Abstract: In a machine for stacking or destacking sacks filled with particulate materials, a device for handling the sacks is disclosed which comprises a body portion from which extends a platform having upper and lower surfaces provided by two belts placed back to back and driveable in opposite directions so that the outer surfaces move in the same direction. When the extended edge of the platform is positioned between a sack of one layer and its underlying layer, i.e. so that the sack rests on the upper belt and the lower belt of the platform rests on the underlying layer, the platform may be drawn into or out from the interface between the sack and its underlying layer by driving the belts in the appropriate directions. The body portion is secured to a robot arm for moving and positioning the handling device, movement of which is preferably sychronized with movement of the platform into or out from the interface so as to minimize any sliding between the platform and the sacks.

Abstract: A device for handling filled sacks in a stacking machine comprises a gantry; means for securing the gantry to a transportation device; a platform for supporting the filled sacks, suspended from the gantry so as to be moveable therealong between a forward position and a retracted position; and a fence mounted in a fixed position with respect to the gantry and located above the platform to act as a barrier against movement of any sacks supported on the platform as the latter is withrawn from the forward to the retracted position.