Token system for installation in a reverse vending machine

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

0001The present invention is related in general to apparatus for handling items or objects, e.g. for receiving, sorting and storing returnable items or objects, such as empty beverage containers like bottles, cans or the like. The invention is particularly useful in connection with reverse vending machines, although certain aspects of the present invention may also find other fields of use. In particular, the present invention relates to a token system for installation in a reverse vending machine which is configured to detect and identify characteristic features of empty beverage containers and any return value related thereto, as defined in the preamble of attached claim 1.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

0002The present invention came about following the recognition of the need to provide a more cost efficient reverse vending machine, yet simple, reliable and space saving. In particular, it was recognized the need to reduce overall cost of manufacturing such new machines by addressing such important issues to as minimizing the number of expensive components, such as e.g. camera, barcode reader, object sorter, object conveyor, object rotator, and token printer, as well as minimizing required space, especially as regards floor area.

0003However, in such recognition, it was revealed that the invention would become related to a plurality of aspects which all in their own respective manner would contribute to a desirable end result.

0004In a decade or so, environmental and economical concerns have spurred significant developments in the field of facilities for collecting cans, bottles, jars and other containers, preferably for recovering the material for recycling purposes. These days, fully automatic systems are available that are capable of receiving and storing many different types of used containers, or even parts of used containers.

0005Arrangements for handling recyclable items like returnable empty beverage containers are <i>inter alia</i> known from the European publications<patcit id="pcit0001" dnum="EP0384885A"><text>EP 0 384 885</text></patcit> (SIG Schweizerische Industrie-Gesellschaft), <patcit id="pcit0002" dnum="EP1311448A"><text>EP 1311448</text></patcit>, and the International Patent Application publication <patcit id="pcit0003" dnum="WO0212096A"><text>WO02/12096</text></patcit> (<patcit id="pcit0004" dnum="EP1313656A"><text>EP 1313656</text></patcit>) (TOMRA SYSTEMS ASA) and <patcit id="pcit0005" dnum="EP14677328A"><text>EP 14677328</text></patcit> (TOMRA SYSTEMS ASA).

0006Till now, available fully automated systems, so-called reverse vending machines (RVMs) and back-room systems, that are capable of receiving and storing used containers have been quite complex and expensive. They have, therefore, mostly been found in larger stores, shopping centers or supermarkets, or in special facilities put up for collecting recyclable items or objects.

0007Accordingly, for the customer who has recyclable items or objects in smaller quantities, and who may not have at disposal a proper vehicle to facilitate easy transportation of recyclable material to a larger store, shopping center or supermarket that may be located at a distance from the person's home, it is often easier to throw the recyclable items out with the garbage.

0008The currently available reverse vending machines normally deliver the received objects to a back-room receiving facility or a downstairs facility. The total installation is expensive, requires substantial space, is often complex to install and service, and has operational drawbacks, in particular from a cleaning point of view. Frequent cleaning of soiled operational parts, suitably with water or special cleaning agent, is very important to secure failsafe operation. Returnable beverage containers frequently contain beverage leftovers, which often happen to come into contact with operational parts, thus making such parts sticky and causing operational failure if not properly cleaned. Cleaning is more than often a messy operation, and care has to be made not to harm electrical components.

0009Most RVMs need to have the ability to inspect identifying features on the object, such as e.g. a bar code. If such features are not immediately seen by a dedicated detector, the object will need to be rotated to find if such features are indeed present. An object rotating mechanism is expensive and requires substantial space in the longitudinal or depth direction of the RVM. Further, if such RVMs are also to provide object sorting, an additional sorter has to be provided, adding further to the cost of the installation, and the dimension of the RVM as regards depth dimension is in some cases prohibitive when both a rotator and a sorter are to be included. Also, most owners of stores, shopping centers or supermarkets are concerned over RVMs requiring substantial and expensive space for collecting the containers received by the RVM, such space frequently being occupied by container collection tables.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

0010The present invention therefore has as a principal object to meet a long felt need to provide an improved automated facility for collecting returnable objects or items, such as recyclable items of plastic, metal or glass, and for overcoming the well-known mentioned drawbacks, thus yielding a low cost facility which exhibits optimal use of limited space, in particular floor space, that may be available almost everywhere, enabling their placement even in smaller stores, convenience stores, local gas stations and public areas. Thereby, such facilities may be more conveniently available to customers. These features and other features to appear through reading of the specification are some of the objectives of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

0011According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a token system for installation in a reverse vending machine which is configured to detect and identify characteristic features of empty beverage containers and any return value related thereto, whereby the token system has at least one of: <ul id="ul0001" list-style="dash" compact="compact"><li>a token reader capable of reading a token when presented to the reader from outside of the reverse vending machine by a user or capable of reading a token upon dispensing it from a token dispenser, and characterized in that the token system further has</li><li>a token encoder for entering information onto or into the token when the token is presented to the encoder by a user outside the reverse vending machine.</li></ul>

0012Further embodiments appear from the related sub-claims 2 - 8. The conveyor means is disclosed in the detailed description inter alia for use with a facility for receiving returnable items.

0013From prior art it is conventional to view an object or article, e.g. empty beverage packaging, such as a can or bottle, against a light reflective background , the viewing being made via a lens in order that light rays which are sent towards the object are parallel rays. <patcit id="pcit0006" dnum="DE19512133A1"><text>DE 19512133 A1</text></patcit> discloses such technique. On the basis of such viewing, analysis for object contour is made.

0014However, simultaneously with viewing of shape of a bottle or can, as disclosed in said <patcit id="pcit0007" dnum="DE19512133A1"><text>DE 195 12 133 A1</text></patcit>, there has also been the need to view and recognize or read other characteristic features, such as a bar code on the can or bottle.

0015In a reverse vending machine (RVM), it is conventional to view and recognize shape of the object at one location in the RVM and to recognize other identifiable characteristic features such as indicia, barcode etc. at another location. If e.g. a barcode is not directly visible to a barcode reader, the object must be rotated until the barcode becomes visible and can be read by the reader.

0016It is a well known fact that in order to be able to detect both contour of the object and read indicia or identifying features located on the object, including object rotation to find and read identifying features, multiple and separate operating units need to be provided, thus requiring extra space within the RVM to carry out the operations. If there is in addition the requirement of a sorting function, additional challenges arise as regards available space. Said <patcit id="pcit0008" dnum="EP1311448A"><text>EP publications EP1311448</text></patcit> and<patcit id="pcit0009" dnum="EP1313656A"><text>1313656</text></patcit> disclose, with reference to an RVM for beverage container such as bottles and cans, the provisions of contour detection, barcode reading and beverage container sorting. Contour detection and sorting is made by one operating unit (see <patcit id="pcit0010" dnum="EP1313656A"><text>EP 1313656</text></patcit>), and a further operating unit (<patcit id="pcit0011" dnum="EP1311448A"><text>EP1311448</text></patcit>) provides for beverage container rotation to find a barcode and barcode reading.

0017<patcit id="pcit0012" dnum="US5934440A"><text>US 5 934 440</text></patcit> discloses a device with a detection station for reading barcode, rotation of the object such as e.g. a bottle to locate a barcode not immediately visible, as well as a sorting function. However, the possibility of detecting an object contour at such station is not available and needs to be performed by a separate station suitably located upstream, as disclosed in said patent.

0018It has therefore been a long felt need to provide for a technical solution which yields a more compact, yet simple and cost-effective arrangement and with the possibility of both detection of contour and identifying features located on the object, as well as a sorting function and other optional functions.

0019Accordingly, the present disclosure also describes a device which makes use of camera aid to provide for major detection functions, and with other benefits resulting from the overall structure.

0020European Patent <patcit id="pcit0013" dnum="EP0910485A"><text>EP-0910485</text></patcit> (TOMRA SYSTEMS ASA) discloses a camera functionality in order to control movements in a camera field of view in connection with a reverse vending machine. Such movement control is software related.

0021Reverse vending machines conventionally issue a specially printed token related to the return or redemption value of empty beverage containers received by the reverse vending machine (RVM), and the token is then taken to a rewarding unit or so-called checkout and payment station to get a cash reward or a cash deduction from a bill to be paid for other sales items or objects, e.g. groceries. However, it has also been a long felt desire to simplify dispensing of tokens in a RVM to avoid occasional and inherent printer failures well known to the expert in the art when tokens are to be printed with individual return value related data.

