EP1516682B1 - Process and apparatus for flushing and emptying a biological sewage treatment installation tank filled with solidified residue - Google Patents

Process and apparatus for flushing and emptying a biological sewage treatment installation tank filled with solidified residue Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1516682B1
EP1516682B1 EP04021191A EP04021191A EP1516682B1 EP 1516682 B1 EP1516682 B1 EP 1516682B1 EP 04021191 A EP04021191 A EP 04021191A EP 04021191 A EP04021191 A EP 04021191A EP 1516682 B1 EP1516682 B1 EP 1516682B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
tank
suction
fluid
residues
residue
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EP04021191A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1516682A1 (en
Inventor
Carl Wagemann
Willem G.J. Gooren
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Wagemann GmbH
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Wagemann GmbH
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08—CLEANING
    • B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B5/00—Cleaning by methods involving the use of air flow or gas flow
    • B08B5/02—Cleaning by the force of jets, e.g. blowing-out cavities
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08—CLEANING
    • B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B9/00—Cleaning hollow articles by methods or apparatus specially adapted thereto 
    • B08B9/08—Cleaning containers, e.g. tanks
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08—CLEANING
    • B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B9/00—Cleaning hollow articles by methods or apparatus specially adapted thereto 
    • B08B9/08—Cleaning containers, e.g. tanks
    • B08B9/093—Cleaning containers, e.g. tanks by the force of jets or sprays

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method and a corresponding device for cleaning and emptying a residue tank filled with solids-like residues of a biological treatment plant, such as those used for example in passenger trains.
  • US 4,234,980 describes a method according to the preamble of claim 1 and an apparatus according to the preamble of claim 6.
  • a pick-up tube By means of a pick-up tube, the dirt dissolved by the water is sucked off by means of a vacuum generated in the residue tank.
  • the vacuum pump is controlled there by the operator by hand.
  • a device for cleaning a tank which can be introduced into the tank.
  • This device incorporates a rotating part equipped with nozzles that allow water supplied from outside to be sprayed in different directions onto the residue at the bottom of the tank to remove the residue.
  • For sucking off the dissolved Residues are introduced into a pipe connected to a vacuum pump to extract the residue through the pipe.
  • the present invention is therefore based on the object to provide an improved method and an improved apparatus for flushing and emptying the residue tanks of a biological treatment plant, which can achieve improved cleaning results and allow automation of the cleaning and emptying process.
  • the present invention is based on the idea of running the purification process according to a defined scheme. Furthermore, it has been found that it is advantageous to continue to supply liquid during the aspiration of the softened and fluidized residues from the tank at least at the same time for suction and / or in suction pauses, since an improved cleaning result can be achieved thereby. In particular, this achieves an improved softening of the residues, and the mass discharged from the tank is thereby diluted so that it is easier to drain from the tank. Furthermore, overflowing of the tank can be prevented.
  • the inventive method can be automated in a simple manner, so that it no longer depends on a user, whether, how often, how long and in what order which steps of the process are performed. Based on empirical values, the time periods of the individual steps as well as other parameters, such as the pressure of the supplied medium, the amount of the supplied liquid and in particular the times and periods of the liquid supply can be adjusted during the suction process. Operating errors, which can lead to poor cleaning results in the known methods are thus largely excluded, and it can be ensured that the residue tank is always completely emptied and thoroughly rinsed.
  • the amount of liquid supplied and the amount of residue sucked off are detected, for which purpose suitable flow measuring means are provided, for example an inductive flow meter for measuring the solids coming out of the tank, and the supply of the liquid into the tank during suction it is controlled that the tank does not overflow.
  • suitable flow measuring means for example an inductive flow meter for measuring the solids coming out of the tank, and the supply of the liquid into the tank during suction it is controlled that the tank does not overflow.
  • the supply of the liquid in the first step and the supply of the high-pressure medium in the second step at least temporarily carried out simultaneously, in particular completely simultaneously and by supplying a liquid under high pressure, in particular water .
  • the first and second steps are thus summarized, so that the softening of the residues and the whirling occur substantially simultaneously.
  • This embodiment is used in particular when no supply of compressed air is available, but only a supply of water or another liquid under high pressure.
  • the supply line of the liquid and the supply line of the high-pressure medium (in particular air) by a single supply line, which is internally divided into two parts, realized.
  • the amount of residue extracted is detected, for which purpose suitable residue flow means are provided, and that the cleaning process restarts if a first predetermined amount of residue is not extracted during suction for a predetermined period of time. It can therefore be determined whether the softening and whirling up of the residues was sufficient so that the residues can be sucked off. If not enough residues have been softened and whirled up, this is automatically determined in this embodiment of the method according to the invention and leads to a new start of the process.
  • the detection result of the residue amount may be used to determine whether a second predetermined amount of residue has been sucked off, so that the tank is completely empty of residues.
  • the second residue quantity may be an empirical quantity determined in accordance with the tank size and possibly according to the cleaning interval.
  • the individual steps of the method according to the invention in a preferred embodiment are time-controlled and automatic, wherein the parameters of the timing can be adapted to the tank to be cleaned and emptied.
  • the device according to the invention and the method according to the invention can also be designed to be adaptive in order to set or improve the parameters independently according to learned empirical values.
  • the device according to the invention is designed as a mobile device, in which the liquid supply device comprises a liquid reservoir and the suction device comprises a vacuum pump.
  • a suitable device e.g. a compressor
  • the device according to the invention can also be configured as a stationary device, in which the liquid supply device has a liquid connection for connection to a liquid supply line and the suction device has a vacuum connection for connection to a vacuum line.
  • a plurality of such stationary devices may be arranged at intervals in trains in a cleaning hall for simultaneous emptying and cleaning of several bio-toilets of the train to be cleaned.
  • sensor means for determining whether the liquid supply means, the medium supply means and the suction device are connected to the tank.
  • the sensor means can be determined whether the device is correctly coupled to the tank, so that a faulty cleaning due to faulty or not connected lines, as is possible in the known device, can be excluded.
  • Such sensor means may be, for example, special signaling devices or simple grounding lines on the connecting lines.
  • Fig. 1 schematically shows a first embodiment of a device according to the invention for cleaning and emptying the residue tank of a biological treatment plant.
  • the residue tank is referred to, in which form after a certain time a solid and dry mass of toilet paper, feces and solids as residues and therefore must be emptied and cleaned from time to time.
  • the tank has three connections, namely a first connection 11 for connecting a compressed air line L, a second connection 12 for connecting a water supply W and a third connection 13 for connecting a suction line V.
  • the cleaning device 2 according to the invention has corresponding connections 21, 22, 23, to supply the stationary in the present embodiment configured cleaning device 2 with compressed air or water or to suck the residues.
  • input terminals 31 and 32 are provided, with which the cleaning device 2 can be connected to a compressed air supply line 51 and a water supply line.
  • a discharge port 33 is further provided, with which the cleaning device 2 can be connected to a vacuum supply line 53 at which a suction vacuum for sucking the residues from the tank 1 is provided.
  • the output terminals 21, 22, 23 are connected to the supply terminals 31, 32, 33 connected by controlled valves 41, 42, 43 with each other, which are controllable by means of a control device 24. Further, in the connecting line between the water supply inlet 32 and water outlet 22, a water flow meter 25 and in the connecting line between vacuum supply inlet 33 and vacuum outlet 23 a residue flow meter 26 is provided, with which the introduced into the tank 1 amount of water or discharged from the tank residue can be detected.
  • a first step S1 water is then first supplied via the supply line W into the tank 1.
  • the valve 42 is open for a predetermined period of time.
  • a second method step S2 which can overlap partially or completely with method step S1, compressed air is introduced into the tank 1 in order to fluidize the residue material softened by the introduced water.
  • the valve 41 is open for a predetermined period of time. Subsequently, the actual suction of the softened and stirred up residue material.
  • first (S3) is applied by opening the valve 43 for a predetermined period of time, the vacuum to suck a first portion of the softened and fluidized residue material.
  • the valves 42 and 43 are opened at the same time or in quick succession in order at least temporarily to simultaneously introduce water into the tank 1 and to suck off residue material from the tank. For example, first opens the valve 43 and shortly thereafter the valve 42. After both valves were opened for a period of time, then the valve 42 is first closed again before the valve 43 is closed.
  • step S5 it is provided that after a certain period of time after performing the method step S4, a check is carried out in step S5 whether any residue material has been sucked off or whether the sucked residue amount above R is above a certain limit value R1.
  • a check is carried out in step S5 whether any residue material has been sucked off or whether the sucked residue amount above R is above a certain limit value R1.
  • the method is restarted from the beginning with step S1, for which purpose, for example, even more water can be supplied in step S1 in order to soften the residue material again (and possibly better).
  • the suction process (S6) which can also be repeated several times, can be continued to effect complete emptying and cleaning of the tank 1.
  • step S7 a further test may optionally be provided, in which it is checked on the basis of the ascertained, sucked residue quantity R whether more than a second limit value R2 has been extracted for the residue quantity.
  • the second limit value R2 can be, for example, an empirically determined limit value which indicates, for a specific tank size, how many residues are contained, for example, after a certain period of use of the associated bio-toilet. It is thus determined in step S7 whether the tank is already completely emptied. If not, it is further exhausted (step S6 or S4); if the tank is empty, the process is ended.
  • step S5 For evaluating the amount of residue R sucked off in step S5 (and possibly S7), the control unit 24 evaluates the amount of residue measured by the residue meter 26.
  • the step S5 (and / or S7) can also be omitted completely, so that the suction operations S4 and S6 are carried out immediately one after the other, and possibly several times repeatedly.
  • the measuring signal of the water flow meter 25 can preferably also be evaluated (together with the amount of residue removed) in order to stop the supply of further water in good time before overfilling of the tank 1.
  • the durations of the individual steps of the cleaning process are predetermined when the process is carried out automatically, but can also be adapted individually depending on the tank to be cleaned. Furthermore, it can be provided that the control device 24 is capable of learning and, based on the measuring signals of the flow meters 25 and 26, learns over time which time periods and, for example, how many repetitions of the suction operations lead to an optimal emptying and cleaning result. Furthermore, the parameters can also be set regionally differently, since, for example, in some countries the proportion of toilet paper in the residue quantity differs from that in other countries, and thus the degree of residue residue may vary considerably depending on the country or region.
  • FIG Fig. 3 A further embodiment of a cleaning and emptying device according to the invention is shown schematically in FIG Fig. 3 shown.
  • the cleaning device 2 is designed as a mobile unit.
  • a single connection line WL for the supply of high-pressure water.
  • Tank 1 and cleaning device 2 have corresponding connections 17 and 27, respectively.
  • the under high pressure water is provided by the cleaning device 2 by means of a high-pressure pump 28 via the controllable valve 47, wherein Water supply a water tank 29 is provided.
  • the water tank 29 omitted if an external water supply is possible.
  • a supply connection (not shown) may be provided.
  • a vacuum pump 20 is further provided, with which a vacuum can be generated.
  • the residues are sucked from the tank 1 and discharged via the residue outlet 34 of the cleaning device 2, for example in an external tank or the drainage channel.
  • the cleaning process is essentially identical in this device as in the Fig. 1 shown embodiment. Only steps S1 and S2 (see Fig. 2 ) are summarized.
  • the water is also at high pressure in the extraction steps S4 and S6; However, it may also be provided that the pressure when feeding the water into the tank 1 is set lower.
  • sensors 18 are provided at the connections 13 and 17 of the tank, which signal the cleaning device 2 to correctly attach the connecting lines. For example, it may be provided that if the signal is missing, the cleaning process can not be started at all.
  • these sensors 18 are that a ground connection with a ground cable to the connecting lines, which are preferably designed as tubes, must be made. The cleaning device 2 is then signaled that all ground connections are made.
  • sensors which signal whether all connecting lines are in their correct rest position, preferably on the cleaning device 2, in the idle state.
  • suitable status displays can be provided which signal per connecting line whether a correct stowage is given.
  • Corresponding status lamps can also be provided for the correct mounting position.
  • the invention is used for cleaning debris tanks of organic toilets in passenger trains.
  • biological toilets or biological sewage treatment plants are also used elsewhere, for example in toilet trolleys at major events or in permanently installed toilets large event centers such as trade fair or concert halls.
  • the invention is basically applicable to all types of biological treatment plants, regardless of the purpose and scope of the biological treatment plant.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Cleaning In General (AREA)
  • Refuse Collection And Transfer (AREA)

