Also Axially Reciprocable Patents (Class 366/289)
  • Patent number: 11957274
    Abstract: A device for producing fluid foam includes a container where the fluid can be accommodated, and includes a foaming tool rotatable in the inner volume of the container. The texture and the porosity of the fluid foam obtained are provided by shear energy coming from Couette Flow effect and depend on the dimension of the foaming tool with respect to the inner volume of the container, on the location of the foaming tool from the bottom of the container and on the rotation speed of the foaming tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: Societe des Produits Nestle S.A.
    Inventors: Alexa Perrin, Alexandre Perentes
  • Patent number: 11247185
    Abstract: The invention focuses on a device for sequentially introducing additives in a polymer granulate and the use of the device for mixing the polymer granulate with the additives. The device consisting of a mixer with housing, comprising at least one mixer shaft attached in helix arranged non-continuous conveying pattern shapes, being rotated by a drive for the transport, whereby the mixer in the housing featuring an inlet for the polymer granulate to be mixed and each of the several subsequent inlets for the additive is followed by an outlet for the polymer granulate mixed with the additive, so that two or several mixing zones being formed in the mixer and whereby at least between at two mixing zones on the surface of the mixing shaft one section featuring a continuous screw conveyor instead of the non-continuous conveying pattern shapes, the section not being penetrable for returning solids from the subsequent mixing zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Inventors: Matthias Ginster, Guido Fiedler
  • Patent number: 11156538
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rheometer comprising of a container for receiving a material sample to be investigated, a shaft with a rotating body which is immersed into the material sample, and a container lid that moves in the axial direction of the shaft into the sample container to deliver consolidating stress to the material sample. The forces acting on the material sample due to the rotation of the rotating body and the motion of the container lid and the location of the sample lid are measured as consolidating stress and rotational strain are applied and removed from the material sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Inventor: Gregory Peter Martiska
  • Patent number: 11015867
    Abstract: The present invention relates to combined cooker and dryer apparatus to use for drying material, such as raw material for producing fish or meat meal. The device of the present invention provides a cooker and a dryer apparatus with disks and scrapers for heat exchange and evaporation of the water phase from any material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: HEDINN HF.
    Inventor: Gunnar Palsson
  • Patent number: 9643336
    Abstract: A vertically moving horizontal mixer assembly which includes a tank having an axis. A stator and blade support assembly is movable parallel to the tank axis. At least one rotatable blade substantially perpendicular to the tank axis is moveable parallel to the tank axis. The rotating blade may be a flat circular disk with raised tooth edges perpendicular to the disk around the circumference of the blade. An optional stator also directs and encourages movement and mixing of solids with liquids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: Dennis D. Krivohlavek and Lucindy June Krivohlavek
    Inventor: Dennis Krivohlavek
  • Publication number: 20140192613
    Abstract: A system for pumping or mixing a fluid using a rotating pumping or mixing element and various other components for use in a pumping or mixing system are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Inventor: Alexandre N. Terentiev
  • Patent number: 8685477
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for preparing a single serving of a frozen slurry beverage in a disposable drink container or cup by preparing a supply of fine frozen particles of water in the form of ice flakes and/or ice nuggets of compressed ice flakes, depositing a predetermined quantity or amount of the fine frozen particles of partially frozen water into a disposable single serving drinking cup or container, dispensing or adding a predetermined quantity or amount of flavored liquid beverage mix into the disposable single serving drinking cup or container and blending the fine frozen particles of partially frozen water and the flavored liquid beverage mix into a substantially uniform frozen slurry beverage of a predetermined consistency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Enodis Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Almblad, Jay Almblad
  • Patent number: 7909500
    Abstract: A mixing and kneading machine (1) for continual compounding comprises a screw shaft (3) rotating in a casing 2 and simultaneously moving axially translationally. To sustainably enhance the efficiency of the machine as regards its material thruput per unit of time a screw shaft is proposed having the following geometric ratios: Da/Di=1.5 to 2.0, i.e. the ratio of screw shaft outer diameter Da to screw shaft inner diameter Di is 1.5 to 2.0, Da/H=4 to 6, i.e. the ratio of screw shaft outer diameter Da to stroke H is between 4 and 6, T/H=1.3 to 2.5, i.e. the ratio of pitch T to stroke H is between 1.3 and 2.5. The mixing and kneading machine (1) provided with such a screw shaft (3) is operated preferably at a rotational speed exceeding 500 rpm, particularly exceeding 800 rpm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Buss AG
    Inventors: Heini Grutter, Hans-Ulrich Seigenthaler
  • Patent number: 7686604
    Abstract: A screw for injection molding provides a coaxial piston that allows the effective cross-sectional area of the screw to be varied during the injection cycle permitting small shot metering with relatively large diameter injection molding screws. The screw is positioned within the injector barrel of a injection molding assembly and includes a number of threads disposed around its outer surface configured to advance molten plastic to the front of the barrel. The screw further includes a central bore having a piston slidably received within the central bore. The plastic shot to be forced out through the nozzle of the injection molding assembly is controlled by movement of the piston within the screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: MGS Mfg. Group, Inc.
