ES3055677T3 - Mobile waste collection and compaction device - Google Patents

Abstract

Mobile device (1) for collecting and compacting waste, comprising: a container (2) for receiving a waste bag, with a movable base plate (4) and a first seal (5) in the opening (6); a lid device (7) with a second seal (8); means (9) for generating compressed air; means (10) for generating a vacuum; means (11) for thermally sealing the waste bag when the lid device is in the closed position; means (31) for moving the mobile device (1), wherein the lid device (7) has a suction opening (12) arranged in the device (7) such that, in the closed position, the gaseous atmosphere can be partially extracted from inside a waste bag placed in the container (2) by means of the means (10) for generating a vacuum, wherein the container (2) has an inlet opening (15) for compressed air that can be supplied by means of an inlet valve (16) provided by the means (9) for generating compressed air. (Automatic translation using Google Translate, not legally binding)

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Mobile waste collection and compaction device

[0003] The present invention relates to a mobile waste collection and compaction device, in particular a waste container. The present invention also relates further to a waste collection and compaction method.

[0004] Background and state of the art

[0005] Waste collection and compaction devices are known in the prior art. EP 0 209 639 A1, for example, describes a device for compacting kitchen waste. In the device, the introduced waste is subjected to atmospheric pressure by removing the air with a pump, thereby compacting it.

[0006] EP 1498364 A1 discloses a device for collecting and disposing of dry waste, wet waste, and the like. The device comprises a container with a lid secured by airtight sealing elements, containing a sliding piston that forms a sealed chamber. Also included are waste compaction and liquid discharge elements, as well as air and liquid suction elements, which are connected to the chamber and to the interior of a flexible container. However, the piston is retracted only by means of a spring; the waste is not actively compressed.

[0007] WO 2007/076964 A1 discloses a waste container with a bag inside and a vacuum pump for extracting gas, in particular air, from the bag, wherein a pressing device is provided for pressing and compressing a material inside the bag before the gas is extracted. However, no details of the pressing device are disclosed; only a pressing plate that moves "downwards" is mentioned. The publication also discloses a sealing device for gas-tightening the bag.

[0008] In known prior art waste containers, essentially only atmospheric pressure is used to compact the waste bag, or an undefined compacting plate is lowered. With a typically high volume of waste, including garbage, refuse, containers, or the like, and low compression, both space and material are unnecessarily consumed for the collection, storage, and disposal of the waste, typically waste bags.

[0009] Disclosure of the invention

[0010] The objective of the present invention is to overcome the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art and, in particular, to provide a mobile waste container in which waste can be collected and stored, compacted as much as possible and subsequently disposed of cleanly, while being easy to handle.

[0011] This task is solved, according to the present invention, by means of a mobile device (1) for the collection and compaction of waste comprising:

[0012] a) a container (2) for housing a waste bag, comprising side walls (3), a bottom plate (4) and a first seal (5) at the opening (6),

[0013] b) a lid device (7) with a second seal (8), the lid device being configured and arranged so that it can be placed, with respect to the opening (6) of the container (2), in an open position, so that the opening (6) of the container (2) is accessible for the insertion of a waste bag, and can be placed, with respect to the opening (6) of the container (2), in a closed position, so that the lid device (7) interacts with the opening of the container (2) in a form-fitting manner, such that a waste bag inserted into the container (2) can be hermetically sealed against the lid device (7) between the first seal (5) and the second seal (8). c) means (9) for generating compressed air,

[0014] d) means (10) for generating a vacuum,

[0015] e) means (11) for heat-sealing a waste bag inserted into the container (2) when the lid device is in the closed position, the means being located in the opening (6) of the container and/or in the lid device (7), and

[0016] f) means (31) for the (horizontal) displacement of the movable device (1), having the arrangement: g) the lid device (7) having a suction opening (12), arranged in the lid device (7) such that, in the closed position, the gaseous atmosphere inside a waste bag inserted into the container (2) can be partially drawn out by means (10) to generate a vacuum, h) the container (2), with the opening (6) closed, is airtight,

[0017] i) i) the bottom plate (4) of the container is movable with respect to the side walls (3) and, in the closed position, in the direction of the lid device (7),

[0018] j) means (14) are provided for displacing the bottom plate (4) with respect to the side walls (3), and

[0019] k) the container (2) has an inlet opening (15) for compressed air, which can be subjected to compressed air, provided by the means (9) to generate compressed air, by control through an inlet valve (16).

[0020] The objective is also achieved by a method of collecting and compacting waste comprising a) the step of aspirating a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from a waste bag containing waste, plus

[0021] b) the simultaneous mechanical compression of the waste bag, as well as

[0022] c) the simultaneous application of outside air pressure on the waste bag.

[0023] This procedure is carried out, according to the invention, by means of a mobile device according to the present invention.

[0024] Advantageous configurations of the device and the method are the subject of the dependent claims. The invention is based on the recognition that it is particularly advantageous to collect and compact waste when the compaction is not carried out solely by aspiration of air from the waste bag, but especially by additional and simultaneous mechanical compression of the waste bag and the application of compressed air thereto. This simply leads to waste with a particularly small space requirement and, therefore, to optimal use of resources. The invention is described below in more detail by means of preferred embodiments. The mobile device according to the invention for collecting and compacting waste comprises a container for holding a waste bag. Typical containers are known in the prior art and are generally either parallelepiped or cylindrical in shape. The container comprises an opening, typically the top face—preferably the entire surface—as well as side walls, typically the four side walls of the parallelepiped or the lateral surface of the cylinder, and a container bottom. The container, according to the invention, is airtight when the opening is closed. That is, the side walls and the bottom of the container, or the movable bottom plate inside the container, form a hermetically sealed space when the opening is airtight. Suitable materials are plastics or metals, particularly glass fiber reinforced plastics, for example, GFK 30 or GFK 40, PEEK plastics, PA6, as well as stainless steel or aluminum.

[0025] The container of the device according to the invention further comprises a first gasket at the opening, typically arranged on a surface of the upper part of the container perpendicular to the side walls (and parallel to the bottom of the container). The gasket is configured circumferentially at the opening, i.e., it completely surrounds the opening of the container. This gasket is suitable for producing an airtight seal of the opening, with a typical waste bag, by corresponding interaction with the second gasket in the lid device. Suitable sealing materials are known in the prior art. Insofar as gaskets are used in the present invention, suitable sealing materials are, in principle, known to the skilled trade; typical materials include silicone, silicone foam, EPDM, NBR, CR, cellular rubber, sponge rubber, fluoroelastomers, e.g., Viton®, fiber gaskets based on aramid fibers, e.g., KLINGERSIL®, PTFE (Teflon®), polyurethane (Vulkollan®), PVC, and PMMA. The preferred materials are EPDM and silicone for the first, second, and fourth gaskets. Fluoroelastomers, such as Viton®, are preferred as gaskets for the welding and cutting electrodes.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the device includes means for securing a waste bag to the container opening, preferably a clamping frame or clamping clips. Such a clamping frame is attached, for example, to the container by means of a hinge and completely surrounds the container opening. By folding down the frame, the opening is freely accessible, allowing a waste bag to be inserted into the container, the bag coming into contact with the first seal located in the opening. The clamping frame or, where applicable, the clamping clips are then closed, thereby securing the waste bag to the container. In one embodiment, the first seal, covered by the waste bag, is not concealed or is only partially concealed by the waste bag securing means, remaining essentially accessible, particularly for interaction with the second seal of the lid device. In an alternative embodiment, the first seal is contacted by the waste bag securing device, via the waste bag if one is inserted, and, in the closed position, is also located entirely between the first seal at the container opening and the second seal of the lid device. The use of a clamping frame has the advantage that the waste bag can be neatly positioned over the first seal at the container opening during insertion and secured to the container by the waste bag securing device, preferably the clamping frame or clips. This results in a high degree of airtightness when the second seal of the lid device, in the closed position, comes into contact with the waste bag and, where applicable, with the waste bag securing device.

[0028] The container of the device according to the invention has a movable bottom plate inside, which is typically essentially flat. According to the invention, the bottom plate is configured as a piston, movably arranged within the container, i.e., movable perpendicular to the surface of the bottom plate along the side walls. In one embodiment, the bottom plate of the container is airtight sealed to the side walls by a third gasket. In this embodiment, the side walls and the bottom plate, with the opening closed, form the airtight interior space of the container. In this embodiment, the bottom plate preferably has means for directing compressed air toward the upper surface of the bottom plate. In a preferred alternative embodiment, the bottom plate of the container is not airtight sealed to the side walls by the third gasket; rather, with the opening closed, the side walls and the bottom of the container form the airtight container. This last embodiment has the advantage that the third seal does not need to be configured as airtight against compressed air once it enters the container, which would place greater demands on the material used. A single inlet located below the bottom plate is also sufficient for applying compressed air to the container.

