Abstract: An automated apparatus for mixing ingredients stored in closed containers includes two or more mixing mechanisms. A diverter gate upstream of the mixing mechanisms guides containers to one or the other mechanism, as desired. Powered conveyors move the containers past the diverter gate and retractable pusher arm assemblies load the containers onto the mixing mechanisms. After a mixing operation is completed, the pusher arm assemblies discharge the containers onto an exit conveyor for transport to a remote packaging station. Sensors are disposed along the path of travel of the pusher arm assemblies to control operation thereof, providing a ready indication that a container is properly positioned on a mixing mechanism, and that the mixing operation can be initiated.

Abstract: An automated apparatus for mixing ingredients stored in closed containers includes a gyroscopically mounted frame with a clamping arrangement for clamping a container therein. A shuttle moves back and forth between a conveyor and the frame carrying containers to and from the frame. An injection arm carried on the shuttle moves the container into the frame, and an ejection arm moves the container from the frame to the shuttle, for return to the conveyor. A braking alignment mechanism orients the frame to receive a container.

Abstract: A quiet and powerful vacuum cleaner-blower assembly comprises an improved quiet operating electric motor coupled to and driving an improved quiet operating blower. The motor has improved cooling air flow with cooling air inlet and discharge openings disposed to minimize noise. An axial flow cooling air fan impinges the cooling air onto sound absorbing material before discharging the cooling air from the motor. The blower has a high efficiency impeller utilizing forward and backward curved vanes which discharge air into a casing having a chamber with a cross-sectional flow area which linearly increases as air moves around the periphery, resulting in quiet operation and increased capacity with a less than expected increase in power consumption. The vacuum cleaner-blower assembly may be operated in conjunction with stationary guide blades for improving the flow of air into the impeller, resulting in still further increase in capacity without substantial increase in noise or power consumption.