Patent Publication Number: US-8123045-B2

Title: Apparatus for separating popped corn from un-popped kernels

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/153,085 entitled “Unpopped Kernel Separation and Flavor Mixing Apparatus” and filed on Feb. 17, 2009 for Jeffrey M. White and Charles C. Hiigel, which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to an apparatus for popcorn preparation and more particularly relates to an apparatus for separating un-popped corn kernels from popped corn kernels 
     BACKGROUND 
     Description of the Related Art 
     Many people enjoy popcorn because it is healthy, flavorful, and easy to make. However, during popping, a few popcorn kernels will fail to pop, leaving behind rock hard objects hidden amongst the delicious, inviting treat. Because of its hard nature and small shape, the un-popped kernel presents several health risks to a person enjoying the fluffy snack. Hereinafter an “un-popped” kernel refers to a kernel of popcorn that is in an original, unexpanded state or in a state of partial expansion such that the un-popped kernel is hard and poses a threat to a person biting or eating the un-popped kernel. A popcorn kernel may be un-popped before a popping process or after a popping process. An un-popped kernel that remains un-popped after being exposed to a popping process is commonly referred to as an “old maid.” 
     Many people, while consuming the enjoyable snack, have accidently bitten into an un-popped kernel. Because the kernels are hard, biting into a kernel is uncomfortable and can break a tooth. Fixing a broken tooth is expensive and may be cost prohibitive for some people. When a broken tooth remains unfixed it can cause several health problems that range from headaches and tooth decay, to sepsis and death. Un-popped kernels also present a great risk to toddlers and infants. The kernels can easily lodge in a child&#39;s throat, choking the child, which also can lead to death. 
     SUMMARY 
     From the foregoing discussion, it should be apparent that a need exists for an apparatus that separates popped corn from un-popped kernels. Beneficially, such an apparatus would allow a user to effortlessly separate kernels from popped corn during popcorn preparation. 
     The present invention has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available devices for separating popped corn from un-popped kernels. Accordingly, the present invention has been developed to provide an apparatus for separating popped corn from un-popped kernels that overcome many or all of the above-discussed shortcomings in the art. 
     The apparatus, in one embodiment, separates popped corn from un-popped kernels. The apparatus may have a popped corn container that holds popped corn and a kernel separator located on a side of the popped corn container. Further, the kernel separator may have a kernel separator screen with a plurality of holes, where a hole in the plurality of holes is larger than an un-popped kernel and smaller than a fully popped corn. The kernel separator also may have a reentry impedance means that impedes an un-popped kernel from entering the popped corn container through the kernel separator. The apparatus may include a kernel container positioned outside the popped corn container and adjacent to the kernel separator such that the kernel container stores the un-popped kernel after the un-popped kernel has passed through the kernel separator. 
     In one embodiment, the sides of the popped corn container slope toward the kernel separator. In another embodiment, the popped corn container is a bowl and the kernel separator is located at the bottom of the bowl. In another embodiment, the reentry impedance means comprises lateral cross members that bound each hole in the plurality of holes in the kernel separator screen. The lateral cross members may have a triangular cross section, where a base of the triangular cross section is on a kernel face of the kernel separator and the kernel face faces the kernel container, and where a vertex of the triangular cross section is on a popped corn face of the kernel separator and the popped corn face faces the popped corn in the popped corn container. In another embodiment, the lateral cross members are oriented perpendicularly to one another. 
     In one embodiment, the reentry impedance means comprises a kernel retention means for maintaining the kernels in the kernel container. In a further embodiment, the kernel retention means includes a kernel restraining structure positioned between the kernel separator screen and a bottom of the kernel container such that kernels at the bottom of the kernel container are impeded from re-entry into the popped corn container when agitated. The kernel restraining structure is positioned such that a space between the kernel separator screen and the kernel restraining structure is wider than a kernel. In another embodiment, the kernel restraining structure is positioned to slope away from the kernel separator screen. In yet another embodiment, the kernel restraining structure includes an umbrella shape, such that a top point of the kernel restraining structure faces the kernel separator screen and the kernel restraining structure slopes away from the top point in all directions. 
