TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to an incentive system for incentivising recycling.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the invention, there is provided an incentive system including: - a scanning device for scanning an identifier of a recyclable item presented by a user to be received by a recyclable item receiving machine; comparing means for comparing the scanned identifier with stored identifiers on an identifier database which includes identifiers of at least four different types of recyclable item; rewarding means for rewarding the user upon matching of the scanned identifier with a stored identifier and upon receipt of the recyclable item by the recyclable item receiving machine; and a transducer arrangement for converting a mass of the recyclable item into an electrical signal for storage as an additional identifier of the recyclable item.

The scanning device may be in the form of any one or more of the group including a camera, code scanner, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) scanner, and the like. The code scanner may be in the form of a barcode or QR (Quick Response) code scanner. It is to be appreciated that artificial intelligence may be utilised to facilitate identification of items.

The identifier may be in the form of any identifier of the group including, but not limited to, shape, dimension, pattern, ornamentation, barcode, QR code, and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag. The recyclable item receiving machine may be marked with branding or advertisements, preferably being marked with branding or advertisements of businesses or companies that utilise or manufacture recyclable materials.

The recyclable item may be manufactured from any material of the group including paper, cardboard, glass, plastic, metal and composite materials. In particular, the recyclable item may be manufactured from Aluminium, PET (Polyethylene terephthalate), glass or any other recyclable material. Examples of recyclable plastics may include Polyethylene terephthalate, High density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), Expanded polystyrene (EPS) and the like. Further examples of recyclable items may include but are not limited to plastics facilitating packaging, containers, bottles, boxes, lids, cups, eating utensils, packets, bottle caps, filters, bags, trays, dishes, tubs, plates, cans and the like. Yet further examples of recyclable items may include but are not limited to composite packaging which may include packaging manufactured from multiple materials such as cardboard and metallic foils. The recyclable item may be in the form of packaging items manufactured by a company known as Tetra Pak ^® . The recyclable item may be in the form of a re-usable item, such as a coffee cup or mug, wherein the re-usable item may include a unique tracking identifier for allowing the item, its user and its contents to be tracked.

The comparing means may be configured to initiate an item rejection protocol in the event that the scanned identifier does not match a stored identifier, wherein the recyclable item presented by the user for recycling is rejected and no reward is issued to the user. The comparing means may include identifier receiving means arranged in communication with the scanning device for receiving the identifier in a digital form and communication means for communicating the identifier in digital form to the identifier database. The communication means may be configured to transmit the scanned identifier to the identifier database, typically a control processor thereof, via a wired or wireless connection. The communication means may be configured to permit communication via any suitable communication system of the group including a wired connection, radio, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, infrared, cellular network, 3G, 4G, 5G, and satellite communication. The control processor may be configured to carry out the comparison of scanned and stored identifiers upon receipt of the scanned identifier. The control processor may be configured to return the appropriate signal indicating a match or mismatch between the scanned and stored identifiers. In the event of a match, the control processor may be configured to transmit, via the communication means, the appropriate signal to a processing unit of the recyclable item receiving machine in order to permit passage of the recyclable item into a storage zone thereof and allow the reward to be issued to the user having deposited the recyclable item. The control processor may be further configured to transmit information relating to the item being deposited, to the processing unit of the recyclable item receiving machine in the event of a match. The information relating to the item may include any one or more of the group including constituent materials, weight or volume of constituent recyclable materials, manufacturer, supplier, and business or company using the item. In the event of a mismatch, the control processor may be configured to return an error signal to the processing unit of the recyclable item receiving machine, which error signal may result in rejection of the item being deposited by the user, wherein rejection may result in the processing unit of the recyclable item receiving machine inhibiting passage of the deposited item into the storage zone thereof. The error signal in the form of a error code may be displayed to the user in the event of a mismatch.

Upon receipt of the identifier, the control processor associated with the identifier database may be configured to initiate an identity verification protocol wherein the identity of the processor requesting a comparison is checked against a record of registered processors. The control processor may be configured to return the appropriate signal only upon successful verification of the processor identity.

