Compostor Is Rotatably Mounted Patents (Class 435/290.3)
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Patent number: 11512028Abstract: A method for the biological treatment of organic waste containing impurities consisting of non-biodegradable materials, including: • a first step of wet mechanical separation of the non-biodegradable materials present in the abovementioned organic waste in order to obtain a purified organic fraction, • a second step of dehydrating the purified organic fraction in order to obtain a dehydrated purified organic fraction and an effluent, • a third step of dry anaerobic biological treatment of the dehydrated organic fraction in order to obtain organic residues.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2018Date of Patent: November 29, 2022Assignee: SUEZ GROUPEInventors: Arnaud Sommain, Jean-Luc Martel
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Patent number: 10906846Abstract: A continuous heating reactor for composting includes a rotary reactor including a cylindrical reactor housing and push plates arranged inside the cylindrical reactor housing and spaced along the length and inner diameter thereof, a transmission mechanism adapted for rotating the cylindrical reactor housing at a predetermined speed to cause the push plates to push and stir the feeding waste organic material, and a heater for heating the feeding waste organic material in the cylindrical reactor housing by means of the circulation of a hot oil.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2018Date of Patent: February 2, 2021Assignees: GREEN GLOVE LTD.Inventor: Hong-Shien Yo
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Patent number: 10851334Abstract: Disclosed is a solid state biological reaction device, comprising a main tank (1), wherein the device further comprises a support (2) supporting the main tank (1), and the support (2) makes the main tank (1) be rotational in the horizontal position, and be statically cultured in the vertical position. The device is relatively simple, in particular, the mixing of materials uses the method of a vehicle-tank in combination with rotation, achieving the tank free conversion between the two different poses of vertical and the horizontal; and the device conducts the work of loading, inoculation, cultivation and transplantation and so on in the upright pose, and completes the work of sterilization and mixing of materials and so on in the horizontal pose. The device is not only quick to use and easy to move, but also omits the stirring system which occupies a lot of manufacturing costs, and is easy to use in large-scale production.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2016Date of Patent: December 1, 2020Assignee: Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of SciencesInventors: Wenxia Jiang, Xiaoran Zhang, Yanhe Ma
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Patent number: 10538819Abstract: A controller for a compost system comprises a plurality of control outputs in communication with a plurality of compost devices. The control outputs are configured to identify an error condition of at least one of the plurality of compost devices. The controller is configured to control a first compost device configured to control a first environmental condition and control a second compost device configured to control a second environmental condition of a compost chamber. The controller is further configured to deactivate the first compost device in response to an error condition during a compost cycle. The controller controls the second compost device in response to the first compost device being deactivated preserving the compost cycle by compensating for the error condition in the first compost device.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2018Date of Patent: January 21, 2020Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventor: Keith Nelson
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Patent number: 10030279Abstract: A controller for a compost system configured to identify an error condition is disclosed. The controller comprises at least one control output. The control output is configured to measure a load current of the at least one control output and generate a load value. The at least one control output is in communication with a compost device and is configured to control an environmental condition of a compost chamber of the compost system. The controller is operable to compare the load value to a predetermined value to determine an error condition of the compost system.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2014Date of Patent: July 24, 2018Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventor: Keith Nelson
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Publication number: 20150031122Abstract: A rotating drum that is made from a plurality of panels that are connected to form sub-cylinders that, in turn, are connected to form a drum cylinder. Drum heads are connected at both ends of the drum cylinders. The drum may be rotated using rotational means. In one preferred embodiment the rotational means is a tangential rotational drive system that engages drive tires that are positioned between sub-cylinders. A method for fabricating rotating drums. A business method of mass production of and/or distribution of rotating drums.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2014Publication date: January 29, 2015Inventor: Rick Claypool
