Patent ID: 6186360
Filing Date: 2001-02-13
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
In a machine for unloading a bulk-material bag having a bottom portion, a side portion and a transition portion between the bottom and side portions, the bag bottom portion extending along a generally horizontal plane when the bag is full, or nearly full, of bulk-material, the machine including at least one apparatus aiding discharge of the material from the bag, the improvement wherein:the apparatus includes a tri-section panel mounted for movement on the machine at a pivot mount, the tri-section panel having:at least first, second and third segments, each segment having a surface portion for contacting the bag;an outward edge;an inward edge; andthe pivot mount is coupled to the panel at a location between the inward and outward edges and laterally spaced from the inward edge; andthe tri-section Panel is movable back and forth between a first position in which the inward edge projects upwardly beyond the generally horizontal plane and into contact with the bag bottom surface and a second position in which the inward edge is positioned below the generally horizontal plane.