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Solar-Powered Bottle Collection System

The document presents a research project titled 'ROBOTECH: Renewable Outdoor Bottle-Collection Operating Technology with Wi-Fi Access Incentive,' aimed at addressing plastic waste and promoting sustainable energy through a solar-powered vending machine that offers Wi-Fi access in exchange for plastic bottles. The study showed a significant reduction in plastic waste, with a 41.94% decrease in the weight of collected bottles after implementation, supported by statistical analysis indicating the effectiveness of the system. The project highlights the potential of technology-based incentives to encourage proper waste management practices.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
16 views74 pages

Solar-Powered Bottle Collection System

The document presents a research project titled 'ROBOTECH: Renewable Outdoor Bottle-Collection Operating Technology with Wi-Fi Access Incentive,' aimed at addressing plastic waste and promoting sustainable energy through a solar-powered vending machine that offers Wi-Fi access in exchange for plastic bottles. The study showed a significant reduction in plastic waste, with a 41.94% decrease in the weight of collected bottles after implementation, supported by statistical analysis indicating the effectiveness of the system. The project highlights the potential of technology-based incentives to encourage proper waste management practices.

Uploaded by

shaicandame
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

RIM-T-RSTF5

ROBOTECH: RENEWABLE OUTDOOR BOTTLE-COLLECTION OPERATING

TECHNOLOGY WITH WI-FI ACCESS INCENTIVE

A Science Investigatory Project

Approved by the Scientific Review Committee at

STA. FE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

Proponents:

Condes, Domingo III A.

Mendoza, Jade Dhaniel M.

Pepito, Crishna Dione T.

ROBOTICS AND INTELLIGENCE MACHINE

RYAN M. ALVAREZ
Project Adviser

Division of Romblon, MIMAROPA Region, Philippines


I. RESEARCH

PLAN
RATIONALE

The environmental problems caused by plastic waste and the pressing need

for sustainable energy have drawn more attention from the community in recent

years. As a result, a lot of businesses, governments, and people are looking for

creative ways to recycle plastic and lessen their influence on the environment. At

the same time, the growth of digital technology has increased demand for public

connectivity, especially in urban areas. The study explored the design and

development of an integrated solar-powered Wi-Fi vending machine with Wi-Fi

access and charging access for plastic deposit for public connectivity. The project

aimed to address the environmental challenges of plastic waste and the need for

sustainable energy solutions. The vending machine not only dispensed products

but also provided free Wi-Fi access and charging station, enhancing public

connectivity while addressing public waste.

RESEARCH QUESTION OR PROBLEM BEING ADDRESSED

a. General Problem

How can an automated, solar-powered bottle-operated system

effectively promote waste management practices while providing

sustainable Wi-Fi and charging services to the public?

b. Specific Problem

1. What is the weight (in grams) of unsegregated bottles collected

before and after the implementation of RoBOTEch?

1
2. What is the difference between the weight (in grams) of

unsegregated bottles collected before and after the implementation

of RoBOTEch?

GOALS/ EXPECTED OUTCOMES/ HYPOTHESES

a. Aim

The study aimed to promote environmental cleanliness through

ROBOTECH, a machine designed to encourage people to manage waste bottles

in exchange for rewards such as Wi-Fi access and charging port for their gadgets.

By serving as an alternative trash can, it motivated users to participate in proper

waste management practices. Additionally, ROBOTECH operated using solar

power, which supported the use of renewable energy and helps reduce carbon

emissions. The project also aimed to provide internet connectivity and charging

access to individuals, particularly those in remote areas who had limited access to

electricity and the internet.

b. Expected Outcome/ Hypotheses

Ho:

1. There was no difference in the weight of unsegregated bottes before and after

the implementation of RoBOTEch.

Ha:

1. There was a difference in the weight of unsegregated bottles before and after

the implementation of RoBOTEch.

2
LIST OF MATERIALS

Infrared Sensors Paint

LCD I2C 16x2 Paint Thinner

Arduino Uno Plywood

Jumper Wires PVC Pipe

ISD 1820 Voice Recording Module Wheels

RGB LED 2x2 Wood Plank

Power Inverter Battery

Solar Panel Switch

Solar Controller

PROCEDURES

The research on the development of RoBOTEch for plastic bottles deposits

involved the following procedures:

1. Design Planning – The researchers created a design layout and sketch of the

RoBOTEch, showing where the bottle slot, charging ports, and Wi-Fi modem will

be placed.

