Mobile equipment for collecting and compressing waste

Abstract

The present invention relates to a movable device (1) for collecting and compressing waste, comprising: a container (2) for receiving waste bags; a cover mechanism (7) which interacts with the opening of the container (2) in a shape-fitting manner so as to be able to airtightly seal the waste bags placed in the container (2); means (9) for generating compressed air; means (10) for generating negative pressure; means (11) for heat-sealing the waste bags placed in the container (2); and means (31) for moving the movable device (1), wherein the cover mechanism (7) has a suction opening (12) for negative pressure; the device (1) has means (14) for displacing a base plate (4) relative to the side wall (3) of the container; and the container (2) has an inlet opening (15) and an inlet valve for compressed air.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a portable apparatus for collecting and compressing waste, and more particularly to a waste container. Specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus having the configuration of the preamble of claim 1. The present invention also relates to a method for collecting and compressing waste. [Background technology]

[0002] Apparatus for collecting and compressing waste is known in the art. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an apparatus for compressing kitchen waste. In this apparatus, the waste placed inside is subjected to atmospheric pressure by removing air with a pump, thereby compressing the waste.

[0003] Patent Document 2 discloses an apparatus for collecting and disposing of dry waste, wet waste, etc. This apparatus includes a container having a lid secured by a sealing element, in which a piston can slide within the container, forming a sealed chamber. A waste compression and liquid discharge element, as well as air and liquid suction elements, are also provided, connected to the chamber and the flexible container. However, the piston is only retracted by a spring; the waste is not actively compressed.

[0004] Patent Document 3 discloses a waste container having a bag placed inside and a vacuum pump for extracting gas, particularly air, from the bag, wherein a pressing device is provided that can compress the material inside the bag before the gas is extracted, thus compressing the material. However, the details of the pressing device are not disclosed, and it is simply stated that a pressing plate moves "downward". The document also discloses a sealing mechanism for hermetically sealing the bag.

[0005] Therefore, waste containers known in the prior art either use only atmospheric pressure to compress the waste bag, or move a pressing plate, which is not defined in any more detail, "downward." The amount of space required by waste, including garbage, waste materials, and containers, is generally high, and the low level of compression means that both space and material are generally used extra for the collection, storage, and disposal of waste in waste bags. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] EP209639A1 [Patent Document 2] EP1498364A1 [Patent Document 3] WO2007 / 076964A1 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The object of the present invention is to overcome the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art, and in particular to provide a portable waste container that is easy to operate, can collect and store waste, compress it to the maximum extent possible, and then dispose of it cleanly. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The objective is, according to the present invention, a mobile device (1) for collecting and compressing waste, a) A container (2) for receiving waste bags, comprising side walls (3), a bottom plate (4), and a first seal (5) at the opening (6), b) A lid mechanism (7) having a second seal (8), wherein the lid mechanism (7) is configured and positioned such that it can be positioned open relative to the opening (6) of the container (2) so that the opening (6) of the container (2) is accessible for inserting a waste bag, and can be positioned closed relative to the opening (6) of the container (2) so that the lid mechanism (7) interacts reliably with the opening of the container (2) so that the waste bag placed in the container (2) can be airtightly sealed to the lid mechanism (7) between the first seal (5) and the second seal (8), c) Means for generating compressed air (9), d) Means (10) for generating negative pressure, e) When the lid mechanism is in the closed position, means (11) for heat-sealing the waste bag placed in the container (2), the means being positioned at the opening (6) of the container and / or the lid mechanism (7), f) Means (31) for moving the movable device (1) (horizontally), Including, within the device, g) The lid mechanism (7) has a suction opening (12), which is positioned in the lid mechanism (7) such that, in the closed position, the gaseous atmosphere can be partially extracted from inside the waste bag placed in the container (2) by means (10) for generating negative pressure; h) The container (2) is airtight when the opening (6) is closed; i) The bottom plate (4) of the container is displaceable relative to the side wall (3) and, in the closed position, in the direction of the lid mechanism (7). j) The device has means (14) for displacing the bottom plate (4) relative to the side wall (3), k) The container (2) has an inlet opening (15) for compressed air, which is achieved by a movable device that can be supplied with compressed air provided by means (9) for generating compressed air, controlled by an inlet valve (16).

[0009] The purpose is also a method for collecting and compressing waste, a) A step of extracting a part of the gas atmosphere from a waste bag containing waste, b) simultaneously mechanically compressing the waste bag, and c) simultaneously applying an external air pressure to the waste bag, is achieved by a method.

[0010] This method can be particularly advantageously carried out by a movable device according to the present invention.

[0011] Advantageous embodiments of the device and method are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0012] The present invention is based on the finding that collecting and compressing waste is particularly advantageous when the compression process is not only by extracting air from the waste bag, but in particular when the waste bag is further mechanically compressed and the waste bag is subjected to compressed air. This results in a particularly low space requirement for the waste in a simple manner and maximizes the use of resources.

[0013] Next, the present invention will be described in more detail by preferred embodiments.

[0014] A movable device for collecting and compressing waste according to the present invention includes a container for receiving a waste bag. Containers typical in the art are known and are usually rectangular parallelepipeds or cylinders. The container includes an opening, which is usually preferably the entire upper surface, side walls, which are usually the four side walls of a rectangular parallelepiped or the cylindrical side surface of a cylinder, and a container bottom. According to the present invention, the container is airtight when the opening is closed. This means that when the opening is airtight sealed, the side walls and the container bottom or a displaceable bottom plate inside the container form a hermetically sealed space. Suitable materials are plastics or metals, particularly glass fiber reinforced plastics, such as GRP30 or GRP40, PEEK plastics, PA6, and stainless steel or aluminum.

[0015] The container of the device according to the invention also has a first seal at the opening, typically on the upper surface of the container, perpendicular to the side wall (and parallel to the bottom of the container). The seal surrounds the opening, that is, it surrounds the entire opening of the container. This seal is suitable for providing an airtight seal of the opening by corresponding interaction with a second seal in a lid mechanism in the case of a typical waste bag. Suitable sealing materials are known in the prior art.

[0016] As long as seals are used in the present invention, those skilled in the art are generally proficient in suitable sealing materials. Typical materials include silicone, foamed silicone, EPDM, NBR, CR, cellular rubber, foamed rubber, fluoroelastomers such as Viton®, aramid fiber-based fiber seals such as KLINGERSIL®, PTFE (Teflon®), polyurethane (Vulkollan®), PVC and PMMA. Preferred materials for the first, second and fourth seals are EPDM and silicone. Fluoroelastomers such as Viton® are preferably used as seals for welding and cutting electrodes.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the device has means for securing a waste bag to the opening of a container, preferably a clamp frame or clamp. Such a clamp frame is secured to the container, for example by a hinge, and surrounds the entire opening of the container. Thus, when the frame is folded back, the opening is freely accessible, and a waste bag can be inserted into the container, in which case the waste bag comes into contact with a first seal at the opening. The clamp frame or clamp is then closed, and thus the waste bag can be secured to the container. In one embodiment, the first seal that the waste bag covers is not covered or is only partially covered by the means for securing the waste bag, and remains essentially accessible, particularly for interaction with a second seal of the lid mechanism. In an alternative embodiment, the means for securing the waste bag comes into contact with the first seal through the waste bag when the waste bag is inserted, and in the closed position, the waste bag is entirely positioned between the first seal at the container opening and the second seal of the lid mechanism. The use of a clamp frame has the advantage that when inserting a waste bag, it can be properly placed over the first seal at the container opening and secured to the container via a means for securing the waste bag, preferably via a clamp frame or clamp. This ensures that, in the closed position, a seal is achieved when the second seal in the lid mechanism comes into contact with the waste bag and, optionally, with the means for securing the waste bag.

[0018] The vessel of the apparatus according to the present invention has a displaceable bottom plate inside, which is typically essentially flat. According to the present invention, the bottom plate is designed as a kind of piston and is movably positioned within the vessel, i.e., it can move perpendicular to the surface of the bottom plate along the side wall. In one embodiment, the bottom plate of the vessel is airtightly sealed to the side wall by a third seal. In this embodiment, when the opening is closed, the side wall and bottom plate form an airtight interior of the vessel. In this embodiment, the bottom plate preferably includes means that allow compressed air to be guided toward the top of the bottom plate. In a preferred alternative embodiment, the bottom plate of the vessel is not airtightly sealed from the side wall by a third seal; when the opening is closed, the side wall and the bottom of the vessel form an airtight container. The latter embodiment has the advantage that the third seal does not need to be airtight to the compressed air as soon as this compressed air is guided into the interior of the vessel, otherwise it would impose higher requirements on the materials used. An inlet opening below the bottom plate is also sufficient to supply compressed air into the interior of the vessel.