     In another embodiment, the sides of the kernel container slope towards a bottom of the kernel container and the bottom of the kernel container includes an area that matches or is less than an area of the kernel restraining structure. In another embodiment, the kernel restraining structure has an area that matches or exceeds an area of the kernel separator screen. In another embodiment, the kernel container is a bowl and the popped corn container nests inside the kernel container. In yet another embodiment, the popped corn container further comprises a grippable area for removing the popped corn container from inside of the kernel container. 
     In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a graspable handle attached to the kernel container. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a cover container. In a further embodiment, the cover container includes a popcorn cooking surface. In yet another embodiment, the cover container may be used as a popcorn serving bowl. 
     Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the present invention should be or are in any single embodiment of the invention. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment. 
     Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the invention. 
     These features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order that the advantages of the invention will be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of an apparatus for separating popped corn from un-popped kernels in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 2A  is a side view illustrating a bowl shaped popped corn container in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 2B  is a side view illustrating a conical shaped popped corn container in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 3A  is a top side view further illustrating a kernel separator screen in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 3B  is a cross sectional view of a kernel separator screen in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 4A  is a side view of a kernel container in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 4B  is a side view of a kernel container attached to a popped corn container in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 5A  is a side view of a popped corn container nested in a kernel container with an attached kernel restraining structure in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 5B  is a cross sectional view of a kernel restraining structure in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 5C  is a cross sectional view of a kernel restraining structure in accordance with the present invention; and 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of a cover container in accordance with the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment. 
     Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention. 
       FIG. 1  depicts an exploded view of one embodiment of the separating apparatus  100  for separating popped corn from un-popped kernels according to at least one embodiment. The separating apparatus  100  may comprise a popped corn container  102 , a kernel container  104 , a kernel separator  106 , a kernel restraining structure  108 , and a cover container  110 . The term “kernel,” as used herein, refers to a kernel of popcorn that failed to pop during the popping process. The phrase “popped corn,” as used herein, refers to a kernel of popcorn that popped during the popping process. 
     In certain embodiments, after popcorn has passed through the popping process, the mixture of popped corn and kernels is placed in the popped corn container  102 . The popped corn container  102  includes a container that, when agitated, will allow kernels to exit the popped corn container  102  through the kernel separator  106  located on the bottom of the popped corn container  102  while keeping the popped corn inside the popped corn container  102 . For example, the popped corn container  102  may comprise a bowl with a kernel separator  106  at the bottom of the bowl, such that, when the separating apparatus  100  is agitated, the kernels move to the bottom of the bowl and through the kernel separator  106 . 
     In at least one embodiment, the kernel separator  106  may include a screen that allows kernels to pass through the screen but prevents fully popped corns or nearly fully popped corns from passing through the screen. The screen may have several holes that are larger than an un-popped kernel but smaller than a fully popped corn. For example, with the kernel separator  106  located at the bottom of the popped corn container  102 , a kernel may pass through the kernel separator  106  while a popped corn may stay in the popped corn container  102 . 
     In a number of embodiments, after the kernel has passed through the kernel separator  106 , the kernel will enter the kernel container  104 . The kernel container  104  may be positioned outside the popped corn container  102  and adjacent to the kernel separator  106 . The kernel container  104  may store kernels that have passed through the kernel separator  106  so that the kernels can be thrown away after they have been removed from the popped corn container  102 . The kernel container  104  is in a position such that kernels that pass through the kernel separator  106  enter the kernel container  104 . For example, the kernel container  104  may store the kernels that have passed through the kernel separator  106 . After a user finishes shaking the popped corn container  102 , the user may remove the kernel container  104  from its location under the kernel separator  106  and remove the kernels from the kernel container  104 . 
