An arrangement for household waste and a method for handling household waste by means of such an arrangement

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an arrangement (100) for household waste, the arrangement (100) comprising: a container (20) for household waste; and a compression device (30) arranged in the container (20) for compressing the waste; wherein the compression device (30) comprises at least one inflatable element (32) configured to be inflated to compress the waste within the container (20). The present disclosure also relates to a method for handling household waste by means of an arrangement (100) for household waste, the method comprising compressing (s101) the waste by means of at least one inflatable element (32) of the compression device (30), which inflatable element (32) is inflated to compress the waste within the container.

Description

[0001] An arrangement for household waste and a method for handling household waste by means of such an arrangement

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an arrangement for household waste and a method for handling household waste by means of such an arrangement. The present disclosure also relates to a computer program for such an arrangement. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an arrangement for household waste, a method and a computer program as defined in the introductory parts of the independent claims.

[0004] BACKGROUND ART

[0005] Increased awareness of our environment and how we as individuals affect the climate has led to an increased interest in recycling of household waste. The willingness to recycle is positive but households typically generate a lot of waste and it could be a challenge to handle it all. Household waste includes paper, plastics, metal, and food waste amongst others. For recycling purposes, a household may therefore need multiple garbage bins or recycling containers, one for each type of waste. One of the biggest problems with this is lack of space. Our homes / kitchens typically cannot accommodate all necessary containers and even if they do, the containers are small and are quickly filled up with waste. When the garbage bins / containers are full, either it may be picked up by household garbage collection providers or we may transport the waste ourselves to a public recycling station. To reduce the number of trips to the recycling station people typically tend to store some of the waste at some other place at home, in even larger containers or plastic bags, before taking everything to the recycling station. This tend to be both unhygienic and unpleasant.

[0006] To solve the problem with household waste taking up a lot of space in a home, the waste could be compressed. However, many solutions for compressing waste fail to retain the compacted shape of the waste when the compressing force is withdrawn. Also, many solutions require large and heavy arrangements for compression, which makes the actual space for waste even smaller. Another problem with such large known solutions is that they require a lot of material and a plurality of components, which is disadvantageous from a sustainability perspective. As an example, document WO2019116166A1 discloses an apparatus for trash sorting and compacting, the apparatus comprising a plurality of bins and a single vertical actuator configured to compress the waste by sliding one bin into another.

[0007] While the prior art addresses some of the problems associated with household waste, they often fail to provide a compact and space-saving solution which optimizes the storage space for the waste. There is thus a need for an improved arrangement for household waste.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] It is an object of the present disclosure to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the deficiencies and disadvantages in the prior art and solve at least one of the current problems.

[0010] It is a particular object of the present disclosure to provide an arrangement for household waste, which facilitates the handling of household waste.

[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an arrangement for household waste, which is compact and optimizes the storage space for the waste.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an arrangement for household waste, the arrangement comprising: a container for household waste; and a compression device arranged in the container for compressing the waste; wherein the compression device comprises at least one inflatable element configured to be inflated to compress the waste within the container. The at least one inflatable element is typically configured to expand in direction towards a container wall and thereby compress the waste between the at least one inflatable element and the container wall. The at least one inflatable element of the compression device is configured to be inflated and thereby expand and increase in size and volume. This way, the inflatable element will press the waste towards and against the container wall. By compressing the waste, space is freed up in the container to fill with more waste. The container can thereby accommodate more waste before it has to be emptied. In a compression state, the at least one inflatable element is inflated. The level of inflation may vary depending on the amount of waste in the container. In a non-compression state, the at least one inflatable element is configured to be deflated. This means that the at least one inflatable element has a reduced size and volume in the non-compression state compared to the compression state. Thus, by having an inflatable element, the compression device is compact and space saving and thereby has a minimal effect on the storage space for the waste in the container. This way, the household waste arrangement can be compact and still provide a relatively large storage space for the waste.

[0013] The compression device may further comprise an air source, such as an air pump, compressor, fan, turbine or similar, arranged in communication with the at least one inflatable element to inflate and / or deflate the inflatable element. The air source may be configured to provide a pressure of 0,1-3 bar inside the inflatable element during compression. Preferably, the air source may be configured to provide a pressure of 0,3-0, 7 bar inside the inflatable element during compression. The air source may be connected to the inflatable element via a first air passage. The air source may take air from an environment outside the container to inflate the inflatable element, and air inside the container may be discharged to the outside environment when the inflatable element is inflated. Alternatively, the air is circulated, such that the air source uses air from inside the container to inflate the inflatable element and such that the air is discharged back into the container upon deflation of the inflatable element. This way, smell of waste outside the container can be prevented. The compression device may further comprise a valve device arranged in fluid communication with the first air passage and the air source. The valve device is arranged to control the flow of air to and / or from the inflatable element. The valve device may be referred to as a shunt.

[0014] The container may comprise a bottom wall and sidewalls extending essentially vertically upwards from the bottom wall. The container may also comprise a top wall. The walls of the container delimits an inner volume or chamber of the container. The container may comprise a waste inlet, through which the waste is being inserted into the container. The waste inlet may be arranged at a top end of the container. Alternatively, the waste inlet is arranged in a sidewall of the container. The container may also comprise an openable and / or closable cover or lid for covering the waste inlet. The cover may be pivotally arranged. The cover may thus be hingedly connected to the container wall. In one example, the air source and the valve device are arranged below the bottom wall of the container to not affect the storage space for the waste inside the container.

[0015] In one example, the at least one inflatable element is arranged to compress the waste laterally, essentially perpendicularly to the direction of gravity. By compressing the waste essentially horizontally, some of the compressed waste will automatically (due to gravity) fall downwards towards the bottom wall of the container when the inflatable element is deflated. This way, movement of the waste is achieved and gaps and air pockets among the waste can be reduced. The compressed waste collection will thereby be more compact (higher density), more space is freed up and the container can accommodate more waste before it has to be emptied. Alternatively, the at least one inflatable element is arranged to compress the waste vertically, preferably downwards towards the bottom wall or an intermediate wall of the container.

[0016] The at least one inflatable element may be configured to occupy a substantial part of the inner volume of the container, when it is in a fully inflated state. The at least one inflatable element may be configured to occupy a minor part of the container inner volume when being completely deflated, preferably a negligible part. The at least one inflatable element may be arranged at a first side of the container and be configured to press the waste towards a container wall at a second side of the container. The second side of the container may be opposite to the first side of the container. The at least one inflatable element may thus be arranged to have a main expansion direction.

[0017] The container may have an essentially cylindrical shape. The at least one inflatable element may then, in a completely deflated state, be folded in a corresponding semi-cylindrical shape and follow and / or abut a part of the inner wall of the container. Alternatively, the container may have an essentially rectangular shape. The at least one inflatable element may then, in a completely deflated state, cover and / or abut one inner sidewall of the container. It is to be understood that the compression device comprising an inflatable element for compressing the waste, allows the container to have basically any shape since the flexible, inflatable element will somewhat adapt to the shape of the container when being inflated.

[0018] The inflatable element may comprise a press surface facing the waste. In the inflated state, the press surface may be curved. The at least one inflatable element may have the shape of a cushion or pillow in the inflated state. Alternatively, the press surface may be essentially flat when the inflatable element is in the inflated state. The at least one inflatable element may be formed as a bellows or a pad.

