EP3473426A1 - Compactor assembly, compactor device and method for mounting a compactor assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

According to various embodiments, a compactor assembly (100) may include: a first support frame portion (404a) and a second support frame portion (404b) configured to be releasably coupled together and a compactor (102) for compacting containers (404a); 104), wherein the Kompaktor (102) on the second support frame part (404b) is arranged.

Description

Various embodiments relate to a Kompaktoranordnung, a Kompaktoreinrichtung and a method for mounting a Kompaktoranordnung.

In general, different concepts are used to compact objects, with the objects being cut, pressed, and / or otherwise shaped to reduce their footprint. Due to the introduced deposit system for disposable and reusable containers (e.g., bottles, cans, jars, etc.), increasingly automated take-back systems are being used to make the return of large quantities of containers logistically simple. Such take-back systems can sort the containers, for example, by type and / or material. Further, various options may be provided for the return of individual containers or packages (e.g., a box, etc.). In general, it may be necessary or helpful to crush the containers to allow efficient removal of them. Not only disposable plastic containers but also disposable glass containers can be compacted. Reusable containers and reusable containers are usually collected separately and transported away without compacting them. In the food industry, the empty containers are also referred to as empties and the return system as empties return system or reverse vending machine.

According to various embodiments, a compactor assembly is provided for compacting containers that can be transported, for example, in a space-saving manner and can be easily and inexpensively mounted (e.g., erected and / or maintained). In this case, the Kompaktoranordnung be provided such that it can be set up and / or repaired, for example, without heavy equipment. Furthermore, the Kompaktoranordnung be provided such that it can be cleaned without specialist personnel, or otherwise maintained.

Furthermore, the Kompaktoranordnung may be provided such that a return operation of an entire Kompaktoreinrichtung with multiple Kompaktoranordnungen in the maintenance of one of the multiple Kompaktoranordnungen must not be interrupted. For this purpose, for example, a Kompaktoranordnung is provided which can compact a compactor, by means of which can be compacted to containers, and a transport device by means of which the container in the Kompaktoranordnung or are transported through the Kompaktoranordnung, provided such that the Kompaktor can be mounted independently of the transport device (eg replaced, cleaned and / or repaired).

According to various embodiments, there is provided a compactor assembly comprising: a first support frame part and a second support frame part adapted to be detachably coupled together and a compactor for compacting containers (in other words, compactor for compacting empties; Eg bottles, glasses, cans, etc.), wherein the Kompaktor is arranged on the second support frame part.

Further, a compactor device is provided having a plurality of compactor assemblies, such as described herein, wherein the compactor assemblies are disposed relative to one another such that containers may be transported along a transport path through the plurality of compactor assemblies.

There is further provided a method of mounting (e.g., installing, repairing, cleaning, etc.) a compactor assembly, the method comprising: deploying a first support frame member, the first support frame member having a receiving space for receiving a second support frame member; Arrangement of the second support frame part below the receiving space, wherein a Kompaktor is arranged on the second support frame part; at least partially introducing the second support frame part into the receiving space of the first support frame part; and, e.g. then, attaching the second support frame part to the first support frame part by means of a releasable connection.

Embodiments are illustrated in the figures and are explained in more detail below.

• Fig.1A und Fig.1B einen Kompaktor in verschiedenen schematischen Ansichten, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen;
• Fig.2A und Fig.2B eine Kompaktoranordnung in verschiedenen schematischen Ansichten, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen;
• Fig.3A und Fig.3B jeweils eine Kompaktoreinrichtung in einer schematischen Perspektivansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen;
• Fig.4A und Fig.4B jeweils ein zweites Tragegestellteil einer Kompaktoranordnung in einer schematischen Perspektivansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen;
• Fig.4C und Fig.4D jeweils ein erstes Tragegestellteil einer Kompaktoranordnung in einer schematischen Perspektivansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen;
• Fig.4E und Fig.4F jeweils in einer schematischen Perspektivansicht ein zweites Tragegestellteil das in einem Aufnahmeraum eines ersten Tragegestellteils einer Kompaktoranordnung angeordnet ist, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen;
• Fig.5A und Fig.5B jeweils eine Kompaktoranordnung in einer schematischen Perspektivansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen;
• Fig.6 eine Kompaktoranordnung in einer schematischen Perspektivansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen;
• Fig.7 ein schematisches Ablaufdiagramm eines Verfahrens zum Montieren einer Kompaktoranordnung, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen;
• Fig.8 eine Kompaktoranordnung mit einem Gehäuse in einer schematischen Perspektivansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen;
• Fig.9A bis 9D jeweils eine Kompaktoranordnung mit zwei Kompaktoren in einer schematischen Perspektivansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen; und
• Fig.lOA und 10B jeweils eine Kompaktoranordnung mit zwei Kompaktoren in einer schematischen Perspektivansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Ausführungsformen.

