Patent ID: 7216590
Filing Date: 2007-05-15
Classification: E01B

Abstract:
1. A bulk loader for conveying articles in bulk, comprising: a hopper configured for receiving the unsorted, randomly positioned articles therein; a reciprocating member located at a bottom of said hopper, and configured for operationally reciprocating between a first, retracted position during which a plurality of the unsorted, randomly positioned articles are received by gravity flow from said hopper and a second, extended position for pushing and conveying the plurality of the unsorted, randomly positioned articles against gravity flow from said bottom of said hopper; and a track fixed in said hopper and constructed and arranged for receiving the plurality of articles, and accommodating reciprocating action of said reciprocating member relative to said track between said first and said second positions, so that upon reaching said second position, said reciprocating member pushes the plurality of articles from said hopper and from said track.