COMPONENT

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a Component of (for forming) a movable or immovable object, comprising: a Component Body; at least one holding device for holding a bait for pests, which holding device is comprised of a housing which delimits at least one receptacle chamber for receiving at least one bait, wherein the housing is comprised of at least one platform which delimits at least one pass-through opening through which a pest can gain access to a bait arranged in said housing;
wherein at least a part of the holding device, in particular at least one part of the housing, and/or at least one part of the at least one platform, and/or at least one part of an accommodation device which device delimits an accommodation space for accommodating the holding device, is physically integrated with at least one portion of the Component Body.

Claims

1. A Component (1), particularly for serving as a component of a movable or immovable object; comprised of: a Component Body (2); at least one holding device (3) for holding a bait (4) for pests, which holding device (3) is comprised of a housing (5) which delimits at least one receptacle chamber (6) for receiving at least one bait (4), wherein the housing (5) is comprised of at least one platform (7) which delimits at least one pass-through opening through which a pest can gain access to a bait (4) arranged in said housing (5); wherein at least a part of the holding device (3), in particular at least one part of the housing (5), and/or at least one part of the at least one platform (7), and/or at least one part of an accommodation device (23) which device (23) delimits an accommodation space (22) for accommodating the holding device (3), is physically integrated with (designed or formed integrally with) at least one portion of the Component Body (2).

2. The Component according to claim 1; characterized in that the at least one part of the holding device (3) and/or of the accommodation device (23) which is comprised of at least one portion of the Component Body (2) is comprised completely or at least partially of at least one wall of the Component Body (2); or the at least one part of the holding device (3) and/or of the accommodation device (23) which is comprised of a portion of the Component Body (2) is disposed completely or at least partially in a wall of the Component Body (2).

3. The Component according to claim 2; characterized in that the Component Body (2) at least partially, in particular completely, has a hollow cylindrical basic geometric shape, wherein the at least one part of the holding device (3) and/or of the accommodation device (23) which is comprised of at least one portion of the Component Body (2) is disposed on the outer perimeter of the Component Body (2), or on the inner perimeter of the Component Body (2), or on an inner surface of the Component Body (2) which borders a hollow space within the Component Body (2).

4. The Component according to claim 2; characterized in that the Component Body (2), at least in one or more parts, and in particular completely, has the basic geometric shape of a quadrilateral parallelepiped, in particular a rectangular parallelepiped (or cuboid), wherein the at least one part of the holding device (3) and/or of the accommodation device (23) which is comprised of a portion of the Component Body (2) is disposed on an outer surface, particularly an end surface or lateral surface, of the Component Body (2), or on an inner surface of the Component Body (2) which borders a hollow space within the Component Body (2).

5. The Component according claim 1; characterized by at least one access opening (17) which provides a means of access to the receptacle chamber (6) which is delimited by the housing or by an element associated with the housing, which access opening (17) is disposed in a wall of the component body (2), or in a wall of the housing (5) which wall of the housing (5) is not formed by a wall of the Component Body (2).

6. The Component according to claim 5; characterized in that direct accessibility of the limited receptacle chamber (6) associated with the housing is provided through the access opening (17), or indirect accessibility of said receptacle chamber (6) is provided through the access opening (17) via at least one access channel (18) which communicates with said access opening (17).

7. The Component according to claim 5; characterized by an access platform (19), possibly having a ramp-like configuration, which provides access to at least one access opening (17), which platform (19) in particular may be disposed on or in the Component Body or on or in an element thereof.

8. The Component according to claim 1; characterized in that at least one accommodation space device (23) is provided, wherewith the accommodation device (23) is comprised of at least one guiding device (26) for guiding a holding device (3), in particular relative to the Component Body (2).

9. The Component according to claim 1; characterized in that a plurality of platforms (7) are disposed one above another in the housing (5), wherein an intermediate space (20) defining an intermediate level is formed between two neighboring platforms (7).

10. The Component according to claim 1; characterized by at least one closure body (9) which is movably mounted relative to the (or a) platform (7), which closure body (9) is movable away from the platform (7) into an open position such that the at least one pass-through opening associated with the platform is exposed; and said closure body (9) is movable against the platform (17) into a closed position such that the at least one pass-through opening associated with the platform is closed off.

11. The Component according to claim 10; characterized in that the closure body (9) is in the form of a buoyant body (e.g. a float), or is comprised of at least one buoyant body (float).