Show it

• Fig.1A and Fig.1B a compactor in various schematic views, according to various embodiments;
• Fig.2A and Fig.2B a Kompaktoranordnung in various schematic views, according to various embodiments;
• Fig.3A and Fig.3B each a Kompaktoreinrichtung in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Fig.4A and Fig.4B in each case a second support frame part of a Kompaktoranordnung in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Fig.4C and Fig.4D in each case a first support frame part of a Kompaktoranordnung in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Fig. 4E and Fig. 4F each in a schematic perspective view of a second support frame part which is arranged in a receiving space of a first support frame part of a Kompaktoranordnung, according to various embodiments;
• Fig.5A and Fig.5B each a Kompaktoranordnung in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Figure 6 a Kompaktoranordnung in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Figure 7 a schematic flow diagram of a method for mounting a Kompaktoranordnung, according to various embodiments;
• Figure 8 a Kompaktoranordnung with a housing in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Figs. 9A to 9D a Kompaktoranordnung with two compactors in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments; and
• 10A and 10B show a compactor arrangement with two compactors in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments.

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In this regard, directional terminology such as "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "front", "rear", etc. is used with reference to the orientation of the described figure (s). Because components of embodiments are in a number of different Orientations can be positioned, the directional terminology is illustrative and is in no way limiting. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. It should be understood that the features of the various exemplary embodiments described herein may be combined with each other unless specifically stated otherwise. The following detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

As used herein, the terms "connected," "connected," and "coupled" are used to describe both direct and indirect connection, direct or indirect connection, and direct or indirect coupling. In the figures, identical or similar elements are provided with identical reference numerals, as appropriate.

For purposes of this specification, the terms "below," "above," and "adjacent" will be used to describe relative locations, for example, as to a placement of the compactor assembly on a horizontal surface.

According to various embodiments, a compactor assembly 100 is described wherein the compactor assembly 100 includes at least one compactor 102. Fig.1A and Fig.1B illustrate a compactor 102 of a Kompaktoranordnung 100 in a schematic cross-sectional view and a schematic plan view, according to various embodiments.

A compactor 102 may, for example, be understood as a functional assembly of an empties return system (also referred to as a compactor device). For example, the compactor 102 may be configured to compact at least a portion of the empties 104 (also referred to as containers) supplied to the reverse vending machine, ie, to reduce its footprint. This can be done, for example, by the empties formed and / or pressed (eg pressed into a flat shape) is. The compacted empties 104k may be collected in a cargo container 152, which may or may be located below the compactor 102, for example. For example, the compacted empties 104k may be ejected downward out of the compactor 102s.

The empties 104 may in this context be understood as emptied sales packaging and / or emptied sales containers, such as disposable bottles, disposable returnable bottles, beverage cans, returnable bottles, and the like. For example, the reverse vending machine may be part of an empties return chain that delivers the empties for reuse or recovery (e.g., for raw material recovery).

The compactor 102 may include at least one compactor 112 (illustratively a space-saving device), also referred to as a header, by means of which the empties 104 are compacted. The compactor 112 may include at least one compacting roll 112w (e.g., a single compacting roll, a plurality of counter-rotating compacting rolls, etc.) and a driver 112a (e.g., an electric motor or the like) for driving the compacting roll 112w. Optionally, the compactor 112 may include a feeder 112t (e.g., a feed belt) for feeding 101t the empties 104 toward the compacting roll 112w.

The feeder 112t may comprise a belt conveyor or be configured as a belt conveyor. For example, the belt conveyor may include a conveyor belt (eg, a belt, a chain belt, or the like), it should be noted that multiple belts, straps or the like may be provided to realize the conveyor belt, with the plurality of belts, straps or the like being tensioned on common tension rollers can or in each case on separate tension rollers, which can optionally be controlled together in the same way), on which the empties 104 is transported. The conveyor belt can be supported by means of several support rollers. Alternatively or additionally, the feeder 112t may comprise a roller conveyor having a plurality of transport rollers, the transport rollers providing a transport surface on which the empties 104 are transported. Alternatively or additionally, other types of conveyors may be used which are suitable for transporting the empties 104. Optionally, the feeder 112t may include at least one paddle wheel (not shown) configured to guide the transported empties 104 to the compacting roller 112w. Further, optionally, a chute may also be used as the feeder 112t, the chute being arranged such that the empties 104 may slide toward the compacting roller 112w.

Further, the compactor 112 may include a variety of other components, such as mudguards, panels, bearings, guide members, and the like, which may be helpful in operating the compactor 112.

Fig.2A and Fig.2B illustrate a compactor assembly 100 in a schematic side or cross-sectional view and in a schematic plan view, according to various embodiments.

The compactor 102 may be part of the Kompaktoranordnung 100 (see the following figures). The Kompaktoranordnung 100 may include in addition to the Kompaktor 102 further functional assemblies that support, for example, the operation of the Kompaktors 102 and / or integrate the Kompaktor 102 in a sequencer of an empties return system.

