CN120858059A

CN120858059A - Device for treating household waste and method for treating household waste by means of such a device

Info

Publication number: CN120858059A
Application number: CN202480008156.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 弗雷德里克·芒努松
Original assignee: Clean Care Ltd
Current assignee: Clean Care Ltd
Priority date: 2023-02-20
Filing date: 2024-02-12
Publication date: 2025-10-28
Also published as: WO2024177546A1; EP4669597A1

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus (100) for household waste, the apparatus (100) comprising a container (20) for household waste, and a compression device (30) arranged in the container (20) for compressing waste, wherein the compression device (30) comprises at least one inflatable element (32) configured to be inflated to compress waste within the container (20). The disclosure also relates to a method for treating household waste by means of an apparatus (100) for household waste, the method comprising compressing (s 101) the waste by means of at least one inflatable element (32) of a compression device (30), the inflatable element (32) being inflated to compress the waste within a container.

Description

Apparatus for household waste and method for treating household waste by means of such an apparatus

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for household waste and a method for treating household waste by means of such an apparatus. The present disclosure also relates to a computer program for such a device. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus, a method and a computer program for household waste as defined in the preamble of the independent claims.

Background

The increasing awareness of our environment and how we affect the climate as individuals has led to an increased interest in the recycling of household waste. The willingness to recycle is positive, but households often produce large amounts of waste, and disposal of all waste can be a challenge. Household waste includes paper, plastic, metal, food waste, and the like. For recycling purposes, a household may therefore need multiple bins or recycling containers, one for each type of waste. One of the biggest problems with this is the lack of space. Our home/kitchen is generally not able to accommodate all the necessary containers and even if they can accommodate all the necessary containers, the containers are small and can be quickly filled with waste. When the bin/container is full, it may be collected by a household garbage collection provider, or we may transport the waste to a public recycling station by themselves. In order to reduce the number of shipments to the recycling station, one typically tends to store some of the waste at some other location in the home, even in larger containers or plastic bags, before taking everything to the recycling station. This is often neither hygienic nor unpleasant.

To solve the problem of home waste occupying a lot of space in the home, the waste may be compressed. However, many solutions for compacting waste do not maintain the compacted shape of the waste when the compaction force is withdrawn. Furthermore, many solutions require large and heavy equipment for compression, which makes the real space for waste even smaller. Another problem with such large known solutions is that they require a large amount of material and a plurality of parts, which is disadvantageous from a sustainability point of view. As an example, document WO2019116166A1 discloses an apparatus for sorting and compacting refuse, comprising a plurality of bins and a single vertical actuator configured to compress the refuse by sliding one bin into the other.

While the prior art addresses some of the problems associated with household waste, they generally do not provide a compact and space-saving solution that optimizes storage space for the waste. Thus, there is a need for an improved apparatus for household waste.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the present disclosure to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the disadvantages and disadvantages in the prior art and to solve at least one of the present problems.

It is a particular object of the present disclosure to provide an apparatus for household waste that facilitates the treatment of household waste.

It is another object of the present disclosure to provide an apparatus for household waste that is compact and optimizes the storage space for the waste.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an apparatus for domestic waste, the apparatus comprising a container for domestic waste, and compression means arranged in the container for compressing the waste, wherein the compression means comprises at least one inflatable element configured to be inflated to compress the waste within the container.

The at least one inflatable element is generally configured to expand in a direction towards the container wall and thereby compress waste between the at least one inflatable element and the container wall. The at least one inflatable element of the compression device is configured to be inflated and thereby expand and increase in size and volume. In this way the inflatable element will press the waste towards and against the container wall. By compressing the waste, space is freed up in the container to fill with more waste. The container may thus contain more waste before it has to be emptied. In the compressed state, at least one inflatable element is inflated. The aeration level may vary depending on the amount of waste in the container. In the non-compressed state, at least one inflatable element is configured to be deflated. This means that the at least one inflatable element has a reduced size and volume in the non-compressed state compared to the compressed state. By having inflatable elements, the compression device is thus compact and space-saving and thus has minimal impact on the storage space for waste in the container. In this way, the home waste device may be compact and still provide a relatively large storage space for waste.

The compression device may further comprise an air source, such as an air pump, compressor, fan, turbine or the like, arranged in communication with the at least one inflatable element for inflating and/or deflating the inflatable element. The air source may be configured to provide a pressure of 0.1 bar to 3 bar inside the inflatable element during compression. Preferably, the air source may be configured to provide a pressure of 0.3 bar to 0.7 bar inside the inflatable element during compression. An air source may be connected to the inflatable element via a first air passageway. The air source may take air from an environment external to the container to inflate the inflatable element, and the air inside the container may be vented to the external environment when the inflatable element is inflated. Alternatively, the air is circulated such that the air source uses air from the interior of the container to inflate the inflatable element and such that the air is discharged back into the container when the inflatable element is deflated. In this way, the smell of waste outside the container can be prevented. The compression device may further comprise a valve device arranged in fluid communication with the first air passage and the air source. The valve means is arranged to control the flow of air to and/or from the inflatable element. The valve means may be referred to as a diverter.

The container may include a bottom wall and a side wall extending substantially vertically upward from the bottom wall. The container may further comprise a top wall. The walls of the container define an interior volume or chamber of the container. The container may include a waste inlet through which waste is inserted into the container. The waste inlet may be arranged at the top end of the container. Alternatively, the waste inlet is arranged in a side wall of the container. The container may further comprise an openable and/or closable cover or lid for covering the waste inlet. The cover may be pivotally arranged. Thus, the cover may be hingedly connected to the container wall. In one example, the air source and valve arrangement are arranged below the bottom wall of the container so as not to affect the storage space for waste inside the container.

In one example, the at least one inflatable element is arranged to laterally compress the waste substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity. By compressing the waste substantially horizontally, some of the compressed waste will automatically (due to gravity) fall downwardly towards the bottom wall of the container when the inflatable element is deflated. In this way, movement of the waste is achieved and gaps and air pockets between the waste can be reduced. The compressed waste collection will thus be more compact (higher density), freeing up more space, and the container can hold more waste before it has to be emptied. Alternatively, the at least one inflatable element is arranged to compress waste vertically, preferably downwards towards the bottom wall or the intermediate wall of the container.

The at least one inflatable element may be configured to occupy a majority of the interior volume of the container when it is in a fully inflated state. The at least one inflatable element may be configured to occupy a small, preferably negligible, portion of the internal volume of the container when fully deflated. The at least one inflatable element may be arranged at a first side of the container and configured to press waste towards a container wall at a second side of the container. The second side of the container may be opposite the first side of the container. Thus, the at least one inflatable element may be arranged to have a main expansion direction.

The container may have a substantially cylindrical shape. The at least one inflatable element may then be folded into a corresponding semi-cylindrical shape in a fully deflated state and follow and/or abut a portion of the inner wall of the container. Alternatively, the container may have a substantially rectangular shape. The at least one inflatable element may then cover and/or abut one inner sidewall of the container in the fully deflated state. It will be appreciated that the compression means comprising the inflatable element for compressing waste allows the container to have essentially any shape, as the flexible inflatable element will slightly conform to the shape of the container when inflated.

