Vending

Tomra introduces 5 reverse vending concepts

The "multi-feed" reverse vending unit allows consumers to pour entire bags of aluminum cans and plastic bottles into the machine simultaneously.

February 20, 2023

Tomra Systems, a provider of reverse vending machines to support container recycling, has announced five hardware, service and digital innovations, according to an announcement on the company website.

• The "multi-feed" reverse vending unit allows consumers to pour entire bags of aluminum cans and plastic bottles into the machine simultaneously rather than inserting containers one by one. It offers a smaller physical footprint and is compatible with all Tomra backroom solutions.
• A single-feed concept features a larger in-feed cone with guidance lights and a proximity sensor that prompts the machine to "wake up" and greet a consumer when they approach. It features power-saving modes to reduce power consumption. The single-feed concept also uses fewer materials and more easily-recyclable materials in its design. The company's first ever keyless electronic door lock and smoother surfaces allow for easier and faster cleaning with the in-store ability to upgrade the machine to receive crates.
• A vertical backroom solution for storage of drink containers features added height and is compatible with roller cage load carriers, the preferred logistics format for many supermarkets.
• An "over-the-air" digital concept features dashboards for both staff operating a store's RVMs and for store management and administration, powered with artificial intelligence. The concept brings together different reverse vending data and functionalities — including proactive notifications about actions required at the machine such as bins approaching full, as well as information on cleaning performance and machine usage to better plan day-to-day operations.
• The new "smart service" concept shows stores the health and status of RVM components and notifies reverse vending operators about action needed or servicing activities under way. The concept focuses on predictive service and maintenance, taking a data-driven approach and using AI to ensure maximum machine uptime for consumers and avoid unplanned repairs.

Image provided by Tomra Systems.