[0030] The bottom plate is, in principle, movable relative to the side walls and, in the closed position of the lid device, in the direction of said lid device (perpendicular to the surface of the bottom plate). For this purpose, guide slots or guide strips are preferably provided in the side walls. By moving the bottom plate, the volume of the container, defined by the space into which the waste bag can be inserted, can be reduced. During movement, the third seal (also referred to as the “seal on the bottom plate”) seals the bottom plate against the side walls in any position of said plate, in one of the embodiments described above, in an airtight manner, and typically at least in such a way as to prevent dirt from penetrating beneath the bottom plate. With the container opening closed, it is thus hermetically sealed by the side walls (which are also airtight) and either by the bottom plate or at least by the bottom of the container.

[0032] A container is considered to be airtight when, with the opening closed, the container maintains an applied vacuum of 500 mbar (absolute pressure inside) for at least 30 minutes below 800 mbar (absolute pressure inside).

[0034] According to the invention, the container has an inlet opening for compressed air, which can be supplied with compressed air by means of a compressed air generation device, controlled by an inlet valve. Compressed air can be introduced through the inlet opening into the airtight interior of the container. When a waste bag is placed over the container opening and interacts with the first seal, either by means of a waste bag fastening device or by the second seal of the lid device in the closed position, the space between the waste bag and the container is hermetically sealed. The introduction of compressed air into the space between the waste bag and the container, with the lid device in the closed position, thus leads to the pressing and compaction of the contents of the waste bag. Preferably, according to the invention, the device is configured so that the compressed air, when used for the means intended to move the bottom plate, can also be directed, controlled by the inlet valve, to the inlet opening, and thus into the container.

[0035] To fix and move the bottom plate, the device according to the invention includes means for moving the bottom plate relative to the side walls. These means for moving the bottom plate are, on the one hand, typically suitable for holding the bottom plate in the position of maximum extension of the container volume; in any case, they are suitable for moving the bottom plate perpendicular to its surface and, in the closed position of the lid device, in the direction of the lid device or in the direction of the container opening, so that the volume of the (inside of) the container can be reduced. The means for moving the bottom plate is in this case capable of moving the bottom plate, preferably with a pressure force of approximately 50 kPa to approximately 1000 kPa, preferably from approximately 100 kPa to approximately 800 kPa, and in particular from approximately 300 kPa to approximately 600 kPa, in the direction of the container opening. With this force, the waste bag inserted into the container, including its contents, can therefore be mechanically compressed with the lid closed. The possible displacement of the bottom plate is preferably at least such that the volume of the container, defined by the space into which the waste bag can be inserted with the opening closed by the lid (and, where applicable, by the locking device), can be reduced by 50%, i.e., to 50% of the maximum extension, preferably by 70%, i.e., to 30% of the maximum extension. Suitable means for displacing the bottom plate are, for example, spindles, hydraulic cylinders (e.g., using air, water, or oil as the medium), preferably pneumatic cylinders, or folding bellows. These pneumatic cylinders or folding bellows can advantageously be driven by compressed air supplied by the compressed air generating means contained in the device according to the invention. Preferably, the displacement means comprise return elements, such as helical springs. The return elements cause or assist the retraction (away from the lid device) of the bottom plate after mechanical compaction of the waste bag. The return forces are typically lower than the pressure forces, preferably from approximately 50 kPa to approximately 500 kPa, and more preferably from approximately 100 kPa to approximately 300 kPa. The means for displacing the bottom plate is configured to provide both the pressure force indicated above and the return force, i.e., the sum of both.

[0037] The device according to the invention further comprises a lid device. This lid device is configured to cover or close the container opening and, for this purpose, has a second seal on the side that interacts with the container opening. The lid device is configured and arranged on the device such that it can be placed, with respect to the container opening, in an open position, so that the container opening is accessible for inserting a waste bag, and can be placed, with respect to the container opening, in a closed position, so that the lid device interacts with the container opening in a form-fitting manner, such that a waste bag inserted into the container can be hermetically sealed against the lid between the first seal (at the container opening) and the second seal (at the lid device). The second seal thus corresponds, in its extent, essentially to that of the first seal, i.e., essentially to that of the container opening. Therefore, if a waste bag is inserted into the container and placed over the opening and thus over the first seal, in the closed position the waste bag is trapped and sealed between the first and second seals and, where applicable, the means for securing a waste bag. In this way, the waste bag is closed by the lid device, and the interior of the bag is only in contact with the lid device (and the bag itself).

[0039] According to the invention, two embodiments are preferred. In the first, the lid device comprises at least one insertion lid and an insertion funnel, the latter being disposed between the container and the insertion lid. In this embodiment, a closing device is preferably present that can close the container at its opening. The first embodiment is illustrated, for example, in Figures 1, 2, 3, 17, 27, and 18. In the second embodiment, the lid device does not comprise an insertion funnel; rather, the insertion lid constitutes, more or less directly, the lid of the container. The second embodiment is illustrated, for example, in Figures 12, 13, 14, 16, and 24 to 26. These embodiments are described in more detail below.

[0040] In the first embodiment, the lid device comprises at least one inlet funnel, which may carry the second seal at its narrowed end (lower end, facing the container opening), and an inlet lid that closes the inlet funnel at its wider (upper) end, preferably airtight. In this embodiment, the inlet funnel is preferably made of the same material as the container. The inlet lid closes the wider opening of the inlet funnel, typically facing upwards. The inlet lid is typically configured so that it can be brought to an open state, preferably as a result of user interaction with the device, for example, by pressing a button, a pedal, or touching a control panel (touchscreen). With the inlet lid open, access to the inside of the inlet funnel and to the container opening is typically unobstructed. When the waste bag is inserted, it can be filled. The inlet lid can also be brought to a closed state. In this state, the lid closes the wider upper opening of the inlet funnel, preferably in an opaque manner. To this end, a fourth gasket is located on the inlet lid or on the corresponding opposite side, i.e., on the wide opening of the filling funnel. This gasket spans the wider upper opening of the inlet funnel to ensure a hermetic seal of the inlet funnel by means of the inlet lid. Preferably, the lid device has a locking mechanism that engages with the inlet lid and is capable of holding the inlet lid in a releasable manner in the closed state. This ensures a secure and airtight seal of the container by means of the inlet lid.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the insertion lid forms part of the upper end of the device according to the invention. In this embodiment, the device according to the invention is therefore a top-fillable waste bin.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the lid device comprises an inlet funnel and, within the funnel, a closing device, preferably closing gates. The closing device, preferably the closing gates, is configured to close, in the closed state of the inlet lid, essentially the opening of the inlet funnel at its narrowed end (lower end, facing the container opening). If a waste bag is placed in the container, which may be covered as described below, and the waste is mechanically compacted, it would be pushed into the inlet funnel. The closing device prevents this. The funnel is therefore closed before mechanical compaction; if applicable, the closing device always closes as soon as the inlet lid is closed. To mechanically reinforce the closing device, preferably the closing gates, against the mechanical compaction pressure (with which the waste is compacted in the container), locking mechanisms may be provided for the closing device, preferably for the closing gates. These locks can prevent the locking device from being pushed upwards by mechanical pressing pressure.

[0046] In the second embodiment, the device according to the invention does not have an insertion funnel; rather, the insertion lid constitutes the direct lid of the container, which also carries the second seal. The latter thus directly closes the opening of the container. In this embodiment, the insertion lid preferably does not form any part of the upper end of the device according to the invention. Rather, in this embodiment, the container can be removed from the device and is then accessible for the introduction of waste. In this embodiment, the device according to the invention is therefore a waste bin that can be filled by removing the container, for example, as a mobile waste bin that can be placed under a table and whose container is removed from its housing for filling.

[0048] According to the invention, the lid device has a suction opening arranged in the lid device such that, in the closed position, the gaseous atmosphere inside a waste bag inserted into the container can be at least partially drawn out by means of the vacuum generating mechanism. As described above, the lid device is configured so that, in the closed position, the waste bag is trapped and sealed between the first and second seals and, where applicable, the means for securing a waste bag. The waste bag is thus closed by the lid device, and the interior space of the bag is in contact only with the lid device (and with the bag itself). In this way, the gaseous atmosphere (from the bag) can be extracted from the waste bag through the suction opening in the lid device. The vacuum required for this is provided by the vacuum generating mechanism, as defined below. Preferably, a liquid sensor is arranged in the lid device next to or at the suction opening. The latter allows that, in the event that liquids from the waste bag reach the lid device or are aspirated, the aspiration process can be stopped to protect the components of the disposal from contamination.

[0050] In the alternative embodiment in which the device according to the invention does not have an inlet funnel and, rather, the inlet cap constitutes the cap that also carries the second seal, the suction opening may be arranged in the inlet cap.

[0051] The device according to the invention further comprises means for generating compressed air. Suitable means, for example, pumps or compressors, are known in the prior art. Preferably, the compressed air that can be generated has at least 1.0 * 10⁵ Pa (100 kPa, 1 bar) of overpressure, more preferably at least 2.0 * 10⁵ Pa (200 kPa, 2 bar) of overpressure. The compressed air can be used for its introduction, through the inlet opening, into the interior of the container, as well as for the means intended to move the bottom plate, provided that these means are air-driven, for example, pneumatic cylinders or folding bellows.

