WO2006032073A1

WO2006032073A1 - Apparatus and method for receiving and storing recyclable product

Info

Publication number: WO2006032073A1
Application number: PCT/AU2004/001293
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ilan Ben-Menashe
Original assignee: Devise Properties Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2004-09-22
Filing date: 2004-09-22
Publication date: 2006-03-30
Also published as: AU2004323564A1

Abstract

An apparatus for receiving and storing recyclable products for collection, including a storage station (1) having sides and a base (34) defining a confinement volume having a top opening (7), and a removable storage unit (2) supportable substantially within the station. The removable storage unit (2) includes at least one storage container (8) adapted to receive, store and unload a recyclable product. Preferably, the removable storage unit includes a plurality of the storage containers (8, 8), each able to receive and subsequently release the corresponding recyclable product independently of or substantially simultaneously with the other storage containers. The removable storage unit (2) also preferably includes a lifting hoop (12) for lifting it out of the storage station (1), and the bottom (13) of each storage container includes a re-sealable opening through which to permit unloading of the recyclables after the removal storage unit (2) is lifted.

Description

"APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RECEIVING AND STORING RECYCLABLE PRODUCT"

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for receiving and storing waste product, and particularly recyclable waste product. The invention has been primarily developed as part of a system for segregated collecting and storing of various recyclable products to facilitate recycling. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

The following discussion of the prior art is provided in order to place the invention in an appropriate technical context, and enable the advantages of it to be properly understood. However, any reference to prior art throughout the specification should not be construed as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field.

There are various known types of units for collection and storage of recyclable products. Most of them are directed to a single type of recyclable material. Consequently, the segregated collection and storage of different materials requires the use of a plurality of discrete units. This usually necessitates a corresponding number of collection vehicles or site trips, and longer processing times when emptying the units.

Systems employing a plurality of storage containers are also known. Typically, however, they use rigid storage containers of fixed size and capacity. Substituting such a container with a container of different size is difficult or, often, impossible. In addition, the rigid structure of these containers makes them inflexible with regard to the maximum quantity of recyclable material they can accommodate.

Another serious disadvantage of many known systems relates to the fact that they have an "open top" configuration. Other systems include removable or openable covers. However, these covers are often left open or lost. The lack of permanent coverage of the deposited recyclables is associated with numerous problems, such as unpleasant odours, fly or other insect infestations, and rain infiltration. Such systems are also susceptible to fire and can be easily vandalised. An additional disadvantage of many commonly known recyclables units is their relatively small size. Consequently, they can be easily washed away by flooding, as they are usually not anchored in position. The small size also makes these containers prone to overflow of the recyclable contents. Once overflow has occurred, the containers are not only unsightly, but can also represent a significant health hazard. In addition, their servicing requires a large number of site trips, which is cost ineffective and causes high levels of vehicle emissions and noise pollution.

It is an object of the present invention to overcome or substantially ameliorate one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art, or at least to provide a useful alternative.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for receiving and storing a recyclable product for collection, the apparatus including: a storage station having sides and a base defining a confinement volume having a top opening; and a removable storage unit supportable substantially within the station, the unit including at least one storage container adapted to receive, store and unload a recyclable product.

Preferably, the storage unit includes a plurality of such storage containers, each adapted to receive, store and unload a different recyclable product for recycling. Preferably, each of the storage containers is able to receive and subsequently release the corresponding recyclable product independently of or substantially simultaneously with the other containers.

In one preferred embodiment, the sides and the base of the storage station are formed by a surrounding body of material, such as earth, concrete, gravel, rock, clay, or the like. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the sides and the base of the storage station are formed by a main container adapted to receive and support the storage unit substantially within the confinement volume.

Preferably, the storage unit is adapted to be lifted out of the storage station to facilitate unloading of the recyclables from the respective storage containers. More preferably, the storage unit includes a lifting hoop for lifting the storage unit out of the storage station to facilitate unloading of the recyclables from the respective storage containers.

Preferably, the bottom of each of the storage containers includes a re-sealable opening through which to permit unloading of the recyclables after the storage unit is lifted.

Preferably, at least one of the storage containers is removably mounted to enable replaceability.

Preferably, at least one of the storage containers is replaceable with a container of a size different from that of the original container.

Preferably, the storage unit includes a dome-shaped cover for covering and preferably substantially sealing the storage containers. More preferably, the cover is fixedly attached to the storage unit so as to cover the containers substantially permanently. In alternative embodiments, however, the cover may be hingedly attached, or removable.

Preferably the main container includes a peripheral rim, adapted to supportingly engage the storage unit. Preferably also, the cover includes a sealing lip engageable with the rim to cover and substantially seal the main container.

