AU2021218090A1

AU2021218090A1 - Blow back bin

Info

Publication number: AU2021218090A1
Application number: AU2021218090A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Richard Amadio
Original assignee: RICHARD AMADIO HOLDINGS AUST Pty Ltd
Current assignee: RICHARD AMADIO HOLDINGS (AUST) Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2020-08-18
Filing date: 2021-08-18
Publication date: 2022-03-10

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a blow back bin. The blow back bin includes a box (1) for containing a waste material; an inlet (2) through which the waste material can be charged into the box; and an outlet (3) through which the waste material can subsequently be discharged from the box. The box (1) includes a base (4), a front wall (5), a rear wall (6), and a pair of side walls (7 and 8), each extending upwardly from the base to a top plate (9). The pair of side walls (7 and 8) are outwardly divergent, in a lateral direction along a longitudinal axis, from the rear wall (6) to the front wall (5), thereby to facilitate removal of waste material from the box via the outlet (3). In addition to diverging, the side walls (7 and 8) may also angle outwardly, in a lateral direction along a vertical axis, from the base (4) to the top plate (9). 1/6 14 24 26 33 31 17 17 27 17 6 16 19 18 23017 19 4 32 FIG. 1 28 33 24 1 10925 24 2 3 2 3266 31 18AF 20 8 32 6 74 2 4 30 29 27 FIG. 2

Description

1/6

14 24 26 33

31 17

17 27 17 6

16 19 18 23017 19 4 32

FIG. 1

28 33 24 1 10925 24 2 3 2

3266 31

18AF

20 8

32 6 74 2 4 30

29 27 FIG. 2

BLOW BACK BIN FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a bin and in particular to a blow back bin.

[0002] The invention has been developed primarily for use as a blow back bin for collecting waste material and in particular concrete, blown back through a pipeline at the end of a concrete pour. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use. For example, the invention may be used to receive waste materials other than concrete.

DISCUSSION OF THE PRIOR ART

[0003] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field.

[0004] Concrete is commonly poured via an extended pipeline, pumped from a concrete pump truck or other standing supply. For example pumping concrete up a high-rise via a boom may involve a substantial length of pipe. At the end of the pour there is frequently residual concrete in the pipeline that must be cleared and where the pipe is particularly long, the volume of residual concrete may be significant.

[0005] Methods to clear the pipeline of concrete include using water to wash out the pipeline or inserting a sponge or other wadding into the pipeline and using compressed air to drive the wadding down the pipeline. These methods can be used separately or in combination.

[0006] The clearing of the pipeline results in a substantial volume of concrete and wash water exiting the pipeline. The required pressure can be dangerous, particularly when wadding and compressed air is used, as the wadding can be ejected at high speed.

[0007] Additionally, spillages may occur either from wash water splashing from a container or due to the high pressure ejection of wadding. Concrete and water contaminated with concrete can be a hazardous waste. For example concrete and concrete water allowed to enter the storm water passage way can be harmful to the environment.

[0008] This necessitates an appropriate receptacle which can safely receive concrete blow back without spillage.

[0009] In some cases, the residual concrete in the pipeline can be blown back directly into the delivery truck. However, concrete delivery trucks are not always suitable for blow back operations and may not have appropriate mechanisms to retain the pipe. Under high pressure, the pipe may be ejected from the delivery truck risking injury and causing disastrous spillage. Accordingly, blowing back into the concrete truck is only suitable for short pipelines under low pressure.

[0010] An alternative is the conventional blow back bin, which is generally a standard skip bin with a lid, having an inlet and a vent, clamped or chained to the top of the skip bin. Emptying such bins requires the complete removal of the lid and the inversion of the bin which is inconvenient and may result in residual concrete accumulating in corners. Purpose built bins exist with catchments for any sponge or wadding used to clear the pipe. However, existing bins are generally ill configured for adequate volume and optimal drainage. This is a significant issue for concrete, where the waste concrete must set in the bin before emptying, as draining concrete slurry from a bin risks spillage. The resultant mass of set concrete is difficult to remove, necessitating that the lid be completely removable in conventional bins.

[0011] As a partial solution to the difficulties of removing the concrete, it is possible to fit the inside of the bin with a lining, either a temporary, flexible plastic sheet or a more permanent, hard plastic lining. Flexible plastic sheeting is only viable for single use applications and results in significant wastage as it adheres to the set concrete and is removed with the concrete mass, thereby contaminating the concrete when crushed and recycled. More permanent hard plastic linings require specialised fitting, at great expense, and eventually will need replacement. In any event, it remains difficult to remove the concrete from the bin even when using either of such linings.

[0012] Accordingly, there remains a need for a concrete blow back bin that can safely and conveniently receive concrete and can also be conveniently emptied of substantially all the concrete without blockage occurring or residue remaining.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] It is an object of the preferred embodiments of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

[0014] It is an object of the invention in one particularly preferred form to provide a concrete blow back bin that can safely receive concrete during a concrete pipe blow back operation and which can also later be conveniently emptied of substantially all the concrete without blockage occurring or residue remaining.

[0015] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a blow back bin, including: a box having a base, a front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls extending upwardly from the base to a top plate; and an inlet configured to receive a volume of waste material,

wherein the pair of side walls are divergent along a longitudinal axis of the box from the rear wall to the front wall.

[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a blow back bin, including: a box configured to receive a volume of waste material; the box having a pair of side walls which diverge outwardly towards an outlet of the box, thereby to facilitate removal of the waste material from the box.

[0017] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a blow back bin, including: a box; an inlet through which waste material can be charged into the box; and an outlet through which the waste material can be discharged from the box; wherein the box has a pair of divergent side walls, the side walls diverging outwardly towards the outlet of the box.

[0018] In some embodiments the bin is configured to contain a material. In some embodiments the bin is configured to receive a material. In some embodiments the inlet is configured to receive the material. In some embodiments the material includes a waste material. In some embodiments the material includes a flowable material. In some embodiments the material includes a fluid. In some embodiments the material includes a phase changing component. In some embodiments the material includes a slurry. In some embodiments the material includes particulate matter. In some embodiments the material includes an adhesive liquid. In some embodiments the material includes a viscous liquid. In some embodiments the material includes water. In some embodiments the material includes concrete.

[0019] In some embodiments the bin has a volumetric capacity greaterthan two cubic metres. In nmn Amhndimenta thp hin han a voumtrin ennitv htwAnn thrn and tn ihi mtrA In some embodiments the bin has a volumetric capacity of approximately five cubic metres. In some embodiments the bin has a volumetric capacity of approximately seven cubic metres.

[0020] In some embodiments the bin has a substantially rectangular cross section along the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments the bin has a substantially trapezoidal cross section along the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments the cross sectional area of the bin increases along the longitudinal axis from the rear wall to the front wall. In some embodiments the cross sectional area of the bin increases along a vertical axis from the base to the top plate.

[0021] In some embodiments the side walls are configured to facilitate removal of a waste material. In some embodiments the pair of side walls diverge outwardly, in a lateral direction along the longitudinal axis, from the rear wall to the front wall at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis. The angle at which the side walls diverge may be referred to as a divergent angle and the pair of side walls may respectively diverge at left and right divergent angles.

[0022] In some embodiments the pair of side walls are mutually divergent. In some embodiments pair of side walls diverge at substantially the same angle. In some embodiments the base and top plate are substantially trapezoidal to accommodate the diverging side walls. In some embodiments one side wall diverges at a steeper angle than the other. In some embodiments the pair of side walls are linearly divergent. In some embodiments the side walls diverge at an angle between one to ten degrees from parallel. In some embodiments the side walls diverge at an angle between five to forty-five degrees from parallel. In some embodiments the side walls diverge at other angles. In some embodiments the pair of side walls are exponentially divergent.

