System and method for automatically generating organic compost from waste

Abstract

Various embodiments of an apparatus for implementing one or more methods for producing compost are described herein. The method may include: receiving waste in a composting apparatus, the waste having a first moisture content; pre-treating the waste to produce a pre-treated waste; storing the pretreated waste in a storage chamber for a pretreatment period of time to produce stored waste; and composting the stored waste in a composting chamber to produce a batch of output compost having a second moisture content, where the second moisture content is less than the first moisture content.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments described herein generally relate to systems and methods for generating organic compost from waste materials such as, but not limited to, food leftovers and paper products, cardboard products, and some plastics. Background Art

[0002] The following paragraphs are provided as background to the present disclosure. However, they are not an admission that anything discussed therein is prior art or part of the knowledge of a person skilled in the art.

[0003] Composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, such as leaves and food scraps, into compost that can be used to enrich soil and plants. All organic waste will eventually decompose, however, composting can speed up the process by providing an ideal environment for composting to occur. In simple composters, ideal humidity and temperature conditions can be maintained to complete the composting process. In some more complex composters, decomposing organisms (such as bacteria, fungi, worms, woodlice and / or nematodes) can be used to compost organic matter. In other composters, chemicals can be used to compost organic matter.

[0004] Organic waste can be processed in industrial-scale composting facilities, in smaller-scale community composting systems, in anaerobic digesters, and in home composters, among other options.

[0005] A disadvantage of small-scale composting systems is that, because only a small amount of organic material is produced in a given period of time, it can be difficult to produce a significant volume of compost. For example, if a user deposits a small amount of organic material into a composter at a time, the resulting usable output may only be a fraction of the original deposited volume. In this example, the user may have to deposit small amounts of organic material continuously to produce a continuous amount of compost, which is why this process is called continuous composting. Continuous composting may only produce a small amount of compost, which may not be useful for growing plants, as most plants require large amounts of compost to grow.

[0006] To avoid generating small amounts of compost, users must typically collect food scraps for a longer period of time before feeding larger volumes of food scraps into a composter, which is why this process is called batch composting. However, batch composting requires users to collect and store decomposed organic matter before composting, which can create unpleasant odors and other allergens such as mold and dust that can cause unpleasant effects in homes or outdoor spaces. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one aspect, in at least one embodiment described herein, a method of producing compost is provided, wherein the method includes: receiving waste in a composting apparatus, the waste having a first moisture content; pre-treating the waste to produce pre-treated waste; storing the pre-treated waste in a storage chamber for a pre-treatment period of time to produce stored waste; and composting the stored waste in the composting chamber to produce a batch of output compost having a second moisture content, wherein the second moisture content is less than the first moisture content.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, the stored waste may be composted to produce an intermediate compost, and the intermediate compost may be aggregated to produce the batch output compost.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, the pre-processing step may include separating the waste into solid waste and liquid waste; reducing the volume of the solid waste; and drying the reduced volume solid waste.

[0010] In at least one embodiment, reducing the volume of the solid waste may include crushing, milling, grinding, or coating the volume of the solid waste to reduce the size of individual particles within the volume of the solid waste.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, drying the volume of solid waste may include heating and / or aerating the volume of solid waste to reduce moisture content.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, liquid waste may be obtained by mechanically removing liquid from the waste by pressing, tumbling, or centrifuging.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, multiple passes of waste may be taken before output compost is generated.

[0014] In at least one embodiment, pretreatment may be performed once on a certain amount of waste within a pretreatment period.

[0015] In at least one embodiment, composting the stored waste may include using naturally occurring microorganisms and / or introducing microorganisms into the composting chamber and creating one or more conditions to increase the activity of the microorganisms for performing an aerobic decomposition process on the waste within the composting chamber.

[0016] In at least one embodiment, the step of creating one or more conditions within the composting chamber comprises: (a) flowing air through the waste in the composting chamber to provide a desired amount of oxygen to the microorganisms to undergo an aerobic decomposition process; (b) maintaining a desired moisture content level by spraying or misting a liquid into the composting chamber; (c) maintaining a desired temperature in the composting chamber; (d) adding additional microorganisms in powder, capsule, or liquid form; or any operable combination of (a) through (d), wherein the desired amount of oxygen and the desired moisture content are determined experimentally.

[0017] In at least one embodiment, the method may further include maintaining airflow through the waste in the composting chamber and mixing the waste in the composting chamber using a mixer.

[0018] In at least one embodiment, the method may further include the step of post-processing the output compost by maintaining the output compost in a temperature and humidity controlled chamber with airflow, wherein the temperature in the chamber is above room temperature.

[0019] In at least one embodiment, the method may include removing the compost chamber for retrieving output compost and reinserting the compost chamber for performing subsequent composting.

[0020] In at least one embodiment, the method may include executing a disinfection sequence.

[0021] In at least one embodiment, the method may include operating at least a first light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources at a wavelength between about 100 nm and about 240 nm for generating ozone to destroy odors.

[0022] In at least one embodiment, the method can include operating at least a second light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources at a wavelength between about 240 nm and about 315 nm to control the growth of undesirable organisms and to destroy ozone.

[0023] In at least one embodiment, the method may include using an activated carbon filter for filtering volatile compounds and gases remaining from the destruction of ozone.

[0024] In at least one embodiment, the method may include providing positive airflow through the waste in the composting chamber for preventing odors from escaping exterior of the composting apparatus.

[0025] In another aspect, according to at least one embodiment described herein, there is provided a composting apparatus comprising: a main device body; control and power electronics comprising a processor and a memory; a compost chamber cavity located within the main device body; and a compost chamber for performing composting of waste, the compost chamber being located in the compost chamber cavity, wherein the processor is configured to perform one of the methods described herein when software instructions stored in the memory are executed by the processor.

[0026] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus may further include a pre-processing tank including at least one fan, at least one mixer, optionally at least one condenser, and optionally at least one heater.

[0027] In at least one embodiment, the composting chamber may further include at least one mixer.

[0028] In at least one embodiment, at least one mixer is a ribbon impeller comprising a first helical fin configuration and a second helical fin configuration; wherein the first helical fin configuration and the second helical fin configuration are at opposite angular orientations, and; wherein the first helical fin configuration and the second helical fin configuration are mirrored relative to a central slice plane.

[0029] In at least one embodiment, the first and second helical fins comprise a continuous helix.

[0030] In at least one embodiment, the first and second helical fins include discrete helical segments.

[0031] In at least one embodiment, the impeller can be configured to operate by rotating the first and second spiral fin configurations in opposite directions to produce a homogenous mixture of solid compost particles having a particle size range between about 0.5 mm and about 20 mm.

[0032] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus may include: a plurality of adapters disposed at one end of a compost chamber cavity; and the compost chamber includes a plurality of couplers for releasably inserting the compost chamber into the compost chamber cavity by releasably coupling the plurality of couplers with the plurality of adapters.

[0033] In at least one embodiment, the plurality of couplers includes mechanical couplers.

[0034] In at least one embodiment, the plurality of couplers further includes fluid couplers and / or electronic couplers.

[0035] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus may further include at least one sensor coupled to the compost chamber for obtaining sensor data for one or more parameters inside the compost chamber, the at least one sensor being communicatively coupled to the processor.

[0036] In at least one embodiment, the at least one sensor may include a temperature sensor, a moisture sensor, a relative humidity sensor, a gas sensor, a level sensor, a proximity sensor, a weight sensor, an image sensor, or any operable combination thereof.

[0037] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus may include multiple ultraviolet light sources for destroying odors and controlling undesirable organisms.

[0038] In at least one embodiment, at least a first light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate at a wavelength between about 100 nm and about 240 nm for generating ozone to destroy odors.

[0039] In at least one embodiment, at least a second light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate between approximately 240 nm and approximately 315 nm wavelengths to control the growth of undesirable organisms and to destroy ozone.

[0040] In at least one embodiment, the generated ozone is delivered to the compost chamber for reducing odors in the compost chamber by exposing the odors to the generated ozone.

[0041] In at least one embodiment, the generated ozone is delivered to the liquid chamber for reducing odor in the liquid chamber by exposing the odor to the generated ozone.

[0042] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus may further include an activated carbon filter for filtering volatile compounds and gases remaining from the destruction of ozone.

[0043] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus can also be configured to provide positive airflow through the waste in the composting chamber for preventing odors from escaping exterior of the composting apparatus.

[0044] In another aspect, according to at least one embodiment described herein, a system for composting food waste is provided, wherein the system comprises: a composting device as defined in any embodiment described herein, wherein an existing external fluid coupler and / or external electrical connector in a food preparation environment, juice shop, or coffee shop is connected to the composting device.

[0045] In at least one embodiment, the existing external fluid coupling may include a drain connector, a sink connector, a pulp waste output, a grinder waste output, or a dishwashing connector.

[0046] In another aspect, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein, a mixer for a compost chamber in a composting apparatus is provided, wherein the mixer is a ribbon impeller comprising: a first spiral fin configuration; and a second spiral fin configuration; wherein the first spiral fin and the second spiral fin configuration are at opposite angular orientations; and; wherein the first spiral fin and the second spiral fin configuration are mirror images relative to a central slice plane.

[0047] On the other hand, according to at least one embodiment described herein, a composting apparatus is provided, comprising: a main device body; control and power electronics comprising a processor and a memory; a compost chamber cavity located within the main device body; a plurality of adapters disposed at one end of the compost chamber cavity; and a compost chamber for performing composting of waste, the compost chamber being located in the compost chamber cavity, the compost chamber comprising a plurality of couplers for releasably inserting the compost chamber into the compost chamber cavity by releasably coupling the plurality of couplers with the plurality of adapters.

[0048] In another aspect, according to at least one embodiment described herein, a method for producing compost is provided, wherein the method comprises: collecting a first portion of waste in a composting apparatus; processing the first portion of waste in the composting apparatus; transferring the first portion of waste to a first composting chamber located within the composting apparatus; pre-treating the first portion of waste to produce a first portion of pre-treated waste; composting the first portion of pre-treated waste in the first composting chamber to produce a first output compost; collecting a second portion of waste in the composting apparatus; processing the second portion of waste in the composting apparatus; transferring the second portion of waste to a second composting chamber located within the composting apparatus; pre-treating the second portion of waste to produce a second portion of pre-treated waste; and composting the second portion of pre-treated waste in the second composting chamber to produce a second output compost; wherein the second portion of waste is collected in the composting apparatus once the first composting chamber is full.

[0049] In another aspect, according to at least one embodiment described herein, a method for producing compost is provided, wherein the method comprises: receiving a first amount of waste in a composting apparatus; pre-treating the first amount of waste to produce a first amount of pre-treated waste; storing the first amount of pre-treated waste in a first storage chamber for a pre-treatment period to produce a first amount of stored waste; composting the first amount of stored waste in the first composting chamber to produce a first output compost; subsequently receiving a second amount of waste in the composting apparatus; pre-treating the second amount of waste to produce a second amount of pre-treated waste; storing the second amount of pre-treated waste in a second storage chamber for a pre-treatment period to produce a second amount of stored waste; and composting the second amount of stored waste in the second composting chamber to produce a second output compost; wherein if the first storage chamber meets specified criteria, a processor determines whether the first amount of pre-treated waste should be directed to the second storage chamber instead; and wherein if the second storage chamber meets specified criteria, the processor determines whether the second amount of pre-treated waste should be directed to the first storage chamber instead.

[0050] In at least one embodiment, the specified criteria includes the storage chamber being full or based on a countdown timer.

[0051] In at least one embodiment, the pre-processing step may include: separating the waste into solid waste and liquid waste; reducing the volume of the solid waste; and drying or dewatering the reduced volume of the solid waste.

[0052] In at least one embodiment, reducing the volume of the solid waste may include crushing, milling, grinding, or coating the volume of the solid waste to reduce the size of individual particles within the volume of the solid waste.

[0053] In at least one embodiment, drying the volume of solid waste may include heating and / or aerating the volume of solid waste to reduce moisture content.

[0054] In at least one embodiment, the liquid waste may be obtained by performing dewatering, which involves mechanically removing liquid from the waste via pressing, tumbling, or centrifugation.

[0055] In at least one embodiment, composting the stored waste may include using naturally occurring microorganisms and / or introducing microorganisms into the first composting chamber and the second composting chamber, and creating one or more conditions to increase the activity of the microorganisms for performing an aerobic decomposition process on the waste in the first composting chamber and the second composting chamber.

[0056] In at least one embodiment, the method may further include maintaining an appropriate airflow through the waste in the first composting chamber and the second composting chamber and mixing the waste in the first composting chamber and the second composting chamber using a mixer.

[0057] In at least one embodiment, the method may include removing the first compost chamber for retrieving the output compost and reinserting the first compost chamber while the second compost chamber continues composting.

[0058] In another aspect, according to at least one embodiment described herein, a composting apparatus is provided, comprising: a main device body; control and power electronics comprising a processor and a memory; a first compost chamber cavity located within the main device body; a first compost chamber for performing composting of waste, the first compost chamber being located in the first compost chamber cavity, and a second compost chamber cavity being located within the main device body adjacent to the first compost chamber cavity; a second compost chamber for performing composting of waste, the second compost chamber being located in the second compost chamber cavity; and a dam movable between a first position and a second position; wherein the first position of the dam covers the second compost chamber, and the second position of the dam covers the first compost chamber; and wherein the processor is configured to perform a method of generating compost when software instructions stored in the memory are executed by the processor.

[0059] In at least one embodiment, the main device body may further include a pleated mesh filter configured to separate liquid waste from solid waste, the pleated filter having perforations; wherein the pleated mesh filter includes an open state for receiving food waste; and a closed state for collecting solid waste while discharging liquid waste from the perforations.

[0060] In at least one embodiment, liquid waste discharged from the perforations is collected in a liquid chamber for storage until processed.

[0061] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus may include multiple ultraviolet light sources for destroying odors and controlling undesirable organisms.

[0062] In at least one embodiment, at least a first light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate at a wavelength between about 100 nm and about 240 nm for generating ozone to destroy odors.

[0063] In at least one embodiment, at least a second light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate between approximately 240 nm and approximately 315 nm wavelengths to control the growth of undesirable organisms and to destroy ozone.

[0064] In at least one embodiment, the generated ozone is delivered to the first composting chamber and the second composting chamber for reducing odors in the first composting chamber and the second composting chamber by exposing the odors to the generated ozone.

[0065] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus may further include an activated carbon filter for filtering volatile compounds and gases remaining from the destruction of ozone.

[0066] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus can also be configured to provide positive airflow through the waste in the composting chamber for preventing odors from escaping exterior of the composting apparatus.

[0067] In at least one embodiment, the compost chamber can be inserted and removed horizontally, vertically, or from the side of the composting device.

[0068] In at least one embodiment, the composting device may further include a liquid chamber that may be inserted and removed horizontally, vertically, or from the side of the composting device.

[0069] On the other hand, according to at least one embodiment described herein, a composting apparatus is provided, comprising: a main device body; control and power electronics comprising a processor and a memory; a first compost chamber cavity located within the main device body; a first compost chamber for performing composting of waste, the first compost chamber being located in the first compost chamber cavity, and a second compost chamber cavity being located within the main device body adjacent to the first compost chamber cavity; a second compost chamber for performing composting of waste, the second compost chamber being located in the second compost chamber cavity; and a solids diverting assembly for diverting solids between the first compost chamber and the second compost chamber; wherein the processor is configured to perform a method of generating compost when software instructions stored in the memory are executed by the processor.

[0070] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus may further include a crushing assembly comprising: a hopper having a first opening for receiving input organic waste and a second opening opposite the first opening for discharging output waste; a set of choppers located within the hopper for chopping the input organic waste into particles of reduced size; and a bottom plate positioned to seal the second opening of the hopper and leave a gap that allows smaller particles smaller than the gap to be discharged while preventing larger particles larger than the gap from being discharged, thereby recycling the larger particles into the hopper for further chopping and size reduction.

[0071] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus may further include a dewatering assembly including a filter screen assembly and a screen wiper assembly for reducing the water content of the particles.

[0072] In at least one embodiment, the filter screen assembly may rotate at a first angular velocity and the screen wiper assembly may rotate at a second angular velocity.

[0073] In at least one embodiment, during a dewatering phase of the compost, the first angular velocity is equal to the second angular velocity.

[0074] In at least one embodiment, during a cleaning phase of the composting, the first angular velocity is not equal to the second angular velocity.

[0075] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus further includes a liquid diverting assembly configured to collect liquid obtained during the dewatering phase of the compost and divert the liquid toward the liquid tank.

[0076] In at least one embodiment, the solids diversion assembly includes a dam movable between a first position and a second position; wherein the first position of the dam covers the second composting chamber and the second position of the dam covers the first composting chamber.

[0077] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus may further include an air filtration assembly.

[0078] In at least one embodiment, the air filtration assembly may include multiple ultraviolet light sources for destroying odors and controlling undesirable organisms.

[0079] In at least one embodiment, at least a first light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate at a wavelength between about 100 nm and about 240 nm for generating ozone to destroy odors.

[0080] In at least one embodiment, at least a second light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate between a wavelength of approximately 240 nm and approximately 315 nm to destroy ozone.

[0081] In at least one embodiment, the generated ozone is delivered to the first composting chamber and the second composting chamber for reducing odors in the first composting chamber and the second composting chamber by exposing the odors to the generated ozone.

[0082] In at least one embodiment, the generated ozone is delivered to the liquid chamber for reducing odor in the liquid chamber by exposing the odor to the generated ozone.

[0083] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus may further include an activated carbon filter for filtering volatile compounds and gases remaining from the destruction of ozone.

[0084] In at least one embodiment, the composting apparatus can also be configured to provide positive airflow through the waste in the composting chamber for preventing odors from escaping exterior of the composting apparatus.

[0085] Other features and advantages of the present application will become apparent from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, it will be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, although indicating preferred embodiments of the present application, are given only by way of illustration, and changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present application will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0086] For a better understanding of the various embodiments described herein, and to more clearly illustrate how these various embodiments may be implemented, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which illustrate at least one example embodiment, by way of example, and which are now described. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the teachings described herein.

[0087] Figure 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method of generating compost according to an example embodiment.

[0088] Figure 2 is a flow chart illustrating how byproducts may be transferred according to a continuous to batch process to produce compost according to an example embodiment.

[0089] Figure 3 is a flow chart illustrating how byproducts may be transferred according to a continuous to batch process to produce compost according to another example embodiment.

[0090] Figure 4 is a block diagram of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0091] Figure 5 is a block diagram of a composting device in which a compost chamber is separate from a main body of the composting device according to an example embodiment.

[0092] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a composting chamber including an impeller according to an example embodiment.

[0093] Figure 7 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of generating compost according to an example embodiment.

[0094] Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of a portion of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0095] Figure 9 is an end cross-sectional view of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0096] Figure 10 is a process flow diagram of a waste treatment process illustrating the interaction of various components of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0097] Figure 11 is a process flow diagram of a waste treatment process illustrating the interaction of various components of a composting apparatus according to another example embodiment.

[0098] Figure 12A is a block diagram of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0099] Figure 12B is a block diagram of a composting apparatus according to another example embodiment.

[0100] Figure 12C is a block diagram of a composting apparatus according to another example embodiment.

[0101] Figure 13 is a block diagram of hardware components of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0102] Figure 14A is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of generating compost according to an example embodiment.

[0103] Figure 14B is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of generating compost according to an example embodiment.

[0104] Figure 15 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of generating compost according to an example embodiment.

[0105] Figure 16 is a top view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus according to another example embodiment.

[0106] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 Front view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus.

[0107] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 A side view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus.

[0108] Figure 19A is a top view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus according to another example embodiment.

[0109] Figure 19B is a block diagram of a hopper assembly according to an example embodiment.

[0110] Figure 20A is a block diagram of a mesh filter according to an example embodiment shown in an open state.

[0111] Figure 20B It is in closed state Figure 20A Block diagram of the mesh filter.

[0112] Figure 21 is a side view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus according to another example embodiment.

[0113] Figure 22 is a rear view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus according to another example embodiment.

[0114] Figure 23 is a front view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus according to another example embodiment.

[0115] Figure 24A is a block diagram of an odor elimination system according to an example embodiment.

[0116] Figure 24B is a block diagram of an odor elimination system according to an example embodiment.

[0117] Figure 25 is a block diagram of an odor elimination system according to an example embodiment.

[0118] 26A to 26D is a block diagram of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0119] Figure 27 is a schematic circuit diagram of a composting device according to an embodiment.

[0120] Figure 28 is a top perspective view of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0121] Figure 29 is one in which the chamber door is partially removed Figure 28 A top perspective view of a composting apparatus.

[0122] Figure 30 It shows the internal system Figure 28 A perspective transparent view of a composting installation.

[0123] Figure 31 The internal system at the top rear of the device is shown Figure 28 An enlarged front perspective partially transparent view of a composting apparatus.

[0124] Figure 32 The inner system at the front bottom portion is shown. Figure 28 An enlarged perspective partial transparent view of a composting device.

[0125] Figure 33 is a front perspective view of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0126] Figure 34 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of generating compost according to an example embodiment.

[0127] Figure 35 is a top view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus according to another example embodiment.

[0128] Figure 36A yes Figure 35 Front view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus.

