Spiral nutcracker/grinder
US5097597A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 19, 1991 |
| Grant date | Mar 24, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 19, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB25B7/02
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tool for the exertion of firm, well-modulated, compressional and shear force, ideally suited to the removal of nutshells by hand. An inclined surface moves alongside another surface, creating a V-shaped gap. Such movement will cause materials to be gripped, rolled, and crushed. This pair of surfaces is curved end-to-end around a central axis so that one becomes a circular cylinder, while the other assumes the form of a spiral curve, either around or within the first. One part rotates in relation to the other upon the central axis. The rotary-drum embodiment comprises a spiral curve (20a), the ends joined by a convex arc (22a), the resulting shape extended to form a cylinder. A web (38) spans one end of the cylinder to form a cup (40). The web serves to retain materials (92) being worked (such as edible nuts), as well as to support a central spindle (42) upon which a drum (22a) is turned by means of a key-shaped handle (46). The opposing surfaces (74 and 76) of the spiral and the drum are textured to hold the material more firmly as it is worked.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.