Patents Assigned to Smart Machine Technologies, Inc.
  • Patent number: 5396716
    Abstract: A drying apparatus includes a plurality of dryer modules, each module creating a drying zone and having a plurality of tubes disposed above and below an upper surface of a conveyor that supports a product within the apparatus for transport therethrough. At least one circulation fan in each module causes heated air to circulate to the tubes, which direct the air flow to impinge upon and dry the product. Each module also includes a burner for heating the air within the module to a desired temperature. The circulation fan and burner of each module are independently controllable, so that the apparatus can produce an air-flow rate and an air temperature in at least one of the drying zones different than the air-flow rate and air temperature in at least one other of the drying zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Assignee: Smart Machine Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Irma H. Smart, Michael A. Edmonds