Abstract: A concrete mixture is forced through a nozzle by an extruder. An applicator has: a body adapted for vertical movement; a primary arm mounted to the body for movement about a vertical axis, the arm being elongate, having ends, having a vertical axis adjacent one end and having a counterweight adjacent the other end; a secondary arm defining a vertical axis, extending from the vertical axis defined by the primary arm and configured for movement about said vertical axis; a tertiary arm mounted for movement along the secondary arm vertical axis; a rotator carried by the tertiary arm and which carries the nozzle and rotates the nozzle about a vertical axis; a primary rotation mechanism for rotating the primary arm about the primary arm axis; an actuator providing for movement of the secondary arm about the vertical axis; and an elevation mechanism providing for said tertiary arm vertical movement.

Abstract: A granular material stirring apparatus for breaking up clumps of a granular material in an interior of a storage bin comprises a base assembly for resting on a floor of the bin, an agitation rotor rotatably mounted on the base assembly, and a rotation device connected to the rotatable agitation rotor to cause the agitation rotor to rotate with respect to the base assembly. The agitation rotor may include a central member rotatable about a substantially horizontal axis and a plurality of stirrer members extending substantially radially outwardly from the central member to rotate about the substantially horizontal axis.

Abstract: A bin sweep comprising a first auger section configured to be movably mounted to a central support framework of a storage bin, and a second auger section operably engaged with the first auger frame such that the second auger section is moveable relative to the first section frame substantially along an axis.

Abstract: A grain drying apparatus includes a housing for receiving grain. The housing has a bottom wall and a plurality of supports being attached to and extending downwardly from the bottom wall. An outer wall is attached to and extends upwardly from the bottom wall. An inner wall is positioned within the outer wall. A receiving space is located between the inner and outer walls and receives grain emptied into the housing. The inner wall has a bottom edge spaced from the bottom wall to define a release aperture that allows grain to flow outwardly from the receiving space under the inner wall. A heating assembly is mounted within the housing to heat the grain. An agitator is mounted on the housing adjacent to the bottom wall. The agitator extends under the inner wall and through the release aperture to agitate grain positioned in the receiving space.

Abstract: A grain storage pit includes an open-top chamber configured to be substantially flush-mounted in a surface and a grain-receiving grate that covers at least a portion of the open-top chamber so that grain may be poured into the open-top chamber through the grate from a truck positioned over the pit. The grate has a convex-shaped upper surface so that a cover placed over the grate more effectively sheds water. The grain storage pit may also include one or more unloading ports for facilitating removal of grain from the pit. At least one of the unloading ports may be adjustably mounted to an opening in the chamber.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for the treatment of bulk material, comprising a platform 24?, 24?, 28 for supporting bulk material and at least one outfeeding device 28 arranged on the platform for feeding bulk material placed on the platform towards an outlet 29 arranged on the platform, wherein the feeding device has a feeding direction towards the outlet, a first and a second beam 30, 31, 32, 33 is arranged on the platform above the outfeeding device, which beams extends transversal to the feeding direction of the outfeeding device and at least a portion in over of the width of the outfeeding device, wherein the second beam 32 being arranged at a higher level above the outfeeding device than the first beam 31.

Abstract: In accordance with example embodiments, a sweep may include a pivot assembly, a first arm extending from the pivot assembly, a second arm extending from the pivot assembly, a first driving mechanism attached to the first arm, a second driving mechanism attached to the second arm, and a control device configured to control the first driving mechanism and the second driving mechanism. In example embodiments, the control device may be configured to control the first and second driving mechanism based on a detected variable.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments include improved systems and methods for sorting and metering materials to be recycled at a material recovery facility. Systems and methods for the accurate and automated sorting and metering of recoverable materials may include a bunker with an integral conveyor adapted to meter presorted materials such that predetermined amounts of the materials may be delivered to a baler for baling and sale. Exemplary systems may include an auger screw type conveyor sized and shaped to deliver the materials to, for example, a baling system. The systems may also include a crusher for reducing the volume of the materials prior to metering from the bunker; by reducing the volume of the materials in the bunker, a baler may operate more efficiently, increasing output from the facility.

