Development of a WiFi-Connected Reverse Vending Machine with

Automated Sorting for Recyclables at RTC-KPVTC DAVAO

Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

In recent years, the improper disposal of recyclable waste such as plastic

bottles and aluminum cans has become a pressing environmental issue. According to a

report by Cagula (2020), Davao City generates approximately 600 to 650 tons of

garbage daily, with plastic bottles and cups comprising about 10% of the total waste

collected. These waste products often end up improperly segregated or discarded,

contributing to pollution and environmental degradation. Within RTC-KPVTC Davao,

Traditional waste bins are often inefficient in promoting efficient segregation and

recycling, leading to increased pollution and resource wastage. At the same time, the

availability of inexpensive internet is still an issue for many students in particular,

particularly for those students who depend on public/shared internet connections for
their studies. In an increasingly digital world, internet connectivity is no longer a luxury

but a necessity, especially for students engaged in online or blended learning modes.

While previous efforts in waste segregation and reverse vending machines

(RVMs) have shown promise, most focus solely on recycling incentives or sorting

technologies. Recently, Amantayeva et al. (2021) researched how reverse vending

machines can improve the waste management system in Kazakhstan by highlighting

their role in increasing recycling. Likewise, Pawelec (2024) noted that the use of optical

sorting machines is making bottle and can recycling much more accurate and efficient.

However, despite such advancements, there remains a gap in integrating recycling

systems with reward-based mechanisms like internet access, which could significantly

increase user engagement. To address these two challenges, this study proposes the

WiFi-connected Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) equipped with an automated

sorting mechanism. The novelty of the idea is the replacement of monetary settlement

with recyclable items, plastic bottles, or aluminum cans as a “currency” in order to

connect to WiFi. This idea derives from Piso WiFi vending machines that offer the

internet for coins.

This approach benefits both students and educational institutions by addressing

two pressing needs: improving recycling practices and providing accessible internet
connectivity. Students, mainly those who face problems with accessing the internet, can

benefit from free WiFi when they bring and recycle plastic bottles and aluminum cans.

For institutions like RTC-KPVTC Davao, it supports sustainable waste management

while fostering digital inclusion. The study aims to develop a Reverse Vending Machine

(RVM) that enables users to access WiFi simply by inserting a plastic bottle or

aluminum can, and also contains technology that automatically sorts the recyclables.

This project is intended to prioritize the environment and bring more technology to all

students by promoting responsible use of technology and nature on campus.

In this study, the researchers seek to add to sustainable campus practices by

integrating automated systems and smart waste management, with environmental

awareness, to create a simple-to-use system.

Statement of the Problem

The inappropriate disposal of recyclable waste remains a pressing

environmental problem in various institutions such as the RTC-KPVTC Davao. Although

waste bins are available, students and staff often lack motivation or incentives to recycle

properly. Moreover, current recycling systems are manual, and this often results in

inefficiencies when sorting and low user engagement.

 To address these issues, this study proposes the development of a WiFi-

connected Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) with an automated sorting mechanism.

The RVM offers a unique solution by linking waste disposal incentives with digital

connectivity, allowing users to exchange recyclable items, plastic bottles, and aluminum

cans for temporary WiFi access. This approach integrates waste management with

technology practically and engagingly. Through this, it blends the concept of waste

management with digital connectivity in a new and simple manner. This study aims to

answer the following questions:

1. How effective is the reverse vending machine in promoting proper disposal of

plastic bottles and aluminum cans?

2. How does the automated sorting mechanism improve the accuracy and

efficiency?

3. What factors affect the functionality, sorting accuracy, and WiFi connection

reliability of an automated reverse vending machine, and how can these be

tested to ensure optimal performance?

Objective of the Study

The project aims to design and develop a WiFi-connected reverse vending

machine (RVM) that automatically sorts empty plastic bottles and aluminum cans,
validates them using weight sensors to detect non-empty items, calculates WiFi access

time based on item length, and disables access when storage compartments reach

capacity.

The following are the project’s specific objectives:

1. To design a reverse vending machine that incentivizes recycling by

granting WiFi access as a reward for depositing empty plastic bottles or

aluminum cans, with internet duration calculated based on item length.

