System for excitation of a tank, integrated with the cover, for heating pimw

Abstract

The invention relates to a waste decontamination apparatus (1), in particular for decontamination of PIMW, comprising a tank (10) extending along a longitudinal central axis (z) and intended to be supplied with waste (40) and comprising a cover (13), a grinding module (30) comprising a blade (31) disposed in the tank, a heating system (20) comprising at least one source module (21) configured to convey microwaves into the tank, characterized in that the at least one source module is positioned on the cover of the tank eccentrically with respect to the longitudinal central axis (z).

Description

[0001] “Tank excitation system integrated into the lid for heating DASRIs”

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of waste trivialization and particularly the treatment of Infectious Risk Healthcare Waste (DASRI). The present invention relates in particular to a disinfection system allowing the trivialization of DASRI.

[0004] STATE OF THE ART

[0005] There are waste disposal systems that allow the disinfection of waste stored in a tank. These systems include at least one microwave source module that heats the waste in a tank. For the disposal of DASRI, existing systems are combined with a waste shredding system.

[0006] For the disinfection of DASRI, it is important to take into account the propagation of microwaves in the tank. Indeed, the classic principle of propagation is based on the propagation of waves by reflections on the metal walls of the tank. The successive reflections ensure a more or less homogeneous distribution over the entire surface of the product to be heated. In order to obtain efficient heating and thus optimal disinfection in duration, the ratio of the reflected power to the power emitted by the source module, also called the reflection coefficient, is preferably well below 1. The trivialization system aims to maximize the power transmitted to the waste and to do this must limit the reflected power. The source modules used in the field of DASRI trivialization are generally positioned on the side of the tank in a radial manner as illustrated in Fig. 1 A.

[0007] Source modules typically include a microwave heating system. This system typically includes a high-voltage power supply, a microwave source magnetron capable of generating 900W (Watt) to 3kW (kilowatt) of power, and a transmission system, commonly referred to as a transition, for guiding the waves to an interface on the source module in contact with the side of the tank.

[0008] The positioning of the source module on the side of the tank allows diffusion with a high power transfer rate to the DASRI.

[0009] However, to use a power higher than those explained above, it is difficult to increase the power of the sources. Indeed, the cost of these sources increases with the desired power and would not allow to keep a waste trivialization system at reasonable prices. In addition to the cost, high-power sources are very rarely available. In addition, the grinding and agitation of the waste during heating deposits waste on the interface of the source module which is exposed to the full microwave power. Thus, the interface deteriorates much more quickly, and even more so with an increase in microwave power.

[0010] An object of the present invention is therefore to propose an improved solution for a device for treating DASRI biological waste, in particular allowing an increase in the microwave power transmitted to the DASRI waste.

[0011] Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings. It is understood that other advantages may be incorporated.

[0012] SUMMARY

[0013] To achieve this objective, according to a first aspect, there is provided a waste trivialization device, in particular waste from healthcare activities with infectious risks, comprising a tank, extending along a longitudinal central axis intended to be supplied with waste and comprising a cover, a waste crushing module comprising a blade arranged in the tank, a system for heating the waste by microwaves for the purpose of disinfecting it, comprising at least one microwave source module configured to convey microwaves into the tank.

[0014] The waste trivialization system is configured such that the at least one source module is positioned on the tank cover eccentrically relative to the longitudinal central axis.

[0015] Thus, the reflected power is minimized and the disinfection of the waste is optimal. The positioning on the tank lid ensures that the direction of propagation of the microwaves is oriented substantially in the longitudinal direction of the tank and not perpendicularly as presented in the prior art. This minimizes reflections on the walls of the tank and thus allows the microwaves to interact more directly with the waste present in the tank and therefore improves disinfection. In addition, during the process of trivializing DASRI, disinfection occurs in parallel with the grinding of the waste. The latter leads to the dispersion of portions of waste which can land on the interface and thus limit the effectiveness of disinfection.The position of the source module on the lid minimizes the number of projections that may be present on the interface, compared to a positioning of a source module on the side walls of the tank. The projected waste can in fact be more easily detached by the effect of gravity. In addition, even if there were projections present on the interface, the accessibility of this interface on the lid is improved, which allows easy cleaning for system maintenance.

[0016] This solution increases the power transmitted to the waste, resulting in better disinfection. The eccentric position relative to the longitudinal central axis on which the tank extends allows, according to studies carried out during the development of the invention, to reduce reflections as much as possible while allowing homogeneous diffusion of microwaves in the tank. In addition, this positioning opens up the possibility of using several sources of optimized positioning to increase the transmitted power while limiting the reflected power.