     In certain embodiments, after the kernels pass through the kernel separator  106 , the kernels may attempt to reenter the popped corn container  102  through the kernel separator  106 . To impede kernels from entering the popped corn container  102  through the kernel separator  106 , the separating apparatus  100  may also have a reentry impedance means. The reentry impedance means includes the structure of the kernel separator  106  and a kernel retention means that impedes a kernel from entering the popped corn container  102  through the kernel separator  106 . The kernel retention means may include the kernel restraining structure  108 . For example, the kernel restraining structure  108  may capture kernels, preventing the kernels from contacting the kernel separator  106  during agitation. 
     In a further embodiment, a cover container  110  may be placed on top of the popped corn container  102  to prevent popcorn from spilling out of the popped corn container  102  during agitation. For example, the cover container  110  may include a bowl that, when placed on top of the popped corn container  102 , keeps the popped corn within the popped corn container  102  when a user shakes the separating apparatus  100  to remove kernels from the popped corn container  102 . The separating apparatus  100  may help a user separate kernels from the popped corns so that a person can safely enjoy the popcorn. 
     In certain embodiments, the separating apparatus  100  may appear spherical. For example, the cover container  110  and the kernel container  104  may include two bowls that are stacked onto each other to form a spherical shape. In at least one embodiment, the separating apparatus  100  may be designed in the shape of a sporting ball and/or decorated with corresponding coloring. For example, the separating apparatus  100  may be in the shape of a baseball, a football, a hockey puck, a soccer ball, a basketball, a tennis ball, and the like. Further, the separating apparatus  100  may be constructed from metal, glass, plastic, and the like. 
       FIG. 2A  shows a side view of the popped corn container  102  according to at least one embodiment. For example, the popped corn container  102  may include the kernel separator  106 , a top edge  202 , a grippable area  204 , and a sloped side  206   a . As illustrated, the popped corn container  102  may include a bowl shape, however, the popped corn container  102  may be a shape that stores popped corns and allows kernels to fall through the kernel separator  106  when the popped corn container  102  is shaken. For example, the popped corn container  102  may have the shape of a cube, a truncated cone, a cylinder, a sports ball, a decorative object, and the like. 
     In certain embodiments, the popped corn container  102  nests inside the kernel container  104  in  FIG. 1 . The popped corn container  102  may include a top edge  202  that may include a lip and that may abut against the top surface of the kernel container  104 . The top edge  202  may prevent the popped corn container  102  from sliding too far into the kernel container  104 , such that the top edge  202  may prevent the popped corn container  102  from becoming difficult to remove from the kernel container  104 . Also, if the popped corn container  102  slides too far into the kernel container  104 , the bottom of the popped corn container  102  may become too close to the bottom of the kernel container  104 , decreasing the space available for kernels after they pass through the kernel separator  106 , negatively impacting the efficiency of kernel separation. The top edge  202  or general shape of the popped corn container  102  may facilitate the ease of using the popped corn container  102  by preventing it from sliding too far into the kernel container  104 . 
     In another embodiment, the popped corn container  102  may include a grippable area  204 . The grippable area  204  facilitates the removal of the popped corn container  102  from within the inside of the kernel container  104  in  FIG. 1 . The grippable area  204  may include an indentation, a hole, a small handle, a corrugated surface, a non-slip surface, and the like. For example, the kernel container  104  may contain a nested popped corn container  102 . Further, the popped corn container  102  may include two grippable areas  204  on opposing sides of the popped corn container  102 . To remove the popped corn container  102  from the kernel container  104 , a user may apply pressure to the grippable areas  204  and lift the popped corn container  102  out of the kernel container  104 . 
     In one embodiment, the popped corn container  102  includes a locking mechanism (not shown) that secures the popped corn container  102  to the kernel container  104 . The locking mechanism, in one embodiment, includes one or more additional moving parts that secure the popped corn container  102  to the kernel container  104 . In another embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a friction mechanism that secures the popped corn container  102  to the kernel container  104  using friction. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a raised portion on either the popped corn container  102  or the kernel container  104  and a corresponding recess on the component without the raised portion such that the popped corn container  102  locks into the kernel container  104  as pressure is applied. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism includes threads for screwing the kernel container  104  to the popped corn container  102 . One of skill in the art will recognize other locking mechanisms for securing a popped corn container  102  to a kernel container  104 . 
