Patent ID: 6755122
Filing Date: 2004-06-29
Classification: A21C,A23P

Abstract:
An apparatus for evenly distributing predetermined portions of food over a surface comprising:a frame adapted to be superimposed over the surface to receive the food; a screen mounted on the frame and being of conical configuration and converging away from the direction of the surface to receive the food, the screen having an axis and a plurality of openings defined therein through which the food may fall; a hopper mounted on the frame in spaced relationship above the screen having a food confinement portion substantially aligned with the screen axis; and a dischargeable storage device substantially aligned with the screen axis, the dischargeable storage device instantaneously movable between a store position in which the food is stored and a release position wherein the food is permitted to fall through the dischargeable storage device and onto the screen, the food separating and being substantially evenly distributed below the screen over the surface upon the food engaging the screen and the food falling therethrough, the dischargeable storage device comprising: a deck having an aperture therethrough and a pair of pivotable trap doors, each door having a guide post; and a plunger moveable within the aperture and having two guide channels, each guide channel adapted to cooperate with one of the guide posts such that when the plunger is depressed, the guide channels force the guide posts thereby opening the trap doors.