Recovery container for composting set, container set and composter set

Abstract

Container (1) for recovering a mixture comprising wet organic matter in aerobic decomposition, the container (1) comprising a side wall (2) made of terracotta, the container (1) comprising an upper part (3) and a lower part (4), the upper part (3) being provided with a first opening (9) so as to allow the introduction of the mixture into the container (1), the lower part (4) comprising a bottom wall (10), the side wall (2) and the bottom wall (10) giving the container a single hollow (6), the bottom wall (10) being provided with perforations (11) configured to retain the organic matter in the container. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1.

Description

Title of the invention: Recovery container for composting assembly, container assembly and composter assembly

[0001] The invention relates to the field of composting, and in particular to vermicomposting.

[0002] Composting refers to techniques for recovering organic waste by conversion, transformation of organic materials into a product similar to soil, called compost or vermicompost depending on the technique used, and typically used as an amendment for soil or an organic substrate.

[0003] Conventionally, composting is an aerobic reaction, the waste being degraded under controlled and specific conditions of oxygen, humidity, and temperature, by the combined action of bacteria, fungi, microorganisms and macroorganisms, in particular by compost worms of the genus Eisenia.

[0004] Traditionally, biowaste is defined as biodegradable organic waste from households or restaurants, whether liquid or solid, of animal or vegetable origin, raw or cooked. This waste may be similar to peelings or leftover food.

[0005] Traditional composting is relatively simple to carry out, since it only requires the collection of biodegradable waste and its placement in a pile, for example in boxes or containers called composters.

[0006] Traditionally, in cities, composting can be carried out either collectively with the contribution of biowaste to collection and processing sites, or individually with the contribution and recovery of biowaste at the place where the household lives.

[0007] The invention relates to the field of individual composting.

[0008] However, successful traditional composting requires a balance between dry carbon-containing waste (cardboard, dead leaves, straw, etc.) and wet nitrogen-containing waste (peelings, green waste, etc.). The waste must also be stirred fairly regularly to maintain a balance of the aforementioned parameters, and the fermenting pile must reach a certain temperature level in order to eliminate the presence of pathogens within it.

[0009] However, such a composting process requires a sufficient volume of waste to activate fermentation. In addition, the compost formed must be mixed, which implies being able to turn it, for example using a tool such as a pitchfork. Also, such a type of composting is not suitable for a user who only has limited space, for example people living in apartments, with or without outdoor space (balcony, terrace, courtyard) or with a very limited garden area. In addition, traditional composting can be a source of odors, which can cause discomfort for users who cannot place the composter far enough away from living areas.

[0010] Also, for users with limited space or living conditions that are not compatible with traditional composting, composters have been developed that implement the principle of vermicomposting, also known as worm composting.

[0011] Vermicomposting is a composting technique in which organic waste of plant origin is mainly transformed, without any increase in temperature due to fermentation, without the need for stirring with a tool, into worm compost using worms of the genus Eisenia preselected for their ability to decompose waste. Such a technique is also called vermicomposting.

[0012] The product resulting from vermicomposting is called vermicompost. It is known from scientific literature as being a powerful solid and / or liquid amendment, rich in trace elements and microorganisms beneficial to plants.

[0013] Growing plants requires specific agronomic and environmental conditions.

[0014] In open ground, the element in which the roots of the plants are fixed is called soil. In soilless or container-grown plants, the element in which the roots of the plants are fixed is called substrate.

[0015] Successful plant cultivation requires a balanced supply of water, light and nutrients in the soil.

[0016] Growing plants in containers (pots, planters, window boxes) creates constraints and limits to plant growth, such as a limited and finite volume of nutrients, access to a limited and finite water reserve.

[0017] The invention relates to the technical field of vermicomposting associated with the cultivation of plants in a soilless medium on a substrate. In the remainder of this document, the terms “compost”, “composter” and “composting” refer respectively to the soil obtained by vermicomposting, to a vermicomposter, and to the vermicomposting technique. The terms “soilless” and “substrate” refer respectively to the container culture and to the organic element for fixing the roots.

[0018] Vermicomposting overcomes the disadvantages of traditional composting, since such a method of composting can be carried out even for small quantities of waste, and allows a better transformation rate in relation to the surface area used. Vermicomposting has the advantage over traditional compost of being able to apply it indoors, outdoors, and on any type of artificial flat surface.

