EP3473426B1 - Compactor assembly, compactor device and method for mounting a compactor assembly - Google Patents

Description

Various exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to a compactor arrangement according to claim 1, a compactor device according to claim 11, and a method for assembling a compactor arrangement according to claim 12. Further developments of the invention result from the respective dependent claims.

In general, various concepts are used to compact objects, whereby the objects are split, pressed, and/or reshaped in some other way in order to reduce their footprint. Due to the deposit system introduced for one-way and reusable containers (e.g. bottles, cans, glasses, etc.), automated return systems are increasingly being used to make the return of large quantities of containers logistically simple. Such return systems can sort the containers by type and/or material, for example. Furthermore, various options for the return of individual containers or bundles (e.g. a box, etc.) can be provided. As a rule, it may be necessary or helpful to crush the containers in order to enable them to be transported away efficiently. Not only single-use plastic containers, but also single-use glass containers can be compacted. Reusable containers and reusable containers are generally collected and transported away separately without compacting them. In the food industry, the empty containers are also referred to as empties and the return system as an empties return system or empties return machine.

In EP3208214 A1 describes a compactor arrangement with the features of the preamble of claim 1, which has at least one empties acceptance unit. The empties acceptance unit has a two-part housing, which is set up on continuously variable, height-adjustable legs. The two-part housing is designed in such a way that a second housing part can be pivoted relative to a first housing part.

In U.S. 5,111,927 describes a beverage container recycling machine. This has a common housing for three modules, each of the three modules being set up to receive and process different types of containers.

According to various embodiments, a compactor arrangement for compacting containers is provided, which, for example, is transported in a space-saving manner can be installed (e.g. set up and/or maintained) easily and inexpensively. The compactor arrangement can be provided in such a way that it can be set up and/or repaired, for example, without heavy equipment. Furthermore, the compactor arrangement can be provided in such a way that it can also be cleaned or serviced in some other way without specialist personnel.

Furthermore, the compactor arrangement can be provided in such a way that return operation of an entire compactor device with a number of compactor arrangements does not have to be interrupted during maintenance of one of the number of compactor arrangements. For this purpose, a compactor arrangement is provided, for example, which has a compactor, by means of which containers to be compacted can be compacted, and a transport device, by means of which the containers are transported in the compactor arrangement or through the compactor arrangement, in such a way that the compactor is independent of the transport device mounted (e.g. replaced, cleaned and/or repaired).

According to various embodiments, a compactor arrangement is provided which has the following: a first support frame part and a second support frame part, which are set up in such a way that they can be detachably coupled to one another, and a compactor for compacting containers (in other words, compactor for compacting empties, e.g. bottles, glasses, cans, etc.), the compactor being arranged on the second support frame part.

Furthermore, a compactor device is provided which has a plurality of compactor arrangements such as are described herein, the compactor arrangements being arranged relative to one another in such a way that containers can be transported along a transport path through the plurality of compactor arrangements.

Also provided is a method for assembling (eg, setting up, repairing, cleaning, etc.) a compactor assembly, the method comprising: setting up a first support frame part, the first support frame part having a receiving space for receiving a second support frame part; arranging the second support frame part below the receiving space, wherein a compactor 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, eg thereafter, attaching the second chassis part to the first chassis part by means of a releasable connection.

Exemplary embodiments are shown 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 Pcrspcktivansicht, 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

• Figures 1A and 1B a compactor in various schematic views, according to various embodiments;
• Figures 2A and 2B a compactor arrangement in various schematic views, according to various embodiments;
• Figures 3A and 3B in each case a compactor device in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Figures 4A and 4B in each case a second support frame part of a compactor arrangement in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Figures 4C and 4D in each case a first support frame part of a compactor arrangement in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Figures 4E and 4F in each case 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 compactor arrangement, according to various embodiments;
• Figures 5A and 5B in each case a compactor arrangement in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Fig.6 a compactor arrangement in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Fig.7 a schematic flowchart of a method for assembling a compactor arrangement, according to various embodiments;
• Fig.8 a compactor arrangement with a housing in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments;
• Figures 9A to 9D in each case a compactor arrangement with two compactors in a schematic perspective view, according to various embodiments; and
• 10A and 10B each 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 that 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 figure(s) being described. Because components of embodiments can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is used for purposes of illustration and is in no way limiting. It is 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 is understood that the features of the various exemplary embodiments described herein can be combined with one another 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.