The inflatable element may comprise a waste-facing pressing surface. In the inflated state, the pressing surface may be curved. The at least one inflatable element may have the shape of a cushion or pillow in the inflated state. Alternatively, the pressing surface may be substantially flat when the inflatable element is in the inflated state. The at least one inflatable element may be formed as a bellows or a cushion.

The apparatus for household waste may further comprise a flexible receptacle removably arranged inside the container for receiving waste, wherein the at least one inflatable element is arranged to compress the waste by also compressing the receptacle. The flexible receptacle may thus be positioned inside the container to be filled with waste, and when the receptacle is full, the receptacle may be removed from the container to be emptied. The receiver can thus be easily brought to a recycling station where it is emptied. By using a flexible receiver, the container and at least one inflatable element are separated from the waste and it will be easier to keep the container and the compression device clean. The receiver is arranged inside the container such that the receiver is arranged between two opposite walls of the container and the at least one inflatable element is arranged between the receiver and a first wall in the opposite container wall. The at least one inflatable element will thereby exert a force on the receptacle when inflated, and the receptacle will be compressed and urged against the opposing container wall, and thereby compress waste inside the receptacle. Thus, the receiver will deform during compression of the waste. In particular, the at least one inflatable element presses on the first wall of the receptacle such that the first wall moves in the direction of the opposite second wall of the receptacle, whereby when the receptacle is pressed against the opposite container wall, waste is compressed between the first wall and the second wall of the receptacle by the at least one inflatable element.

The container may include a closable opening for removing the receiver from the container and/or inserting the receiver into the container. The closable opening may be arranged at the top end of the container. Alternatively, the closable opening for removing and/or inserting the receptacle is arranged in a side wall of the container. The closable opening may be the same as the waste inlet or the closable opening may be a separate opening.

The device may further comprise a non-stick device for preventing adhesion between the receptacle and the waste during compression. The waste in the receptacle may be all kinds of waste and may include sticky residues, which may lead to adhesion between the receptacle and the waste. This can make emptying the receptacle cumbersome and complicated when it is full of waste, and this can also prevent reuse of the receptacle after compression. With a non-stick device, emptying of the receptacle is facilitated and waste will easily fall out of the receptacle, e.g. when inverted. Thereby reducing the need to manually remove waste from the receptacle. Adhesion between the receiver and the waste may also prevent the receiver from regaining its original shape after compression when the inflatable element is deflated, and thus it will be difficult to insert more waste into the receiver after compression. Thus, adhesion between the receptacle and the waste should be avoided, and this can be achieved by means of a non-stick device according to the present disclosure.

The non-stick device may include a non-stick coating on the inner wall of the receiver. The non-stick coating is advantageously configured to reduce the ability of other materials to adhere to it, and may include Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ceramic coatings, silicon coatings, or superhydrophobic coatings. The non-stick device may thus form part of the receiver. The receiver may include a non-stick coating on at least one of the inner walls. The non-stick coating is suitably provided on the inner side of the wall abutting the inflatable element. Alternatively, the receiver includes a non-stick coating on all of its inner walls. Having a receiver that includes a non-stick device allows the receiver to be reused after emptying. The non-stick coating will facilitate cleaning of the receiver and the receiver may be used multiple times.

Alternatively, the non-stick device may comprise an intermediate non-stick element configured to be arranged between the inner wall of the receptacle and the waste. The non-stick element may be formed as a tongue, sheet or liner. The non-stick element may be pivotally attached to the container. When the receiver is to be placed into the container, the non-stick element may be pivoted outwardly from the container and, once the receiver is positioned inside the container, the non-stick element may be pivoted inwardly on the wall of the receiver to be placed between the inner wall of the receiver and the waste inserted into the receiver. A similar process may be performed when the receiver is removed from the container. Alternatively, the intermediate non-stick element is configured to be attached to at least one inflatable element. During compression, one side of the non-stick element will abut the inner wall of the receptacle and the other side of the non-stick element will abut the waste. The non-stick element may be configured to be removably disposed inside the receiver. By using a separate non-stick element that can be removed from the interior of the receiver, the non-stick element can be easily cleaned and replaced in case of wear or damage thereto. Furthermore, any type of flexible receptacle may be used to contain waste using a separate non-stick element. For example, a disposable receiver may be used.

In some examples, the receiver includes an elastic material that allows the receiver to recover its original shape after compression. The receiver may comprise rubber or silicone. The receiver can be easily reused after compression with a material that allows the receiver to recover its original shape after compression. In some embodiments, the receiver comprises a material that allows the receiver to automatically recover its original shape when the compressive force exerted on the receiver is released. The receiver may additionally or alternatively have a shape and/or design that allows the receiver to automatically recover its original shape when the compressive force exerted on the receiver is released. The receiver may include fold lines, slits, or similar features for facilitating deformation during compression. The receiver may include an elastic material that allows the receiver to be flipped inside out. In this way, emptying of the waste is facilitated.

The receiver may include at least one handle, hook or the like to facilitate holding the receiver when emptied.

The receiver may be connected to the top end of the container. The receiver may include a circumferential flange section at a top of the receiver configured to rest on a top edge of the container. The top edge may thus be the top end of the side wall of the container. The flange section may comprise a groove or channel corresponding to the thickness of the container sidewall. The receiver may thus be arranged such that the top edge of the container is inserted into the recess or channel. When so suspended from the container side walls, the receiver may not contact the bottom wall of the container. Alternatively, the receiver is configured to rest on the bottom wall of the container.

In some embodiments, the apparatus for household waste comprises a shape recovery apparatus for facilitating recovery of the receiver to its original shape after compression. In particular, the device for household waste may comprise a shape recovery device for promoting recovery of the receptacle to its original shape after deflation of the at least one inflatable element. Due to compression and depending on the type of waste, the receiver may need some assistance to restore its original shape after deflation of the at least one inflatable element. Manually reshaping the receiver after compression can be cumbersome and thus it would be advantageous to have a device for promoting restoration of the receiver to its original shape.

The shape recovery device may comprise at least one coupling element arranged to removably attach the receiver to the inflatable element and/or the container. The shape recovery apparatus may include a first coupling element on the receiver and a second coupling element on the compression device and/or the container. The shape recovery device may include a first coupling element on the receiver and a second coupling element on the at least one inflatable element and/or the container. By having a first coupling element on the receiver connected to a second coupling element on at least one inflatable element, the receiver wall comprising the first coupling element will follow the movement of the inflatable element when the inflatable element is deflated. The first coupling element may be arranged in association with the first wall of the receiver abutting the at least one inflatable element. When the at least one inflatable element inflates and expands, it will deform and compress the receiver such that a first wall of the receiver is pressed towards an opposite second wall of the receiver. When the inflatable element is deflated, the first wall connected to the inflatable element will follow the inflatable element when the size of the inflatable element is reduced, and the first wall will thus move in a direction away from the second wall. In this way, the receiver will resume its original shape in a simple manner. The shape recovery device may further comprise at least one other coupling element arranged to removably attach the second wall of the receiver to an adjacent container wall to prevent displacement of the entire receiver upon deflation of the at least one inflatable element. The shape recovery device may include a magnet coupling. The shape recovery device may alternatively comprise a Velcro (Velcro) coupling, a suction cup coupling or a hook and loop coupling or the like.

