IJCRT24A3211

www.ijcrt.
org © 2024 IJCRT | Volume 12, Issue 3 March 2024 | ISSN: 2320-2882
PLASTIC BOTTLE REVERSE VENDING

MACHINE
Arjun Anand, Hiran. H, Rahul. R, Sooraj. K.S
Student, Student, Student, Student
Electronics and Communication Department,
Ahalia School of Engineering and Technology, Palakkad, India
Abstract: — Reverse vending machines, strategically placed in public areas like train stations and airports,
focus on collecting plastic water bottles and employ mobile applications to incentivize users. This innovative
approach aims to boost recycling rates, particularly addressing the issue of plastic waste, and contributes to
reducing the volume of water bottles ending up in landfills. The system not only minimizes energy
consumption and greenhouse gas emissions but also plays a role in job creation and conserving valuable
resources through plastic recycling. Operating with AI technology, these machines offer a user-friendly
process for both individuals and the backend system. In essence, reverse vending machines promote recycling,
contribute to waste reduction, and engage individuals in sustainable practices, emphasizing their crucial role
in modern sustainability efforts.
Index Terms – Reverse Vending Machine, AI, modern sustainability.

I. INTRODUCTION
In a world increasingly concerned about environmental sustainability and the ongoing problem of plastic and
glass waste, the emergence of innovative solutions is paramount. One such solution, the reverse vending
machine, has gained significant attention and adoption in recent years. Unlike conventional vending machines
that dispense products in exchange for currency, these machines operate in the opposite direction, they accept
empty beverage containers and provide rewards or incentives to users. This unique technology is transforming
the way we think about recycling and resource conservation. The rise of single-use packaging, particularly in
the form of plastic bottles and aluminium cans, has led to a surge in environmental concerns due to the
difficulty of disposal and their contribution to pollution and waste. Reverse vending machines offer a
promising approach to address this issue. In this introduction, we will delve into the concept, operation, and
the multitude of benefits associated with these machines, shedding light on their role in promoting recycling,
reducing waste, conserving resources, and engaging individuals in sustainable practices. We will explore the
diverse applications and implications of reverse vending machines in our quest for a greener, more responsible
future.
A. OVERVIEW
Reverse vending machines, cutting-edge technology designed to combat plastic and aluminum waste,
distinguish themselves from traditional vending machines by accepting empty beverage containers and
rewarding users for recycling. Operating in various locations like supermarkets and public spaces, these
machines incentivize responsible disposal, offering users discounts, vouchers, or financial compensation in
return for their recycling efforts. This unique approach promotes recycling as both sustainable and
economically viable, contributing to the reduction of single-use packaging waste. By diverting recyclable
materials from landfills, conserving resources, and minimizing carbon footprints, reverse vending machines
play a crucial role in the global effort to create a more sustainable future.
IJCRT24A3211 International Journal of Creative Research Thoughts (IJCRT) www.ijcrt.org k221

www.ijcrt.org © 2024 IJCRT | Volume 12, Issue 3 March 2024 | ISSN: 2320-2882
II. RELATED WORKS
Research and related works on Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) cover various aspects, including
technology, environmental impact, user behavior, and policy implications.
[1] This research paper delves into the planning and setup of a Plastic Eco-Redeemer Vending Machine
(RVM) designed for the recycling of plastic bottles. The authors provide a concise overview of the advantages
of RVMs and the imperative need for their widespread adoption. The document also provides a detailed
description of the plastic bottle recycling workflow, along with an examination of the hardware and software
elements integrated into the RVM. The authors draw the inference that the utilization of RVMs has the
potential to contribute to the reduction of plastic waste and encourage more eco-conscious practices.
[2] This essay provides an overview of the many RVM varieties and their operational tenets. The authors talk
about the need for plastic waste management and how RVMs could help. The report also offers a thorough
evaluation of RVMs environmental effect and cost-benefit ratio. The authors conclude that RVMs may be an
efficient tool for managing plastic waste and that they need to be used more widely.
[3] This article delves into the conceptualization and creation of a recycling system for plastic bottles using
Arduino technology. The authors provide a comprehensive overview of the recycling process for bottles and
offer detailed insights into the hardware and software components integrated into this recycling system.
Additionally, the article explores the benefits of Arduino in the context of Recycling Vending Machines
(RVMs) and the potential for future enhancements in this field. In conclusion, the authors suggest that the
incorporation of Arduino technology has the potential to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of RVMs
for plastic waste management.
III. OBJECTIVE
1. Encouraging Recycling and Waste Reduction
2. Improving Waste Management Efficiency
IV. BLOCK DIAGRAM AND WORKING
Fig(a) :Block Diagram

