Composting apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a treatment chamber (134) for composting and / or drying supplied organic material, the treatment chamber comprising or forming a chamber wall (150), and to a carrier device (116) on which the treatment chamber (134) is supported via the chamber wall (150) in a use state of the composting apparatus (100; 230; 240), wherein the composting apparatus (100; 230; 240) comprises a securing device (184) which comprises at least one bearing element (186) for the treatment chamber (134) and a supporting part (188), wherein, in a transport state of the composting apparatus (100; 230; 240), the treatment chamber (134) is held, via the chamber wall (150), between the supporting part (188) and the at least one bearing element (186) by means of a form-fit and / or force fit, wherein the at least one bearing element (186) and / or the support part (188) assumes a securing position, and the at least one bearing element (186) and / or the supporting part (188) can be transferred from the securing position into a release position for the use state of the composting apparatus (100; 230; 240), in which release position the form-fit and / or force-fit is released and the treatment chamber (134) is supported on the carrying device (116).

Description

[0001] COMPOSTING DEVICE

[0002] The present invention relates to a composting device comprising a treatment chamber for composting and / or drying supplied organic material, which comprises or forms a chamber wall, and a support device on which the treatment chamber is supported via the chamber wall in a use state of the composting device.

[0003] Such a composting device is described in DE 102020 123245 A1. The composting device is used, for example, for composting organic material in private households or offices. It has two treatment chambers, namely a drying chamber and a composting chamber. Organic material is introduced by the user into the drying chamber, where the material is dried, mixed, and shredded. From the drying chamber, the material is transferred to the composting chamber, where it is converted into compost material under heating and the addition of moisture. The compost material can be removed via a removal container. It is known that the amount of organic material transferred from the drying chamber to the composting chamber is determined to control the operation of the composting device. For this purpose, at least one weight sensor is present to determine the amount of material transferred.

[0004] The composting device described in DE 102020 123245 A1 has proven itself in practice. It would be desirable to provide a composting device with a more robust design.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a generic composting device which has a more robust design.

[0006] This object is achieved according to the invention in a composting device of the type mentioned at the outset in that the composting device comprises a securing device which comprises at least one support element for the treatment chamber and a support part, wherein the treatment chamber is held in a transport state of the composting device via the chamber wall between the support part and the at least one support element by positive and / or non-positive engagement, wherein the at least one support element and / or the support part assumes a securing position, and that the at least one support element and / or the support part can be transferred from the securing position into a release position for the use state of the composting device, in which the positive and / or non-positive engagement is canceled and the treatment chamber is supported on the support device.

[0007] The composting device according to the invention can, as intended, assume a use state. In the use state, the organic material can be converted into compost material according to the intended use. For protection during transport, the composting device is designed to assume a transport state. The securing device is provided for this purpose. In the transport state, the treatment chamber is arranged by a positive and / or non-positive connection between the at least one support element and the support part and can be fixed in place in this way. The at least one support element and / or the support part assumes a securing position. By transferring it to the release position, the positive and / or non-positive connection can be released, so that the treatment chamber can be supported on the support device for the use state.The safety device reduces the risk of transport damage to the treatment chamber due to possible impacts, so that the composting device has a more robust design.

[0008] Preferably, it is possible to relieve the load on the carrying device when the composting device is in the transport state.

[0009] It can be provided, as will be discussed below, that at least one sensor element is active for determining a mass and / or mass change of the treatment chamber during operation. Advantageously, the treatment chamber is decoupled from the sensor element during transport due to the securing device and / or the sensor element is relieved of load. This protects the sensor element by preventing any shocks from being transmitted to the sensor element because the treatment chamber is held between the at least one support element and the support part.

[0010] In the secured position, the at least one support element can be supported below the treatment chamber relative to the direction of gravity, for example, on the support device. It is also conceivable for the at least one support element to be shaped such that the treatment chamber is held suspended in a manner of speaking during transport, whereby the support element can be supported above the treatment chamber, for example, on the support device. It is also conceivable for the force to be transferred to the support element laterally next to the treatment chamber. In the present case, position and orientation specifications such as "below," "below," "above," "top," and the like refer to the intended use of the composting device. In this case, the composting device assumes the operating state and stands on a support surface. This surface is assumed, without limitation, to be horizontally oriented."Horizontal" can be understood here to mean that a contact plane of the composting device, which coincides with a plane of the installation surface, is aligned horizontally.

[0011] The chamber wall can be formed in one piece. Alternatively, a multi-part design of the chamber wall is conceivable.

[0012] It is conceivable that the treatment chamber is clamped between the at least one support element and the support part during transport. This allows for particularly reliable fixation of the treatment chamber.

[0013] It may be advantageous if the treatment chamber is lowered onto the support device under the effect of gravity when transferring the at least one support element from the transport position to the release position. This offers a structurally simple and user-friendly way of transferring the composting device into the operating state. For example, the user directly or indirectly grasps the at least one support element, and the treatment chamber lowers.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one support element and / or the support part can be transferred from the release position to the securing position, securing the treatment chamber by positive and / or frictional engagement. In particular, this offers the possibility of transferring the composting device into the transport state, for example, to prepare for transport. For example, corresponding to the last-mentioned advantageous embodiment, the treatment chamber is lifted from the support device when the at least one support element is transferred from the release position to the securing position.

[0015] The chamber wall can, for example, comprise a lower wall, in particular a floor wall, which rests on the at least one support element in its secured position. It can be provided that the chamber wall comprises an upper wall, in particular a top wall, which rests against the support part in the secured position of the at least one support element and / or the support part and is arranged at a distance from the support part in the release position of the at least one support element and / or the support part.