The Kompaktoranordnung 100 may for example have a support frame 204. The support frame 204 may have exactly one support frame part, e.g. consisting of fixedly connected support elements, or a plurality of support frame parts, e.g. two detachably coupled support frame parts, have. By means of the support frame 204, the Kompaktor 102 may be supported or be. For example, the support rack 204 may support the compactor 102 at a predefined working height (e.g., at a height in a range of about 0.5 to about 2 meters). Thus, for example, a cargo container 152 (e.g., a container, another large capacity container, etc.) may be placed under the compactor 102. For example, the support frame 204 may include a plurality of support legs 206 (also referred to as stand elements), or in other words, the support frame 204 may be supported by a plurality of support legs 206. Between the plurality of support legs 206 under the compactor 102, a collection area 204r may be provided for receiving a cargo container 152. By means of the freight container 152, for example, the compacted empties 104k may be easily collected and removed. For example, a full cargo bin 152 may simply be exchanged for an empty cargo bin 152. For example, instead of the cargo container 152, a removal belt or other transport device may be used to further transport the compacted empties 104k falling into the collection area 204r, e.g. into a remotely located cargo container 152.

The Kompaktoranordnung 100 may for example have a transport device 200t, which is adapted to supply the Kompaktor 102, the empties 104 or the empties 104 to lead past this. The transport device 200t may, for example, be part of a transport route along which the empties 104 are transported. For example, the empties 104 by means of the transport device 200t through a Kompaktoranordnung 100 through or in each case by several Kompaktoranordnungen 100 through.

For example, empties 104 to be compacted (e.g., disposable plastic containers, disposable cans, etc.) transported by transport device 200t may be identified, e.g. by means of a suitably arranged sensor arrangement, and selectively supplied to the compactor 102, e.g. by means of a suitably arranged selection device 200s, which is controlled or regulated based on sensor data of the sensor arrangement, for example. For example, non-compacted empties 104 (e.g., refillable containers, etc.) that are transported by the transport device 200t may be transported past the compactor 102 and through the compactor assembly 100.

For example, the selector 200s may be configured to dispense the empties 104, which have a category (e.g., "for compacting") associated with the compactor assembly 100, from an empties stream guided by the transport device 200t and to deliver them to the compactor. Clearly, each Kompaktor 102 may be associated with exactly one Selektiervorrichtung 200s.

The selector 200s may optionally be configured to perform the categorization of the empties 104, e.g. after "to compact" or "not to compact" and optionally to additional features such as container type, recycling type, material and / or color. For example, empties 104 categorized to be compacted can be subcategorized further according to their color and / or material, and also according to whether they are to be supplied to the relevant compactor 102 at all. The categorization can alternatively or additionally be done by means of a categorizer at the entrance 302 of an empties return system (see the following figures). The categorizer may then, for example, drive the compactor assemblies 100 and / or provide data to the compactor assemblies 100.

The compactor assembly 100 may optionally include a housing 300g in which the compactor 102, the selector 200s, and the transport 200t of the compactor assembly 100 are disposed. The housing 300g may have at least one first opening through which the empty container 104 can be fed to the compactor assembly 100 (eg, received by means of the transport device 200t), for example along the transport path. Optionally, the housing 300g may have a second opening have, through which the empties transported past the Kompaktor 102 104 emptied from the Kompaktoranordnung 100.

Fig.3A and Fig.3B each illustrate a compactor device 300 (also referred to as an empties return system) in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments.

The compactor device 300 may, according to various embodiments, comprise a plurality of compactor assemblies 100 as described herein. These can be arranged along a row or along several rows and thus form, for example, one transport route or several transport routes.

The sequencer in operating the compactor device 300 may have at its beginning 302, for example, a check of the empties 104 (e.g., their return capability, or the like). For example, various features of the empties 104 (such as empties type, weight, pack type, bar code information, etc.) may be detected for verification. The empties 104 categorized as withdrawable can then be accepted by the compactor device 300.

The plurality of compactor assemblies 100 may be incorporated into the sequencer of the compactor device 300. For example, the plurality of compactor assemblies 100 may compact according to the subcategorization. Of the plurality of compactor assemblies, a first compactor assembly 100 may, for example, compact empties of a first subcategory (e.g., "blue" or "plastic") and a second compactor assembly 100 may compact empties of a second subcategory (e.g., "red" or "sheet"). Alternatively, the compactor assemblies 100 may be replenished one after another without distinguishing the empties. For example, then a first Kompaktoranordnung 100 of the plurality Kompaktoranordnungen be maintained while a second Kompaktoranordnung 100 of the plurality Kompaktoranordnungen maintains the operation of the respective transport path.

To provide two parallel transport sections 306, a compactor arrangement 100 can have two compactors 102 which are arranged side by side (eg, "back to back") on a common support frame 204 of the compactor arrangement 100 (also referred to as double module 300d). The compactors 102 of a dual module 300d may be integrated parallel to one another (ie serve two different transport paths). Optionally, a plurality of individual modules (ie, a Kompaktoranordnung 100 with only one Kompaktor 102) or more Double modules 300d along a transport path 306 in series (ie in series) be involved. Thus, for example, a compactor 102 of a first single module or dual module 300d can be maintained while the serial compactor 102 of a second single module or double module 300d maintains its operation. Several double modules 300d may alternatively or additionally be incorporated parallel to one another (ie in different transport path pairs).

Alternatively, the Kompaktoranordnungen 100 may each have only one Kompaktor 102 and / or be set up separately or.

