Patent ID: 6138443
Filing Date: 2000-10-31
Classification: B29C,B65B

Abstract:
A bag discharge apparatus of the type adapted for emptying material from a multi-layer bag including an inner liner and an outer layer, the bag having respective upper and lower regions, a plurality of sides defining adjacent corners, and a lower opening terminating in a neck having a discharge opening through which material is emptied, said apparatus including a frame for suspending the bag therefrom, the frame having at least four side support members affixed thereto for supporting the bag, a support plate having an opening defined therein for supporting the lower region of the bag and through which the material is discharged, and at least two lift means connected to the frame for moving the lower region of the bag downwardly relative to the upper region of the bag, wherein the improvement comprises:(a) first, second, third and fourth corner massage cylinders attached to respective side support members and in respective interior corners of the frame for massaging the lower region of the bag by urging the corners of the bag repeatedly inwardly, thereby ensuring that any material contained in the corners is dislodged and for preventing the neck of the bag from clogging as material is discharged therethrough; and(b) an inflatable seal attached to said support plate and adapted for being positioned between the inner liner and the outer layer of the bag and for sealing the neck of the bag by inflatably communicating with an inner face of the outer layer of the bag, thereby preventing material from prematurely flowing through the discharge opening of the bag.