[0023] In some embodiments the side walls meet the base at substantially a ninety degree angle. In some embodiments the side walls are angled outwardly from the base to the top plate. In some embodiments the side walls are angled outwardly, in a lateral direction along a vertical axis, from the base to the top plate, at an angle with respect to the vertical axis. The angle at which the side walls angle outwardly may be referred to as an outward angle and the pair of side walls may respectively angle outwards at left and right outward angles.

[0024] In some embodiments, the side walls are mutually angled outwardly from the base. In some embodiments the side walls angle outwardly from the base at substantially the same angle. In some embodiments one side wall is angled from the base at a steeper angle than the other wall. In some embodiments the side walls are angled outwardly from the base at an angle between five to forty-five degrees from vertical. In some embodiments the side walls angle outwardly at other angles. In some embodiments, the side walls have a constant angle relative to the base. In some embodiments the angle of the side walls rotates outwardly from the base nlann the Innniirinal vi frnmth rar ull fntho frnnt A1II In enmaomhndrimente th eiria walls extend outwardly at an exponential rate.

[0025] In some embodiments the relative divergent and outward angles of the pair of side walls are configured to facilitate flow to the base when receiving a waste material and also to facilitate flow towards the front of the bin when draining or emptying the bin.

[0026] In some embodiments the divergent angle of at least one side wall is substantially similar to the outward angle of at least one side wall. In some embodiments both the divergent angles are substantially similar to both the outward angles. In some embodiments at least one divergent angle is greater than at least one outward angle. In some embodiments both the divergent angles are greater than both the outward angles. In some embodiments at least one divergent angle is less than at least one outward angle. In some embodiments both the divergent angles are less than both the outward angles. In one particularly preferred embodiment the outward angles are approximately three times greater than the divergent angles.

[0027] In some embodiments the side walls include a planar section. In some embodiments the side walls are substantially planar. In some embodiments the side walls include a curved section. In some embodiments the side walls are curved. In some embodiments the side walls are twisted. In some embodiments the side walls are convex. In some embodiments the side walls are concave. In some embodiments the side walls are stepped.

[0028] In some embodiments the rear wall meets the base at substantially a ninety degree angle. In some embodiments the rear wall is angled rearward from the base to the top plate. In some embodiments the rear wall is angled rearward, in a longitudinal direction along the vertical axis, from the base to the top plate at an angle with respect to the vertical axis. The angle at which the rear wall angles rearward may be referred to as a rearward angle.

[0029] In some embodiments the rear wall is angled rearward from the base to the top plate at an angle between five to forty-five degrees from vertical. In some embodiments the rear wall is angled rearward at an angle of approximately fifteen degrees from vertical. In some embodiments the rear wall is angled rearward at other angles.

[0030] In some embodiments the relative rearward angle of the rear wall and the divergent and outward angles of the pair of side walls are configured to facilitate flow to the base when receiving a waste material and also to facilitate flow towards the front of the bin when draining or emptying the bin.

[0031] In some embodiments the rearward angle is substantially similar to the divergent angle of at least one side wall. In some embodiments the rearward angle is greater than the divergent angle of at least one side wall. In some embodiments the rearward angle is less than the divergent angle of at least one side wall. In some embodiments the rearward angle is substantially similar to the outward angle of at least one side wall. In some embodiments the rearward angle is greater than the outward angle of at least one side wall. In some embodiments the rearward angle is less than the outward angle of at least one side wall.

[0032] In some embodiments the divergent, outward and rearward angles are all substantially similar. In some embodiments the divergent, outward and rearward angles are all substantially different. In one particularly preferred embodiment the rearward and outward angles are substantially similar and approximately three times greater than the divergent angles.

[0033] In some embodiments the rear wall includes a planar section. In some embodiments the rear wall is substantially planar. In some embodiments the rear wall includes a curved section. In some embodiments the rear wall is concave. In some embodiments the rear wall is convex. In some embodiments the rear wall is stepped.

[0034] In some embodiments the front wall includes a planar section. In some embodiments the rear wall is substantially planar. In some embodiments the front wall may include a convex, concave or stepped section. In some embodiments the top plate includes a planar section. In some embodiments the top plate is substantially planar. In some embodiments the top plate may include a convex, concave or stepped section.

[0035] In some embodiments the base, top plate, and side, front and rear walls are the same thickness. In some embodiments the base, top plate, and side, front and rear walls are different thicknesses. In embodiments the base, top plate, and side, front and rear walls are between one and twenty five millimetres thick. In some embodiments the thickness of each section is substantially constant. In some embodiments the thickness of each section varies across or along the section.

[0036] In some embodiments the bin is made out of material selected from the group including metal, plastic, fibreglass, or ceramic. In some embodiments the bin is made out of a combination of such materials. In some embodiments the bin includes other materials. In some embodiments the bin is made entirely from metal. In some embodiments the base, rear, front and side walls are made entirely from mental. In some embodiments the metal is one of iron, aluminium, brass copper or any alloy thereof. In some embodiments the metal is steel. In some embodiments the metal is any one of mild steel, high carbon steel, stainless steel or any other suitable alloy. In one particularly preferred embodiment the bin is made out of five millimetre thick mild steel.

[0037] In some embodiments the bin is integrally formed. In some embodiments the constituent parts of the bin are separately formed and subsequently joined. In some embodiments the base and walls are integrally formed. In some embodiments the base and walls are welded together. In some embodiments the walls and top plate are integrally formed.

In some embodiments the top plate is removabley mounted to the walls. In some embodiments the top plate is chained or clamped to a rim defined by the walls. In some embodiments the top plate is welded to the walls.

[0038] In some embodiments the bin includes an inlet through which waste material can be charged into the box. In some embodiments the inlet is configured to receive the waste material. In some embodiments the inlet is configured to receive a pipe fitting. In some embodiments the inlet is adjacent to the top plate. In some embodiments the inlet is adjacent to the front, rear or a side wall. In some embodiments the inlet includes an aperture. In some embodiments the inlet includes a tube having an aperture. In some embodiments the tube is configure to receive a pipe fitting. In some embodiments the tube projects from the top plate or one of the walls. In some embodiments the inlet is mounted to the top plate or one of the walls. In some embodiments the inlet is integrally formed with the top plate or one of the walls. In some embodiments there are a plurality of inlets.

[0039] In some embodiments the inlet includes an inlet channel. In some embodiments the inlet channel provides an intermediate portion between an aperture and the inside of the box. In some embodiments the inlet channel includes a tube. In some embodiments a tube is mounted to the inlet channel. In some embodiments the internal walls of the inlet channel are configured to direct the flow of a material from the inlet. In some embodiments the inlet channel includes a dome. In some embodiments the inlet channel includes an inlet box. In some embodiments the inlet channel includes an inlet hood. In some embodiments the inlet hood has angled walls. In some embodiments the inlet channel is configured to direct the flow from the inlet.

[0040] In some embodiments the inlet includes a tube mounted to the top plate. In some embodiments the tube is mounted via a hood. In some embodiments an inside rear surface of the hood is angled to direct material from the inlet tube towards the rear wall. In some embodiments the hood is angled to direct material from the inlet tube downwards.

