System for transporting grossly asymmetrical objects such as a cluster of grapes or other fruit through a pneumatic tube
US7815401B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 29, 2009 |
| Grant date | Oct 19, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 29, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA01D46/00
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A pneumatic tube transport system for grossly irregular shaped objects is disclosed. The system comprises a pneumatic tube and a series of one or more flexible, sealable bags adapted to contain the objects to be transported. The bags may be fenestrated, but, if desired, the bags can be designed and manufactured so that when they are filled and sealed, they can assume a generally inflated shape. The bags can be made out of a thin material such as that found in a grocery store produce section or check out area. A bag providing apparatus can be supplied either to the individual picker in the field or to the region near the entry to the pneumatic tube. If desired, an inflating device and a bag sealing device can be provided. After placement of the object(s) into the bag these devices can inflate and the seal the bag and then allow for its quick release and deposition at the entry end of the pneumatic tube. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the tube can be provided with a series of baffles to encourage rapid yet gentle travel of the bag and the enclosed fruit or other objects down the pneumatic tube.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.