Patent ID: 6041697
Filing Date: 2000-03-28
Classification: A47J

Abstract:
An apparatus for the controlled fracture of the outer hull of nut-like fruit comprising:A. a support housing comprising a base for the support of an anvil means for the reception of said nut-like fruit;B. arcuate frame means communicating with said support housing, having an apical end and arms extending away therefrom, said arms adapted for connection to said base adjacent said anvil means, and a screw-threaded opening at said apical end;C. reciprocable plunger means associated with said frame means, said plunger means comprising a reciprocable piston, said piston adapted for sliding contact with said arms throughout its extent of travel, and screw-threaded actuator arm means screw-threadedly reciprocable within said opening, said actuator arm having a proximal end freely rotatably journaled within said piston, and a distal end extending beyond said opening; and a key-like actuator mounted on said distal end for the rotation of said actuator arm in the operation of said plunger means;D. wherein the operation of said apparatus permits the controlled fracture of the outer hull of the nut-like fruit without damaging the meat contained therein.