Preferably, the cover includes a number of openings corresponding to the number of containers, each opening being adapted to receive and direct a particular type of recyclables to a respective storage container supported therebeneath. Preferably, each opening includes a safety panel adapted to substantially prevent hand access to the respective storage container through the opening.

More preferably, each of the openings includes a water resistant automated closure mechanism such that in a storage configuration each container is substantially closed. In a preferred form, each closure mechanism includes a safety guard, the safety guard substantially covering the opening to prevent access to its respective storage container when the closure mechanism is in an open configuration, and the safety guard uncovering the opening to allow the opening to receive and direct the recyclables to its respective storage container when the closure mechanism moves from the open configuration to the storage configuration. Preferably, the safety guard is a receptacle adapted to hold recyclables when the closure mechanism is in its open configuration. More preferably, the receptacle is a shallow tray.

Preferably, the storage containers are bags and the opening at the bottom of each bag includes a plurality of complementary petal sections, adapted for collective closure by tightening of a drawstring and for automated self-opening upon release of the drawstring.

Preferably, a cam cleat mechanism is adapted to captively retain the drawstring and thereby to normally maintain the bags in a closed storage configuration. More preferably, the cam cleat mechanism includes a cam cleat formation, guiding means in the form of a rubber hose, a stopper formation limiting the axial movement of the hose, the stopper formation being in the form of an aluminium plate having a guide channel, and securing means in the form of a Velcro tape for securing the drawstring in a captive configuration.

In an alternative preferred embodiment, each bag includes a strap adapted to hold a folded over lower portion of the bag thereby retaining the opening at the bottom of the bag in a normally closed storage configuration. Preferably, each bag also includes a releasable retaining buckle adapted to normally retain the strap, maintaining the bag in the normally closed storage configuration, and to release the strap upon actuation of the buckle allowing the bottom of the bag to open. More preferably, the buckle includes a release drawstring to facilitate actuation of the buckle to release the strap.

Preferably, each bag includes an internal escape means. Preferably, the internal escape means is visible in the dark. More preferably, the internal escape means is in the form of an internal ladder.

Preferably, the storage unit includes a base frame, supported by the rim of the main container and a number of supporting frames, corresponding to the number of containers, for supporting the storage bags.

More preferably, the base frame and the supporting frames are rigid and are fixedly connected to each other. Even more preferably, the supporting frames are rings. Preferably, each storage bag includes a sleeved peripheral lip defining the opening at the top of the bag for mounting the bag to the storage unit. More preferably, the sleeved peripheral lip is adapted to fit over the respective supporting ring. Preferably, the apparatus further includes a liquid container for gathering any residual liquids leaking from the storage containers. More preferably, the liquid container is removably located in the main container underneath the storage containers.

In an alternative preferred embodiment, the bottom of the storage station includes a liquid collection portion, and the storage station is adapted to drain any liquid to the liquid collection portion.

Preferably, the main container includes a convex bottom with at least one radial channel such that any liquid is primarily contained around the peripheral edge of the bottom of the main container. Alternatively, the bottom of the storage station may be concavely curved or otherwise adapted to drain any liquid to a central liquid collection portion.

Also preferably, the main container includes means for evacuating any accumulated liquid from the liquid collection portion. More preferably, the evacuating means include a drain pipe for evacuation of the liquid by suction. Other arrangements, such evacuation by pump or gravity feed, can also be adopted.

Preferably, at least one of the storage bags includes a single-use waste bag enclosed within the storage bag to receive and store the recyclables such that during unloading the waste bag is extracted and discarded together with the recyclables.

Preferably, the main container is made of metal, plastic or fibreglass.

Preferably, the base frame and the supporting frames are made of metal, plastic or fibreglass.

Preferably, the cover is made of metal, plastic or fibreglass.

Preferably, the bags are made of a woven material.

More preferably, the bags are made of fire resistant material, such as polypropylene or polyethylene.

Preferably, the apparatus further includes means for releasing an insect repellent or odour suppressant inside the main container. Preferably, the main container is adapted to be partially or folly buried in the ground.

Preferably, the main container is anchored to the ground. In one preferred embodiment of, the main container includes an outwardly directed peripheral anchoring flange to facilitate anchoring of the main container to the ground. Preferably, the sides of the main container taper outwardly towards the bottom of the main container to facilitate anchoring of the main container to the ground. More preferably, the main container includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced, outwardly protruding peripheral anchoring ribs for anchoring the main container to the ground.

Preferably, the apparatus further includes an automatic fire extinguisher located inside the storage station. More preferably, the automatic fire extinguisher is activated by the temperature inside the storage station exceeding a predetermined threshold level.

