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MOBA showcases its technology at the APSE ‘Super Bin’ event
Councils across the UK gathered in Liverpool to see and hear the benefits of Underground Refuse Systems.
Interest in Underground Refuse Systems (URS) has caught the attention of local authorities, residents and developers throughout the UK and been heavily featured in the media.
Liverpool City Council has been the main catalyst for this, having implemented the first large-scale URS retrofit by a UK local authority.
APSE has been integral to helping Liverpool implement URS and, on December 8th, staged a one-day conference to help other authorities join this revolution in waste management.
The event featured a range of speakers from Liverpool and beyond who explained the rationale for adopting URS and shared their knowledge to councils and developers about the practicalities of implementation. Delegates also had a chance to see for themselves how the ‘Super Bins’ look in situ and also saw them being lifted and emptied.
As a key member of the APSE / Liverpool URS framework, MOBA was present to showcase its suite of URS products. On display, was MOBA’s mobile weighing, RFID, billing & reporting software and URS bin access control systems.
“With MOBA’s RFID, as soon as the bin is presented to the lifter our operators can immediately see if the bin is valid or not, and can stop the lift if it’s not. This means we’re not taking any more waste than we’re being paid for. This will present another massive improvement to our profitability”.
JM Waste Management see greater profitability by eliminating over-filled bins thanks to MOBA technology.
The waste industry has changed immensely over the last decade. Waste management companies are more regulated than ever before which, along with growing tipping fees, means that tight financial management has never been more important.
In tackling the scourge of overweighed bins, JM Waste Management earlier this year brought in MOBA’s mobile weighing and RFID technology and is already seeing significant financial benefits. Dan Stone, the company’s Director, reports that “we’re seeing an immediate 8-10% improvement in margins which is a huge game changer for us”.
Many firms only find out how much waste they’re disposing if they can find an available weighbridge beforehand or, for those that can’t, when the bill comes in after the event. The problem of overweighed bins, therefore, present both serious financial and logistical and issues.
“If the bin lid doesn’t fully close then our operatives can immediately guess that the bin is overfilled” says Dan. “However, up until now we’ve not been able to accurately measure the weight to determine if the customer has exceeded its contracted allowance, and means for each over-filled bin emptied we’d potentially make a loss”.
The company, with its main office in Bexhill and waste transfer site in Eastbourne, provides much of Sussex with a range of waste management solutions including commercial, food, hazardous and clinical waste collection as well as a skip hire service.
Recognising that it needed to address the issue of overweighed bins, the company went about looking for a bin weighing technology supplier.
“We did have an older truck fitted with another brand of mobile weighing but we weren’t happy with either its reliability or the support”, explains Dan. JM Waste Management turned to MOBA, and quickly like their approach and how “What we liked most of all”, says Dan, “is that all of its hardware and software technology is designed, manufactured and installed in-house which, if issues do arise in the future, are more likely to be resolved quicker than if there are multiple parties and products involved”.
The first truck has now been fitted with MOBA’s Dynamic Mobile Weighing and RFID technology, with the latter becoming fully operational once all JM Waste’s bins have been chipped later on this year.
Every binned is now weighed, including any additional loose bags that don’t fit in the bin, with the data accessible immediately. “This not only means we can monitor if weight is exceeded but gives us the ability to be more flexible with billing”, says Dan.
So, for example, if a customer is consistently under its usual 80kg allowance, JM Waste can negotiate a better quote based on the lower amount, which many of its competitors are unable to offer. Similarly, for every new customer it can tailor the contract to its specific waste needs, rather than providing a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach.
“Being able to negotiate creates a whole new world of opportunities for us based on what the customer wants – this is hugely sellable”, comments Dan.
RFID is coming soon and JM Waste are excited about the benefits it will bring. “Our operatives know the round backwards but they don’t have real-time information about who’s paying and who’s not, or even if they’ve lifted the correct bin” explains Dan.