0022The present invention therefore relates to a token system for use with a reverse vending machine suitable for receiving empty packaging in the form of empty beverage containers.

0023Closely linked thereto is a token system related to a reverse vending machine which is configured to detect and identify features of an object, tokens being dispensable one-by-one from a token dispenser and configured to be related to an object being observable and detectable for object identification.

0024Security measures have over the past years been implemented in order to avoid recurring swindle attempt through presentation at the rewarding unit of home-made tokens with a redemption value printed thereon. Thus, the new tokens issued have also included a particular serial number, and both the redemption value and the serial number have been communicated from the RVM to a central computer, suitably located in the store or supermarket, in order to validate the token, and when the token has been presented at the rewarding unit, payment is made to the customer and the central computer then invalidates the token by removing the data from availability at the rewarding unit.

0025The tokens are usually made from thin paper from a roll of paper passing through a printer, suitably a thermal printer, before it is issued to the customer. Experience has, however, shown that use of such printed paper tokens has the drawback that the printer occasionally fails, the printer is expensive and needs maintenance service at regular intervals, and the paper from the paper roll is expensive and needs to be of a particular quality to yield as low failure rate as possible.

0026Given some of the disadvantages of the prior art tokens, it is therefore, according to the present disclosure, an object of the present invention to provide for a token system that avoids printing of tokens in an RVM, yet provides the required security against swindle attempts and avoids the use of any printer and related printer maintenance.

0027Preferred examples of the drive device appear from the detailed description.

0028In the following, the token system will be explained by way of examples and by reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals indicate the same elements, although as regards some elements, different reference numerals have been used for elements having same properties of functioning and for practical reasons.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0029In the drawings: <ul id="ul0002" list-style="none"><li><figref idref="f0001">fig. <b>1a</b></figref> shows in a perspective view , an exemplary mode of a reverse vending machine with object storage chamber; object supporting, rotating, sorting and conveyor means; camera-aided detector device; supplementary item/ object collector means; token dispenser; token reader; safety apparatus; and drive means,</li><li><figref idref="f0002">figs. <b>1b</b> and <b>1c</b></figref> show the object rotating, sorting and conveyor means with its longitudinal axis tilted relative to the horizontal,</li><li><figref idref="f0003">fig. <b>2</b></figref> is a partial sectional view of a drum type conveyor for a storage facility, being positioned in a first rotational position,</li><li><figref idref="f0004">fig. <b>3</b></figref> is a perspective view of the drum type conveyor shown in <figref idref="f0003">fig. 2</figref>,</li><li><figref idref="f0005">fig. <b>4</b></figref> is a partial sectional view of an embodiment of a drum type conveyor for incorporation in a storage facility, the drum being in a second rotational position with a piston like plunger element in a retracted position,</li><li><figref idref="f0006">fig. <b>5</b></figref> is a perspective view of the conveyor of <figref idref="f0005">fig. 4</figref>,</li><li><b>6</b><figref idref="f0007">fig. <b>6</b></figref> is a partial sectional view of an embodiment of a drum type conveyor for incorporation in the storage facility, the drum being rotated in a first direction from the second position to assume a third rotational position in which with the piston-like plunger element is in an advanced position,</li><li><figref idref="f0008">fig. <b>7</b></figref> is a perspective view of the positional state of the drum type conveyor of <figref idref="f0007">fig. 6</figref>,</li><li><figref idref="f0009">fig. <b>8</b></figref> is a partial sectional view of an embodiment of a drum type conveyor for incorporation in a storage facility, with the drum rotated in a direction opposite to that starting at <figref idref="f0005">figs. 4</figref>, <figref idref="f0006">5</figref> and ending at <figref idref="f0007">figs. 6</figref>, <figref idref="f0008">7</figref>, i.e. a rotation in clockwise direction - as viewed on <figref idref="f0009">fig. 8</figref>- from the second position to the first position to assume a further rotational position with the piston-like plunger in an advanced, downwardly facing position,</li><li><figref idref="f0010">fig. <b>9</b></figref> is a perspective view of positional state of the drum type conveyor of <figref idref="f0016">figure 15</figref>, as seen partly from below,</li><li><figref idref="f0011">fig. <b>10</b></figref> is an illustration of a drum type conveyor embodiment positioned in a cabinet with a bearing for the roller and load cell on a movable arm,</li><li><figref idref="f0012">fig. <b>11</b></figref> is a principle sketch of a first embodiment of a camera-aided viewing device for viewing an object with regard to contour of the object and identifying features or indicia on the object,</li><li><figref idref="f0013">fig. <b>12</b></figref> is a principle, though slightly more detailed sketch of the first embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device showing in more detail a first object supporting, rotation, sorting and conveying means,</li><li><figref idref="f0014">fig. <b>13</b></figref> is a principle sketch of a second embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device,</li><li><figref idref="f0015">fig. <b>14</b></figref> is a principle sketch of a third embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device,</li><li><figref idref="f0016">fig. <b>15</b></figref> is a principle sketch of a fourth embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device,</li><li><figref idref="f0017">fig. <b>16</b></figref> is a principle sketch of a fifth embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device,</li><li><figref idref="f0018">fig. <b>17</b></figref> is a principle sketch of a sixth embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device,</li><li><figref idref="f0019">fig. <b>18</b></figref> is a principle sketch of a second object supporting, rotation, sorting and conveying means,</li><li><figref idref="f0020">fig. <b>19</b></figref> is a principle sketch of a seventh embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device,</li><li><figref idref="f0021">fig. <b>20</b></figref> is a principle sketch of an eight embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device,</li><li><figref idref="f0022">fig. <b>21</b></figref> is a principle sketch of a ninth embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device,</li><li><figref idref="f0023">fig. <b>22</b></figref> is a principle sketch of a tenth embodiment of the camera-aided viewing device,</li><li><figref idref="f0024">fig. <b>23a</b></figref> shows a camera image with two image parts, and <figref idref="f0025">fig. <b>23b</b></figref> shows a camera surveillance image with a set of dedicated camera image sensor matrix pixels indicated,</li><li><figref idref="f0025">fig. <b>23c</b></figref> shows a simplified circuit diagram forming part of the block schematic diagram in <figref idref="f0028">fig. 32</figref>,</li><li><figref idref="f0024">fig. <b>24</b></figref> is a principle sketch to illustrate camera reading of bar-code on a token in a token storage device,</li><li><figref idref="f0024">fig. <b>25</b></figref> is an exemplifying token,</li><li><figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>26a</b></figref> is a partial view of a supporting device and a background area or panel,</li><li><figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>26b</b></figref> is a variant of the background area or panel shown on <figref idref="f0026">fig. 26a</figref>,</li><li><figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>27a</b></figref> is a sketch of a first embodiment of a token reading means,</li><li><figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>27b</b></figref> is a sketch of a second embodiment of a token reading means,</li><li><figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>28</b></figref> is a perspective view of a part of the view of fig. 38,</li><li><figref idref="f0027">figs. <b>29 - 31</b></figref> are perspective views of a token dispenser seen from below, from the side and above, and substantially from above, respectively,</li><li><figref idref="f0028">fig. <b>32</b></figref> is a block schematic diagram of electrically or electronically operative elements in a system incorporating the invention,</li><li><figref idref="f0029">fig. <b>33</b></figref> shows in a perspective view a reverse vending machine with object storage chamber; object supporting, rotating, sorting and conveyor means; item collector means; token dispenser; token reader; and drive means,</li></ul>

SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION

<u>RVM overview</u>

0030<figref idref="f0001">Fig. <b>1a</b></figref> illustrates in an exemplary embodiment a reverse vending machine (RVM) <b>1</b> exemplifies main aspects of the present invention, i.e. object storage chamber <b>2</b>; object supporting, rotating, sorting and conveyor unit <b>3</b>; camera-aided detector device <b>4</b>; supplementary item/ object collector means 5; token dispenser <b>6</b>; token reader <b>7</b>, safety apparatus <b>8</b>, and drive means <b>9; 9'</b>. The unit <b>3</b> (later denoted as <b>200</b>) could have to have its longitudinal axis <b>3'</b> horizontal or forming an angle α with the horizontal, yielding angle <b>β</b> in the range ± 0° - 30°, as indicated on <figref idref="f0002">figs. <b>1b</b> and <b>1c</b></figref>. In the more detailed disclosure to follow, the operational means <b>2 - 9</b> just mentioned will for practical reasons be denoted by other reference numerals. Direction is also made to <figref idref="f0029">fig. <b>33</b></figref> showing the figure of <figref idref="f0001">fig. <b>1a</b></figref>, however with more reference numerals inserted to identify location of some of the various operational means which are extensively disclosed in the disclosure to follow in connection with <figref idref="f0003 f0004 f0005 f0006 f0007 f0008 f0009 f0010 f0011 f0012 f0013 f0014 f0015 f0016 f0017 f0018 f0019 f0020 f0021 f0022 f0023 f0024 f0025 f0026 f0027 f0028 f0029">figs. <b>2 - 33</b></figref>.

