Automated food coating system
AssigneeCFA Properties, Inc.
InventorsChris Halford, Scott Herdic
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus and method for automated food preparation systems. An example apparatus includes a body defining a first end configured to receive a food item, a second end opposite the first end, and a flow channel defined by an inner surface of the body extending between the first end and the second end. In an instance in which the food item is directed into the body via the first end, the flow channel is configured to distribute a coating material about the food item before the food item exits the body via the second end.
Claims7
A system for coating a food item, the system comprising:
- a flow tumbler, comprising a body, wherein the body comprises:
- a first end configured to receive a food item;
- a second end opposite the first end;
- and
- a flow channel defined by an inner surface of the body extending between the first end and the second end;
- and
- a coating material reservoir configured to support a coating material therein and configured to rotate about an axis,
- wherein, in an instance in which the food item is rotated by rotation of the coating material reservoir into the body via the first end, the flow channel is configured to redirect and distribute the coating material about the food item before the food item exits the body via the second end, and
- a compression device suspended above the coating material reservoir, wherein the compression device comprises;
- a pressing surface, and
- an actuator, and
- wherein the actuator is configured to move the pressing surface between:
- an extended configuration in which a pressing surface at least partially contacts the food item exiting the body of the flow tumbler via the second end;
- and
- a retracted configuration in which contact between the pressing surface and the food item is precluded.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.