Reliability and accuracy of the weighing system and the subsequent data is critical and it’s here where MOBA really excels. “If we are presented with disputes over collections, they can be quickly resolved because we’ll have the data to prove it”, enthuses Dan.
Two more brand-new trucks are soon to be added to the JM Waste Management fleet and, with both fitted with MOBA technology, the partnership between these two companies is only likely to grow further.
MOBA reflects on the re-vamp of the UK’s largest waste management event
This year, RWM and letsrecycle.com combined to deliver an exciting new waste and recycling show.
Partnering again with Fastview360, we were able to showcase the most complete weighing, RFID, telematics and safety camera systems available on the market.
Pride of place at the show went to our new Android Mini-Operand device. This compact yet powerful mobile computer importantly offers the ability to integrate customer-specific apps, thereby reducing the number of in-cab devices.
Mounted in an easy-to-access cradle, the Mini-Operand can easily be removed with just one hand for use outside the vehicle. Its so compact that it can be slipped into a jacket or trouser pocket. In mobile use, the additional functions of photo capture, signature capture, transponder identification and barcode identification can be used for order processing.
Like all of MOBA’s on-board computers, the Mini-Operand supports MOBA’s new service concept with the possibility of online diagnostics, remote access, firmware updates and configuration via a web service portal, also for other vehicle devices connected to the CAN.
Also featured on the stand was MOBA’s Crane Scale system and container access and management technology that enables Local Authorities to implement Undergraound Refuse Systems (URS).
The show was a great success, and so a big thank you to everyone who came and visited us. We’ll be back for RWM Letsrecycle 2023!
MOBA UK is exhibiting at the UK’s premier waste & recycling show – come and see us!
RWM and letsrecycle.com have combined in 2022 to deliver an exciting new waste and recycling show. Together with our partners, Fastview360, MOBA UK will be showcasing the most complete weighing, RFID, telematics and safety camera systems available on the market.
MOBA will be offering live demos of its weighing and bin ID systems while Fastview360 will be showing its superfast onboard CCTV and telematic services.
The show is on from 14-15 September at the NEC, Birmingham, so come and say hello at Stand R-L32.
MOBA gives the first UK preview of its new Android-version Mini Operand at Road Transport Expo 2022.
Road Transport Expo 2022 is the largest truck show in the UK and MOBA was there in full force. Attracting a wealth of visitors from many sectors including waste management and bulk haulage, the show attracted more than 170 trade exhibitors, alongside a host of expert speakers. The latest technology took centre stage, and it was the first opportunity for UK customers to see the new Android-version Mini Operand that can now connect to the world of waste collection vehicles via standardized bus interfaces such as CleANopen and FMS.
Sharing the stand with partners Fastview360, MOAB was able to show its weighing and RFID technology on both a waste collection vehicle and a pellet delivery truck, courtesy of DJB Waste Management and Y Pellets.
MOBA launches Android version of the Mini Operand at IFAT 2022
MOBA’s new Mini Operand can now connect via standardised bus interfaces such as CleANopen and FMS making it the in-cab device of choice for waste collectors.
MOBA has launched an Android version of its on-board mobile computer, Mini Operand, which has already proven itself on the market over the last four years. Presented for the first time at IFAT (May 30 to June 3) in Munich, Mini Operand can now connect to the world of waste collection vehicles via standardized bus interfaces such as CleANopen and FMS. This makes data collection tasks and automatic processes even more user-friendly for the driver.
MOBA offers its own apps for the various areas of application in household and commercial waste disposal and for software partners, we also offer a development package to enable other operator concepts and integration into ERP systems via additional apps.
The Mini-Operand is mounted in an easy-to-access cradle. Two CAN bus ports allow direct connection and simultaneous use of, for example, CleANopen devices (identification systems or scales) and access to FMS chassis data or data from a digital tachograph. The usual driver assistance applications such as order display/processing, truck navigation, and replacement driver guidance are available as apps.