The downcomer may include at a first end a first plenum 304a (e.g., with the cargo container 152 therein) for receiving the empties 104k to be compacted, as described above. The drain chain can optionally at least at a second end a second plenum 304b for non-compacting individual empties (eg reusable empties or glass bottles), at a third end a third plenum 304c for empties boxes and / or at a fourth end a fourth Have collection space 304d for non-recyclable empties (eg empties to be disposed of). The ends of the drainage chain can be connected by means of a transport system. For example, the transport system may include a plurality of transport routes 306, and optionally at locations where the transport system branches (i.e., two transport lines adjacent to each other), a selector device.

As in 3B 2, the empties 104 from the compactor 102 of the respective compactor arrangement 100 can also fall onto a removal belt 308, by means of which the compacted empties 104k can be transported away in containers 152 (eg next to the compactor arrangements 100). Thus, for example, the Kompaktoreinrichtung 300 can be provided space-saving, since no container must be replaced from below the Kompaktors 102 of the respective Kompaktoranordnung 100. Furthermore, compacted empties 104k can be brought together by means of at least one removal belt 308 from a plurality of compactor arrangements 100 (eg, category by category).

To provide two parallel transport paths, two compactors 102 can be arranged side by side on a common support frame 204 of the Kompaktoranordnung or be. These can then be easily set up as described herein. Alternatively, the compactor assemblies 100 may each have only one compactor 102 and be separately installed.

According to various embodiments, a compactor assembly 100 may include: a first support frame part 404a and a second support frame part 404b, which are adapted to each other so as to be releasably coupled to each other and form a common support frame 204, as in FIGS FIGS. 4A to 4F is shown in schematic views. In this case, a compactor 102 for compacting containers, as described above, for example, can be arranged on the second support frame part 404b. Furthermore, the first support frame part 404a can be set up by means of standing elements 206 (eg by means of feet).

In 4A 2, the second support frame part 404b of the compactor assembly 100 is shown in a perspective view, according to various embodiments. The second support frame part 404b may have a support frame 414r and support elements 414e adapted to the structures to be supported. For example, the second support frame part 404b may include a bearing assembly 414m for supporting a drive 112a (see FIG 4B ). According to various embodiments, the second support frame part 404b may have a plurality of stand elements 424 (also referred to as support feet). When the second support frame part 404b is set down on a substrate, for example, the support frame 414r is supported by means of the stand elements 424. Thus, for example, the support frame 414r of the second support frame part 404b can be underrun by means of a lift truck and the second support frame part 404b can be lifted or transported.

As in 4B In a perspective view, according to various embodiments, a compactor 102 may be disposed on the second support frame portion 404b. As described above, the compactor 102 may include a driver 112a (eg, a motor), a compactor 112, and a feeder 112t. Further, the compactor 102 may include other components if this is helpful in operating the compactor 102. The compactor 102 may be supplied with electrical energy from an external source (eg, a supply device), eg, by means of electrical wiring. The drive 112a of the compacting unit 112 may be fixedly connected to the second support frame part 404b. Alternatively, the drive 112a may be resiliently supported on the second support frame part 404b. The compactor 112 may be fixedly connected to the second support frame part 404b. Alternatively, the compacting unit 112 may be resiliently supported on the second support frame part 404b.

According to various embodiments, the second support frame part 404b may have at least one coupling (not shown) for coupling a pulling means of a lifting device to the second support frame 404b (see FIG Figure 6 ). The first support frame part 404a may, for example, be arranged such that the lifting device can be supported on the second support frame. The coupling may for example be an eyelet, a hook, or any other suitable element for securing a traction means. In this case, the coupling can be positioned such that the second support frame part 404b can be suspended by means of the traction means of the lifting device in the center of gravity or on a vertical axis through the center of gravity.

According to various embodiments, for example, a first support frame part 404a may or may be provided to match the second support frame part 404b of the compactor assembly 100, as in FIG 4C is illustrated in a schematic view. The second support frame part 404b may have a support frame 434r, as well as support members 434e suitably configured for the structures to be supported.

According to various embodiments, the first support frame part 404a may be configured to define a receiving space 400a for receiving the second support frame part 404b. Illustratively, the first support frame part 404a may be an outer support frame part, wherein the second support frame part 404b is an inner support frame part, which is surrounded by the outer support frame part at least in sections. In this case, the receiving space 400a may be provided such that the Kompaktor 102 arranged on the second support frame part 404b can also be accommodated (see Figs. 4E and 4F ). Clearly, the second support frame part 404b can be easily removed from the first support frame part 404a, for example lowered downwards.

According to various embodiments, the first support frame part 404a and the second support frame part 404b may be configured such that the second support frame part 404b can be moved along the mounting direction 400m into the receiving space 400a and out of the receiving space 400a. The second support frame part 404b and the compactor 102 disposed on the second support frame part may be movable together along the mounting direction 400m into the receiving space 400a and out of the receiving space 400a. This may, for example, facilitate assembly of the compactor assembly 100, eg its installation and maintenance.