[0016] Advantageously, the support part and the chamber wall, particularly at the upper wall, are shaped to correspond to one another. For example, an arcuate shape is conceivable. This preferably provides the possibility for the support part and the chamber wall to lie flat against one another in the secured position of the at least one support element and / or the support part. Furthermore, this offers the possibility of a defined relative position of the treatment chamber and the support part in the transport state.

[0017] The support part is preferably arranged in a fixed position on the support device and can accordingly be a functional part of the composting device, so that no separate component is required.

[0018] Alternatively, the support member can be designed to be detachable from the composting device. For example, it is conceivable that the support member is used to support the treatment chamber during transport and is removed to enter the ready-to-use state before operation.

[0019] In practice, it can prove advantageous in a two-chamber composting device if the composting device comprises a support device that encompasses or forms the support part and rests on top of the support device via support elements, and if the composting device comprises a further treatment chamber that rests on the support device on the side facing away from the treatment chamber. This can, for example, achieve a compact design and robust configuration of the composting device. The further treatment chamber is, for example, a drying chamber arranged above the first-mentioned treatment chamber, which is a composting chamber. These two treatment chambers can be operated, for example, as described in the aforementioned DE 10 2020 123 245 A1.

[0020] In its secured position, the chamber wall and the at least one support element can engage with each other, for example, via a projection and a corresponding recess. For example, the at least one support element has a convex projection and the chamber wall has a concave recess. Conversely, the projection could be arranged on the chamber wall and the recess on the support element. If the projection engages the recess, a reliable relative position of the support element and the chamber wall can be ensured, reliably securing the treatment chamber during transport.

[0021] In the release position, the at least one support element can preferably be free of contact with the chamber wall. In particular, it can be provided that the chamber wall rests solely on the support device in the use state. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the chamber wall rests solely on the support device via a sensor element.

[0022] It is advantageous if the securing device comprises two support elements arranged at a distance from one another relative to an axis of the treatment chamber. This allows the treatment chamber to be supported at two spaced-apart positions and is thus reliably secured during transport.

[0023] The two support elements are arranged, for example, on or near end sections of the chamber wall facing away from each other.

[0024] The treatment chamber can, for example, be arranged with a horizontally aligned axis in the composting device. In this case, this can also be understood to mean that an axis of the treatment chamber is aligned parallel to the contact plane of the composting device.

[0025] It is advantageous if, in use, the chamber rests on the support device via a multi-point support, with corresponding contact elements being arranged on the chamber wall and on the support device. The contact elements ensure a defined relative position of the treatment chamber to the support device. This is advantageous, for example, if the mass and / or mass change of the treatment chamber is to be recorded via at least one sensor element, because the defined position of the contact elements can ensure reproducible positioning of the treatment chamber. The contact elements each comprise, for example, a projection and a corresponding receptacle or recess that engage with one another in use. Concave recesses on the support device and convex projections on the chamber wall, or vice versa, are conceivable.The projections can be pin-shaped and engage in blind-hole-like receptacles or openings. For example, pin-like projections are arranged on the support device and receptacles or openings are arranged on the chamber wall, or vice versa.

[0026] The multi-point support can, for example, be a three-point support. The three-point support defines a unique support plane for the treatment chamber. This is advantageous when reproducible positioning of the treatment chamber is required, for example, for weight determination using at least one sensor element.

[0027] A sensor device with at least one sensor element has already been discussed. The sensor device with the sensor element serves, in particular, to determine a mass and / or mass change of the treatment chamber. Depending on the determined mass (and / or its change), the operation of the composting device can preferably be controlled and / or regulated by a control device of the composting device.

[0028] It may be advantageous, for example, if the support device comprises a support part and a support body, wherein the treatment chamber rests on the support body in the use state of the composting device, in particular via the multi-point support, and if the composting device comprises a sensor device with at least one sensor element, depending on the signal of which a mass and / or a change in mass of the treatment chamber can be determined, and wherein the support body rests on the support part via the at least one sensor element. The support part can, for example, form a base of the composting device, and the support body rests on the base via the at least one sensor element. In the use state, the treatment chamber loads the support body, and the mass of the treatment chamber can be determined via the sensor element.

[0029] The support body can, for example, be regarded as a weighing table for the treatment chamber.

[0030] At least one stop element can be provided to limit the range of movement of the support body relative to the supporting part in order to avoid excessive loading of the at least one sensor element. Only one sensor element can be provided. Alternatively, multiple sensor elements are conceivable.

[0031] The support body can have a substantially T-shape in plan view, in particular for a three-point support.

[0032] The sensor element is arranged, for example, below the longitudinal line of the T.

[0033] It may be advantageous if the treatment chamber is positioned at a distance from the support body when the composting device is in transport mode, and if the at least one sensor element is relieved of load by the treatment chamber. This protects the sensor element from excessive stress when the composting device is in transport mode, which can result, for example, from impacts. This helps prevent transport damage.

[0034] In a composting device of the type mentioned above, it may be advantageous if the treatment chamber is arranged at a distance from the support body when the composting device is in transport mode, and if the at least one sensor element is relieved of pressure from the treatment chamber. Such a composting device may constitute an independent invention within the scope of the disclosure. This composting device may optionally comprise all the features contained in the present disclosure.