For use outside the vehicle, the Mini-Operand can easily be removed from the cradle with just one hand. It is so compact that it can be slipped into a jacket or trouser pocket. In mobile use, the additional functions of photo capture, signature capture, transponder identification (LF such as “BDE transponder” and UHF) and barcode identification can be used for order processing.
Like all of MOBA’s on-board computers, the Mini-Operand supports MOBA’s new service concept with the possibility of online diagnostics, remote access, firmware updates and configuration via a web service portal, also for other vehicle devices connected to the CAN.
For software manufacturers and system houses looking for suitable hardware for their own apps, MOBA offers the perfect support with the Mini operand: A software development kit (SDK) for all built-in scanners, CAN support and, if desired, installation, service and maintenance of the devices by MOBA.
Real-time data drives service improvements, says DJB Recycling
“Although we looked at a number of vendors, we choose MOBA because of the exceptional build quality of its products and the high level of service it offers”.
DJB Recycling chose MOBA because of its accurate waste collection data that will help drive its business forward and improve customer service.
DJB Recycling, based in Sheffield, is using waste collection data to not only drive its business forward but also to deliver tangible service improvements for its customers.
Central to this strategy has been its continual investment in both vehicles and technology. With data now having become integral in managing costs and identifying ways to reduce residual waste, the company has relied on MOBA for mobile weighing systems on its vehicles and RFID technology in its bins.
“Accurate bin data is also critical in order for us to analyse both our profit and also identify ways to help our customers reduce their general waste and increase recycling. Achieving this, MOBA never lets us down”, adds Jamie.
DJB Recycling has implemented Pay-by-Weight for all its commercial customers, together with agreed weight limits, which is why reliable and accurate mobile weighing technology is has become a core component of the company’s operational strategy.
“What we really like about MOBA technology is the ability to send real-time data from our fleet into our back-office”, says Andy. “It not only allows us to identify any collection issues before they impact the customer but we can also share the data via our Customer Portal”.
Analysis of bin weight also offers potential opportunities for both DJB Recycling and its customers. “If we regularly see overweight bins then we would work with the customer to identify the reasons. Often its due to heavy items, such as glass or food waste, for which we can then provide separate bins. This both reduces the amount of residual waste and also boosts their recycling”, comments Jamie.
The Investment into chipping every bin, with MOBA’s RFID, is also paying dividends, explains Andy. “If there is an issue with a customer’s account, such as outstanding invoices or if their credit limit has been exceeded, then the system will prevent the bin being lifted. This is then flagged so we can resolve the matter quickly with the client”.
“Above all though, we really appreciate their excellent service” enthused Jamie.”If there is ever an issue we can speak to an engineer quickly, who can then usually diagnose the problem remotely. This means either a quick fix, or if a call-out is needed, the engineer is equipped with the parts needed to make the repair there and then”.
Johnsons Hotel Linen is now guaranteed a full load every time
“We’re so pleased with the result that we will be fitting ‘Loadcheck’ to the rest of our van fleet so that in the coming year as many as 30 vans will be fitted with MOBA’s overload protection system”.
Overloaded vehicles can have serious consequences for businesses. Which is why Johnsons Hotel Linen has fitted MOBA’s Loadcheck to its fleet of vehicles ensuring its drivers stay within legal limits so that they can operate without any hindrance.
Johnsons Hotel Linen, one of the UK’s largest hotel laundry and linen providers, is now using MOBA’s ‘Loadcheck’ technology to ensure that its vans never exceed their maximum weight.
“The feedback received from the drivers has been enormously positive as they now have the assurance that their vehicles comply with regulations at all times”, says the company’s Transport Manager, Philip Vayro.
One of the biggest challenges for commercial drivers is knowing how much weight is on board at any one particular time and whether or not additional loads can be accepted.
Overloaded vehicles can have serious consequences for businesses. If it’s stopped and checked, and then found to be over the weight limit, a fine or a court summons could ensue. The police officer may also prohibit the vehicle from being driven further, with the owner landed with a further hefty penalty release charge.