[0019] The bottom plate is displaceable relative to the side walls and, when the lid mechanism is in the closed position, is displaceable in the direction of the lid mechanism (perpendicular to the surface of the bottom plate). For this reason, a corresponding guide groove or strip is preferably available on the side wall. By displacing the bottom plate, the volume of the container defined by the space into which the waste bag can be inserted can be reduced. During displacement, a third seal (also called the “seal on the bottom plate”) airtightly seals the bottom plate to the side walls at any position on the bottom plate, typically to prevent dust from entering below the bottom plate in one of the embodiments described above. Thus, when the opening of the container is closed, the container is airtightly sealed by the side walls (which are also airtight) and by the bottom plate, or at least by the bottom of the container.

[0020] A container is considered airtight if, when its opening is closed, it maintains a negative pressure (internal absolute pressure) of 500 mbar or less than 800 mbar (internal absolute pressure) for at least 30 minutes.

[0021] According to the present invention, the container has an inlet opening for compressed air, and the inlet opening can be supplied with compressed air, preferably controlled by an inlet valve, provided by means for generating compressed air. Thus, compressed air can be introduced into the airtight interior of the container through the inlet opening. When a waste bag is placed over the container opening and interacts with the first seal, either through means for securing the waste bag or through a second seal of the lid mechanism in the closed position, the space between the waste bag and the container is airtightly sealed. Thus, the introduction of compressed air into the space between the waste bag and the container, and when the lid mechanism is in the closed position, compression is brought about, and thus the contents of the waste bag are compressed. Preferably, according to the present invention, the apparatus is also configured so that compressed air can be guided, preferably controlled by an inlet valve, into the inlet opening and thus into the interior of the container when used as means for displacing the bottom plate.

[0022] To fix and displace the bottom plate, the apparatus according to the present invention has means for displacing the bottom plate relative to the side wall. These means for displacing the bottom plate are, on the one hand, suitable for holding the bottom plate in a position typically within the maximum range of the container's volume; and in any case, suitable for displacing the bottom plate perpendicular to its surface and in the direction of the lid mechanism or the container opening when the lid mechanism is in the closed position, so as to reduce the volume of the container (inside). In this case, the means for displacing the bottom plate can preferably move the bottom plate in the direction of the container opening with a compressive force of about 50 kPa to about 1000 kPa, preferably about 100 kPa to about 800 kPa, and especially about 300 kPa to about 600 kPa. This force allows the waste bag inserted into the container, including its contents, to be mechanically compressed when the lid mechanism is closed. The possible range of displacement of the bottom plate is preferably such that the volume of the container can be reduced by at least 50%, i.e., 50% of the maximum range, preferably by 70%, i.e., 30% of the maximum range, defined by the space into which a waste bag can be inserted when the opening is closed by the lid mechanism (and optionally by the closing mechanism). Suitable means for displacing the bottom plate are, for example, a screw rod, a fluid pressure cylinder, preferably a pneumatic cylinder or bellows, using, for example, air, water or oil as a medium. The latter pneumatic cylinder or bellows can be advantageously driven by compressed air, which can be provided by means for generating compressed air, included in the apparatus according to the present invention. Preferably, the means for displacement includes a return element, such as a helical spring. The return element causes or assists in the retraction (away from the lid mechanism) of the bottom plate after the mechanical compression process of the waste bag. The return force is usually less than the compressive force, preferably about 50 kPa to about 500 kPa, preferably about 100 kPa to about 300 kPa. In this case, the means for displacing the bottom plate is configured to deliver both the compressive force and the return force defined above, i.e., the combined force of these two.

[0023] The apparatus according to the present invention also has a lid mechanism, which is configured to cover or close the opening of a container and, for this purpose, has a second seal on its side that interacts with the opening of the container. The lid mechanism is configured and positioned in the apparatus so that it can be positioned open relative to the opening of the container so that the opening of the container is accessible for inserting a waste bag, and so that it can be positioned closed relative to the opening of the container so that the lid mechanism interacts with the opening of the container so that the waste bag placed in the container can be airtightly sealed to the lid between the first seal (at the opening of the container) and the second seal (at the lid mechanism). Thus, the extent of the second seal substantially corresponds to the extent of the first seal, that is, essentially corresponds to the extent of the opening of the container. When a waste bag is inserted into the container and placed over the opening, and therefore over the first seal, the waste bag is clamped and sealed in the closed position between the first seal, the second seal, and optionally means for securing the waste bag. This closes the waste bag with the lid mechanism, and the inside of the bag is in contact only with the lid mechanism (and the bag itself).

[0024] According to the present invention, two embodiments are preferred. In the first embodiment, the lid mechanism includes at least one input flap and an input funnel, the input funnel being positioned between the container and the input flap. A closing mechanism, which can close the container at the height of its opening, is preferably provided on the input funnel. The first embodiment is shown, for example, in Figures 1, 2, 3, 17, 27, and 18. In the second embodiment, the lid mechanism does not include an input funnel; instead, the input flap directly forms a lid for the container to some extent. The second embodiment is shown, for example, in Figures 12, 13, 14, 16, and 24-26. These embodiments are described in more detail below.

[0025] In the first embodiment, the lid mechanism includes at least one input funnel, optionally bearing a second seal at a tapered end (lower end facing the container opening), and an input flap, preferably airtight, at a wider end (upper end) that closes the input funnel. In this embodiment, the input funnel is preferably made of the same material as the container. The input flap closes the wider, generally upward-facing opening of the input funnel. The input flap is typically configured to be opened, preferably by user-device interaction, for example, by operating a button, a tread strip, or touching a control panel (touch screen). When the input flap is open, access to the inside of the input funnel and the opening of the container is usually permitted. Thus, if a waste bag is inserted, it can be filled. Furthermore, the input flap can be closed. When closed, the flap closes the wider, upward-facing opening of the input funnel, preferably in a way that blocks light. Therefore, a (fourth) seal is positioned on the loading flap, or on the corresponding opposite side, i.e., the wider opening of the filling funnel. The latter seal includes, within its range, a wider upward-facing opening of the loading funnel to ensure an airtight seal of the loading funnel by the loading flap. Preferably, the lid mechanism has a lock that interacts with the loading flap and is capable of reversibly holding the loading flap in a closed position. This ensures that the container is securely and firmly closed by the loading flap.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the input flap forms part of the upper end of the apparatus according to the present invention. Therefore, in this embodiment, the apparatus according to the present invention is a waste container that can be filled from above.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the lid mechanism includes an input funnel and, within the funnel, a closing mechanism, preferably a closing flap. With the input flap in the closed position, the closing mechanism, preferably the closing flap, is configured to essentially close the opening of the input funnel at the tapered end (lower end facing the container opening) of the input funnel. When a waste bag is inserted into the container, the container is covered as described below, and when the waste is mechanically compressed, the waste will be pushed into the input funnel. The closing mechanism can prevent this. Thus, the closing mechanism is closed before mechanical pressure; and, if necessary, the closing mechanism is always closed as soon as the input flap is closed. Locks are provided for the closing mechanism, preferably the closing flap, to mechanically reinforce the closing mechanism, preferably the closing flap, against mechanical pressure (which compresses the waste inside the container). These locks can prevent the closing mechanism from being pushed open by mechanical pressure.

[0028] In a second embodiment, the apparatus according to the present invention does not have an input funnel, but rather an input flap forms the direct lid of the container, and the input flap also carries a second seal. Thus, the input flap directly closes the opening of the container. Therefore, in this embodiment, the input flap preferably does not form part of the upper end of the apparatus according to the present invention. Rather, in this embodiment, the container is preferably extendable from the apparatus and in that case accessible for inputting waste. Thus, in this embodiment, the apparatus according to the present invention is, for example, a portable waste container, which can be filled by extending the container, which can be pushed under a table, and the container of the waste container comes out of the housing for filling.

[0029] According to the present invention, the lid mechanism has a suction opening, which is positioned on / inside the lid mechanism so that, in the closed position, a gaseous atmosphere can be at least partially extracted from the inside of a waste bag placed in a container by means for generating negative pressure. As described above, the lid mechanism is configured such that, in the closed position, the waste bag is clamped and sealed between a first seal, a second seal, and optionally means for securing the waste bag. Thus, the waste bag is closed by the lid mechanism, and the inside of the bag is in contact only with the lid mechanism (and the bag itself). As a result, the gaseous atmosphere (of the bag) can be extracted from the waste bag through the suction opening in the lid mechanism. The negative pressure required for this is made available by means for generating negative pressure, as further defined below. Preferably, a liquid sensor is provided in the lid mechanism adjacent to or inside the suction opening. The liquid sensor allows the suction process to be stopped to protect the components of the device from contamination when liquid passes or is extracted from the waste bag into the lid mechanism.

[0030] In an alternative embodiment in which the apparatus according to the present invention does not have an input funnel, but rather an input flap forms a lid and the input flap also carries a second seal, the suction opening is located on the input flap.