12. The Component according to claim 10; characterized in that the closure body (9) is mounted so as to be movable relative to the platform (7), by means of at least one movable, in particular swingable, holding element (10) which in particular may have a clamping action and which is mounted on or in the housing (5), in particular on the platform (7), or on or in another portion of the component (1), in particular of the Component Body (2).

13. The Component according to claim 1; characterized in that at least one accommodation chamber (11) is attached (or is attachable) to the housing (5) (on or in said housing), which accommodation chamber (11) accommodates electrical and/or electronic components of the holding device (3), and/or which accommodation chamber (11) has disposed on it or formed on it at least one bait-mounting device (8) for mounting a bait (4).

14. The Component according to claim 13; characterized in that at least one monitoring device (14), in particular optical, for monitoring at least part of the receptacle chamber (6) bounded by the housing (5), is disposed or formed on or in the accommodation chamber (11).

15. The Component according to claim 1; characterized by at least one surge protection element (16) for protecting against penetration of water into the receptacle chamber (6) bounded by the housing (5), in the event that the water level in a region around the holding device (3) rises due to splashing or surging, which surge protection element (16) is disposed or formed below the platform (7).

16. The Component according to claim 1; characterized in that at least one signal transmission device, in particular in the form of an antenna element, which is designed to transmit communication signals to at least one external communication device and/or to receive communication signals from at least one external communication device, is structurally integrated or formed, in the Component Body (2).

17. The Component according to claim 1; characterized in that said Component comprises: a delimiting element for delimiting a specific surface area or spatial region; or a bridge element or frame element for forming a frame or a channel, in particular a channel of a system for disposal of sewerage and/or wastewater and/or runoff water; or a manhole element for forming a manhole, in particular a manhole in a system for disposal of sewerage and/or wastewater and/or runoff water; or a tunnel element for forming a tunnel; or a wall element for forming a wall structure or other masonry structure; or a post element or pylon element or tower element for forming a post, pylon, or tower; or a step element for forming a staircase; or a wall element for forming a wall of a walled structure, in particular a building; or a support member for supporting a third object.

18. An immovable object (fixed object), particularly a structure (structural object) (i.e. an object in the subject area of structural engineering) which is formed according to claim 1; or an object which is comprised of such a structure.

19. A movable object, particularly a Component (1) according to claim 1; or an object which is comprised of such a Component.

Description

[0099] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will be apparent from the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the Figures.

[0100] FIGS. 1 to 18 each show a schematic diagram of a Component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0101] FIGS. 1 to 16 illustrate exemplary embodiments of a Component 1 for an immovable object. All of the embodiments [disclosed] in connection with the exemplary embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 16 apply analogously for Components 1 for a movable object, e.g. such as illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18.

[0102] FIGS. 1 and 2 show a schematic representation of a Component 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment, in a perspective view (FIG. 1) and in a cross sectional view along the line II-II in FIG. 1 (FIG. 2).

[0103] The Component 1 is a component for forming an immovable object in the form of a structure (described below), or a part thereof. The term structure is understood to mean a channel or a shaft, e.g. comprising part of a shaft system, or a system for disposal of sewerage and/or wastewater and/or runoff water, or a manhole or manhole system. Thus, the Component 1 is a channel element or shaft element.

[0104] The Component 1 is comprised of a Component Body 2. The Component Body 2 is comprised of a material of construction, particularly concrete, and the basic geometric shape of it is (essentially) that of a hollow cylinder. Other materials of which the Component Body 2 might be comprised are plastics, particularly extrudable or injection-moldable plastic materials, e.g. a polyolefin such as PA, PC, PE, PP, or PS, and in particular thermoplastic materials.

[0105] The Component 1 is further comprised of a holding device 3 for holding a bait 4. The holding device 3 comprises a housing 5. The housing 5 delimits a receptacle chamber 6 for receiving a bait 4, and comprises a platform 7, which may be designated as and considered as a bait platform. The platform 7 delimits a pass-through opening (not described in detail) through which a pest can access a bait 4 arranged in the housing 5. Thus, the pass-through opening provides a means of direct access into the receptacle chamber 6 in the housing. The pass-through opening thus defines an upper region (of the housing 5) above said pass-through opening, and a lower region (of the housing 5) below said pass-through opening. As seen, the bait 4 is arranged in the upper region, which in the embodiment shown forms the receptacle chamber 6 which is bounded by the housing. It is readily seen from FIG. 2 that the bait 4 can be arranged on the platform 7. Other possibilities for disposition of the same or other baits 4 are shown in dashed lines. Thus, the same or other baits 4 may be arranged on and supported by (or from) a mounting device 8.

