Abstract: The invention is an equalizing tray for evenly distributing food pieces in a food transport line, such as before a dewatering step and before a frying step. The even distribution of food pieces is accomplished by adjusting the shape of a tray bottom through raising or lowering the left or right tray side, by raising or lowering the tray center, and by tilting the entire tray. By changing the shape of the tray bottom, the depth of the liquid medium in which food pieces are transported is changed, resulting in even distribution of food pieces.

Abstract: A device for transporting fruit or produce on an endless chain to a produce container. The produce container is continually weighed, and as it fills with produce and reaches a warning weight, a motor which drives an endless chain slows to a lower speed. When the weight of the produce container and produce exceeds a target weight after the addition of one piece of produce or fruit, a weight comparison means signals the motor to stop. The produce container is released and removed from the device, and new empty one is placed in the device. This allows the produce container to be filled above a target weight by the addition of no more than one piece of fruit or produce.

Abstract: An automatic carton filling and weighing device including a means for automatically assuring that a predetermined weight of product is placed in an empty carton which is continuously provided by a conveyor belt means. The filling and weighing device removes the cartons from the control of the conveyor belt and simultaneously releases the product to fill the carton. Following a short delay after the product has been placed within the carton the carton and its enclosed product are weighed thereby avoiding distortion generated by inertial forces. The weighing device incorporates a flexible cantilever system which accurately reflects the total weight of the carton and its contents regardless of whether the particular loading within the carton is uniform and further avoids problems inherent with the inertial loading forces. Upon the carton reaching the predetermined weight level the carton is returned to control of the conveyor and removed thus releasing the weighing station for the next succeeding carton.