Treatment device for a composting apparatus and composting apparatus comprising a treatment device

Abstract

The invention relates to a treatment device for a composting apparatus (100), comprising a treatment chamber (120) having a wall (132) which encloses a treatment space (138), a tool unit (148) which is arranged in the treatment space (138) and comprises a shaft (150) and at least one tool (158) arranged on the shaft (150) for mixing and / or conveying compost material in the treatment space (138), a drive unit (128) for rotationally driving the tool unit (148) about an axis of rotation (152) defined by the shaft (150), and at least one projecting element (174), which projects into the treatment space (138) from an inner circumferential surface (140) of the wall (132), the tool unit (148) comprising at least one conveying element (172), which is coupled directly or indirectly to the shaft (150) and is rotatable about the axis of rotation (152), the at least one conveying element (172) comprising two conveying portions (176, 178) which are spaced apart axially from one another, are arranged radially at a distance from the axis of rotation (152) and are positioned axially such that the at least one projecting element (174) engages between the conveying portions (176, 178) in the radial direction when the at least one conveying element (172) rotates about the axis of rotation (152). The invention also relates to a composting apparatus comprising a treatment device.

Description

[0001] 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0002] 30.09.2025

[0003] Treatment device for a composting device and composting device with a treatment device

[0004] The present invention relates to a treatment device for a composting apparatus, comprising a treatment chamber with a wall enclosing a treatment space, a tool unit arranged in the treatment space comprising a shaft and at least one tool arranged on the shaft for mixing and / or conveying compost material in the treatment space, a drive unit for rotating the tool unit about an axis of rotation defined by the shaft, and at least one projection element projecting from an inner circumferential surface of the wall into the treatment space.

[0005] A composting system that includes such a treatment unit can decompose organic material into compost. For the purposes of this text, "compost" refers to organic material that has been fed into the composting system and is processed in the treatment chamber. The treatment chamber can be a drying chamber in which the fed material is dried and shredded by the tool unit. Alternatively or additionally, the treatment chamber can, for example, be a composting chamber in which compost pre-processed in the drying chamber is further shredded, dried, and preferably sanitized in a subsequent treatment step after drying and shredding.

[0006] A composting device with a two-chamber design is described, for example, in DE 10 2020 123246 A1 of the same patent applicant. The composting device has proven its worth in practice.

[0007] However, in a treatment facility with a composting chamber, for example, it can happen that, depending on the nature of the compost material (e.g., due to residual moisture and degree of shredding), agglomerates of the compost material form in the treatment chamber. In this case, the compost material can clump together into agglomerates—albeit small ones—that are essentially spherical. In practice, it has been observed that while the existing conventional tools can move agglomerates back and forth within the treatment chamber, they cannot be further shredded to break them up. It would therefore be desirable if 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0008] 30.09.2025

[0009] - 2 - an even more reliable conversion to compost material could be achieved, preferably without agglomerates.

[0010] A treatment device of this type is described, for example, in JP 3601973 B2. This device uses tools in the form of rotating knives. The projecting elements are designed as stationary knives that protrude radially from the wall.

[0011] CN 117531813 A describes a treatment device. Struts penetrate the treatment chamber from one side of the wall diametrically to the other side of the wall. A rotating tool is arranged axially between the struts.

[0012] The object of the present invention is to further develop a treatment device of the type mentioned above with which higher-quality compost material can be provided.

[0013] This problem is solved according to the invention in a treatment device of the type mentioned at the outset by the fact that the tool unit comprises at least one conveying element which is directly or indirectly coupled to the shaft and rotatable about the axis of rotation, wherein the at least one conveying element comprises two axially spaced conveying sections which are arranged radially at a distance from the axis of rotation and are positioned axially such that the at least one projection element engages between the conveying sections when the at least one conveying element is rotated about the axis of rotation in a radial direction.

[0014] The present invention incorporates the consideration that agglomerates can be captured by the at least one conveying element and broken up at the outer circumference of the treatment chamber by means of the at least one projecting element, whereas with the tool units of conventional treatment devices, only displacement in the axial direction occurs during mixing. The agglomerates that consequently float to the surface do not experience any shear forces with the remaining compost material and with the chamber wall, which means that the clumps cannot be dissolved even after a longer residence time of the compost material of one to two days or more.

[0015] The advantage of the treatment device according to the invention is that agglomerates are captured by the at least one conveying element when the tool unit rotates. 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0016] 30.09.2025

[0017] - 3 - can. The conveying sections are axially spaced apart, with the distance being chosen so that agglomerates of typical size (for example, with a diameter of less than 5 cm or less than 3 cm) can contact the conveying sections. As a result of the rotation of the tool unit, a carried agglomerate can be transported to the projection element. The projection element engages radially between the conveying sections while the tool rotates past the projection element. Shear forces can be exerted on the agglomerate via the projection element to cut or break up the agglomerate, thereby increasing the degree of comminution of the compost material.