[0041] In some embodiments, an inlet tube projects from an inlet hood. The inlet hood may be mounted on the top plate or one of the side walls. In some embodiments the inlet tube is mounted to a front face of the inlet hood. In some embodiments the side walls of the inlet hood taper out from the front face to an intermediate point. In some embodiments the side walls of the inlet hood taper in from the intermediate point to the rear of the inlet hood. In some embodiments the top of the inlet hood is flat from the front face to the intermediate point. In some embodiments the top of the inlet hood is angled down from the intermediate point to the rear of the inlet hood.

[0042] In some embodiments the bin includes an inspection panel. In some embodiments the inspection panel is configured to facilitate inspection of the inside of the bin without risking linica In enma mhnrimonte tho inenan4inn nnnal i ennfiniinral fn friitato incnantinn nf th inlet channel. In some embodiments the inspection panel includes a transparent panel. In some embodiments the inspection panel is removable. In some embodiments the inspection panel includes a grill, mesh or louvre plate. In some embodiments the inspection panel is adjacent the top plate. In some embodiments the inspection panel is adjacent the inlet channel. In some embodiments the inspection panel is on the top plate. In some embodiments the inspection panel is adjacent the front, rear or a side wall. In some embodiments the inspection panel is a removable plate bolted to an inlet hood. In some embodiments there are a plurality of inspection panels. In some embodiments the bin includes one or more hand rails about the inspection panel to facilitate safe access to and from the inspection panel. In some embodiments the top plate includes a plurality of hand rails to facilitate safe access to and from the inspection panel.

[0043] In some embodiments the bin includes an outlet through which waste material can be discharged. In some embodiments the outlet includes a drain. In some embodiments the outlet includes an outlet channel. In some embodiments the inlet is selectively used as an outlet. In some embodiments the outlet is distinct from the inlet. In some embodiments the bin includes a plurality of outlets. In some embodiments the outlet is towards the front of the bin. In some embodiments the outlet is adjacent the front of the bin. In some embodiments the outlet is adjacent the base of the bin. In some embodiments the side walls or rear wall include an outlet.

[0044] In some embodiments the outlet is selectively operable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In some embodiments the outlet is selectively operable between a draining configuration and a sealed configuration. In some embodiments the outlet is configurable so as to allow varying rates of drainage. In some embodiments the varying rates of drainage are continuous. In some embodiments the outlet is configurable between discrete rates of drainage.

[0045] In some embodiments the outlet includes an aperture. In some embodiments the aperture is provided by removing the top plate. In some embodiments the aperture is provided by a trap door configuration in the base. In some embodiments the outlet includes an aperture in the front wall of the bin. In some embodiments the aperture is selectively sealable to prevent or allow drainage.

[0046] In some embodiments the front wall includes an outlet. In some embodiments the front wall includes a door. In some embodiments the door is sealingly engageable about the outlet to provide a liquid tight seal and prevent leakage. In some embodiments the outlet includes an aperture through substantially all of the front wall, wherein the front wall includes a door frame around the aperture for receiving a door.

[0047] In some embodiments the door is hingedly mounted to the door frame. In some omhnimnte tha dnnr ic hinnav-imnntiint~' fnthA inn nInta n CiHO wall nr iinnnrt framo In some embodiments the door is a sluice gate, slidably mounted in the door frame. In some embodiments the door is bolted to the door frame. In some embodiments the door is chained to the door frame. In some embodiments the door is clamped to the door frame.

[0048] In some embodiments the door includes a seal. In some embodiments the door frame includes a seal. In some embodiments the seal is provided by a gasket. In some embodiments the seal includes a rubber gasket around the door frame. In some embodiments the door includes a raised lip projecting from the rim of the inside door face. In some embodiments the door frame includes a corresponding trough to receive the raised door lip. In some embodiments, the raised door lip is applicable to a rubber gasket around the door frame to provide a liquid tight seal in a closed configuration.

[0049] In some embodiments the outlet is lockable. In some embodiments the outlet includes at least one lock to retain the outlet in a closed configuration. In some embodiments the lock is defined by a pair of operatively associated members, wherein the associated members may be selectively coupled to lock the outlet in a closed configuration. In some embodiments the pair of operatively associated members are provided about the outlet and an adjacent wall.

[0050] In some embodiments the lock is opposite the hinged connection of the door. In some embodiments the lock is adjacentthe hinged connection of the door. In some embodiments there are a plurality of locks. In some embodiments there is a primary and a secondary lock. In some embodiments the primary and secondary locks are interchangeable. In some embodiments the primary and secondary locks are proximate each other. In some embodiments the primary and secondary locks are adjacent each other. In some embodiments the primary and secondary locks are provided on opposite edges of the outlet. In some embodiments the primary and secondary locks are adjacent the same edge of the door or door frame. In some embodiments the primary and secondary locks are provided on alternate edges of the door or door frame.

[0051] In some embodiments the lock includes at least one eye bolt and at least one rotatable hook configured to hook the eye bolt and rotate into a locked configuration. In some embodiments the eye bolt is provided on the door and the hook is mounted to the door frame. In some embodiments the hook is mounted to a side wall or to a support frame of the bin. In some embodiments the hook is mounted to the door and the eye bolt is mounted to the door frame, side wall or support frame. In some embodiments there are a plurality of eye bolts and hooks.

[0052] In one particularly preferred embodiment a pair of eye bolts are mounted on the door and a rotatable rod is mounted to a support frame of the bin proximate to the front of the bin and opposite the side of the hinged connection of the door. A pair of hooks are connected to the rottabla~ re ni nd lavor andt rnihatfinn naar minhanierm ic nrinuia fn rntata tha rd thrahu tn hook the eye bolts and lock the door into a sealed configuration.

[0053] In some embodiments the lock is provided by one or more through holes and bolts. In some embodiments the lock includes at least one threaded tie down. In some embodiments the lock includes a plurality of threaded tie downs.

[0054] In some embodiments a threaded rod is hingedly mounted about the doorframe of the bin. The threaded rod is levered into a receiving slot of a receiving flange. In some embodiments the receiving flange is mounted about the door. An internally threaded jacket with an outer diameter wider than the receiving slot is threadedly engaged with the threaded rod such that rotation of the jacket screws the jacket towards the door frame and when the threaded rod is engaged in the receiving slot, the jacket engages an outside face of the receiving flange so as to lock down the door. In some embodiments the threaded rod is hingedly mounted to the door and the receiving flange is mounted to the door frame. In some embodiments the threaded rod is pivotally mounted. In some embodiments the threaded rod is mounted to the top of the door frame. In some embodiments the threaded rod is mounted at a point aboutthe doorframe distally from the door hinges.

[0055] In some embodiments the blow back bin includes a vent to prevent pressurisation of the bin. In some embodiments the vent is configured to ventilate substantially the same volume as that received by the inlet. In some embodiments the vent includes an aperture. In some embodiments the open area of the vent aperture is substantially the same as the open area of the inlet aperture. In some embodiments the vent includes an aperture about the top plate or side walls. In some embodiments the vent includes a plurality of apertures. In some embodiments the vent includes a tube projecting about the top plate or side walls. In some embodiments the vent is a box vent. In some embodiments the vent is configured to prevent leakage. In some embodiments the vent is arranged on the top of the bin. In some embodiments the vent is arranged at the front of the bin. In some embodiments the vent is arranged at the rear of the bin. In some embodiments the vent is arranged on the side or sides of the bin. In some embodiments the vent includes a grill. In some embodiments the vent includes a filter or catchment unit. In some embodiments the vent includes louvres to prevent spillage. In some embodiments the louvres are configured to direct the flow of fluid from the vents. In some embodiments the blow back bin includes a plurality of vents.