[0053] The device according to the invention further comprises means for generating a vacuum. Suitable means, for example, vacuum pumps, are known in the prior art. Preferably, the vacuum that can be generated is at least 5.0 * 10⁴ Pa (50 kPa, 500 mbar) absolute pressure, more preferably at least 2.0 * 10⁴ Pa (20 kPa, 200 mbar) absolute pressure. The vacuum pump must therefore be capable of generating an absolute pressure of 500 mbar, preferably 200 mbar, inside the container and thus in the waste bag. The vacuum is used to remove the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag. Preferably, the device includes suitable means, such as a vacuum conduit, for directing the vacuum to the lid device and, in particular, to the suction opening in the lid device (especially in the insertion lid, for example, when it is directly arranged as a lid). Preferably, the means for generating a vacuum comprise a filter, preferably a carbon filter, and/or a liquid sensor. The latter allows the suction process to be stopped if liquid is drawn from the waste bag, thus protecting the device components from contamination.

[0055] In one embodiment, the means for generating compressed air and the means for generating a vacuum are separate constructional units, for example, a compressor and a separate vacuum pump. In a preferred embodiment, the means for generating compressed air and the means for generating a vacuum are implemented in a single means for generating both compressed air and vacuum, i.e., combined in a single constructional unit of the device according to the invention. For example, the exhaust air from a vacuum pump can be used directly as compressed air according to the invention. Preferably, the means for generating compressed air and vacuum is therefore a combined vacuum/compressed air pump. Suitable vacuum pumps, the air outlet of which can be used directly as compressed air, are known in the prior art, for example, diaphragm pumps.

[0056] The device according to the invention further comprises means for heat-sealing a waste bag inserted into the container. The means may be located at the opening of the container and/or on the lid device. Suitable means for heat-sealing plastic bags, such as PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), or PLA (polylactic acid) waste bags, are known in the prior art. Heat-sealing is understood to be a process in which plastic sheets are first heated and then pressed together under pressure so that they are permanently bonded. Typical means for heat-sealing are heating electrodes, in particular band-shaped electrodes, as known in the prior art and commercially available. Kanthal tape or wire is typically used. According to the procedure, the corresponding welding temperatures are used, approximately in the range of 80 °C to 140 °C, for example, around 80 °C for thermoplastics such as PP and PE, and up to 140 °C for PLA sheets. Suitable welding times are approximately 0.1 to 5 seconds, preferably approximately 0.5 to 3 seconds. Preferably, the heat-sealing time is temperature-controlled, with the temperature being determined, as is known in the prior art, by the electrical resistance of the Kanthal strip or wire. This ensures a sufficient time for a complete and airtight seal. Suitable parameters, such as the dimensions of the Kanthal strip or wire and the power supply, for heat-sealing plastic sheets are known in the prior art. Preferably, the Kanthal strip or wire is coated with a layer of PTFE to prevent the plastic film from adhering. The means located at the container opening and/or on the lid device are arranged so that, when the lid device is in the closed position, a waste bag stretched over the container opening can be closed and heat-sealed by a corresponding part of the bag, for example, a folded flap, or by placing the flap or flap over the opening. Preferably, the heat-sealing means, in particular the strip-shaped electrodes, are arranged essentially parallel to the first and second seals, either on the lid device and/or at the container opening, respectively. The heat-sealing means are preferably arranged completely around the perimeter of the container opening to ensure a complete seal of the waste bag. This can be achieved using thermal sealing means, in particular band electrodes, which are arranged on the lid device essentially parallel to the second seal, or on the container opening essentially parallel to the first seal, in each case completely circumferentially (around the container opening). Insofar as the heat-sealing means, in particular the band electrodes, are arranged both partially on the lid device, essentially parallel to the second seal, and partially on the container opening, essentially parallel to the first seal, it is sufficient and preferable that the means, as a whole, be arranged essentially completely around the perimeter of the container opening, thus ensuring a complete seal. A complete perimeter seal is guaranteed if there is at least a small overlap of the opposing means, i.e., on one side on the lid device essentially parallel to the second seal and on the other side on the container opening essentially parallel to the first seal. In this way, a complete closure of the waste bag can be ensured. With regard to the first and second joints, the arrangement of the means for thermal welding, in particular the strip-shaped electrodes, is preferably located within the respective surface covered by the joints.

[0058] The mobile device of the present invention is typically configured as a self-contained unit, i.e., it is provided with side covers and, where applicable, a preferably hinged cover, including the insertion lid. In one embodiment, the cover and/or the insertion lid opens or slides laterally when a trigger, such as a foot pedal or push button, is actuated. Typically, at least the side pieces, and where applicable also the rear of the device, are provided with elements of an outer covering, particularly on the sides and rear, to prevent access to the moving components and the technology, and to protect the latter.

[0060] The device of the invention is configured as a mobile device, i.e., it comprises means for moving the device, and therefore does not have a rigid foot or feet. Rather, means are provided for moving the device, preferably wheels, rollers, ball wheels, or cylindrical rollers, which allow essentially horizontal movement of the device on essentially flat surfaces. Suitable means for movement are known in the prior art and are commercially available. If necessary, the means of movement can be deactivated, preferably by being retractable and/or foldable. As a mobile unit, the device can be provided with a mobile power source, for example, batteries or, more preferably, rechargeable batteries. This allows for maximum mobility of the device without compromising its functionality.

[0062] The device according to the invention can thus be advantageously employed as an independent waste container which, where appropriate, can be moved to different places of use, in particular also at home, in leisure activities or in the office.

[0063] In one embodiment, the device according to the invention provides means for separating the detached portion of a sheet covering the container opening and, consequently, the waste bag placed therein. Such means, for example, a cutting or tearing edge, preferably a cutting electrode, are known in the prior art. In the latter case, these are essentially the same electrodes used for welding, as described above; only the welding time and/or temperature is increased, so that separation of the sheet material occurs. Typical temperatures are from about 140°C to about 150°C for a period of between 1.5 and 3 seconds.

[0065] The device according to the invention is, in principle, suitable for use with different waste bags; preferably, heat-fusible plastic bags, such as waste bags, made of polyolefins, such as PE (polyethylene) and PP (polypropylene), and polyesters, such as PLA (polylactic acid), are used for the device according to the invention and in the process according to the invention. Weldable plastic bags are preferably used, in particular weldable bags made of biodegradable PLA film biopolymers/bioplastics, such as those known in the prior art and commercially available (e.g., “Planova PLA 50” from SÜDPACK Verpackungen GmbH & Co. KG, Ochsenhausen, Germany), or bags made of 100% biodegradable biopolymers/bioplastics based on renewable raw materials (e.g., Deiss Bioline from ecovio®, EMIL Deiss KG (GmbH Co.), Hamburg, Germany). Preferably, the raw materials for the waste bag films are compostable in accordance with EN 13432 and/or in accordance with DIN CERTCO/DIN CERTCO Plus.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the device according to the invention includes, in the lid device, particularly at the lower end of the insert funnel or in the insert lid, provided that the latter acts directly as the lid of the container, means for piercing a waste bag. These means are typically arranged within the surface covered by the second seal, particularly on the portion of the insert funnel or the insert lid facing the container, so that piercing is possible within the surface covered by the second seal. Furthermore, the means are typically arranged outside the surface covered by the heat-sealing means. As soon as a waste bag, stretched over the container opening, is closed with a corresponding part of the bag itself, for example, a folded-down flap, or with a separate part when the flap or separate part is placed over the opening, said waste bag is mechanically pressed according to the invention and/or compressed air is introduced into the container and/or the gaseous atmosphere is drawn out from inside the bag, in order to compress the waste bag. However, since the waste bag is already closed by applying pressure to the corresponding part of the bag, for example, a folded-down flap, or a separate part, by placing the flap or separate part over the container opening and pressing it into the closed position using the lid and the second seal, air can no longer escape from inside the bag. For this purpose, a defined "exit opening" is created in the waste bag using a means for perforating it, preferably in the cover, i.e., for example, in a folded-down flap of the bag, or in the detached portion. Suitable means for perforating a waste bag include, for example, one or more punches or cutting edges. Preferably, the means for perforating a waste bag can be activated in a controlled manner, i.e., they are not permanently active, and are preferably electrically actuated. For example, they consist of one or more electrically extendable punches or one or more electrically extendable blades, which subsequently retract. This can be activated before a pressing or suction step. The subsequent retraction of the means has the advantage of reducing the risk of injury when changing the waste bag. In a preferred embodiment, the means for perforating a waste bag is arranged in or near the suction opening, or it perforates through the suction opening.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises means for securing the waste bag cover. Before vacuuming or sealing the waste bag, a corresponding portion of the bag, for example, a flap of the folded bag, or a separate portion, is placed over the container opening. To prevent this portion, herein referred to as the cover, from shifting, the device according to the invention comprises means for securing the waste bag cover, typically one or more clips or fastening strips. These are preferably positioned on the front of the container, for example, below the container opening. Preferably, the means for securing the waste bag cover, typically one or more clips or fastening strips, interacts with punches for securing the waste bag cover. These punches are, for example, similarly positioned on the front of the container below the container opening. Preferably, there are safety switches, for example, also on the front of the container, approximately below the container opening, which are positioned so that they interact with the waste bag cover, for example, by being activated upon contact. The safety switches thus allow verification that the waste bag cover has been correctly positioned. Only in this latter case should a welding or separation step be performed.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, the device according to the invention includes, in the lid device, preferably the insert lid, means for irradiating the interior of the container with UV light (380 to 100 nm), in particular UV-C light (280 to 100 nm). Irradiation of waste with UV light, particularly UV-C light, reduces and inactivates harmful microorganisms, thereby reducing putrefaction and other metabolic processes, and consequently decreasing odor formation. Suitable light sources for generating UV light, particularly UV-C light, are known in the prior art, for example, UV LEDs. Preferably, the lid device, preferably the insert lid, also includes a protective device for the irradiation means inside the container, particularly when not in use. Suitable protective devices would be, for example, a rotatably or hinged UV lamp diaphragm or cover. In certain embodiments, the insert lid serves as a counter-pressure surface during the mechanical pressing of the waste bag. Therefore, the protective device is preferably configured to move in front of the means for irradiating the interior of the container—for example, by being deployed or remaining deployed—and to retract during irradiation, preferably only during irradiation, thus clearing the beam path into the container. In this case, the closing device directly covering the container opening can be open. Preferably, the deployed protective device essentially forms a plane with the side surface of the lid facing the container, i.e., preferably with the underside of the insert lid. The protective device prevents both contamination and damage to the irradiation medium, particularly during pressing or with the insert lid open.