2. Material Preparation – All needed materials such as Arduino Uno

(microcontroller), sensor, Wi-Fi modem, power supply, wires, metals, or wood

casing, and charging sockets were gathered by the researchers.

3
3. Body Construction – The researchers then built the frame or body of the

vending machine using the chosen materials and assemble the parts according

to the design plan.

4. System Wiring – The researchers connected all electronic components such

as the sensors and Arduino board.

5. Programming – The researchers uploaded the program to the Arduino to

make the system detect bottles, open the charging station, and provide Wi-Fi

access when a bottle is inserted.

6. Testing Phase – RoBOTEch was then tested several times to check if it

properly detects bottles, activates, the Wi-Fi and allows gadget charging.

7. Troubleshooting – If errors occur, the researchers then identified the problem

and fix wiring or programming issues until the machine works correctly.

8. Final Assembly and Design – After successful testing, the researchers

finalized the machine by securing all parts and adding labels, decorations, and

instructions for users.

9. Demonstration and Evaluation – The researchers had present the finished

RoBOTEch, demonstrated its function, and recoreded the technical data to test

its influence on the waste management behavior of users.

RISK AND SAFETY

The researchers were concerned about their safety while making the

compartment and the interior mechanism of RoBOTEch. To avoid harm and

4
damages in the compartment, the researchers followed safety procedures in using

the hardware tools and materials. They wore face masks in order to avoid inhaling

the fumes of the paint. The researchers also carefully connected the wires to avoid

electrocution. They also wore safety equipment to avoid infection during the

process of collecting bottles in the school premises.

DATA ANALYSIS

Research Question 1: Weight of bottles collected before and after RoBOTEch

implementation

Table 1. Weekly Mean Weight of Collected Bottles

Mean

Period Week 1 Week 2 Overall

Before

RoBOTEch 462.54 372.78 417.66

(Control)

After RoBOTEch
227.62 122.70 175.16
(Experimental)

The data showed a substantial reduction in unsegregated plastic bottle

waste after the implementation of RoBOTEch. The overall mean weight decreased

from 417.66 grams before implementation to 175.16 grams after implementation.

5
Research Question 2: Statistical difference in bottle collection

Table 2. Paired Sample T-Test Results

Level of
P-value Decision Description
Significance
Failed to accept the null
0.0199 0.05 Significant
hypothesis

Using the paired sample t-test, the computed p-value of 0.0199 was less

than the 0.05 level of significance, the result indicated that there was enough

statistical evidence to reject the null hypothesis. This meant that the difference or

effect tested in the study was statistically significant. In other words, the observed

result indicated that there was a meaningful and significant difference between

before and after the implementation of RoBOTEch.

HYPOTHESIS TESTING RESULTS

Based on the paired sample t-test analysis, the null hypothesis (H₀) stating

that there was no difference between the weight of bottles collected before and

after the implementation of RoBOTEch is rejected at the α = 0.05 significance level.

With p-value of 0.0199 (p < 0.05), the alternative hypothesis (Hₐ) is accepted.

Therefore, there was statistically significant evidence to conclude that a significant

difference existed between the weight of bottles collected before and after the

implementation of RoBOTEch, indicating the system's effectiveness in reducing

plastic bottle waste through incentive-based collection methods.

6
BIBLIOGRAPHY

Cordova, R. S., & Ortega, R. R. (2023). Renewable Energy Sources and Energy
Production: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Last Five Years. MDPI. 159(3).
pp. 1-22. Retrieved from
[Link]
Department of Environment and Natural Resources. (2025). Ecological Solid
Waste Management Act of 2000 (Republic Act No. 9003). Retrieved from
[Link]
Dormido, R., & González, P. (2017). Smart vending machines: Telemetry and
connectivity for the future of retail. IEEE Transactions on Industrial
Informatics, 13(6), 2936–2945. [Link]/10.1109/TII.2017.2694812
Khan, J., & Arsalan, M. H. (2016). Solar power technologies for sustainable
energy. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 55, 414–425.
[Link]/10.1016/[Link].2015.10.135
Moore, C. (2025). Plastic Pollution. Britannica. Retrieved from
[Link]
oceans-and-on-land
Pahlavan, K., & Krishnamurthy, P. (2021). Evolution of Wi-Fi for indoor
geolocation and connectivity. IEEE Communications Magazine, 59(7), 34–
40. [Link]/10.1109/MCOM.001.2000151
PH push for renewable energy yields ground-breaking installations. (2025).
Department of Energy. Retrieved from [Link]
releases/ph-push-renewable-energy-yields-record-breaking-installations
Tscuchimoto, I., & Kajikawa, Y. (2022). Recycling of Plastic Waste: A
Systematic Review Using Bibliometric Analysis. MDPI. 14(24).
[Link]/10.3390/su142416340
Turning off the tap: How the world can end plastic pollution and create a
circular economy .(2023). United Nations Environmental Programme.
Retrieved from [Link]
pollution-createcircular-economy
World Bank Group. (2022). What a waste 2.0: A global snapshot of solid
waste management to 2050. World Bank Publications.
[Link]