The first support frame part 404a may, for example, have at least one stop 434a. By means of the at least one stop 434a, a fastening position for fixing the second support frame part 404b in the receiving space 400a can be defined. Clearly, the second support frame part 404b can be lifted upwards until it makes a positive connection with the stop and the compactor 102 is positioned in the receiving space 400a. The attachment positioning of the second support frame part 404b relative to the first support frame part 404a may be predefined. The first support frame part 404a and the second support frame part 404b can be detachably coupled together in the attachment position. In principle, suitable connecting elements such as screws, clamps, pins, or the like can be used. According to various embodiments, a connection element can be used for detachable connection, which can be connected and released without tools (clearly manual).

Furthermore, the first support frame part 404 a can be set up by means of a plurality of stand elements 206, such as in FIG Fig.4D is illustrated. The stand elements 206 may be fixedly connected to the first support frame part 404a. Alternatively, the first support frame part 404a may have a plurality of hollow profiles 444h into which the stand elements 206 may or may be inserted. The stand elements 206 can be pushed, for example, from above through the hollow profiles 444h and fixed in the hollow profiles 444h (or on the first support frame part 404a).

For example, the upstanding members 206 are not fixedly connected to the second support frame part 404b, so that the second support frame part 404b can be lowered and / or raised independently of the first support frame part 404a. According to various embodiments, the stand elements 206 may be arranged such that the second support frame part 404b can be lowered into the area 204r between the stand elements 206.

To adjust the position of the first support frame part 404a relative to the ground, the stand elements 206 can have adjustment elements or adjusting sections 444s (eg height-adjustable feet). To set a height position in which the compactor 102 is disposed relative to the ground, different sets of pillars 206 may also be used. Furthermore, the stand elements can be plugged through the hollow sections 444h through different distances and fixed accordingly at a desired height.

According to various embodiments, the stand elements 206 may be used to lift the first support frame part 404a to a predefined height position. For this purpose, a lifting device can be used (see Fig.10A and 10B). For lifting and lowering the second support frame part 404b relative to the first support frame part 404a, lifting the first support frame part 404a relative to the ground, and lifting the first support frame part 404a and the second support frame part 404b together relative to the ground, the same or the same lifting device can be used ,

According to various embodiments, two of these first support frame parts 404a may be connected to a common first support frame part 404a so that, for example, two compactors 102 may be supported by the common first support frame part 404a, see for example Figs. 9A and 9B ,

In Fig. 4E and Fig. 4F In each case, a Kompaktoranordnung 100 is shown in a perspective view, wherein the second support frame part 404 b is positioned in the mounting position in the receiving space 400 a of the first support frame part 404 a, according to various embodiments.

According to various embodiments, the Kompaktoranordnung 100 may include further modules, such as in 5A is shown in a schematic view.

The compactor assembly 100 may include, for example, a transport device 200t for transporting the containers 104 in the compactor assembly 100, as described above, for example. The transport device 200t may be configured such that the containers 104 may be transported into the compactor assembly 100 to the compactor 102 and / or through the compactor assembly 100 to an additional compactor assembly 100. The transport device 200t may, for example, be arranged on the first support frame part 404a.

The compactor assembly 100 may further include, according to various embodiments, a selector 200s for selecting containers transported by the transport apparatus 200t and for supplying the selected containers to the compactor 112 of the compactor 102.

According to various embodiments, the selection device 200s may be disposed on the first support frame part 404a. The selecting device 200s may be immovably supported, for example in a fixed predetermined position and position with respect to the first support frame part 404a. Alternatively, the selection device 200s may be arranged to be movable, eg pivotable, such that by means of a section of the selection device 200s, for example when required (eg in the case of maintenance), the transport device 200t may be at least partially covered, such as in FIG FIG.5B is illustrated.

The compactor assembly 100 may, according to various embodiments, further include an electronics package 500e for operating the compactor 102, operating the transport apparatus 200t, and operating the selecting apparatus 200s, respectively. In this case, an operation can be understood to mean controlling, regulating, and / or supplying electrical energy. For example, the electronics package 500e may be disposed on the first support frame part 404a. The transport device 200t may, for example, have its own (separate) drive. For example, a belt transport device can be used in which a conveyor belt is stretched between two pulleys, wherein at least one pulley is driven.

When pivoting the selecting device 200s from an operating position such as in FIG 5A is illustrated in a maintenance position (also referred to as mounting position), such as in FIG.5B 1, an electrical power supply of the compactor 102 (or at least the drive 112a of the compactor 102) can be interrupted, for example by means of a safety switch 501.

Figure 6 illustrates a compactor assembly 100 in a perspective view, according to various embodiments. The compactor 102 of the Kompaktoranordnung 100 can be lowered, for example by means of a lifting device 600h together with the second support frame part 404b. The lifting device 600h can be operated manually, for example. The lifting device 600h may be supported on the first support frame part 404a and be coupled to the second support frame part 404b by means of a pulling means 600z.

The second support frame part 404b can be parked on a substrate, for example. This allows easy and quick assembly of the compactor assembly 100 (eg, simply and quickly replacing the compactor 102 with another, or improved access to the compactor 102 for repair purposes or similar). Due to the fact that, for example, the transport device 200t is arranged on the first support frame part 404a, it can continue to be operated, even if the compactor 102 is not in its mounting position in the receiving space 400a of the first support frame part 404a. Therefore, it may be helpful, for example, to cover the transport device 200t in this case or make it inaccessible, eg by pivoting the selection device 200s via the transport device 200t. In this case, a transport channel for transporting the containers may be provided through the Kompaktoranordnung 100 therethrough. In this case, the transport channel is provided such that the transport path for the container 104 to be transported is not disturbed.