In another example, the first coupling element may be arranged in association with a first wall of the receiver abutting the at least one inflatable element, and the second coupling element is arranged on the container wall adjacent to the at least one inflatable element. In this case, the second coupling element and/or the first coupling element may be flexible or elastic, such that it may be stretched and/or expanded, and the connection between the coupling elements is maintained when the inflatable element is inflated. When the inflatable element is inflated, the first coupling element and/or the second coupling element will be stretched when the first wall of the receiver comprising the first coupling element moves away from the container wall comprising the second coupling element. When the inflatable element is deflated, the inflatable element will no longer stretch the coupling element, and the configuration of the first coupling element and/or the second coupling element will automatically pull the first wall of the receiver away from the second wall of the receiver, and the receiver will resume its original shape.

The shape recovery device may alternatively be configured to create a pressure differential between the interior of the receiver and the space between the receiver and the container after compression to affect the shape of the receiver. The shape recovery device may thus comprise means for creating a pressure difference between the interior of the receiver and the space between the receiver and the container to influence the shape of the receiver. In this way, the pressure differential will affect the receptacle wall, causing the receptacle to resume its original shape. In one example, the shape recovery device is configured to increase the pressure inside the receiver such that a higher pressure will push the walls of the receiver outward toward the container wall. In another example, the shape recovery device is configured to reduce the pressure in the space between the receiver and the container such that a negative pressure is achieved whereby the wall of the receiver will be pulled (sucked) outwards towards the container wall. The shape recovery device may thus comprise an air source, such as an air compressor, an air pump or the like. Suitably, the air source of the shape recovery device is the same air source as the air source in the compression means. Thus, the same air source can be used to compress the waste and help restore the original shape of the receiver after compression. The shape recovery device may further comprise at least one passage in fluid connection with the interior of the receiver and/or the space between the receiver and the container and the air source.

In some embodiments, the apparatus for household waste further comprises a humidifying device arranged in fluid connection with the interior of the container, wherein the humidifying device is arranged to provide a fluid to wet the waste prior to compression. By providing fluid to the waste, compression of the waste may be facilitated, and this may help maintain the compressed state of the waste after compression. Thus, wetting the waste prior to compression may help to maintain the compressed state of the waste when the inflatable element is deflated and the compression force is released. The fluid may be provided in the form of a liquid or a vapor. The fluid may comprise water.

The fluid provided by the humidifying device may comprise starch or any other biological binder. The fluid will thus act as a temporary adhesive to glue the waste together in a compressed state. In this way, the waste will remain in its compressed state and more space is freed in the container. The compressed waste glued together will in this way form a compact single unit (block) that is easy to load into a common waste bin at the recycling station. However, by using a bio-adhesive, the adhesive functionality will automatically decompose after a period of time in a normal environment due to humidity/temperature. Thus, even if the waste adheres together in a block configuration when transported to a common recycling station, the compressed unit will decompose after a period of time and the waste will again be converted into individual articles. In some countries, laws and regulations exist regarding the shape and form of waste at public recycling sites, and thus the use of bioadhesives is highly advantageous. The amount of fluid provided on the waste, the compression time and/or the compression force affects the time required to break down the compressed adherent waste. Thus, by controlling the amount of fluid provided on the waste, the compression time and/or the compression force, the time for decomposing the compressed adherent waste may be adapted to the regulations.

Additionally or alternatively, the fluid provided by the humidifying device may include a disinfectant and/or a scented liquid. From a hygienic point of view, it is advantageous to apply a disinfectant to the waste to avoid harmful bacteria or other parasites. The application of a scented liquid may help to avoid unpleasant odors from waste and may thereby increase well-being.

The humidifying device may comprise at least one reservoir for fluid arranged on the container and at least one nozzle or discharge orifice arranged in fluid connection with the at least one reservoir and the interior of the container for discharging the fluid on the waste. The humidifying device may for example comprise one reservoir for a fluid comprising water and starch and another reservoir for a flavoured liquid. The at least one reservoir is suitably arranged at the exterior of the container to increase accessibility. The at least one nozzle may be arranged in fluid connection with the interior of the receiver in case the apparatus comprises a receiver. In case the container comprises a cover at the top end of the container, at least one reservoir may be arranged on the outside of such a cover. At least one nozzle may be arranged at the inner side of such a cover. The at least one nozzle or discharge orifice may be configured to provide the fluid as an aerosol and thus to spray the fluid on waste. In this way, the fluid will be distributed over the waste in an efficient manner.

The humidification device may be connected to an air source of the compression device. The humidification device may comprise a conduit connecting the reservoir and the air source via a valve device. By controlling the valve means, air provided by the air source may be supplied through the conduit to provide pressure in the reservoir, which will discharge the fluid through the nozzle. Alternatively, the humidifying device is electrically powered.

In another example, a household waste appliance includes a heating device configured to heat waste in a container prior to compression. Heating the waste prior to compression may facilitate compression. For example, where the waste comprises plastic, the plastic waste may be made more resilient and deformable by heating it. The heating means may comprise an electric heater. The heating device may be configured to provide heat by means of Infrared (IR) light. Alternatively, the heating device may be configured to provide heated air. The heating means may be arranged inside the container in the vicinity of the waste to be heated. In case the container comprises a cover at the top end of the container, the heating means may be arranged on the inner side of such a cover.

In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a control device configured to control the compression device so as to adjust the compression force over time. The compression force is dependent on the inflation level of the inflatable element. Thus, the control means may be configured to control the compression means to adjust the inflation level of the at least one inflatable element over time. The compression means may thereby be automatically controlled by means of the control means to inflate and/or deflate the at least one inflatable element. By means of the control device, the inflation level (and thus the compression force) of the at least one inflatable element can be adjusted over time.

The control means may be configured to control the compression means such that the at least one inflatable element is maintained in a compressed state during a predetermined period of time. The user of the device may decide a predetermined period of time. The predetermined period of time may be at least two hours, preferably at least three hours. The longer the compression is performed, the more likely the waste will remain compressed when the compression force is released. The control means may be configured to control the compression means such that the at least one inflatable element is inflated to a compressed state at a predetermined time. For example, the control device may be configured to initiate compression/inflation of the inflatable element at a certain time of day. The control means may be configured to initiate compression when the container is not normally used by anyone, for example during the night. In this way, the compression will not interfere with the use of the container, and in the morning when the home may need to throw some waste, space has been freed up in the container and there will be space for new waste. It should be appreciated that the control device may be configured to control the compression device to the compressed state a plurality of times during a day. If the container is used frequently in the morning and in the evening, the control means may for example be configured to inflate the inflatable element to the compressed state at noon and then to inflate the inflatable element again to the compressed state at midnight.