[0056] In one particularly preferred embodiment the bin includes a pair of box vents on the top plate, preferably arranged towards the rear of the bin. In some embodiments the box vents have louvres to prevent spillage of concrete from the bin during ventilation. In some embodiments the louvres are configured to direct flow from the vents downwardly in order to prevent injury to bystanders.

[0057] In some embodiments the blow back bin includes air transfer tubes. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes freely allow the flow of air from inside the bin to the vent but obstruct the flow of liquid. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes are channels from the vent to inside the bin. In some embodiments the vent includes an air transfer tube inside the bin. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes are channels above the top plate. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes are integrally formed with the top plate. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes are channels inside the bin. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes include straight channels. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes include curved channels. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes include a plurality of sections. In some embodiments some sections are straight. In some embodiments some sections are curved.

[0058] In some embodiments the air transfer tubes include a vertically directed aperture into vent. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes include a laterally directed aperture into the vent. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes include a longitudinally directed aperture into the vent. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes include an aperture facing the front wall. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes include an aperture facing the rear wall. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes include an aperture facing the base. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes provide the only channel from the inside of the bin to the vent. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes provide an alternative channel from the inside of the bin to the vent. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes provide an alternative channel from the inside of the bin to the outside of the bin.

[0059] In some embodiments the air transfer tubes provide a channel from within the bin for air to flow out the bin. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes provide an intermediate channel between the inside of the bin and the vent. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes begin at a point proximate to the front wall. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes begin at a point closer to the front wall than the inlet. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes begin at a point closer to the rear wall than the inlet. In some embodiments the air transfer tubes begin at the intermediate point of the inlet hood.

[0060] In some embodiments at least one pipe clamp is arranged on the bin to receive a pipe. In some embodiments the at least one pipe clamp is configured to hold a pipe with a diameter between fifty and three hundred millimetres. In some embodiments the pipe clamp includes a clamp base and an arcuate bracket. In some embodiments the clamp base includes a concave saddle. In some embodiments the arcuate bracket is hingedly connected to the clamp base. In some embodiments the arcuate bracket is slideabley engaged with the clamp base. In some embodiments the arcuate bracket is bolted to the clamp base. In some embodiments the clamp base is integrally formed with the top plate, front, rear or side walls.

[0061] In some embodiments a plurality of pipe clamps are arranged on the bin. In some embodiments the pipe clamps are arranged on the top plate of the bin. In some embodiments the pipe clamps are arranged on the side walls of the bin. In some embodiments the pipe clamps are arranged along a support frame. In some embodiments a plurality of pipe clamps are arranged down the length of the bin. In some embodiments the pipe clamps are arranged centrally down the length of the bin. In some embodiments a plurality of pipe clamps are radially arranged around the inlet. In some embodiments the radial arrangement of the pipe clamps corresponds to a bending radius of a pipe. In one particularly preferred embodiment a set of pipe clamps are radially arranged around the inlet and down the length of the bin. In some embodiments a set of pipe clamps are radially arranged around the inlet and down the length of the bin on either side of the inlet.

[0062] In some embodiments the bin includes a support frame. In some embodiments the support frame includes a plurality of support members reinforcing the bin. In some embodiments the support frame includes a plurality of cross members running perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in a lateral direction. In some embodiments the support frame includes a plurality of vertical members running perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in a height direction. In some embodiments the support frame includes a plurality of longitudinal members running parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments the support members are square beams or rectangular beams. In some embodiments the support members are channel beams. In some embodiments the support members are H-beams or I-beams. In some embodiments the support members are solid beams. In some embodiments the support members are all square beams. In some embodiments different support members are formed from different configurations of beam.

[0063] In some embodiments the support frame defines a prism with substantially rectangular front and rear faces. In some embodiments the front face of the prism has a greater area than the rear face of the prism. In some embodiments longitudinal members of the support frame diverge along the longitudinal axis from the rear face to the front face.

[0064] In some embodiments the support frame is welded to the base, top plate, and front, side and rear walls. In some embodiments the support frame is bolted to the base, top plate, and front, side and rear walls. In some embodiments a plurality of mounting fixtures are provided intermediate the support frame and the base, top plate, and front, side and rear walls.

[0065] In some embodiments the bin includes a safety frame. In some embodiments the safety frame is a bumper frame. In some embodiments the safety frame defines an exclusion 7nna In enma omhndimonte tha cnfati frmo avtanrdc nhtAirili frnm tha tan nina In enma embodiments the safety frame extends outwardly from the side and rear walls. In some embodiments the safety frame extends outwardly from the support frame. In some embodiments the safety frame and the support frame are integrally formed. In some embodiments the safety frame includes a high visibility reflective coating.

[0066] In some embodiments rollers are provided at the bottom of the bin. In some embodiments the rollers are towards the front of the bin. In some embodiments rollers are mounted on the base of the bin at the front and the rear. In some embodiments a pair of rollers are mounted to the front most edge the base.

[0067] In some embodiments sleds are provided on the bottom of the bin. In some embodiments the sleds project outwardly from the side walls. In some embodiments the sleds are provided on the support frame. In some embodiments longitudinal members of the support frame are configured to be used as sleds.

[0068] In some embodiments the bin is configured to be lifted. In some embodiments the bin is configured to be lifted from the rear. In some embodiments the bin is configured to be lifted in a substantially level manner. In some embodiments the bin includes at least one lifting lug. In some embodiments the bin includes a plurality of lifting lugs. In some embodiments the lifting lugs are symmetrically disposed along the bin. In some embodiments the lifting lugs are mounted on the top plate of the bin. In some embodiments the lifting lugs are mounted along the side walls. In some embodiments the lifting lugs are mounted to a support frame.

[0069] In some embodiments a rear lifting lug is provided about the rear most point of the bin. In some embodiments the rear lifting lug is mounted to the top plate. In some embodiments the rear lifting lug is mounted to the rear wall of the bin. In some embodiments the rear lifting lug is mounted to the support frame. In some embodiments the rear lifting lug is configured to receive a crane hook or chains to allow a crane to lift or tow the bin. In some embodiments the rear lifting lug is configured to receive a winch hook or chains to allow the bin to be dragged up and/or backwards, such as on to a trailer.

[0070] In some embodiments the bin includes an intemal liner. In some embodiments the internal liner is to protect the inside surface of the bin. In some embodiments the internal liner is to lubricate the inside surface of the bin. In some embodiments the internal liner covers the inside surface of the base. In some embodiments the internal liner covers the inside surface of the side walls. In some embodiments the internal liner covers the inside surface of the rear wall. In some embodiments the internal liner covers the inside surface of the front wall. In some embodiments the internal liner covers the inside surface of the top plate. In some embodiments the internal liner covers the inside surface of the base, the rear wall, the front wall, the side walls or the top nintoi nr nu enmhinatinn thoranf

[0071] In some embodiments the internal liner is a substantially permanent liner. In some embodiments the internal liner is a plastic box of substantially the same dimensions of the inside surfaces of the bin. In some embodiments the internal liner is formed from a hard plastic, for example, polyethylene. In some embodiments the internal liner includes one or more panels mounted to the inside surface of the bin. In some embodiments, the liner includes one or more polyethylene panels. In some embodiments the internal liner is a removable liner. In some embodiments the removable liner is a removable plastic liner. In some embodiments the internal liner includes one or more panels for one or more of each of the base, front, rear or side walls. In some embodiments the internal liner is a removable plastic liner having a base, front, rear and side walls. In some embodiments the internal liner is rubber. In some embodiments the internal liner is fibreglass. In some embodiments the internal liner is a tarpaulin. In some embodiments the internal liner is a flexible plastic sheet. In some embodiments the plastic sheet is disposable.