[0019] The arrangement for household waste may further comprise a flexible receptacle removably arranged inside the container for receiving the waste, wherein the at least one inflatable element is arranged to compress the waste by also compressing the receptacle. The flexible receptacle may thus be positioned inside the container to be filled with waste, and when the receptacle is full, it can be removed from the container to be emptied. The receptacle may thus easily be brought to the recycling station where it is emptied. By using the flexible receptacle, the container and the at least one inflatable element are separated from the waste and it will be easier to keep the container and the compression device clean. The receptacle is arranged inside the container, such that the receptacle is arranged between two opposite walls of the container and the at least one inflatable element is arranged between the receptacle and a first of the opposite container walls. The at least one inflatable element will thereby exert a force on the receptacle when being inflated, and the receptacle will be compressed and pushed against the opposite container wall and thereby compress the waste inside the receptacle. Thus, during compression of the waste, the receptacle will be deformed. Specifically, the at least one inflatable element presses on a first wall of the receptacle, such that the first wall is moved in direction of an opposite second wall of the receptacle, whereby the waste is compressed between the first and second wall of the receptacle by the at least one inflatable element when pressing the receptacle against the opposite container wall.

[0020] The container may comprise a closable opening for removing and / or inserting the receptacle from and / or into the container. The closable opening may be arranged at the top end of the container. Alternatively, the closable opening for removing and / or inserting the receptacle is arranged in a sidewall of the container. The closable opening may be the same as the waste inlet or it may be a separate opening.

[0021] The arrangement may also comprise a non-stick arrangement for preventing adhesion between the receptacle and the waste during compression. The waste in the receptacle could be all sorts of waste and may comprise sticky residues, which could cause adhesion between the receptacle and the waste. This could make it messy and complicated to empty the receptacle when it is full with waste and it could also prohibit reusing the receptacle after compression. With the non-stick arrangement, emptying the receptacle is facilitated and the waste will easily fall out of the receptacle for example when being turned up-side down. The need of having to manually withdraw waste out of the receptacle is thereby reduced. Adhesion between the receptacle and the waste may also prevent the receptacle from regaining its original shape after compression, when the inflatable element is deflated, and it would thereby be difficult to insert more waste into the receptacle after compression. Adhesion between the receptacle and the waste should therefore be avoided and this can be achieved by means of the non-stick arrangement according to the present disclosure.

[0022] The non-stick arrangement may comprise a non-stick coating on an inner wall of the receptacle. The non-stick coating is advantageously configured to reduce the ability of other material to stick to it and may comprise polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ceramic coatings, silicon coatings or super hydrophobic coatings. The non-stick arrangement may thus form part of the receptacle. The receptacle may comprise the non-stick coating on at least one inner wall. The non-stick coating is suitably provided on the inner side of the wall abutting the inflatable element. Alternatively, the receptacle comprises the non-stick coating on all its inner walls. Having a receptacle that comprises the non-stick arrangement, allows the receptacle to be reused after being emptied. The non-stick coating will facilitate cleaning of the receptacle and the receptacle can be used multiple times.

[0023] Alternatively, the non-stick arrangement may comprise an intermediate non-stick element configured to be arranged between an inner wall of the receptacle and the waste. The nonstick element may be formed as a tongue, sheet or liner. The non-stick element may be pivotally attached to the container. When the receptacle is to be arranged into the container, the non-stick element may be pivoted outwards from the container and once the receptacle is positioned inside the container, the non-stick element can be pivoted inwards over a wall of the receptacle, to be arranged between the inner wall of the receptacle and the waste being inserted into the receptacle. A similar procedure may be performed when removing the receptacle from the container. Alternatively, the intermediate non-stick element is configured to be attached to the at least one inflatable element. During compression, one side of the non-stick element will abut the inner wall of the receptacle and the other side of the non-stick element will abut the waste. The nonstick element may be configured to be removably arranged inside the receptacle. By using a separate non-stick element, which can be removed from inside the receptacle, it can easily be cleaned and replaced in case it is worn out or damaged. Furthermore, with a separate non-stick element any type of flexible receptacle can be used for accommodating the waste. For example, a disposable receptacle can be used.

[0024] In some examples, the receptacle comprises a resilient material allowing the receptacle to regain its original shape after compression. The receptacle may comprise rubber or silicone. With a material that allows the receptacle to regain its original shape after compression, the receptacle can easily be used again after compression. In some embodiments, the receptacle comprises a material, which allows the receptacle to automatically regain its original shape when the compression force applied on the receptacle is released. The receptacle may additionally or alternatively have a shape and / or design, which allows the receptacle to automatically regain its original shape when the compression force applied on the receptacle is released. The receptacle may comprise folding lines, slits or similar features for facilitating deformation during compression. The receptacle may comprise a resilient material allowing the receptacle to be turned inside out. This way, emptying of waste is facilitated.

[0025] The receptacle may comprise at least one handle, a hook or similar to facilitate holding the receptacle while it is being emptied.

[0026] The receptacle may be connected to the top end of the container. The receptacle may comprise a circumferential flange section at the top of the receptacle, configured to rest on a top edge of the container. The top edge may thus be the top end of the sidewall(s) of the container. The flange section may comprise a groove or channel corresponding to the thickness of the container side wall(s). The receptacle may thus be arranged with the top edge of the container inserted into the groove or channel. When being hung like this on the container sidewall, the receptacle may not touch the bottom wall of the container. Alternatively, the receptacle is configured to rest on the bottom wall of the container.

[0027] In some embodiments, the arrangement for household waste comprises a shape regaining arrangement for facilitating the receptacle to regain its original shape after compression. Specifically, the arrangement for household waste may comprise a shape regaining arrangement for facilitating the receptacle to regain its original shape after deflation of the at least one inflatable element. Due to the compression and depending on the type of waste, the receptacle may require some help to regain its original shape after deflation of the at least one inflatable element. Manually reshaping the receptacle after compression could be messy and it would therefore be advantageous to have an arrangement for facilitating the receptacle to regain its original shape.

[0028] The shape regaining arrangement may comprise at least one coupling element arranged to removably attach the receptacle to the inflatable element and / or the container. The shape regaining arrangement may comprise a first coupling element on the receptacle and a second coupling element on the compression device and / or the container. The shape regaining arrangement may comprise a first coupling element on the receptacle and a second coupling element on the at least one inflatable element and / or the container. By having a first coupling element on the receptacle connected to a second coupling element on the at least one inflatable element, the receptacle wall comprising the first coupling element would follow the movement of the inflatable element when it is deflated. The first coupling element may be arranged in association with a first wall of the receptacle that is abutting the at least one inflatable element. When the at least one inflatable element is inflated and expands, it will deform and compress the receptacle such that the first wall of the receptacle is pressed towards a second opposite wall of the receptacle. When the inflatable element is deflated, the first wall being connected to the inflatable element would follow the inflatable element as it is reduced in size and the first wall would thus move in direction away from the second wall. This way, the receptacle would be regaining its original shape in an easy way. The shape regaining arrangement may further comprise at least one other coupling element arranged to removably attach the second wall of the receptacle to the adjacent container wall, to prevent the whole receptacle from being displaced as the at least one inflatable element is deflated. The shape regaining arrangement may comprise a magnet coupling. The shape regaining arrangement may alternatively comprise a Velcro coupling, a suction cup coupling or a hook and loop coupling or similar.