<u>Rotary Drum Type Conveyor Means</u>

0031Reference is made to <figref idref="f0003">fig. <b>2</b></figref>, to explain the drum type conveyor. The drum type conveyor includes a drum shaped element that is rotary about a central, longitudinal axis of rotation <b>221</b>. A substantially rectangular and elongate recess-like space or cavity, being open at the peripheral area of the drum, is provided in the drum, for holding an elongate movable element which can be retracted and advanced, the movable element having an outer surface that in the advanced position preferably becomes substantially aligned with an outer surface of the drum. In the accompanying drawings, the movable element is denoted by the numeral <b>223</b>, and the space or cavity in the drum is denoted by reference numeral <b>222</b>. The rotational capability of the drum <b>220</b> is obtained through use of bearings positioned in a region at each end of the drum, and positioned on the axis of rotation <b>221</b>. A part of the structure, such as a cabinet, can be adapted to hold the bearings in place, thereby allowing the drum to rotate with its outer surface <b>228</b> in proximity to the input receiving area <b>210</b> which is made to coincide with an inlet opening <b>425</b> (see <figref idref="f0029">fig. <b>33</b></figref>) in the cabinet <b>250</b> (see <figref idref="f0011">fig. <b>10</b></figref>), <b>428</b> (see <figref idref="f0029">fig. <b>33</b></figref>). As an alternative, as shown in <figref idref="f0004">fig. <b>3</b></figref> and in other drawing figures, the drum <b>220</b> may be positioned in a frame <b>240</b> to form a conveyor assembly for easy conveyor assembly removal for convenient conveyor cleaning, test, maintenance and replacement.

0032To ensure proper alignment and good fixation of the conveyor unit when located in a storage facility, the frame <b>240</b> is suitably adapted to match a receiving frame <b>251</b> (<figref idref="f0011">fig. <b>10</b></figref>) that preferably is part of a cabinet <b>250</b> (<figref idref="f0011">fig. <b>10</b></figref>), <b>428</b> (<figref idref="f0029">fig. <b>33</b></figref>), and which facilitates any of the possible layouts of a storage facility, as exemplified by several of the previous figures.

0033Preferably, as shown in <figref idref="f0004">figs. <b>3</b></figref>, <figref idref="f0008"><b>7</b></figref> or <figref idref="f0010"><b>9</b></figref>, the moveable element <b>223</b> is driven by way of a moveable element drive means comprising a tappet or a roller <b>232</b>, being attached to the moveable element <b>223</b>, that follows a track <b>231</b> located proximal to an end of the drum and being stationary in respect of the drum. By providing a tappet or roller <b>232</b> on each side of the moveable element, made to engage with respective stationary tracks <b>231</b> located proximal to respective ends of the drum, a balanced driving force can be applied to the moveable element by the rotation of the drum. Thus, only the drum will require a drive for the assembly to operate as described here, as the moveable element will be driven by the movement of the drum relative to the stationary track. The shape of the track, i.e. the distance of the track from the axis of rotation of the drum, controls the position of the tappet or roller <b>232</b>, and, hence, the position of the moveable element, in a radial direction with respect to the drum center axis. The track is a single, continuous track <b>231</b> followed by the tappet or roller means <b>232</b>.

0034In <figref idref="f0003">fig. <b>2</b></figref>, the drum <b>220</b> is shown in a first rotational position with the movable element in an advanced position and pointing downwards, and with a returnable object/ item <b>10</b> entered into the input receiving space or area <b>210</b> to be placed on an upward facing region of the outer circumferential surface <b>228</b> of the drum <b>220</b>. In a preferable example, the drum type conveyor includes an elongate roller <b>243</b>, or other means to allow rotation of the item while keeping the item in the input receiving area, to facilitate a rotation of a returnable object/ item <b>10</b> resting on the drum surface <b>228</b> as the drum <b>220</b> is put into rotation about its axis of rotation <b>221</b>. In particular, when the returnable item is provided with a readable code for identification of the item or for providing specific information about the container, rotation of the object/ item <b>10</b> will often be required to position the part of the object/ item <b>10</b> carrying the code such that it becomes readable, for example by use of a reader or recognizing device <b>20</b> located to observe the input receiving area. The drum type conveyor has also a guide <b>241</b>, e.g. a curved plate member, that extends from the area <b>210</b> to the output <b>224</b>, as will be further explained in connection with <figref idref="f0009">fig. <b>8</b></figref>. Further guides <b>241</b>, e.g. as also shown on <figref idref="f0009">fig. <b>8</b></figref>, could extend from the area 210 down to the output <b>226'</b>.

0035<figref idref="f0004">Fig. <b>3</b></figref> depicts in a perspective view the drum <b>220</b> in the first rotational position as shown in <figref idref="f0003">fig. <b>2</b></figref> and with the returnable item <b>10</b> resting on an upwardly facing part of the drum circumference. In the example of <figref idref="f0004">fig. <b>3</b></figref>, the conveyor is provided with a roller driving <b>244</b> means for driving the roller <b>243</b> in conjunction with driving of the drum, such that the surface velocity of the roller <b>243</b> is in a range of a velocity of a rolling surface <b>228</b> of the drum when rotated. Preferably, the roller driving means <b>244</b> comprises a gear drive arrangement that mechanically provides a rotation of the roller <b>243</b> by the rotation of the drum <b>220</b>. Movement in an axial direction of a returnable object/ item <b>10</b> being positioned in the input receiving area and resting on the drum <b>220</b> and roller <b>243</b> is in part restricted by end walls <b>229</b> associated with and located at each end of the drum <b>220</b>, and in part by elements <b>242</b> that constitute the frame <b>240</b>. Depending on the design of the means for driving the movable piston-like element <b>221</b> between its retracted position and its advanced position, the conveyor shown in <figref idref="f0004">fig. <b>3</b></figref> can be provided with a single output <b>224</b>, corresponding to only one particular angular drum rotary position, or with a second output at a different angular rotary position of the drum.

0036In <figref idref="f0005">fig. <b>4</b></figref>, the drum <b>220</b> is shown in a second rotational position with the space or cavity opening in the drum facing the input receiving area, and with the movable element <b>223</b> moved to the retracted position. This has thereby allowed the returnable object/ item <b>10</b>, shown in <figref idref="f0003">fig. <b>2</b></figref> as resting on the circumferential drum surface <b>228</b>, to fall into the recess-like space or cavity <b>222</b>, as the drum is rotated to arrive at the second position after rotation from the first position, and be contained by the drum <b>220</b>. The same situation is also shown in the perspective view of <figref idref="f0006">fig. <b>5</b></figref>, which shows parts of interior side walls of the space <b>222</b> and the drum end walls <b>229</b>, which contribute to restrict a movement of the returnable object/ item <b>10</b> such that it may not go beyond the space provided by the cavity <b>222</b>.

