초록 ▼

A method for filling a powder container is provided. The method includes the steps of placing a first powder container to be filled in filling relationship to a discharge feature in the vessel, directing the powder in the vessel toward a member located at least partially within the vessel, the membe

A method for filling a powder container is provided. The method includes the steps of placing a first powder container to be filled in filling relationship to a discharge feature in the vessel, directing the powder in the vessel toward a member located at least partially within the vessel, the member defining a restriction therein such that the powder clogs within the restriction, mechanically exciting the powder at least adjacent the restriction to improve the flow properties of the powder so as to unclog the powder within the restriction, dispensing powder through the restriction, through the discharge feature and into the first container, stopping the mechanical excitation of the powder so as to clog the restriction with the powder, removing the first container from the vessel, and placing a second container to be filled in filling relationship to the vessel.

대표청구항 ▼

[ We claim:] [1.] An apparatus for controlling filling of a container from a hopper containing a supply of powder, the apparatus comprising:a drive mechanism defining a drive mechanism longitudinal axis thereof;a hollow body defining a body longitudinal axis thereof and orbitally suspended from said

[ We claim:] [1.] An apparatus for controlling filling of a container from a hopper containing a supply of powder, the apparatus comprising:a drive mechanism defining a drive mechanism longitudinal axis thereof;a hollow body defining a body longitudinal axis thereof and orbitally suspended from said drive mechanism at an upper end of said body, said body defining an aperture in the periphery thereof; anda bushing adapted to be secured to a lower portion of the hopper, said body slidably fitted to the interior of the bushing, so as to permit said hollow body to precess about said drive mechanism longitudinal axis, said drive mechanism being selected so as to provide for clogging of the aperture with the powder when said mechanism is disabled and to provide for flow of the powder through the aperture when said drive mechanism is enabled.