Field of disclosure

The present disclosure relates to a waste processing apparatus, for example for processing waste to separate waste from a flexible tube comprising film, wherein the waste is contained within the tubing and the waste is human waste such as human excrement and/or human urine.

Background W02011/133950A1 describes a waterless toilet that does not require a water flushing system. The toilet has an aperture for receiving waste and the toilet comprises a dispensing means arranged beneath the aperture for dispensing a tube of collection bag material (e.g. a film for wrapping the waste). The toilet is configured to move the tube and also, to create a divide in the tube by pressing the sides of the tube together to thereby provide a seal. Solid and liquid waste deposited in the aperture of the toilet falls into the tube of collection bag material. The tube containing the waste may be removed from the waterless toilet and temporarily stored in a barrel e.g. the barrel stores waste wrapped in film (referred to herein as film-wrapped waste). The film-wrapped waste may be transported in the barrels for disposal and processing elsewhere, for example at a waste treatment plant to clean the waste and reintroduce liquid back to the water course. For example, the barrels may be collected from users’ premises/homes on a regular basis for processing. However, there exists a need to separate the film-wrapped waste from the film so that the film does not contaminate the water course. Summary

Aspects of the disclosure are set out in the independent claims and optional features are set out in the dependent claims. Aspects of the disclosure may be provided in conjunction with each other, and features of one aspect may be applied to other aspects. In summary, aspects of the disclosure provide a waste processing apparatus for separating film-wrapped waste. The apparatus may be part of a waste processing system for processing waste received and collected from waterless toilets. In particular, the apparatus may be configured to separate the film that acts to wrap the waste from the waste itself. This may be done by shredding bags or tubes of film-wrapped waste and separating the film from the waste using a separator (for example a film filter or grill). The waste may be collected in an organic export tank. The shredded film may then be conveyed, using a conveyancing means such as a centreless screw, away from the waste. The film may then be collected and removed e.g. for recycling, and the waste treated and processed so that clean liquid can be reintroduced into the water course.

An aspect of the disclosure provides a waste processing apparatus for separating film- wrapped waste, the apparatus comprising: a shredder configured to shred film-wrapped waste into a mixture of shredded film fragments and waste; a separator having a distal end and a proximal end, the separator configured to: receive the mixture of shredded film fragments and waste at the proximal end; the separator comprising a: a conveyancing means disposed between the distal end and the proximal end, wherein the conveyancing means is configured to separate shredded film fragments from the mixture of shredded film fragments and waste, and convey the shredded film fragments to a separator film fragment outlet at the distal end; and an enclosure comprising an adjustable trough portion, wherein the adjustable trough portion is configured to receive at least a portion of the conveyancing means and comprises a screen at the proximal end configured to separate shredded film fragments from the waste and permit the waste to flow to a separator waste outlet; and, wherein the adjustable trough portion comprises an adjustment means configured to adjust the clearance between the screen and the conveyancing means. The screen may be perforated and may act as a filter to allow most of the waste liquids to drain through to the waste outlet (any solid waste will have effectively been liquefied by the shredder), and prevent film going along with those liquids. The film is then caught by the conveyancing means, which may for example be a centreless screw or auger, which carries it away from the waste to the distal end.

One of the challenges in separating the film from the waste is the long form factor of the film. The film may be up to 32m in length or longer. If long pieces of film get through the shredder, they will tend to clog the conveyancing means. A centreless screw may advantageously reduce the chance of wrapping and clogging. The spacing or clearance between the conveyancing means and the screen needs to be very small, because the conveyancing means may be configured to wipe the screen clean as it passes by. In use the proximal end of the separator may be at a lower elevation than the distal end to encourage the flow of liquid to the proximal end (and thereby the screen of the adjustable trough portion) under gravity. Because the screen is at a lower elevation, human waste, toilet paper, and/or film, will tend to clog the screen and prevent liquid flowing through. Having a small clearance helps the conveyancing means to wipe the screen clean and therefore prevent a blockage.

The adjustable trough portion and adjustment means are advantageous because it’s difficult to get the clearance right initially, and the clearance will change as the conveyancing means such as the screw and screen wear down in use, and/or if the screen happens to shift over time. Advantageously the adjustment means enable both an initial adjustment but also ongoing adjustments. The adjustment means may also be adjustable without access to any of the interior portion of the conveyor, thereby improving hygiene.

The adjustable trough portion may therefore advantageously help to prevent flooding at the proximal end, which has two mains effects: 1. Flooding up into hopper prevents adding more packaged waste to system.

2. Churning of the conveyancing means such as the screw in liquid hinders film progression along the conveyancing means and can lead to tangling and clogging of the screw. The adjustment means may be configured to provide a water-tight seal to inhibit or prevent the escape of liquid waste from the separator. For example, adjustment means may be configured to inhibit the escape of liquid waste from a proximal region of the separator. This may also help to prevent flooding at the proximal end. The enclosure may further comprise a cover portion, wherein the cover portion is configured to close the adjustable trough portion to enclose at least part of the conveyancing means.

Advantageously, a user’s person (e.g. hand etc.), clothing and/or possessions can be prevented from contacting the conveyancing means which could result in damage to these items.

In examples, removing the cover portion may cause the conveyancing means to stop functioning (e.g. in examples wherein the conveyancing means is a rotatable centreless auger, the auger ceases to rotate). For example, in the event the cover is not present (e.g. in contact with the trough portion) a signal may be sent from a sensor, the sensor configured to determine if the cover is present, to a control system which based on the signal ceases to provide power to the conveyancing means.

An aspect of the disclosure provides a waste processing apparatus for separating film- wrapped waste, the apparatus comprising: a shredder configured to shred film-wrapped waste into a mixture of film fragments and waste; an agitation means operable to agitate material upstream of the shredder; a separator having a distal end and a proximal end, the separator configured to: receive the mixture of film fragments and waste at the proximal end; the separator comprising a: a conveyancing means disposed between the distal end and the proximal end wherein the conveyancing means is configured to separate film fragments from the mixture of film fragments and waste, and convey the film fragments to a separator film fragment outlet at the distal end; and, a separator waste outlet configured to receive waste from the proximal end of the separator.

Advantageously, the agitation means may help to prevent the separator from becoming blocked upstream of the shredder and remove the need for a user to manually handle the film-wrapped waste to remove the blockage, which is obviously unpleasant and unhygienic due to the need to directly handle the film-wrapped waste. Additionally, the film may tend to float on liquid. So, if there is liquid in the hopper, upstream of the shredder, a new load of film wrapped waste may not reach the shredder blades, which slows progression of the process. The agitation means may advantageously allow film to be pushed through the liquid layer and into the shredder, thus solving the floating issue. Furthermore, a user may actuate the agitation means to agitate material upstream of the shredder (e.g. material in the hopper) as opposed to using their hand (e.g. whilst wearing gloves). The agitation means may comprise a rod which may be suitable for pushing and pulling film-wrapped waste to remove a blockage. This may improve safety of the apparatus.

The hopper may further comprise a hopper inlet; and, a hopper outlet, and the hopper may be configured to receive, via the hopper inlet, film-wrapped waste, and, direct, from the hopper outlet, film-wrapped waste to the shredder. The apparatus may further comprise a tipper comprising: a barrel engaging portion configured to engage a barrel containing film-wrapped waste to hold the barrel in place when the barrel is tipped by the tipper, wherein the tipper is operable to tip a barrel engaged by the barrel engaging portion to permit film-wrapped waste to exit the barrel into the hopper; a counterweight configured to reduce the work required to operate the tipper to tip a barrel engaged by the barrel engaging portion to permit film-wrapped waste to exit the barrel into the hopper.