A user interaction interface may be provided for allowing the user to interact with the system. The user interaction interface may form part of hardware of the recyclable item receiving machine. The user interaction interface may include a display for displaying information to the user. The user interaction interface may further include control means for enabling the user to control aspects of the recyclable material receiving machine, preferably a processing unit thereof. The control means may be in the form of a set of buttons which may be linked to certain system functions. The buttons may be physical buttons or digital buttons wherein the display is typically a touchscreen display. The user interaction interface and/or processing unit may form part of the hardware of the recyclable material receiving machine, wherein connection to the item scanning device may be wired. The user interaction interface and/or processing unit may form part of a remote computing device wherein connection to the item scanning device may be wireless. The remote computing device may be in the form of any one or more of the group including a server, desktop computer, laptop computer, mobile smart device, tablet, smart phone, and smart watch.

User detail receiving means may be provided for receiving details of the user for allowing digital coupling of the user and the recyclable item being deposited for recycling. The user detail receiving means may be configured to receive user details via direct input from the user interaction interface. The user detail receiving means may be configured to receive user details from a registered account of the user which may be stored on a registered user database. The user detail receiving means may be configured to utilise a login system to gain access to a registered user’s details via the registered account of the user. The login system may be configured to permit access upon correct entry of user identification details and/or verification details via the user interaction interface. The login system may be configured to retrieve, preferably automatically, login details from a storage device connected to, preferably forming part of, a personal computing device of the user.

A registration system may be provided for enabling a user to register its details on the registered user database. The registration system may be configured to receive details of the user for registration via the user interaction interface. The registration system may be configured to create the registered user account and an associated user profile.

User details may include identification details. Identification details may include any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, name, identification number, age, ethnicity, cellular phone number, email address, social media handle, and username. User details may include verification details for verifying the identification details of the user, typically for use by the login system. The verification details may include any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, password, answers to security questions, details for sending an OTP (one time pin), biometric details, and a personal device of the user with enabled NFC (Near Field Communication).

The rewarding means may include a reward determination means for determining a type and/or value of a reward to be issued to the user. The determination means may be configured to take into account any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, item details, user details, a user’s personal recycling history, unique promotions applied in respect of specific items, geographical location of the recyclable item receiving machine and a user’s preferences. The reward may be provided by a private company or business. The reward may be in the form of any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a promotion code, rebate, voucher, discount code, coupon, digital currency, cryptocurrency, official currency, and airtime. In particular, and as an example, the reward may be in the form of a rebate in respect of medical aid or insurance costs, i.e., a user could obtain a R 500 rebate for their monthly insurance. It is to be appreciated that the various types of rewards can be linked to specific reward partners, for example, the reward may be in the form of an online shopping voucher for use with an online shopping provider such as Takealot, for example. It is to be appreciated further that the reward can be in the form of an insurance policy or medical aid. The reward may be in the form of a coupon having been issued by a company to a consumer for purchasing the company’s product or service, wherein the coupon provides the consumer with a discount for further use of the company’s products or services.

The rewarding means may include a reward issuing means for issuing the reward to the user. The reward issuing means may be configured to utilise a printer which may form part of the hardware of the recyclable item receiving machine, for printing the reward or proof thereof to be taken by the user. Alternatively, the reward issuing means may be configured to send the reward or proof thereof digitally to the user, preferably via SMS (Short Messaging Service), MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service), USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data), instant message service provider such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Facebook Messenger and the like, or via e-mail, a messaging service provided by any social media platform such as Linkedln, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and the like. Further alternatively, the reward issuing means may be configured to store the reward or proof thereof on a personal computing device of a user, such as a smart phone or tablet, which may include an application thereon for permitting a user to access the rewards issued via the application.