0037In <figref idref="f0007">fig. <b>6</b></figref>, a partial sectional view of the drum type conveyor shows the drum in a third angular position, where the movable element has been moved in a first and counter-clockwise direction from the retracted position shown in <figref idref="f0005">figs. <b>4</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0006"><b>5</b></figref> to an advanced position to drive the returnable item to the first output <b>224</b>, preferably for the purpose of driving the object/ item <b>10</b> towards the in-feed opening of a storage chamber <b>110</b>. If driven in a second and clockwise direction to a second output, which is either output <b>226</b> or output <b>226',</b> but not both, in-feed to a respective storage chamber <b>112</b> or <b>114</b> could be envisaged. The drum type conveyor is provided with said guide 241 to restrict the item <b>10</b> to its location in the cavity <b>222</b> while the drum is being rotated from the second position with the space <b>222</b> facing the input receiving area <b>210</b> to the third angular position where the opening of the cavity <b>222</b> is facing the first output <b>224</b>. The same situation is also shown in perspective view <figref idref="f0008">fig. <b>7</b></figref>, with the opening of the cavity <b>222</b> aligned with the first output <b>224</b> and with the movable element <b>223</b> in an advanced position.

0038In <figref idref="f0009">fig. <b>8</b></figref>, a partial cross sectional view of the drum type conveyor shows the situation based on the situation shown in <figref idref="f0005">fig. <b>4</b></figref>, now with the drum rotated in a second and opposite rotational direction (clockwise direction in the example), whereby the returnable object/ item <b>10</b> that was received in the space or cavity <b>222</b> when the drum was in its second rotational position has been carried by the drum through a rotation of the drum through approximately 180° so that the drum assumes its first position as shown on <figref idref="f0003">figs. <b>2</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0004"><b>3</b></figref>. The object/ item is driven out from the space <b>222</b> by the movable element <b>223</b> moving from a retracted position to an advanced position, but also by the effect of gravity. A guide <b>241</b> is provided to restrict the movement of the object/item 10 when held in the space <b>222</b> while the drum is being rotated from the second rotational position with the space facing the input receiving area <b>210</b> to the first rotational position with the opening of the space <b>222</b> and the curved face <b>223'</b> of the element <b>223</b> being in register with the output <b>226'</b>. The situation of <figref idref="f0009">fig. <b>8</b></figref> is also shown in the perspective view from below of <figref idref="f0017">fig. <b>16</b></figref>, with the item <b>10</b> exiting from the conveyor at the alternative output <b>226'</b>.

0039For conveying an item <b>10</b> that has entered the recess-like space or cavity to one out of two possible outputs in a specific example of the combined drum conveyor and sorter, different directions of rotation can be used. For example, in the examples shown in <figref idref="f0003 f0004 f0005 f0006 f0007 f0008 f0009 f0010">figs. <b>2 - 9</b></figref> of the accompanying drawings, the drum would be rotated in a first direction (e.g. counter-clockwise, as shown) to deliver the item at the first output <b>224</b>, while a rotation in a second direction (e.g. clockwise, as shown) would be applied to the drum for delivering the item <b>10</b> at a second output <b>226</b> or <b>226'</b>.

0040Thus, in the present context, there are in effect four main rotary positions of the drum <b>220</b>: <ol id="ol0001"><li>a) the first rotary position with the recess <b>222</b> and the element <b>223</b> facing downwards;</li><li>b) the second rotary position with the recess <b>222</b> and the element <b>223</b> facing upwards, thus facing the input receiving area,</li><li>c) the third rotary position with the recess <b>222</b> and the element <b>223</b> facing the first output <b>224, and</b></li><li>d) the fourth rotary position with the recess <b>222</b> and the element <b>223</b> facing the second output <b>226</b> or facing the alternative second output <b>226'</b>. If facing output <b>226'</b>, the fourth rotary position will in effect be the same as the first rotary position.</li></ol>

<u>Single Camera Viewing Device</u>

0041<figref idref="f0012">Fig. <b>11</b></figref> depicts a first light source <b>300</b> and a second light source <b>301</b>, the light source <b>301</b> suitably consisting of a plurality of light sub-sources <b>302, 303, 304, 305</b>. The light sources <b>300</b> and <b>301</b> are separately configured to illuminate a first region <b>306</b> and a second region <b>307</b> of an object, e.g. a returnable item <b>10;10';10",10"'</b>. A single camera <b>308</b> is provided to view at least part of the regions <b>306</b> and <b>307</b>. The first light source <b>300</b> is configured to assist the camera <b>308</b> in viewing of contour of objects, items or articles <b>10, 10', 10", 10"'</b> of different cross section, e.g. empty beverage packaging such as cans and bottles against a light reflective area or background <b>313</b> forming a bright, light emitting background. The light from the first light source <b>300</b> is directed towards the object (e.g. one of those labeled <b>10</b> through <b>10"'</b>) as parallel light using a lens <b>314</b>. The second light source <b>301</b> is configured to assist camera viewing by the camera <b>308</b> for detection and recognition of any identity features located on the object in viewing sector labeled <b>315</b>.

0042Said identity features are suitably at least one of: bar code, graphic symbol and alphanumeric characters.

0043Although it would be feasible to use two cameras instead of a single camera, the use of a single camera yields less technical complexity, a simpler and more maintenance friendly structure, in addition to requiring less space in order to carry out the required functions. Further, from a components cost aspect and installation cost, the above example also offers a substantial advantage over a two-camera solution.

0044When a camera views e.g. an object contour or identifying features thereon, the camera sensor matrix provides a string of matrix pixel signals to be processed in order to identify or recognize such contour or features, including the possibility of letting the camera read and causing identification of e.g. a bar code.

0045As seen from <figref idref="f0012 f0013 f0014 f0015">figs. <b>11-14</b></figref>, the first light source <b>300</b> illuminates the first region <b>306</b> via a light path which includes an optical beam splitter (or view splitter) <b>316</b> (<figref idref="f0012">figs. <b>11</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0013"><b>12</b></figref>), <b>318</b> (<figref idref="f0014">fig. <b>13</b></figref>) or <b>319</b> (<figref idref="f0015">fig. <b>14</b></figref>), at least one inclined mirror <b>320</b> and the lens <b>314</b>. However, it is noted that in the most preferred versions, there is suitably used two mirrors <b>320</b> and <b>321</b>, as shown on <figref idref="f0012 f0013 f0014">figs. <b>11 -13</b></figref>, in the light path.

0046<figref idref="f0012">Figs. <b>11</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0013"><b>12</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0015"><b>14</b></figref> depict a light beam splitter <b>316; 319</b> located in an inclined posture in the camera field of view <b>322</b> and covers at least part of said field of view , suitably approximately half of the camera field of view. <figref idref="f0014">Fig. <b>13</b></figref> depicts an optical beam splitter <b>318</b> which covers the complete camera field of view.

0047It is seen from <figref idref="f0012 f0013 f0014 f0015">figs. <b>11-14</b></figref> that camera viewing of the first region <b>306</b> via one mirror <b>320</b> or two mirrors <b>320, 321</b> is suitably made with line of sight towards the object shifted by an angle α of 90°± 30° relative to camera line of sight towards the object when viewing the second region <b>307</b>. In the drawing <figref idref="f0012 f0013 f0014 f0015">figs. <b>11 -14</b></figref> the angle α is shown as 90°. However, by arranging the mirrors <b>320, 321</b> differently, it is evident that the angle range of 90°± 30° is possible.

0048In the case that there is used an optical beam splitter <b>316</b> or <b>319</b> which is within only half or less of the camera field of view, there is the possibility that when the camera is set to view the second region or part thereof, the splitter is suitably assisted by a vision blocker <b>323; 324</b> to prevent the camera from viewing both directly in the sector <b>315</b> and through the splitter, the splitter providing a less clear viewing. If the vision blocker <b>323; 324</b> is omitted, then the camera will be able to view the entire region <b>307</b>.

0049<figref idref="f0014">Fig. <b>13</b></figref> shows the camera in a configuration set to view the second region <b>307</b> completely via the beam splitter <b>318</b>. This implies that the camera <b>308</b> views either the first region <b>306</b> via the splitter, the mirrors <b>321, 320</b> and the lens <b>314</b>, and secondly the second region <b>307</b> through the splitter. In this latter situation, the light source <b>301</b> is fully or partly activated, and the light source <b>300</b> is deactivated.

0050The light source <b>301</b>, suitably comprising a plurality of light sub-sources <b>302 - 305</b>, is notably located in a region between the beam splitter <b>316; 318; 319</b> and an object supporting means in the form of said compact conveyor and sorter <b>200</b>. In the examples shown on <figref idref="f0012">fig. <b>11</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0015 f0017"><b>14-16</b></figref>, the object supporting means <b>200</b> is shown only schematically, but in more detail on <figref idref="f0013">fig. <b>12</b></figref>. A more detailed operation of the object supporting means <b>200</b> and a possible, schematically shown alternative on <figref idref="f0028">fig. <b>32</b></figref>, is disclosed in the preceding disclosure of <figref idref="f0001 f0002">figs. <b>1-</b></figref><b>10</b>.

