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US3773165A - Macaroni distributor shaker - Google Patents

Macaroni distributor shaker Download PDF

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Publication number
US3773165A
US3773165A US00172467A US3773165DA US3773165A US 3773165 A US3773165 A US 3773165A US 00172467 A US00172467 A US 00172467A US 3773165D A US3773165D A US 3773165DA US 3773165 A US3773165 A US 3773165A
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Prior art keywords
chute
base frame
shaft
coupled
elongated
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US00172467A
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W Tolles
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CREAMETTE CO
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CREAMETTE CO
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G69/00—Auxiliary measures taken, or devices used, in connection with loading or unloading
    • B65G69/04—Spreading out the materials conveyed over the whole surface to be loaded; Trimming heaps of loose materials
    • B65G69/0425—Spreading out the materials conveyed over the whole surface to be loaded; Trimming heaps of loose materials with vibrating or shaking means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G69/00—Auxiliary measures taken, or devices used, in connection with loading or unloading
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G2814/00—Indexing codes relating to loading or unloading articles or bulk materials
    • B65G2814/02—Auxiliary devices or arrangements
    • B65G2814/0241—Auxiliary devices or arrangements for spreading out the material over the whole surface to be loaded
    • B65G2814/0247—Auxiliary devices or arrangements for spreading out the material over the whole surface to be loaded by displacement of the feeding means
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
    • Y10T74/18—Mechanical movements
    • Y10T74/18056—Rotary to or from reciprocating or oscillating
    • Y10T74/18184—Crank, pitman, and lever

Definitions

  • the macaroni particles are uniformly and evenly distributed on the drying screen by vibratory motion of the chute in the direction of elongation thereof combined with reciprocating rotational movement of the chute and included hopper about a generally vertical axis at a slower rate such that the lower open end of the chute reciprocates laterally between the opposite edges of the drying screen.
  • the vibratory and lateral motions are generated from a single drive motor coupled to drive a rotatable shaft including an eccentric bearing and a gear reduction mechanism.
  • the vibratory motion results from a connecting rod coupled between the eccentric bearing and the chute which is mounted to a base frame for longitudinal movement relative thereto by a plurality of elongated elements pivotably mounted to the base frame and to the chute.
  • Reciprocating rotational motion of the chute is provided by a rotary cranking mechanism which is rotatably mounted on the base frame and coupled to a rotating arm on the gear reduction mechanism and to a support frame on which the base frame is pivotably mounted for rotation about a generally vertical axis.
  • MACARONI DISTRIBUTOR SHAKER BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1.
  • This invention relates to machinery which undergoes vibratory or similar motion so as to uniformly dispense small particles therefrom, and more particularly to vibrating shakers or spreaders used to evenly distribute small food particles such as short cut macaroni in partially dried form onto a drying screen or other conveyor type device undergoing motion relative thereto.
  • the alimentary paste particles be spread over the drying screen as evenly and uniformly as possible so as to effect complete drying and curing while at the same time making the best possible use of the surface area of the drying screen and preventing the formation of unmerchandisable agglomerates or adhered masses.
  • distributor shakers To facilitate more uniform distribution of the macaroni particles onto the drying screen, distributor shakers have been employed which receive the macaroni particles in their partially dried form and which thereafter dispense the particles onto the moving drying screen using vibratory or other types of motion which tend to spread the particles apart and provide a fairly uniform flow thereof onto the drying screen.
  • distributor shakers tend to be relatively expensive and complex pieces of machinery which incorporate a great variety of different moving parts and associated power sources to impart the various types of desired motion for distribution of the macaroni particles. At that, most such shakers do not distribute the macaroni particles with a desired degree of uniformity.
  • the constant vibratory motion of the distributor shaker tends to lead to mechanical failures or the need for part replacement or repair, as the amplitude and rate of vibration needed for movement of the particles place severe demands on the equipment.
  • the distributor shaker cannot simply be cheapened in design or construction to affect a lowering of costs.
  • a further object of the present invention is to provide a distributor shaker which is inexpensive to construct and yet is sufficiently sturdy and durable so as to withstand substantially continuous use over long periods without repeated failures or general deterioration.
  • a still further object of the present invention is to provide a distributor shaker which is capable of spreading a thin coating of macaroni particles over a drying screen with a high degree of uniformity.
  • a still further object of the present invention is to provide a distributor shaker which is capable of undergoing both vibratory motion and reciprocating lateral motion utilizing a single source of power.
  • Distributor shakers in accordance with the invention introduce macaroni or other alimentary paste particles into an elongated chute which slopes gradually in the direction of the moving drying screen and which undergoes both vibratory motion in the direction of elongation thereof and reciprocating lateral motion such that the lower open end thereof repeatedly traverses the width of the drying screen.
  • the chute is coupled to a base frame by a plurality of pivotably mounted elongated elements, and the base frame is in turn pivotably mounted on a support frame about a generally vertical axis.
  • a single source of rotational power in the form of a motor mounted on the base frame is coupled by a belt and pulley system to rotate a shaft which includes an eccentric bearing and a gear reduction mechanism.
  • a connecting rod couples the eccentric bearing to the chute to provide longitudinal vibratory motion of the chute about the pivotably mounted elongated elements in response to rotation of the shaft and associated eccentric bearing, thereby advancing the alimentary paste particles along the length of the chute to the lower open end.
  • Reciprocating lateral motion of the chute so as to repeatedly pass the lower open end thereof across the width of the drying screen is provided by a cranking mechanism rotatably mounted on the base frame and coupled to a rotating lever arm on the gear reduction mechanism and to the support frame.
  • the cranking mechanism pivots about its mount on the base frame and responds to the rotary motion of the lever arm to reciprocate the base frame and included chute about the vertical axis at which the base frame is mounted to the support frame.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred arrangement of a macaroni distributor shaker in accordance with the invention illustrating the operation of the shaker in conjunction with a moving drying screen;
  • FIG. 2 is a left-side elevation of the distributor shaker of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3 is a right-rear perspective view of the distributor shaker of FIG. 1.
  • a distributor shaker 10 in accordance with the invention includes a support frame 12 having a pair of spaced apart, generally vertical upright members 14 with lower ends adapted to be mounted on the ground or floor below and disposed at the opposite ends of and mounting therebetween a generally horizontal crossbar member 16.
  • An elongated base frame 18 for the shaker 10 which is comprised of opposite side rails held together by a plurality of interconnecting members is generally horizontally disposed and is mounted on the crossbar member 16 at a first end 19 thereof for rotation about a generally vertical axis.