7
II. ISEF-
Forms
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
III.
ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT

In recent years, people had grown increasingly concerned about plastic

pollution and the demand for sustainable energy. Many sought new ways to

repurpose plastic and lessen its impact on the environment. One innovative

concept was a solar-powered vending machine that offered Wi-Fi in exchange for

plastic bottles. This project aimed to reduce plastic waste while utilizing renewable

energy. Employing a quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design, the

study was conducted at Sta. Fe Senior High School. The methodology involved

two phases: baseline data collection and a four-week system intervention. The

outcome showed a 41.94% decrease in the weight of bottles collected before

(mean=417.66 g) and after (mean=175.16 g) the implementation of RoBOTEch.

The results showed that there is a statistically significant reduction in plastic waste

bottles with the p-value of 0.0199 which confirmed that RoBOTEch system helped

reduce the weight of plastic bottles collected after its use. The project turned out

as expected, demonstrating that technology-based incentives like Wi-Fi access

and charging stations could motivate people to manage waste properly. For future

implementation, it is highly recommended to reconstruct the compartment, provide

a high-quality internet connection, collaborate with local government agencies to

fund the machine’s expenses, and create partnerships with some organizations to

properly recycle and reuse plastic bottles.

Keywords: pollution, sustainable, renewable, solar, Wi-Fi, Internet

1
IV.
FULLPAPER

2
APPROVAL SHEET

This research study entitled “ROBOTECH: RENEWABLE OUTDOOR

BOTTLE-COLLECTION OPERATING TECHNOLOGY WITH WI-FI ACCESS

INCENTIVE”, prepared and submitted by Domingo A. Condes III, Jade Dhaniel M.

Mendoza, and Crishna Dione T. Pepito, had been examined and recommended

for endorsement to the Division Scientific Review Committee (DSRC) of the

Department of Education –MIMAROPA Region as the official entry of the Sta. Fe

Senior High School to the 2025 Division Science and Technology Fair.

RYAN A. ALVAREZ
Research Coach

______________________________________________________________

Accepted and approved in partial fulfillment for the subject of the Research

Project:

ASIS S. RUFON KLENLY F. DELA PEŇA


Research Coordinator Science Coordinator

ANNALIZA M. ENRIQUE
Head Teacher V

i
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The researchers would like to express their deepest gratitude and sincere

appreciation to all those whose support and guidance made this study possible.

First and foremost, to Almighty God, for granting the researchers strength,

wisdom, and guidance throughout the entire journey of this research.

To the teachers and coaches, whose unwavering guidance, patience, and

valuable advice were instrumental at every stage of this project. Their insightful

suggestions and willingness to help greatly contributed to the improvement and

success of this study.

To the researchers’ parents who patiently supported them morally and

emotionally from the beginning to the completion of the research. Without their

encouragement and guidance, this study would not have been possible.

Finally, to friends and fellow researchers, who provided invaluable

support and encouragement that the researchers needed throughout the making

of this study.

ii
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Domingo A. Condes III is a grade 12 student of Sta. Fe Senior High School

under the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics strand. He was

born on May 19, 2008 and is the youngest child of Mr. Domingo S. Condes Jr. and

Mrs. Rowena A. Condes. He currently lives in C. Medina St. Poblacion, Santa Fe,

Romblon. He graduated his primary education in Sta. Fe Central Elementary

School with honors. He finished his junior high school education in Sta. Fe National

High School with honors. He plans to take up Bachelor of Science in Computer

Engineering in the University of the Philippines in college.