The control means may be configured to control the compression means to perform a pre-compression operation in which the at least one inflatable element is inflated intermittently for a short period of time to move waste around the interior of the container. The short period of time is typically not long enough for the waste to remain in a compressed state. Thus, during the precompression operation, the control device is configured to briefly inflate the inflatable element. The control means may thus be configured to control the compression means to briefly provide a compression force on the waste. Typically, the inflatable element is inflated about 3 to 5 times during the precompression operation. The precompression operation may be performed during a predetermined period of time. The precompression operation is performed prior to compressing the waste and is advantageously associated with providing a fluid on the waste. In this way, the waste will move around inside the container and the fluid from the humidifying device will be better distributed over the waste. Furthermore, gaps and air pockets between the waste can be avoided and the compressed waste can become more compact once compression begins. The control means may be configured to control the compression means to perform the precompression operation at any time during the day to move or shake only the waste in the container and to release space for more waste.

The control means may be configured to control the compression means based on user input. The control means may be operatively coupled to the user input means such that a user of the apparatus may cancel any predetermined automatically initiated compression at any time or manually initiate compression. Such user input means may comprise a mobile electronic device of the user operatively coupled to the control means, for example via a web server. Such a mobile electronic device of the user may be a mobile phone or a tablet computer. By allowing the compression means to be controlled based on user input from the mobile electronic device, the user can start or end compression from anywhere, even when remote from the device. In this way, a user who leaves home for many hours during the day can start compression of waste even if the device is programmed to perform compression during the night when no one is using the container. Thereby achieving increased flexibility. Additionally or alternatively, the apparatus may comprise user input means in the form of a manipulation element such as a button, lever or switch operatively coupled to the control means. Such a handling element may be arranged on the container. By manipulating the manipulating element, the user can manually start and/or end the inflation of the inflatable element and thus the compression of the waste.

The control device may also be configured to control the humidification device to provide a fluid to wet the waste prior to compression. The control means may also be configured to control the heating means to heat the waste prior to compression. The control means may be configured to control the humidification means and/or the heating means automatically or based on user input. The user input may be provided by means of a user input device such as a mobile electronic device or a steering element as mentioned above. Thus, in case the control means is configured to automatically start the compression at a predetermined time, the control means may be configured to activate the humidity means or the heating means at a time before the predetermined time for the compression. The control device may be configured to control the at least one nozzle/discharge orifice of the humidity device such that the fluid is discharged into the interior of the container. Additionally or alternatively, the control means may be configured to activate the humidifying means or the heating means before starting compression when receiving a user input for starting compression. In one example, the control device is configured to control the humidification device to provide fluid substantially simultaneously when the compression device is controlled to perform a precompression operation to move waste within the container.

The apparatus may further comprise lifting means for facilitating lifting the receiver out of the container. The lifting device may include a second inflatable element disposed below the receiver, wherein the second inflatable element is configured to be inflated to push the receiver upward. The receiver will be lifted in this way relative to the container and it will be easier for the user to remove the receiver from the container. The second inflatable element may be connected to an air source of the compression device via a second air passageway. The air source of the compression device may thus be configured to provide air to the second inflatable element through the second air passageway. Alternatively, the lifting device comprises a second air source for inflating the second inflatable element.

In one example, the apparatus includes two receptacles, a first receptacle and a second receptacle, disposed inside the container. The receptacle may be used for different types of waste. The receptacles may be disposed adjacent to one another inside the container. The at least one inflatable element may be arranged at one side of the container near the first receiver. Compression of the waste may be achieved by inflating the inflatable element whereby the inflatable element expands and affects the first receptacle and the waste inside the first receptacle. The first receiver will then press against the second receiver, which will be compressed against the wall of the container. The second receptacle and its waste will thus be clamped between the first receptacle and the container wall. By using such flexible receptacles arranged side by side only one inflatable element is required to compress the waste in both receptacles. In another example, the compression device includes an inflatable element disposed behind or in front of the two receptacles. The inflatable element is thus arranged adjacent to both receptacles and will affect both receptacles at the same time. In yet another example, the second receiver is disposed on top of the first receiver and the at least one inflatable element is disposed above the second receiver. The at least one inflatable element may then be configured to be inflated to expand downwardly and press the second receiver toward and against the first receiver to thereby compress the second receiver and the first receiver between the at least one inflatable element and the bottom wall of the container. It should be understood that the device may include any number of receptacles disposed adjacent to or on top of each other.

Alternatively, the container comprises an intermediate wall, thereby forming two chambers inside the container. Each chamber may house a receiver. The compression means may then comprise two inflatable elements, one arranged in each chamber to compress the respective receptacle. The inflatable element may be arranged at the intermediate wall, thereby pressing the respective receptacle outwards against the container side wall in opposite directions. With this arrangement, opposing forces of the inflatable element acting on the intermediate wall will cancel each other out. The intermediate wall can thus be relatively thin and thus have a negligible effect on the storage space for waste. The apparatus may include any number of intermediate walls, thereby forming any number of separate chambers within the container. In this case the compression means will comprise a plurality of inflatable elements, typically one in each chamber.

It should be appreciated that where the device includes two or more receptacles, the non-stick device may be configured to prevent adhesion between the waste and each receptacle. Thus, the non-stick device may comprise a non-stick coating or two non-stick elements on each receptacle, one non-stick element being arranged between each receptacle and the waste in the respective receptacle. Further, the shape-recovery device may be configured to facilitate recovery of all of the receptacles to their original shape after deflation of the inflatable element. The shape recovery device may thus comprise a first coupling element on each receiver and a corresponding second coupling element on the inflatable element or container. Alternatively, the shape recovery device may be configured to create a pressure differential between each receiver and the space between the receiver and the container.

When the container comprises two or more receptacles, the humidifying device may comprise two or more nozzles or discharge orifices connected to at least one reservoir, thereby enabling the discharge of fluid onto the waste in each receptacle.

The first aspect of the present disclosure also provides a method for treating household waste by means of an apparatus for household waste. The apparatus comprises a container for household waste and a compression device arranged in the container for compressing the waste, the method comprising compressing the waste by means of at least one inflatable element of the compression device, the inflatable element being inflated to compress the waste within the container. It should be understood that all the features and advantages mentioned in relation to the above-described device also apply to the method. The method is preferably a computer-implemented method performed by means of the control device described herein.

The step of compressing the waste may comprise compressing the waste laterally across the container substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity. Alternatively, compressing the waste is performed substantially vertically.

The step of compressing the waste may include compressing the waste by compressing a flexible receptacle removably disposed inside the container for receiving the waste.

The method may further comprise facilitating restoration of the receiver to its original shape after deflation of the inflatable element by means of a shape restoration device. Facilitating the restoration of the receiver to its original shape may include creating a pressure differential between the interior of the receiver and the space between the receiver and the container as described above. The control means may thus control the shape recovery device such that a pressure difference is created between the interior of the receptacle and the space between the receptacle and the container.

The method may further comprise wetting the waste prior to compression by means of a humidifying device arranged in fluid connection with the interior of the container. The control means may thus control the humidifying device to discharge the fluid onto the waste inside the container prior to compression.