[0106] The device 3 is integrated into the Component 1. This is realized in that a part of the holding device 3, i.e. a part of the housing 5 and a part of the platform 7, is formed by a part of the Component Body 2 and thus is physically integrated into the Component Body 2. It is readily seen that a wall region of the Component Body 2 also forms a wall region of a wall of the housing 5, in relation to the holding device. The holding device 3 is thus integral to and of unit construction with the Component Body 2. The holding device 3, thus the housing 5, extends over regions of the interior perimeter of the Component Body 2, having an effect on (or determining or forming) the outer geometric shape of the Component 1.

[0107] Concerning the problem of possible contamination of the environment around Component 1 by means of poisons or active substances contained in the bait 4, the holding device 3 is designed such that the region of the housing 5 in which the bait 4 is arranged can be hermetically sealed, such that penetration of water, at least into this region of the housing 5, is not possible.

[0108] In general, the holding device 3 is designed so that, in the event of inflow or rising of water into or in the housing 5, the given volume (internal volume) and the sealing of the housing 5 give rise to development of a physical back-pressure in the housing 5, which opposes and counteracts the said inflow or rising of water. This is due to the fact that the air in the housing 5 is compressed by the inflow and the rising of water. The rising of water in the housing 5 thus becomes increasingly difficult due to the counterpressure which develops.

[0109] The holding device 3 is further provided with a closure body 9. As indicated by the double arrow P1 in FIG. 2, the closure body 9 is disposed so as to be movable relative to the platform 7, between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the closure body is moved away from the platform 7 in such a way that the pass-through opening, which is delimited by the platform, is essentially open. Accordingly, when the closure body 9 is in its open position, a pest can negotiate the pass-through opening and can pass into and out of the upper region of the housing 5. In the closed position shown by dashed lines, the closure body 9 is moved toward the platform 7 in such a way that the pass-through opening, which is delimited by the platform, becomes closed. Accordingly, when the closure body 9 is in its closed position, a pest cannot negotiate the pass-through opening in order to pass into or out of the upper region of the housing 5. When the closure body 9 is in its closed position, it closes off and hermetically seals off the pass-through opening 8, so that penetration of water into the upper region of the housing 5, e.g. due to splashes or surges of water or flooding, is not possible. Consequently, in this way, means have been provided which tend to remedy the general problem of contamination of the surroundings around the Component 1 arising from substances of which the bait 4 is comprised.

[0110] To realize the movable mounting of the closure body 9, the closure body 9 is fastened to a holding element 10 mounted pivotably on the platform 7, which holding element has a clamping or clip-like action. The holding element 10 is affixed to the platform 7 on one side, and to the closure body 9 on the other side. The path of movement which the closure body 9 executes in moving from the open position into the closed position, and in return, is defined by: the location of the connection of the closure body 9 to the holding element 10, the location of the connection of the holding element 10 to the platform 7, and the geometric dimensions, in particular the shape, of the holding element 10.

[0111] The closure body 9 is in the form of a buoyant body. This is achieved in that the closure body 9 is designed to have a hollow space (not shown) filled with air. A movement of the closure body 9 from the open position into the closed position is thus induced automatically by a rise in the water level in Component 1. Correspondingly, a movement of the closure body 9 from the closed position into the open position is induced by a drop in the water level in Component 1.

[0112] To facilitate the access of a pest to the platform 7 via the closure body 9, the closure body 9 may inhibit or prevent slippage of a pest (i.e. improve the traction of a pest) which is engaging the closure body 9, by means of at least one region having a feature comprising surface structuring and/or (possibly adhesive) surface coating and/or surface overlayering (which features are not shown). In the case of a cup-shaped and/or spherical-segment-shaped closure body 9, a suitable surface structuring and/or surface coating and/or surface overlayering may be disposed or formed in at least some parts of a circular region on the surface of the closure body 9.

[0113] An accommodation chamber 11, which accommodates electrical and/or electrical components of the holding device 3, is attached to the housing 5. The accommodation chamber 11 offers protection for these components with respect to external influences, in particular climatic and mechanical influences. The accommodation chamber 11 is realized in the form of a separate component from the housing 5, which is individually attached to the housing 5. Removal of the accommodation chamber 11 from the housing 5 provides access to the receptacle chamber 6.