The bottle may be put into the chamber once the user deems the bottle to be useless. If the bottle is accepted,
it is taken inside the chamber and the message "BOTTLE ACCEPTED" is shown. The word "THANK YOU"
is displayed to show how much are appreciated for their contribution to the recycling process. The bottles are
rejected and labelled "EMPTY BOTTLE" and the reward is distributed as per previously set.

WORKING
The working principle of a Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) revolves around encouraging and facilitating the
recycling of beverage containers, such as plastic bottles, aluminium cans, and glass bottles. Here's a step-by-
step explanation of how RVMs typically operate:
1. User Interaction: The process begins when a user approaches the RVM with their recyclable beverage
container. RVMs often have a user-friendly interface, which can include a touchscreen, keypad, or display
screen, for interaction.
2. Container Recognition: The RVM employs various sensors and recognition technologies to identify and
validate the type of container being deposited. These sensors can include AI technology. The purpose is to
determine the container's eligibility for recycling.
3. Verification: The RVM verifies the container's condition to ensure it meets the recycling criteria. It checks
whether the container is in a suitable state for recycling.
4. Reward Calculation: Based on the type and condition of the container, the RVM's central processing unit
calculates the appropriate reward for the user. Rewards can come in various forms, such as cash refunds,
vouchers, loyalty points, or discounts.
5. Dispensing Rewards: If the RVM offers cash refunds, it may include a payment mechanism, such as a coin
dispenser, bill acceptor, or card reader, to dispense the calculated reward to the user. For non-cash rewards
like vouchers, the RVM has a vending mechanism to provide users with these incentives.
6. Data Recording: The RVM records transaction data, including the number and type of containers recycled,
the rewards given, and other relevant information. This data is crucial for tracking recycling statistics and
user accounts.
7. Storage and Sorting: RVMs may include sorting mechanisms to separate different types of recyclables,
improving the efficiency of recycling processes. The recyclables are stored separately within the machine.
The working principle of RVMs is designed to make recycling convenient and rewarding for users while
automating the process of sorting and collecting recyclable containers. These machines encourage responsible
recycling behaviour, reduce litter, and support environmental conservation efforts.
V. CIRCUIT DIAGRAM
Fig(b) :Circuit Diagram

A Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) circuit diagram represents the electrical and electronic components that
make up the RVM and how they are interconnected. It's important to note that the specific components and
their interconnections in an RVM circuit diagram can vary depending on the manufacturer, design, and features
of the machine. The purpose of the circuit diagram is to provide a detailed representation of how the electrical
and electronic components work together to facilitate the recycling process and user interaction within the
RVM.

1. Power Supply: The power supply unit provides electrical power to the entire RVM, ensuring that all
components receive the necessary voltage and current to operate.
2. User Interface: This part of the circuit includes components like a display screen, keypad, or touch
interface. It allows users to interact with the RVM by selecting options, checking their rewards, or following
instructions.
3. Sensors: Various sensors are used to identify and validate the recyclable containers that users deposit. These
sensors can include barcode scanners, weight sensors, optical sensors, or RFID readers. The data from these
sensors is sent to the central processing unit for further analysis.
4. Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is the brain of the RVM. It receives data from sensors, processes
it, determines the type and condition of the container, calculates the reward, and controls the various
functions of the machine.
5. Memory: The memory components store data related to transactions, user accounts, and historical usage.
This information is essential for tracking recycling statistics and user rewards.
6. Payment Mechanism: If the RVM offers cash refunds, a payment mechanism (servo motor) is integrated
into the circuit to dispense rewards to users.
7. Vending Mechanism: If the RVM offers vouchers, loyalty points, or other non-cash rewards, a vending
mechanism is included to dispense these rewards to users.
8. Communication Interface: The RVM may be equipped with a communication interface (e.g., Ethernet,
Wi-Fi, or cellular) to connect to a central server or database. This enables real-time data transmission, remote
management, and software updates.
9. Storage: The storage component stores and manages the rewards (e.g., cash, vouchers) to be dispensed to
users.
VI. APPLICATIONS
1. Public Spaces: RVMs are commonly deployed in public spaces such as parks, shopping centres,
transportation hubs, and schools. They encourage people to recycle their beverage containers while on the
go.
2. Educational Institutions: RVMs in schools and universities not only promote recycling but also serve as
educational tools to raise environmental awareness among students.
3. Environmental Campaigns: RVMs are deployed as part of environmental initiatives and campaigns to
encourage the public to recycle and reduce waste.
4. Waste Management Facilities: RVMs can be integrated into waste management facilities to automate the
sorting and collection of recyclables before processing.

