknowledge the receipt of data from the control
system or control module 210, and to send selected data to the
remote device 252, the smartphone 246, and/or any other device, for
presentation to a user. Access control functionality can also be
adjusted with respect to and one or more of a threshold, a time
period a lock is held open, a time period in which a reader
component is operational or when a user would be enabled to gain
access to the device, and so forth.
[0064] The data server 248 can also display the data to a user on
remote device 252, smartphone 246, or any other device. The data
can be a password-protected web page, a display on the smartphone
246, a display on the monitor 256, etc. Remote control using the
RCD 244 to reconfigure operating thresholds, sensor use, sensor
hierarchy, energy usage, etc., can enable the device 204 to alter
characteristics that control its energy generation, energy
consumption, access control policies or parameters, and/or the
collection and management logistics, further enabling sound
operation of the device 204.
[0065] The RCD 244 can be configured to communicate over a wireless
network with the control system or control module 210, and transmit
data to the data server 248, so the data can be stored for viewing
and manipulation by a user via any web-connected computer, phone,
or device. The RCD 244 can also be configured to receive data from
the data server 248, and transmit the data back to the control
system or control module 210. The control system or control module
210 can be electrically connected to a variety of sensors, such as
sensors 222A-H, within the device 204. Through the RCD 244, the
control system or control module 210 can also be wirelessly
connected to the databases 250A-B, and/or other external databases,
such as a weather database, which may, for example, reside on a
National Oceanographic and Atmospheric (NOAA) server, a database of
trucks and locations and schedules, which may reside on a waste
hauler's server, a database of traffic conditions, etc. A user can
also change which of the sensors 222A-H are used in setting
thresholds, among other things, in response to, for example, user
commands and/or changes in outside data, such as weather data or
truck location data.
[0066] The control system or control module 210 can also
communicate with a temperature sensor 222G to gather temperature
information, which can be transmitted to the RCD 244 via the PCB
transmitter 206. The temperature information can be used, among
other things, to fine tune operational functions and energy
consumption of the device 204. For example, the control system or
control module 210 can be reconfigured to run less compaction per
day, such as four to eight compactions, in cold weather, since
batteries are less powerful in cold weather. Coinciding with cold
weather, the winter days are shorter, thus solar energy and battery
power is limited. In order to conserve power on low-sunlight days,
the RCD 244 can adjust the control system or control module 210
normal fullness sensitivity levels, so that collections are
prompted to be made earlier. For example, if the control system or
control module 210 typically runs 20 compactions before changing
status lamps from green to yellow, a signal that suggests optimal
collection time, the RCD 244 can adjust the thresholds of the
control system or control module 210 to run 10 compactions before
changing from a green state to a yellow state, thus changing the
total energy consumption of the compactor between collections. In a
busy location, the control system or control module 210 can be
configured to sense device fullness every minute, whereas in a less
busy location, the control system or control module 210 can be
configured to sense fullness once a day.
[0067] In some embodiments, the RCD 244 can also alter the timing
of events using algorithms based on the results of historical
events. For example, the RCD 244 can be initially configured to
sense fullness once per minute, but based on resulting readings, it
can then alter the timing of future readings. Thus, if three
consecutive readings taken at one-minute intervals yield a result
of no trash accumulation, the RCD 244 can increase the timing
between readings to two minutes, then three minutes, etc., based on
the various readings. The RCD 244 can also be configured to adjust
sensing intervals based on the level of fullness of the device 204,
so it would sense more frequently as the device 204 fills, in order
to reduce the margin of error at a critical time, before the device
204 overflows. This "learning feature" can save energy by
ultimately synchronizing the sensor readings with actual need to
sense. The RCD 244 can also alter thresholds of status lamps 230
based on collection history, the need for capacity as determined by
the frequency of red or yellow lights on the device 204,
temperatures, expected weather and light conditions, expected usage
conditions, etc. The status lamps 230 can be LED lights, for
example. Access control can also have various timing elements
established and adjusted based on battery level or other
factors.
[0068] In FIG. 2, the RCD 244 can be enabled, via the control
system or control module 210, to read, for example, a temperature
sensor 222G; an encoder sensor 222D, which can measure movement of
a compaction ram by utilizing an "encoder wheel" which is mounted
on a motor shaft; one or more photoeye sensors 222B-C; door
sensors; a sensor which measures current from the solar panel and a
sensor which can measure current from the battery 236 to the motor
226; a hall effect sensor 222F, which can detect movement of, for
example, a door; an infrared (IR) sensor 222E, a camera 224, etc.
In addition, the thresholds set by the RCD 244 can be based on
historical and real-time information, user preferences, industry
norms, weather patterns and forecasts, and other information. The
RCD 244 can reset the control system or control module 210 normal
thresholds hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, or at adjustable
intervals, based on a variety of information and user
decisions.
[0069] The RCD 244 can also alter the control system or control
module 210 normal hierarchy of sensor usage. For example, if the
control system or control module 210 is configured to run a
compaction cycle when one or more of the photoeyes 222B-C located
inside the device 204 are blocked, the RCD 244 can reconfigure the
sensor hierarchy by reconfiguring the control system or control
module 210 to run compaction cycles after a certain amount of time
has passed, by reading the position of the encoder sensor 222D at
the end of a cycle, by reading one or more photoeye sensors 222B-C,
by calculating a sensor hierarchy based on historical filling
rates, by a change in user preferences, etc. Using an aggregate of
data from other devices located worldwide in a variety of settings,
the RCD's 244 configurations can depend on constantly evolving
parameters for optimizing energy utilization, capacity
optimization, and operational behavior, among other things. The RCD
244 innovation and growing database of benchmarks, best practices
and solutions to inefficiency, enables the device 204 to adapt and
evolve.
[0070] Based on the data from the control system or control module
210, the sensors, inputs by the users (e.g., the customer or the
manufacturer) via the RCD 244, and/or based on other data, such as
historical or weather data, the RCD 244 can change the control
system or control module 210 thresholds, operational parameters,
and/or configuration, to improve the performance of the device 204
in different geographies or seasons, or based on different user
characteristics or changing parameters. Thus, the system and
architecture can be self-healing.
[0071] The RCD 244 can also be configured to change the control
system or control module 210 normal operating parameters. For
example, the RCD 244 can be configured to cause the control system
or control module 210 to run multiple compaction cycles in a row,
to run energy through a resistor 220 to apply a strong load upon
the battery 236, which can supply the energy. The RCD 244 can
measure battery voltage at predetermined or programmable intervals,
to measure the "rebound" of the battery 236. A strong battery will
gain voltage quickly (e.g., the battery will almost fully recover
within 15 minutes or so). A weak battery will drop significantly in
voltage (e.g., 3-5 volts), will recover slowly, or will not recover
to a substantial portion of its original voltage. By changing the
normal parameters of the control system or control module 210, the
battery 236 can be subjected to a heavy load during a test period,
which will determine the battery's strength without jeopardizing
operations. The RCD 244 can then be configured to relay a message
to the user that a battery is needed, or to use the battery
differently, for example, by spacing out compactions in time,
reducing the degree of voltage decline within a certain time
period, shortening the time period in which a lock is held open,
establishing short timeframes in which the locking mechanism can be
operated, etc. Based on the message and any additional information
from the RCD 244, the user can then order a new battery by simply
clicking on a button on a web page, for example. The RCD 244 can
also alter the control system or control module 210 to do more
compactions or other energy-using functions (like downloading
software) during the daytime, when solar energy is available to
replenish the battery 236 as it uses energy.
[0072] Since the RCD 244 can be connected to databases, and can be
informed by the control system or control module 210 on each device
of conditions or status information at the respective device, the
RCD 244 can also be used to relay data collected from the databases
or control system or control module 210 for other types of
servicing events. In other words, the RCD 244 can obtain, collect,
maintain, or analyze status, operating, or conditions information
received from the control system or control module 210 of one or
more devices and/or one or more databases storing such information,
and relay such data to a separate or remote device, such as a
remote server or control center. For example, the RCD 244 can be
configured to relay a message to a waste hauler to collect the
device 204 if two or more parameters are met simultaneously. To
illustrate, the RCD 244 can relay a message to a waste hauler to
collect the device 204 if the device 204 is over 70% full and a
collection truck is within 1 mile of the device 204. Authorization
data for the maintenance person in that truck can be downloaded to
the device 204 to enable access. In other words, authorization can
be more dynamic and related to other parameters such as
location-based data for a person who should gain access for a
period of time. The access can be provided for a limited time
period. The RCD 244 can then send a message to the remote device
252 to alert a user that a collection had been made, and the cost
of the collection will be billed to the user's account.
[0073] In addition, the RCD 244 can change the circuitry between
the solar panel 234 and the battery 236, so that solar strength can
be measured and an optimal charging configuration can be selected.
