Patent ID: 6244948
Filing Date: 2001-06-12
Classification: A22C,A47G

Abstract:
A device for opening shellfish comprising:a base;a handle attached to the base for rotating the handle about a first axis transversely defined through the base;a rack and pinion geared shaft attached to the handle, the rack and pinion geared shaft being vertically aligned through the base for axially translating the rack and pinion geared shaft along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis; andpunch means fixedly attached to the rack and pinion geared shaft forming an integrated blade structure for aligning and axially translating the punch means along the second axis for opening the shellfish,the base further comprising a collection and channeling structure attached to an upper face of the base and aligned with the rack and pinion geared shaft and the punch means for supporting, collecting, containing, and channeling debris runoff of the shellfish, the collection and channeling structure comprising a planar surface substantially enclosed by an upturned rim having an opening located therein, the opening being directed outwards from the base.