[0114] The accommodation chamber 11 is attached to the housing 5 in a manner such that it can be removed without damage. The means by which the accommodation chamber 11 is attached to the housing 5 involve attachment region(s} on or associated with the housing 5 (not shown) which cooperate(s) with cooperating attachment regions(s) on or associated with the accommodation chamber 11 (also not shown). The accommodation chamber 11 is rotatably mounted on the housing 5, so as to be rotatable between a fastened position and a release position. In the fastened position, the attachment region(s} on or associated with the housing and the attachment regions(s) on or associated with the accommodation chamber interact in such a way that the accommodation chamber 11 is connected to the housing 5 in a stable manner. In the release position, the attachment region(s) on or associated with the housing and the attachment regions(s) on or associated with the accommodation chamber do not interact, and consequently the accommodation chamber 11 is removable from the housing 5. The accommodation chamber 11 can thus be converted from the fastened position to the release position and vice versa by rotational movements relative to the housing 5. The accommodation chamber 11 may attached to and released from the housing 5 by appropriate rotational movements of the accommodation chamber 11 relative to the housing 5.

[0115] To bring about appropriate rotational movements of the accommodation chamber 11, the accommodation chamber 11 is provided with at least one tool-engagement region 12 for shape-interlocking engagement of a tool 13 in the region of an upper exposed cover area, rotational movements being transferable to the accommodation chamber 11 by means of said tool to convert the accommodation chamber 11 from the fastened position to the release position and vice versa. Due to the configuration and/or design of the tool-engagement region 12 in the region of an upper exposed cover area on the cover of the accommodation chamber 11, the accommodation chamber is always accessible (from above).

[0116] Through suitable shaping and dimensioning of a corresponding tool 13, it is not absolutely necessary for a user to have physical access to the Component 1, e.g. [in the case that the Component Body 2 comprises a manhole,] to be able to descend into the manhole, in order to convert the accommodation chamber 11 from the fastened position into the release position or vice versa by means of corresponding rotational movements. Thus, the accommodation chamber 11 can be detached from outside the channel or shaft of the housing 5 which encompasses or comprises Component 1 [(i.e. can be detached by an operator working from a position located outside the channel)], and if desired the accommodation chamber 11 can be removed from said channel or shaft. If the bait 4 is held via the bait-mounting device 8 disposed on the accommodation chamber 11, the accommodation chamber 11 together with the bait-mounting device 8 and the bait 4 held thereon can be removed from the channel or shaft without the operator entering said channel or shaft, and it is possible to detect whether a bite has been applied to the bait and, if necessary, to exchange or replace a bait 4 (or the bait 4) and then to re-introduce the bait into the channel or shaft. This may be done, e.g., for purposes of inspection, e.g. to ascertain whether there has been a bite on the bait; and thereby inspections may be performed in a practicable, substantially simplified, and substantially more rapid manner.

[0117] A monitoring device 14, in the form of, or comprising, an infrared or CCD camera, is disposed in the accommodation chamber 11, for monitoring at least a portion of the receptacle chamber 6 which is delimited by the housing. The monitoring device 14 is disposed such that the receptacle chamber 6 can be monitored over a very wide range. The monitoring data supplied by the monitoring device 14 can be sent to an external communication device (not shown), via a modular transmitting and receiving device 15 which is likewise disposed in the accommodation chamber 11, by a radio-like mode, e.g. Bluetooth, DECT, WLAN, etc. The monitoring device 14 is supplied with electrical energy via a rechargeable electrical energy storage system, e.g. a rechargeable battery (not shown), which is also disposed in the accommodation chamber 11. The monitoring device 14, the transmitting and receiving device, and the electrical energy storage system are each electrical or electronic components of the holding device 3.

[0118] Using the monitoring device 14, it is possible to monitor all of the processes occurring in the receptacle chamber 6. In particular processes related to pests can be detected and determined qualitatively and/or quantitatively, and can be further evaluated. Processes of particular interest to be monitored quantitatively and/or qualitatively include, e.g., entrance by pests into the receptacle chamber 6, egress by pests out of the receptacle chamber 6, the behavior, i.e., in particular biting and/or movement behavior, of the pests which enter the receptacle chamber 6, while they are in said chamber, etc. In general, the number of pests entering (the pests frequenting) the receptacle chamber 6 per unit of time can be determined, on a qualitative and/or quantitative basis, and can be subjected to evaluations. Since monitoring data acquired by the monitoring device 14 can be transmitted to an external terminal accessible to a user, e.g. a cellphone, smart phone, tablet computer, notebook computer, or other portable electronic device, the monitoring device 14 can serve for monitoring of all activities and processes in the receptacle chamber 6 without a need for physical access to the Component 1.