[0029] In another example, the first coupling element may be arranged in association with a first wall of the receptacle that is abutting the at least one inflatable element and the second coupling element is arranged on the container wall adjacent the at least one inflatable element. In this case, the second coupling element and / or the first coupling element may be flexible or elastic, such that it can be stretched and / or expanded and the connection between the coupling elements is maintained when the inflatable element is inflated. When the inflatable element is inflated, the first and / or second coupling element will be stretched as the first wall of the receptacle comprising the first coupling element is moved away from the container wall comprising the second coupling element. When the inflatable element is deflated, the inflatable element will no longer stretch the coupling element(s) and the configuration of the first and / or second coupling element will automatically pull the first wall of the receptacle away from the second wall of the receptacle, and the receptacle would regain its original shape.

[0030] The shape regaining arrangement may alternatively be configured to generate a pressure difference between the inside of the receptacle and a space between the receptacle and the container to affect the shape of the receptacle after compression. The shape regaining arrangement may thus comprise means for generating a pressure difference between the inside of the receptacle and a space between the receptacle and the container to affect the shape of the receptacle. This way, the pressure difference will affect the receptacle walls, such that the receptacle regains its original shape. In one example, the shape regaining arrangement is configured to increase the pressure inside the receptacle, such that the higher pressure will push the walls of the receptacle outwards, towards the container walls. In another example, the shape regaining arrangement is configured to reduce the pressure in the space between the receptacle and the container, such that an under pressure is achieved, whereby the walls of the receptacle will be pulled (sucked) outwards towards the container walls. The shape regaining arrangement may thus comprise an air source, such as an air compressor, air pump or similar. Suitably, the air source of the shape regaining arrangement is the same air source as in the compression device. Thus, the same air source can be used to compress the waste and help regaining the original shape of the receptacle after compression. The shape regaining arrangement may also comprise at least one passage in fluid connection with the inside of the receptacle and / or the space between the receptacle and the container and the air source.

[0031] In some embodiments, the arrangement for household waste further comprises a humidifying device arranged in fluid connection with the inside of the container, wherein the humidifying device is arranged to provide a fluid to moisten the waste before compression. By providing a fluid to the waste, compression of the waste may be facilitated and it may help maintaining the compressed state of the waste after compression. Thus, moistening the waste before compression may help maintaining the compressed state of the waste when the inflatable element is deflated and the compressing force is released. The fluid may be provided in the form of a liquid or a vapour. The fluid may comprise water.

[0032] The fluid provided by the humidifying device may comprise starch or any other biological binder. The fluid will thereby act as a temporary adhesive gluing the waste together in the compressed state. This way, the waste will maintain its compressed state and more space is freed up in the container. The compressed waste, which is glued together, will this way form a compact single unit (block), which is easy to fit into public waste bins at recycling stations. However, by using a biological binder, the adhesive function will automatically be dissolved after some time in normal environments due to humidity / temperature. Thus, even if the waste is adhered together in a block-like configuration when being transported to a public recycling station, the compressed unit will after some time dissolve and the waste will transition to separate items again. In some countries, there are laws and regulations regarding the shape and format of the waste at public recycling stations and using a biological binder is therefore very advantageous. The amount of fluid provided on the waste, the compression time and / or the compression force affects the time it takes to dissolve the compressed adhered waste. Thus, by controlling the amount of fluid provided on the waste, the compression time and / or the compression force, the time for dissolving the compressed adhered waste can be adapted to local regulations.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively, the fluid provided by the humidifying device may comprise disinfectant and / or scented liquid. Applying a disinfectant to the waste is advantageous from a hygiene perspective to avoid harmful bacteria or other vermin. Applying a scented liquid may help avoiding unpleasant odours from the waste and may thereby increase the well-being.

[0034] The humidifying device may comprise at least one reservoir for a fluid arranged on the container and at least one nozzle or discharge aperture arranged in fluid connection with the at least one reservoir and the inside of the container to discharge the fluid on the waste. The humidifying device may for example comprise one reservoir for a fluid comprising water and starch, and another reservoir for a scented liquid. The at least one reservoir is suitably arranged at the outside of the container to increase the accessibility. The at least one nozzle may be arranged in fluid connection with the inside of the receptacle in the event that the arrangement comprises a receptacle. In the event that the container comprises a cover at a top end of the container, the at least one reservoir may be arranged on the outside of such a cover. The at least one nozzle may be arranged at the inside of such a cover. The at least one nozzle or discharge aperture may be configured to provide the fluid as an aerosol and thus spray the fluid over the waste. This way, the fluid will be distributed over the waste in an efficient way.

[0035] The humidifying device may be connected to the air source of the compression device. The humidifying device may comprise a conduit connecting the reservoir and the air source via the valve device. By controlling the valve device, the air provided by the air source can be supplied through the conduit to provide a pressure in the reservoir, which will discharge the fluid through the nozzle. Alternatively, the humidifying device is electrically powered. In another example, the household waste arrangement comprises a heating device configured to heat the waste in the container before compression. Heating the waste before compression may facilitate compression. For example, in the event that the waste comprises plastics, the plastic waste may become more elastic and deformable by heating it. The heating device may comprise an electric heater. The heating device may be configured to provide heat by means of infrared (I R) light. Alternatively, the heating device may be configured to provide heated air. The heating device may be arranged inside the container, in vicinity of the waste to be heated. In the event that the container comprises a cover at a top end of the container, the heating device may be arranged on the inside such cover.

[0036] In some embodiments, the arrangement further comprises a control device configured to control the compression device in order to regulate a compression force over time. The compression force depend on the level of inflation of the inflatable element. Thus, the control device may be configured to control the compression device to regulate the level of inflation of the at least one inflatable element over time. The compression device may thereby be automatically controlled by means of the control device, to inflate and / or deflate the at least one inflatable element. By means of the control device, the level of inflation of the at least one inflatable element (and thus the compression force) can be regulated over time.

[0037] The control device may be configured to control the compression device, such that the at least one inflatable element is maintained in a compression state during a predetermined time period. The user of the arrangement may decide the predetermined time period. The predetermined time period may be at least two hours, preferably at least three hours. The longertime the compression is performed, the more likely it is that the waste will maintain the compressed state when the compression force is released. The control device may be configured to control the compression device, such that the at least one inflatable element is inflated to a compression state at a predetermined time. For example, the control device may be configured to initiate compression / inflation of the inflatable element at a certain time each day. The control device may be configured to initiate compression at a time when the container normally is not used by any person, for example during the night. This way, the compression will not interfere with the use of the container and in the morning when the household might need to throw some garbage, space have been freed up in the container and there will be room for new garbage. It is to be understood that the control device could be configured to control the compression device to a compression state a plurality of times during the day. If the container is frequently used in the morning and in the evening, the control device may, for example, be configured to inflate the inflatable element to a compression state at noon, and then again at midnight.

[0038] The control device may be configured to control the compression device to perform a precompression operation to move the waste around inside the container, in which precompression operation the at least one inflatable element is intermittently inflated for a short period of time. Said short period of time is typically not long enough for the waste to maintain a compressed state. Thus, in the pre-compression operation, the control device is configured to briefly inflate the inflatable element. The control device may thus be configured to control the compression device to briefly provide a compression force on the waste. Typically, the inflatable element is inflated about 3-5 times during the precompression operation. The pre-compression operation may be performed during a predetermined period of time. The pre-compression operation is performed before compressing the waste and advantageously in association with providing the fluid on the waste. This way, the waste will be moved around inside the container and the fluid from the humidifying device will be better distributed on the waste. Also, gaps and air pockets among the waste may be avoided and once the compression starts, the compressed waste may become more compact. The control device may be configured to control the compression device to perform the pre-compression operation anytime during the day, to just move or shake the waste in the container and free up space for more waste.