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Publication number: 20140349384Abstract: In a composter having a horizontally elongated rotating drum, material is fed into the drum through an opening in a stationary end plate having an annular marginal area which overlaps, in sealing relationship, an annular intake end wall of the drum. Material passes through a central opening in an annular exit end wall of the drum, and falls by gravity onto a cylindrical screen which is fixed to, and rotates with, the exit end wall. The annular end walls are in axial register with, and surrounded by, external trunnions on the drum which ride on pairs of supporting rollers. Frusto-conical rings are welded to the end walls, and to the inside of the drum at locations opposite the edges of the trunnion rings to reduce metal fatigue. The exit end rollers allow for axial expansion of the drum. The interior wall the drum is lined with a rubber.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2014Publication date: November 27, 2014Inventors: Kenton Good, Kurtis Good, Daniel Gonzalez
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Patent number: 8889407Abstract: An apparatus for the aerobic in-vessel rotary drum composting of feedstock into nutrient-rich compost comprising means for shredding said input material, said means configured and powered for shredding said feedstock into a particle size no larger than one cubic inch, a vessel having an input port on top of such vessel and a discharge port, said vessel comprising one chamber, said vessel configured and powered for composting said shredded feedstock, and said vessel tilted from the input port to the discharge port, means for passing said feedstock from said means for shredding into said vessel, means for rotating said vessel, means for introducing air into said vessel and a process controller, said process controller communicating with said means for shredding, said vessel, said means for rotating said vessel and said means for introducing air into said vessel.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2011Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: FOR Solutions IP, LLCInventor: Nicholas Smith-Sebasto
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Patent number: 8871501Abstract: A rotating drum that is made from a plurality of panels that are connected to form sub-cylinders that, in turn, are connected to form a drum cylinder. Drum heads are connected at both ends of the drum cylinders. The drum may be rotated using rotational means. In one preferred embodiment the rotational means is a tangential rotational drive system that engages drive tires that are positioned between sub-cylinders. A method for fabricating rotating drums. A business method of mass production of and/or distribution of rotating drums.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2008Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Inventor: Rick Claypool
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Publication number: 20140242686Abstract: A system for decomposing materials includes a main container and a drum container housed within the main container. The drum container includes a central longitudinal axis about which the drum container rotates. The drum container also includes at least one partition extending transverse to the central longitudinal axis of the drum container dividing the drum container into a first compartment and a second compartment. The partition includes a central aperture in alignment with the central longitudinal axis allowing for the passage of decomposing material between the first compartment and the second compartment as decomposing material rises to a level exceeding the distance from an outer wall of the drum container thereof to a circumferential edge of the central aperture. A venting pipe radially extends within the drum container.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2014Publication date: August 28, 2014Inventor: James L. Adkins
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Patent number: 8772019Abstract: The proposed invention is an in-situ system for aerobic heat treatment of biodegradable organic waste, comprising a bioreactor made up of a dish-shaped decomposition chamber. The decomposition chamber has a lid at the top through which an air extraction device is connected. The air extraction device enables fresh air to enter the decomposition chamber and a preparation for a device supplies the biodegradable organic waste. The decomposition chamber is also connected to a system of pipes which convey a hot fluid from the supply tank into a plurality of minitubes located longitudinally on the inner perimeter of the decomposition chamber, and into a shaft that forms part of the mixing mechanism. A centrifugal pump conveys the same fluid, which is now “cold”, from inside the minitubes and shaft to a solar collector, to heat it, before delivering it to a storage tank for subsequent recirculation.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2008Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de MonterreyInventor: Miguel Angel Lopez Zavala
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Patent number: 8728801Abstract: A rotary composter having a fuselage member where a drive system is configured to rotate the fuselage member where the end caps are substantially stationary and do not rotate and the fuselage member has a plurality of longitudinally extending slats contained therein.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2009Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Daritech, Inc.Inventor: Dave DeWaard
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Patent number: 8728802Abstract: An improved apparatus and process for treating biomass bearing material including municipal solid waste (MSW). The apparatus includes a reaction vessel configured for rotation and steam injection, with helically arranged auger vanes attached to the internal walls of the vessel, a self aligning door. Embodiments includes various of a heated jacket, modified raised projections on the top edge of the auger vanes, a modified door, modified door sealing assembly, and a process of quick charging the interior of the vessel with steam.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2010Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Biomass Worldwide Group LimitedInventor: Anthony P. Noll