     In certain embodiments, the popped corn container  102  may include a sloped side  206   a  that slopes toward the kernel separator  106 . The sloped side  206   a  may include the side of the popped corn container  102  and connects the top edge  202  to the kernel separator  106 . For example, where the popped corn container  102  includes a bowl shape, the sloped side  206   a  may parabolically connect the top edge  202  to the kernel separator  106 , where the diameter of the kernel separator  106  is less than the diameter of the top edge  202 . Further, the sloped side  206   a  may begin sloping toward the kernel separator  106  at a point between the kernel separator  106  and the top edge  202 . For instance, the sloped side  206   a  may have the same diameter as the top edge  202  until a point along the sloped side  206   a  at which point the diameter of the sloped side  206   a  may parabolically decrease until the diameter of the sloped side  206   a  is equal to the diameter of the kernel separator  106 . In an alternative embodiment, the kernel separator  106  may have the same diameter as the top edge  202 . 
       FIG. 2B  shows a side view of a conical popped corn container  208  according to at least one embodiment. As shown, the conical popped corn container  208  may include a sloped side  206   b , a kernel separator  106 , a top edge  202 , and a grippable area  204 . The sloped sides  206   b  may extend from the top edge  202  to the kernel separator  106 . Further, the sloped sides  206   a  may linearly connect the kernel separator  106  to the top edge  202 , the conical popped corn container  208  forming a truncated cone. Also, the sloped side  206   b  may begin sloping toward the kernel separator  106  at a point between the kernel separator  106  and the top edge  202 . For instance, the sloped side  206   b  may have the same diameter as the top edge  202  until a point along the sloped side  206   b  at which point the diameter of the sloped side  206   b  may linearly decrease until the diameter of the sloped side  206   b  is equal to the diameter of the kernel separator  106 . In alternative embodiments, the popped corn container  102  in  FIG. 1  may be shaped like a rectangular box, an oval shaped bowl, a cylindrical box, a truncated pyramid, a sports ball (a football or basketball shape), and the like. 
     In certain embodiments, the base of the popped corn container  102  may include a kernel separator  106 . The kernel separator  106  may include a screen that allows kernels to pass through the screen while keeping popped corns inside the popped corn container  102 . The kernel separator  106  may be circular, oval, square, triangular, and the like. In at least one embodiment, the kernel separator  106  may be removable from the popped corn container to facilitate cleaning of the kernel separator  106 . Further, shaking the popped corn container  102  may cause a kernel to trickle down through the popped corns until it reaches the base of the popped corn container  102 . As the kernel separator  106  may be located at the base of the popped corn container  102 , as the kernel reaches the base, the kernel may pass through the kernel separator  106 . 
       FIG. 3A  shows a detailed top view of the kernel separator  106  with a kernel separator screen  300  according to at least one embodiment. The kernel separator screen  300  may include a plurality of lateral cross members  302 . In certain embodiments, the lateral cross members  302  may bound holes in the kernel separator screen  300  that allow kernels to pass through the kernel separator screen  300 . For example, the lateral cross members  302  may bound square holes, round holes, triangular holes, diamond shaped holes, and the like. Further, the lateral cross members  302  may be oriented perpendicularly to one. The holes in the kernel separator screen  300  may be larger than a kernel but smaller than a fully popped corn. 
     In a further embodiment, the kernel separator screen  300  may include a kernel retention catch  304 . In one embodiment, the kernel retention catch  304  secures a kernel restraining structure to the kernel separator screen  300 . For example, the kernel retention catch  304  may include a hole with a specific diameter in the center of the kernel separator screen  300 . The hole allows an attaching structure to attach the kernel restraining structure to the kernel separator screen  300 . The kernel restraining structure impedes kernels from reentering the popped corn container  102  in  FIG. 1  when the user agitates the separating apparatus  100 . 
