Organic material composting device

Abstract

To provide an organic material composting device capable of alleviating a burden of work to collect vegetation to be made a compost or work to pour in vegetation to a compost fermentation tank.SOLUTION: An organic material composting device includes a movable compost fermentation tank and a guide device that guides the vegetation of a farm land to the compost fermentation tank in accordance with a movement of the compost fermentation tank.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an organic matter composting apparatus for composting organic matter such as vegetation. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there have been provided organic composting devices that compost organic matter such as food waste, plants, etc. The organic composting device includes a compost fermentation tank that stores the organic matter, and ferments the organic matter in the compost fermentation tank to produce compost (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 8-295586 [Patent Document 2] JP 2007-55833 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Incidentally, when composting vegetation that grows on wasteland, it is necessary to collect the vegetation after mowing (weed-removed vegetation) at the installation site of the organic matter composting device (compost fermentation tank), and then the collected vegetation must be thrown into the compost fermentation tank. In other words, because wasteland and other areas overgrown with vegetation are vast, it takes a lot of work to collect the vegetation in a designated location, and it is also a lot of work to throw the large amount of vegetation gathered in one place into the compost fermentation tank.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT The present invention provides an organic matter composting apparatus that can reduce the burden of the work of collecting plants to be composted and the work of throwing the plants into a compost fermentation tank. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The organic matter composting apparatus of the present invention comprises a movable compost fermentation tank, and a guide device that guides vegetation in farmland to the compost fermentation tank in accordance with the movement of the compost fermentation tank.

[0007] The organic matter composting apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a discharge device that discharges the compost that has been composted in the compost fermentation tank from the compost fermentation tank, and the discharge device may discharge the compost onto agricultural land.

[0008] The organic matter composting apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention may further include a support means for supporting the compost fermentation tank so that the tank can stand on its own and move.

[0009] The compost fermentation tank comprises a bottom, a peripheral wall rising from the outer edge of the bottom and defining a storage space together with the bottom, and a first opening formed in the bottom or the peripheral wall, and the guide device may guide vegetation in the farmland to the storage space via the first opening in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank when the compost fermentation tank moves.

[0010] The first opening penetrates the bottom in the vertical direction, and the compost fermentation tank further comprises a first gate member capable of opening and closing the first opening, and a first actuator for opening and closing the first gate member, and the guide device has a scraping member that can rotate about an axis extending laterally below the bottom, and when the compost fermentation tank moves, with the first gate member opening the first opening, the scraping member rotates in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank, scraping up the vegetation in the farmland and placing it through the first opening into the storage space of the compost fermentation tank.

[0011] The compost fermentation tank may have an opening separate from the first opening for placing the plants in the storage space.

[0012] An organic matter composting apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention may include an electric heater for heating the inside of the compost fermentation tank, a sensor for measuring the temperature inside the compost fermentation tank, and a control unit for controlling the heat generation of the electric heater based on the measurement results of the sensor.

[0013] In this case, it is preferable that the organic matter composting apparatus further includes a solar power generation panel that supplies power to the electric heater.

[0014] In yet another aspect of the present invention, the organic matter composting apparatus has a storage section that stores a fermentation promoter that promotes fermentation of the plants in the compost fermentation tank, and the storage section may add the fermentation promoter to the compost fermentation tank in accordance with the amount of the plants placed in the compost fermentation tank.

[0015] The organic matter composting apparatus according to yet another embodiment of the present invention may further include an agitating member that agitates at least one of the plants and the compost in the compost fermentation tank.

[0016] The compost fermentation tank comprises a bottom, a peripheral wall rising from the outer edge of the bottom and defining a storage space together with the bottom, and a second opening formed in the bottom or the peripheral wall, and the discharge device may discharge the compost in the storage space to the agricultural land through the second opening in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank when the compost fermentation tank moves.

[0017] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the organic matter composting apparatus further comprises an agitating member for agitating at least one of the plants and the compost material in the compost fermentation tank, the second opening penetrates the peripheral wall in a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction, and the discharge device comprises a second gate member capable of opening and closing the second opening, and a second actuator for opening and closing the second gate member, and when the compost fermentation tank moves, the agitating member rotates with the second gate member opening the second opening, and the compost material in the compost fermentation tank is discharged from the second opening.

[0018] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the organic matter composting apparatus has a connecting part that can be connected to a movable vehicle, and the compost fermentation tank may move as the vehicle connected via the connecting part moves.

[0019] In this case, it is preferable that the organic matter composting apparatus has a second connecting part that is arranged on the opposite side of the connecting part across the compost fermentation tank and that is capable of being connected to the connecting part of another organic matter composting apparatus. Effect of the Invention

[0020] According to the present invention, the burden of collecting plants to be composted and of putting the plants into a compost fermentation tank can be reduced. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of an organic matter composting apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front view including a partial cross section of the organic matter composting apparatus according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a side view of the organic matter composting apparatus according to the embodiment, showing the apparatus being towed by a working machine. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the organic matter composting apparatus according to the embodiment, showing the apparatus being towed by a working machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a state in which the organic matter composting apparatus according to the embodiment is towed by a working machine, and shows a state in which a plurality of organic matter composting apparatuses are connected together. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII of FIG. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of the electrical system of the organic matter composting apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the organic matter composting apparatus according to the embodiment, showing a state in which the lid member is opened and organic matter is being poured into the compost fermentation tank from the upper opening. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a state in which a plurality of organic matter composting apparatuses are towed by a working machine, and shows the state when plants and trees are being taken into the compost fermentation tank (accommodation space) of the leading organic matter composting apparatus. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a state in which a plurality of organic matter composting apparatuses are towed by a working machine, and shows the state when plants and trees are being taken into the compost fermentation tank (accommodation space) of the subsequent organic matter composting apparatus. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which a plurality of organic composting apparatuses are towed by a working machine, and shows the state when plants and trees are further taken into the compost fermentation tank (storage space) of the subsequent organic composting apparatus. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the state when a plurality of organic matter composting apparatuses are towed by a working machine, and shows the state when compost is being discharged from the leading organic matter composting apparatus. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the state when multiple organic matter composting apparatuses are towed by a working machine, and shows the state when compost is being discharged from the following organic matter composting apparatus. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the state when a plurality of organic matter composting apparatuses are towed by a working machine, and further showing the state when compost is being discharged from the subsequent organic matter composting apparatus. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of an organic matter composting apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0023] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, an organic matter composting apparatus 1 according to this embodiment includes a movable compost fermentation tank 2 and a guide device 3 that guides vegetation in farmland to the compost fermentation tank 2 as the compost fermentation tank 2 moves. The organic matter composting apparatus 1 further includes a discharge device 4 that discharges the vegetation that has been composted in the compost fermentation tank 2 (hereinafter referred to as compost) from the compost fermentation tank 2. Note that the term "farmland" as used herein is a concept that includes not only land used for cultivation, but also wasteland such as abandoned farmland and desolate farmland.

[0024] The organic composting apparatus 1 (compost fermentation tank 2) is movable. Accordingly, the organic composting apparatus 1 includes a support means 5 for supporting the compost fermentation tank 2 so that the tank 2 can stand on its own and move.

[0025] The organic matter composting apparatus 1 (compost fermentation tank 2) moves when an external force is applied in a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction to the organic matter composting apparatus 1 (compost fermentation tank 2). In this embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 is coupled to a vehicle A as shown in Figures 4 to 6, and moves as the vehicle A travels.

[0026] The vehicle A for moving the organic composting apparatus 1 is not particularly limited in type or model as long as it is capable of running and can be connected to the organic composting apparatus 1. For example, the vehicle A may be a tractor or a lorry. A tractor, which is a type of work machine for performing work, is shown in Figs. 4 to 6 as an example of the vehicle A.

[0027] To give an overview of the work machine A, the work machine A includes a traveling device a1, a machine body a2 supported by the traveling device a1, and a drive device a4 including a drive source a3 for driving the traveling device a1, the drive device a4 being supported by the machine body a2. The traveling device a1 may be of a tire type or a crawler type.