[0017] In order to provide an improved solution for a biological waste treatment device and increase the power transmitted to the waste, the person skilled in the art would have instead turned to a device in which the source module would be positioned laterally on the tank at the level of the DASRI, implying that the waste would stick to the interface during grinding as illustrated in Fig. 1 B. In addition, the source module would thus still be positioned on the side of the tank but at the level of the DASRI. The microwaves coming from the source, of the magnetron type for example, would propagate in a waveguide then in the tank via an interface thus allowing the disinfection of the waste by direct excitation of the product. However, according to this solution, the waste is then subjected to all the power on a small surface and thus quickly begins to combust, leading to potential destruction of the interface.Thus, this situation leads to a high risk of fire and to a mismatch of the circuit inducing an excess of reflected power on the one hand and a drop in incident power on the other.

[0018] Another aspect relates to a method for trivializing infectious risk healthcare waste capable of implementing the waste trivialization device according to the first aspect comprising:

[0019] - an introduction into a tank of infectious risk healthcare waste, the tank extending along a longitudinal central axis (z),

[0020] - a closure of a tank cover,

[0021] - crushing of the waste by a crushing module comprising a blade placed in the tank,

[0022] - disinfection of waste by a microwave heating system, comprising the routing of microwaves by at least one source module, through the cover of the tank and eccentrically relative to the longitudinal central axis of the tank.

[0023] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0024] The aims, objects, as well as the characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly from the detailed description of an embodiment thereof which is illustrated by the following accompanying drawings in which:

[0025] Figure 1A represents a DASRI trivialization system according to the prior art. Figure 1B represents a DASRI deposit on the interface of a DASRI trivialization system according to the prior art.

[0026] Figure 2 represents a DASRI trivialization system according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0027] Figure 3 represents a DASRI trivialization system according to a multi-source embodiment of the invention.

[0028] Figure 4A represents two source modules of a DASRI trivialization system, whose waveguides are positioned parallel to each other.

[0029] Figure 4B represents two source modules of a DASRI trivialization system, whose waveguides are positioned perpendicular to each other.

[0030] Figure 5 represents a DASRI trivialization system according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0031] Figures 6A to 10B represent the multi-source modes of possible embodiments of a DASRI trivialization system according to several embodiments of the invention.

[0032] Figures 1 1A to 11 C represent the propagation of the normalized E field in 2D.

[0033] Figures 12A and 12B represent possible multi-source configurations of a DASRI trivialization system, according to exemplary embodiments.

[0034] The drawings are given by way of example and are not limiting of the invention. They constitute schematic representations of principle intended to facilitate the understanding of the invention and are not necessarily to the scale of practical applications.

[0035] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Before commencing a detailed review of embodiments of the invention, optional features which may possibly be used in combination or alternatively are set out below.

[0037] In one example, the waste trivialization apparatus includes a plurality of source modules. The multiplication of sources allows for an increase in the transmitted power, where a single high-power source is not accessible. A plurality of sources also ensures continuity of service of the machine in the event of a source failure during waste trivialization.

[0038] According to one example, at least a portion of the source modules of the plurality of source modules, and preferably each source module, are each positioned eccentrically on the lid of the tank. The eccentric positioning of the sources on the lid results in better coupling between them and the waste while limiting the reflected power.

[0039] In one example, the at least one source module, and preferably each source module, includes a waveguide configured to route microwaves into the vessel.

[0040] Preferably, the waveguide is configured to route the microwaves into the tank in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis. Positioning in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis minimizes unnecessary reflected waves while improving coupling. The waveguide may be configured to route the microwaves into the tank in a direction oblique to the longitudinal central axis.

[0041] In one example, the waste trivialization device comprises at least three source modules.

[0042] According to one example, the waveguide of the at least one source module has an interface with the tank, this interface extending over its longest dimension in a main extension direction, and in which at least two adjacent interfaces of the plurality of source modules extend in main extension directions which, in projection onto the same plane, intersect.

[0043] According to one example, the main extension directions of the at least two adjacent interfaces define between them an intersection angle of between 45° and 120°. The positioning of the source modules relative to each other allows for a homogeneous distribution of reflections in the tank while limiting the coupling of reflected waves which would disturb the sources and thus reduce the transfer of power to the DASRI.

[0044] In one example, the device has at least two source modules with their interfaces whose main extension directions are perpendicular to each other. This positioning is preferred to avoid maximum coupling between the sources. In addition, the resulting field between several sources would be limited to the interface.