Within the scope of this description, the terms "connected", "connected" and "coupled" are used to describe both a direct and an indirect connection, a direct or indirect connection and a direct or indirect coupling. In the figures, identical or similar elements are provided with identical reference symbols, insofar as this is appropriate.

Within the scope of this description, the terms "below", "above" and "next to" are used to describe relative positions, for example with regard to setting up the compactor arrangement on a horizontal base.

According to various embodiments, a compactor arrangement 100 is described, wherein the compactor arrangement 100 has at least one compactor 102 . Figures 1A and 1B 12 illustrate a compactor 102 of a compactor assembly 100 in a schematic cross-sectional view and a schematic plan view, according to various embodiments.

A compactor 102 can be understood, for example, as a functional assembly of an empties return system (also referred to as a compactor device). The compactor 102 can be set up, for example, to compact at least some of the empties 104 (also referred to as containers) that are fed to the empties return system, i.e. to reduce the space required for them. This can be done, for example, by reshaping and/or pressing (e.g. pressing into a flat shape) the empties. The compacted empties 104k can be collected in a freight container 152, which can be arranged under the compactor 102, for example. For example, the compacted empties 104k can be ejected 101s downwards from the compactor 102.

In this context, the empties 104 can be understood as emptied sales packaging and/or as emptied sales containers, such as non-returnable bottles, non-returnable returnable bottles, beverage cans, reusable bottles and the like. The empties return system can, for example, be part of an empties return chain, which sends the empties for reuse or recycling (e.g. for raw material recovery).

The compactor 102 can have at least one compacting mechanism 112 (clearly a device for reducing the space requirement), also referred to as a cutting mechanism, by means of which the empties 104 are compacted. The compacting mechanism 112 can have at least one compacting roller 112w (e.g. a single compacting roller, several counter-rotating compacting rollers, etc.) and a drive 112a (e.g. an electric motor or the like) for driving the compacting roller 112w. The compacting unit 112 can optionally have a feed device 112t (e.g. a feed belt) for feeding 101t the empties 104 in the direction of the compacting roller 112w.

The feeding device 112t can have a belt conveyor or can be configured as a belt conveyor. The belt conveyor can, for example, be a conveyor belt (e.g. a belt, a chain belt, or the like; it should be noted that several belts, belts or the like can also be provided to implement the conveyor belt, with the several belts, belts or the like being tensioned on common tension rollers or each on separate tension rollers, which can optionally be controlled together in the same way), on which the empties 104 are transported. The conveyor belt can be supported by several support rollers. As an alternative or in addition to this, the feed device 112t can have a roller conveyor which has a large number of transport rollers, the transport rollers having a transport surface provide, on which the empties 104 is transported. As an alternative or in addition to this, other conveyor types that are suitable for transporting the empties 104 can also be used. Optionally, the feed device 112t can have at least one paddle wheel (not shown), which is set up to guide the transported empties 104 to the compacting roller 112w. Furthermore, a chute can optionally also be used as the feed device 112t, the chute being set up in such a way that the empties 104 can slide in the direction of the compacting roller 112w.

Further, the compactor 112 may include a variety of other components, such as fenders, visors, bearings, guides, and the like, which may assist in the operation of the compactor 112.

Figures 2A and 2B 12 illustrate a compactor assembly 100 in a schematic side or cross-sectional view and in a schematic top view, according to various embodiments.

The compactor 102 can be part of the compactor arrangement 100 (see the following figures). In addition to the compactor 102, the compactor arrangement 100 can have further functional assemblies which, for example, support the operation of the compactor 102 and/or integrate the compactor 102 into a sequencer of an empty container return system.

The compactor arrangement 100 can have a carrying frame 204, for example. The support frame 204 can have exactly one support frame part, for example consisting of support elements which are firmly connected to one another, or have a plurality of support frame parts, for example two support frame parts which are detachably coupled to one another. The compactor 102 can be or will be supported by the support frame 204 . For example, the support frame 204 can support the compactor 102 at a predefined working height (eg, at a height in a range of about 0.5 to about 2 m). Thus, for example, a cargo container 152 (eg, container, other bulkhead, etc.) may be placed beneath compactor 102 . For example, the support frame 204 can have multiple support legs 206 (also referred to as stand elements), or in other words, the support frame 204 can be supported by multiple support legs 206 . A collection area 204r can be provided between the plurality of support legs 206 under the compactor 102 for accommodating a freight container 152. By means of the freight container 152, for example, the compacted empties 104k can be collected and transported away in a simple manner. For example, simply a full Cargo container 152 can be exchanged for an empty cargo container 152. Instead of the freight container 152, a removal belt or another transport device can also be used, for example, in order to transport the compacted empties 104k falling into the collection area 204r onwards, e.g. into a remotely installed freight container 152.

