The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Aug. 11, 1992
Filed:
Sep. 28, 1990
Kenneth J Madonia, Murrysville, PA (US);
Niles M Dwyer, Park Ridge, IL (US);
Fluid Management Limited Partnership, Wheeling, IL (US);
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.