[0129] Figure 36B yes Figure 35 Rear view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus.

[0130] Figure 37 yes Figure 35 A top view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus.

[0131] Figure 38 is a flowchart illustrating a method of pre-processing organic waste according to example embodiments.

[0132] Figure 39 is a block diagram of a crushing assembly of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0133] Figure 40 is a block diagram of a dehydration assembly of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0134] Figure 41 is a top view of a crushing and dewatering assembly of a composting apparatus according to another example embodiment.

[0135] Figure 42 yes Figure 41 Side view of the crushing and dewatering components of a composting device.

[0136] Figure 43 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of removing a crushing system and a dewatering system according to an example embodiment.

[0137] Figure 44 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of installing a crushing system and a dewatering system according to an example embodiment.

[0138] Figure 45A is a flow chart illustrating a method of diverting pre-processed food waste into an appropriate chamber of a composting apparatus.

[0139] Figure 45B is a block diagram illustrating a method of diverting pre-processed food waste into the appropriate chamber of a composting apparatus.

[0140] Figure 46 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of pre-treating organic waste according to another example embodiment.

[0141] Figure 47 is a flow chart illustrating a method of switching from compost to liquids according to an example embodiment.

[0142] Figure 48 is a rear perspective view of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment with a composter cover removed to illustrate the flow of air through the composting apparatus.

[0143] Figure 49 A composter where the cover is removed to show the internal system of the composting unit. Figure 48 Front view of a composting unit.

[0144] Figure 50 A composter where the cover is removed to show the internal system of the composting unit. Figure 48 Side view of a composting device.

[0145] Figure 51 A composter with the cover removed to show the dual chambers of the composting unit. Figure 48 Rear view of the composting unit.

[0146] Figure 52 It shows the crushing mechanism inside Figure 48 A partially transparent side view of a crushing assembly of a composting device.

[0147] Figure 53 is shown separately Figure 48 A top perspective view of a crushing assembly of a composting device.

[0148] Figure 54 According to an example embodiment Figure 48 A side cross-sectional view of a crushing assembly of a composting device.

[0149] Figure 55A yes Figure 48 A front perspective view of a dewatering assembly of a composting apparatus.

[0150] Figure 55B yes Figure 48 A top view of the dehydration assembly of a composting device.

[0151] Figure 56A yes Figure 48 A top view of a solids diverting assembly of a composting apparatus.

[0152] Figure 56B yes Figure 48 A front perspective view of a solids diverter assembly of a composting apparatus.

[0153] Figure 57 The internal system of the compost chamber is shown Figure 48 A rear perspective partial transparent view of a compost chamber.

[0154] Figure 58 is a top perspective view of a mixer assembly according to an example embodiment.

[0155] Figure 59A It is a block diagram of two composting device systems.

[0156] Figure 59B It is a block diagram of three composting device systems. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0157] Other aspects and features of the example embodiments described herein will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0158] Description of various embodiments

[0159] Various embodiments according to the teachings of this document will be described below to provide examples of at least one embodiment of the claimed subject matter. The embodiments described herein do not limit any claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited to devices, systems, or methods having all the features of any one of the devices, systems, or methods described below, or is not limited to features common to multiple or all devices, systems, or methods described herein. It is possible that there may be devices, systems, or methods described herein that are not embodiments of any claimed subject matter. Any subject matter described herein that is not claimed in this document may be the subject of another protecting instrument, such as a subsequent patent application, and the applicant, inventor, or owner does not intend to abandon, deny, or dedicate any such subject matter to the public by the disclosure in this document.

[0160] In addition, it will be understood that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, reference numerals may be repeated in the accompanying drawings to indicate corresponding or similar elements where deemed appropriate. In addition, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, procedures, and components are not described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. In addition, this description should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0161] It should also be noted that the terms "coupled" or "coupling" as used herein can have several different meanings depending on the context in which these terms are used. For example, the terms "coupled" or "coupling" can have mechanical, electrical, or fluidic meanings. For example, as used herein, the terms "coupled" or "coupling" can indicate that two elements or devices can be connected to each other directly, or, depending on the particular context, connected to each other via one or more intermediate elements or devices via electrical signals, electrical connections, fluid pathways, or mechanical elements.

[0162] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout this specification and the claims that follow, the word "comprise" and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising" should be construed in an open, inclusive sense, that is, as meaning "including, but not limited to."

[0163] It should also be noted that, as used herein, the term "and / or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or." That is, "X and / or Y" is intended to mean, for example, X or Y or both. As a further example, "X, Y and / or Z" is intended to mean X or Y or Z, or any operable combination thereof. Thus, the term "any combination thereof" is intended to cover any operable combination of the elements preceding the phrase. For example, the phrase "A, B, C, D, or any combination thereof" encompasses A; B; C; D; A and B; A and C; A and D; B and C; B and D; C and D; A, B and C; A, B and D; A, C and D; B, C and D, and A, B, C, and D, assuming that all such combinations are operable (i.e., they can actually be used together in an operational embodiment).

[0164] It should be noted that terms of degree, such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately," as used herein, mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. Such terms of degree can also be construed as including a deviation of the modified term, such as 1%, 2%, 5%, or 10%, if such deviation does not negate the meaning of the modified term.

[0165] Furthermore, the recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints herein includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.90, 4, and 5). It is also to be understood that all numbers and fractions thereof are to be considered modified by the term "about," which means that variations of the referenced number by up to an amount, such as, for example, 1%, 2%, 5%, or 10%, are acceptable without significantly changing the end result.

[0166] Throughout this specification, reference to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "at least one embodiment," or "some embodiments" means that one or more specified features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, unless otherwise indicated as incombinable or an alternative.

[0167] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term "or" is generally employed in its broadest sense, that is, to mean "and / or," unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0168] Throughout the specification and appended claims, infinitive verb forms are frequently used. Examples include, but are not limited to, "detect," "provide," "transmit," "communicate," "process," "route," and the like. Unless the specific context requires otherwise, such infinitive verb forms are used in an open, inclusive sense, such as "at least detect," "at least provide," "at least transmit," and the like.

[0169] A portion of the example embodiments of the systems, devices, or methods described in accordance with the teachings herein may be implemented as a combination of hardware or software. For example, a portion of the embodiments described herein may be implemented at least in part by using one or more computer programs executed on one or more programmable devices including at least one processing element and at least one data storage element (including volatile memory and non-volatile memory). Depending on the type of device, these devices may also have at least one input device (e.g., a keyboard, mouse, touch screen, other input elements, or any operable combination thereof) and at least one output device (e.g., a display screen, printer, radio, other output elements, or any operable combination thereof).

[0170] It should also be noted that there may be some elements for implementing at least a portion of the embodiments described herein that can be implemented via software written in a high-level procedural language such as object-oriented programming. As known to those skilled in the art of object-oriented programming, program code can be written in C, C++, or C++. ++ Or any other suitable programming language, and may include modules or classes. Alternatively or in addition, some of these elements implemented via software may be written in assembly language, machine language, or firmware as needed.

[0171] At least some of the software programs for implementing at least one of the embodiments described herein may be stored on a storage medium or device readable by a general-purpose or special-purpose programmable device. When read by the programmable device, the software program code configures the programmable device to operate in a new, specific, and predefined manner to perform at least one of the methods described herein.

[0172] In addition, at least some of the programs associated with the systems and methods of the embodiments described herein may be capable of being distributed in a computer program product comprising a computer-readable medium carrying computer-usable instructions such as program code for one or more processors. The program code may be pre-installed and embedded during manufacturing and / or may be installed later as an update to an already deployed computing system. The medium may be provided in various forms including, but not limited to, non-transitory forms of one or more disks, optical disks, tapes, chips, and magnetic and electronic memory. In alternative embodiments, the medium may be temporary in nature, such as, but not limited to, wired transmission, satellite transmission, Internet transmission (e.g., download), media, digital and analog signals, and the like. The computer-usable instructions may also be in various formats including compiled and non-compiled code.

[0173] Thus, any device that executes software instructions described herein may include or otherwise access computer-readable media, such as storage media, computer storage media, or data storage devices (removable and / or non-removable), such as, for example, magnetic disks, optical disks, or tapes. Computer storage media may include volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Examples of computer storage media include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVDs) or other optical storage, cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other media that can be used to store desired information and can be accessed by applications, modules, or both. Any such computer storage media may be part of or accessible to or connectable to the device.

[0174] Various embodiments described herein generally relate to apparatus and methods for composting food waste, as well as paper products, cardboard products, and some plastics. Composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, such as garden waste, yard waste, and food scraps, into compost that can be used to enrich soil and plants. All organic waste will eventually decompose; however, composting can accelerate this process by providing an ideal environment for composting to occur.

[0175] On the other hand, users often have to collect food scraps for a longer period of time before adding larger volumes of food scraps to a composter to create a larger batch of compost. This is known as batch composting. However, batch composting requires users to collect food scraps before adding larger batches of food scraps to the composter. This can lead to unpleasant odors and other allergens, such as mold and dust, that can be harmful to homes or outdoor spaces.

[0176] It's beneficial to have a composter where users can continuously deposit small amounts of food scraps while still producing a large output of compost. A continuous-to-batch process combines the freedom to add scraps at any time while producing a controlled-quality batch output. Food scraps, meal leftovers, and snack waste from meal preparation can be added to the device as they progress, while still producing a usable batch of compost output.

[0177] Now refer to Figure 1 , which shows a flow chart of a method 100 for producing compost according to an example embodiment. At 102, a certain amount of waste 101 is deposited into a composting device. This certain amount of input waste 101 can be any amount of food scraps, food, organic matter, biodegradable materials, paper products, cardboard products, some plastics, or any other suitable waste. At 104, this certain amount of waste 101 can be pre-processed to produce a certain amount of pre-processed waste. At 106, a certain amount of pre-processed waste can be stored in a storage chamber for a set time period (e.g., a pre-processing storage time) to produce a certain amount of stored waste. The pre-processing storage time depends on the application of the composting device. For example, for residential users, since the capacity may not be too large for a home composting device, this period can typically be a few days to 2 weeks. However, for commercial units with larger production capacity, in some cases, as long as the pre-processed waste does not rot, the pre-processing storage time can vary from a few weeks to even several months.

[0178] At 108, the amount of stored waste can be composted to produce a batch of output compost 110. The batch of output compost 110 can be any volume of compost depending on the size of the composting device. Alternatively, the output compost can be considered an intermediate compost that is gathered together in a continuous composting cycle to form a batch of output compost that can then be removed from the composting device.

[0179] Moisture content refers to the amount of water present in a product. Input waste 101 may have a first moisture content level; and the output batch of compost 110 may have a second moisture content level. In at least one embodiment, depending on the operating parameters of the composting apparatus, the components of the composter, and its method of operation, the second moisture content level may be less than the first moisture content level; thus, the output batch of compost 110 generally contains less water, or generally has a lower moisture content level, than the input waste 101.

[0180] In another embodiment, depending on the operating parameters of the composting apparatus, the components of the composter, and its method of operation, the output compost 109 may have a third moisture content level. In this embodiment, the third moisture content level may be less than the first moisture content level, and / or the third moisture content level may be greater than the second moisture content level.

[0181] Pre-processing step 104 may include separating the volume of waste 101 into a volume of solid waste and a volume of liquid waste. Separating the volume of waste into the volume of liquid waste may involve mechanically removing liquid from the volume of waste via any suitable method. For example, mechanical removal of liquid may be performed by, but is not limited to, pressing, tumbling, or centrifuging, as well as applying mechanical pressure via a dewatering filter. In at least one embodiment, separation of solid and liquid waste may be optional.

[0182] In at least one embodiment, pre-processing step 104 may also include reducing the volume of the solid waste. Reducing the volume of the solid waste may include, but is not limited to, crushing, milling, grinding, coating, another suitable reduction method, or any operable combination thereof. Due to the reduction in volume of the solid waste, the size of individual particles of the solid waste may also be reduced. Volume reduction may be optional, as for embodiments with physically larger tanks, there may be at least one embodiment in which the household waste may simply fall into tank 910.

[0183] The crushing sequence can also be used to reduce the volume of the solid waste so that, for example, the pre-treated waste is crushed into smaller particles having a smaller particle size, such as, but not limited to, about 1 mm to about 20 mm. In at least one embodiment, the crushing sequence can involve turning on the crushing component for a set time period and then turning off the crushing component for another set time period. For a given amount of waste, the crushing sequence can be repeated any number of times, such as once, twice, three times, or more. Alternatively, the crushing can be performed until all the pre-treated waste material has passed through the chamber. In another alternative, the crushing can be performed for a longer period of time than usual, depending on the type of material being crushed. The set time period (e.g., the crushing time period) can be any time period, including, but not limited to, 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, or any other suitable time period.

[0184] In at least one embodiment, pre-treatment step 104 may further comprise drying the volume of solid waste. Drying the volume of solid waste may involve heating the volume of solid waste to reduce the moisture content. Drying may be performed by radiant heating, convection heating, conductive heating, solar heating, another suitable drying method, or any operable combination thereof. It should be noted that in some cases where the dehydration step provides a sufficient reduction in moisture content, such as to a level below approximately 50%, the drying step may be optional.

[0185] Drying the volume of solid waste can be performed by applying drying, which involves turning on (one or more) drying components for a set time period and then turning off (one or more) drying components for another set time period. The drying sequence can repeat the desired cycle any number of times, such as once, twice, three times, or more. The set time period can be any time period, including but not limited to 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, or any other time period. The drying sequence can also be triggered by a threshold temperature, using closed-loop temperature control logic to determine when the drying heater is turned on or off. For example, when the drying temperature reading is below a threshold temperature limit, the drying sequence can be turned on. Similarly, when the drying temperature reading is above a threshold temperature limit, the drying sequence can be turned off. The threshold temperature can be selected so that the threshold temperature results in temperature control that maintains the healthy growth of microorganisms so as not to kill the microorganisms and prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms such as fungi. In addition, in at least one embodiment, aeration (e.g., providing airflow from a fan) can be used to prevent mold growth and maintain the healthy growth of microorganisms. The air flow rate used can be determined experimentally based on the type and quantity of microorganisms used.

[0186] At 106, the pretreated waste is stored in the storage chamber of the composting device for a certain period of time that can be referred to as the storage time. At this point, the pretreated waste is referred to as stored waste. At this point, heating can be used so that the storage chamber also serves as a drying chamber (optionally). In at least one embodiment, a mixer can also be provided in the storage chamber to slowly rotate the waste (continuously or intermittently) to prevent small particles from sticking together into larger blocks, which may affect the transfer of this material to the composting chamber after the storage time is completed. The storage time can vary depending on how often the user provides input waste to the composting device and how full the storage chamber is. For example, a level sensor, such as but not limited to an ultrasonic sensor, can be used to monitor the fullness of the storage chamber and prevent the user from adding more when the storage chamber is full. Once the storage time is over, the stored waste is provided to the composting chamber when method 100 moves to 108.

[0187] Composting generally involves placing microorganisms in the compost chamber, and creates one or more favorable conditions for the microorganisms in the compost chamber to help composting the stored waste. Producing one or more favorable conditions in the compost chamber can involve: making air flow through the waste stored in this certain volume to ensure that the oxygen of appropriate concentration is admitted for the microorganism to experience aerobic decomposition process (also referred to as aerobic digestion process). For example, this can be achieved by using a fan. Another favorable condition is to maintain suitable moisture content level in the compost chamber by spraying or atomizing liquid into the compost chamber. The compost chamber can be periodically atomized according to the reading of a moisture sensor. For example, if the humidity in the compost chamber or a moisture sensor detect that the moisture level in the compost chamber is lower than a desired level, the microcontroller can send a control signal to one or more actuators to spray or atomize liquid into the compost chamber until the desired humidity level (for example, a moisture threshold) is reached. The relative humidity of the air in the compost chamber can be used to infer the moisture content of material in the compost chamber.

[0188] The step of creating one or more favorable conditions in the composting chamber can also involve maintaining a suitable airflow through the batch of compost by mixing the batch of compost. In at least one embodiment, this can be achieved by using an impeller within the composting chamber. In at least one embodiment, a combination of an impeller and a fan can be used to provide both the desired mixing volume and the airflow.

[0189] The step of creating one or more favorable conditions within the composting chamber may involve maintaining a desired temperature within the composting chamber.

[0190] The step of creating one or more favorable conditions within the composting chamber may involve adding additional microorganisms in powder, capsule or liquid form.

[0191] In at least one embodiment, at 110, method 100 may also involve a step of post-processing the accumulated amount of compost. The post-processing or curing step typically involves maintaining temperature and humidity control inside the compost chamber with a certain level of airflow. This is similar to the composting process, but the temperature can be set much lower, but still above room temperature, such as approximately 18°C ​​to 30°C or higher. However, the temperature in this chamber is preferably below approximately 40°C. In at least one embodiment, aeration (e.g., airflow provided by a fan) may also be used during curing to produce higher quality compost. The air flow rate for compost of the desired quality level can be determined experimentally.

[0192] Now refer to Figure 2, which shows a flow chart of a composting method 200 according to at least one embodiment and the number of cycles for transferring byproducts to produce output compost. The number of cycles can include input storage cycles, pre-treatment cycles, post-treatment storage cycles, composting cycles, post-composting storage cycles, or any operable combination thereof. For example, depositing a certain amount of waste at 201 can be performed multiple times per day. Depending on the capacity of the composting device, any amount of input waste can be deposited by the user at any time until a certain limit is reached. For example, the user can first deposit banana peels; three hours later, some rice; and two hours later, broccoli stems. Therefore, the user does not have to collect waste in batches in order to deposit large amounts of waste into the composting device. Instead, if the user wishes, they can even deposit small amounts of input waste.

[0193] At 202, a certain amount of waste may be pre-processed once within a set time period, even though the user may deposit waste material into the composting device multiple times during the set time period, which may be referred to as the pre-processing cycle time period. The pre-processing step may include the steps described at 104. In one embodiment, the pre-processing step 102 may be initiated immediately after the first deposit of input waste is completed, in which case the input storage cycle time is zero, or upon the occurrence of a triggering action. The set time period may be user-defined. The triggering action may include, but is not limited to: opening or closing a lid, a weight sensor sensing the amount of waste 101 placed within an input compartment (e.g., a hopper), a user-activated button, a countdown timer triggered based on a user-defined time, any other suitable trigger, or a combination thereof may be used to initiate the pre-processing step 202.

[0194] The triggering action may also trigger the start of a real-time clock. The real-time clock may be used to measure cycle times. These cycle times may be adaptive based on the various types of food waste input being composted and the different times that may be required at certain stages of the composting process depending on the type of food waste input. The real-time clock may also supply time data to the processor to determine whether waste transfer should occur or whether a cycle / sequence should be started. Examples of sequences that may be triggered by the real-time clock include, but are not limited to, a crushing sequence, a drying sequence, a mixing sequence, a cleaning sequence, and / or a composting sequence.

[0195] At 204, the pre-treated waste can be converted to compost using the steps described at 108. The conversion of pre-treated waste to compost can occur once per batch period. A batch period can be defined as the amount of time it takes for the input waste to be converted into compost 110. Thus, pre-treatment for compost conversion can occur once per batch period. Conversion 108 can also occur at a faster or slower frequency. For example, the conversion of pre-treatment to compost can occur twice per batch period or at any other frequency.

[0196] At 206, the compost material may be provided as a batch of output compost 110 for each batch period using the steps described at 108. Alternatively, the compost material may be collected as an intermediate compost and then aggregated after successive composting cycles to produce the batch of output compost provided once per batch period.

[0197] Now refer to Figure 3 , which shows a flow chart of a composting method 200 according to at least one embodiment and the number of cycles for transferring byproducts to produce output compost. These cycles can be similar to the cycles described for method 200. In this example embodiment, storing a certain amount of waste at 301 can be performed multiple times per day, similar to 201 of method 200, and the pretreatment 302, composting 306, and outputting the waste 308 steps can be performed in a manner similar to corresponding steps 202, 204, and 206 of method 200, respectively, but with some differences. For example, at 306, the conversion from stored pretreated waste to compost can occur multiple times per batch period.

[0198] Now refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5, which shows a block diagram of a composting device 400 according to an example embodiment. The composting device 400 may include: a main device body 412 (e.g., a housing); control and power electronics 415; a processor 416; a memory 217; a compost chamber cavity 500 located within the main device body 412; a plurality of adapters 402 disposed at one end of the compost chamber cavity 500; a compost chamber 410; and at least one sensor 414 coupled to the compost chamber 410 for obtaining sensor data for measuring / monitoring specific conditions in the compost chamber. One or more sensors 414 are communicatively coupled to the processor 416 for transmitting the sensor data to the processor 416. The compost chamber 410 includes a plurality of couplers 404, 406, 408 for coupling various components of the compost chamber 410 to the plurality of adapters 402. The compost chamber 410 can receive one or more of, including but not limited to, a fluid, a liquid, a mechanical agitation signal, and a heat signal via a plurality of couplers 404, 406, and 408, which in turn are coupled to the plurality of adapters 402. In at least one embodiment, the plurality of couplers can include, but are not limited to, a fluid coupler 404, a mechanical coupler 406, and / or an electronic coupler 408. It should be noted that, in at least one embodiment, the fluid coupler 404 and / or the electronic coupler 408 can be optional.