[0045] According to one example, each source module of the plurality of source modules having an interface with the tank, and the cover having a center, said interfaces are arranged radially around the center of the cover according to an angular interval substantially equal to 3607n, n being equal to the number of source modules of the plurality of source modules.

[0046] According to one example, the cover having a center, at least two source modules of the plurality of source modules are positioned on the cover so as to have a first distance greater than or equal to λ, preferably greater than or equal to 2λ between the center of the cover of the tank and the at least two source modules. The positioning of the at least two sources, eccentrically relative to the center of the tank and with an equal minimum distance on either side, allows for homogeneity of the treatment while avoiding coupling between the generators.

[0047] In one example, at least two source modules are positioned symmetrically relative to the center of the cover.

[0048] According to one example, and in particular when the apparatus comprises at least three source modules, at least two directly neighboring modules of the plurality of source modules are spaced apart by a distance D2 greater than λ / 4, preferably greater than λ / 2, preferably greater than λ. Said at least two modules are preferably then not arranged on either side of the center of the cover, in a direction passing through the center of the cover. The positioning of the at least two sources, with a minimum distance between two directly neighboring sources, allows for homogeneity of the treatment while avoiding coupling between the generators. According to one example, the at least one source module is positioned at a distance D3 greater than or equal to λ, preferably equal to 2λ, relative to a wall of the tank, in projection onto a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis.The positioning of the at least one module relative to the wall of the tank is dimensioned to allow homogeneity of the disinfection treatment in the tank while limiting the risk of generating electric arcs. According to one example, the interface of the at least one source module, and preferably each interface, extends in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal central direction. The positioning of the interfaces and therefore of the source modules on a cover substantially perpendicular to the z axis makes it possible to have a multiplicity of sources while minimizing reflections and without unwanted coupling phenomena.

[0049] According to one example, the cover having a center, the at least one source module is positioned on the cover of the tank so as to have a distance D1, between the center of the cover and the at least one module, this distance D1 being greater than or equal to Δ.

[0050] According to one example, the waste trivialization method may comprise introducing infectious risk healthcare waste into the tank, closing the tank lid, grinding the waste by the grinding module, disinfecting the waste by the microwave heating system, comprising the routing of microwaves by a plurality of source modules, through the tank lid and each positioned eccentrically on the tank lid. The use of several sources on the lid makes it possible to optimize waste trivialization.

[0051] In the remainder of the description, the term "on" does not necessarily mean "directly on". Thus, when it is indicated that a part or member A is supported "on" a part or member B, this does not mean that the parts or members A and B are necessarily in direct contact with each other. These parts or members A and B may be either in direct contact or be supported on each other by means of one or more other parts. The same applies to other expressions such as, for example, the expression "A acts on B", which may mean "A acts directly on B" or "A acts on B by means of one or more other parts".

[0052] In the following detailed description, terms such as "horizontal", "vertical", "longitudinal", "transverse", "upper", "lower", "top", "bottom", "front", "rear", "inside", "outside" may be used. These terms must be interpreted relatively in relation to the normal position of the waste disposal device and the normal position direction of use of the assembly. For example, the concept of "longitudinal" corresponds to the main extension direction (z) of the tank.

[0053] We will also use a reference whose back / front direction corresponds to the x axis, the transverse or right / left direction corresponds to the y axis and the longitudinal or down / up direction corresponds to the z axis.

[0054] In the context of the invention, each wavelength value corresponds to the wavelength of a wave propagating freely in the air. As is directly and unambiguously clear from the description, λ corresponds to the wavelength of the microwaves conveyed into the apparatus. A distance equal to λ is therefore understood as a distance equal to the distance traveled in the air by a wave, between two maxima of the oscillation of the wave.

[0055] The present invention relates to a waste trivialization device 1, in particular for trivializing infectious risk healthcare waste, also called DASRI. A waste trivialization device 1 will now be described with reference to Fig. 2.

[0056] A waste trivialization device 1 generally comprises a tank 10 which extends along a central longitudinal axis z and in which waste 40 can be placed. According to one example, the tank 10 extends longitudinally from a bottom 11 of the tank 10 along the z axis to a cover 13 and has a wall 12 of the tank 10. The tank 10 is preferably cylindrical. The tank 10 may be made of metal or any alloy compatible with the trivialization of waste. The trivialization comprises grinding and disinfecting the waste 40 present in the tank 10, and this at least partly simultaneously. An alloy compatible with the trivialization of waste is understood to mean any alloy allowing reflection of waves while limiting losses so as to disinfect the waste. The cover 13 preferably extends along a main extension plane (x,y) perpendicular to the z axis, and preferably horizontal. The cover 13 may be flat.Alternatively, it is possible to provide that the cover 13 is curved, and in particular convex above the tank 10.

