Method and apparatus for automatic bulk vending

Number of patents in Portfolio can not be more than 2000

United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 5997236
SERIAL NO

08889677

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ATTORNEY / AGENT: (SPONSORED)

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Abstract

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An automatic bulk vending machine is described including specific details as to various aspects of accurate volumetric dispensing, the separation of small broken pieces or fines from the dispensed product, and the easy and sanitary loading of such a machine. Further details as to how to provide a highly flexible selection process are provided. An automatic bulk vending machine according to the present invention may include a touch-screen for providing a visually entertaining and instructive display to guide a customer through the product selection process. Products to be selected may be stored in bins and volumetrically dispensed by a dispenser to a blending and holding pan. From this pan, they are then directed through a dispenser tube including a fines separator and collector to a dispensing cup. Bulk refill containers are also disclosed. Unlike an ordinary vending machine, the customer can choose the blend of product to be purchased. Unlike manual bulk vending, the automatic bulk vending machine is automatic and sanitary.

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Patent Owner(s)

  • MARS, INCORPORATED

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Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Haase, William C Long Valley, NJ 2 136
Hinkle, Wayne R Pen Argyl, PA 2 136
Kienitz, Steven D Sparta, NJ 2 136
Kitchen, Warren R E. Stroudsburg, PA 2 136
Ono, Allison T Oxford, NJ 2 136
Picioccio, John J Bloomingdale, NJ 2 136
Rossi, Joseph E Washington, NJ 2 136

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