2. To integrate an automated sorting mechanism, utilizing appropriate sensor

and classification technology to accurately store recyclable items, while

employing a validation system with weight sensors to reject non-empty

items.

3. To evaluate the system’s performance, including sorting accuracy, WiFi

connection reliability, and user engagement, ensuring optimal functionality

through structured testing.

Significance of the Study

The significance of this study lies in two primary issues, which are commonly

found in the environment and institutions: poor recycling practices and lack of affordable

access to the internet. Creating a reverse vending machine (RVM) that separates
plastic bottles and aluminum cans while awarding the users with free WiFi would play

an important role in creating a socially responsible community and bring practical digital

benefits to the populace.

Students and Staff of RTC-KPVTC Davao. The system promotes adequate

waste disposal through an easy-to-use, technology-based solution that rewards users.

This can translate to enhanced awareness and involvement on campus in recycling

activities.

Institution. The RVM could be an example of how to incorporate

sustainability and digital innovation in school infrastructures. It also benefits the school

in its quest to encourage green practices and smart campus solutions.

Community and Future Researchers. The study provides a foundation for

developing environmentally conscious systems that offer real-world benefits. It also

shows how such local problems may be tackled at a scale and with impact through

automation, waste management, and connectivity.

Local Government Units (LGUs) and Policymakers. This project provides

an accessible and replicable model for sustainable development that LGUs can apply to

enhance environmental practices and digital infrastructure in their communities. Local

government units (LGUs) may consider implementing similar systems in public areas to

prevent waste pollution and enhance digital access in underserved barangays and

schools, aligning with national goals for environmental protection and digital

empowerment.

SCOPE AND LIMITATION

This study focuses on the design and development of a reverse vending

machine (RVM) that fosters environmental sustainability and digital inclusion in RTC-

KPVTC Davao. The system will collect empty aluminum cans and plastic bottles based

on pre-specified size and weight constraints to accept only valid recyclable materials to

process. Ultrasonic Distance sensors will detect the length of each object inserted,

which will be utilized to determine the corresponding WiFi access time as a reward.

Weight sensors will check if the object is empty, and any container with liquid will be

rejected automatically. The machine will also check its internal storage compartments

using an Ultrasonic Distance Sensor and warn or disable WiFi access when the storage

is full using LCD display, thereby initiating timely maintenance. The RVM will be

installed and tested in RTC-KPVTC Davao, with the WiFi coverage restricted to a 20-
meter radius. The study will measure the usability of the system, the accuracy of sorting

recyclables, and the reliability of providing WiFi access in a real-world institutional

setup.

Despite its practical benefits, the system has limitations. The system is

constrained to accept only standard commercial sizes of plastic bottles and aluminum

cans and reject liquid-containing items. WiFi connectivity is localized to the immediate

vicinity around the machine, and the time duration is limited based on item quantity and

length. WiFi access is limited in duration based on the item quantity and length, WiFi

connectivity is localized to the immediate vicinity around the machine, typically within a

short range from the machine (20-meter radius), depending on the signal strength of the

WiFi hotspot used. The number of simultaneous users may be limited by the bandwidth

capacity of the WiFi source. Once the storage compartments are full, no further WiFi

access will be granted until maintenance is performed. Moreover, it does not employ

machine learning or image recognition technology for advanced object recognition, but

employs simpler sensor-based validation methods. Furthermore, the performance of the

system can be impacted by external factors like weather conditions, maintenance

availability, user behavior, and awareness or education on proper waste disposal

practices. these limitations are acknowledged to ensure realistic expectations of the

project's implementation and to highlight areas for potential future enhancement.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

To provide clarity on the technical and conceptual aspects of this study, the following

terms are defined:

1. Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) – A machine that accepts recyclable items

such as plastic bottles and aluminum cans, typically providing incentives in

return. In this study, the RVM grants temporary WiFi access instead of monetary

rewards.

2. Plastic Bottle – A PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) container used for

packaging liquids. The RVM in this study is designed to accept empty, standard-

sized plastic bottles for recycling.