[0018] Unless otherwise specified, "axial" and "radial" refer to the axis of rotation. Position and orientation terms such as "top," "bottom," "horizontal," or similar refer to the intended use of the treatment and composting equipment, which is typically placed on a surface. The axis of rotation is preferably horizontal, as will be discussed further below.

[0019] The treatment chamber preferably has essentially the shape of a cylinder, and in particular a vertical circular cylinder of the treatment space, wherein the inner circumferential surface extends along the entire inner circumference of the wall.

[0020] It is advantageous if the tool unit comprises two or more conveying elements and if two or more protruding elements are provided. This increases the likelihood that agglomerates can be captured and broken down. The conveying elements and protruding elements are preferably arranged axially spaced from one another on the tool unit and on the wall, respectively.

[0021] Each projection element is preferably assigned a conveying element.

[0022] On the other hand, it may be provided that a projection element is assigned to several conveying elements that are arranged axially at the same position, but are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation.

[0023] It can be advantageous if at least one of the conveying sections, preferably both conveying sections, extends in a plane or substantially in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation. This can advantageously prevent lateral displacement of 40077.AKW.P110PC

[0024] 30.09.2025

[0025] - 4 -

[0026] Agglomerates are avoided, which allows the agglomerates to be better absorbed and carried along.

[0027] The at least one conveying element comprises, for example, a third conveying section by which the conveying sections are connected to each other. The connection is preferably a single piece. For example, the at least one conveying element is designed as a bent sheet metal part.

[0028] The third conveying section can, for example, be considered the "base" of the at least one conveying element, from which the two other conveying sections extend radially outwards. The at least one projecting element engages between the conveying sections and is preferably free from contact with the third conveying section.

[0029] The third conveying section, for example, extends in a plane or substantially in a plane to which the axis of rotation is aligned parallel or substantially parallel.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one conveying element can, for example, be U-shaped in a top view, wherein the legs of the U are formed by the conveying sections mentioned above and the third conveying section forms the base of the U. The top view is taken looking towards a plane containing the axis of rotation through which the conveying element is moved.

[0031] The at least one projecting element, when it engages between the conveying sections, preferably has a distance from the conveying sections in the axial direction. In practice, it has been shown that this allows for better comminution of agglomerates.

[0032] For example, the gap between the respective conveying section and the projection element is approximately one to three material thicknesses of the conveying section or the projection element.

[0033] The at least one conveying element is preferably made of a flat material and / or a metal material. This enables robust and cost-effective manufacturing.

[0034] It proves advantageous if at least one conveying element is fixed to the at least one tool, or if the at least one tool has at least one 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0035] 30.09.2025

[0036] - 5 -

[0037] The conveying element comprises a conveying element. The conveying element can preferably be formed integrally with the tool or a section thereof. Alternatively, the conveying element can be formed separately from the tool or a section thereof and connected to it. By arranging the at least one conveying element on the tool, it is not necessary to fix the conveying element itself to the shaft. This simplifies the design of the tool unit and, due to the lack of connection between the conveying element and the shaft, facilitates better mixing of the compost material in the treatment chamber.

[0038] The at least one conveying element is arranged, for example, at the end of the at least one tool in the axial direction, relative to the extent of the at least one tool along the axis of rotation. The tool can preferably be shaped such that it displaces compost material in the axial direction. Any agglomerates can thereby be advantageously fed to the conveying element.

[0039] It is advantageous if at least one tool has two conveying elements, or if the at least one tool comprises two conveying elements that are axially spaced apart and, in particular, arranged axially at each end of the at least one tool. Preferably, each conveying element is assigned a projection element on its wall. This enables even better shredding of compost material, as the two conveying elements increase the likelihood that agglomerates are carried along and broken up.

[0040] For example, one of the conveying elements is positioned essentially centrally in the treatment chamber in the axial direction. The other of the two conveying elements is positioned, for example, close to an end wall of the treatment chamber in the axial direction. The distance to the end wall is, for example, approximately 10% to 20% of the axial extent of the treatment chamber.

[0041] It is advantageous if the at least one tool includes at least one displacement section oriented obliquely to the axis of rotation for displacing compost material in the axial direction, with the at least one conveying element being arranged on the at least one displacement section. The displacement section can, for example, be plate-shaped and have a surface normal oblique to the axis of rotation. 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0042] 30.09.2025

[0043] - 6 -

[0044] The conveying element is preferably arranged axially at the end of the displacement section. The conveying element can be formed integrally with the displacement section or be formed separately and connected to it. During rotation of the tool unit, the compost material can be moved axially within the treatment chamber via the displacement section. By arranging the conveying element on the displacement section, agglomerates can be captured by the displacement section and moved towards the conveying element as a result of the rotation. The conveying element can then capture agglomerates and move them along its inner circumferential surface until they reach the projecting element and are broken up there.

[0045] Advantageously, the tool comprises two displacement sections arranged at an angle to each other, forming a plow. As the tool unit rotates, the compost material is displaced in a direction away from the other displacement section.

