“ENHANCING RECYCLING EFFICIENCY IN EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT:

AN ELECTRIC POWERED WASTE SEGREGATOR WITH

SHREDDING CAPABILITY”

______________

A Research Paper
Presented to the
Senior High School Department
DR. CECILIO PUTONG NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
Division of City Schools - Tagbilaran City

_______________

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for

PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2 - GRADE 12 - STEM C

_______________

Castañares, John Val S.

Rivera, Sophia Loren A.

Pahang, Janreynar M.

Calibo, Hazel M.

June 2024
 CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

INTRODUCTION

Rationale

The world's material consumption has increased quickly, as the material footprint

per capita is seriously jeopardizing the achievement of ensuring sustainable

consumption and production patterns, or Sustainable Development Goal 12 under the

UNESCO Sustainable Development Goals. Urgent action is required to ensure that

current material needs do not result in over-extraction of resources or the degradation of

environmental resources, and should include policies that improve resource

management. The pace of extraction has increased annually since 2000, and in 2017,

the total amount of material consumed worldwide increased to 92.1 billion metric tons,

up from 87 billion in 2015 and a 254% rise from 27 billion in 1970. This is a reflection of

the rising demand for natural resources over the past few decades, which has placed

excessive stress on environmental resources. It is anticipated that global resource

extraction might increase to 190 billion metric tons by 2060 if prompt and coordinated

political action is not taken.

 The most urgent urban environmental concern in the nation is still solid waste

management. According to the percentage weight of MSW fractions in the Philippines,

recyclable materials make up 27.78% of the total garbage that is collected. Papers

make up 8.70% of it, while plastics account for 10.55%, metals for 4.22%, and glass for

2.34%. Despite the fact that the public and other commercial sectors exist to separate

waste, it is much preferable if the waste has already been sorted at the point of origin.

As a result, the quality of all the recyclable waste that is collected will continue to

be of higher value. The answer required to increase usable resources is the installation

of automatic bins that can recognize the type of trash thrown into the bin. This lessens

the likelihood that readily available recyclable materials will get contaminated and

mitigates the impacts of human irresponsibility. Automated trash cans are a prototype

for municipal waste segregators that can sort waste that has been dropped quickly,

increasing the amount of paper that is recyclable. The smart bin can be set up to

convey information about the trash that has been dumped so that the appropriate action

can be taken. Various sensors are interfaced with the microcontroller in this system.

In conclusion, due to the rapid increased of waste materials, producing an

automatic waste segregator is an efficient way to help schools by improving waste

management efficiency, reducing costs, promoting recycling, educating students, and

contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment. It aligned with the

principles of responsible environmental stewardship and can benefit both the school

and the broader community.

Review of Related Literature

Sneha M. P. et al. (2014) proposed a system that sorts wastes into three different

categories: metal, dry, and wet waste. And the system can segregate only one type of

waste at a time, with an assigned priority for the waste. The experimental result shows

that the waste has been successfully segregated into glass, metallic, wet, and dry waste

using the segregator.

According to Jimeno, F. et al. (2021): A smart waste bin segregation employing

image processing helps waste segregation through trash identification and segregation

built on machine learning capable of traversing the one-time path established by the

user. Create an intelligent waste bin segregation prototype with three classes using

image processing.

The biodegradable, non-biodegradable, and unknown categories are meant to

segregate solid waste into their corresponding bins and execute accuracy testing using
relevant statistical tools. This gadget is intended for use in schools, but it may also be

used in other places if more waste is generated, to assist in alleviating the waste

segregation problem and contribute to the development of a more environmentally

friendly society without jeopardizing health and cleanliness.

The automatic garbage segregator is designed to sort waste into three major

categories: metallic, organic, and plastic, making waste management more efficient.

Ultrasonic sensors have been installed to monitor the waste collection operation. The

sensors would be installed in all garbage cans. When the trash reaches the sensor's

level, an indicator is sent to a microcontroller. The microcontroller will alert the waste

collection truck driver by sending SMS using GSM technology. Balakrishnan, K. et al.