[0035] The relief of the at least one sensor element takes place in particular by lifting the treatment chamber from the support body, whereby the chamber wall can be supported on the at least one support element.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the support device comprises a support part and a support body, and the composting device comprises a sensor device with at least one sensor element, on the basis of whose signal a mass and / or a change in mass of the treatment chamber can be determined, wherein the treatment chamber, in the use state of the composting device, rests on the support body via the at least one sensor element and the support body rests on the support part. In this embodiment, in particular the chamber wall is fixed to the sensor element, and the receiving body is fixed to the sensor element. In comparison to the embodiment described further above, the sensor element and the support body are arranged in the reverse order between the support part and the treatment chamber.It can be provided that the treatment chamber, with at least one sensor element and support body held thereon, is arranged at a distance from the support member in the transport state. This also offers the possibility of relieving the sensor element during transport, with the treatment chamber, in particular with the sensor element and support body, being raised from the support member.

[0037] In a composting device of the type mentioned above, it can be provided that the treatment chamber, in the transport state, with at least one sensor element and support body held thereon, is arranged at a distance from the support member. This can constitute an independent invention within the scope of the present disclosure. Such a composting device can have all of the optional features mentioned here.

[0038] The at least one sensor element is advantageously arranged, in the direction of gravity, below a center of gravity of the empty treatment chamber when the composting device is in use. The sensor element is positioned, for example, vertically below the center of gravity.

[0039] The sensor element can be designed as a load cell.

[0040] The at least one support element and / or the support part can be movably mounted on the support device and, in particular, pivotably mounted about a pivot axis for transferring from the securing position to the release position. It is understood that the support device and the at least one support element and / or the support part can comprise or form corresponding bearing elements. The movable mounting allows for reliable function of the securing device.

[0041] The pivot axis is preferably aligned parallel to an axis of the treatment chamber and runs, for example, horizontally.

[0042] According to the above, it can be provided that the at least one support element and / or the support part can be movably held and, in particular, pivotally mounted for transfer from the release position to the securing position. Alternatively, it can be provided that the at least one support element and / or the support part is designed to be displaceable relative to the support device for transfer from the securing position to the release position.

[0043] The at least one support element and / or the support element can be designed, for example, as a one-sided lever element, wherein the pivoting side is arranged on an end side or on an end section of the at least one support element or the support element.

[0044] Advantageously, the at least one support element can rest against the chamber wall in the locking position with a contact element arranged substantially centrally relative to the extension of the lever element. The contact element is, for example, the aforementioned projection that engages a recess in the chamber wall, or vice versa.

[0045] An actuating element of the securing device can, for example, engage the lever element at an end facing away from the pivot axis or at an end section facing away from the pivot axis. The actuating element can hold the lever element in the securing position, and / or the lever element can be moved from the release position to the securing position by means of the actuating element. For example, the lever element is supported on the support device via the actuating element.

[0046] The securing device can advantageously comprise an actuating element for the user, which can be transferred from a blocking position to a release position. In the blocking position, the actuating element applies a holding force to the at least one support element and / or the support part and holds it in the securing position. In the release position, the at least one support element and / or the support part is configured to assume the release position. Using the actuating element, the user can operate the securing device to transfer the composting device from the transport state to the use state in a user-friendly manner.

[0047] The actuating element is preferably manually and / or tool-free, making it user-friendly. The actuating element can, for example, be movable from the release position to the blocking position in order to move the at least one support element and / or the support part into the locking position. This can be used, for example, to prepare for transport.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the actuating element is rotatably mounted on the support device about a rotation axis, which is preferably aligned parallel to a pivot axis of the at least one support element and / or parallel to an axis of the treatment chamber. For example, the rotation axis is aligned horizontally.

[0049] The actuating element can be designed to be displaceable relative to the support device. For example, the actuating element comprises or forms a sliding element for the at least one positioning element for transferring it from the securing position to the release position and / or vice versa. The support element can, for example, be displaced or pivoted.

[0050] It may prove advantageous if the actuating element can be moved from the release position to a storage position and is secured in the storage position against transfer to the blocking position. For example, the actuating element can be stowed in the storage position when the composting device is put into operation.

[0051] For example, it can be provided that the actuating element is movable relative to the support device for transferring it from the release position to the storage position. For example, the actuating element is guided movably on the support device.

[0052] In the storage position, the actuating element can, for example, be engaged with the support device. A locking and / or clamping fixation of the actuating element to the support device is conceivable, for example.

[0053] The actuating element is, for example, at least partially non-circular in design with respect to the rotational axis and can comprise or form at least one support member against which the at least one support element and / or the support part rests in the secured position. The holding force can be exerted on the support element and / or the support part via the at least one support member, wherein the actuating element is non-circular on the support member. By rotating the actuating element, the at least one support element and / or the support part can move with respect to the rotational axis, for transfer from the secured position to the release position.

[0054] The at least one support element and / or the support part can, for example, rest on the at least one support member in the release position.

[0055] The at least one support member is, for example, an eccentric formation on the actuating element.

[0056] It can be provided that the actuating element comprises or forms an actuating section for the user and that the composting device has a container receptacle for a container, wherein the actuating section blocks an insertion opening of the container receptacle in the blocking position and the insertion opening for the container is released when the actuating element assumes the release position. In this way, the user can, for example, be intuitively guided to the correct commissioning of the composting device. The container, for example a condensate container or a removal container, must be inserted into the container receptacle for its intended use. However, this is only possible once the user has moved the actuating element into the release position. This releases the insertion opening of the container receptacle and the container can be inserted.The support element and / or the support part assumes the release position, and the treatment chamber rests against the support device. For example, the actuating element can be moved further into the storage position.

[0057] The treatment chamber may comprise an introduction opening and a feed channel for organic material, which is connected to the treatment chamber. The feed channel may be connected to an edge of the treatment chamber directly or via a sealing element between the feed channel and the treatment chamber. In particular, the feed channel may be movable relative to the treatment chamber, so that the connection between the feed channel and the treatment chamber exists regardless of whether the composting device is in the transport state or the use state.