[0039] The control device may be configured to control the compression device based on user input. The control device may be operatively coupled to a user input device, such that the user of the arrangement can override any predetermined automatically initiated compression or initiate compression manually at any time. Such user input device may comprise a mobile electronic device of the user, which mobile electronic device is operatively coupled to the control device, e.g. via a network server. Such mobile electronic device of the user may be a mobile phone or a tablet computer. By allowing the compression device to be controlled based on user input from a mobile electronic device, the user can start or end compression from anywhere, even when being remote from the arrangement. This way, a user, which is away from home for many hours during the day, can start compression of the waste, even if the arrangement is programmed to perform compression during the night when no one uses the container. Increased flexibility is thereby achieved. Additionally or alternatively, the arrangement may comprise a user input device in the form of a manoeuvring element, such as a button, lever or switch operatively coupled to the control device. Such manoeuvring element may be provided on the container. By manoeuvring the manoeuvring element, the user can manually start and / or end inflation of the inflatable element and thus start / end compression of the waste.

[0040] The control device may further be configured to control the humidifying device, to provide a fluid to moisten the waste before compression. The control device may also be configured to control the heating device to heat the waste before compression. The control device may be configured to control the humidifying device and / or the heating device automatically or based on user input. User input may be provided by means of a user input device, such as a mobile electronic device or a manoeuvring element as mentioned above. Thus, in the event that the control device is configured to automatically start compression at a predetermined time, the control device may be configured to activate the humidity device or heating device at a certain time before the predetermined time for compression. The control device may be configured to control the at least one nozzle / discharge aperture of the humidity device, such that fluid is discharged inside the container. Additionally or alternatively, the control device may be configured to activate the humidifying device or the heating device before starting compression when receiving user input for starting compression. In one example, the control device is configured to control the humidifying device to provide the fluid essentially simultaneously as the compression device is controlled to perform the pre-compression operation to move the waste inside the container.

[0041] The arrangement may further comprise a lifting arrangement for facilitating lifting the receptacle out of the container. The lifting arrangement may comprise a second inflatable element arranged underneath the receptacle, wherein the second inflatable element is configured to be inflated to push the receptacle upwards. The receptacle will this way be lifted in relation to the container and it will be easier for the user to remove the receptacle from the container. The second inflatable element may be connected to the air source of the compression device via a second air passage. The air source of the compression device may thus be configured to provide air through the second air passage to the second inflatable element. Alternatively, the lifting arrangement comprises a second air source for inflating the second inflatable element.

[0042] In one example, the arrangement comprises two receptacles, a first and a second receptacle, arranged inside the container. The receptacles may be used for different types of waste. The receptacles may be arranged adjacent each other inside the container. The at least one inflatable element may be arranged at one side of the container, next to the first receptacle. The compression of the waste may be achieved by inflating the inflatable element, whereby the inflatable element expands and affects the first receptacle and the waste inside the first receptacle. The first receptacle will then be pressed against the second receptacle, which will be compressed against the wall of the container. The second receptacle and its waste will thus be clamped between the first receptacle and the container wall. By using flexible receptacles arranged side by side like this, only one inflatable element is required to compress waste in both receptacles. In another example, the compression device comprises an inflatable element arranged behind, or in front of, both receptacles. The inflatable element is thus arranged adjacent both receptacles and will affect both receptacles simultaneously. In yet another example, the second receptacle is arranged on top of the first receptacle and the at least one inflatable element is arranged above the second receptacle. The at least one inflatable element may then be configured to be inflated to expand downwards and press the second receptacle towards and against the first receptacle, to thereby compress the second receptacle and the first receptacle between the at least one inflatable element and the bottom wall of the container. It is to be understood that the arrangement can comprise any number of receptacles arranged adjacent, or on top of, each other.

[0043] Alternatively, the container comprises an intermediate wall creating two chambers inside the container. Each chamber may accommodate a receptacle. The compression device may then comprise two inflatable elements, one arranged in each chamber to compress the respective receptacle. The inflatable elements may be arranged at the intermediate wall, thereby pressing the respective receptacle in opposite directions outwards against the container sidewalls. By such arrangement, the opposing forces of the inflatable elements acting on the intermediate wall will cancel each other out. The intermediate wall can thereby be relatively thin and thereby have negligible the impact on the storage space for the waste. The arrangement may comprise any number of intermediate walls, creating any number of separate chambers inside the container. In this case, the compression device will comprise a plurality of inflatable elements, typically one in each chamber.

[0044] It is to be understood that in the event that the arrangement comprises two or more receptacles, the non-stick arrangement may be configured to prevent adhesion between the waste and each receptacle. Thus, the non-stick arrangement may comprise a non-stick coating on each receptacle or two non-stick elements, one arranged between each receptacle and the waste in the respective receptacle. Furthermore, the shape regaining arrangement may be configured for facilitating all receptacles to regain its original shape after deflation of the inflatable element(s). The shape regaining arrangement may thus comprise a first coupling element on each receptacle, and a corresponding second coupling element on the inflatable element(s) or the container. Alternatively, the shape regaining arrangement may be configured to generate a pressure difference between each receptacle and the space between the receptacle and the container.

[0045] When the container comprises two or more receptacles, the humidifying arrangement may comprise two or more nozzles or discharge apertures connected to the at least one reservoir, thereby enabling the fluid to be discharged on the waste in each receptacle.

[0046] The first aspect of the present disclosure also provides a method for handling household waste by means of an arrangement for household waste. The arrangement comprises a container for household waste and a compression device arranged in the container for compressing the waste, the method comprises compressing the waste by means of at least one inflatable element of the compression device, which inflatable element is inflated to compress the waste within the container. It is to be understood that all features and advantages mentioned with regard to the arrangement above are also applicable on the method. The method is preferably a computer-implemented method performed by means of the control device described herein.

[0047] The step of compressing the waste may comprise compressing the waste laterally across the container, essentially perpendicularly to the direction of gravity. Alternatively, compressing the waste is performed essentially vertically.

[0048] The step of compressing the waste may comprise compressing the waste by compressing a flexible receptacle removably arranged inside the container for receiving the waste.

[0049] The method may further comprise facilitating that the receptacle regains its original shape after deflation of the inflatable element, by means of a shape regaining arrangement. Facilitating that the receptacle regains its original shape may comprise generating a pressure difference between the inside of the receptacle and a space between the receptacle and the container as described above. The control device may thus control the shape regaining arrangement, such that a pressure difference between the inside of the receptacle and a space between the receptacle and the container is generated.

[0050] The method may also comprise moistening the waste before compression, by means of a humidifying device arranged in fluid connection with the inside of the container. The control device may thus control the humidifying device to discharge a fluid over the waste inside the container before compression.

[0051] The method may alternatively comprise heating the waste in the container before compression, by means of a heating device. The control device may thus control the heating device to provide heat over the waste inside the container before compression.

[0052] According to the first aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program for an arrangement for household waste is also provided. The arrangement for household waste comprises a container, a compression device and a control device comprising at least one processor, the computer program comprising computer-readable instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor causes the arrangement for household waste to perform the steps of the method as disclosed herein. Furthermore, according the first aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a computer program product comprising at least one computer-readable medium, such as a non-transitory memory, storing the above mentioned computer program.

