Abstract: This present invention relates to a flavor dispensing drinking straw device designed to retain and dispense an appropriate amount of flavoring, syrup and/or medicine into a beverage as per the desires of the users. The device comprises a topper having an internal cavity that holds a predefined amount of flavoring, syrup and/or medicine that the user can dispense through a spiral straw by simply and gently squeezing the topper, wherein the user can then consume the flavored or medicated beverage through a second tubular straw in a traditional manner. The uniquely designed straw device is both environmentally safe and reusable. Additionally, the topper can be refilled with the flavor, once the stored flavor is exhausted. The flavor infusing straw offers a more enjoyable and delicious drinking experience, and can be used with a variety of beverage containers.

Abstract: An adjustable user interface module (UIM) for a domestic appliance is provided and includes an adjustable UIM housing; a UIM electronic component mounted to the adjustable UIM housing; and a pair of adjustable fastening members adapted to mount the adjustable UIM housing to the domestic appliance, each of the adjustable fastening members being configured to adjust the adjustable UIM housing in at least an up and down direction to in turn adjust the height of the UIM electronic component.

Abstract: An additive manufacturing system, in particular a 3D printer, including a bottom element. The bottom element includes at least one funnel and/or air outlet, wherein at least one sieve and/or grid element is arranged in the area of the funnel and a plate element is arranged opposite the sieve.

Abstract: A break-open sealed package is disclosed; the sealed package includes: a first sheet of semi-rigid plastic material; a sealed pocket, which contains a dose of a product and is delimited on one side by the first sheet; and a pre-weakened area, which guides, following a folding of the first sheet, a controlled break of the first sheet in the pre-weakened area to form an outlet opening for the product through the first sheet. The pre-weakened area is arranged at one end of the first sheet and extends from a first outer edge of the first sheet to a second outer edge of the first sheet to divide the first sheet into a holding portion and into a folding portion that is smaller than the holding portion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a susceptor assembly (1) for inductively heating an aerosol-forming substrate and to a method for producing such an assembly. The susceptor assembly comprises a first susceptor (10) and a second susceptor (20). A Curie temperature of the second susceptor is lower than 500° C. At least a portion of an outer surface of the second susceptor comprises an anti-corrosion covering (30) and at least a portion of an outer surface of the first susceptor is exposed. The invention further relates to aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor assembly.

Abstract: Systems and methods for preparing and dispersing dry powders are disclosed herein. The system includes a powder feeder, a rotating holder or disc configured to receive an input powder from the powder feeder, and one or more ultrasonic transducers. The ultrasonic transducer is configured to create standing waves, which suspend the input powder within a space above the rotating holder disc for collection and subsequent processing and/or use. Also disclosed herein is an adapter configured to fit existing off-the-shelf powder dispensers that includes an ultrasonic transducer configured to suspend an input powder in midair for collection.

Abstract: An applicator apparatus is provided for extrusively dispensing work material from a containment vessel, A base portion includes a handle and a control member. A cage portion coupled to the base portion defines a receiving compartment for at least one containment vessel. The cage portion is provided with a proximate end disposed adjacent the base portion and an intermediate section extending longitudinally therefrom to a distal end. A drive portion coupled to the base portion is actuated responsive to the control member for driving extrusion of the work material from the containment vessel. A clasp portion displaceably coupled to the cage portion is displaceable relative to the cage portion between first and second positions, where the second position is disposed along the intermediate section of the cage portion. The clasp portion forms a cuff about the receiving compartment of the cage portion for laterally retaining the containment vessel received therein.

Abstract: An adaptive hot melt feed system includes a melt system, a feed system, a gas control device, a sensor, and a controller. The melt system includes a heated vessel. The feed system is configured to deliver a solid material to the vessel of the melt system for melting. The gas control device is configured to control a supply of gas provided to the feed system to drive the solid material from the feed system to the melt system. The sensor can be configured to detect an amount of material in the vessel of the melt system. The controller is in electronic communication with the gas control device and is programmed to signal the gas control device to vary the supply of gas to the feed system based on a fill metric determined by the controller.

