(19)
(11) EP 4 015 414 A1

(12) EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION

(43) Date of publication:
22.06.2022 Bulletin 2022/25

(21) Application number: 21215866.1

(22) Date of filing: 20.12.2021
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC): 
B65F 3/04(2006.01)
B65F 3/08(2006.01)
B65G 47/84(2006.01)
B65F 3/02(2006.01)
B65G 33/06(2006.01)
(52) Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC):
B65F 3/046; B65F 2003/0273; B65F 2003/0266; B65F 2003/0276; B65F 3/08
(84) Designated Contracting States:
AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR
Designated Extension States:
BA ME
Designated Validation States:
KH MA MD TN

(30) Priority: 21.12.2020 IT 202000031673

(71) Applicant: Pinzauti, Federico
50012 Bagno a Ripoli (FI) (IT)

(72) Inventor:
  • Pinzauti, Federico
    50012 Bagno a Ripoli (FI) (IT)

(74) Representative: Fabbriciani, Simone 
Bugnion S.p.A. Viale Gramsci 42
50132 Firenze
50132 Firenze (IT)

   


(54) DEVICE FOR HANDLING AND EMPTYING CONTAINERS FOR THE COLLECTION OF WASTE


(57) Described is a device (1) for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste which comprises a load-bearing frame (2) designed to be associated with a vehicle (101) for collecting waste which supports a column element (3) rotatable about its own axis of symmetry (30) using rotation means (12). The column element (3) supports a framework (4) which can be oriented, relative to the axis of symmetry (30), about a hinge (13). The hinge (13) in turn defines a direction of rotation (10) substantially parallel to the ground (T).
There are also lifting and gripping means (8, 9, 18, 19) for a bin (C) for the waste to be emptied connected to the framework (4) and transfer means (2A, 22) for the column element (3) and for the hinge (13) relative to the position of the bin (C).




Description


[0001] This invention relates to a device for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste.

[0002] In the sector of waste collection devices, in particular for the side loading equipment (commonly called "side loaders"), there are various models with different operating characteristics, produced and marketed by various manufacturers, mounted on special vehicles.

[0003] Specific EU regulations describe the general technical requirements for the operation, safety and design of vehicles for collecting waste with side loading and of the related gripping and lifting devices.

[0004] Other EU regulations describe the constructional, dimensional and safety requirements of the bins for waste collection moved with this type of equipment.

[0005] All these regulations, which are fundamental for constructing a machine which is able to operate in complete safety, must be complied with in the design, construction and setting-up of the devices for moving and emptying waste collection bins.

[0006] Currently, the separate collection of waste is a very strongly felt need affecting the health of everyone and the environment in which we live.

[0007] As is well known, in order to be able to carry out waste collection and recycling it is necessary to differentiate the materials at their origin, using different roadside bins for every type of waste to be separated (paper, plastic, glass, organic, general waste, etc.) and requiring equipment which is able to move and empty these bins in an optimum manner.

[0008] Unlike in the past, when only one bin was present, a roadside station for collecting separated waste currently consists normally of at least five different bins for the various types of material, depending on the separated collection types or methods carried out, or simply on the basis of the number of users who use the particular station.

[0009] The market has been standardised on large stationary bins for these types of services, with volumes of from approximately 600 litres to approximately 3,200 litres or greater, generally provided with a pin lifting system. However, this type of bin has considerable dimensions and therefore occupies a large public area with an aesthetic impact and considerable traffic and logistics problems. For example, a standard bin of 2,400 litres with pin attachment has a width of 1.76 m, which means that if there are five of these bins at one station (paper, plastic, glass, organic and general waste), considering the gap between two bins next to each other of at least half a metre, a public ground space of more than ten metres is occupied.

[0010] None of the prior art machines with side loading for collecting stationary bins have a gripping and movement system which allows the bin to be attached in the presence of significant approach and centring errors. Moreover, even if the operator has a monitor positioned in the driver's cab which allows him to have a good view of the bin and to carry out the centring correctly, it is not always possible, for reasons of road conditions and traffic, to position the machine perfectly parallel and centred on the bin to be emptied.