(2016)

Rashmi M. Kittali et al. (2016) said that even PLC can be used for AWS. It has the

advantages of reduced manpower, improved accuracy, and speedy waste

management. It also avoids the risk of working in hazardous places. This work can be

implemented by making use of a robotic arm in the future to pick up and place certain

materials that can be re-used. The bins can be unloaded by placing limit sensors at the

top of each bin.

 Several smart garbage management solutions for smart cities are also proposed,

which make use of the Internet of Things (IoT) and GSM. Existing smart bins that use

IoT and wireless sensor networks (WSN) are heavily reliant on two primary factors.

First, numerous types of sensors are required because a single sensor may be

incapable of detecting different forms of trash. Second, the console (Microcontroller,

Arduino Raspberry Pi) and connectivity are required, which are dependent on

programming and the operating system. The embedded smart bin's limitations are

overcome by merging IoT with artificial intelligence technologies such as deep neural

network (DNN) systems. (Aarif, M. K. O. et al., 2022)

According to the study of Endaya, J. P. et al. (2020), the automated waste

segregator, designed and developed by the proponents, was able to achieve proper

waste segregation, maintain the quality of recyclable wastes, and maximize the capacity

of the trash bin. The proponents were able to build an automated waste segregator with

smart compression that can properly segregate four types of waste according to the

input push button, along with smart compression, when the sensor detects that the

paper or plastic bin is already full. It was also able to notify the user if the bins were

already full through the LEDs assigned to each bin. Upon the actual testing, the

proponents concluded that the system could provide an efficient output depending on

the knowledge of users about the waste that they were going to dispose of.
Theories

Theory of Constructivism, as a learning theory, it focuses on how individuals

actively construct knowledge through their experiences. When applied to robotics, it can

be interpreted in several ways. First, robots can be designed to learn from their

interactions with the environment. They collect data, adapt their behaviors, and

"construct" knowledge about the world around them. This aligns with the idea that

learners (robots, in this case) build their understanding through engagement. This study

also suggests that when constructing a robot's programming, developers often use

constructivist principles. They design algorithms that allow the robot to adapt, learn, and

refine its behaviors over time, similar to how individuals construct their understanding

through reflection (Jean Piaget 1978).

Control theory focuses on designing control systems to govern the behavior

and movements of robots. The primary goal of control theory in robotics is to develop

algorithms and methodologies that enable robots to perform tasks with precision,

accuracy, and reliability (Walter Reckless 1973).

Legal Bases

The Republic Act (RA) 9003, otherwise known as the Ecological Solid Waste

Management Act of 2000, provides the necessary policy framework, institutional

mechanisms and mandate to the local government unites (LGUs) to achieve 25% waste

reduction through establishing an integrated solid waste management plan based on

3Rs (reduce, reuse and recycling).

The Republic Act No. 2067, also known as the "Professional Mechanical

Engineering Act," regulates the practice of mechanical engineering in the country and

establishes the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) as the governing body

responsible for the licensure and supervision of mechanical engineers. This law sets the

standards and qualifications for individuals wishing to practice mechanical engineering

and provides guidelines for professional conduct and ethics within the field.
 Theoretical Framework

Theories Legal Bases

 Theory of Constructivism  Republic Act 9003 (Ecological Solid

(Jean Piaget 1978) Waste Management Act of 2000)

 Control Theory  Republic Act No. 2067 ("Professional

(Walter Reckless 1973) Mechanical Engineering Act")

“ENHANCING RECYCLING EFFICIENCY IN

EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT:
A SOLAR-ELECTRIC POWERED WASTE
SEGREGATOR WITH
SHREDDING CAPABILITY”

Independent Dependent

Variable Variable

Automatic Types of Waste

Waste Segregator

Results and Discussion

 Conceptual Framework

Input Process Output

Analysis of data
 Power Source
through:  Improved waste
Component
 Survey segregation
 Waste type
questionnaire  Enhanced
 Shredding function
 Interviews recycling
 Sensors and
 Statistical treatment efficiency
Sorting Mechanism
Statement of the Problem

The primary objective of this research is to develop an innovative waste segregator

for school classrooms that incorporates electric power source, as well as a shredding

mechanism for paper and plastic waste. In pursuit of this objective, the study aims to

address the following research questions:

1. How many instances of waste segregation can the waste segregator achieve

within a specified time frame?