[0199] In this example embodiment, the compost chamber 410 is removable. In at least one alternative embodiment, the compost chamber can be fixed, but there can be an entrance that can be used to clean the compost chamber, or the user can pull out an output compost storage chamber in the form of a drawer to remove the output compost and clean the compost chamber. The removable compost chamber 410 can be removed from the main device body 412, which may occur for the purpose of cleaning and / or maintaining the compost chamber 410. However, various couplers and adapters are implemented so that the coupler can removably engage the adapter in a controlled and predictable manner so that once the compost chamber 410 can be reinserted into the main device body 412 without affecting functionality. In other words, after the compost chamber 410 is reinserted into the main device body 412, the coupler engages the adapter so that the functional components residing inside the compost chamber 410 retain functionality.

[0200] Functional components may include, but are not limited to, mechanical components, electrical and electronic components, fluidic components, or any operable combination thereof. Mechanical components include, but are not limited to, mixing components, motor shafts, conveying components, trapdoors, windows, spring-loaded tools, or any operable combination thereof. Electrical and electronic components include, but are not limited to, electric motors, heaters, fans, pumps, temperature sensors, moisture sensors, oxygen sensors, load sensors, position sensors, level sensors, image sensors, LEDs, or any operable combination thereof. Fluidic components include, but are not limited to, nozzles, pipes, fittings, sprayers, atomizers, filters, valves, aerators, reservoirs, or any operable combination thereof.

[0201] The removable compost chamber 410 maintains composting conditions for a set batch period. Once the composting cycle is complete, the compost chamber 410 can be removed from the main device body 412 with the compost inside. The compost can then be transferred from the compost chamber 410 to an external area (typically into a separate container). The compost chamber 410 can be returned to the main device body 412. The functional components inside the compost chamber 410 can be reconnected to the adapter 402 of the main device body 412 for the next composting cycle.

[0202] Fluid coupler 404 can be coupled to a fluid adapter. Fluid coupler 404 and the fluid adapter can be used to transfer fluids into and out of compost chamber 410. Examples of fluids that can be transferred into compost chamber 410 include, but are not limited to, water, oxygenated water, alcohol, oxygen, nitrogen, air, compressed air, ethylene, carbon dioxide, any other fluid required during the composting process, or any operable combination thereof. Examples of fluids that can be transferred out of compost chamber 410 include, but are not limited to, clean water, oxygenated water, gray water (also known as "juice"), alcohol, oxygen, nitrogen, air, compressed air, ethylene, carbon dioxide, any other fluid emitted during the composting process, or any operable combination thereof. If the dehydration process is performed using a mechanical device in which particles float within a fluid medium, the term "juice" can be used, as the result is a "juice-like" liquid. This juice is commonly found at the bottom of the compost bin of a composting system and is concentrated and high in nutrients. This juice is sometimes also called leachate or compost tea.

[0203] Mechanical coupler 406 can be coupled to a corresponding mechanical adapter. For example, mechanical coupler 406 and a corresponding mechanical adapter can be used to transmit power from a motor to drive a shaft. The shaft can be connected to any driven mechanism, such as, but not limited to, an impeller, a pedal, an auger, a piston, a blade, a juicer, or any other crushing mechanism, grinding mechanism, mixing mechanism, conveying mechanism, or pulverizing mechanism. The motor is typically located outside a chamber that houses a movable element / driven mechanism driven by the motor. Such chambers can include a pre-processing chamber, a storage chamber, and / or a composting chamber. In at least one embodiment, two or more motors can be used to drive corresponding shafts. In at least one embodiment, one motor can be used in conjunction with a belt and / or a gear assembly / gearbox to drive multiple shafts.

[0204] The driven mechanism can be removably connected to the shaft so that it can be removed for cleaning and / or maintenance, or interchangeable with another type of drive device. For example, an impeller can be used to crush pre-processed waste; however, a specialized crusher may be required to grind tough food items such as bones or fruit pits. Therefore, the impeller can be replaced with a blade crusher to crush tough food items. For example, a user can swap in different impeller attachments depending on the type of food item. Alternatively, different attachments can be coupled to the shaft depending on the desired function. For example, a brush attachment can be coupled to the shaft to clean the interior of the chamber, a blunt impact blade can be removably coupled to the shaft to provide crushing, a pedal blade can be removably coupled to the shaft to sweep material and carry it upward or move it in another direction, an aeration blade can be removably coupled to the shaft to provide further aeration through injected air flow, an injection blade can be removably coupled to the shaft to inject water as the shaft rotates, a heatable blade can be removably coupled to the shaft to provide conductive heating, or any combination thereof.

[0205] Electronic coupler 408 can be used to transmit signals between compost chamber 410 and processor 416. In one embodiment, sensor 414 can collect sensor data regarding the conditions of compost chamber 410, and the sensor data can be sent for storage in memory 417 and / or sent to processor 416 for processing. The sensor data can be sent as electrical signals that can be transmitted via electronic coupler 408 and electronic adapter 402. In another embodiment, the signals collected from sensor 414 can be sent directly to processor 416 for processing. This can occur if processor 416 has an analog input I / O pin to read the voltage measured by a given sensor, and then uses an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) to convert the analog reading into a digital reading, and then uses an algorithm to process the digital reading to convert the digital reading into a corresponding physical reading. The physical reading can then be stored in memory. One or more sensors 414 can include, but are not limited to, temperature sensors, moisture sensors, relative humidity sensors, gas sensors, level sensors, Hall effect sensors, load cells (i.e., sensors for weight measurement), image sensors, or any operable combination thereof. In alternative embodiments, other weight sensors may be used instead of load cells. In yet another alternative embodiment, other proximity sensors besides Hall effect sensors may be used. In at least one embodiment, at least one level sensor may be used. Examples of other proximity and level sensors that may be used include, but are not limited to, inductive sensors, capacitive sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and / or infrared sensors. Examples of other weight sensors that may be used include, but are not limited to, pressure / strain sensors.

[0206] In at least one embodiment, the composting chamber 410 may further include a pre-treatment tank. The pre-treatment tank may include, but is not limited to, at least one condenser or dehydration mechanism, at least one fan, at least one crushing mechanism, or any operable combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, a heater may also be included in the pre-treatment tank.

[0207] Now refer to Figure 6 , which shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of a composting chamber 410 including an impeller 600 according to at least one example embodiment. Alternatively, in at least one embodiment, the composting chamber 410 can have multiple impellers arranged side by side (e.g., laterally offset from each other) with multiple shafts driving the multiple impellers, which allows for horizontal scaling without changing the height of the composting apparatus.

[0208] Reference again Figure 6Impeller 600 is a ribbon impeller comprising a first spiral fin configuration 602 and a second spiral fin configuration 604. The first spiral fin configuration 602 and the second spiral fin configuration 604 typically operate in opposite angular directions, e.g., the inner and outer spirals always rotate in opposite directions, resulting in opposite particle flows. In at least one embodiment, the first spiral fin configuration 602 and the second spiral fin configuration 604 may also be arranged concentrically. Alternatively, in at least one embodiment, the first spiral fin configuration 602 and the second spiral fin configuration 604 may be arranged so that their longitudinal axes are perpendicular to each other. In at least one embodiment, the first spiral fin configuration 602 and the second spiral fin configuration may have mirrored structures relative to a central slice plane 608. In at least one embodiment, the first spiral fin configuration 602 and the second spiral fin configuration 604 may form a continuous spiral. Alternatively, in at least one embodiment, the first spiral fin configuration 602 and the second spiral fin configuration 604 may be discrete spiral segments. In one embodiment, operating the impeller produces a uniform mixture of solid compost particles. Particle size can vary from 0.5 mm to 20 mm or larger. A homogeneous mixture of different particle sizes may be beneficial for compost quality control.

[0209] The outer helix of the impeller 600 mixes the particles by continuously conveying them from the walls of the compost chamber 410 toward the center of the compost chamber 410, while the inner helix conveys the particles from the center of the compost chamber 410 toward the walls of the compost chamber 410. When a double-helix ribbon impeller is used, it can produce a particle flow that is lemniscate in nature, which is particularly useful for thoroughly mixing particles of various sizes. Alternatively, when the ribbon impeller is made of discrete helical segments, these discrete segments act as paddles (so that the impeller operates similarly to a paddle mixer), but still facilitates a lemniscate particle flow.

[0210] The direction of rotation of the impeller 600 can be changed depending on the location at which the particles are being conveyed out of the compost chamber 410. For example, if there is an exit door at one end of the compost chamber 410, the direction of rotation of the impeller 600 can be changed periodically so that the particles can travel toward the side of the compost chamber 410 to be conveyed outside the compost chamber 410. In an embodiment where the exit door is located in the center of the compost chamber 410, the impeller 600 can be operated so that the particles accumulate in the middle of the compost chamber 410, and when the exit door is open, the particles can be conveyed out of the compost chamber 410 in the middle of the compost chamber 410.

[0211] The specific structure and size of impeller 600 can be selected based on the application, such as, but not limited to, the diameter of the spiral, the pitch, and the number of cycles per side from its center. For example, for a residential composting unit, the diameter can range from about 5 cm to about 100 cm, and for a commercial composting unit (e.g., used in a food manufacturing facility), the diameter can be up to about 10 meters. In at least one embodiment, the ribbon impeller operates horizontally relative to the central slice plane 608.

[0212] Now refer to Figure 7 , which shows a block diagram of a method 700 for producing compost according to an example embodiment. At 701, food waste is generated. At 702, the food waste is collected. In one embodiment, the food waste is collected in a hopper (which may also be referred to as an input compartment or input storage compartment). At 704, the collected food waste is broken into scraps using a suitable crushing component such as those described herein. In at least one embodiment, dehydration may also be performed at 704 by applying pressure, centrifugation, and / or tumbling through a filter. At 706, the crushed scraps can then be continuously pretreated for a pretreatment period under controlled conditions (e.g., a desired temperature, desired humidity, etc.) within a pretreatment chamber to produce dried food scraps. Typically, closed-loop logic control based on temperature control or relative humidity control can be used to determine the length of the pretreatment period. For example, during the composting stage, if the conditions within the compost chamber are too dry, water can be injected into the compost chamber. During a set period (ranging from at least one hour to one or more months), the dried scraps may accumulate within the pre-treatment chamber. After the set pre-treatment period, the dried scraps may be transferred from the pre-treatment chamber to the composting chamber. In an alternative embodiment, at least some of the dried scraps may be further dried by condensing any moist air surrounding the dried scraps. From 706 and optionally 708, method 700 proceeds to 710, where the batch of dried scraps may then be composted within the composting chamber, for example, for another set period of time ranging from at least one hour to one or more months. In an alternative embodiment, the dried scraps may be pre-treated for a set period that is shorter than the total batch period and transferred to a pre-treatment storage chamber within the pre-treatment chamber, or to a separate chamber such as chamber 806, chamber 916, and / or chamber 910. Once the batch period ends, the dried scraps may accumulate within this compartment or separate chamber through multiple transfer cycles before all material is transferred to the composting chamber. For example, since the composting device may operate according to the user's daily activity and sleep cycles, this transfer may occur once every 24 hours based on daily routine.

[0213] Now refer to Figure 8, which shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a composting apparatus 808. The composting apparatus 808 includes a pre-processing tank 810, a first motor 802 coupled to a shaft 813 of a dewatering mechanism 812. The dewatering mechanism 812 can be located within the pre-processing tank 810. The dewatering mechanism 812 can include a filter 815 (in the Figure 8 ), and the pressure increases from right to left in the figure. The liquid will pass through the filter 815 and the flow channel 816, while the solids will flow into the waste collection chamber (also referred to as the pre-processing storage chamber). The composting device 808 also includes a composting chamber 814. The composting chamber 814 may include a second motor 804 coupled to the shaft 806. In at least one embodiment, the second motor 804 may be used to drive the shaft 806, which has an attached mixing pedal and / or blade to rotate the pre-processed debris during the composting stage to avoid clumping of the pre-processed debris. The operation of the motor 804 may be adjusted in a manner similar to that of the motor 802, but different off / on sequences may be used. The composting device 808 may include a removable composting chamber 410 as well as sensors, fluid couplers, and adapters for the composting device 400 and / or the impeller 600.

[0214] The shaft 806 can be connected to any one of a mixer, a piston, a blade, a juicer, or any other suitable crushing, grinding, or pulverizing mechanism, but is not limited thereto. The crushing, grinding, or pulverizing mechanism can be removably connected to the shaft 806 so that the mechanism can be interchangeable. For example, an impeller can be used to crush pre-processed waste, but a specialized crusher may be required to grind hard foods such as bones or eggshells. Therefore, a blade crusher can be used instead of a mixer to crush hard foods. For example, a user can use different impeller attachments depending on the type of food. Alternatively, different attachments can be attached to the shaft 806 so that they can be selectively used depending on the desired function. For example, a brush attachment can be coupled to the shaft 806 to clean the interior of the pre-processing chamber.

[0215] Figure 9 is a block diagram of a composting device according to another exemplary embodiment. In this embodiment, a composting device 900 is shown. The composting device 900 may include a water tank 902, a liquid tank 904, a composting chamber 906, a condenser 908, a pre-treatment tank 910, a heater and fan 912, a lid 914, a first motor 916, a second motor 918, and a door 920. The composting device 900 may include a sensor, a fluid coupler and adapter, an impeller 600, and / or a dewatering mechanism 812 for removable composting chamber 410 and composting device 400. The condenser 908 may be a single unit having an annular shape. In at least one embodiment, the condenser 908 may be replaced with an air filter.

[0216] The pretreatment tank 910 may have an upper chamber 924 and a lower chamber 926. The upper chamber may have a lid 914 coupled thereto, which can be opened so that a user can deposit food waste. The upper chamber 924 may also contain a first motor 918. The first motor 918 may be removably coupled to a pretreatment device (not shown), which may be used during pretreatment for crushing, volume reduction, centrifugation for dehydration, or any combination thereof. The pretreatment device may be removed for cleaning purposes. For example, in at least one embodiment, the motor 918 may be coupled to a dehydration mechanism. Food waste deposited by opening the lid 914 may be pretreated by the pretreatment device coupled to the motor 918. After pretreatment, the pretreated waste may be transferred to the lower chamber. The lower chamber 926 may contain a second motor 916 (e.g., the second motor 916 may be the same as the motor 804 (e.g., the pretreatment mixing motor)). The motor 916 may be coupled to an impeller or ribbon mixer 917. An impeller or ribbon mixer 917 can also be used as a conveying mechanism to convey the compost through a door 920 located in the center of the lower wall of the compost chamber 906. This can be achieved by the impeller or mixer continuously conveying all the particles to the center of the compost chamber. The composting device 900 can optionally include a water tank 902 for storing clean water. In an alternative embodiment, a filter can be used instead of the door 920, wherein the filter has a screen that only allows particles of a specific size to pass through.

[0217] In at least one embodiment, composting apparatus 900 may optionally include a liquid tank 904 for storing liquid or gray water. For example, in embodiments that perform dehydration, as the shredded food waste is dehydrated, liquid will emerge and flow into liquid tank 904. This liquid is not as clear or pure as the condensed water in water tank 902. Instead, this liquid may be referred to as liquid compost (also known as compost tea). This liquid can be stored in liquid tank 904 to be converted into liquid compost or compost tea, or it can be periodically discarded by the user.

[0218] In at least one embodiment, the composting device 900 may optionally include a condenser 908 with or without a liquid tank 904. The condenser 908 may be configured to use only a fan, or a fan and a Peltier element having a hot side and a cold side, wherein the hot side may be cooled by the fan. In such embodiments, when moist warm air flows upward from the bottom to the condenser 908, the cooler surface of the condenser 908 cools the air, thereby causing water to condense, which may then flow to the water tank 904. A fan may also be used to create a temperature difference between the condensation mass and the surrounding air. The air contacts the condensation mass (typically a radiator shape) and becomes condensed.

[0219] In at least one embodiment, a disinfection sequence may be included to kill pathogens. For example, UV light may be included to provide disinfection / sanitation. UV light disinfection may be performed using a UV light inside the condenser, or in embodiments without a condenser, using a UV light inside the air filter that may be positioned where the condenser would otherwise be positioned. In at least one embodiment, the UV light may also be placed above the liquid tank to prevent odor generation or mold. UV LEDs may be used to provide increased lifespan. The UV lights may also preferably be sealed so that they cannot be accessed by the user, who may otherwise damage them. In at least one embodiment, additional disinfection may also be performed at the end of the composting cycle, which may be done by irradiating the compost with UV light from UV LEDs and / or exposing the compost to an elevated temperature of approximately 80°C to 90°C. However, this may not be necessary if the pathogen levels in the compost material are low.

[0220] Figure 10 and Figure 11 A process flow diagram of a waste treatment process illustrating the interaction of various components of a composting apparatus according to an example embodiment is provided. The waste treatment process follows the process flow diagram, wherein food waste is pretreated and composted in a two-stage process comprising a pretreatment stage and a composting stage.

[0221] For high-quality compost, the input of the composting stage can be roughly about 3mm to about 5mm in size and about 50% water content. If the input waste is already in these conditions (for example, if the input waste is coffee grounds from an espresso machine, or carrot cake from a juicer), the input waste has been pre-processed by other equipment. In such cases, such input waste can be directly input into a composting machine to produce output compost. For example, the input end (for example, a hopper) of a composting device can be connected to the grinding waste output end of a coffee machine or the pulp waste output end of a juicer so that coffee grindings or pulp automatically fall into the input end of a composting device. However, for other input food waste that is not broken and / or dehydrated, such input food waste undergoes a pre-treatment process step, otherwise it may be difficult to experience effective aerobic composting in the composting stage.

[0222] The pretreatment stage can follow a sequential or simultaneous flow. In a simultaneous flow, fresh input waste is continuously mixed with pretreated waste. In at least one embodiment, the pretreatment steps can be performed in a sequential manner.

[0223] During pre-processing, the input food waste undergoes a volume reduction step, wherein a crushing, milling, grinding, or coating process is performed using the milling assembly 1004 and the milling motor 1002. For example, as the food waste passes through the chamber where the food waste is crushed, it may then be milled, then cut, and then ground. The volume reduction step ensures a reduction in overall volume, an increase in bulk density, and a reduction in individual particle size.

[0224] In at least one embodiment, a dehydration step can optionally be performed, in which liquid molecules surrounding the food waste particles are mechanically removed via compression, tumbling, or centrifugation. This results in a reduction in overall moisture content. The removed liquid follows the juices to liquid tank assembly 1008. Alternatively, dehydration can be applied during the milling step, as the milled food waste fragments are compressed during milling and crushing. Optionally, any gray water output from the dehydration step can be passed through a filter, such as a metal mesh. The filtered water can then flow into liquid tank assembly 1008 for storage. Liquid tank assembly 1008 can comprise a combination of a water tank and a liquid tank.

[0225] In addition to or in lieu of dehydration, the food waste particles can be dried using a drying assembly 1006 operated by a heater (instead) and a fan 1009a. The drying step involves convectively removing water from the food waste particles using (hot) air as it passes around the surface of the food waste particles and evaporates the water into water vapor. This step further reduces the overall moisture content of the food waste particles, resulting in drier food waste particles.

[0226] The mixing process using the mixing motor 1007a may also be performed during this convection drying stage where the food waste scraps are continuously homogenized so that the reduction in moisture content is uniform across the batch.

[0227] In at least one embodiment, the pre-processing step can occur simultaneously as new food waste input is added to the composting device and progresses through the various elements of the pre-processing stage. In at least one embodiment, a condenser assembly 1010 can be used to provide airflow to the drying assembly. The dried scraps can then be transferred to the composting chamber 1012. The composting chamber 1012 can include a mixing motor 1007b and / or a heater and fan 1009b.

[0228] In the composting stage, for the microbial digestion dry food waste fragments in the composting chamber 1012 have been created favourable conditions. For example, can use the natural microorganisms such as but not limited to Bacillaceae, Enterobacteriaceae and Oxalobacteraceae microbial section. For example, in this stage, can cause hot air to flow through dry fragments, to guarantee that aerobic decomposition process has sufficient oxygen, simultaneously by sporadically injecting water spray or mist on the dry waste fragments and maintain the moisture content level of expectation, so that the thin water film that is wrapped around the waste fragments is created to be used for the local environment of the expectation of living and breeding of microbial species. In some cases, microorganism is provided by the input waste that user provides. In order to maintain sufficient airflow through this batch, can use constant mixing, so that the agglomeration particles with different particle sizes are decomposed into the particle of smaller size, and for air flow through creating path to remove water vapor and supply the fresh air with oxygen. The operating parameter that is used to provide favourable conditions for microorganism can be determined by experiment, and can change according to the type of food waste that deposits in the composting device.

[0229] The clean water in liquid tank assembly 1008 inside can be used for the composting stage in compost chamber 1012 inside.When clean water is by the mixer or the impeller rotation of mixing motor 1007b actuation, clean water can be atomized or sprayed on the previously dry broken material.Heater and fan 1009b can supply the hot air that continues to flow through compost chamber 1012 for removing excessive water vapor and to the microorganism supply oxygen on the surface water film that resides in dry broken material.Alternatively, in at least one embodiment, fan can operate continuously, and heater only opens when temperature drops to below the compost temperature threshold value, to produce high-quality compost.Although, air is not necessarily always hot.