[0011] In addition to the positioning tolerances allowed by the gripping devices, the operator with specific manual manoeuvres, such as the gripping of the lifting arms (gripping the bin), obtains the movement and the alignment of the bin in a position parallel to the machine, which is a position suitable for gripping it. These manoeuvres move the bins relative to the original position.

[0012] Moreover, these types of prior art machines are not able to move adjacent bins without having a significant space between them and they are not suitable for being effectively used for emptying bins with front attachment.

[0013] Looking at the position of the body after the repositioning on the ground, it is in fact easy to detect that the repositioned bin is substantially parallel to the machine but in a different position relative to the initial positioning.

[0014] This movement is generated by the tolerances of the lifting system and by the manoeuvres performed by the operator to be able to grip the bin when, for road condition reasons, it cannot perform a perfect positioning of the machine.

[0015] This movement from the original position, due in fact to constraints with the machines of this kind, is sometimes minimal, but other times significant.

[0016] This means that the bins of the waste collection stations are not always correctly positioned, but misaligned or not equidistant from each other, determining serious problems for the emptying since if the operator of the machine with side loading were unable, due to problems of road conditions, to position correctly for gripping the bin, it may result in incorrect gripping or movements and lifting which are dangerous for the bin, thereby risking the loss, falling or tipping of the bin on the road carriageway or on the pavement.

[0017] In some cases, it may even be the case that these bins encroach on the road carriageway or are in contrast with the pavement, with walls or with adjacent bins, with consequent risk of damage to vehicles and pedestrians.

[0018] Systems for positioning the bins on the ground, such as bars, centring wedges or guides, are installed and operational in some towns.

[0019] However, the machines currently in use do not allow complete automated movement of the bins, which are able to guarantee a good grip and correct repositioning of the bin exactly at the point where it has been lifted. Moreover, with these machines with side loading, it is not possible to move the bins by reducing the gap between them.

[0020] For these reasons, where wedges or centring bars have been used, there has often been a repositioning on the ground of the incorrect bin which, if not promptly repositioned in the relative seat by means of manual operations by the machine operator, exposes persons to the risk of crushing, as well as making the subsequent movement of the machine difficult.

[0021] Another problem relative to the prior art is due to the fact that the machines with side loading currently produced also have a considerable limitation with regard to the gripping distance from the bin which, currently, is at the most approximately 2 - 3 metres.

[0022] The aim of the invention is to overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks of known types of devices for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste which allows the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks to be overcome and which guarantees an improved movement and an improved emptying of the bins, allowing the correct repositioning in the original predetermined position, irrespective of the positioning of the machine relative to the bins.

[0023] In the context of the above-mentioned purpose, an aim of the device for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste is to be able to minimise the space between adjacent bins, with the advantage of a greater quality of the urban environment and separate waste collection.

[0024] Another aim of the invention is to allow the engagement and movement of bins for collecting waste positioned even at a long distance from the machine, for example well beyond 2 - 3 metres.

[0025] Another aim of the device for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste is to provide equipment which is able to be set up with different prior art gripping systems so that it can be used with different models of the bins.

[0026] Another aim of the invention is that it is easy to use by the operators, in such a way as to prevent them from operating manually for centring and gripping the bins.

[0027] A further aim of the device, according to the invention, is to allow perfect positioning of the bins on wedges or centring bars, without generating risks due to incorrect manoeuvres.

[0028] Another aim of the invention is to allow a modular construction, where the unit for gripping and moving the bins may also be separated from the waste collection body in such a way as to simplify the construction of the machine and which allows for different systems for setting up the waste collection body (fixed, tipping or interchangeable).

[0029] Another aim of the invention is the possibility of being able to integrate electronic management and control means without post-production modifications.

[0030] Yet another aim of the invention is to provide a for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste which allows a reduction in the manufacturing and maintenance costs, in such a way as to be economically competitive.

[0031] This purpose, as well as these and other aims, which are described in more detail below, are achieved by a device for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste, according to the invention, comprising the technical features described in one or more of the appended claims. The dependent claims correspond to possible different embodiments of the invention.