[0019] Typically, vermicomposting is carried out using a worm composter in the form of a container capable of receiving waste, and equipped with a drainage system allowing the recovery of liquid. The liquid thus collected, often called “compost tea” or “worm tea” is rich in nutrients, and can be used directly for watering plants.

[0020] However, the implementation of vermicomposting requires certain conditions to be met in order for it to be carried out. Thus, the vermicomposter must be placed in well-controlled conditions of humidity, temperature and oxygenation, so that the worms and microfauna can thrive, and thus achieve the decomposition of the waste.

[0021] The use of a worm composter allowing the production of compost and a liquid rich in fertile elements, it is known to use the products of the worm composter for the growth of plants. Such a device can be called worm composting, active composting, composting growing device, or flower pot composter, vegetable garden composter, composting growing device or composting growing set.

[0022] Thus, thanks to such a vermicomposting system, it is possible to recycle biowaste, produce compost, compost tea, and grow plants in the same place. Such an arrangement not only saves space, particularly for use in a living room, but also allows a plant to be located close to the compost and compost tea. In this way, the plant benefits from a source of nutrients nearby.

[0023] With this in mind, for example, in patent application FR3054405 A1, a composting cultivation device has been proposed, comprising a frame provided with partitions forming a first compartment allowing the compost to be filled, and a second compartment allowing soil to be received to allow the cultivation of plants. The compartments are separated at their upper part, by means of a common wall so as to allow the exchange of fertilizing liquid from the compost to the cultivation compartment. Excess water is recovered by an inclined wall located at the base of the vermicomposting compartment and conveyed to a drawer, located at the base of the composting compartment.

[0024] Such a device effectively allows the compost tea to be brought towards the compartment containing plants. However, such a device has fixed dimensions, giving it a fixed composting volume. However, it may be interesting to have a device with a volume that can evolve according to the needs of the user and his consumption of plants, which can vary. In addition, having the two compartments entirely side by side presents a significant footprint.

[0025] Furthermore, no means of recovering the compost is provided other than the drawer located below the composting compartment. However, such a drawer is located at the base of the compost, and does not allow the separation of the compost obtained and the excess water from the plantations present in the growing compartment.

[0026] The invention therefore proposes to address the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0027] A first object is to propose a container for recovering solid organic matter in aerobic decomposition, the container allowing stable temperature, humidity and oxygenation parameters to be maintained.

[0028] A second object is to propose such a container allowing effective drainage of decomposing organic matter, promoting maintenance of hygrometry, oxygenation, and temperature within optimal values.

[0029] A third object is to propose such a container, the container making it possible to facilitate the separation of the decomposing solid phases of organic matter from the liquid phase of the organic matter.

[0030] A fourth object is to propose such a container allowing simplified access to the organic matter.

[0031] A fifth object is to propose a container that is stackable on itself, robust, and easy to manufacture.

[0032] A sixth object is to propose a set of containers, comprising two containers presented above stacked on top of each other, such containers retaining their property of maintaining the temperature, hygrometry and oxygenation parameters.

[0033] A seventh object is to propose a worm farming assembly comprising the container presented above.

[0034] In this perspective, the invention proposes, according to a first aspect, a container for recovering a mixture comprising wet organic matter in aerobic decomposition, the container comprising a side wall made of terracotta, the container comprising an upper part and a lower part, the upper part being provided with a first opening so as to allow the introduction of the mixture into the container, the lower part comprising a bottom wall, the side wall and the bottom wall giving the container a single hollow, the bottom wall being provided with perforations configured to retain the organic matter in the container while providing drainage by gravity flow, the bottom wall defining a placement surface capable of allowing the container to be placed on a plane.

[0035] Various additional features may be provided, alone or in combination:

[0036] - the recovery container includes a retaining element comprising a wall retaining element incorporating a second opening defining an internal contour, the element retaining wall having a closed outer contour, such that the retaining wall substantially defines an annular shape, the outer contour being kept positioned in the vicinity of the upper portion within the first opening, the outer contour having a dimension smaller than the first opening,

[0037] - when the retaining element is held positioned within the first opening, the distance between the internal contour and the lower wall is greater than the distance between the external contour and the lower wall, the retaining wall having a slope between the internal contour and the external contour,

[0038] - the side wall incorporates an internal surface within the hollow, the internal surface comprising at least two support means projecting from the internal surface, the retaining element, when positioned within the first opening, resting by gravity on the support means,

[0039] - the side wall comprises an opening opening into the hollow,

[0040] -the opening defines with the side wall a peripheral neckline, the opening comprising an overhang, extending part of the peripheral neckline,

[0041] - The opening is suitable for being closed with a stopper made of cork,

[0042] - the side wall substantially defines a cylinder of revolution,

[0043] According to a second aspect, the invention proposes a set of containers comprising two recovery containers, a first container being stacked on the second container.

