Apparatus for collecting, storing and discharging a granular matter

1 . Apparatus for collecting, storing and discharging a granular matter comprising, an upper end with an inlet opening for receiving the granular matter, a lower end with a collection zone, opposite side walls, which are inwardly inclining from the upper end towards the lower end, opposite end walls, where one end wall has a discharge opening, and a transport device located in the collection zone, for transporting the granular matter through the discharge opening, wherein the side walls are inclined at different angles.

2 . The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a collection zone side wall, which is located between the lower end and one of the opposite side walls, said collection zone side wall being substantially vertical.

3 . The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a drain channel extending under the collection zone.

4 . The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the transport device comprises a center less helical drive spring and a motor, where the drive spring is rotatably driven by said motor.

5 . The apparatus of claim 4 wherein a bearing surface is formed in the collection zone on each side of a centerline through the drive spring, for supporting said drive spring.

6 . The apparatus of claim 5 wherein the bearing surface is inwardly inclining towards the lower end.

7 . The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a chute with an inlet, which is operationally connected to the discharge opening, and an exit, which is opposite the inlet.

8 . The apparatus of claim 7 wherein the transport device extends through the discharge opening and is terminated near the exit end.

9 . The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the inlet comprise an oblique guide surface.

10 . The apparatus of claims 3 and 7 wherein the drain channel further extends under the chute.