Patent ID: 6491480
Filing Date: 2002-12-10
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
A convertible system for conveying loose material to a remote location, the mobile system comprising:a first frame assembly; a hopper coupled in a fixed relationship to the first frame assembly; a mechanical conveyor coupled in a fixed relationship to the first frame assembly, the mechanical conveyor having a plurality of spaced-apart, interconnected conveyor elements, the mechanical conveyor communicating with the hopper to move the loose material from the hopper along a material path; a conduit coupled in a fixed relationship to the first frame assembly, the conduit extending along at least a portion of the material path of the mechanical conveyor, the conduit having a substantially continuous wall extending along a conduit length between openings at first and second ends of the conduit, an internal surface of the wall being sized and shaped to closely receive the conveyor elements of the mechanical conveyor to form a seal retaining the loose material therebetween, a delivery location along the length of the conduit having a plurality of openings and additionally a first opening through the wall, the first opening being adapted to communicate with a source of high pressure air, the delivery location along the conduit also having a second opening through the wall, the second opening being sized and shaped to allow the loose material entrapped between the conveyor elements to flow therethrough in a fluent state with the high pressure air that enters the conduit through the first opening, the second opening being adapted to be coupled to a hose for delivering the loose material to the remote location; and a second frame assembly movably coupled to the first frame assembly, the second frame assembly being configured to support the first frame assembly, the first frame assembly being movable with respect to the second frame assembly between a first position in which the convertible system is configured for non-use, and a second position in which the convertible system is configured for operation.