[0072] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for collecting and compacting waste comprising: a) aspirating a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from a waste bag containing waste; b) simultaneously mechanically compressing the waste bag; and c) simultaneously subjecting the waste bag to external air pressure. According to the invention, three means are thus employed for reducing the volume of the waste: first, aspirating the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag; second, mechanical pressing, which assists in removing the gaseous atmosphere and, above all, allows for the application of higher pressures to the waste, since during aspiration only the pressure of the 1 bar (10⁵ Pa) air column is applied; and finally, third, applying compressed air to the outside of the waste bag. This last step thus allows for pressing “from all directions.” According to the invention, these measures a), b) and c) are carried out at least at one point in the procedure simultaneously.

[0074] The pressures used in steps a), b), and c) preferably correspond to those specified for the device described above. Thus, in step a), a vacuum of at least 5.0 × 10⁴ Pa (50 kPa, 500 mbar) absolute pressure is preferably generated, and more preferably at least 2.0 × 10⁴ Pa (20 kPa, 200 mbar) absolute pressure. In step b), the waste bag is preferably subjected to a pressure force of approximately 50 kPa to approximately 1000 kPa, more preferably from approximately 100 kPa to approximately 800 kPa, and in particular from approximately 300 kPa to approximately 600 kPa. In step c), the waste bag is preferably subjected to compressed air with an overpressure of at least 1.0 * 10⁵ Pa (100 kPa, 1 bar), preferably at least 2.0 * 10⁵ Pa (200 kPa, 2 bar). The device according to the invention is preferably configured to enable these pressures in steps a), b), and c), in particular simultaneously.

[0076] Preferably, in the process according to the invention, before steps a), b), and c) of simultaneous aspiration, mechanical pressing, and application of air pressure—that is, before the step of aspirating a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from a waste bag containing waste, while mechanically compressing the waste bag and applying external air pressure to the waste bag—a step is first performed in which only the waste bag is mechanically compressed, followed preferably by additional aspiration of a first portion of the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag, that is, without applying air pressure. According to the invention, it is therefore preferred to first mechanically press the waste bag, then preferably to additionally aspirate it, and most preferably to subsequently apply air pressure to the waste bag.

[0078] Preferably, in the process according to the invention, before the step of aspirating a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from a waste bag containing waste, while mechanically compressing the waste bag and applying external air pressure to the waste bag, the waste bag is closed and sealed by means of a “part of the waste bag or a separate part of the waste bag” (sometimes referred to simply as a “part”), by applying pressure to said part. Since air can no longer escape from the waste bag, the cover is perforated at a point, as described above. Through the perforation, the gaseous atmosphere can now escape and, if desired, a portion of the gaseous atmosphere can be aspirated from the waste bag.

[0080] After the reduction of the waste volume according to the invention by pressing and vacuuming, a step of closing the waste bag by thermal welding with the cover usually follows, preferably during or (immediately) after the vacuuming of a part of the gaseous atmosphere from the waste bag.

[0081] According to the invention, as described in detail above, the device according to the invention is advantageously used for the process according to the invention; therefore, the process according to the invention is carried out using the device according to the invention as described above. In particular, the movable bottom plate allows for mechanical compression of the waste bag, being able to move relative to the side walls in the direction of the lid, which is in the closed position, so that the volume of the container can be reduced. Then, by means of the lid device, preferably while maintaining the mechanical pressure exerted by the bottom plate, a portion of the gaseous atmosphere is drawn out of a waste bag containing waste. Finally, through the inlet opening of the container, controlled by an inlet valve, compressed air supplied by the compressed air generating means is introduced, preferably while maintaining the compression pressure exerted by the bottom plate and/or maintaining the suction, thereby further compressing the waste bag. In this way, maximum compression of the waste is achieved. Finally, the waste can be sealed in the waste bag and disposed of.

[0082] The invention is described below with reference to the drawings.

[0083] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a device according to the invention.

[0084] Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a device according to the invention with a partially open lid device.

[0085] Figure 3 shows a schematic view of a device according to the invention with the containers removed.

[0086] Figure 4 shows a schematic view of two containers of a device according to the invention. Figure 5 shows a schematic view of two containers of a device according to the invention with open clamping frames. Figure 6 shows a schematic view of the rear of two containers of a device according to the invention.

[0087] Figure 7 shows a detailed view of two containers of a device according to the invention.

[0088] Figure 8 shows a schematic view of two containers of a device according to the invention without the container side wall.

[0089] Figure 9 shows a schematic view of two containers of a device according to the invention without the container side wall and without the bottom plate.

[0090] Figure 10 shows a schematic view of two containers of a device according to the invention without the container side wall, with the means for moving the bottom plate extended.

[0091] Figure 11 shows a schematic view of two containers of a device according to the invention without the container side wall, with the means for moving the bottom plate extended and without the bottom plate.

[0092] Figure 12 shows a schematic view of two covers of a device according to the invention in the extended state.

[0093] Figure 13 shows a detailed view of two covers of a device according to the invention.

[0094] Figure 14 shows a detailed view of two covers of a device according to the invention from the rear.

[0095] Figure 15 shows a plan view of a device according to the invention.

[0096] Figure 16 shows an A-A section as indicated in Figure 15.

[0097] Figure 17 shows a section A-A, as indicated in Figure 15, for an alternative embodiment.

[0098] Figure 18 shows a detailed view B of section A-A from Figures 16 and 17.

[0099] Figure 19 shows a detailed view C of section A-A from Figures 16 and 17.

[0100] Figure 20 shows a detailed view B of section A-A from Figures 16 and 17.

[0101] Figure 21 shows a detailed view C of section A-A from Figures 16 and 17.

[0102] Figure 22 shows a detailed view of two containers of a device according to the invention.

[0103] Figure 23 shows a detailed view of two containers of a device according to the invention.

[0104] Figure 24 shows a cross-sectional view of the device according to the invention shown in Figure 23. Figure 25 shows a detailed view of Figure 24.

[0105] Figure 26 shows a detailed view of Figure 24.

[0106] Figure 27 shows three schematic views of a device according to the invention with closed insertion cap (A), open insertion cap (B) and partially open cap device (C).

[0107] Figure 28 shows a schematic view of a device according to the invention with the containers removed.

[0108] Figure 29 shows a cross-sectional view of the device according to the invention.

[0109] Figure 30 shows detailed views A and B of Figure 29.

[0110] A device according to the invention (1) is shown in Figure 1, here configured with two insert lids (33) on the lid device (7) for two separate containers, with a front cover, control element (implemented as a touch screen), and base, e.g., suitable as a mobile, independent waste bin. The left side cover is not shown, allowing the means for moving the device (31), implemented here as wheels, to be seen. Preferably, the device is constructed such that the insert lids (33) open, for example, by touching or brushing the control panel, to provide access to the containers with waste bags inside for waste disposal. The opening of the insert lids (33) can be effected by means of corresponding hinges, as illustrated in Figure 27B. The closing of the insert lids (33) can be provided manually or automatically, for example, by touching or brushing the control panel.