The compactor arrangement 100 can have a transport device 200t, for example, which is set up to feed the empties 104 to the compactor 102 or to guide the empties 104 past it. The transport device 200t can be part of a transport route, for example, along which the empties 104 are transported. For example, the empties 104 can be transported by means of the transport device 200t through a compactor arrangement 100 or through a plurality of compactor arrangements 100 in each case.

For example, empties 104 to be compacted (e.g. non-returnable plastic containers, non-returnable tin cans, etc.), which are transported by means of the transport device 200t, can be detected, e.g. by means of a correspondingly set up sensor arrangement, and can be fed selectively to the compactor 102, e.g. by means of a corresponding furnished selection device 200s, which is controlled or regulated, for example, based on sensor data of the sensor arrangement. Empties 104 that are not to be compacted (e.g. reusable containers, etc.) that are transported by means of the transport device 200t can be transported past the compactor 102 and through the compactor arrangement 100, for example.

The selection device 200s can be set up, for example, to separate out the empties 104, which have a category assigned to the compactor arrangement 100 (e.g. “for compacting”) from a flow of empties, which is guided by the transport device 200t, and to feed them to the compactor. Exactly one selection device 200s can clearly be assigned to each compactor 102 .

The selection device 200s can optionally be set up to categorize the empties 104, eg according to "to be compacted" or "not to be compacted" and optionally according to additional features such as container type, return type, material and/or color. Empties 104 categorized as to be compacted can, for example, be further sub-categorized according to their color and/or material and also according to whether they should be fed to the relevant compactor 102 at all. Alternatively or additionally, the categorization can be carried out by means of a categorization device at the entrance 302 of an empties return system (cf following figures) take place. The categorizing device can then, for example, control the compactor arrangements 100 and/or supply data to the compactor arrangements 100.

The compactor arrangement 100 can optionally have a housing 300g in which the compactor 102, the selection device 200s and the transport device 200t of the compactor arrangement 100 are arranged. The housing 300g can have at least one first opening, through which empties 104 can be fed to the compactor arrangement 100 (e.g. picked up by means of the transport device 200t), e.g. along the transport route. Optionally, the housing 300g can have a second opening through which the empties 104 transported past the compactor 102 are discharged from the compactor arrangement 100 .

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

According to various embodiments, the compactor device 300 can have a plurality of compactor arrangements 100 as described herein. These can be arranged along one row or along several rows and thus form, for example, one transport route or several transport routes.

At the beginning 302 of the sequencer when the compactor device 300 is operated, for example, the empties 104 can be checked (e.g. for their acceptability or the like). For example, various characteristics of the empties 104 (such as the type of empties, weight, container type, barcode information, etc.) can be recorded for checking. The empties 104 categorized as returnable can then be accepted by the compactor device 300 .

The multiple compactor arrangements 100 can be integrated into the sequencer of the compactor device 300 . For example, the plurality of compactor assemblies 100 may compact according to the sub-categorization. Of the several compactor arrangements, a first compactor arrangement 100 can, for example, compact empties from a first subcategory (e.g. “blue” or “plastic”) and a second compactor arrangement 100 can compact empties from a second subcategory (e.g. “red” or “sheet metal”). Alternatively, the compactor assemblies 100 can be refilled sequentially without distinguishing the empties. For example, a first compactor arrangement 100 of the plurality of compactor arrangements can then be serviced are maintained while a second compactor assembly 100 of the plurality of compactor assemblies operates the respective transport route.