  • the journal and bearings for rotational support of the base frame 18 are not shown in detail but are conventional elements. As discussed hereafter such rotational motion provides for a reciprocating lateral movement of the base frame 18 and included elements within a generally horizontal plane about the vertical axis as illustrated by the arrow 20.
  • the drying screen 24 is of generally mesh construction or otherwise includes openings therein to permit the passage of air therethrough from blowers 26 located beneath the screen 24.
  • Short cut macaroni, noodles or other alimentary paste particles 27 in partially dried form fall down a slide 28 and into a hopper 30 of partial cone shape disposed immediately above the vertical axis of rotation of the base frame 18 and having a generally elongated chute 32 extending from one side thereof.
  • the chute 32 has an axis or direction of elongation generally parallel to the direction of elongation of the base frame 18 and is mounted such that the bottom 34 thereof extending between opposite sides 36 slopes gradually downwardly from the hopper 30 to a lower open end 38 disposed immediately above the drying screen 24 and adjacent a second end 39* of the base frame 18 opposite the first end 19 thereof.
  • the chute 32 is pivotably mounted to the base frame 18 for reciprocating longitudinal movement along the length thereof and relative to the base frame 18 by three separate pairs of generally parallel support bars or elongated elements 40, each of which is pivotably mounted to the underside of the chute 32 and to the base frame 18.
  • Each pair of the elongated elements 40 is disposed adjacent the opposite sides of the base frame 18 at a different location along the length of the frame 18.
  • the elongated elements 40 are capable of undergoing rotary motion relative to the base frame 18 in the directions shown by the arrows 42 to permit the reciprocating or back and forth movement of the chute 32 along its axis of elongation as represented by the arrow 44.
  • the chute 32 undergoes the vibratory motion along the axis 44 simultaneously with the reciprocating lateral motion depicted by the arrow to distribute the macaroni particles evenly and uniformly on the drying screen 24 as the screen 24 continues its linear movement under the chute 32 in the direction of the arrow 22.
  • the reciprocating longitudinal movement or vibration of the chute 32 along its axis of elongation provides a generally constant and even flow of the macaroni particles down the length of the chute and out of the lower open end 38 thereof.
  • the continuously reciprocating rotational motion of the base frame 18 is such as to laterally sweep the lower open end 38 of the chute 32 across the width of the drying screen 24 from one side to the other and back again.
  • a single source of rotational power comprising a drive motor 46 mounted on the base frame 18 adjacent the first end 19 thereof with its axis of rotation normal to the direction of elongation of the frame 18 provides both the vibratory motion and the lateral motion of the shaker 10.
  • the motor 46 includes a rotatable drive pulley 48 coupled via a belt 50 to a driven pulley 52 mounted on the end of a rotatable shaft 54.
  • the shaft 54 is rotatably mounted on the base frame along a generally horizontal axis perpendicular to the direction of elongation of the frame 18 and the chute 32.
  • the shaft 54 includes an eccentric bearing 56 which is coupled via a connecting rod 58 to the chute 32.
  • the eccentric bearing 56 which pivotably mounts one end of the connecting rod 58 carries the end of the rod through an eccentric movement about the axis of rotation of the shaft 54.
  • the connecting rod 58 the other end of which is pivotably coupled to the chute 32, undergoes a reciprocating motion as generally shown by the arrow 60 in H6. 2. This results in the reciprocating longitudinal movement or linear motion of the chute 32 along the length thereof and relative to the base frame 18.
  • the eccentric bearing 56 is mounted on the shaft 54 between opposite bearing blocks 62 which rotatably mount the shaft 54 to the opposite side rails of the base frame 18, as seen in FIG. 3.
  • the rotating shaft 54 is also providing the reciprocating lateral motion of the shaker 10 via a gear reduction mechanism 64 and associated rotary cranking mechanism 66 which are mounted on the base frame 18 adjacent the first end 19 thereof.
  • the gear reduction mechanism 64 is coupled to the shaft 54 and responds to rotation of the shaft 54 to rotate an included shaft 67 at a reduced speed.
  • the shaft 67 is mounted for rotation about a generally vertical axis which is parallel to the axis of rotation of the base frame 18 and has a lever arm 68 fixedly mounted at the top end thereof for movement through a generally horizontal path of circular movement in response to rotation of the shaft 67 as shown by the arrows 70.
  • the rotary cranking mechanism 66 links the lever arm 68 with the crossbar member 16 to provide the reciprocating rotational motion of the base frame 18.
  • the rotary cranking mechanism 66 includes a connecting rod 72 having one end thereof pivotably mounted at the outer extremity of the lever arm 68 so as to be driven through the circular path of movement of the lever arm 68.
  • the other end of the connecting rod 72 is pivotably coupled to the upper one of a pair of lever arms 74 and 76 of a pivotal mount assembly 78 within the rotary cranking mechanism 66.
  • the assembly 78 includes a shaft 80 disposed by mounting structure 82 on the base frame 18 for rotation about a generally vertical axis which is fixed with respect to the elongated chute 18.
  • the lever arms 74 and 76 are fixedly mounted to the opposite top and bottom ends of the shaft 80 respectively for rotation therewith in generally horizontal planes as shown by arrows 84 and 86, re spectively.
  • a second connecting rod 88 has a first end thereof pivotably mounted at a point on the crossbar member 16 which defines a fixed reference point external to the shaker and has its opposite end pivotably coupled to the lower lever arm 76 whereby it is directed through a circular arc of movement relative to the axis of rotation of the shaft 80.
  • Distributor shakers in accordance with the invention can be dimensioned appropriately and fabricated of any appropriate materials depending upon the applica tion thereof.
  • the support frame 12 is made from 4 inch channel iron and measures approximately 3 feet between upright members 14.
  • the hopper 30 which is 18 inches in diameter at its top, 8 inches in diameter at its bottom and is 8 inches high is fabricated of 14 gauge stainless steel and has a chute 32 extending from one side thereof a distance of 4 feet 9 inches from the central axis of the hopper.
  • the chute 32 is made of 18 gauge stainless steel and has a uniform width of 8 inches between the opposite sides 36.
  • the motor 46 which is one-half h.p.
  • the eccentric bearing 56 comprises a Fafner Model No. 5261 eccentric bearing.
  • the gear reduction mechanism 64 comprises an Ohio Gear Drive, Catalog No. P10, Assembly E, Ratio 100 to l.
  • the remaining hardware is machined or otherwise fabricated of appropriate metal stock with most of the flat elements of the base frame 18 and adjoining structure being machined from one-fourth inch steel plate.
