Apparatus for melting snow

Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus for melting snow. The apparatus comprises a snow-collecting container having side walls, a bottom wall and a cover, wherein these walls delimit a collecting chamber of the snow-collecting container. The device further comprises a water reservoir having a heating device in order to heat water in the water reservoir, a travel device for moving the apparatus, and a snow-receiving device which is communicatively connected to the snow-collecting container such that snow is automatically supplied from the snow-receiving device to the collecting chamber of the snow-collecting container. One or more spray nozzles are provided in the collecting chamber of the snow-collecting container, which spray nozzles are connected to the water reservoir via a line such that heated water is sprayed onto the snow by means of the spray nozzles.

Description

[0001] Device for melting snow

[0002] The invention relates to a device for melting snow.

[0003] Snow melting devices are generally known. They are used to melt snow, allowing it to be disposed of in the form of liquid water.

[0004] Snow melting machines come in a wide range of sizes. There are smaller snow melting machines for private use or smaller businesses, which have a volume that can be filled with a snow shovel. On the other hand, there are very large snow melting machines, which have a volume that can be filled with a shovel loader. The latter are used at airports, for example.

[0005] For example, WO 2008 / 137928 A2 discloses a portable or towable snow melting machine. This snow melting machine has two separate tanks. A first tank is a discharge tank into which snow is poured. A second tank is a melting tank in which a heat exchanger is arranged. The heat exchanger is heated by a burner powered by a fuel. In a first step, snow is introduced into the discharge tank, and water is poured into the melting tank. The water in the melting tank is heated by the heat exchanger and fed from above into the discharge tank to melt the snow. The discharge tank has drain pipes through which meltwater can be discharged. At the same time, a return system is provided that directs some of the meltwater back into the melting tank, where it is reheated. The snow melting machine is dimensioned so that it can be loaded using a shovel loader.It forms a trailer that can be towed by a truck.

[0006] AT 102020 B shows a snow melting machine in which snow is piled into a funnel-shaped snow container. The snow container is in contact with a furnace, and combustion gases are fed into the furnace via a burner. The burner is powered by a liquid fuel, such as crude oil. The combustion gases are forced into the snow by a fan to melt it. The meltwater is discharged via gutters. In addition, heated cooling water from the burner is used and sprayed into the snow to promote melting. The snow melting machine is dimensioned so that it can be filled by one person. It is mounted on skids for easy movement.

[0007] DE 10 2014 009 279 A1 features a melting chamber for snow with a snow chamber and a flow area for hot gases. The snow chamber and the flow area are permanently separated, so that only the heat from the gases is transferred to the snow. The melting chamber also features a drainage area for the meltwater.

[0008] US 2017 114 511 A1 describes a melting device for melting snow. The melting device has a manually movable carriage with a storage space for snow. A heating device is provided for melting the snow. The heating device comprises a pipe that runs along the inside of the storage space and can be filled with hot water. Furthermore, a stirring device is provided in the storage space for stirring the snow. The melting device is dimensioned so that it can be filled by one person. It is mounted on wheels so that it can be pulled by one person.

[0009] US Pat. No. 3,106,792 A relates to a snow melting machine for melting snow. The snow melting machine is a truck equipped with a snow blower for automatically collecting snow from a road. The snow is transferred from the snow blower directly into the cargo compartment of the truck. There, the snow is first melted, and the resulting water is evaporated in a boiler. The steam is then released into the atmosphere.

[0010] AT 17 924 U1 discloses a device for melting snow. The device can be manually moved on rollers or runners. The device has a snow collection container that can be filled by one person. The walls of the collection container are equipped with a heating wire, which heats the walls. The heated walls melt the snow in the collection container.

[0011] US 4,071,966 A shows a snow melting machine for collecting snow from a road and melting the collected snow. The snow melting machine is designed as a truck and includes a snow collection device that automatically loads snow from the road into a collection chamber on the truck's bed. Several nozzles are arranged in the collection chamber, emitting hot steam to melt the snow.

[0012] WO 2016 196 468 A describes a device for removing frozen material. The device is designed as an autonomous vehicle. The device comprises a suction device with which snow is automatically transported into an on-board container. The on-board container can contain devices that use hot gas or hot liquids to melt the snow. The present invention is based on the object of providing a device for melting snow with which snow can be melted in a simple and rapid manner.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a snow melting device with which snow can be melted in an energy-efficient manner.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a snow melting device that is compact and manually movable.

[0015] One or more of the objects are achieved by a snow-melting device as defined in independent claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the snow-melting device are specified in the dependent subclaims.

[0016] According to the present invention, there is provided a device for melting snow, comprising

[0017] - a snow collection container with side walls, a bottom wall and a lid, these walls defining a collecting space of the snow collection container,

[0018] - a water storage tank with a heating device to heat water in the water storage tank, and

[0019] - a driving device for moving the device, wherein the driving device is designed for manually moving the device.

[0020] The device is characterized by the provision of a snow collection device that is communicatively connected to the snow collection container such that snow is automatically fed from the snow collection device to the collecting chamber of the snow collection container. One or more spray nozzles are provided in the collecting chamber of the snow collection container, which are connected to the water reservoir via a line, so that heated water is sprayed onto the snow by means of the spray nozzles.

[0021] The device is designed to be handled and operated by one person. This means that the device is sized to allow it to be handled by one person. Snow is fed into the collecting chamber of the snow collection container. Warm water is sprayed onto the snow to melt it. The resulting meltwater can be easily disposed of or reused for other purposes.

[0022] This allows snow to be disposed of easily and efficiently and does not take up space if, for example, it is instead gathered into a pile.