The traditional method of accurately checking the weight of the vehicle is to use a weighbridge. However, a detour every time the driver needs to check the status of the vehicle is both impractical and time consuming. Philip Vayro, therefore, needed to find a solution that kept his drivers within legal limits and also enabled them to operate without any hindrance.
Created by the amalgamation of several high-quality laundry businesses including Afonwen, Bourne, Professional Laundry Service and, more recently, Fresh Linen, Johnsons Hotel Linen operates 9 commercial laundries, across the UK, offering a nationwide service, and all supported by a substantial fleet of vehicles.
Philip did a quick web search and contacted MOBA, having seen the company’s ‘Loadcheck’ overload protection system that has been specifically designed for two-axle vehicles.
Patented solid-state sensors monitor the load on each axle. The information is then displayed to the driver on the in-cab touch screen showing a choice of views including the actual weight over each axle and the percentage payload versus capacity. The screen will warn the driver if the load has exceeded 90 per cent of capacity and an audible alarm sounds if the total vehicle, or axle weight maximum, is infringed.
So far, two vans have been fitted with Loadcheck, allowing Johnsons Hotel Linen to assess the effectiveness of the system and the impact on the business.
“Taking two of our vehicles of the road, at first, seemed daunting, given that we’re in a busy period for hospitality, but MOBA were able to install and test on the same day so the overall impact was minimal. Not only was the price great, but the service was exceptional”, added Philip.
Accurate billing is no longer a weighty issue for Lavelle Waste Services
Lavelle Waste Services has employed MOBA’s Dynamic Bin Weighing technology to boost profitability and improve overall customer satisfaction.
“We really appreciate MOBA's flexibility. Their engineers know to work around our schedules so that there’s hardly any disruption to collections and means we can keep our trucks on the road maintaining service levels”.
Waste management companies are currently experiencing significant pressure on their margins due to higher waste disposal costs and falling commodity values. It’s no wonder then that savvy waste collectors are adopting technology that will ensure that they stay in profit.
With the cost of waste disposal set to grow exponentially, one such operator, Lavelle Waste Services, realised that bin weighing would be a key factor in achieving profitability and so has turned to specialist waste technology specialists, MOBA.
Lavelle Waste Services Ltd has a rich history dating back to 1976, culminating in the third generation of the family now running their Bolton-based waste collection and recycling business.
The company has prided itself on constantly investing in new equipment and technology that makes it far easier, and more cost-effective, for its customers to increase their recycling rates and improve sustainability targets. Its modern fleet of vehicles is fitted with the very latest safety and security features including, crucially, MOBA’s trade-approved weighing systems.
“Being highly competitive and service driven is at the heart of everything we do”, explains Andy Tickle, Fleet Manager at Lavelle Waste Services Ltd.
“At the same time, we also need to ensure that each bin collected weighs no more than that contractually agreed. Otherwise we would be making a loss, and which is why its paramount that we also collect accurate bin data”, added Andy.
Waste management data has quickly become a staple requirement for many businesses, who are keen to know how much they are throwing away, and what this consists of.
“Using MOBA’s bin weighing system, we can precisely show customers the weight of their general waste compared to that of their recycling streams”, says Andy.
“This allows us then to explore ways of helping them reduce the volume of general waste, by offering dedicated glass or food waste bins, which, thereby, greatly increases their overall recycling rates and cost savings”.
Such is the importance of this data, it has become essential that if issues occur, then they are resolved quickly.
Andy comments, “What I really like about MOBA is that when we raise a support ticket, it gets looked at immediately. Because the equipment is constantly connected to the cloud, they can investigate any issues remotely, and can often resolve them without having to attend in person. Moreover, if they do need to visit then nine times out of ten they already know where the issue lies, which means that turnaround is very quick”.