iii
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Jade Dhaniel M. Mendoza is a grade 12 student of Sta. Fe Senior High

School under the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics strand. He

was born on April 12, 2008 and is the third child of Mr. Arnold M. Mendoza and

Mrs. Merlinda M. Mendoza. He currently lives in M. Antaran St. Poblacion, Santa

Fe, Romblon. He graduated his primary education in Sta. Fe Central Elementary

School with honors. He finished his junior high school education in Sta. Fe National

High School with honors. He plans to take up Bachelor of Science in Nursing in

the Ateneo de Manila University.

iv
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Crishna Dione T. Pepito is a grade 12 student of Sta. Fe Senior High

School under the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics strand. He

was born on May 29, 2008 and is the youngest child of Mr. Ronaldo T. Pepito and

Mrs. Cristina T. Pepito. She currently lives in Tabugon, Santa Fe, Romblon. She

graduated her primary education in Pandan Elementary School with high honors.

She finished her junior high school education in Sta. Fe National High School with

high honors. She plans to take up Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology in

the National University.

v
TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

TITLE

APPROVAL SHEET i

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ii

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH iii-v

CHAPTER I

Introduction 1

Statement of the Problem 2-3

Hypothesis 3

Objectives of the study 3

Description of the Current System 4

Proposed Project 5

Significance of the Study 5-6

Scope and Delimitation 6

Review of Related Literature and Studies 7-8

CHAPTER II METHODS

Research Design 9
Research Locale 9

Data Gathering Procedure 10-11

Research Procedure 11-12

Specific Functions of RoBOTEch 12-13

Documentation 13-14

CHAPTER III RESULTS 15-16

CHAPTER IV DISCUSSION 17

CHAPTER V CONCLUSION 18-20

REFERENCES 21
CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

The environmental problems caused by plastic waste and the urgent need

for sustainable energy have drawn increasing attention from the community in

recent years. Oceans, rivers, and landscapes have become seriously

contaminated due to the widespread use of plastic products, especially single-use

items. According to the UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme)

International Environmental Technology Center, an estimated 11.2 billion tons of

solid waste are collected worldwide each year. As a result, many businesses,

governments, and individuals are seeking creative ways to reuse bottles and

reduce their environmental impact. One promising approach is repurposing waste

materials to create new products that serve useful purposes and promote

environmental stewardship. At the same time, the growth of digital technology has

driven increased demand for public connectivity, particularly in urban areas.

For many people, access to Wi-Fi has become essential as it facilitates

communication, education, and information sharing. However, providing free

public Wi-Fi can be challenging due to maintenance issues and infrastructure

costs. Solar power is also vital in the Philippines because of the growing demand

for renewable energy (Department of Energy, 2025). Consequently, integrating

public connectivity solutions into existing systems—especially those that promote

sustainability—is becoming increasingly popular. An innovative response to these

pressing needs is a solar-powered vending machine that offers Wi-Fi and charging

1
access as a reward for inserting plastic bottles. This project aims to provide

charging and internet connectivity while addressing plastic waste. By reducing

reliance on conventional energy sources and minimizing its carbon footprint, the

vending machines use of solar power further enhances its sustainability.

The development of this project involved several key elements: the

installation of Wi-Fi technology and charging ports to create a connected

environment, the use of plastic bottles as the primary building material, and the

integration of solar panels to generate renewable energy. Each component

highlights the importance of innovation in addressing today’s challenges by

reducing the need for new plastic production and its environmental impact.

Reusing plastic offers a sustainable alternative to non-biodegradable materials.

The vending machines use of these materials not only reduces waste but also

provides a tangible example of how effective waste management can support

innovative technological solutions. Additionally, the choice to utilize solar power

demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and aligns with initiatives to transition

to renewable energy sources. This research aims to provide valuable insights into

the relationship between sustainability, technology, and public connectivity by

exploring the potential benefits and challenges of such a project.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

This study aimed to develop “RoBOTEch” a solar-powered vending

machine that offers Wi-Fi in exchange for plastic bottle. The main problem being

addressed by this study was:

2
How could an automated, solar-powered bottle-collecting system effectively

promote waste management practices while providing sustainable Wi-Fi and

charging services to the public?

Specifically, this study seeks to answer the following sub-problems:

1. What is the weight (in grams) of unsegregated bottles collected before

and after the implementation of RoBOTEch?