  • distributor shakers in accordance with the invention are of relatively inexpensive and yet sturdy construction and provide for the uniform distribution of short cut macaroni, noodles and other alimentary paste particles on a drying screen or other movable member. Continuous long term operation of the unit without breakdown is achieved by virtue of the fact that the vibratory motion is imparted only to passive and rugged elements of the system.
  • a distributor shaker for receiving the partially dried alimentary paste particles and depositing the particles on the movable conveyor in a thin, uniform layer
  • elongated chute means adapted to receive partially dried alimentary paste particles
  • the elongated chute means sloping gradually downwardly along the length thereof to the open end, being mounted to permit longitudinal movement along the length thereof, and being pivotably mounted about a generally vertical axis adjacent the end thereof opposite the open end to permit reciprocating lateral movement thereof relative to a movable conveyor
  • a source of rotational power means coupled between the elongated chute means and the power source for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating longitudinal movement along the length thereof so as to advance alimentary paste particles thereon toward an open end thereof
  • means coupled between the elongated chute means and the source of rotational power for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor to distribute alimentary paste
  • a device for dispensing small food particles therefrom in generally continuous, uniform fashion comprising:
  • base frame means pivotably mounted on the support frame means for rotational movement relative thereto;
  • elongated chute means for receiving small food particles to be dispensed therefrom;
  • eccentric means associated with the shaft means and coupled to the chute means for imparting a reciprocating, generally linear motion to the chute means relative to the base frame means in response to rotation of the shaft means;
  • first lever arm means associated with the shaft means for undergoing rotation about an axis generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the base frame means in response to rotation of the shaft means
  • second shaft means mounted on the base frame means for rotation about an axis generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the first lever arm means
  • second and third lever arm means fixedly coupled to opposite ends of the second shaft means
  • first connecting rod means coupling the first lever arm means to the second lever arm means
  • second connecting rod means coupling the third lever arm means to the support frame means.
  • a distributor shaker comprising:
  • an elongated base frame generally horizontally disposed and having a first end thereof pivotably mounted on the horizontal member of the supporting frame for rotation about a generally vertical axis to permit lateral movement of an opposite second end thereof;
  • a hopper of partially conical configuration having an elongated chute extending from one side thereof;
  • a plurality of pairs of elongated, generally parallel elements extending between and mounting the chute and included hopper on the base frame with the directions of elongation of the chute and base frame generally parallel, with the hopper disposed over the vertical axis of rotation of the base frame, and with a lower open end of the chute disposed over the second end of the base frame, the two elongated elements of each pair being disposed on the opposite sides of the base frame at a different location along the length thereof and pivotably mounted at one end thereof to the base frame and at the opposite end thereof to the chute to permit movement of the chute relative to the base frame in the direction of elongation of the chute;
  • a first shaft rotatably mounted on the base frame adjacent the first end thereof with the axis thereof generally horizontally disposed and substantially normal to the direction of elongation of the base frame;
  • a first connecting rod having one end thereof coupled to the chute
  • eccentric means associated with the first shaft and coupled to the other end of the first connecting rod for imparting a reciprocating motion to the first connecting rod in response to rotation of the first shaft to drive the chute through a reciprocating vibratory motion in the direction of elongation of the chute;
  • a first lever arm fixedly attached to the second shaft for circular movement through a generally horizontal plane in response to rotation of the second shaft;
  • a third shaft mounted to the base frame adjacent the first end thereof for rotation about a generally vertical axis
  • a third connecting rod coupled at its opposite ends to the third lever arm and to the horizontal member of the supporting frame.
  • the supporting frame comprises a pair of generally vertical members disposed on opposite sides of and mounting the generally horizontal member therebetween, the vertical members being adapted to be mounted at their lower ends.
  • a distributor shaker in accordance with claim 9, wherein the means coupled to rotatably drive the first shaft comprises a motor and included drive pulley mounted on the base frame adjacent the first end thereof, a driven pulley coupled to the first shaft, and an endless belt encircling the drive and driven pulleys, wherein the eccentric means comprises an eccentric bearing, and wherein the means including a second shaft comprises a gear reduction mechanism.
  • a distributor shaker for receiving the partially dried alimentary paste particles and depositing the particles on the movable conveyor in a thin, uniform layer
  • elongated chute means adapted to receive partially dried alimentary paste particles and mounted to permit lateral movement thereof ,relative to a movable conveyor and longitudinal movement along the length thereof, a source of rotational power, means coupled between the elongated chute means and the power source for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating longitudinal movement along the length thereof so as to advance alimentary paste particles thereon toward an open end thereof, and means coupled between the elongated chute means and the source of rotational power for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor to distribute alimentary paste particles exiting from the open end of the elongated chute means over the width of the movable conveyor and including rotatable means coupled to be rotated by the source of rotational power, pivot

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  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
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Abstract

A macaroni distributor shaker is disclosed in which short cut macaroni, noodles or other alimentary paste particles in partially dried form are received within a hopper of partial cone shape at the top of the shaker and thereafter advanced along the length of an elongated chute extending from one side of the hopper to a lower open end of the chute for distribution over a moving drying screen therebelow. The macaroni particles are uniformly and evenly distributed on the drying screen by vibratory motion of the chute in the direction of elongation thereof combined with reciprocating rotational movement of the chute and included hopper about a generally vertical axis at a slower rate such that the lower open end of the chute reciprocates laterally between the opposite edges of the drying screen. The vibratory and lateral motions are generated from a single drive motor coupled to drive a rotatable shaft including an eccentric bearing and a gear reduction mechanism. The vibratory motion results from a connecting rod coupled between the eccentric bearing and the chute which is mounted to a base frame for longitudinal movement relative thereto by a plurality of elongated elements pivotably mounted to the base frame and to the chute. Reciprocating rotational motion of the chute is provided by a rotary cranking mechanism which is rotatably mounted on the base frame and coupled to a rotating arm on the gear reduction mechanism and to a support frame on which the base frame is pivotably mounted for rotation about a generally vertical axis.

Description

United States Patent [191 Tolles [451 Nov. 20, 1973 MACARONI DISTRIBUTOR SHAKER Wilbert E. Tolles, Minneapolis, Minn.
[73] Assignee: The Creamette Company,
Minneapolis, Minn.