[0230] Figure 11 Depicted are the functional mechanical and electrical blocks with flow directions for the three stages of food waste processing in an example embodiment. A milling electric motor can be used to generate torque for the volume reduction operation. Once completed, the milled solids are conveyed to the drying assembly, where they undergo convective drying and continuous mixing. Therefore, the mixing motor can be operated intermittently during the mixing cycle during the convective drying step to prevent the dehydrated food from clumping / sticking together. However, in some cases, the drying cycle may be optional and independent of the mixing cycle. A heater and fan can be used to generate a hot air flow to heat the particles to their wet temperature for evaporating surface water into water vapor. This airflow then travels through the pre-treatment chamber into the condenser assembly, where the water vapor condenses into liquid water due to the temperature gradient. This water then flows into the liquid tank assembly. During the condensation step, the relative humidity of the hot air decreases. The output air can then be returned to the drying assembly for recirculation.

[0231] In at least one embodiment, Figure 11 As shown in FIG, the mixing motor 1007, heater and / or fan 1009 can be used for both the drying assembly and the composting chamber 1012. In other words, one set of motors, heaters and / or fans can be used for both the pre-treatment chamber and the composting chamber.

[0232] Figure 12A A block diagram of a composting device 1202 according to an example embodiment is provided. Figure 12A The relative positions of the functional chambers or tanks are depicted in . When the top cover 914 is open, food waste input 101 is added to the device 1202. When the cover 914 is closed, the milling motor 918 operates to convey the food waste input 101 toward the milling blades (not shown). As the food waste 101 passes through the milling blades, the food waste input 101 is milled into smaller sized particles and is optionally dehydrated due to the higher pressure generated when the food waste input passes through the milling blades and is pressed together. The dried scraps fall downward into the drying assembly 916, and the juice flows into the liquid tank 904. The dried scraps are then convection dried using a heater and fan 912 to reach the desired moisture content level within a set amount of time. This process can be repeated at any frequency, such as multiple times a day, multiple times a week, or as required by the user.

[0233] Figure 12BFIG1 is a block diagram of a composting apparatus 1203 according to another exemplary embodiment, wherein composting apparatus 1203 may include a heat sink 1202, a motor 1204, and a filter 918. Motor 1204 is connected to shaft 806, which is coupled to piston 911. The head of piston 911 is labeled "piston" and has a vertical shaft 911s. Shaft 911s is a helical shaft, and piston 911 is mounted to shaft 911s so that it can move up and down depending on the direction of rotation of shaft 911s. When lid 914 is open, food waste input 101 is added to composting apparatus 1203. When lid 914 is closed, motor 1204 operates piston 911 to apply mechanical pressure and also convey food waste input 101 toward milling blades 913. As food waste 101 passes through milling blades 913, it is milled into smaller particles to form pre-processed scraps. Dehydration is achieved by mechanical pressure generated by piston 911. Therefore, when piston 911 moves upward, newly input food waste is broken up at milling blades 913, while also applying pressure for dehydration. Milling blades 913 can guide the pre-processed scraps toward the trapdoor and out of the trapdoor to the compost chamber. Alternatively, or in addition, piston 911 can help transfer the pre-processed scraps into the compost chamber. Thereafter, when piston 911 moves downward, more newly input food waste is received, and when piston 911 moves upward again, this cycle is repeated. In some cases, the upper portion of pre-processing chamber 910 can be tilted to allow liquid to pass through filter 918 after breaking and dehydration and flow into liquid tank 904 through filter 918. The tilted orientation also allows pre-processed solids to pass through trapdoors (not shown) on the sides of pre-processing chamber 910 to be transferred into the compost chamber (not shown).

[0234] Figure 12C is a block diagram of a composting apparatus 1206 according to yet another embodiment. When the top cover 914 is open, food waste input 101 is added to the composting apparatus. When the cover 914 is closed, the motor M operates a grinding device, which can be a mixer (not shown). As the food waste 101 passes through the mixer, the food waste input 101 is ground into smaller particles to form pre-processed scraps. Dehydration can also be performed by adding dry material such as soil, paper products, wheat bran, or a previous batch of pre-processed scraps to the pre-processing tank 910.

[0235] The pre-treated dried scraps can then be stored inside the pre-treatment tank 910 to be transferred to the composting chamber 906. After the water vapor travels from the bottom of the drying assembly, it becomes condensed inside the condenser and the water may flow into the water tank 902 to be stored for the composting stage. Figure 12AThe condenser 908 is implemented in a similar manner.

[0236] After a set period of time, or when the last batch of pre-processing is complete, the pre-processed waste can be transferred to the compost chamber 906. In one embodiment, a door 920 can be used, and the mixing mechanism described above can be used to transfer the pre-processed waste. Alternatively, a ribbon impeller mixer can be used to both mix and transfer the pre-processed waste to the compost chamber 906.

[0237] The composting stage is carried out inside the composting chamber 906. It may take several days for the pre-treated scraps to mature into mature compost that can be exported. Once the composting stage is completed, the composting chamber 906 can be removed from the main device body and the compost can be transported as the output of the composting device. Figure 6 An example embodiment of a removable composting chamber is shown. In one embodiment, liquid tank 904 and water tank 902 can be removed from the main device body for cleaning and / or maintenance, and then reattached. In at least one embodiment, liquid tank 904 can be used to store wastewater from the cleaning cycle. In another example, there can be a condensate storage chamber into which condensed water flows. The condensate storage chamber can have an opening to admit water, or a check valve to establish flow when inserted into the composting device. Either way, the condensate storage chamber can be pulled out horizontally by hand. Once the water is drained, the user can push the condensate storage chamber back into the main device body.

[0238] Now refer to Figure 13 , which shows a block diagram of a hardware architecture 1300 of a composting device according to an example embodiment. The hardware architecture 1300 generally includes control and power electronics 1011, actuators 1322, sensors 1304, and bio-interface circuitry 1306.

[0239] The control and power electronics 1011 supplies power to the composting apparatus and controls the operation of the various components. Power is supplied to the AC adapter and fuse 1316 via the main power supply 1320. The AC-DC converter 1314 is used to convert the AC voltage into a DC voltage. This DC voltage is then regulated by the voltage regulator 1312 to provide power to a microcontroller such as a microcontroller 1310 (which may be connected to a power supply). Figure 41306) and various electronic components of the bio-interface circuit 1306. Alternatively, in at least one embodiment, a battery pack may be used to provide power. Alternatively, a battery pack may be included to provide a backup power source. AC and DC relays 1318 may be used to control actuators 1322 within the composting apparatus. Sensors 1304 are communicatively coupled to microcontroller 1310 to transmit sensed data to be processed and / or stored. Memory 417 may be used to store a real-time operating system and programs for controlling and / or analyzing certain aspects of the pretreatment and / or composting process.

[0240] The composting device can also communicate with external devices via radio frequency transceiver 1308 and antenna 1302. In another embodiment, network hardware can be additionally included for communicating with devices connected to a wired network. In another embodiment, the composting device can include both radio and network hardware.

[0241] Actuators 1322 within the composting apparatus may include, but are not limited to, heater and fan 1009, mixing motor 1007, milling motor 1002, and pump 1324. The operation of these actuators 1322 has been provided in the description of the various embodiments of the composting apparatus and composting process described herein.

[0242] Sensors 1304 within the composting device include, but are not limited to, a temperature sensor 1326, a moisture sensor 1328, a relative humidity sensor 1330, a gas sensor 1332, a Hall effect sensor 1334, a weighing sensor 1336, and an image sensor 1338. In at least one embodiment, there may be multiple gas sensors 1332, multiple Hall effect sensors 1334, multiple weighing sensors 1336, and multiple image sensors 1338. Hall effect sensors 1334 are magnetic detectors that detect the presence of a magnet and provide a binary or linear output based on distance. Hall effect sensors 1334 can be used to determine whether the device is in place. Loading sensors 1336 convert mechanical load signals into analog signals, typically voltage levels, which can then be read by microcontroller 1310 to measure the weight of an item. For example, a quantity of food waste input into a hopper, pre-processing storage chamber, and / or composting chamber can be weighed. In at least one embodiment, image data can be obtained to record video and image sequences, allowing a user or another person to observe the composting process over time. The operation of sensor 1304 has been provided in the description of the various embodiments of the composting apparatus and composting process described herein.

[0243] Bio-interface circuit 1306 includes, but is not limited to, a light-emitting diode (LED) 1340, a button 1342, a speaker 1344, and a microphone 1346. Bio-interface circuit 1306 can be used to communicate with a user of the composting device. For example, LED 1340 can be used to visually communicate with the user to visually indicate status and / or operational errors. Similarly, speaker 1344 can be used to provide audio messages to the user regarding status and / or operation. The user can use button 1342 and microphone 1346 to provide input or control instructions to the composting device.

[0244] The microprocessor 1310 can be a dual-core microprocessor, and the memory 417 stores software instructions for implementing a real-time operating system (RTOS) framework. This allows independent sequences (implementing tasks in RTOS terms) to be executed asynchronously, meaning that a sequence can be started, executed, and terminated by logic checks dedicated to the task at hand and incorporating timing components such as elapsed time. This allows, for example, each process (i.e., an asynchronous computer program sequence) to have a time limit and therefore a countdown that is executed to determine which sequence should terminate. For example, the pretreatment process can have a time limit of approximately 24 hours, the composting process can have a time limit of approximately 7 days, and the crushing sequence can have a time limit of approximately 5 minutes. However, other time limits can also be used in some cases. Some of the sequences can be timed to follow each other, while some of the sequences can be executed in parallel as previously described. The microprocessor 1310 can provide a clock for timing the timing of the various sequences. Alternatively, a real-time counter can be used to count time.

[0245] RTOS implementation takes into account hardware implementation. For example, if the total number of actuators and sensors used in a composting device is reduced, it may be possible to implement simpler embedded sequences for pre-processing and composting. However, there may also be embodiments in which more complex sensors that can sense multiple conditions (e.g., temperature, RH) and / or detect specific items (e.g., gas) may be used, which may require more complex RTOS sequences that may require higher processing power.

[0246] In addition, there is a looped sequence that runs simultaneously to implement a closed-loop control logic, which can include but is not limited to a temperature control logic loop used during the pretreatment and composting sequences. The temperature control logic loop can use different timings for the pretreatment and composting sequences. In such a looped sequence, sensor input data (e.g., sensor readings) obtained by certain sensors can be used to trigger a switch (e.g., MOSFET) coupled to an actuator to open or close the actuator according to the closed-loop control logic. Some sensor input data can also be used to control the duration of the opening or closing of these actuators. For example, a weighing sensor can be used to obtain sensor data for determining the weight of the input waste. The weight of the input waste can be used to determine the moisture content in the input waste. The moisture content in the input waste can then be used to determine how much water can be injected by a sprinkler during the pretreatment stage.

[0247] In addition, when the user interacts with the bio-interface circuit 1306, user input can be provided, and these user inputs can be used to start or stop one or more asynchronous sequences. For example, the user can press a button on the main device housing, which provides user input to run the crushing sequence. Alternatively, the user can press another button to close the lid, which in turn triggers the Hall effect sensor 1334 to automatically start the crushing sequence. For example, a magnet can be attached to the lid, and when the lid is closed, the magnet is very close to the Hall effect sensor, which sends a signal to the processor as a trigger. Similar operations can be performed during the composting process, such as but not limited to the situation where the compost chamber is returned to the inside of the main device body, which can be sensed by another Hall effect sensor 1334, which then automatically starts a computer program sequence that allows the pre-treated crushed material to be transferred to the compost chamber, thereby starting the next composting cycle.

[0248] The bio-interface circuit 1306 may also provide status signals to certain components on the exterior of the main device housing, such as an LED 1340 and / or a speaker 1344, to provide a status identifier to the user to indicate the operational status of the composting device. For example, the status identifier may be used to indicate when a particular tank, such as a water tank or a liquid tank, is full, when a composting cycle is complete, when a pre-treatment cycle is complete, when a blockage occurs, whether the composting device is connected to a Wi-Fi, mobile phone, or LTE network, and when other error modes are detected, such as when adverse composting conditions are detected.

[0249] Now refer to Figure 14A and Figure 14B, which shows a process flow diagram of a method 1400A for producing compost according to an example embodiment. The use of method 1400 depends on the architecture of a composting device. In this embodiment, multiple composting chambers can be located within the composting device. At 1401, waste is input into the composting device. At 1402, the solid input waste of a certain volume can be milled, ground or covered to reduce the size of individual particles in the solid waste of the certain volume. At 1403, the waste after milling can be dehydrated.

[0250] In at least one embodiment, a dehydration step 1403 can optionally be performed, in which liquid molecules surrounding the food waste particles are mechanically removed via compression, tumbling, or centrifugation. This results in a reduction in overall moisture content. Alternatively, dehydration can be applied during the milling step, as the milled food waste fragments are compressed during milling and crushing. Optionally, any gray water output from dehydration step 1403 can be passed through a filter, such as a perforated metal mesh. The filtered water can then flow into a liquid tank assembly for storage. The liquid tank assembly can include a combination of a water tank and a liquid tank.

[0251] At 1404, the milled waste can be placed into the appropriate composting chamber. In at least one embodiment, a processor can be configured to determine which of the multiple chambers is most suitable for the input waste. Alternatively, a user can select a chamber by directly moving an object, such as a dam, or using a control element to move the dam to direct the compost into the chamber of their choice. For example, in one example, a user can enter waste into the composting apparatus, and once the input waste is milled, the processor can determine and send the waste to a first chamber for composting. Subsequently, if the user enters waste into the composting apparatus again, the processor can determine and send the waste to a second chamber. The processor selection criteria can be based on a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, at least one of the multiple chambers is full, at least one of the multiple chambers cannot accept more waste, at least one of the multiple chambers is in an inoperable state, at least one of the multiple chambers is currently in use, at least one of the multiple chambers is in the middle of a composting sequence, and any other reason that can improve the efficiency of the composting apparatus. For example, in one embodiment, the multiple chambers can be operated in an offset cycle. Thus, when the first chamber begins the composting phase, the processor may determine to begin collecting input waste into subsequent composting chambers. In one embodiment, there may be a chamber at each stage of the composting process, including but not limited to pre-composting 1405, composting 1406, and output waste 1407.

[0252] Now refer to Figure 14B, which shows a process flow diagram illustrating a method 1400B for producing compost according to another example embodiment. The use of method 1500 depends on the architecture of the composting device. In method 1500, due to one of the reasons previously described, waste can enter the first chamber at 1404A or the second chamber at 1404B. The subsequent steps of method 1500 can be performed independently in each chamber. At 1405A and 1405B, the input waste can be pre-processed. At 1407A and 1407B, the output compost is generated. The steps of method 1500 can occur as described herein.

[0253] The number of cycles for each of the multiple chambers can be offset to improve efficiency. In at least one embodiment, the number of cycles can include input storage cycles, pre-treatment cycles, post-treatment storage cycles, composting cycles, and post-composting storage cycles, occurring temporally in a given order. In some cases, one of these cycles may be optional. For example, depositing a certain amount of waste at 1401 can be performed multiple times per day. Depending on the capacity of a given chamber of the composting device, a user can deposit any amount of input waste at any time, up to a certain limit. For example, a user could deposit banana peels first; three hours later, some rice; and two hours later, broccoli stems. Thus, users do not have to collect waste in bulk in order to deposit large quantities of waste into the composting device. Instead, they can deposit even small amounts of input waste if they wish.

[0254] The pre-processed waste can be converted into compost at 1406A and 1407B. At 1407A and 1407B, the compost material can be provided to each chamber as a batch of output compost. Alternatively, compost material from multiple chambers can be collected as an intermediate compost and then aggregated together after consecutive composting cycles to produce the batch of output compost provided once per batch period.

[0255] Now refer to Figure 15, which shows a process flow diagram illustrating a method 1500 for generating compost according to an example embodiment. At 1501, a user may generate a certain amount of food waste. For example, the user may generate food waste during meal preparation, leftovers, beverages, gardening, or other forms of organic material production. The user may collect the waste into a container for collection. At 1502, the user may transfer the collected amount of food waste to a hopper of a composting device. Alternatively, the user may directly transfer the waste into the hopper of the composting device. At 1503, the device may process the food waste within the hopper for transfer. As previously described, a processor or the user may then determine, based on given criteria, which of the multiple composting chambers the food waste should be transferred to. At 1504, the device transfers the processed wood waste into one of the multiple composting chambers to initiate composting. Simultaneously, the user may collect more food waste and transfer it to the hopper. The processor may determine which of the multiple composting chambers a second amount of food waste should be transferred to. For example, if the first chamber is full, the composting device may push the food waste to a subsequent chamber at 1506. The various composting cycles described previously are performed in the various chambers. Once the composting cycle for a given chamber is complete, the user may obtain output compost from the given chamber.

[0256] Now refer to Figure 16 , which shows a top view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus 1600 according to another example embodiment. In this embodiment, composting apparatus 1600 includes a main apparatus body 1606. Composting apparatus 1600 also includes: a first composting chamber cavity located within main apparatus body 1606; a first composting chamber 1610A for composting waste, the first composting chamber being located within the first composting chamber cavity; a second composting chamber cavity being located adjacent to the first composting chamber cavity within the main apparatus body; and a second composting chamber 1610B for composting waste, the second composting chamber being located within the second composting chamber cavity. Composting apparatus 1600 also includes a milling assembly 1604. For example, as food waste passes through milling assembly 1604, the food waste is shredded, then cut, and then ground. This volume reduction step ensures a reduction in overall volume, an increase in bulk density, and a reduction in individual particle size.

[0257] Now refer to Figure 17 , which shows a front view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus 1600. In this embodiment, the composting apparatus includes a dam 1702 (see FIG. 1703 ) that is movable between a first position 1702A and a second position 1702B. Figure 18) dam assembly. A first position 1702A of the dam 1702 covers the first compost chamber 1610A, and a second position 1702B of the dam 1702 covers the second compost chamber 1610B. The processor can be communicatively coupled to an actuator connected to the dam 1702 to actuate the dam 1702 between the first position 1702A and the second position 1702B. Alternatively, a user can manually move the dam 1702 between these positions or interact with a control element, such as a switch, which then activates the actuator to move the dam 1702.

[0258] The processor can be configured to determine which of the multiple chambers is most suitable for inputting waste and accordingly actuate dam 1702 to move between a first position and a second position. For example, in one embodiment, a user may input waste into composting device 1600, and once the input waste is milled, the processor can determine and direct the waste to first composting chamber 1610A for composting. In this case, the processor can control an actuator (not shown) to actuate dam 1702 to move to second position 1702B, thereby blocking compost from entering second chamber 1610B. Subsequently, if the user again inputs waste into composting device 1600, the position of dam 1702 directs the waste into second chamber 1610B. In this case, the processor can control the actuator to actuate dam 1702 to move to first position 1702A, thereby blocking compost from entering first chamber 1610A. The processor selection criteria may be based on a variety of reasons, including but not limited to at least one of the plurality of chambers being full, at least one of the plurality of chambers being unable to accept additional waste, at least one of the plurality of chambers being in an inoperable state, at least one of the plurality of chambers being currently in use, at least one of the plurality of chambers being in the middle of a composting sequence, and any other reason that may improve the efficiency of the composting apparatus.

[0259] In an example, one of chambers 1610A and 1610B can be in a pre-composting cycle and can be used to collect fresh food waste, while the other of chambers 1610A and 1610B is in a composting cycle and composting previously collected food waste and cannot accept any further waste. As chambers containing composted food waste are removed and emptied, the roles can switch between the multiple composting chambers. This process can be repeated as long as there is waste to be composted. One chamber can be used for fresh food waste collection while a second chamber processes previously collected food waste; the roles can be reversed when the second chamber is emptied of collected compost and is ready to begin accepting fresh food waste.

[0260] Food waste can be added at any time and can be collected in a chamber whose entrance to the chamber is left open for collection by dam 1702. The chamber blocked by dam 1702 can compost previously collected food waste. Since multiple composting chambers can alternately serve as both a pre-processing chamber and a composting chamber depending on the position of a given chamber in the composting cycle, dam 1702 can divert the flow directly into the second chamber instead of having to pass through the first chamber.

[0261] The dam assembly 1702 can comprise a rigid sheet sized to fit over the input inlet of each of the plurality of compost chambers and configured to block the inlet of the compost chamber to which it is moved due to an actuator controlled by a processor. The sheet can be made of plastic or another suitable material.

[0262] In at least one embodiment, dam 1702 can be actuated by an actuator that is controlled by a switch that can be manipulated by the user. In this embodiment, the user can select which chamber the food waste will go into, thereby blocking the remaining multiple compost chambers.

[0263] In another embodiment, the dam 1702 can be biased to always be closed and opened under the control of a processor or user switch. In such embodiments, the first compost chamber 1610A and the second compost chamber 1610B are covered by individually controllable elements of the dam assembly. For example, the dam assembly can include a gate that can move between an open position and a closed position for each compost chamber 1610A and 1610B. The open position of the gate can expose the entrance of a compost chamber in a plurality of compost chambers. The closed position of the gate can cover the entrance of a compost chamber in a plurality of compost chambers. The processor can be communicatively coupled to an actuator that is connected to the gate to actuate the gate between the open position and the closed position.