[0032] In particular, in accordance with a first aspect, the invention relates to a device for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste which comprises, on a load-bearing frame which will be associated with a waste collection vehicle, a column element rotatable about its own axis of symmetry, using rotation means.

[0033] The column element supports a framework which can be oriented about a hinge, in such a way as to incline it relative to the axis of symmetry of the column element.

[0034] The hinge defines in turn a direction of rotation substantially parallel to the ground.

[0035] The device also comprises means for lifting and gripping a bin of the waste to be emptied, which are connected to the framework and means for transferring the column element and the hinge relative to the position of the bin.

[0036] That is to say, the framework, mounted on the column element is able to rotate relative to the axis of symmetry of the latter.

[0037] The framework is provided with means for lifting and gripping the means for attaching a waste bin to be emptied, mounted for the mechanical lifting of the latter.

[0038] In order to allow a rotation of the framework which can guarantee a correct movement, gripping and lifting of the bins regardless of their position on the ground, the Applicant has provided the device with means for transferring the hinge relative to the position of the bin, that is to say, locating the centre of rotation of the framework in such a way as to allow the operation without interfering with the overall dimensions of the device and/or of the vehicle which is designed to support it.

[0039] Preferably, the transfer means allow the forward movement (or the withdrawal) of the column element, on which the hinge is defined, between successive positions included between a rest configuration, in which it is at the minimum distance from the vehicle and at the maximum distance from the bin, and a configuration of maximum movement away of the column element from the vehicle, that is to say, at the minimum distance from the bin, so as to allow the correct operation of the device even if the vehicle stops very far from the bin.

[0040] The direction of rotation of the framework about the column element, relative to the operating needs of the machine and the specific construction solution adopted, may be partial or reach up to approximately +/- 90°, so as to also be able to move bins positioned substantially perpendicular to the axis of the vehicle.

[0041] Still more advantageously, the extension of the movable parts perpendicular to the axis of the vehicle and the extension of the inclinable upright of the gripping unit also allows rotations with an angle greater than or less than 90° in such a way as to operate in an area not only perpendicular to the axis of the vehicle.

[0042] Advantageously, the framework has a direction of extension substantially normal relative to the direction of rotation of the hinge, in such a way as to optimise the attachment by the bin by the lifting and gripping means.

[0043] The Applicant has understood that, unlike what happens with the prior art machines, this solution also allows the perfect attachment of those bins which are not positioned parallel to the vehicle, in such a way as to make the system easy to use for the operator who will not be forced to perform specific and precise approach manoeuvres of the vehicle except for then manually correcting the position of the bin to allow the gripping to the machine with side loading.

[0044] With this articulated system which has a structure with a double extension with a central joint, the Applicant exceeds prior art machines with side loading, characterised by "rigid" gripping equipment which moves parallel to the axis of the machine.

[0045] The Applicant has, in effect, perceived that a device for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste of such a kind allows the lifting and gripping means to be positioned perfectly parallel and centred on the bin to be emptied, thus avoiding any movement and any impact or rubbing. Preferably, the device is provided with means for detecting the distance of the bin to be emptied, in such a way as to position the column element at a vertical axis, for reference as the ideal rotation of the system of this kind, which is substantially normal relative to the ground and passing through a point defined by the intersection between the projection on the ground of the direction of rotation of the hinge with the axis of symmetry of the bin, wherein the axis of symmetry is substantially perpendicular to the line joining the attachment means mounted on the bin.

[0046] Advantageously, the Applicant understood that by inclining the framework around the above-mentioned hinge, it is possible to position the lifting and gripping means in a position suitable for attaching the bin.

[0047] Considering this fact, the framework can rotate about the direction of rotation of the hinge defining an angle of amplitude variable between a minimum value of less than 10°, preferably less than 5°, even more preferably corresponding substantially to a zero angle, and a maximum value corresponding substantially to an angle of between 15° and 70°, inclusive, preferably between 30° and 60°, inclusive, even more preferably between 40° and 50°, inclusive.