The charging circuitry 214A-B is illustrated as two circuitries;
however, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize
that some embodiments can include more or less circuitries.
Charging circuits 214A-B can be designed to be optimized for low
light or bright light, and can be switched by the RCD 244 based on
programmable or pre-determined thresholds. Also, while solar
information can be readily available (e.g., Farmers' Almanac),
solar energy at a particular location can vary widely based on the
characteristics of the site. For example, light will be weaker if
reflected off a black building, and if the building is tall,
blocking refracted light. For this reason, it can be useful to
measure solar energy on site, as it can be an accurate determinant
of actual energy availability at a particular location. To do this,
the battery 236 and solar panel 234 can be decoupled using one or
more charging relays 212. In other aspects, a very high load can be
placed on the battery 236 to diminish its voltage, so that all
available current from the solar panel 234 flows through a
measureable point. This can be done, for example, by causing the
device 204 to run compaction cycles, or by routing electricity
through a resistor, or both.
[0074] There are a variety of other methods which can be used to
create a load. However, putting a load on the battery 236 can cause
permanent damage. Thus, the RCD 244 can also be configured to
disconnect the battery 236 from the solar panel 234, instead
routing electricity through a resistor 220. This can allow for an
accurate measurement of solar intensity at a particular location,
without depleting the battery 236, which can help assess the
potential for running compactions, communicating, powering
illuminated advertisements, and powering other operations. In some
embodiments, the control system or control module 210 can be
reconfigured by the RCD 244 to run continuous compaction cycles for
a period of time, measure solar panel charging current, relay the
data, and then resume normal operations. Different configurations
or combinations of circuits can be used to test solar intensity,
battery state or lifecycle, and/or predict solar or battery
conditions in the future.
[0075] The RCD 244 can also track voltage or light conditions for a
period of days, and alter the state of load and charging based on
constantly changing input data. For example, the RCD 244 can
configure the timer 218 of the control system or control module 210
to turn on the display 232 for advertising for a number of days in
a row, starting at a specific time and ending at another specific
time. However, if the battery voltage declines over this period of
time, the RCD 244 can then reduce the time of the load (the display
232) to every other day, and/or may shorten the time period of the
load each day. The locking mechanism can have its parameters
adjusted in various ways to reduce the load on the battery 236.
Further, the RCD 244 can collect information on usage and weather
patterns and reconfigure the control system or control module 210
normal operating regimen to increase or reduce the load (for
example, the advertisement on the display 232) placed on the
battery 236, based on the information collected. For example, if it
is a Saturday, and expected to be a busy shopping day, the RCD 244
can allow a declining state of the battery 236, and can schedule a
period in the near future where a smaller load will be placed on
the battery 236, by, for example, not running the advertisement on
the coming Monday. In doing so, the RCD 244 can optimize the
advertising value and energy availability to use energy when it is
most valuable, and recharge (use less energy) when it is less
valuable. In order to maximize solar energy gained from a variety
of locations, the RCD 244 can cause the control system or control
module 210 to select between one of several charging circuits. For
example, if it is anticipated that cloudy conditions are imminent,
the RCD 244 can change the circuit that is used for battery
charging, in order to make the charger more sensitive to lower
light conditions. In a sunny environment, the charger circuit used
can be one with poor low-light sensitivity, which would yield more
wattage in direct sunlight.
[0076] The architecture 200 can also be used for monitoring
functions, which can enable users to access information about the
device 204 and collection process. With this information, users can
make judgments that facilitate their decision-making, helping them
remotely adjust settings on the device 204 to improve performance
and communication. For example, the RCD 244 can be configured to
enable users to easily adjust callback time, which is the normal
time interval for communication that is configured in the control
system or control module 210. The RCD 244 can enable the user to
alter this time setting, so that the device 204 communicates at
shorter or longer intervals. Once the control system or control
module 210 initiates communication, other parameters can be
reconfigured, such as awake time, which is the amount of time the
receiver is in receiving mode. This enables users to make "on the
fly" changes. In some cases, the control system or control module
210 can shut down after sending a message and listening for
messages to be received. In these cases, it can be difficult to
send instructions, wait for a response, send more instructions and
wait for a response, because the time lapse between normal
communications can be a full day. However, by remotely adjusting
the setting through the RCD 244, the user can make continuous
adjustments while testing out the downloaded parameters in real
time, and/or close to real time. This can enhance the ability of
the user to remotely control the device 204.
[0077] Further, the RCD 244 can alter the current of the photoeyes
222B-C, in a test to determine whether there is dirt or grime
covering the lens. Here, the RCD 244 can reconfigure the normal
operating current of the photoeyes 222B-C. If the lens is dirty,
the signal emitter photoeye will send and the signal receiver will
receive a signal on high power, but not on low power. In this way,
a service call can be avoided or delayed by changing the normal
operating current to the photoeyes 222B-C. This can be a useful
diagnostic tool.
[0078] In some embodiments, regular maintenance intervals can be
scheduled, but can also be altered via information from the RCD
244. The RCD 244 can be configured to run a cycle while testing
motor current. If motor current deviates from a normal range (i.e.,
2 amps or so), then a maintenance technician can be scheduled
earlier than normal. The RCD 244 can send a message to the user by
posting an alert on the users web page associated with the device
204.
[0079] Other settings can be embodied in the device 204 as well.
For example, the control system or control module 210 can sense
that the device 204 is full. The RCD 244 can then configure the
control system or control module 210 to have a web page, or another
display, present a full signal. The RCD 244 can alter when the full
signal should be presented to the user. For example, after
accessing a database with historical collection intervals, the RCD
244 can reconfigure the control system or control module 210 to
wait for a period of time, e.g., one hour, before displaying a full
signal at the web page. This can be helpful because, in some cases,
a "false positive" full signal can be signaled by the control
system or control module 210, but this can be avoided based on
historical information that indicates that a collection only a few
minutes after the last collection would be highly aberrational. The
RCD 244 can thus be configured to override data from the control
system or control module 210. Instead of sending a full signal to
the user, the RCD 244 reconfigures the control system or control
module 210 to ignore the full signal temporarily, and delay the
display of a full-signal on the user's web page or smart phone, in
order for time to go by and additional information to be gathered
about the device's actual fullness status. For example, when a
collection is made and ten minutes later, the fullness sensor
detects the device 204 is full, the fullness display message on the
web page can be prevented from displaying a full status. In some
cases, a plastic bag can be full of air, causing the proximity
sensor in the device 204 to detect a full bin. Within a certain
time period, e.g., twenty minutes in a busy location, a few hours
in a less busy location, as determined based on the historical
waste generation rate at the site, the bag can lose its air, and
the proximity sensor can sense that the bin is less full than it
was twenty minutes prior, which would not be the case if the bin
was full with trash instead of air. Thus, "false positive"
information can be filtered out.
[0080] Likewise, tests and checks can be performed so that false
negative information is avoided as well. For example, if a bin
regularly fills up daily, and there is no message that it is full
after two or three days, an alert can appear on the user's web page
indicating an aberration. Thresholds for normal operating
parameters and adjustments to normal can be set or reset using the
RCD 244, or they can be programmed to evolve through pattern
recognition. Although many operating parameter adjustments can be
made through the web portal, adjustments can also be made
automatically. This can be controlled by a software program that
aggregates data and uses patterns in an aggregate of enclosures to
alter control system or control module 210 settings on a single
enclosure. For example, if the collection data from 1,000
enclosures indicates that collection personnel collect from bins
too early 50% of the time when compaction threshold setting is set
to "high", compared to 10% of the time when compaction settings are
set at "medium," then the RCD 244 can reprogram the compaction
thresholds to the medium setting automatically, so that collection
personnel can be managed better, limiting the amount of enclosures
that are collected prematurely. Automatic reprogramming, governed
by software programs, can be applied to other aspects, such as user
response to dynamic elements of the device 204, such as lighted or
interactive advertising media displayed on the device 204. For
example, if users respond to an LCD-displayed advertisement shown
on the device 204 for "discounted local coffee" 80% of the time,
the RCD 244 can configure all devices within a certain distance,
from participating coffee shops, to display the message:
"discounted local coffee."
[0081] In some embodiments, the RCD 244 can include a data
receiving portal for the user with information displays about an
aggregate of devices. Here, the user can access real-time and
historical information of, for example, devices on a route, and/or
devices in a given geography, and/or access control or history. The
data can be displayed for the user on a password-protected web page
associated with the aggregate of devices within a user group. The
device 204 can also display, for example, bin fullness, collections
made, the time of collections, battery voltage, motor current,
number and time of compaction cycles run, graphs and charts, lists
and maps, access control historical information, etc. This data can
be viewed in different segments of time and geography in order to
assess device and/or fleet status, usage, and/or trends. The user's
web page can show, for example, a pie chart showing percentage of
bins collected when their LED was blinking yellow, red and green,
or a histogram showing these percentages as a function of time.
