U.S. patent application number 12/217428 was filed with the patent office on 2009-01-08 for flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow control device.
Invention is credited to Mark Michael Kosich.
Application Number | 20090008410 12/217428 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40220657 |
Filed Date | 2009-01-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090008410 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kosich; Mark Michael |
January 8, 2009 |
Flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device
Abstract
A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly has a top removable valve or flow control
device that has components to interface with the outlet of a
flexible container and that can be supported upon a bridge. Various
cone configurations can be added to support the cone section or
bottom of a flexible container including a rigid cone, multi member
cone, or "y Axis dynamic cone system. The apparatus is further
enhanced with a floating bridge and the addition of a powered
lifting and lowering device for the advantage of manipulating the
flexible container in a vertical motion for improving the filling
of product into or the discharging of product out of a flexible
container.
Inventors: |
Kosich; Mark Michael;
(Bailey, NC) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MARK KOSICH
7739 OLD RALEIGH RD
BAILEY
NC
27807
US
|
Family ID: |
40220657 |
Appl. No.: |
12/217428 |
Filed: |
July 30, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60958138 |
Jul 3, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
222/105 ;
222/181.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 90/205 20130101;
B65B 69/0091 20130101; B65D 90/56 20130101; B65D 88/1668
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
222/105 ;
222/181.1 |
International
Class: |
B65D 35/56 20060101
B65D035/56; B65D 88/54 20060101 B65D088/54 |
Claims
1. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly comprises a flexible silo support structure
having a plurality of members assembled in a length width and
height form, and having a plurality of horizontal members
positioned between adjacent vertical members or a ring connecting
vertical members; means to secure connectors located on said
flexible silo or bulk bag, typically recognized as, yet not limited
to, loops or sleeves by one skilled in the art; a flexible silo or
bulk bag, herein referred to as "flexible container", comprising a
bottom outlet and connectors located on said flexible silo or bulk
bag, typically recognized as, yet not limited to, loops or sleeves
by one skilled in the art, and may further comprise an outlet
spout; a valve or flow control device, herein referred to as
"valve"; a flexible container outlet and valve interface means;
means to rest said valve, or any component thereof, upon a support
means; and means to support said valve, or any component thereof,
herein referred to as "bridge", wherein said valve, or any
component thereof, is placed upon and supported by said bridge
2. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 1, a preferred
embodiment of said flexible container outlet and valve interface
means comprises a flexible container having an outlet opening and
may further comprise an outlet spout; an orifice type "valve";
means for connecting said flexible container outlet, or outlet
spout, with said orifice type valve, wherein said means for
connecting comprises threading said outlet, or outlet spout through
said orifice type valve; and an inlet adapter, connecting to the
inlet of said orifice type "valve", wherein said inlet adapter, or
any component thereof, provides means to rest upon said bridge with
said orifice type "valve" suspended below
3. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 1, a second preferred
embodiment of said flexible container outlet and valve interface
means comprises a flexible container having an outlet opening and
may further comprise an outlet spout; an outlet adapter, comprising
means for securing said outlet opening, or outlet spout, and
wherein said outlet adapter, or any component thereof, provides
means to rest supported upon a bridge with said "valve" suspended
below; and a "valve", comprising means to secure to said outlet
adapter
4. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein a preferred
embodiment of said bridge comprises a plurality of vertical or
inclined support members having two opposed ends, with a first base
end mounting upon said support structure, or any component thereof,
or mounting upon an independent structure located within the
footprint of said support structure, herein referred to as
"supported bridge"; and means to support said valve, or any
component thereof, upon said second end comprising
5. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein said
"supported bridge" comprises at least one a gap, thereby allowing
components of said valve or flow control device, or components
thereof, for example, a valve handle or shaft, to be set in place
from above with little or no obstruction
6. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein said
supported bridge further comprises means to "float", herein
referred to as "floating bridge", thereby allowing said supported
bridge to rest unfixed upon members of said support structure, or
components thereof, or rest upon an independent structure located
within the footprint of said support structure
7. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 6, wherein said
floating bridge further comprises means to lift and lower said
floating bridge, located in the vicinity of the footprint of said
support structure and mounting either upon said support structure,
or any component thereof, or mounting upon an independent
structure
8. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 7, wherein said means
to lift and lower further comprises a through port; and an
expandable through connector, for example, a bellows
9. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim Al, a preferred
embodiment of said flexible silo support structure further
comprises a cone structure to support the cone section or bottom of
a flexible container, comprising an open base area forming a lower
opening perimeter, wherein said lower opening perimeter is such
that said valve may pass through from above, wherein said lower
opening perimeter provides the function of said bridge; and a slot,
wherein said slot provides a gap at the lower perimeter of said
cone that runs vertically as needed to allow components of said
outlet adapter, valve or flow control device, for example, a valve
handle or shaft, to be set in place from above with little or no
obstruction;
10. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 1, a second preferred
embodiment of said flexible silo support structure further
comprises a cone structure to support the cone section or bottom of
a flexible container, comprising an open base area forming a lower
opening perimeter, wherein said lower opening perimeter is such
that said valve may pass through from above, a slot, wherein said
slot provides a gap at the lower perimeter and runs vertically as
needed to allow components of said valve or flow control device or
any component thereof, for example, a valve handle or shaft, to
drop through vertically from above with little or no obstruction;
and a bridge, suspended below said open base of said cone, for
resting said valve, said outlet adapter, said inlet adapter, or any
component thereof, thereby providing a base, and allowing alignment
of the edges and a continuing transition of the cone slope angle to
the inlet of said valve, said outlet adapter, said inlet adapter or
any component thereof, herein referred to as "suspended bridge",
