Large product vending system
US5967364A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 11, 1997 |
| Grant date | Oct 19, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 11, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G59/062
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A large product vending system which allows for the dispensing of large diameter product from a vending machine is presented. The system includes a dispense mechanism associated with the existing column walls and columns defined therebetween of a machine used for smaller diameter product. A motor and a link arm are associated with each column and control the operation of a cradle which holds the product within the column while positioning one of the products for dispensing upon actuation of the dispense mechanism. The cradle includes opposed end plates which are connected at each end thereof by a blocking bar and a dispense rod. When the cradle is cycled, the dispense rod releases the lowest product while the blocking bar engages the next product to be dispensed. After the cycle of the motor allows the product to be dispensed to clear the dispense rod, the blocking bar is moved out of the way of the next product which is then held in place by the dispense rod and one of the column walls.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.