[0044] According to a third aspect, the invention proposes a compost growing assembly comprising a container as presented above, a compost pot comprising a first compartment intended to receive a natural substrate for growing plants, and a second compartment intended to receive compost, a separating wall making it possible to separate the compartments from each other, the compost pot resting by gravity on the container, the separating wall having a circumference of circular geometry having a diameter greater than or equal to the diameter of the internal contour.

[0045] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly and concretely on reading the following description of embodiments, given by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0046] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] schematically illustrates an exploded perspective view of a example of container;

[0047] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] illustrates a schematic side view of an example of a container shown without the cap;

[0048] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] illustrates a schematic sectional view along plane III-III of the container of [Fig.l];

[0049] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] illustrates a schematic perspective view of a set of worm composting culture.

[0050] Reference is made to [Fig.l] representing a container 1 for recovering a mixture comprising wet organic matter in aerobic decomposition.

[0051] In the described embodiment, such a mixture is a compost.

[0052] Throughout the rest of the text, the word “container” refers to such a container 1.

[0053] Advantageously, such a container 1 forms a worm composter on its own, the waste being positioned on a layer of humus containing worms (not shown in the figures).

[0054] Advantageously and as shown in [Fig.4], such a container 1 is a component of a worm farming assembly, or composting culture assembly 100, described below in this text.

[0055] As can be seen in [Fig.l], the container 1 comprises a side wall 2, an upper part 3 and a lower part 4. The upper part 3 and the lower part 4 are arranged at the edges 5 of the side wall 2.

[0056] In the embodiments shown in the figures, the container 1 has a substantially circular shape, which makes it easier to manufacture the container 1.

[0057] In Figures 1 to 3, the container 1 has a substantially truncated cone shape, in [Fig.4], the container 1 has a cylindrical shape of revolution.

[0058] In the embodiments, the container 1 incorporates a single hollow 6, allowing the compost to be received. Such a single hollow gives a single-volume character, the container 1 forming a receptacle 7. The side wall thus has an internal surface 8, advantageously without an undercut.

[0059] Common to the embodiments, the upper part 3 has a first opening 9 so as to allow the introduction of the mixture into the container 1.

[0060] As can be seen in Figures 1 to 3, the lower part 4 comprises a bottom wall 10. Such a bottom wall 10 incorporates a means for separating the water from the compost, for example circular perforations 11. In this way, the humidity does not stagnate at the bottom of the bottom wall 10. The hygrometry of the container 1 can thus be controlled. In addition, such perforations 11 contribute to allowing good oxygenation of the compost. Such perforations are configured to retain the organic matter in the container while providing drainage by gravity flow.

[0061] Advantageously, the lower part 4 is flat, the bottom wall 10 defining a laying surface 12, advantageously substantially flat. In this way, the container 1 can be placed directly on a plane, for example the ground, or on another container 1. The container 1 is therefore stackable, the bottom wall 10 being integral with the side wall 2, and can support a significant mass, for example at least that consisting of a container 1 filled with earth, and a compost pot 20 as described later in this text.

[0062] Advantageously, the container 1 comprises a retaining element 13, for example intended to be positioned on the container 7. As shown in [Fig. 1], the retaining element 13 comprises a retaining wall 29 incorporating a second opening 14.

[0063] Such a second opening 14 defines an internal contour 16. Such a second opening 14 allows for example the addition of a cover (not shown in the figures) in the case where the container 1 is used alone.

[0064] Preferably, the retaining element 13 has a closed external contour 15, the retaining element substantially defining a shape of a closed, or annular, band.

[0065] As can be seen in the figures, the external contour 15 has a dimension smaller than the dimension of the first opening 9, allowing the retaining element 13 to be positioned within the first opening.

[0066] Advantageously, the support element 13 comprises notches 33 at the level of the external contour 15, which makes it possible to form a gripping point in the event of removal of the retaining element 13 from the hollow 6.

[0067] Advantageously, the contours 15, 16 are of circular geometry, giving the retaining element 13 a substantially circular shape, complementary to the shape of the side wall 2.