The method may alternatively comprise heating the waste in the container prior to compression by means of a heating device. The control means may thus control the heating means to provide heat to the waste inside the container prior to compression.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure there is also provided a computer program for use with an apparatus for domestic waste. The apparatus for household waste comprises a container, a compression means and a control means comprising at least one processor, the computer program comprising computer readable instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus for household waste to perform the steps of the method as disclosed herein. Furthermore, according to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program product is provided, comprising at least one computer readable medium, such as a non-transitory memory, storing the above mentioned computer program.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an apparatus for domestic waste, wherein the apparatus comprises a container for domestic waste, compression means arranged in the container for compressing the waste, and humidification means arranged in fluid connection with the interior of the container, wherein the humidification means is arranged to provide a fluid to wet the waste prior to compression. Wetting the waste prior to compression will help to maintain the compressed state of the waste after the compression device has stopped compression, as also described above with respect to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

As described with respect to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the fluid may comprise starch. In this way, the fluid will act like a temporary adhesive that glues the waste together in a compressed state.

The compression means of the apparatus according to the second aspect of the present disclosure may comprise at least one inflatable element configured to be inflated to compress waste within the container as described in relation to the first aspect of the present disclosure. Alternatively, the compression device may comprise at least one movable pressing element configured to compress waste within the container. The pressing element may comprise a plate or block arranged on a movable and/or retractable actuator, arm, piston or the like. Such movable actuators may be pneumatically, hydraulically or electrically controlled.

The compression means may be arranged to compress the waste laterally across the container substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity. Alternatively, the compression device is arranged to compress the waste vertically.

The apparatus according to the second aspect of the present disclosure may further comprise a flexible receptacle removably arranged inside the container for receiving waste, wherein the compression device is arranged to compress the waste by compressing the receptacle. Such flexible receptacles have been described above in relation to the first aspect of the present disclosure. The receiver is arranged inside the container such that the compression means is arranged between the container wall and the receiver. The compression means will thereby influence the receptacle when in a compressed state and the receptacle will be compressed and thereby compress waste inside the receptacle. In particular, the compression means presses on the first wall of the receptacle such that the first wall moves in the direction of the opposite second wall of the receptacle, whereby waste is compressed between the first wall and the second wall of the receptacle and thus between the compression means and the container wall. Features relating to the receiver of the second aspect of the present disclosure are described with respect to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

It will be appreciated that the apparatus according to the second aspect of the present disclosure may comprise a non-stick apparatus, a shape recovery apparatus and a heating device as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure.

The shape recovery apparatus may comprise at least one coupling element arranged to connect the receiver and the compression device or container. By connecting the receiver and the compression device, at least a portion of the receiver will follow the movement of the compression device. When the compression means comprises a movable pressing member, the receiving member will thereby follow any movement of the pressing member. The at least one coupling element may be arranged in association with the first wall of the receiver abutting the compression means. When the compression device is controlled to a compressed state, it will compress the receiver such that the first wall of the receiver is pressed towards the opposite second wall of the receiver. When the compression device is no longer in a compressed state, the first wall connected to the compression device will follow the movement of the compression device/press/inflatable element and will thus move in a direction away from the second wall. In this way, the receiver will resume its original shape in a simple manner.

The apparatus according to the second aspect of the present disclosure may further comprise a control device configured to control the compression device so as to adjust the compression force over time. The control means may be configured as described in relation to the first aspect of the present disclosure. In case the compression means comprises at least one inflatable element, the control means may be configured to control the compression means in order to adjust the inflation level of the at least one inflatable element over time. By means of the control device, the movement of the pressing element or the inflation of the inflatable element (and thus the compression force) can be regulated over time.

The control means may be configured to control the compression means such that it remains in a compressed state during a predetermined period of time. The control means may thus be configured to control the position of the pressing element to be in a compressed state during a predetermined period of time.

The control means may also be configured to control the compression means to perform a precompression operation in order to move the waste inside the container. In this precompression operation, the pressing element is intermittently in a compressed state for a short period of time. Thus, the pressing element will briefly compress or push the waste to move the waste around inside the container. The compacting means may thus be controlled to alternate between compacting waste and non-compacting waste for a predetermined period of time.

With respect to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a method for treating waste by means of an apparatus for household waste is provided. The apparatus comprises a container for household waste, compression means arranged in the container for compressing the waste, and humidifying means arranged in fluid connection with the interior of the container, the method comprising wetting the waste by means of the humidifying means before compression and compressing the waste by means of the compression means.

Compressing the waste may include laterally compressing the waste across the container substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity. Compressing the waste may include compressing the waste by compressing a flexible receptacle removably disposed inside the container for receiving the waste.

The method may further comprise facilitating restoration of the receiver to its original shape after compression by means of a shape restoration device. This is described with respect to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

The method may further comprise heating the waste in the container prior to compression by means of a heating device, as also explained in the first aspect of the present disclosure.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an apparatus for domestic waste, wherein the apparatus comprises a container for domestic waste and compression means arranged in the container for compressing the waste, wherein the compression means is arranged to compress the waste laterally across the container substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity. By laterally compressing the waste, the compression means does not have to be arranged at the top of the container, and the whole apparatus can thereby be constructed with a smaller height. This may be very advantageous in the kitchen. Furthermore, the compression means will not block the top of the container through which waste is advantageously inserted into the container. Furthermore, by compressing the waste substantially horizontally, some of the compressed waste will automatically (due to gravity) fall down towards the bottom of the container when the compression device is no longer compressing the waste. In this way, movement of the waste is achieved and gaps and air pockets between the waste can be avoided. The compressed waste collection will thus be more compact (higher density), freeing up more space, and the container can be used longer before it has to be emptied.

The apparatus according to the third aspect of the present disclosure may further comprise a humidifying device arranged in fluid connection with the interior of the container, as previously described in relation to the first and second aspects of the present disclosure.

The compression means of the device according to the third aspect may comprise at least one inflatable element as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure or a pressing element as described in the second aspect of the present disclosure.

The apparatus according to the third aspect of the present disclosure may further comprise a flexible receiver similar to the first and second aspects of the present disclosure. Further, the apparatus may comprise a non-stick apparatus, a shape recovery apparatus and a heating device as described in the first and second aspects of the present disclosure.

The apparatus according to the third aspect may further comprise control means as described in the first and second aspects of the present disclosure.

A third aspect of the present disclosure also provides a method for treating waste by means of an apparatus for household waste. The apparatus comprises a container for household waste and compression means arranged in the container for compressing the waste, the method comprising compressing the waste by means of the compression means, wherein the waste is compressed laterally across the container substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity.

The method according to the third aspect may further comprise method steps as described in relation to the first and second aspects of the present disclosure.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an apparatus for domestic waste, wherein the apparatus comprises a container for domestic waste, compression means arranged in the container for compressing the waste, and a flexible receptacle arranged in a removable manner inside the container for receiving the waste, wherein the compression means is arranged to compress the waste by compressing the receptacle.

The present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description given below. The detailed description and specific examples disclose the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure by way of illustration only. Those skilled in the art will recognize from the guidance in the detailed description that changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the appended claims.