[0023] By using spray nozzles, the warm water can be sprayed onto the snow in a directed manner. The warm water can be sprayed onto the snow from above and / or from the sides. Directed spraying of the water onto the snow allows for a targeted and efficient heat input into the snow. This eliminates the need to heat the walls of the snow collection container, and little heat is lost to the environment. The heat is transferred almost exclusively to the melting snow, making the device highly energy-efficient.

[0024] In conventional snow melting machines, for example, the side walls and / or the floor walls are heated using heating wires to heat the interior. This is intended to melt the snow inside. As the walls heat up, heat is radiated outwards and lost to the environment. With the device according to the invention, a comparable amount of snow can be melted with less energy than with a conventional snow melting machine. With a conventional snow melting machine, energy loss could be kept low by making the walls thermally insulating on the outside. However, the walls would then be comparatively more expensive to produce and would be thicker, which would either increase the size of the machine or reduce the collection space.

[0025] The device is designed to be movable by means of the carriage. This should make it comfortable for the user to handle. For this purpose, it is advantageous if the walls can be made lightweight. A less heavy device can be moved more easily by the user. At the same time, the carriage requires less drive force to move the device.

[0026] With the snow collection device, which communicates with the snow collection container, snow is automatically fed from the snow collection device into the collection chamber of the snow collection container. This makes using the device even more convenient, as the snow does not have to be manually poured into the collection chamber of the snow collection container using a snow shovel.

[0027] The invention thus provides a snow-melting device that is so compact that it can be handled by one person. Warm water from the spray nozzles melts the snow easily and efficiently. The combined transport mechanism and snow-collecting device make the device very easy to handle.

[0028] The one or more spray nozzles may be provided in one or more of the side walls and / or in the bottom wall and / or in the lid.

[0029] Only one spray nozzle can be provided in one of the side walls and / or in the base wall and / or in the lid. Multiple spray nozzles can also be provided in one of the side walls and / or in the base wall and / or in the lid. If multiple spray nozzles are provided in one of the side walls and / or in the base wall and / or in the lid, they can be arranged next to one another along a line in the respective wall or can be offset from one another as desired.

[0030] If multiple spray nozzles are installed, the snow can be melted more quickly. This increases the throughput of melted snow. However, the available water in the water tank must also be heated more quickly.

[0031] Preferably, at least one spray nozzle is provided in the lid. This sprays the snow from above with warm water, and the warm water, along with the melted water, transfers its energy to the remaining snow as it runs down. This ensures that the energy of the warm water is particularly effectively transferred into the snow.

[0032] If multiple spray nozzles are provided, a line can be provided from the water reservoir toward the collecting chamber of the snow collection tank, which then branches off into several secondary lines. The secondary lines then lead to the respective spray nozzles.

[0033] The travel device can comprise rollers arranged on an underside of the base wall so that the device is designed to be manually movable.

[0034] The wheels can be profiled wheels or wheels with integrated or attached snow chains.

[0035] Manual movement of the device allows it to be moved by pushing or pulling. This allows the device to be easily pushed on flat or sloping surfaces, saving energy.

[0036] The driving device can have a drive unit with which the rollers arranged on the underside of the base wall can be driven, so that the device is designed to be automatically movable. The drive unit comprises a motor, in particular an electric motor or an internal combustion engine, to generate a driving force and transmit it to the rollers. The driving device is preferably designed such that it can drive the snow-melting device at walking speed and is provided with a handle or handlebar with which the direction of movement of the device can be controlled, so that a user can move and steer the device manually.

[0037] An automatically movable device provides support for the user, making it easier to move the device uphill or on uneven ground.

[0038] The device can be easily moved using the driving device and thus, for example, loaded onto a trailer to transport it to a more distant location. The device can comprise a handle by means of which the device can be pushed manually. The device can comprise a handle on which a control device is arranged, by means of which the drive unit can be switched on and off and by means of which the level of drive force on the rollers can be controlled. The drive unit is preferably designed such that it does not prevent manual movement.

[0039] The control device may include an additional button with which the snow collection device can be switched on and off.

[0040] Preferably, it is provided that, depending on the conditions of the subsurface, it is possible to switch between a manual process and an automatic process of the device.

[0041] At least one heating wire or heating rod can be provided on or in the water tank as the heating device. The heating device can comprise a gas combustion chamber arranged adjacent to the water tank and connected to it in a heat-conducting manner. The gas combustion chamber can comprise a connection for gas, preferably from a gas cylinder, wherein the connection has a valve for regulating the gas flow. Furthermore, the gas combustion chamber can comprise a gas line leading from the connection into the gas combustion chamber and a gas combustion device for igniting the gas in the gas combustion chamber, thereby heating the gas combustion chamber.

[0042] The gas combustion chamber may be provided with at least one opening through which air can enter the gas combustion chamber. This allows oxygen to enter the gas combustion chamber via the air to keep the gas burning.

[0043] The heating device heats the water in the water tank. The water in the water tank can be heated solely by the at least one heating wire or heating rod, or solely by the gas combustion chamber. It is also possible for the water in the water tank to be heated simultaneously by the at least one heating wire or heating rod and the gas combustion chamber. A combination of these two methods ensures particularly fast and efficient water heating.

[0044] If a gas combustion chamber is provided as a heating device, it can be adjacent to the water tank and connected to it in a heat-conducting manner. In this context, "adjacent and heat-conducting" can mean that the gas combustion chamber and the water tank are adjacent to each other in such a way that at least part of their outer walls touch. This allows for efficient heat transfer from the gas combustion chamber to the water tank.

[0045] It can also be provided that at least one through-hole is provided that connects the gas combustion chamber and the water reservoir. Hot gas or a hot gas mixture can flow from the gas combustion chamber into the water reservoir through this through-hole. This allows heat to be directly transferred to the water in the water reservoir, heating it efficiently. The through-hole is advantageously positioned so that, as far as possible, no water can escape from the water reservoir through the through-hole.