[0031] The apparatus according to the present invention also has means for generating compressed air. Suitable means, such as a pump or compressor, are known in the prior art. Preferably, the generated compressed air has a coefficient of at least 1.0 * 10 5 Overpressure of Pa (100 kPa, 1 bar), preferably at least 2.0 * 10 5 It has an overpressure of Pa (200 kPa, 2 bar). Compressed air can be used to introduce it into the container through the inlet opening, and for means to displace the bottom plate, insofar as those means are operated with the help of air, such as pneumatic cylinders or bellows.

[0032] The apparatus according to the present invention also has means for generating negative pressure. Suitable means, such as a vacuum pump, are known in the prior art. Preferably, the negative pressure that can be generated is at least 5.0 * 10 4 An absolute pressure of Pa (50 kPa, 500 mbar), preferably at least 2.0 * 10 4 The absolute pressure is Pa (20 kPa, 200 mbar). Therefore, the vacuum pump must be able to generate an absolute pressure of 500 mbar, preferably 200 mbar, inside the container, and thus inside the waste bag. The negative pressure is used to extract the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag. The apparatus preferably has a lid mechanism and suitable means, e.g., a negative pressure hose, to guide the negative pressure to the suction opening in the lid mechanism (e.g., in the input flap, especially if the input flap is directly positioned as the lid). Means for generating the negative pressure preferably include a filter, preferably a carbon filter, and / or a liquid sensor. The liquid sensor allows the suction process to be stopped to protect the components of the apparatus from contamination when liquid is extracted from the waste bag.

[0033] In one embodiment, the means for generating compressed air and the means for generating negative pressure are separate assemblies, e.g., a compressor and a separate vacuum pump. In a preferred embodiment, the means for generating compressed air and the means for generating negative pressure are implemented as means for generating compressed air and negative pressure, that is, combined to form an assembly of the apparatus according to the present invention. For example, the exhaust from a vacuum pump can be used directly as compressed air according to the present invention. Therefore, the means for generating compressed air and negative pressure is preferably a combined vacuum / compressed air pump. Suitable vacuum pumps that can also use exhaust directly as compressed air are known in the art, e.g., diaphragm pumps.

[0034] The apparatus according to the present invention also has means for heat-sealing waste bags placed in a container. These means can be positioned at the opening of the container and / or in the lid mechanism. Suitable means for heat-sealing plastic bags, such as waste bags made from PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), or PLA (polylactide), are known in the art. Heat-sealing is understood to be a process of permanently bonding plastic films by first heating them and then pressing them together under pressure. Typical means for heat-sealing are heating electrodes, in particular strip electrodes, which are known in the art and commercially available. Generally, Kanthal strips or wires are used. Depending on the process, a suitable welding temperature is used, in an approximate range of 80°C to 140°C, for example, about 80°C for thermoplastic materials such as PP and PE, and up to 140°C for PLA films. A suitable welding time is about 0.1 to 5 seconds, preferably about 0.5 to 3 seconds. Preferably, the welding is performed temperature-controlled, and the temperature control is determined by the electrical resistance of the Kanthal strip or wire, as known in the prior art. This ensures that the duration is sufficient for a complete and strong weld. Appropriate parameters for heat welding plastic films (such as the dimensions of the Kanthal strip or wire and the power supply) are known in the art. Preferably, the Kanthal strip or wire is coated with a PTFE layer to prevent the plastic film from solidifying. Means positioned at the opening of the container and / or in the lid mechanism are positioned so that, when the lid mechanism is in the closed position, they can close the waste bag stretched over the opening of the container and weld to the corresponding portion of the bag, for example, a folded flap or another portion of the bag if it is covering the opening. Preferably, the means for heat welding, in particular strip electrodes, are positioned at either the lid mechanism and / or the opening of the container, essentially parallel to the first and second seals. In this case, the means for heat welding are preferably positioned around the entire circumference of the opening of the container to ensure a complete seal of the waste bag.This can be achieved by means for heat sealing, particularly strip electrodes, which are positioned around the entire circumference (of the container opening) in each case, essentially parallel to the second seal in the lid mechanism, or essentially parallel to the first seal in the container opening. It is sufficient and preferable that the means are positioned together around the entire circumference of the container opening, i.e., that they ensure the entire circumference together, insofar as the means for heat sealing, particularly strip electrodes, are positioned partially substantially parallel to the second seal in the lid mechanism and partially essentially parallel to the first seal in the container opening. The full circumference is ensured by at least a small overlap of the opposing means, i.e., essentially parallel to the second seal in the lid mechanism on the one hand, and essentially parallel to the first seal in the container opening on the other hand. This ensures a complete seal of the waste bag. With respect to the first and second seals, the arrangement of the means for heat sealing, particularly strip electrodes, is preferably within the area covered by the seals.

[0035] The mobile device of the present invention is typically designed as a freestanding unit, that is, it comprises side panels and, optionally, a hinged cover including a feed flap. In one embodiment, when a trigger such as a foot pedal or push button is activated, the cover and / or feed flap pivot upward or to the side. Typically, portions of outer cladding are provided, particularly on the sides and rear, at least on the side components, and optionally on the rear of the device, to prevent access to the movable components and the technology, and to protect the technology.

[0036] The apparatus according to the present invention is designed as a mobile apparatus, that is, it includes means for moving the apparatus and does not have rigid feet or multiple feet. Rather, it is provided with means for moving the apparatus, preferably wheels, rollers or ball rollers, which allow the apparatus to move essentially horizontally on essentially flat surfaces. Suitable means for movement are known in the art and are commercially available. Where applicable, the means for movement can be brought into a stationary position and preferably retracted and / or folded. As a mobile unit, the apparatus may be provided with a mobile energy supply unit, such as a battery or most preferably a rechargeable battery. This maximizes the mobility of the apparatus while maintaining functionality.

[0037] Therefore, the apparatus according to the present invention can be advantageously used as a self-supporting waste container and, in some cases, can be moved to various locations, particularly in home, leisure, or workplace environments.

[0038] In one embodiment, the apparatus according to the present invention has means for separating the film from the opening of the container, and thus from another portion of the film covering the inserted waste bag. This type of means, for example, a cutting blade or tearing blade, preferably a cutting electrode, is known in the art. The cutting electrode is essentially the same electrode used for welding as described above, except that the film material is separated as a result of an increase in welding time and / or temperature. Typical temperatures are about 140°C to about 150°C over a time period of about 1.5 to 3 seconds.

[0039] The apparatus according to the present invention is suitable for use with various waste bags; preferably, heat-sealable plastic bags, such as waste bags made from polyolefins such as PE (polyethylene) and PP (polypropylene), and from polyesters such as PLA (polylactide), are used for the apparatus according to the present invention and in the method according to the present invention. Sealable plastic bags, in particular, sealable biopolymer / bioplastic bags made from biodegradable PLA films known in the art and commercially available (e.g., "Planova PLA50" by SUDPACK Verpackungen GmbH & Co.KG, Ochsenhausen, Germany), or renewable raw material-based 100% biodegradable biopolymer / bioplastic bags (e.g., Deiss Bioline of ecovio® by EMIL Deiss KG (GmbH+Co.), Hamburg, Germany) are used. Preferably, the raw materials of the waste bag film are compostable according to EN13432 and / or IN CERTCO / DIN CERTCO Plus.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus according to the present invention also has means for perforating the waste bag in the lid mechanism, particularly at the lower end of the input funnel, or in the input flap if the input flap directly functions as a lid for the container. These means are typically located within the area covered by the second seal, particularly in the portion of the input flap / funnel facing the container, so as to enable perforation within the area covered by the second seal. These means are also typically located outside the surface covered by means for heat sealing. According to the present invention, as soon as the waste bag stretched over the opening of the container is closed by the corresponding portion of the bag, for example, the folded flap of the bag or, if another portion of the bag is covered over the opening, the waste bag is mechanically pressed to compress the waste bag, and / or compressed air is forced into the container, and / or a gaseous atmosphere is drawn out from inside the bag. However, since the waste bag is already closed by pressing a corresponding part of the bag, for example, a folded flap or another part of the bag, against it, covering the container opening with that flap or another part, and by the lid and second seal in the closed position, air can no longer escape from inside the bag. For this reason, the means for puncturing the waste bag creates a defined “exit opening” in the waste bag, preferably in a cover, i.e., for example, in the folded flap or another part of the bag. Suitable means for puncturing the waste bag are, for example, one or more spikes or cutting blades. The means for puncturing the waste bag can preferably be used in a controlled manner, i.e., rather than being permanently activated, preferably electrically activated. Examples include one or more electrically extendable spikes or one or more electrically extendable blades, which then retract. This is activated before the pressing or extraction process. The subsequent retraction of the means has the advantage of reducing the risk of damage when replacing the waste bag. In a preferred embodiment, means for puncturing the waste bag are positioned within or near the suction opening, or puncture through the suction opening.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus according to the present invention includes means for securing a waste bag cover. Before the waste bag is removed or welded, a corresponding portion of the bag, e.g., a folded flap or another portion of the bag, is placed over the container opening. To prevent this portion, referred to here as the cover, from slipping, the apparatus according to the present invention includes means for securing the waste bag cover, typically one or more clamps or clamp strips. These are preferably located on the front side of the container, for example, below the container opening. Preferably, the means for securing the waste bag cover, typically one or more clamps or clamp strips, interact with spikes for securing the waste bag cover. The spikes are also, for example, located on the front side of the container, below the container opening. Preferably, similarly, safety switches are provided on the front side of the container, for example, below the container opening, and these safety switches are arranged to interact with the waste bag cover and are triggered, for example, by contact with the cover. Thus, the safety switches allow for confirmation as to whether the waste bag cover is properly positioned. Only in the latter case shall the welding or detachment process be performed.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus according to the present invention also has means in the lid mechanism, preferably in the input flap, for irradiating the inside of the container with UV light (380-100 nm), particularly UV-C light (280-100 nm). Irradiating the waste with UV light, particularly UV-C light, reduces and inactivates harmful microorganisms, thus reducing putrefaction and other metabolic processes and reducing odor formation. Suitable lighting for generating UV light, particularly UV-C light, is known in the art, for example, UV LEDs. The lid mechanism also preferably includes a protective mechanism for the means for irradiating the inside of the container, particularly when not in use, preferably in the input flap. A suitable protective mechanism is, for example, a dimming or shielding unit rotatably or pivotably mounted on the UV lamp. In a particular embodiment, during mechanical pressing of the waste bag, the input flap functions as a back pressure surface. Therefore, the protective mechanism is preferably configured to move in front of the means for irradiating the inside of the container, for example, to deploy or remain deployed, and to fold during irradiation, preferably only during irradiation, so as to open the beam path into the inside of the container. In this case, a closing mechanism that directly covers the container opening can be left open. The deployed protective mechanism preferably forms an essentially plane with the lid side facing the container, i.e., preferably the underside of the loading flap. The protective mechanism can avoid both contamination and damage to the irradiating means, especially during pressing or when the loading flap is open.