Abstract

The method for the cleaning and emptying of tank (1) filled with solid type residual matter entails the feeding of a fluid and especially water into the tank to soften the residual matter, the feeding of especially high pressure air into the tank to swirl the residual matter, and the drawing off of the softened and swirled matter, whereby at least temporarily during the drawing off and/or drawing off pauses more fluid is fed into the tank. An independent claim is included for a system for the cleaning and emptying of the tank of a biological treatment facility of solid residual matter.

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren sowie eine entsprechende Vorrichtung zum Reinigen und Entleeren eines mit feststoffartigen Rückständen gefüllten Rückstandtanks einer biologischen Kläranlage, wie sie beispielsweise in Personenzügen zum Einsatz kommen.The present invention relates to a method and a corresponding device for cleaning and emptying a residue tank filled with solids-like residues of a biological treatment plant, such as those used for example in passenger trains.

In Zügen kommen verschiedene Toilettentypen zum Einsatz. Die französische Bahn setzt beispielsweise Vakuum-Toiletten mit "eau bleu" ein, während die deutsche und die österreichische Bahn Vakuumtoiletten mit herkömmlichem Spülwasser einsetzen. Darüber hinaus gibt es aber auch sogenannten Bio-Toiletten, die beispielsweise von der schweizerischen Bahn eingesetzt werden.In trains different toilet types are used. For example, the French railway uses vacuum toilets with "eau bleu", while the German and Austrian railways use vacuum toilets with conventional rinsing water. In addition, there are also so-called organic toilets, which are used for example by the Swiss railway.

Bei diesen Bio-Toiletten, die nach dem Prinzip einer biologischen Kläranlage funktionieren, werden die anfallenden Feststoffe in einem Rückstandtank kompostiert. Die anfallende Flüssigkeit wird bei derartigen Bio-Toiletten auf die Schienen abgelassen. Der Rückstandtank mit den feststoffartigen. Rückständen muss regelmäßig entleert und gereinigt werden, je nach Intensität der Benutzung der angeschlossenen Toiletten beispielsweise in Zeitabständen zwischen 4 Wochen und 3 Monaten. Je länger der zeitliche Abstand zwischen den Entleerungen ist, desto fester und trockener wird die Rückstandmasse aus Toilettenpapier, Fäkalien und Festkörpern, die dann einen feststoffartigen Zustand ähnlich wie Pappmaché einnehmen. Ein herkömmliches Absaugen der Rückstände aus dem Rückstandtank ist somit nicht möglich.These bio-toilets, which operate on the principle of a biological wastewater treatment plant, the composting solids are composted in a residue tank. The resulting liquid is in such organic toilets on the Drained rails. The residue tank with the solids-like. Residues must be regularly emptied and cleaned, depending on the intensity of use of the connected toilets, for example at intervals between 4 weeks and 3 months. The longer the time interval between the evacuations, the firmer and drier the residue from toilet paper, feces and solids, which then take a solids-like state similar to paper mache. A conventional extraction of the residues from the residue tank is thus not possible.