[0046] An example of a tool with two displacement sections forming a plow is disclosed in DE 10 2020 123 246 A1 mentioned at the beginning.

[0047] Advantageously, at least one conveying element defines a conveying plane with a surface normal that is oriented perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation. This plane is defined, for example, by an edge of at least one of the two conveying sections and, if present, the third conveying section. Due to this orientation of the conveying plane, the probability of captured agglomerates being axially displaced by the conveying element is relatively low. As a result of the rotation, the agglomerates are carried along the inner circumferential surface.

[0048] For improved mixing and shredding of the compost material, it is advantageous if the tool unit comprises two or more tools, preferably of identical design. The tools are, in particular, axially mounted side by side on the shaft. It may be provided that adjacent tools are offset by a predetermined angle around the axis of rotation (for example, 180°) on the shaft. 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0049] 30.09.2025

[0050] - 7 -

[0051] For example, it is provided that two tools arranged axially side by side each comprise a conveying element, and that the respective conveying element of each tool is arranged axially in the same position. A projection element on the wall engages in the respective conveying element of one of the tools depending on the rotational position of the tool unit about the axis of rotation. In this configuration, two conveying elements can be associated with one projection element. Depending on the rotational position of the tool unit, the projection element can engage in the conveying element of one tool or the other. As explained above, the tools are, for example, mounted on the shaft offset by 180° with respect to the axis of rotation.

[0052] It can be advantageous if the at least one conveying element is free from contact with the inner circumferential surface during the rotation of the at least one tool around the axis of rotation. This prevents friction between the conveying element and the wall. However, a relatively small distance between the conveying element and the wall is still beneficial, for example, approximately 5 mm or preferably less.

[0053] The at least one projecting element, in a structurally simple yet highly effective design, is preferably configured as a rib. In particular, it is provided that the at least one projecting element, especially the rib, extends in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0054] It can be advantageous if the at least one projecting element extends over a larger angular range in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation than the at least one conveying element. For example, its extension is twice as large as that of the conveying element, or even larger, for example, approximately three times as large.

[0055] In practice, it can prove advantageous if the at least one projecting element extends circumferentially around the axis of rotation over an angular range of less than 180°, preferably less than 90°, and even more preferably over an angular range of approximately 70° to 10°. For example, an extension over an angular range of approximately 60° to 40° proves advantageous in practice. It has been shown that agglomerates formed with such dimensions can be effectively broken down, and good mixing of compost material in the treatment chamber is achieved. 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0056] 30.09.2025

[0057] - 8 -

[0058] It can be provided that the at least one protruding element extends radially over approximately 10% to 30% of the radius of the treatment chamber, preferably over approximately 15% to 25% of the radius of the treatment chamber. As described above, this enables effective breaking up of agglomerates without impairing the mixing of the compost material in the treatment chamber.

[0059] In one embodiment of the invention, the projecting element can, as has been shown in practice, have a radial height of approximately 1 cm to 3 cm. The height is adapted to the passable free cross-section of the conveying element, the size of which is advantageously determined by the usual size of the agglomerates to be captured and broken up, particularly with regard to their suitability for transport through a discharge opening of the treatment chamber (e.g., into a collection container for the compost material).

[0060] It may be provided that the height of the at least one projecting element differs in the radial direction relative to the inner circumferential surface and in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation. In this case, this can be understood in particular to mean that the at least one projecting element encompasses or forms a free edge facing away from the inner circumferential surface, which is spaced at varying distances from the inner circumferential surface in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation.

[0061] For example, the height of at least one protrusion element decreases in the direction of rotation of the tool unit around the axis of rotation. This decrease in height can be continuous. Alternatively, the height can decrease in steps, for example.

[0062] It may be provided that the at least one projecting element has or forms a front edge on an end face facing the incoming conveying element, which is inclined at an angle relative to the radial direction. With such a design, a carried agglomerate can, for example, initially contact the front edge radially on the outside and, with further rotation, radially on the inside, which has proven advantageous in practice for the comminution of agglomerates. The angle is, for example, approximately 10° to 50°, preferably approximately 30°, and is measured in the direction of rotation of the tool. 40077.AKW.P110PC

[0063] 30.09.2025

[0064] - 9 -

[0065] The at least one projecting element is preferably formed integrally with the wall or a part of the wall, particularly from a metal material. This allows for a structurally simple and robust manufacturing process. For example, aluminum die casting is used to manufacture the wall and the projecting element.

[0066] The tool unit may include at least one scraper element arranged or fixed to the shaft, with one side facing away from the shaft towards the inner circumferential surface, which scrapes off compost material as the tool unit rotates. This allows adhering compost material to be moved back into the treatment chamber, which has proven advantageous for loosening the compost. The scraper element is, for example, plate-shaped and has a surface normal that is oriented obliquely to the axis of rotation. This causes the compost material to be displaced axially, thus facilitating better mixing.