[0028] In the tractor as the working machine A, the traveling device a1 has wheels arranged on both the left and right sides of the front and rear of the machine body a2. The wheels (a pair of left and right wheels) on at least one of the left and right sides of the front and rear of the machine body a2 are steering wheels, and the wheels (a pair of left and right wheels) on at least the other of the left and right sides of the front and rear are driving wheels. Accordingly, power is transmitted to the driving wheels from the driving device a4 (driving source a3). At least one of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor is adopted as the driving source a3. The working machine (tractor) A may be operated (driven) by at least one of manual operation and automatic operation. In the working machine A that can be operated manually, it is assumed that there is a person, but in the working machine A that can be operated automatically, it may be either manned or unmanned. The working machine (tractor A) that is assumed to be operated by a person has a cabin for a worker to ride in, and a driver's seat in which the worker sits is provided in the cabin. In contrast, in the manually operable work machine A, in addition to a driver's seat, a handle (steering wheel) for operating the steering wheel and the like are provided within the cabin.

[0029] This allows the work machine A to move forward and backward. The work machine A is equipped with a connecting part B for connecting a work device. The connecting part B is connected to the machine body a2, and is located at least at the front or rear of the work machine A (in front of or behind the machine body a2). If the work machine A is a tractor, the connecting part B is located at least at the rear. Here, the connecting part B is a standard three-point linkage mechanism that can connect various types of work devices (attachments and implements), and is located at the rear of the work machine A (behind the machine body a2).

[0030] The working machine A is as described above, and when the organic matter composting apparatus 1 is connected to the rear of the working machine A, as the working machine A moves forward, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 moves by being pulled by the working machine A. Needless to say, when the organic matter composting apparatus 1 is connected to the front of the working machine A, as the working machine A moves forward, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 moves by being pushed by the working machine A.

[0031] Accordingly, as shown in Figures 1 to 3, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has a connecting part 6 that can be connected to the connecting part B of the working machine A. The organic matter composting apparatus 1 has a second connecting part 7 that is arranged on the opposite side of the connecting part 6 across the compost fermenter 2, and that can be connected to the connecting part 6 of another organic matter composting apparatus 1 (see Figure 3).

[0032] In this embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 includes a configuration for promoting fermentation (composting) of plants in addition to the above configuration. Specifically, as shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 includes stirring members 8A and 8B for stirring organic matter (at least one of plants and compost obtained by fermenting plants) in the compost fermentation tank 2. As shown in Figs. 3 and 9, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 includes an electric heater 90 for heating the inside of the compost fermentation tank 2, a temperature sensor 91 for measuring the temperature in the compost fermentation tank 2, and a control unit 9 for controlling the heat generation of the electric heater 90 based on the measurement result of the temperature sensor 91. The organic matter composting apparatus 1 also includes a humidity sensor 92 for measuring the humidity in the compost fermentation tank 2. Accordingly, the control unit 9 controls the supply of water from a water storage unit 11 (to be described later) to the compost fermentation tank 2 based on the measurement result of the humidity sensor 92.

[0033] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has a storage section (hereinafter referred to as a promoter storage section) 10 for storing a fermentation promoter that promotes fermentation of organic matter (vegetation) in the compost fermentation tank 2. Furthermore, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has a storage section (hereinafter referred to as a water storage section) 11 for storing water to be added to the compost fermentation tank 2. Accordingly, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has remaining meters 93, 94 that display the remaining amount of the contents in the storage sections 10, 11. In this embodiment, since the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has the promoter storage section 10 and the water storage section 11 as the storage sections 10, 11, the remaining meters 93, 94 also have a promoter remaining meter 93 that displays the remaining amount of the fermentation promoter and a water remaining meter 94 that displays the remaining amount of water, corresponding to the storage sections 10, 11. The organic matter composting apparatus 1 also has a notification means 95 that notifies the user that vegetation has been composted. The remaining meters 93, 94 (accelerator remaining meter 93, water remaining meter 94) and the notification means 95 are visually observable indicators, and in this embodiment, information such as the remaining amount is displayed (notified) by light emitted by an LED.

[0034] In this embodiment, the organic composting apparatus 1 is electrically powered. To enable outdoor installation, the organic composting apparatus 1 is equipped with a solar power generation panel 96 that supplies power to electrical equipment. In this embodiment, the organic composting apparatus 1 is equipped with a battery 98 that stores the power generated by the solar power generation panel 96 to ensure power at night or when there is a lack of light due to bad weather.

[0035] 2, 7 and 8, the compost fermentation tank 2 includes a tank body 20 with an open upper end, and a lid member 21 that closes the open upper end of the tank body 20. In this embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 (compost fermentation tank 2) includes a frame 22 that supports the tank body 20.

[0036] The compost fermentation tank 2 (tank body 20) has a bottom 23 and a peripheral wall 24 that stands up from the outer edge of the bottom 23 and defines, together with the bottom 23, a storage space S for storing plants. As shown in Fig. 3, a first opening 25 is formed in the bottom 23 or the peripheral wall 24. That is, the first opening 25 that connects the inside and outside of the tank body 20 is formed in the bottom 23 or the peripheral wall 24. In addition, a second opening 26 is formed in the bottom 23 or the peripheral wall 24. That is, the second opening 26 that connects the inside and outside of the tank body 20 is formed in the bottom 23 or the peripheral wall 24.

[0037] Accordingly, the compost fermenter 2 is provided with a first gate member 27 capable of opening and closing the first opening 25, and a first actuator 28 for opening and closing the first gate member 27.

[0038] The frame 22 is formed in accordance with the peripheral shape (outer shell) of the bottom portion 23. The frame 22 is overlapped with the peripheral end portion of the bottom portion 23 and supports the bottom portion 23.

[0039] The bottom 23 is formed in a rectangular shape in a plan view. In this embodiment, the bottom 23 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape in a plan view. In this embodiment, due to the arrangement of the storage sections 10, 11 (the accelerator storage section 10 and the water storage section 11), the bottom 23 has two notches (notches conforming to the shapes of the storage sections 10, 11) spaced apart in the longitudinal direction. The notches are cut in the short direction of the bottom 23 and are open at one end of the short direction of the bottom 23 (see Figures 7 and 8).

[0040] In this embodiment, the first opening 25 is formed in the bottom 23. Accordingly, the first opening 25 penetrates the bottom 23 in the up-down direction. In this embodiment, since the bottom 23 is formed in a rectangular shape, the first opening 25 is formed in a rectangular shape that is long in the longitudinal direction of the bottom 23. The first opening 25 is disposed at a position offset to the other end side of the bottom 23 in the short side direction.

[0041] The first gate member 27 is formed to match the opening shape and opening size of the first opening 25. That is, the first gate member 27 is formed to be able to close the first opening 25. In this embodiment, since the first opening 25 is formed in a rectangular shape, the first gate member 27 is also formed in a rectangular shape. The first gate member 27 is pivotally attached to a portion of the bottom 23 on one end side in the short direction with respect to the first opening 25. That is, the first gate member 27 is connected to the bottom 23 via a hinge and is configured to be able to open and close the first opening 25.

[0042] An extendable electric cylinder is used as the first actuator 28. One end of the first actuator 28 is connected (pivotally attached) to the first gate member 27, and the other end of the first actuator 28 is connected (pivotally attached) to the bottom 23 or the frame 22 (in this embodiment, the frame 22). As a result, the first gate member 27 opens and closes the first opening 25 as the first actuator 28 extends and contracts.

[0043] As the bottom portion 23 is formed in a rectangular shape in a plan view, the peripheral wall 24 includes flat wall portions connected to and standing on each of the four sides of the bottom portion 23. Specifically, the peripheral wall 24 includes a pair of wall portions (hereinafter referred to as first wall portions) 240a, 240b connected to both ends of the bottom portion 23 in the short direction, and a pair of wall portions (hereinafter referred to as second wall portions) 241a, 241b connected to both ends of the bottom portion 23 in the long direction.

[0044] Each of the pair of first walls 240a, 240b is formed in a trapezoidal shape when viewed from the plane orthogonal direction (short side direction of the bottom 23). Of the pair of first walls 240a, 240b, one first wall 240a (the first wall 240a connected to one end of the short side direction of the bottom 23) is inclined toward the other first wall 240b. That is, of the pair of first walls 240a, 240b, one first wall 240a (the first wall 240a connected to one end of the short side direction of the bottom 23) is inclined so as to approach the other first wall 240b as it goes upward. In contrast, the other first wall 240b stands at a substantially right angle to the bottom 23.