[0057] In order to crush the waste 40, the general-purpose device 1 comprises a crushing module 30 associated with a blade 31. The crushing module 30 is configured to rotate the blade 31 along an axis of rotation and allow the crushing of the waste. The crushing module 30 and the blade 31 are preferably rigid enough to crush waste of various types, such as metal waste, fabrics, fluids or even plastic waste. The axis of rotation of the blade 31 is preferably positioned centered relative to the bottom 11 of the tank 10. According to one example, the axis of rotation of the blade 31 is parallel to, and preferably coincident with, the central longitudinal axis z. The grinding module 30 and the blade 31 can advantageously be positioned at the bottom 11 of the tank 10. The grinding module 30 is known from the prior art.

[0058] The trivialization device 1 also comprises a heating system 20. The heating system 20 allows the disinfection of the waste 40, and in particular by hyperfrequency electrothermal energy also called heating by dielectric losses.

[0059] To do this, the heating system 20 comprises at least one source module 21 which can be positioned on the tank 12. Preferably, the at least one source module 21 comprises a magnetron source 211 and an antenna 212 allowing the generation of microwaves.

[0060] The at least one source module 21 also comprises a waveguide 213 for guiding microwaves from the magnetron 211 and the antenna 212 to an interface 214 with the tank 12. A cross-section of the waveguide 213 may advantageously be parallel to its interface. A cross-section of the waveguide 213 may have the same dimensions as the interface 214.

[0061] The interface 214 is preferably positioned at the junction between the tank 10 and the waveguide 213. The interface 214 thus provides sealing between the tank 10 and the at least one source module 21. The interface 214 then makes it possible to limit, and preferably to avoid, damage to the components of the source module 21 by diffusion of steam due to the heating of the general-purpose device 1 or even the introduction of waste 40 into the waveguide 213. In addition, the interface 214 advantageously allows the microwaves coming from the magnetron source 211 to propagate into the tank 10 and thus allows the disinfection of the waste 40.

[0062] The at least one source module 21 is preferably connected to a power generator 22 in order to supply energy to the magnetron source 211.

[0063] According to an embodiment illustrated in Fig. 2, the heating system 20 is advantageously positioned at least in part on the cover 13 of the tank 10.

[0064] The at least one source module 21 can then extend parallel to the central longitudinal axis z on the cover 13. Preferably, the waveguide 213 extends parallel to the central longitudinal axis z on the cover 13. The interface 214 can thus be positioned on a plane substantially parallel, and preferably coincident, with the plane of the cover 13 of the tank 10, for example the horizontal plane (x, y). In the following, it is considered, without limitation and unless otherwise stated, that the cover 13 extends in the horizontal plane (x, y). As explained previously, since the grinding and disinfection are carried out simultaneously, the position of the interface 214 of the at least one module 21 on a non-vertical plane, and more particularly on a plane (x, y) parallel to the plane of the cover 13, makes it possible to greatly reduce the risk of deterioration of the interface 214.Indeed, there is less waste 40 which comes into contact with the cover 13 of the trivialization apparatus 1 during the grinding or stirring phase (only punctual impacts) and allows, by its arrangement, better cleaning between the cycles. Preferably, the interface 214 extends over its longest dimension in a main extension direction in a plane (x,y) substantially parallel, and preferably coincident with the plane of the cover 13. For example, the main extension direction may correspond to the length of a rectangle formed by the interface 214. The interface 214 may extend in a plane (x,y) substantially parallel, and preferably coincident with the plane (x,y) of the cover 13.

[0065] According to this same embodiment, the interface 214, also called a sealing window, allows the diffusion of microwaves from the at least one source module 21 towards the interior of the tank 10. The microwaves then have a propagation direction oriented substantially in the longitudinal direction z of the tank 10. Thus, thanks to the positioning on the cover 13 of the tank 10, the at least one source module 21 will emit an incident wave K (illustrated in FIG. 3) which will preferably propagate directly towards the waste 40 present in the tank 10, thus promoting the disinfection of the waste 40.

[0066] According to one example, a part of the incident wave K will be directly absorbed by the waste 40 and another part may be reflected (as for example illustrated in Figure 3). The direction of propagation of the incident wave K preferably makes it possible to heat the waste 40 directly and thus makes it possible to obtain an optimal coupling factor and therefore a low reflection coefficient.

