Modular Pneumatic Refuse Collection Apparatus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pneumatic refuse collection systems are often bulky and require specific infrastructure for installation, making them unsuitable for spaces with limited capacity, such as hospitals and shopping centers, where compact and modular solutions are needed.
Innovation Solution
A pneumatic refuse collection apparatus is designed as three easily transportable modules: a container module with a refuse inlet and air outlet, a compactor-duct carrier module with a compacting ram, and a suction module with a fan, allowing for modular assembly and operation without requiring extensive infrastructure, enabling the collection of one or two different refuse fractions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pneumatic refuse collection apparatus are installed in large buildings with limited space, then refuse collection function is provided, but the available installation space is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The pneumatic refuse collection apparatus is divided into separate functional modules: a container module with refuse inlet and air outlet, a compactor module with compacting ram, and a suction module with fan. These modules can be independently manufactured and then assembled together, reducing the space required for installation while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows the same components to serve multiple functions. For example, the container module serves both as storage and as part of the pneumatic system, while the compactor module integrates compression and air flow functions. This multi-functionality reduces the overall space requirement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional pneumatic refuse collection systems are installed, then refuse collection is achieved, but specific infrastructure is required for installation
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into self-contained modules with integrated functions, the apparatus eliminates the need for extensive external infrastructure. Each module is designed to be transportable and easily assembleable, reducing installation complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If compact modular design is used, then space utilization is improved, but access to mechanisms and control devices may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The modular architecture allows each module to be accessed independently. The container module, compactor module, and suction module can be separated for maintenance, providing easy access to mechanisms and control devices while maintaining a compact overall footprint when assembled.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The modular design allows for efficient refuse collection and compaction in limited spaces, providing easy access to mechanisms and control devices, and the ability to handle multiple fractions without the need for extensive installation, enhancing operational flexibility and space utilization.
Implementation Method 1
the suction device being arranged for drawing out air from inside the container through the air outlet of the container thereby generating a negative pressure which suctions the refuse inside the container through the refuse inlet
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present invention relates to a pneumatic refuse collection apparatus which comprises a container module (4) having a compartment (7a) with a refuse inlet (8a), an air outlet (9a) and a compacting inlet (10a); a compactor-duct carrier module (5) having a compactor device (2), an air duct (13a) and a refuse duct (16); and a suction module (6) having a suction device (3). The air outlet (9a) and the compacting inlet (10a) of the container module (4) are aligned and coupled with an air inlet (11a) and a compacting outlet (38a) of the compactor-duct carrier module (5) when both modules are connected to one another in an operative position. The compactor device (2) has a compacting ram (18a) which in an extended position enters the compartment (7a) of the container module (4) through the compacting inlet (10a).