0051It will now be briefly highlighted some of the earlier disclosed features of the object supporting means <b>200</b> in a specific context of camera aided viewing of an object, e.g. the object <b>10</b>, located on the object supporting means <b>200</b>, said supporting means is in the form of the rotary drum <b>220</b> (see <figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>26</b></figref>) with the auxiliary roller <b>243</b>. The drum <b>220</b> and the roller 243 will controllably, but forcibly rotate the object <b>10</b> on a portion <b>220'</b> or <b>220"</b> of the circumference of the drum. The drum <b>220</b> has at least one radial inwardly directed, adjustable space or cavity <b>222</b> for receiving the object <b>10</b> after its rotation on said circumference portion and for transporting the object <b>10</b> through rotation of the drum to an output location, e.g. at generally indicated by arrows <b>224, 226</b> and <b>226'</b>. The camera <b>308</b> will be able to view and cause detection of the presence of the object <b>10</b> when it has dropped into the adjustable space <b>222</b>. This has a safety function aspect and also a security function aspect, i.e. to prevent any swindle attempt. This means that the drum <b>220</b> will not start turning until the camera <b>308</b> actually observes and causes detection of the object being present in the space <b>222</b> and with the movable element <b>223</b> operating as a movable bottom in its fully retracted state.

0052The direction which the drum will then turn is determined by set criteria which are compared to recognize characteristic features of the object. This will be more fully explained and considered in connection with the disclosure of <figref idref="f0024">fig. <b>24</b></figref>. Further, in case the contour of the object is to be viewable from above, rather than sideways, it would be advantageous to let at least a part of the rotary drum <b>220</b> be provided with a coating which is retro-reflective to light, in particular at the portions labeled <b>220'</b> and <b>220"</b> of the drum <b>220</b>. Such a situation is in particular suitable in connection with the example shown on <figref idref="f0016">fig. <b>15</b></figref> and will be further explained later.

0053<figref idref="f0016">Fig. <b>15</b></figref> shows the use of a single camera <b>340</b> and with an optical beam splitter <b>341</b> inclined relative to a lens <b>343</b>. A light source <b>342</b> provides for illumination of the object, e.g. <b>10</b>, through lens <b>343</b> to provide parallel light rays towards the supporting means <b>200</b>, which has its drum parts <b>220'</b> and <b>220"</b> (see <figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>26</b></figref>) provided with retro-reflective material or property enabling light not hit by the object to be retro-reflected back to camera <b>340</b> via the lens <b>343</b> and the splitter <b>341</b> to provide an image of the contour of the object. When it is desirable to view and read identifying features on the object, such as e.g. bar-code, a light source <b>344</b> is activated, the light source suitably being of the same type as the light source <b>301</b>. At the same time, light source <b>342</b> may be deactivated, if required.

0054<figref idref="f0017">Fig. <b>16</b></figref> shows an example which in operation is similar to that of <figref idref="f0016">fig. <b>15</b></figref>. A single camera <b>345</b> is used with an optical beam splitter <b>346</b> inclined relative to a lens <b>347</b>. A light source <b>348</b> provides for illumination of the object, e.g. <b>10</b>, through lens <b>347</b> to provide parallel light rays towards a light reflective background or area <b>313</b> enabling light not hit by the object to be retro-reflected back to camera <b>345</b> via the lens <b>347</b> and the splitter <b>346</b> to provide an image of the contour of the object. When it is desirable to view and read (or detect) identifying features on the object, such as e.g. bar code, a light source <b>349</b> is activated, the light source suitably being of the same type as the light source <b>344</b>, i.e. comprising a plurality of light sub-sources. At the same time the light source <b>349</b> is activated, light source <b>348</b> may be deactivated, if required. <figref idref="f0018">Fig. <b>17</b></figref> is a modification of the example of <figref idref="f0017">fig. <b>16</b></figref>, the major difference being the non-existence of the lens <b>347</b>, thus yielding that the object contour is not viewed by means parallel light rays.

0055<figref idref="f0012 f0013 f0014 f0015">Figs. <b>11 -14</b></figref> clearly demonstrate that the first and second regions <b>306, 307</b> are partly overlapping, and <figref idref="f0016 f0017 f0018">figs. <b>15-17</b></figref> indicate full overlapping.

0056<figref idref="f0020">Fig. <b>19</b></figref> is identical to the example shown on <figref idref="f0012">fig. <b>11</b></figref>, apart from the light source <b>300</b> and the retro-reflective background <b>313</b> having been deleted and replaced by a light emitting, illuminated or backlit panel <b>350</b>, the panel <b>350</b> thus forming a bright background. Ambient light may in some applications be sufficient in order that the camera views a bright background.

0057The panel <b>350</b> will provide the bright background against which e.g. the object 10 is to be viewed by the single camera <b>308</b>.

0058A similar situation is present with the example of <figref idref="f0021">fig. <b>20</b></figref>, which is identical to the example shown on <figref idref="f0014">fig. <b>13</b></figref>, apart from the light source <b>300</b> and the retro-reflective background area <b>313</b> having been deleted and replaced by a light emitting area, suitably in the form of the panel <b>350</b> to form a bright background against which e.g. the object <b>10</b> is to be viewed by the single camera <b>308</b> to provide for e.g. detection of object contour.

0059The further examples depicted on <figref idref="f0022">fig. <b>21</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0023"><b>22</b></figref> are also related to the use of a light emitting panel <b>350</b> to form said bright background and against which camera viewing of an object can be made, as will be further explained.

0060<figref idref="f0022">Fig. <b>21</b></figref> is a modification of the examples of <figref idref="f0017">fig.<b>16</b></figref>. It is noted that the lens <b>353</b>, which is suitably of same type as lens <b>347</b> in <figref idref="f0017">fig. <b>16</b></figref> or lens <b>314</b> in other drawing figures, is present in order to let a single camera <b>356</b> view and detect object contour, e.g. contour of object <b>309</b> against the panel <b>350</b> which in this example constitutes the first light source. The second light source is that labeled <b>349</b>, which could be constituted by two or more light sub-sources. The camera <b>356</b> uses the lens <b>347</b> to enable viewing through use of parallel rays, in order to get as accurate contour image of the object as possible. The light source <b>349</b> is activated when the camera is to view and read identity features, like e.g. bar code <b>309'</b>, located on the object. Suitably, panel <b>350</b> is then not exhibiting a light emitting surface or background area, or its light emitting intensity could suitably be reduced. Other structural details shown on <figref idref="f0022">fig. <b>21</b></figref> will be further explained later with reference to <figref idref="f0024">fig. <b>25</b></figref><b>.</b>

0061<figref idref="f0023">Fig. <b>22</b></figref> is an example with a single camera <b>358</b> which is capable of viewing an object, e.g. an empty beverage bottle or can <b>10;10'; 10"</b> or <b>10"'</b> against a light emitting background area, such as the panel <b>350</b> as described earlier. In order for the camera <b>358</b> to view and read identifying features located on the object, e.g. a bar-code <b>10""</b> on object <b>10</b>, it is preferable to use a second light source <b>359</b>. When the light source <b>359</b> is activated, it would be preferable, though not essential, to reduce light intensity from the panel 350 or even turn off emission of light from the panel <b>350</b>. The light source <b>359</b>, which is similar or identical to the light source <b>349</b>, could be constituted by two or more sub-sources.

0062From a viewing of <figref idref="f0020 f0021 f0022 f0023">figs. <b>19 - 22</b></figref> it will be appreciated that turning of the object to be inspected, e.g.. to suitably find an identifying feature to be detected, is made by means of the object supporting means <b>220, 220, 243</b> or <b>260, 262, 270, 271, 273, 273'</b> as shown on in more detail on <figref idref="f0013">figs.<b>12</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0019"><b>18</b></figref>, respectively.

