On-Demand Collection.No More Fixed Waste Routes.
The problem: Overflowing bins in parks and city centers, while others are collected half-empty. The solution: Sensors that measure fill levels and optimize collection routes.
- Measurable ROI through fewer trips
- IP67 & IK08 for public spaces
The Inefficiency of Fixed Routes.
Municipal waste collectors and facility managers usually follow a fixed schedule: "Monday we empty the city park." But reality looks different:
In Summer
Bins are already full by Sunday noon (pizza boxes, ice cream cups). Citizen complaints pile up.
In Winter
Bins are almost empty on Monday. The garbage truck drives there for nothing – unnecessary CO₂ emissions and costs.
Transparency in the Container.
We retrofit public bins, underground containers, or depot containers with autonomous fill level sensors.
Measurement
The sensor "looks" down at the waste pile from above.
Transmission
Sends fill level (0–100%) via LoRaWAN.
Logistics
Dynamic route planning: Only visit containers that are >80% full.
Tech Stack: The Hardware
Robust Milesight solutions for public spaces
Milesight EM400-TLD (ToF Laser)
ToF (Time-of-Flight) laser technology measures extremely precisely, even with very small or uneven waste pieces. The sensor is tiny and disappears in the lid.
Standard Bins
Milesight UG67 Outdoor Gateway
One gateway on the city hall roof often covers the entire downtown area.
From Fill Level to Route.
Via merkaio dev, we refine the raw data into actionable instructions:
Route Optimization
Tilt Alarm
Bin was knocked over (vandalism) → Notification to maintenance
Does It Hold Up in Public Spaces?
Yes. Public bins are a tough environment.
Vandalism
IK08/IK10 protection ratings (impact resistant). Sensors sit inside the lid, invisible from outside.
Cleaning
IP67 waterproof. Pressure washers during bin cleaning are no problem.
Battery
5 to 10 years runtime massively reduces maintenance effort.
More Applications of This Technology
Glass Recycling Containers
Optimization of truck routes for glass recycling.
Clothing Collection
Prevention of looting through overfilled containers.