To provide two parallel transport sections 306, a compactor arrangement 100 can have two compactors 102 which are arranged side by side (e.g. clearly "back to back") on a common support frame 204 of the compactor arrangement 100 (also referred to as a double module 300d). The compactors 102 of a double module 300d can be integrated in parallel (i.e. serve two different transport routes). Optionally, several individual modules (i.e. a compactor arrangement 100 with only one compactor 102) or several double modules 300d can be integrated one behind the other (i.e. in series) along a transport route 306. Thus, for example, a compactor 102 of a first single module or double module 300d can be serviced while the serial compactor 102 of a second single module or double module 300d maintains operation. Alternatively or additionally, several double modules 300d can be integrated parallel to one another (i.e. in different pairs of transport sections).

As an alternative to this, the compactor arrangements 100 can each have only one compactor 102 and/or can be set up separately.

The sequencer may include at a first end a first plenum 304a (e.g., having the cargo container 152 therein) for receiving the empties 104k to be compacted, as previously described. The process chain can optionally have at least one second collection space 304b at a second end for individual empties that are not to be compacted (e.g. returnable empties or glass bottles), at a third end a third collection space 304c for empty crates and/or at a fourth end a fourth Have collection space 304d for non-recyclable empties (e.g. empties to be disposed of). The ends of the sequencer can be connected by means of a transport system. The transport system can, for example, have a plurality of transport routes 306 and optionally have a selection device at points at which the transport system branches (i.e. two transport routes adjoin one another).

As in Figure 3B shown, the empties 104 can also fall from the compactor 102 of the respective compactor arrangement 100 onto a removal belt 308, by means of which the compacted empties 104k can be transported away in containers 152 set up separately (e.g. next to the compactor arrangements 100). Thus, for example, the compactor device 300 can be provided in a space-saving manner, since no containers are exchanged from below the compactor 102 of the respective compactor arrangement 100 Need to become. 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 by category).

To provide two parallel transport sections, two compactors 102 can be or will be arranged next to one another on a common support frame 204 of the compactor arrangement. These can then be set up in a simple manner as described herein. As an alternative to this, the compactor arrangements 100 can each have only one compactor 102 and can be set up separately.

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 configured to mate with each other such that they can be releasably coupled to form a common support frame 204, as shown in FIGS Figures 4A to 4F is shown in schematic views. A compactor 102 for compacting containers, as described above for example, can be or will be arranged on the second support frame part 404b. Furthermore, the first support frame part 404a can be erected by means of stand elements 206 (eg by means of stands).

In Figure 4A 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 can have a support frame 414r and support elements 414e designed to match the structures to be supported. For example, the second support frame part 404b can have a bearing arrangement 414m for bearing a drive 112a (see FIG Figure 4B ). According to various embodiments, the second support frame part 404b can have a plurality of stand elements 424 (also referred to as support feet). If the second support frame part 404b is set down on a base, the support frame 414r is supported by means of the stand elements 424, for example. Thus, for example, the support frame 414r of the second support frame part 404b can be driven under by means of a lift truck and the second support frame part 404b can be raised or transported.

As in Figure 4B is shown in a perspective view, according to various embodiments, a compactor 102 can be or will be arranged on the second support frame part 404b. As previously described, the compactor 102 may include a drive 112a (eg, a motor), a compactor 112, and a feeder 112t. Furthermore, the compactor 102 may include other components if this is helpful for the operation of the compactor 102 . The compactor 102 can be of a external source (eg from a supply device) are supplied with electrical energy, for example by means of an electrical wiring. The drive 112a of the compacting mechanism 112 can be firmly connected to the second support frame part 404b. As an alternative to this, the drive 112a can be supported on the second support frame part 404b in a resilient or vibration-damping manner. The compacting mechanism 112 can be firmly connected to the second support frame part 404b. As an alternative to this, the compacting mechanism 112 can be supported on the second support frame part 404b in a resilient or vibration-damping manner.

According to the invention, the second support frame part 404b has at least one coupling (not shown) for coupling a traction mechanism of a lifting device to the second support frame 404b (see Fig Fig.6 ). The first support frame part 404a is set up in such a way that the lifting device can be supported on the second support frame. The coupling can be, for example, an eyelet, a hook, or any other suitable element for attaching a traction device. The coupling can be positioned in such a way that the second support frame part 404b can be suspended in the center of gravity or on a vertical axis through the center of gravity by means of the traction means of the lifting device.

According to various embodiments, for example, a first support frame part 404a can be provided to match the second support frame part 404b of the compactor arrangement 100, as shown in FIG Figure 4C is illustrated in a schematic view. The second support frame part 404b can have a support frame 434r as well as support elements 434e that are set up to match the structures to be supported.