Abstract: A grain bag extractor has a frame, with a main auger oriented to discharge grain into a transport vehicle, and feed augers extending laterally from the intake end of the main auger to bring in grain from the sides of the bag. Wheels support the apparatus, a wheel drive rotates the wheels, and a drive control activates the wheel drive. A steering actuator steers the wheels. The drive and steering controls are placed so that an operator can view the bag and feed augers, and control the speed of wheel rotation, and steer the apparatus into the bag.

Abstract: An automated feed out system includes a bunker silo for storing silage therein and a cover for selectively placing the cover in a covered position thereby covering and sealing silage in the bunker silo. The automated feed out system includes a frame for supporting augers thereon for selectively defacing feed from a feeding face with the cover in a covered position. The automated feed out system also includes conveyors for transporting the defaced feed to a predetermined location.

Abstract: An air cushion conveyor stacker reclaimer device and a method thereof, wherein burial of enclosed air cushion outfeed conveyors eliminates the need for costly, reinforced underground tunnels and walkways, wherein overhead suspension of air cushion infeed conveyors eliminates the need for construction of raised walkways and costly ground support structures, wherein lightweight air cushion conveyor stacker devices eliminate the need for massive counterweights, and wherein the fully exploited method for stacking and reclaiming bulk materials via enclosed tubular components, stacking boom curtains, and/or domed enclosures essentially eliminates adverse environmental impact.

Abstract: A storage container (108) for temporarily storing deposited waste (W) in a vacuum operated waste collection and management system has at least one waste deposit inlet (110A-C), a waste outlet section (120) with a waste discharge opening for the discharge of waste therefrom and a spiral conveyor (111) extended in a first direction through the container, towards the outlet section for assisting discharge of waste from the container via subatmospheric pressure applied through the outlet section. In such a container the spiral conveyor with a screw flight (111A) thereof extends through the waste outlet section and the outlet section includes a waste discharge opening being directed at a considerable angle to a centre axis of the spiral conveyor. Such a storage container may be employed in both vacuum operated waste collection systems of a stationary type and to such systems of a mobile type.

Abstract: A hopper bottom for a cylindrical grain bin includes a floor structure, an outer cylindrical wall extending up from the floor and upon which the bin is supported, and an inner wall having an inverted cone shape which tapers downwardly and inwardly to join the floor structure about a central area. A pair of spaced apart upright auger chute walls extend radially outward from the central area to an access opening in the outer wall to receive an auger for unloading. Screens are flush mounted in the inner wall such that ventilation air directed into a manifold space between the inner and outer walls is forced up through the screens into the grain bin. The floor structure includes a floor sheet, a perimeter member about the outer wall, and radial supports extending between the central area and the perimeter members.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus related to an erosion control device for constructing a barrier bag for use in areas where erosion is likely to occur. The erosion control device can include an attachment member allowing the erosion control device to be operably mounted to a skid steer, front-end loader, tractor or similar vehicle for transportation and power. The erosion control device can include a loading box defining a material hopper for holding a filler material. The loading box can further comprise a beater bar assembly for agitating the filler material within the material hopper so as to continually feed an auger assembly within the loading box. The auger assembly transports and compacts the filler material within a filling chute. The compacted filler material exits the filling chute and enters into a barrier bag that is continually deployed from the filling chute.

Abstract: The object of the invention is an apparatus for storage of wood chips in a curved-top stockpile the apparatus consisting of a central tower, which supports a conveyor for loading the chips and a beam-like turning pile composer, and a unloading beam supported on ground level on the lower part of the tower as well as on supporting wheels and furnished with unloading devices for transporting the wood chips towards the center of the apparatus. The central tower is furnished at one side with a tubular ex-central opening, and the tower occupies a central tube for delivering the wood chips either upwards or downwards from the opening. The unload drive for the unloading device is positioned inside the tower and the stockpile yard is furnished with a wall at the reach of the unloading device.

Abstract: The object of the invention is an apparatus for storage of wood chips in a curved-top stockpile the apparatus consisting of a central tower which supports a conveyor for loading the chips and a beam-like turning pile composer, and a unloading beam supported on ground level on the lower part of the tower as well as on supporting wheels and furnished with unloading devices for transporting the wood chips towards the center of the apparatus.