[0058] The treatment chamber can be a composting chamber. Alternatively, the treatment chamber can be a drying chamber. Examples of the functioning of a composting chamber and a drying chamber are described in DE 102020 123245 A1.

[0059] The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, taken in conjunction with the drawings, serves to explain the invention in more detail. They show:

[0060] Figure 1: a perspective view of the composting device according to the invention;

[0061] Figure 2: the composting device from Figure 1 with housing components hidden and with the condensate container removed;

[0062] Figure 3: a cross-sectional view of the composting device in a partial view, the sectional plane running along the line 3-3 in Figure 5, with support elements assuming a securing position;

[0063] Figure 4: a representation corresponding to Figure 3, with support elements assuming a release position;

[0064] Figure 5: a longitudinal sectional view of the composting device in a partial view, the sectional plane running along the line 5-5 in Figure 3;

[0065] Figure 6: a representation corresponding to Figure 5 for the situation shown in Figure 4;

[0066] Figure 7: a sectional view taken along line 7-7 in Figure 6 in a partial view;

[0067] Figure 8: a representation corresponding to Figure 7 for a design variant of the composting device;

[0068] Figure 9: a perspective view of a support element, an actuating element and a support body (from left to right) of the composting device;

[0069] Figure 10: a perspective view of a support member, the support element, the actuating element, and the support body, wherein the actuating element assumes a blocking position and the support elements assume a securing position; Figure 11: a view similar to Figure 10, wherein the actuating element has been transferred into a storage position and the support elements assume a release position;

[0070] Figure 12: a sectional view taken along line 12-12 in Figure 5 in a partial view;

[0071] Figure 13: a representation corresponding to Figure 12 in the situation shown in Figure 6;

[0072] Figure 14: a schematic partial view of the composting device according to the invention in a further preferred embodiment, wherein support elements assume a securing position;

[0073] Figure 15: a representation corresponding to Figure 14, wherein the support elements assume a release position; and

[0074] Figure 16: a schematic representation corresponding to Figure 14 in a further preferred embodiment of the composting device according to the invention.

[0075] The drawing shows an advantageous embodiment of the composting device according to the invention, designated overall by reference numeral 100. The composting device is used, for example, in private households or offices and serves to convert organic material into compost.

[0076] The composting device 100 is shown in Figures 1 and 2 standing on a support surface 102. This can be assumed, without limitation, to be horizontally oriented. A contact plane of the composting device 100 coincides with a plane defined by the support surface 102. Accordingly, "horizontal" can be interpreted here to mean "parallel to the plane of the support surface" and "vertical" to mean "perpendicular to the plane of the support surface 102."

[0077] The composting device 100 comprises a housing 104 with a lower housing part 106 and an upper housing part 108. The housing 104 comprises a plurality of housing walls, of which a front and a rear housing wall as well as a housing side wall are hidden in Figure 2. Furthermore, a portion of the lower housing part 106 is hidden to reveal a container receptacle 110. A container 112 can be removably arranged in the container receptacle 110. During use of the composting device 100, the container 112 is positioned in the container receptacle 110. For transport purposes, which will be discussed below, the container 112 is removed from the container receptacle 110. The container receptacle 110 comprises an insertion opening 114 for the container 112.

[0078] The container 112 is a condensate container in which liquid that arises during the composting process is collected.

[0079] The composting device 100 comprises a support device 116 as a structural component (Figures 2, 10, and 11). The support device 116 has a support part 118, which is approximately configured as a "table" and comprises support elements 120 for standing on the support surface 102 or a bottom wall of the housing 104. Furthermore, the support part 118 comprises a substantially plate-shaped support element 122 on top, supported by the support elements 120. The support element 122 effectively forms an intermediate floor within the housing 104.

[0080] The composting device 100 further comprises a support device 124. The support device 124 rests on top of the support element 122 and is itself approximately configured as a "table" (Figure 2). To allow the composter to stand on the support element 122, the support device 124 comprises support elements 126. The support elements 126, in turn, carry a support element 128. The support device 124 thus also approximately has the shape of a table, which is arranged on the support device 126.

[0081] The composting device 100 comprises a drying chamber 130 and a composting chamber 132, which in the present example is a treatment chamber 134 within the meaning of the invention. During operation, a user can insert material to be composted through an opening 136 into a chute 138. The material enters the drying chamber 130, where it is dried and shredded.

[0082] A supply channel 140 is connected to the drying chamber 130, which connects the drying chamber 130 to the composting chamber 132 and is also connected to the latter. The dried material is converted into compost in the composting chamber 132, which can then be transferred to a removal container 142 on the housing base 106. The removal container 142 can be removed from the housing base 106.

[0083] The operation of the composting device 100 can be controlled and / or regulated by means of a control device 144.

[0084] For mixing and / or shredding the organic material, tools are preferably arranged in the chambers 130, 132 in a drivable manner. Reference numeral 146 indicates such a tool in the composting chamber 132.

[0085] In use, the treatment chamber 134 is supported on the support device 116 and is arranged between the support element 122 and the support element 128. The drying chamber 130 is supported on the top side of the support element 128.

[0086] The treatment chamber 134 is arranged horizontally in the housing 104 and defines an axis 148 that is aligned horizontally (parallel to the contact plane). The treatment chamber 134 has a chamber wall 150, which is configured in several parts in this case. Alternatively, a one-piece design of the chamber wall 150 could be provided.