3. Aluminum Can – A container made of aluminum used for soft drinks, energy

drinks, and other beverages. The RVM identifies and accepts recyclable

aluminum cans.

4. Sorting Mechanism – An automated process within the RVM that classifies

items based on material type, size, and weight to ensure proper recycling.

5. Weight Sensors – A type of sensor used in the RVM to verify whether a plastic

bottle or aluminum can is empty before accepting it.

6. Ultrasonic distance sensor - to measure the length of the inserted recyclable

item by detecting the distance from the sensor to the end of the object, helping

determine the appropriate WiFi duration. It is also used to monitor the fill level of

storage compartments by measuring the distance to the topmost item.

7. WiFi Connectivity – The wireless internet connection is provided to users as an

incentive for recycling. Access duration is determined by the number and size of

deposited items.

8. Automated System – A combination of mechanical and electronic components

integrated into the RVM to enable sorting, validation, and reward processing

without manual intervention.

 9. Recyclables – Waste materials such as plastic bottles and aluminum cans that

can be processed and reused instead of being discarded.

10. Sustainability – The practice of responsible resource management to reduce

environmental impact, supported in this study through incentivized recycling.

11. Digital Inclusion – The principle of ensuring equitable access to the internet,

particularly for students facing connectivity limitations. This study promotes digital

inclusion by offering WiFi access through recycling.

12. Sensor-Based Validation - A method of verifying and analyzing inserted items

using sensors (e.g., ultrasonic and weight sensors) rather than advanced

technologies like machine learning or image processing.

Chapter 2

Review of Related Literature

This chapter presents the relevant literature that inform the development and design of

the WiFi-connected Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) with an automated sorting

mechanism for plastic bottle and aluminum can collection. The present chapter presents

the key concepts, previous research, and technology advancements which provide the
basis for the current research. The chapter examines existing reverse vending systems,

development of automated sorting, WiFi vending system deviations, as well as reward-

based strategies of recycling. This chapter also synthesizes research findings giving a

unified view of the problems of the study and the need for further research on

sustainable waste and digital connectivity.

Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs)

Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) are automated systems designed to

accept used beverage containers and provide incentives to users, thereby promoting

recycling behaviors. These machines have been effectively utilized in various settings,

including supermarkets and public spaces, to encourage the return of recyclable

materials. According to Fisher (2023), RVMs have proven effective in various

environments, from grocery stores to public events like the Super Bowl, where they

engage users and provide immediate rewards for their recycling efforts. Amantayeva et

al. (2021), explored the integration of RVMs into Kazakhstan's waste management

system, identifying key factors influencing public engagement and the effectiveness of

various incentives to motivate participation.

Further research by Ferrer et al. (2021) demonstrated that offering rewards through

digital systems, such as tokens for raffles or other redeemable benefits, can effectively

encourage households to increase their recycling efforts

Automated Sorting Technology

The implementation of automated sorting technologies has significantly

enhanced the efficiency and accuracy of recycling processes. Pawelec (2024)

highlighted the role of optical sorting machines in revolutionizing bottle and can

recycling by improving the speed and precision of segregating recyclable containers.

Similarly, Kute et al. (2021) developed a color and thickness-based automated sorter,

minimizing manual labor and improving recycling accuracy. Davidović et al. (2024)

present the development of an automated sorting device aimed at enhancing the

recycling process of plastic bottles and aluminum cans.

Advancements in artificial intelligence have further contributed to waste management. A

study by Strollo et al. (2020) developed an AI-based waste sorting system using Near-

Infrared and RGB cameras. The system showed good accuracy, demonstrating AI’s

potential to improve waste segregation.

WiFi Technology
 Wireless communication is now essential, with Wi-Fi connecting billions of

devices globally. A study by Pahlavan et al. (2021) traces Wi-Fi's evolution from early

LANs to a key part of digital infrastructure, highlighting advancements like OFDM,

MIMO, and mmWave, and its use in applications such as indoor positioning. Similarly,

Oughton et al. (2021) emphasize the complementary roles of 5G and Wi-Fi 6—5G for

wide-area mobility and Wi-Fi 6 for affordable, high-capacity indoor use, arguing that

both are crucial for reliable, widespread connectivity.