1.1 Paper waste

1.2 Plastic waste

2. What is the percentage reduction in waste volume achieved by the shredding

mechanism?

2.1 Paper waste

2.2 Plastic waste

3. How much energy does each component consume?

3.1 Waste segregator

3.2 Waste shredder

1. How effectively can the electric-powered waste segregator differentiate between

paper and plastic waste within educational environments?

1.1 What factors influence the accuracy of waste segregation, including sensor

performance and environmental variables? Impact on Waste Volume

Reduction:

2. What is the extent of waste volume reduction achieved by integrating a shredding

mechanism into the waste segregator?

2.1 How does the shredding mechanism contribute to reducing the volume of

paper waste?

2.2 What effect does the shredding mechanism have on the volume of plastic

waste?

3. How much energy is consumed by each component of the electric-powered waste

segregator system?

3.1 How does the energy consumption of the waste segregator vary between

individual waste segregation cycles?

3.2 How does the energy consumption of the waste shredder compare to that of

the waste segregator?

Significance of the Study

This research project on the development of a waste segregator for school

classrooms with electric power source, as well as a shredder for paper and plastic

waste, hold significance for various stakeholders, including students. The findings of this

study have the potential to benefit students by improving waste management practices

within school classrooms. The waste segregator's efficient segregation of paper and

plastic waste will foster a cleaner and more environmentally responsible learning

environment, offering students a firsthand opportunity to engage in sustainable

practices.

Teachers: This study will offer insights to educators by presenting innovative methods

and scientific explanations for the development of an advanced waste segregator

system. Teachers can use this knowledge to educate students about sustainable waste

management and environmental responsibility, thereby contributing to their overall

education and awareness.

Schools: Schools stand to benefit from the implementation of this waste segregator

system, as it can help reduce the operational costs associated with waste disposal. By

promoting recycling and reducing waste volume, the system may contribute to cost
savings, and schools can demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and

environmental stewardship.

Future Researchers: This study serves as a valuable reference for future researchers

interested in similar topics. It provides a foundation for the development of waste

segregation and management systems, integrating renewable energy sources, material

shredding, and user-centered design. Future researchers can build upon the knowledge

and insights gained from this study to advance the field of sustainable waste

management in educational settings, ultimately contributing to a cleaner and more eco-

friendly future.

Scopes and Limitations

This study primarily aimed to enhance waste management practices within school

classrooms, with a focus on the efficient segregation of paper and plastic waste, which

are commonly found in educational settings. In addition, this study involved the design

and development of a waste segregator that integrates electric power source. The

technical aspects of this integration for dependable and sustainable operation were

explored. Furthermore, this study encompassed the creation of a shredding mechanism

designed for paper and specific types of plastic materials, with the goal of effectively

reducing waste volume and promoting recycling within classrooms.

 In this study, it is crucial to acknowledge potential limitations. The effectiveness of

the power source may be influenced by various environmental factors, including

weather conditions, geographical location, and sunlight availability, which will be

considered in the research findings. Additionally, maintenance requirements and the

initial cost of batteries may pose budgetary constraints for educational institutions, an

aspect that this study would evaluate for practicality. The segregator system, while

tailored for paper and certain plastic waste types, may not be universally suitable for

handling other waste materials often found in school environments. Scaling this solution

to different settings may necessitate further adjustments and additional research.

Ensuring safety within the educational context, particularly when dealing with students,

remained a paramount consideration. Safety concerns must be diligently addressed and

may result in limitations on specific features or functionalities to guarantee user well-

being.
 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This study employed experimental quantitative research to investigate the

effectiveness and efficiency of an automatic waste segregator. Using this research

design, the researchers were able to gather data directly based from the conducted

experiment.

Research Environment

This study was conducted in two different places. First was at Dr. Cecilio Putong

National High School. It is located in Carlos P. Garcia Avenue, Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

Second was at one of the researchers’ residence located in Sitio Inagad, Payahan,

Baclayon Bohol.