An aspect of the disclosure provides a waste processing apparatus for separating film- wrapped waste, the apparatus comprising: a hopper comprising: a hopper inlet; and, a hopper outlet; wherein the hopper is configured to: receive film-wrapped waste; and, direct film-wrapped waste to a shredder; a tipper comprising: a barrel engaging portion configured to engage a barrel containing film- wrapped waste to hold the barrel in place when the barrel is tipped by the tipper, wherein the tipper is operable to tip a barrel engaged by the barrel engaging portion to permit film-wrapped waste to exit the barrel into the hopper; a counterweight configured to reduce the work required to operate the tipper to tip a barrel engaged by the barrel engaging portion to permit film-wrapped waste to exit the barrel into the hopper; the shredder configured to shred film-wrapped waste into a mixture of film fragments and waste; a separator having a distal end and a proximal end, the separator configured to receive the mixture of film fragments and waste at the proximal end, the separator comprising: a conveyancing means disposed between the distal end and the proximal end, wherein the conveyancing means is configured to separate film from the mixture of film fragments and waste, and convey the film fragments to a separator film fragment outlet at the distal end; and, a separator waste outlet configured to receive waste from the proximal end of the separator.

Advantageously, the amount of effort required to tip the contents of a barrel into a shredder may be reduced. For example, the amount of effort for a user is reduced in comparison to a user who manually lifts the barrel with no tipper or with a tipper with no counterweight. For example, the amount of effort for a motor is reduced in comparison to a motor which moves (e.g. rotates) the tipper with no counterweight. Additionally, the tipper may also be configured to lower the height to which the barrel needs to be lifted initially i.e. the tipper entry is lower than the hopper edge. Once in the tipper, the final ‘lift’ may be achieved by rotating, with the help of the counterweight.

Advantageously, users of the apparatus may avoid prolonged handling of barrels wherein a strong unpleasant odour may be emitted from film-wrapped waste disposed in. It may also advantageously help to avoid a repetitive strain type injury occurring because reduced effort is required.

Advantageously, users of the apparatus may avoid lifting barrels to empty the contents into a waste processing apparatus and therefore, may avoid injury.

The hopper may further comprise a hood configured to prevent waste exiting the hopper via the hopper inlet.

Advantageously, odour causing particles are prevented by the hood from exiting the hopper. Therefore, the magnitude of unpleasant odour smelled by a user is reduced. Furthermore, the user may be protected from vapour/mist/splashes which can carry disease or cause other health problems e.g. respiratory conditions. So, the hood and the vent system reduce the health risk to operator

The apparatus may further comprise a ventilation system configured to extract gas from any of: a region proximate the distal end of the separator; and, the hopper. For example, the tipper may comprise an air inlet such that fresh air is drawn into tipper, and air flows from the tipper and through the hopper. In some examples the ventilation system may comprise a filter such as a carbon filter for removing smell. In some examples the ventilation system may be configured to maintain a negative pressure, for example inside the tipper and/or distal end of the apparatus. This may help to ensure that no bad smell exits the machine.

An aspect of the disclosure provides a waste processing apparatus for separating film- wrapped waste, the apparatus comprising: a hopper comprising: a hopper inlet; and, a hopper outlet; wherein the hopper is configured to: receive, via the hopper inlet, film-wrapped waste; and, direct, from the hopper outlet, film-wrapped waste to a shredder; the shredder configured to shred film-wrapped waste into a mixture of film fragments and waste; a separator having a distal end and a proximal end, the separator configured to: receive the mixture of film fragments and waste at the proximal end; the separator comprising: a conveyancing means disposed between the distal end and the proximal end, wherein the conveyancing means is configured to separate film fragments from the mixture of film fragments and waste, and convey the film fragments to a separator film fragment outlet at the distal end; and, a separator waste outlet configured to receive waste from the proximal end of the separator; a ventilation system configured to extract gas from any of: a region proximate the distal end of the separator; and, a hopper which is configured to direct film-wrapped waste to the shredder. Advantageously, odour causing particles may be directed away from a user by the ventilation system, therefore, reducing the magnitude of unpleasant odour experienced by not only the user but also by businesses or residents generally in the region adjacent to where the waste processing is being performed.

The apparatus may further comprise: a tipper comprising: a barrel engaging portion configured to engage a barrel containing film-wrapped waste to hold the barrel in place when the barrel is tipped by the tipper, wherein the tipper is operable to tip a barrel engaged by the barrel engaging portion to permit film-wrapped waste to exit the barrel into the hopper; a counterweight configured to reduce the work required to operate the tipper to tip a barrel engaged by the barrel engaging portion to permit film-wrapped waste to exit the barrel into the hopper. The ventilation system may further comprise: a filter configured to remove odour causing particles from a flow of gas extracted from any of from any of: the region proximate the distal end of the separator; the tipper and/or the hopper.

Advantageously, odour causing particles may be captured by the filter, therefore, reducing the magnitude of unpleasant odour experienced by the user and businesses or residents generally in the region adjacent to where the waste processing is being performed.

The region proximate the distal end of the separator may be any of: a discharge bin, wherein the discharge bin is configured to receive film fragments from the separator film fragment outlet; a compactor, wherein the compactor is configured to compact film fragments from the separator and direct compacted film fragments to a discharge bin.

The tipper may comprise a barrel holder comprising a barrel engaging portion configured to receive a barrel and a door to provide access to the barrel holder, wherein the barrel engaging portion is connected to the door, and wherein the barrel engaging portion is configured to engage a barrel disposed in the volume in the event that the tipper door is in a closed configuration.

Advantageously, the apparatus may facilitate better emptying of barrels. For example, the efficiency of emptying barrels (e.g. number of barrels emptied per hour) may be increased as the barrel. Providing the barrel engaging portion on the door may allow entry of barrels into the tipper/holder with the barrel lid still in place. The lid can then be removed whilst the barrel is in the tipper/holder, rather than lifting a barrel without the lid on which may risk spillage and exposure to disease/smell. By contrast, if the barrel engaging portion were instead provided in the holder, this would not be the case, as it would either prevent barrel entry with the lid on, or make the action of lid removal much more difficult and risky.

In some example the position of the barrel holder/barrel engaging portion may be adjustable. For example, the relative position of the barrel engaging portion may be adjustable up/down relative to the floor of the tipper, thereby allowing use of different sized barrels.

In examples, the barrel engaging portion may comprise a flange configured to prevent the barrel from leaving the barrel holder when the barrel holder is in a barrel emptying configuration.

The apparatus may further comprise: a water rinse system comprising: a water tank configured to: receive water from a mains water supply; store water from the mains water supply; and, prevent water from the water tank entering the mains water supply; and any of: a discharge bin water outlet configured to direct water from the water tank to a discharge bin configured to receive film fragments; a conveyancing means outlet configured to direct water from the water tank to the conveyancing means; a hopper water outlet configured to direct water from the water tank to any of: the hopper; and, the interior of a barrel held in the tipper. Directing water to the conveyancing means may enhance removal of waste from the film fragments and/or clean the film fragments as they pass along the conveyancing means. Directing water to the hopper and/or interior of a barrel may save time in subsequent barrel washing and sterilisation procedures by having an initial rinse. Advantageously, odour causing particles in the hopper and/or in the interior of the barrel held by the tipper may be removed by the water. Accordingly, the magnitude of unpleasant odour experienced by a user may be reduced. Furthermore, rinsing the hopper, barrel and/or conveyancing means, for example with water and/or with recirculated waste may aid in removal of waste from the barrel/tipper/hopper, improving safety. The apparatus may further comprise: an organic export tank configured to receive waste from the separator waste outlet; and, a filter disposed at at least one of: the separator waste outlet; or, between the separator waste outlet and the organic export tank; wherein the filter is configured to prevent film fragments entering the organic export tank. It will be understood that the filter may act as a secondary filter in addition the screen forming part of the adjustable trough portion of the separator. The filter may be configured to remove plastic film ‘fines’, which may have bypassed the primary filter (the screen). The secondary filter can be anywhere after the primary filter, for example it could be before the organics tank, integral to the organics tank, or after the organics tank. The filter may for example be a mesh or grill, or even a series of baffles.

