Abstract: An intermittently operated, indexing container conveying system is particularly configured for versatile use with an associated container filling apparatus. In distinction from previous arrangements, the present system includes a servo-drive motor for effecting intermittent indexing movement of a container-carrying endless conveyor. Programmable controls of the system facilitate operation of the system for optimizing efficiency, facilitating use of the system with containers of differing configurations, and with food products exhibiting varying physical properties (i.e., such as viscosities). The present system permits acceleration and deceleration rate of the conveyor to be selectively varied, as well as selective variation of indexing pitch and stop points of the conveyor.

Abstract: An ice cream filling apparatus for simultaneously filling multiple ice cream containers as they move along a predetermined path of travel extending between a receiving station and a discharge station and a method of operating the filling apparatus in a manner controlling the volumetric fill of each container as a function of the speed that the container moves along its predetermined path of travel. The filling apparatus includes a transport and filling mechanism which quickly and easily adapts to different size and shape containers and includes a series of cantilevered container supports. Each container support individually holds and positions an ice cream container beneath a filling nozzle in a manner facilitating clean operation of the filling apparatus and such that board caliper and bouncing of the container have an inconsequential effect on volumetric fill accuracy of the filling apparatus.