       FIG. 3B  shows a cross section of the lateral cross members  302  in  FIG. 3A  of the kernel separator screen  300 . The structure of the kernel separator screen  300  may function as a reentry impedance means for impeding kernels in the kernel container  104  from reentering the popped corn container  102 . In certain embodiments, the lateral cross members  302  may impede kernels from reentering the popped corn container  102  in  FIG. 1 . For example, the lateral cross members  302  may have a triangular cross section. The triangular cross section of each lateral cross member  302  may have a vertex  308  and a base  306 . The vertex  308  of the triangular cross section existing on the side of the kernel separator screen  300  that faces the inside of the popped corn container  102 . The base  306  of the triangular cross section existing on the side of the kernel separator screen  300  that faces the outside of the kernel container  104 . 
     In certain embodiments, the triangular cross section of the lateral cross members  302  in  FIG. 3A  may facilitate the passage of kernels originating in the popped corn container  102  in  FIG. 1  through the kernel separator screen  300  and impede kernels originating in the kernel container  104  from passing through the kernel separator screen  300 . For example, as the kernel descends through the popped corn container  102  and comes into contact with the kernel separator screen  300 , a vertex  308  of a lateral cross member  302  may direct the kernel into a hole in the kernel separator screen  300  where the kernel may pass through the kernel separator screen  300 . As the popped corn container  102  and kernel container  104  are shaken, a kernel in the kernel container  104  that comes into contact with the kernel separator screen  300  may bounce off the base  306 . The base  306  may impede the passage of the kernel originating in the kernel container  104  from passing through the kernel separator screen  300  and back into the popped corn container  102 . The kernel container  104  may store the kernels that passed through the kernel separator screen  300 . 
       FIG. 4A  illustrates a side view of a kernel container  104  according to one embodiment. The kernel container  104  may include a kernel container handle  404 , a kernel container side  402 , and a base  406   a . In certain embodiments, the kernel container  104  may include a bowl that nests around the popped corn container  102  in  FIG. 1 . In an alternative embodiment, the kernel container  104  may include a container that attaches around the kernel separator  106  in  FIG. 1 . The kernel container  104  may act as a repository for kernels after they pass through the kernel separator  106  and out of the popped corn container  102 . The kernel container  104  may also include a box, a cone, and the like that nest around the popped corn container  102 . 
     In certain embodiments, after a kernel exits the popped corn container  102 , the kernel container  104  may direct the kernel to stay in the base  406   a . The kernel container side  402  may slope toward the base  406   a  such that when the separating apparatus  100  in  FIG. 1  is shaken, a kernel that lands on the side will slide into the base. In a further embodiment, the base  406   a  may include a shape that impedes kernel movement during agitation. For example, the base  406   a  may have a conical shape, or ridges that redirect the kernels towards the base  406   a  of the kernel container  104 . Further, the base  406   a  may have a diameter that matches or is less than the diameter of the kernel separator  106 . Alternatively, the base may also include a mild adhesive that captures kernels during agitation or a cushion that diminishes the effects of shaking the separating apparatus  100  on the kernels in the kernel container  104 . 
     In at least one embodiment, the kernel container  104  may include a kernel container handle  404  that enables a user to easily grasp the separating apparatus  100  in  FIG. 1 . The handle may attach to the kernel container  104  at opposing sides of the kernel container  104 . Alternatively, the kernel container handle  404  may circumscribe the kernel container  104 . In a further embodiment, the kernel container  104  may interlock with the popped corn container  102  in  FIG. 1 , increasing the ease of handling the separating apparatus  100 . 