According to various embodiments, the first carrying frame part 404a can be set up in such a way that it defines or forms a receiving space 400a for receiving the second carrying frame part 404b. Clearly, the first carrying frame part 404a can be an outer carrying frame part, with the second carrying frame part 404b being an inner carrying frame part which is at least partially surrounded by the outer carrying frame part. The receiving space 400a can be provided in such a way that the compactor 102 arranged on the second support frame part 404b can also be received (see FIG Figures 4E and 4F ). Clearly, the second support frame part 404b can be removed from the first support frame part 404a in a simple manner, for example lowered downwards.

According to various embodiments, the first supporting frame part 404a and the second supporting frame part 404b can be set up in such a way that the second supporting frame part 404b can be moved into and out of the receiving space 400a along an assembly direction 400m. The second support frame part 404b and the compactor 102 arranged on the second support frame part can be movable together along the assembly direction 400m into the receiving space 400a and out of the receiving space 400a. This can, for example, facilitate assembly of the compactor assembly 100, e.g., its installation and maintenance.

The first support frame part 404a can have at least one stop 434a, for example. A fastening position for fastening the second support frame part 404b in the receiving space 400a can be defined by means of the at least one stop 434a. Clearly, the second support frame part 404b can be lifted upwards until it forms a positive fit with the stop and the compactor 102 is positioned in the receiving space 400a. The attachment positioning of the second chassis part 404b relative to the first chassis part 404a may be predefined. The first support frame part 404a and the second support frame part 404b can be detachably coupled to one another in the fastening 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 disconnected without tools (manually).

Furthermore, the first support frame part 404a can be set up by means of several stand elements 206, as for example in Figure 4D is illustrated. The stand elements 206 can be firmly connected to the first support frame part 404a. As an alternative to this, the first support frame part 404a can have a plurality of hollow profiles 444h, into which the stand elements 206 can be or can be inserted. The standing elements 206 can, for example, be pushed through the hollow profiles 444h from above and fixed in the hollow profiles 444h (or on the first support frame part 404a).

The stand elements 206 are, for example, not fixed (or not directly physically) 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 can be arranged in such a way that the second support frame part 404b can be lowered into the area 204r between the stand clcmcntcn 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 adjustment sections 444s (e.g. height-adjustable feet). Different sets of stand elements 206 can also be used to adjust a height position in which the compactor 102 is arranged relative to the ground. Furthermore, the standing elements can be pushed through the hollow profiles 444h to different extents and fixed accordingly at a desired height.

According to various embodiments, the stand elements 206 can be used to raise the first support frame part 404a to a predefined height position. A lifting device can be used for this (see Figures 10A and 10B ). The same lifting device can be used to raise and lower the second support frame part 404b relative to the first support frame part 404a, to raise the first support frame part 404a relative to the ground, and to lift the first support frame part 404a and the second support frame part 404b together relative to the ground .

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

In Figures 4E and 4F In each case, a compactor arrangement 100 is shown in a perspective view, with the second support frame part 404b being positioned in the fastening position in the receiving space 400a of the first support frame part 404a, according to various embodiments.

According to various embodiments, the compactor arrangement 100 can have further assemblies, such as in Figure 5A is shown in a schematic view.

The compactor arrangement 100 can, for example, have a transport device 200t for transporting the containers 104 in the compactor arrangement 100, as described above, for example. The transport device 200t can be set up in such a way that the containers 104 can be transported into the compactor arrangement 100 to the compactor 102 and/or through the compactor arrangement 100 to an additional compactor arrangement 100. the Transport device 200t can be arranged, for example, on the first support frame part 404a.

The compactor arrangement 100 can also, according to various embodiments, have a selection device 200s for selecting containers transported by means of the transport device 200t and for feeding the selected containers to the compacting unit 112 of the compactor 102.

According to various embodiments, the selection device 200s can be arranged on the first support frame part 404a. The selection device 200s can be mounted immovably, for example in a fixed, predetermined position and location with respect to the first support frame part 404a. As an alternative to this, the selection device 200s can be designed to be movable, e.g. pivotable, so that a section of the selection device 200s can be used, for example, to cover at least part of the transport device 200t if required (e.g. in the event of maintenance), as for example in Figure 5B is illustrated.

