Modular organic matter treatment system

Abstract

A modular organic matter treatment system comprises: a modular frame (103) for supporting a plurality of containers (106), each container containing a plurality of decomposition organisms for assisting decomposition of organic matter wherein the modular frame (103) comprises a plurality of shelf members (105), each shelf member (105) being stackable on another shelf member (105), therefore, the modular frame (103) is formed. The system further comprises a crushing unit (108) for crushing the organic matter and placing the crushed organic matter into one of the plurality of containers (106).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a modular organic matter treatment system, and particularly, but not exclusively, to a modular food waste treatment system that utilizes decomposing organisms such as insects. Background Technology

[0002] Waste disposal and recycling are well-known issues in modern urban lifestyles. However, designed solutions are often unsuitable for high-density urban lifestyles, where additional private space may be required for waste management. As a result, many people living in high-density areas such as city centers are unable or unwilling to manage their waste, as urban space is a valuable commodity.

[0003] Furthermore, the lack of public participation in waste management can lead to significant environmental impacts. One major impact is the use of landfills to store food waste, which consumes a large amount of valuable land resources. In addition, when food waste is dumped in landfills, the original cycles of carbon recycling and nutrient return to the soil necessary for organic growth are disrupted, resulting in a persistent imbalance between daily life and the natural environment.

[0004] This persistent imbalance has put further pressure on environmental issues, including soil erosion, environmental pollution, environmental damage caused by mining, and uncontrolled greenhouse gas emissions. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a modular organic matter processing system is provided. The system includes:

[0006] A modular framework for supporting multiple containers, each containing multiple decomposing organisms to assist in the decomposition of organic matter, wherein the modular framework includes multiple shelving components, each of which can be stacked on top of another shelving component to form the modular framework.

[0007] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the system further includes: a crushing unit for crushing the organic matter and placing the crushed organic matter into one of the plurality of containers.

[0008] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the modular frame includes partition columns for dividing the plurality of shelving members into upper and lower sections, each section for accommodating a plurality of containers.

[0009] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the partition column forms a gap for arranging the crushing unit therein.

[0010] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the organic matter includes food waste.

[0011] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the decomposing organisms include insects.

[0012] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the insect is a black soldier fly larva.

[0013] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the container includes one or more environmental sensors for detecting environmental data representing the condition of each container, and the one or more environmental sensors are configured to communicate with a communication gateway to transmit the environmental data to one or more users.

[0014] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the environmental sensor includes any one or a combination of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a weight sensor, and a chemical sensor.

[0015] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the plurality of shelving components are reusable pallet components.

[0016] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the container includes a mixing module for agitating the plurality of decomposing organisms and the organic matter.

[0017] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the mixing module includes one or more manipulators driven by a motor unit to agitate the plurality of decomposing organisms and the organic matter.

[0018] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the one or more manipulators are configured to extend away from a central rotation axis, which is driven by a motor to move the one or more manipulators within a container body containing the decomposing organisms and the organic matter.

[0019] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the one or more manipulators move slowly inside the container body.

[0020] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the container is also used to receive dry organic material or water to regulate the humidity of the decomposing organisms and the organic matter.

[0021] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the one or more manipulators move at a variable speed to adjust the humidity of the decomposing organisms and the organic matter.

[0022] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, an enhanced container for a modular organic matter treatment system is provided, the enhanced container comprising:

[0023] The main body of the container is used to receive a mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter;

[0024] A mixing module for agitating the mixture of decomposing biological and organic matter; and

[0025] A controller unit is used to automatically control the mixing module to regulate the agitation of the mixture of decomposing biological and organic matter.

[0026] In one embodiment of the second aspect, the system further includes:

[0027] Sensor module, used to measure the humidity and temperature of the mixture of decomposing biological and organic matter; and

[0028] In one embodiment of the second aspect, the humidity and temperature of the mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter trigger a humidity or temperature regulation response, the response including: adding dried organic matter or water to regulate the humidity of the mixture; or applying heat or airflow to regulate the temperature of the mixture; and regulating the agitation speed of the mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter.

[0029] In one embodiment of the second aspect, the container includes an access door with ventilation holes, wherein the ventilation holes are for accessing the contents of the container body, and the access door is for accessing the container body, the mixing module, the controller unit, and the sensor module.

[0030] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a food processing component is provided for use as part of a food production chain. The food processing component includes: a modular frame for supporting multiple containers, each container containing multiple decomposing organisms for assisting in the decomposition of organic matter, wherein the modular frame includes multiple shelf members, each shelf member being stackable on top of another shelf member to form the modular frame.