[0067] The at least one scraper element is preferably aligned at an angle to the axis of rotation.

[0068] In the area of ​​the at least one projection element, the at least one wiper element preferably comprises a through-opening. During rotation of the tool unit, the wiper element can move over the projection element. Any adhering material to the projection element and / or the inner circumferential surface is preferably wiped away.

[0069] As mentioned at the outset, the present invention also relates to a composting device. The object of the present invention is to provide a composting device with a treatment unit according to the invention.

[0070] This problem is solved according to the invention in that the composting device comprises at least one treatment unit of the type described above and a filling opening through which material to be composted can be filled, wherein the filling opening is directly or indirectly in a transport connection with a feed opening of the treatment chamber.

[0071] The advantages already mentioned in connection with the explanation of the treatment device according to the invention can also be achieved with the composting device according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments of 40077.AKW.P110PC

[0072] 30.09.2025

[0073] - 10 -

[0074] Composting devices result from advantageous embodiments of the treatment unit. Reference is made to the above descriptions in each case.

[0075] A user can fill the composting device with the material to be composted. The filling opening can, for example, be aligned with the feed opening of the treatment chamber, so that the material enters the treatment chamber directly. Alternatively, the filling opening can be aligned with a feed opening of another treatment unit, from which pre-processed compost material enters the treatment chamber of the treatment unit according to the invention.

[0076] The present invention proves particularly advantageous for horizontally oriented treatment chambers. Accordingly, it can be provided that the axis of rotation is horizontally oriented. In this context, this can be understood to mean, in particular, that assuming a horizontally oriented installation surface, the axis of rotation is aligned parallel to the installation surface for the composting device.

[0077] Particularly when the treatment chamber is horizontally oriented, it can be designed so that the at least one conveying element passes the protruding element while performing an upward movement during rotation. In this process, a conveyed agglomerate can also be held against the conveying element by gravity and thus be carried along more effectively, while it is broken up by the at least one protruding element.

[0078] For example, at least one projection element extends or is positioned above the lowest point of the treatment room and below the highest point of the treatment room. Advantageously, the projection element extends to a maximum of half the height of the treatment room.

[0079] The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, in conjunction with the drawing, serves to explain the invention in more detail.

[0080] They show:

[0081] Fig. 1: A perspective view of the composting device according to the invention; 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0082] 30.09.2025

[0083] - 11 -

[0084] Fig. 2: the composting device from Fig. 1 with open housing and view of an interior space in which the treatment device according to the invention is accommodated;

[0085] Fig. 3: a perspective view of the treatment facility in a

[0086] Exploded view;

[0087] Fig. 4: a perspective partial view of the treatment facility;

[0088] Fig. 5: an enlarged view of detail A in Fig. 4 with a changed perspective;

[0089] Fig. 6: a sectional view of the treatment device, with the section plane running along line 6-6 in Fig. 4, excluding one tool of the treatment device; and

[0090] Figs. 7 to 9: Illustrations corresponding to Fig. 6, wherein one tool unit of the

[0091] The treatment device is shown in different rotational positions with respect to a rotational axis.

[0092] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an advantageous embodiment of the composting device according to the invention, designated by reference numeral 100. In this case, the composting device 100 comprises a housing 102, which rests on a base 104 via support elements (not shown in the drawing). The base 104 is considered to be horizontally oriented. Reference is made to the above descriptions regarding position and orientation.

[0093] The composting device 100 can process organic material into compost. For this purpose, a user opens a cover 106 and fills the organic material through a filling opening 108 located on the top. The material passes through the filling opening 108 to a first treatment unit 110 with a treatment chamber 112. In the treatment chamber 112, the material is pre-processed into compost by being shredded and dried. 40077. AKW.P110PC

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[0096] Starting from treatment chamber 112, the material passes through a transfer chute 114 to a feed opening 116 of a second treatment unit 118, the feed opening 116 being located on a treatment chamber 120 of the treatment unit 118. In Figure 2, treatment unit 118 is concealed internally by structural components of the composting device 100.

[0097] In treatment chamber 120, the pre-processed compost material is further dried, shredded, mixed, and sanitized. From treatment chamber 120, the compost material can be fed to a discharge container 122 of the composting unit 100.

[0098] The basic operating principle of the composting device 100 as described above is explained, for example, in DE 102020 123 246 A1 of the same applicant.

[0099] However, the composting device 100 differs in its specific design from the composting device described in DE 10 2020 123 246 A1. In particular, the treatment unit 118 is a treatment unit according to the invention in a preferred embodiment. The treatment unit 110 can also be designed according to the present invention.

[0100] Based on the above, it follows that the organic material to be composted indirectly enters the treatment chamber 120 after being poured into the filling opening 108. For this purpose, there is a transport connection from the filling opening 108 to the feed opening 116 and thus into the treatment chamber 120.

[0101] The following section describes the design of treatment facility 118 with reference to Figures 3 to 9.