0063Further, it could be of advantage to let the first and second light sources, e.g. <b>300, 301; 300', 301; 342, 344; 348, 349; 350, 301; 350, 354; 350, 349; 350, 359</b> have different spectral range or composition. Also, it would be possible to have the second light sources <b>301; 344; 349; 359</b> composed of two or more sub-sources. Further, the sub-sources could have different spectra range or composition, either all different, different in pairs or in groups. Such features of the light sources and possible sub-sources are of importance to be able to detect e.g. identifying features on the objects appearing e.g. with different colours, different reflective properties etc.

0064Further aspects are now to be explained with reference to <figref idref="f0024 f0025">fig. <b>23</b></figref>. In the particular case of the examples of <figref idref="f0012">figs. <b>11</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0013"><b>12</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0015"><b>14</b></figref>, as well as <figref idref="f0020">fig. <b>19</b></figref>, it would be suitable to split the camera video image in two with a part <b>360</b> related to the first region <b>306</b> and another part <b>361</b> related to the second region <b>307</b>. In the examples of <figref idref="f0026">figs. <b>27</b></figref> and <b>34</b> it may be visualized the possibility of dedicating half of the camera video image to region <b>306</b> and the other half to region <b>307</b>, or alternatively have alternating full video images of regions <b>306</b> and <b>307</b>. For the examples of <figref idref="f0027">figs. <b>29, 30</b></figref> and <b>36</b> the choice is alternating full video images only.

0065Camera viewing of the first region of the object <b>362</b> related to its contour <b>363</b> can in addition include observation or rather recognition of mere presence or absence of said identifying features <b>364</b>, e.g. bar code located on the object.

0066The focus of the camera will not be exactly on the features <b>364</b>, but the camera will at least sense or detect with relation to the partial image <b>360</b> whether the features <b>364</b>, here labeled <b>364'</b> are indeed present or not, although on the partial image <b>360</b> appearing "blurred" or a bit out of focus. If the features <b>364</b> are not visible on the image part 361, but visible on part <b>360</b>, this will indicate necessity to rotate the object one way or the other through a maximum angle of 180°. The comparison between the two images <b>360</b> and <b>361</b> in this respect has some impact on the required amount of rotation of the object in order to be able to view and read the feature <b>364</b> properly in region <b>307</b>, and consequently has also importance with regard to processing time in order to find the feature <b>364</b>, read and record it.

0067When using in this manner a single camera for camera viewing of both said first and second regions, the camera has preferably, but not necessarily its image field subdivided into said at least two partial images <b>360, 361</b>, the first partial image <b>360</b> being dedicated to object contour detection and/ or detection of presence or absence of said identifying features, and the second partial image <b>361</b> being dedicated to observation and reading of said identifying features.

0068It is readily understood that the principle of detecting presence or absence of identifying features in region <b>306</b> and the need for rotation of the object is equally well useful when the camera switches between viewing regions <b>306</b> and <b>307</b>.

<u>Operational Safety Means</u>

0069As indicated in the introductory part of the specification it is important also to focus on safety aspects when using an apparatus as extensively disclosed in the present specification and on the drawings, in particular to avoid injury to persons operating the apparatus or to avoid functional breakdown or jamming of the apparatus.

0070Therefore, this example focused on implementation of safety measures which are provided from actions obtained by operating a hardware circuit which is adapted to read predefined or dedicated pixels on the sensor matrix of the camera, i.e. reading hardware assigned physical pixels of the camera sensor matrix when a camera image is made.

0071This will yield a reliable safety measure related to possible operational hazards, thus e.g. preventing a motor from operating through halting its rotation or removing current supply thereto to thereby remove its torque.

0072This aspect is therefore through use of camera functionality able to provide an efficient hardware implemented light curtain functionality, as will be more closely explained in the following description with reference to <figref idref="f0024">figs. <b>23a</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0025"><b>23b</b></figref>, <figref idref="f0025"><b>23c</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0026"><b>26a</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0026"><b>26b</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0028"><b>32</b></figref><b>.</b>

0073In the present example there is used a camera image , such as e.g. image <b>360</b> or <b>385</b> for detection of so-called "border crossing", i.e. an event in a field of view of the camera.

0074As indicated above, it is important to provide for personnel or an operator (e.g. a supermarket customer) operational safety of an apparatus , e.g. a reverse vending machine, and also protect in such apparatus machinery, having movable parts, against externally created interference that could cause operational damages or personal injuries, or operational or personal hazard. With a light curtain functionality it is possible to disable operation or stop the machinery altogether immediately and inhibit further operation until the cause of such operational disruption has been attended to.

0075With reference to <figref idref="f0026">figs. <b>26a</b> and <b>26b</b></figref>, as well as <figref idref="f0024">figs. <b>23a</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0025"><b>23b</b></figref> there is on the bright or light emitting background <b>313; 350</b> located at least one array or column <b>385</b> of repeatedly occurring dark markings <b>385'</b>, e.g. black squares at an in-feed region receiving objects in direction <b>388</b> at which objects are fed into the apparatus for viewing, detection, turning and sorting, as previously disclosed. Further, there may on the background <b>313; 350</b> be located at least one array or row <b>385"</b> of repeatedly occurring dark markings <b>385"'.</b> At least one such row may be useful if the entry or in-feed region causes objects to be fed in a direction <b>388'</b>. However, if the insertion opening <b>425</b> is so configured that it may be possible for a human hand to be inserted there-through and into the viewing chamber, so as to move into the viewing chamber essentially from above and thereby avoid obscuring viewing of the array <b>385</b>, the array <b>385"</b> is present to assist in providing additional light curtain functionality.

0076It has also been indicated by dotted lines on <figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>26a</b></figref> that e.g. two columns of markings and two rows of markings could be possible, although the number of rows and/ or columns could be more than two.

0077Alternative or supplementary to the interspaced markings <b>385', 385"'</b> indicated on <figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>26a</b></figref>, there could be located markings <b>395, 396</b> and <b>397</b> in the form of solid lines, as indicated on <figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>26b</b></figref>.

0078It is possible to have a column or row configuration of markings or a joint column and row configuration.

0079<figref idref="f0024">Fig. <b>23a</b></figref> exhibits two half-images <b>360</b> and <b>361</b>, as previous discussed, whereas <figref idref="f0025"><b>fig.23b</b></figref> exhibits a generalized full image <b>386</b> as provided by the available pixels on a camera image sensor matrix <b>401'</b> (see <figref idref="f0025">fig. <b>23c</b></figref>). The dotted line <b>387</b> and/ or <b>387'</b> on <figref idref="f0025">fig. <b>23b</b></figref> (not shown on <figref idref="f0024">fig. <b>23a</b></figref> for clarity reason) denotes, relative to the camera image, a fraction or fractions of matrix pixels being a selected part of the available sensor matrix pixels. Said fraction <b>387</b> of sensor matrix pixels is dedicated to detection of the array or column of markings, as well as any events observable by said fraction of pixels and which could trigger an action, such as stopping operation of a motor, e.g. motor <b>404</b> or <b>422</b> with reference to <figref idref="f0028">figs. <b>32</b></figref><b>,</b>. Similarly, said fraction <b>387'</b> of sensor matrix pixels is dedicated to detection of the array <b>385"</b> or row of markings, as well as any events observable by said fraction of pixels and which could trigger an action, such as stopping operation of a motor, e.g. motor <b>404</b> or <b>422</b> with reference to figs. <b>46, 47, 48, 49</b> and <b>51</b>. As indicated above, the arrays <b>385</b> and <b>385"</b> of markings <b>385'</b> and <b>385"'</b>could both be present, yielding that both fractions <b>387</b> and <b>387'</b> will be active for detection of markings and observable events.

0080A background area <b>314 ; 350</b> is located in the camera field of view, and as shown on e.g. <figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>26a</b></figref>, said background area in a part thereof exhibits the array <b>385</b> of distinguished markings <b>385'</b>.