According to various embodiments, the compactor arrangement 100 can also have an electronics assembly 500e for operating the compactor 102, for operating the transport device 200t or for operating the selection device 200s. In this case, operating can be understood to mean controlling, regulating and/or supplying with electrical energy. The electronics assembly 500e can be arranged, for example, on the first support frame part 404a. The transport device 200t can have its own (separate) drive, for example. For example, a belt transport device can be used in which a transport belt is stretched between two deflection rollers, with at least one deflection roller being driven.

When pivoting the selection device 200s from an operating position, such as in Figure 5A is illustrated, in a maintenance position (also referred to as an assembly position), such as in Figure 5B is illustrated, an electrical energy supply to compactor 102 (or at least to drive 112a of compactor 102) can be interrupted, e.g. by means of a safety switch 501.

Fig.6 10 illustrates a compactor assembly 100 in a perspective view, according to various embodiments. The compactor 102 of the compactor arrangement 100 can be lowered, for example, by means of a lifting device 600h together with the second supporting beam 404b. The lifting device 600h can, for example be operated manually. The lifting device 600h can be supported on the first support frame part 404a and can be coupled to the second support frame part 404b by means of a traction mechanism 600z.

The second support frame part 404b can be placed on a ground, for example. This allows for easy and quick assembly of the compactor assembly 100 (e.g., easy and quick swapping of the compactor 102 for another, or improved access to the compactor 102 for repair or the like). 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 fastening position in the receiving space 400a of the first support frame part 404a. It can therefore be helpful, for example, to cover the transport device 200t in this case or to make it inaccessible, e.g. by pivoting the selection device 200s over the transport device 200t. A transport channel for transporting the containers through the compactor arrangement 100 can be provided. The transport channel is provided in such a way that the transport path for the containers 104 to be transported is not disturbed.

Fig.7 FIG. 7 shows a schematic flowchart of a method 700 for assembling (eg for setting up) a compactor arrangement 100 according to various embodiments. The method 700 for assembling a compactor assembly 100 may include, for example: in 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; in 720, arrangement of the second support frame part 404b below the receiving space 400a, wherein a compactor 102 is arranged on the second support frame part 404b; in 730, introducing the second supporting frame part 404b into the receiving space 400a of the first supporting frame part 404a or introducing the compactor 102 arranged on the second supporting frame part 404b into the receiving space 400a of the first supporting frame part 404a; and, in 740 (eg, subsequently), attaching the second chassis part 404b to the first chassis part 404a by means of a releasable connection.

Similarly, the compactor assembly 100 can be repaired, cleaned, etc. To this end, a method can include, for example: detaching the second support frame part 404b from the first support frame part 404a; Removing (eg by lowering) the compactor 102 arranged on the second support frame part 404b from the receiving space 400a of the first support frame part 404a; and for example setting down the second support frame part 404b on the ground.

As for example in Fig.8 Illustrated in a perspective view, the compactor assembly 100 (eg, while being operated in the operational mode) may include a housing 300g. The housing 300g can cover the compactor 102, the discriminating device 200s and the transport device 200t.

In general, the compactor arrangement 100 can be set up in such a way that it offers sufficient protection against tampering both in the operating mode and in the assembly mode (e.g. maintenance mode), so that a user and/or service personnel are protected from accidentally tampering with moving components (e.g. in the compacting unit 112 of the compactor 102) is protected.

A compactor arrangement 100 with only one compactor 102 is shown in each of the figures described above. In an analogous manner, a compactor arrangement 100 can also be provided, which has two compactors 102 or else more than two compactors 102 .

According to various embodiments, two of the first carrying frame parts 404a can be or become connected to form a common carrying frame 204 or, in other words, the first carrying frame part 404a can be set up in such a way that it has two (or more than two) accommodation spaces 400a for accommodating two ( or more than two) second support structure parts 404b. Thus, for example, two compactors 102 (or more than two compactors 102) can be arranged next to one another on a common first support frame part 404a (see FIG Figures 9A to 9D ).

According to various embodiments, the compactor arrangement 100, as described above, can have a first support frame part 404a and a second support frame part 404b, which are set up in such a way that they can be detachably coupled to one another, and a compactor for compacting containers, the compactor being on the second support frame part is arranged. The compactor assembly 100 may further include an additional second cradle portion 404b and an additional compactor 102 configured in the same manner as the foregoing second cradle portion 404b and compactor 102 . According to various embodiments, the first support frame part is set up in such a way 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 Figures 9A to 9D a compactor arrangement 100 with two compactors 102 is shown in a perspective view at different points in time during an assembly process or during a maintenance process.

