Patent ID: 6059094
Filing Date: 2000-05-09
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
A slide gate for use with an en-masse drag conveyor, the conveyor including a trough having a bed that defines a discharge opening, the conveyor also including a chain that extends along the bed and traverses the discharge opening, the conveyor further including a plurality of flights that extend transversely outward from opposite sides of the chain for moving the particulate matter along the trough, the slide gate comprising:a frame adapted to be connected to the conveyor trough at a location adjacent to the discharge opening;a slide panel mounted on the frame, the slide panel being moveable between a closed position in which the panel is adapted to close the discharge opening, and an open position in which the panel is adapted to be retracted from the discharge opening;a moveable support structure adapted for supporting the flights of the conveyor, wherein when the panel moves to the open position, the support structure moves to a first position in which the support structure is adapted to support the flights as the chain traverses the discharge opening, and when the panel moves to the closed position, the support structure moves to a second position in which the support structure is located below the slide panel; andthe support structure including first and second spaced-apart support members adapted to align on opposite sides of the chain, the first and second support members being arranged and configured for engaging and supporting the flights when the support structure is in the first position.