[0264] The composting apparatus 1600 may also include a liquid chamber or liquid tank assembly 1710 for collecting liquid. In at least one embodiment, a dehydration step may optionally be performed, in which liquid molecules surrounding the food waste particles are mechanically removed via pressing, tumbling, or centrifugation. This results in a reduction in overall moisture content. The removed liquid (e.g., gray water) follows a flow path to the liquid tank assembly 1710. Alternatively, dehydration may be applied during the milling step, as the milled food waste fragments are compressed during milling and crushing. Optionally, any gray water output from the dehydration step may be passed through a filter, such as a metal mesh. The filtered gray water may then flow into the liquid tank assembly 1710 for storage. The liquid tank assembly 1710 may include a combination of a water tank for storing clean water and a liquid tank for storing gray water.

[0265] Now refer to Figure 18 , which shows the previously described Figures 16 and 17 1704 and the second motor 1706.

[0266] First motor 1704 can be removably coupled to a pre-processing device (not shown) that can be used during pre-processing for crushing, volume reduction, squeezing, centrifugation for dehydration, or any combination thereof. The pre-processing device can be removed for cleaning purposes. For example, in at least one embodiment, the pre-processing device can be a milling assembly 1604 or a dehydration mechanism, and motor 1704 is coupled to the milling assembly 1604 or the dehydration mechanism. The stored food waste can be pre-processed by milling assembly 1604 actuated by motor 1704 to produce pre-processed scraps. After pre-processing, the pre-processed scraps can be transferred to one of multiple composting chambers 1610 using a dam assembly and movable dam 1702. Multiple composting chambers 1610 can be coupled to second motor 1706. In at least one embodiment, motor 1706 can be coupled to an impeller or ribbon mixer in the composting chamber, as described in one or more of the aforementioned embodiments described herein. For example, the drive shaft can be configured to connect multiple impellers using a single motor shaft.

[0267] In at least one embodiment, composting apparatus 1600 may optionally include a liquid tank assembly 1710 for storing liquid or gray water. For example, in an embodiment that performs dehydration, as shredded food waste is dehydrated, liquid will be generated during dehydration and will flow into liquid tank assembly 1710. This liquid may be referred to as liquid compost (also known as compost tea). This liquid can be stored in liquid tank assembly 1710 to be converted into liquid compost or compost tea, or can be periodically discarded by the user.

[0268] Now refer to Figure 19A , which shows a top view of a block diagram of a composting device according to another example embodiment. From the top view, a removable cover 1902 covers at least a portion of a hopper assembly 1906 including at least one hopper 1908. The hopper assembly 1906 and / or the hopper 1908 can be removable. In such an embodiment, food waste can be collected in the hopper (which can also be referred to as an input compartment or input storage compartment). A human machine interface (HMI) 1904 can also be accessible to the user from the top of the composting device. In another embodiment, the HMI 1904 can be accessible on a side panel of the compost chamber and / or via an external mobile device.

[0269] Now refer to Figure 19B, which shows a block diagram of a hopper assembly 1906 according to an example embodiment. Hopper assembly 1906 includes a hopper 1908 at a first end for receiving organic waste and a shredder assembly 1910 at a second end opposite the first end. When food waste is collected in hopper 1908, it enters shredder assembly 1910, where it is shredded and reduced in particle size. In at least one embodiment, shredder assembly 1910 may include rotating blades, a grinder, a masher, a crusher, or any other suitable device for reducing the particle size and volume of the food waste. Reducing the volume of the food waste may include crushing, milling, grinding, or coating the volume of the solid waste to reduce the size of individual particles within the volume of the solid waste. Once the food waste has undergone particle size reduction by shredder assembly 1910, the processed food waste may enter a dewatering assembly. In at least one embodiment, the dewatering assembly may include perforated metal mesh. In at least one embodiment, a dehydration step can optionally be performed, in which liquid molecules surrounding the food waste particles are mechanically removed via pressing, tumbling, or centrifugation. This results in a reduction in overall moisture content. Alternatively, dehydration can be applied during the milling step, as the milled food waste fragments are pressed during milling and crushing to squeeze out liquid. Optionally, any gray water output from the dehydration step via dehydration assembly 1912 can be passed through a filter, such as a perforated metal mesh. The filtered water can then flow into liquid tank assembly 1914 for storage. Liquid tank assembly 1710 can include a combination of a water tank 1916 for storing clean water and a liquid tank 1914 for storing gray water.

[0270] Hopper assembly 1906 may also include a solids drop zone 1918. As liquid molecules surrounding the food waste particles are mechanically removed, the solid particles will fall into solids drop zone 1918. Solids drop zone 1918 may optionally lead to dam assembly 1702, which, as previously described, blocks solid particles from prematurely entering certain compost chambers.

[0271] Now refer to Figure 20A and Figure 20B , Figure 20A A block diagram 2000 shows a mesh filter 2002 in an open state according to an example embodiment, and Figure 20BBlock diagram 2000B shows a mesh strainer 2002 in a closed state. The mesh strainer 2002, also known as a mesh filter (or mesh filter), can be a filter used to separate liquids from solids. For example, the mesh strainer 2002 can be made of stainless steel or non-stick perforated plastic. In either case, solids cannot pass through the mesh strainer 2002, but liquids can pass through during high rpm due to centrifugal force. Dehydration occurs when solids are separated from liquids, as opposed to drying using heat. This can occur in applications such as Figure 20A and Figure 20B Therefore, dehydration via the mesh filter 2002 can be more energy-efficient. Since the mesh filter 2002 has two states and can be folded into a closed state ( Figure 20B ) and expand to the open state ( Figure 20A ), the mesh filter 2002 can be referred to as a foldable mesh filter. This allows the mesh filter 2002 to avoid clogging problems caused by solid waste materials. When active, the mesh filter 2002 can be rotated via a motor (not shown) coupled to the shaft 2006 and the mesh frame 2008 to fold or unfold. In its active state, the mesh filter 2002 is in an open state and collects solids on its inner surface. After food waste processing is completed, the rotation can be stopped and the mesh filter 2002 closed, which allows the solids to fall into one of the lower chambers that is not currently blocked by the dam (not shown). As previously described, the dam can direct the solids to one of the compost chambers (not shown) for fresh food waste collection. Another chamber that is currently composting can be blocked by the dam and cannot accept fresh food waste solids. Liquid from the separation stage can be directed to a liquid chamber (not shown), where it is stored until processed by the user.

[0272] Now refer to Figure 21, which shows a side view of a block diagram of a composting device 2100 according to another example embodiment. Composting device 2100 may include a hopper assembly 2116, a dam assembly 2118, a lid 2122, and a liquid tank 2124 (also referred to as a liquid chamber or liquid container) as previously described. Composting device 2100 may also include at least one air inlet 2102 having a first electronics assembly 2104A and a second electronics assembly 22104B. Second electronics assembly 22104B may be optional, as it may include components for providing additional heating to compost chamber 2106, which may not be necessary in some cases. Electronics assembly 2104 includes electrical and electronic components, including, but not limited to, an electric motor, a heater, a fan, a pump, sensors, LEDs, and / or lights, or any operable combination thereof. Sensors may include at least one temperature sensor, at least one moisture sensor, at least one oxygen sensor, at least one load sensor, at least one position sensor, at least one level sensor, at least one image sensor, or any operable combination thereof. The fluid components include, but are not limited to, at least one nozzle, a pipe, a fitting, at least one sprayer, at least one atomizer, a filter, a valve, at least one aerator, at least one reservoir, or any operable combination thereof.

[0273] Airflow from the air inlet 2102 is allowed to flow into the main body of the device and into the plurality of compost chambers 2106. The air inlet 2102 allows any compost within a given compost chamber 2106 to remain well aerated and to control temperature and humidity by a certain level of airflow. In at least one embodiment, aeration (e.g., airflow provided by a fan) can also be used during curing to produce higher quality compost.

[0274] The composting apparatus 2100 includes at least one air outlet, which may include an exhaust fan 2112. Airflow from the air outlet allows air to flow out of the main device body from the plurality of compost chambers 2106. An air outlet (not shown) allows any stale air to exit the compost chambers 2106. The air exiting the compost chambers 2106 may first pass through an air filter assembly 2110 to reduce any odor in the air exiting the interior of the compost chambers 2106 so that the air remains as odorless as possible. In at least one embodiment, the outlet airflow may be provided by a fan 2112.

[0275] In various embodiments described herein, and depending on the specific embodiment of the composting apparatus 2100 described herein, providing a continuous positive air flow has several purposes, including, but not limited to: 1) providing oxygen for aerobic composting; 2) removing excess water from dehydrated shavings; 3) removing odors and carrying odor particles through the air filtration process; and / or 4) carrying ozone generated for odor reduction and compost maturation. The air flow rate can be determined based on the internal structure of the airflow path.

[0276] Now refer to Figure 22 , which shows the inclusion Figure 21 The previously described elements and the air outlet 2114 Figure 21 Block diagram of the composting apparatus 2100 is a rear view of 2100 . Figure 22 An air inlet 2102 and an air outlet 2114 are shown with respect to the main body of the composting device. As shown, the air inlet 2102 is generally disposed at an upper portion of the composting device 2100, while the air outlet 2104 is positioned below the air inlet 2101. The air outlet 2104 is generally positioned in a lower portion of the composting device 2100.

[0277] Now refer to Figure 23 , which shows the previously described Figure 21 and Figure 22 components and HMI 2120 Figure 21 A block diagram of a composting apparatus 2100 is shown in front view. In this embodiment, the composting apparatus 2100 includes a main apparatus body. A hopper assembly 2116 can be removable and includes a hopper for receiving food waste. The hopper assembly 2116 can be coupled to a dam assembly 2118 such that as processed food particles exit the hopper assembly 2116, the food particles are fed to the dam assembly 2118, which has a movable dam that can be moved between several positions to prevent solid particles from prematurely entering one or more of the composting chambers 2106. The dam assembly 2118 can be implemented as described for the composting apparatus 2100.

[0278] As described for composting device 2100, composting device 2100 also includes a first compost chamber cavity and a second compost chamber cavity (not shown) and a first compost chamber 2106A and a second compost chamber 2106B. However, in this embodiment, a plurality of compost chambers 2106 can be removable so that once compost is generated, they are emptied, and they are also cleaned as needed. Composting device 2100 can also include a human-machine interface 2120 (HMI), such as an HMI accessible to a user. In such embodiments, HMI 2120 can be accessible on the outer panel (not shown) of composting device 2100 or on the inner panel (not shown) of the lid 2122 close to composting device 2100. Alternatively, or in addition thereto, HMI 2102 can be accessed via an external mobile device (not shown).

[0279] In another aspect, in at least one embodiment, a method and apparatus for eliminating odors from compost chamber 2106 and liquid chamber 2124 according to the teachings herein are provided. Typically, filters can be used to eliminate odors, but these filters can become saturated over time and require frequent replacement. This can be time-consuming and costly. Thus, a method for eliminating odors without the need for frequent filter replacement is provided.

[0280] Now refer to Figure 24A , which shows a composting device according to an example embodiment that can be applied to at least one of the embodiments described herein and includes Figures 21 to 23 2406, an ozone generation zone 2406, an ozone lamp 2408, a filter 2414, an air filter inlet 2410, and an ultraviolet lamp 2412. The lamp can be any suitable light source capable of generating light having the desired wavelengths described below. Air flows into the odor elimination system 2400 via the air inlet 2102. The air is then diverted to the hopper assembly 2116 and directed toward the plurality of compost chambers 2106 and the liquid tank 2124, which contain odor-generating solids and liquids, respectively. Consequently, the air from the plurality of compost chambers and the liquid tank 2124 may have odors that should be eliminated or significantly reduced. Thus, the odorous air follows the air flow path to the odor elimination system 2400. The odor elimination system 2400 may include the ozone generation zone 2402, the air filtration zone 2404, and the ozone elimination zone 2406.

[0281] Ozone can be used to remove odors from the air. In this embodiment, ozone lamp 2408 can be used to generate ozone. Ozone can be produced by ozone lamp 2408 that emits UV light with a wavelength between about 100nm and about 240nm. However, for more efficient ozone generation, it is preferred to use UV-C light with a wavelength of about 185nm. Depending on the application of the composting device (e.g., residential versus commercial), the power level of the UV light emitted can be about 0.1W to about 10W. Ozone can also be used to decompose some greenhouse gases such as methane that may be present in the air from the composting chamber. When air from the air filter inlet 2410 enters the ozone-rich ozone generation zone 2402, odors from the air can be reduced. In at least one embodiment, the composting chamber 2106 may not be directly exposed to ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet source 2412, but may instead be exposed to ozone mixed with the air.

[0282] Once the ozone-containing air leaves the ozone generation zone 2402, the air reaches an air filtration zone 2404, which is comprised of filters 2414. Types of filters that may be used include charcoal filters. A charcoal filter is a filter with granular activated carbon (GAC) that can be used to remove certain chemicals from water, particularly organic chemicals. GAC filters can also be used to remove chemicals that give water an unpleasant odor or taste, such as hydrogen sulfide (rotten egg smell) or chlorine. Charcoal air filters can effectively filter volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. These are gaseous substances that most other mechanical filters, such as HEPA filters, may not be able to effectively remove.

[0283] Finally, when the air, still containing ozone, leaves air filtration zone 2404, it is allowed to enter ozone elimination zone 2406. In ozone elimination zone 2406, ozone generated by ozone generation zone 2402 is eliminated, as ozone can be harmful to humans and pets. Any excess ozone that may leak from air filtration zone 2404 can be eliminated within ozone elimination zone 2406. In one embodiment, ozone elimination zone 2406 includes one or more ultraviolet-C (UVC) lamps 2412, which emit UV light of a different wavelength than that used for ozone generation. Typically, UV light with a wavelength of approximately 254 nm is effective in destroying ozone. Since LEDs operate at longer wavelengths, a 254 nm wavelength is typically generated by UV lamps 2412. This wavelength is also used for ozone destruction because it is more effective than UVC LEDs 2412. However, since ozone is destroyed by UV light having a wavelength between about 240 nm and about 315 nm, ozone destruction may be performed using a UV lamp or UVC LED 2412, depending on the requirements of the composting apparatus 2100. Depending on the application of the composting apparatus 2100 (e.g., residential versus commercial), the power level of the emitted UV light may be about 0.1 W to about 20 W.

[0284] In at least one embodiment, ozone elimination zone 2402 may include a disinfection zone (not shown) to kill pathogens. For example, UV light may be included to provide disinfection / sanitation. UV light disinfection can be performed using a UV light inside a condenser (not shown) or, in embodiments without a condenser, inside an air filter that may be located where the condenser would otherwise be located. In at least one embodiment, a UV light may also be placed above liquid tank 2124 to prevent odor or mold. UV LEDs may be used to provide increased lifespan. The UV lights are also preferably sealed so that they cannot be touched by the user, who may otherwise damage them. It will be appreciated that various wavelengths of light may be used to achieve various functions. In one embodiment, other wavelengths of light may also be used; for example, 275 nm may be used in liquid chamber 2124 to prevent parasitic growth. Ultraviolet light may be used to generate ozone and prevent pathogen growth outside compost chamber 2106. Testing may be performed to determine the required power level of the emitted UV light, such as from approximately 0.1 W to approximately 20 W, depending on the application of the composting device (e.g., residential versus commercial).

[0285] In at least one embodiment, additional disinfection can also be performed at the end of the composting cycle, which can be done by irradiating the compost with UV light from UV LEDs and / or exposing the compost to elevated temperatures of approximately 80° C. to 90° C. However, this may not be necessary if pathogen levels in the compost material are low.

[0286] Typically, UV light with a wavelength of 254 nm effectively destroys pathogens and other forms of life at the molecular level. This can be useful for preventing mold or other pathogens from forming in certain parts of the equipment. Because ozone can be harmful to pets and people at certain levels, ozone elimination zone 2402 can include multiple UV lamps 2412 to break down excess ozone.

[0287] Thus, in such embodiments, air from the air filter inlet 2410 can pass through the ozone generation zone 2402 to remove any odors, through the air filtration zone 2404 to further remove odors; and then through the ozone elimination zone 2406, which eliminates any ozone introduced from the ozone generation zone 2402. In at least one embodiment, the ozone elimination zone 2406 can also include a disinfection zone that can kill any pathogenic bacteria. Finally, the purified air is allowed to exit the system via an air outlet or exhaust fan.

[0288] Now refer to Figure 24B , which shows a composting device according to an example embodiment that can be applied to at least one of the embodiments described herein and includes Figures 21 to 23 A block diagram of an odor elimination system 2400B that includes at least some of the previously described elements of the present invention. Ambient air enters the main body through intake fans 2102 on both sides of the main body of the device and flows directly into the compost chamber(s) 2106 (for both single and multiple compost chamber designs). When a sensor (not shown) detects that certain conditions are met, a processor (not shown) can turn on the main exhaust fan 2112 to generate positive airflow from the interior of the main body of the device out into the surrounding environment. For example, referring to Figure 13At least one of the described sensors can be used as a single sensor or in a sensor module to simultaneously detect one or more conditions. For example, such sensors can generally be located between the odor source and the odor elimination zone (e.g., the ozone generation zone and / or the air filtration zone), and the monitored conditions can be based on physical conditions such as, but not limited to, temperature, humidity, moisture content, gas pressure, gas resistivity, solid volume, solid weight, or any combination thereof, and / or chemical conditions such as, but not limited to, gas composition and / or gas concentration. All exhaust gases first flow through the air filtration zone 2404 before entering the exhaust fan module 2112 to exit the main body of the system 2400B. The hopper assembly 2116 serves as an internal air circulation source. When the motor within the hopper assembly 2116 is activated by the processor, airflow is generated toward both the compost chamber(s) 2106 and the liquid chamber 2124. Ozone lamps 2408 are located within the ozone generation zone 2402 at various locations in the system 2400B. When the aforementioned sensors detect that one or more criteria are met (e.g., one or more specific conditions are occurring) by comparing the measured values ​​to thresholds associated with those conditions, which are determined empirically, the processor turns on the ozone lamp (2408). Ozone flows into the compost chamber (s) and the liquid chamber due to gravity or airflow. The ozone reacts with odors generated within the compost chamber (s) 2106 and the liquid chamber 2124. For example, if an excess of ozone is generated, any ozone that does not fully react with the odor will react with the activated carbon 2414 within the air filtration area 2410 and be consumed.

[0289] Now refer to Figure 25 , which shows the inclusion Figure 21 to Figure 2 4. A block diagram of an odor elimination system 2500 according to another exemplary embodiment includes at least some of the previously described elements. In this embodiment, ozone is generated near the inlet of the airflow system. Thus, the generated ozone is initiated from the hopper component 2116, flows through the various physical components, passes through the multiple compost chambers 2106 and the liquid tank 2124, and then decomposes into oxygen before exiting the air. In this embodiment, the ozone benefits the composting process and also serves to reduce pathogen levels.

[0290] Air flows into the system via air inlet 2102. The air is then exposed to ozone generation zone 2402. Ozone generation zone 2402 may include ozone lamps 2408 for ozone generation. As previously described, UV-C light with a wavelength of approximately 185 nm may be used for more efficient ozone generation. In at least one embodiment, multiple light sources may be used to generate ozone. In at least one embodiment, ozone is generated outside of composting chamber 2106 and delivered to composting chamber 2106.

[0291] The ozonated air is then diverted to the hopper assembly 2116 and directed toward the plurality of compost chambers 2106 and liquid tank 2124, where odors are generated. The air output from the plurality of compost chambers 2106 and liquid tank 2124 may have odors that should be eliminated. Thus, the odorous air is exposed to the ozonated air, thereby reducing or eliminating any odors in the air. As the ozonated air from the ozone generation zone 2402 enters the compost chambers 2106 and liquid chambers 2124, odors from the chambers 2106 may be reduced or eliminated.

[0292] Once the air leaves the compost chamber 2106, it passes to the air filtration area. In one embodiment, the air filtration area 2404 includes at least one filter 2414. In one embodiment, there is at least one activated carbon filter 2414 in the air filtration area to capture odors that ozone cannot remove. The operation of the carbon filter has been previously described.

[0293] Finally, when the air exits the air filtration zone 2404, it follows the flow path and enters the ozone elimination zone 2402. The ozone elimination zone 2402 can be implemented as previously described. In at least one embodiment, the ozone elimination zone 2402 can be provided after the air inlet 2102 and before the exhaust fan 2112, as this can prevent any unwanted ozone from escaping through the inlet 2104 or exhaust 2112. Because ozone is harmful to pets and humans at certain levels, the ozone elimination zone 2402 includes a plurality of UV lamps 2412 to break down excess ozone. In one embodiment, other wavelengths of light can also be used; for example, 275 nm can be used in the liquid chamber 2124 to prevent parasitic growth.