Abstract: Provided is a preparative separation chromatograph including: a chromatograph 10 having a detector 15; a fraction collector 20; a controller 34 for commanding the fraction collector to initiate a component-collecting operation with reference to a point when the rate of change in an output signal from the detector 15 exceeds a positive reference value and to discontinue the operation with reference to a point when the absolute value of the rate of change becomes smaller than that of a negative reference value after the rate of change turns negative; a storage section 31 for storing sampling-rate information which relates the value of the output signal to the time interval at which the controller determines the rate of change; and a sampling rate determiner 33 for determining the time interval for calculating the rate of change based on the sampling-rate information and actual values of the output signal.

Abstract: A method includes the following steps: aligning a measuring head with an aerosol container, without relative speed between the two, lowering and centring the head; lowering a measuring device and taking the corresponding measurement at different points of the perimeter of the opening; rotating the measuring device in relation to the container; removing the head, transmitting the data, and removing the unsuitable containers, and a device for performing the method includes a head support having an axial movement device, a centring element; a support for the measuring device, an assembly of measuring arms provided with probes, an arrangement for returning to a rest position, at least one measurement reader, and a rotating device for rotating the measuring device or head.

Abstract: An applicator for spraying hair building solids is configured for one-handed operation and includes an applicator body which is connectable with a container including hair building solids. The applicator body includes a top part, a bottom part and a main part extending between the top part and the bottom part; an air pump electrically configured for creating an air flow; and a nozzle for spraying hair building solids out from the applicator. The bottom part includes an attachment structure for attaching the container to the applicator body, a first orifice in flow connection with the air pump for delivering air flow from the air pump via the bottom part and a second orifice in flow connection with the nozzle for delivering hair building solids via the bottom part to the nozzle.

Abstract: The invention relates to a home appliance, in particular washing and/or drying machine (1), comprising a detergent feeding device (2) having at least one detergent storing compartment (4) for storing a detergent, the at least one detergent compartment (4) comprising: an outlet (12) for a detergent and water mixture, and a pivoted partition element (14) arranged in the detergent compartment (4), wherein in a first position the partition element (14) separates a partial compartment (34) in the detergent compartment (4) from the outlet (12) for storing an amount of liquid detergent in the partial compartment, and wherein in a second position the partition element (14) provides passage from the partial compartment to the outlet (12).

Abstract: A gas injection system for an energetic-beam instrument having a vacuum chamber. The system has a cartridge containing a chemical serving as a source for an output gas to be delivered into the vacuum chamber. The cartridge has a reservoir containing the chemical, which rises to a fill line having a level defined by an amount of the chemical present in the reservoir at a given time. An outlet from the reservoir is coupled to an output passage through an outlet valve and configured so that when the system is tilted the outlet remains above the level of the fill line. Embodiments include isolation valves allowing the cartridge to be disconnected without destroying system vacuum.

Abstract: Topical formulations, comprising a carrier having gaseous nitric oxide sequestered therein, and optionally further comprising a pharmaceutically, cosmetic or cosmeceutically active agent, which are useful is medical, cosmetic or cosmeceutic applications, are provided herein. Systems, devices and processes for obtaining such formulations are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for separation, concentration, and/or applying a biological or bio-engineered fluid. Generally, the fluid application device includes a sprayer body to enable the application of the fluid and a container adaptable to enable the separation of the fluid into at least a first component and a second component. The container is releasably coupled to the nozzle. The nozzle is adapted to withdraw at least one of the first component or the second component from the container after the fluid has been separated to apply the fluid to a selected site.

Abstract: A method and system for handling viscous liquid crude hydrocarbons is disclosed. The method involves (a) solvent deasphalting at least a portion of an asphaltene-containing liquid crude hydrocarbon feedstock to form an asphaltene fraction and a deasphalted oil (DAO) fraction essentially free of asphaltenes; (b) adjusting the density of the asphaltene fraction to substantially the same density of a carrier for the asphaltene fraction; (c) forming coated asphaltene particles from the asphaltene fraction of step (b); (d) slurrying the coated asphaltene particles with the carrier; and (e) transporting the slurry to a treatment facility or a transportation carrier.

Abstract: A laundry treating apparatus includes a cabinet, a laundry receiving part provided within the cabinet and configured to receive laundry, a water supply part configured to supply wash water, and a detergent supplier configured to supply detergent. The detergent supplier includes a storage body having a first storage part configured to hold a first detergent and a second storage part configured to hold a second detergent. The first storage part is configured to communicate with the laundry receiving part, and the second detergent is in liquid form. The detergent supplier further includes a passage body having a water supply passage that is configured to supply the first storage part with the wash water from the water supply part, and a liquid detergent supply part that is configured to supply the water supply passage with the second detergent from the second storage part.