These statistics can be categorized using pull down menus and
single-click features. A single click map feature, for example, is
where summary data for a particular device is displayed after the
user clicks on a dot displayed on a map which represents that
device. This can allow the user to easily view and interact with a
visual map in an external application.
[0082] The RCD 244 can be configured to display calculated data,
such as "collection efficiency," which is a comparison of
collections made to collections required, as measured by the
utilized capacity of the device 204 divided by the total capacity
of the device 204 (Collection Efficiency=utilized capacity/total
capacity). The user can use this information to increase or
decrease collections, increase or decrease the aggregate capacity
across an area, etc. Typically, the user's goal is to collect the
device 204 when it is full--not before or after. The user can click
buttons on their web page to show historical trends, such as
collection efficiency over time, vehicle costs, a comparison of
vehicle usage in one time period versus vehicle usage in another
time period, diversion rates, a comparison of material quantity
deposited in a recycling bin versus the quantity of material
deposited into a trash bin. Other statistics can be automatically
generated and can include carbon dioxide emissions from trucks,
which can be highly correlated to vehicle usage. Labor hours can
also be highly correlated with vehicle usage, so the web page can
display a labor cost statistic automatically using information
generated from the vehicle usage monitor. As the user clicks on
buttons or otherwise makes commands in their web portal, the RCD
244 can change the PCB control system or control module 210
operating parameters, usage of sensors, unlocking functionality,
etc., and/or measurement thresholds in response. The RCD 244 can
also be configured to automatically display suggested alterations
to the fleet, such as suggestions to move devices to a new
position, to increase or decrease the quantity of devices in a
given area, to recommend a new size device based on its programmed
thresholds, resulting in an improvement in costs to service the
fleet of devices.
[0083] Heat mapping can also be used to provide a graphical
representation of data for a user. Heat mapping can show the user
the level of capacity in each part of an area, for example a city
block, or it can be used to show collection frequency in an area.
In each case, the heat map can be generated by associating
different colors with different values of data in a cross
sectional, comparative data set, including data from a plurality of
enclosures. The heat map can be a graphical representation of
comparative data sets. In some embodiments, red can be associated
with a high number of a given characteristic, and "cooler" colors,
like orange, yellow and blue, can be used to depict areas with less
of a given characteristic. For example, a heat map showing
collection frequency or compaction frequency across 500 devices can
be useful to determine areas where capacity is lacking in the
aggregate of enclosures--a relative measure of capacity. In this
case, the highest frequency device can be assigned a value of red.
Each number can be assigned progressively cooler colors. In other
embodiments, the red value can be associated with a deviation from
the average or median, for example, a darker red for each standard
deviation. The heat maps can be shown as a visual aid on the user's
web page and can color-code regions where "bottlenecks" restrict
vehicle and labor efficiency. A small red region can show
graphically, for example, that if the user were to replace only ten
devices with higher-capacity compactors, the collection frequency
to a larger area could be reduced, saving travel time. Heat maps
can be a helpful visual tool for showing data including, but not
limited to, data showing "most collections" in a given time period,
"most green collections," which can visually demonstrate the number
of bins collected too early (before they are actually full), "most
compactions," which can show on a more granular level the usage
level of the bin, "most uses," which can represent how many times
the insertion door of the bin is opened or utilized, "most alerts,"
which can show visually the number of "door open alerts," which can
show when doors were not closed properly, "voltage alerts," which
can show visually which devices are of low power, etc. While
specific measurements are described herein to demonstrate the
usefulness of heat mapping, there are other sets of data that can
be represented by the heat maps, which are within the scope and
spirit of this disclosure.
[0084] The heat map can also be used to present a population
density in one or more areas, as well as a representation of any
other activity or characteristic of the area, such as current
traffic or congestion, for example. This information can also be
shared with other businesses or devices. For example, the RCD 244
can analyze the heat map and share population statistics or
activity with nearby businesses or municipalities. The RCD 244 can,
for example, determine a high population density in Area A on
Saturday mornings and transmit that information to a nearby locale
to help the nearby locale prepare for the additional activity. As
another example, if the device is placed in a park, the RCD 244 can
determine population and activity levels at specific times and
alert park officials of the expected high levels of activity so the
park officials and/or those managing the device can plan
accordingly.
[0085] The RCD 244 can also be used for dynamic vehicle routing and
compaction and/or device management. Because the RCD 244 can be a
two-way communicator, it can both send and receive information
between various devices and databases, using a mesh network. This
can allow the user to cross-correlate data between the fleet of
devices and the fleet of collection vehicles. The RCD 244 can
receive data from the user and/or the user's vehicle. For example,
the RCD 244 can receive GPS data or availability data and use it to
change parameters on a given device or aggregate of devices. The
RCD 244 can receive this data from the user's GPS-enabled
smartphone, for example. Similarly, the RCD 244 can send data to
the user, a user device, a smartphone, etc., about the status of
the device 204. With this two-way data stream, collection
optimization can be calculated in real time or close to real time.
For example, a collection truck is traveling to the east side of a
city and has 30 minutes of spare time. The RCD 244 can receive
information about the truck's whereabouts, availability and
direction, and query a database for device real time and historical
fullness information and determine that the truck can accommodate
collections of twenty device locations. The RCD 244 can then
display a list of twenty device locations that the truck can
accommodate. The user can view a map of the twenty recommended
locations, see a list of driving directions, etc. The map of
driving directions can be optimized by adding other input data,
such as traffic lights, traffic conditions, average speed along
each route, etc. At the same time, as the truck heads to the east
side of the city, the RCD 244 can reconfigure devices on the west
side to change compaction thresholds, so that capacity is
temporarily increased, freeing up additional time for the truck to
spend in the east section. Alternatively, the RCD 244 can
reconfigure a device to temporarily display a "full" message to
pedestrians, helping them find a nearby device with capacity
remaining. The RCD 244 can, in the case where the device requires
payment, increase pricing to the almost-full device, reducing
demand by pedestrians or other users. This same logic can be
effective in situations where trucks are not used, for example,
indoors at a mall or airport. The demand for waste capacity can
vary, so having remote control over the device 204 can allow users
to change settings, parameters, and/or prices to make the
collection of waste dynamic and efficient.
[0086] The location of the device 204 and other devices can be
determined via triangulation and/or GPS, for example, and placed on
a map in the interactive mapping features. Moreover, the location
of an indoor device can be obtained from indoor WiFi hot spots, and
the indoor device can be placed on a map in the interactive mapping
features. As a staff member accomplishes tasks (i.e., cleaning a
bathroom) and moves inside a facility, the staff member's location
can be tracked, and the fullness and location of nearby devices can
be plotted on a map or given to the staff member by other means, as
instructions to add a collection activity to the list of tasks.
Whether by GPS, Wifi, Bluetooth, etc., triangulation between
communication nodes can serve to locate a device on a map, and
measurements of fullness of devices can be used to create work
instructions for staff members or truck drivers, so that efficient
routes and schedules can be created to save time.
[0087] To better manage the collection process, user groups can be
separated between trash and recycling personnel. In many cities,
there are separate trucks used to collect separate streams of
waste, such as trash and recyclables. For this reason, it can be
helpful to configure the user's web page to display data based on a
waste stream. The data can also be divided in this fashion and
displayed differently on a smartphone, hand-held computer, and/or
other user device. In addition, data can be displayed differently
to different users. For example, the manager of an operation can
have "administrative privileges," and thus can change the location
of a particular device in the system, view collection efficiency of
a particular waste collector, view login history, and/or view
industry or subgroup benchmarks, while a waste collector with lower
privileges can only view device fullness, for example. The RCD 244
or another device can also be configured to print a list of devices
to collect next, a list of full or partially full bins, etc. For
example, the remote device 252 can be configured to print a list of
devices to collect in the remaining portion of a route.
[0088] The disclosure now turns to FIG. 3, which illustrates an
exemplary storage device 300. The storage device 300 can be
configured to dynamically adjust sensors and compaction operations,
as further described below.
[0089] The storage device 300 includes a bin 302 for storing
content items, and a door 306 for opening the storage device 300 to
throw or deposit items in the bin 302. An ID sensor or reader
component 320 can be provided which enables a user to provide
identification via the ID device 330 to the storage device 300. For
example, an RFID card, a mobile phone through near-field
communication, a biometric input such as a fingerprint or a
faceprint, and so forth. A control module (not shown) is configured
within the storage device 300 and includes a listing as provided by
a remote server of authorized individuals who can enter the storage
device 300. A locking mechanism 322 is in communication with the
control module and the reader component 320 and will unlock the
locking mechanism 322 for a predetermined period of time. For
example, the locking mechanism 322 may be open for 3-6 seconds.