[0119] A surge protection element 16 may be provided which is disposed or formed on the housing 5, for protection against penetration of water into the receptacle chamber 6 delimited by the housing (or by elements associated with the housing), in the event that the water level rises suddenly (water surges) or is present due to splashing; this protection element 16 is shown in dashed lines to indicate that it is optional. The surge protection element 16 is disposed below the platform 7. The surge protection element 16 may be realized such that it is integral with the Component Body 2.

[0120] As mentioned, regarding the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, direct access to the receptacle chamber 6 associated with the housing is provided, namely through the pass-through opening delimited by the platform. In particular, the pass-through opening is in the form of an access opening 17 to the receptacle chamber 6.

[0121] Further, an access platform 19 is provided which is associated with the Component Body, in order to facilitate access to the access opening 17; this platform 19 is shown in dashed lines, to indicate that it is optional. Depending on the disposition and orientation of the access opening 17, the access platform 19 can be configured as a ramp, or a helical incline, or a helical staircase, which ascends (or descends) along the Component Body 2.

[0122] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of a Component 1 according to a second exemplary embodiment, in a cross sectional view analogous to FIG. 2. In contrast to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 3 an access opening 17 is formed in a wall of the Component Body 2. The access opening 17 communicates with an access channel 18 extending through the wall of the Component Body 2; thus, the access opening 17 provides indirect means of access to the receptacle chamber 6 delimited by the housing. In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 3, the access channel 18 extends at an upward (or downward) angle through the wall of the Component Body 2.

[0123] Possible alternative or additional access openings (17, 17) are illustrated in dashed lines in FIG. 3. E.g. it is possible to provide an access opening 17 in a wall (or a plurality of walls) of the housing 5 which does not extend through a wall of the Component Body 2 itself. The access openings 17 may be oriented parallel to or at angles to an available surface of the Component Body 2. As specific examples, in FIG. 3 an access opening 17 is oriented in a radial direction and another access opening 17 is oriented in a circumferential direction (in both instances, as to the hollow cylindrical geometry of the Component Body 1). It may be advantageous to have a circumferentially oriented access opening 17 in the case of a Component 1 which comes into contact with water, because this hinders or prevents entry of water into the holding device 3, in the event that water tends to be present at that level due to splashing or surging.

[0124] FIG. 3 also illustrates the possible of providing a plurality of platforms 7 in the housing 5. An intermediate space 20 defining an intermediate level is formed between two platforms 7 disposed near each other in the succession. Individual intermediate spaces 20 communicate with each other via respective pass-through openings delimited by the platforms; thus a possibility is provided of passage through all of the platforms 7. Depending on the geometric configurations and dispositions of the platforms 7, a plurality of platforms may be parallelly oriented, at least in part. Although this feature is not shown, in principle each platform 7 may have its own closure body 9 associated with it. The above-described principle of using a closure body 9 to hermetically seal a pass-through opening delimited by the platform, wherewith the closure body 9 is moved into a corresponding closed position, is also applicable here.

[0125] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of a Component 1 according to another exemplary embodiment, in a cross sectional view analogous to FIG. 2. In contrast to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the above-described Figures, the housing 5 here extends outwardly outside of part of the outer circumference of the Component Body 2. In order to provide a means of access to the accommodation chamber 11, which is now disposed outside of the interior space defined by the Component Body 2, an access element 21 is provided which optionally is structurally connected to the Component Body 2 and/or the housing 5. The access element 21 may be in the form of a tube or a (flexible) hose.

[0126] FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of a Component 1 according to still another exemplary embodiment, in a cross sectional view analogous to FIG. 2. The housing 5 here is structurally completely integrated into the component body 2, so that, in contrast to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the above-described Figures, it does not extend beyond the outer circumference of the Component Body 2. In order to provide a means of access to the receptacle chamber 6 delimited by the housing, an access opening 17 is provided in the wall of the Component Body 2. In order to provide a means of access to the interior of the accommodation chamber 11, which is disposed inside the Component Body 2, an access element 21 is provided which optionally is structurally connected to the Component Body 2 and/or the housing 5. The access element 21 may be in the form of a hole, e.g. a drilled hole. A tube, pipe, or hose may be accommodated in the said hole.

