Container recycling apparatus using scanning means to read code markings on containers

US4519307A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Aluminum Company of America · US

Inventors

• Robert L. La Barge · Ben Avon, US
• Charles J. Leftault, Jr. · Murrysville, US
• Eric D. Arndt · New Kensington, US
• Jerrold D. Green · Murrysville, US
• Ronald G. Hawkins · Massena, US
• Frank J. Horansky · Vandergrift, US
• Elmer E. Pohlenz · Crawfordsville, US
• Thomas W. Scherf · Vandergrift, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 8, 1983
• Grant date: May 28, 1985
• Expiry date: Dec 8, 2003

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10S100/902
• WIPO field: Control
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Apparatus is provided for the insertion of a recyclable container into a container receiving station in a manually operated rotatable carrier normally maintained in a non-rotatable condition; and for analysis and initial acceptance or rejection of the container for recycling without mechanical movement apparent to the user. The apparatus includes detecting means adjacent the receiving station to determine the presence of a container comprised of material acceptable for recycling and scanning means for reading code markings on the container. The information read from the code markings on the container may be recorded for subsequent use in determining amounts of deposits to be paid as well as sources of containers. Releasing means are provided for subsequently permitting movement of said rotatable carrier if said container comprises a material acceptable for recycling.