    Inventor: John J. Hahn
  • Patent number: 7632006
    Abstract: A device for processing material by mixing and/or plasticization or agglomeration has a screw housing, in which at least two screws are situated adjacent to one another. The screw channels are engaged with one another. The screws are driven to rotate by at least one motor. The screws are supplied with the material through an intake opening of the screw housing and the processed material leaves the screw housing through at least one outlet opening. An apparatus is provided, which in operation of the device provides the gap which exists between adjacent screw channels of the screws alternately with a periodic enlargement or reduction, which is superimposed on the rotational movements of the two screws. In the method for material processing, the material, in addition to the compaction which is caused by the conveyance action of the screws, is subjected to periodic squeezing by the screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Helmuth Schulz
  • Patent number: 7566164
    Abstract: The present invention provides an agitation device, comprising a motor for supplying rotational power, an outer shaft operatively connected to the motor, an extendible inner shaft positioned within the outer shaft and operatively connected thereto, an agitator positioned on the extendible inner shaft, and a floatation device positioned on the extendible inner shaft distal to the agitator from the motor for providing a buoyant force to the extendible inner shaft and the agitator for immersing the agitator at a predetermined level in a liquid. The present invention also provides a device for agitating and heating a liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventor: Rony Zarom
  • Patent number: 7524103
    Abstract: An apparatus for mixing and dispensing a multi-component compound. The device includes a tubular body with an internal chamber for mixing the multi-component compound. Disposed within and extending beyond the tubular body is a rod having a mixing disc located near a distal end. Also disposed within the tubular body is a moveable piston with a central opening through which the rod may pass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott McGill, Mukund R. Patel, Harold F. Carrison
  • Publication number: 20090080285
    Abstract: An appliance configured to process food includes a primary motor and a secondary motor. The primary motor is configured to rotate a blade connected to a spindle and the blade and the spindle are positioned above a blade platform. The primary motor is mounted on a second platform. The second motor is configured to translate the blade platform and the spindle by a first linkage from a first position to a second position relative to the second platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Applicant: Proteus Design, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Brotz, Ryan C. Scribner, Tamimu A. Shyllon, Mary T. Sarich
  • Publication number: 20090034364
    Abstract: A system for pumping or mixing a fluid using a rotating pumping or mixing element and various other components for use in a pumping or mixing system are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Alexandre N. Terentiev
  • Patent number: 7178979
    Abstract: A water agitation system configured to be positioned within a water retention structure configured to receive and retain water, includes a housing having a drive shaft extending downwardly therefrom; at least one upright member connected to a cross beam that is configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the drive shaft; and at least one buoyant stirrer that slidably engages an upright member. The buoyant stirrers are configured to move relative to the upright members in response to a level of water within the water retention structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Allied Precision Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. Reusche, Philip E. Chumbley
  • Patent number: 7070318
    Abstract: A mixing apparatus having a rotating blade mixer affixed to the end of a mixer shaft which is rotatably mounted thru a mixer seal member which is adapted to be brought into sealing engagement with the open filler end of a retail tube of viscous caulking compound, wherein the shaft and mixer are adapted to be rotated and reciprocated thru the viscous compound contained in the tube substantially the entire length of the tube to rapidly and intimately mix the compound with colorant injected thereinto directly in the retail tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Inventor: Charles K. Renfro
  • Patent number: 6910799
    Abstract: A mixing apparatus having a blade mixer affixed to the end of a mixer shaft which is rotatably or non-rotatably, but slidably mounted thru a mixer seal member which is adapted to be brought into sealing engagement with the open filler end of a retail tube of viscous caulking compound, wherein the shaft and mixer are adapted to be reciprocated thru the viscous compound contained in the tube substantially the entire length of the tube to rapidly and intimately mix the compound with colorant injected thereinto directly in the retail tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Inventor: Charles K. Renfro
  • Patent number: 6746147