[0045] Each of the pair of second walls 241a, 241b is formed in a right-angled trapezoidal shape when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the surface (the longitudinal direction of the bottom 23). That is, each of the pair of second walls 241a, 241b is shaped to correspond to the area defined by the pair of first walls 240a, 240b and the bottom 23. In this embodiment, the pair of second walls 241a, 241b are inclined so as to approach each other toward the upper side. Each of the pair of second walls 241a, 241b is connected to the pair of first walls 240a, 240b on both sides in the lateral direction of the bottom 23. As a result, the compost fermentation tank 2 has an opening 242, which is separate from the first opening 25, for putting plants into the storage space S. That is, an opening 242 defined by the peripheral wall 24 (first wall portions 240a, 240b and second wall portions 241a, 241b) is formed at the upper end of the peripheral wall 24, and it is possible to put in not only grass but also organic waste, etc. through the opening 242.

[0046] The lid member 21 is formed so as to be able to close the upper end opening 242 of the peripheral wall 24. In this embodiment, the lid member 21 is pivotally attached to the first wall portion 240b. In this embodiment, the lid member 21 is connected to the other first wall portion 240b via a hinge as shown in FIG. 10, and is configured so as to be able to open and close the upper end opening 242 of the peripheral wall 24. As a result, in the organic matter composting apparatus 1 of this embodiment, when composting (fermenting) plants, the lid member 21 can seal or nearly seal the compost fermentation tank 2, and the lid member 21 opens the upper end opening 242 of the peripheral wall 24, so that organic matter (plants, garbage, etc.) can be put in through the upper end opening 242 of the peripheral wall 24. Of course, the compost can also be taken out by opening the upper end opening 242 of the peripheral wall 24.

[0047] In this embodiment, the second opening 26 is formed in the peripheral wall 24, as shown in FIG. That is, the second opening 26 penetrates the peripheral wall 24 in a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction. In this embodiment, the second opening 26 is formed in one of the pair of first wall portions 240a, 240b, that is, the first wall portion 240a. More specifically, in one of the first wall portions 240a, a plurality (three) of the second openings 26 are arranged at intervals in the lateral direction (the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion 23) (see FIG. 2). The plurality of second openings 26 are provided in accordance with the arrangement of the stirring members 8A. In this embodiment, the second opening 26 is arranged in accordance with the position of the upper stirring member 8A of the two stirring members 8A, 8B described later.

[0048] The guide device 3 sends vegetation on the farm (vegetation after mowing, i.e., vegetation that has been cut) into the storage space S in the compost fermentation tank 2 in conjunction with the movement of the compost fermentation tank 2. Specifically, the guide device 3 includes an input device 30 that sends the vegetation on the ground toward the first opening 25 of the compost fermentation tank 2. In this embodiment, the guide device 3 further includes a guide plate 31 that corrects the direction of the vegetation sent by the input device 30 and guides the vegetation to the first opening 25.

[0049] The guide device 3 (feeding device 30) has a scraping member 32 that is rotatable about an axis that extends laterally below the bottom portion 23.

[0050] Specifically, the scraping member 32 comprises a shaft body 320 extending laterally (in the longitudinal direction of the bottom 23 of the compost fermentation tank 2), both ends of which are journalled to the frame 22 of the compost fermentation tank 2, and a plurality of extension members 321... attached to the shaft body 320 at equal or unequal intervals in the circumferential and longitudinal directions and extending from the outer periphery of the shaft body 320 in the radial direction of the shaft body 320. The scraping member 32 rotates around the shaft body 320 when driven. Accordingly, the input device 30 has an electric motor 322 for rotating the scraping member 32. In this embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 comprises a transmission means 323 for transmitting the output of the electric motor 322 to the shaft body 320. The electric motor 322 is installed below the bottom 23 with its output shaft arranged parallel or approximately parallel to the shaft body 320, and transmits output to the shaft body 320 via a chain serving as transmission means 323. That is, sprockets are attached to the output shaft of the electric motor 322 and the shaft body 320, and an endless loop-shaped chain 323 is wound around these sprockets.

[0051] As described above, the guide device 3 guides vegetation on the farmland to the compost fermentation tank 2 in accordance with the movement of the compost fermentation tank 2. That is, the guide device 3 guides vegetation on the farmland after mowing (weed-removed vegetation) to the compost fermentation tank 2.

[0052] In this embodiment, when the compost fermentation tank 2 moves, the guide device 3 (introducing device 30) rotates the scooping member 32 in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank 2 with the first gate member 27 opening the first opening 25, and the multiple extension members 321 of the scooping member 32 scoop up vegetation on the ground and send it (introduce it) from the first opening 25 towards the compost fermentation tank 2. In other words, the scooping member 32 scoops up vegetation on the ground, and the introducing device 30 introduces the vegetation into the compost fermentation tank 2 (accommodating space S) from the first opening 25.

[0053] The guide plate 31 guides (leads) the vegetation thrown up by the input device 30 (raising member 32) to a position outside the first opening 25, taking into consideration that such vegetation will be thrown away from the first opening 25 among the vegetation thrown up by the input device 30 (raising member 32). Specifically, the guide plate 31 is disposed along the first opening 25 at the other end side of the short side of the bottom 23, and extends downward from the bottom 23. As the guide plate 31 extends downward from the bottom 23, it is inclined from the other end side of the short side of the bottom 23 to one end side. As a result, the guide plate 31 has an inclined surface, and when the vegetation thrown up (thrown away) by the input device 30 (raising member 32) hits the inclined surface, It is guided to the first opening 25 .

[0054] The discharge device 4 includes a second gate member 40 operable to open and close the second opening 26, and a second actuator 41 that operates the second gate member 40 to open and close.

[0055] As described above, since a plurality of second openings 26 are provided on the peripheral wall 24 of the compost fermenter 2, the second gate member 40 is installed in correspondence with each of the plurality of second openings 26. That is, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of second gate members 40 for opening and closing each of the plurality of second openings 26. The second gate member 40 is made of a plate material and is formed to a size capable of closing the second opening 26. In this embodiment, the second opening 26 is a trapezoidal opening narrower toward the upper side. Accordingly, the second gate member 40 has a closing portion 42 that can be fitted into the second opening 26, and an abutting portion 43 that abuts against the inner surface of the peripheral wall 24 to maintain the second opening 26 in a fitted state.

[0056] As described above, since the second opening 26 is formed in a trapezoidal shape, the closing portion 42 is also formed in a trapezoidal shape corresponding to the second opening 26. The second gate member 40 has a rotation shaft 44 along the base of the trapezoid, which is pivotally supported on the peripheral wall 24. This makes the second gate member 40 rotatable about the rotation shaft 44, and the closing portion 42 tilts toward the inside of the compost fermentation tank 2 about the rotation shaft 44, thereby opening the second opening 26.

[0057] The second actuator 41 is an electric cylinder and is disposed on the outside of the peripheral wall 24. Two second actuators 41 are provided for each second gate member 40. The two second actuators 41 are disposed on both sides of the second gate member 40. One end of the second actuator 41 is connected to a lever 45 attached to a rotating shaft 44 of the second gate member 40, and the other end of the second actuator 41 is connected to a bracket protruding from the outer surface of the peripheral wall 24. As a result, the second actuator 41 expands and contracts to push and pull the lever 45 to rotate the rotating shaft 44, and the second gate member 40 opens and closes the second opening 26. In this embodiment, the front of the second opening 26 is covered with a semi-cylindrical cover 46 to prevent the compost discharged from the second opening 26 from scattering.

[0058] The support means 5 supports the compost fermentation tank 2 in a self-supporting state. Specifically, the support means 5 includes a plurality of leg members 50 that support the lower part of the compost fermentation tank 2. In this embodiment, since the compost fermentation tank 2 (bottom 23) is formed in a rectangular shape in a plan view, four leg members 50 that support the four corners of the lower part of the compost fermentation tank 2 are provided as the support means 5. Furthermore, in order to enable the compost fermentation tank 2 to move, wheels 51 are attached to the lower ends of the four leg members 50 of the support means 5.