In some examples the organic export tank is provided as part of an organics system, wherein the organics system comprises a pump arranged to recirculate waste received from the separator outlet back into the hopper.

Advantageously, the film fragments may be separated from the waste and further processing of the waste prior to further use of the waste may be dispensed with.

The conveyancing means may comprise a rotatable centreless auger. A centreless auger may be particularly advantageous because it may prevent long fragments of film from wrapping around the screw shaft (there is no shaft).

Herein the term “waste” may refer to human waste e.g. excrement and/or urine. Herein the term particulate matter refers to solid and/or liquid particles suspended the air.

Herein the term “film-wrapped waste” may refer to waste which is disposed within a tube of film e.g. flexible tubing. The flexible tubing preferably comprises a flexible material, such as a material suitable for forming a bag for accepting waste. The flexible tubing is preferably formed from a tube of film, which may be a plastic film. The material of the tubing, which may be or comprise a plastic film, is preferably a film having a thickness of 0.5 mm or less, optionally 0.2 mm or less, optionally 0.1 mm or less, optionally 75 pm or less. The material of the tubing, which may be or comprise a plastic film, is preferably a film having a thickness of from 10 pm or more, optionally from 10 pm to 100 pm, optionally from 20 pm to 50 pm, optionally from 20 pm to 40 pm. The film of the tubing may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a polymer selected from, for example, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, nylon and polyvinyl chloride. In examples, the film of the tubing may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a bioplastic. A bioplastic may be a plastic derived from renewable biomass sources, such as a source selected from vegetable fats and oils, starch, such as corn starch or pea starch, and microbiota. In examples, the plastic film may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a biodegradable plastic. A biodegradable plastic may be defined as a plastic capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms. The biodegradable plastic preferably comprises, consists essentially of or consists of a polymer that meets one or both of European standards, EN 13432 or EN 14995. In examples, the biodegradable plastic may be a plastic that meets the requirements for anaerobic biodegradability, e.g. as set out in standard tests such as ASTM D551 1-02 and ASTM D5526 and/or aerobic biodegradability. Such plastics are commercially available. The flexible tubing preferably has low gas permeability. The flexible tubing preferably has the ability to support and/or increase methane production from waste, e.g. faeces, in an anaerobic environment. The flexible tubing may comprise, consist essentially of or consist of a biodegradable plastic selected from polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA5) such as poly-3- hydroxybutyrate, polyhydroxyvalerate (PHV), polyhydroxyhexanoate (PHH), polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polycaprolactone (PCL), polyanhydrides, polyvinyl alcohol, starch-derived plastics, cellulose esters such as cellulose acetate and nitrocellulose. The flexible tubing may comprise the same material as or a different material from the outer flexible web. The flexible tubing and/or the outer flexible web may be transparent.

Advantageously, separating film from the waste enables contaminant-free waste (e.g. human waste) to be used as feedstock in anaerobic digestion and other treatment systems, and also allows the film to be composted or recycled.

Figures

Figure 1A illustrates a perspective view of a separation apparatus with a work platform; Figure 1 B illustrates a perspective view of a separation apparatus without a work platform; Figure 1C illustrates a side plan view of the separation apparatus of Figure 1B; Figure 2A illustrates a perspective view of a hopper;

Figure 2B illustrates a top plan view of the hopper of Figure 2A;

Figure 2C illustrates a side plan view of the hopper of Figure 2A;

Figure 3A illustrates a perspective view of a tipper; Figure 3B illustrates a perspective view of a hopper and a tipper wherein the tipper is in a start configuration;

Figure 3C illustrates a perspective view of a hopper and a tipper wherein the tipper is in an end configuration;

Figure 3D illustrates a side plan view of a hopper and a tipper wherein the tipper is in a start configuration;

Figure 3E illustrates a side plan view of a hopper and a tipper wherein the tipper is in an end configuration;

Figure 4A illustrates a perspective view of a hopper with a hood and a tipper wherein the tipper is in a start configuration; Figure 4B illustrates a side plan view of the hopper with a hood and the tipper of Figure 4A;

Figure 5A illustrates a side plan view of a separator comprising a conveyancing means and a compactor;

Figure 5B illustrates a side plan phantom view of a a separator comprising a conveyancing means and a compactor;

Figure 5C illustrates a cross-sectional plan view of along plane A-A of Figures 5A and 5B; Figure 6 illustrates a perspective end view of a separator;

Figure 7A illustrates a cross-section through an adjustment means of the separator of Figure 6; and Figure 7B illustrates a cross-section through the adjustment means of the separator of Figure 6 taken along a different plane to that of Figure 7 A.

Specific description

Figure 1A illustrates a perspective view of a waste processing separation apparatus 100 with a work platform 190; Figure 1 B illustrates a perspective view of a separation apparatus 100 without a work platform; Figure 1C illustrates a side plan view of the separation apparatus 100 of Figure 1 B.

The waste processing separation apparatus 100 comprises: a tipper 300; a hopper 200; a shredder 400; a separator 500; a compactor 600; a discharge hood 700; an organic export tank 800; a control system 150; a water rinse system 160; a ventilation system 170; and, a skid frame 180. The tipper 300 is connected to the hopper 200. The hopper 200 is connected to the shredder 400. The shedder 400 is connected to the separator 500. The separator 500 is connected to the compactor 600. The separator 500 and the compactor 600 are connected to the organic export tank 800. The hopper 200, the tipper 300, the shredder 400, the separator 500, the compactor 600 and the organic export tank 800 are connected to the skid frame 180.

The discharge hood 700 is connected to the compactor 600. A discharge bin (not shown) may be connected to the discharge hood 700, for example a discharge bin may be placed underneath the discharge hood 700 to collect compacted film fragments from the compactor 600. The discharge hood 700 may comprise means to sealingly engage with the discharge bin to prevent or inhibit odours escaping from the discharge hood 700 and discharge bin. The water rinse system 160 is connected to the hopper 200 and the skid frame 180.

In some examples, the control system 150 is configured to control to the tipper 300 e.g. the control system 150 is operable by a user to operate the tipper 300. The control system 150 is configured to control the shredder 400 e.g. the control system 150 is operable by a user to operate the shredder 400.

The control system 150 is configured to control the separator 500 e.g. the control system 150 is operable by a user to operate the separator 500.

The control system 150 is configured to control the ventilation system 170 e.g. the control system 150 is operable by a user to operate the ventilation system 170.

The control system 150 is configured to control the water rinse system 160 e.g. the control system 150 is operable by a user to operate the water rinse system 160.

The ventilation system 170 is connected to the hopper 200, the compactor 600 and the skid frame 180.

The ventilation system 170 is configured to extract gases and/or particulate matter from the hopper 200 and tipper 300 e.g. airborne particulate matter (solid and liquid) such as odour causing particles. The ventilation system 170 is configured to extract gases and particulate matter from the compactor 600 and the discharge hood 700.

In the example described herein, the ventilation system 170 comprises: a blower (e.g. a fan such as an axial fan); a filter such as an activated carbon filter; a hopper conduit; and, a compactor conduit. The hopper conduit is disposed in fluid communication with the hooper 200 (and the hood, described herein). The hopper conduit is disposed in fluid communication with the filter. The discharge bin conduit is disposed in fluid communication with the discharge bin. The discharge bin conduit is disposed in fluid communication with the filter. The filter is disposed in fluid communication with the blower. The blower is controlled by the control system 150.