The transducer arrangement may be in the form of a load cell. The load cell may include any suitable conventional load cell which may be selected from any one or more of the group including a hydraulic load cell, a pneumatic load cell and a strain gauge load cell. The transducer arrangement may be arranged within the recyclable item receiving machine. Alternatively, the transducer arrangement may be located remote from the item receiving machine, typically being utilised to obtain the mass of the recyclable item after having been successfully deposited and accepted by the item receiving machine. It is to be appreciated that weighing of the recyclable item may take place before the item is placed inside the item receiving machine, or weighing can take place inside the item receiving machine or the item could be may be weighed during subsequent processing of all recyclable items having been deposited in the item receiving machine. The transducer arrangement may convert the mass of the item into an electrical signal which is associated with a digital mass value. The digital mass value of a particular recyclable item may be stored as an additional identifier for the item on the identifier database, preferably upon successful depositing of the recyclable item in the receiving machine. In particular, in order to more accurately provide the appropriate reward to any user for depositing the particular item, a plurality of digital mass values of the particular recyclable item deposited by a plurality of users are stored for allowing an average mass value to be calculated. The average mass value may be in the form of a moving or dynamic average, preferably being calculated using between 5 and 20, preferably about 10, mass values. Typically, the average mass value may be recalculated upon further depositing of the particular item by further users.

A recording means may be provided for recording a depositing event wherein a user deposits a recyclable item for receipt by the recyclable item receiving machine. The recording means may be configured to store a record of details of a user’s depositing events on a depositing event database. The depositing event database may be stored wholly or partly on any one or more of the group including a storage device connected to the processing unit, a storage device connected to a user’s personal mobile computing device, and a storage device connected to a system controller of a service provider of the system. The record may be accessible via a registered user’s profile. The record may include any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, item details, user details, date and time details of a depositing event, and location of a depositing event. The user profile may be configured to display all details relating to a registered user including statistics relating to the user’s deposit event history, the details preferably being displayed in a dashboard-like manner. The statistics may include but are not limited to the number of times a specific item has been deposited for recycling, the frequency of depositing events, the total value of rewards received, average value of rewards received, the quantity of pollutants prevented from being released as a result of recycling, the user’s pollution footprint, and the like. The user profile may include balance information of any rewards received, including rewards in the form of digital currency. A registered user may be capable of utilising the user interaction interface to access to the user profile. Alternatively, the registered user may utilise any network attached or cellular device to access the user profile. It is to be appreciated that an application running on a smart phone can be utilised to access the user profile. The personal computing device of a user may be in the form of a mobile computing device which may be selected from any of the group including a cellular phone, smart device, tablet, smart phone, and smart watch.

Notification means may be provided for notifying a user of the occurrence of any one or more of the group including when the user enters into a proximity of a recyclable item receiving machine, when depositing events of the user are successfully recorded, when a reward is successfully issued to the user, when promotional deals are available for the use of a particular recyclable item receiving machine, when the user has purchased an item having packaging suitable for recycling, and for the depositing of a particular recyclable item. The notification means may be in the form of a conventional notification or push notification which may be displayed on a user’s personal mobile computing device. The notification may be application based or it may be the result of receipt of an SMS (Short Messaging Service), MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service), USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data), instant message such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Facebook Messenger and the like, or an e-mail, or message received on a form of social media such as Linkedln, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and the like. The notification may be in the form of a message informing the user that a particular recyclable item receiving machine is nearby, containing an advertisement for products which include packaging which may be suitable for recycling or any other suitable communication as desired. The message may include an advertisement therein. The notification type or advertisement to be provided can be updated at any time. The advertisement can be based on any one or more of the group including specific recyclable item receiving machines within the proximity of the user, specific branding on a particular recyclable item receiving machine, specific brand of item being deposited, depositing event history of the user, and user preferences.

A system controller, preferably a remote system controller, may be provided for remotely controlling the operation and/or functioning of the aspects of the incentive system, including operation and/or functioning of any one or more of the group including the scanning device, the recyclable item receiving machine, the comparing means, the communication means (not shown), the rewarding means, the transducer arrangement, the user interaction interface, user detail receiving means (not shown), the registration system (not shown), the recording means, and the notification means. Typically, the system controller is configured to remotely control operation of a plurality of recyclable item receiving machines including all hardware and software associated therewith. The system controller may be in the form of a central processing unit which may form part of a central system server. The system controller may be arranged in remote communication with each recyclable item receiving machine which may be deployed for use. The system controller may be configured to permit remote updating of software utilised on the recyclable item receiving machine. The system controller may be configured to permit adjustment of reward value of any reward issuable by any recyclable item receiving machine. Adjustments of reward value of any rewards to be issued are capable of being updated or changed at any time. In particular, the system controller may be configured to permit adjustment of reward value according to geographical location of the recyclable item receiving machine. For example, a reward issued for recycling bottles manufactured by a particular manufacturer may be greater in value if the user deposits the bottles at a recyclable item receiving machine located in closer proximity to an associated recycling plant.