Bei einem bekannten Verfahren zum Reinigen und Entleeren eines solchen Tanks wird der Inhalt des Tanks zunächst mit Wasser aufgeweicht. Da die Rückstände jedoch einen festen Klumpen bilden, wird dabei meist nur die Oberfläche aufgeweicht. Anschließend wird mit Druckluft bei reduziertem oder abgestelltem Wasserzulauf der Inhalt verwirbelt. Schließlich wird der Rückstandtank mittels einer Vakuumpumpe abgesaugt. Allerdings lässt sich bei dem bekannten Verfahren, dessen Verfahrensschritte nacheinander manuell von einem Benutzer vorgenommen werden müssen, nicht eindeutig feststellen, ob der Rückstandtank ausreichend gespült und entleert wurde. Es hängt vielmehr vom Benutzter ab, ob, wie oft, wie lange und in welcher Reihenfolge das Verfahren wiederholt wird und damit sichergestellt ist, dass der Rückstandtank leer ist. Gegenwärtig werden die Rückstandtanks mit einer mobilen Anlage gespült und entleert. Dabei kann es aufgrund von Fehlbedienungen zu schlechten Reinigungsresultaten kommen, also beispielsweise zu nicht komplett geleerten Rückstandtanks. Außerdem kann die Reinigungszeit sehr lange dauern.In a known method for cleaning and emptying of such a tank, the contents of the tank is first softened with water. However, since the residues form a solid lump, usually only the surface is softened. Subsequently, the contents are vortexed with compressed air with reduced or stopped water supply. Finally, the residue tank is aspirated by means of a vacuum pump. However, in the known method, the steps of which have to be carried out manually in succession by a user, it is not possible to clearly determine whether the residue tank has been sufficiently rinsed and emptied. Rather, it depends on the user if, how often, how long and in which order the procedure is repeated and thus ensures that the residue tank is empty. At present, the residue tanks are flushed and emptied with a mobile plant. This can lead to poor cleaning results due to incorrect operation, so for example to not completely emptied residue tanks. In addition, the cleaning time can take a long time.

US 4,234,980 beschreibt ein Verfahren gemäss dem Obergegriff des Anspruchs 1 und eine Vorrichtung gemäss dem Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 6. Dort wird zum Reinigen des Kanals Wasser unter Hochdruck mittels eines Schlauches in den Kanal eingebracht. Durch eine Aufnahmeröhre wird mittels eines im Rückstandstank erzeugten Vakuums der durch das Wasser gelöste Dreck abgesaugt. Die Vakuumpumpe wird dort von dem Bediener per Hand geregelt. US 4,234,980 describes a method according to the preamble of claim 1 and an apparatus according to the preamble of claim 6. There is introduced to clean the channel water under high pressure by means of a hose in the channel. By means of a pick-up tube, the dirt dissolved by the water is sucked off by means of a vacuum generated in the residue tank. The vacuum pump is controlled there by the operator by hand.

Aus der US 5,657,782 ist ein Gerät zur Reinigung eines Tanks bekannt, das in den Tank eingebracht werden kann. Dieses Gerät umfasst ein Drehteil, das mit Düsen ausgestattet ist, durch die von außen zugeführtes Wasser in verschiedenen Richtungen auf die am Boden des Tanks befindlichen Rückstände gespritzt werden kann, um die Rückstände zu lösen. Zum Absaugen der gelösten Rückstände wird ein Rohr eingeführt, das mit einer Vakuumpumpe verbunden ist, um die Rückstände durch das Rohr abzusaugen.From the US 5,657,782 a device for cleaning a tank is known, which can be introduced into the tank. This device incorporates a rotating part equipped with nozzles that allow water supplied from outside to be sprayed in different directions onto the residue at the bottom of the tank to remove the residue. For sucking off the dissolved Residues are introduced into a pipe connected to a vacuum pump to extract the residue through the pipe.

Aus der US 2,638,224 ist ein Tankreinigungsfahrzeug bekannt. Mittels einer Pumpe wird Flüssigkeit aus dem Tank abgesaugt. Diese Flüssigkeit wird dann wieder unter Hochdruck in den Tank zurückgeführt, um dort feste Rückstände zu lösen. Diese Zirkulation erfolgt so lange, bis alle festen Rückstände ausreichend im Tank gelöst sind, so dass der sich ergebende Rückstandsschlamm dann endgültig abgesaugt oder abgelassen werden kann.From the US 2,638,224 a tank cleaning vehicle is known. By means of a pump, liquid is sucked out of the tank. This liquid is then returned under high pressure in the tank to solve there solid residues. This circulation takes place until all solid residues are sufficiently dissolved in the tank, so that the resulting residue sludge can then finally be sucked off or drained off.

Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt deshalb die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein verbessertes Verfahren sowie eine verbesserte Vorrichtung zum Spülen und Entleeren der Rückstandtanks einer biologischen Kläranlage bereitzustellen, mit denen sich verbesserte Reinigungsresultate erzielen lassen und die eine Automatisierung des Reinigungs- und Entleerungsverfahrens zulassen.The present invention is therefore based on the object to provide an improved method and an improved apparatus for flushing and emptying the residue tanks of a biological treatment plant, which can achieve improved cleaning results and allow automation of the cleaning and emptying process.

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß durch ein Verfahren nach Anspruch 1 gelöst mit den Schritten:

  • Zuführen einer Flüssigkeit, insbesondere von Wasser, in den Tank zum Aufweichen der Rückstände,
  • Zuführen eines unter Hochdruck stehenden Mediums, insbesondere Luft, in den Tank zum Aufwirbeln der Rückstände, und
  • Absaugen der aufgeweichten und aufgewirbelten Rückstände aus dem Tank,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass zumindest zeitweise während des Absaugens und/oder in Absaugpausen in den Tank weitere Flüssigkeit zugeführt wird und dass die einzelnen Schritte zeitgesteuert und automatisch ablaufen, wobei die Parameter für die Reinigung einstellbar sind.This object is achieved by a method according to claim 1 with the steps:
  • Supplying a liquid, in particular water, into the tank for softening the residues,
  • Feeding a high pressure medium, in particular air, into the tank for stirring up the residues, and
  • Aspirating the softened and fluidized residues from the tank,
characterized in that at least temporarily during the suction and / or in suction pauses in the tank further liquid is supplied and that the individual steps timed and run automatically, the parameters for cleaning are adjustable.

Eine entsprechende Vorrichtung ist in Anspruch 6 angegeben, die ausgestaltet ist mit:

  • einer Flüssigkeitszufuhreinrichtung zum Zuführen einer Flüssigkeit, insbesondere von Wasser, in den Tank zum Aufweichen der Rückstände,
  • einer Mediumzufuhreinrichtung zum Zuführen eines unter Hochdruck stehenden Mediums, insbesondere Luft, in den Tank zum Aufwirbeln der Rückstände,
  • einer Absaugeinrichtung zum Absaugen der aufgeweichten und aufgewirbelten Rückstände aus dem Tank, und
  • einer Steuereinrichtung zur Steuerung des Reinigungs- und Entleerungsvorgangs,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Steuereinrichtung derart ausgestaltet ist, dass zumindest zeitweise während des Absaugens und/oder in Absaugpausen weitere Flüssigkeit von der Flüssigkeitszufuhreinrichtung in den Tank zugeführt wird und dass die einzelnen Schritte des Reinigungs- und Entleerungsvorgangs zeitgesteuert und automatisch ablaufen, wobei die Parameter für die Reinigung einstellbar sind.A corresponding device is specified in claim 6, which is configured with:
  • a liquid supply device for supplying a liquid, in particular water, into the tank for softening the residues,
  • a medium supply device for supplying a high-pressure medium, in particular air, into the tank for stirring up the residues,
  • a suction device for sucking the softened and whirled residues from the tank, and
  • a control device for controlling the cleaning and emptying process,
characterized in that the control device is designed such that at least temporarily during the suction and / or in suction pauses further liquid is supplied from the liquid supply device into the tank and that the individual steps of the cleaning and emptying process run timed and automatically, the parameters for the cleaning are adjustable.

