The photo attached belongs to Alex and I hope he doesn't mind me borrowing it.
My question is, what's the reason for the lower platform at the left with the wide "scoop" looking component? The whole thing seems a little over built for simply sliding the cubes into the ice house at the top.
Seems like Lionel's original plan was to have the accessory situated at a 90 degree crossing to allow unloading at this lower platform. Any thoughts on this?