The system controller may be arranged in remote communication with the identifier database. The system controller may be configured to permit uploading of new identifiers of new recyclable items and/or products for storage on the identifier database. The system controller may be configured to permit updating and/or deletion of existing identifiers stored on the identifier database.

The incentive system may include an information communication means for communicating information relating to packaging of items for sale to the user. The information communication means may be configured to communicate the packaging information to the user once the items are purchased. The information may include any information of the group including recycling information of the packaging, effect of recycling the item packaging, value of the packaging, potential rewards for recycling the packaging, information on how to recycle the packaging, manufacturer of the packaging, material constituents of the packaging, locations of potential recycling sites and the like. The information communication means may be configured to provide the information to the user via the user profile. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A recycling incentive system in accordance with the invention will now be described by way of the following, non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings: -

Figure 1 is a flow diagram showing a general depiction of the recycling incentive system in accordance with the present invention; and

Figure 2 is a three-dimensional rendering of a recyclable material receiving machine in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to Figures 1 and 2, reference numeral 10 refers generally to an incentive system for recycling.

The incentive system 10 includes a scanning device 12 for scanning an identifier 14 of a recyclable item 16 presented by a user 18 to be received by a recyclable item receiving machine 20, typically via a receiving zone 21 thereof, comparing means 22 for comparing the scanned identifier 14 with stored identifiers 24 on an identifier database 26 which includes identifiers of at least four different types of recyclable item 16, rewarding means 28 for rewarding the user 18 upon matching of the scanned identifier 14 with a stored identifier 24 and upon receipt of the recyclable item 16 by the recyclable item receiving machine 20, and a transducer arrangement 30 for converting a mass 31 of the recyclable item 16 into an electrical signal (not shown) for storage as an additional identifier of the recyclable item 16.

The scanning device 12 is in the form of any one or more of the group including a camera, code scanner, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) scanner, and the like. The code scanner is in the form of a barcode or QR (Quick Response) code scanner. It is to be appreciated that artificial intelligence may be utilised to facilitate identification of items. The identifiers 14 and 24 are in the form of any identifier of the group including, but not limited to, shape, dimension, pattern, ornamentation, barcode, QR code, and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag. The recyclable item receiving machine 20 is marked with branding or advertisements 32, typically being marked with branding or advertisements 32 of businesses or companies that utilise or manufacture recyclable materials.

The recyclable item 16 is manufactured from any material of the group including paper, cardboard, glass, plastic, metal and a composite thereof. In particular, the recyclable item 16 is manufactured from Aluminium, PET (Polyethylene terephthalate), glass or any other recyclable material. Examples of recyclable plastics includes Polyethylene terephthalate, High density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), Expanded polystyrene (EPS) and the like. Further examples of recyclable items include but are not limited to plastics facilitating packaging, containers, bottles, boxes, lids, cups, eating utensils, packets, bottle caps, filters, bags, trays, dishes, tubs, plates, cans and the like. Yet further examples of recyclable items include but are not limited to composite packaging which includes packaging manufactured from multiple materials such as cardboard and metallic foils. The recyclable item 16 could be in the form of packaging items manufactured by a company known as Tetra Pak ^® . The recyclable item 14 could be in the form of a re-usable item, such as a coffee cup or mug, wherein the re-usable item includes a unique tracking identifier for allowing the item, its user and its contents to be tracked. For example, a business selling coffee could issue a re-usable coffee cup to a customer, which re-usable cup is typically recyclable. The re-usable cup would be scanned and linked to the customer, thereby enabling rewards to issued to the customer for use thereof. Upon a subsequent visit to the business, the customer would present the re-usable cup for cleaning and re-filling, and would be issued with a reward such as a discount on the coffee being purchased. Each use of the cup would be recorded under the particular customer’s profile and rewards could be issued for certain achievements. Further, the customer following several uses, the customer could simply exchange the used cup for a new re-usable cup free of charge.