[0043] The present invention further relates to a method for collecting and compressing waste, a) A process of removing a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from a waste bag containing waste, b) Simultaneously mechanically compressing the waste bags, and c) a step of subjecting the waste bag to external air pressure at the same time. Accordingly, according to the present invention, three means for reducing the waste volume are used. First, extraction of the gas atmosphere from the waste bag. Second, mechanical compression which serves to assist in the removal of the gas atmosphere and which, in particular, makes it possible to apply a higher pressure to the waste, since during extraction only a pressure of 1 bar (10 5 Pa) acts on the air column. Finally, third, applying compressed air to the outer surface of the waste bag. Thus, the third means allows pressing from "all directions". According to the present invention, these measures a), b) and c) are carried out simultaneously at least at one point during the method.

[0044] The pressures used in method steps a), b) and c) preferably correspond to the pressures presented for the device described above. Thus, in step a), preferably at least 5.0 * 10 4 Pa (50 kPa, 500 mbar) of absolute pressure, preferably at least 2.0 * 10 4 Pa (20 kPa, 200 mbar) of negative pressure of absolute pressure is generated. In step b), the waste bag is preferably subjected to a compression force of about 50 kPa to about 1000 kPa, more preferably about 100 kPa to about 800 kPa, particularly about 300 kPa to about 600 kPa. In step c), the waste bag is preferably subjected to an overpressure of at least 1.0 * 10 5 Pa (100 kPa, 1 bar), preferably at least 2.0 * 10 5 Pa (200 kPa, 2 bar) of compressed air of overpressure. The device according to the present invention is preferably configured to particularly promote these pressures for steps a), b) and c) simultaneously.

[0045] In the method according to the present invention, it is preferable that a further extraction of a first portion of the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag follows, that is, the step of mechanically compressing the waste bag without exposing the waste bag to compressed air, is preferably performed before steps a), b), and c), which involve simultaneous extraction, mechanical pressing, and exposing the waste bag to air pressure, i.e., before the step of extracting a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag containing the waste while simultaneously mechanically compressing the waste bag and exposing the waste bag to external air pressure. According to the present invention, the waste bag is preferably first mechanically compressed, then preferably further extracted, and then most preferably exposed to air pressure.

[0046] In the method according to the present invention, prior to the step of removing a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag containing the waste while simultaneously mechanically compressing the waste bag and subjecting the waste bag to external air pressure, the waste bag is preferably closed and sealed by pressing against a portion of the waste bag or another portion of the waste bag (sometimes simply referred to as a "portion") against that portion. Since no more air can escape from the waste bag, the cover is perforated at one point as described above. At that point, the gaseous atmosphere can escape through the perforation opening, and, if applicable, a portion of the gaseous atmosphere can be removed from the waste bag.

[0047] The present invention is followed by a process of sealing the waste bag by heat-sealing it to a cover, typically, preferably, while or immediately after removing a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag.

[0048] According to the present invention, as described in detail above, the apparatus according to the present invention is advantageously used in the method according to the present invention. Therefore, the method according to the present invention is carried out using the apparatus according to the present invention as described above. In particular, the movable bottom plate is displaceable relative to the side wall toward the lid in the closed position, thereby reducing the volume of the container and allowing the waste bag to be mechanically compressed. At this time, preferably while maintaining mechanical pressure by the bottom plate, a portion of the gaseous atmosphere is extracted from the waste bag containing the waste through the lid mechanism. Finally, compressed air provided by means for generating compressed air is preferably pushed through the inlet opening of the container, controlled, for example by an inlet valve, while maintaining the pressure by the bottom plate and / or maintaining the extraction, thereby further compressing the waste bag. This achieves maximum compression of the waste. Finally, the waste can be sealed in the waste bag and disposed of.

[0049] Next, the present invention will be explained using the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0050] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram of the apparatus according to the present invention, with the lid mechanism partially open. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the apparatus according to the present invention, with the container in an extended state. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of the two containers of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of the two containers of the apparatus according to the present invention, with the clamp frame in the open position. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of the rear side of the two containers of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a detailed diagram of the two containers of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of two containers of the apparatus according to the present invention, which have no side walls. [Figure 9] These are schematic diagrams of two containers for the apparatus according to the present invention, which lack side walls and a bottom plate. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram of two containers of the apparatus according to the present invention, in which the means for displacing the bottom plate is extended and the container has no side walls. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram of two containers of the apparatus according to the present invention, in which the bottom plate is absent, the means for displacing the bottom plate is extended, and the container has no side walls. [Figure 12] This is a schematic diagram of the two lids of the apparatus according to the present invention in an extended state. [Figure 13] This is a detailed view of the two lids of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a detailed view of the two covers of the apparatus according to the present invention, from the rear. [Figure 15] This is a top view of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 16] This is a diagram showing the AA cross-section as shown in Figure 15. [Figure 17] This figure shows the AA cross-section, as shown in Figure 15, for an alternative embodiment. [Figure 18] This is a detailed view B of the AA section shown in Figures 16 and 17. [Figure 19] Figures 16 and 17 show a detailed view C of section AA. [Figure 20] This is a detailed view B of the AA section shown in Figures 16 and 17. [Figure 21] Figures 16 and 17 show a detailed view C of section AA. [Figure 22] This is a detailed diagram of the two containers of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 23] This is a detailed diagram of the two containers of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 24] This is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in Figure 23 according to the present invention. [Figure 25] This is a detailed view of Figure 24. [Figure 26] This is a detailed view of Figure 24. [Figure 27]Three schematic diagrams of the apparatus according to the present invention, showing (A) the input flap closed, (B) the input flap open, and (C) the lid mechanism partially open. [Figure 28] This is a schematic diagram of the apparatus according to the present invention, with the container extended. [Figure 29] This figure shows a cross-section of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 30] These are detailed views A and B of Figure 29. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0051] Here, an apparatus (1) according to the present invention is shown in Figure 1, which incorporates a lid mechanism (7) with two input flaps (33) for two separate containers, a front cover, an operating element (integrated as a touch screen), and a skirt board, suitable for, for example, a movable, self-supporting waste container. The left cover is not shown, so here, means (31) for moving the apparatus, in the form of wheels, are visible. The apparatus is preferably designed so that the input flaps (33) open, for example, by tapping or touching the control panel, to open access to a container containing a waste bag for inserting waste. The input flaps (33) are opened using corresponding hinges, as shown in Figure 27B. The input flaps (33) can be closed again manually or automatically, for example, by tapping or touching the control panel.