Preferably, the apparatus further includes water level measuring means for measuring the water level surrounding the storage station. Preferably, the water level measuring means includes an external pipe in fluid communication with the surroundings, and an internal rod contained within the external pipe, the internal rod being measurably movable upon fluid ingress into the external pipe. More preferably, the external pipe is mounted substantially vertically. Even more preferably, the internal rod is of substantially the same length as the external pipe such that upon water ingress into the external pipe, the internal rod moves upwardly beyond the top of the external pipe. It is also preferred that the water level measuring means includes a removable cap applicable to the top opening of the external pipe for closing the top opening when the water level measuring means is not in use.

Preferably, the apparatus further includes a reporting unit adapted to acquire and transmit environmental data from the apparatus to a remote location. Preferably, the reporting unit includes a temperature sensor. Preferably, the reporting unit includes a light sensor. Preferably, the reporting unit includes means to measure the remaining capacity of each storage container. More preferably, the reporting unit transmits data over a wireless transmission network to the remote location. According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a method for storage and collection of a plurality of different recyclable products, the method including the steps of: providing an apparatus for storage and collection of a plurality of different recyclable products as defined above; periodically collecting the different recyclable products by removal of the storage unit from the storage station, and depositing the recyclable products in a collection vehicle for removal; and repositioning the storage unit in the storage station.

Preferably, the recyclable products are removed from the storage unit by opening the bottoms of the storage containers to permit release of the recyclable products into corresponding segregated compartments in the collection vehicle.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a system including an apparatus for storage and collection of a plurality of different recyclable products as defined above, and a collection vehicle having a lifting device adapted to remove the storage unit from the storage station, and corresponding compartments adapted to receive the respective recyclable products from the storage containers and to transport the recyclable products in a segregated state.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 is a perspective schematic exploded view of a typical apparatus, according to the invention;

Fig. 2 is a partially cut-away perspective view of the removable storage unit, according to the invention;

Fig. 3 a is a top view, Fig. 3b is a side cross-sectional view and Fig. 3 c is an underside view of the removable storage unit (the bags are not included);

Figs. 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d are schematic views of the consecutive stages of unloading of the storage bags. Fig. 5 a and Fig. 5b are schematic perspective side views of the opening at the bottom of the storage bags, respectively in closed and open configuration;

Fig. 6a and 6b are schematic views of the cam cleat mechanism;

Fig. 7a, Fig. 7b and Fig. 7c are schematic views of an internal flap door, an external hatch door and an external hatch door with a safety guard, respectively, as a part of the cover of the removable storage unit;

Fig. 8a is a plan view and Fig. 8b is a cross-sectional view of the bottom of the main container, according to the invention;

Fig.9 is a cross-sectional view of the main container, according to the invention, including a suction pipe attached to its sidewall;

Fig. 10 is a schematic perspective side view of another embodiment of the storage bags, in a closed configuration;

Fig. 11 is an enlarged front view of the buckle of the closing mechanism of the embodiment shown in Fig. 10;

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the main container;

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the main container;

Fig. 14 is a partial schematic sectional view of the water level measuring means.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the drawings, and in particular to Figure 1, the invention provides an apparatus for storage and collection of a plurality of different recyclable products, including a storage station, in the form of a main container 1, and a removable storage unit 2 supportable substantially within the container. The main container is typically a right cylinder with an open top. It is made of a strong material such as metal, plastic or fibreglass and is usually partially or fully buried in the ground 3. As best shown in Figure 12, the sides 4 of the main container taper outwardly towards the bottom to facilitate anchoring of the main container to the ground. The main container also includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced outwardly protruding peripheral anchoring ribs 5 for anchoring the main container to the ground. In an alternative embodiment, as shown in Figure 13, the main container includes an outwardly directed peripheral anchoring flange 6 to facilitate anchoring of the main container to the ground, hi addition, this alternative embodiment includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced peripheral anchoring ribs 5. The peripheral anchoring flange 6 may be formed as part of the main container or may be provided as a separate component fastened to the main container using suitable fastening means such as adhesives, rivets, bolts or thermoplastic welds.

The open top of the container defines a peripheral rim 7 adapted to support the storage unit 2. The unit includes a plurality of storage containers in the form of bags 8. Each bag is adapted to receive, store and unload a different recyclable product (not shown) independently of or substantially simultaneously with the other bags. It will be appreciated that the number of bags can vary depending on the number of recyclable materials that are to be collected.

In this particular embodiment, the storage station has been specified as a container, hi general, however, the station can simply be defined as a confinement volume having a top opening. A hole in the ground is a good example of such configuration. The confinement volume can thereby be defined by any surrounding body of material, such as earth, concrete, gravel, rock or clay. The important feature is that the storage station is adapted to receive and support the storage unit substantially within the confinement volume.