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Patent number: 8685716Abstract: A composting apparatus and method is described. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical drum which is horizontally rotatably supported. A hopper is disposed at a feed end of the drum for receiving organic waste material in soft or hard form. A material shredding mechanism and a grinding mechanism are rotatably secured in the hopper and driven in counter-rotation for shredding and grinding the organic waste material and feeding it into an inlet opening of the drum. A series of material mixing and conveying vane assemblies are secured spaced-apart inside the drum and define sub-composting compartments therebetween. The material mixing and conveying vane assemblies have a plurality of vanes secured in spaced-apart relationship and project interiorly towards a central longitudinal axis of the drum and are oriented at a common angle to mix, further shred and displace shredded and ground material from the inlet opening towards the rear discharge end of the drum.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Great Wall of China Waste Company Inc.Inventor: Elias Bassile
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Publication number: 20130183748Abstract: Biomass feedstocks (e.g., plant biomass, animal biomass, and municipal waste biomass) are processed to produce useful products, such as fuels. For example, systems are described that can convert feedstock materials to a sugar solution, which can then be fermented to produce ethanol. Biomass feedstock is dispersed in a liquid medium and then saccharified.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2013Publication date: July 18, 2013Applicant: XYLECO, INC.Inventor: XYLECO, INC.
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Publication number: 20130157346Abstract: An in-vessel composting apparatus and process for continuous processing of food waste into an end product comprising a bulk organic compost material. The apparatus comprising a shredder/particle sizer feeding a horizontal drum having at least three chambers with connecting ports of sequentially increasing diameter, and through to a bulk collection container. The apparatus is further equipped with motorized drum rotation and provision for compressing and draining excess fluid from the incoming feed stock and then reintroducing it in the third chamber as needed to maintain suitable moisture level.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2012Publication date: June 20, 2013Inventor: Paul E. Kerouac
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Publication number: 20130149765Abstract: An anaerobic digester to produce methane gas from animal manure. The anaerobic digester preferably includes a reactor vessel with a solar concentrator and an RF emitter. The reactor vessel may be loaded from the top with animal manure, sealed and evacuated during which the waste may be subject to focused light energy and/or subject to RF Energy from the RF emitter in order to facilitate anaerobic digestion, and then cleaned out with an auger turning out the resultant waste solids. An enzyme catalyst may also be employed to further facilitate anaerobic digestion. Methane gas produced as a result of anaerobic digestion is pumped from the reactor vessel and collected for further processing and/or burned for energy and/or heat.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2012Publication date: June 13, 2013Inventor: Gary N. Austin
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Patent number: 8409855Abstract: An apparatus is provided for the producing feeds/fertilizers containing died and fermented animal and plant residues. The apparatus includes a fermentation tank, an unobstructed circulation duct connected to the fermentation tank and a blower directly connected to the circulation duct wherein blower supplies air for advancing the residues up the circulation duct.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2012Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Hokkaido Tokushushiryou KabushikikaishaInventor: Kazuhiro Onose
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Publication number: 20130052726Abstract: In one example, a composter barrel includes a first panel having a first complementary structure, a second panel having a second complementary structure, and a connector element configured to connect the first and second panels together without the use of fasteners by engaging the first and second complementary structures.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2012Publication date: February 28, 2013Applicant: LIFETIME PRODUCTS, INC.Inventors: Kent Ashby, Carl Russell Stanford, Clarissa M. Lindeman, Neil Ben Watson
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Patent number: 8360004Abstract: A bale feeder includes a support and a housing pivotally mounted to the support. The housing has a peripheral sidewall defining a bale receiving interior cavity with an access opening providing access to the interior cavity. The housing is pivotally movable between a loading position and a feeding position. In the loading position the access opening is substantially horizontal for improved loading access.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2011Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Inventors: Leonard Jubinville, Brad Heath