and having at least one gap, thereby allowing components of said
outlet adapter, valve or flow control device, for example, a valve
handle or shaft, to be set in place from above with little or no
obstruction
11. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 1, a third preferred
embodiment of said flexible silo support structure further
comprises a cone structure to support the cone section or bottom of
a flexible container, comprising a plurality of inclined members,
forming a "V" or cone structure and having an open base area
forming a lower opening perimeter, wherein said lower opening
perimeter is such that said valve may pass through from above,
wherein said lower opening perimeter provides the function of said
bridge, and having at least one gap, thereby allowing components of
said outlet adapter, valve or flow control device, for example, a
valve handle or shaft, to be set in place from above with little or
no obstruction
12. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 1, a fourth preferred
embodiment of said support structure further comprises a "Y" axis
dynamic cone system for use with a flexible silo, bulk bag or
flexible container filling and discharging apparatus, to support
the cone section or bottom of a flexible container, of US Patent
Application "A "Y" axis dynamic cone system for use with a flexible
silo, bulk bag or flexible container filling or discharge
apparatus", Mark Kosich, Jul. 3, 2008, comprising a plurality of
radially extending members, having two ends with a first or base
end, and a second end; said first or base end having an open area
forming a lower opening wherein said lower opening perimeter is
such that said valve may pass through from above; a bridge located
in the vicinity of said lower opening perimeter; said bridge having
at least one gap, thereby allowing components of said outlet
adapter, valve or flow control device, for example, a valve handle
or shaft, to be set in place from above with little or no
obstruction; means for mounting said plurality of radially
extending members that will allow the changing of the angle of said
radially extending members, wherein said first end, or component
thereof, has a first pivot mount or any component thereof, mounting
upon said bridge, and said second end extending radially from
center; means to provide a second pivot point along said plurality
of radially extending members, said means located upon said support
structure and comprising means to mount said second pivot point
means; compensation means to provide one of the following: a) a
variable pivot point along said radially extending member; b) a
variable pivot mount position; or c) a variable length of said
member between said first and second pivot points; thereby allowing
said first pivot end to move vertically along a fixed "y" axis and
said second end to move in an arc motion providing for a range of
angular changes of said radially extending members to form a
concave "V" cone, flat surface or convex cone or pyramid shape; a
floating bridge; and means to lift and lower said floating bridge,
located in the vicinity of the footprint of said support structure
and mounting either upon said support structure, or any component
thereof, or mounting upon an independent structure
13. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 12, wherein said means
to lift and lower further comprises a through port; and an
expandable through connector, for example, a bellows
14. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 1, a fourth preferred
embodiment of said flexible silo support structure further
comprises a cone structure to support the cone section or bottom of
a flexible container, comprising a plurality of inclined members,
forming a "V" or cone structure comprising an open base area
forming a lower opening, wherein said lower opening perimeter is
such that said valve may pass through from above; a bridge,
suspended below said open base of said cone, for resting said
valve, said outlet adapter, said inlet adapter, or any component
thereof, thereby providing a base, and allowing alignment of the
edges and a continuing transition of the cone slope angle to the
inlet of said valve, said outlet adapter, said inlet adapter or any
component thereof, herein referred to as "suspended bridge"; and at
least one gap, thereby allowing components of said outlet adapter,
valve or flow control device, for example, a valve handle or shaft,
to be set in place from above with little or no obstruction
15. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 1, a fourth preferred
embodiment of said flexible silo support structure further
comprises a "Y" axis dynamic cone system for use with a flexible
silo, bulk bag or flexible container filling and discharging
apparatus, to support the cone section or bottom of a flexible
container, of US Patent Application "A "Y" axis dynamic cone system
for use with a flexible silo, bulk bag or flexible container
filling or discharge apparatus", Mark Kosich, Jul. 3, 2008,
comprising a plurality of radially extending members, having two
ends with a first or base end, and a second end; said first or base
end having an open area forming a lower opening, wherein said lower
opening perimeter provides the function of said bridge; and at
least one gap, thereby allowing components of said outlet adapter,
valve or flow control device, for example, a valve handle or shaft,
to be set in place from above with little or no obstruction; means
for mounting said plurality of radially extending members that will
allow the changing of the angle of said radially extending members,
wherein said first end, or component thereof, has a first pivot
mount in the vicinity of said open area, with said second end
extending radially from center; means to mount said first or base
pivot end, or any component thereof; a bridge, suspended below said
open base of said cone, for resting said valve, said outlet
adapter, said inlet adapter, or any component thereof, thereby
providing a base, and allowing alignment of the edges and a
continuing transition of the cone slope angle to the inlet of said
valve, said outlet adapter, said inlet adapter or any component
thereof, herein referred to as "suspended bridge"; and at least one
gap, thereby allowing components of said outlet adapter, valve or
flow control device, for example, a valve handle or shaft, to be
set in place from above with little or no obstruction means to
provide a second pivot point along said radially extending member;
means to mount said second pivot point means; compensation means to
provide one of the following: a) a variable pivot point along said
radially extending member; b) a variable pivot mount position; or
c) a variable length of said member between said first and second
pivot points; thereby allowing said first pivot end to move
vertically along a fixed "y" axis and said second end to move in an
arc motion providing for a range of angular changes of said
radially extending members to form a concave "V" cone, flat surface
or convex cone or pyramid shape; a floating bridge; and means to
lift and lower said floating bridge, located in the vicinity of the
footprint of said support structure and mounting either upon said
support structure, or any component thereof, or mounting upon an
independent structure
16. A flexible silo apparatus having a top removable valve or flow
control device assembly as claimed in claim 15, wherein said means
to lift and lower further comprises a through port; and an
expandable through connector means, for example, a bellows
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates generally to the field of bulk
material handling and more specifically to a flexible silo or bulk
bag apparatus.