Die vorliegende Erfindung basiert dabei auf dem Gedanken, das Reinigungsverfahren nach einem definierten Schema ablaufen zu lassen. Des weiteren wurde erkannt, dass es vorteilhaft ist, beim Absaugen der aufgeweichten und aufgewirbelten Rückstände aus dem Tank zumindest zeitweise gleichzeitig zum Absaugen und/oder in Absaugpausen weiterhin Flüssigkeit zuzuführen, da dadurch ein verbessertes Reinigungsergebnis erzielt werden kann. Insbesondere wird dadurch ein verbessertes Aufweichen der Rückstände erreicht, und die aus dem Tank ausgeleitete Masse wird dadurch so verdünnt, dass sie sich besser aus dem Tank ableiten lässt. Ferner kann ein Überlaufen des Tank verhindert werden.The present invention is based on the idea of running the purification process according to a defined scheme. Furthermore, it has been found that it is advantageous to continue to supply liquid during the aspiration of the softened and fluidized residues from the tank at least at the same time for suction and / or in suction pauses, since an improved cleaning result can be achieved thereby. In particular, this achieves an improved softening of the residues, and the mass discharged from the tank is thereby diluted so that it is easier to drain from the tank. Furthermore, overflowing of the tank can be prevented.

Das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren lässt sich auf einfache Weise automatisieren, so dass es nicht mehr von einem Benutzer abhängt, ob, wie oft, wie lange und in welcher Reihenfolge welche Schritte des Verfahrens durchgeführt werden. Basierend auf Erfahrungswerten können die Zeitdauern der einzelnen Schritte sowie andere Parameter, wie beispielsweise der Druck des zugeführten Mediums, die Menge der zugeführten Flüssigkeit und insbesondere die Zeitpunkte und Zeitdauern der Flüssigkeitszuführung während des Absaugvorgangs eingestellt werden. Fehlbedienungen, die bei den bekannten Verfahren zu schlechten Reinigungsresultaten führen können, sind somit weitgehend ausgeschlossen, und es kann sichergestellt werden, dass der Rückstandtank immer vollständig entleert und gründlich gespült ist.The inventive method can be automated in a simple manner, so that it no longer depends on a user, whether, how often, how long and in what order which steps of the process are performed. Based on empirical values, the time periods of the individual steps as well as other parameters, such as the pressure of the supplied medium, the amount of the supplied liquid and in particular the times and periods of the liquid supply can be adjusted during the suction process. Operating errors, which can lead to poor cleaning results in the known methods are thus largely excluded, and it can be ensured that the residue tank is always completely emptied and thoroughly rinsed.

Vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sind in den Unteransprüchen angegeben. In einer ersten Ausgestaltung ist vorgesehen, dass zum Absaugen der aufgeweichten und aufgewirbelten Rückstände in einem ersten Schritt nur Rückstände ohne zusätzliche Flüssigkeitszufuhr in den Tank abgesaugt werden und dass in einem zweiten Schritt während des Absaugens in den Tank weitere Flüssigkeit zugeführt wird, wobei der zweite Schritt mehrfach ausgeführt werden kann. Dies hat den Vorteil, dass in dem ersten Schritt die bereits aufgeweichten Rückstände an der Oberfläche abgesaugt werden, dass aber danach tiefer liegende Schichten zum Absaugen wieder mit zusätzlicher Flüssigkeit aufgeweicht werden.Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims. In a first embodiment, it is provided that for sucking the softened and fluidized residues in a first step only residues are sucked without additional liquid supply into the tank and that in a second step during the suction in the tank more liquid is supplied, wherein the second step can be executed several times. This has the advantage that in the first step, the already softened residues are sucked off at the surface, but that after that deeper layers for suction are softened again with additional liquid.

In einer weiteren Ausgestaltung ist vorgesehen, dass die zugeführte Flüssigkeitsmenge und die abgesaugte Rückstandsmenge erfasst werden, wozu geeignete Durchflussmessmittel vorgesehen sind, beispielsweise ein induktives Durchflussmessgerät zur Messung der aus dem Tank herauskommenden Feststoffe, und dass die Zufuhr der Flüssigkeit in den Tank während des Absaugens derart gesteuert wird, dass der Tank nicht überläuft.In a further embodiment, it is provided that the amount of liquid supplied and the amount of residue sucked off are detected, for which purpose suitable flow measuring means are provided, for example an inductive flow meter for measuring the solids coming out of the tank, and the supply of the liquid into the tank during suction it is controlled that the tank does not overflow.

Weiterhin ist in einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung vorgesehen, dass die Zufuhr der Flüssigkeit in dem ersten Schritt und die Zufuhr des unter Hochdruck stehenden Mediums in dem zweiten Schritt zumindest zeitweise gleichzeitig erfolgen, insbesondere vollständig gleichzeitig und durch Zufuhr einer unter Hochdruck stehenden Flüssigkeit, insbesondere Wasser, erfolgen. Der erste und zweite Schritt sind somit zusammengefasst, so dass das Aufweichen der Rückstände und das Aufwirbeln im Wesentlichen gleichzeitig erfolgen. Diese Ausgestaltung kommt insbesondere dann zur Anwendung, wenn keine Versorgung mit Druckluft zur Verfügung steht, sondern nur eine Versorgung mit Wasser bzw. einer anderen Flüssigkeit unter Hochdruck. In einer alternativen Ausgestaltung kann aber auch vorgesehen sein, dass die Zuleitung der Flüssigkeit und die Zuleitung des unter Hochdruck stehenden Mediums (insbesondere Luft) durch eine einzige Zuleitung, die intern beispielsweise zweigeteilt ist, realisiert wird.Furthermore, it is provided in an advantageous embodiment that the supply of the liquid in the first step and the supply of the high-pressure medium in the second step at least temporarily carried out simultaneously, in particular completely simultaneously and by supplying a liquid under high pressure, in particular water , The first and second steps are thus summarized, so that the softening of the residues and the whirling occur substantially simultaneously. This embodiment is used in particular when no supply of compressed air is available, but only a supply of water or another liquid under high pressure. In an alternative embodiment, however, it can also be provided that the supply line of the liquid and the supply line of the high-pressure medium (in particular air) by a single supply line, which is internally divided into two parts, realized.

Ferner ist in einer Ausgestaltung vorgesehen, dass die abgesaugte Rückstandsmenge erfasst wird, wozu geeignete Rückstandsdurchflussmittel vorgesehen sind, und dass das Reinigungsverfahren von neuem startet, wenn beim Absaugen über einen vorbestimmten Zeitraum nicht eine erste vorbestimmte Rückstandsmenge abgesaugt wird. Es kann also festgestellt werden, ob das Aufweichen und Aufwirbeln der Rückstände ausreichend war, so dass die Rückstände abgesaugt werden können. Falls doch nicht ausreichend Rückstände aufgeweicht und aufgewirbelt worden sind, wird dies bei dieser Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens automatisch festgestellt und führt zu einem Neubeginn des Verfahrens.Furthermore, it is provided in one embodiment that the amount of residue extracted is detected, for which purpose suitable residue flow means are provided, and that the cleaning process restarts if a first predetermined amount of residue is not extracted during suction for a predetermined period of time. It can therefore be determined whether the softening and whirling up of the residues was sufficient so that the residues can be sucked off. If not enough residues have been softened and whirled up, this is automatically determined in this embodiment of the method according to the invention and leads to a new start of the process.

