초록 ▼

A method and apparatus for maintaining a substantially uniform mass flow of granular material out of a container. The apparatus includes a converging transition portion defining an input opening which converges to an output opening. The output opening has a transverse opening dimension (x). An elong

A method and apparatus for maintaining a substantially uniform mass flow of granular material out of a container. The apparatus includes a converging transition portion defining an input opening which converges to an output opening. The output opening has a transverse opening dimension (x). An elongated chimney portion is coupled to the converging transition portion at the output opening. The elongated chimney portion has a height dimension (y) The ratio of the transverse opening dimension (x) relative to the height dimension (y) is determined by an angle of repose of the granular material to maintain a substantially uniform mass flow of granular material.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An apparatus for maintaining a substantially uniform mass flow of granular material out of a container, said apparatus comprising:a converging transition portion defining an input opening which converges to an output opening, said output opening having a transverse openin

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An apparatus for maintaining a substantially uniform mass flow of granular material out of a container, said apparatus comprising:a converging transition portion defining an input opening which converges to an output opening, said output opening having a transverse opening dimension (x);an elongated chimney portion coupled to said converging transition portion at said output opening, said elongated chimney portion having a height dimension (y), wherein a ratio of said transverse opening dimension (x) relative to said height dimension (y) is substantially determined by an angle of repose of the granular material to maintain a substantially uniform mass flow of the granular material; anda lower funnel-shaped portion and a rain shielding member extending from said container adjacent to said lower funnel-shaped portion to substantially inhibit the flow of rain on said lower funnel-shaped portion, said converging transition portion being fixedly secured to said lower funnel-shaped portion.