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing a secondary seal on mixers and similar rotating equipment that includes a stop assembly and a collar which cooperate to minimize translational movement of a mixer shaft during shutoff and to form a reversible seal between the vessel and the shaft. The apparatus provides a sealing engagement between the mixing vessel and the rotatable shaft of a mixer offering improved safety during mechanical seal replacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: SPX Corporation
    Inventors: Robert A. Blakley, Bernd Gigas
  • Patent number: 6632012
    Abstract: Exemplary methods, systems and apparatus are provided for accomplishing mixing of chemistries, such as those used in polishing materials used in semiconductor manufacturing. A manifold is provided that combines chemistries with a mixing element, for example, so that the stability of the chemical solution can be maintained so as to facilitate polishing. The mixing element can be oriented in a stationary position, or alternatively, it can be agitated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Wafer Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R. Vogtmann, Michael S. Wisnieski
  • Patent number: 6616323
    Abstract: The invention concerns apparatus for blending and dispensing food products within a container, which may be disposable. The container 1 is charged with food product through its upper opening which is then sealed with a closure member 2. The closure member 2 may carry a blender 7 when it closes the container. Alternatively, the blender may be admitted through the closure member 2 when blending is required. In each case the blender is moveable up and down relative to the container to blend the product in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: McGill Technology Limited
    Inventor: Shane R. McGill
  • Patent number: 6616318
    Abstract: A mixing apparatus for mixing material in a container comprising a base mixing element and an upper mixing element wherein the upper mixing element can be rotatably and reciprocatably coupled to the base mixing element. The base mixing element can be formed by an elongate member that is fixed to a base plate. The upper mixing element can be formed by an elongate member, which can comprise a cylinder, that has a plurality of mixing arms fixed thereto. An aperture can be disposed adjacent to a proximal end of the elongate cylinder of the upper mixing element for allowing material to be exhausted and cleaned from within the elongate cylinder. The mixing arms can have a plurality of apertures therein, and the base plate can have a peripheral rim for maintaining the base plate spaced from the bottom surface of the container. A plurality of angled blades can be formed in the base plate for drawing material through apertures in the base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventors: Jesse M. LeBlanc, Ajay M. Pathak
  • Patent number: 6592249
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (10) for producing and/or processing plastic material mixtures comprising a mixing head (11) which has one or several inlets (15) for the mixture constituents and in which a mixer (17) provided for mixing the constituents is rotationally driven. An outlet (22) is provided in the mixing head for ejecting the finished mixture. Said outlet can be closed or opened by the head of the mixer in the manner of a nozzle needle. To this end, the mixer is arranged in the housing (12) of the device such that it can be axially displaced. In order to prevent an abrupt opening or closing of the outlet, which can thus lead to losses in quality when using sensitive plastic materials, the invention provides that the raising and lowering of the mixer in the mixing head is effected via a mechanical cam drive (40) comprising at least one actuating cam (42) which interacts with a lifting element (60) that acts upon the mixer (17) or the shaft thereof (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: EDF Polymer-Applikation Maschinenfabrik GmbH
    Inventors: Hannes Hausbichler, Günter Baldauf
  • Publication number: 20030099153
    Abstract: A mixing apparatus having a blade mixer affixed to the end of a mixer shaft which is rotatably or non-rotatably, but slidably mounted thru a mixer seal member which is adapted to be brought into sealing engagement with the open filler end of a retail tube of viscous caulking compound, wherein the shaft and mixer are adapted to be reciprocated thru the viscous compound contained in the tube substantially the entire length of the tube to rapidly and intimately mix the compound with colorant injected thereinto directly in the retail tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Charles K. Renfro
  • Patent number: 6474862
    Abstract: The present invention is a frozen drink machine and a method for making frozen drinks from a frozen substance which has been frozen into a block. According to the method of the present invention, a block of frozen substance is held in a vessel while a rotatable blade having features for grinding the frozen substance, and if desirable, for aerating the ground frozen substance, acts on the block, grinding the frozen substance while a heated liquid is simultaneously introduced into the vessel. An apparatus according to the present invention supports a cup containing the frozen substance, and includes a rotatable blade which is lowered into the cup and means for pumping a heated liquid into the cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: James J. Farrell