[0046] In principle, it can also be provided that only the gas combustion chamber has at least one through-opening. The through-opening is preferably directed toward the water reservoir. Hot gas or a hot gas mixture can reach the outer wall of the water reservoir through the through-opening and heat it.

[0047] The water tank or the walls of the water tank are preferably made of a material that provides good heat insulation.

[0048] The heating device can be connected to a power supply or an accumulator, so that the at least one heating wire or heating rod can be heated by means of electricity, wherein the heating device preferably has a control device, wherein the control device can control the heating intensity of the at least one heating wire or heating rod and / or a volume flow of the gas to the gas combustion chamber.

[0049] This makes the device very easy to use, as only access to the power supply is required to operate the device. A battery pack is advantageous because it eliminates the need for a cable to run to the device, which can get in the way.

[0050] Using a control device for the heating device, for example, the heating intensity of the at least one heating wire or heating rod, or the volumetric flow of gas to the gas combustion chamber, can be set to a maximum at the beginning in order to quickly heat the water reservoir. This allows heated water to be quickly provided for melting. Subsequently, the heating intensity of the at least one heating wire or heating rod, or the volumetric flow of gas, can then simply be reduced if heated water is only needed to a lesser extent.

[0051] The control device can also be used to activate the gas burner. This can be done by triggering an ignition spark. The control device can be provided with a button on the handle with which the gas burner can be activated.

[0052] A pump can be provided which pumps the water from the water reservoir via the line to the at least one spray nozzle. It can be provided that the pumping power of the pump can be controlled. A corresponding control device can be provided on the pump. It can also be provided that the control device on the handle comprises a button with which the pump can be switched on and off. A connection for supplying water before use of the device and for draining water after use of the device can be provided on the water reservoir. The connection can also be used to rinse the water reservoir for cleaning.

[0053] The snow collection device may comprise a snow blower device for collecting snow and a pipe for feeding the snow from the snow blower into the collecting space of the snow collection container. The snow collection device may comprise a suction device for sucking in snow and a pipe for feeding the snow from the suction device into the collecting space of the snow collection container. The snow collection device may comprise a sweeping device for gathering snow and a pipe for feeding the snow from the sweeping device into the collecting space of the snow collection container.

[0054] The snow collection device includes all the technical features to drive a device that collects the snow in such a way that it is transported via the pipe into the collecting space of the snow collection container.

[0055] Furthermore, the snow collecting device can comprise a control device with which the device which collects the snow in this way can be switched on and off.

[0056] The snow collection device may comprise a height adjustment device so that the respective device for collecting snow can be varied in height depending on the thickness of the snow cover in front of it.

[0057] The snow collection system can be designed modularly so that the individual elements of the snow collection system, such as the respective snow collection device and the pipe, can be easily removed and disassembled. This allows the snow collection system to be stored in a space-saving manner. A lid can be provided to cover an opening on the snow collection container, which serves as a docking point for the pipe, once the pipe is removed.

[0058] The collecting chamber of the snow collection tank can be connected to the water tank via a pipe so that part of the melted water in the water tank can be heated.

[0059] This allows some of the water accumulating in the snow collection tank's collection chamber to be immediately reused, ensuring there is always sufficient water in the water reservoir. A two-way valve can be installed in the pipe to control whether water flows into the water reservoir or out. If the water reservoir is full, more water can flow out. The device can have a water collection tank connected to the snow collection tank's collection chamber by a pipe, so that melted water is collected in the water collection tank.

[0060] The water collection tank can be connected to the water reservoir via a pipe. The water collection tank can be connected to the water reservoir via a two-way valve. The two-way valve can be used to control whether water flows from the snow collection tank's collection chamber into the water reservoir or directly into the water collection tank.

[0061] A filter can be installed at the junction between the collection chamber and the pipe leading to the water reservoir or water collection tank. This filters the water coming from the collection chamber, providing clean water to the water reservoir / water collection tank. This ensures that only clean water is heated in the water reservoir, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. Furthermore, this prevents the pump and the pipe leading to the spray nozzles from becoming dirty, enabling long-term operation. The filter can include a box for collecting dirt. The filter and / or the box can be removable.

[0062] A pump with an additional line can be provided on the water collection tank to transfer water from the water collection tank to the water reservoir.

[0063] The water collection tank may be made of a heat-insulating material.

[0064] At least one opening can be provided on the water collection tank and / or in one or more of the side walls and / or in the bottom wall in order to drain water, wherein in particular a valve is arranged at the at least one opening in order to open or close the opening and / or a filter is arranged at the at least one opening in order to filter the water.

[0065] An opening in one or more of the side walls and / or the bottom wall is necessary to drain the water created by melted snow. This prevents meltwater from accumulating in the snow collection container's collecting space and blocking the space for further snow.

[0066] The opening is large enough to drain the accumulating water even at maximum heating power of the heater and maximum water flow at the spray nozzles. The opening is preferably designed with an extension element. This can be a hose, for example. This allows the draining water to be directed to a location where it can drain easily. If the opening can be opened or closed, the amount of draining water can be regulated. A filter can be provided to filter out any pollutant particles from the water and then dispose of them separately.

[0067] The side walls, the bottom wall and / or the lid of the snow collection container and / or the water reservoir can be made of a heat-insulating material.

[0068] The walls are preferably made largely of a heat-insulating material. This heat-insulating material can be, for example, Styrofoam, foam, or another heat-insulating material. This type of insulation ensures that the heat contained in the snow collection container does not escape unnecessarily to the outside and be lost there.