[0031] In one embodiment of the third aspect, the plurality of containers includes one or more enhanced containers for a modular organic matter treatment system, comprising:

[0032] The main body of the container is used to receive a mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter;

[0033] A mixing module for agitating the mixture of decomposing biological and organic matter; and

[0034] A controller unit for automatically controlling the mixing module to regulate the agitation of the mixture of decomposing biological and organic matter; and

[0035] The one or more enhanced containers are supported by adapting the size of the shelving components.

[0036] In one embodiment of the third aspect, the food processing component includes:

[0037] Sensor module, used to measure the humidity and temperature of the mixture of decomposing biological and organic matter; and

[0038] The sensor module also includes a chemical sensor for measuring the ammonia content of the mixture of decomposed biological and organic matter.

[0039] In one embodiment of the third aspect, the humidity and temperature of the mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter trigger a humidity or temperature regulation response, the response including: adding dried organic matter or water to regulate the humidity of the mixture; or applying heat or airflow to regulate the temperature of the mixture; and regulating the agitation speed of the mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter.

[0040] In one embodiment of the third aspect, the container includes an access door with ventilation holes, wherein the ventilation holes are for accessing the contents of the container body, and the access door is for accessing the container body, the mixing module, the controller unit, and the sensor module. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Specific embodiments of this disclosure will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary modular organic matter processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exemplary flowchart illustrating the methods performed by the system when processing food waste.

[0044] Figure 3 It is suitable for defining Figure 1 A view of the various tray components of the system's modular framework.

[0045] Figure 4 It is Figure 3 Various pallet components are assembled into Figure 1 A view of the system's modular framework.

[0046] Figure 5 It is shown in Figure 1 A block diagram showing the use of sensors and other Internet of Things (IoT) devices in the system.

[0047] Figure 6A It is used for Figure 1 A photograph of an exemplary embodiment of the system's intelligent or enhanced container.

[0048] Figure 6B It is used for Figure 1An exemplary embodiment of the system’s intelligent or enhanced container is shown in a photograph when its door is opened.

[0049] Figure 6C It is used for Figure 1 Another photograph of an exemplary embodiment of the system's intelligent or enhanced container.

[0050] Figure 6D yes Figure 6A A photograph of an exemplary embodiment of the container body and manipulator of a smart or enhanced container.

[0051] Figure 7A yes Figure 6A An exploded 3D view of an intelligent or enhanced container.

[0052] Figure 7B yes Figure 6A A side-view exploded view of a smart or enhanced container.

[0053] Figure 7C yes Figure 6A An exploded view of the container body and motor unit of an intelligent or enhanced container. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Reference Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a modular organic matter processing system 100 is shown, comprising: a modular frame for supporting a plurality of containers 106, each container 106 for containing a batch of decomposing organisms for assisting in the decomposition of organic matter, wherein the modular frame 103 includes a plurality of shelf members 105, each shelf member 105 being stackable on top of another shelf member 105 to form the modular frame 103.

[0055] Preferably, the system 100 further includes a crushing unit 108 for crushing the organic matter and placing the crushed organic matter into one of the plurality of containers 106; the container 106 includes one or more environmental sensor or camera units for detecting or capturing environmental data representing the condition of each of the containers 106, wherein the environmental sensors are used to communicate with a communication gateway to transmit environmental data to one or more users.

[0056] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the modular organic matter processing system 100 includes a plurality of containers 106. Containers 106 are used to store various organic materials that will be processed or are being processed. These organic materials may include food scraps or food waste, or other similar organic materials that may be generated from the manufacturing, processing, or consumption of food or other organic articles.

[0057] In this exemplary embodiment, container 106 may also be in the form of a flat tray with an opening to facilitate access to the main container body, although other types of containers are also possible. Container 106 may have a removable lid that can be removed by a user, or it may be integrated with container 106 and folded away or slid off the container body to allow access to the container. In some examples, see reference below. Figure 5 As will be explained, when electronic or automatic control of the system status is implemented, container 106 may also have an electrically controlled door, or a spring-loaded lid with a mechanism, wherein the lid can be opened or closed by a computer-controlled mechanical component. This is particularly advantageous in embodiments requiring automatic intervention in the environmental conditions of the container, such as adding moisture, cooling by a fan, or adding additional food waste. Therefore, to perform these intervention tasks, the lid of container 106 can be moved by mechanical, electromechanical, or robotic means, making it possible to manipulate the contents of container 106.

