Abstract: A collapsible hopper is used with a conveyor, for example a grain auger. The hopper is fastened onto the bottom end of the auger to surround the inlet. It has a flaccid side wall that is normally supported in a raised condition by a top, rigid hoop connected to the hopper base by a pair of springs. The springs allow the hoop to be deflected downwardly when engaged by another object, for example a truck box when it is dumping into the hopper. An over-center linkage allows the springs to be released so that the flaccid hopper wall can collapse, allowing insertion of the hopper in this collapsed state into a position where there is insufficient clearance to insert the fully-raised hopper.
Abstract: A controllable discharge spout assembly is used on the discharge end of an auger or other conveyor. The discharge spout assembly has an auxiliary, downwardly tapered spout that is mounted for universal movement below the conventional discharge of the conveyor. This control mechanism extends from the spout to an operator's station near the inlet end of the auger so that an operator standing on the ground may control the direction of flow of material from the conveyor.