[0069] The collection space of the snow collection container can have a volume of at least 0.5 m 3 or at least 1 m 3 or at least 1.5 m 3 or at least 2 m 3 or at least 2.5 m 3 or at least 3 m 3 and / or a volume of maximum 6 m 3 or a maximum of 5.5 m 3 or a maximum of 5 m 3 or a maximum of 4.5 m 3 or a maximum of 4 m 3 or a maximum of 3.5 m 3 have.

[0070] The volume of the collecting chamber is preferably designed such that, when the device is moved at walking speed by means of the snow collection device, the collecting chamber is filled with a quantity of snow that is also melted in the same time. This allows the device to be continuously moved forward at a steady pace, preventing the collecting chamber from becoming overfilled.

[0071] Windows can be provided in one or more of the side walls and / or the lid. These allow the interior of the collection chamber to be viewed and monitored.

[0072] One or more light sources can be provided on a side of the device facing in the direction of travel. These light sources can be used to illuminate an area in front of the device. This allows the device to be used even in the dark.

[0073] A sensor or switch can be provided adjacent to the lid of the device, ensuring that the snow collection device and / or the pump that supplies water from the water reservoir to the at least one spray nozzle are deactivated when the lid is opened. A display can be provided on the outside of the device to indicate whether the lid is open. The display can be configured to emit a visual or acoustic signal.

[0074] A sensor can be provided in or on the water reservoir and / or in or on the water collection tank, which can be used to check the water level in the water reservoir or the water collection tank. The sensor can be connected to an LED on the outside of the device, which indicates with color whether a predetermined fill level is present. A temperature gauge can be installed in the water reservoir. A display can be provided on the outside of the device, from which the temperature in the water reservoir can be read.

[0075] The handle can be equipped with control devices for all functions of the snow melting device. This can include the control device for switching the drive unit on and off, the control device for switching the snow collection device on and off, the control device for switching the heating device on and off, and / or the control device for switching the water tank pump on and off.

[0076] The invention is described in more detail below using an exemplary embodiment illustrated in the figure. The figures show:

[0077] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a device according to the invention for melting snow in a side view, in

[0078] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the device according to the invention for melting snow in a side view with a storage space arranged on the device, in

[0079] Figure 3 is a schematic representation of the device according to the invention for melting snow according to Figure 2 in a plan view, and in

[0080] Figure 4 is a schematic representation of the device according to the invention for melting snow in a plan view with a water collection basin arranged next to a water reservoir.

[0081] In the following, a device 1 according to the invention for melting snow is described in more detail using an exemplary embodiment (Figs. 1 to 4).

[0082] The device 1 comprises a snow collection container 2 with four side walls 3, a bottom wall 4 and a hinged lid 5. In a plan view of the lid 5, the snow collection container 2 is approximately square.

[0083] The side walls 3, the bottom wall 4 and the lid 5 define a collecting space 6 of the snow collecting container 2. The collecting space 6 is designed to collect snow.

[0084] The side walls 3, the base wall 4, and the lid 5 are made of a heat-insulating material, such as Styrofoam, foam, or another heat-insulating material. The side walls 3, the base wall 4, and the lid 5 can be coated on their sides facing the collecting chamber 6 with a material that conducts heat well. This can be aluminum, for example. If the collecting chamber 6 is lined with good heat conduction in this way, the heat in the collecting chamber 6 is distributed evenly throughout the volume of the collecting chamber 6.

[0085] The collecting chamber 6 of the snow collecting container 2 has a volume of at least 0.5 m 3 or at least 1 m 3 or at least 1.5 m 3 or at least 2 m 3 or at least 2.5 m 3 or at least 3 m 3 and / or a volume of maximum 6 m 3 or a maximum of 5.5 m 3 or a maximum of 5 m 3 or a maximum of 4.5 m 3 or a maximum of 4 m3 or a maximum of 3.5 m 3 on.

[0086] The collecting chamber 6, in turn, has four side walls 7, which are arranged closely spaced from the side walls 3 of the snow collecting container 2. Furthermore, the collecting chamber 6 has a bottom wall 8, which is arranged adjacent to and parallel to the bottom wall 4 of the snow collecting container 2.

[0087] The side walls 3 of the snow collecting container 2 project beyond the side walls 7 of the collecting space 6 in such a way that a free space 9 is formed between the bottom wall 8 of the collecting space 6 and the bottom wall 4 of the snow collecting container 2.

[0088] Adjacent to the collection chamber 6, a water reservoir 10 is located in the free space 9. The water reservoir 10 is enclosed by the side walls 3 and the bottom wall 4 of the snow collection container 2. The water reservoir 10 is designed to hold water.

[0089] The water reservoir 10 has a capacity of at least 20 liters or at least 25 liters or at least 30 liters or at least 35 liters or at least 40 liters or at least 45 liters and / or a capacity of a maximum of 75 liters or a maximum of 70 liters or a maximum of 65 liters or a maximum of 60 liters or a maximum of 55 liters or a maximum of 50 liters.

[0090] In the water storage tank 10, water is heated, which is used to melt the snow in the collecting chamber 6.

[0091] For this purpose, the water reservoir 10 has a heating device 11. The water reservoir 10 is made of a thermally insulating material.

[0092] The water tank 10 can be coated on its inside with a material that conducts heat well. This can be aluminum, for example. If the water tank 10 is lined in this way with good heat conduction, the heat contained in the water tank 10 is distributed evenly throughout the volume of the water tank 10. The heating device 11 comprises a gas combustion chamber 12. The gas combustion chamber 12 is arranged adjacent to the water tank 10 and is connected to it in a heat-conducting manner.

[0093] The gas combustion chamber 12 includes a connection 13 for gas, preferably from a gas cylinder (not shown). The connection 13 is accessible from outside the device 1.