Ferner kann das Erfassungsergebnis der Rückstandsmenge dazu verwendet werden festzustellen, ob eine zweite vorbestimmte Rückstandsmenge abgesaugt wurde, so dass der Tank vollständig leer von Rückständen ist. Die zweite Rückstandsmenge kann dabei ein entsprechend der Tankgröße und ggf. entsprechend dem Reinigungsintervall bestimmte Erfahrungsgröße sein.Further, the detection result of the residue amount may be used to determine whether a second predetermined amount of residue has been sucked off, so that the tank is completely empty of residues. The second residue quantity may be an empirical quantity determined in accordance with the tank size and possibly according to the cleaning interval.

Wie bereits erwähnt wurde, erfolgen die einzelnen Schritte des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens in einer bevorzugten Ausgestaltung zeitgesteuert und automatisch, wobei die Parameter der Zeitsteuerung an den zu reinigenden und entleerenden Tank anpassbar sind. Darüber hinaus können die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung und das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren auch lernfähig ausgestaltet sein, um die Parameter entsprechend gelernter Erfahrungswerte selbständig einzustellen oder zu verbessern.As already mentioned, the individual steps of the method according to the invention in a preferred embodiment are time-controlled and automatic, wherein the parameters of the timing can be adapted to the tank to be cleaned and emptied. In addition, the device according to the invention and the method according to the invention can also be designed to be adaptive in order to set or improve the parameters independently according to learned empirical values.

Vorzugweise ist die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung als mobile Vorrichtung ausgestaltet, bei der die Flüssigkeitszufuhreinrichtung einen Flüssigkeitsvorratsbehälter und die Absaugeinrichtung eine Vakuumpumpe aufweisen. Ferner kann zur Versorgung mit dem Medium (z.B. Luft) unter Hochdruck eine geeignete Vorrichtung, z.B. ein Kompressor, vorgesehen sein. Alternativ kann die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung aber auch als stationäre Vorrichtung ausgestaltet sein, bei der die Flüssigkeitszufuhreinrichtung einen Flüssigkeitsanschluss zum Anschluss an eine Flüssigkeitszuleitung und die Absaugeinrichtung einen Vakuumanschluss zum Anschluss an eine Vakuumleitung aufweisen. Mehrere solcher stationärer Vorrichtungen können beispielsweise in einer Reinigungshalle für Züge in bestimmten Abständen angeordnet sein, um gleichzeitig mehrere Bio-Toiletten des zu reinigen Zuges zu entleeren und zu reinigen.Preferably, the device according to the invention is designed as a mobile device, in which the liquid supply device comprises a liquid reservoir and the suction device comprises a vacuum pump. Further, to supply the medium (e.g., air) under high pressure, a suitable device, e.g. a compressor, be provided. Alternatively, however, the device according to the invention can also be configured as a stationary device, in which the liquid supply device has a liquid connection for connection to a liquid supply line and the suction device has a vacuum connection for connection to a vacuum line. For example, a plurality of such stationary devices may be arranged at intervals in trains in a cleaning hall for simultaneous emptying and cleaning of several bio-toilets of the train to be cleaned.

In einer weiteren Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung ist vorgesehen, dass Sensormittel zur Ermittlung, ob die Flüssigkeitszufuhreinrichtung, die Mediumzufuhreinrichtung und die Absaugeinrichtung mit dem Tank verbunden sind, vorgesehen sind. Durch die Sensormittel kann festgestellt werden, ob die Vorrichtung korrekt mit dem Tank verkoppelt ist, so dass eine fehlerhafte Reinigung aufgrund fehlerhaft oder nicht verbundener Leitungen, wie dies bei der bekannten Vorrichtung möglich ist, ausgeschlossen werden können. Solche Sensormittel können beispielsweise spezielle Signalgeber oder auch einfache Erdungsleitungen an den Verbindungsleitungen sein.In a further embodiment of the device according to the invention it is provided that sensor means for determining whether the liquid supply means, the medium supply means and the suction device are connected to the tank, are provided. By the sensor means can be determined whether the device is correctly coupled to the tank, so that a faulty cleaning due to faulty or not connected lines, as is possible in the known device, can be excluded. Such sensor means may be, for example, special signaling devices or simple grounding lines on the connecting lines.

Die Erfindung wird nachfolgend anhand der Zeichnungen näher erläutert. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine schematische Darstellung einer ersten Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung,
Fig. 2
ein Flussdiagramm des Ablaufs des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens und
Fig. 3
eine schematische Darstellung einer weiteren Ausgestaltung einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung.
The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the drawings. Show it:
Fig. 1
a schematic representation of a first embodiment of the device according to the invention,
Fig. 2
a flowchart of the process of the method and
Fig. 3
a schematic representation of another embodiment of a device according to the invention.

Fig. 1 zeigt schematisch eine erste Ausgestaltung einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung zum Reinigen und Entleeren des Rückstandtanks einer biologischen Kläranlage. Mit 1 ist der Rückstandtank bezeichnet, in dem sich nach gewisser Zeit eine feste und trockene Masse aus Toilettenpapier, Fäkalien und Festkörpern als Rückstände bilden und der deshalb von Zeit zu Zeit entleert und gereinigt werden muss. Dazu weist der Tank drei Anschlüsse auf, nämlich einen ersten Anschluss 11 zum Anschluss einer Druckluftleitung L, einen zweiten Anschluss 12 zum Anschluss einer Wasserzufuhr W und einen dritten Anschluss 13 zum Anschluss einer Absaugleitung V. Die erfindungsgemäße Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 weist entsprechende Anschlüsse 21, 22, 23 auf, um die in der vorliegenden Ausgestaltung stationär ausgestaltete Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 mit Druckluft bzw. Wasser zu versorgen bzw. die Rückstände abzusaugen. Ferner sind Eingangsanschlüsse 31 bzw. 32 vorgesehen, mit denen die Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 an eine Druckluftversorgungsleitung 51 bzw. eine Wasserversorgungsleitung angeschlossen werden kann. Zum Abführen der aus dem Tank 1 abgesaugten Rückstände aus der Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 ist ferner ein Abführungsanschluss 33 vorgesehen, mit dem die Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 an eine Vakuumversorgungsleitung 53 angeschlossen werden kann, an der ein Absaugvakuum zum Absaugen der Rückstände aus dem Tank 1 bereitgestellt wird. Fig. 1 schematically shows a first embodiment of a device according to the invention for cleaning and emptying the residue tank of a biological treatment plant. With 1, the residue tank is referred to, in which form after a certain time a solid and dry mass of toilet paper, feces and solids as residues and therefore must be emptied and cleaned from time to time. For this purpose, the tank has three connections, namely a first connection 11 for connecting a compressed air line L, a second connection 12 for connecting a water supply W and a third connection 13 for connecting a suction line V. The cleaning device 2 according to the invention has corresponding connections 21, 22, 23, to supply the stationary in the present embodiment configured cleaning device 2 with compressed air or water or to suck the residues. Furthermore, input terminals 31 and 32 are provided, with which the cleaning device 2 can be connected to a compressed air supply line 51 and a water supply line. For discharging the sucked from the tank 1 residues from the cleaning device 2, a discharge port 33 is further provided, with which the cleaning device 2 can be connected to a vacuum supply line 53 at which a suction vacuum for sucking the residues from the tank 1 is provided.