It is to be appreciated that a user could be offered with a subscription to utilise a re-usable cup, wherein such subscription allows a subscribed user to use the re usable cup without requiring an upfront payment provided the previous cup is returned. Further, when such re-usable cup is returned, a notification may be sent to the user’s mobile device. The comparing means 22 is configured to initiate an item rejection protocol (not shown) in the event that the scanned identifier 14 does not match a stored identifier 24, wherein the recyclable item 16 presented by the user 18 for recycling is rejected and no reward is issued to the user 18. The comparing means 22 includes identifier receiving means (not shown) arranged in communication with the scanning device 12 for receiving the identifier 14 in a digital form and communication means (not shown) for communicating the identifier 14 in digital form to the identifier database 26.

The communication means (not shown) is configured to transmit the scanned identifier 14 to the identifier database 26, typically a control processor (not shown) thereof, via a wired or wireless connection. The communication means (not shown) is configured to permit communication via any suitable communication system of the group including a wired connection, radio, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, infrared, cellular network, 3G, 4G, 5G, and satellite communication. The control processor (not shown) is configured to carry out the comparison of scanned and stored identifiers 14 and 24 upon receipt of the scanned identifier 14. The control processor (not shown) is configured to return the appropriate signal indicating a match or mismatch between the scanned and stored identifiers 14 and 24. In the event of a match, the control processor (not shown) is configured to transmit, via the communication means (not shown), the appropriate signal to a processing unit 34 of the recyclable item receiving machine 20 in order to permit passage of the recyclable item 16 into a storage zone (not shown) thereof and allow the reward (not shown) to be issued to the user 18 having deposited the recyclable item 16. The control processor (not shown) is further configured to transmit information relating to the item being deposited, to the processing unit 34 of the recyclable item receiving machine 20 in the event of a match. The information relating to the item includes any one or more of the group including constituent materials, weight or volume of constituent recyclable materials, manufacturer, supplier, and business or company using the item. In the event of a mismatch, the control processor (not shown) is configured to return an error signal (not shown) to the processing unit 34 of the recyclable item receiving machine 20, which error signal typically results in rejection of the item 16 being deposited by the user 18, wherein rejection typically results in the processing unit 34 of the recyclable item receiving machine 20 inhibiting passage of the deposited item into the storage zone (not shown) thereof. The error signal in the form of an error code is displayed to the user 18 in the event of a mismatch.

Upon receipt of the identifier 14, the control processor (not shown) associated with the identifier database 26 is configured to initiate an identity verification protocol wherein the identity of the processor requesting a comparison is checked against a record of registered processors. The control processor (not shown) is configured to return the appropriate signal only upon successful verification of the processor identity.

A user interaction interface 36 is provided for allowing the user 18 to interact with the system 10. As shown in the Figures, the user interaction interface 36 forms part of hardware of the recyclable item receiving machine 20. The user interaction interface 36 includes a touchscreen display 38 for displaying information to the user 18. The user interaction interface 36 further includes control means in the form of touchscreen buttons 40 for enabling the user 18 to control aspects, typically various functions, of the recyclable material receiving machine 20. The set of buttons are linked to certain system functions. As depicted in Figure 2, the buttons 40 are typically provided by the touchscreen display 38. The processing unit 34 typically forms part of the hardware of the recyclable material receiving machine 20, wherein connection to the scanning device 12 is wired. Although not depicted in the Figures, the processing unit could form part of a remote computing device (not shown) wherein connection to the item scanning device 12 is wireless, further typically being connectable via Bluetooth. The remote computing device is in the form of any one or more of the group including a server, desktop computer, laptop computer, mobile smart device, tablet, smart phone, and smart watch. In such a case, the user 18 would typically control the recyclable item receiving machine 20 using its personal mobile smart device. For example, as a user 18 approaches an available recyclable item receiving machine 20, the user’s smart phone (not shown) initiates a connection with the scanning device 12 and identifier database 26, and acts as the controller of the functions of the recyclable item receiving machine 20. An advantage of such a feature, may be that processing power of a smart phone is utilised which may reduce the complexity of the recyclable item receiving machine 20.