[0127] In connection with the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, purely by way of example, and not limited to this embodiment but in principle also applicable in supplementation of the other exemplary embodiments, it is possible to provide a signal transmission device (not described in more detail), possibly as part of a transmitting and/or receiving system (not shown), which may be structurally integrated into or disposed in the Component Body 2. The signal transmission device is designed for transmitting communication signals to an external communication device (not shown) and/or for receiving communication signals from at least one external communication device, and for this purpose comprises at least one signal transmission element (not shown). The signal transmission element is comprised of an antenna element, which is comprised of e.g. a metallic conductor element, which extends at least partly through the Component Body 2. The communication signals to be transmitted by the signal transmission device may comprise, e.g., signals from detection devices (sensors and the like) associated with the Component or in particular the holding device.

[0128] The manner in which the transmission device is structurally integrated into or disposed in the Component 1 is essentially structural integration or disposition in the interior of the Component 1 or the Component Body 2. In this connection, the signal transmission device is embedded in a wall of the Component Body 2, with the material of which the Component Body 2 is formed surrounding the signal transmission device.

[0129] Such a structurally integrated signal transmission device is particularly advantageous in circumstances where it is difficult to transmit the desired communication signals from the Component 1 (e.g. which may be installed underground) to an external communication device. The signal transmission device can be employed to transmit (e.g. pass) desired communication signals from a signal source which is installed, e.g., underground, such as a sending device which is associated with a detection device which in turn is associated with the holding device, namely to pass them through the Component 1, and further to transmit them to an external communication device.

[0130] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a Component 1 according to yet another exemplary embodiment, in a perspective view. In contrast to the exemplary embodiments shown in the above-described Figures, the shape of the Component Body 2 here is not a hollow cylindrical shape but a shape with a generally quadrilateral (in particular rectangular or square) cross section. The Component 1 may comprise, e.g., a precast concrete element. It is seen that a part of the holding device 3 or of the associated housing 5, formed by a region of the Component Body 2, is disposed on an outer surface of the Component Body 2. When the housing 5 is installed in a particular installation, e.g. in a particular structure, the outer surface [of the aggregate] is typically visible; the same is true of the [outer] part of the housing 5 which is disposed on the structure. The part of the housing 5 which is disposed on the outer surface of the Component Body 2 extends outward from said Component Body 2.

[0131] FIGS. 7 and 8 show a schematic representation of a Component 1 according to another exemplary embodiment, in a perspective view (FIG. 7) and in a cross sectional view along the line VIII-VIII in FIG. 7 (FIG. 8). In contrast to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the part[s] of the holding device 3 formed by portions of the component body 2 are comprised of an inner surface of the Component Body 2 delimiting a hollow space in said component body 2. The hollow space also forms the receptacle chamber 6 delimited by the housing or by elements associated with the housing, and when the Component 1 is installed in, e.g. a structure, it [(said housing 5)] is not visible; the same applies to the parts of the holding device 3 formed thereon [(on said housing 5)]. Based on the disposition and orientation of the access opening 17, it can be seen that possible access to the receptacle chamber 6 delimited by the housing (or by elements associated with the housing) is available from below.

[0132] FIG. 9 shows a schematic diagram of a Component 1 according to still another exemplary embodiment, in a perspective view. Based on the disposition and orientation of the access opening 17, it can be seen that, in contrast to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, access to the receptacle chamber 6 delimited by the housing (or by elements associated with the housing) is available from the side.

[0133] FIG. 10 shows a schematic diagram of a Component 1 according to yet another exemplary embodiment, in a cross sectional view analogous to FIG. 2. In contrast to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the above-described Figures, an accommodation device 23 is integrated into the Component 1. This is realized in that a part of the accommodation device 23 is formed by a part of the Component Body 2 and thus is physically integrated into the Component Body 2. It is readily seen that a wall region of the Component Body 2 also forms a wall region of a wall of the accommodation device 23. The accommodation device 23 is thus integral to and of unit construction with the Component Body 2. The accommodation device 23 extends over regions of the interior perimeter of the Component Body 2, and has an effect on (or determines or forms) the outer geometric shape of the Component 1.