Figure 7 11 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 700 for mounting (eg, deploying) a compactor assembly 100, according to various embodiments. The method 700 for assembling a compactor assembly 100 may comprise, for example, at 710, setting up a first support frame part 404a, the first support frame part 404a having a receiving space 400a for receiving a second support frame part 404b; at 720, placing the second support frame part 404b below the receiving space 400a with a compactor 102 disposed on the second support frame part 404b; inserting the second support frame part 404b into the receiving space 400a of the first support frame part 404a or inserting the compactor 102 arranged on the second support frame part 404b into the receiving space 400a of the first support frame part 404a; and, at 740 (eg, subsequently), attach the second support frame portion 404b to the first support frame portion 404a by means of a releasable connection.

Similarly, the compactor assembly 100 may be repaired, cleaned, etc. For example, a method may include: releasing the second support frame part 404b from the first support frame part 404a; Removing (e.g., by lowering) the compactor 102 disposed on the second support frame portion 404b from the receiving space 400a of the first support frame portion 404a; and, for example, placing the second support frame part 404b on the ground.

Such as in Figure 8 In a perspective view, the compactor assembly 100 (eg while operating in the operating mode) may include a housing 300g. The housing 300g may cover the compactor 102, the selector 200s, and the transport device 200t.

In general, the Kompaktoranordnung 100 may be set up so that this both in the operating mode and in the mounting mode (eg maintenance mode) provides sufficient protection protection, so that a user and / or service personnel from accidental intervention in moving components (eg in the Kompaktierwerk 112 of the compactor 102) is protected.

The figures described above each show a compactor arrangement 100 with only one compactor 102. In an analogous manner, a compactor arrangement 100 can also be provided which has two compactors 102 or also more than two compactors 102.

According to various embodiments, two of the first support frame parts 404a may be connected to a common support frame 204 or, in other words, the first support frame part 404a may be arranged to have two (or more than two) receiving spaces 400a for receiving two (FIG. or more than two) second support frame parts 404b. Thus, for example, two compactors 102 (or more than two compactors 102) may be arranged side by side on a common first support frame part 404a (see FIG Figs. 9A to 9D ).

According to various embodiments, the compactor assembly 100, as described above, may include a first support frame portion 404a and a second support frame portion 404b configured to be releasably coupled together, and a compactor for compacting containers, wherein the compactor is mounted on the second support frame part is arranged. The Kompaktoranordnung 100 may further include an additional second support frame part 404 b and an additional Kompaktor 102, which are arranged in the same manner as the above second support frame part 404 b and the Kompaktor 102. According to various embodiments, the first support frame part may be arranged such that it has an additional receiving space 400a for receiving the additional second support frame part 404b and the additional compactor 102 arranged on the additional second support frame part 404b.

In the FIGS. 9A to 9D In each case, a Kompaktoranordnung 100 with two Kompaktoren 102 at different times during an assembly process or during a maintenance operation in a perspective view is shown.

According to various embodiments, a compactor 102 and the associated second support frame part 404b on which the compactor 102 is disposed may be used as a compactor module be designated. The regarding the FIGS. 9A to 9D For example, described Kompaktoranordnung 100 includes a support frame 204, 404a that can carry two Kompaktor modules. The foregoing with respect to FIG. 6 Kompaktoranordnung 100 described has, for example, a support frame 204, 404a that only a Kompaktor module can carry. In the following, without loss of generality, the compactor 102 (as well as the associated second support frame part 404b) which is lifted simultaneously with the first support frame part 404a will be referred to as the first compactor 102, and the other compactor 102 (and the associated second support frame part 404b) will be referred to as the second one Compactor 102.

According to various embodiments, the first support frame part 404a may be or may be erected, such as in FIG 9A is illustrated in a perspective view. In this case, a first Kompaktor 102 of the two Kompaktoren already be arranged by means of the second support frame part 404b in a first receiving space of the two receiving spaces of the first support frame part 404a, wherein a second Kompaktor 102 of the two Kompaktoren outside a second receiving space of the two receiving spaces is arranged. The second Kompaktor 102 may be arranged for example by means of the second support frame part 404b below the second receiving space on the ground or be. In this state, for example, the second compactor 102 is freely accessible for maintenance or replacement, with the first compactor being in regular operation. As in 9A 1, one of the two selector devices 200s is accordingly pivoted into the maintenance position and the other of the two selector devices 200s is in the operating position.

The pivoting of the respective selector device 200s into the maintenance position (or assembly position) may, for example, also allow a traction device of the lifting device 600h to be guided accordingly.

Such as in Figure 9B is illustrated in a perspective view, the second Kompaktor 102 can be lifted on the second support frame part 404b in the second receiving space of the first support frame part 404a, for example by means of the lifting device 600h. The lifting device 600h can be set up and / or supported on the first support frame part 404a, for example.