[0102] In the two-chamber configuration of the composting device 100, the treatment chamber 120 is a composting chamber 124, while the spatially and functionally upstream treatment chamber 112 is a drying chamber 126. Pre-processed compost material is received in the composting chamber 124 for a predetermined or predetermined period (for example, approximately 0.5 to 3 days, preferably approximately 1 to 2 days) and further processed into usable compost material. This is achieved through further drying, sanitization, and in particular by mixing and 40077. AKW.P110PC

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[0105] Shredding the compost material to make it as crumbly as possible for high biological effectiveness.

[0106] The treatment unit 118 comprises the treatment chamber 120 and a drive unit 128. The drive unit 128 is located outside the treatment chamber 120 and is electrically connected to a control unit 130 of the composting device 100.

[0107] The treatment chamber 120 is essentially cylindrical in design and comprises a wall 132. In this example, the wall 132 essentially has a half-shell structure with a lower half-shell 134 and an upper half-shell 136. The wall 132 encloses a treatment space 138. Furthermore, the wall 132 has an inner circumferential surface 140.

[0108] At the end face, the wall 132 comprises a first end wall 142 and a second end wall 144, each with an opening 146.

[0109] For mixing and / or shredding the compost material received in the treatment chamber 138, the treatment device 118 includes a tool unit 148. The tool unit 148 includes a shaft 150, which defines a rotation axis 152. The shaft 150 is rotatable about the rotation axis 152 via bearing elements 154, which are inserted into the openings 146, under drive by the drive unit 128.

[0110] Depending on the control signal from the control unit 130, the direction of rotation can be reversed. An arrow 156 indicates the direction of rotation during normal use in the composting process. The direction of rotation can preferably be reversed. For example, reversing the direction of rotation can be used to convey compost material from the treatment chamber to the discharge container 122, as described functionally in DE 102020 123246 A1. In the event of a malfunction, the direction of rotation can also be advantageously reversed temporarily.

[0111] As can be seen particularly from Figures 3 to 5, the tool unit 148 comprises at least one tool 158. In this case, two tools 158 are provided. These are identically designed, which is why only one tool 158 will be discussed below. The respective descriptions also apply to the other tool 158. 40077. AKW.P110PC

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[0114] The tools 158 are arranged axially side by side with respect to the axis of rotation 152 and are each fixed to the shaft 150. They are fastened, for example, by riveting or screwing, although a material-bonded connection is also conceivable.

[0115] The shaft 150 and the tools 158 are arranged in the treatment chamber 138, with the shaft 150 protruding through the bearing element 154 and engaging with the drive unit 128.

[0116] The tool 158 comprises a fastening section 160 for securing it to the shaft 150. In the present embodiment, the fastening section 160 is integrally connected to a displacement section 162. The displacement section 162 is essentially plate-shaped and oriented obliquely with respect to the axis of rotation 152. This is achieved, for example, by orienting a surface normal 164 of the plane of the displacement section 162 obliquely to the axis of rotation 152.

[0117] In the present case, the tool 158 comprises two displacement sections 162, each of which is connected to the fastening section 160.

[0118] The displacement sections 162 are aligned at an angle to each other and together form a plow 166. As the tool unit 148 rotates, each displacement section 162 displaces compost material axially by moving it laterally. It follows that, due to the inclined position of the displacement sections 162, compost material is also displaced towards the wall 132. In particular, the compost material is pushed away from the other displacement section 162 and thus in directions away from each other on both sides of the plow 166.

[0119] In a radial direction with respect to the axis of rotation 152, the respective displacement section 162 extends approximately over a quarter of the radius to half of the radius of the treatment space 138.

[0120] When processing compost material, clumps may form depending on its composition. Such agglomerates, for example, have a predominantly spherical shape with a relatively small diameter, such as less than 5 cm or less than 3 cm. Nevertheless, it is 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0121] 30.09.2025

[0122] - 15 - desirable to break up the clumps in order to obtain fine-grained compost material.

[0123] Agglomerates form, for example, depending on the starting material of the compost and the moisture content in the treatment chamber 138. As practical experience shows, these agglomerates float on top of the smaller particles of the compost material during mixing due to their size, or they are suspended within the remaining compost material. Conventional treatment systems do not break down these agglomerates into smaller particles. The known tool units 148 do not exert sufficiently high shear forces on the agglomerates to break them down back into granular compost material.

[0124] In Figures 6 to 9, a typical fill level 168 of the compost material in the treatment chamber 138 is shown by a dashed line. Normally, with the tool unit 148 stationary, the fill level 168 reaches approximately halfway up the treatment chamber 138. However, due to the rotation of the tool unit 148, the level on the side of the tool 158 rising during movement is higher than on the side of the tool 158 dipping into the material.

[0125] Reference number 170 is used to show an example of an agglomerate.

[0126] To break up agglomerates 170, the tool unit 148 comprises at least one conveying element 172. In addition, at least one projection element 174 is provided on the wall 132.