2. What is the difference between the weight (in grams) of unsegregated bottles

collected before and after the implementation of RoBOTEch?

HYPOTHESIS

𝐻o: There is no significant difference between the weight (in grams) of the bottles

collected before and after the implementation of RoBOTEch.

𝐻𝑎: There is significant difference between the weight (in grams) of the bottles

collected before and after the implementation of RoBOTEch.

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

RoBOTEch aimed to promote cleanliness of the environment by serving as

an alternative trash can, which encourages people to manage waste properly by

rewarding them with a Wi-fi connection and charging port. Moreover, the machine

contributed to the use of renewable energy, due to its solar-powered characteristic.

3
The study also focused on providing a Wi-fi connection for the people who

din't have easy access to the internet. With its built-in charging port, RoBOTEch

also helped those who live in remote areas with no electricity.

Additionally, the use of solar energy in the machine helps in utilizing

renewable energy. This promoted a cleaner environment by reducing carbon

emissions.

DESCRIPTION OF THE CURRENT SYSTEM

Many people today tried to reduce plastic bottle waste through recycling,

waste segregation, and cleanup drives (Tscuhimoto & Kajikawa, 2022). Schools

and communities encourage people to reuse bottles or throw them in proper

garbage bins. However, even with these efforts, plastic bottles were still seen

everywhere because many people were not motivated to recycle. Some still threw

bottles on the ground, in rivers, or in trash piles, which caused pollution and

harmed the environment (Moore, 2025). The current ways of reducing plastic

waste depended mostly on people’s willingness to join, so they were not always

effective. At the same time, the growing demand for renewable energy and internet

access highlighted the need for new ideas that connect technology with

environmental care (Seminario-Cordova & Rojas-Ortega, 2023). As people rely

more on digital devices, there was a chance to create projects that promote

recycling while offering helpful services to the community.

4
PROPOSED PROJECT

The proposed project, "RoBOTEch", offered a new way to reduce plastic

bottle waste using technology. This solar-powered vending machine would accept

plastic bottles as payment in exchange for Wi-Fi connection or charging for

gadgets. It encouraged people to recycle by giving them a useful reward. The

machine would automatically collect and store the bottles so they could be reused

or recycled properly. Through this project, people would be more interested in

recycling, helping reduce plastic bottle waste while also enjoying free internet and

charging services.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The study explored the design and development of an integrating solar-

powered vending machine with Wi-fi and charging access for plastic bottles

deposited for public connectivity. The study aimed to promote proper segregation,

while providing internet connectivity to the people. More specifically, this research

projects intended to benefit the following:

Community. By providing internet incentives, the project encourages the

people of the community to have a cleaner environment. This reduced waste in the

streets and public areas.

Environment. With the help of RoBOTEch, waste bottles that ended up in

landfills, and oceans are reduced. This mitigates pollution and protects the

ecosystem.

5
Recycling Systems. RoBOTEch served as an alternative trash can for

bottles. By contributing to proper segregation, processing these collected bottles

became more efficient, and conserves natural resources and energy in

manufacturing new products.

People lacking internet access. Many remote areas lack access to the

internet. This project provided connectivity to those in need of Wi-Fi access.

Low-Income Individuals. By using bottles as payment, this offers free

internet access to those who could not affiord, or to those who currently did not

have the money for it.

Emergency Users. During times of crisis, power outages and connection

loss was commonly expected. With RoBOTEch, people easily gained access to

the internet and a free charging port in case of emergencies.

Students. Students gain access to digital resources by having Wi-Fi

access. This made answering homework more efficient. The project was also

beneficial to those who attended online classes.

Future Researchers. This project opened up the idea of other bottle-

payment machines. By serving as a foundation for future studies, other

researchers would also construct machines that would innovate the world.

6
SCOPE AND DELIMITATIONS

This study aimed to explore the intersection of sustainability, technology,

and public accessibility. The scope of this research encompasses the design,

development, and implementation of RoBOTEch by utilizing solar power and

plastic bottles, this study sought to address environmental concerns while

enhancing connectivity. The location of the testing area was within Sta. Fe Senior

High School. The users of this project6were the students of Sta. Fe Senior High

School. This study was conducted within the months of January to March.