[0053] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an arrangement for household waste is provided, where the arrangement comprises a container for household waste, a compression device arranged in the container for compressing the waste, and a humidifying device arranged in fluid connection with the inside of the container, wherein the humidifying device is arranged to provide a fluid to moisten the waste before compression. Moistening the waste before compression will help maintaining the compressed state of the waste after the compression device has stopped the compression, which has also been described above with regard to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0054] As described with regard to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the fluid may comprise starch. This way, the fluid will act like a temporary adhesive gluing the waste together in the compressed state.

[0055] The compression device of the arrangement according to the second aspect of the present disclosure may comprise at least one inflatable element configured to be inflated to compress the waste within the container as described with regard to the first aspect of the present disclosure. Alternatively, the compression device may comprise at least one movable press element configured to compress the waste within the container. The press element may comprise a plate or block arranged on a movable and / or retractable actuator, arm, piston or similar. Such movable actuator may be pneumatically, hydraulically or electrically controlled.

[0056] The compression device may be arranged to compress the waste laterally across the container, essentially perpendicularly to the direction of gravity. Alternatively, the compression device is arranged to compress the waste vertically.

[0057] The arrangement according to the second aspect of the present disclosure may further comprise a flexible receptacle removably arranged inside the container for receiving the waste, wherein the compression device is arranged to compress the waste by compressing the receptacle. Such flexible receptacle has been described above with regard to the first aspects of the present disclosure. The receptacle is arranged inside the container, such that the compression device is arranged between the container wall and the receptacle. The compression device will thereby affect the receptacle when being in a compression state, and the receptacle will be compressed and thereby compress the waste inside the receptacle. Specifically, the compression device presses on a first wall of the receptacle, such that the first wall is moved in direction of an opposite second wall of the receptacle, whereby the waste is compressed between the first and second wall of the receptacle and thus between the compression device and a container wall. Features relating to the receptacle of the second aspect of the present disclosure are described with regard to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0058] It is to be understood that the arrangement according to the second aspect of the present disclosure may comprise a non-stick arrangement, a shape regaining arrangement and a heating device as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0059] The shape regaining arrangement may comprise at least one coupling element arranged to connect the receptacle and the compression device or the container. By connecting the receptacle and the compression device, at least a part of the receptacle would follow the movements of the compression device. When the compression device comprises a moveable press, the receptacle would thereby follow any movement of the press. The at least one coupling element may be arranged in association with a first wall of the receptacle that is abutting the compression device. When the compression device is controlled to a compression state, it will compress the receptacle, such that the first wall of the receptacle is pressed towards a second opposite wall of the receptacle. When the compression device no longer is in a compression state, the first wall connected to the compression device will follow the movement of the compression device / press / inflatable element and would thus move in direction away from the second wall. This way, the receptacle would be regaining its original shape in an easy way.

[0060] The arrangement according to the second aspect of the present disclosure may further comprise a control device configured to control the compression device in order to regulate the compression force over time. The control device may be configured as described with regard to the first aspect of the present disclosure. In the event that the compression device comprises at least one inflatable element, the control device may be configured to control the compression device in order to regulate a level of inflation of the at least one inflatable element over time. By means of the control device, the movement of the press element or inflation of the inflatable element (and thus the compression force) can be regulated over time.

[0061] The control device may be configured to control the compression device, such that it is maintained in a compression state during a predetermined time period. The control device may thus be configured to control the position of the press element to be in a compression state during a predetermined time period.

[0062] The control device may further be configured to control the compression to perform a precompression operation to move the waste inside the container. In this pre-compression operation, the press element is intermittently in a compression state for a short period of time. Thus, the press element will briefly compress or push the waste to move the waste around inside the container. The compression device may thus be controlled to alternate between compressing and not compressing the waste for a predetermined period of time.

[0063] With regard to the second aspect of the present disclosure, a method for handling waste by means of an arrangement for household waste is provided. The arrangement comprises a container for household waste, a compression device arranged in the container for compressing the waste, and a humidifying device arranged in fluid connection with the inside of the container, the method comprising: moistening the waste before compression by means of the humidifying device and compressing the waste by means of the compression device.

[0064] Compressing the waste may comprise compressing the waste laterally across the container, essentially perpendicularly to the direction of gravity. Compressing the waste may comprise compressing the waste by compressing a flexible receptacle removably arranged inside the container for receiving the waste. The method may further comprise facilitating that the receptacle regains its original shape after compression, by means of a shape regaining arrangement. This is described with regard to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0065] The method may further comprise heating the waste in the container before compression by means of a heating device as also explained in the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0066] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an arrangement for household waste is provided, where the arrangement comprises a container for household waste, and a compression device arranged in the container for compressing the waste, wherein the compression device is arranged to compress the waste laterally across the container, essentially perpendicularly to the direction of gravity. By compressing the waste laterally, the compression device does not have be arranged at the top of the container and the whole arrangement can thereby be configured with a smaller height. This may be very advantageous in a kitchen. Also, the compression device will not block the top of the container, through which waste advantageously is inserted into the container. Furthermore, by compressing the waste essentially horizontally, some of the compressed waste will automatically (due to gravity) fall downwards towards the bottom of the container when the compression device no longer compresses the waste. This way, movement of the waste is achieved and gaps and air pockets among the waste can be avoided. The compressed waste collection will thereby be more compact (higher density), more space is freed up and the container can be used for a longer time before it has to be emptied.

[0067] The arrangement according to the third aspect of the present disclosure may further comprise a humidifying device arranged in fluid connection with the inside of the container, as previously described with regard to the first and second aspects of the present disclosure. The compression device of the arrangement according to third aspect may comprise at least one inflatable element as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure, or a press element as described in the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0068] The arrangement according to the third aspect of the present disclosure may further comprise a flexible receptacle similar to the first and second aspects of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the arrangement may comprise a non-stick arrangement, a shape regaining arrangement and a heating device as described in the first and second aspects of the present disclosure.

[0069] The arrangement according to the third aspect may further comprise a control device as described in the first and second aspects of the present disclosure.

[0070] The third aspect of the present disclosure also provides a method for handling waste by means of an arrangement for household waste. The arrangement comprises a container for household waste, and a compression device arranged in the container for compressing the waste, the method comprising: compressing the waste by means of the compression device, wherein the waste is compressed laterally across the container, essentially perpendicularly to the direction of gravity.

[0071] The method according to the third aspect may also comprise the method steps as described with regard to the first and second aspects of the present disclosure.

[0072] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, an arrangement for household waste is provided, where the arrangement comprises a container for household waste, a compression device arranged in the container for compressing the waste, and a flexible receptacle removably arranged inside the container for receiving the waste, wherein the compression device is arranged to compress the waste by compressing the receptacle. The present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description given below. The detailed description and specific examples disclose preferred embodiments of the disclosure by way of illustration only. Those skilled in the art understand from guidance in the detailed description that changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the appended claims.

[0073] BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0074] The above objects, as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be more fully appreciated by reference to the following illustrative and nonlimiting detailed description of example embodiments of the present disclosure, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, of which:

[0075] Figure 1A-B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an arrangement for household waste according to the present disclosure;

[0076] Figures 2A-B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an arrangement for household waste according to the present disclosure;

[0077] Figure 3 illustrate exemplary embodiments of an arrangement for household waste according to the present disclosure;

[0078] Figure 4 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an arrangement for household waste according to the present disclosure;

[0079] Figure 5 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an arrangement for household waste according to the present disclosure;

[0080] Figure 6 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an arrangement for household waste according to the present disclosure; Figure 7 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an arrangement for household waste according to the present disclosure;

[0081] Figure 8 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an arrangement for household waste according to the present disclosure;

[0082] Figure 9A-C illustrate exemplary embodiments of an arrangement for household waste according to the present disclosure

[0083] Figure 10 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a control device according to the present disclosure;

[0084] Figure 11 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a method for handling household waste by means of an arrangement for household waste according to the present disclosure.