[0048] Preferably, there are means for rotating the column element about its own axis of symmetry, such as rotation racks, rotary cylinders, mechanical or traditional reducers, rotations obtained with hydraulic cylinders by means of levers or racks, depending on the constructional and functional shape of the machine.

[0049] In order to be able to set the angle of inclination of the framework relative to the axis of symmetry of the column element, means are advantageously installed for adjusting the inclination, in a servo assisted manner, such as a mechanical actuator mounted between the column element and the framework, or other devices designed to generate the rotation, such as a roto-cylinder.

[0050] During normal operation, the actuator rotates, on one side, about a first pivot defined on the column element and, on the other side, about a second pivot formed on the framework, in such a way that when the actuator extends in pushing the angle of inclination increases, moving the framework away from the ground, vice versa it decreases moving the framework towards the ground and its direction of extension to be substantially parallel to the axis of symmetry of the column element. Advantageously, the bin lifting and gripping means comprise a tipping element connected to gripping arms for the attachment means of the bin. The tipping element rotates the bin about a tipping axis substantially parallel to the direction of rotation of the hinge and it is supported by a carriage which is designed to slide along the entire length of the framework, in a manner substantially parallel to the direction of extension of the framework.

[0051] In this regard, the framework comprises guide means formed along its entire length.

[0052] Another aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle for collecting waste which comprises the device for moving and emptying waste bins, described above, connected to a side of the vehicle.

[0053] Advantageously, the vehicle has a chassis for supporting the movement and emptying device.

[0054] The chassis also supports a body for containing the waste coming from emptying of the bins, provided with a hopper and a press.

[0055] Another aspect of the invention the possibility of being mounted not only on vehicles designed for collecting waste, but also on other vehicles, for example on vehicles designed for washing the bins.

[0056] Further features and advantages of the invention are more apparent in the detailed description below, with reference to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment of the device for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste, illustrated by way of example and without limiting the scope of the invention, with the aid of the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a first variant of the device 1 for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste, according to the invention, mounted on a side of a vehicle 101 for collecting waste, in the rest configuration, immediately before gripping the bin C to be moved at the minimum distance from the device 1, in a position parallel to the axis 100 of the vehicle 101, with the movable part 2A retracted and the framework 4 in a vertical position;

Figure 2 is a schematic side view of the device 1 of the preceding drawing during the operation with the bin positioned at a greater distance from the machine in a parallel position;

Figure 3 shows the device 1 of the previous drawings designed to present the bin C, already emptied, during the washing by means of a suitable apparatus mounted in the vehicle 101;

Figure 4 is a schematic side view of a second variant of the device 1, according to the invention, mounted on a side of a vehicle 101, during normal operation and provided with a four-bar linkage 22 for moving the column element 3 towards the bin C to be emptied;

Figure 5 is a schematic plan view of the device 1 of Figure 1, wherein there has not been any correction of the position since the bin C is positioned substantially parallel to the axis of extension 100 of the vehicle 101 as well as centred relative to the gripping means;

Figures 6A and 6B schematically illustrate the device of the previous drawing, wherein the gripping means are rotated by approximately 45° respectively towards the front and rear part of the vehicle 101, the bin C being positioned with an angle of (+/-)45° relative to the axis 100 of the vehicle;

Figures 7A and 7B schematically illustrate the device of Figure 5, wherein the gripping means are rotated by approximately 90° respectively towards the front part and the rear part of the vehicle 101, since the bin C is positioned with an angle of (+/-)90° relative to the axis 100 of the vehicle.



[0057] The above-mentioned drawings show a preferred embodiment of a device for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste, according to the invention, which is denoted in its entirety by the numeral 1 and which comprises, on a load-bearing frame 2 which is illustrated associated with a vehicle 101 for collecting waste, a column element 3 which rotates by means of the rack 12 about its axis of symmetry 30 and supports a framework 4.

[0058] The framework 4 can be oriented about a hinge 13 defined by a direction of rotation 10 substantially parallel to the ground T.

[0059] In practice, the direction of extension 40 of the framework 4 forms an angle α, with the axis of symmetry 30, with an amplitude variable between a minimum value of zero (or practically zero, that is to say, the direction of extension 40 is substantially parallel to the axis of symmetry 30 of the column element 3), and a maximum value of between 45° and 60° (Figures 2-4).