       FIG. 4B  shows a side view of an alternative embodiment of the kernel container  104  attached to the popped corn container  102 . In certain embodiments, the kernel container  104  may include a base  406   b , an attachment mechanism  408 , and an integrated kernel restraining structure  410 . As shown, the kernel container  104  may be a cylindrical shape that may attach to the popped corn container  102 . In a further embodiment, the kernel container  104  may be a cone, a bag, a box, and the like where the shape of the kernel container  104  may attach to the popped corn container  102  and store kernels that have passed through the kernel separator  106 . 
     In certain embodiments, an attachment mechanism  408  may secure the kernel container  104  to the popped corn container  102 . For example, a user may screw the kernel container  104  to the popped corn container  102 . Alternatively, the kernel container  104  may attach to the popped corn container  102  via a twist and lock, a clip, a gasket, a snap on, and the like. In at least one embodiment, the kernel container  104  may be permanently affixed to the popped corn container  102 . In such an embodiment, un-popped kernels and other debris may be removed from the kernel container  104  if the kernel separator  106  is removed, via a door in the kernel container  104 , or the like. 
     In another embodiment, a base  406   b  may support the kernel container  104 . The base  406   b  in conjunction with the kernel container  104  may increase the stability of the separating apparatus  100  when the separating apparatus  100  is set down on a table. For example, the base  406   b  may have a diameter that is wider than the diameter of the kernel container  104 . Further, the base  406   b  and the kernel container  104  may jointly function as a stand for the popped corn container  102  when the popped corn container  102  is used as a serving bowl. The base  406   b , kernel container  104 , and popped corn container  102  may include a decorative pattern that increases the aesthetic presence of the separating apparatus  100  during the serving of the popcorn. For example, the separating apparatus  100  may include the insignia of favorite athletic teams, decorative flowers and designs, etc. In a further embodiment, the base  406   b  may be detachable to facilitate the emptying of the kernels from the kernel container  104 . 
     In at least one embodiment, the kernel restraining structure  108  may be integrated into the kernel container  104 . For example, the integrated kernel restraining structure  410  may be a funnel like structure built into the kernel container  104 . The integrated kernel restraining structure  410  may funnel the kernels that pass through the kernel separator  106  into the bottom of the kernel container  104 , impeding the kernels that passed through the funnel from coming into contact with the kernel separator  106 . 
       FIG. 5A  shows a cross sectional view of the popped corn container  102  nested within the kernel container  104  with the kernel restraining structure  108  attached to the popped corn container  102  according to at least one embodiment. The kernel restraining structure  108  may include a restraining surface  502 , a kernel restraining clip  504 , a deflective slope  506 , and a kernel gap  508 . The kernel restraining structure  108  acts as a further impediment in preventing kernels from reentering the popped corn container  102  in  FIG. 1  and may be located between the kernel separator  106  and the bottom of the kernel container  104 . Further, the kernel restraining structure  108  may cover an area that is greater than or equal to the area of the base  406   a  in  FIG. 4A  and the area of the kernel separator  106 . As kernels pass through the kernel separator  106 , the deflective slope  506  deflects the kernels away from the kernel separator  106 . The kernels then slide under the restraining surface  502  which further prevents kernels from reentering the popped corn container  102 . 
     In certain embodiments, the shape of the kernel restraining structure  108  may impede a kernel from reentering the popped corn container  102  through the kernel separator  106 . For example, the kernel restraining structure  108  may have a circumference that matches or exceeds the circumference of the kernel separator  106 . Further, a space larger than a kernel may exist between the kernel separator  106  and the kernel restraining structure  108 . Also, the surface of the kernel restraining structure  108  that is closest to the kernel separator  106  may slope away from the kernel separator  106 . For example, the kernel restraining structure  108  may be shaped like a conical bell or an umbrella. The top point of the umbrella shaped kernel restraining structure  108  may face the kernel separator  106  and the kernel restraining structure  108  may slope away from the top point in all directions. As the kernel passes through the kernel separator  106 , the kernel may come into contact with the top surface of the umbrella shaped kernel restraining structure  108 . The slope of the kernel restraining structure  108  may direct the kernels away from the kernel separator  106  towards the sides of the kernel container  104 . The sides of the kernel container  104  then may slope toward the base of the kernel container  104 . 