TABLE 1 : COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON RVM
FEATURE DESCRIPTION
Name Reverse Vending Machine
Supermarkets, schools, parks,
Location
public spaces, etc.
Screen interface, deposit area
User Interaction
for containers
Accepted Containers Plastic bottles, glass bottles.
Recognition
AI
Technology
Central Processing Manages sensors, data
Unit processing, and user rewards
Payment Option Coin dispenser
May be part of recycling
Integration programs and sustainability
efforts
VII. CONCLUSIONS AND FUTURE SCOPE

In conclusion, Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) have proven to be a valuable and innovative solution to
tackle plastic and glass waste, encouraging recycling through incentives and user-friendly processes. The
successful deployment of RVMs has resulted in increased recycling rates and a reduction in pressure on
landfills. Looking ahead, the future of RVMs holds promise with potential technological advancements,
broader material acceptance, global implementation, integration with smart city initiatives, and the crucial
support of policies. These developments signify a dynamic and evolving role for RVMs in contributing to a
more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to waste management. Continued research and
collaborative efforts will be key in realizing the full scope of benefits offered by RVMs on a broader scale.
REFERENCES
[1] Mariya, Usman, Nimmy Mathew, PH, & Azeez. (2020, March). Plastic Eco-Redeemer Vending Machine
for Plastic Bottle Recycling. International Journal of Computer Science Trends and Technology (IJCST),
Volume 8 Issue 2, 65–70.
[2] Sambhi, S., & Dahiya, P. (2020). Plastic Eco-Redeemer Vending Machine for managing plastic waste.
International Journal of System Assurance Engineering and Management, 11, 635-640.
[3] Soni, A., Kaushik, M., Kumari, N., Singh, D. G., & Dubey, G. K. (2020). Arduino based Plastic Eco-
Redeemer Vending Machine. IRJET paper, 7(08).
[4] Kosior, E., & Mitchell, J. (2020). Current industry position on plastic production and recycling. In Plastic
waste and recycling (pp. 133-162). Academic Press.
[5] Lun, T. F. (2011). The Study of beverage Container Recycling Process and Potential Market for Plastic
Eco-Redeemer Vending Machine (RVM) in Japan (Doctoral dissertation, Master Thesis, 2011, Ritsumeikan
Asia Pacific University, Japan).
[6] Reduce, Reuse, Recycle with the Plastic Eco-Redeemer Vending Machine – USC Viterbi School of
Engineering. (2021, April 21). Reduce, Reuse, Recycle with the Plastic Eco-Redeemer Vending Machine –
USC Viterbi School of Engineering. https://illumin.usc.edu/reduce-reuse-recycle-with-the-reverse-vending-
machine/

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PLASTIC BOTTLE REVERSE VENDING

Index Terms – Reverse Vending Machine, AI, modern sustainability.

IJCRT24A3211 International Journal of Creative Research Thoughts (IJCRT) www.ijcrt.org k221

IV. BLOCK DIAGRAM AND WORKING

Fig(a) :Block Diagram

IJCRT24A3211 International Journal of Creative Research Thoughts (IJCRT) www.ijcrt.org k222

Fig(b) :Circuit Diagram

IJCRT24A3211 International Journal of Creative Research Thoughts (IJCRT) www.ijcrt.org k223

IJCRT24A3211 International Journal of Creative Research Thoughts (IJCRT) www.ijcrt.org k224

VII. CONCLUSIONS AND FUTURE SCOPE

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