Device for a waste collection container with lid and lock.

Abstract

Device (1) for a waste collection container (100) or the like, wherein said waste collection container (100) is of the type comprising: - a container body (101) with an access mouth (102), - a lid (103) which is movably associated, preferably articulated, to the container body (101) so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth (102) of said container body (101), - a lock, preferably with gravitational activation, comprising a first unit (21) intended to be mounted on the lid (103) and a second unit (22) intended to be mounted on the container body (101), said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit (21) is locked on said second unit (22), thus preventing movement of the lid (103) with respect to the container body (101), to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit (21) is freed from said second unit (22), thus allowing the movement of the lid (103) with respect to the container body (101), and wherein said device (1) is characterised in that it comprises: - a containment structure (31) which is intended to be mounted on the inner side of the lid (103), - an electric actuator (51) with a rotating output shaft and an electronic board (40) for controlling said electric actuator (51), said electric actuator (51) and said electronic board (40) being housed inside said containment structure (31), - a motion transmission member (52) which is mounted, at least in part, externally to said containment structure (31) and which is actuated in rotation by said electric actuator (51) to move a mobile member (23) of said first unit (21) of the lock and thus cause said lock to switch from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, - a limit switch element (60) for the electric actuator (51), in particular for providing a limit switch control of the electric actuator (51), which is configured to be mechanically associated in a removable manner with said motion transmission member (52) and / or with the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator (51) so as to be rotationally integral with said transmission member (52).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an improved device for a waste collection container or the like.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a closing apparatus for a waste collection container or the like.

[0003] The present invention also concerns a waste collection container or the like, preferably of the bin or dumpster type, provided with said device or said closing apparatus.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Currently, known waste collection containers, of the bin or dumpster type, comprise a container body provided with an access mouth and a lid that is movable with respect to the container body between a condition wherein the lid itself completely covers the access mouth of the container body, thus preventing the disposal of waste inside the container body, and a condition wherein said lid partially or completely frees the access mouth of the container body, thus allowing the disposal of waste inside the container body.

[0005] It is also known the use of a lock that is mounted on the collection container in such a way as to prevent the free opening, or in any case the unauthorized opening, of the container itself. In particular, the lock is mounted on the container in such a way as to allow the movement of the lid, from the covering condition of the mouth of the container body to the condition of access to said mouth, only following the unlocking of the lock itself.

[0006] In collection containers currently the so-called gravity locks (also called "drop locks") are used, which are configured to allow the opening of the lid only by authorized persons or when the container is overturned to be emptied. In particular, these locks are provided with a gravity-activated mechanism that automatically unlocks the lock when the collection container, and therefore the lock itself, is overturned.

[0007] Traditional locks are generally of the mechanical type, wherein the activation and authorization for unlocking the lock requires the use of a physical key and wherein also a manual movement action by the user who wants to place the waste in the container is required.

[0008] In particular, as illustrated in figures 1, 2A and 2B, traditional locks S used for waste collection containers R generally comprise a first unit 21 U1, which is mounted on the lid C1, and a second unit U2, which is mounted on the container body C2 at a mouth B for the disposal of waste inside the body C2. In more detail, the first unit 21 U1 is fixed to the lid C1 by means of a head T which is accessible from the external side of the lid C1 and which is configured to receive the key or other means of activation; the first unit 21 U1 comprises a structure S which is mounted on the internal side of the lid itself and is provided with a movable component, for example a hook G, which moves when the key is turned or following another activation, thus causing the lock to switch from a locked condition to an unlocked condition. Conveniently, the head T and the structure S of the first unit 21 U1 are mounted on the lid at the opposite sides of the lid itself and are fixed to each other by means of suitable fixing members F which pass through corresponding through openings made on the lid. In more detail, the second unit U2 is configured so as to receive and hold the mobile component of the first unit 21 U1 when the lock is in the blocked condition, thus preventing the movement of the lid C1 with respect to the body C2. For example, the second unit U2 can be provided with a seat with a pin P and, in the locked condition of the lock, the hook G of the first unit 21 U1 engages with the pin P, thus preventing the movement of the first unit 21 U1 with respect to the second unit U2 and therefore preventing the movement of the lid C1 with respect to the body C2, while in the unlocked condition of the lock, the hook G is disengaged from the pin P, thus allowing the movement of the first unit 21 U1 with respect to the second unit U2 and therefore allowing the opening movement of the lid C1.

[0009] Even in the field of collection containers there is a growing tendency to prefer automated or electronic locks, in particular given the advantages and benefits that the latter offer in terms of safety, practicality and efficiency. In particular, automated or electronic locks advantageously allow to keep track of who unlocked the lock and when, and this in particular for security and monitoring purposes, as well as allowing to interface with other digital systems, for example to allow also remote access.

[0010] However, the complete replacement of current mechanical locks, which are already installed on a collection container, with electronic or automated locks is a particularly complex and invasive operation, which often inevitably leads to the replacement of the entire collection container.

[0011] Therefore, in this context, there is a need to automate - and in particular to make electronic - the current mechanical locks already installed on the containers, and more specifically there is a need to automate both the control (authorisation) of the lock unlocking and the actuation / movement of the locking member of the lock in order to thus cause the lock to unlock.

[0012] Well-known solutions are described for example in ITMI20111930 and CN111364842.OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The object of the invention is to propose a device for a waste collection container or the like which allows to overcome, at least in part, the drawbacks of the known solutions.

[0014] Another object of the invention is to improve usability for users carrying out waste disposal inside the collection container.

[0015] Another object of the invention is to improve the management and maintenance activities of collection containers carried out by operators specialized in collection.

[0016] Another object of the invention is to automate the locks installed on the collection containers already on the field.

[0017] Another object of the invention is to add further functionalities to the collection containers already on the field and, in particular, to the locks installed on said containers.

[0018] Another object of the invention is to be able to directly unlock the lock on the field, in particular of the gravitational type, in the event of a failure or maintenance of the lock itself, and this without having to rotate or overturn the collection container provided with such lock.

[0019] Another object of the invention is to provide, in the case of motorised electric actuation of the mobile member of the lock, at least one limit switch control for the electric actuator.

[0020] Another object of the invention is to propose a device that allows the automation of current mechanical locks, even those already installed / mounted on collection containers.

[0021] Another object of the invention is to propose a device that allows further functions to be quickly and easily added to current mechanical locks.

[0022] Another object of the invention is, in the case of motorized electric actuation of the mobile member of the lock, to easily and rapidly align / synchronize, even on the field, the mechanical limit switch of the lock with the limit switch of the electric actuator.

[0023] Another object of the invention is, in the case of motorized electric actuation of the mobile member of the lock, to regulate / calibrate the travel of the electric actuator on the field.

[0024] Another object of the invention is, in the case of motorised electric actuation of the mobile member of the lock, to be able to easily and rapidly adapt the travel of the electric actuator to locks having different unlocking travels of the mobile member of the lock.

[0025] Another object of the invention is to propose a device that is easy to install and assemble, even in combination with current mechanical locks.

[0026] Another object of the invention is to propose a device that is highly integrated and minimally invasive.

[0027] Another object of the invention is to propose a device that can be produced simply, quickly and at low cost.

[0028] Another object of the invention is to propose a device that can be installed easily, quickly and at low cost.

[0029] Another object of the invention is to propose a device that is simple, rapid and economical to maintain.

[0030] Another object of the invention is to propose a device that makes the lock remote-controlled and, in particular, that allows remote access or control.

[0031] Another object of the invention is to propose a device that allows to track access events, thus keeping track of who opened the lock and when.

[0032] Another object of the invention is to propose a closing apparatus for a waste collection container that is highly automated.

[0033] Another object of the invention is to propose a locking device that is easily expandable, in particular by adding further functionalities, even on the field and / or once installed on the field.

[0034] Another object of the invention is to propose a closing apparatus for a waste collection container that is particularly safe.

[0035] Another object of the invention is to propose a closing apparatus that can be produced in a simple, rapid and low-cost way.

[0036] Another object of the invention is to propose a closing apparatus that can be installed easily, quickly and at low cost.

[0037] Another object of the invention is to propose a closing apparatus which is simple, rapid and economical to maintain.