Silos, Hopper, Day Bind and Portable Bins
[0002] Silos, bins, hoppers, day bins and portable bins are
presently known for use as rigid storage containers for powder and
granular product comprising a cone section with an outlet and using
a wide variety of valves or flow control devices that can be used
to control product flow. A vertical straight side section above the
cone section increases the storage capacity. These storage systems
are usually constructed with a storage container body made of
steel, aluminum or plastic and have a support structure usually
constructed of steel or aluminum and sometimes rigid plastic.
[0003] It is also known that product flow from such containers can
be unreliable. Brute force equipment such as a mechanical agitator,
pulsing cone valve or air injector devices can be installed inside
the silo or bin cone near the outlet to facilitate product flow. A
vibrator mounted on the silo wall can be used to assist product
flow from a silo by imparting high frequency, low amplitude
pulsation. And it is known that vibration can also contribute to
unreliable or no-flow conditions when used with certain products by
de-aerating and compacting the product.
[0004] Filling powder or granular product into rigid storage
containers often results in blended products becoming unblended and
fragile products can be damaged. This results from the free-fall
and velocity of product descending from upstream equipment through
the empty volume of the container and onto the bottom of the
container. Air inside of the empty container mixes with the
incoming product yet must be displaced and removed from the
container as more product enters. Therefore, displaced air
containing airborne product exits the container and is lost to the
atmosphere or must be contained and separated using a dust
collection system.
[0005] Mobile portable bins that can be transported from one point
for filling and to another point for discharging are also known.
These bins are usually sized to be handled by a fork lift or pallet
jack and are designed with unfixed foot mountings and may also have
means for positioning tines through the underside of the structure
for lifting and transporting. A valve or flow control device
connects to the outlet of the bin. Connecting or removing the valve
or flow control device must be done from the underneath since no
practical provision is made to load the valve from above and rest
it upon a support bridge at the bin outlet. One exception however
is the cone valve which utilizes a pyramid shaped cone with a base
diameter that is larger than the bin outlet diameter. The cone
rests in place over the bin outlet to close the opening. A
pneumatically actuated post pushes the cone upward to open the bin
outlet perimeter to allow product to flow. The cone can be removed
from the bin by lifting it out through the top opening of the
bin.
[0006] Food, pharmaceutical and a number of chemical processes
offer fixed and mobile product storage applications that require
hygienic conditions and applications that must avoid cross
contamination of product from one batch to another. In these types
of situations silos, bins, hoppers, day bins and portable bins may
need to be washed, and in some cases, sterilized between each use.
Purified water and a cleaning solution may be used to wash the
storage container. The mix of water, solution and residual product
will be discharged, often to a city or county sewer system.
Further, cleanliness and sterilization prior to reuse may require
validation.
[0007] Stainless steel product contact materials are most widely
used in sanitary applications, while plastic surfaces may be
preferred in some instances. Flexible silo materials sometimes used
but are not generally conducive to washing and sterilization and
are not widely used in wash down applications but instead can be
replaced and discarded.
[0008] In order to remove a valve from a rigid portable bin made of
steel or plastic, one must lift the bin and remove the valve from
underneath. This may also require an apparatus to receive and
support the valve since it is awkward to handle a valve in such a
position.
Flexible Silos
[0009] Flexible silos fabricated of flexible fabric material for
the silo body are a lower cost option to rigid steel or plastic
silos and are used similarly in function as rigid storage bins and
usually have a flow control valve connecting to a bottom outlet.
Parallel sleeves fabricated about the upper perimeter of the
flexible silo vertical section and also about the lower perimeter
are supported with rigid horizontal members that run through the
sleeve openings thereby suspending the flexible silo upon its
support structure.
[0010] To mount a valve or flow control device, the flexible silo
outlet needs to be connected by crimping or flange connecting to
the valve inlet. Flexible silo design relies on gravity to pull the
bottom section downward and the valve or flow control device is
suspended from the flexible silo outlet. No provision is made to
support the valve or to support the area above the valve and the
flexible silo outlet area. This requires a very robust connection
between the flexible silo outlet and the valve flange. This also
increases the need for more robust heavy duty flexible silo fabric
and seam construction which leads to higher flexible silo cost.
[0011] A rigid cone framework can be utilized to support the cone
bottom section of the silo or bin. Nonetheless, the silo or bin
outlet with valve attached is suspended below the lower perimeter
of the rigid cone framework. No provision is made to support both
the cone section of the silo or bin and to provide a means to
support the valve or components of the valve.
[0012] To facilitate product flow from a flexible silo or bin,
mechanical agitation means such those seen used on bulk bag
discharging equipment can be employed. However, air injection type
flow aids are most commonly used. Air injected into a container to
facilitate product flow must be evacuated, thereby, resulting in
additional pollution control equipment and loss of product. An
alternative to the air injection method utilizes two-ply fabric
silo construction. The bottom or cone section of a flexible silo
has two plies of fabric, an inner ply and an outer ply with an air
gap in between. Air is injected into the space between the two
plies to deform the inner ply and apply pressure to the product
stored within the flexible silo and to change the shape of the
interior ply wall. This approach requires airtight materials and
seam construction and very heavy duty fabric. There is an
associated increase in container cost. In addition, air line
connections and power source connections preclude this design from
practical use for mobile portable bins.
[0013] Finally, flexible silos are designed as a lower cost
alternative to rigid steel bins, yet are not as easily disassembled
and reassembled as one might expect. The method of connecting a
valve or flow control device mimics the method used for connecting
a valve or flow control device to the outlet of a rigid bin.
Flexible, mobile portable bins utilize similar valve or flow
control device connecting means and no provision is made for
providing a top loading valve that can rest upon a support means
for easy placement and removal from above.
[0014] The shape and function of the flexible silo and mobile
portable flexible bin are designed to mimic the design and function
of their rigid counterparts, yet little to no provision is made
take full advantage of the light weight and flexibility of the
fabric container. A flexible silo or bin can be easily collapsed
and expanded both in width and in height. No provision is made to
take advantage of the ability to reduce and expand the height of
the container as a function to minimize free fall and velocity of
product entering the container during filling.