  • Publication number: 20020154568
    Abstract: A mixing apparatus having a rotating blade mixer affixed to the end of a mixer shaft which is rotatably mounted thru a mixer seal member which is adapted to be brought into sealing engagement with the open filler end of a retail tube of viscous caulking compound, wherein the shaft and mixer are adapted to be rotated and reciprocated thru the viscous compound contained in the tube substantially the entire length of the tube to rapidly and intimately mix the compound with colorant injected thereinto directly in the retail tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Charles K. Renfro
  • Publication number: 20020131324
    Abstract: The present invention is a frozen drink machine and a method for making frozen drinks from a frozen substance which has been frozen into a block. According to the method of the present invention, a block of frozen substance is held in a vessel while a rotatable blade having features for grinding the frozen substance, and if desirable, for aerating the ground frozen substance, acts on the block, grinding the frozen substance while a heated liquid is simultaneously introduced into the vessel. An apparatus according to the present invention supports a cup containing the frozen substance, and includes a rotatable blade which is lowered into the cup and means for pumping a heated liquid into the cup.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Applicant: Stevens-Lee Company
    Inventor: James J. Farrell
  • Publication number: 20020048215
    Abstract: The invention concerns apparatus for blending and dispensing food products within a container, which my be disposable. The container 1 is charged with food product through its upper opening which is then sealed with a closure member 2. The closure member 2 may carry a blender 7 when it closes the container. Alternatively, the blender may be admitted through the closure member 2 when blending is required. In each case the blender is moveable up and down relative to the container to blend the product in the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Inventor: Shane R. McGill
  • Patent number: 6322241
    Abstract: A material vacuum stirring and dispersing device includes a closed container for stirring solid and liquid under vacuum condition, making it possible to stir materials evenly, without forming material balls to enhance the quality of the mixture. The device further includes a material feeder positioned on the closed container for feeding solid or powder materials evenly into the closed container in which is placed the liquid, and a stirring member having a straight shaft extending out and in the closed container with a plurality of stirring leaves fixed on a lower end of the straight shaft in the container. The straight shaft is rotated by a rotating device placed outside of the closed container and is movable up and down as well so as to make the stirring leaves rotate and also move and down to stir completely the solid with the liquid in the closed container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventors: Shen-An Hsu, Cheng-Hui Chen, Bor-Jhy Chen
  • Patent number: 6270247
    Abstract: A mixing and kneading device comprises a mixing and kneading shaft mounted in a housing and driven to a rotating as well as to a reciprocating movement. For sealing the housing, there is provided a sealing assembly located between the housing and the mixing and kneading shaft. The sealing assembly includes a supporting assembly arranged between the housing and the mixing and kneading shaft and provided with first and second sealing means. The supporting assembly is locked against rotation, but coupled to the mixing and kneading shaft to perform therewith its reciprocating movement. The first sealing means serves for rotatively seal the mixing and kneading shaft and is located between the mixing and kneading shaft and the supporting assembly. The second sealing means provides for a translative sealing of the mixing and kneading shaft and is located between the supporting assembly and the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Buss Compounding Systems AG
    Inventor: Patrick Tschopp
  • Patent number: 6241376
    Abstract: A process for the preparation of high-quality magnetic dispersions having an Hc>120 kA/m, a residual induction Mr/Mm ≧0.9 and an orientation ratio of about 2.7 achieves, with a self-purging single-shaft blade-type kneading apparatus, very advantageous magnetic values of the magnetic coatings and excellent tape characteristics if at least a) the radial shear gradient in the gap between blade circumference and housing wall is from about 150 to about 1600, in particular from about 500 to about 1400, 1/sec, and b) the circumferential velocity of the kneading blade is from about 20 to about 80, in particular from about 35 to about 60, cm/sec.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Emtec Magnetics GmbH
    Inventors: Axel Schünemann, Hans-Dieter Zettler, Peter Nagel
  • Patent number: 6210030