[0058] Inside container 106 is a suitable decomposing organism. Such a suitable decomposing organism can be a selected insect, such as the black soldier fly, although other insects or even bacterial or fungal colonies may also be suitable. Typically, the type of decomposing organism is selected based on the characteristics of the organic matter to be treated and the geographical location where the system is placed. As an example, in southern China, including the Greater Bay Area and surrounding cities, the black soldier fly has become a suitable insect for decomposing food scraps and food waste. This is because black soldier flies are common in this geographical area, and the food commonly consumed by people living in southern China typically has specific moisture, fat, and fiber contents suitable for black soldier flies, which in turn forms a symbiotic relationship in the decomposition of food scraps and food waste in the region. Furthermore, black soldier flies are known not to pose any biological threat to the local environment, nor do they act as hosts or vectors of disease. Similarly, if this system were to be deployed in other parts of the world, climate, local dietary habits, and the availability of certain types of native insects, bacteria, or fungi could all influence the selection of decomposing organisms used in the system.

[0059] like Figure 1As shown, the system includes a modular frame 103 comprising multiple stackable layers. The frame 103 can have any desired number of layers and typically includes a lower section 102 and an upper section 104, separated by columns, which can also be modular. Both the upper section 104 and the lower section 102 include shelf spaces 105 for accommodating multiple containers 106, which can be housed within each shelf space 105. These containers 106 can initially contain a portion of decomposing organisms, such as black soldier fly larvae. Then, once organic matter (e.g., food waste or organic debris) is placed in the containers, the larvae rapidly mature and begin consuming the organic matter. Subsequently, depending on the decomposing organisms used, fertilizer can be produced from the decomposing organisms. This fertilizer can then be collected for subsequent use or recycling in agricultural or industrial applications.

[0060] Preferably, a gap 110 exists between the upper part 104 and the lower part 102. This space is useful because it provides temporary storage space 110 for items when the user is preparing to use the system 100, or it may allow the user of the system 100 to sort, process, or classify organic matter before it begins to be processed by the system 100. In this example, the gap 110 is positioned near the waist height of a typical user, so the lower part 102 may have more containers 106 than the upper part 104, although this will depend on the preferred deployment of the system 100 in a particular location based on the surrounding environment and its dimensions. A work area may be provided within the gap 110, equipped with additional tools to aid in the preparation of the organic matter to be processed, such as one or more... Figure 1 The shown crushing unit 108 includes a manually operated crushing unit 108 placed on the work area 110. Additionally, a container 106 can be placed directly below it, allowing crushed organic matter such as food waste or scraps to be crushed and fall directly into the container 106 below.

[0061] Optionally, other service modules may also be placed in the gap 110, such as, but not limited to, a handwashing unit (not shown), which may include a handwashing basin and a water tap unit for users who wish to wash their hands immediately after handling their organic waste.

[0062] The modular organic waste treatment system 100 may be advantageous because it provides modular units. These units allow for the processing of organic waste such as food scraps or food waste, while simultaneously producing usable fertilizer. Figure 2As shown, this treatment system utilizes decomposing organisms such as insects to process organic matter by consuming it. This ensures that the insects can grow and reproduce a new generation while generating useful fertilizer for domestic or commercial agricultural or industrial applications. Furthermore, organic waste such as food scraps or food waste that would otherwise end up in landfills can also be recycled into fertilizer. Thus, the normal organic processing of food nutrients, for example, from soil to plant matter to food, can be returned to the soil as fertilizer or used for energy or other useful industrial applications in the form of ammonia.

[0063] like Figure 2 As shown, cycle 200 begins at (1), in which food (or animal feed grown by livestock) is grown using fertilizer. Subsequently, the food is sold (2) to the end user, who will consume (3) the food, but a large amount of waste (4) is generated during transportation, production and consumption. At this point, the user can choose to recycle the waste (5) and use system 100 to recycle the waste by feeding decomposing organisms (e.g., black soldier fly larvae) with the food waste.

[0064] During the recycling process (5), the decomposing organism 202 consumes food waste. This process promotes the generation of fertilizer from the excrement of the decomposing organism. In addition, a new generation of decomposing organisms in the pupal stage (8) will be born, which will develop into adults (9) and lay new eggs (10) and larvae (11), which will then be used to process more food waste (5).

[0065] Therefore, system 100 is able to provide a biological cycle for the recycling of organic waste and return byproducts of food or other organic items to the soil at their source. The system is also self-sustaining, as it allows decomposing organisms to consume food waste and thus reproduce for the treatment of subsequent new organic waste.