Die Ausgangsanschlüsse 21, 22, 23 sind mit den Versorgungsanschlüssen 31, 32, 33 durch gesteuerte Ventile 41, 42, 43 miteinander verbunden, die mittels einer Steuereinrichtung 24 steuerbar sind. Ferner sind in der Verbindungsleitung zwischen Wasserversorgungseingang 32 und Wasserausgang 22 ein Wasserdurchflussmesser 25 und in der Verbindungsleitung zwischen Vakuumversorgungseingang 33 und Vakuumausgang 23 ein Rückstandsdurchflussmesser 26 vorgesehen, mit denen die in den Tank 1 eingeleitete Wassermenge bzw. die aus dem Tank ausgeleitete Rückstandsmenge erfasst werden kann.The output terminals 21, 22, 23 are connected to the supply terminals 31, 32, 33 connected by controlled valves 41, 42, 43 with each other, which are controllable by means of a control device 24. Further, in the connecting line between the water supply inlet 32 and water outlet 22, a water flow meter 25 and in the connecting line between vacuum supply inlet 33 and vacuum outlet 23 a residue flow meter 26 is provided, with which the introduced into the tank 1 amount of water or discharged from the tank residue can be detected.

Der mit dieser Vorrichtung durchführbare Entleerungs- und Reinigungsvorgang soll anhand des Flussdiagramms in Fig. 2 näher erläutert werden. Nachdem alle Verbindungen zwischen Tank 1 und Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 korrekt hergestellt wurden, wozu beispielsweise unterschiedliche Kupplungen zu verwenden sind, um Verwechslungen bei den Anschlüssen zu vermeiden, kann der Benutzer den Entleerungs- und Reinigungsvorgang starten. Sofern der Vorgang automatisch und programmgesteuert abläuft, kann dies durch Drücken einer (nicht gezeigten) Starttaste (oder durch eine andere Startmaßnahme) geschehen. In einem ersten Schritt S1 wird dann zunächst Wasser über die Versorgungsleitung W in den Tank 1 zugeführt. Dazu ist das Ventil 42 für eine vorbestimmte Zeitdauer geöffnet. Anschließend wird in einem zweiten Verfahrensschritt S2, der sich teilweise oder auch vollständig mit dem Verfahrensschritt S1 überschneiden kann, Druckluft in den Tank 1 eingebracht, um das von dem eingebrachten Wasser aufgeweichte Rückstandsmaterial aufzuwirbeln. Dazu ist das Ventil 41 für eine vorbestimmte Zeitdauer geöffnet. Anschließend erfolgt der eigentliche Absaugvorgang des aufgeweichten und aufgewirbelten Rückstandsmaterials. Dazu wird zunächst (S3) durch Öffnen des Ventils 43 für eine vorbestimmte Zeitdauer das Vakuum angelegt, um einen ersten Teil des aufgeweichten und aufgewirbelten Rückstandsmaterials abzusaugen. Um jedoch ein besseres Reinigungs- und Entleerungsergebnis zu erzielen, werden danach gleichzeitig oder kurz nacheinander die Ventile 42 und 43 geöffnet, um zumindest zeitweise gleichzeitig Wasser in den Tank 1 einzubringen und Rückstandsmaterial aus dem Tank abzusaugen. Beispielsweise öffnet zunächst das Ventil 43 und kurz danach das Ventil 42. Nachdem beide Ventile für einen Zeitraum geöffnet waren, wird dann zunächst das Ventil 42 wieder geschlossen, bevor das Ventil 43 geschlossen wird.The feasible with this device emptying and cleaning process is based on the flowchart in Fig. 2 be explained in more detail. After all connections between tank 1 and cleaning device 2 have been made correctly, including, for example, different couplings to be used to avoid confusion in the connections, the user can start the emptying and cleaning process. If the process is automatic and program-controlled, this can be done by pressing a start button (not shown) (or by another starting measure). In a first step S1, water is then first supplied via the supply line W into the tank 1. For this purpose, the valve 42 is open for a predetermined period of time. Subsequently, in a second method step S2, which can overlap partially or completely with method step S1, compressed air is introduced into the tank 1 in order to fluidize the residue material softened by the introduced water. For this purpose, the valve 41 is open for a predetermined period of time. Subsequently, the actual suction of the softened and stirred up residue material. For this purpose, first (S3) is applied by opening the valve 43 for a predetermined period of time, the vacuum to suck a first portion of the softened and fluidized residue material. However, in order to achieve a better cleaning and emptying result, the valves 42 and 43 are opened at the same time or in quick succession in order at least temporarily to simultaneously introduce water into the tank 1 and to suck off residue material from the tank. For example, first opens the valve 43 and shortly thereafter the valve 42. After both valves were opened for a period of time, then the valve 42 is first closed again before the valve 43 is closed.

Vorzugsweise ist vorgesehen, dass nach einem bestimmten Zeitraum nach Durchführen des Verfahrensschritts S4 eine Prüfung in Schritt S5 durchgeführt wird, ob überhaupt Rückstandsmaterial abgesaugt wurde bzw. ob die abgesaugte Rückstandsmenge über R über einem bestimmten Grenzwert R1 liegt. So kann es beispielsweise vorkommen, dass in den Schritten S1 und S4 das zugeführte Wasser nicht ausgereicht hat, um das Rückstandsmaterial aufzuweichen, so dass danach nur sehr wenig oder kein Rückstandsmaterial abgesaugt werden konnte. Falls dies der Fall ist, wird das Verfahren erneut von vorne mit Schritt S1 gestartet, wozu beispielsweise in Schritt S1 auch noch mehr Wasser zugeführt werden kann, um das Rückstandsmaterial erneut (und ggf. besser) aufzuweichen. Falls jedoch in Schritt S5 festgestellt wird, dass ausreichend Rückstandsmaterial abgesaugt wurde, kann weiter mit dem Absaugvorgang (S6), der auch mehrfach wiederholt werden kann, fortgefahren werden, um eine vollständige Entleerung und Reinigung des Tanks 1 zu bewirken.Preferably, it is provided that after a certain period of time after performing the method step S4, a check is carried out in step S5 whether any residue material has been sucked off or whether the sucked residue amount above R is above a certain limit value R1. Thus, it may happen, for example, that in steps S1 and S4 the supplied water was not sufficient to soften the residue material, so that afterwards only very little or no residue material could be sucked off. If this is the case, the method is restarted from the beginning with step S1, for which purpose, for example, even more water can be supplied in step S1 in order to soften the residue material again (and possibly better). However, if it is determined in step S5 that sufficient residue material has been sucked off, the suction process (S6), which can also be repeated several times, can be continued to effect complete emptying and cleaning of the tank 1.

Schließlich kann als Schritt S7 auch eine weitere Prüfung optional vorgesehen sein, bei der anhand der ermittelten, abgesaugten Rückstandsmenge R geprüft wird, ob mehr als ein zweiter Grenzwert R2 für die Rückstandsmenge abgesaugt wurde. Der zweite Grenzwert R2 kann beispielsweise ein empirisch ermittelter Grenzwert sein, der für eine bestimmte Tankgröße angibt, wie viele Rückstände beispielsweise nach einer bestimmten Benutzungszeit der zugeordneten Bio-Toilette enthalten sind. Es wird also in Schritt S7 festgestellt, ob der Tank bereits vollständig entleert ist. Wenn nicht, wird weiter abgesaugt (Schritt S6 oder S4); wenn der Tank leer ist, wird das Verfahren beendet.Finally, as step S7, a further test may optionally be provided, in which it is checked on the basis of the ascertained, sucked residue quantity R whether more than a second limit value R2 has been extracted for the residue quantity. The second limit value R2 can be, for example, an empirically determined limit value which indicates, for a specific tank size, how many residues are contained, for example, after a certain period of use of the associated bio-toilet. It is thus determined in step S7 whether the tank is already completely emptied. If not, it is further exhausted (step S6 or S4); if the tank is empty, the process is ended.

