Method of manufacturing an improved bag for the cultivation of mushroom spawn and apparatus therefor
US5662576A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 29, 1995 |
| Grant date | Sep 2, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 29, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S493/932
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for manufacturing an improved bag for the cultivation of mushroom spawn is provided. The bags have continuous gas permeable sealing strips sealed to the inside walls of the bags which cover openings in the bag, so as to allow the bag to be vented without loss of moisture. The openings and sealing strips are positioned close to the top and bottom of the bag so as to maximize air flow through the mushroom spawn without creating dry spots, thereby improving spawn yield. The apparatus includes rollers for dispensing plastic film and at least one continuous hydrophobic strip of material. A series of apertures are punched by cutting dies in the film, and a vacuum system removes the cut out portions. The strip of material is positioned over the apertures and sealed by sealing dies over them, so as to enclose the apertures. A cutting dies cuts off the film and strips. A conventional bag making machine then forms the bags.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.