Patents by Inventor Allison T. Ono

Allison T. Ono has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Method and apparatus for automatic bulk vending
    Patent number: 5997236
    Abstract: An automatic bulk vending machine is described including specific details as to various aspects of accurate volumetric dispensing, the separation of small broken pieces or fines from the dispensed product, and the easy and sanitary loading of such a machine. Further details as to how to provide a highly flexible selection process are provided. An automatic bulk vending machine according to the present invention may include a touch-screen for providing a visually entertaining and instructive display to guide a customer through the product selection process. Products to be selected may be stored in bins and volumetrically dispensed by a dispenser to a blending and holding pan. From this pan, they are then directed through a dispenser tube including a fines separator and collector to a dispensing cup. Bulk refill containers are also disclosed. Unlike an ordinary vending machine, the customer can choose the blend of product to be purchased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Mars, Incorporated
    Inventors: John J. Picioccio, Steven D. Kienitz, Warren R. Kitchen, Joseph E. Rossi, William C. Haase, Allison T. Ono, Wayne R. Hinkle
  • Method and apparatus for automatic bulk vending
    Patent number: 5685435
    Abstract: An automatic bulk vending machine is described including specific details as to various aspects of accurate volumetric dispensing, the separation of small broken pieces or fines from the dispensed product, and the easy and sanitary loading of such a machine. Further details as to how to provide a highly flexible selection process are provided. An automatic bulk vending machine according to the present invention may include a touch-screen for providing a visually entertaining and instructive display to guide a customer through the product selection process. Products to be selected may be stored in bins and volumetrically dispensed by a dispenser to a blending and holding pan. From this pan, they are then directed through a dispenser tube including a fines separator and collector to a dispensing cup. Bulk refill containers are also disclosed. Unlike an ordinary vending machine, the customer can choose the blend of product to be purchased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: Mars Incorporated
    Inventors: John J. Picioccio, Steven D. Kienitz, Warren R. Kitchen, Joseph E. Rossi, William C. Haase, Allison T. Ono, Wayne R. Hinkle