[0038] Another object of the invention is to propose a closing apparatus that can be remotely controlled and, in particular, that allows remote access, monitoring or control.

[0039] Another object of the invention is to propose a closing apparatus that interfaces and can integrate with other external digital systems.

[0040] Another object of the invention is to propose a closing apparatus that allows to track access events, thus keeping track of who opened the lock and when.

[0041] Another object of the invention is to propose a device and an apparatus that are an improvement and / or alternative to traditional solutions.

[0042] Another object of the invention is to propose a device and an apparatus with an alternative characterization, both in functional and implementation terms, compared to the traditional ones.

[0043] Another object of the invention is to propose an apparatus that is particularly compact and minimally invasive.

[0044] Another object of the invention is to propose an apparatus that is highly integrated and stand-alone.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0045] All the objects mentioned herein, considered either individually or in any combination thereof, and others which will result from the following description are achieved, according to the invention, with a device for a waste collection container or the like according to claim 1 and with a closing apparatus for a waste collection container or the like according to claim 9.

[0046] The present invention relates to a device for a waste collection container wherein said waste collection container is of the type comprising: a container body with an access mouth, a lid which is movably associated, preferably articulated, to the container body so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth of said container body, a lock, preferably with gravitational activation, comprising a first unit intended to be mounted on the lid and a second unit intended to be mounted on the container body, said lock being configured to pass, following an action or activation command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit is locked on said second unit, to thus prevent the movement of the lid with respect to the container body, to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit is freed from said second unit, to thus allow the movement of the lid with respect to the container body, and wherein said device comprises: a containment structure which is mounted on the internal side of the lid, an electric actuator with a rotating output shaft and an electronic board for controlling said electric actuator, said electric actuator and said electronic board being housed inside said containment structure, a motion transmission member which is mounted, at least in part, externally to said containment structure and which is actuated in rotation by said electric actuator for moving a mobile member of said first unit of the lock and thus causing the transition of said lock from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, a limit switch element for the electric actuator, in particular to provide a limit switch control of the electric actuator, which is configured to be mechanically associated in a removable manner with said motion transmission member and / or to the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator so as to be integral in rotation with said transmission member.

[0047] Preferably, the limit switch element is housed inside the containment structure in a position facing the electronic board housed inside the structure itself.

[0048] Preferably, the limit switch element engages mechanically by snap-fit, interlocking or by means of clips with the motion transmission element only, which in turn is mechanically engaged in a removable manner with the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator.

[0049] Preferably, said device comprises at least one magnetic sensor to detect the presence or variation of the magnetic field of said at least one magnet mounted on the limit switch element, said magnetic sensor is electrically connected to the electric actuator to thus send corresponding commands, preferably stop commands, to said electric actuator.

[0050] Preferably, said magnetic sensor is housed inside the containment structure and, preferably, is mounted on said electronic board.

[0051] Preferably, said limit switch element comprises a magnet(s) holder portion with at least one seat for a magnet.

[0052] Preferably, said limit switch element comprises a plurality of seats, each of said seats being configured to removably receive a magnet.

[0053] Preferably, said plurality of seats for the magnets comprises at least three seats which are spaced apart from each other and arranged / aligned in sequence along substantially a circumferential arc or along a chord subtended by said arc.

[0054] The present invention also relates to a closing apparatus for a waste collection container of the type comprising a container body with an access mouth and a lid which is movably associated (preferably articulated) with the container body so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth of said container body, said apparatus comprising: a lock comprising a first unit intended to be mounted on the lid and a second unit intended to be mounted on the container body, said lock being configured to pass, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit is locked onto said second unit, thus preventing movement of the lid relative to the container body, to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit is freed from said second unit, thus allowing the movement of the lid relative to the container body, and a device according to one or more of the above characteristics.

[0055] The present invention also relates to a waste collection container of the type comprising a container body with an access mouth and a lid which is movably associated (preferably articulated) with the container body so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth of said container body, said waste collection container comprising a closing apparatus as indicated above.

[0056] The present invention relates to a device for a waste collection container wherein said waste collection container is of the type comprising: a container body with an access mouth, a lid which is movably associated, preferably articulated, with the container body so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth of said container body, a lock, preferably with gravitational activation, comprising a first unit intended to be mounted on the lid and a second unit intended to be mounted on the container body, said lock being configured to pass, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit is locked on said second unit, thus preventing movement of the lid relative to the container body, to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit is freed from said second unit, thus allowing the movement of the lid with respect to the container body, and wherein said device is characterised in that it comprises: a containment structure that is intended to be mounted on the inside of the lid, an electric actuator for moving a mobile member of said first unit of the lock and thus causing, following an external authorization action or command, the passage of said lock from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, an electronic board which is configured to control said electric actuator and which is housed within said containment structure, a further electronic board which is intended to be positioned on the internal side of the lid and externally with respect to the containment structure, said further electronic board is mechanically and electronically connected to said electronic board housed inside the containment structure.

[0057] Preferably, said device is configured so that said further electronic board is positioned between the internal side of the lid and said containment structure.

[0058] Preferably, the electronic board and the further electronic board are arranged at an angle to each other, preferably orthogonally.

[0059] Preferably, at least one wireless communication module is mounted on said further electronic board.

[0060] Preferably, said device comprises: a first electrical connector mounted on the electronic board, a second electrical connector mounted on the further electronic board, and said first electrical connector is configured to mechanically engage directly with said second electrical connector, or vice versa, thus defining a mechanical and electrical connection between the two electronic boards.

[0061] Preferably, a port is obtained on the containment structure for the passage of said first electrical connector or of said second electrical connector and the connection of said further electronic board with the electronic board housed inside the containment structure is configured in such a way as to prevent liquids and solid particles from entering from the outside, more preferably it is configured in such a way as to have an IP protection rating of at least IP55, ideally at least IP67.

[0062] Preferably, said device comprises further mechanical constraint means for constraining the further electronic board to the containment structure.

[0063] Preferably, said device comprises sealing means at the connection areas of the further electronic board with the electronic board, and possibly with the containment structure.

[0064] The present invention also relates to a closing apparatus for a waste collection container of the type comprising a container body with an access mouth and a lid which is movably associated (preferably articulated) with the container body so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said opening of said container body, said apparatus comprising: a lock comprising a first unit intended to be mounted on the lid and a second unit intended to be mounted on the container body, said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit is locked onto said second unit, thus preventing movement of the lid relative to the container body, to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit is freed from said second unit, thus allowing the movement of the lid relative to the container body, and a device according to one or more of the above characteristics.

[0065] The present invention also relates to a waste collection container of the type comprising a container body with an access mouth and a lid which is movably associated (preferably articulated) with the container body so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth of said container body, said waste collection container comprising a closing apparatus as reported above.

[0066] The present invention relates to a device for a waste collection container wherein said waste collection container is of the type comprising: a container body with an access mouth, a lid which is movably associated, preferably articulated, with the container body so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth of said container body, a lock, preferably with gravitational activation, comprising a first unit intended to be mounted on the lid and a second unit intended to be mounted on the container body, said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit is locked on said second unit, thus preventing movement of the lid relative to the container body, to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit is freed from said second unit, thus allowing the movement of the lid relative to the container body, and wherein said device comprises: a first element configured to be mounted on the external side of the lid, thus being accessible from the outside, a second element configured to be mounted on the inside of the lid and being provided with movement means configured to cause the movement of a mobile member of said first unit of the lock to thus cause, following an external authorization action or command, the passage of said lock from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, means for securing the first element and the second element through the thickness of said lid, thus constraining both said elements to the lid itself, and also: said first element is provided with a through hole which is accessible from the outside and said first element is associated with said second element so that from the outside, if necessary, a tool can pass through said hole to reach and act on the mobile member of said first unit of the lock, thus bringing said lock into said unlocked condition.

[0067] Preferably, said device is configured to associate said first unit of the lock with said lid.

[0068] Preferably, said device also comprises means for the removable closure from the outside of said through hole.

[0069] Preferably, means for the externally removable closure of said through hole are configured to protect said hole against intrusion or contamination by liquids or dust from the outside.

[0070] Preferably, the means for the externally removable closure of said hole are also configured to act as a anti-tamper seal.