The storage unit itself includes a base frame 9, removably engageable with the supporting rim 7 of the main container, and four supporting rings 10 for attaching the storage bags 8, as best shown in Figure 2, Figure 3b and Figure 3c. The number of the rings typically corresponds to the number of bags. Each bag includes a sleeved peripheral lip 11 defining the opening at the top of the bag. The sleeved peripheral lip is adapted to fit over the respective supporting ring. This spreads the load in the bag around the top opening of the bag.

The base frame and the supporting rings are rigid and are fixedly connected to each other. The storage unit also includes a lifting hoop 12, fixedly connected to the supporting frame. The hoop allows for lifting and moving of the storage unit in order to facilitate unloading of the storage bags, as best shown in Figure 4. The unloading is done through a re-sealable opening 13 at the bottom of each bag, as best shown in Figure 5. In one preferred embodiment, the opening includes a plurality of complementary petal sections 14 adapted for collective closure by tightening of a drawstring 15. A cam cleat mechanism 16 is adapted to captively retain the drawstring and thereby to maintain the bags in a closed storage configuration, as shown in Figure 6. The mechanism includes a cam cleat formation 17, guiding means, a stopper formation limiting the axial movement of the guiding means, and securing means for securing the drawstring in a captive configuration. The guiding means in this embodiment are in the form of a rubber hose 18. The stopper formation includes an aluminium plate 19 having a guide channel 20 for guiding the drawstring. The securing means in this embodiment include a Velcro tape 21. The release of the drawstring triggers the opening of the petals. The opening of each bag is further facilitated by the weight of the recyclable material accumulated in the bag.

hi an alternative embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, each bag includes a strap 22 adapted to hold a folded over lower portion 23 of the bag, thereby releasably retaining the opening at the bottom of the bag in a normally closed configuration. As shown in Figure 11, each bag also includes a releasable retaining buckle 24 adapted normally to retain the strap, maintaining the bag in a normally closed storage configuration. Lifting of the buckle releases the strap allowing the bottom of the bag to open. The buckle includes a release drawstring 25 to facilitate lifting of the buckle to release the strap. As before, the opening of each bag is further facilitated by the weight of the recyclable material accumulated in the bag.

Single-use disposable waste bags (not shown) can be enclosed within the storage bags to receive and store the recyclables such that, during unloading, each disposable waste bag is extracted from the surrounding reusable storage bag and discarded together with the recyclables. Advantageously, when the storage unit is lifted, the bags can be easily removed and replaced with bags of the same or different size.

The bags also include internal escape means in the form of an internal ladder 26 to allow a person to escape from the bag. It is also preferred that the ladder is visible in the dark. This can be achieved by coating the ladder with phosphorescent material. The storage unit also includes a dome-shaped cover 27 for the storage bags, as shown in

Figure 1 and Figure 2. The cover is fixedly attached to the base frame 9 and includes a lip 28 adapted to engage with the rim 7 so as to sealingly cover the main container 1. The cover also includes a number of openings 29 corresponding to the number of bags, each opening having a specific shape and being adapted to receive and direct a particular type of recyclables to a respective one of the storage containers. Each of the openings can include an automated closure mechanism 30, such that in the normal storage configuration, each container is substantially closed. Some possible configurations involve flap or hatch doors, as shown in Figure 7. A hatch, for example can use the force of gravity for self-closing. It will be normally round and will allow large bulk items to be deposited. A rigid vertical flap, also using the force of gravity for self-closing, can be used for providing vertical openings, as shown in Figure 7a. Spring-loaded flaps can also be used. Examples of suitably shaped openings include rectangular openings, for newspapers and cardboard boxes, and round openings for bottles. Hatches, using foot pedals for opening, and self-closure by gravity can also be employed.

As shown in Figure 7a, the opening 29 can optionally include a safety panel in the form of an inwardly extending ledge 31 adapted to substantially prevent hand access to the respective storage container, hi other embodiments, the closure mechanism 30 can include a safety guard that substantially covers the opening to prevent access to the respective storage container when the closure mechanism is in an open configuration. As shown in Figure 7c, the safety guard can be in the form of a shallow tray 32 adapted to hold recyclables as it covers the opening. As the closure mechanism moves from its open configuration to its storage configuration, the safety tray uncovers the opening allowing the opening to receive and direct the recyclables to its respective storage container.

Water resistant closure mechanisms are preferred to prevent rainwater or other liquids from penetrating the bags and the main container. This reduces the release of unpleasant odours and makes the recyclables less susceptible to the flies, rats, mice and other pests. This is a substantial advantage, especially in hotter climates.