[0134] The accommodation device 23 is designed for accommodating the holding device 3, and for this purpose it delimits an accommodation space 22 having a channel configuration or tubular configuration. The accommodation device 23 has a first access opening 24, through which a pest can penetrate into the associated accommodation space 22 and thence into the housing 5 of the holding device 3 disposed in the accommodation space 22 and into the receptacle chamber 6 delimited by the housing or by elements associated with the housing.

[0135] The accommodation device 23 has a second access opening 25, through which the holding device 3 can be inserted into or removed from its associated accommodation space 22. The access openings 24 and 25 are disposed in different regions of, in particular on opposite ends of, the accommodation device 23. The second access opening 25 can be provided with a movably mounted closure element (not shown), e.g. a swingable closure element, which can be moved between an open position, allowing the holding device(s) 3 to be inserted into or removed from the accommodation space 22, via said second access opening 25, and a closed position, preventing the holding device(s) 3 from being inserted into or removed from the accommodation space 22.

[0136] The accommodation device 23 is comprised of guide means 26 designed to guide the holding device 3 in movement within the accommodation space 22, relative to the Component Body 2, as indicated by the arrow P2. Thereby the holding device 3 can be guided in movement relative to the Component Body 2. Movements of the holding device 3 occur along a vertically oriented linear axis of movement. For this purpose, the guide means 26 are provided with suitable guiding elements 27, e.g. guide grooves or projections (such as a guide boss or guide ridge), which cooperate with suitable partner guiding elements 28, e.g. correspondingly configured guiding projections or grooves, on or associated with the holding device 3, in particular on or associated with the housing 5, forming means of guiding the holding device 3 in linear movement inside the accommodation space 22.

[0137] In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 11, guide means 26 are shown which comprise a plurality of wheel-type or roller-type guiding elements 29 disposed distributed on and/or around the housing 5 which is associated with the holding device 3; wherewith, by means of these rolling guiding elements, the housing 5 is (or can be) guided in movement along the wall of the accommodation device 23. Corresponding wheel-type or roller-type guiding elements 29 are in direct contact with the wall of the accommodation device 23, so that no special measures are necessary for guiding the holding device 3 in movement along the relevant walls. The wheel-type or roller-type guiding elements 29 are supported on a holding device 30 disposed on the housing 5. The wheel-type or roller-type guiding elements 29 are braced against the walls of the accommodation device 23 by means of the holding device 30. The holding device 3 can be reliably positioned in the desired vertical position(s) in the accommodation space 22 due to such holding and bracing. The stress is selected such that the holding device 3 is prevented from uncontrolled downward movement, while at the same time the holding device 3 can move upward under circumstances where such movement is desirable, e.g. in response to upward forces arising from water surges or water splashes.

[0138] A holding device 30 is also illustrated (dashed lines) [(i.e. a different holding device 30)] which is comprised of holding arms 31 which can be extended, in particular in telescopic fashion, in particular in a radial direction with respect to the axis of symmetry or central axis of the accommodation space 22, toward the walls of the accommodation device 23 (as indicated by the horizontal double arrow). Analogously to the description above, these holding arms 31 may be placed under urging stress by stressing elements (not shown), e.g. compression spring elements, which act against the walls of the accommodation device 23.

[0139] In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 12, a guiding device 26 is illustrated which is comprised of a gearwheel-type guiding element 27 associated with the holding device (particularly with the housing), and a corresponding toothed-rack-type guiding element 28 associated with the wall, which element 28 interacts with the element 27. By means of the guiding device 26, the holding device 3 is guided so that it is linearly movable on the wall of the accommodation device 3. In this case, the guiding device 26 thus also comprises guiding elements in the form of the guiding elements 27 associated with the wall. The matching guiding elements associated with the holding device and with the wall (27 and 28) interengage mechanically and cooperate to achieve linear movement of the holding device 33.

[0140] On the basis of the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 13, it can be seen that a guiding device 26 may also comprise a profile-type or rod-type guiding element 27 fastened in the accommodation space 22 associated with the accommodation device and disposed on the holding device 3 and/or passing through the latter, in particular axially. The holding device 3 is guided here such that it is movable linearly relative to the profile-type or rod-type guiding element 27. The holding device 3 is attached to the profile-type or rod-type guiding element 27 which in turn is attached to the wall or to an element associated with the wall. Such a profile-type or rod-type guiding element 27 may also be advantageous in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 11.

