| 摘要 |
The invention provides a device for transporting produce. The device comprises a chute, and a flexible panel that is positioned within tracks of the chute and defines a movable "front" wall of the chute. The flexible panel has a lower section that terminates in a platform section. The flexible panel is operatively connected to a motor or other actuator which allows the flexible panel to be raised and lowered within the tracks of the chute. The platform section of the chute is connected to an actuator which can move the platform from a closed position to an open position. When the platform is in the closed position, the platform defines the bottom of the chute and collects and holds the produce delivered into the chute. When the platform is moved into the open position, the produce is allowed to flow out of the bottom of the chute into the container the chute is positioned in. The device can also comprise a fill sensor indicating when the chute is full. A central processing unit (CPU) and/or control relays are operatively connected to the fill sensors as well as to the motor and the actuator, such that the CPU can determine when to raise and lower the flexible panel and open and close the platform based on the sensor signals to coordinate transporting produce from the top of the chute to the bottom of the chute.
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