The research would be limited to the design and development phase,

focusing on specific areas where the vending machine would be installed. Factors

such as the variety of service offered and the demographic profiles of users would

not be extensively analyzed, as the primary goal was to evaluate the machine’s

influence on the waste segregation habits of users. Additionally, the study would

not encompass long-term maintenance or the potential for scaling the project

beyond the initial locations.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE & STUDIES

Plastic pollution and improper waste disposal remained major global

problems that affect both people and the environment. The World Bank Group

(2022) and Arowana Impact Capital (2023) reported that waste generation

continues to rise, while the Philippines responds through the Ecological Solid

Waste Management Act (DENR, 2025), which promoted recycling and proper

disposal. Using renewable energy like solar power could also support

7
sustainability. Khan and Arsalan (2016) and Hayat et al. (2019) stated that solar

energy provides clean electricity, while Hantula (2009) explained that it helped

reduce harmful emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.

Technology also played an important role in innovation and daily life. Solano

et al. (2017) discussed how modern vending machines now used telemetry and

cashless systems for better service. Likewise, Salac and Kim (2016) and Pahlavan

and Krishnamurthy (2021) noted that Wi-Fi had become essential for

communication and learning, while Healy (2019) described its evolution in

connecting people worldwide. Combining waste management, solar energy,

vending systems, and Wi-Fi technology could create sustainable inventions that

benefited both communities and the environment.

8
CHAPTER II

METHODS

This chapter presented the systematic process undertaken to create an

effective solution for urban waste management and digital access through the

RoBOTEch machine.

The researchers detailed the engineering design principles guiding the

integration of the solar power source, the mechanics of the bottle-for-Wi-Fi

exchange mechanism, and the data collection methods used to evaluate the

system's efficiency, reliability, and impact as a sustainable vending solution.

RESEARCH DESIGN

The study utilized a quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design

to determine the effectiveness of the RoBOTEch project in reducing plastic bottle

waste. In this design, the researchers first measured the weight of collected plastic

bottles (in grams) before the implementation of RoBOTEch as the pretest. After

the installation and use of the device, the researchers measured the weight of

collected bottles as the posttest. The data was recorded weekly for 4 weeks, and

the mean weight before and after the implementation were compared to identify

any significant differences. The design was appropriate since it allowed the

researchers to observe the impact of RoBOTEch,

9
RESEARCH LOCALE

The study on the innovative RoBOTEch machine was conducted at Sta. Fe

Senior High School in Santa Fe, Romblon. This locale was ideal as it provided a

high concentration of student users motivated by the Wi-Fi incentive, ensuring

robust data on the bottle-for-access exchange. The open school environment

allowed for crucial testing of the solar-powered subsystem under real-world

conditions. Furthermore, the partnership with the administration ensured a secure

and monitored setting for the machine, which was essential for accurate data

collection throughout the 4 weeks testing period during the months of January to

February.

DATA GATHERING PROCEDURE

The Data Gathering Procedure for the RoBOTEch system followed a

streamlined approach across phases to gather technical data at Sta. Fe Senior

High School.

1. Setup and Baseline Data (The "Before" Phase)

First, the researchers secured permissions and installed the RoBOTECch

machine, ensuring its components were functioning accurately. Before students

use the machine, a two-week baseline period in school days was established.

During this time, researchers used manual log sheets and scales to record the

weekly mean of unsegregated bottles that were collected within the school's

vicinity. This provided the essential "before" data for comparison.

10
2. Intervention and Quantitative Logging (The "After" Phase)

The RoBOTEch machine was publicly activated for two weeks. The

researchers then recorded all technical data, such as bottles collected. To

measure the outcome, the total weekly mean of the bottles collected is measured,

combining bottles collected by the RoBOTEch with those found unsegregated

inside the school campus.

RESEARCH PROCEDURE

The research on the development of RoBOTEch for plastic bottles deposits

involved the following procedures:

1. Design Planning – The researchers created a design layout and sketch of the

RoBOTEch, showing where the bottle slot, charging ports, and Wi-Fi modem will

be placed.

2. Material Preparation – All needed materials such as Arduino Uno

(microcontroller), sensor, Wi-Fi modem, power supply, wires, metals, or wood

casing, and charging sockets were gathered by the researchers.

3. Body Construction – The researchers then built the frame or body of the

vending machine using the chosen materials and assemble the parts according

to the design plan.

4. System Wiring – The researchers connected all electronic components such

as the sensors and Arduino board.