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Patent number: 8329455Abstract: This invention relates generally to systems and methods for digestion of solid waste that simplify solids handling. In certain embodiments, anaerobic methane extraction takes place for a period of time (e.g., from 1 to 4 weeks), after which an aerobic composting process begins in the same chamber. The organic waste remains in place and oxygen (e.g., in air) is forced into the chamber for an additional period of time (e.g., from 2 to 4 weeks). At the conclusion of the aerobic phase, the process yields a rough compost product that is stable and pathogen free. The rough compost can be further processed and blended to create high value engineered soils.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2011Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Aikan North America, Inc.Inventor: Christian B. Christensen
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Publication number: 20120285209Abstract: A composting apparatus and method is described. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical drum which is horizontally rotatably supported. A hopper is disposed at a feed end of the drum for receiving organic waste material in soft or hard form. A material shredding mechanism and a grinding mechanism are rotatably secured in the hopper and driven in counter-rotation for shredding and grinding the organic waste material and feeding it into an inlet opening of the drum. A series of material mixing and conveying vane assemblies are secured spaced-apart inside the drum and define sub-composting compartments therebetween. The material mixing and conveying vane assemblies have a plurality of vanes secured in spaced-apart relationship and project interiorly towards a central longitudinal axis of the drum and are oriented at a common angle to mix, further shred and displace shredded and ground material from the inlet opening towards the rear discharge end of the drum.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2011Publication date: November 15, 2012Inventor: Elias BASSILE
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Publication number: 20120196357Abstract: An apparatus for the in-vessel composting of feedstock into nutrient-rich compost comprising means for shredding said input material, said means configured and powered for shredding said feedstock into a particle size no larger than one cubic inch, a vessel having an input port on top of such vessel and a discharge port, said vessel comprising one chamber, said vessel configured and powered composting said shredded feedstock, and said vessel tilted from the input port to the discharge port, means for passing said feedstock from said means for shredding into said vessel, means for rotating said vessel, means for introducing air into said vessel and a process controller, said process controller communicating with said means for shredding, said vessel, said means for rotating said vessel and said means for introducing air into said vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 28, 2011Publication date: August 2, 2012Inventor: Nicholas SMITH-SEBASTO
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Patent number: 8034611Abstract: A sensor wand is disclosed for use in a composting apparatus. The sensor wand includes an elongated body having two opposed ends and a central axis, multiple gas inlets positioned along the body for collecting gas samples, and multiple temperature sensors positioned along the body for measuring temperatures. One of the ends of the body is positioned on one side of the central axis, and the other end is positioned on an opposite side of the central axis. A described composting apparatus includes the sensor wand.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2004Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Inventor: Nicholas Louis Geranio
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Publication number: 20110236965Abstract: A rotating drum that is made from a plurality of panels that are connected to form sub-cylinders that, in turn, are connected to form a drum cylinder. Drum heads are connected at both ends of the drum cylinders. The drum may be rotated using rotational means. In one preferred embodiment the rotational means is a tangential rotational drive system that engages drive tires that are positioned between sub-cylinders. A method for fabricating rotating drums. A business method of mass production of and/or distribution of rotating drums.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2008Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventor: Rick Claypool
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Patent number: 7998728Abstract: Multiple Tray Vermicomposter with Thermal Siphon Airflow is a vermiculture composting device that uses earthworms to create compost where worms eat and digest food to excrete compost. It is a multiple tray system with a base and a lid. New compost trays with freshly loaded food and bedding are stacked on top of older trays containing worms and compost to instigate a continuous upward migration of the worms thereby creating continuous compost production. Compost trays have permeable bottoms to allow worms to pass through. Compost production is accelerated from thermal siphon airflow to provide ample airflow to the worms without the requirement of a power source. Light-tight air-permeable connections between trays, lid, and base, also accelerate compost production by keeping the worms completely dark. If worms fall through the bottom compost tray, there exists a ramp to enable the fallen worms to climb back into the bottom compost tray.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2009Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Inventors: Ralph Rhoads, George Anderson