[0087] In particular, the chamber wall 150 comprises a lower wall, specifically a floor wall 152, and an upper wall, specifically a ceiling wall 154. As can be seen, for example, from Figures 3 to 6, the floor wall 152 is connected to a chamber wall 156, which encloses the interior 158 of the composting chamber 132 for receiving the material with the ceiling wall 154. The floor wall 152 extends downward from the chamber wall 156 in the direction of the support device 116 and is arranged at a distance from the chamber wall 156 on the bottom side.

[0088] The bottom wall 152 has contact elements 160 for standing on the support device 116. In particular, in the present example, three contact elements 160 are provided for multi-point and, in particular, three-point support on the support device 116. The contact elements 160 are designed as convex projections 162.

[0089] In a bottom view of the treatment chamber 134, the projections 162 are positioned in a triangular arrangement. A first projection 162 is positioned in a center plane of the chamber 134, which contains the axis 148 and is oriented perpendicular to the contact plane. Two further projections 162 are spaced from this center plane and are arranged axially spaced from the first-mentioned projection 162 with respect to the axis 148.

[0090] The projections 162 form the lowest points of the chamber wall 150.

[0091] The contour formed by the ceiling wall 154 and the chamber wall 156 is essentially barrel-shaped. For example, the ceiling wall 154 is essentially semi-cylindrical and arched (Figures 3 and 4).

[0092] The bottom wall 152 further comprises, in the present case, two concave recesses 166 at end sections of the chamber wall 150 facing away from one another with respect to the axis. The recesses 166 are arranged in the region of the aforementioned center plane of the treatment chamber 134.

[0093] As can be seen particularly from Figures 5, 6, 12, and 13, the supply channel 140 is connected to the treatment chamber 134 via an intermediate sealing element 168. For this purpose, an introduction opening 170 is formed in the ceiling wall 154, which is enclosed by an edge 172. The supply channel 140 is surrounded on its outer circumference by the sealing element 168, which is formed here as a bellows or sleeve. The sealing element 168 engages in the introduction opening 170 and bears sealingly against the edge 172. The treatment chamber 134 can be moved relative to the supply channel 140 without this engagement being canceled.

[0094] In a use state (Figures 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, and 12) of the composting device 100, the treatment chamber 134 is supported on the support device 116 and, in particular, rests on top thereof. For this purpose, the support device 116 comprises a support body 174, which is indirectly supported on top of the support part 118, in particular the support element 122.

[0095] The support body 174 comprises contact members 176, which are configured to correspond to the contact members 160, in this case as concave recesses 178. In use, the contact members 160 can be arranged in the recesses 178, and the treatment chamber 134 rests on the support body 174. A defined relative position of the treatment chamber 134 relative to the support device 116 can be ensured via the contact members 160, 176. In this case, the support body 174 has the shape of a T in plan view. The longitudinal line of the T runs in the axial direction, and the transverse line of the T runs perpendicular to it and to the center plane, relative to the axis 148.

[0096] The contact members 160, 176 ensure the above-mentioned three-point support of the treatment chamber 134 on the support body 174 and thus on the support device 116.

[0097] The composting device 100 comprises a sensor device 180. The sensor device 180 has a sensor element 182 configured as a load cell. In the present case, exactly one sensor element 182 is provided.

[0098] The sensor element 182 is arranged between the support body 174 and the support element 122. The support body 174 rests solely on the support element 122 via the sensor element 182 and is otherwise free of contact with the support element 122.

[0099] The sensor element 182 serves to determine a mass of the treatment chamber 134 during use of the composting device 100 and / or a change in the mass. The sensor element 182 can provide a corresponding signal to the control device 144. Depending on the signal, the operation of the composting device 100 can be controlled and / or regulated.

[0100] In a sense, the support body 174 can be regarded as a weighing table on which the treatment chamber 134 rests in the state of use.

[0101] During operation of the composting device, the mass of the filled treatment chamber 134 can be several kilograms. At the same time, the sensor device 180 has a high sensitivity. Preferably, the mass can be determined with an accuracy of 10 g or less, with a view to achieving the best possible composting result.

[0102] It proves advantageous that the sensor element 182 is arranged, in the direction of gravity, directly below a center of gravity of the treatment chamber 134 when the treatment chamber 134 is empty. The sensor element 182 is arranged below the longitudinal line of the T of the support body 174. When the treatment chamber 134 fills, the center of gravity moves in the longitudinal direction of the support body 174 (axially in the direction of the longitudinal line of the T), but does not move laterally. Another advantage for the center of gravity position is that the tool 146 circulates the organic material in the treatment chamber 134.

[0103] Due to the sensitivity of the sensor element 182, it is advantageous if it is not exposed to excessive loads. Excessive loads can occur, for example, during transport of the composting device 100 prior to commissioning or when relocating the composting device 100, particularly as a result of impacts.

[0104] To prevent damage to the sensor element 182, the composting device 100 comprises a safety device 184.

[0105] In this case, the securing device 184 also serves to prevent damage to the treatment chamber 134 due to forces that may occur, for example, due to impacts during transport. Accordingly, the composting device 100 can also include the securing device 184, for example, even if the sensor device 180 is not provided, as in the present example, and the treatment chamber 134 is supported, for example, directly on the support element 120.

[0106] The securing device 184 comprises at least one support element 186, wherein in the present case two support elements 186 are provided, a support part 188 and an actuating element 190.

[0107] The two support elements 186 are identically designed and serve to support the treatment chamber 134 from below when the device is in a secured position. In a release position, however, when the composting device 100 is in its use state, the support elements 186 are not loaded.

[0108] As can be seen, for example, from Figures 3, 4, and 9 to 11, the support element 186 is essentially strip-shaped in this case. The support element 186 forms a lever element 192 and comprises a bearing element 194, in this case at an end 196. An end 198 is located opposite the end 196.

