Abstract: A device and method are provided for metered dispensing of granular seasoning material. The device comprises a reservoir including a dispensing outlet, a metered dispensing member having an axis and a metering chamber comprising a peripheral cavity in the metered dispensing member, the metered dispensing member mounted for axial linear movement relative to the reservoir through the dispensing outlet to and from a filling position, in which the metering chamber is in communication with the interior of the reservoir, and a dispensing position, in which the metering chamber is in communication with the exterior of the reservoir, to permit gravity dispensing of a metered quantity of material from the metering chamber. Preferably, an actuation assembly for movement of the dispensing member comprises biasing means. A diffuser may be connected to the exterior of the reservoir below the dispensing outlet for evenly distributing dispensed material onto a target area.

Abstract: An assembly for holding cup-shaped objects. The assembly includes an outer retaining tube, an inner retaining tube having a diameter smaller than that of the outer retaining tube, wherein the inner retaining tube engages the outer retaining tube in a telescoping manner, a spring positioned inside the tubes, a piston positioned at a first end of the spring, and a head assembly that engages the outer retaining tube, the head assembly containing a ring assembly operably connected to a plurality of flippers that, in response to rotation of the ring assembly, provide a varying diameter within the head assembly. The telescoping feature provides for adjustable length of the assembly while the varying diameter of the head assembly provides for cups of various diameters to be used in the assembly.