Abstract: Bellow actuated pump devices for dispensing a product from a container may include a bellow and a base or a bellow, a base, and a valve wherein actuation of the bellow dispenses a product and the de-actuation of the bellow refills the pump for the next actuation.

Abstract: A device and system for removing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a CSF space within a patient's body includes a housing adapted for implantation into a subcutaneous body space remote from the CSF space. A fluid pump is mounted inside the device housing. The pump has a pump actuator, a fluid inlet extending through the housing wall and a fluid outlet extending through the housing wall. A battery-powered electric motor is mounted inside the housing and is operatively coupled to the pump actuator. Device control circuitry controls operation of the electric motor. The device control circuitry includes a processor responsive to CSF space pressure signals, outflow pressure signals, and CSF flow rate signals to calculate CSF space pressures, CSF outflow pressures, and CSF removal volumes. A telemetry unit includes a transmitter to wirelessly transmit pump data and a receiver to receive external operational commands.

Abstract: A hot melt dispensing system including a container for storing adhesive pellets, a feed system for transporting adhesive pellets from the container, and a blower. The blower is positioned with respect to an inlet of the feed system for applying a flow of air for agitating the adhesive pellets and moving the adhesive pellets toward the inlet.

Abstract: The invention is a dispensing device for pressurized containers (C) of coolants for cryotherapy, comprising an opening/closing valve (C1), a dispenser body (A), a valve-opening element (B) positioned between said dispenser body (A) and said container (C) and resting on said valve (C1), a closing cap or plug (T) suited to be positioned on and removably constrained to said dispenser body (A) and comprising one or more teeth or projections (T21) resting on said valve-opening element (B) in order to open the valve (C1), a tube or duct (A1) included in and integral with said dispenser body (A), at least one applicator pad or filter (S) being partially inserted in a removable manner in one end of the tube or duct (A1).

Abstract: The present application relates to an apparatus for mixing a powder in a liquid. The apparatus has a cavity (7) for holding a powder (27), a passageway (6) communicating with the cavity (7), and a flow actuator (3) for inducing an oscillating gas flow in the passageway (6). Therefore, as a gas flow oscillates in the passageway (6), a dry powder (27) is drawn into the in one direction, and the powder is expelled from passageway from the cavity when the gas flows the passageway towards a liquid by synthetic jetting when the gas present application also relates to a method of mixing a power in a liquid.

Abstract: An additive dispenser for an automatic washing machine includes a container with a compartment for a wash additive. The compartment has a siphon system and a water fall on a wall of the compartment. A flow homogenizing system at the entrance of the dispenser includes: (a) a connection nozzle with an inner part, where the connection nozzle allows communication with a source of wash water, and the inner part of the connection nozzle has two areas with a different size to produce a Venturi effect; and (b) a damping tank with a container and a cover. The homogenizing system homogenize the wash water flow which enters. A perimeter pathway for the transfer of the wash water is formed by the container and the cover; and a deflector to direct the wash water flow which travels through the perimeter pathway.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dispensing a solution of a solid product in a fluid. A freestanding apparatus comprises an inlet portion through which fluid enters, a reaction portion in which the fluid encounters and dissolves the product to form a solution, and an outlet portion from which the solution exits the apparatus. Fluid may encounter the product from a single direction or multiple directions, and from the top or the bottom. The apparatus can include a fluid diverter for directing fluid to the desired portion of the solid product. The apparatus may be configured to receive a particularly shaped solid product, and may comprise a lid or gate to prevent fluid from contacting the product undesirably.

Abstract: A flow device automatically impels a fluid to disperse from a container without requiring significant physical exertion, such as a repetitive pumping motion, to propel the fluid through. The flow device automatically causes an intake fluid to flow from an intake end of a container, and pass through an interior channel of the container. The intake fluid helps force a dispersion fluid inside the container to disperse through an opposite, dispersion end without requiring a manual motion, such as a pumping action with a finger. The flow device includes a switch that actuates a pressure differentiation portion, such as a fan, vacuum, pump, or compressor, to create a vacuum or redirection of intake fluid within the container sufficient to create the flow for the intake fluid to pass through the container. The automatic switch negates the need to flex and stress joints in a hand.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a liquid spice supply apparatus of a cooking guide system linked with the internet. The cooking guide system, including a digital chef provided by updating recipe information and an automatic spice supply part for storing spices and automatically supplying the spices to the outside, comprises: an air pump installed on the digital chef; a solenoid valve connected to the air pump to change a direction of supplied air; a plurality of spice containers connected to the solenoid valve to receive air and storing liquid spice; and a discharge hose pass through the liquid spice containers to discharge the liquid spice by means of the air supplied into the spice containers, wherein the liquid spice is supplied to the outside. Thus, the liquid spice stored in the liquid spice container may be supplied at more exact and precise amounts.