[0066] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 This illustrates various structural components 300 that can be used to define a modular framework 103 for a modular organic matter processing system 100. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the various components 300 can be customized into these shapes and made from a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, or recycled plastic. Preferably, however, the various components 300 are parts of various pallets or transport platforms. These pallets or transport platforms are commonly used in the food supply chain to transport various food or consumer goods. These pallets are used to support packages of goods consisting of boxes, bags, or purses, which can then be transported to freight vehicles such as trucks, railroads, ships, or airplanes using forklifts.

[0067] These pallets can come in various forms, but typically include, for example: Figure 3The component 300 shown includes: a conventional tray 302, a hollow block tray 304, a double H-shaped component 306 obtained by disassembling or cutting the tray, an H-shaped tray 308 obtained by disassembling or cutting the tray, and a crossbeam 310 obtained by disassembling or cutting the tray. Figure 4 As shown, these components can then be used to assemble the modular frame 103 of the modular organic matter handling system 100, including a lower section 102, an upper section 104, and support columns therebetween. Each of these components can be secured or engaged in place using fasteners such as rivets, screws, nails, staples, tape, or glue. As those skilled in the art will recognize, the flexibility of the pallet components means that certain components can be stacked, cut, or engaged together to form various configurations of the modular frame 103, depending on their intended use or user preference. As an example, when the container 106 may have different dimensions (e.g., taller, wider, or deeper), pallet components can be cut or removed to create a larger opening for the larger container 106 to be accommodated.

[0068] Furthermore, due to the modular nature of the modular frame 103, the modular organic waste handling system 100 can be adapted to different configurations to suit specific needs. For example, when the system 100 is placed in a warehouse with a low ceiling, the modular frame 103 can be adapted to have a shorter upper section 104. In another example, if the system 100 is adapted for use by school children, the lower section 102 can be stacked to a lower height using various components 300 to accommodate children's accessibility. In some examples, the system 100 can be deployed for use in waste disposal rooms or waste disposal areas of food processing facilities. Therefore, the system 100 can be implemented using pallet components according to the expectations of a specific area or purpose.

[0069] Use such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 The various components 300 shown add an additional advantage to system 100 by utilizing pallets that are already widely used. Furthermore, these pallets are frequently discarded by supply chain, transportation, or retail companies, and these decommissioned or damaged pallets are often sent to landfills. Therefore, by designing the exemplary system 100 to have a modular frame 103 constructed from these pallet components 300, it is possible, in turn, to build system 100 at a low cost while reusing old pallet components that might otherwise have been sent to landfills, thereby reducing the burden on landfills.

[0070] Reference Figure 5Another embodiment of a modular organic waste treatment system 500 is shown. In this embodiment, system 500 includes one or more sensors 502 for sensing the environmental conditions of system 500 and the condition of each container 106. The environmental data obtained from these sensors 502 can then be processed by electronic systems, computers, servers, edge devices, computing systems, and / or transmitted via a communication interface through a communication network 504 to a cloud server 506 and an individual user, who can then view and monitor the status of the system's treatment of their food waste or scraps on their personal device (e.g., smartphone 508, IoT device, or computer 510).

[0071] As previously mentioned, since each container 106 may contain decomposing organisms, such as insects, the condition of the container 106 may affect the health of these organisms. Therefore, the sensors 502 placed on the system 500 may include environmental sensors, such as temperature sensor 502t, humidity sensor 502h, chemical sensors (for detecting various chemical compounds including ammonia), and infrared thermal sensors, and these sensors may be placed in the area surrounding the system 500 and inside each container 106 itself.

[0072] In these embodiments, measurements of temperature 502t and humidity 502h are particularly useful because certain insects (e.g., black soldier fly larvae) have optimal ranges for efficiency and health. Continuous monitoring of temperature and humidity is especially useful for determining the health of the insects and the stage at which the food waste has been processed, as the environment in which system 500 operates and the food debris being processed by the insects can vary.

[0073] In another example, camera 502c can also be placed around the modular frame 103 itself to capture the contents and activity of each container 106. This is particularly helpful because users can remotely see the decomposing organisms processing their food waste, as well as the health status of any of the decomposing organisms themselves. This is especially advantageous when the system 500 is used by children or students, as they can experience the recycling process and the growth of the decomposing organisms in real time by watching a video stream of each container 106.