[0059] The agitation members 8A, 8B include rotating shafts 80A, 80B and agitating blades 81A, 81B attached to the rotating shafts 80A, 80B. The rotating shafts 80A, 80B are disposed in the compost fermentation tank 2, and both ends are journaled to the compost fermentation tank 2. That is, the rotating shafts 80A, 80B extend in the longitudinal direction of the bottom 23, and both ends are journaled to the first wall portions 240a, 240b constituting the peripheral wall 24 of the compost fermentation tank 2. The agitation members 8A, 8B, like the scraping member 32, are driven to rotate about the rotating shafts 80A, 80B. Accordingly, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has electric motors 82A, 82B for rotationally driving the agitation members 8A, 8B. In this embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 includes transmission means 83A, 83B that transmit the output of the electric motors 82A, 82B to the rotating shafts 80A, 80B. Although not shown in the figures, the electric motors 82A, 82B are disposed outside the peripheral wall 24, and transmit the drive of the electric motors 82A, 82B to the rotating shafts 80A, 80B via the transmission means 83A, 83B.

[0060] In this embodiment, two or more stirring members 8A, 8B are arranged in the vertical direction in the compost fermentation tank 2. Accordingly, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has two electric motors 82A, 82B corresponding to the two stirring members 8A, 8B. As a result, each of the two stirring members 8A, 8B can be driven independently. That is, each of the multiple stirring members 8A, 8B is driven by an independent electric motor 82A, 82B, so that it is possible to drive in various ways, such as a state in which all the stirring members 8A, 8B rotate in the same direction, a state in which the vertically adjacent stirring members 8A, 8B rotate in opposite directions, or a state in which only one of the stirring members 8A, 8B rotates. Not only does the compost fermentation tank 2 stir vegetation (organic matter), but the vegetation put in through the first opening 25 of the bottom 23 is transferred from the lower stirring member 8B to the upper stirring member 8A, and the upper stirring member 8A lifts the vegetation to an upper region in the compost fermentation tank 2.

[0061] Sprockets are attached to the rotating shafts 80A, 80B of the stirring members 8A, 8B and the output shafts of the electric motors 82A, 82B, and endless circular chains 83A, 83B are wound around these sprockets. Since the sprockets and chains 83A, 83B are located outside the peripheral wall 24, in this embodiment, the sprockets and chains 83A, 83B are covered by a cover 84.

[0062] The promoter storage section 10 is configured to be capable of storing and refilling the fermentation promoter. In this embodiment, the promoter storage section 10 is arranged so as to fit into one of two notches formed in the bottom section 23. As a result, the promoter storage section 10 is arranged in a state of being housed within the lower region of the compost fermenter 2. In this embodiment, the promoter storage section 10 is capable of being filled with the fermentation promoter from one of the first wall sections 240a side. In other words, the promoter storage section 10 has a refill section 100 on one of the first wall sections 240a side.

[0063] In this embodiment, rice bran is used as the fermentation promoter. Since it is preferable for the fermentation promoter to be uniformly attached to the plants contained in the storage space S, the fermentation promoter is poured into the storage space S from the top of the compost fermentation tank 2. As described above, since the promoter storage section 10 is disposed in the lower region of the compost fermentation tank 2, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has a transfer device 101 that transfers the fermentation promoter to the upper part of the compost fermentation tank 2, as shown in FIG. 7.

[0064] As described above, since the fermentation promoter is powdered "rice bran", the transfer device 101 employs a spiral conveyor that is excellent at transporting (transporting) powder or granular materials. The spiral conveyor 101 is a cylindrical casing 101a with a spiral transport member 101b inside, and the spiral transport member 101b is rotated around the center of the casing 101a to transport the powder or granular material in the longitudinal direction of the casing 101a. This allows the transfer device 101 to transport powdered rice bran in both vertical and horizontal directions regardless of direction. In this embodiment, a flexible spiral conveyor 101 is employed in which the casing 101a and the transport member 101b can be curved so that the discharge position of the rice bran can be appropriately adjusted. An electric motor 101c is installed to drive the spiral conveyor 101.

[0065] The water storage section 11 is configured to be capable of storing and refilling water. In this embodiment, the water storage section 11 is arranged so as to fit into the other of the two notches formed in the bottom section 23. As a result, the water storage section 11 is arranged in a state housed within the lower region of the compost fermenter 2. In this embodiment, the water storage section 11 is capable of being filled with water from one of the first wall sections 240a side. That is, the water storage section 11 also has a refill section 110 on one of the first wall sections 240a side.

[0066] It is preferable that the water be applied uniformly to the plants contained in the storage space S. Therefore, the water is poured into the storage space S from the top of the compost fermenter 2. As described above, the water storage section 11 is disposed in the lower region of the compost fermenter 2, and therefore the organic matter composting apparatus 1 includes a piping system 111a connecting the inside of the water storage section 11 with the upper part of the compost fermenter 2, and a pump 111b for transferring the water in the water storage section 11 to the upper part of the compost fermenter 2, as shown in FIG. 8. In this embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has a spray nozzle 111c for uniformly pouring water into the storage space S. The spray nozzle 111c is attached to the upper end of the piping system 111a. Various types of pumps can be used for the pump 111b, but in this embodiment, an electric submersible pump 111b disposed in the water storage section 11 is used.

[0067] As shown in Fig. 3, the electric heater 90 is disposed within the accommodation space S of the compost fermenter 2. That is, the electric heater 90 encroaches on a part of the accommodation space S. Direct heating of the plants by the electric heater 90 results in partial heating, so in this embodiment, a heat transfer plate 90a that transfers heat from the electric heater 90 is disposed. The heat transfer plate 90a is a metal plate with high thermal conductivity, and is disposed so as to separate the electric heater 90 from the plants. That is, the electric heater 90 is attached to one surface of the heat transfer plate 90a, and the heat transfer plate 90a is disposed with the other surface facing the actual accommodation space S (the space in which the plants are accommodated).

[0068] The temperature sensor 91 measures the temperature of the plants in a fermenting state. That is, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature is positioned within the plants piled up in the storage space S. Because the fermentation temperature of the plants in the storage space S varies depending on the height (depth), the temperature sensors 91 are installed at multiple locations at different heights, although not all of them are shown here. The same is true for the humidity sensor 92.

[0069] In this embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has an operation unit 97 operated by an operator, as shown in FIG. 9, and the control unit 9 performs control in accordance with the operation performed by the operator on the operation unit 97.

[0070] The operation unit 97 includes an "intake / composting switch S1" that starts taking in plants and composting, an "intake stop switch S2" that stops taking in plants, a "intake restart switch S3" that restarts taking in plants, a "discharge switch S4" that starts discharging the compost made from composted plants, etc. Based on the operation of the "intake / composting switch S1," "intake stop switch S2," "intake restart switch S3," and "discharge switch S4" of the operation unit 97, the control unit 9 performs control according to the content of the operation.

[0071] Specifically, when the "take-in / composting switch S1" is operated by an operator, the control unit 9 transitions to an "take-in / composting mode" in which vegetation is taken in and composted. When the control unit 9 transitions to the "take-in / composting mode", it drives the electric motor 322 and first actuator 28 of the guide device 3 (feeding device 30) to rotate the scraping member 32 and open the first gate member 27 to open the first opening 25. In addition, the control unit 9 also drives the stirring members 8A, 8B (electric motors 82A, 82B) (see FIG. 11).

[0072] At this time, the control unit 9 controls the electric motor 322 to rotate the agitation members 8A, 8B at a speed suitable for incorporating vegetation. That is, the control unit 9 rotates the agitation members 8A, 8B at a higher speed than during agitation. Although not shown in the figure, the control unit 9 inverter-controls each of the electric motors 82A, 82B, 322 to control the rotation speed and direction of the electric motors 82A, 82B that drive the agitation members 8A, 8B and the electric motor 322 that drives the scraping member 32.

[0073] In this embodiment, since two stirring members 8A and 8B are arranged vertically, the lower side ( The control unit 9 controls the agitation member 8B on the lower side (the side facing the first opening 25) to rotate at a higher speed than the agitation member 8A on the upper side. That is, by rotating the agitation member 8B on the lower side at a high speed, the control unit 9 causes the agitation member 8B on the lower side to bounce the vegetation upward in order to secure an entry path for the vegetation from the first opening 25 (to prevent the vegetation from piling up in the lower region of the storage space S and obstructing the entry of subsequent vegetation).

[0074] When the "take-in stop switch S2" is operated by an operator, and when a predetermined amount of vegetation has been stored in the storage space S, the control unit 9 stops taking in vegetation and transitions to a "composting mode" in which the vegetation is composted. When the control unit 9 transitions to the "composting mode", it stops driving the scraping member 32 of the guide device 3 (feeding device 30) and drives the first actuator 28 to close the first gate member 27, thereby closing the first opening 25.