[0111] Figure 2 shows a device according to the invention (1) with the lid device (7) partially open, configured here also as a separate, mobile waste bin thanks to the means for moving the device (31), with a front cover and base. The possibility of opening the lid plate together with the insertion covers (33) separately from the insertion funnels (32) (for example, by means of suitable hinges) and thus separating these components provides advantageous access to the components for servicing and cleaning.

[0112] Figure 3 shows a device according to the invention (1), as shown in Figure 1. The central part, comprising the container unit, is shown extended by means of the lateral telescopic guides. The upper part with the control element, comprising the lid device, is shown in the closed state. The container unit consists of two containers (2). In the embodiment with insert lids (33), the central part is extendable to, for example, cover the waste bags for sealing, remove the sealed waste bag, or place an empty waste bag into the container (2). In this embodiment, the waste bag is normally filled by opening the insert lids (33) with the central part retracted.

[0113] Figure 4 shows a detailed view of the containers of the device according to the invention (1). The containers are essentially formed by the side walls (3) and the container bottom (not visible here). Inside the containers is the sliding bottom plate (4). The first seal (5) is provided in the opening (6) of each container. The means for thermal welding (11) are configured as strip-shaped electrodes in the openings (6), although here they only cover approximately one-third of the perimeter of the openings (6). Corresponding electrodes in the lid device, not shown here (see Fig. 12), complete the means for thermal welding (11) to cover the entire perimeter of the openings. This ensures a complete seal of the waste bag during welding. Alternatively, the strip-shaped electrodes can also be run completely around the perimeter of the container opening. The control for the thermal welding means (11a) feeds the thermal welding means (11) into the opening (6) or the lid device (7). The gasket in the bottom plate (13) (also called the “third gasket”) seals the bottom plate (4) in any position relative to the side walls (3), in one of the embodiments described in detail above, in an airtight manner, preferably to prevent dirt from penetrating beneath the bottom plate (4). With the container opening (6) closed, the container is thus hermetically sealed by the side walls (3) (which are also airtight) and either by the bottom plate (4) or at least by the bottom of the container (18) (not shown here, see e.g. fig. 9). Compressed air can enter the container through the inlet opening (15) via the controlled compressed air inlet valve (16). This compressed air serves to compress the waste in the waste bag positioned inside the container (and above the bottom plate) when the lid device is in the closed position and presses the waste bag against the first seal (5). If the seal (13) is airtight, the compressed air is introduced into the container above the bottom plate. The fastening means (17), implemented here as a clamping frame and shown in the closed state, surrounds the opening (6) externally and, when a waste bag (not shown here) is placed inside (with the clamping frame open), it can thus hold and secure it to the container. The fastening means (17) covers the first seal (5) only partially, here at the front end of the opening (6) shown in the figure. In this area, the fastening means (17) serves, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, to form a cavity for drilling (25). A waste bag, positioned with the clamping frame (17) open, is tensioned by the clamping frame over the first seal (5). Without the perforation cavity (25), which is preferably formed by the clamping frame partially covering the first seal (5), when the waste bag is welded over, the cover (either part of the waste bag or a separate part) and the waste bag would lie directly on top of each other. This would prevent the perforation device (21) from perforating only the cover, or it could only do so selectively under certain circumstances. The perforation cavity (25) thus protects the waste bag from the perforation device (21), allowing the latter to perforate only the cover and permit the intake and/or escape of the gaseous atmosphere from inside the waste bag. This is described in more detail in Figure 18.

[0115] Figure 5 shows a detailed view of the containers (2) of the device according to the invention (1) as shown in Figure 4, except that the fastening means (17), implemented here as a clamping frame, is shown in the open state. In this state, a waste bag (not shown here) can be placed through the opening (6) inside the container.

[0117] Figure 6 shows a detailed view of the containers (2) of the device according to the invention (1) from the rear. The containers (2) comprise the side walls (3) and the bottom of the container (not visible here) and have the openings (6). The fastening means (17), implemented here as a clamping frame and shown in the closed state, surrounds the opening (6) externally and, when a waste bag (not shown here) is placed inside (with the clamping frame open), can thus hold and secure it to the container. For advantageous use of space in the device according to the invention (1), the means (9) for generating compressed air, referred to here as a compressor, as well as the means (10) for generating a vacuum, referred to here as a vacuum pump, are arranged in the container unit of the device, behind the containers. Alternatively, according to the invention, both components—i.e., the means (9) for generating compressed air, for example, a compressor, and the means (10) for generating vacuum, for example, a vacuum pump—can be implemented in a single component, for example, in the form of a diaphragm pump capable of supplying both vacuum and overpressure. The activated carbon filter (19) is mounted above the vacuum pump. The control for the thermal welding means (11a) is arranged below the compressor.

[0118] Figure 7 shows a detailed view of the interior of a container (2) of the device according to the invention (1). The area of the container (2) in which the waste bag can be extended is delimited by the side walls (3) and by the sliding bottom plate (4), shown here in the "raised" state. The first seal (5), as well as the means for heat sealing (11), are provided in the opening (6) of the container. The seal in the bottom plate (13) seals the bottom plate (4) with respect to the side walls (3), either airtight or, preferably, at least to prevent dirt from penetrating beneath the bottom plate (4). The fastening means (17) covers the first seal (5) only partially, here at the front end of the opening shown in the figure. In this area, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fastening means (17) also serves to form the cavity for the perforation (25).

[0120] Figure 8 shows a detailed view of the interior of a container (2) of the device according to the invention (1). The containers are essentially formed by the side walls (3) (the front side wall is not shown), as well as by the container bottom (18). The area of the container (2) in which the waste bag can be extended is delimited by the side walls (3) and by the sliding bottom plate (4), shown here in the “lowered” state. The gasket in the bottom plate (13) seals the bottom plate (4) with respect to the side walls (3), preferably airtight, at least to prevent dirt from penetrating beneath the bottom plate (4). The means for moving the bottom plate (14) comprises, according to the invention, preferably both pushing elements, configured here as air bellows, which can move the bottom plate (4) towards the lid, and returning elements, implemented here as helical springs.

[0122] Figure 9 shows a detailed view of the interior of a container (2) of the device according to the invention (1) as shown in Figure 8. The containers are essentially formed by the side walls (3) (the front side wall is not shown), as well as by the container bottom (18). The bottom plate (4) is not shown in comparison with Figure 8. The means for displacing the bottom plate (14), shown here in the “lowered” state, preferably comprises, according to the invention, both thrust elements, configured here as air bellows, which are attached by a support and can displace the bottom plate (4) in the direction of the lid, and return elements, implemented here as helical springs.

[0124] Figure 10 shows a detailed view of the interior of a container of the device according to the invention (1) as shown in Figure 8, but the sliding bottom plate (4) has been brought to the "raised" state by means of the bottom plate displacing means (14). According to the invention, the bottom plate displacing means (14) preferably comprises both thrust elements, configured here as air bellows, which can displace the bottom plate (4) towards the lid, and return elements, implemented here as helical springs. The latter are tensioned in the "raised" state and allow the bottom plate to return, for example, after the container has been emptied, i.e., after the removal of the compressed and sealed waste bag.

[0126] Figure 11 shows a detailed view of the interior of a container (2) of the device according to the invention (1) as shown in Figure 10. The means for moving the bottom plate (14) is shown in the “raised” state; the bottom plate is not shown.

[0128] Figure 12 shows a detailed view of the lid device (7) of the device according to the invention (1), here in the extended state by means of telescopic guides (e.g., for maintenance purposes). In the embodiment shown (described here as the second embodiment), the insertion lids are provided directly above the container opening and serve as rigid lids for the lid device once the containers are closed; no insertion funnel is present. The lid device (7) comprises the second seal (8), which interacts in the closed position with the first seal (5) at the container opening (not shown here). The means for thermal welding (11) are implemented as strip-shaped electrodes, but only at approximately two-thirds of the perimeter of the opening. The corresponding electrodes at the container opening, not shown here (see e.g., Fig.

[0129] 4), complete the means for thermal sealing (11) to cover the entire perimeter of the container opening. This ensures a complete seal of the waste bag during sealing. The atmosphere from the waste bag can be drawn out through the suction openings (12).

[0130] Figure 13 shows a detailed view of the lid device (7) of the device according to the invention (1) in the embodiment shown in Figure 12, depicted here from below in the direction of the containers. In the embodiment shown, the insertion lids are provided directly above the container opening; there is no insertion funnel. The lid device (7) comprises the second seal (8), which, in the closed position, interacts with the first seal (5) at the container opening (not shown here). The means for thermal welding (11) are implemented as strip-shaped electrodes, but only extending approximately two-thirds of the perimeter of the opening. The atmosphere from the waste bag can be drawn in through the suction opening (12). The suction opening (12) also houses the means for piercing (21). The protective device (20) can be retracted during operation, thereby allowing optical access for the irradiation means, typically a UV lamp, to the interior of the container. The UV lamp light can thus reach the interior of the container once the protective device (20) has been moved to one side, for example, rotated or slid. In the closed state, the protective device (20) essentially forms a plane with the lateral surface of the lid device (7), which, in the closed position, faces the container.