The blower is configured to draw gas from the hopper 200 (via the hopper conduit) and configured to draw gas from the discharge bin (via the discharge bin conduit). Odour causing particles in the hopper 200 and discharge bin are drawn towards the blower, into a single common conduit and towards the filter. However, it will be understood that in some examples each of the hopper conduit and/or the discharge bin conduit may comprise respective filters in addition or in alternative to the filter in the common conduit. The filter is configured to capture the odour causing particles. The blower is configured to draw gas through the filter and discharge filtered gas (e.g. air) out in the environment. In the example described herein, the water rinse system 160 comprises: a break tank; at least one pump; an accumulator vessel; a valve; and a water outlet. In some examples the water rinse system 160 may comprise respective outlets for rinsing the hopper 200 and the barrel. The outlets may be nozzles configured to provide a jet or stream of liquid. The break tank is connected to the accumulator vessel by piping. The accumulator vessel is connected to the valve by piping. The valve is connected to the water outlet by piping.

The break tank is configured to receive water via a water inlet. The break tank is configured to provide an AB type air gap. An AB type air gap is a complete physical air gap (minimum 20mm) between the lowest water discharge point and the critical water level of a receiving vessel. Advantageously this may help to prevent waste water from entering the mains water system. However, in other examples the break tank may comprise double check valves, to prevent waste water from entering the mains water system. The accumulator vessel is configured to receive water from the break tank. The accumulator vessel advantageously reduces pump stop-starts.

The valve is switchable between: an open configuration, wherein the valve permits fluid communication between the accumulator vessel and the water outlet; and, a closed configuration, wherein the valve prevents fluid communication between the accumulator vessel and the water outlet. In examples, the valve comprises a solenoid valve and is controllable (e.g. switchable between the open configuration and the closed configuration) by the control system 150. In some examples there may be respective valves for independent control of each outlet, for example respective valves for hopper rinse, tipper rinse and/or barrel rinse.

The water outlet configured to permit water (from the accumulator) to pass therethrough. A first water outlet may be disposed proximal the hopper 200, so that when water passes through the water outlet, the water is incident on the hopper 200 thereby rinsing detritus (e.g. any waste or film) resting on the hopper 200. Advantageously, odours emanating from the detritus may be reduced in strength or eliminated and/or the need for a user to manually and physically access the insider of the hopper is reduced, improving safety both from a health/disease perspective but also because it helps to prevent a user from getting a body part caught in the shredder 400.

Additionally or alternatively, a second water outlet (or an additional water outlet) may be disposed proximal the tipper 300, so that when water passes through the second water outlet, the water is incident on the tipper 300 and the interior of a barrel disposed therein, thereby rinsing detritus (e.g. any waste or film) resting in the barrel or tipper. Advantageously, odours emanating from the detritus may be reduced in strength or eliminated and exposure to disease may be reduced.

In examples, the water rinse system may additionally or alternatively be configured to dispense water via a water outlet (for example, the second water outlet and/or a third water outlet) into a barrel held in the tipper 300 (the tipper 300 is described in more detail below) in the event that the barrel holder 302 of the tipper 300 is moved into the barrel emptying configuration. Water exiting the barrel may be directed towards the hopper 200 to thereby rinse the hopper in addition to rinsing the barrel in the barrel holder 302.

Additionally, or alternatively, in some examples the water rinse system may be configured to dispense water via a water outlet into the conveyancing means 504, for example in a region adjacent to the distal end of the conveyancing means 504. This may serve to further clean and rinse the film fragments being conveyed by the conveyancing means 504.

For example, when the barrel holder 302 of the tipper 300 is moved into the barrel emptying configuration (e.g. from the barrel loading configuration) a sensor configured to determine when the barrel holder is in the barrel emptying configuration, wherein the sensor is configured sends a signal to the control system when the sensor determines that the barrel holder 302 is in the barrel emptying configuration. In such examples, the control system 150 is configured to actuate the water rinse system to dispense water via a water outlet into a barrel held in the barrel holder 302 based on the signal received from the sensor.

The water from the water outlet exits the tipper 300 and barrel to the hopper 200. The water from the water outlet exits the hopper 200. In the example described herein, the water from the water outlet exits the hopper 200 and flows to the separator 500 (via the shredder 400), and from the separator 500 the water flows to the organic export tank 700.

The skid frame may comprise lifting eyes, lifting lugs or pad eye for lifting via a chain set and crane. Additionally, or alternatively, the skid frame may comprise fork pockets configured to receive the fork of a forklift truck, to allow the system to the moved using a forklift truck.

In examples comprising the work platform 190 (as shown in Fig. 1A), the work platform 190 may be a raised platform to facilitate use of the separation apparatus 100 and comprises guide rails. The work platform 190 may be positioned adjacent to the skid frame 180, to provide users access to the tipper 300. In some examples the skid frame 180 may comprise a guiding bracket to ensure correct positioning of the work platform 190 relative to the skid frame 180. This may be important, for example, for alignment of the tipper 300 with regard to guide rails on the work platform 190.

Figure 2A illustrates a perspective view of the hopper 200; Figure 2B illustrates a top plan view of the hopper 200 of Figure 2A; Figure 2C illustrates a side plan view of the hopper 200 of Figure 2A.

The hopper 200 comprises: a hopper inlet 202; a hopper outlet 204; an agitating means 206. In the example shown the hopper 200 also comprises an optional viewing window 208 so that an operator/user can see progress of the waste inside the hopper 200. In the example shown the viewing window 208 is provided to the side of the hopper 200 such that it does not obstruct the hopper inlet 202, and is configured to show/enable viewing of a region of the hopper 200 upstream of the shredder 400, such as where the agitating means 206 is disposed/enters the hopper 200 downstream of the inlet 202 and proximal to the hopper outlet 204. The viewing window 208 may help, for example, a user to determine whether there is a blockage and to see whether they can unblock the blockage with the agitating means 206, as will be described below in more detail below. In some examples there may also be a light inside the hopper 200 to help facilitate visual inspection.

The hopper inlet 202 is connected to the hopper outlet 204 via a conduit, wherein the conduit is wider at the hopper inlet 202 than at the hopper outlet 204, for example, the conduit narrows from the hopper inlet 202 to the hopper outlet 204 in the manner of a funnel (e.g. the hopper is funnel-shaped). The hopper outlet 204 is identical in size and shape to the shredder inlet 402 (described below), making flow as smooth as possible. The agitating means 206 is attached to an exterior surface of the hopper 200 e.g. disposed in a hoop for holding the agitating means 206.

The hopper 200 is configured to receive film-wrapped waste. In the example shown in the Figures, the hopper 200 is configured to receive film-wrapped waste via the hopper inlet 202. The hopper 200 is configured to provide film-wrapped waste to the shredder 400. In the example shown in the Figures, the hopper 200 is configured to provide film-wrapped waste to the shredder 400 via the hopper outlet 204. The hopper 200 is configured to direct film-wrapped waste received via the hopper inlet 202 to the hopper outlet 204. In the example shown in the Figures, the hopper 200 is a funnel-shaped conduit to direct film- wrapped waste from the hopper inlet 202 to the hopper outlet 204.