[0085] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0086] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred example embodiments of the disclosure are shown. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in other forms and should not be construed as limited to the herein disclosed embodiments. The disclosed embodiments are provided merely to fully convey the scope of the disclosure to the skilled person.

[0087] It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the articles "a", "an", "the", and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements unless the context explicitly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a unit" or "the unit" may include several devices, and the like. Furthermore, the terms "comprising", "including", "containing" and similar wordings are intended to be open-ended transitional terms that do preclude the possibility of additional elements or steps.

[0088] Figure 1A and IB schematically illustrate an arrangement 100 for household waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The arrangement 100 comprises a container 20 for household waste and a compression device 30 arranged in the container 20 for compressing the waste. The container 20 comprises a bottom wall 22 and side walls 24 extending vertically upwards from the bottom wall 22. The compression device 30 comprises an inflatable element 32 configured to be inflated to expand and compress the waste within the container 20. In this example, the inflatable element 32 is arranged to compress the waste laterally, essentially perpendicularly to the gravitational direction of the waste. The main expansion direction of the inflatable element 32 is illustrated with an arrow in Figure 1A. Figure 1A shows the arrangement 100 with the inflatable element 32 in a deflated state, and thus when the compression device 30 is in a non-compression state. Figure IB shows the arrangement 100 with the inflatable element 32 in an inflated state, and thus when the compression device 30 is in a compression state.

[0089] The container 20 further comprises a waste inlet 21, through which the waste is inserted into the container 20. The waste inlet 21 is here arranged at a top end of the container 20. The container 20 also comprises a removable cover 26 for covering the waste inlet 21.

[0090] Figure 2A-B schematically illustrates an arrangement 100 for household waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The arrangement 100 may be configured as disclosed in figure 1A and IB. In this example, the arrangement 100 further comprises a flexible receptacle 40 removably arranged inside the container 20 for receiving the waste. The receptacle 40 is arranged inside the container 20, such that the inflatable element 32 is arranged between a container sidewall 24 and the receptacle 40. The inflatable element 32 will thereby affect the receptacle 40 when being inflated, and the receptacle 40 will be compressed and thereby compress the waste inside the receptacle 40. Figure 2A shows the arrangement 100 in a non-compression state and Figure 2B shows the arrangement 100 in a compressions state.

[0091] The receptacle 40 is in this example arranged, such that it rests on a top edge 24' of the container sidewalls 24. The receptacle 40 is further arranged, such that the inlet of the receptacle 40 coincides with the waste inlet 21 of the container 20.

[0092] Figure 2A also shows that the compression device 30 comprises an air source 34 for inflating and / or deflating the inflatable element 32. The air source 34 will herein be referred to as an air pump 34. The air pump 34 is connected to the inflatable element 32 via a first air passage 36. The compression device 30 may further comprise a valve device 35 arranged in fluid communication with the first air passage 36 and the air pump 34. The valve device 35 is arranged to control the flow of air to and / or from the inflatable element 32. In this example, the air pump 34 and the valve device 35 are arranged below the bottom wall 22 of the container 20 and do thereby not affect the storage space for the waste inside the container 20.

[0093] The arrangement 100 also comprises a non-stick arrangement 50 for preventing adhesion between the receptacle 40 and the waste during compression. The non-stick arrangement 50 comprises a non-stick coating 52 on an inner wall 42 of the receptacle 40. The non-stick coating 52 is advantageously configured to reduce the ability of other material to stick to it and may comprise polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ceramic coatings, silicon coatings or super hydrophobic coatings. The receptacle 40 may comprise the non-stick coating 52 on at least one inner wall 42.

[0094] As seen in Figure 2A, the receptacle 40 comprises a slit 44 at the top end of the receptacle 40. This slit 44 will facilitate deformation of the receptacle 40 during compression. This is shown in Figure 2B where the receptacle 40 is compressed by the inflated at least one inflatable element 32. The arrangement 100 further comprises a control device 200 configured to control the compression device 30 in order to regulate a compression force over time. The compression force depend on the level of inflation of the inflatable element 32. Thus, the control device 200 may be configured to control the compression device 30 to regulate the level of inflation of the at least one inflatable element 32 overtime. The control device 200 may be configured to control the air pump 34 and the valve device 35 in order to control the flow of air to / from the inflatable element 32.

[0095] Figure 3 schematically illustrates an arrangement 100 for household waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The arrangement 100 may be configured as disclosed in figure 1A-B or 2A-B. In this example, the arrangement 100 comprises a shape regaining arrangement 60 for facilitating the receptacle 40 to regain its original shape after compression.

[0096] The shape regaining arrangement 60 comprises at least a one coupling element 61, 62 arranged to removably attach the receptacle 40 to the inflatable element 32. Different examples of the shape regaining arrangement 60 are shown in A, B, C and D. Example A comprises a first coupling element 61 on the receptacle 40 and a second coupling element 62 on the inflatable element 32, wherein the first coupling element 61 comprises an opening 63, such as a loop, through hole, cavity, aperture or slit, configured to receive the second coupling element 62. The second coupling element 62 comprises a hook 64. By having a first coupling element 61 on the receptacle 40 connected to a second coupling element 62 on the inflatable element 32, the receptacle wall comprising the first coupling element 61 will follow the movement of the inflatable element 32 when it is deflated and the receptacle 40 will this way regain its original shape. It is to be understood that the receiving opening 63 could be arranged on the inflatable element 32 and the hook 64 could be arranged on the receptacle 40. In example B, the shape regaining arrangement 60 comprises a magnetic coupling, wherein the first coupling element 61 on the receptacle 40 and the second coupling element 62 on the inflatable element 32, both comprises magnets 65.

[0097] In example C, the shape regaining arrangement 60 comprises a Velcro coupling, wherein the first coupling element 61 on the receptacle 40 and the second coupling element 62 on the inflatable element 32, both comprises connecting Velcro patches 66.

[0098] In example D, the shape regaining arrangement 60 comprises a suction cup coupling. In this example, the at least one coupling element 61, 62 is arranged on the inflatable element 32 and comprises a suction cup 67 configured to be connected to the receptacle 40. However, it is to be understood that the suction cup 67 could be arranged on the receptacle 40 instead of on the inflatable element 32.

[0099] Even though Figure 3 only shows coupling elements 61, 62 connecting the receptacle 40 and the inflatable element 32, the shape regaining arrangement 60 may additionally or alternatively comprise coupling elements 61, 62 connecting the receptacle 40 and the container 20.

[0100] Figure 4 schematically illustrates an arrangement 100 for household waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The arrangement 100 may be configured as disclosed in figure 1A-B, 2A-B or 3. In this example, the arrangement 100 comprises a nonstick arrangement 50 comprising an intermediate non-stick element 54. The intermediate non-stick element 54 is configured to be arranged between an inner wall of the receptacle 40 and the waste. In this example, the non-stick element 54 is removably attached to the inflatable element 32 of the compression device 30. During compression, one side of the non-stick element 54 will abut the inner wall of the receptacle 40 and the other side of the non-stick element 54 will abut the waste. By using this separate non-stick element 54, any type of flexible receptacle 40 can be used for accommodating the waste. In this figure, a disposable paper or plastic bag is used as receptacle 40. Figure 5 schematically illustrates an arrangement 100 for household waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The arrangement 100 may be configured as disclosed in figure 1A-B, 2A-B, 3 or 4. In this example, the arrangement 100 comprises a humidifying device 70 arranged in fluid connection with the inside of the container 20. The humidifying device 70 is arranged to provide a fluid 72 to moisten the waste before compression.