[0072] In some embodiments the inside surface of the bin is smooth. In some embodiments the inside surface of the bin is textured. In some embodiments the inside surface of the bin is a single continuous surface. In some embodiments the inside surface includes channels to direct flow. In some embodiments the inside surface includes projections to direct flow.

[0073] In some embodiments the inside surfaces of the bin are coated with a coating. In some embodiments the coating is a liquid. In some embodiments the coating is sprayable. In some embodiments the coating is a release agent. In some embodiments the coating is a carbon free lubricant. In some embodiments the coating is a hydrocarbon free lubricant.

[0074] In some embodiments the bin includes one or more vibrating mechanisms. In some embodiments the bin includes one or more agitating mechanisms. In some embodiments the or each vibrating mechanism is a motor mounted to the bin. In some embodiments the or each vibrating mechanism is an electric motor. In some embodiments the motor is configured as an industrial vibrator. In some embodiments the or each vibrating mechanism is a connection point for connecting to an external vibrator. In some embodiments the lifting lugs are configured to communicate vibration to the bin during lifting and emptying operations. In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism is configured to agitate material within the bin. In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism is configured to dislodge material from the inside surfaces of the bin. In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism is configured to settle material as it is charged into the bin.

[0075] In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism includes one or more motors mounted to the bin. In some embodiments the or each motor is mounted substantially directly to the bin such that the vibration of the motor induces vibrations in one or more of the base, the rear wall, the front wall, the side walls or the top plate, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism includes a motor mounted to the underside of the bin. In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism includes a motor mounted to the external surface of the base of the bin. In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism includes a motor mounted to the sides of the bin. In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism includes a motor mounted to the external surface of each side wall.

[0076] In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism includes a base vibrator mounted to the external surface of the base. In some embodiments the base vibrator is mounted substantially centrally between the side walls, and towards the outlet of the bin. In some embodiments the base vibrator is mounted to the base, corresponding to a position approximately beneath the inlet of the bin. In some embodiments the base vibrator is mounted at a positon approximately two thirds of the length of bin, towards the outlet. In some embodiments the base vibrator is mounted towards the front of the bin. In some embodiments the base vibrator is mounted towards the rear of the bin. In some embodiments the base vibrator is mounted adjacent the inlet. In some embodiments the base vibrator is mounted adjacent the outlet. In some embodiments the position of the base vibrator is selected to facilitate settling waste material as it is received into the bin; and to facilitate dislodging the waste material for emptying from the bin.

[0077] In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism includes a pair of side vibrators respectively mounted to the external surface of each side wall. In some embodiments the side vibrators are mounted approximately centrally between the base and the top plate. In some embodiments the side vibrators are mounted adjacent to the inlet. In some embodiments the side vibrators are mounted adjacent to the outlet. In some embodiments the side vibrators are mounted towards the front of the bin. In some embodiments the side vibrators are mounted towards the rear of the bin. In some embodiments the position of the side vibrators is selected to facilitate settling waste material as it is received into the bin; and to facilitate dislodging the waste material for emptying from the bin.

[0078] In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism includes a power source. In some embodiments the power source is mounted to the bin. In some embodiments the power source is external from the bin. In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism is powered by a 12 volt power source. In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism is powered by a 24 volt power source. In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism is configured to be powered by a vehicle. In some embodiments the vibrating mechanism is configured to be powered by a vehicle battery.

[0079] In some embodiments the bin includes a power source to power the vibrating mechanism. In some embodiments the power source includes one or more batteries. In some embodiments the power source includes a pair of 12 volt batteries. In some embodiments the power source includes a timer configured to govern the run time of the vibrating motors. In some embodiments the timer is configured to operate the or each motor for a time period between 30 and 300 seconds, preferably between 60 and 180 seconds, and more preferably approximately seconds.

[0080] In some embodiments, the power source, batteries, timer and requisite connections are housed in a battery box. In some embodiments the battery box is substantially permanently mounted to the bin. In some embodiments the battery box is portable relative to the bin.

[0081] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for clearing a pipeline of waste material, the method including the steps of: connecting the pipeline to an inlet of a blow back bin, the blow back bin including: a box having a base, a front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls extending upwardly from the base to a top plate; and an outlet in the front wall through which the waste material can be discharged from the box; wherein the pair of side walls are divergent along a longitudinal axis from the rear wall to the front wall; pressurizing the pipeline to cause the waste material to flow from the pipeline into the bin via the inlet; transporting the bin to a tipping area; and raising the rear of the bin to cause the waste material to tip from the bin via the outlet in the front wall.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0082] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0083] Figure 1 is a side perspective view of a blow back bin according to the invention, with the front rotated to show the open configuration;

[0084] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the blow back bin of Figure 1, shown in a closed, sealed configuration;

[0085] Figure 3 is a plan view of a blow back bin according to the invention;

[0086] Figure 4 is a front view of the blow back bin of Figure 3; and

[0087] Figure 5 is a side view of the blow back bin of Figures 3 and 4.

[0088] Figure 6 is an underside view of a blow back bin according to an embodiment of the invention, shown with a vibrating mechanism mounted thereto;

[0089] Figure 7 is a partial perspective underside view of a blow back bin according to an embodiment of the invention, shown with a vibrating mechanism mounted thereto;

[0090] Figure 8 is a right side view of a blow back bin according to an embodiment of the invention, shown with a vibrating mechanism mounted thereto; and

[0091] Figure 9 is a partial perspective left side view of a blow back bin according to an embodiment of the invention, shown with a vibrating mechanism mounted thereto.

[0092] For ease of reference in the figures and throughout the description, corresponding features have been given corresponding reference numerals.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0093] Referring generally to all the drawings, preferred embodiments of the invention are directed to a concrete blow back bin for clearing concrete pipelines of residual concrete after a concrete pour.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiments, the blow back bin includes a box 1 for containing a waste material; an inlet 2 through which the waste material can be charged into the box; and an outlet 3 through which the waste material can subsequently be discharged from the box. In one particular use, as a concrete blow back bin, the waste material is excess concrete in a pipeline, blown back out under pressure by water and/or a sponge or wadding. However, it will be readily appreciated that the inlet, box and outlet are suitable for receiving, containing and emptying a wide variety of materials.

[0095] The box 1 includes a base 4, a front wall 5, a rear wall 6, and a pair of side walls 7 and 8, each extending upwardly from the base to a top plate 9. The base, and front, rear and pair of side walls are formed from substantially planar sections of five-millimetre-thick mild steel. The planar sections are welded together in an airtight manner to form the box 1. The inside surface of the box is substantially smooth. The illustrated box 1 has an absolute volumetric capacity of approximately seven cubic meters, however, the box is preferably only filled with a maximum of five cubic metres of waste material to ensure the total weight of the bin is not excessive for future loading and transportation. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the proportions of the box may be adjusted to achieve any suitable volumetric capacity.

[0096] As best illustrated in Figure 3, the pair of side walls 7 and 8 are outwardly divergent, in a lateral direction along a longitudinal axis, from the rear wall 6 to the front wall 5, thereby to facilitate removal of waste material from the box via the outlet 3. Each of the side walls 7 and 8 diverge outwardly at substantially the same divergent angle with respect to the longitudinal axis, which in this example is approximately five degrees from parallel but may be any suitable angle. The base 4 and top plate 9 are substantially trapezoidal to accommodate the diverging side walls.