The apparatus can also include release means for slow release of an insect repellent inside the main container. The release means (not shown) typically include a repellent storage container, repellent-release controller and a conduit for distributed release of the repellent.

The apparatus further includes a liquid container 33 for gathering any residual liquids leaking from the recyclables in the bags. The liquid container is removably located in the main container under the storage bags, as shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, the bottom 34 of the storage station includes a liquid collection portion 35, and the storage station is adapted to drain any liquid to the liquid collection portion. In one embodiment, the bottom 34 of the main container has a convex shape and includes four radial channels 36 directing any liquid to the collection portion 35 located around the peripheral edge 37, as shown in Figure 8. In another embodiment (not shown), the bottom of the storage station has a concave shape to drain any liquid to a central liquid collection portion. The container further includes a suction pipe 38 fixedly or removably attached to the sidewall 39 of the container, as shown in Figure 9. A suction pump can be periodically attached to the top end of the pipe for conveniently evacuating the accumulated liquids in the peripheral collection portion 35. Other methods, such as draining openings in the bottom section of the container, can also be used for removal of accumulated liquids.

Optionally, the apparatus can include water level measuring means for measuring the water level surrounding the storage station. This is especially advantageous in areas where the water table is prone to flooding. Figure 14 shows a partially buried main container with a water level measuring means including an external pipe 40 in fluid communication with the surroundings, and an internal rod 41 contained within the external pipe. The external pipe is buried substantially vertically beside the buried main container 1 with its lower end 42 substantially level with the bottom of the main container 34. The upper end 43 is at ground level or marginally protruding above ground level and the internal rod is of substantially the same length as the external pipe. When the water level 44 rises above the bottom of the external pipe, water flows into the external pipe causing the internal rod to move upwardly beyond the top of the external pipe. This allows water levels above the bottom of the storage station to be measured. The local excess water can then be pumped out avoiding flooding of the storage station. Damage to the main container due to the upward pressure of flood water can also be avoided.

The main container 1, the base frame 9, the rings 10, the hoop 12 and the cover 27 are typically made of strong and tough materials, such as metal, plastic or fibreglass. The bags are strong, but substantially flexible and are usually made of woven, preferably fire resistant materials, such as polypropylene or polyethylene fibres. To further reduce fire hazards, the apparatus can also include an automatic fire extinguisher (not shown) activated when the apparatus reaches a predetermined temperature. In another preferred embodiment, the apparatus further includes a reporting unit adapted to acquire and transmit environmental data from the apparatus to a remote location. Typical environmental data includes temperature, light level and the remaining capacity of each storage bag. Preferably, the data is transmitted over a wireless transmission network to the remote location. This allows the apparatus to be monitored remotely and to improve its use. For example, the monitoring of the temperature in the storage station can help detect the onset of fire. Light levels in each storage bag can be monitored to detect whether the corresponding closure on the storage unit cover has been left open. Monitoring of the remaining capacity in each storage bag enables more efficient collection of the recyclables from the apparatus.

The main purpose of the apparatus, as described above, is to facilitate the segregated receipt and relatively long-term storage of recyclables, including putrescible materials. Accordingly, it is particularly advantageous to local councils for the management of recyclable waste in multi-unit housing developments, parks, reserves or other recreational areas.

It will be appreciated, that the apparatus and the method for using it can be employed as part of a larger waste sorting and recycling system. Effective use of such a system involves installing a plurality of units at multiple locations and using special vehicles, adapted to maintain the segregation of the recyclable materials, to periodically collect the accumulated recyclable waste and deliver it to the recycling facility.

The size of a single unit can vary, however it is typically within the range of 500 - 10000 litres. The size and weight of such units necessitate the use of a crane to unload the recyclable materials, as shown in Figure 4. In particular, the unloading process involves lifting the storage unit and moving it to a position where each bag can be separately unloaded through the respective bottom opening. Because the main purpose of the apparatus is directed to the segregated collection and storage of different types of materials, the bags are usually unloaded in a consecutive manner in different receiving containers. However, a substantially simultaneous unloading of all bags can also be effected, if necessary.

Advantageously, the flexibility of the walls of the bags can offer some additional benefits related to the functionality of the apparatus. For example, because of the flexibility of the walls, the amount of storage space available in each of the bags can depend on the amount of recyclables enclosed in the other bags. This feature allows certain flexibility in situations where the quantities of the various types of recyclable products are difficult to predict. This is so because within a combination of large and flexible bags, one bag is able to accommodate a larger than average amount of a particular recyclable material, at the expense of the smaller potential volume available for the rest of the recyclable materials. The main limitation in this case is that the maximum volume available for all recyclable materials is still defined by the combined volume of the main container.