Zur Beurteilung der abgesaugten Rückstandsmenge R in Schritt S5 (und ggf. S7) wird von der Steuereinheit 24 die von dem Rückstandsmessgerät 26 gemessene Rückstandsmenge ausgewertet. Eine derartige Prüfung ist jedoch nicht zwingend erforderlich; der Schritt S5 (und/oder S7) kann auch vollständig entfallen, so dass die Absaugvorgänge S4 und S6 unmittelbar nacheinander, und gegebenenfalls mehrfach wiederholt, ausgeführt werden.For evaluating the amount of residue R sucked off in step S5 (and possibly S7), the control unit 24 evaluates the amount of residue measured by the residue meter 26. However, such a test is not mandatory; The step S5 (and / or S7) can also be omitted completely, so that the suction operations S4 and S6 are carried out immediately one after the other, and possibly several times repeatedly.

Um zu verhindern, dass der Tank 1 überläuft, kann ferner bevorzugt das Messsignal des Wasserdurchflussmessgeräts 25 ausgewertet werden (zusammen mit der abgeführten Rückstandsmenge), um die Zufuhr weiteren Wassers rechtzeitig vor Überfüllung des Tanks 1 zu stoppen.In order to prevent the tank 1 from overflowing, the measuring signal of the water flow meter 25 can preferably also be evaluated (together with the amount of residue removed) in order to stop the supply of further water in good time before overfilling of the tank 1.

Die Zeitdauern der einzelnen Schritte des Reinigungsverfahrens sind bei automatischer Durchführung des Verfahrens vorgegeben, können jedoch auch je nach zu reinigendem Tank individuell angepasst werden. Ferner kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Steuereinrichtung 24 lernfähig ist und anhand der Messsignale der Durchflussmesser 25 und 26 mit der Zeit lernt, welche Zeitdauern und beispielsweise wie viele Wiederholungen der Absaugvorgänge zu einem optimalen Entleerungs- und Reinigungsergebnis führen. Ferner können die Parameter auch regional anders eingestellt sein, da beispielsweise in manchen Ländern der Anteil des Toilettenpapiers an der Rückstandsmenge anders ist als in anderen Ländern und somit der Festigkeitsgrad der Rückstandsmenge je nach Land oder Region ganz unterschiedlich ausfallen kann.The durations of the individual steps of the cleaning process are predetermined when the process is carried out automatically, but can also be adapted individually depending on the tank to be cleaned. Furthermore, it can be provided that the control device 24 is capable of learning and, based on the measuring signals of the flow meters 25 and 26, learns over time which time periods and, for example, how many repetitions of the suction operations lead to an optimal emptying and cleaning result. Furthermore, the parameters can also be set regionally differently, since, for example, in some countries the proportion of toilet paper in the residue quantity differs from that in other countries, and thus the degree of residue residue may vary considerably depending on the country or region.

Eine weitere Ausgestaltung einer erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungs- und Entleerungsvorrichtung ist schematisch in Fig. 3 gezeigt. Dabei ist die Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 als mobile Einheit ausgestaltet. Statt zweier separater Verbindungsleitungen zwischen Tank 1 und Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 für eine getrennte Zuführung von Wasser und Druckluft ist bei dieser Ausgestaltung eine einzige Verbindungsleitung WL für die Zuführung von unter Hochdruck stehendem Wasser vorgesehen. Tank 1 bzw. Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 weisen dazu entsprechende Anschlüsse 17 bzw. 27 auf. Das unter dem Hochdruck stehende Wasser wird dabei von der Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 mittels einer Hochdruckpumpe 28 über das steuerbare Ventil 47 bereitgestellt, wobei als Wasservorrat ein Wassertank 29 vorgesehen ist. Alternativ kann natürlich auch der Wassertank 29 entfallen, sofern eine externe Wasserversorgung möglich ist. Zum Anschluss an die externe Wasserversorgung kann dann auch ein Versorgungsanschluss (nicht gezeigt) vorgesehen sein.A further embodiment of a cleaning and emptying device according to the invention is shown schematically in FIG Fig. 3 shown. In this case, the cleaning device 2 is designed as a mobile unit. Instead of two separate connecting lines between tank 1 and cleaning device 2 for a separate supply of water and compressed air is provided in this embodiment, a single connection line WL for the supply of high-pressure water. Tank 1 and cleaning device 2 have corresponding connections 17 and 27, respectively. The under high pressure water is provided by the cleaning device 2 by means of a high-pressure pump 28 via the controllable valve 47, wherein Water supply a water tank 29 is provided. Alternatively, of course, the water tank 29 omitted if an external water supply is possible. For connection to the external water supply then also a supply connection (not shown) may be provided.

Zum Absaugen der aufgeweichten und aufgewirbelten Rückstände aus dem Tank 1 ist ferner eine Vakuumpumpe 20 vorgesehen, mit der ein Vakuum erzeugt werden kann. Mittels dieses Vakuums werden aus dem Tank 1 die Rückstände abgesaugt und über den Rückstandausgang 34 der Reinigungsvorrichtung 2, beispielsweise in einen externen Tank oder den Abflusskanal, abgeleitet. Der Reinigungsvorgang läuft bei dieser Vorrichtung im Wesentlichen identisch ab wie bei der in Fig. 1 gezeigten Ausgestaltung. Lediglich die Schritte S1 und S2 (siehe Fig. 2) sind dabei zusammengefasst. Vorzugsweise steht auch das Wasser bei den Absaugschritten S4 und S6 unter Hochdruck; es kann jedoch auch vorgesehen sein, dass der Druck beim Zuführen des Wassers in den Tank 1 niedriger eingestellt wird.For sucking the softened and fluidized residues from the tank 1, a vacuum pump 20 is further provided, with which a vacuum can be generated. By means of this vacuum, the residues are sucked from the tank 1 and discharged via the residue outlet 34 of the cleaning device 2, for example in an external tank or the drainage channel. The cleaning process is essentially identical in this device as in the Fig. 1 shown embodiment. Only steps S1 and S2 (see Fig. 2 ) are summarized. Preferably, the water is also at high pressure in the extraction steps S4 and S6; However, it may also be provided that the pressure when feeding the water into the tank 1 is set lower.

Um feststellen zu können, ob die Verbindungsleitungen V und WL von der Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 richtig an den Tank 1 angeschlossen sind, sind an den Anschlüssen 13 und 17 des Tanks entsprechende Sensoren 18 vorgesehen, die der Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 eine korrekte Anbringung der Verbindungsleitungen signalisieren. Beispielsweise kann vorgesehen sein, dass bei fehlendem Signal der Reinigungsvorgang überhaupt nicht gestartet werden kann. In einer einfachen Ausgestaltung bestehen diese Sensoren 18 darin, dass eine Erdungsverbindung mit einem Erdkabel an den Verbindungsleitungen, die vorzugsweise als Schläuche ausgebildet sind, hergestellt werden muss. Der Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 wird dann signalisiert, ob alle Erdungsverbindungen hergestellt sind.In order to be able to determine whether the connecting lines V and WL are correctly connected to the tank 1 by the cleaning device 2, corresponding sensors 18 are provided at the connections 13 and 17 of the tank, which signal the cleaning device 2 to correctly attach the connecting lines. For example, it may be provided that if the signal is missing, the cleaning process can not be started at all. In a simple embodiment, these sensors 18 are that a ground connection with a ground cable to the connecting lines, which are preferably designed as tubes, must be made. The cleaning device 2 is then signaled that all ground connections are made.