[0094] The connection 13 has a valve 14 for regulating a gas flow through the connection 13.

[0095] The gas combustion chamber 12 further includes a gas line 15 leading from the connection 13 into the gas combustion chamber 12. The gas line 15 runs along a length of the gas combustion chamber 12 and has several holes through which gas flows into the gas combustion chamber 12. After the gas is ignited, small flames form at these holes, heating the gas combustion chamber 12.

[0096] To ignite the gas, the gas combustion chamber 12 comprises a gas combustion device 16. The gas combustion device 16 is arranged within the gas combustion chamber 12 in the region of the connection 13.

[0097] The gas combustion chamber 12 has at least one opening (not shown) through which air can enter the gas combustion chamber 12. The oxygen from the air ensures that the gas in the gas combustion chamber 12 is kept burning.

[0098] The heating device 11 has a control device accessible from outside the device 1, with which the gas combustion device 16 can be activated. The control device can be a push button with which an ignition spark is triggered.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment, the walls of the water reservoir 10 and / or the gas combustion chamber 12 are at least partially constructed from a heat-resistant material, such as steel. Since the gas combustion chamber 12, in particular, becomes very hot, this ensures that the gas combustion chamber 12 and the water reservoir 10 can withstand the heat.

[0100] The side walls 3, the bottom wall 4, and the lid 5 can be partially constructed of a heat-resistant material, such as steel, preferably on their sides facing the collecting chamber 6. Since the bottom wall 4, in particular, is located adjacent to the gas combustion chamber 12, this ensures that the bottom wall 4 can withstand the heat.

[0101] A pump 17 is provided on the outside of the snow collecting container 2.

[0102] The pump 17 is connected to the water reservoir 10 via a line 18. The line 18 runs from the water reservoir 10 through an opening in one of the side walls 3 to the pump 17. The pump 17 is located on the outside of the snow collection container 2 so that it can be operated from the outside. The pump 17 has a corresponding control device, such as a toggle switch, for this purpose.

[0103] From the pump 17, the line 18 runs through one of the side walls 3 back into the snow collecting container 2 and between one of the side walls 3 of the snow collecting container 2 and one of the side walls 7 of the collecting chamber 6 in the direction of the cover 5.

[0104] The line 18 is divided into several secondary lines 19, which run around the collecting space 6 at different heights.

[0105] Several spray nozzles 20 are arranged on each of the secondary lines 19, which point into the collecting chamber 6. By means of the spray nozzles 20, warm water is sprayed from the water reservoir 10 into the collecting chamber 6 in order to melt snow present there.

[0106] The line 18 has a connection 21 with a valve in the area before it reaches the pump 17. Water can be supplied to the water reservoir 10 via the connection 21 before the device 1 is used. Water can be drained from the water reservoir 10 via the connection 21 before the device 1 is used. The connection 21 can also be used to rinse the water reservoir 10 for cleaning.

[0107] A through-opening 22 is provided in the bottom wall 4 of the collecting chamber 6, adjacent to the water reservoir 10. Water flows out of the collecting chamber 6 through the through-opening 22. The bottom wall 4 is preferably slightly inclined so that the water flows toward the through-opening 22.

[0108] A box 23 is arranged on the side of the through opening 22 facing away from the collecting chamber 6. The box 23 is a substantially cuboid-shaped body and is firmly connected to the collecting chamber 6. The box 23 is open toward the collecting chamber 6.

[0109] The box 23 has a first opening with a first line 24 arranged thereon.

[0110] The first line 24 leads from the first opening of the box 23 to the water tank 10. Via the first line 24, water can be led from the collecting chamber 6 into the water tank 10 to be heated there.

[0111] The box 23 has a second opening with a second line 25 arranged thereon. The second line 25 leads from the second opening of the box 23 to a water collection tank 27. The water collection tank 27 is arranged adjacent to the bottom wall 4 of the snow collection container 2 on the outside of the device 1. The water collection tank 27 has a volume comparable to the water reservoir 10.

[0112] Water can be conducted from the collection chamber 6 into the water collection tank 27 via the second line 25. The water can be collected in the water collection tank 27 for drainage at a suitable location.

[0113] Box 23 has a connection 26 with a valve. Box 23 can be flushed through this connection 26. Connection 26 also allows the floor of the collection chamber 6 to be flushed with water.

[0114] The water collection tank 27 has an outlet 28 with a valve at its end opposite the second line 25. The water collection tank 27 can be arranged slightly inclined toward the outlet 28 so that the water flows toward the outlet 28. The water collection tank 27 is made of a thermally insulating material.

[0115] The pipes 24, 25 are arranged on the box 23 so that the water first fills the water reservoir 10. Once the water reservoir 10 is full, the water flows into the water collection tank 27.

[0116] An insert 29, which forms a filter, is provided in the box 23. The insert 29 has the same shape as the box 23 and is slightly smaller than the box 23. The insert 29 is also open toward the collecting chamber 6. The insert 29 can be removed from the box 23 via the collecting chamber 6. This allows it to be cleaned regularly.

[0117] All sides of the insert 29 are designed as filters. The insert 29 filters the water flowing from the collection chamber 6. The volume of the insert 29 serves as a collecting container for the filtrate.

[0118] A snow collecting device 31 is provided on a front side 30 of the snow collecting container 2.

[0119] The snow collecting device 31 has a snow blower device 32 adjacent to the bottom wall 4 of the snow collecting container 2.

[0120] The snow blower device 32 is connected to the front side 30 of the snow collection container 2 via a height-adjustable actuator 33. A control device is provided on the snow collection device 31, with which the snow blower device 32 can be switched on and off. The control device can be a toggle switch.