User detail receiving means (not shown) is provided for receiving details 42 of the user 18 for allowing digital coupling of the user 18 and the recyclable item 16 being deposited for recycling. The user detail receiving means (not shown) is configured to receive user details via direct input from the user interaction interface 36. For example, the recyclable item receiving machine 20 allows unregistered users (not shown) to deposit items 16 in the machine 20 and be rewarded for same. In such a case, the unregistered user (not shown) typically inputs an identification detail, such as name, cell-phone number or email address, via the user interaction interface 36. Upon receipt of a recyclable item 16, the rewarding means 28 will activate and either print a printable reward for the unregistered user (not shown) to take physically or send the reward to the unregistered user (not shown) via the cell-phone number or email address provided. However, for registered users (not shown), the user detail receiving means (not shown) is configured to receive user details 42 from a registered account (not shown) of the registered user (not shown) which is stored on a registered user database (not shown). The user detail receiving means (not shown) is configured to utilise a login system (not shown) to gain access to a registered user’s details 42 via the registered account (not shown) of the registered user (not shown). The login system (not shown) is configured to permit access upon correct entry of user identification details (not shown) and verification details (not shown) via the user interaction interface 36. Alternatively, and although not depicted in the Figures, the login system (not shown) is configured to retrieve, typically automatically, login details from a storage device (not shown) connected to, typically forming part of, a personal computing device, such as a smart mobile phone, of the registered user (not shown). In such a case, the processing unit 34 would, either upon command or automatically, connect with the smart phone of the registered user (not shown) so that login details are shared with the processing unit 34 for allowing the registered user (not shown) to log in to its account via the processing unit 34 without having to physically input login details via the user interaction interface 36. The advantage of such functionality, may be that the registered user (not shown) would not be required to touch any part of the recyclable item receiving machine 20.

A registration system (not shown) is provided for enabling a user 18 to register its details on the registered user database (not shown). The registration system (not shown) is configured to receive details of the user 18 for registration via the user interaction interface 36. The registration system (not shown) is configured to create the registered user account (not shown) and an associated user profile (not shown). Alternatively, and although not depicted in the Figures, the registration system (not shown) could be provided via a website (not shown) which would be accessible via any conventional computing device such as a computer, smart phone or tablet, for example. User details 42 include identification details (not shown). Identification details (not shown) include any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, name, identification number, age, ethnicity, cellular phone number, email address, social media handle, and username. User details 42 include verification details (not shown) for verifying the identification details (not shown) of the user 18, typically for use by the login system (not shown). The verification details (not shown) include any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, password, answers to security questions, details for sending an OTP (one time pin), biometric details (such as facial recognition or the like), and a personal device of the user with enabled NFC (Near Field Communication).

The rewarding means 28 includes a reward determination means (not shown) for determining a type and/or value of a reward (not shown) to be issued to the user 18. The determination means (not shown) is configured to take into account any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, item details, user details, a user’s personal recycling history, unique promotions applied in respect of specific items, geographical location of the recyclable item receiving machine 20 and a user’s preferences. The reward (not shown) is provided by a private company or business. The reward (not shown) is in the form of any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a promotion code, rebate, voucher, discount code, coupon, digital currency, cryptocurrency, official currency, and airtime. In particular, and as an example, the reward (not shown) is in the form of a rebate in respect of medical aid or insurance costs, i.e., a user could obtain a R 500 rebate for their monthly insurance. It is to be appreciated that the various types of rewards can be linked to specific reward partners, for example, the reward is in the form of an online shopping voucher for use with an online shopping provider such as Takealot, for example. It is to be appreciated further that the reward can be in the form of an insurance policy or medical aid. Although the reward could be any type of coupon, the reward could be in the form of a coupon having been issued by a company to a consumer for purchasing the company’s product or service, wherein the coupon provides the consumer with a discount for further use of the company’s products or services. The rewarding means 28 includes a reward issuing means (not shown) for issuing the reward (not shown) to the user 18. The reward issuing means (not shown) is configured to utilise a printer (not shown) which may form part of the hardware of the recyclable item receiving machine 20, for printing the reward (not shown) or proof thereof (not shown) to be taken physically by the user 18. Alternatively, the reward issuing means (not shown) is configured to send the reward or proof thereof digitally to the user via SMS (Short Messaging Service), MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service), USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data), instant message service provider such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Facebook Messenger and the like, or via e-mail, a messaging service provided by any social media platform such as Linkedln, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and the like. Further alternatively, the reward issuing means is configured to store the reward or proof thereof on a personal computing device of a user, such as a smart phone or tablet, which may include an application thereon for permitting a user to access the rewards issued via the application. For example, and although explained in more detail below, a user would typically select the application to be run by the user’s smartphone, which would display the particular user’s profile and the user would be able to view the rewards issued to it.