[0015] Utilizing the vertical flexibility of the flexible container
to enhance product flow is not considered in flexible silo and bin
design. Improvement in utilizing the vertical flexibility of a
flexible silo or bin for enhancing product flow from the container
is needed.
[0016] Further, improvement in placing and removing a flexible
container with a valve or flow control device onto a support
structure is needed.
[0017] Further still, although flexible mobile portable bin designs
are presently utilized, improvement in providing product flow
enhancing means and maintaining practical mobility and ease of use
is needed.
Bulk Bag Discharging
[0018] Bulk bags with lifting loops or sleeves attached to the
upper perimeter of the bag can be used as replaceable, disposable
storage containers. They require associated bulk bag filling and
discharging equipment. Common practice involves filling a bulk bag
at one location with a bag suspended on a filling apparatus with a
bag inlet spout on top of the bag attaching to a chute through
which product flows. Upon filling, the inlet spout is released from
the chute and tied off. The filled bulk bag is usually moved by
pallet or by lifting and suspending the bag by its upper support
loops or sleeves and transporting the container.
[0019] To discharge the contents, the filled bulk bag is hoisted
onto bulk bag discharging apparatus. Bulk bag discharging equipment
is very tall and occupies much overhead room. The apparatus houses
loop or sleeve supports for suspending the bulk bag. A bag lifting
device for compensating for bag elongation as product discharges is
usually mounted on the top of the structure. Below the bag are
located outlet spout integration equipment and at least a valve or
flow control device.
[0020] Once hoisted upon the apparatus, an operator reaches under
the bulk bag to attach an outlet spout located on the bag bottom to
a tube or chute through which the product will flow. This method is
cumbersome and time consuming and can be uncomfortable and awkward
for an operator.
[0021] Bag squeezing devices mounted along the sides of the
discharger frame are sometimes used to assist with product flow
from the container. The most common flow assist apparatus utilized
is a "V" panel agitator located at the bag base with pneumatic
actuators.
[0022] At least two panels provide a base for the bag to rest upon
and have a gap between the inner edges for the bag outlet spout to
pass through. Each panel has a stationary pivot located at the
inner base end with a piston and cylinder type actuator having a
rod pivot mount at a point along the panel and a cylinder base
pivot mount on the structure. When the actuators extend, the base
pivots and remains level as the outer ends of the panels arc inward
thereby applying pressure against the bag. As product leaves the
bag, the actuators are free to move further inward to increase the
angle of the base of the bulk bag. The actuators can also be pulsed
to provide agitation to the product.
[0023] It is also known that a flexible silo or bulk bag, when
supported from the top, needs to be lifted as product discharges
because the flexible container narrows in width and elongates in
length.
[0024] A hoist lift or other bag lifting mechanism can be used to
support the loops or sleeves of the bulk bag which can be raised up
incrementally as product leaves the container to compensate for
elongation and to keep the lower portion of the bag and bag bottom
walls as vertical as possible to allow product to exit the
container.
[0025] A bulk bag discharger with a full bulk bag secured can be
moved from one point to another to mimic the mobility of a portable
bin, however, it s a tall and cumbersome apparatus and it requires
that all of its accessories are moved with it. Air and electrical
connections have to be undone and reconnected.
[0026] Dust containment requires manually connecting an outlet
spout to containment components while working underneath of the
bag. If multiple products are used in a process, cross
contamination issues can cause concerns with using bulk bag
discharging systems and conveying systems since product contacts
the internals of the dust containment enclosure, valve and conveyor
internals.
[0027] A valve, if used, is mounted as a permanent component of the
bulk bag discharge support frame. A sanitary bulk bag discharge
apparatus is usually complex and costly to manufacture and has
fixed components that have to be removed or cleaned in place.
[0028] If a facility has more than one discharge point, a bulk bag
discharge apparatus is required to occupy each discharge point or a
conveying system is needed to deliver product from the bulk bag
apparatus to each discharge point. If multiple products are used in
a process, cross contamination and sanitation issues can cause
concerns with using bulk bag discharging systems and conveying
systems.
Bulk Bag Filling
[0029] The industry standard for filling flexible silos is similar
to that of filling rigid silos and entails suspending a bulk bag on
a support structure by its upper loops or sleeves to form the air
volume of the container. Just as with rigid silos and hoppers, air
inside the bag along with airborne product must be displaced from
the container as product enters. No provision is made to take
advantage a flexibility of the container to reduce the air volume
prior to filling and to increase the volume as product enters.
[0030] No provision is made to push the flexible silo bottom upward
toward the inlet to expel most or all of the air. And, no provision
is made to lower the bottom away from the inlet while dense,
non-aerated product fills the container.
[0031] Therefore, during present method flexible silo filling,
displaced air needs to be vented through a dust collection system
often resulting in lost product. Also, blended product, due to the
velocity and free fall distance through the space from inlet to
bottom, will tend to segregate by particle size and density
variation of the blended product. Fragile product may suffer
damage. Product that aerates while transferring into the flexible
silo will be less dense resulting in inefficient use of the
container volume.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] The drawings constitute a part of this specification and
include exemplary embodiments to the invention, which may be
embodied in various forms. It is to be understood that in some
instances various aspects of the invention may be shown exaggerated
or enlarged to facilitate an understanding of the invention.
[0033] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the invention.
[0034] FIG. 2 is a side view of a sequence of assembly of an
embodiment of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 3 is an elevated view an embodiment of the
invention.
[0036] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the invention.
[0037] FIG. 5 is a perspective exploded view an embodiment of the
invention.
[0038] FIG. 65A is a plan view of an embodiment of the
invention.
[0039] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the invention.
