Vibrating funnel fingers for distribution of seasoning onto discrete lanes
AssigneeRecot, Inc.
InventorsLawrence Alan Graham, Larry Douglas Martin, Todd Charles McNeel
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Abstract
An apparatus and method for distributing seasoning on lanes of stackable chip product using a series of vibrating funnel fingers. A narrowed discharge end for each funnel finger is positioned over a lane of chips, thereby directing the seasoning on each chip and limiting the amount of seasoning that must be recycled or discarded. Oscillation of the funnel fingers insures even seasoning distribution on the chips and precludes accumulation of the seasoning on the distribution apparatus.
Claims10
An apparatus for distributing seasoning on lanes of chips transported on a conveyor, said apparatus comprising:
- a first vertical panel;
- a second vertical panel oriented parallel to said first vertical panel;
- and
- a plurality of discretely spaced vertical dividers, wherein said vertical dividers are parallel to each other and further separated from each other via an outlet positioned to discharge seasoning over a lane of chips, and wherein each of said vertical dividers is perpendicularly attached to said first and second vertical panels, thereby forming funnel fingers between said panels.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.