Also advantageously, the apparatus is resistant to vandalism and breakage. The main container is usually buried approximately 1.5 metres in the ground and can include one or more anchoring means to facilitate its anchoring to the ground. This also makes the unauthorised moving of the container very difficult even for a large group of people. The storage unit is also relatively heavy and difficult to move, even when the bags are empty. The dome shaped cover will generally discourage unauthorised people from climbing on the apparatus. Furthermore, the apparatus is made of very strong materials, such as metal or high-density plastics (the plastic parts are typically of 8-12mm thickness). Accordingly, even in the event of unauthorised climbing onto the apparatus, the cover can support the weight of several adults. The various flaps are made of metal and are similarly breakage resistant.

The system is also heat and fire resistant. The fact that the bags are almost hermetically sealed within the main container limits the amount of available oxygen and makes an eventual fire unsustainable.

Advantageously, the apparatus will be aesthetically designed such that to blend with the landscape. For example, the section of the outside wall of the main container that extends above the ground can have fence-like timber planks attached to it. The round shapes and the pleasant design will render any decorative coverings unnecessary and contribute to the reduction of the overall cost.

Example:

The advantages of the invention will be easily understood by considering the following case study: Consider a park located in a metropolitan city, having 10 recycling stations across the park. Conventional waste stations are usually unattractive, bulky and have limited capacity. Each such station typically has 5 wheelie bins (for different products) with capacity 240 ltr each, hence 50 bins for the recycling stations. This gives a peak capacity of 12,000 litres.

The apparatus, subject to this invention, would use 10 units of approx 3000 litres each for recycling all materials in a single unit. This gives a total capacity of 30,000 litres. This solution is far more elegant and space efficient, as well as significantly more cost-effective, as can be seen from the illustrative figures below.

If on average a collection happens once per week (note that each collection is 2 distinct truck trips to separate recyclables from putrescibles), then the fixed annual cost for collection is 52 x 696 = $36192 ($3016 per month).

By contrast, the present invention can limit the number of collections to maximum of 24 per year. Since the cost of each collection is estimated to be approximately $967, the overall cost per year will be $23214.

Annual Comparative Costs:

Current wheelie bins: $36192 (monthly $3016)

Proposed recycling stn: $23214 (monthly $ 1934)

Dollar Savings: $12978 per annum

Percentage Savings: $35.8% per annum

The new unit is also associated with a drastic reduction in the number of times a rubbish truck will need to enter the Park. It can be shown that the truck will need to enter the park a maximum of 24 times per year. This is because of the high capacity of the system and because picnic rubbish and recyclables are collected in the one trip (without mixing). Currently, there are well over 100 trips needed to collect all refuse material from the Park. This high frequency is very costly, as well as harmful to the wildlife and disruptive to park visitors. The invention thus provides a complete recyclable disposal unit and associated system for segregated collection and storage of a plurality of different waste products for the purpose of subsequent recycling. The use of larger bags allows putrescible materials to the stored on-site for periods of weeks, rather than only a few days. It will be appreciated that the apparatus described above has flexibility of changing the capacities of the storage bags quickly and easily. The method of unloading involves opening of the bottom of the storage bags. This allows the use of a cover that substantially permanently seals not only the bags, but also the main container (the container is open only during unloading). This cover helps to protect the unit from vandalism and water penetration. The unpleasant odours and fly infestations are also dramatically reduced. Overall, the apparatus and the method will help to reduce the frequency of waste collection from public places and result in substantial cost savings. The invention therefore represents a practical and commercially significant improvement over the prior art.

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.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. Apparatus for receiving and storing a recyclable product for collection, said apparatus including: a storage station having sides and a base defining a confinement volume having a top opening; and a removable storage unit supportable substantially within said station, said unit including at least one storage container adapted to receive, store and unload a recyclable product.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said storage unit includes a plurality of said storage containers, each adapted to receive, store and unload a different recyclable product for recycling.

3. Apparatus according to claim 2, wherein each of said storage containers is able to receive and subsequently release the corresponding recyclable product independently of or substantially simultaneously with the other said containers.

4. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sides and the base of said storage station are formed by a surrounding body of material.

5. Apparatus according to claim 4 wherein said material is earth, concrete, gravel, rock, clay etc.

6. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the sides and the base of said storage station are formed by a main container adapted to receive and support the storage unit substantially within the confinement volume.