0081As indicated on e.g. <figref idref="f0013">figs. <b>12</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0026"><b>26a</b></figref>, and derivable from <figref idref="f0028">fig. <b>32</b></figref>, the background area <b>313</b>; <b>350</b> is located in a camera viewing chamber of a reverse vending machine. The chamber or input receiving area <b>210</b> (<figref idref="f0003">fig. <b>2</b></figref>) has entry opening (see <b>425</b> on <figref idref="f0029">fig.<b>33</b></figref>) into which an object <b>10</b> in the form of an empty beverage container to be viewed by the camera, is insertable. From <figref idref="f0026">fig. <b>26a</b></figref> is noted that the array <b>387</b> of markings is located at an entry opening or region <b>425</b> of said viewing chamber <b>210</b>. The in-feed direction for objects is indicated by reference numeral <b>388</b> on <figref idref="f0025">fig. <b>23b</b></figref>. As indicated on <figref idref="f0024">figs. <b>23a</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0025"><b>23b</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0026"><b>26a</b></figref> the array of markings is in a predefined pattern, suitably a column <b>385</b> of mutually spaced markings <b>385'</b>. However, as disclosed above there could be as an alternative or in combination with the pattern <b>385</b> an additional predefined pattern <b>385"</b> of mutually spaced markings <b>385"'</b> extending as e.g. an upper row, to provide an addition light curtain and to safeguard against any safety hazards caused by someone trying to put e.g. a hand into the viewing chamber from above, as e.g. indicated by reference numeral <b>388'</b>.

0082As indicated above, the fraction <b>387</b> and/ or fraction <b>387'</b> of sensor matrix pixels <b>401'</b> in the camera <b>400</b> will be dedicated to providing an image of said markings <b>385'</b> and / or <b>385"'</b> against said background area. The fraction <b>387</b> and/ or fraction <b>387'</b> of pixels will be readable by an operating unit <b>408</b>, the response of which is dictated by its hardware functions and inputs to the unit <b>408</b>. The operating unit <b>408</b> is operatively linked with the camera <b>401</b> to read said fraction of sensor matrix pixels. Further, the operating unit <b>408</b> is linked to a digital processing and control unit <b>400</b>, said unit <b>400</b> controlling operation of the camera, i.e. when a camera image is to be taken.

0083The operating unit has a set of stored reference pixel signal values which are respectively related to pixels in said fraction of sensor matrix pixels, and which are related to said background area <b>313; 350and</b> said array <b>387</b> of distinguished markings thereon.

0084The operating unit <b>408</b> is capable of comparing a read pixel signal value from a respective pixel in said fraction of pixels with corresponding reference signal value assigned to such respective pixel, and to output respective comparison signal, however said operating unit <b>408</b> having an output <b>408'; 408"</b> capable of changing signal state of delivered signal <b>393</b>, suitably into a disabling or deactivating signal when said comparison signal or for that matter a set of such comparison signals departs from a predefined condition.

0085The signal <b>393</b>, when in a disabling or deactivating state, is effective to cause disablement or halted operation of functional equipment <b>404; 422</b> having movable parts, e.g. a motor and its motor controlled parts. The operating unit <b>408</b> will, when the comparison satisfies the predefined condition, provide a signal 393 which enables the equipment to remain in operation. Such equipment could e.g. be found in a reverse vending machine as disclosed in the description and shown on the drawings.

0086As indicated above, the operating unit <b>408</b> is made to execute hardware functions, and the operating unit can be of a logic network of a type well known to any skilled person in the art and connected to execute the required functions. The operating unit can made from a plurality of discrete functional building blocks or a single integrated circuit (IC) as an application specified integrated circuit (ASIC), e.g. as a so-called Gate Array, or as an implementation in a programmable circuit, so-called Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA).

0087The operating unit <b>408</b> may include a watchdog timer <b>403</b> which is designed to check that reading of pixel signals from said fraction of pixels and comparison with reference pixel signal values are made at a minimum rate of iteration. The reading of pixels is initiated from the processing and control unit <b>400</b>. If said minimum rate of iteration is below a set value, the operating unit <b>408</b> may output said signal <b>393</b> in a state thereof causing disablement or shutdown of operation of equipment controlled by the unit <b>408.</b>

0088The signal <b>393</b> in a deactivating state will normally be present until such a point of time when a new surveillance image taken meets all preset criteria for not issuing such deactivation type of signal.

0089From <figref idref="f0024">fig. <b>24</b></figref> it is noted that the bright background <b>313 ; 350</b> has an aperture <b>365</b> therein in order to let the camera read via said aperture illuminated marking <b>366</b> on a token <b>367</b> to be dispensed in a controlled manner. Such token <b>367</b> is configured to be related to observed objects , e.g. <b>10 ; 10' ; 10" ; 10"'</b> which are supported and to be removed by an object supporting means, e.g. of a type shown on <figref idref="f0013">fig. <b>12</b></figref> or <figref idref="f0019">fig. <b>18</b></figref>.

0090Suitably, said camera is configured to alternately, selectively or repeatedly a) cause detection of object contour, said light curtain related markings <b>385'</b> and <b>385"'</b> and events related thereto, and said token marking <b>366</b>, and b) cause reading of identifying features, e.g. <b>10""</b> or <b>364</b> located on the object <b>10;</b> denoted on <figref idref="f0024">fig. <b>23a</b></figref> by reference <b>362</b>.

0091All examples of <figref idref="f0012 f0013 f0014 f0015 f0016 f0017 f0018 f0019 f0020 f0021 f0022 f0023">fig. <b>11</b> - <b>22</b></figref> can be used with the light curtain function, but the light curtain functionality is not limited to the configuration shown on these drawing figures.

<u>A Token System</u>

0092As noted from <figref idref="f0013">figs. <b>12</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0022"><b>21</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0024"><b>24</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0026"><b>26a, 26b, 27</b> and <b>28</b></figref> the background area , e.g. <b>313</b> or <b>350</b> may have an aperture <b>365</b> therein in order to allow the camera which views the first region <b>306</b> to detect illuminated, pre-printed or pre-provided marking <b>366</b> on a token <b>367</b> which is arranged to be dispensed in a controlled manner from stack of tokens. Such a token could be related to information such as both a token serial number and a return or redemption value of an object or objects which have been viewed and considered by an RVM. On image part <b>360</b> it is indicated how the camera may view such marking, denoted by <b>366'</b> through the viewable aperture <b>365'</b>.

0093[In order to obtain an efficient reading of such marking <b>366</b> without using an additional light source, the markings on the tokens are suitably made from a retro-reflective material. Alternatively, the token itself could be made from a retro-reflective material and the markings in such a case from non-retro-reflective material.

0094As shown on <figref idref="f0024">figs. <b>24</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0026"><b>27a</b> and <b>28</b></figref> said markings are camera readable via a mirror 368 located adjacent the aperture 365 in background area <b>313; 350</b>. This may be a practical solution if tokens, e.g. in the form of cards, are dispensable from a dispenser unit <b>369</b>. If cards are merely to be inserted into a guide <b>370</b> in the front of a RVM (see <figref idref="f0013">figs. <b>12</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0026"><b>27b</b></figref>) to be read by the camera and then withdrawn, the card guide may be located at the back of the light reflective area <b>313</b> or the panel <b>350</b>, so as to place the card with its face having markings <b>366</b> parallel to the back of the area <b>313</b> or panel <b>350</b>.

0095In case a light emitting background panel <b>350</b> is used, the panel <b>350</b> constitutes the first light source which is primarily dedicated to assist camera viewing of object contour. However, light from the second light source will not necessarily impinge upon the marking <b>366</b> of a token <b>367</b> viewable through the aperture <b>365</b>, but if such light in fact impinges upon the marking, it may either be non - parallel light rays or insufficient light in order for the camera to clearly see and cause detection of the markings. In such a case, it is suitable to use an optical beam splitter <b>371</b>, as depicted on <figref idref="f0022">fig. <b>21</b></figref> and a separate light source <b>372</b>.

0096In the case of using an optical beam splitter covering part of the camera field of view, as shown in <figref idref="f0012">figs. <b>11</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0013"><b>12</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0015"><b>14</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0020"><b>19</b></figref>, the camera <b>308</b> is suitably configured to take an image of both of said first and second regions simultaneously. However, image taking may just as well be based on taking an image of said first and second regions alternately, or selectively taking a partial image of said first region or said second region.

0097In the case where an optical beam splitter covers completely the camera field of view, as seen from <figref idref="f0014">figs. <b>13</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0021"><b>20</b></figref>, the camera <b>308</b> is configured to take an image of both of said first and second regions simultaneously to form a two part image, as e.g. shown on <figref idref="f0024">fig. <b>23a</b></figref>. However, it would also be feasible to consider taking a full image of said first and second regions alternately, or selectively taking a partial image of said first region or said second region.