[0071] Preferably, the means for the externally removable closure of said hole comprise a cap configured to fit inside the hole itself so as to define an IP protection degree of at least IP55, preferably at least IP67, and also comprise a anti-tamper label which is applied to the first element externally and above said cap.

[0072] Preferably, the movement means for operating / moving the mobile member of said first unit of the lock are motorized.

[0073] Preferably, said device is characterised in that: said first element, which is intended and configured to be mounted on the external side of the lid, comprises an element having a substantially laminar shape, said second element, which is intended and configured to be mounted on the inside of the lid, comprises a containment structure, the movement means for operating / moving a mobile member of said first unit of the lock include: an electric actuator, a motion transmission member which is actuated in rotation by said electric actuator and which acts directly on the mobile member of said first unit, and also characterised in that: said containment structure houses said electric actuator and an electronic board configured to control and command said at least one electric actuator, said motion transmission member comprises a cam portion which is external to said containment structure to act directly on the mobile member of said first unit.

[0074] The present invention also relates to a closing apparatus for a waste collection container of the type comprising a container body with an access mouth and a lid which is movably associated (preferably articulated) to the container body so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth of said container body, said apparatus is characterised in that it comprises: a lock comprising a first unit intended to be mounted on the lid and a second unit intended to be mounted on the container body, said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit is locked onto said second unit, thus preventing movement of the lid relative to the container body, to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit is freed from said second unit, thus allowing the movement of the lid relative to the container body, and a device according to one or more of the above characteristics.

[0075] The present invention also relates to a waste collection container of the type comprising a container body with an access mouth and a lid which is movably associated (preferably articulated) with the container body so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth of said container body, said waste collection container comprising a closing apparatus as reported above.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0076] The present invention is further clarified below in some of its preferred examples of practical implementation reported for purely illustrative and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached tables of drawings, wherein: figure 1shows a perspective view of a traditional lock mounted on a waste collection container, figure 2ashows the installation on the closing lid of the waste collection container of a first unit of the traditional lock of fig. 1, figure 2bshows the installation on the waste collection container body of a second unit of the traditional lock of fig. 1, figure 3shows in perspective view the installation on the lid of the waste collection container of the assembly comprising the device according to the invention with the first unit of the lock, where said first unit is intended to be mounted on the lid and is configured to interact operationally and lock on the second unit (which is intended to be mounted on the container body) of said lock mechanism, figure 4shows a perspective view of the device in fig. 1 installed on the closing lid of a waste collection container, figure 5shows a side view of a waste collection container in the open condition (i.e. with the closing lid positioned so as to allow access to the mouth of the container body) and with the assembly comprising the device of fig. 1 and the first unit of the lock applied to the lid, figure 6shows a perspective view of the device according to the invention with the associated first unit of the lock, figure 7shows a perspective view of the device in fig. 6 wherein the cover of the first unit of the lock has been removed, thus making a mobile member of said first unit visible, figure 8ashows a section of fig. 6 wherein the mobile member of the first unit of the lock is in a first position corresponding to the closed condition of said mechanism (i.e. in a condition wherein the first unit of the lock engages and is locked to the second unit of said mechanism, thus preventing the movement of the lid with respect to the container body), figure 8bshows the same section as fig. 8a wherein, by means of and following the action carried out from the outside by means of a corresponding tool, the mobile member of the first unit of the lock is in a second position corresponding to the opening condition of said mechanism (i.e. in a condition wherein the first unit of the lock is disengaged / unlocked by the second unit of said mechanism, thus allowing the movement of the lid with respect to the container body and therefore access to the mouth of the latter), figure 9shows an exploded perspective view of the external plate only, with the closing cap of the device according to the invention, figure 10shows a perspective view of the external plate, with the closing cap applied, mounted on the remaining part of the device (and without showing the lid of the collection container between the external plate and the remaining part of the device), figure 11shows a perspective view of the device in fig. 10 with the cover label of the closing cap also applied, figure 12shows a different perspective view of the device according to the invention (without showing the lid of the collection container between the external plate and the remaining part of the device), figure 13shows a perspective view of the device in fig. 12 without the external plate, figure 14shows a perspective view of the device of fig. 13 wherein part of the containment structure has been removed, figure 15shows the device of fig. 14 in a different perspective view, figure 16shows a front view of the electronic board assembly with the drive unit, figure 17shows a perspective view of the assembly of figure 16 with a part of the containment structure shown in transparency, figure 18shows a part of the containment structure of the device according to the invention with the components positioned inside said structure, figure 19shows a section of the device according to the invention at the electrical and mechanical connection between the two electronic boards of the device itself, figure 20ashows a perspective view of the connection between the two electronic boards with which the device according to the invention is provided, figure 20bshows the connection between the two electronic boards of figure 20a in a different perspective view, figure 21ashows in perspective view the means of the device according to the invention, configured to cause the movement of the mobile member of the first unit of the lock, figure 21bshows the movement means of fig. 21a in a different perspective view, figure 22ashows a perspective view of the assembly of the movement means of fig. 21a including the limit switch element and the motion transmission member which acts on the mobile member of the first unit of the lock, figure 22bshows a different perspective view of the assembly of fig. 22a, figure 23shows a perspective view of the limit switch adjustment element only, figure 24ashows a perspective view of the motion transmission member only, figure 24bshows the transmission member of fig. 24a in a different perspective, figure 25shows a perspective view (alone) of a portion of the containment structure of the device according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION AND SOME PREFERREDEMBODIMENTS

[0077] With reference to the figures, the present invention relates to a device 1 for a waste collection container 100 wherein said waste collection container 100 is of the type comprising: a container body 101 with an access mouth 102, a lid 103 which is movably associated (preferably it is articulated) to the container body 101 so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth 102 of said container body 101, a lock comprising a first unit 21 intended to be mounted on the lid 103 and a second unit 22 intended to be mounted on the container body 101, said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit 21 is locked on said second unit 22, thus preventing movement of the lid 103 relative to the container body 101, to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit 21 is freed from said second unit 22, thus allowing the movement of the lid 103 relative to the container body 101, and wherein said device 1 is characterised in that it comprises: a first element 11 configured to be mounted on the external side of the lid 103, thus being accessible from the outside, a second element 30 configured to be mounted on the internal side of the lid 103 and being provided with movement means 50 configured to cause the movement of a mobile member 23 of said first unit 21 of the lock to thus cause, following an external authorization action or command, the passage of said lock from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, means 12 for fixing the first element 11 and the second element 30 passing through the thickness of said lid 103, thus constraining both said elements to the lid itself, and also in that: said first element 11 is provided with a through hole 13 which is accessible from the outside and in that said first element 11 is associated with said second element 30 so that from the outside, if necessary, a tool 104 can pass through said hole 13 to reach and act on the mobile member 23 of said first unit 21 of the lock, thus bringing said lock into said unlocked condition.

[0078] Advantageously, therefore, with the device 1 according to the invention, the movement of said first unit 21 of the lock, and therefore the unlocking of the lock, can be caused / carried out by said movement means 50 which are activated following an action or authorization command coming from outside and also, if necessary (see fig. 8B), can be caused by the sole action of a tool 104 which is inserted through the through hole 13 of the first element 11 so as to act directly on the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 of the lock, without any activation or action by said movement means 50.

[0079] In essence, when necessary, the action performed on the mobile member 23 by the tool 104 which is inserted through the through hole 13 of the first element 11 replaces the action performed on the member 23 itself by the movement means 50 with which the device is provided.

[0080] Conveniently, said tool 104 can be a screwdriver, an Allen key or other equivalent tool capable of acting with one of its ends on the mobile member 23 so as to cause its movement. Advantageously, it is sufficient to insert the tool 104 into the hole 13 to act on the mobile member 23, without the need to rotate the tool itself and / or perform other particular actions using the latter, thus resulting in a simple and immediate action.

[0081] Conveniently, said device 1 is configured to associate said first unit 21 of the lock with the lid 103. Preferably, the first unit 21 of the lock is associated with the lid 103 exclusively by means of said device.