[0075] In this state, the control unit 9 continues to drive the agitation members 8A, 8B. However, when the intake of plants is stopped, the plants in the storage space S are composted (fermented), so the control unit 9 controls the operation of the agitation members 8A, 8B appropriately depending on the fermentation status of the plants. In other words, the control unit 9 agitates the plants using the agitation members 8A, 8B continuously or intermittently. Furthermore, based on the measurement results of the sensors 91, 92, the control unit 9 controls the heat generation of the electric heater 90, as well as the supply of a fermentation promoter, the supply of water, and the agitation speed of the agitation members 8A, 8B.

[0076] Generally, when plants are composted, the temperature rises during fermentation, but once fermentation slows or stops and compost is produced, the temperature rise slows down and becomes constant or approximately constant. Accordingly, based on the measurement results of the temperature sensor 91, the control unit 9 causes the notification means 95 to notify that composting is complete when the temperature rise slows down and becomes constant or approximately constant. Here, an LED is used as the notification means 95, and the LED's light emission indicates that the composting process (fermentation process) of the plants has finished. When the operator operates the "restart import switch S3", the control unit 9 stops the "composting mode" and switches to the "import / composting mode".

[0077] When the "discharge switch S4" is operated by an operator, the control unit 9 transitions to a "discharge mode" in which the compost material in the compost fermentation tank 2 is discharged to the outside. When the control unit 9 transitions to the "discharge mode", it drives the second actuator 41 to open the second gate member 40 and open the second opening 26. In addition, the control unit 9 controls the rotation direction of the stirring members 8A, 8B (electric motors 82A, 82B) to drive them in a direction suitable for discharging the compost material from the second opening 26.

[0078] In this embodiment, two agitating members 8A, 8B are arranged one above the other, and the upper agitating member 8A is positioned according to the height of the second opening 26, so that at least the upper agitating section rotates at high speed in a rotation direction corresponding to the direction in which the compost is discharged. Furthermore, the lower agitating member 8B rotates at high speed to transfer the compost in the lower region of the storage space S to the upper agitating members 8A, 8B. The control unit 9 drives the lower agitating member 8B in a rotation direction that does not interfere with the discharge (discharge) of the compost by the upper agitating member 8A.

[0079] Although details will be described later, it is assumed that a plurality of organic matter composting apparatuses 1 of this embodiment are connected for use. Accordingly, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 is configured to be able to communicate with the control unit 9 of the other organic matter composting apparatuses 1 connected thereto via wired or wireless communication.

[0080] As shown in Figs. 4 and 5, when the organic matter composting apparatus 1 is connected to the working machine A and operates independently (when there is no mutual communication), the control unit 9 executes a "solo mode" in which the organic matter composting apparatus 1 operates independently. As described above, each mode is executed based on the operation on the operation unit 97.

[0081] In contrast, when multiple organic matter composting apparatuses 1 are connected together as shown in FIG. 6, the control units 9 of each organic matter composting apparatus 1 transition to “connected mode” through mutual communication between the multiple organic matter composting apparatuses 1.

[0082] In the "linked mode", as shown in Figs. 11 to 13, the "take-in and composting mode" is executed in sequence starting from the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front in the direction of movement. Specifically, when an operator operates the "take-in and composting switch S1" of the operation unit 97 of the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front in the direction of movement, the control unit 9 of that organic matter composting apparatus 1 executes the "take-in and composting mode". Then, when the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front stops taking in vegetation, information (signal) to that effect is sent to the control unit 9 of the succeeding organic matter composting apparatus 1, and the succeeding organic matter composting apparatus 1 executes the "take-in and composting mode" in sequence. Note that after processing (execution) in the "take-in and composting mode" in each organic matter composting apparatus 1, the process is the same as in the single mode.

[0083] In the "connected mode", the control units 9 of the multiple organic matter composting apparatuses 1 execute the "discharge mode" in sequence starting from the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front in the direction of movement, as shown in Figs. 14 to 16. Specifically, when an operator operates the "discharge switch S4" on the operation unit 97 of the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front in the direction of movement, the control unit 9 of that organic matter composting apparatus 1 executes the "discharge mode". Then, when the compost in the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front runs out (a predetermined amount of compost is discharged), information (signal) to that effect is sent to the control units 9 of the subsequent organic matter composting apparatuses 1, and the subsequent organic matter composting apparatuses 1 execute the "discharge mode" in sequence.

[0084] In this embodiment, the amount of vegetation stored (put in) in the storage space S and the amount of compost discharged from the organic matter composting apparatus 1 are theoretically estimated amounts based on the rotation speed of the scraping member 32 and the rotation speed of the stirring members 8A and 8B, and there may be discrepancies with the actual amounts.

[0085] Returning to FIG. 1, the solar power generation panel 96 is disposed on the upper surface of the cover member 21. As described above, a situation may occur in which power generation (electricity) cannot be secured by the solar power generation panel 96 due to insufficient light at night or in bad weather, so the organic matter composting apparatus 1 includes a battery 99 as shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 9. The battery 99 stores power from the solar power generation panel 96. The battery 99 can be charged externally. In this embodiment, when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation panel 96 is sufficient, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 supplies power to each electrical device from the solar power generation panel 96, and when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation panel 96 is insufficient, the battery 99 supplies power to each electrical device. Note that power may be supplied to each electrical device from the working machine A connected to the organic matter composting apparatus 1, and the power supply source for each electrical device is not limited to the solar power generation panel 96, the battery 99, etc.

[0086] In this embodiment, the cover member 21 is formed to be hollow, as shown in Figures 3, 7, and 8. Accordingly, the control unit 9 and the battery 98 are housed inside the cover member 21.

[0087] The connecting part 6 is provided in accordance with the rotation direction of the wheels 51 of the support means 5. In other words, the connecting part 6 is arranged taking into consideration the running (movement) direction of the compost fermentation tank 2. In this embodiment, the connecting part 6 is located on the side of one of the first wall parts 240a, and is connected to a frame 22 that supports the tank body 20. The connecting part 6 protrudes outward and, for example, in consideration of versatility, is formed so as to be connectable to a connecting means (e.g., a three-point linkage mechanism) B provided on the working machine A (see FIG. 4).

[0088] The second connecting portion 7, like the connecting portion 6, is provided to correspond to the rotation direction of the wheels 51 of the support means 5. In other words, it is arranged taking into consideration the running (moving) direction of the compost fermentation tank 2. In this embodiment, the second connecting portion 7 is located on the other first wall portion 240b side, and the tank body 20 is The second connecting part 7 protrudes outward and is connected to a supporting frame 22. The second connecting part 7 is formed so as to be connectable to the connecting part 6 of another organic matter composting apparatus 1. That is, the second connecting part 7 is formed so as to be connectable, for example, in whole or in part, to a connecting means (e.g., a three-point linkage mechanism) B provided on the working machine A (see FIG. 6).

[0089] The organic matter composting apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is as described above. When composting vegetation on farmland, as shown in Figs. 4 to 6, the connecting part 6 of the organic matter composting apparatus 1 is connected to the connecting means B of the movable working machine A. In this state, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 can be moved by the working machine A. In this embodiment, in order to collect a large amount of vegetation in one run (cruise) of the working machine A, multiple organic matter composting apparatuses 1 (three in the figure) are connected as shown in Fig. 6. That is, the connecting part 6 of another organic matter composting apparatus 1 is connected to the second connecting part 7 of the organic matter composting apparatus 1 on the working machine A side. In this way, the multiple organic matter composting apparatuses 1 are connected in a chain with the working machine A at the front.

[0090] In this way, when multiple organic matter composting apparatuses 1 are connected, the control unit 9 switches to "connected mode" and drives only the organic matter composting apparatus 1 located on the working machine A (leading in the direction of movement) side. Specifically, when an operator operates the "take-in / composting switch S1" on the operation unit 97 of the organic matter composting apparatus 1 located on the working machine A (leading in the direction of movement) side, the control unit 9 of that organic matter composting apparatus 1 switches to "take-in / composting mode" and drives the first actuator 28 of the organic matter composting apparatus 1 located on the working machine A (leading in the direction of movement) side to open the first gate member 27, as shown in Figure 11.