Abstract: A sweep auger having an auger that is rotated about its longitudinal axis by a power means and a drive assembly having at least three reduction gears that operatively connect the auger to a drive wheel such that the drive wheel rotates at a speed that is substantially less than the rotational speed of the auger.

Abstract: A multi-screw auger equipped tank comprises opposing sides sloping downward and inwardly toward one another. A plurality of shaftless screw transfer augers run along the tank bottom. Drivers and transmissions coupled to the transfer augers permit simultaneous rotation of the augers in the same or opposite directions of rotation, at the same or different rotational speeds. Materials within the tank, typically slurries or sludges, can be moved to one end of the tank by the transfer augers. An inclined screw auger is disposed near the end of the tank distal from the location at which materials are deposited in the tank. The inclined screw auger picks up the materials and moves them out of the tank. Baffles in the tank aid in dewatering slurries and sludges. Circulation of materials within the tank may be done by rotating the transfer augers in different directions and/or rotational speeds. The tank may be emptied by the fluid pump for fluids and/or the inclined augers for solids.

Abstract: A carrier wheel assembly for supporting a sweep auger at intermediate positions having a first wheel that is rotatably mounted to the shaft of the auger and extends rearwardly through a slot and secured to the backboard of the auger, and having a rearward wheel rotatably mounted to the assembly and positioned rearwardly of the auger.

Abstract: A sweep auger having an auger that is rotated about its longitudinal axis by a power means and a drive assembly having at least three reduction gears that operatively connect the auger to a drive wheel such that the drive wheel rotates at a speed that is substantially less than the rotational speed of the auger.

Abstract: A multi-screw auger equipped tank comprises opposing sides sloping downward and inwardly toward one another. A plurality of shaftless screw transfer augers run along the tank bottom. Drivers and transmissions coupled to the transfer augers permit simultaneous rotation of the augers in the same or opposite directions of rotation, at the same or different rotational speeds. Materials within the tank, typically slurries or sludges, can be moved to one end of the tank by the transfer augers. An inclined screw auger is disposed near the end of the tank distal from the location at which materials are deposited in the tank. The inclined screw auger picks up the materials and moves them out of the tank. Baffles in the tank aid in dewatering slurries and sludges. Circulation of materials within the tank may be done by rotating the transfer augers in different directions and/or rotational speeds.

Abstract: A multi-screw auger equipped tank comprises opposing sides sloping downward and inwardly toward one another. A plurality of shaftless screw transfer augers run along the tank bottom. Drivers and transmissions coupled to the transfer augers permit simultaneous rotation of the augers in the same or opposite directions of rotation, at the same or different rotational speeds. Materials within the tank, typically slurries or sludges, can be moved to one end of the tank by the transfer augers. An inclined screw auger is disposed near the end of the tank distal from the location at which materials are deposited in the tank. The inclined screw auger picks up the materials and moves them out of the tank. Baffles in the tank aid in dewatering slurries and sludges. Circulation of materials within the tank may be done by rotating the transfer augers in different directions and/or rotational speeds.

Abstract: A dry bulk unloading apparatus for transferring bulk material from a storage facility to a transport vehicle includes a pair of pivotally interconnected upper and lower screw conveyors. The upper screw conveyor is pivotally connected at its receiving end on a vertical axis to the storage facility and is pivotally connected at its discharge end on a vertical axis to the receiving end of a lower screw conveyor. The conveyors each have an auger driven by an electric motor and electric motors are provided to pivot the upper screw conveyor relative to the storage facility and to pivot the lower screw conveyor relative to the upper screw conveyor. A hand held controller may be used for remote control of the electric motors.

Abstract: A drive over conveyor pit assembly includes a mainframe including a grain pit located between and adjacent a plurality of drive over sections. Attached to the mainframe are a plurality of entrance ramps and a pair of exit ramps. Each ramp is pivotably attached to an end of the drive over sections. The drive over conveyor pit assembly includes a drive over pit coupled to a grain conveyor in such a configuration to be transported with the main grain conveyor by a single tow vehicle. The assembly includes a drive over conveyor pit hydraulically positioned for transportation.