[22] Filed: Aug. 17, 1971 [21] Appl. No.: 172,467
[75] Inventor:
Primary Examiner-Evon C. Blunk Assistant ExaminerDouglas D. Watts Att0rneyFraser & Bogucki [57] ABSTRACT A macaroni distributor shaker is disclosed in which short cut macaroni, noodles or other alimentary paste particles in partially dried form are received within a hopper of partial cone shape at the top of the shaker and thereafter advanced along the length of an elongated chute extending from one side of the hopper to a lower open end of the chute for distribution over a moving drying screen therebelow. The macaroni particles are uniformly and evenly distributed on the drying screen by vibratory motion of the chute in the direction of elongation thereof combined with reciprocating rotational movement of the chute and included hopper about a generally vertical axis at a slower rate such that the lower open end of the chute reciprocates laterally between the opposite edges of the drying screen. The vibratory and lateral motions are generated from a single drive motor coupled to drive a rotatable shaft including an eccentric bearing and a gear reduction mechanism. The vibratory motion results from a connecting rod coupled between the eccentric bearing and the chute which is mounted to a base frame for longitudinal movement relative thereto by a plurality of elongated elements pivotably mounted to the base frame and to the chute. Reciprocating rotational motion of the chute is provided by a rotary cranking mechanism which is rotatably mounted on the base frame and coupled to a rotating arm on the gear reduction mechanism and to a support frame on which the base frame is pivotably mounted for rotation about a generally vertical axis.
8 Claims, 3 Drawing Figures United States Patent 91 [111 3,773,165
Tolles 1 Nov. 20, 1973 VUENYEU NOV 20 I975 sum 1 0? 2 FIG.-E
MACARONI DISTRIBUTOR SHAKER BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to machinery which undergoes vibratory or similar motion so as to uniformly dispense small particles therefrom, and more particularly to vibrating shakers or spreaders used to evenly distribute small food particles such as short cut macaroni in partially dried form onto a drying screen or other conveyor type device undergoing motion relative thereto.
2. History of the Prior Art In the manufacture of short cut macaroni, noodles and other alimentary pastes, it is necessary that the small particles as prepared in a partially dried form be distributed onto a moving belt-like device in the form of a drying screen for further drying and curing. Air is forced under pressure up through the drying screen to dry the particles as they are carried by the moving drying screen to a further stage in an automated manufac turing and packaging process.
It is important that the alimentary paste particles be spread over the drying screen as evenly and uniformly as possible so as to effect complete drying and curing while at the same time making the best possible use of the surface area of the drying screen and preventing the formation of unmerchandisable agglomerates or adhered masses.
To facilitate more uniform distribution of the macaroni particles onto the drying screen, distributor shakers have been employed which receive the macaroni particles in their partially dried form and which thereafter dispense the particles onto the moving drying screen using vibratory or other types of motion which tend to spread the particles apart and provide a fairly uniform flow thereof onto the drying screen. However, presently known distributor shakers tend to be relatively expensive and complex pieces of machinery which incorporate a great variety of different moving parts and associated power sources to impart the various types of desired motion for distribution of the macaroni particles. At that, most such shakers do not distribute the macaroni particles with a desired degree of uniformity. In addition, the constant vibratory motion of the distributor shaker tends to lead to mechanical failures or the need for part replacement or repair, as the amplitude and rate of vibration needed for movement of the particles place severe demands on the equipment. Thus, the distributor shaker cannot simply be cheapened in design or construction to affect a lowering of costs.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved distributor shaker for alimentary paste particles.
A further object of the present invention is to provide a distributor shaker which is inexpensive to construct and yet is sufficiently sturdy and durable so as to withstand substantially continuous use over long periods without repeated failures or general deterioration.
A still further object of the present invention is to provide a distributor shaker which is capable of spreading a thin coating of macaroni particles over a drying screen with a high degree of uniformity.
A still further object of the present invention is to provide a distributor shaker which is capable of undergoing both vibratory motion and reciprocating lateral motion utilizing a single source of power.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Distributor shakers in accordance with the invention introduce macaroni or other alimentary paste particles into an elongated chute which slopes gradually in the direction of the moving drying screen and which undergoes both vibratory motion in the direction of elongation thereof and reciprocating lateral motion such that the lower open end thereof repeatedly traverses the width of the drying screen. The chute is coupled to a base frame by a plurality of pivotably mounted elongated elements, and the base frame is in turn pivotably mounted on a support frame about a generally vertical axis. A single source of rotational power in the form of a motor mounted on the base frame is coupled by a belt and pulley system to rotate a shaft which includes an eccentric bearing and a gear reduction mechanism. A connecting rod couples the eccentric bearing to the chute to provide longitudinal vibratory motion of the chute about the pivotably mounted elongated elements in response to rotation of the shaft and associated eccentric bearing, thereby advancing the alimentary paste particles along the length of the chute to the lower open end. Reciprocating lateral motion of the chute so as to repeatedly pass the lower open end thereof across the width of the drying screen is provided by a cranking mechanism rotatably mounted on the base frame and coupled to a rotating lever arm on the gear reduction mechanism and to the support frame. As the lever arm rotates about the gear reduction mechanism in response to rotation of the shaft, the cranking mechanism pivots about its mount on the base frame and responds to the rotary motion of the lever arm to reciprocate the base frame and included chute about the vertical axis at which the base frame is mounted to the support frame.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Objects and advantages other than those indicated above will be apparent from the following description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred arrangement of a macaroni distributor shaker in accordance with the invention illustrating the operation of the shaker in conjunction with a moving drying screen;
FIG. 2 is a left-side elevation of the distributor shaker of FIG. 1; and,
FIG. 3 is a right-rear perspective view of the distributor shaker of FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION As seen in FIG. 1, a distributor shaker 10 in accordance with the invention includes a support frame 12 having a pair of spaced apart, generally vertical upright members 14 with lower ends adapted to be mounted on the ground or floor below and disposed at the opposite ends of and mounting therebetween a generally horizontal crossbar member 16. An elongated base frame 18 for the shaker 10 which is comprised of opposite side rails held together by a plurality of interconnecting members is generally horizontally disposed and is mounted on the crossbar member 16 at a first end 19 thereof for rotation about a generally vertical axis. The journal and bearings for rotational support of the base frame 18 are not shown in detail but are conventional elements. As discussed hereafter such rotational motion provides for a reciprocating lateral movement of the base frame 18 and included elements within a generally horizontal plane about the vertical axis as illustrated by the arrow 20.
Disposed below the base frame 18 and the crossbar member 16 and movable in a generally horizontal plane in a direction shown by the arrow 22 is a flat, elongated, belt-like drying screen 24. The drying screen 24 is of generally mesh construction or otherwise includes openings therein to permit the passage of air therethrough from blowers 26 located beneath the screen 24.