Drawings

The above-mentioned objects, as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be more fully understood by reference to the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of example embodiments of the present disclosure when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1A to 1B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for home waste according to the present disclosure;

fig. 2A-2B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for household waste according to the present disclosure;

Fig. 3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for home waste according to the present disclosure;

fig. 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for home waste according to the present disclosure;

Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for home waste according to the present disclosure;

fig. 6 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for home waste according to the present disclosure;

Fig. 7 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for home waste according to the present disclosure;

fig. 8 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for home waste according to the present disclosure;

Fig. 9A to 9C illustrate exemplary embodiments of an apparatus for home waste according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a control device according to the present disclosure;

Fig. 11 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a method for treating household waste by means of an apparatus for household waste according to the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred example embodiments of the disclosure are shown. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in other forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The disclosed embodiments are merely provided to fully convey the scope of the disclosure to the skilled artisan.

It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that one or more of the elements are present unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a unit" or "the unit" may include several devices and the like. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," "containing," and the like are intended to be open-ended transitional terms that do not exclude the possibility of additional elements or steps.

Fig. 1A and 1B schematically illustrate an apparatus 100 for household waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 comprises a container 20 for household waste and a compacting device 30 arranged in the container 20 for compacting the waste. The container 20 includes a bottom wall 22 and a side wall 24 extending vertically upward from the bottom wall 22. The compression device 30 includes an inflatable element 32 configured to be inflated to expand and compress waste within the container 20. In this example, the inflatable element 32 is arranged to laterally compress the waste substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the waste. The primary direction of expansion of the inflatable element 32 is illustrated with arrows in fig. 1A. Fig. 1A shows the apparatus 100 with the inflatable element 32 in a deflated state and thus when the compression device 30 is in a non-compressed state. Fig. 1B shows the apparatus 100 with the inflatable element 32 in an inflated state and thus when the compression device 30 is in a compressed state.

The container 20 further comprises a waste inlet 21 through which waste is inserted into the container 20. The waste inlet 21 is here arranged at the top end of the container 20. The container 20 further comprises a removable cover 26 for covering the waste inlet 21.

Fig. 2A to 2B schematically illustrate an apparatus 100 for home waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 may be constructed as disclosed in fig. 1A and 1B. In this example, the apparatus 100 further includes a flexible receptacle 40 removably disposed inside the container 20 for receiving waste. The receiver 40 is disposed within the container 20 such that the inflatable element 32 is disposed between the container sidewall 24 and the receiver 40. The inflatable element 32 will thereby affect the receptacle 40 when inflated, and the receptacle 40 will be compressed and thereby compress waste inside the receptacle 40. Fig. 2A shows the device 100 in an uncompressed state, and fig. 2B shows the device 100 in a compressed state.

In this example, the receiver 40 is arranged such that it rests on the top edge 24' of the container sidewall 24. The receptacle 40 is also arranged such that the inlet of the receptacle 40 coincides with the waste inlet 21 of the container 20.

Fig. 2A also shows that the compression device 30 includes an air source 34 for inflating and/or deflating the inflatable element 32. The air source 34 will be referred to herein as an air pump 34. The air pump 34 is connected to the inflatable element 32 via a first air passageway 36. The compression device 30 may further include a valve device 35 disposed in fluid communication with the first air passage 36 and the air pump 34. The valve means 35 is arranged to control the flow of air to the inflatable element 32 and/or to control the flow of air from the inflatable element 32. In this example, the air pump 34 and the valve device 35 are arranged below the bottom wall 22 of the container 20 and thus do not affect the storage space for waste inside the container 20.

The apparatus 100 further comprises a non-stick device 50 for preventing adhesion between the receiver 40 and waste during compression. The non-stick device 50 includes a non-stick coating 52 on the inner wall 42 of the receiver 40. The non-stick coating 52 is advantageously configured to reduce the ability of other materials to adhere thereto and may include Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ceramic coatings, silicon coatings, or superhydrophobic coatings. Receiver 40 may include a non-stick coating 52 on at least one inner wall 42.

As seen in fig. 2A, the receiver 40 includes a slit 44 at the top end of the receiver 40. The slit 44 will facilitate deformation of the receiver 40 during compression. This is shown in fig. 2B, where in fig. 2B, the receiver 40 is compressed by the inflated at least one inflatable element 32.

The apparatus 100 further comprises a control device 200 configured to control the compression device 30 so as to adjust the compression force over time. The compression force depends on the inflation level of the inflatable element 32. Accordingly, the control device 200 may be configured to control the compression device 30 to adjust the inflation level of the at least one inflatable element 32 over time. The control device 200 may be configured to control the air pump 34 and the valve device 35 to control the flow of air to/from the inflatable element 32.

Fig. 3 schematically illustrates an apparatus 100 for household waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 may be constructed as disclosed in fig. 1A-1B or fig. 2A-2B. In this example, the device 100 includes a shape recovery device 60 for facilitating recovery of the receiver 40 to its original shape after compression.

The shape recovery device 60 comprises at least one coupling element 61, 62 arranged to removably attach the receiver 40 to the inflatable element 32. Different examples of the shape recovery device 60 are shown in A, B, C and D. Example a includes a first coupling element 61 located on the receiver 40 and a second coupling element 62 located on the inflatable element 32, wherein the first coupling element 61 includes an opening 63, such as a ring, a through-hole, a cavity, an aperture, or a slit, configured to receive the second coupling element 62. The second coupling element 62 comprises a hook 64. By having the first coupling element 61 on the receiver 40 connected to the second coupling element 62 on the inflatable element 32, the receiver wall comprising the first coupling element 61 will follow the movement of the inflatable element 32 when the inflatable element 32 is deflated, and the receiver 40 will in this way resume its original shape. It should be appreciated that the receiving opening 63 may be disposed on the inflatable element 32 and the hook 64 may be disposed on the receiver 40.

In example B, the shape recovery device 60 includes a magnetic coupling, wherein both the first coupling element 61 on the receiver 40 and the second coupling element 62 on the inflatable element 32 include a magnet 65.

In example C, the shape recovery device 60 comprises a velcro coupling, wherein both the first coupling element 61 on the receiver 40 and the second coupling element 62 on the inflatable element 32 comprise a connecting velcro patch 66.

In example D, the shape recovery device 60 includes a suction cup coupling. In this example, at least one coupling element 61, 62 is disposed on the inflatable element 32 and includes a suction cup 67 configured to connect to the receiver 40. However, it should be understood that suction cup 67 may be disposed on receiver 40 rather than on inflatable element 32.

Although fig. 3 only shows coupling elements 61, 62 connecting receiver 40 and inflatable element 32, shape recovery apparatus 60 may additionally or alternatively include coupling elements 61, 62 connecting receiver 40 and container 20.

Fig. 4 schematically illustrates an apparatus 100 for home waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 may be constructed as disclosed in fig. 1A-1B, 2A-2B, or 3. In this example, the device 100 includes a non-stick device 50, the non-stick device 50 including an intermediate non-stick element 54. The intermediate non-stick element 54 is configured to be disposed between the inner wall of the receptacle 40 and the waste. In this example, the non-stick element 54 is removably attached to the inflatable element 32 of the compression device 30. During compression, one side of the non-stick element 54 will abut the inner wall of the receiver 40 and the other side of the non-stick element 54 will abut the waste. By using the separate non-stick element 54, any type of flexible receiver 40 may be used to contain waste. In this figure, a disposable paper or plastic bag is used as the receiver 40.