     In at least one embodiment, the kernel restraining structure  108  may attach to the kernel separator  106 . The kernel restraining structure  108  may attach to the kernel separator  106  via the kernel restraining clip  504 . The kernel restraining clip  504  is pushed through the kernel retention catch  304  in  FIG. 3A , such that the kernel restraining clip  504  secures the kernel restraining structure  108  to the kernel separator  106 . By attaching the kernel restraining structure  108  to the kernel separator  106 , the kernel restraining structure  108  may create a kernel gap  508  between the restraining surface  502  of the kernel restraining structure  108  and the base of the kernel container  104 . The kernel gap  508  may allow kernels to slide underneath the kernel restraining structure  108  when the sides of the kernel container  104  direct the kernels towards the base of the kernel container  104 . During agitation of the separating apparatus  100 , a kernel that is under the kernel restraining structure  108  may deflect off of the restraining surface  502 , maintaining the kernel under the kernel restraining structure  108 . 
       FIG. 5B  shows a cross sectional view of the kernel restraining structure  108  attached to the kernel container  104  according to at least one embodiment. In at least one embodiment, the kernel restraining structure  108  may attach to the kernel container  104 . The kernel restraining structure  108  may include a restraining structure support  510  that attaches the kernel restraining structure  108  to the kernel container  104 . The restraining structure support  510  may support the kernel restraining structure  108  such that there is space for kernels to pass between the kernel restraining structure  108  and the kernel separator  106 . Further, the restraining structure support  510  may elevate the kernel restraining structure  108  away from the base  406   a  in  FIG. 4A  of the kernel container  104 , such that a kernel may pass under the kernel restraining structure  108 . For example, when the restraining structure support  510  elevates the kernel restraining structure  108  away from the base  406   a , the kernel restraining structure  108  may have space between the bottom of the kernel restraining structure  108  and the base  406   a  such that a kernel could pass under the kernel restraining structure  108 . 
     In a further embodiment, the kernel container  104  may have space along the sides of the kernel container  104  to store kernels when the separating apparatus  100  is rotated or tipped over to further impede kernels from passing through the kernel separator  106  into the popped corn container  102 . 
       FIG. 5C  shows a kernel restraining structure  108  according to at least one embodiment. The kernel restraining structure  108  may include a shape or device that impedes kernels from contacting the kernel separator  106 . For example, the kernel restraining structure  108  in  FIG. 5C  may be an inclined plane that slopes away from the kernel separator  106 . In another embodiment, the kernel separator  106  may include a gasket, a unidirectional valve, a funnel, an adhesive, a trapdoor, and the like. In at least one embodiment, the kernel restraining structure  108  may be permanently affixed to the popped corn container  102 . Alternatively, the kernel restraining structure  108  may be permanently affixed to the kernel container  104 . Further, the kernel restraining structure  108  may detach from the separating apparatus  100 . The restraining structure support  510  may be connected to the bottom, side, etc. of the kernel container  104 . 
     In certain embodiments, the kernel restraining structure  108  may be constructed of a rigid material. For example, the kernel restraining structure  108  may be constructed of plastic, metal, glass, and the like. Alternatively, the kernel restraining structure  108  may be constructed of a flexible material. For instance, the kernel restraining structure  108  may be constructed of rubber, disposable cardboard, flexible plastic, and the like. For example, the kernel restraining structure  108  may be rubber connected to the kernel separator  106  that flexes away from the kernel separator  106  under the weight of one or more kernels or due to agitation forces and may swing up to kernel separator  106  when not agitated, when a kernel is not against a top of the flexible material, etc. In this embodiment, the kernel restraining structure  108  may act as a flapper valve. The kernel restraining structure  108  may impede kernels in the kernel container  104  from contacting the kernel separator  106 . 