Reward Systems in Recycling

Incentivizing recycling through reward systems has proven

effective in enhancing public participation. Ferrer et al. (2021), Demonstrated that

offering rewards through a digital system, such as tokens for raffles or other redeemable

benefits, can effectively encourage households to increase their recycling efforts.

Moreover, integrating recycling efforts with internet access rewards has been explored.

Panganiban et al. (2020) proposed a system that integrates material collection with WiFi

provisioning, creating a tangible reward mechanism for recycling efforts.

Synthesis

The reviewed literature highlights the importance of integrating

automated sorting systems, WiFi technology, and reward systems to create an efficient

and engaging recycling system. Integration of reverse vending machines with automatic

sorting capabilities could significantly increase recycling rates by offering incentives,

such as an internet connection, to users. It appears that the integration of WiFi vending

systems, which encourage readily accessible internet, is a viable solution for

educational settings in which digital resources are limited. By combining these

technologies, institutions like RTC-KPVTC Davao can promote sustainability and

enhance digital access for their users.

Chapter 3
Methodology

This chapter presents the research methodology used in the design,

development, and evaluation of the WiFi-connected Reverse Vending Machine (RVM).

The study utilizes the Experimental Development Method to guide the creation of a
functional prototype that promotes recycling through internet-based incentives. It

explains the development process, tools and materials, and the alignment of the

research objectives with the applied methodology to ensure that the system meets its

intended functionality and user impact.

Using the Experimental Development Method, this study structures and

iterates the design, construction, and improvement of a technological system with the

help of practical experiments and ideas from past research. The method benefits

projects that create simple early models, like the suggested WiFi-connected RVM aimed

at increasing recycling by granting WiFi access upon depositing recyclables. Through

repeated prototyping, testing, and evaluation, this methodology enables the researchers

to build a working system that meets the defined objectives and performs efficiently in

real-world conditions.

Development Process

The development process was divided into stages that directly align with the

study’s research objectives, ensuring that each component of the RVM is purposefully

designed, developed, and tested to achieve the intended outcomes.

Design and WiFi Access Integration

 In this phase, the researchers created a system that gives users WiFi time as a

reward when they deposit recyclable materials. The system utilizes a Raspberry Pi

as a main control unit, where it takes care of item detection and WiFi access control.

Length-detecting sensors (ultrasonic sensors) are installed on the input chute to detect

the length of the inserted item. The system applies predefined rules to compute the

internet time to be awarded based on the detected length.

Instead of building a new WiFi infrastructure from scratch, the system uses

publicly available captive portals or open-source solutions similar to those used in Piso

WiFi Vendo machines. These portals facilitate timed internet access management,

where instructions from the Raspberry Pi are sent to trigger a session according to the

length of the item. When the item is successfully identified and confirmed, the system

provides temporary WiFi access to the user based on time limits. Figure 1 shows the

WiFi duration according to varying item length:

Figure 1. WiFi Time Allocation Based on Item Length

Automated Sorting and Validation Mechanism

In this phase, the researchers focused on developing the system’s ability to detect,

validate, and sort recyclable items using an integrated combination of sensors and

servo motors. This starts with the classification of items. An infrared (IR) break beam

sensor detects plastic bottles, while an inductive proximity sensor detects aluminum

cans due to their metallic composition. These sensors enable the system to differentiate

between materials as the object is fed into the machine.

Once the material type is determined, the process of sorting is managed through

servo motors that operate mechanical flaps or gates that direct the object into the

correct storage bin, one for plastic bottles and aluminum cans. This automated routing

facilitates efficient and precise storage without any need for human intervention.

In order to confirm if the item is empty, the system utilizes an HX711 load cell

amplifier module. When an item is placed, it is temporarily left on the load cell platform,

and its weight is calculated in real-time. The Raspberry Pi calculates the weight and

compares it with a set threshold. If the weight is too much, presumably meaning that the

item still has liquid, it is rejected and sent back to the user. Only those items that are
within the acceptable range of weight are accepted for sorting and receive WiFi access

as a reward.

This combination of IR and inductive sensors for sorting, a load cell with HX711

for weight validation, and servo motors for physical sorting allows for a fully automatic

and reliable reverse vending machine that properly identifies and validates recyclables

being stored.

