Mobile automatic sandbagger and method of use

A method of automatically preparing sandbags, comprising the steps of:

• providing a mobile, automatic sandbagging machine having a source of sandbags therein;
• removing a sandbag from the source of sandbags by engaging a hook movable along the guide track with a sandbag to remove the sandbag from the source of sandbags, and advancing the sandbag along a guide track of the sandbagging machine;
• opening an end of the sandbag using an expansion mechanism positioned along the guide track adjacent a fill chute of the sandbagging machine;
• at least partially filling the sandbag with fill material;
• and
• closing the open end of the sandbag.

A mobile, automatic sandbagging machine, comprising:

• a source of sandbags;
• a guide track adjacent the source of sandbags;
• means for selectively removing a sandbag from the source of sandbags and advancing the sandbag along the guide track;
• a fill chute positioned relative to the guide track to enable the at least partially filling the sandbag with external fill material;
• and
• a sandbag closing mechanism adjacent to the chute.

A mobile, automatic sandbagging machine, comprising:

• a source of sandbags;
• a guide track extending below the source of sandbags, the guide track including a chain operably connected to a motor;
• means for selectively removing a sandbag from the source of sandbags and advancing the sandbag along the guide track, including a hook attached to the chain and capable of removing a sandbag from the source of sandbags;
• a timing mechanism operably connected to the motor for selectively advancing the hook along the guide track;
• an expansion mechanism associated with the guide track and capable of opening an end of the sandbag for receipt of fill material;
• a fill chute adjacent the expansion mechanism and capable of at least partially filling the sandbag with external fill material;
• and
• a sandbag closing mechanism adjacent the chute.