Abstract |
The productive efficiency and costs associated with residential satellite vehicle collection systems are quantitatively evaluated and compared with conventional collection systems for collecting residential solid waste. Those factors that affect efficiency and economy were quantitatively analyzed to develop models that can predict collection cost and crew efficiency with a high degree of accuracy and provide a practical and reliable basis for designing future collection systems using satellite vehicles. Four makes of satellite vehicles (Cushman, Trashmobile, Westcoaster, and Trash Taxi) operating in six communities with diverse terrain, type of collection agency, and collection frequency were chosen for the study. These small three- or four-wheeled vehicles transport wastes from the dwelling unit storage point to a packer truck for ultimate transfer to a disposal site. The vehicles reportedly work best in areas with single-family homes where housing density is medium to low. The costs, which could not be compared because they occurred under distinctively different conditions, are measured as 'annual cost per dwelling' rather than as 'cost per ton.' (Author) |