[0082] In particular, the first unit 21 of the lock is mechanically associated with the second element 30 of said device, and it is then the second element 30 of the device that is mechanically associated with the lid by means of the constraint of said second element 30 with said first element 11.

[0083] Preferably, the device 1 is used in combination with a lock which is of the gravitational type and which, in particular, is configured to switch from the locked condition to the unlocked condition when the collection container 100, and therefore the lock mounted on the container itself, is rotated or overturned. In particular, the gravitational lock is configured to have substantially an automatic unlocking of the lock (i.e. without requiring any intervention by an operator or other person), and therefore allow free movement of the lid 103 with respect to the container body 101, following the rotation or overturning of the container 100 which is carried out in order to cause its emptying inside the collection vehicles.

[0084] The device 1 according to the invention is particularly useful in the event of failure or maintenance of the gravitational lock (for example because the battery supplying the electric actuator 51 of the movement means 50 is faulty or out of charge) as it allows the lock to be unlocked quickly and easily by means of the action performed on the mobile member 23 by the tool 104 which is inserted through the through hole 13 of the first element 11, thus avoiding having to rotate or overturn the container 100 in order to unlock the lock. In other words, it is possible to manually unlock the lock directly in the field without having to rotate / overturn the container provided with said lock.

[0085] Preferably, said lock is configured so as to normally be in the locked condition.

[0086] Preferably, said lock is configured so that the return / transition from the unlocked condition to the locked condition occurs automatically. For this purpose, elastic means (not shown) may be provided which act on the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 to bring it back to the position it assumes when the lock is in the locked condition.

[0087] Conveniently, the movement means 50 act on the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 of the lock in contrast to the action that the same elastic means perform on the same mobile member 23. In particular, to make the lock switch from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, the movement means 50 act on the mobile member 23 overcoming the opposing action performed by the elastic means on the same mobile member.

[0088] Correspondingly, to make the lock switch from the blocked condition to the unlocked condition, the tool 104 - which is inserted through the through hole 13 of the first element 11 - acts on the mobile member 23 so as to overcome the opposing action carried out by the elastic means on the same mobile member.

[0089] Preferably, said lock can be electronically activated, i.e. the transition from the locked condition to the unlocked condition is activated by an electrical command / signal.

[0090] Ideally, this lock can be of the gravitational type with electronic activation by authorised persons.

[0091] Conveniently, this lock can be activated to switch from a locked condition to an unlocked condition using electronic technology, such as an electronic key managed by authorised persons, mobile APP on the smartphone, entering a code, smart cards, radio controls, etc.

[0092] Conveniently, said lock can be activated to switch from a locked condition to an unlocked condition by means of a wireless electronic signal that can be sent remotely and / or in proximity / vicinity of the lock itself.

[0093] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment not shown here, said lock can be activated to switch from a locked condition to an unlocked condition by means of a physical key.

[0094] Conveniently, the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 of the lock may comprise a lever 23' which is operatively connected to a locking member (not shown, such as for example a hook) which, when the lock is in the locked condition, engages or is held in / by a corresponding counter-member (not shown, such as for example a pin or other striker configured to be hooked by said hook) provided in the second unit 22.

[0095] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment not shown, it is the same mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 of the lock that can comprise a locking portion that interacts directly with a corresponding engagement / retention counter-member provided in the second unit 22.

[0096] Preferably, said device 1 also comprises means 14 for the removable closure from the outside of said through hole 13.

[0097] Preferably, the means 14 for the removable closure from the outside of said through hole 13 are configured to prevent liquids and solid particles from entering said hole from the outside, more preferably they are configured to protect said hole with an IP protection degree of at least IP55, ideally at least IP67. More preferably, the means 14 comprise means for the IP protection of the through hole 13.

[0098] Suitably, said means 14 configured for the protection of said hole 13 against intrusions or contamination from the outside may comprise a cap 15 configured to fit, preferably in a sealed manner, at least partially inside the hole 13 itself. More preferably, an annular groove 16 may be provided around the hole 13 for the enlarged head of the cap 15, while the stem of the cap fits inside the hole itself.

[0099] Preferably, the means 14 for the removable closure from the outside of said hole are also configured so that they can be removed only by breaking, at least in part, or by becoming visibly and permanently damaged.

[0100] Preferably, the means 14 for the removable closure from the outside of said hole are also configured to act as an anti-tamper seal.

[0101] More preferably, said means 14 for the removable closure from the outside of said hole comprises an anti-tamper label 17.

[0102] More preferably, said means 14 for the removable closure from the outside of said hole 13 comprise a cap 15 configured to fit inside the hole itself so as to define an IP protection degree at least equal to IP55, ideally equal to at least IP67, and also comprises an anti-tamper label 17 which is applied to the first element 11 externally and above said cap 15.

[0103] Advantageously, the device 1 according to the invention allows for a further possibility to switch the lock from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, while maintaining an adequate degree of IP protection of the locking device comprising the device 1 with the lock.

[0104] Preferably, the device 1 is associated entirely and solely with the lid 103.

[0105] Preferably, the device 1 is integrally rotated with the lid 103. Advantageously, in this way, the device 1 does not occupy part of the volume of the container body 101 or the area of the access mouth 102 during waste disposal or during emptying of the container 100.

[0106] Preferably, the first element 11 intended to be mounted on the external side of the lid 103 comprises a plate or an equivalent element having a substantially laminar shape.

[0107] Preferably, the means 12 for fixing the first element 11 to the second element 30 by passing through said lid 103 comprise protruding portions of said first element 11 which are configured to pass through corresponding through openings 103' formed on the lid 103, to thus fit into corresponding receiving seats formed on the second element 30.

[0108] Preferably, the means 12 for fixing the first element 11 to the second element 30 by passing through said lid 103 may comprise mechanical constraint members, for example screws or equivalent elements, which, after passing through the second element, pass through corresponding through openings made on the lid to thus engage within corresponding receiving seats of the first element, or vice versa.

[0109] Evidently, a through opening 103" is obtained on the lid 103 facing the through hole 13 of the first element 11, to thus allow the passage of the tool 104 through the lid itself.

[0110] Preferably, therefore, on the lid 103 there are openings intended and configured only for the passage of the means 12 of the device 1 and / or of the tool 104 between the inside and the outside of the lid itself; advantageously, this allows to simplify the installation of the device and to minimize the work to be carried out on said lid 103.

[0111] Preferably, the second element 30 - which is intended and configured to be mounted on the inside of the lid 103 - comprises a containment structure 31. For example, said containment structure 31 may have a substantially box-like shape. Preferably, the containment structure 31 may comprise two parts, respectively 31' and 31", in particular two shells configured to delimit within them, once joined together at their respective edges, a housing for the electronic components of the device 1. Preferably, the containment structure 31 is configured so as to prevent liquids and solid particles from entering from the outside, more preferably it is configured so as to have an IP protection rating of at least IP55, ideally at least IP67. For example, one or more sealing gaskets 39 are installed at the perimeter frames of mutual coupling of the two parts (shells) that define the containment structure 31.

[0112] More preferably, in a possible embodiment, the electronic components of the device (such as electric actuator 51, electronic board and power battery / ies) are mounted on one of the two parts 31' of the containment structure 31 (which thus acts as a containment half-shell), while the other part 31" of the containment structure 31 itself covers and closes the other part 31' (thus acting as a covering half-shell). Advantageously, therefore, to access the electronic components housed in the containment structure 31 it is sufficient to remove the part 31" which acts as a covering shell.

[0113] Preferably, the containment structure 31 is the only part of the device 1 that functions as a container.

[0114] Conveniently, the first unit 21 of the lock is external to the containment structure 31 and is associated / mounted externally to / on the latter. In particular, the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 of the lock is external with respect to the containment structure 31.

[0115] Preferably, an electronic board 40 is housed inside the containment structure 31.

[0116] Preferably, at least one electric actuator 51 is housed inside the containment structure 31. More preferably, said electric actuator 51 may comprise a gearmotor or an electric motor operatively associated with an external reduction unit.

[0117] Preferably, both the electronic board 40 and the electric actuator 51 are housed inside the containment structure 31.

[0118] Conveniently, said electronic board 40 comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) with at least one control and / or processing unit (e.g. defined by a microcontroller or microprocessor).