Abstract: A crop material is unloaded from a storage bin by providing a generally triangular pit arranged below the base pad surface of the bin into which crop material can fall from the bin through one of two openings in the base floor. Opening the door of one of the openings at the center of the bin allows discharge of the material into the pit by gravity to an apex at a bottom of the pit below the opening. The pit has a bottom wall inclined upwardly and outwardly to exterior opening outside the bin. An auger standing outside the bin with an inclined auger tube is moved to a position extending downwardly from a top discharge end of the auger to a bottom feed end of the auger which is inserted into the pit through the exterior opening so as to extend to the apex at the bottom of the pit for extracting the material falling into the pit through the center opening.

Abstract: A device for metering flowable products, such as products in the form of powder, granules, or microspheres, usable, for example, for the preparation of treatment baths, such as baths for dyeing, comprises at least one passage for the material to be delivered, the passage leading to a diaphragm. The aforesaid diaphragm can be moved according to a vibratory motion produced, for example, by a vibrating member mounted on the device. Preferably, the diaphragm carries, associated to it, a further diaphragm, which, in conditions of fine dispensing, comes up against the first diaphragm, so as to achieve, by the effect of the common vibratory motion, an action antagonistic to the formation of aggregates or micro-aggregates in the material to be delivered.

Abstract: A conveyor system for moving flowable bulk material is equipped with a funnel (12) that has a circular funnel inlet (13) formed by a cylindrical wall section (16′) and an orthogonal funnel outlet (14) formed by eight funnel walls (18; 17, 17A; 17′, 17″) connected at one end to the cylindrical wall section (16′) and forming at the opposite end the orthogonal funnel outlet (14). Four walls (17, 17A; 17′, 17″) of the eight funnel walls are flat or plane and form funnel side or lateral walls. The remaining four four walls (18) have a curved cross-section and form funnel corner walls which interconnect the funnel lateral plane walls. The eight funnel walls are substantially longer in the axial direction than the cylindrical wall section (16′). The corner walls (18) and the lateral plane walls have approximately the same axial length (H≈H′). The eight funnel walls cooperate in avoiding clogging of the bulk material as it flows through the funnel.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the remote operation of an auger attached to a portable unit for storing and transporting particulate matter. A bin having a number of sidewalls which converge downwardly and inwardly to a discharge end secured to a frame. A discharge chute is attached to the bin to receive particulate matter from the bin and transfer the particulate matter from the bin. An unloading auger is secured within the discharge chute and powered by a motor which is secured to the frame. In general operation, a clutch assembly engages the motor to the unloading auger causing the particulate matter to be unloaded. A user may use a transmitter to send a signal to a receiver which increases or decreases the output of the motor and engages or disengages the clutch such that the auger may be started or stopped. The transmitter and receiver may communicate using a radio signal. Additionally, wheels may support the frame and a trailer hitch may be attached.

Abstract: Device for discharging material from a silo (10), comprising a long discharge channel (22) extending centrally over the silo floor (14), and a push-frame (20) which can be pushed back and forth hydraulically over the silo floor (14), over the discharge channel (22), crossways to the longitudinal extension of said discharge channel (22). According to the invention, the push-frame (20) is driven by means of two radially arranged hydraulic cylinders (40) which face each other diametrically inside the silo (10). The hydraulic cylinders can be activated with a push-pull control mechanism, and are each situated in a cylinder housing, said cylinder housing being connected to the silo floor (14). The piston rods (46) of the hydraulic cylinders are arranged so that their opposite front faces (44) fit against a driver bearing (48) from opposite sides, said driver bearing (48) being located in the center of the push-frame (20).

Abstract: A screw conveyer for conveying metal turnings from a machining operation. The chip screw conveyor includes an auger-like screw configured to move metal turnings in a given direction. The conveyor includes a tubular housing and an input chute defining an input opening. A secondary feeder arm is pivoted to the conveyor housing. The arm is pivoted out of the way in direction when agglomerated scraps/chips are dumped threw input opening into the input chute. Once the chips are dumped in place, the arm is allowed to rotate downwardly to press on the top of the agglomerated scraps/chips. This prevents the chips from "bridging" between the sides of the input chute and prevents the scraps from "balling" or rolling on top of the screw in a manner that makes the screw ineffective. The arm creates sufficient force to press the scrap into engagement with the flutes of the screw.