[0132] In the embodiment shown, in which the insertion lids are provided directly above the container opening and an insertion funnel is not present, the lid device (7) of the device according to the invention (1) remains in the retracted state during normal operation of the device, as shown in Figure 1. In this embodiment, to insert waste into the waste bag, the container unit is typically extended as shown in Figure 3 and, after the waste has been inserted, it is retracted as shown in Figure 1. In the retracted state, the second seal (8) is normally lowered so that it interacts with the first seal (5) in the closed position at the container opening and seals the waste bag. This prevents unpleasant odors from the waste; additionally, after inserting the container unit, the waste can be irradiated with UV light by means of the container interior irradiation device. In one embodiment, when the container unit is retracted after depositing the waste, a portion of the atmosphere from the waste bag is irradiated and/or aspirated.

[0134] Figure 14 shows a detailed view of the lid device (7) of the device according to the invention (1), shown here from above and in the embodiment in which the insertion lids are provided directly above the container opening and there is no insertion funnel. The atmosphere from the waste bag can be drawn in through the suction opening (12). The housing normally surrounding the suction opening, the UV lamp (26), and the protective device (20) are not shown. The waste bag can be pierced through the suction opening (12) by means of the piercing means (21), indicated here as a blade traversing a semicircular cutting area. In the lid shown in the foreground, the UV lamp (26) and the protective device (20) are not visible; only the opening, which is normally occupied by the protective device (20), is shown.

[0136] Figure 15 schematically shows, from above, the device according to the invention (1) in the embodiment of Figure 14, to illustrate the position of cut A-A as depicted in Figure 16.

[0138] Figure 16 shows section A-A of Figure 15. The lid device (7) is shown in the embodiment where the insertion lids are provided directly above the container opening and there is no insertion funnel. Also shown are the UV lamp (26) and the protective device (20), as well as the container opening. The piercing means (21), indicated here as a blade, protrudes through the suction opening (12) and pierces the waste bag portion or the separate portion covering the waste bag. This is explained in more detail in Figures 18 and 20, which depict partial view B of Figure 16. The side walls (3), the clamping frame (17), and the container opening of the container (2) are shown. The waste bag and the waste bag portion or separate portion covering the waste bag, and thus encompassing the container opening, are also indicated. This is explained in more detail in Figures 18 to 21.

[0140] Figure 17 shows section A-A according to Figure 16, but in the (first) embodiment in which the lid device (7) comprises insert lids (33) and, for each container, an insert funnel (32). The insert lid (33) closes the wider, upward-facing opening of the insert funnel (32). With the insert lid (33) open, access to the interior of the insert funnel (32) and to the container opening is typically unobstructed. When the waste bag is inserted, it can be filled. In the closed state, as shown, the insert lid (33) seals the opening of the insert funnel (32) in a light-tight manner by means of the (fourth) seal (36). The lid device (7) also features a lock (37) that interacts with the insert lid (33) and is capable of releasably holding the insert lid (33) in the closed state. This ensures a secure and airtight closure of the container using the insertion lid (33).

[0141] The lid device (7) shown in Figure 17 comprises an inlet funnel (32) and, within the funnel, a closing device (34) according to a preferred embodiment. The closing device (34) is configured so that, in the closed state of the inlet lid (32) as shown, it essentially closes the opening of the inlet funnel at its narrowed end (lower, facing the container opening). If a waste bag (23) is placed in the container (3) and the container is covered, as described above and as shown in Figure 17, with a tab of the waste bag or with a separate part (24), and the waste is mechanically compacted, it would be pushed into the inlet funnel (32). The closing device (34) can prevent this. The funnel is therefore closed before mechanical compaction; where applicable, the closing device (34) is always closed as soon as the inlet lid (33) is closed. To reinforce the closing device (34), preferably formed by closing gates (see Figure 29), against the mechanical pressing pressure (with which the waste is compressed in the container), locks (35) are provided for the closing device (34). These locks (35) prevent the closing device (34) from being pushed upwards by the mechanical pressing pressure.

[0143] In the embodiment shown in Figure 17, the inlet cover (33) also comprises the irradiation medium (26), typically a UV lamp, and the protective device (20). The latter can be retracted during operation, thereby clearing the irradiation medium's optical access to the interior of the container. The UV lamp's light can thus reach the interior of the container once the protective device (20) has been moved aside, for example, rotated or slid, and the locking device (34) is open.

[0145] Figure 17 illustrates with arrows the path of the atmosphere when it is extracted from the waste bag. In the embodiment shown, the atmosphere is extracted through the suction slot (see detail in Fig. 18), through the suction opening (12), and through the filling funnel (32), which has an opening connected to the vacuum generation medium (in Fig. 17, lower left in the filling funnel (32)).

[0146] Figure 18 shows partial view B of Figures 16 and 17 in greater detail to illustrate the drilling and vacuuming procedure. Partial view B shows the upper edge of the container (2) with the first seal (5) at the container opening. The lid device (7) is shown in the closed position; the second seal (8) of the lid device interacts with the first seal (5), here via a portion of the clamping frame (17), including a corresponding additional seal in the clamping frame (17a). The means for thermal welding (11), implemented here as strip-shaped electrodes, are arranged on the lid device. A waste bag (23) is shown placed in the container, resting against the side wall (3) inside the container. By means of the means for securing the waste bag (17), implemented here as a clamping frame, the waste bag is tensioned over the container opening, specifically over the first seal (5) at the container opening. In the case of partial view B, the clamping frame (17) presses the waste bag (23) directly against the first seal (5), since here the clamping frame (17), including the additional seal in the clamping frame (17a), protrudes above the first seal (5). In areas where the means for securing the waste bag (17) does not protrude above the first seal (5), as shown, for example, in Fig. 4 and discussed with regard to Fig. 4, the means for securing the waste bag (17) simply tensions the waste bag over the first seal (5). To close the waste bag when the intended fill level is reached, a part, for example, a tab of the waste bag or, preferably, a separate part of the waste bag (24), for example, from an endless roll, must be placed, according to the invention, over the opening of the container. This is usually done manually with the container unit removed. However, corresponding means may also be provided for automatically positioning the detached part—for example, a tab of the waste bag or, preferably, a detached part (24), for example, from an endless roll—over the container opening. This may also be provided for the container unit in its retracted state, as shown in Fig. 1. After the container unit has been retracted into the device according to the invention (1), which may be provided for and carried out manually or automatically, for example, by pressing a button, the lid device is brought to the closed position, as shown in Fig. 18. In this process, the second seal (8) of the lid device is pressed onto the clamping frame (17), including a corresponding additional seal (17a), and this is pressed onto the first seal (5). In areas where the clamping frame does not protrude above the first seal (5), as shown, for example, in Fig. 4 and discussed in reference to Fig. 18, the clamping frame is pressed onto the first seal (5). 4, the clamping frame simply tensions the waste bag over the first seal (5). Here, the second seal (8) of the lid device is pressed directly onto the first seal (5). In both cases, the second seal (8) of the lid device seals the waste bag part—for example, a tab of the waste bag or, preferably, the separate part (24)—against the waste bag (23). In this position, the inside of the waste bag is hermetically sealed from the environment. However, this also means that in this state, the atmosphere inside the waste bag cannot be drawn in, nor can it escape during compression. To allow for this, a defined opening is created in the waste bag cover by means of the perforation (24). The perforation cavity (25), created by the clamping frame (17) protruding over the first seal (5), allows selective perforation of the overlapping portion of the waste bag, for example, a tab of the waste bag, or, preferably, the separate portion (24), as shown in Fig. 18. As also shown in section B of Fig. 18, the fastening means (17) serves, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, to form a perforation cavity (25). Without the perforation cavity (25), which is preferably formed by the clamping frame covering the first seal (5), when covering the waste bag for welding, the cover (a portion of the waste bag or a separate portion) and the waste bag itself would lie directly on top of each other, so that the perforation means (21) could not selectively perforate only the cover. The perforation cavity (25) thus protects the waste bag from the perforation means (21). The latter can therefore only pierce the cover. After piercing, a portion of the atmosphere inside the waste bag can be drawn in through the suction opening (12) as indicated by the arrow, or a portion of the atmosphere inside the waste bag can escape during its compression, specifically through the suction slot (22) located between the waste bag (23) and the overlapping part of the waste bag—for example, a tab on the bag—or, preferably, the detached part (24).

