Diagonal linkage knock out

A method for providing a molded food product in the shape of a rod or cylinder comprising:

• placing the molded food product in a knockout system;
• driving the food product downward through knock out drives, linkage combinations or cam followers;
• pushing the food product in a downward direction other than vertical;
• configuring said molded food product with non-vertical walls.

A method for providing a molded food product in the shape of a rod or cylinder comprising:

• loading food product in a hopper or storage;
• moving said food product forward by a combination of a conveyor and augers into a chamber;
• compressing said food product in said chamber by an electrically, mechanically, or hydraulically powered plunger into a manifold;
• forcing said food product through a valve mechanism into a manifold, and then into cavities in a mold plate;
• driving said mold plate reciprocally;
• discharging said food product at an angle other than vertical by knockouts.

A system for providing a molded food product in the shape of a rod or cylinder comprising:

• a knock out tower;
• knock outs in a retracted position having diagonal cavities;
• linkages providing diagonal motion to eject molded food at a diagonal angle;
• a material hopper;
• plungers;
• a manifold;
• a mold plate,
• a knock out cup bar;
• draw bar;
• and
• knock out cups.