[0127] In the present embodiment, several conveying elements 172 and several projection elements 174 are present, each of which is identically designed.

[0128] The tool 158 comprises two conveying elements 172. One conveying element 172 is fixed to each displacement section 162 (Figs. 4 and 5). The connection is monolithic. The displacement section 162 and the conveying element 172 are both manufactured from a single flat material, in particular metal, and formed by means of appropriate bends.

[0129] The conveying element 172 is arranged at its end, with respect to the axis of rotation 152, in the axial direction on the displacement section 162. For this reason, the two 40077. AKW.P110PC

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[0132] Conveyor elements 172 of the tool 158 are arranged on opposite end sides of the tool 158 (Figs. 3 and 4).

[0133] In this case, one conveying element 172 is arranged axially essentially centrally in the treatment chamber 138. The other conveying element 172 is arranged near the end wall 142 (or the end wall 144 in the case of the other tool 158). In the axial direction, the distance to the end wall 142, 144 is, for example, approximately 10% to 20% of the length of the treatment chamber 138, in this case approximately one-eighth of the length.

[0134] The conveying element 172 comprises two axially spaced conveying sections 176 and 178. Conveying section 176 is connected to the displacement section 162. Conveying sections 176 and 178 each extend essentially in a plane that is oriented perpendicular to the axis of rotation 152.

[0135] A (third) conveying section 180 connects conveying sections 176 and 178. From conveying section 180, conveying sections 176 and 178 extend radially outwards.

[0136] The conveying element 172 is arranged on the tool 158 such that it is positioned at a distance from the axis of rotation 152. The conveying section 180 extends essentially in a plane to which the axis of rotation is aligned parallel.

[0137] The conveying section 180 forms, in a sense, a "bottom" of the conveying element 172. In plan view, the conveying element 172 essentially has the shape of a U, of which the conveying sections 176 and 178 form the legs connected to each other via the conveying section 180.

[0138] When the tool 158 rotates around the axis of rotation 152, the conveying element 172 is free from contact with the inner circumferential surface 140 of the wall 132 in order to avoid possible friction.

[0139] The conveying element 172 is designed such that it defines a conveying plane 182 over the edges of the conveying sections 178, 180 (Fig. 5). The conveying plane 182 is oriented such that its surface normal 184 is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation 152. 40077. AKW.P110PC

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[0142] During the rotation of the tool unit 148, compost material is displaced in the axial direction. Agglomerates 170 are also pushed to the side and can reach the conveying element 172. The conveying plane 182 is oriented such that agglomerates 170 are captured by the conveying element 172 during rotation, but are not pushed further to the side in the axial direction. Instead, a captured agglomerate 170 is moved circumferentially around the axis of rotation 152 along the inner circumferential surface 140 (Figs. 6 and 7).

[0143] As can be seen particularly from Figures 5 to 9, the respective projection element 174 is designed as a rib 186. The rib 186 is manufactured integrally with a part of the wall 132, in this case the lower half-shell 134. For this purpose, for example, an aluminum die-casting process is used.

[0144] The rib 186 projects radially inwards from the wall 132 into the treatment chamber 138. In this case, the rib 186 extends in a plane that is essentially perpendicular to the axis of rotation 152.

[0145] The rib 186 extends circumferentially around the axis of rotation 152 over a limited angular range. In the present example, the angular range is approximately 40° to 60°. The reference numeral 188 indicates the corresponding angle (Fig. 6).

[0146] The rib 186 is positioned such that it is located above a lowest point 190 of the treatment chamber 138 and below a highest point 192 of the treatment chamber 138. Specifically, the rib 186 is positioned such that it extends to approximately half the height of the treatment chamber 138. During the rotation of the tool unit 148, the conveying element 172 passes over the rib 186 during its upward movement (Figs. 6 to 8).

[0147] In the radial direction, the rib 186 extends over approximately 10% to 25% of the radius of the treatment space 138. The absolute height is, for example, approximately 1 cm to 3 cm.

[0148] The height of the rib 186, measured from the inner circumferential surface 140, varies. The height of the rib 186 decreases particularly in the direction of rotation 156. A free edge 194 of the rib 186 (Fig. 5) is spaced at a different distance from the inner circumferential surface 140 depending on the angle 188 to the axis of rotation 152. 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0149] 30.09.2025

[0150] - 18 -

[0151] During the rotation of the tool unit 148, the conveying element 172 first passes the edge 194 with the greatest height of the rib 186.

[0152] In the axial direction, the conveying element 172 and the rib 186 are arranged in the same position. The distance between the conveying sections 176 and 178 is dimensioned such that when the conveying element 172 passes over the rib 186 as a result of rotation, the rib engages between the conveying sections 176 and 178 (Figs. 3 to 5 and 8). A gap exists between the rib 186 and the conveying sections 176 and 178. This results in a space 196 between the rib 186 and the conveying element 172.