11
5. Programming – The researchers uploaded the program to the Arduino to

make the system detect bottles, open the charging station, and provide Wi-Fi

access when a bottle is inserted.

6. Testing Phase – RoBOTEch was then tested several times to check if it

properly detects bottles, activates, the Wi-Fi and allows gadget charging.

7. Troubleshooting – If errors occur, the researchers then identified the problem

and fix wiring or programming issues until the machine works correctly.

8. Final Assembly and Design – After successful testing, the researchers

finalized the machine by securing all parts and adding labels, decorations, and

instructions for users.

9. Demonstration and Evaluation – The researchers presented the finished

RoBOTEch, demonstrate its function, and record the technical data to test its

influence on the waste management behavior of users.

SPECIFIC FUNCTIONS OF ROBOTECH

RoBOTEch starts up when it is switched on, triggering the LCD and the LED

light indicating its operation. Once the LCD displays “Ilagay ang iyong plastic

bottles”, the user may now insert bottles which is detected by an IR Sensor that

triggers a buzzer in every detection. When all of the bottles are inserted, the user

may now press the red button and wait for the LCD to display the voucher code.

Note that voucher codes and connectivity duration depend on how many bottles

are inserted and detected. RoBOTEch works with three (3) categories; 1 bottle =

10 minutes of connectivity, 3 bottles = 30 minutes of connectivity, and 6 bottles =

12
60 minutes of connectivity. Bottles inserted that does not fall under the three (3)

categories will fall under the category that it has previously reached (e.g. 5 bottles

fall under the 3 bottles category). After receiving the voucher code, the user must

scan the QR code which directs them to our website called “RoBOTEch Wi-Fi”

which asks for the voucher code that the user has received. When the voucher

code is entered, the user can now enjoy our Wi-Fi access and could also charge

devices with our free charging station.

DOCUMENTATION

13
14
CHAPTER III

RESULTS

This chapter presented the findings from the quasi-experimental one-group

pretest-posttest study conducted at Sta. Fe Senior High School to evaluate the

effectiveness of RoBOTEch in reducing plastic bottle waste through incentive-

based collection.

Table 1. Weekly Mean Weight of Collected Bottles

Mean

Period Week 1 Week 2 Overall

Before

RoBOTEch 462.54 372.78 417.66

(Control)

After RoBOTEch
227.62 122.70 175.16
(Experimental)

The data showed a substantial reduction in unsegregated plastic bottle

waste after the implementation of RoBOTEch. The overall mean weight decreased

from 417.66 grams before implementation to 175.16 grams after implementation

15
Table 2. The Significant Difference Before and After the Implementation of

RoBOTEch

Level of
P-value Decision Description
Significance
Failed to accept the null
0.0199 0.05 Significant
hypothesis

Using the paired sample t-test, the computed p-value of 0.0199 was less

than the 0.05 level of significance, the result indicated that there was enough

statistical evidence to reject the null hypothesis. This meant that the difference

tested in the study was statistically significant. In other words, the observed result

indicated that there was a meaningful and significant difference between before

and after the implementation of RoBOTEch.

HYPOTHESIS TESTING RESULTS

Based on the paired sample t-test analysis, the null hypothesis (H₀) stating

that there was no difference between the weight of bottles collected before and

after the implementation of RoBOTEch was rejected at the α = 0.05 significance

level. With p-value of 0.0199 (p < 0.05), the alternative hypothesis (Hₐ) is accepted.

Therefore, there was statistically significant evidence to conclude that a significant

difference existed between the weight of bottles collected before and after the

implementation of RoBOTEch, indicating the system's effectiveness in reducing

plastic bottle waste through incentive-based collection methods.

16
CHAPTER IV

DISCUSSION

The statistical analysis demonstrated that RoBOTEch successfully

achieved its engineering goal of reducing plastic bottle waste through technology-

based incentives. The 41.94% reduction in mean bottle weight (from 417.66g to

175.16g) indicates that Wi-Fi access and charging station rewards effectively

motivated proper waste disposal behavior among students. These results strongly

support B.F. Skinner's Theory of Operant Conditioning, where behaviors followed

by positive reinforcement are more likely to be repeated. The Wi-Fi access and

charging services functioned as positive reinforcers, encouraging students to

deposit bottles in RoBOTEch rather than disposing them improperly around

campus.