[0101] The humidifying device 70 may be configured to provide the fluid 72 in the form of a liquid or a vapour. The fluid 72 may comprise water. Additionally or alternatively, the fluid 72 provided by the humidifying device 70 comprises starch or any other biological binder. The fluid 72 will thereby act as a temporary adhesive gluing the waste together in the compressed state. Additionally or alternatively, the fluid 72 may comprise disinfectant and / or scented liquid.

[0102] The humidifying device 70 comprises at least one reservoir 74 for accommodating the fluid 72. The reservoir 74 may be arranged on the cover 26 of the container 20. Typically, the reservoir 74 is arranged, such that the reservoir 74 can be accessed and refilled from outside the container 20. The humidifying device 70 also comprises at least one nozzle or discharge aperture 76 arranged in fluid connection with the reservoir 74 and the inside of the container 20. In this example, the at least one nozzle 76 is arranged in fluid connection with the inside of the receptacle 40. More specifically, the at least one nozzle 76 is arranged at the inside of the cover 26 of the container 20.

[0103] The humidifying device 70 may be controlled by the control device 200. In one example, the humidifying device 70 is connected to the air pump 34 of the compression device 30. The humidifying device 70 may thus comprise a conduit 38 connecting the reservoir 74 and the air pump 34 via the valve device 35. By controlling the valve device 35, the air provided by the air pump 34 can be supplied through the conduit 38 to provide a pressure in the reservoir 74, which will discharge the fluid 72 through the nozzle 76. The control device 200 may thus be configured to control the humidifying device 70 to discharge the fluid 72 over the waste inside the container 20.

[0104] Figure 6 schematically illustrates an arrangement 100 for household waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The arrangement 100 may be configured as disclosed in figure 1A-B, 2A-B, 3, 4 or 5. In this example, the arrangement 100 comprises a lifting arrangement 80 for facilitating lifting the receptacle 40 out of the container 20. The lifting arrangement 80 is typically controlled by means of the control device 200. The lifting arrangement 80 comprises a second inflatable element 82 arranged underneath the receptacle 40 inside the container 20. The second inflatable element 82 is configured to be inflated to push the receptacle 40 upwards. This is specifically the case when the closable opening for removing and / or inserting the receptacle 40 from / into the container 20 is arranged at the top of the container 20. The lifting arrangement 80 thus comprises a second air passage 84 connecting the air pump 34 and the second inflatable element 82. By controlling the valve device 35, the air provided by the air pump 34 can be directed through the second air passage 84 to inflate the second inflatable element 82. The second inflatable element 82 is configured, such that it expands upwards when it is inflated. This way, the receptacle 40 will be pushed upwards.

[0105] Figure 7 schematically illustrates an arrangement 100 for household waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The arrangement 100 may be configured as disclosed in figure 1A-B, 2A-B, 3, 4, 5 or 6. In this example, the arrangement 100 comprises a heating device 90 configured to heat the waste in the container 20 before compression. The heating device 90 may comprise an electric heater. The heating device 90 may be configured to provide heat by means of infrared (IR) light. Alternatively, the heating device 90 may be configured to provide heated air. In this example, the heating device 90 is arranged on the inside of the cover 26 of the container 20. Thus, when the cover 26 is arranged to close the container 20, the heating device 90 will be directed towards the waste inside the container 20 and receptacle 40. The control device 200 may be configured to control the heating device 90. Figure 8 schematically illustrates an arrangement 100 for household waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The arrangement 100 may be configured as disclosed in figure 1A-B, 2A-B, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 wherein the container 20 has a cylindrical shape. The inflatable element 32 of the compression device 30 will in this case adapt to the cylindrical shape and will abut a part of the inner cylindrical wall of the container 20 in the deflated state. In the deflated state, the inflatable element 32 will thus have a semi- cylindrical shape.

[0106] Figures 9A-C schematically illustrate arrangements 100 for household waste according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. The arrangements 100 may be configured as disclosed in figure 1A-B, 2-B 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 with regard to different details of the arrangement 100, but in these embodiments, the container 20 of the arrangement 100 is configured to accommodate different types of waste. Figure 9A shows an arrangement 100 for household waste where the container 20 is cylindrically shaped. However, in this embodiment the arrangement 100 comprises an intermediate wall 28 creating two chambers 20', 20” inside the container 20. Each chamber 20', 20” may accommodate a receptacle 40 but the receptacles 40 are not shown here for clarity reasons. The compression device 30 comprises two inflatable elements 32', 32”, one arranged in each chamber 20', 20” to compress the waste in the respective chamber 20', 20”. The inflatable elements 32', 32"are arranged at the intermediate wall 28, thereby pressing the waste in the respective chamber 20', 20” outwards against the container wall 24. By such arrangement, the opposing forces of the inflatable elements 32', 32"on the intermediate wall 28 will cancel each other out. The intermediate wall 28 can thereby be relatively thin and will thus not significantly affect the storage space of the waste. In this example, the container 20 comprises two waste inlets 21', 21”. The container 20 may comprise one cover 26 for covering both waste inlets 21', 21” or the container 20 may comprise two separate covers 26, one for each waste inlet 21', 21”. Figure 9B shows an arrangement 100 for household waste where the container 20 accommodates two receptacles 40 in one and the same chamber 20'. The receptacles 40 may be used for different types of waste. The receptacles 40 are arranged adjacent each other inside the container 20. The compression device 30 may comprise one inflatable element 32 arranged behind, or in front of, both receptacles 40. The width of the inflatable element 32 may thus be essentially similar to the combined width of the two receptacles 40. This way, the single inflatable element 30 is able to compress both receptacles simultaneously. Thus, when the inflatable element is inflated, it will expand and push the receptacles 40 towards an opposite side wall 24 of the container 20.

[0107] Figure 9C shows an arrangement 100 for household waste where the container 20 comprises two intermediate walls 28, creating three chambers 20', 20'', 20'' within the container 20. In this example, the chambers 20', 20'', 20'' are arranged vertically in relation to each other, and thus on top of each other. Each chamber 20', 20'', 20'' comprises a receptacle 40 and the compression device 30 comprises three inflatable elements 32', 32'', 32''', one arranged in each chamber 20', 20'', 20''. Each inflatable element 32', 32'', 32''' is arranged over the respective receptacle 40 and will thus expand downwards when inflated. The receptacles 40 will this way be compressed between the inflatable element 32', 32'', 32''' and the intermediate wall 28 respectively the bottom wall 22 of the container 20.

[0108] Figure 10 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a control device 200 of an arrangement 100 for household waste according to the present disclosure. The control device 200 comprises at least one processor 201 and a storage medium 202. The control device 200 may be configured to perform the method as described in Figure 11 upon execution of a computer program by the at least one processor 201. The computer program(s) comprise computer-readable instructions that may be stored in the storage medium 202. The storage medium 202 may be a non-transitory hardware memory device of the control device 200. Figure 11 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a method for handling household waste by means of an arrangement 100 for household waste according to the present disclosure. The arrangement 100 for household waste may be configured as disclosed in any of figure 1-9 and thus comprises a container 20 for household waste and a compression device 30 arranged in the container 20 for compressing the waste.