[0121] By means of the snow blower device 32, snow can be collected from a ground 34 and transported towards the collecting chamber 6 via a pipe 35 attached to the snow blower device 32.

[0122] The tube 35 is attached at one end to the snow blower device 32. At an opposite end, the tube 35 is connected to a through-opening 36 provided in the region of the cover 5 on the front side 30 of the snow collection container 2.

[0123] The through opening 36 leads into the collecting chamber 6, so that snow collected by the snow blower device 32 is introduced into the collecting chamber 6 via the pipe 35.

[0124] The snow collection device 31 comprises all technical features to drive the snow blower device 32, which collects the snow in such a way that it is transported by means of the pipe 35 into the collection space 6 of the snow collection container 2.

[0125] The tube 35 is constructed in several parts. The tube 35 can be easily separated from the through-opening 36 and from the snow blower device 32. The snow blower device 32 can also be easily removed from the front 30 of the device 1. This allows the snow collection device 31 to be stored in individual parts in the collection chamber 6.

[0126] A flap can be provided at the transition from the through-opening 36 to the collecting chamber 6. The flap opens whenever snow is transported from the snow blower device 32 into the collecting chamber 6. The pressure exerted by the snow on the flap is sufficient to move the flap into an open position. When no more snow is transported and, accordingly, no more pressure is exerted on the flap, the flap closes automatically. Because the through-opening 36 is not permanently open, heat loss from the collecting chamber 6 via the through-opening 36 is prevented.

[0127] In the area of ​​the bottom wall 4 of the snow collecting container 2, a driving device 37 is arranged on the device 1.

[0128] The driving device 37 comprises a drive unit 38 and two rollers 39. The drive unit 38 is arranged in the free space 9. The rollers 39 are attached to the floor wall 4 in the front area of ​​the device 1. The device 1 can be moved along the base 34 by means of the driving device 37. The drive unit 38 comprises a drive train (not shown) with which the rollers 39 are driven.

[0129] The drive unit 38 has a control device with which the drive unit 38 can be switched on and off and the drive force on the rollers 39 can be varied.

[0130] In a rear area of ​​the device 1, two additional rollers are attached to the bottom wall 4. These rollers are not driven and serve to stabilize the device 1.

[0131] In the area of ​​the lid 5, the device 1 has a handle 40 on a rear side 44. Using the handle 40, the device 1 can be held and easily steered.

[0132] A control device 41 is provided on the handle 40.

[0133] The control device 41 comprises a push-button or rotary knob and a movable lever. The knob allows the drive unit 38 to be switched on or off. The lever allows the level of drive force on the rollers 39 to be controlled in either a continuous or continuous manner. If the lever is set to the lowest level, the drive unit 38 remains switched on but is in idle mode. The control device 41 is connected to the drive unit 38 via appropriate lines.

[0134] The drive unit 38 is designed such that the device 1 can be pushed manually, even if the drive unit 38 is still switched on.

[0135] Furthermore, the control device 41 comprises control elements for the pump 17, for the gas burner 16 of the heating device 11, and for the snow blower 32 of the snow collection device 31. The pump 17 can be switched on and off using the control elements. The gas burner 16 of the heating device 11 can also be activated using the control elements. In addition, the snow blower 32 of the snow collection device 31 can be switched on and off using the control elements. The control device 41 is connected to the pump 17, the gas burner 16, and the snow blower 32 via corresponding lines.

[0136] Several light sources 42 are provided on the front side 30 of the device 1. The light sources 42 can be used to illuminate an area in front of the device 1.

[0137] A window (not shown) is provided in an upper area of ​​one of the side walls 3 of the snow collection container 2. The interior of the collection chamber 6 can be viewed and monitored through the window. Several light sources 43 are provided in the collection chamber 6 of the snow collection container 2, with which the collection chamber 6 can be illuminated.

[0138] The device 1 has a storage space 45 arranged on the rear side 44 of the device 1 (Figs. 2 to 4). The storage space 45 is a space delimited by wall elements and a door 46 (Figs. 3 and 4), which is removably arranged on the device 1. This storage space 45 preferably surrounds the pump 17. Furthermore, the storage space 45 preferably surrounds the connection 13 of the gas combustion chamber 12. This allows a gas cylinder to be connected and simultaneously stowed in the storage space 45. The electrical cables leading to the handle 40 also preferably lead into the storage space 45. In the storage space 45, all necessary elements, such as circuits and electrical lines, are preferably arranged which are necessary to controllably connect the individual devices, such as the pump 37, the snow blower device 32 of the snow collection device 31 and the drive unit 38 of the driving device 37 to the control device 41 on the handle 40.These elements are connected to the control device 41 on the handle 40.

[0139] In an alternative embodiment, the control device 41 is not arranged on the handle 40, but in or on the storage space 45. Preferably, the control device 41 is arranged on the outside of the storage space 45 so that it is easily accessible from the outside. It is provided that all necessary elements, such as circuits and electrical lines, required to control the individual devices, such as the pump 37, the snow blower device 32, the snow collection device 31, and the drive unit 38 of the driving device 37, are arranged in the storage space 45. These elements are connected to the control device 41 in or on the storage space 45.

[0140] In a further embodiment, the water collection tank 27 is not arranged externally on the bottom wall 4 of the device 1. The water collection tank 27 is arranged next to the water reservoir 10 in the free space 9. It is also provided that the heating device 11 is arranged only at one end of the water reservoir 10. The heating device 11 heats the water in this area of ​​the water reservoir 10, and the heat is distributed throughout the entire water volume of the water reservoir 10 by means of convection.