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for continuously reducing the viscosity of molten moldable polymeric material uses shear vibration under extensional flow to cause disentanglement. One or more station treatment cavities are defined by a gap composed of two closely separated surfaces in relative motion with each other at given speed and/or submitted to relative oscillations, with given frequency and amplitude to produce a shear deformation on the molten moldable material and a controlled variation of the gap dimension. The surface have a contour profile of ribs and/or bumps and/or grooves over which the molten moldable material can flow and/or can be dragged and/or is being pushed through and/or pumped through. The treatment cavities have an inlet through which the molten moldable material can pass into, and an outlet through which it can exit each treatment cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Ibar
  • Patent number: 6099741
    Abstract: Liquid containing organic waste material and chemicals are continually introduced into the upper part of a vertical, cylindical treatment chamber. While sinking through the chamber, the material is beaten by fast rotating treating elements which also mix the material. The treating elements also move in axial direction to free vapors and gases from the material. Vapors and gases are removed from the top of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Biopartner AS
    Inventor: Ove Blomkvist
  • Patent number: 6027242
    Abstract: A mixing apparatus that employs mixing blades that are capable of producing rotational mixing action and a vertically oscillating mixing action so that the blades are moveable within the apparatus from an area of a relatively larger volume to an area of a relatively smaller volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: 24th & Dean
    Inventor: Michael C. Thuma
  • Patent number: 5962060
    Abstract: The present invention is a method for making frozen drinks from a frozen substance which has been frozen into a cup. According to the method of the present invention, a cup containing a frozen substance is positioned in a cup support located in a frozen drink machine. A rotatable blade having features for grinding the frozen substance and for aerating the ground frozen substance is lowered into the cup, grinding the frozen substance while a liquid is simultaneously introduced into the cup. In an alternative embodiment, a second blade is provided which incorporates air into the liquid before the liquid is introduced into the cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: f'REAL| Foods, LLC
    Inventor: James J. Farrell
  • Patent number: 5645346
    Abstract: A mixing apparatus that employs mixing blades that are capable of producing rotational mixing action and a vertically oscillating mixing action. The invention includes mixing blades which are in communication with a drive source for the production of rotational movement and the use of a waveform ramp and guide for the production of vertical mixing action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: 24th & Dean, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael C. Thuna
  • Patent number: 5458012
    Abstract: The present invention provides a crystal ball which move upwardly and downwardly, wherein the convex surface of the planetary gears which is used to drive the revolving disk is a bevel to form a bulgy state, and a mantle surrounding said bulgy convex surface is on the upper side of the revolving disk; and the dynamic phenomena including revolution, rotation and moving upwardly and downwardly performed by the doll inserted into said mantle are driven by the rotation of the revolving disk and the planetary gears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Inventor: Jian H. Liu
  • Patent number: 5458417
    Abstract: A kitchen appliance for processing food by chopping, mixing, whipping, kneading, pressing, and preparing emulsions from food has a horizontally positioned cylindrical vessel for receiving food. A tool for processing food in the vessel has a diameter that matches the inner diameter of the vessel. A drive motor is connected with a drive shaft to the tool for driving the tool in rotation. An advancing unit is provided for advancing the tool in the axial direction of the vessel over its axial length. The advancing unit has a stationary spindle and a slide connected to the spindle so as to be slidable on the spindle in the axial direction of the vessel, wherein the slide is displaced by an electric motor on the spindle in the axial direction. The drive motor of the tool is connected to the slide to allow for axially advancing the tool within the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Inventor: Thomas Grelich
  • Patent number: 5282413
    Abstract: Installation for steeping grains of the type comprising a tank (1) provided with a cylindrical lateral wall (2), with a bottom (3) and with a perforated platform (11) disposed at a certain distance from the bottom (3) and on which the grain rests in a layer of suitable thickness, the upper surface of this layer of grains being able to be levelled by a rotary system with raking arms (6) carrying blades and associated with a first motor (9) capable of rotating them, a second motor (10) being coupled to the system in order to make it vertically movable. This installation comprises removable connection making it possible to connect, mechanically and temporarily, the perforated platform (11) to the system with raking arms (6) and blades or directly to the second motor (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 1, 1994