[0067] According to one example, the reflected wave '-r may come from the reflection of the incident wave K with the bottom 11 of the tank 10. According to one example, the reflected wave '-Pr may also come from the reflection of the incident wave K with the blade 31. The reflections may be desirable in order to obtain homogeneous disinfection, however the positioning on the cover 13 of the tank 10 makes it possible to have a low reflected power Pr in the waveguide 213 of the at least one module 21 and makes it possible to require little or no impedance matching of the circuit. In addition, the reflected wave '-r may be directly absorbed by the waste 40 to be heated.

[0068] According to this same embodiment, the at least one source module 21 can be positioned eccentrically relative to a center 131 (for example as illustrated in FIG. 5) of the cover 13. The eccentric positioning of the at least one module 21 allows for better homogeneity of diffusion of the waves in the tank 10. This positioning also makes it possible to avoid reflections on the axis of rotation of the blade 31. Similarly, the at least one source module 21 has a first distance D1, between the center 131 of the cover 13 of the tank 10 and the at least one module 21. This first distance D1 can be greater than or equal to λ, preferably greater than or equal to 2λ. Advantageously, the center 131 of the cover 13 is positioned at the intersection of the plane (x,y) of the cover 13 and the central longitudinal axis z.

[0069] When we speak of the distance of the source module 21 in relation to an element of the cover or between source modules, we mean respectively the shortest distance taken between the element of the cover and an edge of the source module, and more particularly an edge of its interface, and the shortest distance taken edge to edge between two source modules, and more particularly the edges of their interfaces.

[0070] According to one embodiment, illustrated in Fig. 3, the apparatus comprises a plurality of source modules. The plurality of source modules 21 makes it possible to increase the power transmitted to the waste 40. Since disinfection is usually limited in power by the available magnetron sources 211, this embodiment according to the invention makes it possible to multiply the number of magnetron sources 211 and therefore to improve the effectiveness of the disinfection, for example in terms of time. In addition, the multiplication of magnetron sources 211 makes it possible to increase the availability rate of the equipment. Thus, if a malfunction of a magnetron source 211 is observed, disinfection of the waste 40 can continue in degraded mode. In the following, it is considered, without limitation, that the apparatus comprises several source modules 21.

[0071] For example, the source modules 21 a, 21 b, 21 c, 21 d may extend parallel to the central longitudinal axis z on the cover 13 of the tank 10.

[0072] Preferably, the positioning of the plurality of source modules 21 on the cover 13 of the tank 10 is configured to promote homogeneity of the treatment while minimizing undesirable couplings. Indeed, the multiplication of the source modules 21 involves a multiplication of incident waves K which will then heat the waste 40 present in the tank 10 more quickly but also produce more reflections l'r. It is therefore advantageous to optimize the positioning of the plurality of source modules 21 in order to avoid undesirable couplings and electric arcs which could create a malfunction of the waste trivialization apparatus 1. Orientation of the interfaces.

[0073] Each source module 21 may comprise an interface 214. The orientation of the interfaces 214 relative to each other between several source modules 21, and preferably between each source module 21, may help to limit the sum of the resulting electric fields E present at the interface 214. The addition of these electric fields E may increase the risk of coupling and result in electric arcs for the magnetron source 211 or the materials of the interface 214. In addition, the orientation of the interfaces 214 relative to each other makes it possible to limit the coupling of reflected waves which may disturb the magnetron source 211. According to an example, illustrated in FIG. 4A, two source modules 21 a, 21 b are positioned parallel to each other. In the same way, the two interfaces 214 are thus positioned parallel to each other.This parallel positioning can cause the propagation of reflected waves M^ in the waveguides 213. This leads to an increase in the amplitude of the standing wave and undesirable coupling in the source modules 21 limiting the effectiveness of the disinfection.

[0074] According to an example, illustrated in FIG. 4B, two source modules 21 a and 21 b are positioned perpendicular to each other. In the same way, the two interfaces 214 are thus preferably positioned perpendicular to each other. Thus, the amplitudes of the electric field E at the interfaces 214 can be perpendicular to each other and can make it possible to limit undesirable couplings.

[0075] Preferably, the incident wave K propagates in the waveguide 213 in a propagation direction Si, as illustrated for the source modules 21 a and 21 b. After reflection in the tank 10, the reflected wave MJ rpropagates in the waveguide 213 following a propagation direction Sr, as illustrated for the source modules 21 a and 21 b. A non-parallel positioning makes it possible to limit the coupling of the reflected waves MJ r between source modules 21 which could disturb the magnetron source 211 and which would also reduce the power transfer to the DASRI. Preferably, a perpendicular positioning of the interfaces 214 represents the optimal orientation in the case of two source modules 21 in order to limit the coupling.