[0141] In a further embodiment, the heating device 11 is not a gas-fired heating device. In this embodiment, the heating device 11 comprises at least one heating wire arranged in the water reservoir 10. The heating wire can run anywhere in the water reservoir 10. The water in the water reservoir 10 is heated by means of the heating wire. The heating device 11 can be connected to a power grid or a rechargeable battery, so that the heating wire can be heated by means of electricity. The heating device 11 has a control device with which the heating intensity of the heating wire can be controlled. The heating device 11 can be controlled by means of the control device 41 on the handle 40 or in or on the storage space 45 of the device 1. In an alternative embodiment belonging to this embodiment, the at least one heating wire does not run in the water reservoir 10.In this alternative embodiment, the walls of the water reservoir 10 have a heating wall section facing toward the interior of the water reservoir 10. The heating wire is integrated into this heating wall section. The heating wall section is made of a thermally conductive material. The heating wire is therefore not in direct contact with water. Adjacent to the heating wall section, the walls of the water reservoir 10 have an insulating wall section that delimits the water reservoir 10. The insulating wall section is made of a thermally insulating material.

[0142] In a further embodiment, the heating device 11 comprises a further gas combustion chamber in addition to the gas combustion chamber 12. The further gas combustion chamber is arranged opposite the gas combustion chamber 12 on the water reservoir 10 and is thermally connected to it. Like the gas combustion chamber 12, the further gas combustion chamber can have a connection, a valve, a gas line, and a gas combustion device. It can also be provided that only one connection 13 is provided, with the gas line 15 splitting and supplying both gas combustion chambers with gas.

[0143] In a further embodiment, a further line can be provided on the water reservoir 10 in addition to the line 18. This further line can also be connected to the pump 17 and then lead to the secondary lines 19. The further line can also be connected to its own pump. Like the line 18, the further line can have a connection and a valve.

[0144] Examples of the invention are described below:

[0145] 1. Example: Device for melting snow, comprising

[0146] - a snow collection container with side walls, a bottom wall and a lid, these walls defining a collecting space of the snow collection container,

[0147] - a water storage tank with a heating device to heat water in the water storage tank, and

[0148] - a driving device for moving the device, wherein a snow receiving device is provided which is communicatively connected to the snow collecting container such that snow is automatically fed from the snow receiving device to the collecting space of the snow collecting container, and wherein one or more spray nozzles are provided in the collecting space of the snow collecting container, which are connected to the water reservoir via a line, so that heated water is sprayed onto the snow by means of the spray nozzles.

[0149] 2. Example: Device according to Example 1, characterized in that the one or more spray nozzles are provided in one or more of the side walls and / or in the bottom wall and / or in the lid. 3. Example: Device according to Example 1 or 2, characterized in that the travel device comprises rollers arranged on an underside of the bottom wall, so that the device is designed to be manually movable.

[0150] 4. Example: Device according to one of examples 1 to 3, characterized in that the driving device has a drive unit with which the rollers arranged on the underside of the base wall can be driven, so that the device is designed to be automatically movable.

[0151] 5. Example: Device according to one of examples 1 to 4, characterized in that the device comprises a handle by means of which the device can be pushed manually, and / or that the device comprises a handle on which a control device is arranged, by means of which the drive unit can be switched on and off and by means of which a level of the drive force on the rollers can be controlled.

[0152] 6. Example: Device according to one of examples 1 to 5, characterized in that at least one heating wire or one heating rod is provided on or in the water reservoir as the heating device, and / or that the heating device comprises a gas combustion chamber which is arranged adjacent to the water reservoir and is connected to it in a heat-conducting manner, the gas combustion chamber comprising a connection for gas, preferably from a gas bottle, wherein the connection has a valve for regulating a gas flow, a gas line which leads from the connection into the gas combustion chamber, and a gas combustion device for igniting the gas in the gas combustion chamber, whereby the gas combustion chamber is heated.

[0153] 7. Example: Device according to one of examples 1 to 6, characterized in that the heating device is connectable to a power supply or a battery, so that the at least one heating wire or heating rod can be heated by means of electricity. The heating device preferably has a control device, the control device being able to control the heating intensity of the at least one heating wire or heating rod and / or a volume flow of the gas to the gas combustion chamber. 8.Example: Device according to one of examples 1 to 7, characterized in that the snow receiving device comprises a snow blower device for receiving snow and a pipe for feeding the snow from the snow blower device into the collecting space of the snow collecting container, and / or that the snow receiving device comprises a suction device for sucking snow and a pipe for feeding the snow from the suction device into the collecting space of the snow collecting container, and / or that the snow receiving device comprises a sweeping device for bringing together snow and a pipe for feeding the snow from the sweeping device into the collecting space of the snow collecting container.

[0154] 9. Example: Device according to one of examples 1 to 8, characterized in that the collecting space of the snow collecting container is connected to the water reservoir via a line, so that part of the melted water in the water reservoir can be heated.

[0155] 10. Example: Device according to one of examples 1 to 9, characterized in that the device has a water collection tank which is connected by means of a line to the collecting space of the snow collection container, so that melted water is collected in the water collection tank.

[0156] 11. Example: Device according to one of examples 1 to 10, characterized in that at least one opening is provided on the water collection tank and / or in one or more of the side walls and / or in the bottom wall in order to drain water, wherein in particular a valve is arranged at the at least one opening in order to open or close the opening and / or that a filter is arranged at the at least one opening in order to filter the water.

[0157] 12. Example: Device according to one of examples 1 to 11, characterized in that the side walls, the bottom wall and / or the lid of the snow collecting container and / or the water reservoir are made of a heat-insulating material.