[0052] Figure 2 shows the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, with the lid mechanism (7) partially open, and here it is designed as a self-supporting waste container made movable by means (31) for moving the apparatus, having a front cover and a skirt board. The cover plate can be opened together with the input flap (33) separately from the input funnel (32) (e.g., by a suitable hinge), thus allowing the input flap components to be separated, resulting in advantageous access to those components for service and cleaning.

[0053] Figure 3 shows the apparatus (1) according to the present invention shown in Figure 1. The intermediate portion, which includes the container unit, is shown extended by the side pull-out rails. The upper portion, which has an operating element including a lid mechanism, is shown in a folded state. The container unit includes two containers (2). In embodiments having an input flap (33), the intermediate portion can be extended, for example, to cover a waste bag for welding, to remove a welded waste bag, or to insert an empty waste bag into a container (2). In this embodiment, the waste bag is typically filled by opening the input flap (33) when the intermediate portion is retracted.

[0054] Figure 4 shows a detailed view of the container of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention. The container is essentially formed from side walls (3) and a container bottom (not shown here). Inside the container is a displaceable bottom plate (4). A first seal (5) is provided at the opening (6) of each container. A means for heat sealing (11) is designed as a strip electrode at the opening (6), however in this case only about one-third of the circumference of the opening (6). A corresponding electrode in the lid mechanism (see Figure 12), not shown here, completes the means for heat sealing (11) around the entire circumference of the opening. This ensures complete sealing of the waste bag during sealing. Alternatively, the strip electrode may be designed around the entire circumference of the container opening. A controller (11a) for the means for heat sealing provides the means for heat sealing (11) to the opening (6) or the lid mechanism (7). A seal (13) (also called the “third seal”) on the bottom plate, in the embodiments described in detail above, preferably seals the bottom plate (4) airtight against the side wall (3) at any position on the bottom plate to prevent dust from entering below the bottom plate (4). Thus, when the opening (6) of the container is closed, the opening is closed by the side wall (3) (which are also airtight) and sealed by either the bottom plate (4) or at least by the bottom of the container (18) (not shown here, see, for example, Figure 9). Compressed air can enter the interior of the container through the inlet opening (15) via a control inlet valve (16) for compressed air. This compressed air is used to compress the waste in the waste bag located inside the container (and above the bottom plate) when the lid mechanism is in the closed position and the waste bag is pressed against the first seal (5). If the seal (13) is designed to be airtight, the compressed air is introduced into the interior of the container above the bottom plate. Implemented herein as a clamp frame, the fixing means (17), shown in the closed state, surrounds the opening (6) on the outside, and the fixing means (17) can clamp the waste bag (not shown herein) and thus secure it to the container when the waste bag is inserted (when the clamp frame is open).The fixing means (17) exclusively and partially covers the first seal (5) at the end of the opening (6) shown in the foreground of the figure. In this area, the fixing means (17) according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention serves to form a perforation recess (25). When the clamp frame (17) is open, the inserted waste bag is clamped by the clamp frame over the first seal (5). Without the preferred perforation recess (25) formed by the clamp frame while covering the first seal (5), when the waste bag is covered for welding, the cover (part or another part of the waste bag) and the waste bag would be directly overlapping each other, and therefore it might not be possible to perforate only the cover by the perforation means (21), or selectively under certain circumstances. Thus, the perforation recess (25) protects the waste bag from the perforation means (21), and the perforation means can perforate only the cover to allow the gaseous atmosphere to be extracted and / or escape from inside the waste bag. This is explained in more detail in Figure 18.

[0055] Figure 5 shows a detailed view of the container (2) of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, corresponding to Figure 4, where only the fixing means (17), which is embodied as a clamp frame, is shown in the open state. In this state, a waste bag (not shown here) is inserted into the container through the opening (6).

[0056] Figure 6 shows a detailed view of the container (2) of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, from the rear side. The container (2) includes side walls (3) and a container bottom (not shown here) and has an opening (6). A fixing means (17), embodied here as a clamp frame and shown in the closed state, surrounds the opening (6) on the outside and, when a waste bag (not shown here) is inserted (when the clamp frame is open), clamps the waste bag and thus secures the waste bag to the container. To advantageously utilize the space within the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, means for generating compressed air (9), shown here as a compressor, and means for generating negative pressure (10), shown here as a vacuum pump, are located in the rear of the container, within the container unit of the apparatus. Alternatively, according to the present invention, both components, namely the means for generating compressed air (9), e.g., a compressor, and the means for generating negative pressure (10), e.g., a vacuum pump, can be realized in the form of a single component, e.g., a diaphragm pump, which can deliver both negative and positive pressure. Here, an activated carbon filter (19) is mounted above the vacuum pump. Below the compressor, a controller (11a) for the means of heat welding is located.

[0057] Figure 7 shows a detailed view of the interior of the container (2) of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention. The area of ​​the container (2) in which the waste bag can extend is defined by the side wall (3) and the displaceable bottom plate (4), shown here in the “rising” state. A first seal (5) and means for heat sealing (11) are provided at the opening (6) of the container. The seal at the bottom plate (13) seals the bottom plate (4) against the side wall (3) in an airtight manner, preferably preventing dust from entering at least below the bottom plate (4). The fixing means (17) covers the first seal (5) mainly in part at the end of the opening shown here in the foreground of the figure. In this area, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fixing means (17) also serves to form a perforation recess (25).

[0058] Figure 8 shows a detailed internal view of the container (2) of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention. The container is essentially formed from a side wall (3) (front side wall not shown) and a container bottom (18). Of the container (2), the area to which a waste bag can extend is defined by the side wall (3) and a displaceable bottom plate (4), shown here in the “down” state. A seal (13) in the bottom plate seals the bottom plate (4) to the side wall (3) in an airtight manner, preferably preventing dust from entering at least below the bottom plate (4). According to the present invention, means (14) for displacing the bottom plate are preferably capable of displacing the bottom plate (4) toward the lid and include both a propulsion element designed as an air bellows and a return element designed as a helical spring.

[0059] Figure 9 shows a detailed view of the interior of the container (2) of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, corresponding to Figure 8. The container is essentially formed from side walls (3) (front side wall not shown) and a container bottom (18). Compared with Figure 8, the bottom plate (4) is not shown. According to the present invention, the means (14) for displacing the bottom plate, shown here in the "downward" state, preferably includes both a propulsion element designed in this case as an air bellows and a return element designed in this case as a helical spring, which are connected by a holder and can displace the bottom plate (4) toward the lid.

[0060] Figure 10 shows a detailed view of the inside of the container of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, corresponding to Figure 8, in which a displaceable bottom plate (4) is in an "up" position by means (14) for displacing the bottom plate. According to the present invention, the means (14) for displacing the bottom plate preferably includes both a propulsion element, designed in this case as an air bellows, and a return element, designed in this case as a helical spring, which can displace the bottom plate (4) toward the lid. The return element is clamped in the "up" position, making it possible to reset the bottom plate, for example, after emptying the container, i.e., after removing the pressed and welded waste bag.

[0061] Figure 11 shows a detailed view of the inside of the container (2) of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, corresponding to Figure 10. The means (14) for displacing the bottom plate is shown in the "up" position, and the bottom plate is not shown.

[0062] Figure 12 shows a detail view of the lid mechanism (7) of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, which is extended by a pull-out rail (for example, for service). In the illustrated embodiment (described here as the second embodiment), the input flap is located directly above the container opening and functions as a rigid lid of the lid mechanism. When the container is retracted, the input funnel is absent. The lid mechanism (7) includes a second seal (8), which, in the closed position, interacts with a first seal (5) at the container opening (not shown here). A means for heat sealing (11) is designed as a strip electrode, but only over about two-thirds of the circumference of the opening. A corresponding electrode at the container opening (see, for example, Figure 4), not shown here, completes the means for heat sealing (11) around the entire circumference of the container opening. This ensures a complete seal of the waste bag during sealing. The atmosphere can be extracted from the waste bag through a suction opening (12).

[0063] Figure 13 shows a detailed view of the lid mechanism (7) of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention in an embodiment corresponding to Figure 12, shown here from below in the direction of the container. In the illustrated embodiment, the loading flap is directly above the container opening and there is no loading funnel. The lid mechanism (7) includes a second seal (8), which, in the closed position, interacts with a first seal (5) at the container opening (not shown here). A means for heat sealing (11) is designed as a strip electrode, but only over about two-thirds of the perimeter of the opening. An atmosphere can be drawn out of the waste bag through a suction opening (12). The suction opening (12) also houses a puncturing means (21). By folding a protective mechanism (20) aside during operation, an irradiation means, typically a UV lamp, can optically access the interior of the container. Thus, light from the UV lamp can reach the interior of the container as soon as the protective mechanism (20) is moved aside, for example, rotated or pushed. In the closed position, the protective mechanism (20) essentially forms a plane with the side of the lid mechanism (7) that is facing the container in the closed position.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, where the input flap is directly above the container opening and there is no input funnel, the lid mechanism (7) of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention remains retracted during normal operation of the apparatus, as shown in Figure 1. In this embodiment, to place waste into a waste bag, the container unit is normally extended as shown in Figure 3, and after the waste is placed inside, it is retracted again as shown in Figure 1. In the retracted state, the second seal (8) is normally lowered so that the second seal (8) interacts with the first seal (5) at the container opening in the closed position to seal the waste bag. In this way, unpleasant odors caused by the waste are avoided; in addition, after the container unit has retracted, the waste can be irradiated with UV light by means for irradiating the inside of the container. In one embodiment, each time the container unit is retracted after the waste has been placed inside, the waste is irradiated and / or some of the atmosphere is removed from the waste bag.