[0060] According to the embodiment described here, the rotation of the framework 4 about the direction 10 is actuated and adjusted by a pair of hydraulic cylinders 7 which, pivoting with the column element 3 by means of a first pivot 17' and with the framework 4 by means of a second pivot 17", allow the framework 4 to rotate about the hinge 13 drawing the angle α during operation of the device 1.

[0061] In this way, the framework 4 can be rotated about the direction of rotation 10 (Figures 5, 6A, 6B, 7A and 7B) also by a flat angle (from -90° to +90°), that is to say, until reaching two limit positions symmetrically opposite each other, if necessary to grip and move bins C positioned substantially perpendicular to the axis of extension 100 of the vehicle 101.

[0062] According to a variant embodiment, on the other hand, the rotation of the framework 4 about the direction 10 is carried out using a rotary cylinder integrated in the hinge 13.

[0063] According to this embodiment, the framework 4 is provided with a roto-cylinder 8 which tips, about a tipping axis 80 substantially parallel to the direction 10, the gripping arms 18 for the bin C; the arms 18 are suitably shaped in such a way as to have a housing 18a for attaching with the attachment means A (with a pivot) of the bin.

[0064] Advantageously, the gripping arms 18 are symmetrical relative to the axis of symmetry K of the bin C, improving the gripping of the bin C; in effect, even when the bin C is positioned in a manner not substantially parallel to the vehicle, the grip is guaranteed by the fact that the axis K coincides with the direction of extension 40 of the framework 4.

[0065] With reference in particular to Figure 2, the roto-cylinder 8 is supported by a carriage 9 which can translate on two guides 19 of the framework 4, in this case in the form of a "C". The two guides 19 are substantially parallel to each other and both extend along the direction 40, which is substantially normal relative to the direction of rotation 10.

[0066] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, in order to allow the forward movement of the column element 3 (and of the hinge 13 on which it is formed) towards the bin, that is, outside the device 1 relative to the vehicle 101, the load-bearing frame 2 has a movable frame 2A which can be extracted from a portion of the frame 2 in such a way as to be able to operate in any of the successive positions between a rest configuration, in which the outermost end of the movable parts 2A is at the minimum distance from the vehicle 101 (and at the maximum from the vehicle 101), and a configuration furthest away from the vehicle 101 (and closest to the bin).

[0067] In practice, in the rest configuration, the movable parts 2A are contained inside the load-bearing frame 2 whilst in the moving away configurations they protrude at least partly, until reaching the furthest away configuration, with the movable parts almost completely protruding from the load-bearing frame 2.

[0068] As an alternative to the use of means for translating the mobile frame 2A, as shown in Figure 4, the means for transferring the column element 3 relative to the position of the bin C comprise a four-bar linkage 22, operatively connected, by levers 22' and 22" as well as by the action of a cylinder 77, from one side with the frame 2 and, from the other side, with the element 3.

[0069] This solution allows a roto-translation of the column element 3 along the arc described by the levers 22' and 22", instead of simply translating in a direction substantially parallel to the ground.

[0070] That is to say, a translation of the axis 30 is performed simultaneously with the rotation of the framework 4, which is able to achieve the centring of the bins C positioned not parallel relative to the extension 100 of the vehicle on which the device is mounted.

[0071] In this case, too, the framework 4 can rotate about the hinge 13 in the appropriate manner.

[0072] The device 1 is also provided with measuring sensors, of per se known type, for detecting the distance between the column element 3 and the bin C.

[0073] These sensors may be laser, radar, ultrasound or optical measuring devices.

[0074] Moreover, video cameras may also be used for monitoring all the centring and coupling operations.

[0075] As shown in Figures 5-7B, during operation of the device 1, the projection of the direction of rotation 10 on the ground T and the projection of the axis of symmetry K perpendicular to the joining line W of the attachment means A on the ground T, meet on a vertical axis Z substantially normal relative to the ground T (and which in the above-mentioned drawings is represented as a point P) and which constitutes an ideal reference of rotation of the system such as this, that is to say, it acts as an axis of rotation of the column element 3.