Monmouthshire Council tags with MOBA to deliver a more efficient garden waste service
Our RFID technology has helped Monmouthshire Council to launch a new green waste service that has enabled them to both reduce costs and save on operational handling.
‘We ultimately chose MOBA because they offered a simple, straightforward process for managing the bins’
An overwhelming majority of councils throughout the UK operate a paid-for garden waste collection service. One of these is Monmouthshire Council, which has long since operated such a service but has increasingly found that managing permits was both cumbersome and expensive.
Now, the council has partnered with waste technology specialists MOBA to trial a new service that dispenses with paper permits and, instead, enables its waste vehicles to immediately identify which customers bins have been paid for, and those that have not.
‘At the end of 2019, we decided to move away from the bags in favour of a simpler, more environmentally friendly, and more cost- effective service,’ explains Senior Collections Officer for Monmouthshire Council, Dewi Lane. ‘The permits were an issue, and they cost us a considerable amount of money – up to £30,000 a year to print and post them to customers. They were not very sustainable either, so we decided to swap to a wheeled bin service.’
A technology solution was needed to enable the council to achieve this and so went to the market in 2020 in search of willing partners to take on the challenge. ‘We ultimately chose MOBA because they offered a simple, straightforward process for managing the bins’ says Dewi. ‘The price was very reasonable, and they were all singing from the right hymn sheet.’
In addition to a paperless service, Dewi says that there will also be considerable cost savings. Previously, permits were printed and posted out to each resident, which would have cost the council £300,000 over a decade. ‘The MOBA system will cost us a little bit more money in the first year, but it will save us a great deal over the lifetime of the bins’.
MOBA has now implemented its RFID systems on two of the council’s collection vehicles so far, with a further four vehicles being added over the next year. Each bin is also chipped so that once the bin is presented to the vehicle, readers on both sides of the lifters will independently check each bin to ensure its valid before it is emptied, without any hold-ups or loss of time. If the readers identify any issues with the bin, it will stop the lifter and flash the crew’s red light. The staff will know that the bin has been blocked for some reason and the team will return the bin to the curbside. Council management can then investigate reasons why it has not been emptied; with the likelihood being that the customer no longer has a valid subscription.
This system now ensures that only paying customers’ bins are collected. Once a customer stops paying for the service, their bin goes on the blacklist, and this is then communicated to all vehicles. Should a blacklisted bin be picked up, the override system will prevent it from being emptied. Customers will be moved back onto the green list when they renew their subscriptions at the start of the new season.
According to Dewi, “If a customer reports that their bin has not been collected, Monmouthshire can double-check that the subscription has been paid for and if the customer is on the correct list. This enables the service to be run more effectively and efficiently, creating cost savings for the council.”
We are still very much in the inception phase of this project. Our garden waste service operates on an annual subscription model from February to November. At the end of November, when we stop garden waste collection, we will blacklist all the microchips in customers’ bins. Next year, around February, when we start collecting again, we will start to greenlight those chips as and when people register for the service.’
MOBA’s Managing Director, Stuart Sargeant, explains that moving customers on and off the list is easily managed through the RFID system, with the added benefit of providing real-time and collection data to Dewi and his team.
‘The team can run reports from the system to see what has been collected, and queries can be resolved by checking a customer’s current status. For example, if a customer reports that their bin has not been collected, Monmouthshire can double-check that the subscription has been paid for and if the customer is on the correct list. This enables the service to be run more effectively and efficiently, creating cost savings for the council.’
The system will come into full operation in March 2022, once Monmouthshire’s vehicle replacement programme is complete.
Dewi explains: ‘When we re-start the service in early 2022, the chips will become necessary. Our crews in Caldicot have already got the readers on their vehicles and they have been carrying out the garden waste bin collection since March 2021. The Abergavenny and Monmouth crews receive their new vehicles in September, and MOBA will include the RIFD reading equipment then’.
‘MOBA worked very hard to get the microchips ready and to get the system up and running for us. They couldn’t have done any more. I think they have been excellent.’