Fig. 5 schematically illustrates an apparatus 100 for home waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 may be constructed as disclosed in fig. 1A-1B, 2A-2B, 3, or 4. In this example, the apparatus 100 includes a humidifying device 70 arranged in fluid connection with the interior of the container 20. The humidifying device 70 is arranged to provide a fluid 72 to wet the waste prior to compression.

The humidifying device 70 may be configured to provide the fluid 72 in the form of a liquid or vapor. The fluid 72 may include water. Additionally or alternatively, the fluid 72 provided by the humidifying device 70 includes starch or any other biological binder. The fluid 72 will thus act as a temporary adhesive that glues the waste together in a compressed state. Additionally or alternatively, the fluid 72 may include a disinfectant and/or a scented liquid.

The humidifying device 70 includes at least one reservoir 74 for containing the fluid 72. The reservoir 74 may be disposed on the cover 26 of the container 20. Typically, the reservoir 74 is arranged such that the reservoir 74 is accessible and refillable from outside the container 20. The humidifying device 70 further comprises at least one nozzle or discharge orifice 76 arranged in fluid connection with the reservoir 74 and the interior of the container 20. In this example, at least one nozzle 76 is arranged in fluid connection with the interior of the receiver 40. More specifically, at least one nozzle 76 is disposed at the inside of cover 26 of container 20.

The humidifying device 70 may be controlled by the control device 200. In one example, the humidification device 70 is connected to the air pump 34 of the compression device 30. The humidification device 70 may thus include a conduit 38 that connects the reservoir 74 and the air pump 34 via the valve device 35. By controlling the valve means 35, air provided by the air pump 34 may be supplied through the conduit 38 to provide pressure in the reservoir 74, which will discharge the fluid 72 through the nozzle 76. The control device 200 may thus be configured to control the humidifying device 70 to discharge the fluid 72 onto the waste inside the container 20.

Fig. 6 schematically illustrates an apparatus 100 for home waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 may be constructed as disclosed in fig. 1A-1B, 2A-2B, 3, 4, or 5. In this example, the apparatus 100 includes a lifting apparatus 80 for facilitating lifting the receiver 40 out of the container 20. The lifting device 80 is generally controlled by means of a control means 200. The lifting device 80 comprises a second inflatable element 82 arranged inside the container 20 below the receiver 40. The second inflatable member 82 is configured to be inflated to urge the receiver 40 upwardly. This is especially true when the closable opening for removing the receiver 40 from the container 20 and/or inserting the receiver 40 into the container 20 is disposed at the top of the container 20. The lifting device 80 thus comprises a second air passage 84 connecting the air pump 34 and the second inflatable element 82. By controlling the valve arrangement 35, air provided by the air pump 34 may be directed through the second air passageway 84 to inflate the second inflatable element 82. The second inflatable element 82 is configured such that the second inflatable element 82 expands upward as it is inflated. In this way, the receiver 40 will be pushed upward.

Fig. 7 schematically illustrates an apparatus 100 for home waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 may be constructed as disclosed in fig. 1A-1B, 2A-2B, 3, 4, 5, or 6. In this example, the apparatus 100 includes a heating device 90 configured to heat the waste in the container 20 prior to compression. The heating device 90 may include an electric heater. The heating device 90 may be configured to provide heat by means of Infrared (IR) light. Alternatively, the heating device 90 may be configured to provide heated air. In this example, the heating device 90 is arranged on the inside of the cover 26 of the container 20. Thus, when the cover 26 is arranged to close the container 20, the heating device 90 will be oriented towards the waste inside the container 20 and the receptacle 40. The control device 200 may be configured to control the heating device 90.

Fig. 8 schematically illustrates an apparatus 100 for home waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 may be configured as disclosed in fig. 1A-1B, 2A-2B, 3,4, 5, 6, or 7, wherein the container 20 has a cylindrical shape. In this case, the inflatable element 32 of the compression device 30 will adapt to the cylindrical shape and will abut a portion of the cylindrical inner wall of the container 20 in the deflated state. In the deflated state, the inflatable element 32 will thus have a semi-cylindrical shape.

Fig. 9A to 9C schematically illustrate an apparatus 100 for home waste according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 may be configured as disclosed in fig. 1A-1B, 2A-2B, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 with respect to different details of the apparatus 100, but in these embodiments the container 20 of the apparatus 100 is configured to hold different types of waste. Fig. 9A shows an apparatus 100 for household waste, wherein the container 20 is cylindrical in shape. However, in this embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises an intermediate wall 28, forming two chambers 20', 20″ inside the container 20. Each chamber 20', 20″ may house a receiver 40, but for clarity, the receiver 40 is not shown here. The compression device 30 comprises two inflatable elements 32', 32″ with one inflatable element 32', 32″ arranged in each chamber 20', 20″ to compress the waste in the respective chamber 20', 20″. The inflatable elements 32', 32″ are arranged at the intermediate wall 28, thereby pressing the waste in the respective chambers 20', 20″ outwardly against the container wall 24. With this arrangement, opposing forces on the intermediate wall 28 of the inflatable elements 32', 32″ will cancel each other out. The intermediate wall 28 may thus be relatively thin and thus will not significantly affect the storage space for waste. In this example, the container 20 comprises two waste inlets 21', 21″. The container 20 may comprise one cover 26 for covering two waste inlets 21', 21 ", or the container 20 may comprise two separate covers 26, one cover 26 for each waste inlet 21', 21".

Fig. 9B shows an apparatus 100 for household waste, wherein the container 20 accommodates two receptacles 40 in the same chamber 20'. The receptacle 40 may be used for different types of waste. The receptacles 40 are disposed adjacent to one another inside the container 20. The compression device 30 may include an inflatable element 32 disposed behind or in front of two receptacles 40. The width of the inflatable element 32 may thus be substantially similar to the combined width of the two receptacles 40. In this way, a single inflatable element 30 is able to compress both receptacles simultaneously. Thus, when the inflatable element is inflated, the inflatable element will expand and urge the receiver 40 toward the opposite side wall 24 of the container 20.

Fig. 9C shows an apparatus 100 for household waste, wherein the container 20 comprises two intermediate walls 28, thereby forming three chambers 20', 20 "within the container 20. In this example, the chambers 20', 20 "are arranged vertically with respect to each other and thus on top of each other. Each chamber 20', 20 "comprises a receiver 40 and the compression means 30 comprises three inflatable elements 32', 32", 32 '", one inflatable element 32', 32", 32 '"being arranged in each chamber 20', 20". Each inflatable element 32', 32 ", 32'" is arranged above a respective receiver 40 and will therefore expand downwards when inflated. The receiver 40 will in this way be compressed between the inflatable elements 32', 32 ", 32'" and the intermediate wall 28, respectively the bottom wall 22, of the container 20.

Fig. 10 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a control device 200 of the apparatus 100 for home waste according to the present disclosure. The control device 200 comprises at least one processor 201 and a storage medium 202. The control device 200 may be configured to perform the method as described in fig. 11 when the computer program is run by the at least one processor 201. The computer program includes computer readable instructions that may be stored in the storage medium 202. The storage medium 202 may be a non-transitory hardware storage device of the control device 200.