Ferner können auch Sensoren vorgesehen sein, die signalisieren, ob sich im Ruhezustand alle Verbindungsleitungen in ihrer korrekten Ruheposition, vorzugsweise an der Reinigungsvorrichtung 2 befinden. Dazu können geeignete Statusanzeigen vorgesehen sein, die pro Verbindungsleitung signalisieren, ob eine korrekte Verstauung gegeben ist. Entsprechende Statuslampen können auch für die korrekte Montageposition vorgesehen sein.Furthermore, it is also possible to provide sensors which signal whether all connecting lines are in their correct rest position, preferably on the cleaning device 2, in the idle state. For this purpose, suitable status displays can be provided which signal per connecting line whether a correct stowage is given. Corresponding status lamps can also be provided for the correct mounting position.

Mit dem erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren und der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung lassen sich Rückstandtanks biologischer Kläranlagen gründlicher entleeren und spülen. Insbesondere kann zuverlässig sichergestellt werden, dass der Tank ständig entleert wird. Auch ein automatisierter Ablauf ist möglich. Bevorzugt wird die Erfindung eingesetzt zum Reinigen von Rückstandtanks von Bio-Toiletten in Personenzügen. Derartige Bio-Toiletten bzw. biologische Kläranlagen kommen jedoch auch anderswo zum Einsatz, beispielsweise in Toilettenwagen bei Großveranstaltungen oder in fest eingebauten Toiletten großer Veranstaltungszentren wie Messe- oder Konzerthallen. Die Erfindung ist jedoch grundsätzlich für alle Arten biologischer Kläranlagen einsetzbar, unabhängig vom Einsatzzweck und Anwendungsbereich der biologischen Kläranlage.With the method according to the invention and the device according to the invention, residue tanks of biological sewage treatment plants can be emptied and rinsed more thoroughly. In particular, it can be reliably ensured that the tank is constantly emptied. An automated process is also possible. Preferably, the invention is used for cleaning debris tanks of organic toilets in passenger trains. However, such biological toilets or biological sewage treatment plants are also used elsewhere, for example in toilet trolleys at major events or in permanently installed toilets large event centers such as trade fair or concert halls. However, the invention is basically applicable to all types of biological treatment plants, regardless of the purpose and scope of the biological treatment plant.

Claims (12)

  1. A process for cleaning and emptying a residue tank (1), filled with solid-like residues, of a biological sewage-treatment installation, having the steps:
    - feeding (S1) of a fluid, in particular water, into the tank in order to soften the residues,
    - feeding (S2) of a medium under high pressure, in particular air, into the tank in order to whirl up the residues, and
    - withdrawal by suction (S3, S4) of the softened and whirled-up residues from the tank,
    characterised in that further fluid is fed into the tank at least temporarily during the withdrawal by suction and/or in pauses in the withdrawal by suction, and in that the individual steps proceed automatically and in a time-controlled manner, the parameters for cleaning being adjustable.
  2. A process according to claim 1, characterised in that for withdrawal by suction of the softened and whirled up residues in a first step (S3) only residues are withdrawn by suction without an additional fluid feed into the tank, and in that in a second step (S4), further fluid is fed into the tank during the withdrawal by suction, the second step being able to be carried out repeatedly.
  3. A process according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the fed fluid quantity and the residue quantity withdrawn by suction are detected, and in that the feed of the fluid into the tank during withdrawal by suction is controlled in such a manner that the tank does not overflow.
  4. A process according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the feed of the fluid in the first step (S1) and the feed of the medium under high pressure in the second step (S2) take place simultaneously at least temporarily, in particular take place entirely simultaneously and through the feed of a fluid under high pressure, in particular water.
  5. A process according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the residue quantity withdrawn by suction is detected, the detection result being used to start the process anew when during withdrawal by suction a first predetermined residue quantity is not withdrawn by suction over a predetermined period of time, or to end the process when a second predetermined residue quantity is achieved during withdrawal by suction.
  6. A device (2) for cleaning and emptying a residue tank (1), filled with solid-like residues, of a biological sewage-treatment installation, having:
    - a fluid feeding device (22, 32; 27, 28, 29) to feed a fluid, in particular water, into the tank in order to soften the residues,
    - a medium feeding device (21, 31; 27) to feed a medium under high pressure, in particular air, into the tank in order to whirl up the residues,
    - a suction device (23, 33; 23, 20, 34) for withdrawal by suction of the softened and whirled up residues from the tank, and
    - a control device (24) to control the cleaning and emptying procedure,
    characterised in that the control device (24) is fashioned such that at least temporarily further fluid is fed into the tank by the fluid feeding device during the withdrawal by suction and/or in pauses in the withdrawal by suction, and in that the individual steps of the cleaning and emptying process proceed automatically and in a time-controlled manner, the parameters for cleaning being adjustable.
  7. A device according to claim 6, characterised in that the fluid feeding device and the medium feeding device are in the form of a single line (WL), in particular for feeding a fluid under high pressure, in particular water.
  8. A device according to claim 6 or 7, characterised in that fluid flow measuring means (25) to determine the fed fluid and residue flow measuring means (26) to determine the residues withdrawn by suction are provided, and in that the control device (24) is fashioned to control the feed of the fluid into the tank during withdrawal by suction in such a manner that the tank does not overflow.
  9. A device according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterised in that residue flow measuring means (26) to detect the residue quantity withdrawn by suction are provided, and in that the control device (24) is fashioned to control the cleaning and emptying procedure in such a manner that the detection result is used to start the process anew when during withdrawal by suction a first predetermined residue quantity is not withdrawn by suction over a predetermined period of time, or to end the process when a second predetermined residue quantity is achieved during withdrawal by suction.
  10. A device according to any one of claims 6 to 9, characterised in that the device (2) is in the form of a mobile device, and in that the fluid feeding device has a fluid storage container (29) and the suction device has a vacuum pump (20).
  11. A device according to any one of claims 6 to 10, characterised in that the device (2) is in the form of a stationary device, and in that the fluid feeding device has a fluid connection (32) for connection to a fluid supply line (52) and the suction device has a vacuum connection (33) for connection to a vacuum line (53).
  12. A device according to any one of claims 6 to 11, characterised in that sensor means (18) are provided to detect whether the fluid feeding device, the medium feeding device and the suction device are connected to the tank.
EP04021191A 2003-09-17 2004-09-07 Process and apparatus for flushing and emptying a biological sewage treatment installation tank filled with solidified residue Not-in-force EP1516682B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE10343243A DE10343243B4 (en) 2003-09-17 2003-09-17 Method and device for flushing and emptying a residue tank filled with solids-like residues of a biological sewage treatment plant
DE10343243 2003-09-17

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1516682A1 EP1516682A1 (en) 2005-03-23
EP1516682B1 true EP1516682B1 (en) 2008-10-22

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EP04021191A Not-in-force EP1516682B1 (en) 2003-09-17 2004-09-07 Process and apparatus for flushing and emptying a biological sewage treatment installation tank filled with solidified residue

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EP (1) EP1516682B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE411853T1 (en)
DE (2) DE10343243B4 (en)

Cited By (1)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2364893A1 (en) 2010-03-12 2011-09-14 Schweizerische Bundesbahnen SBB Method and device for emptying a solids container

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US4550453A (en) * 1984-08-02 1985-11-05 Marion E. Norman Compact, portable drain to empty and clean a recreational vehicle holding tank
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Cited By (1)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2364893A1 (en) 2010-03-12 2011-09-14 Schweizerische Bundesbahnen SBB Method and device for emptying a solids container

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE502004008309D1 (en) 2008-12-04
ATE411853T1 (en) 2008-11-15
DE10343243A1 (en) 2005-08-04
DE10343243B4 (en) 2007-01-25
EP1516682A1 (en) 2005-03-23

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