Abstract: An automated dispenser for liquid and pulverulent materials dispenses the materials into a container located below a dispense head. The container is supported by a shelf extending in front of the dispenser. The shelf is divided into sections, with the section located below the dispense head being mounted for raising and lowering toward and away from the dispense head. A scissors lift mechanism supports the center shelf portion, and a locking arrangement at the bottom of the scissors lift mechanism locks the lift mechanism at a desired height. A foot pedal releases the locking arrangement, permitting the shelf portion to be moved to a different height.

Abstract: Dispensing apparatus is provided for simultaneously dispensing metered quantities of a plurality of materials into a common receptacle. Pump modules each containing a plurality of individual pump members are arranged in a rectangular pattern, between a base plate and a drive plate. The drive plate is raised and lowered, toward and away from the base plate, by a pair of drive screws. The plurality of individual pump members are thus simultaneously operated to dispense different materials into a common receptacle, at the same time.

Abstract: A traylike member is provided for use with a removable cover to form a container in which is accommodated a product. The traylike member includes a surface which subtends and supportingly engages the product. A marginal section extends from the periphery of the surface and is spaced outwardly from the product when the latter is engaging the surface. The surface is provided with a plurality of relatively spaced locating elements which are independently adjustable between operative and inoperative modes. When in an operative mode, the locating elements project upwardly from the surface and coact with one another to restrain relative lateral movement of the supported product with respect to the surface. When in the inoperative mode, the locating elements assume non-upwardly projecting positions relative to the surface.

Abstract: A serving tray is provided for use with a removable cover. The tray is provided with a rim section having a laterally extending ledge portion and a skirt portion depending therefrom. The skirt portion having upper edge segments spaced from the underside of the ledge portion and cooperating therewith to form substantially rigid marginal lips. Cooperating with the tray is a removable cover having an upright wall section encompassing and depending from a top section. The lower edge of the wall section terminates in an outwardly extending first flange. A yieldable second flange extends downwardly and outwardly from the first flange and portions of the second flange cooperate therewith to form a plurality of pockets encompassing and lockingly accommodating the tray lips when said tray and cover ar in assembled relation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a food packaging cover for use with a compatible tray. The cover includes a top section, a wall section, a shoulder section interconnecting the top section and the wall section and a bottom peripheral edge formation designed to lockably engage the tray. The wall section is formed from a repeating pattern of furrows which enhance the strength of the cover. The interconnecting shoulder section is formed from triangular flats interspaced by gusset members to effect substantial uniform distribution to the wall section of a load placed on the top section.