According to various embodiments, a compactor 102 and the associated second support frame part 404b on which the compactor 102 is arranged can be referred to as a compactor module. The regarding the Figures 9A to 9D The compactor arrangement 100 described has, for example, a support frame 204, 404a that can carry two compactor modules. The preceding regarding the figure 6 The compactor arrangement 100 described has, for example, a support frame 204, 404a that can only carry one compactor module. In the following, without loss of generality, the compactor 102 (and the associated second support frame part 404b), which is lifted at the same time as the first support frame part 404a, is referred to as the first compactor 102, and the other compactor 102 (and the associated second support frame part 404b) as the second Compactor 102.

According to various embodiments, the first support frame part 404a can be erected, such as in Figure 9A is illustrated in a perspective view. A first compactor 102 of the two compactors can already be arranged in a first receiving space of the two receiving spaces of the first supporting frame part 404a by means of its second supporting frame part 404b, with a second compactor 102 of the two compactors being arranged outside of a second receiving space of the two receiving spaces. The second compactor 102 can be or will be arranged below the second receiving space on the ground, for example by means of its second support frame part 404b. In this state, for example, the second compactor 102 is freely accessible for maintenance or replacement, with the first compactor being able to be in regular operation. As in Figure 9A is illustrated, one of the two selection devices 200s is also pivoted into the maintenance position and the other of the two selection devices 200s is in the operating position.

The pivoting of the respective selection device 200s into the maintenance position (or installation position) can also make it possible, for example, for a traction mechanism of the lifting device 600h to be guided accordingly.

As for example in Figure 9B is illustrated in a perspective view, the second compactor 102 can be lifted onto its second support frame part 404b into 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, for example, be set up and/or supported on the first support frame part 404a.

As for example in Figure 9C is illustrated in a perspective view, both compactors 102 of the compactor arrangement 100 can also be in the operating mode at the same time. For this purpose, the lifting device can be removed 600h. Apart from four stand elements 206, all additional stand elements 206 used, for example, to assemble the compactor arrangement 100 can also be removed.

As for example in Figure 9D Illustrated in a perspective view, the compactor assembly 100 (eg, while both compactors 102 are operated in the operational mode) may include a housing 300g. The housing 300g can cover the two compactors 102, the two selection devices 200s and the two transport devices 200t of the compactor arrangement 100.

In Figures 10A and 10B a compactor arrangement 100 with two compactors 102 is shown in a perspective view at different points in time during an assembly process or during a maintenance process.

According to various embodiments, the first support frame part 404a can be raised by means of a lifting device 600h in such a way that a first compactor 102 of the two compactors 102 is lifted at the same time as the first support frame part 404a. For this purpose, for example, the lifting device 600h can be coupled to the second support frame part 404b of the first compactor 102. Furthermore, the lifting device 600h can be supported on several stand elements 206, so that the first support frame part 404a can be lifted by means of a self-lifting mechanism. The lifting can be done manually using a crank and a deflected traction means, for example.

The second compactor 102 can then be lifted into the associated receiving space of the first support frame part 404a, such as in FIG Figures 9A and 9B is illustrated. The lifting device 600h can be moved for this purpose.

During the lifting of the first support frame part 404a, the standing elements 206 are pushed or pressed through the hollow profiles 444h of the first support frame part 404a. The power to do this is conveyed, for example, by the lifting device 600h.

Claims (15)

1. Compactor assembly (100), having

   • a first supporting frame part (404a) and a second supporting frame part (404b), which are configured in such a way that these can be coupled detachably to each other, and