[0119] Preferably, said electronic board 40 is configured to control and command said at least one electric actuator 51.

[0120] Conveniently, the electric actuator 51 is electronically connected to said electronic board and, in particular, to the control and / or processing unit to thus receive from said unit corresponding command and control signals.

[0121] Preferably, the electric actuator 51 is placed through the electronic board 40. In particular, for this purpose, the electronic board 40 has a through hole 49 which is passed through and into which the electric actuator 51 is inserted.

[0122] Preferably, the electric actuator 51 comprises a rotating output shaft and, within the containment structure 31, the electronic board 40 and said actuator 51 are arranged so that the output shaft of said actuator is arranged substantially orthogonally with respect to the electronic board 40.

[0123] Preferably, at least one power battery, more preferably two power batteries 42' and 42", is housed inside the containment structure 31 to provide electrical energy to the electric actuator 51 or to other electrical / electronic components of the device.

[0124] Preferably, the movement means 50 for operating / moving the mobile member 23 of said first unit 21 of the lock are motorised.

[0125] Preferably, the movement means 50 for operating / moving a mobile member 23 of said first unit 21 of the lock comprise: an electric actuator 51, a motion transmission member 52 which is actuated in rotation by said electric actuator 51 and which acts directly on the mobile member 23 of said first unit 21.

[0126] Preferably, said motion transmission member 52 comprises a cam-shaped portion 53 which acts and is intended to come into direct contact with the mobile member 23 of said first unit. In particular, the activation of the electric actuator 51 causes the rotation of the transmission member 52 (clockwise according to the view in fig. 8A), which - in turn - causes the lifting of the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 of the lock so as to bring it to the position corresponding to the unlocking condition of the lock (see the position of the mobile member 23 in fig. 8B).

[0127] Preferably, at least the cam-shaped portion 53 of the transmission member 52 protrudes externally from the containment structure 31, while the electric actuator 51 is housed internally within the containment structure 31.

[0128] Preferably, said electric actuator 51 comprises a rotating output shaft which mechanically engages within a tubular section 54 of the transmission member 52, so that the latter is rotationally integral with the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator 51.

[0129] More preferably, the transmission member 52 mechanically engages by means of snap-fit, interlock, or clip into the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator 51.

[0130] Preferably, said transmission member 52 comprises said tubular section 54 configured for mechanical engagement (ideally snap-fit) with the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator 51 and also comprises said cam portion 53 which acts and is intended to come into direct contact with the mobile member 23 of said first unit 21.

[0131] Preferably, the tubular section 54 of the transmission member 52 is mounted coaxially with the output shaft of the electric actuator 51, while the cam portion 53 extends radially from said tubular section.

[0132] Preferably, the tubular section 54 of the transmission member 52 passes through a gap 37 (configured so as to leave a certain amount of play and allow the rotation of the tubular section) provided on one face of the containment structure 31.

[0133] Preferably, the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 may comprise a lever 23' which is rotatable about an axis Z' which is substantially parallel to the rotation axis Z" of the output shaft of the electric actuator 51, which in turn is coaxial with the rotation axis of the transmission member 52.

[0134] Preferably, the device 1 also comprises a limit switch element 60 for the electric actuator 51, in particular to provide a limit switch command of the electric actuator 51, and in particular said limit switch element 60 is mounted on the means 50 configured to cause the movement of the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 of the lock.

[0135] Preferably, the limit switch element 60 is configured to be mechanically associated in a removable manner with said motion transmission member 52 and / or with the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator 51 so as to be rotationally integral with said transmission member 52. Advantageously, therefore, the limit switch element 60 is made in a piece that is structurally distinct from the motion transmission member 52, while being mechanically associated with said member.

[0136] Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the device 1 can comprise a further (second) electronic board 80 which is positioned externally with respect to the containment structure 31 and which is mechanically and electronically connected to said electronic board 40 housed inside the containment structure 31.

[0137] The present invention relates to a device 1 for a waste collection container 100 wherein said waste collection container 100 is of the type comprising: a container body 101 with an access mouth 102, a lid 103 which is movably associated (preferably it is articulated) to the container body 101 so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth 102 of said container body 101, a lock comprising a first unit 21 intended to be mounted on the lid 103 and a second unit 22 intended to be mounted on the container body 101, said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit 21 is locked on said second unit 22, thus preventing movement of the lid 103 relative to the container body 101, to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit 21 is freed from said second unit 22, thus allowing the movement of the lid 103 relative to the container body 101, and wherein said device 1 is characterised in that it comprises: a containment structure 31 which is mounted on the inner side of the lid 103, an electric actuator 51 with a rotating output shaft and an electronic board 40 for controlling said electric actuator 51, said electric actuator 51 and said electronic board 40 being housed within said containment structure 31, a motion transmission member 52 which is mounted externally to said containment structure 31 and which is actuated in rotation by said electric actuator 51 to move said mobile member 23 of said first unit 21 of the lock and thus cause said lock to switch from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, a limit switch element 60 for the electric actuator 51, in particular for providing a limit switch control of the electric actuator 51, which is configured to be mechanically associated in a removable manner with said motion transmission member 52 and / or with the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator 51 so as to be rotationally integral with said transmission member 52.

[0138] Conveniently, the limit switch element 60 is a structurally independent element separate from the electric actuator 51, while being mechanically associated (directly or indirectly) to the rotating output shaft of the actuator itself so as to be integral in rotation with the latter. Advantageously, therefore, the same limit switch element 60 can be, if necessary, associated with different electric actuators. Advantageously, with the device 1 according to the invention, it is avoided having to apply / integrate an encoder directly on the body of the electric motor, and it is also avoided having to identify and control the limit switch of the electric motor on the basis of the movement time of the motor itself and / or on the basis of the current absorbed by the motor.

[0139] Preferably, the limit switch element 60 is configured to define a first limit switch, more preferably corresponding to the stop (arrival) limit switch of the electric actuator 51, and / or to define a second limit switch, more preferably corresponding to the start (departure) limit switch. Advantageously, this allows to align the start and stop positions of the electric actuator 51 respectively with the positions that the mobile member 23 of the first unit of the lock 21 assumes respectively when the lock is in the locked condition and when the lock is in the unlocked condition, or vice versa.

[0140] Preferably, said limit switch element 60 is also integral in rotation (directly or indirectly) with the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator 51.

[0141] Preferably, the limit switch element 60 is housed inside the containment structure 31 in a position facing the electronic board 40, which is also housed inside the structure itself.

[0142] Preferably, the limit switch element 60 (housed inside the containment structure 31) is mechanically connected / coupled with the motion transmission member 52 (housed - at least in part - outside the containment structure 31) so as to prevent liquids and solid particles from entering from the outside; more preferably, it is configured so as to have an IP protection rating of at least IP55, ideally at least IP67.

[0143] Preferably, the limit switch element 60 is mechanically connected directly to the motion transmission member 52 and can be mechanically connected directly or indirectly (for example via said motion transmission member) to the output shaft of the electric actuator 51.

[0144] More preferably, the limit switch element 60 mechanically engages by snap-fit, interlocking or by means of a clip with the motion transmission member 52 and, ideally, on the tubular section 54 of said motion transmission member.

[0145] Preferably, the limit switch element 60 can be fitted around the tubular section 54 of said motion transmission member 52.

[0146] Preferably, the limit switch element 60 comprises an annular section 61 configured for removable mechanical connection to said motion transmission member 52 and / or to the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator 51.

[0147] Preferably, the limit switch element 60 comprises at least one magnet 62. Conveniently, said limit switch element 60 is provided with at least one magnet 62 and at least one seat 63 for a corresponding magnet.

[0148] Preferably, the limit switch element 60 comprises a magnet(s)-holding portion 64 thereof which is provided with at least one seat 63 for a magnet 62.

[0149] Preferably, the limit switch element 60 comprises an annular section 61, which is configured for removable mechanical connection to said motion transmission member 52 and / or to the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator 51, and a magnet(s)-holding portion 64 which is provided with at least one seat 63 for a magnet 62.

