Bilateral collection has become an increasingly common model in urban waste management. This system allows containers installed on both sides of the road to be collected using a truck equipped with an automated crane, making collection operations more efficient.
For routes that benefit from this model, Sotkon offers different underground waste disposal systems: APTO, EVOS and the new GEOS. These systems have their own characteristics, capacities and configurations, allowing each installation to be adapted to the needs of each project and municipality.
What is bilateral waste collection?
In a bilateral collection system, a truck equipped with an automated crane can collect containers positioned on both sides of the road. In fully automated systems, the operation can be controlled from the vehicle cabin.
This feature allows collection routes to be organized according to the distribution of waste disposal points and can reduce certain maneuvers during operation. Depending on local conditions, bilateral collection can also help improve working conditions for operators and support a more appropriate use of the resources associated with the service.
What are the advantages of bilateral collection?
The automation of this type of collection reduces the need for manual intervention when moving containers, allowing several stages of the operation to be concentrated within the collection vehicle.
On routes suited to this model, collecting containers on both sides of the road can help reduce certain maneuvers. Bilateral collection may also provide benefits in terms of noise, cleanliness of the operation, worker comfort and fuel consumption, depending on the conditions in which it is implemented.
As each municipality has different characteristics, equipment selection should consider factors such as street layout, available space, and the type and quantity of waste deposited.
Sotkon underground systems for bilateral collection
Sotkon offers different underground systems compatible with bilateral collection.
APTO: strength in underground systems
The APTO is an underground system with a metal container, designed for top-loading and bilateral collection. The pedestrian platform and the container are connected and move together during operation. The system is remotely controlled, and the waste is discharged through the opening at the bottom of the container over the collection truck.
Made from galvanized steel, APTO containers are available in 3, 4 and 5 m³ capacities for different types of waste and the requirements of each disposal point.
In its bilateral collection configuration, APTO can use F90 or Mushroom-type coupling systems and can be equipped with the Kynetik, Ikon, Max and Wido intake columns.
This solution is already used in municipal projects. One example is Huesca, Spain, where APTO systems with bilateral collection, a Kynetik intake column and an F90 hook were installed.
EVOS: a compact underground system
The EVOS is a compact underground system in which the pedestrian platform and the container move together during operation. The container is made from polyethylene, a lightweight and versatile material.
EVOS is available with 3 and 5 m³ containers for top-loading or bilateral collection systems. In the bilateral collection configuration, it uses a Mushroom-type hook and can be equipped with the Ikon, Max and Wido intake columns.
Its configuration combines the disposal capacity of an underground system with an automated collection operation.
GEOS: a new solution for bilateral collection
GEOS is the latest addition to the Sotkon range designed for bilateral collection. It is an underground system with a 2.4 m³ metal container, adding a new capacity option to the equipment available for this type of collection.
The equipment is compatible with F90 and Mushroom-type hooks and can be configured with the Kynetik, Ikon, Max and Wido intake columns.
Bilateral collection and smarter cities
Technology can complement waste disposal infrastructure and support the day-to-day management of equipment.
Smart management solutions such as SOTKIS Level make it possible to monitor container fill levels and use this information when planning collection routes. SOTKIS systems can also add access control, user identification and digital return systems, among other features. Learn more about SOTKIS intelligent solutions.
When integrated into a waste management project, these technologies provide additional information to support operational decisions and waste separation and recycling initiatives.
Collection systems adapted to the needs of cities
Cities face the challenge of providing waste management services that meet the needs of the population and make appropriate use of available resources. This involves considering disposal capacity, the characteristics of public spaces, operating conditions, and compatibility between equipment and collection vehicles.
Sotkon can help evaluate the needs of your project and municipality, identifying the right solution for each context. Contact our team for a personalized assessment!
