Abstract: This is a removable hinge mechanism particularly designed for use with steam table food containers for removably attaching a separate cover to the upper portion of the container, thus providing a support for holding the cover when the same is lifted from the container to provide access to the food confined therewithin.The hinge mechanism is attached to the container by a releasable clamping action between the inner and outer portions of the rolled edge or flange formed at the top of the container and to the cover by an open-ended loop to permit complete removeability from the container and the cover for cleaning.

Abstract: A machine for dispensing a beverage into a container formed from a mixture of a dry granular base food product and water. The machine has a product metering unit carrying a food product storage container. The metering unit has a rotatable auger driven by a drive mechanism including an electric motor to dispense food product into a mixing bowl. A solenoid control valve operates to control the flow of water to the mixing bowl when the electric motor for the dispensing unit is actuated. An adjustable means restricts the size of the water carrying hose from the valve to the bowl to regulate the flow rate of water to the mixing bowl.

Abstract: An apparatus for separating particulate matter entrained in a gas, as air, from the gas. The apparatus has a housing surrounding a separation chamber. A vane assembly carrying a cylindrical bowl is secured to an upper portion of the housing. The vane assembly has a plurality of circumferentially spaced inclined vanes providing air inlet passages open to the separation chamber for directing the gas and particulates entrained in the gas in a circular motion in the separation chamber. A stack mounted on the bowl forms an annular chamber above the vanes in communication with the inlet of the passages formed by the vanes. An open mesh screen surrounds the annular chamber. An impeller assembly located in the lower portion of the separation chamber has a plurality of arms carrying paddles. The paddles are located in an annular discharge or exit chamber in communication with the lower portion of the separation chamber.