[0109] The method comprises the step of compressing slOl the waste by means of at least one inflatable element 32 of the compression device 30, which inflatable element 32 is inflated to compress the waste within the container 20.

[0110] The step of compressing slOl the waste may comprise compressing the waste laterally across the container 20, essentially perpendicularly to the direction of gravity. Alternatively, compressing 101 the waste is performed essentially vertically.

[0111] The step of compressing slOl the waste may comprise compressing the waste by compressing a flexible receptacle 40 removably arranged inside the container 20 for receiving the waste. Thus, when the receptacle 40 is deformed and compressed by means of the inflatable element 32, the waste inside the receptacle 40 will be compressed.

[0112] The step of compressing slOl the waste may comprise controlling the compression device 30, such that the at least one inflatable element 32 is maintained in a compression state during a predetermined time period. The user of the arrangement may decide the predetermined time period. The predetermined time period may be at least two hours, preferably at least three hours. The step of compressing slOl the waste may comprise controlling the compression device 30, such that the at least one inflatable element 32 is inflated to a compression state at a specific predetermined time. Compressing slOl the waste may be initiated at a time when the container 20 normally is not used by any person, for example during the night. The method may further comprise the step of facilitating sl02 that the receptacle 40 regains its original shape after deflation of the inflatable element 32, by means of a shape regaining arrangement 60. Facilitating sl03 that the receptacle 40 regains its original shape may comprise generating a pressure difference between the inside of the receptacle 40 and a space between the receptacle 40 and the container 20 after compression.

[0113] The method may also comprise the step of moistening sl03 the waste before compression, by means of a humidifying device 70 arranged in fluid connection with the inside of the container 20. The step of moistening sl04 the waste before compression may comprise moistening the waste with a fluid 72 comprising starch, to enable adhesion of the compressed waste. The step of moistening sl04 the waste before compression may comprise moistening the waste by discharging the fluid 72 in the shape of an aerosol or spray.

[0114] The method may alternatively comprise the step of heating sl04 the waste in the container 20 before compression, by means of a heating device 90. The step of heating sl05 the waste before compression may comprise heating the waste by means of infrared (I R) light or heated air.

[0115] The method may further comprise the step of controlling sl05 the compression device 30 to perform a pre-compression operation to move the waste around inside the container 20, in which pre-compression operation the at least one inflatable element 32 is intermittently inflated for a short period of time. This way, the waste will be moved around inside the container 20 and gaps and air pockets may be avoided and once the actual compression starts, the compressed waste may become more compact. The precompression operation is preferably performed in association with moistening the waste, whereby it is ensured that the fluid is distributed over a large amount of waste. The person skilled in the art realizes that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. The person skilled in the art further realizes that modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An arrangement (100) for household waste, the arrangement (100) comprising: a container (20) for household waste; and a compression device (30) arranged in the container (20) for compressing the waste; wherein the compression device (30) comprises at least one inflatable element (32) configured to be inflated to compress the waste within the container (20).

2. The arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one inflatable element (32) is arranged to compress the waste laterally across the container (20), essentially perpendicularly to the direction of gravity.

3. The arrangement (100) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a flexible receptacle (40) removably arranged inside the container (20) for receiving the waste, wherein the at least one inflatable element (32) is arranged to compress the waste by compressing the receptacle (40).

4. The arrangement (100) according to claim 3, further comprising: a non-stick arrangement (50) for preventing adhesion between the receptacle (40) and the waste during compression.

5. The arrangement (100) according to claim 4, wherein the non-stick arrangement (50) comprises a non-stick coating (52) on an inner wall of the receptacle (40).

6. The arrangement (100) according to claim 4, wherein the non-stick arrangement (50) comprises an intermediate non-stick element (54) configured be arranged between an inner wall of the receptacle (40) and the waste.

7. The arrangement (100) according to any one of claims 3-6, wherein the receptacle (40) comprises a resilient material allowing the receptacle (40) to regain its original shape after compression.

8. The arrangement (100) according to any one of claims 3-7, further comprising: a shape regaining arrangement (60) for facilitating the receptacle (40) to regain its original shape after deflation of the at least one inflatable element (32).

9. The arrangement (100) according to claim 8, wherein the shape regaining arrangement (60) comprises at least one coupling element (61, 62) arranged to removably attach the receptacle (40) to the inflatable element (32) and / or the container (20).

10. The arrangement (100) according to claim 8, wherein the shape regaining arrangement (60) is configured to generate a pressure difference between the inside of the receptacle (40) and a space between the receptacle (40) and the container (20) to affect the shape of the receptacle (40) after compression.

11. The arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a humidifying device (70) arranged in fluid connection with the inside of the container (20), wherein the humidifying device (70) is arranged to provide a fluid (72) to moisten the waste before compression.

12. The arrangement (100) according to claim 11, wherein the fluid (72) comprises starch.

13. The arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a heating device (90) configured to heat the waste in the container (20) before compression.

14. The arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a control device (200) configured to control the compression device (30) in order to regulate a level of inflation of the at least one inflatable element (32) over time.

15. The arrangement (100) according to claim 14, wherein the control device (200) is configured to control the compression device (30), such that the at least one inflatable element (32) is maintained in a compression state during a predetermined time period.

16. The arrangement (100) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the control device (200) is configured to control the compression device (30) to perform a pre-compression operation to move the waste around inside the container (20), in which precompression operation the at least one inflatable element (32) is intermittently inflated for a short period of time.

17. The arrangement (100) according to any one of claims 14-16, wherein the control device (200) is configured to control the compression device (30) based on user input.

18. A method for handling household waste by means of an arrangement (100) for household waste, the arrangement (100) comprising a container (20) for household waste and a compression device (30) arranged in the container (20) for compressing the waste, the method comprising: compressing (slOl) the waste by means of at least one inflatable element (32) of the compression device (30), which inflatable element (32) is inflated to compress the waste within the container.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein compressing (slOl) the waste comprises compressing the waste laterally across the container (20), essentially perpendicularly to the direction of gravity.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein compressing (slOl) the waste comprises compressing the waste by compressing a flexible receptacle (40) removably arranged inside the container (20) for receiving the waste.

21. The method according to any one of claims 20, further comprising: facilitating (sl02) that the receptacle (40) regains its original shape after deflation of the inflatable element (32), by means of a shape regaining arrangement (60).

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein facilitating (sl02) that the receptacle (40) regains its original shape comprises generating a pressure difference between the inside of the receptacle (40) and a space between the receptacle (40) and the container (20) after compression.

23. The method according to any one of claims 18-22, further comprising: moistening (sl03) the waste before compression by means of a humidifying device (70) arranged in fluid connection with the inside of the container (20).

24. The method according to any one claims 18-22, further comprising: heating (sl04) the waste in the container before compression by means of a heating device (90).

25. The method according to any one of claims 18-24, wherein the arrangement (100) comprises a control device (200) configured to perform the method steps according to any one of claims 18-24.

26. A computer program for an arrangement (100) for household waste comprising a container (20), a compression device (30) and a control device (200) comprising at least one processor (201), the computer program comprising computer-readable instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor (201) causes the arrangement (100) for household waste to perform the steps of the method according to any of the claims 18-25.

Images