Short cut macaroni, noodles or other alimentary paste particles 27 in partially dried form fall down a slide 28 and into a hopper 30 of partial cone shape disposed immediately above the vertical axis of rotation of the base frame 18 and having a generally elongated chute 32 extending from one side thereof. The chute 32 has an axis or direction of elongation generally parallel to the direction of elongation of the base frame 18 and is mounted such that the bottom 34 thereof extending between opposite sides 36 slopes gradually downwardly from the hopper 30 to a lower open end 38 disposed immediately above the drying screen 24 and adjacent a second end 39* of the base frame 18 opposite the first end 19 thereof. The chute 32 is pivotably mounted to the base frame 18 for reciprocating longitudinal movement along the length thereof and relative to the base frame 18 by three separate pairs of generally parallel support bars or elongated elements 40, each of which is pivotably mounted to the underside of the chute 32 and to the base frame 18. Each pair of the elongated elements 40 is disposed adjacent the opposite sides of the base frame 18 at a different location along the length of the frame 18. As seen in FIG. 1, the elongated elements 40 are capable of undergoing rotary motion relative to the base frame 18 in the directions shown by the arrows 42 to permit the reciprocating or back and forth movement of the chute 32 along its axis of elongation as represented by the arrow 44.
As described in greater detail hereafter, the chute 32 undergoes the vibratory motion along the axis 44 simultaneously with the reciprocating lateral motion depicted by the arrow to distribute the macaroni particles evenly and uniformly on the drying screen 24 as the screen 24 continues its linear movement under the chute 32 in the direction of the arrow 22. The reciprocating longitudinal movement or vibration of the chute 32 along its axis of elongation provides a generally constant and even flow of the macaroni particles down the length of the chute and out of the lower open end 38 thereof. At the same time the continuously reciprocating rotational motion of the base frame 18 is such as to laterally sweep the lower open end 38 of the chute 32 across the width of the drying screen 24 from one side to the other and back again.
A single source of rotational power comprising a drive motor 46 mounted on the base frame 18 adjacent the first end 19 thereof with its axis of rotation normal to the direction of elongation of the frame 18 provides both the vibratory motion and the lateral motion of the shaker 10. The motor 46 includes a rotatable drive pulley 48 coupled via a belt 50 to a driven pulley 52 mounted on the end of a rotatable shaft 54. The shaft 54 is rotatably mounted on the base frame along a generally horizontal axis perpendicular to the direction of elongation of the frame 18 and the chute 32. The shaft 54 includes an eccentric bearing 56 which is coupled via a connecting rod 58 to the chute 32. As the shaft 54 rotates in response to operation of the motor 46, the eccentric bearing 56 which pivotably mounts one end of the connecting rod 58 carries the end of the rod through an eccentric movement about the axis of rotation of the shaft 54. The connecting rod 58, the other end of which is pivotably coupled to the chute 32, undergoes a reciprocating motion as generally shown by the arrow 60 in H6. 2. This results in the reciprocating longitudinal movement or linear motion of the chute 32 along the length thereof and relative to the base frame 18. The eccentric bearing 56 is mounted on the shaft 54 between opposite bearing blocks 62 which rotatably mount the shaft 54 to the opposite side rails of the base frame 18, as seen in FIG. 3.
At the same time as the rotating shaft 54 is imparting vibratory motion to the chute 32 via the eccentric bearing 56 and associated connecting rod 58, the rotating shaft 54 is also providing the reciprocating lateral motion of the shaker 10 via a gear reduction mechanism 64 and associated rotary cranking mechanism 66 which are mounted on the base frame 18 adjacent the first end 19 thereof. The gear reduction mechanism 64 is coupled to the shaft 54 and responds to rotation of the shaft 54 to rotate an included shaft 67 at a reduced speed. The shaft 67 is mounted for rotation about a generally vertical axis which is parallel to the axis of rotation of the base frame 18 and has a lever arm 68 fixedly mounted at the top end thereof for movement through a generally horizontal path of circular movement in response to rotation of the shaft 67 as shown by the arrows 70. The rotary cranking mechanism 66 links the lever arm 68 with the crossbar member 16 to provide the reciprocating rotational motion of the base frame 18.
The rotary cranking mechanism 66 includes a connecting rod 72 having one end thereof pivotably mounted at the outer extremity of the lever arm 68 so as to be driven through the circular path of movement of the lever arm 68. The other end of the connecting rod 72 is pivotably coupled to the upper one of a pair of lever arms 74 and 76 of a pivotal mount assembly 78 within the rotary cranking mechanism 66. The assembly 78 includes a shaft 80 disposed by mounting structure 82 on the base frame 18 for rotation about a generally vertical axis which is fixed with respect to the elongated chute 18. The lever arms 74 and 76 are fixedly mounted to the opposite top and bottom ends of the shaft 80 respectively for rotation therewith in generally horizontal planes as shown by arrows 84 and 86, re spectively. The outer end of the lever arm 74 which is pivotably coupled to the connecting rod 72 directs that end of the rod 72 through a circular arc of movement relative to the axis of rotation of the shaft 80. A second connecting rod 88 has a first end thereof pivotably mounted at a point on the crossbar member 16 which defines a fixed reference point external to the shaker and has its opposite end pivotably coupled to the lower lever arm 76 whereby it is directed through a circular arc of movement relative to the axis of rotation of the shaft 80.
Each complete revolution of the lever arm 68 at the top of the gear reduction mechanism 64 results in the lever arm 74 transcribing an arc of rotary movement and then returning to the starting point of that are. The lever arm 76 which is fixed in angular position relative to the arm 74 by the shaft 80 undergoes a similar motion in which it transcribes an arc and then returns through the arc to the initial position. As the lever arm 76 undergoes this motion, the connecting rod 88 forces the base frame 18 and included chute 32 to rotate about the generally vertical axis of mounting to the crossbar member 16 as shown by the arrows 92 and 94 in FIG. 3. It will be seen that each time the lever arm 68 on top of the gear reduction mechanism 64 undergoes a revolution, the rotary cranking mechanism 66 responds to drive the base frame 18 and included chute 32 laterally through an arc of motion and then back through the arc to the starting point. in this manner, the chute 32 is caused to undergo the reciprocating lateral motion enabling the lower open end 38 thereof to traverse the width of the drying screen 24 from one opposite edge to the other and back again in continuous fashion.