[0097] The diverging side walls provide that the cross-sectional area of the box 1 increases along the longitudinal axis from the rear wall to the front wall. Put another way, the width w of the rear of the box 1 is narrower than the width W at the front of the box. That is, the internal channel of the box 1 becomes progressively wider from the rear wall 6 of the box towards the front wall 5. Advantageously, this configuration of divergent side walls ensures the flow of waste material is not obstructed or bottlenecked in its path towards the outlet 3. This is particularly significant given the viscosity of concrete, which may partially set or build up within the box during the blow back operation. Moreover, when removing a set concrete mass from the bin, the divergent side walls allow the concrete mass to freely slide through the outlet.

[0098] In addition to diverging, the side walls 7 and 8 angle outwardly, in a lateral direction along a vertical axis, from the base 4 to the top plate 9. As best shown in Figure 4, each of the side walls angle outwardly from the base at substantially the same outward angle with respect to the vertical axis, which in this example is approximately fifteen degrees from vertical but may be any suitable angle. The outwardly angled side walls give the box 1 a substantially trapezoidal cross-section along the longitudinal axis wherein the width w of the base 4 is narrower than the width W of the top plate 9. Therefore, the lateral cross-sectional area of the box increase along a vertical axis from the base to the top plate. Advantageously, the outwardly angled side walls facilitate waste material flowing to the base 4 of the box 1, thereby evenly filling the box and preventing the occurrence pockets or clumps.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the box 1 is configured such that each of the side walls 7 and 8 angle outwardly at an outward angle approximately three times greater than the respective divergent angles. This configuration of angles facilitates the flow of waste material towards the base of the box when receiving a waste material and also facilitates flow towards the front of the bin when draining or emptying the bin.

[00100] The side walls 7 and 8 diverging at the same angle as each other and angling at the same angle as each other ensures an even flow of waste material into the bin, preventing the occurrence of pockets or aggregating on a single side. Furthermore, the symmetry of angles provides that any waste material contained in the box is evenly distributed and the bin is substantially balanced during lifting and transportation. Further still, the equal angles ensure even flow of waste material and overall balance when draining or emptying the bin.

[00101] As best shown in Figure 5, the rear wall 6 is angled rearward, in a longitudinal direction along the vertical axis, from the base 4 to the top plate 9 at a rearward angle of approximately fifteen degrees from vertical. The rearward angle of the rear wall facilitates flow of waste material towards the base and further prevents accumulation of residue. In the illustrated embodiment, the rearward angle of the rear wall 4 is substantially the same as the outward angle of the side walls 7 and 8, each of which is three times greater than the divergent angles of the side walls. This configuration of angles further facilitates the flow of waste material towards the base of the box when receiving a waste material and also facilitates flow towards the front of the bin when draining or emptying the bin.

[00102] The substantial incline along multiple planes of the box 1 provides a synergistic effect that ensures the bin receives and contains waste material evenly in a balanced matter and without pocketing or clumping occurring when receiving and containing waste material. Moreover, the inclines facilitate the efficient and even draining of the bin by directing the flow of waste material towards the outlet without obstruction in any orientation. This ensures efficiency in concrete blow back operations and subsequent draining or emptying of the bin which also improves longevity of the bin by minimising residue and wear.

[00103] The inlet 2 of the bin includes an inlet hood 10 and an inlet tube 11 configured to receive waste material. The inlet tube terminates in an inlet aperture on one end and is connected to the inlet hood on the other end. Together, theinlettube 11 and inlet hood 10 provide an inlet channel to direct waste material from an external pipe into the box 1.

[00104] The inlet hood 10 is mounted on the top plate 9 towards the front of the bin. The inlet tube 11 projects from a front face of the inlet hood and provides the inlet aperture at a convenient location from which to affix an external pipe thereto. Advantageously, the inlet hood 10 is configured to direct the flow of material into the box 1. The side walls of the inlet hood taper out from the front face to an intermediate point. The side walls of the inlet hood then taper in from the intermediate point to the rear of the inlet hood. The top of the inlet hood is flat from the top edge of its face to the intermediate point and is then angled down from the intermediate point to the rear where the inlet hood meets the top plate. The side walls of the inlet hood similarly slope down along the rear towards where the inlet hoods meets the top plate. Accordingly, the inside rear surface of the inlet hood is configured to direct material received via the inlet tube downwardly and rearward. In particular, the inlet hood 10 directs flow towards the inside corner of the rear wall 6 and the base 4 of the box 1. This direction of flow ensures the bin is efficiently and evenly filled with the waste material and prevents pockets from forming.

[00105] The bin includes an inspection panel 12 to facilitate inspection of the inside of the box 1 without risking leakage and also to provide a convenient means by which inspect the inlet channel for blockages, wear and the like. The top plate 9 may include hand rails to facilitate safe access to the inspection panel 12. The inspection panel is a removable panel, sealingly bolted to the top surface of the inlet hood. When the inspection panel is removed, an inspection aperture is revealed through which the inside of the inlet channel and the box may be conveniently viewed.

[00106] The bin is configured to discharge waste material via the outlet 3. Advantageously, the outlet is provided at the front most end of the bin where the side walls 7 and 8 are the most divergent. The outlet includes an outlet aperture through substantially the whole of the front wall to allow discharging of relatively high volumes of waste material.

[00107] The outlet 3 is selectively sealable by a door 13 hingedly mounted to a door frame 14 around the outlet aperture. The door 13 rotates between a closed, sealed configuration and an open, draining configuration. In the closed configuration, the door is sealingly engaged about the outlet aperture top provide a liquid tight seal and prevent leakage. In the open configuration, the door is rotated outwardly from the bin to allow an unimpeded outlet channel from within the box via the outlet aperture. In the illustrated embodiment the door 13 is hingedly mounted to the side of the bin, however, the door may also be hingedly mounted to the top of the bin, slidably mounted in a sluice gate configuration or mounted in any other suitable configuration.

[00108] The bin is configured to contain waste material, including liquid waste. Accordingly, the door 13 is configured to provide a liquid tight seal, at times under substantial pressure. The door includes a raised lip 15 projecting from the rim of the inside door face. The doorframe 14 includes a corresponding trough to receive the raised door lip. The trough is lined with a rubber gasket 16 and in a closed configuration the raised lip is pressed into the rubber gasket of the trough thereby to provide an airtight seal.

[00109] The bin includes at least one lock to retain the door in a closed configuration and to ensure an airtight seal even under substantial pressure. In the illustrated embodiments the bin includes a primary lock and a secondary lock. The primary and secondary locks provide redundancy for safety and are also synergistic, utilising alternative locking mechanisms to ensure a seal along adjacent sides of the door frame.

[00110] The primary lock includes a pair of eye bolts 17 mounted on the door 13, opposite the point of hinged connection. A rotatable rod 18 is mounted to a support frame of the bin, proximate to the front of the bin and also opposite the side of the hinged connection of the door. A pair of hooks 19 are connected to the rotatable rod and a lever and ratcheting gear mechanism 20 is provided to rotate the rod thereby to hook the eye bolts and lock the door into the sealed configuration.

[00111] The secondary lock includes a threaded rod 21 hingedly mounted upon the top edge of the door frame 14. A receiving flange 22 including a receiving slot for the threaded rod is mounted to the top edge of the front face of the door. An internally threaded jacket 23 with an outer diameter wider than the receiving slot is threadedly engaged with the threaded rod. When the threaded rod is engaged in the receiving slot and the jacket is rotated towards the door frame, the jacket 23 abuttingly engages an outside face of the receiving flange 22.