[0074] In another exemplary embodiment, system 500 may further include a weighing device around each container 106 to measure the mass of each container in real time. This can be achieved by using a weight sensor placed on a support of each container 106, thereby measuring the weight of the container in real time. This is particularly helpful because the weight of the container can indicate the amount of food waste consumed by the decomposed organisms. Therefore, when the weight has decreased below a certain threshold from when it was initially filled with food waste, the container 106 may be suitable to receive more food waste.

[0075] In this example, the weighing device continuously measures the weight of each container, and the weight, or the weight difference over a period of time, operates an indicator to show which container is suitable to receive more food waste. This is particularly advantageous when all containers 106 are already in use, but some containers 106 are able to receive more food waste due to different rates of consumption of decomposing organisms. Therefore, the user can allocate their food waste to these containers 106 that are not yet full, wherein a centralized computing or electronic system is used to control which container 106 can receive more food waste by displaying an indicator to the user.

[0076] In another exemplary embodiment, system 500 is also used to actively control the environment of each container 106. By measuring temperature and humidity, if the temperature or humidity exceeds or falls below a certain threshold, system 500 can be controlled to operate a fan to cool the container 106. A moisture delivery system, such as a spray gun, can also be operated for a controlled period of time to increase the humidity of the container 106. Similarly, when the humidity exceeds the threshold, the system can guide the user to add more dried food waste to certain containers, or pre-dried food waste or organic materials (e.g., dry food scraps, including oats, bread, biscuits, or other forms of dry or moisture-absorbing food scraps) can be added to containers where the humidity has exceeded the threshold.

[0077] Preferably, the addition of these dried food scraps is automatically performed and controlled by the system 500 itself. The storage area for these dried food scraps is accessible, and they are then mechanically added to each container as needed, based on the detected humidity level. A mechanical stirring device may also be placed inside, near, or beside each container to gently agitate the dried food scraps into the existing food scraps, thereby reducing the overall moisture content of the food scraps being processed.

[0078] As illustrated in examples of these modular organic waste processing systems 100 and 500, each modular system is designed to be created using decommissioned pallets and placed in a stable environment, such as a garden, workshop, warehouse, or shady area in an open space. Once placed in these environments, users, including adults, children, or students involved in recycling, can bring their food waste from home, school, or workplace. This food waste may include leftover or spoiled meat, vegetables, or fruit, and may be cooked, seasoned, or raw.

[0079] Once users bring their food waste, they can first use one of the shredders to break it down into smaller pieces. Users can then place their food waste into the shredder and continue searching for empty containers that are not yet filled or not full of food waste to be processed. These empty containers, or those with larger capacities, can be electronically marked with LED indicators, making them easier for users to identify.

[0080] Once a user finds an available container, they can place it on the shelf below the shredder and continue shredding their food waste into the container. Instructions on how much waste to put in each container will be provided based on the container size and the expected processing time of the food waste. Instructions on how much food waste to add can also be provided if the system has a weight sensor within the 500 unit. Once the user has placed the correct amount of food waste in the container, they can place it in an empty shelf. A code on the empty shelf or an RFID circuit marking each shelf will allow users to quickly find an available shelf to place their container containing the food waste awaiting processing.

[0081] Once the food waste is placed in each shelf, the user can leave, allowing the waste to be processed by decomposing organisms. In an example of the system used in southern China, the food waste can be processed by black soldier fly larvae, who will begin consuming it. Once fed, the black soldier fly larvae can grow into adults over time, and these adults can reproduce, producing a new generation of black soldier fly larvae for reintroduction into the container. Preferably, once black soldier fly larvae are observed or detected maturing into adults, they are removed from the container and placed elsewhere, such as an incubation area, space, or breeding chamber, so that they can spend the rest of their lives reproducing new fly larvae. These new fly larvae can then be collected and used for reintroduction into the container to consume new food waste.

[0082] During the time the food waste is consumed by black soldier fly larvae, environmental sensors and cameras continuously monitor the container's condition. If the environmental sensors indicate that the temperature or humidity has exceeded or fallen below a certain threshold (e.g., below 30% or above 70%, which is outside the optimal range for black soldier fly larvae), an alert can be issued to the user or support personnel to inspect the container and resolve any issues by cleaning the container and replacing it with a new decomposing organism population. Alternatively, the automated control system described above can be used to attempt to control the temperature or humidity.

[0083] Furthermore, sensor data or video streams can be transmitted to cloud servers, allowing users to access this data via a web interface or application on their smart devices. Users interested in the recycling process may find it engaging to track the progress of their waste disposal. Additionally, information related to each recycling step can be stored or processed for gamification or rewards, making the entire recycling process more enjoyable and rewarding for end-users. This is advantageous because gamification, rewards, or competitions can encourage more active user participation in the recycling process and encourage other users to join the recycling community.