Figure 3A illustrates a perspective view of the tipper 300; Figure 3B illustrates a perspective view of the hopper 200 and the tipper 300 wherein the tipper is in a start configuration; Figure 3C illustrates a perspective view of the hopper 200 and the tipper 300 wherein the tipper is in an end configuration; Figure 3D illustrates a side plan view of a hopper 200 and a tipper 300 wherein the tipper is in a start configuration; Figure 3E illustrates a side plan view of a hopper 200 and a tipper 300 wherein the tipper is in an end configuration.

The tipper 300 comprises: a barrel holder 302; sides 302A, 302B, 302C; a base 302D; an aperture 302E; a door 304; a barrel engaging portion 306; a tipper axle 308; a counterweight 310; securing means 312. The barrel holder 302 comprises the sides 302A, 302B, 303C, the base 302D, the aperture 302E and the door 304. The barrel engaging portion 306 is disposed on the door 304. The tipper axle 308 is connected to the side 302. The counterweight 310 is connected to the tipper axle 308. The securing means 312 are connected through the door 304 and to the barrel engaging portion 306.

The door 304 is moveable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the open configuration, the door permits access to the barrel holder 302 of the tipper 300 e.g. a user is able to load a barrel into the tipper. In the closed configuration, the door prevents access to the barrel holder 302 of the tipper 300 e.g. a user is not able to load a barrel into the tipper.

The barrel holder 302 is configured to house a barrel e.g. the barrel holder is sized to receive a barrel. The barrel engaging portion 306 is configured to engage a barrel disposed in the barrel holder 302. The securing means 312 are adjustable to adjust the position of the barrel engaging portion 306 inside the tipper 300. For example, the securing means 312 are adjustable to move the relative position of the barrel engaging portion 306 such that it interfaces with a barrel disposed in the barrel holder 302 to prevent the barrel falling through the aperture 302E e.g. when in use, the barrel holder 302 is rotated about the axle to allow the contents of a barrel in the barrel holder to fall out of the tipper 300 via the aperture 302 E. The tipper axle 308 is configured to allow rotation of the barrel holder of the tipper about the axle 308 e.g. to allow the contents of a barrel in the barrel holder to fall out of the tipper 300 via the aperture 302E. The tipper axle 302 is configured to connect to the skid frame 180 so that, in use, the contents of a barrel in the barrel holder 302 are able to fall out of the tipper 300 via the aperture 302E when the barrel holder 302 is rotated about the tipper axle 308. Both the tipper 300 and hopper 200 connect to a common bracket on the skid frame 180 so when they are both in place, they are aligned for use.

The barrel holder 302 is configured to rotate about the tipper axle 308. In examples, the barrel holder 302 is configured to be rotated by a user about the tipper axle 308. In examples, the barrel holder 302 is configured to be rotated by a motor about the tipper axle 308 e.g. the motor may be controlled by the control system 150. In some examples where the barrel holder 302 is configured to be rotated by a motor and/or controlled by a control system 150, the motor may be configured to lift the tipper 300 from ground level to reduce the amount or degree of lifting of barrels required by a user/operator.

The barrel holder 302 is configured to provide a moment about the tipper axle 308 e.g. the centre of mass of the barrel holder 302 is provided at a displacement from the tipper axle 308. The combination of the barrel holder 302 and a barrel are configured to provide a moment about the tipper axle 308 e.g. the combined centre of mass of the barrel holder 302 and the barrel is provided at a displacement from the tipper axle 308.

The counterweight 310 is configured to provide a moment about the tipper axle 308 e.g. the centre of mass of the counterweight 310 is provided at a displacement from the tipper axle 308. The counterweight 310 is configured to reduce the moment required to cause the barrel holder 302 (and a barrel disposed therein) to rotate about the tipper axle 308 e.g. the counterweight 310 is configured to reduce the effort required to rotate the barrel holder 302 about the tipper axle 302 (either by a user manually rotating the barrel holder or a motor configured to rotate the barrel holder).

In the example shown, the tipper 300 is configured to rotate 135 degrees, and the angular and radial position of the counterweight about the axle, relative to the barrel holder 302, is selected to reduce moment to rotate, but also ensure passive stability of the tipper 300 in both untipped and tipped positions, when empty or with a barrel inside. This means the barrel holder 302 will remain at rest in either up or down positions (i.e. barrel loading or barrel emptying configurations) for safety.

In some examples there is also an optional latching pin to secure the tipper 300 in the up position or barrel emptying configuration to ensure the barrel holder 302 does not accidentally get knocked down from the tipper position.

In examples, the counterweight is moveable relative to the tipper axle to vary the moment about the tipper axle provided by the counterweight. For example, a user may move the counterweight so that the moment of provided by the counterweight is based on a given barrel size, for example based on the moment provided by the combination of the barrel holder and the barrel. It will be understood that in some examples a net zero moment may not actually be achieved or desired.

As shown in Figures 3B to 3D, the tipper 300 comprises a tipper axle 308 that connects to the skid frame 180 (not shown). Both the tipper 300 and hopper 200 connect to a common bracket on the skid frame 180 so when they are both in place, they are aligned for use.

The barrel holder 302 is illustrated in a barrel loading configuration in Figure 3B and Figure 3D. The barrel holder 302 is illustrated in a barrel emptying configuration in Figure 3C and Figure 3E. The barrel holder 302 is rotatable about the tipper axle 308 between the barrel loading configuration and the barrel emptying configuration.

In the barrel loading configuration, the barrel holder 302 may be loaded and unloaded with barrels e.g. the door 304 may be opened in the barrel loading configuration. In the barrel emptying configuration, a barrel in the barrel holder 302 is emptied into the hopper 200 e.g. the content of a barrel in the barrel holder falls from the barrel into the hopper 200.

In use, the barrel holder 302 containing a barrel containing film-wrapped waste, the barrel holder is rotated from a barrel loading configuration to the barrel emptying configuration, thereby rotating the barrel from an upright position to an upturned position. When the barrel is in the upturned position, the contents of the barrel (e.g. film-wrapped waste) fall from the barrel, exiting the barrel holder 302 via the aperture 302E and entering the hopper 200.

The securing means 312 are adjustable to force the barrel into contact with side 302B to thereby secure (e.g. restrict movement) of the barrel in the tipper 200, for example to hold the barrel down when the tipper 200 is tipped in the barrel emptying configuration.

In some examples the hopper 200 and tipper 300 may be detachably linked or coupled together with an optional hood 250. The hood 250 may be configured to prevent the escape of waste and/or odours from the hopper 200. The hood 250 may be configured to be flexible to permit relative movement of the topper 300 and hopper 200, in a manner similar to a pram hood.

Figure 4A illustrates a perspective view of the hopper 200 of Figs. 2A to 2C with an optional hood 250 and a tipper 300 wherein the tipper 300, such as the tipper of Figs. 3A to 3E, is in a start configuration. Figure 4B illustrates a side plan view of the hopper 200 with the hood 250 and the tipper 300 of Figure 4A.

The hood 250 comprises a tipper interface 251 , a hopper interface 252, a plurality of frame elements 255, and a flexible cover material 258. The tipper interface 251 is configured to detachably engage with the tipper 300 (e.g. via a zip or other connecting means) and in the example shown is connected to the tipper 300. The hopper interface 252 is configured to detachably engage with the hopper 200 (e.g. via a zip or other connecting means) and in the example shown is connected to the hopper 200. The plurality of frame elements 255A, 255B, 255C, 255D, 255E, are disposed in series between the tipper interface 251 and the hopper interface 252. The flexible cover material 258 is made of flexible fabric and is disposed between the tipper interface 251 and the hopper interface 252 and covers spaces between neighbouring frame elements (e.g. between element 255A and 255B etc.).