[0040] FIG. 6A is a side view of the invention.
[0041] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a component of the
invention.
[0042] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a component of the
invention.
[0043] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a component of the
invention.
[0044] FIG. 8 is a side view of a first stage of a sequence of
operation of the invention.
[0045] FIG. 8A is a side view of a second stage of a sequence of
operation of the invention.
[0046] FIG. 8B is a side view of a third stage of a sequence of
operation of the invention.
[0047] FIG. 9 is a side view of a first stage of a sequence of
operation of the invention.
[0048] FIG. 9A is a side view of a second stage of a sequence of
operation of the invention.
[0049] FIG. 9B is a side view of a third stage of a sequence of
operation of the invention.
[0050] FIG. 10 is a side view of a sequence of assembly of an
embodiment of the invention.
[0051] FIG. 10A is a side view of a sequence of assembly of an
embodiment of the invention.
[0052] FIG. 10B is a side view of a sequence of assembly of an
embodiment of the invention.
[0053] FIG. 11 is a side view of a sequence of assembly of an
embodiment of the invention.
[0054] FIG. 11A is a side view of a sequence of assembly of an
embodiment of the invention.
[0055] FIG. 11B is a side view of a sequence of assembly of an
embodiment of the invention.
[0056] FIG. 12 is a side view of an embodiment of the
invention.
[0057] FIG. 13 is a side view of an embodiment of the
invention.
[0058] FIG. 14 is a side view of a first stage of a sequence of
operation of the invention.
[0059] FIG. 14A is a side view of a second stage of a sequence of
operation of the invention.
[0060] FIG. 14B is a side view of a third stage of a sequence of
operation of the invention.
[0061] FIG. 14C is a side view of a fourth stage of a sequence of
operation of the invention.
[0062] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the invention.
[0063] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the invention.
[0064] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the invention.
[0065] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0066] A detailed description of the invention is provided herein.
It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be
embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed
herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis
for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one
skilled in the art to employ the present invention in virtually any
appropriately detailed system, structure or manner.
[0067] Turning first to FIG. 1, a preferred embodiment of the
invention is shown having a support structure 100 constructed of a
plurality of members to support a flexible silo. The length, height
and width of the support structure 100 is in proportion to the
dimensions of the flexible silo 102 that is supported upon the
structure by connectors 104 located on flexible silo 102.
Connectors 102 are typically recognized as, yet not limited to,
loops or sleeves by one skilled in the art. For illustrative
purposes, this detailed description will show the connectors as
loops 104. Connectors 104 are commonly located in the vicinity of
the upper perimeter 106 and can also be located in the vicinity of
the lower perimeter 108 of the body flexible silo 102.
[0068] A valve or flow control device, herein referred to as
"valve" 120 connects to an outlet (not shown) located on the bottom
of flexible silo 102 using an outlet adapter 132. Valve 120, or any
component thereof, including outlet adapter 132, or any components
thereof, rests upon a supporting bridge 140. With the present
invention, provision is made to connect the outlet of flexible silo
102 with valve adapter 132 and then place valve 120 onto bridge 140
from above. Bridge 140 provides support to flexible silo 102 and
eases stress on connectors 104 by supporting some of the load of
the product stored within flexible silo 102.
[0069] Continuing to FIGS. 2 though 2B, a progression of assembly
illustrations of a flexible container outlet and valve assembly 130
means is shown. In FIG. 2 a top removable valve or flow control
device interface means, herein referred to as "valve assembly" 130
may be comprised of an outlet adapter 132 which provides a
connection for flexible silo outlet 110 and a valve 120 having a
connecting component 122. Outlet adapter 132 can fit over outlet
110. Valve 120 can be fitted together with outlet adapter 132 and
thereby secure outlet 110 together as a complete valve assembly
130.
[0070] In FIG. 3, an alternative embodiment of a valve assembly 130
may utilize an orifice type valve 220 that is usually referred to
as an iris valve. An orifice type valve 220 has a closure system
that resembles the iris in a camera. Outlet 110 can be fitted
though the iris 224 of orifice type valve 220 and secured by the
closure of the iris 224. An inlet adapter 232 can be attached to
the inlet of orifice type valve 220 thereby providing means to rest
valve assembly 130 upon a bridge.
[0071] Further, as shown in the exploded view of FIG. 3, valve
assembly 130 is positioned over bridge 140 and aligned to be set in
place.
[0072] Finally, in FIG. 4, valve assembly 130 is set in place from
above onto bridge 140. Valve assembly 130 with bridge 140, in
accordance with the present invention, provides for positioning a
valve 120 over bridge 140, wherein valve 120, or any component
thereof, is placed upon and supported by a bridge 140. Inlet
adapter 132 or 232 connecting to the inlet of valve 120 or valve
220 provides means to rest upon bridge 140 with valve 120 or 220
suspended below.
[0073] Flexible silo 102 is secured using connectors 104. The
apparatus is now ready to be filled with product and put into
use.
[0074] A preferred embodiment of bridge 140 is constructed of a
plurality of vertical or inclined members having two opposed ends.
A first end 142 provides a base end that mounts upon the flexible
silo structure 100 or any component thereof, or mounts upon an
independent structure located within the footprint of support
structure 100 which may include the floor or ground. A second end
144 or any component attaching to second end 144 provides support
for valve assembly 130 or any component thereof. A gap 146 allows
components, for example, a valve handle or shaft, to be set in
place from above with little or no obstruction. A valve assembly
130 can be cleanly put in place upon a bridge 140 and also removed
from above which eliminates the need to go underneath of structure
100 to attach or remove a valve.
[0075] FIG. 5 shows floating bridge 240 having means to "float"
shown as horizontal members 248 that allows a bridge to be
supported yet remain unfixed upon members of structure 200, or
components thereof, shown as receptacles 249. Floating bridge 240
is shown in an explode view above structure 200 with an arrow
indicating the vertical movement that is provided within structure
200.