Abstract: A gravimetric weigh scale blender having a plurality of hoppers 41, 42 and 43 discharging into a weigh chamber 14. The hoppers are funnel-shaped, each terminating in a discharge opening which permits flow of material from the hopper through a metering device 19 or 38 into a weigh chamber 14. Two of the hoppers are mounted for horizontal sliding displacement in the frame of the blender and a valve is provided at the bottom of each hopper to automatically close the hopper when it is moved horizontally. The valve consists of a shoe 53 slidable on the bottom of the funnel of the hopper to be operated by a saddle 51 on the frame so as to allow flow through the opening when the hopper is in its operating position but is displaced to close the opening when the hopper is moved away from the operating position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a ring conveyor for conveying bulk material, especially brewing barley or long malt, from a feed pipe fitted permanently inside a building in the form of an annular tower and opening above the ring conveyor into the region of a radial charging and discharging machine circulating above a kiln floor. The ring conveyor has a circular base and a closed rotary ring, open-edged at its outer periphery, arranged coaxially with the floor and with a substantially vertically adjoining inner wall at its inner periphery. There is also a doctor blade firmly secured to the charging and discharging machine, engaging in the rotary ring and diverting the bulk material to the charging and discharging machine. The rotary ring turns at a higher cycle frequency than the charging and discharging machine.

Abstract: A material transport system for conveying water softener salt to a water softener brine tank located within a structure is disclosed. The material transport system includes a loading hopper having a removable lid that is secured to or adjacent a wall of the structure. Salt is fed into the upper end of the loading hopper and travels through the hopper to the lower end of the hopper where a downwardly sloping gravity feed sleeve is connected to the loading hopper. The feed sleeve is formed of a non-corrosive material and extends from the loading hopper through floors and walls of the structure to a lower level of the structure. At its lower end, the feed sleeve is connected to a storage hopper suspended in the lower level of the structure by a hanging framework attached to the underside of a floor of the structure located directly above the storage hopper.

Abstract: A low-splash auger system is provided wherein an auger is housed within a housing. A portion of the auger extends out of an end of the housing for insertion into a hopper. The end of the housing is slanted for minimizing product from splashing upward when the auger is in use.

Abstract: This invention relates to a top loading, top unloading bottom discharge, ring drive silo unloader that is adapted for use with a hexapod suspension. The unloader features a stationary support frame with an open center concept. The support frame includes three main support members joined together to form a triangular frame. Three bracing members are added to the support frame to form an interior perimeter with a generally hexagon shape that delineates the open central area. A rotating drive ring is suspended from the support frame. An electric motor drives a chain loop that engages the exterior surface of the drive ring and causes it to rotate. A gathering mechanism that includes a subframe with a telescoping tubular support is suspended from the rotating drive ring. An auger is suspended from the tubular support.

Abstract: A crescent shaped support cover for an elongate material reclamation mechanism in a granular or powdered material storage enclosure, the support cover comprising: a first elongate tube having a longitudinal opening formed in its side along the full length of the tube; a second elongate tube having a longitudinal opening formed in its side along the full length of the tube, the longitudinal opening having a width that is approximately equal to the width of the longitudinal opening in the first tube, the second tube being larger in cross-section than the first tube, and the first tube being longitudinally disposed within the second tube such that the longitudinal openings of the first tube and the second tube are aligned, the first tube being continuously attached to the second tube along the edges of the longitudinal openings, forming an elongate structure defining a partially open elongate tubular space within the first tube suitable for partially enclosing an elongate auger, and defining an enclosed cross-se

Abstract: A drive mechanism for a radially extending grain sweeper that includes an auger for directing grain into a central opening in the floor portion of a grain storage container, said drive mechanism includes a housing coupled with the grain sweeper, a drive sprocket and tensioning sprocket mounted within the housing, a crawler track which engages the drive and tensioning sprocket. The crawler track includes a chain to which cleats are coupled in spaced fore and aft relation for engaging grain and the floor portion for supporting the grain sweeper. The cleats are adapted to dig into the grain and move grain with a paddling action to generally hinder the grain sweeper from riding up over compacted layers of grain.