0098In the examples of <figref idref="f0016 f0017 f0018">figs. <b>15 -17</b></figref>, as well as <figref idref="f0022">figs. <b>21</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0023"><b>22</b></figref>, the camera <b>340; 345; 351; 356; 358</b> could suitably take images alternately or selectively, although it could be visualized taking two partial images of the viewing region simultaneously, one dedicated to contour recognition and the other to identifying features on the object. The examples of <figref idref="f0017">figs.<b>16</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0022"><b>21</b></figref> and <figref idref="f0023"><b>22</b></figref> in addition provides for reading of marking on a token, as disclosed e.g. in relationship to <figref idref="f0024 f0026">fig. <b>24 - 28</b></figref><b>.</b>

0099It has been disclosed above that the second light source 301, or for that matter also the light sources <b>344, 349</b> and <b>359</b> can be constituted by a plurality of light sub-sources, and the light source <b>301</b> has been indicated to have e.g. four such sub-sources <b>302 - 305,</b> although there could be fewer sub-sources or more. For the other sources <b>344, 349</b> and <b>359</b> three or four sub-sources have been indicated, without labeling each. The reason for more than one light sub-source is that light reflexes from the object or position of the light sub-source relative to the identifying feature on the object may cause the reading of the feature to be difficult or even impossible. In view thereof the light sub-sources are suitably selectively activated, although activation would be possible individually, in pairs or in groups, or in a cycle.

0100<figref idref="f0027">Figs. <b>29 - 31</b></figref> illustrate a preferred card dispenser <b>369</b> to be used for dispensing tokens, e.g. cards <b>367.</b> The dispenser <b>369</b> has a dispensing outlet <b>373</b> for dispensing cards <b>367</b> one-by-one from a stack of cards contained in a storage compartment <b>374.</b> The markings <b>366</b> on the cards <b>367</b> are viewable through an opening <b>375</b> in the bottom of the dispenser. A pusher member <b>376</b> is provided to push out cards one-by one by a reciprocal motion of the pusher member or slide <b>376</b>, the reciprocal motion being provided by a controllable motor <b>377</b> having control wires <b>378</b> for controlling power to the motor. Suitably, the motor <b>377</b> has a pinion (not shown) in engagement with a rack <b>379</b> on the pusher or slide to enable the reciprocal movement thereof.

<u>RVM Operational System Overview</u>

0101<figref idref="f0028">Fig. <b>32</b></figref> depicts an overall system in which the various aspects of the present invention are implemented.

0102The reverse vending machine (RVM) has said processing and control unit <b>400</b> which receives video data from the camera <b>401</b> via a video analyzer <b>402</b>. The camera <b>401</b> is also linked to the operation unit <b>408</b>, and the operation unit includes the watchdog timer <b>403</b> and a motor control. The motor #1 and its control, denoted <b>404</b>, are related to the drive of the supporting means <b>325, 327</b>, or the unit <b>333</b> as disclosed earlier. A motor overload sensor <b>405</b> is also provided to inhibit operation of motor #1 in case of jam not detected by the operational unit <b>408</b> or a jam detector <b>406</b>. The sensor <b>405</b> could be in the form of a pressure sensitive bar, or the roller <b>243</b> could have its weight sensor <b>253</b> (in <figref idref="f0028">fig. <b>32</b></figref> denoted by <b>419</b>) modified in order to also indicate pressure against the roller caused by a jam due to an object not fully located in the recess or space <b>222.</b>

0103The operation unit <b>408</b> is, as disclosed earlier linked with the camera <b>401</b> and the processing and control unit (processor) <b>400</b>, and in the present example the unit <b>408</b> controls the motor controls <b>404</b> and <b>422</b> directly, although such control could be via the processor <b>400</b>.

0104As indicated earlier, optically readable cards will normally be read by e.g. camera <b>401</b>. However, if a card is a magnetic readable/ writable card or an r.f. readable/ writable card, there will be the need of a card reader / card encoder unit <b>411</b>. The card dispenser <b>361</b> as disclosed earlier is on fig. <b>38</b> denoted by <b>412</b>.

0105Suitably, the tokens are ready made, pre-coded cards, like the cards <b>367</b> which are dispensable one by one from the dispenser means <b>369; 412</b> (fig.<b>46</b>) and which upon the feed-out from the dispenser <b>412</b> via output <b>412'</b> is code-read by a code reader/ encoder <b>411</b>, in particular if the card is a magnetic stripe or r.f. card. Alternatively, if the card is an optically readable card, the card is read by the camera <b>401</b> via aperture <b>424</b> and inclined mirror <b>424'</b> as more closely disclosed in connection with <figref idref="f0024">figs. <b>24</b></figref><b>,</b><figref idref="f0026"><b>27a</b> and <b>28</b></figref> (see references <b>365</b> and <b>368</b>).

0106If the card is a magnetic stripe card or an r.f. card and with no information on the card when it is located in the dispenser, the code reader/ encoder <b>411</b> will be able to encode the card with a card code, such as e.g. a serial number or other identity, or the combination of a card code or serial number or other identity and a redemption value to be rewarded or paid, as the cards are fed out from the dispenser one-by-one.

0107If the cards to be used for reward of empty beverage containers deposited in the RVM are not to be delivered from a card dispenser, such token could be a personal token which the customer brings with him to the RVM and uses to transfer card identity data from the card to the RVM. If the card is an optically readable card, it can be read by the camera <b>401</b> and as indicated further by reference <b>411'</b> when inserted into a slot (see reference <b>370</b>; <figref idref="f0013">fig. <b>12</b></figref>) and viewable through an aperture (see reference <b>370</b>'; <figref idref="f0013">fig. <b>12</b></figref>) in the light retro-reflective area (see reference <b>313</b>; <figref idref="f0013">fig. <b>12</b></figref>). If the card is an r.f. readable card, the card could be readable by an r.f. reader 411", and if the card is a magnetic stripe readable card, the card could be readable by a magnetic stripe reader <b>411'"</b>.

0108The cards, irrespective of being optically readable, r.f. readable or encodable, or magnetic stripe readable or encodable, could be in the form of a reusable token, in particular because the cards are in any case validated and after reward has been paid, invalidated. The token could be retrieved from a stack or a band of cards. If a band of cards or a zig-zag arranged band of cards is used, the dispenser <b>369</b> (<b>412</b> on <figref idref="f0028">fig. <b>32</b></figref>) should suitably be replaced by a conventional type of dispenser for such card arrangement. Also, different type of encoder <b>411</b> may be required. In any case, the card should have at least an alphanumerical, machine readable code.

0109If the token is a card which is optically readable, the card should have a pre-made code thereon, suitably consisting of a bar code or other optically readable code readable by an optical reader such as the camera <b>401</b>. As indicated earlier, the bar code or other optically readable code is preferably retro-reflective to light. Such configuration of the card makes an additional light source for viewing the code on the card superfluous. Conversely, the card could be made of a retro-reflective material and the bar code be made of a non-reflective material.

0110The processor <b>400</b> will either directly, or via a central computer installation <b>413</b> transfer to a rewarding or check-out and payment station <b>414</b> information related to a readable token code and information related to said return value. Transfer of information to and from the processor to the computer <b>413</b> and the station <b>414</b> is suitably via a local area network (LAN) <b>415</b>. The station <b>414</b> has a card reader <b>416</b> to read the card before reward or redemption value is paid. The card is then invalidated through use of a token invalidation means <b>407</b> associated with the station <b>414</b> or through internal operation in the unit <b>400</b> and/ or the computer <b>413</b>. In an alternative example the processor <b>400</b> communicates with a "tick-off" unit <b>417</b>, which could be in the form of a mini-computer, such as so-called PDA. This could be a solution useful for a small store, through which there is conveyed to the unit <b>417</b> from the processor displayable information such as visible card identity and sum to be paid. Upon payment of the required money, the operator ticks off the particular item displayed, which is then made void or invalid, cancelled in the unit <b>400</b> and/ or computer <b>413</b>, and suitably removed from the display on the unit <b>417</b>.

0111Modification of the various elements, means and devices related to the numerous aspects of the present invention would be conceivable within the scope of the invention as defined in the attached claims.