After the period of time, the locking mechanism 322 returns to a
locked state or locked position. A magnet 324 can be configured to
hold the door 306 closed in case the unlock request was
inadvertent. The door 306 and other locking components can be
configured at any location on the storage device 300. For example,
the door 306 may be configured on a side wall, front wall or rear
wall. The locking mechanism 322 may enable the user to open up a
top portion of the storage device 300 to gain access to the
interior. The particular structure of the door 306 is not critical
to the concepts disclosed herein. For example, an alternate door
326 is shown on the side with a magnet 328 used to prevent the door
from swinging open upon the door 326 being unlocked by a locking
mechanism 322.
[0090] In addition, each of the sensor modules can include an
emitter and receiver. Moreover, the storage device 300 can include
compactor software or firmware configured to run self-diagnostics
on each of the sensor modules and the normal paths, to ensure the
storage device 300 is running properly and to report any errors to
the management console.
[0091] In some configurations, the storage device 300 can also
include a sonar sensor 308 to detect objects in the device 300 and
calculate the fullness state of the device 300. The signal
transmitted and sensed in order to determine trash levels can be
any frequency (IR, visual range, etc.) and at any pulse rate.
Further, any number and combination of sensors, transmitters, and
receivers could be applied in various places within the device 300.
The storage device 300 can also include other types of sensors 304,
such as an infrared sensor, a temperature sensor, a hall effect
sensor, an encoder sensor, a motion sensor, a proximity sensor,
reader component 320, etc. The sonar sensor 308 and sensors 304 can
sense fullness at regular intervals, and/or based on manual inputs
and/or a pre-programmed schedule, for example. Moreover, the sonar
sensor 308 and sensors 304 are electrically connected to the
printed circuit board (PCB), control system or control module 316.
Further, the sonar sensor 308 and sensor 304, locking mechanism 322
and reader component 320 can be actuated, powered and/or controlled
by the control system or control module 316, which can be
configured to control the various operations of the storage device
300.
[0092] The control system or control module 316 can control
electrical functions performed by the storage device 300. The
electrical functions controlled by the control system or control
module 316 can include, for example, running compactions by
actuating a motor; sensing waste or recyclables volume inside the
device 300 using a sensor at regular or programmable intervals,
such as sensors 304; changing status lamps 318 at regular and/or
programmable thresholds to/from a color indicating that the device
300 is not full (e.g., green), to/from a color indicating that the
device 300 is almost full (e.g., yellow), to/from a color
indicating that the device 300 is full (e.g., red); collecting data
and transmitting the data to another device; receiving data from
another device; managing a power mode; measuring and managing a
current; performing diagnostics tests; managing a power source;
controlling access to the storage device 300 via the reader
component 320 and the locking mechanism 322, etc. The motor
controller 310 can enable voltage to be applied across a load in
either direction. The control system or control module 316 can use
the motor controller 310 to enable a DC motor in the device 300 to
run forwards and backwards, to speed or slow, to "brake" the motor,
etc.
[0093] The storage device 300 includes a transmitter 312 and a
receiver 314 for sending and receiving data to and from other
devices, such as a server or a remote control device. Accordingly,
the storage device 300 can transmit and receive information such as
instructions, commands, statistics, alerts, notifications, files,
software, data, and so forth. The transmitter 312 and receiver 314
can be electrically connected to the control system or control
module 316. This way, the transmitter 312 can transmit data from
the control system or control module 316 to other devices, and the
receiver 314 can receive data from other devices and pass the data
for use by the PCB 316. In this regard, a user who is checking the
status of the device could drive down the street near the device
(say within a wireless range, such as Bluetooth or WIFI, for
example), not even get out of their vehicle, but receive a signal
indicating that all is well, that the trash needs to be emptied, or
that a repair or cleaning is needed. Authorization information can
also be provided such that the person receiving the notice is
already authorized to unlock the storage device 300 and to just use
their mobile phone on a near-field communication reader 320.
[0094] Status lamps 318 can provide an indication of the status of
the storage device 300. For example, the status lamps 318 can
indicate the fullness state of the storage device 300. To this end,
the status lamps 318 can be configured to display a respective
color or pattern when the storage device 300 is full, almost full,
not full, etc. For example, the status lamps 318 can be configured
to flash red when the storage device 300 is full, yellow when the
storage device 300 is almost full, and green when the storage
device 300 is not full. Moreover, the status lamps 318 can be LED
lights, for example.
[0095] The status lamps 318 can also be configured to flash in
various patterns to indicate various other conditions. For example,
the status lamps 318 can be configured to flash at the same time
and in combination to show that the device 300 is full. The status
lamps 318 can also be configured to flash in different patterns or
times or colors to show troubleshooting status information for
example. In some cases, the status lamps 318 can be configured to
flash in a predetermined manner to show that a door of the device
is open, a component is damaged, an obstacle is stuck, an operation
is currently active, etc. A display could also show the name of a
person authorized to open the door 306/326 or other locking
instructions or information.
[0096] As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize,
the device 300 can include other components, such as motors,
sensors, batteries, solar panels, displays, relays, chargers, GPS
devices, timers, fuses, resistors, remote control devices, cameras,
etc. However, for the sake of clarity, the device 300 is
illustrated without some of these components.
[0097] In some configurations, the storage device 300 can be
configured to implement dirt-sensing technology. The dirt sensing
technology can use firmware or other software instructions to
monitor the signals, such as infra-red signals, through the sensors
on the device 300, and use this data to determine how dirty the
detection sensors have become. For example, in some cases, a
"clean" sensor 304D can take around six 38 kHz pulses transmitted
from a transmitter 304C before the signal is detected. As the
sensor becomes more and more dirty it typically takes longer to
detect the signal, and may even take twenty 38 kHz pulses, for
example. This data can be used to provide a scale of how dirty the
sensor has become and provide feedback to the user before the
sensor becomes completely blocked. Once the sensor is blocked, the
capacity of the compactor can be reduced since compactions may no
longer performed. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily
recognize, the frequencies and number of pulses discussed herein
are provided for non-limiting illustration purposes. In fact, the
frequencies used and number of pulses associated with specific dirt
levels can vary based on a number of factors, such as hardware and
preference settings. Moreover, other applications, frequencies and
number of pulses are contemplated herein.
[0098] Furthermore, since the voltage of a battery does not
generally indicate the actual capacity in a battery, it can be
beneficial to understand what capacity is available to ensure
accurate machine operation and dead battery notification. To this
end, the machine firmware can analyze voltage drops that occur
after a compaction occurs at what current, and can determine a
ratio which can provide feedback and indications of the true
battery capacity. The machine firmware can also analyze how fast
voltage is dropping based on current wireless usage and predict
when an alternative node in the mesh network, and particularly the
paired node, should be switched to. For example, if the machine
firmware detects that the system will have sufficient capacity for
3 hours of work in 20 minutes, the system can configure a switch
between nodes to take place in 20 minutes. If the system calculates
the other node, in an active state, will reach a critical power
level in 15 minutes, the system can cause a transfer to an active
state take place sooner than might otherwise have occurred so that
coverage continues. The firmware can use a ratio to limit
compactions, sensor activity, wireless/cellular activity, and/or
notify the management console of the battery state. As previously
mentioned, the management console can be a console on the actual
storage device 300 and/or a remote device, such as a server, for
example.
[0099] FIG. 4 illustrates another example of a storage device 400
that includes a processor 401, a storage bin 414 configured within
the storage device 400, a solar panel 412, a battery 416 that
stores energy from the solar panel 412, a compaction component 418
that compacts items in the storage bin 414, a lock mechanism 406
which enables access to an interior portion of the storage device
400, a control module 402 which, when executed by the processor as
powered by the battery 416, manages the compaction component 418
and is in communication with the lock mechanism 406 and a reader
component 404 that is in communication with the control module 402.
The reader component 404 communicates with an external entity 420
(such as a mobile phone, an RFID card, a bio-metric input, speech
input, gesture input, multi-modal input, etc.) to obtain
authorization to unlock the storage device 400 via the lock
mechanism 406. In one aspect, an application has been downloaded on
the mobile device 420 of the user and that includes user interfaces
and functionality used to interact with the reader component 404.
The reader component 404 can include one of an RFID reader, a
near-field communication component, a Bluetooth reader component, a
gesture sensing or detecting component, a facial recognition
component, a bio-metric reader, a touch-sensitive display, a
keypad, a multi-modal input component and a motion detection
component. Upon triggering the locking mechanism 406, the control
module 402 can maintain the lock component 406 in an unlock
position for a predetermined period of time, after which the lock
component 406 locks or changes to a locked position or state to
prevent a door 408 from being opened by a user.