Such as in Fig.9C is illustrated in a perspective view, both compactors 102 of the Kompaktoranordnung 100 can be simultaneously in the operating mode. For this purpose, the lifting device can be removed 600h. Also can up On four stand elements 206 all additional, used for example for mounting the Kompaktoranordnung 100, stand elements 206 are removed.

Such as in 9D In a perspective view, the compactor assembly 100 (eg, while both compactors 102 are operating in the operating mode) may include a housing 300g. The housing 300g may cover the two compactors 102, the two selector devices 200s, and the two transport devices 200t of the compactor assembly 100.

In 10A and 10B In each case, a Kompaktoranordnung 100 with two Kompaktoren 102 at different times during an assembly process or during a maintenance operation in a perspective view is shown.

According to various embodiments, the first support frame part 404a can be lifted by means of a lifting device 600h such that a first compactor 102 of the two compactors 102 is lifted simultaneously with the first support frame part 404a. For this purpose, for example, the lifting device 600h may be coupled to the second support frame part 404b of the first compactor 102. Further, the lifting device 600h may be supported on a plurality of stand members 206 so that the first support frame member 404a may be lifted by a self-lifting mechanism. The lifting can for example be done manually by means of a crank and a deflected traction means.

Subsequently, the second Kompaktor 102 can be lifted into the associated receiving space of the first support frame part 404 a, such as in Fig.9A and Fig.9B is illustrated. For this purpose, the lifting device 600h can be implemented.

During the lifting of the first support frame part 404a, the stand elements 206 are pushed through the hollow profiles 444h of the first support frame part 404a. The force is conveyed, for example, the lifting device 600h.

In the following, various examples and combinations of examples will be given with reference to the figures described above.

Example 1 is a compactor assembly 100 comprising: a first support frame part 404a and a second support frame part 404b adapted to be releasably coupled to one another; and a compactor 102 for compacting containers 104, wherein the compactor 102 is mounted on the second support frame part 404b is arranged. The compactor 102 may be attached (eg, directly) to the second support frame portion 404b.

In Example 2, the compactor assembly according to Example 1 optionally has the first support frame part 404a arranged to have a receiving space 400a for receiving the second support frame part 404b and the compactor 102 disposed on the second support frame part 404b.

In Example 3, the compactor assembly according to Example 2 optionally has the first support frame part 404a set up such that the second support frame part 404b and the compactor 102 arranged on the second support frame part 404b move into the receiving space 400a and out of the receiving space 400a along a mounting direction 400m is movable out.

In Example 4, the compactor assembly according to Example 2 or 3 optionally includes the first support frame part 404a having at least one stopper 434a defining a mounting position for mounting the second support frame part 404b in the receiving space 400a relative to the first support frame part 404a First support frame part 404a and the second support frame part 404b can be releasably coupled together in the mounting position.

In Example 5, the compactor assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 4 optionally further comprises: an additional second support frame part 404b adapted to be detachably coupled to the first support frame part 404a and an additional compactor 102 for compacting containers; wherein the additional Kompaktor 102 is disposed on the additional second support frame part 404b, wherein the first support frame part 404a is arranged such that it has an additional receiving space 400a for receiving the additional second support frame part 404b and arranged on the additional second support frame part 404b additional Kompaktors 102.

In Example 6, the compactor assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 5 optionally includes the compactor 102 having a compactor 112 for compacting the containers 104 and a driver 112a for driving the compactor 112.

In Example 7, the compactor assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 6 optionally further includes: an electronics package 500e for operating the compactor 102, the electronics package 500e being disposed on the first carrier frame member 404a. The Electronics assembly 500e may be attached (eg, directly) to first support frame portion 404a.

In Example 8, the compactor assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 7 optionally further includes: a transport device 200t for transporting the containers 104 in the compactor assembly 100. The transport device 200t may be attached (e.g., directly) to the first support frame part 404a.

In Example 9, the compactor assembly according to Example 8 optionally further comprises: a selecting device 200s disposed on the first supporting frame part 404a for selecting containers 104 transported by the transporting device 200t and feeding the selected containers 104 to the compactor 102. The selecting device 200s may be attached (eg directly) to the first support frame part 404a.

In Example 10, the compactor assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 9 optionally includes the second support frame part 404b having at least one coupling for coupling a lifting device 600h to the second support frame part 404b, the first support frame part 404a being arranged such that the lifting device 600h this can be supported.

Example 11 is a compactor device 300, comprising: a plurality of compactor assemblies 100 according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the compactor assemblies 100 are disposed relative to one another such that containers 104 may be transported along the transport pathway through the plurality of compactor assemblies 100.

Example 12 is a method of assembling a compactor assembly 100, the method comprising: establishing a first support frame portion 404a, the first support frame portion 404a having a receiving space 400a for receiving a second support frame portion 404b; Arranging the second support frame part 404b below the receiving space 400a, with a compactor 102 being arranged on the second support frame part 404b; Inserting the compactor 102 arranged on the second support frame part 404b into the receiving space 400a of the first support frame part 404a; and then attaching the second support frame part 404b to the first support frame part 404a by means of a releasable connection.

In example 13, the method according to example 12 optionally includes placing the first support frame part 404a: inserting an additional compactor 102 disposed on an additional second support frame part 404b into an additional receiving space 400a of the first support frame part 404a; and then attaching the additional second support frame part 404b to the first support frame part 404a by means of a releasable connection.

