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.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 31, 2007
Date of Patent:
March 1, 2011
Assignee:
Puffin Innovations, LLC
Inventors:
Allan S. Jones, Jack F. Rutledge, James S. Wolf, Jeffrey L. Redington