[0147] Figure 19 shows partial view C of Figures 16 and 17 with further details corresponding to the drilling and suction procedure step, as in Figure 18. Partial view C shows the upper edge of the container (2) with the first seal (5) at the container opening. The lid device (7) is shown in the closed position; the second seal (8) on the lid interacts with the first seal (5). The means for thermal welding (11), implemented here as strip-shaped electrodes, are arranged in the container. A waste bag (23) is placed in the container, resting against the side wall (3) inside the container. By means of the means for securing the waste bag (17), implemented here as a clamping frame, the waste bag is tensioned over the container opening, specifically over the first seal (5) at the container opening. To close the waste bag according to the invention, a part, for example, a tab of the waste bag or, preferably, a separate part of the waste bag (24), for example, from an endless roll, is placed over the opening of the container. As shown in Figure 19, corresponding to Figure 18, the lid device is moved to the closing position. In this process, the second seal (8) of the lid device is pressed against the first seal (5), and the second seal (8) of the lid device seals the part of the waste bag—for example, a tab of the bag, or, preferably, the separate part (24)—against the waste bag (23). In this position, the inside of the waste bag is hermetically sealed from the environment. Between the welding medium (11) and the corresponding opposite surface there is the suction slot (22) between the waste bag (23) and the overlapping part of the waste bag — for example, a tab of the bag — or, preferably, the detached part (24).

[0149] Figure 20 shows partial view B of Figures 16 and 17 with more detail for the welding procedure step. As in Fig. 18, the lid device is also shown in the closed position, but lowered to allow welding of the waste bag. In this process, the lid device is displaced further towards the upper edge of the container (2) with the first seal (5); the second seal (8) in the lid continues to interact with the first seal (5), here via a portion of the clamping frame (17), including a corresponding additional seal (17a). The means for thermal welding (11) arranged in the lid device, implemented here as strip-shaped electrodes, now rest directly on the corresponding opposite surface of the container opening; the suction slot (22), still present in Fig. 18, is closed. The waste bag (23) placed in the container is therefore in contact, below the thermal sealing means (11), with the part — for example, a tab of the waste bag or, preferably, a separate part of the waste bag (24), for example, from an endless roll — and can be welded to it and thus sealed.

[0151] Figure 21 shows partial view C of Figures 16 and 17 with more detail for the welding procedure step. Compared to Fig. 19, the lid is also in the closed position, but it is lowered further to allow welding of the waste bag. In this process, the lid device is moved further towards the upper edge of the container (2) with the first seal (5); the second seal (8) of the lid device continues to interact with the first seal (5), here via a portion of the clamping frame (17), including a corresponding additional seal (17a). The means for thermal welding (11) arranged in the container (2), implemented here as strip-shaped electrodes, are now in direct contact with the corresponding opposite surface of the lid device; the suction slot (22), still present in Fig. 19, is closed. The waste bag (23) placed in the container is therefore in contact, above the thermal sealing means (11), with the part — for example, a tab of the waste bag or, preferably, a separate part of the waste bag (24), for example, from an endless roll — and can be welded to it and thus sealed.

[0152] Figure 22 shows a partial view of the second embodiment of the device according to the invention. The removable central part, secured by the lateral telescopic guides, comprises the container unit—herein, two containers—shown in the extended state with the front cover slightly folded down. In the embodiment shown, the means for thermal sealing (11) are arranged completely around the perimeter of the container opening, which is preferred according to the invention. In the container shown in the foreground, the container opening is covered and thus closed by a separate portion of the waste bag (24). The separate portion of the waste bag (24) is derived, as shown in Figure 22, from a roll (30) (endless roll) that houses several elements (24) intended to cover the waste bag. The roll (30) is preferably arranged at the rear end of the containers, i.e., at the end of the container furthest from the front cover. As in the state shown in Fig. 22, the roll (30) is preferably arranged so that, to close the waste bag, a separate portion of the waste bag (24) can be unrolled from the roll (30) according to the invention and placed over the container opening. This portion of the waste bag (24) can then be secured by the means for securing the waste bag cover (27), implemented here as a hinged frame on the front of the container. In this process, the means for securing the waste bag cover (27) preferably presses the portion of the waste bag (24) against the punches for securing the waste bag cover (27a). Typically, means for separation (29), implemented here as a cutting electrode, are provided between the roll (30) and the container opening. Alternatively, the means for separation (29) can also be implemented as a tear edge. Preferably, the safety switches (28) are arranged so that they are activated when the waste bag portion (24) is correctly positioned over the container opening. This arrangement allows the waste bag portion (24) intended to close the bag to be secured by the waste bag cover fastening means (27) as soon as it is placed over the container opening, with the safety switches (28) being activated when the portion (24) is correctly seated over the container opening. The waste bag can then be completely sealed around its perimeter at the container opening using the heat-sealing means (11) and thus closed; and, preferably after sealing the waste bag, the portion (24) can be separated from the roll (30) using the separation means (29). Finally, after opening the means for fixing the cover (27) and the means for fixing the waste bag (17), the welded waste bag can be removed from the container.

[0154] Figure 23 shows a partial view of a preferred device according to the invention shown in Figure 22. In the container shown in the foreground, the container opening is covered and closed by a separate part of the waste bag (24). Compared to Figure 21, the means for securing the waste bag cover (27), implemented here as a hinged frame on the front of the container, is shown closed. The waste bag part (24) is thus secured. In this process, the means for securing the waste bag cover (27) preferably presses the waste bag part (24) against the punches for securing the waste bag cover (27a) and activates the safety switches (28) (not shown here).

[0156] Figure 24 shows a cross-section of a device according to the invention in the embodiment shown in Figure 16. In the container shown, the container opening is covered by a separate portion of the waste bag (24), thereby closing the waste bag (23) placed inside. The separate portion of the waste bag (24) is derived, as shown in the figure, from a roll (30) (endless roll) that stores several elements of the waste bag (24) intended to cover the waste bag. In the process according to the invention, three means are employed simultaneously for reducing the volume of the waste: first, the aspiration of the gaseous atmosphere from inside the waste bag; second, mechanical pressing, which assists in the removal of the gaseous atmosphere and, above all, allows higher pressures to be applied to the waste; and finally, third, the action of compressed air on the outside of the waste bag. The aspiration of the gaseous atmosphere from inside the waste bag, which creates a vacuum, is shown in the figure as “A”. Pressurization is illustrated by the arrows marked with “B”. This is achieved by introducing compressed air into the container, here below the bottom plate. The compressed air flows past the bottom plate seals and acts on the waste bag, which is sealed against the lid. The force exerted when lifting the bottom plate produces the mechanical compression of the waste.

[0157] Figure 25 shows a partial view, as shown in Figure 18, with further details of the drilling and vacuuming procedure and the application of air pressure. The upper edge of the container is shown; the lid is in the closed position, and the second seal in the lid interacts with the first seal, here via a portion of the clamping frame, including a corresponding additional seal in the clamping frame (as in Figure 18). The means for thermal welding (11), implemented here as strip-shaped electrodes, are arranged in the container opening. A waste bag (23) is shown positioned in the container, supported by the side wall (and the bottom plate, not shown here). The waste bag is tensioned over the container opening by means of the means for securing the waste bag, implemented here as a clamping frame. To close the waste bag when the intended fill level is reached, a part—for example, a tab of the waste bag or, preferably, a separate part of the waste bag (24), for example, from an endless roll—is placed over the container opening according to the invention. This is usually done manually with the container unit removed; however, corresponding means may also be provided for automatically positioning the separate part (24), for example, from an endless roll, over the container opening. The separate part of the waste bag (24) is held in place by the means for securing the waste bag cover (27); a correctly positioned part (24) activates the safety switches (28). With the lid in the closed position, the second seal of the lid device is positioned directly over the first seal of the container (see Fig. 18 for more details). The seals of the lid device and the container seal the separate part (24) against the waste bag (23). In this position, the inside of the waste bag is hermetically sealed from the environment. To allow the atmosphere inside the bag to be drawn out, a defined opening is created in the bag's cover using the perforation device. After perforation, a portion of the atmosphere inside the waste bag can be drawn in through the suction opening in the lid, or a portion can escape during compression. The extraction of the gaseous atmosphere from inside the waste bag, which creates a vacuum, is shown in the figure as "A". Pressurization is illustrated by the arrows marked with "B". This is achieved by introducing compressed air into the container, here below the bottom plate. The compressed air flows past the bottom plate seals and acts on the waste bag, which is sealed against the lid. The force exerted when lifting the bottom plate produces the mechanical compression of the waste.

[0159] Figure 26 shows the partial view corresponding to Figure 25 at the other end of the container, corresponding to Figure 19. The upper edge of the container is shown; the lid device is in the closed position, the second seal of the lid device interacting with the first seal (as in Fig. 19). Means for thermal welding (11), implemented here as strip-shaped electrodes, are arranged in the container opening. A waste bag (23) inserted into the container is shown. By means of the waste bag securing means, implemented here as a clamping frame, the waste bag is tensioned over the container opening. According to the preferred embodiment shown, a separate portion of the waste bag (24) from a roll (30) is positioned over the container opening and over the waste bag placed therein; this is usually done manually with the container unit removed, although corresponding means for automatically positioning the separate portion (24) over the container opening may also be provided. The seals of the lid and the container seal the separating part (24) against the waste bag (23). The aspiration of the gaseous atmosphere from inside the waste bag, which creates a vacuum in the bag, is shown in the figure as “A”. Pressurization is illustrated by the arrows marked with a “B”. After aspiration, the waste bag is sealed by welding to the separating part (24), and the latter is separated from the roll (30) by means of the separating part separation device (29), implemented here as a cutting electrode.

