Method and apparatus for metering of loose objects, such as granular objects, powders, or capsules
US9574922B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 10, 2014 |
| Grant date | Feb 21, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 2, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65B37/20
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A volumetric metering device includes a hopper adapted to hold a supply of granular material, the hopper having an outlet; a rotating wheel located in communication with the outlet, the rotating wheel having an outer periphery and a plurality of metering cavities distributed around the outer periphery, each metering cavity having an open bottom portion; and a plurality of metering valves located around the outer periphery of the rotating wheel with each metering valve located in registry with one of the metering cavities. Each metering valve is movable between a loading position wherein the metering valve blocks the open bottom portion of the metering cavity, and an unloading position wherein the granular material dispenses from the metering cavity through the metering valve. Other features and related methods are also described.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.