Research Participants

The participants of the study were the Grade 12 STEM C students of Dr. Cecilio

Putong National High School. They answered a survey questionnaire prepared by the
researchers to find out their observation and perceptions about the efficiency of the

automatic waste segregator.

Research Instrument

In this study, the researchers presented the study through a system

demonstration, and a survey questionnaire was answered by the respondents. During

the system demonstration, the researchers showed the participants the application so

they could understand how it worked. The survey questionnaire consisted of the

evaluation and feedback of the respondents about the automated waste segregator.

Research Procedure

Gathering of Data.

The researcher sent a letter of permission to conduct the study at Sitio Inagad,

Payahan, Baclayon, Bohol. With the help of this letter, the researchers were allowed to

conduct the study outside the school premises.

Ethical Considerations.

In observance of the ethical procedures in conducting research, the researcher

faithfully observed the protection of the privacy of the participants will be ensured.

Voluntary participation of respondents in the research will be treated very important.

Moreover, prior to the study, full consent was obtained from the participants.

Statistical Treatment of Data

Materials and Methods

Hardware Components
 Arduino Uno Rev 3
 Servo Motor
 IR Proximity Sensor
 Ultasonic sensor
 Breadboard
 Jumpire Wires

Body
 Nails
 PVC Pipe
 Plywood
 Wood
Hardware Components

Arduino Uno Rev 3

The Arduino Uno Rev 3 is integral to an Automated Waste Segregator, serving as its

central control unit. It connects with the sensors to gather data on waste types and

levels, processes this data to make sorting decisions, and commands actuators to

execute the sorting process.

IR Proximity Sensor

In an Automated Waste Segregator system, the IR Proximity sensor serves a crucial

role in detecting both paper and plastic waste materials. Controlled by the Arduino Uno

Rev 3, the system efficiently sorts both paper and plastic waste, contributing to

enhanced recycling processes and overall waste management.

Servo Motor

The Servo Motor responds to commands based on waste detection and

identification, ensuring that waste is directed to the appropriate bins or processing

areas. By providing controlled and precise movement, the servo motor enhances the

efficiency and accuracy of the waste segregation process within the system.
Ultrasonic Sensor

The Ultrasonic sensor in an Automated Waste Segregator system determines if paper

or plastic waste should be shredded. It detects waste items and measures their distance

which ensures only appropriate items are shredded

Software

Arduino IDE

Arduino IDE is essential for programming and configuring the Arduino Uno Rev 3 in the

system. It also enables coding in C/C++, facilitates uploading code to the Arduino, and

offers a wide range of libraries for hardware interaction.

Hardware Development

The researchers meticulously assemble the components, starting with the

integration of a 9V battery to power the Arduino Uno. Ensuring correct polarity, they

connect the positive terminal to the VIN pin and the negative terminal to any GND pin

on the board. With precision, they then integrate an IR sensor, servo motor, and

ultrasonic sensor into the circuit. Each component is carefully linked to the Arduino Uno

using female-to-male jumper wires. The IR sensor's VCC pin draws power from the

Arduino Uno's 5V pin, while its GND pin connects to another GND pin on the board.

Connectivity is established between the sensor's OUT pin and a designated digital input

pin (pin 2) on the Arduino Uno. Similarly, the servo motor's power, ground, and signal

wires are meticulously connected to the board, followed by the ultrasonic sensor, which

is intricately linked to the 5V pin, GND pin, and a designated digital output pin (pin 7) on

the Arduino Uno.

The researchers arrange the components on a breadboard, ensuring secure

connections and proper routing of jumper wires. Subsequently, they upload a simple

test sketch to the Arduino Uno to verify the integrity of the connections, closely

monitoring each component's behavior to ensure proper functionality.

1) Connecting the Battery to Arduino Uno

a) Connect the positive terminal (+) of the 9V battery to the VIN (Voltage In) pin on

the Arduino Uno .

b) Connect the negative terminal (-) of the 9V battery to any GND (ground) pin on

the Arduino Uno.

