Towards a Dynamic Waste Collection Management System using Real-time and Forecasted Data

Abstract

Dynacargo, a research project under implementation, aims to change supply chain management, as the hauled goods are at the center of attention instead of vehicles, as in traditional management approaches. At the same time Dynacargo manages both delivery and collection cycles. Dynacargo aims at developing a near real-time monitoring system that monitors and transmits waste bins' fill level, which is used to dynamically manage the waste collection process by introducing distance minimization, relying on efficient routing algorithms. This paper deals with research issues that have emerged along with developments regarding specific architectural modules. In general, Dynacargo places a set of durable, low cost sensors and RFID tags on waste bins. These tags store the fill-level estimated by the sensors, which is passed through diverse communication channels and ends to a central cargo information management system. Along with this real time data harvesting, data mining techniques are utilized on historical data collected prior to Dynagargo implementation, in order to predict future waste bins fill rates. Mobile and web applications are developed in order to harvest relevant data from citizens.