[0294] In at least one embodiment, ozone elimination zone 2402 may include a disinfection zone to kill pathogens. For example, UV light may be included to provide disinfection / sanitation. UV light disinfection can be performed using UV light inside the condenser, or, in embodiments without a condenser, inside the air filter where the condenser would otherwise be located. In at least one embodiment, UV light can also be placed above the liquid tank to prevent odor or mold. UV LEDs can be used to increase the lifespan. The UV light is also preferably sealed so that it cannot be touched by the user, who might otherwise damage it. In at least one embodiment, additional disinfection can also be performed at the end of the composting cycle. This can be accomplished by irradiating the compost with UV light from UV LEDs and / or exposing the compost to an elevated temperature of approximately 80°C to 90°C. Typically, UV light with a wavelength of 254nm effectively destroys pathogens and other forms of life at the molecular level. This may be useful for preventing the growth of mold or other pathogens in certain parts of the equipment. However, if pathogen levels in the compost material are low, this may not be necessary.

[0295] Therefore, in a similar Figure 25 In the embodiment shown in FIG, air from the air filter inlet 2410 passes through the ozone generation zone 2402 to become ozonated, passes through the composting assembly to remove any odors, passes through the air filtration zone 2404 to further remove odors; and then passes through the ozone elimination zone 2402, which eliminates any ozone introduced by the ozone generation zone. The ozone elimination zone 2402 may also include a disinfection zone that can kill any pathogenic bacteria. Finally, the purified air is allowed to exit the system via an air outlet (not shown) or exhaust fan 212.

[0296] Now refer to 26A to 26D , which shows certain components / features that may also be applied to at least one of the composting device embodiments described herein (e.g., single composting chamber and multi-composting chamber designs) and includes Figures 21 to 25 A block diagram of a composting apparatus 2600 according to an exemplary embodiment includes at least some of the previously described elements of the composting apparatus 2600, as well as a top compartment 2602, a bottom compartment 2604, a compost controller 2606, a chamber motor 2608, a hot blower 2610, a heating pad 2612, a waste disposal unit 2614, and a state-of-health (SOH) sensor 2616. For example, a sensor module having one or more sensors can be used to implement the SOH sensor, and it can detect up to four different properties (both physical and chemical) of the air flowing out of the composting chamber to determine the state of health of the composting process. The SOH sensor can be trained using a classification algorithm to determine gas composition and gas concentration from its raw data readings to assess the state of health of the composting process.

[0297] In this embodiment, the composting device 2600 can be made of two compartments. The top compartment 2602 can be removed by the user and attached to the bottom compartment 2604. The top compartment 2602 contains a waste processing unit 2614 that cuts the food waste into smaller pieces and separates the liquid from the solids to prepare the food waste for further processing in the compost chamber 2106. When the top compartment 2602 is removed from the bottom compartment 2604, the user can access the compost chamber 2106 and the liquid tank 2124 inside the bottom compartment 2604.

[0298] Bottom compartment 2604 can include composter controller 2606 and chamber motor 2608. Composter controller 2606 includes circuits such as processors and controls the operation of various components in composting device 2600. Chamber motor can include food chopping motor (not shown) and two composting motors (not shown). Food chopping motor can rotate at a speed of, for example, about 3000 to about 4000 revolutions per minute (RPM) under full load (for example, about 300 to about 500 watts (W)). Food chopping motor provides rotational power to some processing components (for example, blade) in waste disposal unit 2614 and ensures that food is milled to a suitable degree to be processed by composting device 2600. In contrast, compost motor can operate at a speed of, for example, about 1RPM to about 2.5RPM. This ensures that the food in compost chamber 2106 will not precipitate due to mixing and airing stored food. The composting motor can be, for example, a Longway Motor (p / n: 60KTYZ-038). The bottom compartment 2604 can be permanently attached to an outlet via an AC power cable and an internal power supply unit (not shown) to provide electrical protection and power, which allows the composting device 2600 to operate in its normal operating mode. Food processed by the food processing unit 2614 is directed to the compost chamber 2106 via the dam 2118.

[0299] Composting apparatus 2600 may also include two UV lamps 2412 as described above. UV lamps 2412 may operate at wavelengths of, for example, approximately 254 nm and approximately 185 nm to prevent the growth of undesirable pathogens and reduce odors. UV lamps 2412 maintain or restore the internal health of composting apparatus 2600 by applying UV light to the liquid container and at various locations within the internal air flow path before the air reaches the air filter. In some embodiments, ozone is also applied to the air flowing through the internal air flow path. For example, internal health can be defined as microbial species within the system that reflect the desired progress of the composting process. For example, a typical desired progress is aerobic decomposition conditions with an ample oxygen supply and controlled moisture levels. Since anaerobic conditions produce high levels of methane and odorous gases, while higher temperature conditions (such as above 100°C) produce volatile organic compounds, gaseous emissions, including their composition and concentration, are also indicators of internal health. Excessive humidity in the system can also produce acidic volatiles. These are examples of undesirable conditions that do not reflect a healthy composting process. The values ​​used to determine whether these conditions exist can be determined empirically. When the internal health of the composter unit 2600 deteriorates, the UV lamp 2412 can be activated by the composter controller 2606, or generally activated periodically, to maintain the health of the composter unit 2600. As previously described, the health of the composter unit 2600 can be measured by the internal SOH 2616. To avoid entering any unhealthy state, certain operating / environmental conditions are preferably maintained so that certain types of microorganisms will thrive to provide a healthy composting process. Certain operating parameters of the composter unit can be controlled to help maintain a healthy state. For example, a UV lamp can be used to guide system operation back to a healthy state, or in some cases, the system can be completely disinfected to return to a healthy state.

[0300] The SOH 2616 samples the internal air flowing to the internal air filter (not shown). The SOH 2616 monitors the internal health of the composting unit 2600 and regularly measures humidity, temperature, and gases emitted during the decomposition of food waste. Using these measurements, the composter controller 2606 can determine the internal health of the composter unit 2616. For example, as previously described, both physical and chemical properties such as air temperature, humidity, gas pressure, gas resistivity, gas composition, and gas concentration can indicate and distinguish between healthy and unhealthy states. For example, if the concentration of methane and / or acetic acid reaches a threshold, it is unhealthy.

[0301] The composter controller 2606 can also be connected to sensors (not shown) located within the compost chamber 2106 and the liquid tank 2124 to determine the current fill rate. The fill rate can typically be determined using a weight sensor or level sensor to avoid overflow situations where the chamber is full but more input is added. In at least one embodiment, ultrasonic sensors can be used to determine both the solid level and the liquid level. These sensors determine the level, and the processor can determine the fill rate to determine when the compost chamber 2106 or the liquid tank 2124 is almost full, thereby preventing overflow by notifying the user to stop adding more food waste. The sensor can be, for example, the CH-101 sensor from TDK, but other sensors that provide the same functionality and sensitivity can also be used.

[0302] The composting apparatus 2600 may also include a hot air blower 2610 that blows hot air into the compost chamber(s) (e.g., for a single or multiple compost chamber design) and removes excess moisture from the processed food and eliminates excess VOC generation. For example, the hot air can prevent flies from hatching and the development of other animals or fungi. In some embodiments, the hot air blower 2610 further supplies oxygen to the compost chamber 2106 (e.g., an inlet fan can be used to supply oxygen from the ambient environment into the system) to promote compost development. The hot air blower 2610 is also controlled by the composter controller 2606.

[0303] The composting device 2600 may also include a heating pad 2612 below the compost chamber 2106 to increase the temperature in the compost chamber 2106. The increased temperature in the compost chamber 2106 can promote the development of the compost and further prevent undesirable growth. In certain embodiments, the heating pad 2162 can be made of silicone. The heating pad 2612 is also controlled by the composter controller 2606.

[0304] exist Figure 26B , the path of air and odors through the composting apparatus 2600 is shown. Each compost chamber 2106 can have a hot air blower 2610 positioned near a portion (e.g., the front) of the composting apparatus 2600 and drawing in outside air. The hot air blower 2610 blows hot air into the compost chamber 2106, and the air is then directed through an air filter 2414 as shown by the line with arrows. The air then passes through an exhaust fan and exits the composting apparatus 2600. The air filter 2414 processes and eliminates any odors developed by the composting food waste.

[0305] Generally speaking, the odor control system of composting apparatus 2600 involves dehydrating food waste to reduce the water content during food ingestion; removing moisture in the pre-composting chamber with hot air; conducting heat throughout composting chamber 2106, such as via hot air blower 2610 and / or heating pad 2612; applying UV light via UV lamp 2414 to liquid collected in liquid container 2414 and air exiting composting chamber 2106; and applying ozone throughout the process to maintain the internal health of composting apparatus 2600. In some cases, one or both of hot air blower 2610 and heating pad 2612 may be optional.

[0306] exist Figure 26C , a simplified architecture of a composting device 2600c according to an example embodiment is shown. The composting device 2600 is capable of processing food waste that is already in small pieces such as, for example, used coffee grounds.

[0307] In this embodiment, composting apparatus 2600c may not include waste disposal unit 2614 , liquid container 2114 , UV lamp 2412 , liquid and solids level sensors (not shown), or dam 2118 .

[0308] exist Figure 26D , a further simplified architecture of a composting device 26007d according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, the composting device may integrate the top compartment 2602 with the bottom compartment 2604 into a single compartment as shown. Because the top and bottom compartments are combined, the user does not need to remove the top to access the compost chamber. Instead, the compost chamber can be pulled out from the front or side of the system.

[0309] Figure 27 is applicable to at least one of the composting device embodiments described herein and comprises Figure 21 to Figure 2 Schematic circuit diagram 2700 of a composting device according to one embodiment includes at least some of the previously described elements of the composting controller 2606, as well as a safety disconnect 2702, a motor safety disconnect 2704, and an AC plug 2706. Schematic diagram 2700 generally illustrates how a composting controller 2606 is generally connected to various electrical components within the composting device 2600.

[0310] For example, the compost controller 2606 can control the heating blower 2610, heating pad 2612, UV lamp 2414, and chamber motor 2608 as described above. The compost controller 2606 can be based at least in part on Figure 13 The main electronic control system 1011 is shown implemented. The composting controller 2606 is configured to process multi-channel sensor data, schedule events based on RTOS sequences and adjust the voltage of the actuators in real time.

[0311] Now refer to Figure 28 , which shows a top perspective view of a composting device 2800 according to an example embodiment. The composting device 2800 includes a lid 2802 and a hopper assembly 2804. A user can open the lid 2802 by using a switch connected to an actuator (neither of which is shown) for moving the lid between an open position and a closed position. Thus, when the lid 2802 is opened, the hopper assembly 2804 becomes exposed so that the user can insert food waste. The composting device 2800 can also include a chamber door 2806 through which the compost chambers 2808A and 2808B (see Figure 29 ). The dual chamber embodiment can be Figure 29 Seen in Figure 29 A top perspective view of composting apparatus 2800 is provided with a portion of door 2806 removed to allow viewing of a portion of the interior of apparatus 2800 .

[0312] Now refer to Figure 30 and Figure 31 , wherein a rear perspective transparent view and a front perspective view of the upper portion of the composting device 2800 showing the internal system are shown, respectively. The hopper assembly 2804 includes a hopper at a first end for receiving food waste and may include a chopping assembly 2812 at a second end opposite the first end. When food waste is collected in the hopper, the food waste enters the chopping assembly 2812, where it is chopped or reduced in particle size. In at least one embodiment, the chopping assembly 2812 may include rotating blades, a grinder, a masher, a crusher, or any other suitable device for reducing the particle size and volume of the food waste. Once the food waste has undergone particle size reduction by the chopping assembly 2812, the processed food waste may enter a dehydration assembly. In at least one embodiment, the dehydration assembly may include a perforated mesh filter 2810.

[0313] Composting apparatus 2800 also includes a dam 2814 that is movable between several positions, such as a first position and a second position. The first position of dam 2814 covers first compost chamber 2808A, and the second position of dam 2814 covers second compost chamber 2808B. A processor can be communicatively coupled to an actuator to actuate / move dam 2814 between the first and second positions. Because multiple compost chambers can alternately function as both pre-treatment chambers and compost chambers as described in the previous embodiment, dam 2814 can divert flow directly into second chamber 2808B rather than having to pass through first chamber 2808A.

[0314] Now refer to Figure 32, wherein an enlarged rear perspective transparent view of the bottom portion of the rear portion of the composting device 2800 is shown to illustrate the internal system. The composting device 2800 may optionally include an air outlet downstream of an exhaust fan 2818 at the bottom portion of the composting device 2800. In at least one embodiment, the outlet airflow may be provided by the fan 2818. The airflow from the air outlet allows air to flow out of the main device body from a plurality of composting chambers 2808A and 2808B. The air outlet allows any stale air to leave the composting chambers 2808A and 2808B. The air leaving the composting chambers 2808A and 2808B may first pass through an air filter assembly to ensure that the air leaving the interior of the composting chamber is as odor-free as possible, as described in the previous embodiments. Alternatively, the composting device 2800 may include one of the ozone-based odor elimination systems described previously.

[0315] Now refer to Figure 33 , which shows a vertical stacking configuration of a composting device 3300 including a vertical compost chamber 3302. In this embodiment, when the upper portion of the device 3300 is removed, the compost chamber 3302 can be inserted and removed in the vertical direction. This is in contrast to the composting device 2800 in which the compost chambers 2808A and 2808B can be inserted and removed horizontally. The upper portion 3301 can be removed and then the multiple compost chambers 3302 and the liquid chamber can be inserted or removed vertically because removing the compost chamber vertically when the compost chamber is full and needs to be emptied may be simpler for the user than removing the compost chamber horizontally. For example, as with the composting device 3200, many other components such as, but not limited to, one of the odor removal systems may be included in the composting device 3300.

[0316] Now refer to Figure 34 , which shows a process flow diagram illustrating a method 3400 for producing compost according to an example embodiment. The use of method 3400 depends on the architecture of the composting device. In this embodiment, method 3400 is applicable when multiple composting chambers are located in the composting device. At 3401, waste is input into the composting device. At 3402, the volume of solid input waste can be crushed to reduce the size of individual particles or fragments in the volume of solid waste. At 3403, the milled waste can be dewatered.

[0317] In at least one embodiment, a dehydration step 3403 can optionally be performed, in which liquid molecules surrounding the food waste particles are mechanically removed via compression, tumbling, or centrifugation. This results in a reduction in overall moisture content. Alternatively, dehydration can be applied during the milling step, as the milled food waste fragments are compressed during milling and crushing. Optionally, any gray water output from the dehydration step 3403 can be passed through a filter, such as a perforated metal mesh. The filtered water can then flow into a liquid tank assembly for storage. The liquid tank assembly can include a combination of a water tank and a liquid tank.

[0318] At 3404, the milled waste can enter the appropriate composting chamber. In at least one embodiment, the processor can be configured to determine which of the multiple chambers is most suitable for the input waste. Alternatively, the user can select a chamber by directly moving an object, such as a dam, or using a control element to move the dam to direct the compost to the chamber of their choice. For example, in one example, a user can input waste into a composting device, and once the input waste is milled, the processor can determine and control one or more components of the composting device to send the waste to a first chamber for composting. Subsequently, if the user inputs waste into the composting device again, the processor can determine and control the waste to a second chamber. The processor selection criteria can be based on one or more conditions, including but not limited to, at least one of the multiple chambers is full, at least one of the multiple chambers cannot accept more waste, at least one of the multiple chambers is in an inoperable state, at least one of the multiple chambers is currently in use, at least one of the multiple chambers is in the middle of a composting sequence, and any other conditions that may improve the efficiency of the composting device. For example, in one embodiment, a plurality of chambers can be operated in the offset composting cycle so that the compost in each chamber is in the different stages of the composting process. Therefore, when the first chamber begins the composting stage, the processor can determine to begin collecting input waste into the subsequent composting chamber. In one embodiment, at each stage of the composting process, including but not limited to pre-composting 3405, composting 3406 and output waste 3407, there can be a chamber. After entering appropriate chamber, at 3405, waste can be pre-composted in a controlled environment. After pre-composting 3405 is completed, waste can be composted in a controlled environment. At 3407, output compost waste can be produced.

[0319] Now refer to Figure 35 , which shows a top view of a block diagram of a composting device 3500 according to another example embodiment. Figure 35As shown in FIG, there are multiple composting chambers 3502 for storing pre-composted scraps and completing the composting process; and a liquid tank 3510 for storing liquid generated during dehydration. In this embodiment, the composting device 3500 includes a main device body 3506. The composting device 3500 also includes: a first composting chamber cavity, which is located within the main device body 3506; a first composting chamber 3502A, which is used to perform composting of waste, the first composting chamber 3502A is located in the first composting chamber cavity, and a second composting chamber cavity, which is adjacent to the first composting chamber cavity and is located within the main device body 3506; and a second composting chamber 3502B, which is used to perform composting of waste, the second composting chamber 3502B is located in the second composting chamber cavity. The composting device 3600 may also include a crushing and dehydration component 3504. For example, as food waste passes through the crushing and dehydration assembly 3504, the food waste is crushed, milled, cut, or ground by the crushing assembly and dehydrated by the dehydration assembly. The crushing step ensures a reduction in overall volume, an increase in bulk density, and a reduction in individual particle size.

[0320] In at least one embodiment, composting apparatus 3500 may optionally include a liquid tank assembly 3510 for storing liquid or gray water. For example, in an embodiment that performs dehydration, when shredded food waste is dehydrated, liquid will be generated during dehydration, and the generated liquid will flow into liquid tank assembly 3510. This liquid can be referred to as liquid compost (also known as compost tea). This liquid can be stored in liquid tank assembly 3510 to be converted into liquid compost or compost tea, or can be periodically discarded by the user.

[0321] Now refer to Figure 36A , which shows Figure 35 35. FIG. 35 shows a front view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus. In this embodiment, composting apparatus 3500 further includes a liquid diversion assembly 3708. In one embodiment, liquid diversion assembly 3708 can be located above liquid tank 3510. As liquid from the input waste is dewatered by crushing and dewatering assembly 3504, the liquid diversion assembly can divert the liquid into liquid tank 3510. For example, the liquid diversion assembly can be a dam assembly, or the liquid diversion assembly can have a flushing mechanism similar to, for example, a flush toilet.

[0322] Figure 36B Provided Figure 35 35. The composting apparatus 3500 includes a plurality of compost chambers 3510. In this embodiment, the composting apparatus 3500 includes a solid diversion assembly 3706. The solid diversion assembly 3706 includes a dam 1702 (see FIG. 17) that is movable between a first position 3702A and a second position 3702B. Figure 18) dam assembly. A first position 3702A of the dam covers the first compost chamber 3510A, and a second position 3702B of the dam covers the second compost chamber 3510B. The processor can be communicatively coupled to an actuator connected to the solid steering assembly 3706 to actuate the dam between the first position 3702A and the second position 3702B. Alternatively, a user can manually move the dam between these positions or interact with a control element such as a switch, which then activates the actuator to move the dam.

[0323] Now refer to Figure 37 , which shows Figure 35 、 Figure 36A and Figure 36B The previously described elements and the first motor 3708, the second motor 3714 and the air filter assembly 3702 included in the composting device 3500 Figure 35 A side view of a block diagram of a composting apparatus 3500 is shown.

[0324] First motor 3708 can be removably coupled to a pre-processing device (not shown), which can be used during pre-processing for crushing, volume reduction extrusion, centrifugation for dehydration, or any combination thereof. The pre-processing device can be removed for cleaning purposes. For example, in at least one embodiment, the pre-processing device can be a crushing and dehydration assembly 3504, and motor 3708 is coupled to crushing and dehydration assembly 3504. The stored food waste can be pre-processed by crushing and dehydration assembly 3504 through actuation of motor 3708 to produce pre-processed scraps. After pre-processing, the pre-processed scraps can be transferred to one of multiple composting chambers 3710 using a solids diversion assembly and a movable dam. Multiple composting chambers 3710 can be coupled to a second motor 3714. In at least one embodiment, motor 3714 can be coupled to an impeller or ribbon mixer in the composting chamber. For example, the drive shaft can be configured to connect multiple impellers using a single motor shaft. The air filtration assembly 3702 may include an air filter for filtering the air inside the compost chamber 3710. In at least one embodiment, the motor (and other components such as a pad heater, PTC heater, and sensors) may reside inside the compost chamber and be connected to the main device (e.g., the device housing and non-removable components) via an electrical coupler.

[0325] Now refer to Figure 38, which shows a flow chart of a method for pre-processing food waste according to an example embodiment. Food waste is pre-processed before being diverted to a composting chamber for pre-composting. The purpose of pre-processing is to control the size and moisture content of the food waste to enhance the efficiency and quality of pre-composting and composting. In the first step at 3801, food and organic waste are input into the system. At this stage, the input waste is untreated, and therefore, its moisture content and size may be unpredictable and uncontrollable. At step 3802, as the untreated waste is input into the composting apparatus, a crushing assembly crushes the input waste by cutting or shredding. In one embodiment, the input waste may be shredded multiple times over a short period of time by a set of shredders (e.g., a shredder assembly) as described below. Smaller organic waste particles can be pushed out of the crushing assembly and automatically fed into a dewatering assembly, while larger organic waste particles can be recirculated within the crushing system until no larger particles remain in the crushing assembly. This can be achieved, for example, by performing a cutting action during a vortex particle flow in a range of, for example, approximately 500 to approximately 1000 RPM. In the next stage, step 3803, the reduced-size organic waste particles enter a dewatering assembly, where their water content is reduced and controlled within a specified range. The compost tea collected during the dewatering step can be filtered out in step 3804. At step 3806, the filtered liquid can optionally be diverted to a liquid tank by a liquid diversion assembly. After the dewatering and liquid diversion steps, the pretreatment stage is complete, and at step 3805, the food waste is considered pretreated waste. The pretreated waste can meet any pretreatment requirements and is suitable for precomposting.

