Patents by Inventor Brian K. Sproul

Brian K. Sproul 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).

  • Patent number: 6755322
    Abstract: A vending machine for the sale of both food and non-food products has a plurality of adjustable shelves and adjustable product dividers. Products are dispensed from the shelves by the action of a computer controlled transporter mounted on carriages permitting movement of the transporter both horizontally and vertically in an X-Z plane across the face of the product shelving. Rotation of the transporter in front of a selected product engages a product delivery mechanism which gently and safely slides the product off the shelf onto the transporter. A movable wall within the transporter pushes the delivered product aside, thereby clearing the way for the dispensing of additional products. Multiple products may safely be collected in each cycle. Products are carried to a delivery station for retrieval by the customer. After product delivery, the transporter is discharged of any residual items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventors: Hettie J. Herzog, Thomas L. Holder, David W. Mitman, Brian K. Sproul, Bradley R. Hardwick