Fig. 11 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a method for treating household waste by means of the apparatus 100 for household waste according to the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 for home waste may be constructed as disclosed in any one of fig. 1 to 9, and thus includes a container 20 for home waste and a compression device 30 disposed in the container 20 for compressing waste.

The method comprises the step of compacting s101 the waste by means of at least one inflatable element 32 of the compacting device 30, which inflatable element 32 is inflated to compact the waste inside the container 20.

The step of compacting s101 the waste may include compacting the waste laterally across the container 20 substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity. Alternatively, compressing 101 the waste is performed substantially vertically.

The step of compressing s101 the waste may include compressing the waste by compressing a flexible receiver 40 removably disposed inside the container 20 for receiving the waste. Thus, when the receiver 40 is deformed and compressed by means of the inflatable element 32, waste inside the receiver 40 will be compressed.

The step of compressing s101 waste may include controlling the compression device 30 such that the at least one inflatable element 32 remains in a compressed state during a predetermined period of time. The user of the device may decide a predetermined period of time. The predetermined period of time may be at least two hours, preferably at least three hours. The step of compacting s101 the waste may comprise controlling the compacting means 30 such that the at least one inflatable element 32 is inflated to a compacted state at a certain predetermined time. Compressing s101 waste may be initiated when the container 20 is not normally used by anyone, for example during the night.

The method may further include the step of facilitating s102 the restoration of the original shape of receiver 40 after deflation of inflatable element 32 by means of shape restoration device 60. Promoting s103 the restoration of the receiver 40 to its original shape may include creating a pressure differential between the interior of the receiver 40 and the space between the receiver 40 and the container 20 after compression.

The method may further comprise the step of wetting s103 the waste prior to compression by means of a humidifying device 70 arranged in fluid connection with the interior of the container 20. The step of wetting s104 the waste prior to compaction may include wetting the waste with the starch-containing fluid 72 to enable the compacted waste to adhere. The step of wetting s104 the waste prior to compression may include wetting the waste by discharging the fluid 72 in the form of an aerosol or spray.

The method may alternatively comprise the step of heating s104 the waste in the container 20 prior to compression by means of the heating device 90. The step of heating s105 the waste prior to compression may comprise heating the waste by means of Infrared (IR) light or heated air.

The method may further include the step of controlling s105 the compression device 30 to perform a pre-compression operation in which the at least one inflatable element 32 is intermittently inflated for a short period of time to move waste around inside the container 20. In this way, the waste will move around inside the container 20 and gaps and air pockets can be avoided and the compressed waste can become more compact once the actual compression begins. The precompression operation is preferably performed in connection with wetting the waste, thereby ensuring that the fluid is distributed over a large amount of waste.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that modifications and variations can be made within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus (100) for household waste, the apparatus (100) comprising:

- a container (20) for household waste; and

- a compression device (30) arranged in the container (20) for compressing the waste;

The compression device (30) includes at least one inflatable element (32) configured to be inflated to compress the waste within the container (20).

2. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the at least one inflatable element (32) is arranged to compress waste laterally across the container (20) substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity.

3. The device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising:

- a flexible receiving element (40) which is removably arranged inside the container (20) for receiving waste,

wherein the at least one inflatable element (32) is arranged to compress the waste by compressing the receiving member (40).

4. The device (100) according to claim 3, further comprising:

- a non-stick device (50) for preventing adhesion between the receiving element (40) and the waste during compression.

5. The device (100) according to claim 4, wherein the non-stick device (50) comprises a non-stick coating (52) on the inner wall of the receiving member (40).

6. The device (100) according to claim 4, wherein the non-stick device (50) comprises an intermediate non-stick element (54) configured to be arranged between the inner wall of the receptacle (40) and the waste.

7. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the receiver (40) comprises an elastic material that allows the receiver (40) to recover its original shape after being compressed.

8. The device (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 7, further comprising:

- a shape-restoration device (60) for promoting the receiving part (40) to restore the original shape of the receiving part (40) after the at least one inflatable element (32) has been deflated.

9. Device (100) according to claim 8, wherein the shape-restoring device (60) comprises at least one coupling element (61, 62) arranged to removably attach the receiver (40) to the inflatable element (32) and/or the container (20).

10. The device (100) according to claim 8, wherein the shape recovery device (60) is configured to generate a pressure difference between the interior of the receiver (40) and the space between the receiver (40) and the container (20) after compression to affect the shape of the receiver (40).

11. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising:

- a humidifying device (70) arranged in fluid connection with the interior of the container (20),

Therein, the humidifying device (70) is arranged to provide a fluid (72) to moisten the waste prior to compression.

12. The apparatus (100) of claim 11, wherein the fluid (72) comprises starch.

13. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising:

- A heating device (90) configured to heat the waste in the container (20) prior to compression.

14. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising:

- control means (200) configured to control the compression means (30) so as to adjust the inflation level of the at least one inflatable element (32) over time.

15. Apparatus (100) according to claim 14, wherein the control means (200) is configured to control the compression means (30) such that the at least one inflatable element (32) remains in a compressed state during a predetermined period of time.

16. Apparatus (100) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the control means (200) is configured to control the compression means (30) to perform a pre-compression operation in which the at least one inflatable element (32) is intermittently inflated for short periods of time in order to move waste around inside the container (20).

17. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the control means (200) is configured to control the compression means (30) based on a user input.

18. A method for treating household waste by means of an apparatus (100) for household waste, the apparatus (100) comprising a container (20) for household waste and a compression device (30) arranged in the container (20) for compressing the waste, the method comprising:

- Compressing (s101) the waste by means of at least one inflatable element (32) of the compression device (30), the inflatable element (32) being inflated to compress the waste within the container.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein compressing (s101) the waste comprises compressing the waste laterally across the container (20) substantially perpendicular to a direction of gravity.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein compressing (s101) the waste comprises compressing the waste by compressing a flexible receiving member (40) removably arranged inside the container (20) for receiving the waste.

21. The method according to any one of claims 20, further comprising:

- promoting (s102) the receiving part (40) to restore the original shape of the receiving part (40) after the inflatable element (32) is deflated by means of a shape recovery device (60).

22. The method of claim 21, wherein promoting (s102) the receiver (40) to restore the original shape of the receiver (40) comprises generating a pressure difference between an interior of the receiver (40) and a space between the receiver (40) and the container (20) after compression.

23. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 22, further comprising:

- Wetting (s103) the waste before compression by means of a humidifying device (70) arranged in fluid connection with the interior of said container (20).

24. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 22, further comprising:

- Heating (s104) the waste in the container prior to compression by means of a heating device (90).

25. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 24, wherein the apparatus (100) comprises control means (200) configured to perform the steps of the method according to any one of claims 18 to 24.

26. A computer program for an apparatus (100) for household waste, the apparatus (100) comprising a container (20), compression means (30) and control means (200) comprising at least one processor (201), the computer program comprising computer-readable instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor (201), cause the apparatus (100) for household waste to perform the steps of the method according to any one of claims 18 to 25.