In Example 14, the method according to Example 13 optionally includes that setting up the first support frame part 404a further includes: after fixing the additional second support frame part 404b in the additional receiving space 400a of the first support frame part 404a, positioning the first support frame part 404a together with the same the additional second support frame part 404b arranged additional Kompaktor 102 in a predefined height position.

• Verstellen mehrerer höhenverstellbarer Standelemente, auf denen das erste Tragegestellteil 404a abgestützt ist.

In Example 15, the method of Example 14 optionally includes positioning the first support frame portion 404a together with the additional compactor 102 disposed on the additional second support frame portion 404b at a predefined height position:

• Adjusting a plurality of height-adjustable stand elements on which the first support frame part 404 a is supported.

Example 16 is a method of mounting (e.g., maintaining, cleaning, repairing, etc.) a compactor assembly 100, the method comprising: releasing a second support frame portion 404b from a first support frame portion 404a of a support frame 204 of a compactor assembly 100; Removing (e.g., by lowering) a compactor 102 disposed on the second support frame part 404b from a receiving space 400a of the first support frame part 404a; and, for example, placing the second support frame part 404b on a ground.

Claims (15)

Compactor assembly (100), comprising: A first support frame part (404a) and a second support frame part (404b), which are arranged such that they can be releasably coupled to one another, and A compactor (102) for compacting containers (104), wherein the compactor (102) is disposed on the second support frame part (404b). Compactor arrangement according to claim 1,
wherein the first support frame part (404a) is arranged to have a receiving space (400a) for receiving the compactor (102) disposed on the second support frame part (404b). Compactor arrangement according to claim 2,
wherein the first support frame part (404a) is arranged such that the second support frame part (404b) and the compactor (102) arranged on the second support frame part (404b) extend into the receiving space (400a) and out of the receiving space (400a) along a mounting direction (400m). 400a) is movable out. Compactor arrangement according to one of claims 2 or 3,
wherein the first support frame part (404a) and / or the second support frame part (404b) has at least one stopper (434a) defining an attachment position of the second support frame part (404b) in the receiving space (400a) relative to the first support frame part (404a) in that the first support frame part (404a) and the second support frame part (404b) can be detachably coupled to one another in the fastening position. A compactor assembly according to any one of claims 1 or 4, further comprising: An additional second support frame part (404b) which is arranged such that it can be detachably coupled to the first support frame part (404a), An additional compactor (102) for compacting containers, wherein the additional compactor (102) is arranged on the additional second carrier frame part (404b), wherein the first support frame part (404a) is arranged to have an additional receiving space (400a) for receiving on the additional one second support frame part (404b) arranged additional Kompaktors (102). Compactor arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 5,
wherein the compactor (102) comprises a compacting unit (112) for compacting the containers (104) and a drive (112a) for driving the compacting unit (112). The compactor assembly of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: an electronics package (500e) for operating the compactor (102), wherein the electronics package (500e) is disposed on the first carrier rack portion (404a). The compactor assembly of any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: a transport device (200t) for transporting the containers (104) in the compactor assembly 100. The compactor assembly of claim 8, further comprising: a selection device (200s) disposed on the first support frame part (404a) for selecting containers (104) transported by the transport device (200t) and for supplying the selected containers (104) to the compactor (102). Kompaktoranordnung according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
wherein the second support frame part (404b) has at least one coupling for coupling a lifting device (600h) to the second support frame part (404b), wherein the first support frame part (404a) is arranged such that the lifting device (600h) can be supported thereon. Compactor device (300), comprising: a plurality of compactor arrangements (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the Kompaktoranordnungen (100) are arranged relative to each other, container (104) can be transported along a transport path through the plurality of compactor assemblies (100). A method of mounting a compactor assembly, the method comprising: Setting up a first support frame part (404a), the first support frame part (404a) having a receiving space (400a) for receiving a second support frame part (404b); Arranging the second support frame part (404b) below the receiving space (400a), wherein a compactor (102) is arranged on the second support frame part (404b); Inserting the compactor (102) arranged on the second support frame part (404b) into the receiving space (400a) of the first support frame part (404a); and subsequently • Securing the second support frame part (404b) to the first support frame part (404a) by means of a detachable connection. Method according to claim 12,
wherein the setting up of the first support frame part (404a) comprises: Inserting an additional compactor (102) arranged on an additional second support frame part (404b) into an additional receiving space (400a) of the first support frame part (404a); and subsequently • Attaching the additional second support frame part (404b) to the first support frame part (404a) by means of a detachable connection. Method according to claim 13,
wherein the setting up of the first support frame part (404a) further comprises: after mounting the additional second support frame part (404b) in the additional receiving space (400a) of the first support frame part (404a), positioning the first support frame part (404a) together with the additional compactor (102) disposed on the additional second support frame part (404b) predefined height position. Method according to claim 14,
wherein the positioning of the first support frame part (404a) together with the additional compactor (102) arranged on the additional second support frame part (404b) has in a predefined height position: Adjusting a plurality of height-adjustable stand elements on which the first support frame part (404a) is supported.

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