Abstract: A dispensing system using dual linear vibratory feeders, aligned along their longitudinal axes with their dispensing ends at substantially the same vertical location. The feeder trough of one feeder penetrates the structure of the other feeder, allowing them to be aligned and compactly located. Isolation mounts may be used to damp the vibration of the feeders. An optional metering pan serves as an intermediate stage which accepts supplied material and transfers it to the feeder without compaction or bridging. Resilient mounts and an adjustable mass on the pan allow the amount of vibrational energy transmitted to the pan to be adjusted independently of the energy supplied to the feeder by the vibratory motor. A counterweight may be used to shift the center of mass of the fixed portion of the feeder into alignment with that of the vibrating portion.

Abstract: Apparatus for feeding poorly flowable dry particulate materials includes a rotary supply hopper having an interior chamber for receiving and containing a quantity of material and an annular sidewall open at a lower edge, a stationary platform having a circular groove formed in a top surface of the platform encircling an upright central axis and an opening extending through the platform adjacent to the circular groove, spaced from the central axis and defined between the circular groove and central axis, a support structure supporting the hopper above the platform to undergo rotation relative to the platform about the upright central axis with the lower edge of the supply hopper being spaced from and extending downward into the circular groove of the platform such that the platform serves as a stationary bottom for the rotary supply hopper, and an annular discharge spout attached at an open upper end to the platform below and encircling the opening through the platform and having a transfer passage extending f