Abstract: A material discharging device and a makeup material box thereof are provided. The material discharging device includes a plurality of makeup material boxes. Each makeup material box includes a shell, a pump, a first channel, a second channel, a material storage box, and a third channel. The pump is arranged in the shell. The first and second channels are connected to the pump, so that external gas enters the pump through the first channel and gas output from the pump is guided to the outside of the shell through the second channel. The third channel has a first end and a second end. The first end communicates with the material storage box, and the second end communicates with the first channel, the second channel, or the pump. The simple structure is used to reduce the size of the material discharging device and lower a manufacturing cost.

Abstract: A metering device meters and dispenses of a known volume of a liquid product. The metering device includes a receptacle and a moveable slug sized to fit within the receptacle, leaving a remaining volume within the receptacle equivalent to a desired amount of a liquid product to be dispensed. Application of a vacuum at the outlet end draws the known volume of liquid product out of the receptacle and causes the moveable slug to move from a first position at the inlet end of the receptacle to a second position at the outlet end of the receptacle. At the same time, additional liquid product is drawn in via the inlet aperture. When the vacuum is removed, the slug returns through the additionally drawn-in liquid product back to the first position.

Abstract: A non-dissolvable immersible dispensing puck in the shape of a dissolvable halogen puck when the dissolvable halogen puck is in an undissolved state with the non-dissolvable immersible dispensing puck physically interchangeable with a dissolvable halogen puck when placed in a dispenser for normally holding only a set of halogen pucks to enable a single dispersant dispenser to be converted to a dual dispersant dispenser without changing the structure of the single dispersant dispenser by placing a dispenser within a dispenser wherein only one of the dispensers may be provided with adjustable water ports.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system to precisely deliver dry chemicals, and to an apparatus and method to reliably and accurately deliver dry chemicals used during drilling operations. An additional aspect of the present invention is to provide a dry chemical delivery system that is modular and portable. Further, the apparatus may be configured to automatically meter and control multiple dry chemicals into a common line for use in drilling operations.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for the metered removal of a fine to coarse-grained solid matter or a solid matter mixture from a storage container, comprising a device for forming a fluidized bed in the discharge region or in a metering chamber of the metering container, wherein fluidization that is as optimal as possible is to be created in the lower region of such a receiving or metering container while avoiding any additional systems, mechanical elements, or extensive installations. This is achieved according to the method in that a gas is additionally introduced in the region of the metering chamber bottom for forming a fluidized bed that loosens the solid matter, and a gas is introduced via swirl nozzles for bringing about the rotation of the fluidized bed.

Abstract: A Powder feeding system for feeding powder in a feed tank via a valve for powder downstream of the feed tank and through a powder delivery pipe, the Powder feeding system including: a powder fluidizing portion provided in the feed tank and configured to introduce fluidizing gas for fluidizing the powder; and a powder refluidizing portion provided between the powder fluidizing portion and the valve for powder and configured to introduce refluidizing gas for refluidizing the powder.

Abstract: A discharge valve assembly is provided for discharging bulk material from a container having an opening formed in the lower portion thereof. The discharge valve assembly includes a discharge valve that is movable between opened and closed positions and typically disposed adjacent the opening in the container. An actuating assembly is operatively connected to the discharge valve for moving the discharge valve between open and close positions. The discharge valve includes a pair of generally flat surfaces that form at least a part of an upper portion of the discharge valve. The generally flat surfaces of the discharge valve taper generally inwardly and upwardly. Further, the pair of generally flat surfaces extend upwardly and inwardly and wherein there is formed about a top of the discharge valve a horizontal edge that extends horizontally across the discharge valve and above a substantial portion of the pair of generally flat surfaces.