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Patent number: 7972839Abstract: The device and method invented provides a unique means to extract and multiply, by the millions, beneficial aerobic microbes found in compost and vermicompost to be applied to soil and plants in liquid form. Compared to many compost tea making devices being sold, the invented device is truly simple and can be dismantled and cleaned in under twenty minutes. Most of the parts are not glued and can be pulled apart. The device and method uses air pumps alone to actually circulate the water and can be used with or without a mesh extractor. This is achieved by the insertion of an air diffuser into the piping used, which infuses the water with oxygen while circulating the water, into either, an extractor containing compost or a body of water containing compost. Concurrently additional diffusers infuse the body of water with oxygen.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2009Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Inventor: Timothy James Wilson
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Patent number: 7960172Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for aeration of organic material, wherein the organic material undergoes an aerobic composing process, such that air is caused to evenly penetrate the organic material. The organic material is first sealed in a vessel. Air is then delivered to the contents of the vessel such that an air pressure of from about 1 to about 1000 kPa above atmospheric pressure is maintained in the vessel. A pressure differential initially forms and is then allowed to equilibrate over a period of time, in which time air flows from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure in the organic material thus ensuring that aeration is evenly distributed throughout the organic material.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2008Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: AnaeCo LimitedInventor: Thomasz Rudas
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Patent number: 7892820Abstract: A cylindrical composting drum which is 6?, 8?, or 10? in diameter, extends between 40? and 140? in length. The drum is rotated and internal helical blades move the material from inlet end to a screen separator at an outlet end. Partially arcuate solar reflectors underlie the drums and reflect solar energy onto the outer surface of the drums which have been blackened to enhance energy absorption. The use of the available solar energy accelerates the composting process. A microprocessor controls the addition of moisture and the timing and rate of rotation of the drums.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2007Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Inventor: John A Bartone, Sr.
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Patent number: 7888111Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a cell culture vessel which is simple in structure and easy to handle, and is capable of preventing damage to the cells when separated, promoting transport of nutrients and excretion of effete matter, and elevating the culturing efficiency improving effect by the structural features. In order to attain the above object, there is provided a cell culture vessel including a culture section provided with a plurality of projections having an equivalent diameter smaller than the cells to be cultured and the culture section side walls enclosing the culture section, wherein the distance between an arbitrary position on the culture section/side wall boundary line and the nearest projection is smaller than the diameter of the cells to be cultured. The effect of the projections in the vessel given to the cultured cells is enhanced.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2009Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Kosuke Kuwabara, Akihiro Miyauchi, Norihito Kuno
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Patent number: 7833781Abstract: The invention relates to an installation for composting organic material (1). The inventive installation comprises an assembly of cells (10) in which the organic material (1) is stored for fermentation purposes and a ventilation device (20) which blows or draws air through the organic material (1) that is stored in the aforementioned cells (10), each cell (10) comprising a base slab (11) and partition walls (12). The above-mentioned ventilation device (20) comprises at least one ventilator fan (21), which is equipped with a suction opening (211) and a discharge port (212), and a ventilation duct (22) which connects the suction opening (211) or the discharge port (212) to one or more cells (10). According to the invention, the installation comprises an apron (40) forming the base slabs (11) of the different cells (10), said apron comprising means (41) and reserves (42) which are used to install the partition walls (12) of the cells (10) at different pre-determined positions.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2003Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Aces Environnement DeveloppementInventor: Phillipe Jean Louis Thurot
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Patent number: 7824903Abstract: Systems and methods for the generation of compost are provided. In one embodiment, the system for generating compost comprises a positively aerated floor, a semi gas and liquid impermeable compost cover sized to cover a compost biomass pile placed on the positively aerated floor, and a suction system positioned under or substantially close to the compost cover and generally near a top of the compost biomass pile, wherein the floor comprises a plurality of channels connected to at least one gas flow pipe installed below or above grade, wherein gas drawn by suction system at the top of the biomass compost pile maintains a negative pressure across the compost cover, thereby generating suction between the compost cover and the top of the compost biomass pile, and wherein the compost cover directs substantially all of the gas flow towards the suction system.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2009Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Engineered Compost Systems, Inc.Inventors: Frederick Timothy O'Neill, Christopher J. Hibbard, Charles A. Krauter
