Patent ID: 7424943
Filing Date: 2008-09-16
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
1. A method of unloading a material transport vehicle comprising: providing a conveyor system having a first end in close proximity to a ground surface and a second end spaced from the first end and elevated above the ground surface, the conveyor system comprising an endless conveyor belt generally extending between the first and second ends, the conveyor system having a first side and a second side; forming a ramp on the first and second sides of the conveyor system near the first end of the conveyor system, the ramps being pivotal between a first position adjacent to the ground surface and a second position radially spaced from the first position toward the conveyor system, each ramp having an end spaced from the conveyor system; forming a grate over the conveyor belt between the first and second sides of the conveyor system, the grate being aligned with the ramps to define a drive-over surface for a material transport vehicle; defining a barrier on the ground surface adjacent to the end of each ramp when each ramp is in the first position, the barrier having a height generally equal to a height of the conveyor system first end; constructing an earthen ramp between a level of the ground surface and the barrier, the earthen ramp providing access to the ramps for a material transport vehicle; supporting the end of each ramp relative to the ground adjacent to and at a level of the barrier; depositing material from a material transport vehicle over the grate and onto the endless conveyor belt, wherein an overflow portion of the material is deposited on the ramps; clearing excess material deposited onto the ramps by pivoting the ramps toward the second position, the excess material thereby being fed into the grate and onto the conveyor belt, whereby the barrier maintains the integrity of the earthen ramp with the ramps pivoted away from the first position.