[0141] The guiding device 26 may be comprised of at least one drive device, particularly a motor-driven drive device (not shown), e.g. an electric motor, which is coupled to or couplable to a guiding element 27, which drive device is designed to transmit a drive force to the guiding element 27 which drives the latter in a unidirectional or bidirectional driven movement. The drive device may be disposed on or in the housing 5 associated with the holding device. Alternatively or additionally, the drive device may also be disposed or formed on or in a suitable guiding element 27, e.g. the drive device may be integrated into or onto a suitable wheel-type or roller-type guiding element, or may be disposed in a gearwheel.

[0142] On the basis of the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 13, it is also self-evident that buoyant means (floats) 32 may be provided, for causing or aiding in movements of the holding device 3 in the accommodation space 22. The buoyant means 32 are disposed above the closure body 9 on the holding device 3, in particular on the housing 5, so that water rising in the accommodation space 22 only reaches the buoyant means 32 associated with the holding device when the closure body 9 is already in the closed position. The buoyant means 32 illustrated in FIG. 13 are separate floats disposed on the housing 5. Alternatively or additionally, the housing 5 may have buoyant means 32 already integrated into (or on) it. This may be implemented structurally, for example, by providing the housing 5 with a wall which delimits or otherwise has at least one hollow space. In all cases, a rise in the water level in the accommodation space 22 will induce an upward movement of the holding device 3, and a decrease in the water level in the accommodation space 22 will induce a downward movement of the holding device 3.

[0143] FIG. 14 shows a schematic diagram of a Component 1 according to another exemplary embodiment, in a cross sectional view analogous to FIG. 10. The accommodation space 23 here is structurally completely integrated into the component body 2, so that, in contrast to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the above-described Figures, it does not extend beyond the outer circumference of the Component body 2. In order to provide a means of access to the interior of the accommodation chamber 22, which is disposed inside the Component body 2, an access element 21 is provided which optionally is structurally connected to the Component Body 2. The access element 21 may be in the form of a hole, e.g. a drilled hole. A tube, pipe, or hose may be accommodated in the said hole.

[0144] FIGS. 15 and 16 each show a schematic diagram of a Component 1 according to (in each instance) another exemplary embodiment, in a perspective view. In contrast to the exemplary embodiments shown in the above-described FIGS. 10-14, the shape of the Component Body 2 here is not a hollow cylindrical shape but a shape with a generally quadrilateral (in particular rectangular or square) cross section. The discussions of the exemplary embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 9 apply analogously here.

[0145] For the exemplary embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 16, apart from the possibility of the holding device 3 being guided freely movably within the accommodation space 22 associated with the accommodation device, the accommodation device 23 may be comprised of a drive device (not shown), e.g. in the form of an electric motor, which is coupled or couplable to the holding device 3 and by means of which the holding device which is disposed (accommodated) in the accommodation space 22 can be caused to move. The drive device may be comprised of a control unit (not shown) which is designed to generate control information for controlling the operation of the drive device.

[0146] FIG. 17 shows a schematic diagram of a Component 1 according to still another exemplary embodiment, in a front view (elevation view). The Component 1 forms part of a movable object, namely a container, e.g. for wastes, materials which are to be spread [over a ground surface], etc., which is equipped to be movable, e.g. via means such as wheels, rollers, or the like (not shown). The interior space of the container can be closed off by means of a cover element or flap element (which will not be described further here) which is disposed on the base body [, in particular the Component Body 2]. Here the Component 1 forms forms, e.g., the base body of the container, and the holding device 3 is disposed on a side wall of the base body of the Component 1. A variant in which the holding device 3 is disposed in the interior of the base body of the Component 1 such that it is not visible from the outside is also possible; this holding device 3 is shown in dashed lines.

[0147] FIG. 18 shows a schematic diagram of a Component 1 according to yet another exemplary embodiment, in a front view (elevation view). The Component 1 forms part or all of a basically movable object (movable because not fixedly attached to the ground or floor below), in particular a container for refuse or other wastes, which is attached, e.g., to a certain supporting structure in a public space, e.g. a mast, post, rod, or the like. The Component 1 forms part of the base body of the container. The holding device 3 is disposed in the region of the bottom of the container. Accordingly, the receptacle chamber 6 delimited by the housing or an element associated with the housing is accessible from below.

[0148] Features described in connection with embodiments illustrated in any of the Figures may be combined in any desired combination.