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Publication number: 20100236308Abstract: Liquid compost is made automatically and continuously. A rotating carousel, mounted above a tank, receives organic material, and a plurality of nozzles spray fluid onto the carousel, so as to entrain particles of organic material. The fluid and the particles pass through a screen in the carousel, and into the tank. Residual organic material which has not passed through the screen is removed from the carousel by a nozzle oriented to push such material off the carousel. A system of conveyors automatically delivers fresh organic material to the carousel, and removes spent organic material from the carousel. The entire system operates continuously, so that liquid compost, or compost tea, can be made efficiently.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2009Publication date: September 23, 2010Inventors: Kevin J. Gunn, Garland T. Swanson
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Publication number: 20100162779Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and methods for composting organic matter. According to some embodiments, the apparatus may include a reactor adapted to receive organic matter in a reaction chamber of the reactor through a first sealable opening in the reactor. At least one protruding structure protruding inward from an inner surface of said reaction chamber may include a cavity allowing flow of gases into and out of the reaction chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 25, 2009Publication date: July 1, 2010Inventor: Itzhak Aviram
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Patent number: 7745208Abstract: The invention is an apparatus and a process for treating biomass bearing material including municipal solid waste (MSW). The apparatus includes a reaction vessel held at an angle and configured for rotation and steam injection, with helically arranged internal flights, a self-aligning door closure, and a swing-away door assembly. It also includes a novel structure for shredding biomass bearing material attached to the edges of the flights. This structure is a number of projecting tooth like points and paddles.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2006Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Inventor: Anthony P. Noll
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Publication number: 20100112632Abstract: A rotary composter having a fuselage member where a drive system is configured to rotate the fuselage member where the end caps are substantially stationary and do not rotate and the fuselage member has a plurality of longitudinally extending slats contained therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2009Publication date: May 6, 2010Inventor: Dave DeWaard
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Patent number: 7691625Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a cell culture vessel which is simple in structure and easy to handle, and is capable of preventing damage to the cells when separated, promoting transport of nutrients and excretion of effete matter, and elevating the culturing efficiency improving effect by the structural features. In order to attain the above object, there is provided a cell culture vessel including a culture section provided with a plurality of projections having an equivalent diameter smaller than the cells to be cultured and the culture section side walls enclosing the culture section, wherein the distance between an arbitrary position on the culture section/side wall boundary line and the nearest projection is smaller than the diameter of the cells to be cultured. The effect of the projections in the vessel given to the cultured cells is enhanced.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2006Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Kosuke Kuwabara, Akihiro Miyauchi, Norihito Kuno
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Patent number: 7682813Abstract: An organic solid waste digester for producing methane from solid waste, the digester comprising a reactor vessel for holding solid waste, a sprinkler system for distributing water, bacteria, and nutrients over and through the solid waste, and a drainage system for capturing leachate that is then recirculated through the sprinkler system.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2006Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Arrowhead Center, Inc.Inventors: Zohrab A. Samani, Adrian T. Hanson, Maritza Macias-Corral
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Publication number: 20100055775Abstract: An organic material digester for the treatment of waste material which includes organic waste has an elongate rotating drum through which the waste is delivered between an inlet and outlet of the drum. Mechanical and biological activity within the drum converts the organic waste to a compost. A number of baffle plates sub-divide the drum into treatment compartments arranged in series between the inlet and the outlet. A port in each baffle plate offset from the centre of the baffle plate, allows through passage of material from one compartment to the next. Each baffle plate is secured to the drum by attachment means such as a number of spaced-apart radial rods which extend radially outwardly from the baffle plate through a side wall of the drum to which they are secured. Faces of the baffle plates are protected by a corrosion resistant material.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2005Publication date: March 4, 2010Inventor: Pearse O'Kane
