Pneumatically operated chute door

Abstract

A chute system having a pneumatically actuated access door where the door is journally mounted to an access port in the wall and communicates with the chute to direct objects inserted into the access port to the chute. When an operator actuates a switch, the door may be opened by a pneumatic forcer connected between the access port frame and the door so as to form a lever arm about the door journal. The pneumatic forcer is mounted to the door with a slidable journal such that the door may be opened manually. The duration of the open state of the door is determined by a timing mechanism which removes the pneumatic pressure after a time has elapsed, enabling a spring to urge the door into the closed position.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 60 / 536,798, filed on Jan. 15, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention relates to the art of chute systems, and more particularly to chutes for the collection and disposal of refuse of various kinds, as well as the collection and distribution of materials. Further, this invention relates to a mechanism for opening a chute door. [0003] Chute systems are found in numerous applications, such as for the collection of trash in high rise buildings, the collection of laundry in hotels and hospitals and for the collection of medical or other waste. They may also be found in materials handling applications in industrial facilities. For safety or sanitary reasons, chute systems may be fitted with a door closing the opening into the chute during times that material is not being introduced into the chute. This prevents the discharge of particulate matter, odors...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The pneumatically actuated chute door system minimizes mechanical complexity, enhances safety by preventing door operation during hazardous conditions, and allows for easy manual operation, reducing the risk of injury and maintenance needs while maintaining efficient material handling.

Problems solved by technology

If the load is heavy or the operator is handicapped, this may be both awkward and dangerous.

In addition, a manually operated door may be opened even if dangerous conditions exist in the chute system, such as a fire, smoke or noxious fumes.

Complex mechanical linkage mechanisms are required to effect the door opening and closing, and the electric motor is susceptible to overheating and burn out in the event the door becomes jammed in any position, open, partially open or closed.

It is well known that microswitches present a maintenance and adjustment problem.

Another problem associated known electrically actuated doors is that the mechanical linkage mechanism may not permit the door to be opened manually.

Attempting to open the door manually may place undesirable stresses on the mechanical linkages and result in a requirement for frequent maintenance.

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