System Evaluation and Testing

In this phase, the system will undergo structured testing to ensure optimal

functionality, accuracy, and reliability. The evaluation process will be focused on three

core performance metrics: sorting accuracy, WiFi connection reliability, and system

responsiveness.

In order to test sorting accuracy, a set of pre-determined test items (plastic bottles

and aluminum cans) will be fed into the machine. The material of each item will be

checked ahead of time, and how the system classifies it will be monitored and noted.

The IR break beam sensor for plastic bottles and an inductive sensor for aluminum cans

will be tested to make sure they are always able to pick out the right material type. The
servo motor-controlled sorting mechanism will also be tested to ensure that items found

are sorted into the proper storage bins.

For validation testing, empty as well as partially filled items will be utilized. These items

are to be put on the load cell, and the output of the HX711 amplifier is to be observed.

The system must take in items within the acceptable weight limit and reject overly heavy

items. The threshold value will be tuned before testing to correctly indicate the average

weight of empty containers.

In order to verify WiFi access control, the system will take the length of the inserted item

and utilize it to determine internet access time. The Raspberry Pi will be configured to

communicate with a captive portal software or web-based WiFi timer, similar to those

used in piso WiFi vending systems. The calculated access time shall be confirmed by

checking the actual length of time that internet access is provided to the device. Edge

cases like small to large items will be tested too, to properly scale internet time.

During these tests, errors and inconsistencies encountered will be noted. The findings

will direct final changes to the software, sensor calibration, and mechanical design for

maximum performance prior to field deployment of the prototype for use at RTC-KPVTC

Davao.
Data Gathering

The data gathering phase is the key component of developing the WiFi-

Connected Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) in that it involves the process of gathering,

testing, and examining information to confirm that every aspect of the system works

appropriately and interfaces perfectly. It covers obtaining technical specifications,

setting up the Raspberry Pi, testing the individual sensors, calibrating parts, and

checking the performance of the WiFi access portal. In order to provide a systematic

way, the primary step-by-step process undertaken throughout this phase is discussed

below.

Step-by-step Procedure

1. Carry out extensive research and collect technical details of all the components,

such as Raspberry Pi, MG996R servo motors, IR break beam sensor, inductive

proximity sensor, load cell, along with HX711 amplifier, and ultrasonic sensor.

2. Check voltage ratings, communication methods, sensing ranges, and

compatibility with the GPIO pins of Raspberry Pi through datasheets and

manuals from the manufacturer.

3. Install Raspberry Pi with Raspbian OS and install the required Python libraries for

sensor control, servo motors, and network operations.

 4. Connect the sensors and servo on a breadboard prototype for initial hardware

setup.

5. Calibrate the load cell with known weights to perform accurate weight

measurement for empty and filled objects.

6. Test each sensor individually:

 Test IR break beam sensor detection with plastic bottles of varying sizes.
 Test inductive proximity sensor response to metal and non-metal targets.
 Use an ultrasonic sensor to measure item length and bin capacity.
 Test load cell thresholds to differentiate between empty and non-empty
bins.
7. Integrate all sensors and servo motors into the prototype.

8. Implement classification and sorting logic in Python to interpret sensor inputs and

drive MG996R servo motors.

9. Test the integrated system by feeding different recyclable items to check correct

identification, sorting, and servo actuation.

10. Install and configure captive portal software on the Raspberry Pi.

11. Integrate the WiFi portal control with the main script to regulate internet access

duration based on ultrasonic sensor measurements.

12. Calibrate WiFi access time based on various item lengths.

13. Refine Python scripts, sensor thresholds, and servo motor timing based on test

observations.

14. Repeat testing and adjustments until the system performs consistently and meets
functional requirements.

Work Breakdown Structure

 This section presents the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) of the project titled

“Development of a WiFi-Connected Reverse Vending Machine with Automated Sorting

Mechanism for Recyclable Collection at RTC-KPVTC Davao." This figure, presented in

Figure 2, is a hierarchical presentation of the key phases and tasks needed to

accomplish the project successfully.