2) Connecting IR Sensor

a) a.Connect the VCC (power) pin of the IR sensor to the 5V pin on the Arduino

Uno using female-to-male jumper wire.

b) Connect the GND (ground) pin of the IR sensor to any GND pin on the Arduino

Uno using female-to-male jumper wire.

c) c.Connect the OUT (output) pin of the IR sensor to the 2 digital input pin on the

Arduino Uno using female-to-male jumper wire.

3) Connecting Servo Motor

i) Connect the red wire (power) of the servo motor to the 5V pin on the Arduino

Uno.

ii) Connect the brown or black wire (ground) of the servo motor to any GND pin

on the Arduino Uno.

iii) Connect the orange or yellow wire (signal) of the servo motor to the 9 digital

output pin on the Arduino Uno.

4) Connecting Ultrasonic Sensor

 i) Connect the VCC (power) pin of the ultrasonic sensor to the 5V pin on the

Arduino Uno using female-to-male jumper wire.

ii) Connect the GND (ground) pin of the ultrasonic sensor to any GND pin on the

Arduino Uno using female-to-male jumper wire.

iii) Connect the TRIG (trigger) pin of the ultrasonic sensor to the 7 digital output

pin on the Arduino Uno using female-to-male jumper wire.

5) Arranging the Components on Breadboard

i) Place the components on a breadboard and use jumper wires to make the

connections between them and the Arduino Uno.

ii) Ensure that the connections are secure and properly routed on the

breadboard.

6) Test Connections

i) Upload a simple test sketch to the Arduino Uno to verify that all components

are connected correctly.

ii) Monitor the behavior of the components to ensure they respond as expected.

iii) Once all connections are made and verified, power on the Arduino Uno by

connecting the 9V battery.

iv) Ensure that the battery is securely connected and that the voltage polarity is

correct to avoid damaging the components or the Arduino Uno.

Schematic Diagram
 POWER

SUPPLY
INPUT SECTION OUTPUT SECTION

INFRARED SERVO

PROXIMITY MOTOR
ARDUIN
SENSOR

O
STEPPER
ULTRASONI
UNO MOTOR
C SENSOR

SHREDDER

Block Diagram
 SYSTEM DIAGRAM

START

HAS PAPER OR
PAPER PLASTIC
PLASTIC BEEN

DETECTED
STEPPER MOTOR STEPPER MOTOR

MOVES THE BIN MOVES THE BIN

FOR PAPER FOR PLASTIC

HAS AN OBJECT
BEEN DETECTED BY
NO ULTRASONIC
SENSOR?

YES

SHREDDER
KEEP SHREDDER OFF
TURNING ON

SERVO MOTOR
OPENS THE
PASSAGE

SHRED THE
WASTE

YES NO
HAS SHREDDER
BEEN ON FOR 30
SECONDS

SHREDDER TURNS OFF KEEP SHREDDER ON

SHREDDER WASTE

GOES TO BIN
Constructing the Waste Segregator System
DONE

Step 1

Material Preparation and Body Structure Division We began by gathering the necessary

materials for constructing the waste segregator system. These included plywood, wood,

nails, PVC pipe, and recycled big water bottles. We divided the body structure of the

segregator into four distinct parts: the upper part (1st part), the shredder compartment

(2nd part), the funnel, and the waste bin.

Step 2

Upper Part Construction The construction of the upper part involved using plywood to

create a housing for the essential components such as the Arduino, sensors, and

breadboard. We covered both the top and bottom of the 1st part with plywood, leaving

an opening at the bottom to allow for sensor passage. A hole was drilled in the bottom

cover to accommodate the PVC pipe for waste passage.

Step 3

Shredder Compartment Assembly Below the upper part, we constructed the shredder

compartment (2nd part) to securely house the shredder. This involved ensuring proper

alignment and mounting of the shredder within the compartment to facilitate efficient

waste shredding.
Step 4

Funnel Construction Using plywood, we constructed a funnel to collect the shredded

waste from the shredder. The funnel was positioned strategically to direct the shredded

waste into the waste bin below, ensuring a seamless flow of waste.

Step 5

Waste Bin Creation To create the waste bin, we utilized recycled big water bottles.

These bottles were re purposed to serve as containers for collecting segregated waste.