[0076] Optimal positions of source modules 21 a, 21 b, 21 c, 21 d.

[0077] The preferred positions and orientations of the interface 214 of a source module 21 or of the interfaces 214 of a plurality 21 a, 21 b, 21 c, 21 d of source modules 21 will now be described with reference to FIG. 5 to FIG. 10B.

[0078] According to one example, the source modules 21, and more particularly their interfaces 214, are distributed at regular angular intervals around the center 131 of the cover, and preferably at regular angular intervals all around the center 131 of the cover. This promotes the homogeneity of the treatment of the waste 40.

[0079] According to one example, at least two adjacent interfaces 214 of the plurality 21 a, 21 b, 21 c, 21 d of source modules 21 extend along at least two main extension directions which intersect, in projection onto the same plane (x, y). Equivalently, at least two adjacent interfaces 214 are oriented along directions which are at least oblique to each other, and preferably perpendicular. Adjacent interfaces correspond to nearest neighboring interfaces 214. Equivalently, at least two adjacent interfaces 214 are oriented along directions which are not parallel to each other. According to one example, these arrangements correspond to the arrangement of the cross-sections of the waveguides, in particular when the cover 13 is curved. In the following, these cases are referred to indiscriminately as relative arrangement between several source modules 21.

[0080] The at least two adjacent interfaces 214 may, for example, according to each of their main transverse directions, define between them an intersection angle of between 45° and 120° (illustrated in FIG. 12B), preferably this intersection angle is equal to 90°. This thus makes it possible to maximize the power absorbed by the waste 40. Two interfaces 214 are adjacent if there are no other interfaces 214 between them. Two adjacent interfaces may in particular be at least two interfaces 214 positioned side by side on the same circle which would have as its center the center 131 of the cover 13. In a similar manner, two interfaces 214 may be adjacent if there are no other interfaces 214 between them and if they are positioned at the same distance from the center 131 of the cover 13.

[0081] Preferably, each of the source modules 21 is positioned eccentrically relative to the center 131 of the cover 13 of the tank 10. Preferably, each of the source modules 21 is arranged at a first distance D1 (illustrated in FIG. 12A) with the center 131 of the cover 13. This thus allows better coupling between the plurality of source modules 21 and the waste 40, and to avoid reflections on the center of the blade 31.

[0082] According to one example, Figure 5 illustrates an example of optimal positioning of a single source module 21 on the cover 13 of the tank 10.

[0083] According to one example, Figure 6A and Figure 6B illustrate the optimal positioning of two source modules 21 a, 21 b. The two source modules 21 a and 21 b are preferably positioned perpendicular to each other. Preferably, they are positioned on either side of the center 131 of the cover 13 of the tank 10, in order to improve the homogeneity of treatment of the waste 40. The source module 21 a can thus be positioned at a second distance D2, called isolation, from the source module 21 b making it possible to limit the effects of the coupling. Thus, according to the example illustrated in Figure 6A, the second distance D2 is preferably equal to twice the first distance D1. The second distance D2 can then be greater than or equal to 2A. In addition, the two source modules 21 a and 21 b are each preferably positioned at a third distance D3 relative to the wall 12 of the tank 10, or equivalently relative to an edge of the cover 13.The third distance D3 may be greater than or equal to Å, preferably it may be equal to 2Å.

[0084] According to one example, Figure 7A and Figure 7B illustrate a preferred positioning of three source modules 21a, 21b and 21c. As for the two-module example, the three source modules are preferably positioned at the third distance D3 from the wall 12 of the tank 10, or equivalently from an edge of the cover 13.

[0085] In addition, when the apparatus comprises at least three source modules 21, at least two directly neighboring source modules 21, preferably each directly neighboring source module 21 a, 21 b and 21 c, are spaced apart by the second isolation distance D2. The second distance D2 may correspond to the smallest distance between two modules. Thus, the second distance D2 may be greater than λ / 4, preferably it may be greater than λ / 2, preferably greater than λ. According to an example, as illustrated in FIG. 12A, two neighboring source modules 21 may be positioned on a straight line intersecting these at least two source modules 21 and the center 131 of the cover 13 of the tank 10, these at least two source modules 21 being positioned on the same side relative to the center 131, and spaced apart by the distance D2.