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Patent number: 7651852Abstract: A method and an apparatus is provided for aeration of organic material, wherein the organic material undergoes an aerobic composting process, such that air is caused to evenly penetrate the organic material. The organic material is first sealed in a vessel. Air is then delivered to the contents of the vessel such that an air pressure of from about 1 to about 1000 kPa above atmospheric pressure is maintained in the vessel. A pressure differential initially forms and is then allowed to equilibrate over a period of time, in which time air flows from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure in the organic material thus ensuring that aeration is evenly distributed throughout the organic material.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2001Date of Patent: January 26, 2010Assignee: AnaeCo LimitedInventor: Tomasz Rudas
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Patent number: 7642090Abstract: Systems and methods for the generation of compost are provided. In one embodiment, the system for generating compost comprises a positively aerated floor, a semi gas and liquid impermeable compost cover sized to cover a compost biomass pile placed on the positively aerated floor, and a suction system positioned under or substantially close to the compost cover and generally near a top of the compost biomass pile, wherein the floor comprises a plurality of channels connected to at least one gas flow pipe installed below or above grade, wherein gas drawn by suction system at the top of the biomass compost pile maintains a negative pressure across the compost cover, thereby generating suction between the compost cover and the top of the compost biomass pile, and wherein the compost cover directs substantially all of the gas flow towards the suction system.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2007Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Assignee: Engineered Compost Systems, Inc.Inventors: Frederick Timothy O'Neill, Christopher J. Hibbard, Charles A. Krauter
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Patent number: 7625749Abstract: A garden composter has a longitudinally extending cylindrical drum which is mounted to a support frame and can be rotated relative to the support frame about an axis of rotation of the drum. The drum has at least two load openings formed in a cylindrical wall portion between two end wall portions and removable closure caps for selectively closing the load openings. At least one partition divides the drum into a number of chambers disposed side by side along the longitudinal axis. Each chamber communicates with a respective load opening. The partition has a fixed portion coupled to the drum and a relatively movable portion. Each portion has at least one flow control partition opening and the movable portion can be moved so that its associated flow control partition opening may be selectively brought into and out of registration with corresponding flow control partition openings in the fixed portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2005Date of Patent: December 1, 2009Assignee: Sun-Mar CorporationInventor: Henric Sundberg
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Patent number: 7611891Abstract: A garden composter for decomposing garden waste in which the composter has a longitudinally extending cylindrical outer drum which is mounted to a support frame. Tumbling means are provided for coupling the drum to the support frame for rotation of the drum relative to the support frame about an axis of rotation of the drum. The drum has at least one load opening formed in a cylindrical wall portion for receiving organic waste into an outer chamber and a closure cap for selectively closing the load opening. An inner drum is fixed to the interior of the outer drum for rotation with the outer drum and has waste inlet means in communication with the outer chamber for receiving decomposing organic waste into an inner chamber before being discharged through a waste outlet. In this way, the garden composter can receive organic waste through the load opening for decomposition in the chambers and the waste can be aged in the inner chamber to prolong its residence time before being discharged from the composter.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2007Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Inventor: Henric Sundberg
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Publication number: 20080268531Abstract: A garden composter for decomposing garden waste in which the composter has a longitudinally extending cylindrical outer drum which is mounted to a support frame. Tumbling means are provided for coupling the drum to the support frame for rotation of the drum relative to the support frame about an axis of rotation of the drum. The drum has at least one load opening formed in a cylindrical wall portion for receiving organic waste into an outer chamber and a closure cap for selectively closing the load opening. An inner drum is fixed to the interior of the outer drum for rotation with the outer drum and has waste inlet means in communication with the outer chamber for receiving decomposing organic waste into an inner chamber before being discharged through a waste outlet. In this way, the garden composter can receive organic waste through the load opening for decomposition in the chambers and the waste can be aged in the inner chamber to prolong its residence time before being discharged from the composter.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2007Publication date: October 30, 2008Inventor: Henric Sundberg