[0158] 13. Example: Device according to one of the examples 1 to 12, characterized in that the collecting space of the snow collecting container has a volume of at least 0.5 m 3 or at least 1 m 3 or at least 1.5 m 3 or at least 2 m 3 or at least 2.5 m 3 or at least 3 m 3 and / or a volume of maximum 6 m 3 or a maximum of 5.5 m 3 or a maximum of 5 m 3 or a maximum of 4.5 m 3 or a maximum of 4 m 3 or a maximum of 3.5 m 3 has.

[0159] List of reference symbols

[0160] Device 24 First line snow collection container 25 Second line side wall 26 Connection bottom wall 27 Water collection tank cover 28 Outlet collection chamber 29 Insert side wall 30 Front bottom wall 31 Snow collection device free space 32 Snow blower device water reservoir 33 Adjusting element heating device 34 Subsurface gas combustion chamber 35 Pipe connection 36 Through opening valve 37 Driving device gas line 38 Drive unit

[0161] Gas burner 39 Roller pump 40 Handle line 41 Control device

[0162] Secondary line 42 Light source spray nozzle 43 Light source connection 44 Rear passage opening 45 Storage box 46 Door

Claims

Claims 1 . Device (1) for melting snow, comprising - a snow collecting container (2) with side walls (3), a bottom wall (4) and a lid (5), these walls defining a collecting space (6) of the snow collecting container (2), - a water reservoir (10) with a heating device (11) for heating water in the water reservoir (10), and - a driving device (37) for moving the device (1), wherein the driving device (37) is designed for manual movement of the device (1), characterized in that a snow receiving device (31) is provided which is communicatively connected to the snow collecting container (2) in such a way that snow is automatically fed from the snow receiving device (31) to the collecting space (6) of the snow collecting container (2), wherein one or more spray nozzles (20) are provided in the collecting space (6) of the snow collecting container (2), which are connected to the water reservoir (10) via a line (18, 19) so that heated water is sprayed onto the snow by means of the spray nozzles (20).

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the one or more spray nozzles (20) are provided in one or more of the side walls (3) and / or in the bottom wall (4) and / or in the lid (5).

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the driving device (37) comprises rollers (39) arranged on an underside of the bottom wall (4).

4. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the driving device (37) has a drive unit (38) with which the rollers (39) arranged on the underside of the base wall (4) can be driven, so that the device (1) is designed to be automatically movable.

5. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the device (1) comprises a handle (40) by means of which the device (1) can be pushed.

6. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that at least one heating wire or a heating rod is provided on or in the water reservoir (10) as the heating device (11), and / or in that the heating device (11) comprises a gas combustion chamber (12) which is arranged adjacent to the water reservoir (10) and is connected to it in a heat-conducting manner, the gas combustion chamber (12) comprising a connection (13) for gas, preferably from a gas cylinder, wherein the connection (13) has a valve (14) for regulating a gas flow, a gas line (15) which leads from the connection (13) into the gas combustion chamber (12), and a gas combustion device (16) for igniting the gas in the gas combustion chamber (12), whereby the gas combustion chamber (12) is heated.

7. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the heating device (11) can be connected to a power network or an accumulator, so that the at least one heating wire or heating rod can be heated by means of electricity, wherein the heating device (11) preferably has a control device, wherein the control device can control the heating intensity of the at least one heating wire or heating rod and / or a volume flow of the gas to the gas combustion chamber (12).

8. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the snow receiving device (31) comprises a snow blower device (32) for receiving snow and a pipe (35) for feeding the snow from the snow blower device (32) into the collecting space (6) of the snow collecting container (2), and / or that the snow receiving device (31) comprises a suction device for sucking in snow and a pipe for feeding the snow from the suction device into the collecting space (6) of the snow collecting container (2), and / or that the snow receiving device (31) comprises a sweeping device for bringing together snow and a pipe for feeding the snow from the sweeping device into the collecting space (6) of the snow collecting container (2).

9. Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the device (1) comprises a handle (40) on which a control device (41) is arranged, by means of which the drive unit (38) can be switched on and off and by means of which a level of the driving force on the rollers (39) can be controlled, and / or that the device (1) comprises a handle (40) on which a control device (41) is arranged, by means of which the snow collecting device (31) can be switched on and off, and / or that the device (1) comprises a handle (40) on which a control device (41) is arranged, by means of which the heating device (11) can be switched on and off and by means of which a strength of the heating device (11) can be regulated, and / or that the device (1) comprises a handle (40) on which a control device (41) is arranged,by means of which a pump (17) can be switched on and off, which pumps water from the water reservoir (10) via the pipes (18, 19) to the spray nozzles (20).

10. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the collecting space (6) of the snow collecting container (2) is connected to the water reservoir (10) via a line (24) so ​​that part of the melted water in the water reservoir (10) can be heated.

11. Device according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the device (1) has a water collection tank (27) which is connected by means of a line (25) to the collecting space (6) of the snow collecting container (2), so that melted water is collected in the water collection tank (27).

12. Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that at least one opening (22, 28) is provided on the water collection tank (27) and / or in one or more of the side walls (3) and / or in the bottom wall (4) in order to drain water, wherein in particular a valve is arranged on the at least one opening (28) in order to open or close the opening (28) and / or that a filter is arranged on the at least one opening (22) in order to filter the water.

13. Device according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the side walls (3), the bottom wall (4) and / or the lid (5) of the snow collecting container (2) and / or the water reservoir (10) are made of a heat-insulating material.

14. Device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the collecting space (6) of the snow collecting container (2) has a volume of at least 0.5 m 3 or at least 1 m3 or at least 1.5 m 3 or at least 2 m 3 or at least 2.5 m 3 or at least 3 m 3 and / or a volume of maximum 6 m 3 or a maximum of 5.5 m 3 or a maximum of 5 m 3 or a maximum of 4.5 m 3 or a maximum of 4 m 3 or a maximum of 3.5 m 3 has.

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