[0091] This opens the first opening 25. In response to this, the control unit 9 rotates the scraping member 32 and the stirring members 8A and 8B of the guiding device 3 (the input device 30). In this embodiment, there are two stirring members 8A and 8B, one above the other, and the lower stirring member 8B is located on the first opening side, so the lower stirring member 8B rotates in a direction (counterclockwise in the figure) that pulls in the plants that enter the storage space S from the first opening 25. In contrast, the upper stirring member 8A rotates in the opposite direction (clockwise in the figure) to the lower stirring member 8B. This allows the plants that enter the storage space S from the first opening 25 to be guided to the upper area of ​​the storage space S without immediately falling downward.

[0092] In this state, when the working machine A is moved forward, the organic composting apparatus 1 is towed (pulled) by the working machine A and moves. That is, the organic composting apparatus 1 passes over vegetation (vegetation that has been previously cut) on the farmland. In this embodiment, the organic composting apparatus 1 is provided with a support means 5 having wheels 51 attached to the lower ends of leg members 50, so that the wheels 51 roll and move on the farmland. The support means 5 is provided with four leg members 50 that support the four corners of the lower part of the compost fermentation tank 2, so that the compost fermentation tank 2 (leg members 50) moves at a position above and away from the ground of the farmland. In contrast, the scraping member 32 (the tip of the extension member 321) disposed below the bottom 23 of the compost fermentation tank 2 moves in a state of contacting or approaching the ground of the farmland. Accordingly, when the compost fermentation tank 2 moves, the vegetation gets caught by the scraping member 32 that is driven to rotate, and the vegetation is sent to the rear side in the direction of travel. That is, the plants are thrown up toward the first opening 25 located at the rear side by the rotational force of the scraping member 32. Among these plants, the plants thrown to a position away from the first opening 25 (for example, a position directly behind it) hit the guide plate 31 and are sent toward the first opening 25 by the inclined surface of the guide plate 31.

[0093] As a result, the organic matter composting apparatus 1, which moves as the working machine A travels, sends the vegetation scattered on the farmland one by one into the storage space S. Then, when the amount of vegetation in the storage space S reaches a predetermined amount, the control unit 9 in the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the working machine A (leading end in the direction of movement) side drives the first actuator 28 as shown in Figure 12 to close the first gate member 27. At the same time, the control unit 9 controls the guide device 3 (feeding device 30) to feed the vegetation. In this state, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front continues the composting process of the taken-in vegetation. That is, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front closes the first opening 25 and continues agitating the vegetation with the agitating members 8A and 8B.

[0094] Then, when the leading organic matter composting apparatus 1 stops taking in vegetation, the control unit 9 of that leading organic matter composting apparatus 1 transmits information (signal) to the control unit 9 of the succeeding organic matter composting apparatus 1 that the leading organic matter composting apparatus 1 has stopped sending in vegetation. Based on this, the control unit 9 of the succeeding organic matter composting apparatus 1 switches to the "take-in / composting mode" and takes in vegetation.

[0095] In the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front (organic matter composting apparatus 1 continuing composting of plants), the control unit 9 drives the electric heater 90 to heat (warm) the plants in the storage space S to a temperature appropriate for fermentation. The control unit 9 also drives the transfer device 101 to supply a fermentation promoter (rice bran) to the storage space S according to the amount of plants taken in. Furthermore, if the amount of moisture required for fermentation is not met based on the detection result (moisture content of plants) of the humidity sensor 92, the control unit 9 drives the pump 111b to supply the required amount of water to the storage space S. In response to an instruction from the control unit 9, the stirring members 8A and 8B are rotated continuously or periodically. As a result, the plants are stirred in the storage space S and fermented. During this process, the control unit 9 supplies the fermentation promoter (rice bran) and water as necessary based on the results of the temperature sensor 91 and humidity sensor 92.

[0096] In this way, while the leading organic matter composting apparatus 1 is carrying out the fermentation process (composting process), the following organic matter composting apparatus 1 takes in vegetation. Then, in the following organic matter composting apparatus 1, when the amount of vegetation in the accommodation space S reaches a predetermined amount, as in the leading organic matter composting apparatus 1, the control unit 9 in the following organic matter composting apparatus 1 drives the first actuator 28 to close the first gate member 27, as shown in FIG. 13. At the same time, the guide device 3 (feeding device 30) stops sending in vegetation. As the leading organic matter composting apparatus 1 stops taking in vegetation, the control unit 9 in the following (rearmost) organic matter composting apparatus 1 shifts to the "take-in / composting mode" and takes in vegetation, as in the leading organic matter composting apparatus 1.

[0097] In this way, as shown in Figs. 11 to 13, taking in vegetation and carrying out fermentation (composting) of the vegetation in sequence starting from the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front, the efficiency of taking in vegetation and composting (fermentation) of the vegetation is improved. When taking in of vegetation is completed in all of the organic matter composting apparatuses 1, the organic matter composting apparatuses 1 are disconnected from the working machine A. Each organic matter composting apparatus 1 is installed at an arbitrary or predetermined position, and composting continues in the compost fermentation tank 2. When multiple organic matter composting apparatuses 1 are connected to each other, the multiple organic matter composting apparatuses 1 may be installed in a connected state, or the connections may be broken and each organic matter composting apparatus 1 may be installed at a separate position.

[0098] When returning (scattering) compost made from vegetation to farmland, the organic matter composting device 1 is connected to the working machine A. At this time, when spreading a large amount of compost on farmland in one trip, multiple organic matter composting devices 1 are connected. The connection method is the same as when taking in vegetation.

[0099] Then, the work machine A tows the organic matter composting apparatus 1 and moves it to a predetermined position (a position where the compost is to be spread). When the organic matter composting apparatus 1 reaches the predetermined position, the worker operates the "discharge switch S4" on the operation unit 97 of the organic matter composting apparatus 1. If multiple organic matter composting apparatuses 1 are connected, the worker operates the "discharge switch S4" on the operation unit 97 of the organic matter composting apparatus 1 that is at the front in the direction of movement. Accordingly, The organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front starts discharging compost as shown in Figure 14. That is, the control unit 9 of the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front in the direction of movement switches to discharge mode based on the operation of the "discharge switch S4" by the operator.

[0100] In the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the head of the movement direction, when the control unit 9 shifts to the "discharge mode", it drives the second actuator 41 to open the second gate member 40 and open the second opening 26. In addition, the control unit 9 controls the rotation direction of the stirring members 8A, 8B (electric motors 82A, 82B) to drive them in a direction suitable for discharging the compost from the second opening 26. In this embodiment, two stirring members 8A, 8B are arranged vertically, and the upper stirring member 8A is arranged according to the height of the second opening 26, so that at least the upper stirring member 8A rotates at high speed in a rotation direction corresponding to the discharge direction of the compost. In addition, in order to transfer the compost in the lower region of the storage space S to the upper stirring member 8A, the control unit 9 rotates the lower stirring member 8B at high speed.

[0101] As a result, the compost in the storage space S is pushed out towards the second opening 26 by the upper agitator 8A. In this embodiment, the second gate member 40 tilts towards the storage space S, so the compost pushed out by the agitator 8A uses the second gate member 40 as a slope to be discharged from the second opening 26. Therefore, when the organic matter composting apparatus 1 is towed (moved) by the work machine A, the compost discharged from the second opening 26 is discharged (spread) onto the farmland.

[0102] When the compost in the storage space S of the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front in the direction of movement is discharged and gone, information (signal) to that effect is sent from the control unit 9 of that organic matter composting apparatus 1 to the control unit 9 of the succeeding organic matter composting apparatus 1. Based on this, as shown in Figures 15 and 16, the control unit 9 of the succeeding organic matter composting apparatus 1 switches to discharge mode and discharges the compost onto the farmland. That is, when multiple organic matter composting apparatuses 1 are connected, as shown in Figures 14 to 16, the compost can be discharged onto the farmland in order from the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the front in the direction of movement to the organic matter composting apparatus 1 at the rear, so that the compost can be discharged onto the farmland in order starting from the compost that started fermentation treatment (composting) earlier (compost with a longer fermentation period).

[0103] In this way, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 of this embodiment can compost vegetation (weed-trimmed vegetation) from farmland without the need to collect it in advance (no need to collect and dump it in). Also, the compost can be spread on farmland simply by moving the working machine A, without the need to take out the compost made from vegetation or to scatter the compost.