     In one embodiment, the kernel separator  106  is connected to the popped corn container  102 . In another embodiment, the kernel separator  106  connects to the kernel container  104 . In other embodiments, the kernel separator  106  is permanently connected or is formed with either the popped corn container  102  or kernel container  104 . In other embodiments, the kernel separator  106  is may be disconnected from the popped corn container  102  or kernel container  104 . 
     The kernel separator  106  may be sized for various types of popcorn. In one embodiment, the separating apparatus  100  is provided with a number of kernel separators  106 . For example, one kernel separator  106  may be sized for typical popcorn while another kernel separator  106  may be sized for smaller kernels. In other embodiments, other screens or strainers may be supplied with the separating apparatus  100  for other purposes. For example, a strainer may be supplied and connected to the popped corn container  102  and may be suitable for straining water from vegetables or pasta. One of skill in the art will recognize other screens or strainers that may be supplied with the separating apparatus  100  for other purposes and other kernel separators  106  for popcorn. 
       FIG. 6  shows a side view of the cover container  110 . In certain embodiments, the cover container  110  is substantially similar to the kernel container  104  in  FIG. 4A . The cover container  110  may include a cover container handle  604  and a top  602 . In at least one embodiment, the cover container  110  may include cover container handles  604  that interlock with the kernel container handles  404  in  FIG. 4A  of the kernel container  104 . By interlocking, the cover container handles  604  and the kernel container handles  404  may secure the separating apparatus  100  in  FIG. 1  and enclose the popcorn within the separating apparatus  100  during shaking allowing a user to shake the separating apparatus  100  with as much intensity as desired. The cover container handles  604  and the kernel container handles  404  may allow a user to securely grasp both the cover container  110  and the kernel container  104  simultaneously. 
     In another embodiment, the top  602  may include a cooking surface, such that popcorn can be popped in the popped corn container  102  or in a cover container  110 . Where the cooking surface is the top  602  and attaches to the popped corn container  102 , the kernel separator  106  may serve as a vent. The top  602  may include a heat conductive surface that allows a heat source or energy source to pop the popcorn. In one example, the top  602  may be constructed of a ferromagnetic material or other material that can be placed directly on a stove burner or heated through an inductive cooker. In another embodiment, the top  602  may include a screen that allows hot air to move through the top  602  but keeps popcorn in the popped corn container  102  or cover container  110 , popping the popcorn with hot air. Further, the cover container  110  may be microwave safe, such that a microwave oven can pop the popcorn. By popping popcorn in the popped corn container  102  or cover container  110 , the separating apparatus  100  in  FIG. 1  can be used to pop, prepare, and present the popcorn. 
     In one embodiment, a user can place popcorn in the cover container  110  with other materials needed to pop the popcorn. The separating apparatus  100  can be assembled and then the popcorn can be popped in the popped corn container  102  or the cover container  110 . After the popcorn finishes cooking, flavoring can be added into the separating apparatus  100 . After the flavoring is added, the separating apparatus  100  may be assembled again. After the separating apparatus  100  is assembled, a user can shake the separating apparatus  100  to spread the flavor and remove the kernels in one step. After the kernels are removed, a user can put the popped corn back into the cover container  110  where the cover container  110  may function as a serving bowl. A user may then dispose of the kernels in the kernel container  104 . In conjunction with covering the popped corn container during kernel removal, the cover container  110  also functions as a popping apparatus and a serving bowl. 
     In another embodiment, the separating apparatus  100  is first used to separate un-popped kernels from popped corn. The popped corn may then be placed in the cover container  110  and the popped corn container  102  may be separated from the kernel container  104  to removed un-popped kernels. Next, flavoring may be added to the popped corn in the cover container  110  and the kernel container  104  may be connected to the cover container  110  and the cover container  110  and the kernel container  104  may be shaken to spread the flavoring throughout the popped corn. In another embodiment, the cover container  110  and the kernel container  104  interlock to keep the cover container  110  and the kernel container  104  together during shaking. The interlocking mechanism (not shown) may be a friction lock, a sliding lock, a clip, or any other locking mechanism known in the art. 
     The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.