[0076] FIG. 5A provides a plan view of a floating bridge 240 with
horizontal members 248 resting upon structure 200. Floating bridge
248 has vertical space to travel upward and downward when driven by
a lifting and lowering device (not shown).
[0077] FIGS. 6 and 6A provide two separate views with FIG. 6
illustrating floating bridge 240 with horizontal members 248 in
place upon components of support structure 200. Valve assembly 230
is shown resting in place upon floating bridge 240, however,
flexible silo 202 is not shown to provide a clear perspective view
of structural members only.
[0078] FIG. 6A shows complete valve assembly 630 with flexible silo
202 resting in place upon floating bridge 240.
[0079] In FIGS. 7 through 7A, several exemplary lifting and
lowering devices are shown. It is an important aspect of the
invention that a lifting and lowering device will lift and lower a
floating bridge. A lifting and lowering device can mount
independently or mount integrally with the structure or any
component thereof, of the flexible silo apparatus. A wide range of
lifting and lowering devices may be used and a partial exemplary
list of desirable mechanisms may include pneumatic or hydraulic
actuating cylinder device, screw jack, air bellows actuator and
scissor lift. For illustrative purposes FIGS. 7 through 7A provide
images of several of the examples listed above.
[0080] In FIG. 7, a first exemplary illustration shows lifting and
lowering device 160 having a stationary base 162 and a top
structure 166 that can be moved vertically by air bellows 164 and
top structure 166. Such a design provides an exemplary means of
pulsing floating bridge up and down thereby providing a vertically
acting flow aid to help product stored within the flexible silo to
discharge from the container. A through port and flexing bellows
connection 168 may also be provided to provide a dust tight
connection through which product may flow. Multiple vertical pulses
of the lifting and lowering device 160 provide low frequency, high
amplitude agitation to the product stored within the flexible
silo.
[0081] In FIG. 7A, a second exemplary illustration shows a high
lifting and lowering device. A high lifting and lowering device
260, represented as a scissor type lift, may be utilized to provide
a wider range of motion of the invention thereby providing an
improved means for filling a flexible silo. The present invention
allows us to take full advantage of the light weight and
flexibility of the fabric container. A flexible silo can be easily
collapsed and expanded both in width and in height.
[0082] The present invention provides provision to take advantage
of the ability to reduce and expand the height of the container as
a function to minimize free fall and velocity of product entering
the container during filling.
[0083] As illustrated in FIG. 7B, a through port and flexing
bellows connection 268 may also be provided to provide a dust tight
connection through which product may flow.
[0084] Moving to FIGS. 8 through 8A, several stages of lifting
floating bridge 340 are shown. In FIG. 8, flexible silo structure
300 is shown with floating bridge 340 and lifting and lowering
device 360 positioned within the footprint of structure 300. The
lifting and lowering mechanism is designated as number 360 to
represent any of the wide variety of lifting mechanisms that may be
utilized to accomplish the task. Shown in a lowered position "x1",
it is positioned within the footprint of structure 300 and can be
mounted independently or supported on components of flexible silo
structure 300.
[0085] Next, in FIG. 8A, lifting and lowering device 360 engages
floating bridge 340 and begins lifting floating bridge 340. The
level "x2" represents a mid level position.
[0086] Progressing to FIG. 8B, floating bridge 360 is shown at a
high level x3. Raising floating bridge 340 moves the bottom of the
flexible silo to a level that will reduce the vertical space of the
flexible container (not shown) and provides for the reduction of
freefall and velocity of product as it enters the flexible
container during filling. Segregation of blended product and damage
to fragile product can be reduced or eliminated. Air born dust can
also be minimized or eliminated.
[0087] As FIGS. 9 through 9B show, flexible silo structure can be a
mobile structure referred to as a portable flexible silo or bin
200. A portable flexible silo or bin 200 can be constructed to be
moved from one location to another. Typical portable bins have
means for lifting or hoisting the structure such as fork slots for
lifting and moving with a forklift or pallet jack.
[0088] Starting with FIG. 9, mobile flexible silo structure 200 is
shown in position to be placed over a lifting and lowering device
360. Receptacles 250 represent a foot guide for aligning portable
bin 200. Floating bridge has horizontal members 248 resting upon
members of support structure 200. This allows portable bin 200 to
be moved from one location to another with floating bridge 248. No
power means is needed to be housed on support structure 200,
therefore, any number of similar portable bins 200 can utilize the
same lifting and lowering device 360 just by simply placing it over
lifting and lowering device 360.
[0089] Moving next to FIG. 9A, once portable bin 200 is in place,
lifting and lowering device 360 engages floating bridge 240 and is
shown at low level "x1".
[0090] Finally, in FIG. 9B, lifting and lowering means 360 further
raises floating bridge to any level within the system's capability
and is shown as level "x2".
[0091] The steps illustrated in FIG. 8 through 8B and FIGS. 9
through 9B can be used for filling a flexible silo with product.
When filling, floating bridge 240 can be raised to a high level and
product can be released into the container. As product enters,
floating bridge 240 can be lowered to increase the volume of the
flexible silo until the container is full and floating bridge 240
is resting once again upon its support.
[0092] The steps illustrated in FIG. 8 through 8B and FIGS. 9
through 9B can be used for discharging product from a flexible
silo. A filled flexible silo has its valve opened and floating
bridge may be raised and lowered or pulsed in a vertical manner as
a means to dislodge non-free flowing product and facilitate product
flow from the flexible container.
[0093] A preferred embodiment of flexible silo support structure
400, as shown in FIGS. 10 through 10A, provides for a rigid cone
410 to support the bottom or cone section of a flexible silo.