[0068] Advantageously, for the retaining element 13 has a slope between the internal contour 16 and the external contour 15, the distance between the internal contour 16 and the lower wall being greater than the distance between the external contour and the lower wall. Such a slope makes it possible to direct the water towards the internal surface 8. In this way, the hygrometry within the hollow is limited.

[0069] Such a retaining element 13 has, for example, a role when a composting growing assembly 100, described in greater detail later in the description, is positioned on the first opening 9, by preventing the introduction of soil into the container 7, and by making it possible to direct the humidity towards the side wall 2.

[0070] In the case where the container 1 is used within a compost growing assembly 100, the retaining element 13 allows the water from the compost to flow along the side wall 2 onto the internal surface 8.

[0071] Advantageously, the retaining element 13 is held positioned within the first opening 9, for example using support means 17 projecting from the internal surface 8 of the side wall 2.

[0072] In this way, the retaining element 13 when positioned within the first opening 9 rests by gravity on the support means 17. Such a support method is simple, does not require an additional fixing part. In this way, the container 1 has a simple manufacture.

[0073] Advantageously, the support means 17 are three in number, making it possible to position the retaining element 13 simply within the first opening 9.

[0074] Advantageously, the support means 17 are provided with surface support planes 30. In this way, the installation of the element 13 on the support means 17 is easy.

[0075] As can be seen in the figures, the container 1 comprises an opening 18, arranged on the side wall 2. Such an opening 18 is advantageous, because it allows lateral access to the hollow 6, allowing the user to easily access, maintain, and remove the compost formed. In this way, the container 1 is simple to use, since it is possible to easily access the bottom of the compost.

[0076] Advantageously, the opening 18 defines with the side wall 2 a peripheral neckline 32, the opening 18 comprising an overhang 32, in extension of a part of the peripheral neckline 32, advantageously opposite the upper part 3. Such an arrangement makes it possible to avoid the involuntary fall of the compost, when the user seeks to extract it from the hollow 6.

[0077] In order to maintain humidity within the hollow 6, the container comprises a stopper 19 intended to plug the opening 18. Such a stopper 19 is for example made of cork, which allows a sufficiently watertight fixing, without using a specific tool. In addition, such a material offers good resistance to wear and humidity, and is more durable than other materials. Finally, such a material is natural, and in the event of deterioration during opening, will not create particles harmful to the health of users.

[0078] Advantageously, it is possible to form a set of containers (not shown in the figures), by stacking a first container 1 and a second container 1 on top of each other. The quantity of compost that can be stored can therefore be increased.

[0079] Reference is made to the figure representing a composter culture assembly 100 comprising in particular a container 1 as described above.

[0080] As can be seen, such a compost growing assembly 100 comprises a compost pot 20, the container 1, and a base 27. The compost pot 20 is stacked on the container 1, itself stacked on the base 27. The fact of being able to stack a container 1 on a compost pot 20 makes it possible to increase the volume which can be occupied by the compost.

[0081] The compost pot 20 advantageously has a shape of revolution, for example conical. Such a compost pot 20 comprises a first compartment 21, peripheral, intended to receive soil for planting plants, and a second central compartment 22 intended to receive waste.

[0082] Advantageously, the composting pot 20 comprises a lid 23 so as to close the composter. Thus, in the event that olfactory nuisances develop, these do not leave the second compartment.

[0083] As can be seen in [Fig.4], the second compartment 22 comprises a partition wall 24 having a volume of revolution, for example conical or cylindrical of revolution.

[0084] The separation wall 24 is preferably perforated, the perforations not being visible in the figures. In this way, water communication is allowed between the first compartment 21 and the second compartment 22. Also, the irrigation water poured into the first compartment 21 is not lost, since it ends up in the second compartment 22, in other words in the compost.

[0085] As can be seen in [Fig.4], the compost pot 20 has a portion upper portion 25, and a lower portion 26. The compartments 22, 23 are both open at the upper portion 25, the first compartment 21 being closed on the lower portion 26, the second compartment 22 being open in the lower portion 26. In this way, the soil present in the first compartment 21 is kept in the first compartment 21.

[0086] Advantageously, the diameter of the separation wall 24 is at least greater than the diameter of the external contour. In this way, water coming from the separation wall 24 of the second compartment 22, that is to say coming from the compost, can flow towards the container 1, and thus be evacuated from the compost, for example thanks to the perforations 11 of the bottom wall 10.