[0065] Figure 14 shows a detailed view of the lid mechanism (7) of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, shown here from above, in an embodiment where the input flap is directly above the container opening and there is no input funnel. Atmosphere can be extracted from the waste bag through the suction opening (12). The housing, which usually surrounds the suction opening, UV lamp (26) and protective mechanism (20), is not shown. The waste bag can be perforated through the suction opening (12) by a perforating means (21), shown here as a blade, thereby creating a semicircular cut area. In the case of the lid shown in the foreground, the UV lamp (26) and protective mechanism (20) are not visible; usually only the opening, which is covered by the protective mechanism (20), is shown.

[0066] Figure 15 shows a schematic view from above of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention in the embodiment of Figure 14, in order to show the location of the AA cross section shown in Figure 16.

[0067] Figure 16 shows a cross-section AA from Figure 15. It shows the lid mechanism (7) in an embodiment where the input flap is directly above the container opening and there is no input funnel, as well as the UV lamp (26) and protective mechanism (20), and the container opening. Here, a perforating means (21), shown as a blade, protrudes through the suction opening (12) and perforates part of the waste bag or another part covering the waste bag. This is described in more detail in Figures 18 and 20, and is shown in detail in area B of Figure 16. The side wall (13), clamp frame (17), and the opening of the container (2) are shown. The waste bag is also shown, as is part of the waste bag or another part covering the waste bag and thus extending to the container opening. This is described in more detail in Figures 18 to 21.

[0068] Figure 17 is a cross-section AA corresponding to Figure 16, but shows a cross-section AA in the (first) embodiment in which the lid mechanism (7) includes an input flap (33) and one input funnel (32) for each container. The input flap (33) closes the wider, upward-facing opening of the input funnel (32). When the input flap (33) is open, access to the inside of the input funnel (32) and the opening of the container is normally possible. Thus, once a waste bag is inserted, it can be filled into the waste bag. In the closed state as shown, the input flap (33) closes the opening of the input funnel (32) so as to block light by the (fourth) seal (36). The lid mechanism (7) also has a lock (37) that interacts with the input flap (33), making it possible to reversibly hold the input flap (33) in the closed state. This ensures that the container is securely and firmly closed by the input flap (33).

[0069] The lid mechanism (7) shown in Figure 17 includes an input funnel (32) and, within the funnel, a closing mechanism (34) according to a preferred embodiment. The closing mechanism (34) is configured to essentially close the opening of the input funnel at the tapered end (lower end facing the container opening) of the input funnel when the input flap (32) is closed, as shown in the figure. When a waste bag (23) is inserted into the container (3), the container is covered with the flap of the waste bag, or the other part (24) shown in Figure 17 as described above, and the waste is mechanically compressed, the waste will be pushed into the input funnel (32). The closing mechanism (34) prevents this. Thus, the closing mechanism (34) is closed before mechanical pressure; and, if applicable, the closing mechanism (34) is always closed as soon as the input flap (33) is closed. Preferably, a lock (35) is provided for the closing mechanism (34) (see Figure 29), which is formed from a closing flap, to reinforce it against mechanical pressure (which compresses the waste inside the container). These locks (35) can prevent the closing mechanism (34) from being pushed open by mechanical pressure.

[0070] In the embodiment shown in Figure 17, the inlet flap (33) also includes an irradiation means (26), typically a UV lamp, and a protective mechanism (20).

[0071] During operation, the protective mechanism (20) is folded to the side, allowing the irradiation means to optically access the inside of the container. Thus, as soon as the protective mechanism (20) is moved to the side, for example, rotated or pushed, the light from the UV lamp can reach the inside of the container and the closing mechanism (34) opens.

[0072] In Figure 17, the arrows indicate the path of the atmosphere as it is removed from the waste bag. In the shown embodiment, the atmosphere is drawn out through the suction gap (see Figure 18 in detail), through the suction opening (12), and through the filling funnel (32), which has an opening with a connection to means for generating negative pressure (lower left of the filling funnel (32) in Figure 17).

[0073] Figure 18 shows a more detailed view of detail area B in Figures 16 and 17 to illustrate the perforation and extraction process. Detail area B shows the upper edge of the container (2), which has a first seal (5) at the opening of the container. The lid mechanism (7) is shown in the closed position, and a second seal (8) in the lid mechanism interacts with the first seal (5) in this case via a portion of the clamp frame (17), which includes a corresponding further seal (17a) in the clamp frame. Means for heat welding (11) are positioned in the lid mechanism, which are designed here as strip electrodes. A waste bag (23) is shown inserted into the container and in contact with the side wall (3) inside the container. The waste bag is clamped over the opening of the container, and in particular over the first seal (5) at the opening of the container, by means for securing the waste bag (17), which are embodied here as a clamp frame. In detail area B, the clamp frame (17), which here includes an additional seal (17a) on the clamp frame, presses the waste bag (23) directly against the first seal (5) because the clamp frame (17) protrudes beyond the first seal (5). With respect to areas where the means for securing the waste bag (17) does not protrude beyond the first seal (5), as shown in and discussed in relation to Figure 4, the means for securing the waste bag (17) clamps the waste bag only over the first seal (5). To close the waste bag when the intended filling level is reached, according to the present invention, a portion of the waste bag, e.g., a flap, or preferably another portion (24) of the waste bag, e.g., from a continuous roll, must be placed over the container opening. This is usually done manually with the container unit pulled out, but there may also be corresponding means for automatically positioning the other portion of the waste bag, e.g., a flap, or preferably another portion (24) from a continuous roll, e.g. over the container opening. This is also done when the container unit is in the retracted position, as shown in Figure 1. After the container unit is inserted into the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, the lid mechanism is moved to the closed position as shown in Figure 18, and this insertion can be done or performed manually or automatically, for example by pressing a button.In this case, the second seal (8) of the lid mechanism is pressed against the clamp frame (17), which includes a corresponding additional seal (17a), and the corresponding additional seal (17a) is pressed against the first seal (5). With respect to the region where the clamp frame does not protrude beyond the first seal (5), as shown in and discussed in relation to Figure 4, the clamp frame clamps the waste bag only on the first seal (5). In this case, the second seal (8) of the lid mechanism is pressed directly against the first seal (5). In either case, the second seal (8) of the lid mechanism seals a portion of the waste bag, e.g., the flap of the waste bag, or preferably another portion (24), against the waste bag (23). In this position, the inside of the waste bag is airtightly sealed from the outside. However, this also means that in this state, the atmosphere cannot be extracted from the inside of the waste bag, or the atmosphere cannot escape from the inside of the waste bag when the waste bag is compressed. To enable this, a defined opening is created in the waste bag cover by the perforating means (24). A perforating recess (25) created by the clamp frame (17) by covering the first seal (5) allows for selective perforation of the waste bag cover portion, for example, the waste bag flap, or preferably another portion (24), as shown in Figure 18. Similarly, as shown in detail area B of Figure 18, the fixing means (17) according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention plays a role in forming the perforating recess (25). Without the preferred perforating recess (25) formed by the clamp frame while covering the first seal (5), when the waste bag is covered for welding, the cover (part or another part of the waste bag) and the waste bag would be directly overlapping each other, and therefore the cover alone could not be selectively perforated by the perforating means (21). Thus, the perforating recess (25) protects the waste bag from the perforating means (21), and the perforating means can perforate only the cover.After the perforation is performed, some of the atmosphere can be drawn out of the waste bag through the suction opening (12) as indicated by the arrow, or some of the atmosphere can escape from the waste bag during the compression of the waste bag, i.e., through the suction gap (22) that remains between the waste bag (23) and the covering portion of the waste bag, e.g., the flap of the waste bag, or preferably another portion (24).

