Patent ID: 6094885
Filing Date: 2000-08-01
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
A device for assisting in the removal of articles from a first conveying system into a container and for reorienting the container for loading onto a second conveying system, the device comprising:(a) a base;(b) a platform having a smooth, retractable panel pivotally connected to the platform at an edge distal to said first conveying system and pivotal between an inclined position and a substantially horizontal position, and a substantially horizontal, smooth sliding panel extending substantially to said second conveying system, said retractable panel being biased in said inclined position and having a lip formed at the distal edge such that the retractable panel is operatively configured to cooperatively support and retain the container in a substantially inclined position substantially adjacent to the first conveying system as the retractable panel is in said inclined position, said retractable panel overlapping said sliding panel as pivoted to said horizontal position to thereby present a smooth, unobstructed surface on which to slide the container to said second conveying system; and(c) an actuating mechanism configured to operatively pivot said platform such that said retractable panel assumes a substantially horizontal position for loading the container onto the second conveying system.