The hood 250 is configured to permit the barrel holder 302 of the tipper 300 to move between the barrel loading configuration and the barrel emptying configuration. In the barrel loading configuration, there is a maximum spacing between neighbouring frame elements (e.g. between element255). In the barrel emptying configuration, there is a minimum spacing between neighbouring frame elements. The frame elements 255 are intimately attached to the flexible fabric of the cover material 258, and they move with the cover material 258. The flexible elements 255 are configured to stiffen the fabric in the radial direction out from the axle of the tipper 300, to prevent the flexible hood 250 collapsing down. The frame elements 255 are therefore configured to allow flexibility in rotation, in the circumferential direction of fabric, as they can move together, but create stiffness in radial direction, as they do not bend or compress, in a manner similar to a pram hood.

In the event that the barrel holder 302 is moved from the barrel loading configuration to the barrel emptying configuration, the spacing between the neighbouring frame elements continuously decreases from the maximum spacing (at the barrel loading configuration) to the minimum spacing (at the barrel emptying configuration).

In the event that the barrel holder 302 is moved from the barrel emptying configuration to the barrel loading configuration, the spacing between the neighbouring frame elements continuously increases from the minimum spacing (at the barrel emptying configuration) to maximum spacing (at the barrel loading configuration).

The hood 250 is configured to prevent the escape of waste and/or odours from the hopper 200 e.g. when waste from the barrel in the barrel holder 302 is emptied into the hopper 200, waste which splashes from the hopper is intercepted by the hood 250. In some examples the hood may be water impermeable or have a water impermeable coating, for example on an interior surface. The hood 250 is configured to reduce odours from the separation apparatus. In examples, the hood may be configured to reduce gaps between the tipper, hood and hopper thereby preventing the amount of odour causing particles which can splash and/or diffuse away from the separation apparatus.

Figure 5A illustrates a side plan view of a a separator 500 and a compactor 600; Figure 5B illustrates a side plan phantom view of the separator 500 and compactor 600 of Figure 5A; Figure 5C illustrates a cross-sectional plan view along plane A-A of Figures 5A and 5B; and Figure 6 illustrates a perspective end view of a separator 500.

The separator 500 comprises: a separator inlet 501 ; a proximal end 502; a conveyancing means 504; a distal end 506; a separator film fragment outlet 507; a separator waste outlet 509; and, a separator enclosure 550. The separator also comprises an optional access hatch 503 shown in Figure 5A to access the adjustable trough portion 552 described below, and in particular the screen 503 of the adjustable trough portion 552.

In examples, the separator inlet 501 is disposed at the proximal end 502 of the separator 500. In examples, the separator film fragment outlet 507 is disposed at the distal end 506. In examples, the separator waste outlet 509 is disposed at the proximal end 502.

The conveyancing means 504 is disposed between the proximal end 502 and the distal end 506 and extends at least partially into the compactor 600 as shown in Figure 5B. In the example shown in Figure 5A to Figure 6, the conveyancing means 504 is a rotatable centreless auger (e.g. a helical shaped element). The rotatable centreless auger is rotatable about a longitudinal axis (e.g. which passes through the centre of the helicoid). The longitudinal axis lies between the proximal end 502 and the distal end 506. The conveyancing means is connected to (and controlled by) the control system 150.

The separator enclosure 550 comprises: an adjustable trough portion 552; a static trough portion 556; and, a cover portion 554. The cover portion 554 is connected to the static trough portion 556 and the adjustable trough portion 552 is connected to the static trough portion 556 to provide at least part of the separator enclosure 550 which encloses at least part of the conveyancing means 504. The adjustable trough portion 552 and/or the static trough portion 556 may be configured to receive the conveyancing means 504, and in the example shown both are generally U-shaped to act as a trough to receive the conveyancing means 504.

The adjustable trough portion 552 is connected to the static trough portion 556 to provide a trough which receives each of the rotatable centreless auger. There may be a step between the adjustable trough portion 552 and static trough portion 556. In some examples at least a portion of the static trough portion 556 and/or the adjustable trough portion 552 may be lined, for example with a nylon liner, to reduce friction and to enhance remove of film fragments by the conveyancing means 504. In some examples the liner may be configured to bridge the step between the adjustable trough portion 552 and the static trough portion 556. The adjustable trough portion 552 comprises a perforated screen 503 which may act as a first filter to filter out film fragments from the waste. The screen 503 may be provided, for example, as a portion or region of the adjustable trough portion 552. The perforated screen 503 may be in the form of a mesh or grid and may comprise a plurality of apertures of a selected size to act as a filter or sieve. Liquid waste and particles of waste that are smaller than the aperture size may pass through the screen 503 and out via the separator waste outlet 509.

In the example shown, the adjustable trough portion 552 is bounded by a retention tank 560 forming part of the separator enclosure 550 and configured to receive and retain liquid waste. The retention tank 560 comprises the separator waste outlet 509 and is generally U-shaped to receive and retain and liquid that passes from the adjustable trough portion 552 and through the screen 503 of the adjustable trough portion 552. The separator waste outlet 509 is disposed at the bottom of the U-shape to receive and drain liquid from the retention tank 560. The screen 503 of the adjustable trough portion 552 therefore acts to separate a film receiving portion of the separator 500 from a liquid portion of the separator 500.

In use, the separator 500 is inclined to the local horizontal e.g. the distal end 506 is disposed at a greater height than the proximal end 502. The compactor 600 comprises: a compactor inlet 602; a compacting means 604; a compactor access hatch 610; a compactor liquid outlet 612; and, a compactor outlet 606. In the example shown, the compacting means 604 is a weighted gate inline with the compactor outlet 606. In use, operation of the conveyancing means 504 causes the film fragments to build up inside the internal volume of the compactor 600, and the weighted gate provides back pressure. When the pressure reaches a selected threshold which is based on the weighting on the gate, the gate is pushed open and film discharges out of the end. It will be understood that the weight on the weighted gate may be selected or adjusted to control the degree of pressure (and thereby compacting) exerted on the film fragments.

The tubular wall of the compactor 600 is a ‘wedge-wire’ screen, i.e. a screen with very narrow longitudinal slots. The bottom of the compactor 600 comprises a liquid waste outlet 612 configured to drain away any liquid coming off/being squeezed off of the compressed film fragments. In use, when the film is compressed by the compacting means 604 and operation of the conveyancing means 504, liquid flows through the screen but film is retained. Liquids then flow out of the liquid waste outlet 612 of the compactor 600. The compactor inlet 602 and the compactor outlet 606 provide access to an internal volume of the compactor e.g. the compactor inlet 602 and the compactor outlet 606 are apertures, through which, the internal volume of the compactor can be accessed. The compactor access hatch 610 provides access for a user of operator of the apparatus, for example for visual inspection and/or to clear a blockage.

The shredder 400 is configured to receive film-wrapped waste from the hopper 200 e.g. film-wrapped waste (or any other suitably sized material) exits the hopper 200 via the hopper outlet 204, and enters the shredder 400 via the shredder inlet 402. Film-wrapped waste received by the shredder 400 is disposed in the shredder 400 e.g. located in a volume between the shredder inlet 402 and the shredder outlet 404.

The shredder 400 is configured to shred film-wrapped waste disposed in the shredder into a mixture of film fragments and waste. The shredding means 404 is configured to shred film-wrapped waste into a mixture of film fragments and waste. In examples, the shredding means comprises a first set of cutting teeth rotatable about a first axis of rotation, and a second set of teeth rotatable about a second axis of rotation. Wherein the first and second axes of rotation are parallel to one another and wherein the first set of teeth interdigitate the second set of teeth. In such examples, film-wrapped waste is directed between the first and second set of cutting teeth which shred the film-wrapped waste. For example, the film which wraps the waste is cut into fragments and solid waste is cut into fragments. The shredder outlet 406 is configured to permit the mixture of film fragments and waste generated by the shredding means 404 to exit the shredder 400. The shredder outlet 406 is configured to permit the mixture of film fragments and waste to exit the shredder and configured to direct the mixture of film fragments and waste into the separator 500 e.g. the shredder outlet 406 is disposed above the separator inlet 501 and the mixture falls under gravity from the shredder outlet 406 to the separator inlet 501.