[0150] More preferably, said magnet(s)-holding portion 64 may comprise at least one section that extends radially from the annular section 61. More preferably, said magnet(s)-holding portion 64 may be shaped like a circular crown or a sector of a circular crown. In a possible embodiment, the magnet(s)-holding portion 64 may be defined on the annular section.

[0151] Preferably, the device 1 comprises at least one magnetic sensor (not shown), for example a Hall effect sensor or other equivalent electronic sensors configured to detect the presence or variation of the magnetic field of said at least one magnet 62 mounted on the limit switch element 60. Advantageously, the magnetic sensor increases the reliability of the device 1.

[0152] Preferably, said at least one magnetic sensor is housed inside the containment structure 31 so as to interact with the magnet(s) 62 mounted on said limit switch element 60.

[0153] Preferably, said at least one magnetic sensor is mounted on said electronic board 40, more preferably it is mounted in a position facing the magnet(s)-holding portion 64 of said limit switch element 60. Advantageously, this allows for greater proximity between said at least one magnet 62 and said at least one magnetic sensor, thus reducing / eliminating any interference or disturbances.

[0154] Preferably, in one possible embodiment, a magnet 62 can be mounted on the limit switch element 60 while two magnetic sensors spaced apart from each other are mounted on the electronic board 40, to thus correspondingly identify said first limit switch and said second limit switch. Preferably, in another possible embodiment, two magnets 62 spaced apart from each other can be mounted on the limit switch element 60 while a magnetic sensor is mounted on the electronic board, to thus correspondingly identify said first limit switch and said second limit switch.

[0155] Preferably, the magnetic sensor is electrically connected to the electric actuator 51, in particular via said electronic board 40, to thus send corresponding control signals to said electric actuator 51.

[0156] In particular, the magnet 62 is mounted on the limit switch element 60, which rotates with the motion transmission member 52 operated by the electric actuator 51, so that - when the magnetic sensor detects the passage of said magnet 62 - the electric actuator 51 receives a corresponding stop command, thus interrupting the rotation of said motion transmission member 52 acting on the mobile member 23 of said first unit 21 of the lock; conveniently, in this way, the movement action that the transmission member 52 exerts on the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 of the lock is also interrupted.

[0157] Preferably, two magnets 62 may be mounted on the limit switch element 60 to send corresponding stop commands to the electric actuator 51 for the two respective opposite directions of rotation; in particular, a first magnet may be provided to send a first stop command to the electric actuator 51 following a rotation in a first direction (i.e. the rotation to bring the lock from the locked condition to the unlocked condition), and a second magnet to send a second stop command to the electric actuator 51 following the rotation in a second direction opposite to the first, or vice versa. Conveniently, said first stop command identifies said first limit switch, while said second stop command identifies said second limit switch.

[0158] Advantageously, therefore, the mounting of the magnet 62 on the limit switch element 60 defines the electronic limit switch (which is defined by sending a corresponding stop command) for the electric actuator 51 and, likewise, defines the angular rotation travel of the rotating output shaft of the actuator itself. Advantageously, this angular rotation travel corresponds to the angular rotation travel that is required to the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 of the lock in order to make the lock itself switch from the unlocked condition to the locked condition. In this way, therefore, the mechanical limit switch provided in the lock for the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 of the lock itself is combined / added - or can be replaced - with the electronic limit switch (since it is defined by a stop command) for / acting on the electronic actuator 51, which causes - by rotating the transmission member 52 - the rotational movement of said mobile member 23. Advantageously, the limit switch element 60 thus allows said actuator to be activated only and exactly for the passage of the lock from one condition to another, thus saving electrical energy and avoiding impacts of the transmission member 52 with any mechanical stops.

[0159] Preferably, the limit switch element 60 - and in particular the magnet(s)-holding portion 64 - comprises a plurality of seats 63 (i.e. at least three), each of which is configured to receive a magnet 62. More preferably, the seats 63 are spaced apart from each other and arranged / aligned in sequence along substantially a circumferential arc or along a chord subtended by said arc. Advantageously, the seats 63 of the limit switch element 60 are obtained on the limit switch element 60 so that the arc (or the subtended chord) between the two radii passing through the two extreme seats of the sequence forms an angle equal to the maximum rotation travel required to make the locks currently on the market switch from a locked condition to an unlocked condition. For example, said angle may be equal to or less than approximately 180°.

[0160] Advantageously, depending on the lock - and in particular depending on the angular rotation travel required of the mobile member 23 of the first unit 21 of the lock to make the lock itself switch from the locked condition to the unlocked condition - it is thus possible to easily and rapidly adapt, even in the field, the angular rotation travel of the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator 51 simply by mounting the magnet 62 in a corresponding seat 63 among the plurality of seats with which the same limit switch element 60 is provided. Advantageously, the device according to the invention thus allows for a high level of versatility and flexibility in positioning the electronic limit switch for the electronic actuator 51. For example, if a lock is used wherein the rotation travel of the mobile member 23 - in order to make the lock itself switch from the locked condition to the unlocked condition - is 45°, the magnet 62 is mounted on a first seat 63 (among the plurality of seats) of the limit switch element 60 - which is integral in rotation with the output shaft of the electronic actuator 51 and with the motion transmission member 52 - so that the limit switch element itself performs a rotation of 45° to bring the magnet 62 thus mounted on said seat 63 at (preferably in a position facing the) magnetic sensor and, correspondingly, the rotating output shaft of the electronic actuator performs a rotation of 45° before stopping upon receiving of the stop command which is sent on the basis of what is detected by the magnetic sensor itself. In the event of a lock change, thus switching to a lock wherein the angular rotation travel of the mobile member 23 - in order to make the lock itself switch from the locked condition to the unlocked condition - is 90°, the magnet 62 is simply and rapidly moved to another different seat 63 (among the plurality of seats) of the limit switch element 60 (which is integral in rotation with the output shaft of the electronic actuator and with the motion transmission member) so that the limit switch element itself rotates by 90° to bring the magnet 62 thus mounted on said other seat 63 in correspondence (preferably in a facing position) with the magnetic sensor and, correspondingly, the rotating output shaft of the electronic actuator 51 rotates by 90° before stopping upon receiving of the stop command which is sent on the basis of what is detected by the magnetic sensor.

[0161] Preferably, in one possible embodiment, the device 1 with the limit switch element 60 comprises: a first element 11 (with or without a through hole for the introduction of the tool) which is configured to be mounted on the external side of the lid 103, thus being accessible from the outside, a second element 30 which is configured to be mounted on the inner side of the lid 103, said second element 30 comprising said containment structure 31, means 12 for fixing the first element 11 and the second element 30 through the thickness of said lid 103, thus constraining both said elements to the lid itself.

[0162] The present invention relates to a device 1 for a waste collection container 100 wherein said waste collection container 100 is of the type comprising: a container body 101 with an access mouth 102, a lid 103 which is movably associated (preferably it is articulated) to the container body 101 so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth 102 of said container body 101, a lock comprising a first unit 21 intended to be mounted on the lid 103 and a second unit 22 intended to be mounted on the container body 101, said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit 21 is locked on said second unit 22, thus preventing movement of the lid 103 relative to the container body 101, to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit 21 is freed from said second unit 22, thus allowing the movement of the lid 103 relative to the container body 101, and wherein said device 1 is characterised in that it comprises: a containment structure 31 which is intended to be mounted on the inner side of the lid 103, an electric actuator 51 to move said mobile member 23 of said first unit 21 of the lock and thus cause, following an external authorization action or command, the passage of said lock from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, an electronic board 40 which is configured to control said electric actuator 51 and which is housed inside said containment structure 31, a further (second) electronic board 80 which is intended to be positioned at the internal side of the lid 103 and externally with respect to the containment structure 31, said further (second) electronic board 80 is mechanically and electronically connected with said electronic board 40 housed inside the containment structure 31.

[0163] Preferably, the second element 30 also comprises a further (second) electronic board 80 which is positioned at the internal side of the lid 103 and externally with respect to the containment structure 31.

[0164] Preferably, the lid 103 is thus interposed between the first element 11 and the further electronic board 80 of the second element 30.

[0165] Preferably, the further electronic board 80 is thus interposed between the lid 103 and the containment structure 31.