Abstract: The flow of granulated materials from a supply hopper to a transport tube is controlled. A material feed friction tube is positioned to receive material from the hopper. The friction tube receives material independent from hopper pressure and the material moves to an orifice. The orifice discharges material to a pickup tube from the orifice and includes a transfer tube for receiving material from the pickup tube. The pickup tube has a source of carrier gas sufficient to move the material into the transfer tube for further use.

Abstract: An amusement device for collecting and storing a quantity of air/gas from a selected source and expelling the stored air/gas as desired includes a collapsible bladder having an enclosed interior volume. The bladder being biased against collapse such that the bladder is expanded until being squeezed and such that the bladder once again expands when no longer being squeezed. The bladder including first and second openings into the enclosed interior volume. A first one-way valve is disposed across the first opening and configured to permit the flow of air into the enclosed interior volume through the first opening. A second one-way valve is disposed across second opening and configured to permit the flow of air out of the enclosed interior volume through the second opening.

Abstract: Soap dispensing systems are disclosed that employ concentrated forms of soap in order to permit the soap provider to decrease the costs associated with shipping soap to consumers. These dispensing systems are adapted to deliver both soap and rinse water, with the soap being delivered by dissolving or diluting a portion of the concentrated soap with water, and delivering the less concentrated soap to the user. In particular embodiments, the concentrated soap is provided in a disposable sanitary cartridge unit wherein all parts wetted with soap and carrying concentrated soap are disposable, to be replaced, when empty, with a new sanitary cartridge unit.

Abstract: The coating-powder-supply apparatus according to the invention comprises a powder-storage container, a powder conveyor, in order to convey powder out of the powder-storage container, and a set of scales, in order to weigh the powder located in the powder-storage container.

Abstract: A hot melt dispensing system including a container for storing adhesive pellets, a feed system for transporting adhesive pellets from the container, and a blower. The blower is positioned with respect to an inlet of the feed system for applying a flow of air for agitating the adhesive pellets and moving the adhesive pellets toward the inlet.

Abstract: A rock dust blower and method draws rock dust from a portable supply of rock dust, in response to a flow of pressurized air, and entrains the drawn rock dust in a stream of the air for direction to selected surfaces of a coal mine. The supply is contained in a substantially vertical column and rock dust is drawn from the column along a peripheral edge of the column located adjacent the lower end of the column to thereby militate against cavitation of the rock dust adjacent the center of the column as rock dust is drawn from the supply. A vibrator mechanism can be employed to transmit vibration to the supply and thereby facilitate an even distribution of rock dust in the supply and a smooth and continuous flow of rock dust as rock dust is drawn from the supply.

Abstract: An air accelerator dosing tube for a form/fill/seal machine used to package fine cut tobacco material includes an axially-adjustable annular venturi communicating with the particulate material passage. A lining of polyether ether ketone optionally covers surfaces exposed to the particulate material. A metering assembly for delivering predetermined quanitites of particulate material at predetermined time intervals may also be fabricated from polyether ether ketone. Each dosing tube is adapted for calibration by adjustment of the annular venturi to produce a predetermined force at a predetermined stand-off distance. In operation, consistent simultaneous operation of multiple dosing tubes, each of which has been calibrated, gives substantially uniform deposit of particulate material in pouch-type packages. The particulate material may include finely cut tobacco in addition to humectants, flavorants, and other tacky substances.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a liquid droplet monitoring and measuring apparatus for use with a liquid dispensing system of the type comprising a nozzle having a liquid dispensing tip and means for delivering the dispensed liquid through the nozzle onto a receiving substrate. Further, the invention provides a method of monitoring and measuring the volume of a liquid droplet as it is being dispensed from a liquid dispensing system comprising a nozzle having a dispensing tip. The main use for the invention is in the fields of drug discovery, genomics, medical diagnostics and other life science-related applications. The invention could also be used in other areas for example in the food industry, cosmetic industry or the chemical industry.

Abstract: An emergency medication storage and integrated single use device for providing oral dissolving medications strips in a convenient transparent transfer environment. A thin card size dispenser holds a single medicated strip in user access orientation positioned for direct card insertion to the user's mouth assuring proper dispensing of the medication in an emergency situation.

Abstract: A device for spraying contents from a pressurized container. The device has an anti-pre-spray mechanism which prevents inadvertent actuation or spray when a new container is loaded into the device. The anti-pre-spray mechanism provides a dead band between a valve assembly in the pressurized container and an actuation mechanism. The dead band may comprise a gap, spring, etc. The actuation mechanism may be activated by the consumer at the point of use.