In some examples there is a transition piece between the shredder 400 and separator 500 that may couple the shredder 400 and separator 500 together. The transition piece may be, for example, a rectangular block. The transition piece may comprise an aperture in the middle for waste and film to pass through, i.e. from the shredder 400 to the separator 500. The aperture may widen through the depth of the transition piece (i.e. in the direction of flow between the shredder 400 and the separator 500), so as to encourage film to expand and flow through rather than be constricted. The transition piece may simplify construction and help get the shredder 400 as low as possible, which helps reduce loading height and also helps the film get grabbed by the conveyancing means 504, which passes close by underneath.

The separator inlet 501 is configured to receive a mixture of film fragments and waste e.g. from the shredder 400. The separator inlet 501 is configured to permit a mixture of film fragments and waste to enter the proximal end 502 of the separator 500.

The separator film fragment outlet 506 is configured to permit film fragments to exit the separator 500. The separator film fragment outlet 502 is configured to permit film fragments to enter the compactor 600 e.g. via the compactor inlet 602. The conveyancing means 504 (also referred to as a conveyancer) is configured to convey film fragments from the proximal end 502 to the distal end 506 of the separator 500. The conveyancing means 504 shown in Figure 5B to Figure 6 is a centreless auger (e.g. a helicoid) which is configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis e.g. by a motor connected to the control system. When the centreless auger rotates about the longitudinal axis, film fragments in the mixture are conveyed from the proximal end 502 to the distal end 504 e.g. in the manner of an Archimedean screw. The adjustable trough portion 552 is configured to receive a portion of the rotatable centreless auger (the conveyancing means 504). The static trough portion 556 is configured to receive another portion of the rotatable auger. For example, the rotatable centreless auger may be received by the combination of the adjustable trough portion 552 and the static trough portion 556.

The screen 503 of the adjustable trough portion 552 is configured such that film fragments are caught by the screen 503 and then engaged by the conveyancing means 504 to remove the film fragments away from the screen 503. The size of the apertures of the screen 503 may be selected so that film fragments of a selected minimum size are trapped by the screen 503 and prevented from passing through to the separator waste outlet 509.

The adjustable trough portion 552 is configured to be adjustable to vary the spacing (e.g. the shortest distance) between the rotatable centreless auger and the screen 503. In the example shown, the separator 500 comprises a pair of adjustment means 556A, 556B either side of the conveyancing means 504 that are actuatable by a user to vary the spacing or clearance between the screen 503 of the adjustable trough portion 552 and the conveyancing means 504. However, it will be understood that in other examples there may be more adjustment means (a plurality), or less (for example only one). The spacing or clearance between the screen 503 of the adjustable trough portion 552 and the conveyancing means 504 may be adjustable such that the conveyancing means 504 abuts or brushes against the screen 503, such that in use the conveyancing means 504 acts to wipe the screen 503 clear. Films for wrapping waste (e.g. polymer films) have a propensity to adhere to surfaces on their own due to electrostatics and also in the presence of water (such as the water in the waste) due to the polarity of water. Being able to adjust the spacing between the conveyancing means 504 and the screen 503 may thus advantageously prevent film fragments and/or other waste (e.g. toilet paper) blocking the perforations of the screen 503, potentially causing a flood. In use, the screen 503 and/or the conveyancing means 504 may wear down, and so the adjustment means 556A, 556B can be controlled to alter the spacing between the screen 503 and the conveyancing means 504 to ensure that the conveyancing means 504 still acts to wipe the screen 503 clean.

In the example shown in Figures 67 A and 7B, the adjustment means 556A and 556B each comprise a nut and bolt that can be tightened or loosened to adjust the relative position of the adjustable trough portion 552 to the static trough portion 556. In the example shown, there is a respective L-shaped bracket 566A, 566B coupled to the static trough portion 556 and a corresponding respective L-shaped bracket 568A, 568B coupled to the adjustable trough portion 552, such that there is a respective pair of L- shaped brackets either side of the conveyancing means 504. In the example shown the L- shaped bracket 566A, 566B coupled to the static trough portion 556 is fixed to the walls of the retention tank 560 forming part of the enclosure of the separator 500. In the example shown each of the nuts 564A, 564B configured to receive a corresponding adjustment means 556A, 556B is welded or fixed to the L-shaped bracket 568A, 568B fastened to the adjustable trough portion 556. The adjustable trough portion 552 is coupled to its corresponding L-shaped bracket 568A, 568B via respective bolts 570A, 570B that pass through corresponding slots 574A, 574B in the static trough portion 556. A second nut 572A, 572B that is welded or fixed to the L- shaped bracket 568A, 568B acts to secure and retain each corresponding bolt 570A, 570B. In the example shown, at least a portion of the static trough portion 556 extends between the L-shaped bracket 568A, 568B of the adjustable trough portion 552 and the adjustable trough portion 552 itself such that a portion of the static trough portion 556 is loosely sandwiched therebetween. Therefore, in some examples, at least a portion of the static trough portion 556 may bound the adjustable trough portion 552, for example such that at least a portion of the static trough portion 556 and the adjustable trough portion 552 overlap in the longitudinal axis of the conveyancing means 504. The slots 574A, 574B in the static trough portion 556 permits movement of the bolt 570A, 570B coupling the adjustable trough portion 552 to the L-shaped bracket 568A, 568B.

In use, adjustment of the adjustment means 556A, 556B therefore causes the L-shaped brackets 568A, 568B of the adjustable trough portion 552, and the adjustable trough portion itself 552, to slide relative to the static trough portion 556 loosely sandwiched therebetween.

A biasing means 558A, 558B (e.g. a spring) is disposed between the bracket 566A, 566B of the static trough portion 556 and the bracket 568A, 568B of the adjustable trough portion 552 to bias the static trough portion 556 and the adjustable trough portion 552 apart. In the example shown there is small round barrel or collar 557A, 557B under each bolt head 576A, 576B that in the example shown is welded to the L-shaped bracket 566A, 566B of the static trough portion. Each barrel 557A, 557B is configured to receive a portion of the bolt to keep the bolt straight. In the example shown there is also an o-ring seal 562A, 562B between each bolt head 576A, 576B and round barrel 557A, 557B that sits in a recess in the top of the round barrel 557A, 557B, although it will be understood that in other examples the collar or barrel itself may provide an o-ring seal (for example, if the collar or barrel is made from a flexible material such as rubber).

With the tension of the biasing means 558A, 558B (in this example the spring) this creates a liquid-tight seal to the retention tank 560. The seal may prevent leakage. Advantageously the adjustment means 556A, 556B may not only allow the relative spacing between the screen 503 of the adjustable trough portion 552 and the conveyancing means 504 to be adjusted/controlled, it also does this by providing a hygienic water-tight seal. This is important because in use the retention tank 560 may fill with liquid waste (for example if there is a blockage and/or if a lot of waste is being processed) and the water tight seal prevents liquid waste from seeping out through the adjustment means.

Advantageously, the adjustment means 556A, 556B are configured to be accessible from outside the enclosure of the conveyor 500, meaning that no disassembly is required to make adjustments.

Tightening the screw (turning the bolt relative to the screw to reduce the distance therebetween) reduces the spacing between the adjustable trough portion 552, and specifically the screen 503 of the adjustable trough portion 552, and the centreless auger.