[0166] Preferably, the containment structure 31 is configured to act externally as a support and / or rest for said further electronic board 80. In particular, the containment structure 31 comprises a portion 32 that comes into contact with the further electronic board 80, and more preferably said contact portion 32 is configured to act as a support / rest for said further electronic board 80.

[0167] Preferably, the electronic board 40 and the further electronic board 80 are arranged at an angle to each other, more preferably orthogonally.

[0168] More preferably, the further electronic board 80 is positioned underneath (on the internal side) the lid 103 and is arranged substantially parallel to the area of the lid facing said further electronic board 80.

[0169] Preferably, the containment structure 31 is configured so as to prevent liquids and solid particles from entering from the outside, more preferably it is configured so as to have an IP protection rating of at least IP55, ideally at least IP67.

[0170] Preferably, a first electrical connector 43 is mounted on the electronic board 40 while a second electrical connector 83 is mounted on the further electronic board 80, and said first electrical connector 43 is configured to mechanically engage directly with said second electrical connector 83, thus defining a mechanical and electrical connection between the two electronic boards.

[0171] More preferably, said second electrical connector 83 is of the male type and is inserted directly into said first electrical connector 43 which is of the female type, and / or vice versa. Advantageously, therefore, the two electronic boards 40 and 80 are directly connected to each other without the use of intermediate cables.

[0172] Preferably, a port 33 is obtained on the containment structure 31 for the passage of said first electrical connector 43 or of said second electrical connector 83, and in particular of the male type connector. More preferably, small holes 33' are obtained on said port 33 for the pins 83' of said second electrical connector 83 (but they could - vice versa - be obtained in the first electrical connector 43), and in particular of the male type of connector.

[0173] Conveniently, the electronic board 40 and / or the further electronic board 80 comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) with corresponding electronic circuits mounted thereon.

[0174] Preferably, said electronic board 40 comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) with at least one control and / or processing unit (for example defined by a microcontroller or microprocessor).

[0175] Preferably, said further electronic board 80 comprises a further printed circuit board (PCB) with at least one further control and / or processing unit (for example defined by a microcontroller or microprocessor).

[0176] Preferably, at least one wireless communication module (not shown) is mounted on said further electronic board 80. More preferably, said at least one communication module may comprise a short-range wireless communication module, for example via NFC or Bluetooth technology.

[0177] More preferably, said at least communication module may comprise a remote wireless communication module, e.g. with a remote unit.

[0178] Preferably, said at least one wireless communication module is mounted on a first face 81' of said further electronic board 80 and, in particular, on the face which, in use, is intended to face the lid.

[0179] Preferably, said second electrical connector 83 is mounted on the further electronic board 80 on the other face 81", which is opposite to said first face 81', of said further electronic board. In essence, said wireless communication module and said second electrical connector 83 are mounted on the two distinct, mutually opposite faces, 81' and 81" respectively, of said further electronic board.

[0180] Preferably, further mechanical constraint means 90 may also be provided to constrain the further electronic board 80 to the containment structure 31. More preferably, said further mechanical constraint means 90 are positioned in proximity to said port 33 obtained, in said containment structure 31, for the engagement of said second electrical connector 83 with said first electrical connector 43, and / or vice versa. For example, said further mechanical constraint means 90 comprise threaded members (for example screws, threaded pins or equivalent means) which pass through corresponding through cavities 91 obtained on a wall of the containment structure 31 and / or on said further electronic board 80, to thus engage in corresponding internally threaded seats (which may be obtained correspondingly on said further electronic board 80 and / or on the wall of the containment structure 31, or may be defined in abutment members, such as nuts or bushings).

[0181] Preferably, the connection of said further electronic board 80 with the electronic board 40 housed inside the containment structure 31 is configured in such a way as to prevent liquids and solid particles from entering from the outside, more preferably it is configured in such a way as to have an IP protection degree of at least IP55, ideally at least IP67. Preferably, for this purpose, sealing means 93 are provided at the connection areas of the further electronic board 80 with the electronic board 40, and possibly with the containment structure.

[0182] More preferably, suitable sealing means 93 (for example a gasket) are mounted around the port 33 obtained, in said containment structure 31, for the engagement of said second electrical connector 83 with said first electrical connector 43, and / or vice versa. More preferably, around a zone 34 of the wall of the containment structure 31, zone 34 wherein the port 33 is obtained for the engagement of said second electrical connector 83 with said first electrical connector 43 and wherein the cavities 91 for the passage of the further mechanical constraint means 90 are obtained, suitable sealing means 93 are mounted (for example a gasket) which are appropriately compressed / activated by screwing the threaded members of said further mechanical constraint means.

[0183] Preferably, the electronic board 40 housed inside the containment structure 31 is configured for controlling the electric actuator 51, while the further electronic board 80 which is positioned outside the containment structure 31 is configured for wireless communication with the outside. Advantageously, the wireless activation command for the authorized unlocking of the lock is received by the communication module mounted on the further electronic board 80 and is then transferred from there to the electronic board 40 to correspondingly command the activation of the electric actuator 51.

[0184] Advantageously, with the device 1 according to the invention, the electronic board 40 for controlling the electric actuator 51 is thus structurally separate / distinct from the electronic board for wireless communication with the outside, while still being in electronic communication with each other, while maintaining an adequate degree of IP protection of the containment structure 31.

[0185] Advantageously, with the device according to the invention it is possible to simply and quickly modify the communication technology for the authorization to unlock the lock, and this even when the closing apparatus comprising the device 1 and the lock is already installed on the field. In fact, it is sufficient to replace the further electronic board 80, and this can be done without opening the containment structure 31 and without intervening on the electronic board 40 for the control of the electric actuator 51, while maintaining an adequate degree of IP protection of the containment structure 31.

[0186] Advantageously, with the device according to the invention, it is possible to simply and rapidly expand the functionality of the closing apparatus comprising the device 1 and the lock, and this even when the apparatus itself is already installed on the field. In fact, it is sufficient to replace the further electronic board 80 or expand said further electronic board 80 by installing further components, and this can be done without opening the containment structure 31 and without intervening on the electronic board 40 for the control of the electric actuator 51, while maintaining an adequate degree of IP protection of the containment structure 31.

[0187] Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the device with the further electronic board 80 comprises: a first element 11 (with or without a through hole 13 for the introduction of the tool 104) which is configured to be mounted on the external side of the lid 103, thus being accessible from the outside, a second element 30 which is configured to be mounted on the inner side of the lid 103, said second element 30 comprising said containment structure 31, means 12 for fixing the first element 11 and the second element 30 through the thickness of said lid 103, thus constraining both said elements to the lid itself.

[0188] Appropriately, it is understood that the following aspects of device 1, and in particular the fact that: said first element 11 is provided with a through hole 13 accessible from the outside and in that said first element 11 is associated with said second element 30 so that from the outside, if necessary, a tool 104 can pass through said hole 13 to reach and act on the mobile member 23 of said first unit 21 of the lock, thus bringing said lock into said unlocked condition, a limit switch element 60 is provided for the electric actuator 51, in particular to provide a limit switch control of the electric actuator 51, which is configured to be mechanically associated in a removable manner with said motion transmission member 52 and / or with the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator 51 so as to be rotationally integral with said transmission member 52, it is provided a further (second) electronic board 80 which is positioned externally with respect to the containment structure 31 and which is mechanically and electronically connected to said electronic board 40 housed inside the containment structure 31, they can be present in the device itself either individually, and therefore independently of each other, or in any combination thereof, and this also applies to the corresponding further preferential and optional characteristics set out above.

[0189] The present invention also relates to a closing apparatus for a waste collection container 100 of the type comprising a container body 101 with an access mouth 102 and a lid 103 which is movably associated (preferably articulated) with the container body 101 so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth 102 of said container body 101, said apparatus being characterised in that it comprises: a device 1 as described above in one or more of its essential characteristics, possibly in combination with one or more of the optional and preferential characteristics, a lock comprising a first unit 21 intended to be mounted on the lid 103 and a second unit 22 intended to be mounted on the container body 101, said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit 21 is locked on said second unit 22, thus preventing movement of the lid 103 relative to the container body 101, to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit 21 is freed from said second unit 22, thus allowing the movement of the lid 103 relative to the container body 101.