[00112] To lock the door 13 in the closed, sealed configuration the door is rotated to bring the inside face of the door into contact with the door frame 14 thereby covering the outlet aperture and engaging the raised lip of the door with the rubber gasket 16 of the trough in the door frame. The lever and ratcheting gear mechanism 20 is then operated to rotate the hooks 19 which engage the eye bolts 17 and pull the door tight against the face of the front wall 5. The door is then tied down by levering the threaded rod 21 into the receiving slot of the receiving flange 22 and rotating the jacket 23 up the length of the threaded rod until the jacket abuts the receiving flange and ties the door down tight against the face of the front wall. It will be appreciated that the dual locking mechanisms, one along the side of the door frame and one upon the top of the door frame, provide a safe and secure seal of the door against the outlet, even under substantial pressure.

[00113] The bin includes a plurality of vents to prevent over pressurisation of the bin. In the illustrated embodiments the vents are a pair of box vents 24 mounted on the top plate 9 towards the rear of the bin. The box vents are configured to ventilate substantially the same volume as that received by the inlet 3. The box vents include ventilation apertures and the total area of the ventilation apertures are substantially the same area as that of the inlet aperture. The box vents 24 include louvres configured to allow air to escape but to prevent spillage of the waste material. The louvres are configured to direct flow from the vents downwardly to prevent injury to bystanders in the event of spillage.

[00114] The top plate 9 includes air transfer tubes 25 to allow air to flow from within the box to the box vents 24. The air transfer tubes provide intermediate channels that allow air flow via the box vents but prevent water leaking. In the illustrated embodiment, the air transfer tubes 25 are connected to a front wall of the box vents 24 and extend towards the inlet 2 at the front of the bin. The air transfer tubes 25 include a downward facing aperture at their front most point to allow air to flow from the front of the box 1, into the air transfer tubes and then rearward towards the box vents 24 for ventilation. The air transfer tubes allow the box to ventilate when waste material is being charged in through the inlet and prevent the box vents from being obstructed or clogged. Additionally, during lifting and transporting of the bin, the air transfer tubes prevent water from leaking from the box vents. This is particularly advantageous where the bin is filled to capacity or needs to be lifted at a steep angle.

[00115] A plurality of pipe clamps 26 are radially arranged around the inlet 2 and down the length of the bin on either side of the inlet. In the illustrated embodiment, the pipe clamps are mounted to the top plate 9, however they may also or instead be mounted to the sides of the bin or to a separate frame. The radial arrangement of the pipe clamps is suitable to accommodate the bending radius of a flexible pipe, however, rigid joints may also be fitted. Each pipe clamp 26 includes a clamp base with a concave saddle for receiving a pipe. An arcuate bracket is slidably mounted to each clamp base and may be bolted in place to affix a pipe in the pipe clamp. The slideable brackets enable a variety of pipe diameters to be used with the pipe clamps. The arrangement and configuration of the pipe clamps allows a pipe to be affixed to the inlet and run to either side of the inlet. Therefore, the bin can be conveniently delivered and positioned on site whilst still allowing pipe access to the inlet from a variety of directions.

[00116] The bin also includes a support frame 27 to reinforce the box 1and facilitate lifting and transport. The support frame includes a plurality of lateral support members 28 reinforcing the top plate, a substantially rectangular frame 29 reinforcing each of the front and rear walls and longitudinal support members 30 reinforcing along the base. In the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal support members are parallel, however, in other embodiments the longitudinal support members may diverge with the side walls. The support frame 27 comprises suitably lengthed channel beams of mild steel welded to each other and to the base, top plate, and front, side and rear walls to form a substantially monolithic structure. In other embodiments, the support frame 27 may be any combination of suitable materials mounted to the bin to reinforce the box and facilitate lifting. Advantageously the support frame prevents the walls or top plate from bowing under pressure when waste material is pumped into the box 1.

[00117] Additionally, the bin includes a safety frame 31 extending outwardly from the perimeter of the top plate 9. The safety frame defines a safety exclusion zone around the box 1 and the pipes. The safety frame also acts as a bumper frame to prevent damage from small impacts that may occur when loading or unloading the bin and where vehicles operate in close proximity to the bin. The safety frame 31 includes a high visibility reflective coating and may be colour coded to indicate hazardous waste and/or high pressure depending on the use case and any safety requirements.

[00118] A pair of rollers 32 are provided at the bottom of the bin towards the front most edge of the base 4. The rollers are rotatably mounted to axels on the bottom of the support frame. The pair of rollers facilitate movement and in particular towing of the bin when the rear end is elevated. The single pair of rollers 32 ensures the bin is stationary on an incline when the rear of the bin is not elevated. On particularly steep inclines, chocks or wheel locks may also be used. In other embodiments, multiple pairs of rollers or sleds may be used.

[00119] A rear lifting lug 33 is mounted to the support frame 27 towards the rear most point of the bin. The lifting lug is suitably sized to receive a crane hook or chains to allow a crane to lift the rear end of the bin and tow the bin. The illustrated bin is configured to be towed via the rear lifting lug, however, alternative embodiments could include a plurality of lifting lugs to allow the bin to be lifted by a crane in a level manner.

[00120] The internal surface of the box 1 may be protected or lubricated in preparation for pumping a waste material into the box. Preferably, temporary plastic liners are avoided to reduce excess waste as such temporary liners contaminate the concrete when crushed for recycling and they cannot generally be re-used or recycled. More permanent liners may be used but are expensive and require additional maintenance and eventual replacement. Advantageously, the configuration of the box 1 enables an alternative to such liners. Instead of using a liner, the inside surface of box may be coated with a release agent, preferably in the form of a natural, hydrocarbon free lubricant. Advantageously, the release agent includes no hazardous chemicals. Additionally, the release agent can be conveniently sprayed inside the bin before each blow back operation. Advantageously the convenient spray application of the release agent is far easier than fitting and applying conventional liners. Coating the inside surface of the box with the release agent prevents waste material from adhering to the base or walls or the box and facilitates efficient removal of concrete. In addition to the release agent, the inside surface of the base and side walls may be lined with hard plastic panels, for example polyethylene panels. Such polyethylene panels may be substantially permanently mounted within the bin to further prevent concrete sticking to the inside surfaces and further assist with emptying the concrete. Such hard plastic liners represent a balance in improved performance and additional installation and maintenance. Where a temporary or permanent liner is used the release agent may be applied to the liner to further ensure efficient emptying of the waste material from the bin.

[00121] As illustrated in Figures 6 to 9, the bin 1 may include one or more vibrating mechanisms 34 in the form of one or more motors. The motors may be electric motors configured as industrial vibrators 34. In the illustrated embodiments, a base vibrator 35 is mounted to the external surface of the base 4 of the bin, adjacent to the inlet 2 and towards the front wall 5 and outlet 3 of the bin. The base vibrator is positioned substantially centrally between the side walls 7 and 8, adjacent the inlet 2, about the location where concrete is received into the bin and begins to pile. Advantageously, the base vibrator 35 is configured to settle and level out concrete, preventing piling and peaks which, once hardened, may catch against the roof of the bin during emptying. The base vibrator 35 also functions to break any seal between the set concrete and the floor/ base 4 of the bin to assist in emptying the bin. Additionally, a pair of side vibrators 36 are respectively mounted to the external surface of each of the side walls 7 and 8 of the bin 1 substantially centrally between the base 4 and the top plate 9 along the length of the bin. Advantageously, the side vibrators 36 are also configured to settle the concrete in conjunction with the base vibrator 35. Furthermore, the side vibrators are able to prevent concrete adhering to the sides 7 and 8 of the bin and may shake loose the set concrete during emptying.