   • a compactor (102) for compacting containers (104), wherein the compactor (102) is arranged on the second supporting frame part (404b),

   characterized

   in that the compactor assembly (100) has a lifting device (600h) and

   in that the second supporting frame part (404b) has at least one coupling for coupling the lifting device (600h) to the second supporting frame part (404b), and in that the first supporting frame part (404a) is configured in such a way that the lifting device (600h) can be supported on the latter.
2. Compactor assembly according to Claim 1,
   wherein the first supporting frame part (404a) is configured in such a way that it has a receiving space (400a) for receiving the compactor (102) arranged on the second supporting frame part (404b).
3. Compactor assembly according to Claim 2,
   wherein the first supporting frame part (404a) is configured in such a way that the second supporting frame part (404b) and the compactor (102) arranged on the second supporting frame part (404b) can be moved into the receiving space (400a) and out of the receiving space (400a) along a mounting direction (400m).
4. Compactor assembly according to either of Claims 2 or 3,
   wherein the first supporting frame part (404a) and/or the second supporting frame part (404b) has at least one stop (434a), which defines a fixing position of the second supporting frame part (404b) in the receiving space (400a) relative to the first supporting frame part (404a), so that the first supporting frame part (404a) and the second supporting frame part (404b) can be coupled detachably to each other in the fixing position.
5. Compactor assembly according to either of Claims 1 or 4, further having:

   • an additional second supporting frame part (404b), which is configured in such a way that it can be coupled detachably to the first supporting frame part (404a),

   • an additional compactor (102) for compacting containers, wherein the additional compactor (102) is arranged on the additional second supporting frame part (404b),

   wherein the first supporting frame part (404a) is configured in such a way that it has an additional receiving space (400a) for receiving the additional compactor (102) arranged on the additional second supporting frame part (404b).
6. Compactor assembly according to one of Claims 1 to 5,
   wherein the compactor (102) has a compactor mechanism (112) for compacting the containers (104) and a drive (112a) for driving the compactor mechanism (112).
7. Compactor assembly according to one of Claims 1 to 6, further having:
   an electronics module (500e) for driving the compactor (102), wherein the electronics module (500e) is arranged on the first supporting frame part (404a).
8. Compactor assembly according to one of Claims 1 to 7, further having:
   a transport device (200t) for transporting the containers (104) in the compactor assembly (100).
9. Compactor assembly according to Claim 8, further having:
   a selecting device (200s), which is arranged on the first supporting frame part (404a), for selecting containers (104) transported by means of the transport device (200t) and for feeding the selected containers (104) to the compactor (102).
10. Compactor assembly according to one of Claims 1 to 9,
    wherein the lifting device (600h) has a pulling means, and wherein the at least one coupling is positioned in such a way that the second supporting frame part (404b) can be suspended by means of the pulling means of the lifting device (600h) at the centre of gravity or on a vertical axis through the centre of gravity.
11. Compactor device (300), having:
    a plurality of compactor assemblies (100) according one of Claims 1 to 10, wherein the compactor assemblies (100) are arranged relative to one another in such a way that containers (104) can be transported on a transport path through the plurality of compactor assemblies (100).
12. Method for mounting a compactor assembly, the method comprising:

    • erecting a first supporting frame part (404a), wherein the first supporting frame part (404a) has a receiving space (400a) for receiving a second supporting frame part (404b);

    • arranging the second supporting frame part (404b) underneath the receiving space (400a), a compactor (102) being arranged on the second supporting frame part (404b);

    • supporting a lifting device (600h) on the first supporting frame part (404a);

    • coupling the lifting device (600h) to a coupling of the second supporting frame part (404b);

    • introducing the compactor (102) arranged on the second supporting frame part (404b) into the receiving space (400a) of the first supporting frame part (404a) by means of lifting the second supporting frame part (404b) by using the lifting device (600h); and then

    • fixing the second supporting frame part (404b) to the first supporting frame part (404a) by means of a detachable connection.
13. Method according to Claim 12,
    wherein the erection of the first supporting frame part (404a) includes:

    • introducing an additional compactor (102) arranged on an additional second supporting frame part (404b) into an additional receiving space (400a) of the first supporting frame part (404a); and then

    • fixing the additional second supporting frame part (404b) to the first supporting frame part (404a) by means of a detachable connection.
14. Method according to Claim 13,
    wherein the erection of the first supporting frame part (404a) further includes:
    following the fixing of the additional second supporting frame part (404b) in the additional receiving space (400a) of the first supporting frame part (404a), positioning the first supporting frame part (404a), together with the additional compactor (102) arranged on the additional second supporting frame part (404b), in a predefined vertical position.
15. Method according to Claim 14,
    wherein the positioning of the first supporting frame part (404a), together with the additional compactor (102) arranged on the additional second supporting frame part (404b), in a predefined vertical position includes:
    adjusting a plurality of vertically adjustable stand elements, on which the first supporting frame part (404a) is supported.

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