[0109] The support element 186 comprises a contact member 200, in this case configured as a projection 202 extending toward the bottom wall 152. The projection 202 is designed to engage the recess 166. In this case, the projection 202 is arranged substantially centrally between the end faces 196, 198. The support elements 186 extend in the transverse direction of the composting device 100 and are axially spaced from one another with respect to the axis 148. The support body 174 is positioned axially between the support elements 186.

[0110] The respective support element 186 is pivotably mounted on the support device 116, in particular on the support element 120, about a pivot axis 204. The support elements 186 have a common pivot axis 204. The support is provided by the bearing element 194, configured as a bead of the support element 186, and a corresponding bearing element 206 on the support element 122, configured as a bearing shell.

[0111] In the present case, the lever element 192 is one-sided, with a force acting on the end face 198 to pivot the support element 186 about the pivot axis 204, and / or a force acting on the projection 202. Both lever arms lie on the same side of the pivot axis 204.

[0112] In the use state of the composting device 100, the support elements 186 can assume a release position. In the release position, the support elements 186 rest on the actuating element 190. The bottom wall 152 is spaced from the support elements 186 because the treatment chamber 134 rests on the support body 174. The projection 202 is disengaged from the recess 166 (Figures 4 and 6). Starting from the release position, the support elements 186 can be transferred to a securing position, as explained below.

[0113] In the release position, the chamber wall 150, in particular the top wall 154, is spaced apart from the support part 188. The support part 188 is secured to the support element 128 on the side facing the treatment chamber 134. Alternatively, the support part 188 can be formed by the support element 128.

[0114] A contour of the support part 188 corresponds to the contour of the ceiling wall 154 and is arc-shaped in this case (Figures 4 and 6).

[0115] The actuating element 190 is mounted on the support device 116, in particular on the support element 122, for rotation about a rotation axis 208. The actuating element 190 is designed as a lever 210, which comprises a bearing section 212 for the aforementioned mounting and an actuating section 214. The actuating element 190 has a substantially L-shape, with the actuating section 214 protruding from the bearing section 212.

[0116] The support device 116, in particular the support element 122, forms bearing elements 216 corresponding to the bearing section 212.

[0117] The actuating element 190 is configured in sections at the bearing section 212 with respect to the rotational axis 208 and comprises at least one support member 218. Two support members 218 are provided here, each of which is associated with a support element 186. The support member 218 is an eccentric projection with respect to the rotational axis 208 (Figures 3 and 4). In the axial direction, relative to the axis 148, the support members 218 are spaced apart from each other by the same distance as the support elements 186.

[0118] The actuating element 190 can be displaced in the axial direction relative to the support device 116, in particular on the support element 122. This provides the possibility of locking it to the support element 122, so that rotation of the actuating element 190 about the rotation axis 208 is not possible. In the storage position, the actuating section 214 rests on top of the support element 122 (Figure 11).

[0119] In the storage position of the actuating element 190, the support elements 186 assuming the release position rest on the top side of the support members 218.

[0120] Starting from the storage position, the actuating element 190 can be displaced axially relative to the support element 122 and transferred into a release position. In this case, the actuating element 190 is displaced toward the front of the composting device 100. In the release position, the support elements 186 continue to rest on the support members 218.

[0121] In the release position, it is possible to rotate the actuating element 190 about the rotation axis 208. The actuating portion 214 extends through an opening 222 on the support element 122. The actuating element 190 can be moved into a blocking position.

[0122] During transfer, the support elements 186 are lifted and pivoted via the support members 218. This causes the projections 202 to come into contact with the bottom wall 152 in the region of the recesses 166. The treatment chamber 134 is thereby subjected to an upward holding force and lifted from the support body 174, whereby the contact members 160, 176 are disengaged.

[0123] The support body 174 is relieved as is the sensor element 182.

[0124] After the actuating element 190 is moved into the blocking position, the holding force from the support members 218 acts on the support elements 186. The support elements 186 support the treatment chamber 134 from below. At the same time, the treatment chamber 134 is supported on the support part 188 via the ceiling wall 154 (Figures 3 and 5). The support elements 186 assume a locking position.

[0125] The treatment chamber 134 is secured via the chamber wall 150 by a positive fit between the support elements 186 and the support part 188. This provides a transportable condition for the composting device 100. Any vibrations, for example, due to impacts during transport, do not result in damage to the treatment chamber 134 because it is reliably secured by the securing device 184. As a result of the relief, the sensor element 182 is also protected.

[0126] When the support elements 186 are transferred to the locking position, the treatment chamber 134 is raised, so that the sealing element 168 engages deeper into the insertion opening 170 (Figure 12). In the blocking position of the actuating element 190, the actuating section 214 is arranged in the insertion opening 114 (Figures 2 and 10). The insertion opening 114 is thereby blocked.

[0127] In the transport state of the composting device 100, the support element 186 assumes the securing position and the actuating element 190 assumes the blocking position. The container 112 is removed from the housing 104.

[0128] To start up the composting device 100 and transfer it into the operating state, the user grasps the actuating element 190 and rotates it about the rotation axis 208 into the release position. Under the effect of gravity, the treatment chamber 134 lowers, releasing the positive locking mechanism provided by the support elements 186 and the support part 188.

[0129] When the actuating element 190 assumes the release position, the support element 186 rests on the actuating element 190, and the treatment chamber 134 rests on the support body 174 for support on the support device 116. In the release position, the insertion opening 114 is exposed, allowing the user to insert the container 112 into the container receptacle 110. Starting from the release position, the user can move the actuating element 190 relative to the support element 122 and transfer it into the storage position.