    Assignee: Nordon et Cie
    Inventors: Rene Sauvage, James Roget, Jean Amstutz, Guy Flament
  • Patent number: 5246175
    Abstract: Apparatus for making frozen foods including a mastication chamber, a frozen food material feeder leading into the mastication chamber, a masticator disposed in the chamber and an aeration chamber for introducing air into masticated frozen food fed into the aeration chamber. The whipped frozen food is then disposed into either a storage bin or remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Inventor: David Feldpausch
  • Patent number: 5208050
    Abstract: A frozen yoghurt or ice cream dispensing system is presented. This system costs a small fraction that of the state of the art dispensing system, yet it is more versatile and puts out a better product, than the state of the art systems. A pre-formed "hard" frozen single serving of the base confection and fresh flavoring additives are loaded into an extrusion cup. At the actuation of a hand crank, or a power drive switch, a rotating cutter/sweeper on a retractable shaft, penetrates the confection charge and chops, softens, and mixes it. After this cutter engages the bottom of said cup, a piston traverses the loading cup bore, and the charge is extruded through a multi-aperture orifice, at the bottom of the extrusion cup. Shearing and additional mixing occurs, during the interaction of the rotating cutter and the multi-aperture orifice. An automatic rinse cycle is also built into the device, to eliminate flavor mixing between various batches of confections, and to save labor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Inventor: Robert J. Ney
  • Patent number: 5201263
    Abstract: A cooking utensil with a built-in automatic stirring device includes a pot body and a cover which is provided on an open top of the pot body and which confines an enclosed space. A rotary knob is rotatably mounted on the cover and has an axial shaft which extends into the enclosed space. The rotary knob is rotated so as to set a desired stirring method. A gear set is provided inside the enclosed space and rotates with the axial shaft of the rotary knob. A stirring implement has a shaft portion which is rotatably driven by the gear set and which extends into the pot body. The shaft portion has a lower end which is disposed adjacent to a closed bottom of the pot body and which is provided with at least one radially extending stirring blade. A spiral spring is connected to the gear set and is wound when the rotary knob is rotated. The spiral spring gradually unwinds to drive rotatably the gear set and cause axial rotation of the stirring implement for the duration of the stirring period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1993
    Inventor: Andy C. Teng
  • Patent number: 5150967
    Abstract: A machine specifically for making milkshakes and malts out of hard ice-cream in sixty seconds or less. The ice-cream and ingredients are placed in a container that can be locked and sealed to the underside of a housing designed especially for that purpose. Inside the housing are two gearmotors--one is used to rotate a shaft and mixing head at a given R.P.M. and torque. This gearmotor, with shaft and mixing head, is positioned vertically above the container and supported between two diametrically opposed rods, in a manner that permits easy vertical movement of the mixing head within the container. A second gearmotor provides the necessary R.P.M. and torque for this vertical movement. Secured to a mounting plate in the upper part of the housing; this second gearmotor, is linked to the first gearmotor by means of a rotor arm and rod member connected to a stud on the first gearmotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Assignees: Jim L. Neilson, Josefa N. Neilson
    Inventors: Jim L. Neilson, Demont Neilson
  • Patent number: 5145250
    Abstract: A process for the preparation of bone cement for subsequent introduction into the cavity of a bone serving to receive a prosthesis. The components serving for the production of the bone cement are introduced into a cartridge and mixed together during a mixing phase and subsequently undergo a further resting phase. The mixing phase and the resting phase are under automatic program control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1992
    Assignee: Merck Patent Gesellschaft mit beschraenkter Haftung
    Inventors: Heinrich Planck, Christoph Elser, Albrecht Grieben, Werner Ege
  • Patent number: 5139667
    Abstract: A drive unit for a nutsche filter which includes a drive shaft assembly and an impeller shaft assembly which rotate together but which telescope relative to one another. Moving parts of the overall drive shaft assembly are enclosed for protection from corrosion and wear problems. The drive unit is supported above a filter vessel and enters the vessel through a sealed opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Assignee: Sparkler Filters, Inc.