[0100] When the reader component 404 communicates with the external
entity 420 to obtain authorization to unlock the storage device
400, the control module 402 can obtain identification data
associated with the external entity 420 and report at least the
identification data to a remote server 422. The storage device can
further include a magnet 410 and a door 408. The magnet 410 can be
configured to hold the door 408 closed upon the lock mechanism 406
unlocking the door 408. In this manner, the door 408 would not
swing open upon an accidental unlocking of the storage device
400.
[0101] The external entity 420 can be authorized to unlock the
storage device 400 on one or more of an individual station level, a
group of stations level, a customer level, an individual person
level, or a multiple customer level. In one aspect, the control
module 402 stores a listing on the storage device 400 of authorized
external entities that can unlock the storage device 400. The
listing stored in the storage device 400 can be updated based upon
a communication between the storage device 400 and the remote
server 422. In this manner, the unlocking capability and
authorization can be instantaneous (handled locally at the storage
device 400) rather than requiring a network communication
confirmation from a remote device 252.
[0102] The control module 402, upon initial setup of the storage
device 400, can enable unlocking of the lock mechanism 406 upon the
reader component 404 reading a disposable external entity 420 that
can include, for example, an ID card shipped with the storage
device 400. In this manner, upon initiating the storage device 400
with the disposable external entity 420, the storage device 400 can
communicate with the remote server 422 and receive the listing of
authorized external entities that can unlock the storage device
400. The system can be shipped with a battery that is disconnected
such that the lock would not work. A plastic shim can be used or
wedged into the locking mechanism such that it is prevented from
locking upon initial setup. Once the battery is connected and the
locking mechanism is active, the disposable ID card can be used to
unlock the system and initiate the downloading of the authorized
access list. In one aspect, in this initiation mode, prior to the
first access control list being downloaded, only the disposable
external entity 420 or any ID card could be used to unlock the
system. Once the authorized user list is downloaded, then the
disposable external entity 420 no longer would have access after
the initialization. The control module, upon initial setup of the
storage device and before communication between the storage device
and the remote server, can enable unlocking of the electronic
locking mechanism upon the reader component interacting with any
external entity of any acceptable format, regardless of specific ID
information. In this manner, the device will always be unlockable
at initial setup until the unit can communicate with the remote
server and receive and store an authorization list of users or
entities.
[0103] In another aspect, a master ID entity could be used to open
any storage device. Such information or access control can be
stored in the control module or a memory of the device.
[0104] The control module 402 can store instructions to adjust a
temporary period of time, based on a battery power level, that a
door 408 is unlocked upon triggering the lock mechanism 404.
Holding the locking mechanism 404 in the unlocked position takes
battery power. The control module 402 can cause the electronic
locking mechanism 404 to function below a compaction shut off
voltage defined in the control module 402. For example, the control
module 402 can cause the compaction component to shut off because
the battery level is too low. However, the control module 402 can
be programmed to cause the electronic locking mechanism 404 and the
associated reader component 404 to remain operational as long as
possible. The control module 402 can cause the reader component 404
to function at certain periods of time when a battery power level
is below a threshold as well. In once example, the storage device
400 can include likely times during which historically or based on
a schedule that an authorized user may desire to unlock the storage
device 400. The data can include probabilities of when the storage
device 400 may be opened. The control module 402 can progressively
keep the electronic locking mechanism 404 and the associated reader
component 404 operations starting with the most probable time
frames when an authorized user might arrive. Thus, a controlled
shutdown can occur which maintains the unlocking capability beyond
other components that are shut down. The control module 402, as the
battery power continues to be reduced, may shut down the electronic
locking mechanism 404 and the associated reader component 404
during times with less probability of access being attempted.
[0105] In another aspect, if the normal operation of the system is
to hold the locking mechanism 404 in the unlock position or state
for a period of 5 seconds, then the battery saving algorithm or
operation of the control module 402 can cause the locking mechanism
404 to be held in the unlock position for a shorter period of time.
Thus, in a low battery mode based on a threshold value, the time in
which the unlock position is held can be reduced to 2 or 3 seconds.
Further, the period of time can be progressively shortened as well
depending on the battery power level.
[0106] The control module 402 may also send out notifications to a
central control system 252 or to previous users or current users on
the authorization list about the battery power and a predicted loss
of ability to unlock the storage device 400. In one aspect, the
storage device 400 at a certain threshold or not could communicate
with one or more individuals who are authorized to access the
storage device 400 to schedule a time to unlock the storage device
400. The storage device 400 could then shut down the electronic
locking mechanism 404 and the associated reader component 404 until
the appointed time.
[0107] In yet another aspect, the system could include a port (such
as USB port) that could be used by an authorized user to power the
electronic locking mechanism 404 and the associated reader
component 404. Thus, if the power was too low on the storage device
400, a user could use their own mobile device, or a portable
battery, and plug into the storage device 400 to provide just
enough power to operate the electronic locking mechanism 404 and
the associated reader component 404. A wireless connection could
also be used to provide power from a mobile device or battery to
the electronic locking mechanism 404 and the associated reader
component 404.
[0108] In one aspect, any communication protocol that enables two
devices 400, 420 to communicate data with each other can be used.
For example, a protocol similar to what is used with Google Pay or
Apple Pay at a point of sale NFC device could be used to establish
a short distance wireless communication between the mobile device
420 and the storage device 400.
[0109] In one aspect, a storage device can include a processor, a
storage bin configured within the storage device, a battery that
stores energy for operation of the storage device, a sensing
component that determines a fullness level of the storage bin and
an electronic locking mechanism that enables access to an interior
portion of the device. A control module can have instructions
(stored in a memory) which, when executed by the processor, manages
the sensing component and is in communication with the electronic
locking mechanism. A reader component can communicate with an
external entity to obtain access authorization request information.
The control module can allow or deny access to the device based on
stored authorization allowances obtained from a remote server.
[0110] In one aspect, the storage device can unlock and remain
unlocked in the event of a low battery condition. A threshold could
be met where there is just sufficient energy in the battery to
unlock the device before the battery goes dead or hits a threshold.
The system could also switch to pure solar power where the
unlocking mechanism is powered directly from a solar panel. For
example, the storage device can operate the electronic locking
mechanism directly via a solar panel in the event of battery
failure or some other condition.
[0111] The external entity in one aspect may only unlock the device
if the storage device is deemed ready for a collection. Whether the
device is deemed "ready" for collection could be based on one or
more of a timing of the day, a status of a storage bin (fullness
level), a service level agreement, a payment schedule, a route or
location of a collection truck, a pattern of previous collections,
a machine-learning algorithm output, a battery level, a sunlight
level, a future weather prediction, and so forth. A remote server
may set the status of the storage device as in a mode for
collection or not. The decision can also be made locally by the
storage device.
[0112] In one aspect, the external entity will only be able unlock
the device during specific hours of the day. The timing of when
unlocking is possible can be managed by the control module and/or a
remote server. A separate service compartment can also be provided
to the storage device which can be accessible only to authorized
external entities. The separate compartment may not provide access
to an internal storage bin but to other items like envelopes or
other items.
[0113] FIG. 5 illustrates a group 500 of storage devices 502, 504,
506 with a configuration that enables locking control to be shared
or communicated between different devices. In one aspect, the
number of storage devices can be two or more. Thus, while three are
shown in FIG. 5, the number can be two, three, four, five, or more.
In one example, a pair 502, 504 of storage devices can include a
first storage device 502 having a first solar panel 508, a first
battery 538 connected to the first solar panel 508, a first control
module 546 powered by the first battery 538, a first compaction
component (not shown in FIG. 5) controlled by the first control
module 544 and powered by the first battery 538, a first locking
mechanism 520 and a first reader component 514. The pair 502, 504
of storage devices can include a second storage device 504 having a
second solar panel 510, a second battery 540 connected to the
second solar panel 510, a second control module 546 powered by the
second battery 540, a second compaction component (not shown)
controlled by the second control module 546 and powered by the
second battery 540, a second locking mechanism 522 and a second
reader component 516. The storage devices 502, 504 can provide
different functionality from the compaction of trash. In such a
case, the storage devices 502, 504 may not include the compaction
component.
[0114] The first control module 544 can be in communication with
the second control module 546 via a wireless or a wired
communication link. One of the first reader component 514 or the
second reader component 516 can enable both the first locking
mechanism 520 and/or the second locking mechanism 522. For example,
a maintenance person can be at pair 502, 504 of storage devices and
use an RFID card, mobile phone, key, or other external entity 544
to identify who they are at the first reader component 514 of the
first storage device 502. The identification can be communicated
from the first storage device 502 to the second storage device 504.
