Automated bin filling system
AssigneeThe United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
InventorsDonald Peterson, Scott D. Wolford, William C. Anger
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The automated bin filling system provides an efficient means of placing a relatively fragile bulk product into a container (such as a bulk storage bin) without substantially damaging the product. Specifically, the bin filling system moves bulk products (preferably fruits or vegetables) from a feed conveyor into a product accumulation section where the product is arranged to be uniformly loaded into a mobile tray. Once the mobile tray is filled, the tray is lowered into the bin and gently deposited. The empty tray is then elevated and retracted to its initial position and the loading cycle is repeated. This process continues until the bin is filled.
Claims21
A system for filling a storage receptacle, the system comprising:
- an accumulation section having a plurality of brushes, at least one brush having a helical profile;
- a transfer container positioned to receive a product from the accumulation section;
- at least one sensor means for detecting a void adjacent the accumulation section;
- a transfer container extension means for moving the transfer container horizontally;
- and
- an elevator means for moving the transfer container vertically.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.