[0104] As described above, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 according to the embodiment includes the movable compost fermentation tank 2 and the guide device 3 that guides the vegetation on the farmland to the compost fermentation tank 2 in accordance with the movement of the compost fermentation tank 2. According to the above configuration, the guide device 3 guides (sends) the vegetation on the farmland to the compost fermentation tank 2 in accordance with the movement of the compost fermentation tank 2, so there is no need to collect the vegetation in one place, and there is also no need to throw the vegetation gathered in one place into the compost fermentation tank 2. In other words, the vegetation scattered over a vast area can be collected and guided (thrown) into the compost fermentation tank 2. Therefore, according to the organic matter composting apparatus 1 configured as above, the burden of the work of collecting the vegetation to be composted and the work of throwing the vegetation into the compost fermentation tank 2 can be reduced.

[0105] In the above embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 further includes a discharge device 4 that discharges the compost that has been composted in the compost fermentation tank 2 from the compost fermentation tank 2, and the discharge device 4 discharges the compost onto farmland. In this way, the discharge device 4 discharges the compost onto farmland while the compost fermentation tank 2 is being moved, so that the compost can be spread onto farmland (the ground) without an operator having to remove the compost from the compost fermentation tank 2.

[0106] In the above embodiment, the organic composting apparatus 1 includes a support means 5 for supporting the compost fermenter 2 so that the compost fermenter 2 can stand on its own and move. In this way, the organic composting apparatus 1 can be moved as needed and installed in a desired location.

[0107] In the above embodiment, the compost fermentation tank 2 includes a bottom 23, a peripheral wall 24 that stands up from the outer edge of the bottom 23 and defines the storage space S together with the bottom 23, and a first opening 25 formed in the bottom 23 or the peripheral wall 24, and when the compost fermentation tank 2 moves, the guide device 3 guides vegetation in the farmland to the storage space S via the first opening 25 in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank 2. In this way, vegetation is introduced through the first opening 25 formed in the bottom 23 or the peripheral wall 24 that defines the storage space S in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank 2.

[0108] In the above embodiment, the first opening 25 penetrates the bottom 23 in the vertical direction, and the compost fermentation tank 2 further includes a first gate member 27 capable of opening and closing the first opening 25, and a first actuator 28 for opening and closing the first gate member 27. The guide device 3 has a scraping member 32 that can rotate around an axis extending laterally below the bottom 23, and when the compost fermentation tank 2 moves, with the first gate member 27 opening the first opening 25, the scraping member 32 rotates in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank 2, scraping up vegetation in the farmland and placing it through the first opening 25 into the storage space S of the compost fermentation tank 2.

[0109] According to the above configuration, when the first gate member 27 is caused by the first actuator 28 to open the first opening 25, the inside of the compost fermentation tank 2 is vertically connected to the outside via the first opening 25. In this state, when the raking member 32 rotates below the bottom 23, vegetation on the farmland is lifted up by the raking member 32 and thrown into the compost fermentation tank 2 (accommodation space S) via the first opening 25.

[0110] When the compost fermentation tank 2 moves, the scraping member 32 also moves, and as a result, by moving the compost fermentation tank 2 while rotating the scraping member 32, the plants in the farmland are sequentially thrown into the compost fermentation tank 2. Then, when the first actuator 28 performs a closing operation on the first gate member 27, the first opening 25 is closed by the first gate member 27, and communication between the inside of the compost fermentation tank 2 and the outside is blocked. In other words, the compost fermentation tank 2 becomes a closed space suitable for fermenting (composting) the plants.

[0111] In the above embodiment, the compost fermentation tank 2 has an opening 242 separate from the first opening 25, which is for putting vegetation into the storage space S. In this way, vegetation can be put into the compost fermentation tank 2 through the opening 242 separate from the first opening 25. Furthermore, in addition to vegetation, organic matter such as food waste can also be put into the compost fermentation tank 2 through the separate opening 242.

[0112] In the above embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 includes an electric heater 90 for heating the inside of the compost fermentation tank 2, a sensor 91 for measuring the temperature inside the compost fermentation tank 2, and a control unit 9 for controlling the heat generation of the electric heater 90 based on the measurement results of the sensor 91. In this way, by controlling the heat generation by the control unit 9, an environment can be created in the compost fermentation tank 2 that allows plants (organic matter) to be properly composted (promotes fermentation).

[0113] In the above embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 further includes a solar power generation panel 96 that supplies power to the electric heater 90. In this way, power can be secured from the solar power generation panel 96, so that the organic matter composting apparatus 1 can be operated (driven) even in places where it is difficult to obtain a supply of household electricity or the like.

[0114] In the above embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has a storage section 10 that stores a fermentation promoter that promotes fermentation of plants in the compost fermentation tank 2, and the storage section 10 adds the fermentation promoter to the compost fermentation tank 2 in accordance with the amount of plants placed in the compost fermentation tank 2. In this way, the fermentation promoter is added in an amount appropriate to the state of the plants in the compost fermentation tank 2, making it possible to prevent poor fermentation of organic matter due to a shortage or excess of the fermentation promoter.

[0115] In the above embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 further includes stirring members 8A, 8B for stirring at least one of the plants and compost in the compost fermentation tank 2. This makes it possible to prevent uneven fermentation of the organic matter in the compost fermentation tank 2. In particular, if the fermentation promoter is aerobic, stirring the organic matter with the stirring members 8A, 8B can expose a large amount of the fermentation promoter to air, accelerating the fermentation of the plants and enabling the plants to be composted in a short period of time.

[0116] In the above embodiment, the compost fermentation tank 2 includes a bottom 23, a peripheral wall 24 that stands up from the outer edge of the bottom 23 and defines a storage space S together with the bottom 23, and a second opening 26 formed in the bottom 23 or the peripheral wall 24, and when the compost fermentation tank 2 moves, the discharge device 4 discharges the compost in the storage space S onto the farmland through the second opening 26 in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank 2. In this way, the compost is discharged from the second opening 26 formed in the bottom 23 or the peripheral wall 24 that defines the storage space S in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank 2. That is, the compost can be spread evenly on the farmland.

[0117] In the above embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 further includes stirring members 8A, 8B for stirring at least one of the plants and compost in the compost fermentation tank 2, the second opening 26 penetrates the peripheral wall 24 in a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction, and the discharge device 4 includes a second gate member 40 capable of opening and closing the second opening 26, and a second actuator 41 for opening and closing the second gate member 40, and when the compost fermentation tank 2 moves, the stirring members 8A, 8B rotate with the second gate member 40 opening the second opening 26, and the compost in the compost fermentation tank 2 is discharged from the second opening 26.

[0118] According to the above configuration, when the second gate member 40 closes the second opening 26, the inside of the compost fermentation tank 2 can be made into a closed space, and an environment suitable for fermentation of plants can be created. Then, when the second actuator 41 opens the second gate member 40, the inside of the compost fermentation tank 2 is connected to the outside. In this state, when the agitation members 8A, 8B rotate inside the compost fermentation tank 2, the compost is discharged from the second opening 26 by the agitation (rotational force) of the agitation member 8A. Therefore, by rotating the agitation members 8A, 8B while moving the compost fermentation tank 2, the compost can be spread evenly over the farmland.

[0119] In the above embodiment, the organic composting apparatus 1 has a connection part 6 that can be connected to a movable vehicle A, and the compost fermentation tank 2 moves along with the movement of the vehicle A connected via the connection part 6. In this way, the organic composting apparatus 1 can be moved along with the movement of the vehicle A.

[0120] In the above embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 has a second connecting part 7 that is arranged on the opposite side of the connecting part 6 across the compost fermenter 2 and can be connected to the connecting part 6 of another organic matter composting apparatus 1. In this way, multiple organic matter composting apparatuses 1 can be linked together and moved by moving (pulling) the working machine A. This increases the amount of vegetation that can be collected in one trip when composting vegetation in a vast area. In other words, the frequency of replacing the organic matter composting apparatus 1 connected to the working machine A can be reduced, and vegetation can be collected (input) continuously.

[0121] Although the present invention has been described above, the embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0122] For example, in the above embodiment, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 is moved by the running (e.g., towing) of the working machine A, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 may be configured to be self-propelled. That is, the organic matter composting apparatus 1 may be self-propelled by driving the wheels 51 of the support means 5 with an electric motor or the like.