[0084] After food waste is processed, the decomposing organisms should produce nitrogen- or ammonia-rich substances, such as fertilizer. This fertilizer can also be collected by users or support staff for further processing or reuse. The collected fertilizer can also be weighed and given to users as a reward for their personal hobbies, or it can be given or sold to the chemical industry. Fertilizer generation can also be used as part of rewards or gamification to encourage more users to participate in the recycling process.

[0085] In another example, system 100 can also be used as part of a food processing process that can be implemented in a garage processing room, agricultural production line, commercial kitchen, or commercial food processing facility, such as those located in hotels, factories, or restaurants. In these environments, food waste or kitchen scraps may be generated as part of a general meal preparation process, or as part of the processing of agricultural or fishery products, such as when food or beverages are prepared in a mill, cannery (for food bottling), brewery (for beverage production), or vineyard.

[0086] In these examples, system 100 can be adapted as part of a food processing chain, whereby food or kitchen waste generated as part of the food processing chain can be directly transported, input, or fed to system 100 for decomposition. Preferably, since the characteristics of food or kitchen waste (including moisture, texture, or composition) may vary, additional sorting or processing steps, such as drying, can be added before it is processed by system 100.

[0087] Reference Figures 6A to 6D , showed Figure 1 Another exemplary embodiment of the container 106 shown. In this exemplary embodiment, container 600 is Figure 1The illustrated container 106 is a "smart" or "enhanced" version for containing food waste to be processed by decomposition organisms. In this exemplary embodiment, the smart container 600 is also used to contain food waste to be processed by decomposition organisms (including black soldier fly larvae or any other similar or suitable organisms). However, to improve the efficiency of food waste treatment, the smart container 600 includes a mixing module for agitating the food waste with the decomposition organisms to increase the organisms' contact with the food waste, thereby improving the efficiency of the decomposition organisms in treating the food waste. Furthermore, the smart container 600 includes a sensor module for monitoring the environment of the container 600, including the humidity or temperature of the contents of the container 600, and thus allowing the controller to take appropriate actions, such as cooling the container by operating a fan, heating the container by operating a heater, or increasing or decreasing the humidity of the container by adding water or drying the food waste. The sensor module may also include a chemical sensor for detecting various chemical compounds, including formaldehyde, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), or ammonia. Ammonia detection is also helpful because it can determine the rate at which food waste is being decomposed through biological processes and trigger specific actions or alarms.

[0088] like Figure 6A As shown, the smart container 600 can be placed within the shelf component 105 of the modular frame 103 of the food processing system 100. Depending on the size of the smart container 600 and the shelf component 105, one or more smart containers 600 can be stored within each shelf component 105. When a user wishes to use the smart container 600 to dispose of food waste, a container 600 can be removed from the shelf component 105, and the user opens the lid 602 of the container 600, as shown. Figure 6B As shown. Once the lid is opened, container chamber 604 is exposed, as... Figure 6C and Figure 6D As shown.

[0089] The chamber 604 is used to receive food waste and decomposing organisms (e.g., black soldier fly larvae, or any other suitable insects or organisms). Preferably, chamber 604 should receive only a suitable amount of food waste and larvae to optimize the treatment of the food waste, as an excess of either would disrupt the treatment of the food waste. Once the food waste has been treated, the treated food waste can be preserved for other uses, such as fertilizer or processed oils, fats, or proteins, which can then be used for other commercial or industrial purposes.

[0090] In such Figure 6C and Figure 6DIn the exemplary embodiment shown, chamber 604 also includes an agitation tool in the form of a mixing module 606. The mixing module 606 includes an operating arm 608 comprising multiple arms extending from a rotation axis for moving food waste and decomposing organisms. These arms are used to slowly agitate the food waste substrate to move, displace, or otherwise agitate it without harming the larvae. The agitation speed can be, for example, one revolution every 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, or even one hour.

[0091] The function of the mixing module 606 is particularly advantageous because agitating the food waste substrate will allow larvae to mix within the substrate, thereby increasing the larvae's opportunities to come into contact with the food waste. This, in turn, may lead to larvae processing the food waste more effectively and improve the efficiency of the food processing system in handling food waste.