Distributor shakers in accordance with the invention can be dimensioned appropriately and fabricated of any appropriate materials depending upon the applica tion thereof. In one particular shaker constructed and successfully tested in accordance with the invention, the support frame 12 is made from 4 inch channel iron and measures approximately 3 feet between upright members 14. The hopper 30 which is 18 inches in diameter at its top, 8 inches in diameter at its bottom and is 8 inches high is fabricated of 14 gauge stainless steel and has a chute 32 extending from one side thereof a distance of 4 feet 9 inches from the central axis of the hopper. The chute 32 is made of 18 gauge stainless steel and has a uniform width of 8 inches between the opposite sides 36. The motor 46 which is one-half h.p. includes a 4 inch drive pulley 48 and a belt for driving an 8 inch driven pulley 52. The eccentric bearing 56 comprises a Fafner Model No. 5261 eccentric bearing. The gear reduction mechanism 64 comprises an Ohio Gear Drive, Catalog No. P10, Assembly E, Ratio 100 to l. The remaining hardware is machined or otherwise fabricated of appropriate metal stock with most of the flat elements of the base frame 18 and adjoining structure being machined from one-fourth inch steel plate.
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that distributor shakers in accordance with the invention are of relatively inexpensive and yet sturdy construction and provide for the uniform distribution of short cut macaroni, noodles and other alimentary paste particles on a drying screen or other movable member. Continuous long term operation of the unit without breakdown is achieved by virtue of the fact that the vibratory motion is imparted only to passive and rugged elements of the system.
Although there has been described hereinabove a specific arrangement of a macaroni distributor shaker in accordance with the invention for the purpose of illustrating the manner in which the invention may be used to advantage, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited thereto and that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
What is claimed is:
1. For use in a processing arrangement in which partially dried alimentary paste particles are deposited on a movable conveyor, a distributor shaker for receiving the partially dried alimentary paste particles and depositing the particles on the movable conveyor in a thin, uniform layer comprising elongated chute means adapted to receive partially dried alimentary paste particles, the elongated chute means sloping gradually downwardly along the length thereof to the open end, being mounted to permit longitudinal movement along the length thereof, and being pivotably mounted about a generally vertical axis adjacent the end thereof opposite the open end to permit reciprocating lateral movement thereof relative to a movable conveyor, a source of rotational power, means coupled between the elongated chute means and the power source for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating longitudinal movement along the length thereof so as to advance alimentary paste particles thereon toward an open end thereof, and means coupled between the elongated chute means and the source of rotational power for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor to distribute alimentary paste particles exiting from the open end of the elongated chute means over the width of the movable conveyor, said means for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating lateral movement including first connecting rod means, means coupled to one end of the first connecting rod means and responsive to the source of rotational power for driving the one end of the first connecting rod means through a circular path of movement, means coupled to the other end of the first connecting rod means for directing the other end through a circular arc of movement relative to a fixed axis with respect to the elongated chute means, second connecting rod means having one end thereof mounted at a fixed reference point outside of the distributor shaker, and means associated with the means for directing and coupled to the other end of the second connecting rod means for directing the other end of the second connecting rod means through a circular arc of movement relative to the fixed axis in response to movement of the other end of the first connecting rod means.
2. A device for dispensing small food particles therefrom in generally continuous, uniform fashion, comprising:
support frame means;
base frame means pivotably mounted on the support frame means for rotational movement relative thereto;
elongated chute means for receiving small food particles to be dispensed therefrom;
means pivotably mounting the elongated chute means to the base frame means to permit reciprocating, generally linear motion of the chute means relative to the base frame means;
shaft means rotatably mounted on the base frame means;
means coupled to drive the shaft means;
eccentric means associated with the shaft means and coupled to the chute means for imparting a reciprocating, generally linear motion to the chute means relative to the base frame means in response to rotation of the shaft means; and
means coupled between the shaft means and the support frame means for imparting a reciprocating, rotational motion to the base frame means through an arc relative to the support frame means in response to rotation of the shaft means, said means including first lever arm means associated with the shaft means for undergoing rotation about an axis generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the base frame means in response to rotation of the shaft means, second shaft means mounted on the base frame means for rotation about an axis generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the first lever arm means, second and third lever arm means fixedly coupled to opposite ends of the second shaft means, first connecting rod means coupling the first lever arm means to the second lever arm means, and second connecting rod means coupling the third lever arm means to the support frame means.
3. A distributor shaker comprising:
a supporting frame having a generally horizontal member;
an elongated base frame generally horizontally disposed and having a first end thereof pivotably mounted on the horizontal member of the supporting frame for rotation about a generally vertical axis to permit lateral movement of an opposite second end thereof;
a hopper of partially conical configuration having an elongated chute extending from one side thereof;
a plurality of pairs of elongated, generally parallel elements extending between and mounting the chute and included hopper on the base frame with the directions of elongation of the chute and base frame generally parallel, with the hopper disposed over the vertical axis of rotation of the base frame, and with a lower open end of the chute disposed over the second end of the base frame, the two elongated elements of each pair being disposed on the opposite sides of the base frame at a different location along the length thereof and pivotably mounted at one end thereof to the base frame and at the opposite end thereof to the chute to permit movement of the chute relative to the base frame in the direction of elongation of the chute;
a first shaft rotatably mounted on the base frame adjacent the first end thereof with the axis thereof generally horizontally disposed and substantially normal to the direction of elongation of the base frame;
means coupled to rotatably drive the first shaft;
a first connecting rod having one end thereof coupled to the chute;
eccentric means associated with the first shaft and coupled to the other end of the first connecting rod for imparting a reciprocating motion to the first connecting rod in response to rotation of the first shaft to drive the chute through a reciprocating vibratory motion in the direction of elongation of the chute;
means coupled to the first shaft and including a second shaft mounted for rotation about a generally vertical axis at a reduced speed in response to rotation of the first shaft;
a first lever arm fixedly attached to the second shaft for circular movement through a generally horizontal plane in response to rotation of the second shaft;
a third shaft mounted to the base frame adjacent the first end thereof for rotation about a generally vertical axis;
second and third lever arms attached to the third shaft at opposite ends thereof for circular movement through generally horizontal planes in response to rotation of the third shaft;
a second connecting rod coupled to the first and sec ond lever arms at its opposite ends; and
a third connecting rod coupled at its opposite ends to the third lever arm and to the horizontal member of the supporting frame.
4. A distributor shaker in accordance with claim 9, wherein the supporting frame comprises a pair of generally vertical members disposed on opposite sides of and mounting the generally horizontal member therebetween, the vertical members being adapted to be mounted at their lower ends.