[0130] Figure 8 shows a variant of the composting device 100 in a manner corresponding to Figure 7, but in contrast, the treatment chamber 134 is raised. In the variant according to Figure 8, a pin-shaped projection 224 is provided on the support body 174 on the contact member 176, which can engage with a receptacle 226 of the bottom wall 152. This engagement can be provided both in the transport state and in the use state. This engagement enables particularly reliable positioning of the treatment chamber 134 relative to the support device 116.

[0131] Figure 9 shows the projections 224 on the contact members 176 at the transverse line of the T of the support body 174 in dashed lines. A projection 224 could also be present on the contact member 176 at the longitudinal line of the T.

[0132] Figures 14 and 15 show a preferred embodiment of the composting device according to the invention, designated by reference numeral 230, in a partial schematic view. Identical reference numerals are used for identical or equivalent features and components of the composting devices 100 and 230. Only the essential differences will be discussed. Reference is made to the above advantages and effects with respect to the design of the composting device 100.

[0133] In the composting device 100, the sensor element 182 is held on the chamber wall 150, in this case on the bottom wall 152. The support body 174 is held on the sensor element 182. As a result, the treatment chamber 134 is supported on the support element 122 via the sensor element 182 and the support body 174 when the composting device 100 is in use.

[0134] To transfer the device to the transport state, the support elements 186 are moved into the securing position (Figure 14). This raises the treatment chamber 134, along with the sensor element 182 and the support body 174. Guide elements 232 can be provided to guide the movement of the support body 174. Buffer elements 234 can act between the support body 174 and the support element 122.

[0135] In the composting devices 100 and 230, the support elements 186 and the actuating element 190 are designed to be pivotable or rotatable. It is conceivable that the support elements 186 and / or the actuating element 190 are designed to be displaceable. A combination of pivotable or rotatable and displaceable elements is also conceivable.

[0136] Figure 16 schematically shows an advantageous embodiment of the composting device according to the invention, designated by reference numeral 240, in which the treatment chamber 134 is shown raised and decoupled from the support body 174. The sensor element 132 is relieved of load. The support elements assume the securing position.

[0137] In this embodiment, the support element 186 is designed to be movable for transferring from the locking position to the release position and vice versa. A double arrow 236 indicates the direction of displacement. For example, the support elements 186 are movably mounted on the carrying device 116 or on the support device 124.

[0138] In the present example, the actuating element 190 is designed as a slider 238, which is displaceable relative to the support device 116 and is mounted thereon, for example, for transferring from the blocking position to the release position and vice versa. A double arrow 241 indicates the direction of displacement.

[0139] The actuating element 190 comprises a sliding element 242 associated with a respective support element, which, for example, forms an inclined plane. When the actuating element 190 is moved to the right in the drawing, the support elements 186 are transferred into the release position, the treatment chamber 134 is lowered, and the composting device 240 can assume the use state. Conversely, the support elements 186 are transferred into the securing position when the actuating element 190 is moved to the left in the drawing. In the process, the treatment chamber 134 is raised, and the composting device 240 assumes the transport state, as shown in Figure 16. List of reference numerals 230, 240 Composting device Installation surface Housing Lower housing part Upper housing part Container receptacle Container

[0140] Insertion opening support device support part , 122 support element support device , 128 support element

[0141] Drying chamber Composting chamber Treatment chamber , 222 Opening Shaft Feed channel Removal container Control device Tool

[0142] Axis Chamber wall Floor wall Ceiling wall Chamber wall Interior , 176, 200 Contact element , 202, 224 Projection End section , 178 Recess Sealing element Insertion opening Edge Support body Sensor device Sensor element Safety device Support element Support part Actuating element Lever element , 206, 216 Bearing element , 198 End side

[0143] Swivel axis Rotation axis Lever Bearing section Actuating section Support member Receptacle Guide element Buffer element , 241 Direction of displacement Slider Sliding element

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Composting device (100; 230; 240), comprising a treatment chamber (134) for composting and / or drying supplied organic material, which comprises or forms a chamber wall (150) and a support device (116) on which the treatment chamber (134) is supported via the chamber wall (150) in a use state of the composting device (100; 230; 240), characterized in that the composting device (100; 230; 240) comprises a securing device (184) which comprises at least one support element (186) for the treatment chamber (134) and a support part (188), wherein the treatment chamber (134) in a transport state of the composting device (100; 230;240) is held by means of a positive and / or non-positive connection via the chamber wall (150) between the support part (188) and the at least one support element (186), wherein the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188) assumes a securing position, and that the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188) can be transferred from the securing position into a release position for the use state of the composting device (100; 230; 240), in which the positive and / or non-positive connection is canceled and the treatment chamber (134) is supported on the support device (116); 2. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: the treatment chamber (134) is lowered onto the support device (116) under the effect of gravity when the at least one support element (186) is transferred from the securing position to the release position; the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188) can be transferred from the release position to the securing position, securing the treatment chamber (134) by positive and / or non-positive locking.

3. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the chamber wall (150) comprises a lower wall, in particular a bottom wall, which rests on the at least one support element in its securing position, and / or that the chamber wall comprises an upper wall, in particular a ceiling wall (154), which rests on the support part (188) in the securing position of the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188) and is arranged at a distance from the support part (188) in the release position of the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188), preferably that the support part (188) and the chamber wall (150) are shaped correspondingly to one another, in particular arc-shaped, and rest flat against one another in the securing position of the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188).

4. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support part (188) is arranged in a fixed position on the support device (124) or that the support part (188) is designed to be detachable from the composting device (100; 230; 240).

5. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the composting device (100; 230; 240) comprises a support device (124) which comprises or forms the support part (188) and stands on top of the support device (116) via support elements (126), and in that the composting device (100; 230; 240) comprises a further treatment chamber (134) which is supported on the support device (124) on the side facing away from the treatment chamber (134).

6. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: the chamber wall (150) and the at least one support element (186) engage with each other via a projection (162, 202, 224) and a corresponding recess (166, 178) when the at least one support element (186) assumes the securing position; In the release position, the at least one support element (186) is free of contact with the chamber wall (150), which in the use state rests in particular solely on the support device (116); the securing device comprises two support elements (186) which are arranged at a distance from one another with respect to an axis (148) of the treatment chamber (134), wherein the treatment chamber (134) is arranged in the composting device (100; 230; 240) in particular with a horizontally oriented axis (148).

7. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chamber wall (150) rests on the support device (116) via a multi-point support in the use state, in particular a three-point support, wherein corresponding contact members (160, 176, 200) are arranged on the chamber wall (150) and on the support device (116), wherein the contact members (160, 176, 200) each comprise a projection (162, 202, 224) and a receptacle (226) or recess (166, 178) which engage with one another in the use state.

8. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support device (116) comprises a support part (118) and a support body (174), wherein the treatment chamber (134) rests on the support body (174) in the use state of the composting device (100; 230; 240), in particular via the multi-point support, and in that the composting device (100; 230; 240) comprises a sensor device (180) with at least one sensor element (182), based on the signal of which a mass and / or a mass change of the treatment chamber (134) can be determined, and wherein the support body (174) rests on the support part (118) via the at least one sensor element (182).

9. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to claim 8 or according to the preamble of claim 1 in conjunction with claim 8, characterized in that the treatment chamber (134) is arranged at a distance from the support body (174) in the transport state of the composting device (100; 230; 240) and that the at least one sensor element (182) is relieved of the treatment chamber (134).

10. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the support device (116) comprises a support part (118) and a support body (174), and in that the composting device (100; 230; 240) comprises a sensor device (180) with at least one sensor element (182), on the basis of whose signal a mass and / or a mass change of the treatment chamber (134) can be determined, wherein the treatment chamber (134) rests on the support body (174) via the at least one sensor element (182) in the use state of the composting device (100; 230; 240) and the support body (174) rests on the support part (118).

11. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to claim 10 or according to the preamble of claim 1 in conjunction with claim 10, characterized in that the treatment chamber (134) is arranged in the transport state with at least one sensor element (182) and support body (174) held thereon at a distance from the support part (118).

12. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that the at least one sensor element (182) is arranged in the use state of the composting device (100; 230; 240) in the direction of gravity below a center of gravity of the empty treatment chamber (134).

13. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188) is movably held on the carrying device (116) and in particular is pivotally mounted about a pivot axis (204) for transferring from the securing position into the release position, wherein the pivot axis (204) is preferably aligned parallel to an axis (148) of the treatment chamber (134), or that the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188) is designed to be displaceable relative to the support device (116).

14. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to claim 13, characterized in that the at least one support element (186) and / or the support element (188) is designed as a one-sided lever element (192), wherein the pivot axis (204) is arranged on an end side (196, 198) or on an end section of the at least one support element (186) or of the support element (188), preferably that the at least one support element (186) rests against the chamber wall (150) in the securing position with a contact member (160, 176, 200) arranged substantially centrally with respect to the extent of the lever element (192).

15. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that an actuating element (190) of the securing device engages the lever element (192) at an end side (196, 198) facing away from the pivot axis (204) or at an end section facing away from the pivot axis (204), for holding in the securing position or for transferring into the securing position starting from the release position.

16. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the securing device (184) comprises an actuating element (190) for the user, which can be transferred from a blocking position into a release position, wherein the actuating element (190) in the blocking position applies a holding force to the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188) and holds it in the securing position, wherein in the release position the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188) is designed to assume the release position.

17. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to claim 16, characterized in that the actuating element (190) can be actuated manually and / or without tools and / or that the actuating element (190) can be moved from the release position into the blocking position can be transferred in order to transfer the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188) into the securing position.

18. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the actuating element (190) is rotatably mounted on the support device (116) about a rotation axis (208), which is preferably aligned parallel to a pivot axis (204) of the at least one support element (186) and / or parallel to an axis (148) of the treatment chamber (134), or that the actuating element (190) is designed to be displaceable relative to the support device (116).

19. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that the actuating element (190) can be transferred from the release position into a storage position and is secured in the storage position against transfer into the blocking position, wherein in particular the actuating element (190) is displaceable relative to the support device (116) for transfer from the release position into the storage position and / or is in engagement with the support device (116) in the storage position.

20. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that the actuating element (190) is designed to be non-circular at least in sections with respect to the axis of rotation (208) and comprises or forms at least one support member (218) against which the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188) rests in the securing position, preferably that the at least one support element (186) and / or the support part (188) rests on the at least one support member (218) in the release position.

21. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of claims 16 to 20, characterized in that the actuating element (190) comprises or forms an actuating section (214) for the user and that the composting device (100; 230; 240) has a container receptacle (110) for a container (112), wherein the actuating section (214) in the blocking position forms an insertion opening (114) of the container receptacle. take (110) is blocked and the insertion opening (114) for the container (112) is released when the actuating element (190) assumes the release position.

22. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the treatment chamber (134) comprises an introduction opening (170) and a feed channel (140) for organic material which is connected to the treatment chamber (134), wherein the feed channel (140) is connected to an edge (172) of the treatment chamber (134) directly or via a sealing element (168) between the feed channel (140) and the treatment chamber (134).

23. Composting device (100; 230; 240) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the treatment chamber (134) is a composting chamber (132) or that the treatment chamber (134) is a drying chamber (130).

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