The identification can be further communicated to the third storage
device 506 or other devices as well. One or more listings of
authorized individuals stored on one or more of the storage devices
502, 504, 506 can be accessed to enable any one of the respective
locking mechanisms 520, 522, 524 to be unlocked based on the single
interaction with one of the reader components 514, 516, 518. In
this manner, for example, the person could be authorized on one
storage device and unlock one or more of the storage devices 502,
504, 506 in the group with one access action. Other types of
devices can also be coordinated together as well. For example, an
authorization to access storage device 502 using reader component
514 could also be coordinated with a mailbox or traffic light
control system to enable the user to unlock different containers or
systems in connection with the storage device 502.
[0115] A wireless communication link can be used for communication
between the first control module 544 and the second control module
546, as well as other control modules 548. In one aspect, the first
reader component 514 and the second reader component 516, as well
as other reader components 518, each can be one of an RFID reader,
a near-field communication component, a Bluetooth reader component,
a gesture sensing or detecting component, a facial recognition
component, a bio-metric reader, a touch-sensitive display, a
keypad, a multi-modal input component, a multi-modal input
component, and a motion detection component. QR codes, near-field
communication tags, or other devices can also be used in connection
with a mobile device to gain access to the interior of a storage
device 502, 504, 506.
[0116] The first control module 544 and the second control module
546 can store instructions to adjust a temporary period of time,
based on a battery power level, that a door is unlocked. As the
battery power level is reduced, the period of time that the door is
unlocked can also be reduced as it takes power to hold the locking
mechanism 520, 522, 524 in the unlocked position. In one aspect,
the first control module 544 causes the first reader component 514
to function at certain periods of time when a battery power level
is below a threshold. This also is another energy saving approach
when the battery power level is low. One or more of these energy
saving functions can be implemented. At least one of the first
control module 544 and the second control module 546 can store a
listing of authorized external entities that can unlock at least
one of the first storage device 502 and the second storage device
504.
[0117] In one example, the group of storage devices 502, 504, 506
may all run on a single battery 538. In this case, a user may gain
access or authorize themselves using storage device 504 and its
reader component 516 but the system may then grant access or unlock
the door 532 on storage device 502 since that is where the battery
538 is for the group of storage devices 502, 504, 506.
[0118] In a grouping scenario, the magnet concept is helpful where
a user may cause two doors to be unlocked from two storage devices
502, 504 but the user is only there to remove trash from one
storage device 502 and not recyclable material from another storage
device 504. The recyclable storage device 504 may have its door 534
unlocked but the magnet 528 would maintain the door 534 in the
closed position for safety and after a few seconds, say 5 seconds
for example, the locking mechanism 522 would switch from the unlock
state to the locked state.
[0119] In the scenario of two storage devices 502, 504 where the
battery level is running low, the system may only unlock the
storage device 502, 504 that needs servicing and not unlock the
door on the other storage device. This will reduce the drain on the
battery as holding the locking mechanism in the unlocked position
takes battery power.
[0120] In another example, an embodiment can cover a pair of
devices including a first device 502. The first device 502 can have
both a reader component 514 and a control module 544 that controls
both (1) a first operation of the first device 502 (such as a
sensor control) and (2) a first locking component 520 of the first
device 502 for accessing a first door 532 of the first device 502.
A second device 504 can be in communication with the first device
502. The second device 504 can have a second locking component 522
for the second device for accessing a second door 534 of the second
device 504. The second device in one aspect does not having a
reader component or a control module that independently controls
the second locking component. In this manner, a group of devices
can be managed with respect to access control where only one device
of the group needs the reader component and the control software.
The devices can communicate with each other and provide
instructions related to locking or unlocking. For example, one
control module on one device might be programmed to provide
authorization and instructions to a second device that has a
control module configured to receive unlocking instructions. Access
to the first device 502 and the second device 504 can both be
controlled by use of the reader component 514 and the control
module 544 on the first device 502 such that the first device 502
and the second device 504 can be unlocked simultaneously, one at a
time, or individually based on access rules implemented by the
control module.
[0121] The same principles can also apply to additional devices
506, etc., in which one (or more), but not all, of the devices can
have the reader component and control module functionality and can
thus be used to manage access to all of the devices in the
group.
[0122] In another aspect, a pair of storage devices can include a
first storage device 502 having a first battery 538 storing energy
for operating the first storage device 502, a first control module
544 powered by the first battery 538, a first sensor component
controlled by the first control module 544 and powered by the first
battery 538, a first locking mechanism 520 and a first reader
component 514. A second storage device 504 can include a second
battery 540 storing energy for operating the second storage device
504, a second control module 546 powered by the second battery 540,
a second sensor component controlled by the second control module
546 and powered by the second battery 540, a second locking
mechanism 522 and a second reader component 516. The first control
module 544 can be in communication with the second control module
546. One of the first reader component 514 or the second reader
component 516 (If the second device 504 has such a component)
enables both the first locking mechanism 520 and the second locking
mechanism 522 to be controlled.
[0123] The first reader component 514 and the second reader
component 516 can each include one of an RFID reader, a near-field
communication component, a Bluetooth reader component, a gesture
sensing or detecting component, a facial recognition component, a
bio-metric reader, a touch-sensitive display, a keypad, a
multi-modal input component, and a motion detection component. In
one aspect, one of the first control module 544 and the second
control module 546 can store additional instructions to adjust a
temporary period of time, based on a battery power level, that a
door is unlocked. The period of time for operation or to turn on
the capability of unlocking the respective devices can also be
provided based on a time of day, a battery level threshold, a
collection schedule, a status or state of a respective device such
that it is ready for collection (sensor indicated a full level) or
in need of service. In one aspect, an external entity that
interacts with the first reader component may only unlock the
device during specific hours of a day, or only while it is light.
Other examples of timing control can also be provided, such as
after a large sales day or holiday.
[0124] At least one of the first control module 544 and the second
control module 546 can store a listing of authorized external
entities that can unlock at least one of the first storage device
and the second storage device. The different devices can be
unlocked independently, simultaneously, based on respective batter
powers in the group of devices, upon request of a user, and so
forth.
[0125] At least one of the first control module 544 and the second
control module 546 can store (as received from a remote server) a
listing of black-listed external entities that cannot unlock at
least one of the first storage device 502 or the second storage
device 504.
[0126] In one aspect, one of the first storage device and the
second storage device can unlock and remain unlocked when a
respective low battery condition exists. This enables service to be
provided to the device such that it is not set in the lock position
without any battery power to unlock the device.
[0127] An external entity can interact with the first reader
component 514 and may only be able to unlock one of the first
storage device 502 or the second storage device 504 if the first
storage device 502 or the second storage device 504 is respectively
deemed ready for a collection or needs service. The definition of
"ready" can vary and having such meaning as a full level of a
storage been as sensed by a sensor, or that a component indicates
that it needs service or has stopped working. For example, a solar
panel or a sensor may stop working and an action could be taken
such as unlocking the door to enable service on the device.
[0128] In one aspect, one or more of the devices 502, 504, 506 can
include a separate service compartment that is accessible only to
authorized external entities. This separate compartment can store
envelopes, paper, tools, electrical components, spare parts, or any
other items. In another aspect, the first storage device 520 can
operate the locking mechanism 520 directly off of a solar panel
when battery failure occurs. In another aspect, power can be
communicated from one device to another device to provide power to
unlock the other device. Power can be transferred in a wired
fashion or in a wireless fashion between devices as necessary.
[0129] FIG. 6 illustrates an example method 600. A method can
include receiving identification information via an external entity
from a reader component on a solar-powered or battery-powered
storage device (602). The reader component can be connected to a
control module that manages at least one component in the storage
device such as a compaction component in the solar-powered
compaction device. Further, the control module can control a
locking mechanism. The method further can include, based on the
identification information and via the control module, unlocking
the locking mechanism in the solar-powered or battery-powered
storage device (604).
[0130] In one aspect, the method or the system can include the
concept where individual storage devices can receive their
respective listings of authorized users. Then an entity can deliver
RFID cards or enable mobile devices 268 to be authorized when they
interact with the reader component 266. There can be an overlay of
the devices 268 that is on top of the underlying system
authorization process or listings that are downloaded and stored on
individual devices. In another aspect, the system could be
triggered based on the interaction of a mobile device 268 and the
reader component 266 on the storage device 204 to cause a
connection to be established between a mobile device 268 of the
user and a remote server 252. Data regarding the identification of
the user and of the particular storage device 204 can be
transmitted to the remote server 252 and a wireless authorization
can provided from the remote server to the storage device 204 or to
the mobile device 268 to unlock the locking mechanism on the
storage device 204.
[0131] In another aspect, the method can include any of the other
functionality described herein, such as controlling the active
status of a locking mechanism and/or a reader component based on
battery level. Any concept, component, module or step can be used
in connection with any other concept, component, module or step
disclosed herein. Each embodiment or example is meant to be
exemplary and not as a mutually exclusive embodiment.