Abstract: The invention is concerned with a device for the continuous delivery of shredded materials exhibiting low flowability, particularly shredded cellulose materials, characterized in: (A) a receptacle for the shredded material to be delivered, said receptacle having an inlet and an outlet and whereto shredded material is delivered by means of an inlet screw, (B) a discharge arm provided in the receptacle and being arranged rotatably, which discharge arm transports the material present in the receptacle towards the outlet by means of rotation, (C) an outlet pit joined to the outlet receiving the material delivered to the outlet by the discharge arm, (D) an outlet screw protruding into the outlet pit and discharging the material delivered to the outlet pit (FIG. 1).

Abstract: A silo-like container includes an apparatus for discharging material within the container. The container interior bottom member leaves an annular opening with respect to the container walls, through which opening material may fall to be collected. A preferably toothed discharge ring is disposed above the interior bottom member and is rotated by a drive wheel. A retaining element preferably having teeth-like members is mounted adjacent the interior wall of the silo. As the discharge ring is rotated, planetary motion preferably about a silo axis occurs. The retaining element teeth-like members cooperate with the toothed portion of the discharge ring to urge rotational movement of the discharge ring about its own virtual axis. Discharge ring motion urges material within the silo radially outward toward the annular opening. The retaining element is mounted above the discharge ring such that the discharge ring is prevented from rising upward.

Abstract: A bulk feed delivery system includes a bulk body having a dispensing opening extending along a bottom end thereof; a pair of gates arranged adjacent the dispensing opening, the gates being movable between a first position to close the dispensing opening and a second position to open the dispensing opening; a gate cover; a plurality of gate supports fictionally supporting the gates under the gate cover, each gate support having a surface; and a gate guide mechanism mounted to an underside of each of the pair of gates, each of the gate guide mechanisms being operable with the respective surface of the gate supports for controlling the movement and orientation of the gates during movement between the first and second positions.

Abstract: A bag opening machine includes a trough and a feed screw that is rotatably mounted in the trough to advance bags that at least partially fit between the flight of the feed screw along the length of the trough. There are a pair of restrictions that the bags encounter that cause the bags to be ripped open as the part of a bag caught between the flight continues to advance while the part that is not within the flight is blocked from further advancement. The machine has a shear plate running the length of the trough which not only enhances longevity, but also provides a surface against which bags between the flight rub to be opened. Each of the restrictions is lined with another shear plate, and the leading faces of the restrictions are also reinforced against wear. An expansion chamber is located between the two restrictions. The restrictions completely surround the feed screw, which is mounted eccentrically in the opening defined by the feed screw.

Abstract: A dual-piston pump or similar material handling device includes a hopper assembly for storing material that is to be delivered to the device, and a transfer assembly between the hopper assembly and the frame of the device. The hopper assembly is supported for pivotal movement about a horizontal axis between a use position and a cleaning position, and the transfer assembly is supported for axial movement along a vertical axis and for pivotal movement about the axis so that it too may be moved to a cleaning position exposing the material handling device for cleaning.

Abstract: A bin unloading apparatus includes a housing attachable to a bin floor. The housing has an interior cavity, a rotatable lower portion with an intake opening, and a stationary upper portion with an output opening. A sweep auger is secured to the rotatable lower portion of the housing. The sweep auger has a first end extending through the intake opening and a second end. The rotatable portion of the housing rotates as the sweep auger moves radially about the housing. A discharge auger trough is secured to the stationary upper portion of the housing. A discharge auger is disposed in the discharge auger trough. The discharge auger has a first end extending through the output opening and a second end. As the sweep auger moves radially around the housing material is moved by the sweep auger through the intake opening into the interior cavity of the housing. A vertical lift auger is disposed in the interior cavity of the housing having a lower end and an upper end.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a distributor for particulate material comprising a cylinder and a feeder screw mounted therein for conveying particulate material in the cylinder from an inlet to an outlet.

