Method and apparatus for dispensing frozen confectionary
US7896038B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 2007 |
| Grant date | Mar 1, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 3, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07F17/0071
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A frozen confectionary vending machine employs robotics and other features to provide a customized frozen confectionary product, with or without toppings, in an entertaining environment. At least portions of the vending machine interior are visible to customers as the machine assembles a frozen confectionary product according to specifications selected by the customer. A robotic arm moves a product receptacle between various dispensing stations that dispense measured amounts of a frozen confectionary and one or more optional toppings into the receptacle. After assembly, the product is moved by the robotic arm to a product delivery port that provides customer access to the product in a sanitary manner.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.