[0086] According to this example, the main extension dimensions of the interfaces 214 of the source modules 21 may extend radially around the center 131 of the cover 13. According to this example, the main extension dimensions of the interfaces 214 of the source modules 21 define intersection angles of 60° between them.

[0087] The first, second and third distances D1, D2 and D3 can be applied for any positioning of a plurality of source modules 21.

[0088] Thus, according to one example, Figure 8A and Figure 8B illustrate another preferred positioning of three source modules 21 a, 21 b and 21 c in which the main extension dimensions of the interfaces 214 of the source modules 21 extend perpendicular to a radial direction starting from the center 131 of the cover 13.

[0089] According to another example, Figure 9A and Figure 9B illustrate a preferred positioning of four source modules 21 a, 21 b, 21 c and 21 d, in which the main extension dimensions of the interfaces 214 of the source modules 21 extend perpendicular to a radial direction starting from the center 131 of the cover 13. According to this example, the source modules 21 are arranged perpendicular to each other.

[0090] According to another example, Figure 10A and Figure 10B illustrate another optimal positioning of four source modules 21a, 21b, 21c and 21d, in which the main extension dimensions of the interfaces 214 of the source modules 21 extend radially around the center 131 of the cover 13. According to this example, the source modules 21 are arranged perpendicular to each other.

[0091] A particularly advantageous objective of the invention being to optimize the power absorbed by the waste 40, Figures 11A to 11C illustrate the distribution of the propagation of the field E of the microwaves along a longitudinal section in the tank 10, as a function of the number of modules 21 according to several of the preferred positions described above. The reflected power measured in these configurations is thus less than or equal to 10%, preferably less than 5%.

[0092] According to one example, Figures 12A and 12B describe by way of example several locations and relative arrangements of the source modules 21 and / or interfaces 214 on the cover 13. These arrangements are not limiting. By way of example, the first, second, third distances, D1, D2, D3 are represented therein as well as an angular interval 9 between two neighboring modules 21 / interface 214.

[0093] According to one example, the interfaces 214 are arranged radially around the center 131 of the cover 13. The interfaces 214 can then be arranged radially according to the angular interval θ. Similarly, the angular interval Q corresponds to the interval between at least two neighboring modules 21 or between at least two interfaces 214. The angular interval θ can then be equal to 3607n with n being equal to the number of source modules 21 of the plurality of source modules 21 or interface 214 present on the cover 13. Thus the angular interval θ between two source modules 21 for three source modules 21 present on the cover 13 can be equal to 120°. Similarly, the angular interval θ between two source modules 21 for four source modules 21 present on the cover 13 can be equal to 90°. It is understood that the apparatus 1 comprises at least one group of source modules 21 according to this distribution.Additional source modules to this group can be arranged differently.

[0094] Thus, when these positioning and orientation arrangements are made, there may be no impedance matching or the presence of an isolating device, making the device 1 more affordable.

[0095] Procedure for starting up the waste disposal device 1:

[0096] Thus, the method for trivializing waste 40 from infectious risk care activities using the waste trivialization device 1 comprises:

[0097] - an introduction into tank 10 of waste 40 from infectious risk care activities,

[0098] - a closure of the cover 13 of the tank 10,

[0099] - crushing of the waste 40 by the crushing module 30,

[0100] - disinfection of the waste 40 by the microwave heating system 20, comprising the routing of the microwaves by the at least one source module 21, through the cover 13 of the tank 10 and eccentrically relative to the longitudinal central axis z of the tank 10.

[0101] This same method can be carried out by a plurality of source modules 21, thus the last step of the method described previously becomes:

[0102] - disinfection of the waste 40 by the microwave heating system 20, comprising the routing of the microwaves by the plurality of source modules 21, through the cover 13 of the tank 10 and eccentrically relative to the longitudinal central axis z of the tank 10.

[0103] In one example, the crushing of waste is at least partly simultaneous with the disinfection of waste.