[0153] The conveyed agglomerates 170 rest against the rotating conveying element 172 and are moved along the inner circumferential surface 140. As the conveying element 172 passes the rib 186, the agglomerate 170 contacts the rib 186 and is thereby broken down. Ideally, the agglomerate 170 is broken down to such an extent that it is completely or substantially completely dissolved, leaving behind granular compost material.

[0154] On an end face 198, which faces the incoming conveying element 172, the rib 186 has a front edge 200. The front edge 200 is inclined at an angle 204 relative to the radial direction 202 (Fig. 6). The angle 204 is measured in the direction of rotation of the tool 158 and is approximately 30° in this case.

[0155] Due to the inclined front edge 200 with respect to the radial direction 202, the agglomerate 170 initially only makes point contact with the rib 186. In practice, this has proven advantageous for breaking up the agglomerate 170.

[0156] The treatment device 118 comprises three projection elements 174. Each conveying element 172 is assigned one projection element 174. However, each of the axially centrally arranged projection element 174 is assigned one conveying element 172 of each tool 158 (Fig. 4). Depending on the rotational position of the tool unit 158, the rib 186 therefore engages alternately with one of the conveying elements 172 during rotation. The tools 158 are fixed to the shaft 150 with an offset of 180° relative to each other with respect to their rotational movement.

[0157] The tool unit 148 also includes a wiper element 206, which is fixed to the shaft 150. The wiper element 206 is designed with one of the shaft 150 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0158] 30.09.2025

[0159] - 19 - the opposite side 208, which faces the inner circumferential surface 140, to scrape compost material from the wall 132 during the rotation of the tool unit 148 so that it can be recycled.

[0160] The stripping element 206 is arranged axially at the level of a projection element 174 and therefore includes a through-opening 210. When the tool unit 148 rotates, the rib 186 engages in the through-opening 210, so that the stripping element 206 can pass through the rib 186.

[0161] The scraper element 206 is essentially plate-shaped with a surface normal 212 that is inclined to the axis of rotation 152. This causes a displacement of compost material in the axial direction, so that the scraper element 206 also mixes the compost material.

[0162] Two stripping elements 206 are present, with one stripping element 206 being arranged axially at the height of each tool 158.

[0163] 40077. AKW.P110PC

[0164] 30.09.2025

[0165] - 20 -

[0166] Reference symbol list

[0167] 100 composting device

[0168] 102 cases

[0169] 104 installation area

[0170] 106 Coverage

[0171] 108 Filling opening

[0172] 110 treatment facility

[0173] 112 Treatment Chamber

[0174] 114 T transfer shaft

[0175] 116 Feed opening

[0176] 118 Treatment facility

[0177] 120 treatment chamber

[0178] 122 dispensing containers

[0179] 124 Composting chamber

[0180] 126 T drying chamber

[0181] 128 Drive unit

[0182] 130 control unit

[0183] 132 wall

[0184] 134 lower half-shell

[0185] 136 upper half-shell

[0186] 138 Treatment room

[0187] 140 internal circumference area

[0188] 142 first front wall

[0189] 144 second front wall

[0190] 146 Breakthrough

[0191] 148 tool units

[0192] 150 wave

[0193] 152 axis of rotation

[0194] 154 Bearing element

[0195] 156 Arrow Direction of rotation

[0196] 158 tools

[0197] 160 fastening section

[0198] 162 Displacement section

[0199] 164 Surface normals

[0200] 166 Plow 40077. Nuclear power plant. P110PC 30.09.2025

[0201] - 21 -

[0202] 168 Fill level (dashed line)

[0203] 170 agglomerate

[0204] 172 Conveyor element

[0205] 174 Protrusion element

[0206] 176 Funding section

[0207] 178 Conveyor section

[0208] 180 Conveyor section

[0209] 182 funding level

[0210] 184 Surface normals

[0211] 186 rib

[0212] 188 angles

[0213] 190 lowest point

[0214] 192 highest point

[0215] 194 free margin

[0216] 196 spaces

[0217] 198 Front

[0218] 200 forehead edge

[0219] 202 Radial direction

[0220] 204 angles

[0221] 206 Wiper element

[0222] Page 208

[0223] 210 Passage opening

[0224] 212 Surface normals

Claims

40077. AKW.P110PC 30.09.2025 - 22 - PATENT CLAIMS 1. Treatment device for a composting apparatus (100), comprising a treatment chamber (120) with a wall (132) enclosing a treatment space (138), a tool unit (148) arranged in the treatment space (138) comprising a shaft (150) and at least one tool (158) arranged on the shaft (150) for mixing and / or conveying compost material in the treatment space (138), a drive unit (128) for rotating the tool unit (148) about an axis of rotation (152) defined by the shaft (150), and at least one projection element (174) projecting from an inner circumferential surface (140) of the wall (132) into the treatment space (138), characterized in that the tool unit (148) comprises at least one conveying element (172) that is directly or indirectly coupled to the shaft (150) and rotatable about the axis of rotation (152). is, wherein the at least one conveying element (172) comprises two axially spaced conveying sections (176, 178),which are arranged radially at a distance from the axis of rotation (152) and are positioned axially such that the at least one projection element (174) engages between the conveying sections (176, 178) when the at least one conveying element (172) rotates about the axis of rotation (152) in a radial direction.