[0074] Figure 19 shows in more detail area C of Figures 16 and 17, following the perforation and extraction process as shown in Figure 18. Area C of detail shows the upper edge of the container (2), having a first seal (5) at the opening of the container. The lid mechanism (7) is shown in the closed position, with a second seal (8) on the lid interacting with the first seal (5). Means for heat welding (11) are positioned in the container, here designed as strip electrodes. A waste bag (23) is inserted into the container and in contact with the side wall (3) inside the container. The waste bag is clamped over the container opening, particularly over the first seal (5) at the opening of the container, by means for securing the waste bag (17), here embodied as a clamp frame. To close the waste bag, according to the present invention, a portion of the waste bag, e.g. a flap, or preferably another portion (24) of the waste bag, e.g., from a continuous roll, must be placed over the container opening. Corresponding to Figure 18, the lid mechanism is in the closed position as shown in Figure 19. In this case, the second seal (8) of the lid mechanism is pressed against the first seal (5), and the second seal (8) of the lid mechanism seals a portion of the waste bag, such as the flap of the waste bag, or preferably another portion (24), to the waste bag (23). In this position, the inside of the waste bag is airtightly sealed from the periphery. A suction gap (22) remains between the waste bag (23) and the covering portion of the waste bag, such as the flap of the waste bag, or preferably another portion (24), between the welding means (11) and the corresponding opposing surface.

[0075] Figure 20 shows in more detail area B of Figures 16 and 17 with respect to the welding process. The lid mechanism is similarly shown in the closed position as shown in Figure 18, but is further lowered to allow welding of the waste bag. In this case, the lid mechanism is further displaced toward the upper edge of the container (2) having the first seal (5), followed by the second seal (8) in the lid, which in this case interacts with the first seal (5) via the portion of the clamp frame (17) that includes the corresponding further seal (17a). A means for heat welding (11), positioned in the lid mechanism and designed here as a strip electrode, is now placed directly on the corresponding opposite surfaces of the container opening, closing the suction gap (22) that is still present in Figure 18. Thus, the waste bag (23) inserted into the container comes into contact with a portion of the waste bag, e.g., a flap, or preferably another portion (24) of the waste bag, e.g., from a continuous roll, e.g., under the means for heat welding (11), and is welded to this portion, and thus sealed.

[0076] Figure 21 shows in more detail area B of Figures 16 and 17 with respect to the welding process. Compared to Figure 19, the lid is similarly in the closed position but has been lowered further to allow the welding of the waste bag. In this case, the lid mechanism is further displaced toward the upper edge of the container (2) having the first seal (5), followed by the second seal (8) in the lid, which in this case interacts with the first seal (5) via the portion of the clamp frame (17) that includes the corresponding further seal (17a). The means for heat welding (11), positioned on the container (2) and designed here as a strip electrode, is now in direct contact with the corresponding opposing surfaces of the lid mechanism, and the suction gap (22) still present in Figure 19 is closed. Thus, the waste bag (23) inserted into the container is in contact with the means for heat welding (11) and another portion (24) of the waste bag, e.g., a flap, or preferably, e.g., from a continuous roll, e.g., and is welded to this portion and thus sealed.

[0077] Figure 22 shows a detailed area corresponding to a second embodiment of the apparatus according to the present invention. The intermediate drawer portion, fixed by side drawer rails, is a container unit, which here comprises two containers, and includes a container unit shown in a drawer state with the front cover slightly folded. In the illustrated embodiment, means (11) for heat sealing are designed to be all around the opening of the container, which is preferred according to the present invention. In the container shown in the foreground, the opening of the container is covered by another portion (24) of a waste bag and is therefore shown in a closed state. The other portion (24) of the waste bag is supplied from a roll (30) (continuous roll) as shown in Figure 22, which stores several portions (24) of the waste bag that are supplied to cover the waste bag. The roll (30) is preferably located at the rear end of the container, i.e., at the end of the container far from the front cover. Therefore, as shown in Figure 22, the roll (30) is preferably positioned so that, according to the present invention, another portion (24) of the waste bag can be unrolled from the roll (30) and placed over the container opening in order to close the waste bag. The portion of the waste bag (24) can then be secured by means (27) for securing the waste bag cover, which are here designed as a foldable frame on the front side of the container. In this case, the means (27) for securing the waste bag cover of the portion of the waste bag (24) preferably presses against spikes (27a) for securing the waste bag cover. A means (29) for detachment, usually embodied here as a cutting electrode, is provided between the roll (30) and the container opening. Alternatively, the means (29) for detachment may be embodied as a tear edge. Preferably, a safety switch (28) is positioned to activate when the portion of the waste bag (24) is properly placed over the container opening. This arrangement allows the portion of the waste bag (24) that will close the waste bag to be secured by the means (27) for securing the waste bag cover as soon as it is placed over the opening of the container, and in that case, the safety switch (28) is activated when the portion (24) is properly placed over the opening of the container.Subsequently, the waste bag can be heat-sealed around its entire circumference at the opening of the container by means (11) and thus closed, and preferably, after the waste bag has been heat-sealed, a portion (24) can be separated from the roll (30) by means (29) for separating. Finally, after opening the means (27) for securing the cover and the means (17) for securing the waste bag, the heat-sealed waste bag can be removed from the container.

[0078] Figure 23 shows a detailed area of ​​a preferred apparatus according to the present invention, corresponding to Figure 22. In the container shown in the foreground, the opening of the container is covered by another portion (24) of the waste bag and is shown in a closed state. Compared to Figure 21, here the means (27) for securing the waste bag cover, designed as a foldable frame on the front of the container, is shown in a closed state. Thus the portion (24) of the waste bag is secured. In this case, the means (27) for securing the waste bag cover of the portion (24) of the waste bag preferably presses against a spike (27a) for securing the waste bag cover, activating a safety switch (28) (not shown here).

[0079] Figure 24 shows a cross-section of the apparatus according to the present invention in an embodiment corresponding to Figure 16. In the illustrated container, the opening of the container is covered by another portion (24) of the waste bag, and thus the inserted waste bag (23) is shown in a closed state. The other portion (24) of the waste bag is supplied from a roll (30) (continuous roll) as shown in the figure, which stores several portions (24) of the waste bag that are supplied to cover the waste bag. In the method according to the present invention, three means are used simultaneously to reduce the waste volume, the three means being: firstly, the extraction of the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag; secondly, mechanical compression which serves to assist in the removal of the gaseous atmosphere and, in particular, allows higher pressure to be applied to the waste; and finally, thirdly, the application of compressed air to the outer surface of the waste bag. The extraction of the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag, which generates negative pressure inside the waste bag, is shown in the figure as "A". Pressurization is indicated by an arrow marked "B". Pressurization is achieved by introducing compressed air into the container, here under the bottom plate. The compressed air flows through the seal of the bottom plate and acts on the waste bag, which is sealed against the lid. The force resulting from the lifting of the bottom plate provides mechanical pressure on the waste.

[0080] Figure 25 shows in more detail the area corresponding to Figure 18 with respect to the perforation and extraction and pneumatic application steps. The upper edge of the container is shown, the lid is in the closed position, and a second seal in the lid interacts with the first seal, in this case, via a portion of the clamp frame, which includes a corresponding further seal in the clamp frame (as in Figure 18). Means for heat welding (11) are positioned at the opening of the container, and are designed here as strip electrodes. A waste bag (23) is shown inserted into the container and in contact with the side walls (and bottom plate, not shown here) inside the container. The waste bag is clamped over the opening of the container by means for securing the waste bag, which are embodied here as a clamp frame. To close the waste bag when the intended filling level is reached, according to the present invention, a portion of the waste bag, e.g. a flap, or preferably another portion of the waste bag (24), e.g., from a continuous roll, is placed over the opening of the container. This is usually done manually with the container unit extended, but corresponding means can also be provided to automatically position, for example, another portion (24) from a continuous roll over the container opening. The other portion (24) of the waste bag is clamped by means (27) for securing the cover of the waste bag; the properly inserted portion (24) activates a safety switch (28). When the lid is in the closed position, the second seal of the lid mechanism is directly positioned over the first seal of the container (see Figure 18 in more detail). The seal of the lid mechanism and the seal of the container seal the other portion (24) against the waste bag (23). In this position, the inside of the waste bag is airtightly sealed from the outside. To allow the atmosphere to be extracted from inside the bag, a defined opening is created in the cover of the waste bag by a perforating means. After perforation, while the waste bag is being pressed, some of the atmosphere can be extracted from inside the waste bag through a suction opening in the lid, or some of the atmosphere can escape from inside the waste bag. The extraction of a gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag, which creates negative pressure inside the waste bag, is shown as "A" in the diagram. The pressurization is indicated by the arrow marked "B".Pressurization is achieved by introducing compressed air into the container, here under the bottom plate. The compressed air flows through the seal of the bottom plate and acts on the waste bag, which is sealed against the lid. The force resulting from the lifting of the bottom plate provides mechanical pressure on the waste.