[0104] The invention is not limited to the embodiments previously described and extends to all embodiments covered by the invention. Many other variant embodiments are possible, for example by combining previously described characteristics, without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, many other relative arrangements of the source modules are conceivable, without departing from the scope of the invention. Preferred positions have been described above but many others can be provided. In addition, the characteristics described in relation to one aspect of the invention can be combined with another aspect of the invention. DIGITAL REFERENCES

[0105] I: Waste trivialization device

[0106] 10: Tank

[0107] II: Tank bottom

[0108] 12: Tank wall

[0109] 13: Cover

[0110] 131: Center of the cover

[0111] 20: Heating system

[0112] 21: source module

[0113] 211: Magnetron Source / Magnetron

[0114] 212: Antenna

[0115] 213: Waveguide

[0116] 214: Interface (sealing window)

[0117] 22: Power generator

[0118] 30: Grinding module

[0119] 31: blade

[0120] 40: waste

[0121] D1: first distance

[0122] D2: second distance, called isolation

[0123] D3: third distance z: central longitudinal axis

[0124] MJi: Incident wave

[0125] Pi: Incident power

[0126] If: direction of propagation of the incident wave

[0127] MJr: Reflected wave

[0128] Pr: Reflected power

[0129] Sr: direction of propagation of the reflected wave

[0130] MJa: Absorbed wave

[0131] Pa: Absorbed power

[0132] E: Maximum electric field at the interface

[0133] X: Wavelength in free propagation in air, approximately 0.12 m

[0134] 9: angular interval

Claims

Claims 1. Waste disposal device (1), in particular waste from healthcare activities with infectious risks, comprising: - a tank (10), extending along a longitudinal central axis (z), intended to be supplied with waste (40) and comprising a cover (13), - a waste crushing module (30) comprising a blade (31) arranged in the tank (10), - a microwave heating system (20) for waste (40) for disinfection, comprising at least one microwave source module (21) configured to convey microwaves into the tank (10), the at least one source module (21) is positioned on the cover (13) of the tank (10) eccentrically relative to the longitudinal central axis (z), characterized in that the at least one source module (21) comprises a waveguide (213) and in which the waveguide (213) is configured to convey the microwaves into the tank (10) in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis (z).

2. Waste trivialization apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the waste trivialization apparatus (1) comprises a plurality of source modules (21) each positioned eccentrically on the cover (13) of the tank (10).

3. Waste trivialization apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the waveguide (213) of the at least one source module (21) has an interface (214) with the tank (10), this interface (214) extending over its longest dimension in a main direction of extension, and in which at least two adjacent interfaces (214) of the plurality of source modules (21) extend in main directions of extension which, in projection onto the same plane, intersect.

4. Waste trivialization apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the apparatus (1) has at least two source modules (21) having their interfaces (214) whose main extension directions are perpendicular to each other.

5. Waste trivialization apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, each source module (21) of the plurality of source modules (21) having an interface (214) with the tank (10), and the cover (13) having a center (131), said interfaces (214) are arranged radially around the center (131) of the cover (13) according to an angular interval (0) equal to 3607n, n being equal to the number of source modules (21) of the plurality of source modules (21).

6. Waste trivialization apparatus (1) according to claims 2 to 5, in which at least two directly neighboring modules (21), of the plurality of source modules (21), are spaced apart by a distance D2 greater than λ / 4, preferably greater than λ / 2, preferably greater than λ, λ being a wavelength in free propagation in the air of the microwaves intended to be conveyed into the tank (10).

7. Waste trivialization apparatus (1) according to any one of the claims previous, in which, the cover (13) having a center (131), the at least one source module (21) is positioned on the cover (13) of the tank (10) so as to have a distance D1 between the center (131) of the cover (13) and the at least one module (21), this distance D1 being greater than or equal to λ, λ being a wavelength in free propagation in the air of the microwaves intended to be conveyed into the tank (10).

8. Waste trivialization apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the at least one source module (21) is positioned at a distance D3 greater than or equal to Δ, preferably equal to 2Δ from a wall (12) of the tank (10), in projection onto a plane (x,y) substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis (z), Δ being a wavelength in free propagation in the air of the microwaves intended to be conveyed into the tank (10).

9. Waste trivialization apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which, the waveguide (213) of the at least one source module (21) having an interface (214) with the tank (10), the interface (214) of the at least one source module (21) extends in a plane (x,y) perpendicular to the longitudinal central direction (z).

10. Method for trivializing infectious risk healthcare waste implemented by the waste trivialization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising: - an introduction into a tank (10) of infectious risk healthcare waste, the tank extending along a longitudinal central axis (z), a closing of a cover (13) of the tank (10), - grinding of the waste (40) by a grinding module (30) comprising a blade (31) arranged in the tank (10), - disinfection of the waste (40) by a microwave heating system (20), comprising the routing of the microwaves by at least one source module, through the cover (13) of the tank (10) and eccentrically relative to the longitudinal central axis (z) of the tank (10).

11. Method for trivializing waste according to the preceding claim, in which the disinfection of the waste (40) by the routing of microwaves is carried out by a plurality of source modules (21) each positioned eccentrically on the cover (13) of the tank (10).

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