Method and apparatus for monitoring the flow of solid materials
US5353911A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 7, 1993 |
| Grant date | Oct 11, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 7, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G47/20
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for monitoring the flow of bulk material in a bulk materials handling system is disclosed. A critical stage in the system is identified in which variations in flowability of the material might result in the entire system flow being impeded. Upstream from that critical stage, flow conditions in the critical stage are simulated so that the flow can be interrupted if unsatisfactory flowability conditions exist. A pivotable chute may be positioned at an angle to simulate the flow of particular materials at critical downstream points in a material handling system. If material conditions such as excess moisture impede the rate of flow of the material to a degree which would cause blockages in critical downstream points, the chute will pivot to a secondary position which will temporarily interrupt the material flow.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.