[0092] Although not shown, the smart container 600 includes multiple sensor units for measuring the humidity and temperature of the food waste matrix. Since food waste received from users can vary in quality, composition, and moisture content, the sensors will be able to correct for any changes in humidity or temperature to ensure that these two variables are optimal or better for the biological treatment of food waste. For example, a mixing module 606 can be used to assist in mixing in dry food waste, such as bread or cookie crumbs, to reduce the moisture content of the food waste matrix. Alternatively, if moisture needs to be increased, water can be added to the food waste matrix and mixed with the mixing module to increase the moisture content.

[0093] Preferably, when the smart container 600 detects the humidity and temperature of the food waste substrate (a combination of organic matter (food waste) and decomposing organisms (e.g., black soldier fly larvae)), in addition to applying heat (by a heater) or ventilation (by a fan) or adding dry organic matter such as bread or biscuit crumbs or water to increase moisture, the controller unit can also be instructed to increase the speed of the motor unit to accelerate the agitation or disturbance of the food waste substrate. This is particularly advantageous because temperature or humidity regulation can be carried out more quickly and uniformly within the substrate to maintain the efficiency of the food processing system under less than ideal conditions.

[0094] The smart container 600 will preferably have controller circuitry, which will include a microprocessor and a communication gateway for acquiring readings from sensors and controlling the hybrid module 606. Furthermore, the microprocessor can use the communication gateway to transmit information to a cloud-based service or server, or to a user's personal device (e.g., a smartphone or IoT device), to communicate the status of the container 600 and its food waste substrate. Alarms or alarms, along with processing times, can be stored or transmitted to the user or administrator to monitor the progress of food waste disposal and, consequently, trigger service personnel to empty the food waste and replenish it with new larvae or new food waste.

[0095] Reference Figures 7A to 7C An exploded view of an example of a smart container 600 is shown. As shown, the smart container 600 includes a housing 702 for housing the container and its devices, and is preferably made of a resilient and lightweight material such as ABS plastic. Furthermore, a support base plate is placed within the housing to support a mixing module 606. The mixing module itself includes a container body 704, a support cylinder 706 for supporting the container body 704, and a motor housing 708. The motor housing 708 houses a motor for driving an operating arm 710. This arrangement is advantageous because the container body 704 can be removed from the housing for maintenance, such as cleaning or repairing the electrical components of the smart container 600.

[0096] Finally, the top ring 712 is placed on the edge of the container body 704 to protect the edge of the container body 704 and prevent food waste from being accidentally placed into other parts of the smart container 600. Preferably, the top ring 712 has an annular lip portion that extends to cover the container body 704, thereby helping to prevent decomposing organisms from escaping from the container body 704. In the example where the decomposing organism is a black soldier fly larva, the larva may attempt to climb up the wall of the container body 704, but is unlikely to successfully leave the container body 704. This is because it will be prevented from escaping by the presence of the top ring 712, whereby the lip of the top ring 712 will force the larva to climb upside down for a distance in order to cross the top ring 712. The additional space between the container body 704 and the outer shell 702 itself can be adapted to store control circuitry, communication gateways, and batteries for powering the smart container 600.

[0097] The smart container 600 also includes a door 714 for hinged to the edge of the housing, the door 714 having an annular vent 716. This vent can be opened to access the container body 704. This is particularly advantageous because the door 714 may not need to be accessed unless maintenance of the smart container 600 is required. Users can use only the vent 716 to place food waste. As shown in this example, the vent 716 also includes multiple holes to ensure adequate ventilation and fresh air intake into the container body 704.

[0098] While not strictly necessary, the embodiments described with reference to the accompanying drawings can be implemented as an Application Programming Interface (API) or a set of libraries used by the developer, or can be included in another software application, such as a terminal or personal computer operating system or a portable computing device operating system. Typically, since program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, and data files that help perform specific functions, those skilled in the art will understand that the functionality of a software application can be distributed among multiple routines, objects, or components to achieve the same functionality required herein.

[0099] It should also be understood that any suitable computing system architecture can be used where the methods and systems of this disclosure are implemented wholly or partially by a computing system. This will include stand-alone computers, network computers, and dedicated hardware devices. When using the terms "computing system" and "computing device," these terms are used to include any suitable configuration of computer hardware capable of implementing the described functions.

[0100] Those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and / or modifications can be made to the present disclosure as illustrated in the specific embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure as broadly described. Therefore, the above embodiments are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects.

[0101] Unless otherwise stated, any references to prior art contained herein should not be construed as an admission that the information is common general knowledge.

Claims

1. A modular organic matter treatment system, characterized in that, include: A modular framework for supporting multiple containers, each containing multiple decomposing organisms to assist in the decomposition of organic matter, wherein the modular framework includes multiple shelving components, each of which can be stacked on top of another shelving component to form the modular framework.

2. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A crushing unit is used to crush the organic matter and place the crushed organic matter into one of the plurality of containers.

3. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 2, characterized in that, in, The modular frame includes dividing columns for separating the plurality of shelving components into upper and lower sections, each section for accommodating a plurality of containers.

4. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 3, characterized in that, in, The partition column forms a gap in which the crushing unit is arranged.

5. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 4, characterized in that, in, The organic matter includes food waste.

6. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 5, characterized in that, in, The decomposing organisms include insects.

7. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 6, characterized in that, in, The insect in question is a black soldier fly larva.

8. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The container includes one or more environmental sensors for detecting environmental data representing the condition of each container, and the one or more environmental sensors are used to communicate with a communication gateway to transmit the environmental data to one or more users.

9. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 8, characterized in that, in, The environmental sensor includes any one or a combination of temperature sensor, humidity sensor, weight sensor, and chemical sensor.

10. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The plurality of shelving components are reusable pallet components.

11. The modular organic matter processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, in, The container includes a mixing module for agitating the plurality of decomposing organisms and the organic matter.

12. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 11, characterized in that, in, The mixing module includes one or more manipulators driven by a motor unit to agitate the plurality of decomposing organisms and the organic matter.

13. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 12, characterized in that, in, The one or more manipulators are configured to extend away from a central rotation axis, which is driven by a motor, to move the one or more manipulators within a container body containing the decomposing organisms and the organic matter.

14. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 13, characterized in that, in, The one or more manipulators move slowly inside the container body.

15. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, in, The container is also used to receive dry organic material or water to regulate the humidity of the decomposing organisms and the organic matter.

16. The modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 15, characterized in that, in, The one or more manipulators move at variable speeds to adjust the humidity of the decomposing organisms and the organic matter.

17. An enhanced container for a modular organic matter treatment system, characterized in that, include: The main body of the container is used to receive a mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter; A mixing module for agitating the mixture of decomposing biological and organic matter; as well as A controller unit is used to automatically control the mixing module to regulate the agitation of the mixture of decomposing biological and organic matter.

18. The enhanced container for a modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 17, characterized in that, Also includes: A sensor module for measuring the humidity and temperature of the mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter; as well as The sensor module also includes a chemical sensor for measuring the ammonia content of the mixture of decomposed biological and organic matter.

19. The enhanced container for a modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 18, characterized in that, in, The humidity and temperature of the mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter trigger a humidity or temperature regulation response, the response including: adding dry organic matter or water to regulate the humidity of the mixture; or applying heat or airflow to regulate the temperature of the mixture; and regulating the agitation speed of the mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter.

20. The enhanced container for a modular organic matter treatment system according to claim 19, characterized in that, in, The container includes an access door with ventilation holes, wherein the ventilation holes are for accessing the contents of the container body, and the access door is for accessing the container body, the mixing module, the controller unit, and the sensor module.

21. A food processing component used as part of a food production chain, characterized in that, include: A modular framework for supporting multiple containers, each containing multiple decomposing organisms to assist in the decomposition of organic matter; wherein the modular framework includes multiple shelving components, each of which can be stacked on top of another shelving component to form the modular framework.

22. The food processing component according to claim 21, characterized in that, in, The plurality of containers includes one or more enhanced containers for a modular organic matter treatment system, comprising: The main body of the container is used to receive a mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter; A mixing module for agitating the mixture of decomposing biological and organic matter; and A controller unit for automatically controlling the mixing module to regulate the agitation of the mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter; The one or more enhanced containers are supported by adapting the size of the shelving components.

23. The food processing component according to claim 22, characterized in that, Also includes: A sensor module for measuring the humidity and temperature of the mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter; as well as The sensor module also includes a chemical sensor for measuring the ammonia content of the mixture of decomposed biological and organic matter.

24. The food processing component according to claim 23, characterized in that, in, The humidity and temperature of the mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter trigger a humidity or temperature regulation response, the response including: adding dry organic matter or water to regulate the humidity of the mixture; or applying heat or airflow to regulate the temperature of the mixture; and regulating the agitation speed of the mixture of decomposing organisms and organic matter.

25. The food processing component according to claim 24, characterized in that, in, The container includes an access door with ventilation holes, wherein the ventilation holes are for accessing the contents of the container body, and the access door is for accessing the container body, the mixing module, the controller unit, and the sensor module.

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