[0094] In keeping with an important aspect of the invention, as
shown in FIG. 10, cone 410 has a lower opening perimeter such that
the valve of valve assembly 430 may pass through from above and the
lower opening perimeter of cone 410 provides the function of bridge
440. Valve assembly 430 is set in place from above onto bridge 440.
Valve assembly 430 with bridge 440, in accordance with the present
invention, provides for positioning a valve of valve assembly 430
over bridge 440, wherein valve of valve assembly 430, or any
component thereof, is placed upon and supported by a bridge 440.
Valve assembly 430 provides means to rest upon bridge 440 with the
valve of valve assembly 430 suspended below.
[0095] In FIG. 10A, cone 410 has a slot 412. Slot 412 allows
components, for example, a valve handle or shaft, to be set in
place from above with little or no obstruction. A valve assembly
430 can be cleanly put in place upon bridge 440 and also removed
from above which eliminates the need to go underneath of structure
400 to attach or remove a valve. In FIG. 11A, valve assembly 430
including flexible silo 402 is set in place from above onto bridge
440.
[0096] FIG. 10B provides a side view of valve assembly 430 in place
upon bridge 440 of cone 410 with the valve of valve assembly 430
suspended below. Flexible silo 402 can be secured to structure
400.
[0097] A second preferred embodiment of flexible silo support
structure 500, as shown in FIGS. 11 through 11A, provides for a
rigid cone 510 to support the bottom or cone section of a flexible
silo.
[0098] In keeping with an important aspect of the invention, as
shown in FIG. 11, cone 510 has a lower opening perimeter such that
the valve of valve assembly 530 may pass through from above. The
lower opening perimeter of cone 510 has bridge 540 suspended below
the lower perimeter of cone 510. Suspended bridge 540 provides a
base and allows alignment of the edges and a continuing transition
514 of the cone slope angle to the inlet of the valve of valve
assembly 530.
[0099] Valve assembly 530 with suspended bridge 540, in accordance
with the present invention, provides for positioning a valve of
valve assembly 530 over suspended bridge 540, wherein valve of
valve assembly 530, or any component thereof, is placed upon and
supported by suspended bridge 540. Valve assembly 530 provides
means to rest upon suspended bridge 540 with the valve of valve
assembly 530 suspended below.
[0100] In FIG. 11A, valve assembly 530 is set in place from above
onto suspended bridge 540. Cone 510 has a slot 512. Slot 512 allows
components, for example, a valve handle or shaft, to be set in
place from above with little or no obstruction. A valve assembly
530 can be cleanly put in place upon suspended bridge 540 and also
removed from above which eliminates the need to go underneath of
structure 500 to attach or remove a valve.
[0101] FIG. 11B provides a side view of valve assembly 530 in place
upon suspended bridge 540 of cone 510 with the valve of valve
assembly 530 suspended below.
[0102] A third preferred embodiment of flexible silo support
structure 600, as shown in FIG. 12 provides for a cone structure to
support the cone section or bottom of a flexible container,
comprising a plurality of inclined members 616, forming a "V" or
cone structure 610 and having an open base area forming a lower
opening perimeter, wherein the lower opening perimeter is such that
the valve of valve assembly 630 may pass through from above. The
lower opening perimeter provides the function a bridge 640, and
having at least one gap 612, thereby allowing components of valve
assembly 630, for example, a valve handle or shaft, to be set in
place from above with little or no obstruction. A valve assembly
630 can be cleanly put in place upon a bridge 640 and also removed
from above which eliminates the need to go underneath of structure
600 to attach or remove a valve. Valve assembly 630 provides means
to rest upon bridge 640 with the valve of valve assembly 630
suspended below.
[0103] A fifth preferred embodiment of flexible silo support
structure 700, as shown in FIG. 13 provides for a cone structure to
support the cone section or bottom of a flexible container 702,
comprising a plurality of inclined members 716 forming a "V" or
cone structure 710 and having an open base area forming a lower
opening, wherein the lower opening perimeter is such that the valve
of valve assembly 730 may pass through from above. The lower
opening perimeter of "v" cone 710 has bridge 740 suspended below
the lower perimeter of cone 710. Suspended bridge 740 provides a
base and allows alignment of the edges and a continuing transition
714 of the cone slope angle to the inlet of the valve of valve
assembly 730. Cone structure 710 provides at least one gap 712,
thereby allowing components of valve assembly 730, for example, a
valve handle or shaft, to be set in place from above with little or
no obstruction.
[0104] Suspended bridge 740 provides at least one gap 746 that
allows components, for example, a valve handle or shaft, to be set
in place from above with little or no obstruction. A valve assembly
730 with flexible silo 702 can be cleanly put in place upon
suspended bridge 740 and also removed from above which eliminates
the need to go underneath of structure 700 to attach or remove a
valve.
[0105] A sixth preferred embodiment of flexible silo support
structure 800, as shown in FIG. 14 provides for a "Y" axis dynamic
cone system 810 as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12,217,360 to support the cone section or bottom of a flexible
container 802 (not shown). The apparatus, enhanced with a floating
bridge 840 and the addition of a powered lifting and lowering
device 860 provides the advantage of manipulating the flexible
container in a vertical motion for improving the filling of product
into or the discharging of product out of a flexible silo 802 (not
shown).
[0106] The cone structure is constructed of a plurality of inclined
members 816 forming a "V" or cone structure 810 and has an open
base area forming a lower opening, wherein the lower opening
perimeter is such that the valve of valve assembly 130 may pass
through from above. Cone structure 810 provides at least one gap
812, thereby allowing components of valve assembly 830 for example,
a valve handle or shaft, to be set in place from above with little
or no obstruction. The lower opening perimeter of "v" cone 810 has
suspended floating bridge 840 below the lower perimeter of cone
810. Suspended floating bridge 840 provides a base and allows
alignment of the edges and a continuing transition 814 of the cone
slope angle to the inlet of the valve of valve assembly 830.