The transducer arrangement 30 is in the form of a load cell (not shown). The load cell (not shown) includes any suitable conventional load cell which is selected from any one or more of the group including a hydraulic load cell, a pneumatic load cell and a strain gauge load cell. The transducer arrangement 30 is arranged within the recyclable item receiving machine 20. Alternatively, the transducer arrangement 30 is located remote from the item receiving machine 20, typically being utilised to obtain the mass of the recyclable item 16 after having been successfully deposited and accepted by the item receiving machine 20. It is to be appreciated that weighing of the recyclable item 16 can take place before the item is placed inside the item receiving machine 20, or weighing can take place inside the item receiving machine 20 or the item could be weighed during subsequent processing of all recyclable items having been deposited in the item receiving machine 20. The transducer arrangement 30 converts the mass of the item into an electrical signal which is associated with a digital mass value (not shown). The digital mass value (not shown) of a particular recyclable item 16 is stored as an additional identifier for the item 16 on the identifier database 26, typically upon successful depositing of the recyclable item 16 in the receiving machine 20. In particular, in order to more accurately provide the appropriate reward to any user 18 for depositing the particular item 16, a plurality of digital mass values (not shown) of the particular recyclable item 16 deposited by a plurality of users 18 are stored for allowing an average mass value to be calculated. The average mass value is in the form of a moving or dynamic average, typically being calculated using between 5 and 20, typically about 10, mass values. Typically, the average mass value is recalculated upon further depositing of the particular item by further users.

A recording means 44 is provided for recording a depositing event wherein a user 18 deposits a recyclable item 16 for receipt by the recyclable item receiving machine 20. The recording means 44 is configured to store a record (not shown) of details of a user’s depositing events on a depositing event database (not shown). The depositing event database (not shown) is stored wholly or partly on any one or more of the group including a storage device connected to the processing unit 34, a storage device (not shown) connected to a user’s personal mobile computing device (not shown), and a storage device (not shown) connected to a system controller of a service provider of the system. The record (not shown) is accessible via a registered user’s profile (not shown). The record (not shown) includes any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, item details, user details, date and time details of a depositing event, and location of a depositing event.

The user profile (not shown) is configured to display all details relating to a registered user (not shown) including statistics relating to the user’s deposit event history (not shown), the details typically being displayed in a dashboard-like manner. The statistics include but are not limited to the number of times a specific item has been deposited for recycling, the frequency of depositing events, the total value of rewards received, average value of rewards received, the quantity of pollutants prevented from being released as a result of recycling, the user’s pollution footprint, and the like. The user profile (not shown) includes balance information (not shown) of any rewards received, including rewards in the form of digital currency. A registered user (not shown) is capable of utilising the user interaction interface 36 to access to the user profile (not shown). Alternatively, the registered user (not shown) could utilise any network attached or cellular device (not shown) to access the user profile (not shown). As mentioned above, the user is capable of utilising a smart phone to run an application that would allow access to the user’s profile and subsequent viewing of any rewards issued.

The personal computing device (not shown) of a user 18 is in the form of a mobile computing device which is selected from any of the group including a cellular phone, smart device, tablet, smart phone, and smart watch.