[0132] FIG. 7 illustrates a network 700 having a remote or
centralized server 702 that communication via a network 704 with
one or more local devices D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, D8 and D9.
The remote server 702 operates a software platform and control
components that manage the locking and unlocking authorizations and
functionality of one or more of the local devices D1-D9. The
devices D1-D9 can be any of the types of devices disclosed herein
and can include groupings as well. For example, a pair of devices
D1-D2 can be co-located or grouped together such that one device,
say D1, is a "dumb" device that does not have a reader component or
the locking/unlocking management technology built into its local
control module. Paired device D2 can communicate with D1. D2 can
have the necessary reader component and control module that can
include authorization lists or instructions received from the
remote server 702 for managing authorizations to access one or both
of D1 and D2. D7, D8 and D9 illustrate a group of three devices
that are in communication with each other. The locking mechanisms
on the respective devices can be independently controlled and
reader component and a control module on one (or more) of the
devices, for example D8, can be used to control opening all of the
devices D7-D9 simultaneously, one at a time in sequence, or any one
individually based on the access and authorization rules stored
locally or accessed from the remote server 702.
[0133] The remote server 702 can further perform a number of
different management functions with respect to authorizations and
the lock control of respective devices D1-D9. In one example, the
system can have "master keys" where if an external entity has a
certain password or "magic" password programmed into it, the system
will unlock the door without having that ID stored on the local
access list. A password can be manually entered or provided in
another modality. Such passwords will be reserved for super users
like large service providers or company employees that need to
access any station in a large geography or the world.
[0134] Master keys can be used further as follows. If a master key,
password, or other entity operating to enable access to a user not
specifically on an authorized user list, were to get into an
unauthorized user's hand, it could then be used to open any device
D1-D9. In order to combat this potential threat, the remote server
702 can transmit a locally stored "black list" that would prevent
specific ID from accessing a station, even if it had the magic
password. Thus, is a magic password were known to have been made
public or been stolen, the system 702 can add that identification
to a "black list" stored on the various devices D1-D9. In this
manner, a master key, authorization lists, and black lists can all
be used to control authorization procedures by local devices.
[0135] If a device D1-D9 loses communication with the remote server
702, it will not be able to update its authorized user list. In
this scenario, the local control module can include functionality
to enable any ID of any acceptable format, independent of specific
ID information or confirmation of the user being on an authorized
user list, to unlock the device. Thus, a maintenance person can
open that station to perform service work to restore
communication.
[0136] One aspect of the use of the remote server 702 or operations
on local devices D1-D9 includes alerts. The system can provide
multiple alerts to indicate error or misuse. For example, one alert
can include "Electronic lock not responding to control module",
"Too many card swipes", "Collection outside of scheduled hours" and
so forth. These alerts can be based on detected events from local
devices D1-D9. Any device can transmit an alert through the network
704 to the remote server 702. An alert can be transmitted to an
external entity such as a mobile device used to seek access to a
respective device.
[0137] Another aspect of the remote server 702 can be collection
tracking. In one aspect, the server 702 can receive data from
various devices D1-D9 and can count any door opening as a
collection. Additional functionality can be provided however. With
different external entity IDs, the system 702 can differentiate
between a waste collector and someone performing service
maintenance. By differentiating amongst different people opening up
a device, and to have more accurate data on when collections or
service events occurred, the system 702 can track who performed a
collection or opening of the device and provide reports on one or
more of the various types of openings, timing, how long the device
was opened, whether a bin was emptied or some other task was
performed, and so forth. FIG. 8 illustrates a method embodiment
800. This method relates to functions for enabling a user to force
a storage device to request and receive from a remote server 702 an
updated authorization list for access to the device. The method can
include one or more of receiving identification information from an
external entity via a reader component on a storage device (802),
wherein the reader component is connected to a control module that
manages at least one component in the in the storage device and
wherein the control module also controls a locking mechanism that
controls access to the storage device. The method includes
determining that a user associated with the identification
information is not authorized to access the storage device based on
a locally-stored authorization list (804), receiving data from the
user (806), based on the data from the user, receiving an updated
authorization list from a remote server (808) and applying the
updated authorization list to determine whether to grant the user
access to the storage device (810).
[0138] The data from the user can include one or more of the
identification information, a combination of the identification
information and a second type of input, a single-mode input and a
multi-modal input. The second type of input can include by way of
example a magnet input to a sensor on the storage device. Thus, if
a user is not authorized to unlock a device, the user can provide
their User ID via the external entity while at the time or in
succession can hover a magnet over a sensor component on the
device. The two inputs can cause an operation to be implemented
which forces the device to request and receive from a remote server
702 an updated authorized user list. The device could then apply
the new list automatically based on the previous receipt of the ID,
or can require the user again to provide their user ID to test
against the updated authorization user list. Asking for an updated
list can also be an option presented on a touch-sensitive screen in
which the user interacts with an object such as a button to request
the updated list.
[0139] FIG. 9 illustrates another method embodiment 900 related to
the use of master keys. The method includes providing, from a
remote server, an authorization list to a local device that governs
access to the local device (902) and providing data to the local
device which enables access to the local device based on a master
key independent of the authorization list (904). Other steps can
include providing a black list of specific IDs that are prevented
from accessing the local device (906) and providing access to any
identification in any acceptable format when the device loses
communication with the remote server (908).
[0140] FIG. 10 illustrates a method 1000 associated with the
collection of data in a configuration like that shown in FIG. 7.
The method includes classifying a first group of individuals who
can access a local device (1002) and classifying a second group of
individuals that can access the local device (1004). For example,
one group can be waste collectors and another group can provide
mechanical service to the units. The method can include receiving
data from a plurality of local devices at a remote server
identifying which individuals from the first group and the second
group of individuals accessed each respective device (1006) and
generating a report on the access to the plurality of local devices
based on the data received and the classifications (1008). As noted
above, the data that can be reported on can include many different
types of data associated with accessing the various devices. For
example, one or more of the following factors can be applied to the
analysis or reporting: the person who accessed each device, the
type of access, sensor data before and after the access, a time of
day, how long the device was unlocked, a time between a notice
going out to a person and when the person arrived and unlocked a
device, and so forth.
[0141] FIG. 11 illustrates a method 1100 that relates to managing
the locking operations for a group of devices. The method can
include receiving identification information from an external
entity via a reader component on a first storage device (1102). The
reader component can be connected to a control module that manages
at least one component in the in the first storage device. The
control module can also control a first locking mechanism that
controls access to the first storage device and a second locking
mechanism configured on a second storage device, the second locking
mechanisms controlling access to the second storage device.
[0142] The method can include determining that a user associated
with the identification information is authorized to access one of
the first storage device or the second storage device based on a
locally-stored authorization list (1104) and unlocking one of the
first locking mechanism on the first device and the second locking
mechanism on the second storage device (1106). When it is the
second locking mechanism that is unlocked, the unlocking can be
based on a signal transmitted from the first storage device to the
second storage device.
[0143] In one aspect, the second storage device does not include a
second-device reader component. The locally-stored authorization
list can be stored at the first storage device and the
locally-stored authorization list can provide authorization
information on one or more of a per-device, per user, per group of
devices, per time, or per unlocking need basis. The control modules
for the different devices may be different as one may include
commands and another control module may only be configured to
receive unlocking instructions from the other device.
[0144] The locally-stored authorization list further can define
timing information regarding when at least one of the first storage
device and the second storage device are eligible to be unlocked.
The control module can store access rules and control instructions
that can cause the first locking mechanism and/or the second
locking mechanism to open simultaneously, independently, at a
certain time, based on a specific event or parameter, or in a
sequence. The method can further include registering the second
storage device with the first storage device to enable management
of the second locking mechanism by the control module of the first
storage device.
[0145] FIG. 12 illustrates an example method 1200 related to using
a remote server to manage a group of or a plurality of local
devices. A method includes receiving, at a remote server, an
identification of a local device, the local device having a control
module that manages a reader component and a locking mechanism
(1202) and transmitting an authorization list to the local device
that identifies authorized users that can gain access to the local
device via the locking mechanism through interacting with the
reader component (1204). The control module on the local device can
manage multiple functions of the local device including management
of the reader component and the locking mechanism.
[0146] Upon triggering the locking mechanism, the control module of
the local device can maintain the locking mechanism in an unlock
position for a predetermined period of time, after which the unlock
position changes to a lock position. In one aspect, when the reader
component of the local device communicates with an external entity
to obtain authorization to unlock the local device, the control
module can obtain identification data associated with the external
entity and report at least the identification data to the remote
server.
