Continuous formation of center filled gum
US6838098B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 23, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jan 4, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 23, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB30B15/34
- WIPO fieldFood chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Method and system for continuously producing pieces of liquid-filled gum material. An extruded rope of liquid-filed gum is sized and separated into individual pieces of gum. A rotating drum mechanism having a die ring and cutter ring with mating die members separate the rope of gum material into individual pieces. Pairs of cam-operated plunger members compress and form the pieces of gum material in the die cavities. Angled grooves in the die members prevent portions of the gum pieces from being chipped-off during formation. Guide pin members are positioned between rider members on the plunger members. A feed chute with air assist transfers the gum rope from a sizing table to the rotating drum mechanism. A stripper member insures that the formed pieces of gum material are removed from the drum mechanism. Portions of the drum mechanism can be selective heated and cooled, or not cooled at all. The invention provides a more efficient system for continuous, high production operation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.