[0123] In the above embodiment, the support means 5 for supporting the compost fermenter 2 includes a plurality of (four) leg members 50 that support the lower part of the compost fermenter 2 at four points, and the wheels 51 are attached to the lower end of each of these leg members 50, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the wheels 51 may be attached to only one of the leg members 50 on either the front side or the rear side in the moving direction, and the other leg member 50 on either the front side or the rear side in the moving direction may be configured to be foldable. That is, the other leg member 50 on either the front side or the rear side in the moving direction may extend downward in a state in which it supports (makes the compost fermenter 2 self-supporting), and may be folded to allow the compost fermenter 2 to move when it is moving. In addition, the number of leg members 50 is not limited to four, and may be three or more. That is, the number and arrangement of the leg members 50 may be set on the premise that the compost fermenter 2 is self-supporting and movable.

[0124] In the above embodiment, the explanation is given on the assumption that the vegetation to be composted is previously cut, but this is not limiting. For example, the organic composting apparatus 1 may be provided with an underbrushing device that cuts underbrush of vegetation in farm fields and wastelands. That is, the organic composting apparatus 1 may be provided with an underbrushing device that cuts underbrush of vegetation as it moves, and the guide device 3 (injection device 30) may input the cut vegetation into the compost fermentation tank 2 while the underbrushing device cuts underbrush of the vegetation to be composted. In this case, it goes without saying that the underbrushing device is disposed ahead of the compost fermentation tank 2 (raking member 32) in the traveling direction of the organic composting apparatus 1. The underbrushing device may be a rotary type that rotates an underbrush blade around an axis, or a clipper type that moves the underbrush blade relatively close to and away from the axis.

[0125] In the above embodiment, "rice bran" is used as the fermentation promoter, but this is not limited thereto. For example, oil cake, rice bran, rice husks, chicken droppings, etc. may be used as the aerobic fermentation promoter. In addition, the fermentation promoter is not limited to aerobic ones, and may be an anaerobic fermentation promoter.

[0126] In the above embodiment, the guiding device 3 has the input device 30 and the guide plate 31, but is not limited to this. When the compost fermentation tank 2 moves, the guiding device 3 guides vegetation in the farmland to the first opening in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank 2 with the first gate member 27 keeping the first opening 25 open, and then guides the vegetation to the storage space S. For example, the guiding device 3 may include only the input device 30. Conversely, the guiding device 3 may include only the guide plate 31.

[0127] That is, when the guiding device 3 is provided only with the input device 30, the input device 30 (raking member 32) may be configured to flick vegetation toward the first opening 25. When the guiding device 3 is provided only with the guide plate 31, the guide plate 31 may have a lower end close to the farmland (ground) so as to function as a scraper that scoops vegetation from the farmland (ground), and when the working machine A moves, the guide plate 31 may scoop up the vegetation and guide (guide) it into the storage space S through the first opening 25.

[0128] In the above embodiment, two agitation members 8A, 8B are arranged one above the other in the compost fermentation tank 2 (storage space S), but this is not limiting. For example, as shown in Fig. 17, one agitation member 8A may be arranged in the compost fermentation tank 2 (storage space S). Also, three or more agitation members 8A may be arranged in the compost fermentation tank 2 (storage space S). In any of these cases, the second opening 26 is arranged to match the position of the agitation member 8A that discharges the compost so that the compost is discharged by the rotational force of the agitation member 8A.

[0129] In the above embodiment, the storage (amount of input) of plants in the storage space S and the discharge amount of compost have been described as theoretically estimated amounts based on the rotation speed of the scraping member 32 and the rotation speed of the stirring members 8A, 8B, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the organic matter composting device 1 (compost fermentation tank 2) may be equipped with a load cell arranged between the frame 22 and the tank body 20 to measure the load of the tank body 20 including the contents, and the weight of the plants (compost) in the compost fermentation tank 2 (storage space S) may be measured (calculated) based on the measurement result of the load cell. In this way, the storage (amount of input) of plants in the storage space S and the discharge amount of compost can be accurately grasped.

[0130] In the above embodiment, each of the wall plate portions (first wall portions 240a, 240b, second wall portions 241a, 241b) constituting the peripheral wall 24 of the compost fermentation tank 2 (tank body 20) is formed in a trapezoidal shape when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the surface, but this is not limited thereto. For example, each of the wall plate portions (first wall portions 240a, 240b, second wall portions 241a, 241b) may be formed in a rectangular shape (square shape or rectangular shape) when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the surface, and the peripheral wall 24 may be formed in a rectangular tube shape. Furthermore, among the wall plate portions, either the first wall portions 240a, 240b or the second wall portions 241a, 241b may be formed in a trapezoidal shape when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the surface, and the other of the first wall portions 240a, 240b or the second wall portions 241a, 241b may be formed in a rectangular shape (square shape or rectangular shape) when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the surface. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 1:Organic composting equipment 2: Compost fermentation tank 3: Guidance device 4: Discharge device 5: Support means 6:Connection part 7: Second connecting part 8A: Agitating member 8B: Agitating member 9: Control section 10: Storage section (accelerator storage section) 24: Peripheral wall 25:First opening 26:Second opening 27: First gate member 28: First actuator 32: Raising member 40: Second gate member 41: Second actuator 90: Electric heater 91: Sensor (temperature sensor) 96: Solar panels 242: Opening A: Work equipment S: Storage space

Claims

1. A movable compost fermentation tank; a guide device for guiding vegetation on the farmland to the compost fermentation tank in accordance with the movement of the compost fermentation tank; An organic matter composting device comprising:

2. The compost fermentation tank further includes a discharge device for discharging the compost produced in the compost fermentation tank from the compost fermentation tank. The organic matter composting apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the discharge device discharges the compost onto the farmland.

3. 2. The organic composting apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a support means for supporting the compost fermentation tank so that the tank can stand on its own and move.

4. The compost fermentation tank comprises: The bottom and A peripheral wall that stands from an outer edge of the bottom portion and defines a storage space together with the bottom portion; A first opening formed in the bottom or the peripheral wall, The organic matter composting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the guide device guides vegetation in the farmland to the storage space through the first opening in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank when the compost fermentation tank is moved.

5. The first opening penetrates the bottom in the vertical direction, The compost fermentation tank comprises: A first gate member operable to open and close the first opening; A first actuator that opens and closes the first gate member, The organic matter composting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the guide device has a scraping member that can rotate around an axis extending horizontally below the bottom, and when the compost fermentation tank moves, the scraping member rotates in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank with the first gate member opening the first opening, scraping up the vegetation in the farmland and placing it through the first opening into the storage space of the compost fermentation tank.

6. 5. The organic matter composting apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the compost fermentation tank has an opening separate from the first opening for introducing the plants into the accommodation space.

7. an electric heater for heating the inside of the compost fermentation tank; A sensor for measuring a temperature in the compost fermentation tank; a control unit that controls heat generation by the electric heater based on a measurement result of the sensor; The organic matter composting apparatus according to claim 1 , comprising:

8. 8. The organic matter composting apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a solar power panel for powering said electric heater.

9. A storage section for storing a fermentation promoter that promotes fermentation of the plants in the compost fermentation tank, 2. The organic matter composting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit charges the fermentation promoter into the compost fermentation tank in accordance with the amount of the plants and trees placed in the compost fermentation tank.

10. 2. The organic matter composting apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an agitating member for agitating at least one of the plants and the compost in the compost fermentation tank.

11. The compost fermentation tank comprises: The bottom and a peripheral wall rising from an outer edge of the bottom portion and defining an accommodation space together with the bottom portion; A second opening formed in the bottom or the peripheral wall, The organic matter composting apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the discharge device discharges the compost in the storage space to the farmland through the second opening in response to the movement of the compost fermentation tank when the compost fermentation tank is moved.

12. The compost fermentation tank further includes an agitating member for agitating at least one of the plants and the compost in the compost fermentation tank, The second opening penetrates the peripheral wall in a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction, The discharge device includes a second gate member operable to open and close the second opening; a second actuator for opening and closing the second gate member, An organic matter composting apparatus as described in claim 11, wherein when the compost fermentation tank moves, the stirring member rotates while the second gate member opens the second opening, thereby discharging the compost in the compost fermentation tank from the second opening.

13. A coupling part that can be coupled to a drivable vehicle, 2. The organic composting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the compost fermentation tank moves as the vehicle connected via the connecting portion moves.

14. The organic matter composting apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising a second connecting part arranged on the opposite side of the compost fermentation tank from the connecting part, the second connecting part being connectable to the connecting part of another organic matter composting apparatus.

Images