The Smart City Consortium is funded by the Government Recycling Fund to implement the “Smart Recycling Fleet Routing and Weighing System Scheme” for the recycling industry in 2019. Autotoll was awarded to tailor-made design a smart waste management solution to simplify the recycling process of solid waste, improve the collection efficiency and data accuracy of the recycling industry, which can save resources and improve cost-effectiveness.
Recycling fleet route optimization
The platform can optimize the route of the recycling fleet, by using the digital map to show the collection sites for the recycler. When selecting a route for a delivery fleet, the system takes into account the capacity of the delivery vehicle, optimizes the route for each trip, and calculates the total distance traveled for that. Drivers can check the recycling route and work locations via the mobile app.
The management of the recycling company can use the system to find out the working status and actual locations of the workers; the completion time of each collection point; the status of the collection vehicles; the driving time and the driving mileage etc., therefore resources can be allocated more effectively. Also, the mobile app can indicate a clear recycling route for the driver, which greatly improved the work efficiency.
Fill-level sensors installation for recycling bins
The pilot scheme also included fill-level sensors installation for recycling bins. After the sensor installation on traditional recycling bins, the system can simply monitor the inventory status and capacity. The platform interface can show the real-time inventory of different collection points by percentage, which helps recyclers to plan the best route.
The system allows recyclers to master inventory level of the recyclables at each collection point for planning the best route. It allows collection of recyclables with minimal vehicles, which drastically reducing resource usage and driver workload, vehicle distance traveled and collection frequency. It reduced not only operating costs, but also carbon emissions generated by the use of vehicles. In addition, recycling bins/ cages are important assets of recycling companies. However, it has been lost many times because of their similar size and shape. This solution help monitor the flow and facilitate the tracking of it, which solves a major issue in the industry.
Intelligent weighing system for recyclables
The pilot scheme also included the intelligent weighing system for recyclables, usingradio frequency identification (RFID) and smart pallet truck with weight sensor to accurately collect weight records of recyclables at each collection point. When the workers use the truck to transport the recycling bins with recyclables, the smart pallet truck with weight sensor can automatically record the real-time weight of the recyclables and upload to the system. This intelligent weighing system can improve the accuracy of data. Recyclers can also use statistical data for analysis, such as collection time, type and weight of recyclables, etc. There is also a billing function to help recyclers prepare billing documents.
In-depth research and trial test
The Smart City Consortium has conducted an in-depth research to understand the problems faced by stakeholders of recycling industry and their needs for smart system before the project commencement. After completing the research and formulating the system specifications, Autotoll was joined in to develop the intelligent system accordingly. Recyclers and property management companies were invited by HKQAA to participate into the pilot scheme and trial test as well and they were satisfied with the system performance. Comparing with the former system, the frequency of collection was greatly reduced by about 30%, the saved transportation cost was also reduced by about 20% after adopting this new intelligent system. Also, it served as a remarkable achievement in reducing carbon emissions through decreasing redundant driving.
Technology application is vital in today’s fast-paced world. We are looking forward to extend the project to other recycled items i.e. clothes and to recruit more organizations to step in the environmental recycling business, so as to promote environmental protection and support the sustainable development of the recycling industry.
As the pioneer of developing smart solutions in transport sector since 1998, Autotoll has branched out its services to all ways of Smart City technology today, jointly participating in building a smart and innovative future for the city.
For more details of Autotoll Smart Solutions, please visit our “Solutions” webpage.