The waste bin was positioned beneath the funnel to receive the shredded waste.

Step 6

Support Structure Installation A wood piece with a height matching that of the waste

segregator (40 inches) was used to support the entire structure. This support structure

provided stability and ensured the waste segregator stood upright during operation.

Step 7

Sensor Installation and Configuration We installed ultrasonic and infrared sensors to

detect and differentiate waste types (paper and plastic). The ultrasonic sensor was

programmed to activate the shredder upon waste detection, while the infrared sensor

controlled the movement of the waste bin based on waste type.

Step 8

Testing and Calibration Once construction was complete, we conducted

comprehensive testing of the waste segregator system. This involved testing sensor

functionality, motor movements, and overall system performance. We calibrated

sensors and motor movements as needed to ensure accurate waste segregation and

shredding.

Step 9

Finalization and Implementation After successful testing and calibration, we finalized the

assembly of the waste segregator system. With all components in place and functioning

correctly, we implemented the system in the desired educational environment for

practical use.

Making the Shredder

STEP 1
Gather the tin sheet, pencil, and tin snips. Measure and mark an 8 cm diameter circle

on the tin sheet using a circular object or a compass. Secure the tin sheet and carefully

cut along the marked circle using tin snips.

STEP 2

Drill a hole in the center of each cut tin sheet (blades). Use appropriate tools to sharpen

the edges of the blades for effective shredding.

STEP 3

Cut small circles from the styrofoam. These circles will serve as spacers between the

blades to prevent sticking.

STEP 4

Repeat the process to create a second batch of blades and spacers.

STEP 5

Insert the blades onto the fiberglass umbrella rib through the holes in the center. Place

the spacers between the blades. Ensure that the blades are evenly spaced along the

umbrella rib

STEP 6
On a rectangular piece of styrofoam, measure and cut a rectangle in the middle. The

cutout will serve as the entry point for the shredder.

STEP 7

Create a box for the shredded papers using additional Styrofoam. Place the cut

Styrofoam rectangle on top to guide the paper into the shredder.

STEP 8

Glue the 12- volt DC motor with gear to each side of the box. Ensure that the motor is

securely attached and aligned with entry point.

STEP 9

Insert the two sets of fiberglass umbrella rib with the blades facing each other into the

box. Make sure that the blades align with the entry point and can effectively shred a

paper.

STEP 10

Cut two appropriate lengths of wire for connecting to the DC motor. Strip a small portion

of insulation from the ends of each wire. Identify the positive (+) and negative (-)

terminals on the DC motor. Touch the soldering iron to the tinned end of one wire and

press it against the motor terminal. Repeat the process for the other wire and the

opposite motor terminal.

STEP 11

Connect the other ends of the wires to the power source or control system. Test the DC

motor to ensure it operates smoothly and in the desired direction.

OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS

The following terms were defined operationally to give clarity to the readers:

Mechanical Engineering – A branch of engineering concerned primarily with the

application of mechanics and with the production of tools , machinery , and their

products.

Microcontroller – A microprocessor that controls that controls some or all of the

functions of an electronic device or system.

Programming - The process of instructing or learning by means of an instructional

program.

Proponent – A person who argues for or supports something .

Robotics – A technology that deals with the construction , and operations of robots in

automation.
Sensor – A device that responds to a physical stimulus and transmits a resulting

impulse.

Shredder – A device that shreds a specific object such as paper , and plastic.

Sustainable – This refers to the resources that cannot be completely used or can be

sustained.

Interview Questions :

(For The Robotics Expert)

1. As an expert in robotics ,how would you characterize the role of waste

segregation in robotic systems within the field of robotics?

2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using automated waste

segregator in school ?

3. What advancements or innovations are needed to improve the efficiency and

effectiveness of automated waste segregator with shredding capability?

(For the Solid Waste Management Officer)

1.In relation to your work in Solid Waste Management, how does the automated waste

segregator help in recycling paper and plastic within the environment?

2.How does the shredding capability reduce the volume of paper and plastic in terms of

its durability and effectiveness?

3.What are the impacts of automated waste segregator within the environment in terms

of waste volume reduction?