2. Treatment device according to claim 1, characterized in that the tool unit (148) comprises two or more conveying elements (172) and that two or more projection elements (174) are provided, wherein a conveying element (172) is assigned to each projection element (174).

3. Treatment device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one of the conveying sections (176, 178), preferably both conveying sections (176, 178), extends in a plane or substantially in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation (152).

4. Treatment device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that 40077. AKW.P110PC 30.09.2025 - 23 - the at least one conveying element (172) comprises a third conveying section (180) through which the conveying sections (176, 178) are connected to each other, preferably that the third conveying section (180) extends in a plane or substantially in a plane to which the axis of rotation (152) is aligned parallel or substantially parallel.

5. Treatment device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one conveying element (172) is U-shaped in a top view.

6. Treatment device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one conveying element (172) is fixed to the at least one tool (158) or that the at least one tool (158) comprises at least one conveying element (172).

7. Treatment device according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least one conveying element (172) is arranged at the end of the at least one tool (158) in the axial direction, with respect to the extension of the at least one tool (158) along the axis of rotation (152).

8. Treatment device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that two conveying elements (172) are fixed on the at least one tool (158) or that the at least one tool (158) comprises two conveying elements (172) which are axially spaced apart from each other and are in particular arranged axially at each end of the at least one tool (158).

9. Treatment device according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the at least one tool (158) comprises at least one displacement section (162) oriented obliquely to the axis of rotation (152) for displacing compost material in the axial direction, wherein the at least one conveying element (172) is arranged on the at least one displacement section (162), in particular that 40077. AKW.P110PC 30.09.2025 - 24 - two displacement sections (162) arranged at an angle to each other and forming a plow (166) are provided.

10. Treatment device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one conveying element (172) defines a conveying plane (184) with a surface normal (164) that is oriented perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation (152).

11. Treatment device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tool unit (148) comprises two or more preferably identically designed tools (158).

12. Treatment device according to claim 11, characterized in that two tools (158) arranged axially next to each other each comprise a conveying element (172) and the respective conveying element (172) of a tool (158) is arranged axially at the same position, wherein a projection element (174) on the wall (132) engages in the respective conveying element (172) of one of the tools (158) depending on a rotational position of the tool unit (148) about the axis of rotation (152).

13. Treatment device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one conveying element (172) is free from contact with the inner circumferential surface (140) during the rotation of the at least one tool (158) about the axis of rotation (152).

14. Treatment device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one projection element (174) is designed as a rib (186) and / or that the at least one projection element (174) extends in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation (152).

15. Treatment facility according to one of the preceding claims, 40077. AKW.P110PC 30.09.2025 - 25 - characterized in that the at least one projection element (174) extends in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation (152) over an angular range of less than 180°, preferably less than 90°, more preferably over an angular range of approximately 70° to 10°.

16. Treatment device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one projection element (174) extends in a radial direction over approximately 10% to 30% of a radius of the treatment space (138), preferably over approximately 15% to 25% of the radius of the treatment space (138).

17. Treatment device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the height of the at least one projection element (174) differs in the radial direction in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation (152) starting from the inner circumferential surface (140), wherein in particular the height of the at least one projection element (174) decreases in the direction of rotation of the tool unit (148) about the axis of rotation (152).

18. Treatment device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one projection element (174) has or forms an end face (200) on an end face (198) which is directed towards the incoming conveying element (172) and which is inclined relative to the radial direction (202) by an angle (204), wherein the angle (204) is approximately 10° to 50°, preferably approximately 30°, and is measured in the direction of rotation of the tool (158).

19. Treatment device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one projection element (174) is formed integrally with the wall (132) or a part of the wall (132), in particular made of a metal material.

20. Treatment facility according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that 40077. AKW.P110PC 30.09.2025 - 26 - the tool unit (148) comprises at least one scraper element (206) arranged or fixed on the shaft (150), which has a side (208) facing away from the shaft (150) and which scrapes compost material from the wall (132) when the tool unit (148) rotates.

21. Treatment device according to claim 20, characterized in that the at least one scraper element (206) is oriented obliquely to the axis of rotation (152) and / or comprises a through opening (210) in the area of ​​the at least one projection element (174).

22. Composting device comprising at least one treatment unit (110, 118) according to one of the preceding claims and a filling opening (108) through which material to be composted can be filled, wherein the filling opening (108) is directly or indirectly in a transport connection with a feed opening (116) of the treatment chamber (120).

23. Composting device according to claim 22, characterized in that the axis of rotation (152) is horizontally aligned.

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