Unlike traditional waste bins that rely solely on environmental

consciousness, RoBOTEch demonstrated superior effectiveness by providing

immediate tangible rewards, creating a gamified waste collection experience, and

utilizing renewable solar energy for sustainable operation. During the two-week

implementation period, minor technical issues including power fluctuations, sensor

sensitivity, and Wi-Fi connectivity were encountered but successfully resolved

through system optimization and recalibration. RoBOTEch represents a significant

advancement over existing waste management systems through its integration of

multiple technologies, behavioral psychology applications with incentive-based

approaches, and community benefits addressing both environmental and digital

access needs.

17
CHAPTER V

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

The following chapter conclude this report. A summary of the research is

presented, and findings of the study are discussed and interpreted.

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

The finding showed the result of the study in finding if there’s a difference

between the weight (in grams) of bottles collected before and after the

implementation of RoBOTEch at Sta. Fe Senior High School. Quasi Experimental

One-Group Pretest-Postest Design was the design that the researchers utilized to

determine the significant difference between the two variables.

This study aimed to answer the following questions: What were the weight

(in grams) of bottles being collected before and after the implementation of

RoBOTEch? What was the difference between the weight (in grams) of bottles

being collected before and after the implementation of RoBOTEch?

By addressing these questions, this research aimed to provide valuable

insights for LGUs, teachers, students, and everyone as a whole in understanding

the critical role of proper plastic bottle waste management.

For research question number 1:

1. The average weight (in grams) for week 1 of collected bottles before the

implementation of RoBOTEch was 462.54, and for week 2 was 372.78, with an

overall mean of 417.66. The average weight (in grams) for week 1 of collected
18
bottles after the implementation of RoBOTEch was 227.62, and for week 2 was

122.70, with an overall mean of 175.16.

For research question number 2:

2. The data showed that there was a significant difference between the weight (in

grams) of collected bottles before and after the implementation of RoBOTEch with

the recorded p-value of 0.0199.

CONCLUSIONS

The researchers conclude that there is indeed a significant difference

between the weight (in grams) of bottles collected before and after the

implementation of RoBOTEch. As a result, the null hypothesis is rejected while

accepting the alternative hypothesis.

RECOMMENDATIONS

For future implementation, it is highly recommended to:

• Reconstruct the compartment to gather a larger number of bottles for every

collection.

• Provide a high-quality internet connection to make the project more

engaging for every user.

• Collaborate with local government agencies to fund the machine’s

expenses.

• Create partnerships with some organizations to properly recycle and reuse

plastic bottles.

19
REFERENCES
Cordova, R. S., & Ortega, R. R. (2023). Renewable Energy Sources and Energy
Production: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Last Five Years. MDPI. 159(3).
pp. 1-22. Retrieved from
[Link]
Department of Environment and Natural Resources. (2025). Ecological Solid
Waste Management Act of 2000 (Republic Act No. 9003). Retrieved from
[Link]
Dormido, R., & González, P. (2017). Smart vending machines: Telemetry and
connectivity for the future of retail. IEEE Transactions on Industrial
Informatics, 13(6), 2936–2945. [Link]/10.1109/TII.2017.2694812
Khan, J., & Arsalan, M. H. (2016). Solar power technologies for sustainable
energy. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 55, 414–425.
[Link]/10.1016/[Link].2015.10.135
Moore, C. (2025). Plastic Pollution. Britannica. Retrieved from
[Link]
oceans-and-on-land
Pahlavan, K., & Krishnamurthy, P. (2021). Evolution of Wi-Fi for indoor
geolocation and connectivity. IEEE Communications Magazine, 59(7), 34–
40. [Link]/10.1109/MCOM.001.2000151
PH push for renewable energy yields ground-breaking installations. (2025).
Department of Energy. Retrieved from [Link]
releases/ph-push-renewable-energy-yields-record-breaking-installations
Tscuchimoto, I., & Kajikawa, Y. (2022). Recycling of Plastic Waste: A
Systematic Review Using Bibliometric Analysis. MDPI. 14(24).
[Link]/10.3390/su142416340
Turning off the tap: How the world can end plastic pollution and create a
circular economy .(2023). United Nations Environmental Programme.
Retrieved from [Link]
pollution-createcircular-economy
World Bank Group. (2022). What a waste 2.0: A global snapshot of solid
waste management to 2050. World Bank Publications.
[Link]

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V.
LOGBOOK
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VI.
EVALUATION
FORM
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2
3
4
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