[0076] In practice, the translation of the movable parts 2A makes it possible to position the axis of rotation of the column element 3 at the striker point P between the central axis K and the projection of the direction of rotation 10 of the movable parts 2A.

[0077] Necessarily, on the plane of the ground, the direction 40 coincides with the axis K and the point P with the representation of the vertical axis Z.

[0078] For this reason, after detecting the position of the bin C to be moved in order to position the lifting and gripping means, the mobile parts 2A (or the articulation of the levers 22' and 22" of the four-bar linkage 22) will come out until the element 3 overlaps the vertical axis Z.

[0079] Thanks to the extension of the mobile parts 2A and of the inclinable upright 4, the bin C may therefore be positioned parallel to the vehicle 101 at distances greater than the width of the vehicle 101.

[0080] The actuator means therefore move in such a way as to rotate the framework 4 by an angle substantially equal to the angle of the bin C relative to the device 1; this rotation, thanks also to the positioning of the mobile parts 2A with positioning of the axis 30 of the column 3 at P, allows the lifting and gripping means to be moved perfectly parallel and centred on the bin. The inclination of the framework 4 therefore allows the positioning of the lifting and gripping means at the predetermined distance for coupling the bin C.

[0081] In order to correctly mount the device, preferably to the side, on the vehicle 101 for collecting waste, there must be a chassis 103 for supporting the device 1 associated with at least a portion of the frame 2. The chassis 103 will also support a body 102 for containing the waste coming from emptying of the bins C and provided with a hopper and a press 104 inside it.

[0082] From the above description it may be seen how the invention achieves the preset purpose and aims and in particular it should be noted that a device is made for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste which overcomes all the problems and drawbacks described above and which therefore allows the bins to be lifted and repositioned without carrying out any movement from the original position of the bin.

[0083] In particular, the making of a central articulated system, which is able to be moved away from and towards the waste bins to be moved, allows the gripping means to be positioned in a perfectly parallel and centred manner on the bin to be emptied, thus avoiding any movement and any impact or rubbing.

[0084] An advantage of the device of this type is to allow the movement of bins at greater distances (relative to the prior art) from the collecting vehicle, thanks to the double extension obtained with the translation of the support 2A and the subsequent opening with rotation of the framework 4.

[0085] Another advantage of the device, according to the invention, is due to the fact that it allows the bins to be moved towards and aligned with each other, reducing the gap between each other, optimising the overall dimensions of the areas destined to house the bins, with a decidedly improved aesthetic and functional impact, especially in historic towns or with old urban designs. Moreover, the reduction in the dimensions due to the lack of spaces, but also the need to set up stations for separated collection of the waste with small dimensions and in an orderly fashion, increases the quality of the urban environment. Moreover, the correct alignment of the bins, which no longer encroach on the roadway, not only guarantee a better aesthetic appearance, but avoid the occurrence of risks for the users, for pedestrians and for all the vehicles which travel along the road.

[0086] Another advantage of these devices for moving and emptying the bins is that they are operatively very flexible, allowing, without any limitation, the use of all the lifting connections, both with front attachment (comb-like, wedge, of the "Diamond ®" type, etc.) and side attachment (pin, pocket, etc.).

[0087] Moreover, depending on the type of attachment used, this device allows a further micro-adjustment of the centring for all the front attachments mounted on a plate, providing the attachment holder plate with a right/left translational device for the plate.

[0088] Another advantage of the invention is that it also allows the use of bins with front attachments or with attachments with a front entry such as the stationary bins with a pocket type attachment (bins used mainly with front loader equipment), which would otherwise be difficult to use with current machines. In particular, the bins with pocket type lifting devices have the advantage of having lower production costs and require simpler gripping systems whilst guaranteeing a greater movement safety compared with the other gripping systems since, due to physical characteristics, they do not require auxiliary locking systems.