5. A distributor shaker in accordance with claim 9, wherein the means coupled to rotatably drive the first shaft comprises a motor and included drive pulley mounted on the base frame adjacent the first end thereof, a driven pulley coupled to the first shaft, and an endless belt encircling the drive and driven pulleys, wherein the eccentric means comprises an eccentric bearing, and wherein the means including a second shaft comprises a gear reduction mechanism.
6. For use in a processing arrangement in which partially dried alimentary paste particles are deposited on a movable conveyor, a distributor shaker for receiving the partially dried alimentary paste particles and depositing the particles on the movable conveyor in a thin, uniform layer comprising elongated chute means adapted to receive partially dried alimentary paste particles and mounted to permit lateral movement thereof relative to a movable conveyor and longitudinal movement along the length thereof, a source of rotational power, means coupled between the elongated chute means and the power source for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating longitudinal movement along the length thereof so as to advance alimentary paste particles thereon toward an open end thereof, and means coupled between the elongated chute means and the source of rotational power for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor to distribute alimentary paste particles exiting from the open end of the elongated chute means over the width of the movable conveyor and including first generally rigid means having opposite first and second ends, means coupled between the source of rotational power and the first end of the first generally rigid means for causing reciprocating movement of the second end of the first generally rigid means in response to the source of rotational power and second generally rigid means having opposite first and second ends, the first end being coupled to a fixed reference point outside of the distributor shaker and means the second end coupling to the first rigid means to undergo reciprocating movement in response to the reciprocating movement of the second end of the first generally rigid means, the reciprocating movement of the second end of the second generally rigid means driving the elongated chute means through the reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor.
7. For use in a processing arrangement in which partially dried alimentary paste particles are deposited on a movable conveyor, a distributor shaker for receiving the partially dried alimentary paste particles and depositing the particles on the movable conveyor in a thin, uniform layer comprising elongated chute means adapted to receive partially dried alimentary paste particles and mounted to permit lateral movement thereof ,relative to a movable conveyor and longitudinal movement along the length thereof, a source of rotational power, means coupled between the elongated chute means and the power source for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating longitudinal movement along the length thereof so as to advance alimentary paste particles thereon toward an open end thereof, and means coupled between the elongated chute means and the source of rotational power for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor to distribute alimentary paste particles exiting from the open end of the elongated chute means over the width of the movable conveyor and including rotatable means coupled to be rotated by the source of rotational power, pivotably mounted means, means coupled between the rotatable means and the pivotably mounted means for causing the pivotably mounted means to undergo reciprocating movement through a circular arc in response to rotation of the rotatable means, and means coupled between the pivotably mounted means and a fixed reference point outside of the distributor shaker for driving the elongated chute means through the reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor in response to reciprocating movement of the pivotably mounted means through the circular arc.
8. A distributor shaker in accordance with claim 13, wherein the means for causing the pivotably mounted means to undergo reciprocating movement through a circular arc includes an elongated element having opposite ends respectively pivotably mounted on the rotatable means and the pivotably mounted means, and the means for driving the elongated chute means through the reciprocating lateral movement comprises an elongated element having opposite ends respectively pivotably mounted on the pivotably mounted means and at the fixed reference point.
.22 UNITED STATES PATIENT OFFICE "CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION P tent 3.773.165 Dated flovember 2Q, 1,223
Inventor(s) Wilbert g. Tolles It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:
Column 8, line 6, for "9" read --3--; line 12, for '9" read --3--; line 51, after "means and before "the" insert -coupling-; lin e 52, before "to" strike 'out "coupling". Column 10, line 8, for "13" read --7 Signed and sealed this 16th day 61* April 19714..
(SEAL) Attest:
C. MARSHALL DANN Commissioner of Patents EDWARD M .FLETCHER, JR Attesting Officer

Claims (8)

1. For use in a processing arrangement in which partially dried alimentary paste particles are deposited on a movable conveyor, a distributor shaker for receiving the partially dried alimentary paste particles and depositing the particles on the movable conveyor in a thin, uniform layer comprising elongated chute means adapted to receive partially dried alimentary paste particles, the elongated chute means sloping gradually downwardly along the length thereof to the open end, being mounted to permit longitudinal movement along the length thereof, and being pivotably mounted about a generally vertical axis adjacent the end thereof opposite the open end to permit reciprocating lateral movement thereof relative to a movable conveyor, a source of rotational power, means coupled between the elongated chute means and the power source for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating longitudinal movement along the length thereof so as to advance alimentary paste particles thereon toward an open end thereof, and means coupled between the elongated chute means and the source of rotational power for driving the elongated chute means thRough a reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor to distribute alimentary paste particles exiting from the open end of the elongated chute means over the width of the movable conveyor, said means for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating lateral movement including first connecting rod means, means coupled to one end of the first connecting rod means and responsive to the source of rotational power for driving the one end of the first connecting rod means through a circular path of movement, means coupled to the other end of the first connecting rod means for directing the other end through a circular arc of movement relative to a fixed axis with respect to the elongated chute means, second connecting rod means having one end thereof mounted at a fixed reference point outside of the distributor shaker, and means associated with the means for directing and coupled to the other end of the second connecting rod means for directing the other end of the second connecting rod means through a circular arc of movement relative to the fixed axis in response to movement of the other end of the first connecting rod means.
2. A device for dispensing small food particles therefrom in generally continuous, uniform fashion, comprising: support frame means; base frame means pivotably mounted on the support frame means for rotational movement relative thereto; elongated chute means for receiving small food particles to be dispensed therefrom; means pivotably mounting the elongated chute means to the base frame means to permit reciprocating, generally linear motion of the chute means relative to the base frame means; shaft means rotatably mounted on the base frame means; means coupled to drive the shaft means; eccentric means associated with the shaft means and coupled to the chute means for imparting a reciprocating, generally linear motion to the chute means relative to the base frame means in response to rotation of the shaft means; and means coupled between the shaft means and the support frame means for imparting a reciprocating, rotational motion to the base frame means through an arc relative to the support frame means in response to rotation of the shaft means, said means including first lever arm means associated with the shaft means for undergoing rotation about an axis generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the base frame means in response to rotation of the shaft means, second shaft means mounted on the base frame means for rotation about an axis generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the first lever arm means, second and third lever arm means fixedly coupled to opposite ends of the second shaft means, first connecting rod means coupling the first lever arm means to the second lever arm means, and second connecting rod means coupling the third lever arm means to the support frame means.