Notification means 46 is provided for notifying a user 18 of the occurrence of any one or more of the group including when the user 18 enters into a proximity of a recyclable item receiving machine 20, when depositing events of the user 18 are successfully recorded, when a reward (not shown) is successfully issued to the user 18, when promotional deals are available for the use of a particular recyclable item receiving machine 20, when the user 18 has purchased an item having packaging suitable for recycling, and for the depositing of a particular recyclable item 16. The notification means 46 is in the form of a conventional notification or push notification (not shown) which is displayed on a user’s personal mobile computing device (not shown). The notification could be application based or it may be the result of receipt of an SMS (Short Messaging Service), MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service), USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data), instant message such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Facebook Messenger and the like, or an e-mail, or message received on a form of social media such as Linkedln, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and the like. The notification (not shown) is in the form of a message (not shown) informing the user that a particular recyclable item receiving machine 20 is nearby, containing an advertisement for products which include packaging which is suitable for recycling or any other suitable communication as desired. The message (not shown) includes an advertisement (not shown) therein. The notification type or advertisement to be provided can be updated at any time. The advertisement can be based on any one or more of the group including specific recyclable item receiving machines within the proximity of the user, specific branding on a particular recyclable item receiving machine, specific brand of item being deposited, depositing event history of the user, and user preferences. For example, if a user 18 enters the proximity of a machine 20 which may have been branded by a business selling soft drinks in cans, as the user 18 crosses a geofence placed around the machine 20, the user 18 would receive a notification via a smart phone or watch, which notification would inform them that the particular machine is nearby and possibly offer the user 18 with an a discount or voucher if the user satisfies certain conditions, such as buying a certain quantity of that business’s canned soft drink and depositing the cans for recycling at that particular machine 20. A remote system controller 48 is provided for remotely controlling the operation and/or functioning of the aspects of the incentive system 10, including operation and/or functioning of any one or more of the group including the scanning device 12, the recyclable item receiving machine 20, the comparing means 22, the communication means (not shown), the rewarding means 28, the transducer arrangement 30, the user interaction interface 36, user detail receiving means (not shown), the registration system (not shown), the recording means 44, and the notification means 46. Typically, the system controller 48 is configured to control operation of a plurality of recyclable item receiving machines including all hardware and software associated therewith. The system controller 48 is in the form of a central processing unit (not shown) which forms part of a central system server (not shown). The remote system controller 48 is arranged in communication with each recyclable item receiving machine 20 which is deployed for use, typically being arranged in communication with the processing units of each recyclable item receiving machine. The system controller 48 is configured to permit remote updating of software utilised on the recyclable item receiving machine 20. The system controller 48 is configured to permit adjustment of reward value of any reward issuable by any recyclable item receiving machine 20. Adjustments of reward value of any rewards to be issued are capable of being updated or changed at any time. In particular, the system controller 48 is configured to permit adjustment of reward value according to geographical location of the recyclable item receiving machine. For example, a reward issued for recycling bottles manufactured by a particular manufacturer is greater in value if the user deposits the bottles at a recyclable item receiving machine located in closer proximity to an associated recycling plant.

The system controller 48 is arranged in remote communication with the identifier database 26. The system controller 48 is configured to permit uploading of new identifiers of new recyclable items and/or products for storage on the identifier database. The system controller 48 is configured to permit updating and/or deletion of existing identifiers stored on the identifier database 26.

It is, of course, to be appreciated that the system in accordance with the invention is not limited to the precise constructional and functional details as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings and which may be varied as desired.

Although only certain embodiments of the invention have been described herein, it will be understood by any person skilled in the art that other modifications, variations, and possibilities of the invention are possible. Such modifications, variations and possibilities are therefore to be considered as falling within the spirit and scope of the invention and hence form part of the invention as herein described and/or exemplified. It is further to be understood that the examples are provided for illustrating the invention further and to assist a person skilled in the art with understanding the invention and is not meant to be construed as unduly limiting the reasonable scope of the invention.

The inventor believes that the incentive system in accordance with the present invention is advantageous in that it provides a simple means to allow the general public to recycle their used items and rewarding the public for doing same. Further, it is believed that the invention provides means for tracking purchasing habits of consumers which assists companies with advertising. Yet further, it is believed that the incentive system encourages consumers to recycle their used items and thereby contribute to improving the well-being of the planet and environment. Yet even further, it is believed that enabling a user to record and track their recycling contributions over time along with the associated rewards obtained, further encourages consumers to commit to the moral practice of recycling.