The WBS acts as an organized guide that breaks down the project into well-

defined tasks, facilitating effective planning, resource provisioning, execution, and

tracking. It incorporates essential activities like preliminary planning, software and

hardware development, integration, testing, and pilot implementation. Each activity is

decomposed into working units to ensure that all technical, functional, and logistical

issues are addressed systematically throughout the development cycle.

 Figure 2. Work Breakdown Structure

Conceptual Framework

Figure 3. Conceptual Framework

As shown in Figure 3, the conceptual framework uses the Input-Process-

Output (IPO) model to outline the functional process of the WiFi-connected Reverse

Vending Machine (RVM). The input process consists of recyclables and supporting

hardware parts such as the Raspberry Pi, IR break beam sensor, inductive sensor,
HX711 load cell amplifier, and servo motors. The stage of processing includes

identifying and detecting the nature of the recyclable item, verifying whether it is empty,

sorting correctly into the proper bin, and determining the internet time based on item

length. A captive WiFi portal, similar to those in use with commercial piso WiFi systems,

is activated to offer timed internet. The result is an operational pilot prototype that can

initiate appropriate recycling behavior while also providing free internet access,

improving both environmental stewardship and digital inclusion in RTC-KPVTC Davao.

Block Diagram and Flowcharts

Figure 4. Block Diagram

This section presents the block diagram and flowchart that describe the

structural and functional logic of the WiFi-Connected Reverse Vending Machine (RVM).
The diagrams graphically represent the core elements of the system, the control

processes, and the flow of data. The block diagram in Figure 4 describes the interaction

among the primary hardware components, such as sensors, servo motors, the

Raspberry Pi, and the WiFi access interface. Meanwhile, the flowchart, illustrated in

Figure 5, illustrates the sequential operational process, from portal entry and item

recognition to classification, validation, sorting, and WiFi time allocation. These

graphical aids clearly describe the system architecture and act as integral references

during the development and debugging of the prototype.

Figure 5. Flowcharts

Data Analysis

The study focuses on evaluating the

performance and reliability of the WiFi-

Connected Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) prototype through functional testing and

observation. Once system components were integrated and running, every functionality

of the machine, including item classification, sorting accuracy, servo response, and

activation of WiFi access, was tested and observed systematically.

The testing started with the confirmation of the precision of individual sensors, like the

IR break beam sensor in detecting plastic bottles, the inductive proximity sensor in

detecting aluminum cans, and the ultrasonic sensor for measuring length. The sensors

were tested under varying conditions to check their detection accuracy and reaction

time. The HX711 load cell was calibrated to detect whether inserted containers were

filled or empty and validated correctly before accepting an item.

After initial sensor calibration, the combined system was tested with different

recyclables to test the classification logic and servo motor movement. The MG996R

servo motors were tested for speed, angle accuracy, and robustness in sorting

processes. Tests were conducted to confirm that the servo motors guided objects into

the appropriate bins continuously without jamming or misaligning.

During the last stage, the WiFi access system was tested by checking how precisely the

ultrasonic sensor converted object length into access time. The captive portal software

was set to react to Python scripts that controlled session time. The tests were
conducted to check that after an item that could be recycled had been taken and sorted

properly, the WiFi portal granted access consistently within the time established.

The combined data gathered through system behavior, component reaction, and

multiple testing is used to shape the required adjustments in the script logic, sensor

thresholds, and servo timing. Through repeated retesting and adjustments to the

prototype, the system was tuned for repeated and dependable performance to meet the

design specifications described in the goals of the study.

Gantt Chart

This section provides the project timeline in the form of a Gantt chart that details the

sequential phases and tasks involved in the development of a WiFi-connected reverse

Vending Machine (RVM) prototype. The chart displays the project schedule, including

start and end dates, durations, and the overlapping activities to manage time effectively.

Figure 6 presents the Gantt chart that dictates the systematic accomplishment of the

project within the given period.

 Figure 6. Gantt Chart

Tools and Technologies

The development of the WiFi-Connected Reverse Vending Machine (RVM)

involves various hardware components, software platforms, and electronic tools to

implement its automated functions, and internet connectivity. The following are the main

tools and technologies to be used in the system:

Hardware Components

Raspberry Pi Acts as the central processing unit to control all operations

and manage WiFi access.