7. Apparatus according to claim 6 wherein said main container is adapted to be partially or fully buried in the ground.

8. Apparatus according to claim 7 wherein said main container is anchored to the ground.

9. Apparatus according to claim 8 wherein said main container includes an outwardly directed peripheral anchoring flange to facilitate anchoring of said main container to the ground.

10. Apparatus according to claim 8 or claim 9 wherein the sides of said main container taper outwardly towards the bottom of said main container to facilitate anchoring of said main container to the ground.

11. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 8 to 10 wherein said main container includes an outwardly protruding peripheral anchoring rib for anchoring said main container to the ground.

12. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 8 to 10 wherein said main container includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced outwardly protruding peripheral anchoring ribs for anchoring said main container to the ground.

13. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 6 to 12 wherein said main container is generally right cylindrical in shape.

14. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 6 to 13 wherein said main container is made of metal, plastic or fibreglass.

15. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said storage unit is adapted to be lifted out of said storage station to facilitate unloading of the recyclables from the respective storage containers.

16. Apparatus according to claim 15, wherein said storage unit includes a lifting hoop for lifting said storage unit out of said storage station to facilitate unloading of the recyclables from the respective storage containers.

17. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bottom of each of said storage containers includes a re-sealable opening through which to permit unloading of the recyclables after the storage unit is lifted.

18. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the storage containers is removably mounted to allow for its replaceability.

19. Apparatus according to claim 18 wherein at least one of the storage containers is replaceable with a container of size different from that of the original container.

20. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said storage unit includes a generally dome-shaped cover for substantially covering the storage containers.

21. Apparatus according to claim 20 wherein said cover is fixedly attached to said storage unit so as to cover said containers substantially permanently.

22. Apparatus according to claim 20 wherein said cover is hingedly attached to said storage unit.

23. Apparatus according to claim 20 wherein said cover is removable from said storage unit.

24. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 20 to 23 wherein said cover substantially seals said containers.

25. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 20 to 24 wherein said storage station includes a peripheral rim, adapted to supportingly engage said storage unit.

26. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein said cover includes a sealing lip engageable with said rim to cover and seal said storage station.

27. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 20 to 26 wherein said cover includes a number of openings corresponding to the number of containers, each opening being adapted to receive and direct a particular type of recyclables to a respective storage container.

28. Apparatus according to claim 27 wherein each said opening includes a safety panel adapted to substantially prevent hand access to said respective storage container through said opening.

29. Apparatus according to claim 27 or claim 28 wherein each of said openings includes an automated closure mechanism such that in a storage configuration each said container is substantially closed.

30. Apparatus according to claim 29 wherein said closure mechanisms are substantially water resistant.

31. Apparatus according to claim 29 or claim 30 wherein each said closure mechanism includes a safety guard, said safety guard substantially covering said opening to prevent access to said respective storage container when said closure mechanism is in an open configuration, and said safety guard uncovering said opening to allow said opening to receive and direct the recyclables to said respective storage container when said closure mechanism moves from said open configuration to said storage configuration.

32. Apparatus according to claim 31 wherein said safety guard is a receptacle adapted to hold recyclables when said closure mechanism is in said open configuration.

33. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 20 to 32 wherein said cover is formed from a substantially rigid material.

34. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 20 to 33 wherein said cover is made of metal, plastic or fibreglass.

35. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said storage containers are bags.

36. Apparatus according to claim 35 wherein the opening at the bottom of each said bag includes a plurality of complementary petal sections adapted for collective closure by tightening of a drawstring and for automated self-opening upon release of the drawstring.

37. Apparatus according to claim 36 including a cam cleat mechanism adapted to captively retain the drawstring and to thereby normally maintain said bags in a closed storage configuration.

38. Apparatus according to claim 37 wherein said cam cleat mechanism includes a cam cleat formation, guiding means in the form of a flexible tube, a stopper formation limiting the axial movement of the hose, the stopper formation being in the form of an plate having a guide channel, and securing means in the form of a Velcro tape for securing the drawstring in a captive configuration.

39. Apparatus according to claim 35 wherein each said bag includes a strap adapted to hold a folded over lower portion of said bag thereby closing the opening at the bottom of said bag into a normally closed configuration.

40. Apparatus according to claim 39 wherein each said bag also includes a releasable retaining buckle adapted to normally retain said strap, maintaining said bag in a normally closed storage configuration, and to release said strap upon actuation of said buckle allowing the bottom of said bag to open.

41. Apparatus according to claim 40 wherein said buckle includes a release drawstring to facilitate actuation of the buckle to release the strap.

42. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 35 to 41 wherein each bag includes an internal escape means.