    Inventor: James T. Reneau, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5123833
    Abstract: A fast cycle plasticator/injector unit for plastic molding machines having a screw type plasticating extruder for feeding thermoplastic material through a sealed fluid flow path to an accumulator which periodically feeds the thermoplastic material through a sealed fluid flow path to an injector that comprises a cylinder with an inlet and an outlet port and a powered piston valve element disposed for reciprocating axial and rotary motion within said cylinder and having a fluid flow channel along a portion of its length in cooperative structural relationship with said inlet port to provide an open fluid flow channel between the inlet port and the charge chamber of said cylinder when the piston is in a first rotational orientation and to block fluid flow from the inlet port to the cylinder when the piston is in a second rotational orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Inventor: John C. Parker
  • Patent number: 4974965
    Abstract: Improvements are provided in machines for processing frozen comestibles of the type in which a frozen comestible is placed in a mixing cup and the mixing cup is moved toward an auger which mixes the frozen comestible into a smooth, soft material. The improvements comprise a chain driven drive for moving the mixing cup toward the auger. Further improvement include spring biased mounting means for mounting the auger of the machine to the drive shaft of the machine. An additional improvement comprises means for circulating cooled air from a freezer located adjacent to the mixing machine through the housing of the mixing machine to cool the mixing cup and the auger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1990
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Heinhold, Duane H. Heinhold
  • Patent number: 4946286
    Abstract: A pitcher for grinding and mixing material therein including a pitcher body, a removable lid and a rotary and reciprocal shaft journaled in the lid and having an apertured grinding and mixing plate attached to one end of the shaft. The grinding and mixing plate includes a plurality of mixing holes, four equally spaced semicircular rim segments, and a set of grinding teeth located on the underside thereof facing a set of fixed grinding teeth located in a row on the bottom of the pitcher with the two sets of grinding teeth being mutually facing and interfitting. The mixer plate can be rotated to grind up frozen concentrate or reciprocated within the container to mix liquids therein. The holes in the aperture plate provide a mixing action in both the rotary and reciprocating modes of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1990
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventor: Emerson J. Purkapile
  • Patent number: 4898474
    Abstract: A mixing device for liquids is described, wherein improved control of the mix is achieved by restructuring the components so that the character of the mix can be observed easily and corrections effected simultaneously. The disperser/mixer incorporates a moveable and rotatable support structure attached to a piston-in-cylinder arrangement. Hydraulic pressure, pneumatic pressure, or a combination thereof in the cylinder is controlled from a unit on the support structure, rather than the base, through a modified piston fixed to the support structure and containing a passageway for hydraulic fluid, rather than through the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1990
    Inventor: Benjamin Lipson
  • Patent number: 4889432
    Abstract: A dental mixer apparatus including an upright mixing chamber having an upper open end for receiving dental impression materials and a plunger member suspended coaxially upon an elongated rotary driven mixer shaft for vertical reciprocable movement between a lower operative position in which the plunger is received within the mixing chamber and an upper inoperative position above the mixing chamber. A rotary mixer head is driven by the mixer shaft below the mixing chamber for mixing the materials within the mixing chamber. A suction conduit is provided to suck air from the mixing chamber in order to minimize voids and bubbles within the mixed ingredients. The mixer shaft is supported by a support bracket which is pivotally mounted to permit the mixer shaft and plunger to swing away from their normal vertical position above the mixing chamber to provide more working space above the mixing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1989
    Inventor: Roosevelt Patterson
  • Patent number: 4824255
    Abstract: A drive apparatus useful in screw injection molding apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus is particularly useful when both axial and rotational movements are required because the invention discloses a construction that reduces the wear attributed to sealing gaskets of relatively large diameter which are subjected to rotational stresses and relatively high linear velocities. In the injection molding embodiment described in detail, the extruder screw is rigidly attached to a drive piston that has both axial and rotational movements. Concentric to that drive piston is a drive cylinder tha has only axial movement yet is connected to the drive piston such that the piston is able to rotate freely relative to the cylinder but may move axially only when the cylinder moves. Thus, the sealing gaskets of the drive cylinder are free of rotational stresses which extends the useful life of the sealing gaskets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1989
    Assignee: Krauss-Maffei A.G.
    Inventor: Walter Wohlrab