[0087] As shown in [Fig.4], the container 1 can be stacked on a hollow base 27. Such a base 27 has a curved surface 28 provided with an orifice 33 opening into the interior of the base 27. In this way, the water having circulated within the compost, as well as the liquid produced by the compost itself, namely the compost tea, can be recovered.

[0088] The container 7, the retaining element 13, the base 27 and the composting pot 20 are advantageously made of terracotta, which is a natural material, and therefore non-polluting.

[0089] Such a material also makes it possible to regulate the temperature prevailing in particular within the container 1. The worms contained in the compost are protected from temperature extremes (hot and cold). Such an arrangement makes it possible to position the compost assembly and the container 1 outside a dwelling, for example on a balcony.

[0090] In addition, terracotta offers a natural porosity which also allows air and water to circulate, facilitating the aeration of the hollow, and therefore of the compost.

[0091] Finally, the use of terracotta, thanks to its weight, provides resistance and stability to the compost growing unit 100 against winds and drafts. In this way, such a compost growing unit 100 can be placed on a balcony.

[0092] Advantageously, the container 7, the retaining element 13, the base 27 and the composting pot 20 are coated with a hydrophobic coating, in order to maintain the initial appearance of the pieces taken out of the oven for as long as possible, and to avoid the risk of bursting due to frost in winter.

[0093] The recovery container 1, and the composting culture assembly 100 have numerous advantages, in particular: - the possibility of producing compost, and for a user to access this compost laterally, therefore easily, - regulation of temperature and humidity within the compost, - the possibility of modulating the volume of compost that can be produced within the composter culture unit 100, - manufacturing using simple, ecological processes, - the possibility of being able to place the container and / or the composting unit inside as well as outside a home.

Claims

Claims

1. Container (1) for recovering a mixture comprising wet organic matter in aerobic decomposition, the container (1) comprising a side wall (2) made of terracotta, the container (1) comprising an upper part (3) and a lower part (4), the upper part (3) being provided with a first opening (9) so as to allow the introduction of the mixture into the container (1), the lower part (4) comprising a bottom wall (10), the side wall (2) and the bottom wall (10) giving the container a single hollow (6), the bottom wall (10) being provided with perforations (11) configured to retain the organic matter in the container while providing drainage by gravity flow, the bottom wall (10) defining a placement surface (12) capable of allowing the container (1) to be placed on another container (1),the container (1) including a retaining element (13) comprising a retaining wall (29) incorporating a second opening (14) defining an internal contour (16), the retaining element (13) having a closed external contour (15), such that the retaining wall (29) defines substantially an annular shape, the external contour (15) being kept positioned in the vicinity of the upper part (3) within the first opening (9), the external contour (15) having a dimension smaller than the first opening (9), the bottom wall (10) being integral with the side wall (2), and being able to support the mass of at least that consisting of the container (1) filled with earth, the container (1) forming a worm composter or a component of a worm farming assembly, or composting culture assembly (100).,

2. Recovery container (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that when the retaining element (13) is kept positioned within the first opening (9), the distance between the internal contour (16) and the lower wall (10) is greater than the distance between the external contour (16) and the lower wall (10), the retaining wall (29) having a slope between the internal contour (16) and the external contour (15).

3. Recovery container (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the side wall (2) incorporates an internal surface (8) within the hollow (6), the internal surface (2) comprising at least two support means (17) projecting from the internal surface (8), the retaining element (13), when positioned within the first opening (9) resting by gravity on the support means (17).

4. Recovery container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side wall (2) comprises an opening (18) opening into the hollow (6).

5. Recovery container (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the opening (18) defines with the side wall (2) a peripheral neckline (32), the opening (18) comprising an overhang (32), in extension of a part of the peripheral neckline (32).

6. Recovery container (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the opening (18) is capable of being closed by a stopper (19) made of cork.

7. Recovery container (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the side wall (2) substantially defines a cylinder of revolution.

8. A set of containers comprising two recovery containers (1) according to claim 7, a first container (1) being stacked on the second container (1).

9. Composter growing assembly (100) comprising: - a container (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, - a composter pot (20) comprising a first compartment (21) intended to receive a natural substrate for growing plants, and a second compartment (22) intended to receive compost, a separation wall (24) making it possible to separate the compartments (21, 22) from each other, the composter pot (20) resting by gravity on the container (1), the separation wall (24) having a circumference of circular geometry having a diameter greater than or equal to the diameter of the internal contour (16).

Images