Abstract: A valve for controlling a flow of granular material and fluid comprises a body having a first end, a second end, and defining an interior surface. An inlet is formed proximate the first end for receiving the granular material and fluid. An outlet is formed downstream of the inlet for selectively discharging the granular material and fluid. A first member is slideably captured within the body and a resilient member is operationally coupled to the first member. The first member is moveable between an open position at which the granular material and fluid flow through the outlet, and a closed position upstream of the outlet at which the granular material is substantially prevented from flowing through the outlet. The resilient member is moveable between a retracted position and an expanded position at which it is engaged with the interior surface to substantially prevent the fluid from flowing through the outlet.

Abstract: A system for dispensing fluid for a food product includes a valve-less fluid block including one or more internal air passages defined within its interior with each air passage configured to operatively couple with an air source. The block includes one or more internal dispensing passages defined within the block interior. Each dispensing passage is configured to operatively couple with a flow channel. The flow channel is disposed external to the block and is configured to operatively couple with a fluid source. The dispensing passages are disposed and further configured in fluid communication with the air passages within the interior of the block and place the flow channels in fluid communication with the air passages. A port is defined in the block and is adapted to dispense fluid from the interior of the block.

Abstract: Upper space on the front surface side of a reaction plate, provided with at least a reaction container causing reaction in a sample and a reagent container containing a reagent used for reaction with the sample, is covered with an airtight cover. A dispensation tip (20) for transporting liquid on the reaction plate is arranged in such a way that the distal end side is located on the inside of the covered space and the proximal portion is located on the outside.

Abstract: A mold barrier eliminates the establishment and continued resurgence of microbial colonies on product dispenser components routinely exposed to fluids and food products. The mold barrier may be utilized in a product dispenser to prevent the establishment of mold colonies on the product dispenser. The mold barrier adheres to potentially exposed surfaces to create an impenetrable boundary layer, thereby preventing the errant product from permeating into porous materials not suitable for product contact. Upon contacting the mold barrier, the errant product moves downward. Residues left from the errant product may be removed when the product dispenser and mold barrier are sanitized during routine cleansing operations. Upon sanitization, the product dispenser may be restored to a sanitized condition.

Abstract: A system for dispensing with a valve-less block including internal air passages coupled with an air source and internal dispensing passages coupled with a flow channel. The flow channel is disposed external to the block and couples with a fluid source. The dispensing passages are further configured in fluid communication with the air passages and place the flow channels in fluid communication with the air passages. A port is defined in the block to dispense fluid from the block. At least one sensor is coupled with each flow channel and indicates the presence of at least one of air and fluid in the flow channel. The detection of air or fluid ensures a location of a flow front of a fluid residing in the flow channel, and ensures the presence of an air gap that serves as a check valve to prevent mixing of fluids and to prevent backflow.

Abstract: An assembly for transferring solid particulate matter has a pressurized vessel for retaining a pre-determined quantity of the solid material. A transfer conduit connected to the vessel carries the solid material to a loading vessel, be it a processing tank, a storage vessel, or any other similar container. A discharge nozzle carried by a distant end of the transfer conduit is connected to a vacuum source, whereby a slight vacuum is created at the discharge opening. A separate dust removal conduit is secured immediately adjacent to the discharge nozzle for removal of the dust particles away from the discharge nozzle. The dust particles are collected in a separate vessel, which is mounted in a flow of air from the dust collection conduit and an exhaust fan. Mesh sleeves suspended in the vessel, capturing the dust particles on exterior surface thereof. Periodically, the dust particles are dislodged from the sleeves by blowing air through the sleeves.

Abstract: A discharge valve assembly is provided for discharging bulk material from a container having an opening formed in the lower portion thereof. The discharge valve assembly includes a discharge valve that is movable between opened and closed positions and typically disposed adjacent the opening in the container. An actuating assembly is operatively connected to the discharge valve for moving the discharge valve between open and close positions. The discharge valve includes a pair of generally flat surfaces that form at least a part of an upper portion of the discharge valve. The generally flat surfaces of the discharge valve taper generally inwardly and upwardly. Further, the pair of generally flat surfaces extend upwardly and inwardly and wherein there is formed about a top of the discharge valve a horizontal edge that extends horizontally across the discharge valve and above a substantial portion of the pair of generally flat surfaces.