[00122] The vibrators 34 may be operated to induce a vibration in the bin 1, particularly in the base 4 and side walls 7 and 8 to facilitate settling concrete as it is received into the bin; and to facilitate dislodging the concrete for emptying from the bin. Advantageously, vibration during filling settles and levels out the concrete as it is received into the bin thereby to prevent the concrete forming peaks which may subsequently cause jamming and/or become stuck against the inside surface of the top plate 9 when later emptying the bin. Additionally, the vibration assists emptying of the bin 1 by breaking any seal that concrete may have with the inside surface of the bin. Advantageously, by vibrating, the vibrators 34 assist in dislodging the hardened concrete from the inside surfaces of the bin to improve speed and convenience when tipping the concrete. The positioning of the vibrators 34 generally adjacent to the inlet 1 and towards the outlet 2 is able to provide both settling vibration and dislodging vibration as needed.

[00123] A battery box, maybe used to power the vibrators 34. The battery box includes a pair of 12 volt batteries and a timer for powering the vibrators 34 and controlling the time the vibrators operate. Preferably, the timer is configured to operate the vibrators for a period of 90 seconds at a time. Advantageously, the 90 second run time is generally sufficient to settle and/or dislodge concrete and battery power is conserved by the timer automatically turning off the vibrators 34thereafter. Additionally or alternatively, the vibrators may be powered by external sources other than the battery box, including, for example, a truck or other vehicle batter, or a mains power source and converter.

[00124] To clean out a pipe line of concrete, using the present invention, the bin may be kept on site in advance or delivered towards the end of a pour. The inside surface of the box 1 is preferably sprayed with the release agent before receiving the concrete. Once the concrete poor has finished, the concrete pipe is affixed to the inlet 2 and the pipe may be routed via the pipe clamps 26 around the inlet and down the side of the bin. The door 13 is ensured to be securely locked thereby closing the outlet 3 and providing an airtight seal.

[00125] Once the pipe is securely affixed and the door locked, the excess concrete is blown back through the pipe using wash water, a sponge or wadding and compressed air or any combination thereof. The bin is particularly suited for the use of wadding and high pressure air as the bin is well configured to receive the eventual high pressure ejection of the wadding without risk of injury or spillage. The high volumetric capacity of the bin also allows additional wash water to be used to flush the pipeline.

[00126] During the blow back process, the inlet hood 10 directs the flow of concrete towards the corner of the rear wall 6 and the base 4 of the box 1 ensuring the box fills up evenly and without forming pockets. The box vents 24 allow air to vent from the box and prevent overpressure. As concrete is received into the bin 1, the timer may be operated to activate the vibrators 34 for the duration of the blow back. The base vibrator 35 and side vibrators 36 will vibrate the bin, particularly the base 4 and side walls 7 and 8 thereby to settle and even out the concrete, preventing piling or the formation of peaks.

[00127] Once the pipe has been cleared of concrete, the pipes are removed and the inlet may be capped. A hook is affixed to the rear lifting lug 33 and a crane truck is used to lift the rear end of the bin and tow the bin on the rollers 32 up onto the bed of the truck. The truck may then relocate the bin to a suitable tipping area.

[00128] To empty the bin, the outlet is positioned over the intended tipping zone and the door unlocked and completely opened. A crane may then be used to elevate the rear end of the bin thereby causing the concrete and wash water to slide, under gravity, from the bin via the outlet in the front wall.

[00129] The configuration of the bin, including the divergent side walls, facilitates the removal of the concrete and wash water and ensures their flow is not obstructed or bottlenecked. This is particularly advantageous as the concrete in the bin must set into a single mass before removal in order to prevent spillage. Additionally, the timer may be operated to activate the vibrators 34 during the tipping process. Advantageously, the base vibrator 35 and side vibrators 36 will vibrate the bin 1 thereby to dislodge the concrete from the base 4 and side walls 7 and 8 and further facilitate the efficient and effective emptying of the bin.

[00130] Moreover, the divergent side walls of the bin enable the use of a release agent for removing the waste concrete instead of relying on expensive and unsustainable plastic linings. Additionally, the divergent side walls allow the outlet to be in the front wall enabling that the lid be permanently welded on, thereby improving the structural integrity of the bin and providing greater containment of the waste material and greater safety during blow back operations.

[00131] It will be appreciated that the illustrated embodiments of the invention can safely receive concrete during a concrete pipe blow back operation and which can also later be conveniently emptied of substantially all the concrete without blockage occurring or residue remaining.

[00132] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

[00133] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".

[00134] Reference throughout this specification to "some embodiments" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "some embodiments" or "various embodiments" throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiments, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

Claims

1. A blow back bin including: a box having a base, a front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls extending upwardly from the base to a top plate; and an inlet configured to receive a volume of waste material, wherein the pair of side walls are divergent along a longitudinal axis of the box from the rear wall to the front wall.

2. The blow back bin according to claim 1, further including an outlet in the front wall through which the waste material can be discharged.

3. The blow back bin according to claim 2, wherein the pair of side walls diverge outwardly towards the outlet of the box, thereby to facilitate removal of the waste material from the box.

4. The blow back bin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pair of side walls are divergent along the longitudinal axis of the box from the rear wall to the front wall at a divergent angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.

5. The blow back bin according to claim 4, wherein the pair of side walls are mutually divergent at substantially the same divergent angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.

6. The blow back bin according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the divergent angle of each side wall is approximately five degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis.

7. The blow back bin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the side walls are angled outwardly, in a lateral direction along a vertical axis, from the base to the top plate, at an outward angle with respect to the vertical axis.

8. The blow back bin according to claim 7, wherein the side walls are mutually angled outwardly from the base, each at an angle of approximately fifteen degrees with respect to the vertical axis.

9. The blow back bin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cross sectional area of the bin increases along the longitudinal axis from the rear wall to the front wall.

i n Tha hIrnwhoA1 i hi,,,n n~innen 'nrr ngne 'rlairn 0 fn0 wharnin fhein f aii configurable between an open draining configuration and a closed sealed configuration.

11 The blow back bin according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the outlet includes an aperture in the front wall and the bin further includes a door sealingly engageable about the outlet to prove a liquid tight seal of the outlet.

12. The blow back bin according to any one of claims 2 to 11, further including at least one locking mechanism to retain the outlet in a sealed configuration.

13. The blow back bin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inlet is configured to receive a pipe fitting.

14. The blow back bin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inlet includes a tube mounted to the top plate.

15. The blow back bin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the blow back bin includes a vent to prevent pressurisation of the box.

16. The blow back bin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an inside surface of the box is at least partially coated with a release agent.

17. The blow back bin according to any one of the preceding claims, further including one or more vibrating mechanisms mounted to the box.

18. A blow back bin, including: a box configured to receive a volume of waste material; the box having a pair of side walls which diverge outwardly towards an outlet of the box, thereby to facilitate removal of the waste material from the box.

19. A blow back bin, including: a box; an inlet through which waste material can be charged into the box; and an outlet through which the waste material can be discharged from the box; wherein the box has a pair of divergent side walls, the side walls diverging outwardly towards the outlet of the box.

20. A method for clearing a pipeline of waste material, the method including the steps of: connecting the pipeline to an inlet of a blow back bin, the blow back bin including: a box having a base, a front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls extending upwardly from the base to a top plate; and an outlet in the front wall through which the waste material can be discharged from the box; wherein the pair of side walls are divergent along a longitudinal axis from the rear wall to the front wall; pressurizing the pipeline to cause the waste material to flow from the pipeline into the bin via the inlet; transporting the bin to a tipping area; and raising the rear of the bin to cause the waste material to tip from the bin via the outlet in the front wall.