Suspended bridge 840 provides at least one gap (not shown) that
allows components of valve assembly 830 for example, a valve handle
or shaft, to be set in place from above with little or no
obstruction. A valve assembly 830 can be cleanly put in place upon
a bridge 840 and also removed from above which eliminates the need
to go underneath of structure 800 to attach or remove a valve.
[0107] Each of the plurality of radially extending members 816, has
two ends with a first or base end with a pivot mount 820, and a
second end 824 extending radially from center. First pivot mount
820 secures to bridge 840. A spacer 842 can be used to suspend
bridge 820 below cone structure 810. A second pivot point 822 is
located along radially extending member 816 and mounts upon
structure 800 or any component thereof.
[0108] First pivot 820 will move vertically along a fixed "y" axis
causing second end 824 to move in an arc motion providing for a
range of angular changes of radially extending members 816 to form
a concave "V" cone, flat surface or convex cone or pyramid
shape.
[0109] In order to change of the angle of radially extending
members 816, second pivot point 822 requires a means to compensate
for the change in distance "d" between pivot point 820 and second
pivot point 822. As first pivot 820 moves upward vertically until
radially extending members 816 are horizontal, the distance "d"
between first pivot point 820 and second pivot point 822 gradually
decreases. As first pivot 820 is raised further beyond horizontal,
the distance "d" between pivot point 820 and 822 increases. This is
based on first pivot point 820 moving on a fixed vertical axis "y"
while second pivot point 822 remains fixed. Therefore, a
compensation means is required to allow radially extending member
816 to successfully move through the required range of motion. As
disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12,217,360, a number
of compensation methods can be used. For illustrative purposes
there is shown a variable pivot point along radially extending
member 816.
[0110] The invention has radially extending member 816 as a fixed
length channel member and a second fixed pivot 822 shown as a
rolling type bearing, and having a variable relationship with fixed
length member 816. The rolling bearing is shown within the channel
guide of member 816 with member 816 riding over the rolling
bearing.
[0111] Progressing through FIGS. 14, 14A, 14B and 14C the
compensating movement of member 816 along variable pivot 822 can be
more clearly seen. The distance "d" between pivot points 820 and
822 decreases as first pivot point 820 is raised from lowered
position x1, which provides a concave cone shape; to partially
raised position x2 in FIG. 14A, which provides a lesser angle
concave cone shape; further to position x3 in FIG. 14B, which shows
a level support structure.
[0112] The distance between pivot points 820 and 822 increases as
first pivot point 820 is raised past the level position x3 to high
position x4 in FIG. 14C, which shows radially extending members 816
forming a convex, pyramid shape.
[0113] FIG. 15 shows the invention discussed above with flexible
silo 02 in place with valve assembly 930 resting on suspended
floating bridge 940. Eight radially extending members 916 each have
a first pivot means 920 mounting upon suspended floating bridge
940. A second pivot point 922 mounts upon a support member of the
support structure 900. The plurality of radially extending members
916 provides a cone support which provides a resting base for the
flexible container which, in turn, reduces the strain caused by the
weight of product stored within the flexible silo.
[0114] FIG. 16 shows the apparatus enhanced with a suspended
floating bridge 940 and the addition of a powered lifting and
lowering device 960 provides the advantage of manipulating the
flexible container in a vertical motion for improving the filling
of product into or the discharging of product out of a flexible
container.
[0115] A wide range of lifting and lowering devices 960 may be used
and a partial exemplary list of desirable mechanisms may include
pneumatic or hydraulic actuating cylinder device, screw jack, air
bellows actuator and scissor lift. The illustration shows lifting
and lowering device 960 having a stationary base 962 and a top
structure 966 that can be moved vertically by air bellows 964 and
top structure 966. Such a design provides an exemplary means of
pulsing first pivot point 920 up and down to change the slope angle
of the cone shape of radially extending members 916 thereby
providing a vertically acting flow aid to help product stored
within the flexible silo to discharge from the container. A flexing
bellows connection 968 may also be provided to provide a dust tight
connection through which product may flow.
[0116] Further as shown in FIG. 17, a high lifting and lowering
device 980 may be utilized to provide a wider range of motion of
the invention thereby providing an improved means for filling a
flexible silo or flexible bulk container. The present invention
allows us to take full advantage of the light weight and
flexibility of the fabric container. A flexible silo or bin can be
easily collapsed and expanded both in width and in height. The
present invention provides provision to take advantage of the
ability to reduce and expand the height of the container as a
function to minimize free fall and velocity of product entering the
container during filling. High lifting and lowering device 980
engages floating bridge 940 for the purpose of raising first pivot
point 920 along a "y" axis. Lifting and lowering device 980 is
shown as a scissor type lift. A flexing bellows connection 984 may
also be provided to provide a dust tight connection through which
product may flow.
[0117] First pivot point 920 is raised to a high level which forms
radially extending members 916 into a convex pyramid shape and
elevates valve assembly 130 thereby reducing the vertical space of
the flexible container and providing for the reduction of freefall
and velocity of product as it enters the flexible container during
filling. Segregation of blended product and damage to fragile
product can be reduced or eliminated. Air born dust can also be
minimized or eliminated.
[0118] FIG. 18 shows a fourth preferred embodiment of flexible silo
support structure 1000, similar to the description as shown of FIG.
14, the invention provides for a "Y" axis dynamic cone system 1010
as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12,217,360 to
support the cone section or bottom of a flexible container 102. The
embodiment of FIG. 18 contains the same description of the sixth
preferred embodiment of FIG. 14 except that first pivot 920 mounts
to bridge 940 but does not include spacer 842 or any suspension
means to suspend bridge 1020 below cone structure 1010 which would
allow alignment of the edges and a continuing transition of the
cone slope angle to the inlet of the valve of valve assembly
930.
* * * * *