[0190] The present invention also relates to a waste collection container 100 of the type comprising a container body 101 with an access mouth 102 and a lid 103 which is movably associated (preferably articulated) with the container body 101 so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth 102 of said container body 101, said waste collection container being characterised in that it comprises a closing apparatus as described above.

[0191] In a possible equivalent solution not illustrated in the figures, the device according to the invention is not mounted on the lid, but on the container body 101 at the access mouth 102 and at the lock.

[0192] The skilled person will appreciate that any preferred or optional features of the invention described with reference to only some aspects or embodiments of the invention may be applied to or combined with all other aspects of the invention.

[0193] In particular, unlike the known solutions described and illustrated in ITMI20111930 and CN111364842, the present invention comprises a limit switch element for the electric actuator which is configured to be mechanically associated in a removable manner to said motion transmission member and / or to the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator so as to be integral in rotation with said transmission member. Advantageously, this allows avoiding the use and / or application of an encoder directly on the body of the electric motor, and also avoids identifying and controlling the limit switch of the electric motor on the basis of the movement time of the motor itself and / or on the basis of the current absorbed by the motor.

[0194] The present invention has been illustrated and described in some of its preferred embodiments, but it is understood that executive variations may be made to it in practice, without however departing from the scope of protection of the present patent for industrial invention.

Claims

1. Device (1) for a waste collection container (100) or the like, wherein said waste collection container (100) is of the type comprising: - a container body (101) with an access mouth (102), - a lid (103) which is movably associated, preferably articulated, to the container body (101) so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth (102) of said container body (101), - a lock, preferably with gravitational activation, comprising a first unit (21) intended to be mounted on the lid (103) and a second unit (22) intended to be mounted on the container body (101), said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit (21) is locked on said second unit (22), thus preventing movement of the lid (103) with respect to the container body (101), to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit (21) is freed from said second unit (22), thus allowing the movement of the lid (103) with respect to the container body (101), and wherein said device (1) is characterised in that it comprises: - a containment structure (31) which is intended to be mounted on the inner side of the lid (103), - an electric actuator (51) with a rotating output shaft and an electronic board (40) for controlling said electric actuator (51), said electric actuator (51) and said electronic board (40) being housed inside said containment structure (31), - a motion transmission member (52) which is mounted, at least in part, externally to said containment structure (31) and which is actuated in rotation by said electric actuator (51) to move a mobile member (23) of said first unit (21) of the lock and thus cause said lock to switch from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, - a limit switch element (60) for the electric actuator (51), in particular for providing a limit switch control of the electric actuator (51), which is configured to be mechanically associated in a removable manner with said motion transmission member (52) and / or with the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator (51) so as to be rotationally integral with said transmission member (52).

2. Device according to claim 1, characterised in that the limit switch element (60) is housed inside the containment structure (31) in a position facing the electronic board (40) housed inside the structure itself.

3. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that the limit switch element (60) engages mechanically by snap-fit, interlocking or by means of a clip with the motion transmission member (52) only, which in turn is mechanically engaged in a removable manner with the rotating output shaft of the electric actuator.

4. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises at least one magnetic sensor for detecting the presence or variation of the magnetic field of at least one magnet (62) mounted on the limit switch element (60), said magnetic sensor is electrically connected to the electric actuator (51) to thus send corresponding control signals, preferably stop commands, to said electric actuator (51).

5. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that said magnetic sensor is housed inside the containment structure (31) and, preferably, is mounted on said electronic board (40).

6. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that said limit switch element (60) comprises a magnet(s)-holding portion (64) with at least one seat for a magnet (62).

7. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that said limit switch element (60) comprises a plurality of seats (63), each of said seats (63) being configured to removably receive a magnet (62).

8. Device according to the previous claim, characterised in that said plurality of seats (63) for the magnets (62) comprises at least three seats (63) which are spaced apart from each other and are arranged / aligned in sequence substantially along a circumferential arc or along a chord subtended by said arc.

9. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that the limit switch element (60) is mechanically connected to the motion transmission member (52), which is housed at least partly outside the containment structure (31), so as to prevent liquids and solid particles from entering from the outside.

10. Closing apparatus for a waste collection container (100) of the type comprising a container body (101) with an access mouth (102) and a lid (103) which is movably associated, preferably is articulated, to the container body (101) so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth (102) of said container body (101), said apparatus being characterised in that it comprises: - a lock comprising a first unit (21) intended to be mounted on the lid (103) and a second unit (22) intended to be mounted on the container body (101), said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit (21) is locked on said second unit (22), thus preventing movement of the lid (103) with respect to the container body (101), to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit (21) is freed from said second unit (22), thus allowing the movement of the lid (103) with respect to the container body (101), and - a device (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims.

11. Waste collection container (100) of the type comprising a container body (101) with an access mouth (102) and a lid (103) which is movably associated (preferably it is articulated) to the container body (101) so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth (102) of said container body (101), said waste collection container (100) being characterised in that it comprises a closing apparatus according to the previous claim.

12. Device (1) for a waste collection container (100), wherein said waste collection container (100) is of the type comprising: - a container body (101) with an access mouth (102), - a lid (103) which is movably associated, preferably articulated, to the container body (101) so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth (102) of said container body (101), - a lock, preferably with gravitational activation, comprising a first unit (21) intended to be mounted on the lid (103) and a second unit (22) intended to be mounted on the container body (101), said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit (21) is locked on said second unit (22), thus preventing movement of the lid (103) with respect to the container body (101), to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit (21) is freed from said second unit (22), thus allowing the movement of the lid (103) with respect to the container body (101), and wherein said device (1) is characterised in that it comprises: - a first element (11) configured to be mounted on the external side of the lid (103), thus being accessible from the outside, - a second element (30) configured to be mounted on the internal side of the lid (103) and being provided with movement means (50) configured to cause the movement of a mobile member (23) of said first unit (21) of the lock to thus cause, following an external authorisation action or command, the passage of said lock from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, - means (12) for fixing the first element (11) and the second element (30) through the thickness of said lid (103), thus constraining both said elements to the lid itself, and also from the fact that: - said first element (11) is provided with a through hole (13) which is accessible from the outside and from the fact that said first element (11) is associated with said second element (30) so that from the outside, if necessary, a tool (104) can pass through said hole (13) to reach and act on the mobile member (23) of said first unit (21) of the lock, thus bringing said lock into said unlocked condition.

13. Device according to the preceding claim, wherein said device also comprises means (14) for the removable closure from the outside of said through hole (13).

14. Device (1) for a waste collection container (100), wherein said waste collection container (100) is of the type comprising: - a container body (101) with an access mouth (102), - a lid (103) which is movably associated, preferably articulated, to the container body (101) so as to prevent or allow access from the outside to said mouth (102) of said container body (101), - a lock, preferably with gravitational activation, comprising a first unit (21) intended to be mounted on the lid (103) and a second unit (22) intended to be mounted on the container body (101), said lock being configured to switch, following an activation action or command, from a locked condition wherein said first unit (21) is locked on said second unit (22), thus preventing movement of the lid (103) with respect to the container body (101), to an unlocked condition wherein said first unit (21) is freed from said second unit (22), thus allowing the movement of the lid (103) with respect to the container body (101), and wherein said device (1) is characterised in that it comprises: - a containment structure (31) which is intended to be mounted on the inner side of the lid (103), - an electric actuator (51) to move a mobile part (23) of said first unit (21) of the lock and thus cause, following an external authorization action or command, the passage of said lock from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, - an electronic board (40) which is configured to control said electric actuator (51) and which is housed inside said containment structure (31), - a further electronic board (80) which is intended to be positioned on the internal side of the lid (103) and externally with respect to the containment structure (31), said further electronic board (80) is mechanically and electronically connected to said electronic board (40) housed inside the containment structure (31).

15. Device according to the preceding claim, wherein said device comprises: - a first electrical connector (43) mounted on the electronic board (40), - a second electrical connector (83) mounted on the further electronic board (80), and wherein said first electrical connector (43) is configured to mechanically engage directly with said second electrical connector (83), or vice versa, thus defining a mechanical and electrical connection between the two electronic boards.

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