[0081] Figure 26 shows a detailed area corresponding to Figure 25, at the other end of the container, corresponding to Figure 19. The upper edge of the container is shown. The lid mechanism is in the closed position, and the second seal in the lid mechanism is interacting with the first seal (as shown in Figure 19). Means for heat sealing (11) are positioned at the container opening, and are designed here as strip electrodes. A waste bag (23) is shown inserted into the container. The waste bag is clamped over the container opening by means for securing the waste bag (17), which are embodied here as a clamp frame. According to the preferred embodiment shown, with the container unit pulled out, another portion (24) of the waste bag is positioned over the container opening and the waste bag inserted into the container opening by a roll (30), normally manually, but there may also be corresponding means for automatically positioning the other portion (24) over the container opening. The seal of the lid mechanism and the seal of the container seal the other portion (24) against the waste bag (23). The extraction of a gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag, which generates negative pressure inside the waste bag, is shown as "A" in the figure. The pressurization is indicated by an arrow marked "B". After extraction, the waste bag is closed by welding to another part (24), which is then separated from the roll (30) by means for separating the other part (29), which is embodied here as a cutting electrode.

[0082] Figure 27 shows three figures of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, according to a first embodiment, which is suitable as, for example, a movable, self-supporting waste container, and is embodied having a loading flap (33) in a lid mechanism (7) for a (single) container, a front cover, an operating element (touch screen), and a skirt board. In Figure A, the loading flap (33) in the lid mechanism (7) is closed, and in Figure B, the loading flap (33) is open, and thus waste can be filled into the container. Figure C shows the apparatus in a partially open state, corresponding to Figure 2. By opening the cover plate together with the loading flap (33) and separately from the loading funnel (32), and thus separating the components of the loading funnel (32), advantageous access to the components for service and cleaning is obtained. In all three figures, the left side cover of the apparatus is not shown, so a means (31) for moving the apparatus, in the form of wheels, is visible. The device is preferably designed so that the input flap (33) opens, for example, by tapping or touching the control panel, to open access to a container containing a waste bag for inserting waste. The input flap (33) can be closed again manually or automatically, for example, by tapping or touching the control panel.

[0083] Figure 28 shows a diagram of the apparatus (1) according to the present invention, corresponding to Figure 27. The intermediate portion, including the container unit, is shown extended by side pull-out rails. Means for moving the apparatus (31), designed here as wheels for increased stability, are also located in the container unit, i.e., the extended intermediate portion including the container. The upper portion, having operating elements including a lid mechanism (7), is shown folded with the input flap (33) closed. In the illustrated container, the opening of the container is covered by another portion (24) of the waste bag and is therefore shown closed. The other portion (24) of the waste bag is supplied from a roll (continuous roll) as shown in Figure 22, which stores several portions (24) of the waste bag that are supplied to cover the waste bag. The roll is preferably located at the rear end of the container, i.e., at the end of the container, far from the front cover. Therefore, as shown in Figure 22, the roll (30) is preferably positioned so that, according to the present invention, another portion (24) of the waste bag can be unrolled from the roll and placed over the container opening in order to close the waste bag. The portion (24) of the waste bag can then be secured by means for securing the waste bag cover, which here is designed as a foldable frame on the front side of the container.

[0084] Figure 29 shows a cross-section of the apparatus according to the present invention in a second embodiment corresponding to Figure 17. The apparatus includes two containers, in the left container the base is lowered and the closing mechanism (34) is open, and in the right container the base is raised and the closing mechanism (34) is closed. The input flap (33) is open in the left container and closed in the right container. Detailed diagrams A and B are shown in Figure 30.

[0085] Figure 30 shows detail diagrams A and B of Figure 29. In detail diagram A on the left, the closure mechanism (34) is shown open with its wings folded into the input funnel (32), and the lock (35) of the closure mechanism is released. The waste bag (23) is inserted into the container (2). In detail diagram B on the right, the closure mechanism (34) in the input funnel (32) is shown closed, with the lock (35) of the closure mechanism securing the wings of the closure mechanism (34). The closure mechanism (34) prevents waste from being pushed out of the waste bag (23) and into the input funnel (32).

[0086] According to the present invention, a waste container is provided that is easy to operate and capable of collecting, storing, compressing to a high degree, and then disposing of relatively large amounts of waste cleanly. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 1 device 2 containers 3 side wall 4. Bottom Plate 5. First seal at the opening of the container 6. Opening of the container 7 Lid mechanism 8. Second seal in the lid mechanism 9. Means for generating compressed air 10 Means for generating negative pressure 11. Means for heat welding 11a Control unit for means of heat welding 12 Suction opening in the lid mechanism 13. Seal on the bottom plate 14 Means for displacing the bottom plate 15 Inlet opening to the container 16. Inlet valve for compressed air 17. Means for securing waste bags 17a Seals in means for securing waste bags 18 Bottom of container 19 Activated carbon filter 20 UV lamp protection mechanism 21 Perforation means 22 Suction gap 23 waste bags 24. The flap or another part of the waste bag. 25 Drilling recess 26 UV lamps 27 Means for securing the cover of a waste bag 27a Spikes for securing the cover of the waste bag 28 Safety switch 29 Means for separating another part 30 Rolls of separate pieces for covering waste bags 31 Means for moving the device 32 Insertion funnel 33 Input flap 34 Closing mechanism 35 Lock for closing mechanism 36. The fourth seal of the input flap 37 Locking the input flap

Claims

1. A mobile device (1) for collecting and compressing waste, a) A container (2) for receiving waste bags, comprising a side wall (3), a movable bottom plate (4) inside, and a first seal (5) at the opening (6), b) A lid mechanism (7) having a second seal (8), the lid mechanism (7) is The opening (6) of the container (2) can be opened so that it is accessible for inserting waste bags, and The lid mechanism (7) can be positioned in a closed position relative to the opening (6) of the container (2) so that the waste bag placed in the container (2) can be airtightly sealed to the lid mechanism (7) between the first seal (5) and the second seal (8), so that the lid mechanism (7) can reliably interact with the opening of the container (2). The lid mechanism is configured and arranged, c) Means for generating compressed air (9), d) Means (10) for generating negative pressure, e) When the lid mechanism is in the closed position, means (11) for heat-sealing the waste bag placed in the container (2), the means being positioned at the opening (6) of the container and / or the lid mechanism (7), f) Means (31) for moving the movable device (1), Includes, The lid mechanism (7) has a suction opening (12), which, when in the closed position, is positioned in the lid mechanism (7) so that a gaseous atmosphere can be partially extracted from inside the waste bag placed in the container (2) by means (10) for generating negative pressure, and the container (2) is airtight when the opening (6) is closed. The bottom plate (4) of the container is displaceable relative to the side wall (3) and, in the closed position, in the direction of the lid mechanism (7), and the device (1) has means (14) for displacing the bottom plate (4) relative to the side wall (3). The movable device is characterized in that the container (2) has an inlet opening (15) for compressed air, and the inlet opening can be supplied with compressed air provided by means (9) for generating compressed air, controlled by an inlet valve (16).

2. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein the lid mechanism (7) includes an input funnel (32), the input funnel optionally carrying a second seal (8) at a tapered end, an input flap (33) that preferably airtightly closes the input funnel (32) at a wider (upper) end, and optionally means (21) for puncturing a waste bag.

3. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the means (14) for displacing the bottom plate (4) is driven by compressed air provided by means (9) for generating compressed air.

4. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein compressed air used for means (14) to displace the bottom plate (4) can also be controlled by an inlet valve (16) to be guided to an inlet opening (15).

5. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the means (14) for displacing the bottom plate is operated by air pressure and preferably consists of one or more pneumatic cylinders or one or more pneumatic bellows.

6. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a means (10) for generating negative pressure, preferably a vacuum pump, is located in the lid mechanism (7).

7. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the means (10) for generating negative pressure includes a filter, preferably a carbon filter, and / or a liquid sensor.

8. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the lid mechanism (7) preferably has means for irradiating the inside of the container with UV light in the input flap (33).

9. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising means (17), preferably a clamp frame, for securing a waste bag to the opening (6) of a container.

10. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising means for moving the apparatus, preferably tires, rollers, or ball rollers.

11. A method for collecting and compressing waste, comprising the step of mechanically compressing a waste bag and subjecting the waste bag to external air pressure while simultaneously removing a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from a waste bag containing waste, wherein the apparatus (1) described in any one of claims 1 to 10 is used in the method.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, prior to the step of mechanically compressing only the waste bag and subjecting the waste bag to external air pressure simultaneously, a step of mechanically compressing only the waste bag is performed, and thereafter a further extraction of a first portion of the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag is performed.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, prior to the step of removing a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag containing the waste while simultaneously mechanically compressing the waste bag and subjecting the waste bag to external air pressure, the waste bag is closed by pressing against a portion of the bag or another portion of the waste bag, and a portion of the bag or another portion of the waste bag is perforated, and a portion of the gaseous atmosphere is removed from the waste bag through the perforated opening.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising the step of closing the waste bag by heat sealing during or after the extraction of a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag.

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