[0326] Now refer to Figure 39, which shows a block diagram of a shredder assembly 3900 according to an example embodiment. In this embodiment, shredder assembly 3900 includes a lid 3904, a hopper 3906, a set of shredders 3908, and a base 3910. Hopper 3906 can be a container having at least one opening (e.g., a first opening) on ​​its top side for receiving input waste and at least one opening (e.g., a second opening) on ​​its bottom side for outputting shredded waste particles. Hopper 3906 is intended to hold food waste and is therefore designed to have a volume sufficient to accommodate a specified volume of organic waste and allow for circulation of the organic waste during shredding (see arrow 3908). The top opening of hopper 3906 is sealed with a removable lid 3904, which can be controlled to allow access to hopper 3906. To input food waste into hopper 3906, lid 3904 can be opened manually or automatically, such as by activation of a motion sensor or a switch. During the shredding stage, the lid 3904 is closed manually or automatically and seals the top opening of the hopper 3906 to prevent organic waste from being removed (e.g., exiting / ejecting) from the top opening of the hopper 3906. The bottom plate 3910 can be placed on the spindle, but does not have to be fixed to the spindle to avoid particles from getting stuck between the plate 3910 and the shredder 3908. In one example embodiment, the bottom plate 3910 can rotate at a speed between about 0 rpm and about the blade rpm due to friction.

[0327] The crushing assembly 3900 may also include a set of shredders (also referred to as a "shredder group") located inside the hopper 3906. The set of shredders may include one or more cutters, rotating blades, and cutting discs, or a combination thereof. The shredders may be configured to shred, cut, mill, or grind the organic waste and separate it into a plurality of fragments or scraps. The shredders may also be configured to reduce the particle size of the fragments or scraps. In one embodiment, the shredder group 3908 may be located at the bottom of the hopper 3906. In alternative embodiments, the shredder group may be located at the top or sidewall of the hopper 3906. In an embodiment, the crushing assembly 3900 may include multiple shredder groups 3908. In this embodiment, each of the shredder groups may be located at a different location within the hopper 3906 to achieve uniform circulation 3908 and faster crushing.

[0328] The crushing assembly 3900 may also include a base plate 3910 positioned below the hopper 3906. The bottom opening of the hopper 3906 is sealed with the base plate 3910, which may be configured and / or controlled to prevent organic waste particles from falling and exiting the crushing assembly before crushing is complete. The base plate 3910 may be designed to seal the bottom opening of the hopper 3906. When combined with the lid 3904 and the base plate 3910, the hopper 3906 forms a semi-enclosed environment, with the only outlet located in the gap between the bottom opening and the bottom of the hopper. The bottom gap may have a radial angle between approximately 1 degree and approximately 360 degrees. Multiple openings may be included to direct the flow of particles out of the hopper 3906. The base plate may also include a mesh grille with multiple openings sized to allow small organic waste particles to fall through while preventing larger particles from recirculating 3908 within the hopper 3906. The grids may optionally be interchangeable to allow for the acceptance or blocking of different particle sizes.

[0329] Now go to Figure 40 , which shows a block diagram of a dewatering assembly 4000 according to an example embodiment. Dewatering assembly 4000 comprises two subsystems, including a filter mesh assembly 4004 and a mesh wiper assembly 4002. Filter mesh assembly 4004 can be a cylindrical drum with through-holes or perforations located on the curved surface of the cylindrical drum. The mesh can have perforations or holes ranging in size from approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 20 mm. Mesh wiper assembly 4002 can include at least one wiper 4002, or alternatively, a plurality of wipers 4002A-4002D positioned proximate to or in contact with mesh assembly 4004. In at least one embodiment, wiper assembly 4002 can include a set of rubber or silicone tips 4002A, 4002B, 4002C, and 4002D to ensure that any broken food particles adhering to the inner wall of the filter mesh are dislodged. Filter screen assembly 4004 may also include plate 4008, which may be a flat disc positioned at the bottom opening of the cylindrical drum. Plate 4008 may have a plurality of small openings or holes. This plate may be a filing or grinding plate. Plate 4008 may be used to cut food waste into smaller pieces and to push and feed this food waste into the dehydration system.

[0330] The filter mesh assembly 4004 and the mesh wipe assembly 4002 can be coupled to a motor 4006 that can be configured to rotate these assemblies. In at least one embodiment, the filter mesh assembly 4004 and the mesh wipe assembly 4002 can rotate independently of each other, and their rotational axes can be concentrically aligned.

[0331] In the dewatering step, the crushed waste material enters the dewatering system 4000. During the dewatering phase, the mesh filter 4004 and the wiper assembly 4002 can, for example, rotate at the same angular velocity as one another. Thus, as the water content in the input material passes through the pores of the filter mesh 4004 and exits the dewatering system 4000, the crushed waste material may become trapped on the inner wall of the filter mesh 4004. The longer the assembly rotates with the crushed waste material, the more liquid is filtered out, and the water content of the waste material decreases over time. The dewatering step can provide a substantial reduction in water content, such as to a level below approximately 50%. The crushed material after the dewatering step can be referred to as pre-processed compost.

[0332] In at least one embodiment, the dewatering assembly 4000 may include a self-cleaning feature or stage. During the cleaning stage (also referred to as the cleaning stage), the filter mesh assembly 4004 and the wiper assembly 4002 can rotate at different angular speeds, thereby causing relative movement between the two subsystems. Therefore, any broken material retained on the inner wall of the filter mesh can be wiped off. The pretreated compost waste leaves the dewatering system through a designated channel and can be automatically fed into the next group of components. At the same time, the filter mesh is cleaned and ready to dewater the next batch of broken broken material. Figure 41 and Figure 42 Provided are the previously described Figure 39 、 Figure 40 and Figure 41 Schematic top and side views of the components of the composting device and the crushing assembly 3900 and the dewatering assembly 4000 that can be connected to the shaft 4202 of the motor 4006.

[0333] Now go to Figure 43 , which provides a process flow diagram illustrating a method 4300 for disassembling a crushing and dewatering assembly according to an example embodiment. In some circumstances, it may be advantageous to remove and disassemble the crushing and dewatering assembly, for example, for cleaning, storage, or maintenance. The crushing and dewatering assembly may be removed from the composting apparatus by opening the lid at step 4301, removing the hopper assembly at step 4302, unlocking the lock from the rotating shaft at step 4303, pulling the crushing and dewatering assembly upward at step 4304, and removing the crushing and dewatering assembly from the main body of the composting apparatus at step 4405.

[0334] Figure 44A process flow diagram is provided illustrating a method 4400 for installing a crushing and dewatering system according to an example embodiment. Installing the crushing and dewatering assembly may be advantageous or necessary, for example, after removing the crushing and dewatering assembly for cleaning, storage, or maintenance. The crushing and dewatering assembly may be installed in a composting apparatus by opening a cover at step 4401, replacing a hopper at step 4302, sliding the crushing and dewatering assembly down onto a shaft at step 4403, and locking the crushing and dewatering assembly to the rotating shaft at step 4304, thereby installing the crushing and dewatering assembly into the composting apparatus body at step 4405.

[0335] Figure 45A A process flow diagram is provided illustrating a method 4500a for pre-processing organic waste according to another exemplary embodiment. The method 4500a may include: inputting waste into a composting apparatus at 4501; crushing or cutting the input waste to reduce the size of individual particles or fragments within the volume of solid waste at 4502; smaller organic waste particles may be pushed out of the crushing assembly while larger organic waste particles may be recirculated within the crushing system until the larger particles of the remaining fragments are reduced in size; and receiving the pre-processed fragments at step 4503.

[0336] Figure 45B A block diagram 4500b is provided showing how pre-processed food waste is diverted into the appropriate chamber of a composting apparatus. When organic waste is received, a composting chamber can be selected via a processor, and the milled waste can be directed to the appropriate chamber by sending a control signal from the processor to a solids diversion assembly, which is moved to provide an opening in at least one appropriate chamber while also closing at least one other chamber, thereby automatically feeding the pellets into the appropriate chamber for composting. In at least one embodiment, the processor can be configured to determine which of a plurality of chambers is most suitable for the input waste. The processor can then actuate a dam to block the opening of any inappropriate chamber and unlock the opening(s) of the selected chamber(s) to direct the compost into the selected chamber(s).

[0337] Figure 46 A process flow diagram is provided illustrating a method 4600 for pre-processing organic waste according to another exemplary embodiment. The method 4600 may include: inputting waste into a composting apparatus at 4601; crushing or cutting the input waste to reduce the size of individual particles or fragments within the volume of solid waste at 4602; pushing smaller organic waste particles out of the crushing assembly while larger organic waste particles may be recirculated within the crushing system until the particles with larger particle sizes are reduced to smaller remaining fragments; and receiving the pre-processed fragments at step 4603.

[0338] Figure 47 4700 is a flow chart illustrating a method 4700 for diverting compost to liquid according to an example embodiment. In this embodiment, the method 4700 for diverting compost to liquid may include: collecting liquid at 4701; diverting the collected liquid to an appropriate location at 4702; and discharging the liquid to a liquid storage chamber or liquid tank at 4703. In one embodiment, as Figure 36A As shown in FIG, the liquid diverting assembly 3708 can be located above the liquid tank 3510. Thus, as liquid from the input waste is dewatered by the crushing and dewatering assembly 3504, the liquid diverting assembly can use gravity to divert the liquid into the liquid tank 3510. Alternatively and / or in combination, an air flow generated by the dewatering assembly can be used to divert the liquid into the liquid tank.

[0339] Now go to Figure 48 , which provides a rear perspective view of a composting apparatus 4800 according to an example embodiment. In this figure, the chamber cover has been removed to illustrate the flow of air through the composting apparatus 4800 during operation. The composting apparatus 4800 includes a cover 4802 that allows access to a hopper 4806 for receiving input organic waste. The input organic waste is processed according to any of the previously described pretreatment methods. After the pretreatment stage, the precompost is received by at least one of the plurality of composting chambers 4810A, 4810B. The composting chambers 4810A, 4810B also include a motor 4814 that is configured to couple to one or more impellers or mixers positioned within the composting chambers 4810A, 4810B to mix the compost as described in any of the previously described embodiments and methods of mixing compost.

[0340] The composting device 4800 also includes a hot air blower located upstream of the air outlet 4804. The airflow path begins at the hot air blower 4812, passes through the compost chamber 4810, passes through the air filter 4808, and exits the air outlet 4804. In at least one embodiment, the airflow through the air outlet can be provided by an exhaust fan 4804. The airflow from the air outlet allows air to flow out of the main device body from the multiple compost chambers 4810A and 4810B. The air outlet allows any stale air to leave the compost chambers 4810A and 4810B. The air leaving the compost chambers 4810A and 4810B can first pass through / be processed by the air filter assembly 4808 to ensure that the air leaving the interior of the compost chambers 4810A and 4810B is as odor-free as possible, as described in the previous embodiments. Alternatively, the composting device 4800 can include one of the previously described ozone-based or UV-based odor elimination systems. The compost chambers 4810A and 4810B may contain external heating elements 4816 such as heating pads 4816 to provide heat to the compost chambers 4810 . Figure 49 A front view of the composting apparatus 4800 is provided with the chamber cover removed to illustrate some of the internal systems of the composting apparatus 4800. The composting apparatus 4800 includes the previously described Figure 48 48. The liquid tank 4818 stores the liquid generated from the hopper 4806 during the dehydration of the dehydration assembly 4000.

[0341] Figure 50 A diagram of a composter 4800 in which the composter cover is removed to show some of the internal systems of the composting apparatus 4800. Figure 48 A side view of a composting apparatus 4800 is shown. The composting apparatus 4800 includes the previously described Figure 48 , as well as a first UV lamp 4822A, a second UV lamp 4822B, a solid diverting assembly 4824 and a waste pre-treatment assembly including a hopper 4806 for producing pre-treated compost.

[0342] In at least one embodiment, a UV lamp or light 4822 can be included to provide disinfection / sanitation as previously described. UV light disinfection can be performed using at least one UV light 4822B coupled to air filter 4808 or at least one UV light 4822A coupled to or placed above liquid tank 4818 to prevent odor or mold from forming within the liquid tank. In at least one embodiment, in embodiments that include a condenser, the UV light can also be placed near the condenser.

[0343] The solids diverting assembly 4824 includes a dam assembly having a dam movable between a plurality of positions, such as a first position and a second position. The first position of the dam can cover the first composting chamber 4810A, and the second position of the dam can cover the second composting chamber 4810B. Figure 51 Provided Figure 48 Figure 4 is a rear view of a composting apparatus with the composter cover removed to show the dual chambers of the composting apparatus. This view shows the dual compost chambers 4810A and 4810B and the solids diverter assembly 4824. The dam of the solids diverter assembly 4824 can cover the openings of the compost chambers 4810A and 4810B. When the pre-processed compost from the hopper 4806 reaches a specific particle size, the particles can fall through the dam and into the appropriate corresponding chamber.

[0344] Now go to Figure 52 , which provides Figure 48 A partially transparent side view of the crushing assembly 5200 of the composting apparatus 4800. Food and organic waste can be input into the crushing assembly 5200 at 5204. When unprocessed waste is input into the composting apparatus 4800, the crushing assembly 5200 crushes the input waste by cutting or shredding it using shredders 5208. In one embodiment, the input waste can be shredded multiple times by a set of shredders 5208 in a short period of time. Smaller sized organic waste particles can be pushed out of the crushing assembly 5200 through the base plate 5210 and automatically fed into the dewatering assembly, while larger sized organic waste particles can be recirculated within the crushing assembly 5200 until no large pieces remain in the crushing assembly 5200. Shaft 5212 can be used to position the crushing assembly 5200 to the main device body, as well as to provide power to the motor that runs the shredders 5208. The crushing assembly 5200 is also removable, as shown. Figure 43 The crushing assembly 5200 may also be as described in the method 4300. Figure 44 The method 4400 is described as reinstalling the main device body.

[0345] exist Figure 52 , the crushing assembly 5200 is shown alone, without a cover or the rest of the composting apparatus body. The crushing assembly 5200 may include a hopper 5206, a set of shredders 5208 located inside the hopper 5206, and a bottom plate 5210. The hopper 5206 may be a container having at least one opening on a top side for receiving input waste and at least one opening on a bottom side for outputting crushed waste particles.

[0346] like Figure 52As shown in FIG, the shredder assembly 3908 may include one or more cutters, rotating blades, and cutting discs, or any combination thereof. The shredder may be configured to shred, cut, mill, or grind the organic waste and separate it into a plurality of fragments or scraps. The shredder may also be configured to reduce the particle size of the fragments or scraps. In at least one embodiment, the shredder assembly 3908 may be located at the bottom of the hopper 5206, such as Figure 52 As shown in .

[0347] The crushing assembly 5200 may also include a bottom plate 5210 positioned below the hopper 5206. The bottom opening of the hopper 5206 is sealed with the bottom plate 5210, which can be controlled to prevent the organic waste fragments from falling and exiting the crushing assembly before the crushing is completed as previously described. The bottom plate 5210 can be designed to seal the bottom opening of the hopper. Figure 53 Provided separately shown Figure 48 A top perspective view of the crushing assembly 5200 of the composting device 4800. The crushing assembly 5200 includes Figure 52 's previously described elements, and the inner wall of the crushing assembly 5214.

[0348] Figure 54 According to an example embodiment Figure 48 A side cross-sectional view of a crushing assembly 5400 of a composting device. The crushing assembly 5400 includes the previously described Figure 52 and Figure 53 The crushing assembly 5200 may further include a bottom plate 5210 positioned below and sealing the bottom opening of the hopper 5206. The bottom plate 5210 may further include a mesh grid having a plurality of openings sized to allow small organic waste particles to fall through and to block larger sized particles from recirculating 5216 in the hopper 5206.

[0349] Bottom plate 5210 can be designed to seal the bottom opening of the hopper. A gap 5218 can be formed between the bottom opening of hopper 5206 and bottom plate 5210. Thus, the only outlet for hopper 5206 can be formed by gap 5218 between the bottom opening of hopper 5200 and bottom plate 5210. Gap 5218 can allow small particles to escape while preventing large particles from escaping, thereby allowing large particles to recirculate within hopper 5206, as shown by arrows 5216, for example. Small particles that escape through the gap between the bottom opening of the hopper and the bottom plate can be automatically fed into a dewatering assembly.

[0350] Now go to Figure 55A and Figure 55B , Figure 55A and Figure 55B Provided accordingly Figure 48 A front perspective view of a dehydration system 5500 of a composting apparatus and Figure 48 FIG2 is a top view of a dewatering system 5500 of a composting apparatus. In this embodiment, dewatering assembly 5500 comprises two subsystems, including a filter mesh assembly 5504 and a mesh wiper assembly 5502. Filter mesh assembly 5504 may be a cylindrical drum with through-holes 5508 located on the curved surface of the cylindrical drum. The mesh wiper assembly 5502 may include at least one wiper 5502, or alternatively, a plurality of wipers 5502A-5502D positioned proximate to or in contact with mesh assembly 5504. In this embodiment, the wiper assembly 5502 can include a set of wipers 4002A, 4002B, 4002C and 4002D, which are sized to fit within a cylindrical drum and have a height corresponding to the height of the cylindrical drum to ensure that any broken food particles stuck to the inner wall of the filter screen are pushed away.

[0351] The filter mesh assembly 5504 and the mesh wiper assembly 5502 can be coupled to a motor that can be configured to rotate these components. As shown in Figure 55, the filter mesh assembly 5504 and the filter mesh wiper assembly 5502 can rotate independently of each other, and their rotational axes can be concentrically aligned. The filter mesh assembly 5504 can have a first angular velocity R1, and the mesh wiper assembly 5502 can have a second angular velocity R2. During the dewatering phase, the mesh filter 5504 and the wiper assembly 5502 can, for example, rotate at the same angular velocity as each other. During the dewatering phase, R1 = R2. Therefore, as water in the input passes through the pores of the filter mesh assembly 5504 and exits the dewatering system 5500, broken waste fragments may become trapped on the inner wall of the filter mesh assembly 5504. The longer the assembly rotates with the broken waste fragments, the more liquid is filtered out, and the water content of the waste fragments decreases over time.

[0352] During the cleaning phase, filter mesh assembly 5504 and wiper assembly 5502 can have different angular velocities, resulting in relative motion between the two subsystems. During the cleaning phase, R1 ≠ R2. Therefore, any crushed debris remaining on the inner wall of filter mesh assembly 5504 near 5508 can be wiped away. The pre-processed compost waste exits the dewatering system through a designated channel and can be automatically fed to the next set of components. Simultaneously, filter mesh assembly 5504 is cleaned and ready to dewater the next batch of crushed debris.

[0353] Now go to Figure 56A and Figure 56B , which accordingly provides Figure 48 A top view of a solids steering system 5600 of a composting apparatus and Figure 48 A front perspective view of a dam of a composting apparatus. Solid diverter system 5600 includes dam 5602, which is movable (e.g., rotated) between a plurality of positions, or at least between a first position and a second position. Dam 5602 may include an open portion or opening 5604 and a blocking portion or barrier 5606. In the first position of dam 5602, barrier 5606 covers first compost chamber 4810A, while opening 5604 is positioned above second compost chamber 4810B. Opening 5604 defines a path for pre-processed compost to travel. Dam 5602 may be movable, for example, by rotating between a first position and a second position. In the second position (not shown), barrier 5606 covers second compost chamber 4810B, while opening 5604 is positioned above first compost chamber 4810A. This allows compost to flow into the chamber below opening 5604 and prevents compost from entering the other chamber. The processor can be communicatively coupled to the actuator 5608 to actuate the dam 5602 between multiple positions. Since the multiple compost chambers can alternately serve as both pre-treatment chambers and compost chambers as described in the previous embodiment, the dam 5602 can divert the flow directly into the second chamber 4810B, rather than having to pass through the first chamber 4810A, and vice versa. The solids diversion assembly 5600 can also include a dam wiper 5610. The dam wiper 5610 can be used to automatically feed food waste into a designated compost chamber. When waste leaves a previous system (such as a dewatering system), the food waste falls onto the dam, and the dam wiper can be used to push all of the food waste into the opening leading to the compost chamber. The dam wiper 5610 can ensure that all solids are completely transferred from the dam 5602 to the opening 5604.

[0354] Now go to Figure 57 , which provides some of the internal systems of the composting chamber of the composting device 4800 Figure 48 A rear perspective partial view of the compost chamber 4810 is shown. The compost chamber 4810 may include a handle 5702, which may be optional in some cases, to easily remove and retain the compost chamber body 5710; an opening 5706 to access the compost chamber body 5710; a divider 5704 for directing an air flow path; an air passage 5712 for admitting air into the compost chamber body 5710; a gear assembly 5714; and a coupler 5716 for mechanically coupling a first portion of the gear assembly 5714 to the motor. The gear assembly 5714 has a second portion that couples to a mixer shaft in the compost chamber 4810. The other end of the mixer shaft is rotatably mounted to a wall portion of the chamber body 5710.