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Patent number: 7422894Abstract: Apparatus for use in a vermiculture plant, the apparatus including a treatment receptacle having a treatment Apparatus for use in a vermiculture plant which includes a treatment receptacle having a treatment chamber therein and a base upon which material within the treatment chamber is disposed. The receptacle is arranged so that when in use there is a space below the base. The apparatus further includes a harvester operable to extract material from the treatment chamber through the base and a collecting assembly including a flexible belt operatively connected to a rotatable drum so that it can be wound onto or drawn from the rotatable member. The belt is arranged so that it can adopt a collecting position when at least partially unwound from the rotatable member wherein it is positioned below the treatment chamber and harvester so that harvested material can be collected upon it and is operable so that when wound onto the rotatable member material thereon can be transferred to a discharge zone.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2003Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: Vermitech LimitedInventors: Simon James Tratt, Graham Shaun Ankers
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Publication number: 20080206856Abstract: A waste converter (10) for domestic use includes two waste conversion regions. Household waste is placed in a primary waste conversion region (40) which includes flies and maggots. When waste has sufficiently decomposed it falls through to a secondary waste conversion region which includes composting worms and woodlice.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2006Publication date: August 28, 2008Inventor: Eng Lock David Chee
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Patent number: 7371566Abstract: A composting apparatus including an electric motor driven drum. The drum is provided with spaced fins on the inner surface and a supporting shaft that can include air holes to provide air within the confines of the drum. In this instance, tubes with holes are secured inside the drum and communicate with a source of air so that air passes into the tubes, and thus into the pile of composting material. The drum is provided with a sliding door that closes an opening in the drum. The door is secured at its ends for movement within a grooved mount attached onto a surface of the drum. The door is moved along a surface of the drum to open the door. The door can be held in position with a small opening or to a full open position, thus opening the entire opening in the surface of the drum.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2003Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Assignee: Commercial Composting LLCInventor: Kenneth M. Craven, Jr.
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Publication number: 20070231885Abstract: A rotating drum is provided for the biological/mechanical conversion of organic waste material to a valuable biomass. An aerotolerant anaerobic bacteria within the rotating drum promotes the fermentation of the waste material, while the tumbling of the waste material due to the rotation of the drum mechanically shears the waste material. Air carrying volatile organic compounds released by the fermentation process can be collected from the drum and scrubbed to recover the volatile organic compounds. The cleansed air can then be recirculated back into the drum. The waste material can be screened prior to fermentation in the drum to remove a fraction of the smallest particles. The biomass produced by the drum can also be screened.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2006Publication date: October 4, 2007Inventors: Chris E. Choate, James H. Lord
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Patent number: 7138271Abstract: A continuous composter for continuously processing organic waste material from a generally heterogeneous state into a generally homogenous state. The composter includes a container rotatably mounted on a support frame about its longitudinal axis that defines an inner chamber containing an amount of the heterogeneous waste material for continuous circulation therein. An agitator located within the inner chamber is rotatably mounted on fixed end walls about its own longitudinal axis that is offset relative to the container axis. The agitator is located to selectively receive the circulated waste material from the rotating container, to separate the heterogeneous waste material into the homogenous waste material, and to aerate the homogenous waste material by projecting it within the chamber. Both the container and the agitator rotates in a same direction at a relatively slow and fast rotational speed respectively.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2003Date of Patent: November 21, 2006Assignee: 9087-7374 Quebec Inc.Inventor: Jean-Pierre Pratte
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Patent number: 7091036Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for composting organic material, in which method organic material is transported to a bioreactor (1) where it is mixed and where material for regulating the oxygen content and bacteria and/or enzymes for agitation of composting process are added to it, and where organic material may compost, after which the composted material is removed outside the bioreactor to be stabilized. The invention also relates to a device for composting organic material, which device includes a bioreactor (1) with at least one filling and emptying opening (12, 13, 17) in order to fill and empty the bioreactor, and a transporting device (2) mixing the material inside the bioreactor (1) in order to transport the organic material to be composted and a mix it inside the bioreactor.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2002Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Inventor: Claus Roström