43. Apparatus according to claim 42 wherein said internal escape means is visible in the dark.

44. Apparatus according to claim 42 or claim 43 wherein said internal escape means is in the form of an internal ladder.

45. Apparatus according to anyone of claims 35 to 44 wherein said bags are made of a woven material.

46. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 35 to 45 wherein said bags are made of fire resistant material.

47. Apparatus according to claim 46 wherein said bags are made of polypropylene or polyethylene.

48. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 35 to 47 wherein at least one of said storage bags includes a single-use recyclables bag enclosed within said storage bag to receive and store the recyclables such that during unloading the recyclables bag is extracted and discarded together with the recyclables

49. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said storage unit includes a base frame, supported by a peripheral rim of said storage station and a number of supporting frames, corresponding to the number of storage containers, for attaching said storage containers.

50. Apparatus according to claim 49 wherein the base frame and the supporting frames are rigid.

51. Apparatus according to claim 50 wherein the base frame and the supporting frames are fixedly connected to each other.

52. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 49 to 51 wherein each said supporting frame is a ring.

53. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 49 to 52 wherein each said storage container includes a sleeved peripheral lip defining the opening at the top of said container, said sleeved peripheral lip being adapted to fit over said respective supporting frame.

54. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 49 to 53 wherein the base frame and the supporting frames are made of metal, plastic or fibreglass.

55. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims further including a liquid container for gathering any residual liquids leaking from the storage containers.

56. Apparatus according to claim 55 wherein the liquid container is removably located in said storage station underneath said storage containers.

57. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 54 wherein the bottom of said storage station includes a liquid collection portion, and said storage station is adapted to drain liquid to said liquid collection portion.

58. Apparatus according to claim 57 wherein said storage station includes a convex bottom with at least one radial channel such that any liquid is primarily contained around the peripheral edge of the bottom of said storage station.

59. Apparatus according to claim 57 wherein the bottom of said storage station is adapted to drain liquid to a central liquid collection portion.

60. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 57 to 59 wherein said storage station includes means for evacuating any accumulated liquid from said liquid collection portion.

61. Apparatus according to claim 60 wherein said evacuating means include a drain pipe for evacuation of the liquid by suction.

62. Apparatus according to claim 60 wherein said evacuating means include a drain pipe for evacuation of the liquid by gravity.

63. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, further including means for releasing an insect repellent or odour suppressant inside said storage station.

64. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including an automatic fire extinguisher located inside said storage station.

65. Apparatus according to claim 64 wherein said automatic fire extinguisher is activated by temperature inside said storage station exceeding a predetermined threshold level.

66. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including water level measuring means for measuring the water level surrounding said storage station.

67. Apparatus according to claim 66 wherein said water level measuring means includes an external pipe in fluid communication with the surroundings, and an internal rod contained within said external pipe, said internal rod being measurably movable upon fluid ingress into said external pipe.

68. Apparatus according to claim 61 wherein said external pipe is mounted substantially vertically.

69. Apparatus according to claim 68 wherein said internal rod is of substantially the same length as said external pipe such that upon water ingress into said external pipe, said internal rod moves upwardly beyond the top of said external pipe.

70. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 67 to 69 wherein said water level measuring means includes a removable cap applicable to the top opening of said external pipe for closing said top opening when the water level measuring means in not in use.

71. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including a reporting unit adapted to acquire and transmit environmental data from said apparatus to a remote location.

72. Apparatus according to claim 71 wherein said reporting unit includes a temperature sensor.

73. Apparatus according to claim 71 or claim 72 wherein said reporting unit includes a light sensor.

74. Apparatus according to any one of claims 71 to 73 wherein said reporting unit includes means to measure the remaining capacity of each said storage container.

75. Apparatus according to any one of claims 71 to 74 wherein said reporting unit transmits data over a wireless transmission network to a remote location.

76. A method for storage and collection of a plurality of different recyclable products, the method including the steps of: providing an apparatus for storage and collection of a plurality of different recyclable products as defined in any one of the preceding claims; periodically collecting the different recyclable products by removal of the storage unit from the storage station, and depositing the recyclable products in a collection vehicle for removal; and repositioning the storage unit in the storage station.

77. A method according to claim 76 wherein said recyclable products are removed from the storage unit by opening the bottoms of the storage containers to permit release of the recyclable products into corresponding segregated compartments in the collection vehicle.

78. A system for storage and collection of a plurality of different recyclable products, the system including an apparatus for storage and collection of a plurality of different recyclable products as defined in any one of the claims 1 to 75, and a collection vehicle having a lifting device adapted to remove the storage unit from the storage station, and corresponding compartments adapted to receive the respective recyclable products from the storage containers and transport the recyclable products in a segregated state.

79. Apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or examples.

80. A method substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or examples.

81. A system substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or examples.