[0355] Now go to Figure 58 , which provides a top perspective view of a mixer assembly 5800 according to an example embodiment. The mixer assembly 5800 includes a mixer 5708, a mixer shaft 5804, and a gear assembly 5714 and a coupler 5716 that mechanically couples the gear assembly 5714 to the motor. The gear assembly 5714 is also coupled to the mixer shaft 5804 via a gear interface. For example, the coupler 5716 can be a mechanical coupler having a mechanical adapter having a toothed surface that engages the gear assembly and can be used to transmit power from the motor to the drive gear assembly 5714, which in turn drives the mixer shaft 5804. The mixer shaft 5804 can be connected to any driven mixer mechanism, such as, but not limited to, one of an impeller, a pedal, an auger, a piston, a blade, a juicer, or any other crushing mechanism, grinding mechanism, mixing mechanism, conveying mechanism, or pulverizing mechanism. In one embodiment, as Figure 57 and 58 As shown in FIG, the mixer mechanism may include a plurality of paddles 5806A-5806F for mixing the compost.

[0356] It should be understood that in the various embodiments described herein, the removable chamber, which may be a liquid chamber or a compost chamber, may be removed and inserted from the front, side, or top of the composting device.

[0357] Now go to Figure 59A and Figure 59B , which provides block diagrams of multiple composting device systems / networks comprising two and three composting devices, respectively; however, embodiments are possible in which more composting devices are linked together. In such embodiments, multiple composting devices are coupled or otherwise connected together to allow for the processing of larger amounts of compost. In at least one embodiment, as Figure 59A As shown in FIG, two composting devices 5900A and 5900B are connected to each other. In at least one embodiment, as Figure 59B As shown in FIG, three composting apparatuses 5900A, 5900B, and 5900C are coupled to one another. In at least one embodiment, the coupling can be physical, such that the compost chambers are physically coupled during operation to allow the compost chambers to be opened and closed by using screens, doors, and / or conduits (e.g., Figure 9And the door 920 among Figure 12) transmits compost between them.In this way, the composting device with larger capacity can admit compost material from other composting devices, thereby allow the workload to disperse more optimally between the networked composting device.Yet, in an alternative embodiment, the coupling of composting device is to make the composting device network together by carrying out through communication link, and can be monitored, make to follow the different composting stages of different composting devices, and can determine that composting device has the capacity of receiving new waste, and which composting devices are about to arrive at the terminal point of composting process, so that can remove the ripe compost in those composting devices and add new waste to those composting devices.Again, this causes the more optimized distribution of waste in the composting device network, thereby allows more efficient composting.

[0358] In at least one embodiment, the described composting device can be implemented with a variety of form factors to accommodate different user needs. For example, the composting device can be a standalone unit that can be placed in a pull-out cabinet, under a sink, on a countertop, or on the floor. For under-sink embodiments, the composting device can optionally be connected directly to a drain pipe inside the sink or sink cabinet. Thus, in at least one embodiment, the adapter 402 can include, but is not limited to, a drain connector, a sink connector, and / or a dishwashing connector, and the adapter 402 can have an electrical connector (e.g., an electrical cord) for connecting to a power source for the dishwasher.

[0359] On the other hand, the composting device and method described according to the teachings of this article can be used in food preparation environments such as coffee shops and / or juice shops. In such cases, some of the pre-treatment steps are usually performed before waste such as coffee grounds is provided to the composting device. In these cases, as previously described, such waste can be directly provided to the composting chamber. In such cases, the input chamber of the composting device can be connected to the waste output of a commercial coffee machine or juicer via an existing external fluid coupler, such as the ground waste output of a coffee machine or the pulp waste output of a juicer, or the composting device can include a hopper that can be touched by the user who can transfer coffee grounds from the coffee machine or waste from the juicer to the composting device. In both cases, since the input waste has been pre-treated, the pre-treatment process can be skipped, and the composting process can be started from aeration, mixing and optional heating and water spraying. According to an embodiment, to collect the output compost, the user can scoop the output compost out of the composting device, remove the compost chamber like a drawer, or, if the compost is transferred to a removable compost storage chamber, pull out the compost storage chamber. In addition, in such cases, the composting device can be coupled to an existing external electrical connector of the food preparation environment.

[0360] Although the applicant's teachings are described herein in conjunction with various embodiments for illustrative purposes, since the embodiments described herein are intended as examples, it is not intended that the applicant's teachings be limited to such embodiments. On the contrary, the applicant's teachings as described and illustrated herein encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents without departing from the embodiments described herein, the overall scope of which is defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for producing compost, wherein the method comprises: receiving waste in a composting unit, the waste having a first moisture content; pre-treating the waste to produce pre-treated waste; storing the pretreated waste in a storage chamber for a pretreatment period of time to produce stored waste; as well as The stored waste is composted in a composting chamber to produce a batch of output compost having a second moisture content, wherein the second moisture content is less than the first moisture content.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the stored waste is composted to produce an intermediate compost, and the intermediate compost is aggregated to produce the batch of output compost.

3. The method according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the pre-processing step comprises: separating the waste into solid waste and liquid waste; reducing the volume of the solid waste; as well as Drying to reduce the volume of solid waste.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the solid waste having a reduced volume comprises: Crushing, milling, grinding or coating the volume of solid waste to reduce the size of individual particles in the volume of solid waste.

5. The method of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein drying the volume of solid waste comprises heating and / or aerating the volume of solid waste to reduce moisture content.

6. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the liquid waste is obtained by mechanically removing liquid from the waste by pressing, tumbling or centrifuging.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a plurality of intakes of the waste are performed before generating the output compost.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein pretreatment is performed once on a certain amount of waste during the pretreatment time period.

9. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein composting the stored waste comprises using naturally occurring microorganisms and / or introducing microorganisms into the composting chamber and creating one or more conditions to increase the activity of the microorganisms for aerobic decomposition of the waste within the composting chamber.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the step of creating one or more conditions within the composting chamber comprises: (a) flowing air through the waste in the composting chamber to provide the microorganisms with a desired amount of oxygen to undergo an aerobic decomposition process; (b) maintaining a desired moisture content level by spraying or misting a liquid into the composting chamber; (c) maintaining a desired temperature in the composting chamber; (d) adding additional microorganisms in powder, capsule or liquid form; or any operable combination of (a) to (d), The desired oxygen amount and the desired moisture content are determined through experiments.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the method further comprises: Airflow is maintained through the waste in the composting chamber, and the waste in the composting chamber is mixed using a mixer.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising the steps of: The output compost is post-processed by maintaining it in a temperature and humidity controlled chamber with air flow, wherein the temperature in the chamber is above room temperature.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the method comprises removing the compost chamber for retrieving the output compost and reinserting the compost chamber for performing subsequent composting.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the method comprises performing a disinfection sequence.

15. The method of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the method comprises operating at least a first light source of a plurality of ultraviolet light sources at a wavelength between about 100 nm and about 240 nm for generating ozone for destroying odors.

16. The method of any of claim 15, wherein the method comprises operating at least a second light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources at a wavelength between about 240 nm and about 315 nm to control the growth of undesirable organisms and to destroy ozone.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the method comprises using an activated carbon filter to filter volatile compounds and gases remaining after the destruction of the ozone.

18. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the method comprises providing a positive air flow through the waste in the composting chamber for preventing odours from escaping to the exterior of the composting apparatus.

19. A composting device comprising: Main device body; control and power electronics, which include processors and memory; a compost chamber cavity located within the main device body; as well as a composting chamber for performing composting of waste, said composting chamber being located in said composting chamber cavity, The processor is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 14 when software instructions stored in the memory are executed by the processor.

20. The composting device according to claim 19, wherein the composting device further comprises: A pre-treatment tank comprising at least one fan, at least one mixer, optionally at least one condenser, and optionally at least one heater.

21. The composting apparatus of claim 19 or 20, wherein the composting chamber further comprises at least one mixer.

22. The composting apparatus of claim 21, wherein the at least one mixer is a ribbon impeller comprising a first helical fin configuration and a second helical fin configuration; wherein the first spiral fin and the second spiral fin are arranged in opposite angular directions, and; Wherein the first spiral fin and the second spiral fin are configured to be mirror images relative to a central slice plane.

23. The composting apparatus of claim 22, wherein the first spiral fin and the second spiral fin comprise a continuous spiral.

24. The composting device of claim 22, wherein the first and second spiral fins comprise discrete spiral segments.

25. The composting apparatus of any one of claims 19 to 24, wherein the impeller is configured to operate by rotating the first and second spiral fin arrangements in opposite directions to produce a homogenous mixture of solid compost particles having a particle size range of between about 0.5 mm and about 20 mm.

26. The composting device according to any one of claims 19 to 25, wherein the composting device comprises: a plurality of adapters disposed at one end of the compost chamber cavity; as well as The compost chamber includes a plurality of couplers for releasably inserting the compost chamber into the compost chamber cavity by releasably coupling the plurality of couplers with the plurality of adapters.

27. The composting apparatus of claim 26, wherein the plurality of couplers comprises mechanical couplers.

28. The composting device of claim 27, wherein the plurality of couplers further comprises a fluid coupler and / or an electronic coupler.

29. The composting device of any one of claims 19 to 28, further comprising at least one sensor coupled to the compost chamber for obtaining sensor data for one or more parameters inside the compost chamber, the at least one sensor being communicatively coupled to the processor.

30. The composting apparatus of claim 29, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a temperature sensor, a moisture sensor, a relative humidity sensor, a gas sensor, a level sensor, a proximity sensor, a weight sensor, an image sensor, or any operable combination thereof.

31. A composting apparatus according to any one of claims 19 to 30, wherein the composting apparatus comprises a plurality of ultraviolet light sources for destroying odours and controlling undesirable organisms.

32. The composting apparatus of claim 31 , wherein at least a first light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate at a wavelength between about 100 nm and about 240 nm for generating ozone to destroy odors.

33. The composting apparatus of claim 31 or claim 32, wherein at least a second of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate between a wavelength of about 240 nm and about 315 nm to control the growth of undesirable organisms and to destroy ozone.

34. A composting apparatus according to claim 32 or 33, wherein the generated ozone is delivered to the composting chamber for reducing odours in the composting chamber by exposing the odours to the generated ozone.

35. A composting apparatus according to any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein the generated ozone is delivered to the liquid chamber for reducing odours in the liquid chamber by exposing the odours to the generated ozone.

36. The composting device according to any one of claims 32 to 35, wherein the composting device further comprises an activated carbon filter for filtering volatile compounds and gases left after the destruction of the ozone.

37. The composting apparatus of any one of claims 19 to 36, wherein the composting apparatus is further configured to provide positive airflow through the waste in the composting chamber for preventing odors from escaping to the exterior of the composting apparatus.

38. A system for composting food waste, wherein the system comprises: A composting device as defined in any one of claims 19 to 37, Wherein existing external fluid couplings and / or external electrical connectors in a food preparation environment, juice shop or coffee shop are connected to the composting device.

39. The system of claim 38, wherein the existing external fluid coupling comprises a drain connector, a sink connector, a pulp waste output, a grinder waste output, or a dishwashing connector.

40. A mixer for a compost chamber, the compost chamber being used in a composting apparatus, wherein the mixer is a ribbon impeller, comprising: a first spiral fin configuration; and a second spiral fin configuration; wherein the first spiral fin and the second spiral fin are arranged in opposite angular directions; and ； Wherein the first spiral fin and the second spiral fin are configured to be mirror images relative to a central slice plane.

41. The mixer of claim 40, wherein the first and second helical fins comprise a continuous helix.

42. The mixer of claim 40, wherein the first and second helical fins comprise discrete helical segments.

43. The mixer of any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein the impeller is configured to operate by rotating the first and second spiral fin arrangements in opposite directions to produce a homogenous mixture of solid compost particles having a particle size range of between about 0.5 mm and about 20 mm.

44. A composting device comprising: Main device body; control and power electronics, which include processors and memory; a compost chamber cavity located within the main device body; a plurality of adapters disposed at one end of the compost chamber cavity; and A compost chamber for performing composting of waste, wherein the compost chamber is located in the compost chamber cavity and comprises a plurality of couplers for releasably inserting the compost chamber into the compost chamber cavity by releasably coupling the plurality of couplers with the plurality of adapters.

45. The composting apparatus of claim 44, wherein the plurality of couplers comprises mechanical couplers.

46. ​​The composting apparatus of claim 45, wherein the plurality of couplers further comprises a fluid coupler and / or an electronic coupler.

47. The composting device of any one of claims 44 to 46, wherein the composting device further comprises at least one sensor coupled to the compost chamber for obtaining sensor data for one or more parameters inside the compost chamber, the at least one sensor being communicatively coupled to the processor.

48. A method of producing compost, wherein the method comprises: collecting the first portion of the waste in a composting unit; processing a first portion of the waste in the composting unit; transferring a first portion of the waste to a first composting chamber within the composting apparatus; pre-treating a first portion of the waste to produce a first portion of pre-treated waste; composting a first portion of the pretreated waste in the first composting chamber to produce a first output compost; collecting a second portion of the waste in the composting unit; processing a second portion of said waste in said composting unit; transferring a second portion of the waste to a second composting chamber within the composting apparatus; pre-treating a second portion of the waste to produce a second portion of pre-treated waste; as well as composting a second portion of the pretreated waste in the second composting chamber to produce a second output compost; Wherein once the first composting chamber is filled, a second portion of the waste is collected in the composting apparatus.

49. A method of producing compost, wherein the method comprises: receiving a first quantity of waste in a composting unit; pre-treating the first quantity of waste to produce a first quantity of pre-treated waste; storing the first quantity of pretreated waste in a first storage chamber for a pretreatment period of time to produce a first quantity of stored waste; composting the first amount of stored waste in a first composting chamber to produce a first output compost; subsequently receiving a second amount of waste in the composting unit; pre-treating the second amount of waste to produce a second amount of pre-treated waste; storing the second amount of pretreated waste in a second storage chamber for a pretreatment period to produce a second amount of stored waste; as well as composting the second amount of stored waste in a second compost chamber to produce a second output compost; wherein if the first storage chamber meets specified criteria, the processor determines whether the first amount of pre-treated waste should instead enter the second storage chamber; and Wherein if the second storage chamber meets specified criteria, the processor determines whether the second amount of pre-treated waste should instead enter the first storage chamber.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein the specified criteria includes the storage chamber being full or based on a countdown timer.

51. The method of claim 49 or claim 50, wherein the pre-processing step comprises: separating the waste into solid waste and liquid waste; reducing the volume of the solid waste; as well as The reduced volume of solid waste is dried or dehydrated.

52. The method of claim 51 , wherein reducing the volume of the solid waste comprises: Crushing, milling, grinding or coating the volume of solid waste to reduce the size of individual particles in the volume of solid waste.

53. The method of any one of claims 51 to 52, wherein drying the volume of solid waste comprises heating and / or aerating the volume of solid waste to reduce moisture content.

54. The method according to any one of claims 51 to 52, wherein liquid waste is obtained by performing dewatering comprising mechanically removing liquid from the waste by pressing, tumbling or centrifuging.

55. The method of any one of claims 49 to 54, wherein composting the stored waste comprises using naturally occurring microorganisms and / or introducing microorganisms into the first composting chamber and the second composting chamber, and creating one or more conditions to increase the activity of the microorganisms for aerobic decomposition of the waste in the first composting chamber and the second composting chamber.

56. The method of any one of claims 49 to 55, further comprising: Adequate airflow is maintained through the waste in the first and second composting chambers, and a mixer is used to mix the waste in the first and second composting chambers.

57. A method according to any one of claims 49 to 56, wherein the method comprises removing the first compost chamber for retrieving the output compost; and reinserting the first compost chamber whilst the second compost chamber continues composting.

58. A composting device comprising: Main device body; control and power electronics, which include processors and memory; a first composting chamber cavity located within the main device body; a first composting chamber for performing composting of waste, wherein the first composting chamber is located in the first composting chamber cavity; a second compost chamber cavity located within the main apparatus body adjacent to the first compost chamber cavity; a second composting chamber for performing composting of waste, the second composting chamber being located in the second composting chamber cavity; and a dam movable between a first position and a second position; wherein a first position of the dam covers the second compost chamber, and a second position of the dam covers the first compost chamber; and The processor is configured to perform a method of producing compost when software instructions stored in the memory are executed by the processor.

59. The composting apparatus of claim 58, wherein the main device body further comprises a pleated mesh filter configured to separate liquid waste from solid waste, the pleated filter having perforations; The pleated mesh filter comprises an open state for receiving food waste; and a closed state for collecting solid waste while simultaneously draining the liquid waste from the perforations.

60. The composting apparatus of claim 59, wherein the liquid waste discharged from the perforations is collected in a liquid chamber for storage until processed.

61. A composting apparatus according to any one of claims 58 to 60, wherein the composting apparatus comprises a plurality of ultraviolet light sources for destroying odours and controlling undesirable organisms.

62. The composting apparatus of claim 61, wherein at least a first light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate at a wavelength between about 100 nm and about 240 nm for generating ozone to destroy odors.

63. The composting apparatus of claim 61 or claim 62, wherein at least a second of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate between a wavelength of about 240 nm and about 315 nm to control the growth of undesirable organisms and to destroy ozone.

64. The composting apparatus of claim 61 or claim 62, wherein the generated ozone is delivered to the first and second composting chambers for reducing odours in the first and second composting chambers by exposing the odours to the generated ozone.

65. The composting device according to any one of claims 61 to 64, wherein the composting device further comprises an activated carbon filter for filtering volatile compounds and gases left after the destruction of the ozone.

66. The composting apparatus of any one of claims 58 to 65, wherein the composting apparatus is further configured to provide positive airflow through the waste in the composting chamber for preventing odors from escaping exterior of the composting apparatus.

67. A composting apparatus according to any one of claims 58 to 66, wherein the composting chamber is insertable and removable horizontally, vertically or from the side of the composting apparatus.

68. The composting device of any one of claims 58 to 67, wherein the composting device further comprises a liquid chamber that can be inserted into and removed horizontally, vertically or from the side of the composting device.

69. A composting device comprising: Main device body; control and power electronics, which include processors and memory; a first composting chamber cavity located within the main device body; a first composting chamber for performing composting of waste, wherein the first composting chamber is located in the first composting chamber cavity; a second compost chamber cavity located within the main apparatus body adjacent to the first compost chamber cavity; a second composting chamber for performing composting of waste, wherein the second composting chamber is located in the second composting chamber cavity; as well as a solids diverting assembly for diverting solids between the first composting chamber and the second composting chamber; The processor is configured to perform a method of producing compost when software instructions stored in the memory are executed by the processor.

70. The composting device of claim 69, further comprising a crushing assembly, the crushing assembly comprising: a hopper having a first opening for receiving input organic waste and a second opening opposite the first opening for discharging output waste; a set of choppers located within the hopper for chopping the input organic waste into particles of reduced size; as well as a bottom plate positioned to seal the second opening of the hopper and leave a gap that allows smaller particles smaller than the gap to be discharged while preventing larger particles larger than the gap from being discharged, thereby recycling the larger particles into the hopper for further shredding and size reduction.

71. The composting apparatus of claim 69, further comprising a dewatering assembly including a filter screen assembly and a screen wiper assembly for reducing the water content of the particles.

72. The composting apparatus of claim 71, wherein the screen filter assembly rotates at a first angular velocity and the screen wiper assembly rotates at a second angular velocity.

73. The composting apparatus of claim 72, wherein during a dehydration phase of the compost, the first angular velocity is equal to the second angular velocity.

74. The composting apparatus of claim 73, wherein the first angular velocity is not equal to the second angular velocity during a cleaning phase of the compost.

75. The composting apparatus of claim 69, further comprising a liquid diverting assembly configured to collect liquid obtained during a dewatering phase of the compost and divert the liquid toward a liquid tank.

76. The composting apparatus of claim 69, wherein the solids diversion assembly comprises a dam movable between a first position and a second position; The first position of the dam covers the second compost chamber, and the second position of the dam covers the first compost chamber.

77. The composting apparatus of claim 69, further comprising an air filtration assembly.

78. The composting apparatus of claim 77, wherein the air filtration assembly includes a plurality of ultraviolet light sources for destroying odors and controlling undesirable organisms.

79. The composting apparatus of claim 78, wherein at least a first light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate at a wavelength between about 100 nm and about 240 nm for generating ozone to destroy odors.

80. The composting apparatus of claim 78 or claim 79, wherein at least a second light source of the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to operate at a wavelength between about 240 nm and about 315 nm to destroy ozone.

81. The composting apparatus of claim 79 or claim 80, wherein the generated ozone is delivered to the first and second composting chambers for reducing odors in the first and second composting chambers by exposing the odors to the generated ozone.

82. The composting apparatus of any one of claims 79 to 81 , wherein the generated ozone is delivered to the liquid chamber for reducing odours in the liquid chamber by exposing the odours to the generated ozone.

83. The composting apparatus of any one of claims 69 to 82, wherein the composting apparatus further comprises an activated carbon filter for filtering volatile compounds and gases remaining from the destruction of the ozone.

84. The composting apparatus of any one of claims 69 to 83, wherein the composting apparatus is further configured to provide positive airflow through the waste in the composting chamber for preventing odors from escaping exterior of the composting apparatus.

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