[0147] The method can further include transmitting an updated
authorization list to the local device that identifies a new group
of authorized users that can gain access to the local device via
the locking mechanism through interacting with the reader component
(1206). In another aspect, the method can also include transmitting
a black list to the local device that identifies one or more users
not allowed to gain access to the local device via the locking
mechanism through interacting with the reader component (1208).
[0148] The authorization list can define access control data for
both the local device and a second local device in communication
with the local device. Other devices can be covered as well such
that the group can consist of three or more devices.
[0149] The method can also include transmitting a master key list
to the local device, the master key list defining super users who
can gain access to the local device independent of being listed on
the authorization list. This can cover a maintenance person perhaps
from the manufacturer of the storage devices or other person who
needs access who might not specifically be on the authorization
list. In yet another example, the remote server may receive a
request for an updated access list and respond by transmitting an
updated access list to the local device from which the request
came.
[0150] FIG. 13 illustrates another method embodiment 1300. A method
includes establishing, via a remote server, communication with a
plurality of local devices, each device of the plurality of local
devices having a respective control module, a respective reader
component and a respective locking mechanism (1302) and
transmitting to each device of the plurality of local devices a
respective authorization list which identifies authorized users who
can gain access to the respective local device based on a
respective authorized user interacting with the respective reader
component (1304). The respective control module can cause the
respective locking mechanism to unlock upon authorization locally
based on the respective authorization list.
[0151] As introduced in FIG. 1 above, some of the component can be
electrical or computer components. In some cases, such a computing
device or apparatus may include a processor, microprocessor,
microcomputer, or other component of a device that is configured to
carry out the steps of the methods disclosed above. In some
examples, such computing device or apparatus may include one or
more antennas for sending and receiving RF signals. In some
examples, such computing device or apparatus may include an antenna
and a modem for sending, receiving, modulating, and demodulating RF
signals, as previously described.
[0152] The components of the computing device can be implemented in
circuitry. For example, the components can include and/or can be
implemented using electronic circuits or other electronic hardware,
which can include one or more programmable electronic circuits
(e.g., microprocessors, graphics processing units (GPUs), digital
signal processors (DSPs), central processing units (CPUs), and/or
other suitable electronic circuits), and/or can include and/or be
implemented using computer software, firmware, or any combination
thereof, to perform the various operations described herein. The
computing device may further include a display (as an example of
the output device or in addition to the output device), a network
interface configured to communicate and/or receive the data, any
combination thereof, and/or other component(s). The network
interface may be configured to communicate and/or receive Internet
Protocol (IP) based data or other type of data.
[0153] The methods discussed above are illustrated as a logical
flow diagram, the operations of which represent a sequence of
operations that can be implemented in hardware, computer
instructions, or a combination thereof. In the context of computer
instructions, the operations represent computer-executable
instructions stored on one or more computer-readable storage media
that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the recited
operations. Generally, computer-executable instructions include
routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and the
like that perform particular functions or implement particular data
types. The order in which the operations are described is not
intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the
described operations can be combined in any order and/or in
parallel to implement the processes.
[0154] Additionally, the methods disclosed herein may be performed
under the control of one or more computer systems configured with
executable instructions and may be implemented as code (e.g.,
executable instructions, one or more computer programs, or one or
more applications) executing collectively on one or more
processors, by hardware, or combinations thereof. As noted above,
the code may be stored on a computer-readable or machine-readable
storage medium, for example, in the form of a computer program
comprising a plurality of instructions executable by one or more
processors. The computer-readable or machine-readable storage
medium may be non-transitory.
[0155] The term "computer-readable medium" includes, but is not
limited to, portable or non-portable storage devices, optical
storage devices, and various other mediums capable of storing,
containing, or carrying instruction(s) and/or data. A
computer-readable medium may include a non-transitory medium in
which data can be stored and that does not include carrier waves
and/or transitory electronic signals propagating wirelessly or over
wired connections. Examples of a non-transitory medium may include,
but are not limited to, a magnetic disk or tape, optical storage
media such as compact disk (CD) or digital versatile disk (DVD),
flash memory, memory or memory devices. A computer-readable medium
may have stored thereon code and/or machine-executable instructions
that may represent a procedure, a function, a subprogram, a
program, a routine, a subroutine, a module, a software package, a
class, or any combination of instructions, data structures, or
program statements. A code segment may be coupled to another code
segment or a hardware circuit by passing and/or receiving
information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents.
Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. may be passed,
forwarded, or transmitted via any suitable means including memory
sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, or
the like.
[0156] In some embodiments the computer-readable storage devices,
mediums, and memories can include a cable or wireless signal
containing a bit stream and the like. However, when mentioned,
non-transitory computer-readable storage media expressly exclude
media such as energy, carrier signals, electromagnetic waves, and
signals per se.
[0157] Specific details are provided in the description above to
provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments and examples
provided herein. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary
skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without
these specific details. For clarity of explanation, in some
instances the present technology may be presented as including
individual functional blocks comprising devices, device components,
steps or routines in a method embodied in software, or combinations
of hardware and software. Additional components may be used other
than those shown in the figures and/or described herein. For
example, circuits, systems, networks, processes, and other
components may be shown as components in block diagram form in
order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail. In
other instances, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms,
structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail
in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments.
[0158] Individual embodiments may be described above as a process
or method which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data
flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a
flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many
of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In
addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process
is terminated when its operations are completed, but can have
additional steps not included in a figure. A process may correspond
to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram,
etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can
correspond to a return of the function to the calling function or
the main function.
[0159] Processes and methods according to the above-described
examples can be implemented using computer-executable instructions
that are stored or otherwise available from computer-readable
media. Such instructions can include, for example, instructions and
data which cause or otherwise configure a general purpose computer,
special purpose computer, or a processing device to perform a
certain function or group of functions. Portions of computer
resources used can be accessible over a network. The computer
executable instructions may be, for example, binaries, intermediate
format instructions such as assembly language, firmware, source
code. Examples of computer-readable media that may be used to store
instructions, information used, and/or information created during
methods according to described examples include magnetic or optical
disks, flash memory, USB devices provided with non-volatile memory,
networked storage devices, and so on.
[0160] Devices implementing processes and methods according to
these disclosures can include hardware, software, firmware,
middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or any
combination thereof, and can take any of a variety of form factors.
When implemented in software, firmware, middleware, or microcode,
the program code or code segments to perform the necessary tasks
(e.g., a computer-program product) may be stored in a
computer-readable or machine-readable medium. A processor(s) may
perform the necessary tasks. Typical examples of form factors
include laptops, smart phones, mobile phones, tablet devices or
other small form factor personal computers, personal digital
assistants, rackmount devices, standalone devices, and so on.
Functionality described herein also can be embodied in peripherals
or add-in cards. Such functionality can also be implemented on a
circuit board among different chips or different processes
executing in a single device, by way of further example.
[0161] The instructions, media for conveying such instructions,
computing resources for executing them, and other structures for
supporting such computing resources are example means for providing
the functions described in the disclosure.
[0162] In the foregoing description, aspects of the application are
described with reference to specific embodiments thereof, but those
skilled in the art will recognize that the application is not
limited thereto. Thus, while illustrative embodiments of the
application have been described in detail herein, it is to be
understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously
embodied and employed, and that the appended claims are intended to
be construed to include such variations, except as limited by the
prior art. Various features and aspects of the above-described
application may be used individually or jointly. Further,
embodiments can be utilized in any number of environments and
applications beyond those described herein without departing from
the broader spirit and scope of the specification. The
specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded as
illustrative rather than restrictive. For the purposes of
illustration, methods were described in a particular order. It
should be appreciated that in alternate embodiments, the methods
may be performed in a different order than that described.
[0163] Where components are described as being "configured to"
perform certain operations, such configuration can be accomplished,
for example, by designing electronic circuits or other hardware to
perform the operation, by programming programmable electronic
circuits (e.g., microprocessors, or other suitable electronic
circuits) to perform the operation, or any combination thereof.
[0164] The phrase "coupled to" refers to any component that is
physically connected to another component either directly or
indirectly, and/or any component that is in communication with
another component (e.g., connected to the other component over a
wired or wireless connection, and/or other suitable communication
interface) either directly or indirectly.
[0165] Claim language or other language reciting "at least one of"
a set and/or "one or more" of a set indicates that one member of
the set or multiple members of the set (in any combination) satisfy
the claim. For example, claim language reciting "at least one of A
and B" or "at least one of A or B" means A, B, or A and B. In
another example, claim language reciting "at least one of A, B, and
C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" means A, B, C, or A and B, or A
and C, or B and C, or A and B and C. The language "at least one of"
a set and/or "one or more" of a set does not limit the set to the
items listed in the set. For example, claim language reciting "at
least one of A and B" or "at least one of A or B" can mean A, B, or
A and B, and can additionally include items not listed in the set
of A and B.
* * * * *