Abstract: A one-piece folding auger system for use with a bulk material tender using an elongated auger having its end mounted to a first device by a first pivotal mount that allows the auger to rotate forward and backward by way of a hydraulic cylinder. The first device is then mounted for rotation at the rear of a vehicle with a second pivotal mount that allows the auger to rotate vertically by way of a second hydraulic cylinder. The multi-axis pivoting includes the first pivotal mount cooperatively, and at times simultaneously, pivoting both with the second pivotal mount and about its axis of rotation to pivot the auger between its stowed position in which the auger extends substantially parallel and adjacent to the vehicle and its discharge position in which the auger extends upwardly and laterally away from the vehicle for a side discharge of bulk material within a hopper on the vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing bulk materials from a laterally enclosed storage area wherein the apparatus may be substantially buried within the bulk material (11). The apparatus includes a support column (16) mounted at a base into a support floor (25). An auger (17) is attached with an axial mount at the base of the support column for enabling rotational declination of the auger from (i) a vertical orientation wherein the auger is nearly parallel with the vertical axis of the support column, (ii) through intermediate angles of declination (54), to (iii) a substantially horizontal orientation (55) wherein the auger is adjacent to the support floor. The suspension cable (61) is coupled between the support column and auger to enable selective adjustment of auger declination. A rotational displacement drive (35) is coupled to the support column to rotate the column about its vertical axis, along with the attached auger. A rotational drive motor (51) is mounted at a distal end of the auger.

Abstract: A concrete container for introducing concrete into formwork, particularly into sliding formwork. The container includes an upwardly open container with a downwardly tapering lower portion having an outlet opening. A distributing hose is connected to the outlet opening. The vessel is provided with a support frame. The support frame can be connected to a lifting unit for lifting the concrete container. A pipe section is provided between the outlet opening of the container and the distributing hose. A motor-driven screw is mounted in the pipe section. The motor serving for driving the screw is mounted on the vessel or on the support frame. The axial length of the screw is slightly greater than the axial length of the pipe section. A support beam extending across the vessel is mounted on the upper rim of the vessel. The motor is flanged to the middle portion of the support beam. The drive shaft extends concentrically through the vessel.

Abstract: A bag opening machine includes a trough and a feed screw that is rotatably mounted in the trough to advance bags that at least partially fit between the flight of the feed screw along the length of the trough. There are a pair of restrictions that the bags encounter that cause the bags to be ripped open. The machine has a shear plate running the length of the trough which provides a surface against which bags between the flight rub to be opened. The flight of the conveyor is provided with pins which project generally in a down stream direction and assist in ripping open bags. Each of the restrictions is lined with another shear plate. An expansion chamber is located between the two restrictions. The restrictions completely surround the feed screw, which is mounted eccentrically in the opening defined by the feed screw. A hinged lid over the expansion chamber helps prevent the build-up of excess material.

Abstract: An extraction device comprises an inclinable scraper shaft driven in rotation along a first vertical axis of rotation, thereby extracting bulk products stored over a storage area having at least one evacuation opening. The extraction device comprises a support piece whose foundation is mounted to rotate above the evacuation opening along the first axis of rotation, defining a supporting base for the scraper shaft. The base is inclined by an angle .beta. with respect to the horizontal. The first driving member is provided to rotate the support piece and the scraper shaft about the first axis. The foundation of the scraper shaft is inclined with respect to the axis of the scraper shaft by an angle .alpha. complementary of the angle .beta. and is mounted to rotate on the base along a second axis of rotation perpendicular to said base.

Abstract: A mobile metering and storage apparatus which includes a mobile unit such as, for example, a tractor of a tractor-trailer unit adapted to transport, store and meter material accommodated in the mobile unit. A discharge conveyor is provided at a floor level of the mobile unit for receiving and discharging material from the mobile unit. At least one feed conveyor is disposed at a floor level of the mobile unit for feeding material to the discharge conveyor. The feed conveyor may take the form of a single tapered screw supported in a cantilever fashion along one side of the mobile unit or may be fashioned as two cantilevered tapered screw conveyors supported on a head assembly disposed substantially centrally of the mobile unit and extending in a longitudinal direction thereof.