IR Break Beam Sensor Used to detect and classify plastic bottles.

Inductive Proximity Sensor Used to identify aluminum cans based on metal detection.

HX711 Load Cell Amplifier Measures the weight of items to ensure they are empty

before acceptance.
Ultrasonic sensor Measure the length of inserted items to determine the

appropriate duration of WiFi access, and will also monitor

the fill level of each storage compartment to detect when

bins are full.

Servo Motors Control the sorting flaps that direct items into appropriate

bins.

Power Supply and Wiring Powers the entire system and connects all components.

Software & Programming

Python The primary programming language for writing control

scripts on the Raspberry Pi.

Raspbian OS An operating system running on the Raspberry Pi.

WiFi Hotspot Portal Uses publicly available open-source software, similar to

(Captive Portal) WiFi vending machines, to manage user access and

session timing.

Development Tools

Breadboards, PCBs, and For prototyping and permanent wiring of the circuit.

Soldering Kits

Multimeter & Testing For circuit testing and validation during development.

Tools
 Custom Enclosure For building the outer case of the RVM unit.

Materials

Estimated Cost

This section presents the estimated cost of developing the WiFi-Connected

Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) prototype. The estimated cost of electronic

components, sensors, control systems, power supply, development tools, and materials

used to develop the machine is presented in this chapter. These estimates are crucial

for proper budget

planning and effective

resource allocation

during the
implementation of the project from June to December. Figure 7 shows the breakdown of

the estimated costs in detail, with a view to giving an overall understanding of the

finances that are required to complete the prototype successfully.

Figure 7. Estimated cost

REFERENCES

Cagula, K. E. (2020, October 6). Food packages, single-use plastics pollute Davao City
water source. Davao Today. Retrieved from https://davaotoday.com/environment/food-
packages-single-use-plastics-pollute-davao-city-water-source

Fisher, C. (2023, November 20). Reverse vending machines – What are they and how do
they work? RTS. Retrieved May 10, 2025, from https://www.rts.com/blog/reverse-vending-
machine/
Amantayeva, A., Alkuatova, A., Kanafin, I., Tokbolat, S., & Shehab, E. (2021). A systems
engineering study of integration reverse vending machines into the waste management
system of Kazakhstan. Journal of Material Cycles and Waste Management, 23(3), 872–884.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/349543565_A_systems_engineering_study_of_int
egration_reverse_vending_machines_into_the_waste_management_system_of_Kazakhsta
n

Pawelec, J. (2024, October 29). How optical sorting machines revolutionize bottle and can
recycling. Meyer Europe. https://meyer-corp.eu/article/how-optical-sorting-machines-
revolutionize-bottle-and-can-recycling/

Kute, U.V., Darade, D., Ghuge, P., Khemnar, K., & Wagh, Y. (2021). Automated sorting
system based on color and thickness of waste management. International Research Journal
of Engineering and Technology (IRJET), 8(2), 229–233. Retrieved from
https://www.irjet.net/archives/V8/i2/IRJET-V8I242.pdf

Veskovic, M., Lazovic, T., Piscevic, O., & Davidović, N. (2024). Automatic waste sorting:
Device for sorting aluminium cans and plastic bottles. UNITECH – Selected Papers.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387202315_AUTOMATIC_WASTE_SORTING_D
EVICE_FOR_SORTING_ALUMINIUM_CANS_AND_PLASSTIC_BOTTLES

Pahlavan, K., & Krishnamurthy, P. (2021). Evolution and Impact of Wi-Fi Technology and
Applications: A Historical Perspective. International Journal of Wireless Information
Networks, 28(1), 3–19. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10776-020-00501-8

Oughton, E. J., Lehr, W., Katsaros, K., Selinis, I., Bubley, D., & Kusuma, J. (2021).
Revisiting wireless internet connectivity: 5G vs Wi-Fi 6. Telecommunications Policy, 45(5),
102127. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.telpol.2021.102127

