Self-funneling flexible container
US11964815B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 25, 2018 |
| Grant date | Apr 23, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 22, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65D2588/54
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A self-funneling flexible container may be used with a storage and transportation system to provide an efficient, effective and cost-efficient transfer of material to, from or about a site, for example, a hydrocarbon exploration, recovery, production or operation site. The self-funneling flexible container may comprise one or more bands about the bottom or the bottom and one or more sides of the self-funneling flexible container. The bands have an elasticity such that the weight of material disposed in the self-funneling flexible container transitions the bands to an expanded position. When the material is discharged, the bands transition to a contracted position to form a funnel or chute so that all material may be efficiently discharged. As the funnel or chute is only formed at discharge, the self-funneling flexible container may store more material than traditional rigid containers.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.