[0089] In addition to this, since such a device can advantageously be made completely separate from the waste collection box, the vehicle in this case is set up, as well as with fixed box and unloading system by expulsion, also with fixed tipping box, or with interchangeable box which can be unloaded; the possibility of having an unloading system by tipping, which can be achieved both in the set up with tipping box and in the set up with the system with interchangeable box which can be unloaded, it simplifies the discharge of the waste, guaranteeing the total escape of the waste liquid. Moreover, the set-up with interchangeable boxes which can be unloaded, as well as being able to specialise the bins for different separated waste collection, also allows simple transport vehicles to be used to carry out the transfer of the waste to the treatment plants, thus reducing transport costs.

[0090] Yet another aim of the invention is to provide equipment for moving and emptying waste collection bins which guarantees the movement of bins with known gripping and lifting devices or with other new devices which, for constructional simplicity and modularity, can be set up on all the types of chassis present on the market of different sizes and load-bearing capacities.

[0091] The invention can be modified and adapted in several ways without thereby departing from the scope of the inventive concept.

[0092] Moreover, all the details of the invention may be substituted by other technically equivalent elements.

[0093] In practice, the materials used, as well as the dimensions, may be of any type, depending on requirements, provided that they are consistent with their production purposes.


Claims

1. A device (1) for moving and emptying bins for collecting waste comprising, on a load-bearing frame (2) designed to be associated with a vehicle (101) for collecting waste:

a column element (3) rotatable about its axis of symmetry (30) using means (12) for rotation and supporting for a framework (4);

said framework (4) being able to be oriented, relative to said axis of symmetry (30), about a hinge (13), which in turn defines a direction of rotation (10) substantially parallel to the ground (T);

lifting and gripping means (8, 9, 18, 19) for a bin (C) of the waste to be emptied, connected to said framework (4); and

means (2A, 22) for transferring said column element (3) and said hinge (13) relative to the position of said bin (C).


 
2. The device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said transfer means (2A, 22) are designed to allow the forward movement of said column element (3) between successive positions between a rest configuration, in which said column element (3) is at the minimum distance from said vehicle (101), and a configuration in which said column element (3) is furthest away from said vehicle (101).
 
3. The device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said transfer means (2A, 22) comprise at least one movable part (2A) connected inside a portion of said load-bearing frame (2) in such a way that, in said rest configuration, said movable part (2A) is contained inside said load-bearing frame (2) and in said furthest away configuration, said movable part (2A) comes out almost completely from said load-bearing frame (2).
 
4. The device (1) according to claim 2, wherein said transfer means (2A, 22) comprise at least one four-bar linkage (22) operatively connected on one side to said load-bearing frame (2) and, on the other side, to said column element (3), in such a way as to produce a roto-translation of said column element (3) along the arc described by the levers (22', 22") of said four-bar linkage (22).
 
5. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising means for detecting the distance between said transfer means (2A, 22) and said bin (C), in such a way as to position, using said transfer means (2A, 22), said column element (3) at a vertical axis (Z) substantially normal relative to the ground (T) and passing through a point (P), said point (P) being an intersection between the projection on the ground (T) of said direction of rotation (10) with the axis of symmetry (K) of said bin (C) substantially perpendicular to the joining line (W) of the attachment means (A) for the mechanical lifting mounted on said bin (C).
 
6. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said framework (4) extending along the direction of extension (40) of said framework (4) relative to the direction of rotation (10) of said hinge (13), said framework (4) preferably being able to be oriented relative to the direction of rotation (10) by means of inclination adjustment means (7, 17', 17").
 
7. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lifting and gripping means (8, 9, 18, 19) comprise a tipping element (8) connected to pickup arms (18) for said bin (C), said tipping element being supported by at least one carriage (9), designed to be translated along guide means (19) formed on said framework (4).
 
8. The device (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein said guide means (19) comprise at least one guide (19) formed along the direction of extension (40) of said framework (4).
 
9. A vehicle (101) for collecting waste and/or the washing of bins (C) previously emptied comprising a device (1) for moving and emptying bins (C) for the waste, according to any one of the preceding claims.
 
10. The vehicle (101) according to the preceding claim, comprising a chassis (103) designed to support said device (1).
 




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Search report