Patent ID: 8136433

Claim:
An apparatus for cutting an object, the apparatus comprising: (a) a frame comprising two parallel rails, wherein the frame comprises at least one kicker comprising an angled surface and mounted to one of the rails, (b) at least first and second cutting stations each having a single cutting mechanism, wherein the at least one kicker is positioned between each cutting station, (c) at least one receptacle that includes a plurality of vertically oriented, diametrically opposed wall segments defining a plurality of vertically oriented, diametrically opposed slots in the side wall thereof, an intermediate ring secured to the wall segments having a plurality of equally spaced extensions protruding outwardly from an outer circumference thereof, wherein the extensions each comprise a machine ball having a rounded surface, and a mounting plate secured to the intermediate ring by a turning pin in the center thereof which allows the intermediate ring and wall segments to rotate about an axis relative to the mounting plate, wherein the machine balls define a rotational path and the mounting plate includes a spring-biased brake mechanism affixed thereto in the rotational path of the machine balls which contacts the rounded surface of the machine ball, wherein the object is received in the at least one receptacle, and (d) a conveyor that conveys the at least one receptacle from the first cutting station to the second cutting station, and wherein upon each cut the object is cut through a first slot along a vertical axis and through the opposing slot at the first station, the receptacle is then rotated about the vertical axis as a result of the rounded surface of the machine ball of one of the extensions contacting the angled surface of the kicker that both helps push the machine ball in the desired direction and allows the machine ball to pass the kicker and the rounded surface of the machine ball of another one of the extensions contacting the spring-biased brake mechanism to prevent the machine ball from overrotating, and upon each cut the object is cut through a second slot along the vertical axis and through the opposing slot at the second station.