Ferrer, J., García, J., & Pons, J. (2021). Incentives for plastic recycling: How to engage
citizens in active collection. Empirical evidence from Spain. Recycling, 6(2), 29.
https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling6020029

Panganiban, E., Abad Jr., B. B., & Caranguian, M. (2020). Aluminum can to WiFi trading
system with metal can and plastic bottle collector and monitoring system. International
Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering Research, 8(7), 3639–3644.
https://doi.org/10.30534/ijeter/2020/122872020

Strollo, E., Sansonetti, G., Cialdea Mayer, M., Limongelli, C., & Micarelli, A. (2020). An AI-
based approach to automatic waste sorting. In Proceedings of the 38th Human-Computer
Interaction International Conference (pp. 662–669). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-
030-50726-8_86
 COMMENT FOR THE REFERENCES
Peer-
Source Type Notes
Reviewed?
OK for general context but not
Fisher (2023) Blog ❌ No
strong academically
Amantayeva et al.
Journal Article ✅ Yes Solid source
(2021)
Pawelec (2024) Industry article ❌ No Use cautiously, not scholarly
IRJET has poor peer review
Kute et al. (2021) IRJET ⚠️Dubious
reputation
Davidović et al. Conference
✅ Yes (limited) Acceptable for applied tech
(2024) Paper
Centillas et al.
Scribd ❌ No Should be replaced
(2023)
Ferrer et al. (2021) MDPI Journal ✅ Yes Good source
Panganiban et al. ⚠️Predatory IJETER is known for fast-tracked
IJETER
(2020) alert publication

ENHANCED REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs)

Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) are automated systems designed to accept used beverage
containers and provide incentives to users, thereby promoting recycling behaviors. These
machines have been effectively utilized in various settings, including supermarkets and public
spaces, to encourage the return of recyclable materials. A study by Amantayeva et al. (2021)
explored the integration of RVMs into Kazakhstan's waste management system, identifying key
factors influencing public engagement and the effectiveness of various incentives to motivate
participation.

Further research by Ferrer et al. (2021) demonstrated that offering rewards through digital
systems, such as tokens for raffles or other redeemable benefits, can effectively encourage
households to increase their recycling efforts.

Automated Sorting Technology

The implementation of automated sorting technologies has significantly enhanced the efficiency
and accuracy of recycling processes. Pawelec (2024) highlighted the role of optical sorting
machines in revolutionizing bottle and can recycling by improving the speed and precision of
segregating recyclable containers. Similarly, Kute et al. (2021) developed a color and thickness-
based automated sorter, minimizing manual labor and improving recycling accuracy.
Advancements in artificial intelligence have further contributed to waste management. A study
by Gundupalli et al. (2017) reviewed automated sorting techniques for municipal solid waste,
emphasizing the importance of integrating AI for efficient recycling. SpringerLinkMDPI

WiFi Vending Systems

WiFi vending machines, particularly the "Piso WiFi" systems prevalent in the Philippines,
provide affordable internet access through coin-operated or digital devices. These systems have
been instrumental in bridging the digital divide, especially in underserved communities. A
feasibility study on the J2KLC Wi-Fi Vendo machine concluded that such establishments are
viable and can effectively meet the internet needs of local populations. AARESEARCH
INDEX

However, it's important to note that while these studies provide valuable insights, sourcing from
peer-reviewed journals would strengthen the academic foundation of the research.

Reward Systems in Recycling

Incentivizing recycling through reward systems has proven effective in enhancing public
participation. Ferrer et al. (2021) demonstrated that digital incentives, such as redeemable tokens,
significantly boost household recycling behavior.

Moreover, integrating recycling efforts with internet access rewards has been explored.
Panganiban et al. (2020) proposed a system that exchanges recyclable materials for internet
access, creating a tangible reward mechanism for recycling efforts.

🔄 Synthesis
The integration of automated sorting systems, WiFi vending technology, and reward systems
presents a multifaceted approach to enhancing recycling efforts. By combining these
technologies, institutions like RTC-KPVTC Davao can promote sustainable practices while
simultaneously addressing digital connectivity challenges. This holistic approach not only
streamlines waste management but also provides tangible benefits to users, fostering a culture of
environmental responsibility and digital inclusivity.