[0161] Figure 27 shows three views of a device according to the invention (1) in the first embodiment, configured with an insertion cover (33) on the lid device (7) for a (single) container, with a front cover, control element (implemented as a touch screen), and base, e.g., suitable as a mobile, stand-alone waste bin. In view A, the insertion cover (33) of the lid device (7) is closed; in view B, the insertion cover (33) is open, and the container can be filled with waste. View C shows the device with the lid device (7) partially open, corresponding to Fig. 2. The ability to open the cover plate together with the insertion cover (33) separately from the insertion funnel (32), and thus separate these components, provides advantageous access to the components for servicing and cleaning. The left side cover of the device is not shown in the three views, leaving the means for moving the device (31), implemented here as wheels, visible. Preferably, the device is designed so that the insert cover (33), for example, opens when the control panel is touched or brushed, providing access to the containers with waste bags inside for waste disposal. The insert cover (33) can be closed manually or automatically, again, for example, when the control panel is touched or brushed.

[0162] Figure 28 shows a view of the device (1) according to the invention as shown in Figure 27. The central part, comprising the container unit, is shown extended by means of the lateral telescopic guides. To increase stability, the means for moving the device (31), here implemented as wheels, are also located on the container unit, i.e., on the extended intermediate part comprising the containers. The upper part with the control element, comprising the lid device (7), is shown in the folded-down state with the insert lid (33) closed. In the container shown, the container opening is covered by a separate portion of the waste bag (24) and is therefore shown as closed. The separate portion of the waste bag (24) is derived, as shown in Figure 22, from a roll (endless roll) that stores several portions of the waste bag (24) intended to cover the waste bag. The roll is preferably arranged at the rear end of the containers, i.e., at the end of the container furthest from the front cover. As shown in Fig. 22, the roll (30) is preferably arranged so that, to close the waste bag, a separate portion of the waste bag (24) can be unrolled according to the invention and placed over the container opening. This portion of the waste bag (24) can then be secured by the means for securing the waste bag cover, implemented here as a hinged frame on the front of the container.

[0164] Figure 29 shows a section through a device according to the invention in the second embodiment as shown in Figure 17. The device comprises two containers; in the left container, the bottom is lowered and the locking device (34) is open, and in the right container, the bottom is raised and the locking device (34) is closed. The insertion lid (33) is open in the left container and closed in the right container. Detailed views A and B are shown in Figure 30.

[0166] Figure 30 shows detailed views A and B of Figure 29. In the left detailed view A, the closure device (34) is shown open, with the flaps folded toward the inlet funnel (32), and the closure device locking mechanism (35) has been released. A waste bag (23) is shown inserted into the container (2). In the right detailed view B, the closure device (34) is shown closed on the inlet funnel (32), and the closure device locking mechanism (35) secures the closure device flaps (34). The closure device (34) prevents waste from being pushed out of the waste bag (23) into the inlet funnel (32).

[0168] Thus, according to the invention, a waste container is provided in which a comparatively large amount of waste can be collected and stored, which can be compacted to the maximum and subsequently disposed of cleanly, and which at the same time is easy to handle.

[0170] List of references

[0172] 1 device

[0173] 2 container

[0174] 3 side walls

[0175] 4 background plate

[0176] 5 first seal at the container opening

[0177] 6 container opening

[0178] 7 lid device

[0179] 8 second gasket on the lid device

[0180] 9 means for the generation of compressed air

[0181] 10 means for generating a vacuum

[0182] 11 means for thermal welding

[0183] 11a control for the means for thermal welding

[0184] 12 Suction opening in the lid device

[0185] 13 gasket on the bottom plate

[0186] 14 means to move the bottom plate

[0187] 15 inlet opening in the container

[0188] 16 compressed air inlet valve

[0189] 17 means to secure a waste bag

[0190] 17a joint in the middle to secure a waste bag

[0191] 18 container bottom

[0192] 19 activated carbon filter

[0193] 20 UV lamp protection device

[0194] 21 drilling medium

[0195] 22 suction slot

[0196] 23 waste bag

[0197] 24 tab of the waste bag or separate part

[0198] 25 cavity for drilling

[0199] 26 UV lamp

[0200] 27 means for securing the waste bag cover

[0201] 27a punches for fixing the waste bag cover

[0202] 28 safety switch

[0203] 29 means of separating the separated part

[0204] 30 roll of the separate part to cover the waste bag

[0205] 31 means to move the device

[0206] 32 introduction funnel

[0207] 33 Introduction cover

[0208] 34 locking device

[0209] 35 locking mechanism for locking device

[0210] 36 fourth gasket for the inlet cover

[0211] 37 closing the insertion lid

Claims (14)

1. CLAIMS 1. Mobile waste collection and compaction device (1) comprising a) a container (2) for holding a waste bag, comprising an opening (6), side walls (3), inside a movable bottom plate (4) and a first seal (5) in the opening (6), b) a lid device (7) with a second seal (8), the lid device being configured and arranged in such a way that it can • position yourself, facing the opening (6) of the container (2), in an open position, so that the opening (6) of the container (2) is accessible for inserting a waste bag, and • be placed, in front of the opening (6) of the container (2), in a closed position, so that the lid device (7) interacts in a close fit with the opening of the container (2), so that a waste bag inserted into the container (2) can be airtight sealed against the lid device (7) between the first gasket (5) and the second gasket (8), c) means (9) for the generation of compressed air, d) means (10) for generating a vacuum, e) means (11) for thermally sealing a waste bag inserted into the container (2) when the lid device is in the closed position, the means being located in the opening (6) of the container and/or in the lid device (7), and f) means (31) for displacing the movable arrangement (1), presenting the lid device (7) a suction opening (12) which is arranged in the lid device (7) in such a way that, in the closed position, from inside a waste bag inserted into the container (2) the gaseous atmosphere can be partially extracted by means (10) to generate a vacuum; the container (2), with its opening (6) closed, being airtight; the bottom plate (4) of the container can be moved with respect to the side walls (3) and, in the closed position, towards the lid device (7); presenting the arrangement (1) means (14) for displacing the bottom plate (4) with respect to the side walls (3); and The container (2) has an inlet opening (15) for compressed air, which can be supplied in a controlled manner by means of an inlet valve (16) with compressed air supplied by the means (9) for generating compressed air. 2. Device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the lid device (7) comprises an insertion funnel (32), which optionally carries the second seal (8) at its narrowed end, an insertion lid (33), which closes the insertion funnel (32) at the wider (upper) end, preferably airtight, and, optionally, means (21) for piercing a waste bag. 3. Device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the means (14) for moving the bottom plate (4) are driven by compressed air supplied by the means (9) for generating compressed air. 4. Device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, configured in such a way that the compressed air used for the means (14) to move the bottom plate (4) can also be directed, controlled by the inlet valve (16), to the inlet opening (15). 5. Device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the means (14) for moving the bottom plate are pneumatically driven and are preferably one or more pneumatic cylinders or one or more pneumatic bellows. 6. Device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the means (10) for generating a vacuum, preferably a vacuum pump, are arranged in the lid device (7). 7. Device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the means (10) for generating a vacuum comprise a filter, preferably a carbon filter, and/or a liquid sensor. 8. Device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lid device (7), preferably on the insertion lid (33), has means for irradiating the interior of the container with UV light. 9. Device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the arrangement has means (17) for fixing a waste bag, preferably a clamping frame, in the opening (6) of the container. 10. Device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the arrangement has means for displacing the arrangement, preferably pneumatic, rollers, ball rollers or cylindrical rollers. 11. A method for collecting and compacting waste comprising the step of aspirating a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from a waste bag containing waste, while simultaneously mechanically compressing the waste bag and subjecting the waste bag to outside air pressure, using in the method a device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 above. 12. A method according to claim 11, wherein, prior to the step of aspirating a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from a waste bag containing waste, while simultaneously mechanically compressing the waste bag and subjecting the waste bag to external air pressure, a step is first carried out in which only the waste bag is mechanically compressed, followed by the additional aspiration of a first portion of the gaseous atmosphere from a waste bag. 13. A method according to one of claims 11 or 12, wherein, prior to the step of aspirating a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from a waste bag containing waste, while the waste bag is mechanically compressed and subjected to external air pressure, the waste bag is closed by means of a portion of the bag itself or by means of a portion separate from the waste bag by pressure from said portion, this portion of the bag or the portion separate from the waste bag is perforated, and through the perforation opening a portion of the gaseous atmosphere is aspirated from the waste bag. 14. A method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising a step of closing the waste bag by thermal welding during or after the aspiration of a portion of the gaseous atmosphere from a waste bag.