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AssigneeMars, Incorporated
InventorsJohn J. Picioccio, Steven D. Kienitz, Warren R. Kitchen, Joseph E. Rossi, William C. Haase, Allison T. Ono, Wayne R. Hinkle
Estimating the term…
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.
An automatic bulk vending machine for delivery to a customer of a customer selected blend selected from a plurality of non-liquid products stored in bulk comprising:
A method for automatic bulk vending for delivery to a customer of a customer selected blend selected from a plurality of consumable non-liquid food products stored in bulk comprising:
A method for operating an automatic bulk vending machine to deliver a customer selected blend of product from a plurality of consumable non-liquid food products stored in bulk, comprising:
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.