EcoUltra - A Smart Garbage Container

An Internet of Things connected garbage container.

IntermediateProtip24 hours3,635

Things used in this project

Hardware components

Particle Electron

2G version was used for this project!

GPS Module (Generic)

GPS Tracking Module VK16U6 ublox with Ceramic Antenna TTL Output

PCB with Particle Electron connector, DS18B20 Temperature Sensor, GPS connector, Ultrasonic Sensor connector

Waterproof Ultrasonic Sensor - MB7139 by MAXBOTIX

https://robu.in/product/maxbotix-mb7139-xl-trashsonar-wr-ultrasonic-trash-bin-measurement/

Software apps and online services

Particle Web IDE

Hand tools and fabrication machines

Soldering iron (generic)

Story

This project aims to optimize waste collection and ultimately reduce fuel consumption.Basically, it will shoot sonar waves to know how much stuff is inside the container. We will also measure temperatures inside the container. Data collected from the sensors are sent over a cellular network (GPRS) for analysis and displayed on particle web platform for customers.

The sensor measures the container filling level using ultrasonic technology, temperature using temperature sensor and periodically transmits all captured information to the particle cloud. The device can “talk” to the waste management company and thus can tell them whether the container is at full capacity, when it needs to be emptied, what temperature the container is at, and more, allowing the sanitation specialists to work more efficiently and cut unnecessary costs. Additionally, the sensors can help the company forecast when a dumpster will be full, allowing them to plan ahead future routes.

The device is using Ultrasonic sensor for distance measurement. It is using a water resistant ultrasonic sensor made by MaxBotix. It is battery powered and in future will be utilizing solar panel for charging the lithium ion battery used. The device also has a digital DS18B20 temperature sensor on board for monitoring the temperature. I have added a coin cell battery which is connected to the VBat pin as a supply to the internal RTC, backup registers and SRAM and also to maintain the time inside the Particle Electron (currently in first version this feature is not utilized). Also a GPS is added to know the exact location of the device.

Components:-

1 / 4 • MB7139 Ultrasonic Sensor (Waterproof)

PCB:-

1 / 2

Working :-

1 / 6

Video Link:-

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18m3bTbg0VwCVy4TO8n-OOzniZr2ZgKz3/view?usp=drivesdk

But it can also be used to monitoring the storage bins where food grains or pulses are stored. And also in recyclables (like newspaper, aluminum cans, plastic bottles, etc.) collecting dustbins. The device can also be used to monitor any solid or liquid or gas level monitoring projects