Loosening the screw (turning the bolt relative to the screw to increase the distance therebetween) increases the spacing between the adjustable trough portion 552, and specifically the screen 503 of the adjustable trough portion 552, and the centreless auger.

In the example shown the biasing means 558A, 558B of the adjustment means 556A, 556B is contained with the enclosure of the conveyor 500 and specifically within the retention tank 560. However, it will be understood that in other examples the biasing means 558A, 558B may be located elsewhere, for example outside of the retention tank 560. For example, the biasing means 558A, 558B may be located between the L-shaped bracket 566A, 566B of the static trough portion 556 and the bolt head 576A, 576B. In such examples, a flexible seal or washer (for example, a rubber seal or washer) may be provided around the shank of the bolt and the biasing means 558A, 558B may exert a force on the rubber seal or washer to provide a water-tight seal.

The cover portion 554 is configured to enclose a portion of the conveyancing means 504. The cover portion 554 is configured to close the static trough portion 556 Advantageously, enclosing a portion of the conveyancing means 504 prevents user’s clothing or person coming into contact with the centreless auger and subsequently becoming damaged. Advantageously, enclosing a portion of the conveyancing means 504 reduces the number of odour causing particles which escape the separator 500.

The cover portion 554 may comprise a quick release means, such as toggle clamps 555 as shown in Figure 6, to facilitate easy remove of the cover potion 554 if required e.g. for maintenance or to clear a blockage. Removal of the cover portion 554 from the static trough portion 556 is configured to cut off power to the a portion of the separation apparatus 100 such as the conveyor 500, conveyancing means 504 and/or shredder 400. Advantageously, this reduces the likelihood of user’s clothing or person coming into contact with the centreless auger and subsequently becoming damaged. This automatic cut-off may be controlled by the control system 150. For example, the cover portion 554 and/or static trough portion 556 may comprise sensors (e.g. pressure sensors) to detect when the cover portion 554 is in place, and if it is detected that the cover portion 554 is not in place the control system 150 is configured to cut off power to the conveyor 500/conveyancing means 504 and/or other parts of the apparatus (such as the shredder 400).

The separator waste outlet 509 is configured to permit waste to exit the separator e.g. to an organic export tank 800.

In examples, a second film filter may be provided between the separator 500 and the organic export tank 800, wherein the film filter is configured to prevent film fragments passing from the separator 500 to the organic export tank 800 (in addition to the screen 503 of the adjustable trough portion 552 acting as a first filter). The second film filter may comprise a mesh (or grill). The mesh may comprise a plurality of apertures configured to allow waste to pass therethrough and also be configured to prevent film fragments passing through.

In examples, some film fragments may pass through the apertures of the mesh. The mesh comprises a plurality of apertures configured to permit waste to pass therethrough and also configured to prevent some film fragments passing therethrough. In examples, the plurality of apertures may be equal in size, each aperture having a characteristic size A e.g. wherein the characteristic size A is the same as the area of the aperture. In such examples, an aperture of characteristic size A may be configured to prevent film fragments of a characteristic size F _A passing therethrough wherein F _A is the smallest average size (e.g. area) of film fragments which an aperture of characteristic size A prevents passing therethrough.

In examples the waste in the organic export tank 800 may be removed from the organic export tank and processed (e.g. passed through a filter configured to remove any film fragments therein).

In use, the distal end 506 is raised above the proximal end 502 to permit waste such as liquid waste to slide down the interior volume of the separator 500 toward the proximal end 502.

The separator film fragment outlet 506 is configured to permit film fragments to pass therethrough into the compactor (e.g. via the compactor inlet 602).

The compactor 600 is configured to receive film fragments from the separator 500 via the compactor inlet 602.

The compacting means 604 is configured to compact (e.g. compress; squeeze) the film fragments to force liquids out of the film fragments. In the example shown in Figure 5A and Figure 5B, the compacting means 604 is a weighted or biased compactor door at the compactor outlet 606. The compactor door is configured to move between an open position (e.g. permitting material to pass through the compactor outlet 606) and a closed position (e.g. preventing material to pass through the compactor outlet 606).

The compactor door is configured to resist film fragments passing therethrough when a force applied to the compactor door is less than or equal to a selected force threshold. The compactor door is configured to permit film fragments to pass therethrough when a force applied to the compactor door exceeds the selected force threshold.

The compactor door comprises a biasing means. In the example shown in Figure 1A to Figure 1C and Figures 5A and Figure 5B, the compactor door comprises weights which are configured to bias the compactor door in a closed position. The weights are configured to require a force applied to the door from inside the compactor 600 to exceed the selected force threshold. In examples, the biasing means may comprise an elastic member (e.g. spring and/or rubber band, or a constriction, or other means of providing a certain ‘back pressure’).

The selected force threshold is configured to permit compaction of the film fragments. Advantageously, compaction of the film fragments removes liquid from the film fragments. Advantageously, compaction of the film fragments permits a greater mass of film fragments to be stored in the discharge bin.

The selected force threshold is configured to prevent blockages forming in the compactor 600 e.g. the selected force threshold is select to permit the film fragments to exit the compactor via the compactor outlet 606 before the compactor 600 becomes blocked.

In use, film fragments enter the compactor 600 from the centreless auger via the compactor inlet 602. The film fragments are pushed towards the compactor outlet 606 by new film fragments entering the compactor 600. As more film fragments enter the compactor 600 the force on the film fragments closer to the compactor door is increased thereby compacting the film fragments closer to the compactor door and increasing the force applied by the fragments closer to the compactor outlet 606 on the compactor door. Once the force on the compactor door applied by the film fragments exceeds the selected force threshold, the film fragments in the compactor 600 exit the compactor via the compactor outlet 606 e.g. the door of the compactor door 604 is pushed open by the force applied on the door by the film fragments closest to the door. The discharge bin (not shown) comprises a discharge bin inlet providing access to an enclosed volume for storing film fragments. The discharge bin is disposed at the compactor outlet 606 to allow the compacted film fragments from the compactor 600 to enter the discharge bin via the discharge hood 700 and the discharge bin inlet. As noted above, the discharge bin may be configured to be coupled to the discharge hood 700 (e.g. underneath the discharge hood 700), and the discharge bin may be configured to be removed so that the compacted film fragments therein may be disposed of or recycled. For example, the discharge bin inlet and/or the discharge hood 700 may comprise means to couple to each other. The control system 150 may be implemented with fixed logic such as assemblies of logic gates or programmable logic such as software and/or computer program instructions executed by a processor. Other kinds of programmable logic include programmable processors, programmable digital logic (e.g., a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM)), an application specific integrated circuit, ASIC, or any other kind of digital logic, software, code, electronic instructions, flash memory, optical disks, CD-ROMs, DVD ROMs, magnetic or optical cards, other types of machine-readable mediums suitable for storing electronic instructions, or any suitable combination thereof. With reference to the drawings in general, it will be appreciated that schematic functional block diagrams are used to indicate functionality of systems and apparatus described herein. It will be appreciated however that the functionality need not be divided in this way and should not be taken to imply any particular structure of hardware other than that described and claimed below. The function of one or more of the elements shown in the drawings may be further subdivided, and/or distributed throughout apparatus of the disclosure. In some embodiments the function of one or more elements shown in the drawings may be integrated into a single functional unit.

In some examples, one or more memory elements can store data and/or program instructions used to implement the operations described herein. Embodiments of the disclosure provide tangible, non-transitory storage media comprising program instructions operable to program a processor to perform any one or more of the methods described and/or claimed herein and/or to provide data processing apparatus as described and/or claimed herein.

The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples. Further embodiments are envisaged. It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the accompanying claims.