3. A distributor shaker comprising: a supporting frame having a generally horizontal member; an elongated base frame generally horizontally disposed and having a first end thereof pivotably mounted on the horizontal member of the supporting frame for rotation about a generally vertical axis to permit lateral movement of an opposite second end thereof; a hopper of partially conical configuration having an elongated chute extending from one side thereof; a plurality of pairs of elongated, generally parallel elements extending between and mounting the chute and included hopper on the base frame with the directions of elongation of the chute and base frame generally parallel, with the hopper disposed over the vertical axis of rotation of the base frame, and with a lower open end of the chute disposed over the second end of the base frame, the two elongated elements of each pair being disposed on the opposite sides of the base frame at a different location along the length thereof and pivotably mounted at one end thereof to the base frame and at the opposite end thereof to the chute to permIt movement of the chute relative to the base frame in the direction of elongation of the chute; a first shaft rotatably mounted on the base frame adjacent the first end thereof with the axis thereof generally horizontally disposed and substantially normal to the direction of elongation of the base frame; means coupled to rotatably drive the first shaft; a first connecting rod having one end thereof coupled to the chute; eccentric means associated with the first shaft and coupled to the other end of the first connecting rod for imparting a reciprocating motion to the first connecting rod in response to rotation of the first shaft to drive the chute through a reciprocating vibratory motion in the direction of elongation of the chute; means coupled to the first shaft and including a second shaft mounted for rotation about a generally vertical axis at a reduced speed in response to rotation of the first shaft; a first lever arm fixedly attached to the second shaft for circular movement through a generally horizontal plane in response to rotation of the second shaft; a third shaft mounted to the base frame adjacent the first end thereof for rotation about a generally vertical axis; second and third lever arms attached to the third shaft at opposite ends thereof for circular movement through generally horizontal planes in response to rotation of the third shaft; a second connecting rod coupled to the first and second lever arms at its opposite ends; and a third connecting rod coupled at its opposite ends to the third lever arm and to the horizontal member of the supporting frame.
4. A distributor shaker in accordance with claim 9, wherein the supporting frame comprises a pair of generally vertical members disposed on opposite sides of and mounting the generally horizontal member therebetween, the vertical members being adapted to be mounted at their lower ends.
5. A distributor shaker in accordance with claim 9, wherein the means coupled to rotatably drive the first shaft comprises a motor and included drive pulley mounted on the base frame adjacent the first end thereof, a driven pulley coupled to the first shaft, and an endless belt encircling the drive and driven pulleys, wherein the eccentric means comprises an eccentric bearing, and wherein the means including a second shaft comprises a gear reduction mechanism.
6. For use in a processing arrangement in which partially dried alimentary paste particles are deposited on a movable conveyor, a distributor shaker for receiving the partially dried alimentary paste particles and depositing the particles on the movable conveyor in a thin, uniform layer comprising elongated chute means adapted to receive partially dried alimentary paste particles and mounted to permit lateral movement thereof relative to a movable conveyor and longitudinal movement along the length thereof, a source of rotational power, means coupled between the elongated chute means and the power source for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating longitudinal movement along the length thereof so as to advance alimentary paste particles thereon toward an open end thereof, and means coupled between the elongated chute means and the source of rotational power for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor to distribute alimentary paste particles exiting from the open end of the elongated chute means over the width of the movable conveyor and including first generally rigid means having opposite first and second ends, means coupled between the source of rotational power and the first end of the first generally rigid means for causing reciprocating movement of the second end of the first generally rigid means in response to the source of rotational power and second generally rigid means having opposite first and second ends, the first end being coupled to a fixed reference point outside of the distributor shaker and means the seconD end coupling to the first rigid means to undergo reciprocating movement in response to the reciprocating movement of the second end of the first generally rigid means, the reciprocating movement of the second end of the second generally rigid means driving the elongated chute means through the reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor.
7. For use in a processing arrangement in which partially dried alimentary paste particles are deposited on a movable conveyor, a distributor shaker for receiving the partially dried alimentary paste particles and depositing the particles on the movable conveyor in a thin, uniform layer comprising elongated chute means adapted to receive partially dried alimentary paste particles and mounted to permit lateral movement thereof relative to a movable conveyor and longitudinal movement along the length thereof, a source of rotational power, means coupled between the elongated chute means and the power source for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating longitudinal movement along the length thereof so as to advance alimentary paste particles thereon toward an open end thereof, and means coupled between the elongated chute means and the source of rotational power for driving the elongated chute means through a reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor to distribute alimentary paste particles exiting from the open end of the elongated chute means over the width of the movable conveyor and including rotatable means coupled to be rotated by the source of rotational power, pivotably mounted means, means coupled between the rotatable means and the pivotably mounted means for causing the pivotably mounted means to undergo reciprocating movement through a circular arc in response to rotation of the rotatable means, and means coupled between the pivotably mounted means and a fixed reference point outside of the distributor shaker for driving the elongated chute means through the reciprocating lateral movement relative to the movable conveyor in response to reciprocating movement of the pivotably mounted means through the circular arc.
8. A distributor shaker in accordance with claim 13, wherein the means for causing the pivotably mounted means to undergo reciprocating movement through a circular arc includes an elongated element having opposite ends respectively pivotably mounted on the rotatable means and the pivotably mounted means, and the means for driving the elongated chute means through the reciprocating lateral movement comprises an elongated element having opposite ends respectively pivotably mounted on the pivotably mounted means and at the fixed reference point.
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Cited By (9)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4094399A (en) * 1976-07-28 1978-06-13 Procter & Schwartz, Inc. Oscillating feed assembly and drive especially for a dryer conveyor
WO2010057511A1 (en) * 2008-11-24 2010-05-27 Rwe Power Aktiengesellschaft Device for scattering bulk material
ITTO20130010A1 (en) * 2013-01-09 2014-07-10 Siem S A S Di Babero & C SPIRAL LOCKER FOR THE DISCHARGE OF METAL PARTS OUTPUT FROM A HOT PRINTING PRESS
CN105129451A (en) * 2015-09-14 2015-12-09 柏红梅 Synthetic particle preparation system and automatic feeding device thereof
WO2020099168A1 (en) * 2018-11-12 2020-05-22 M&K Holdings (Ireland) Ltd. Distribution apparatus
CN111573210A (en) * 2020-06-22 2020-08-25 沈阳利笙电子科技有限公司 Automatic sorting device and control method thereof
CN111717686A (en) * 2020-06-18 2020-09-29 卢莉芬 Forage scattering device for livestock raising
CN111924508A (en) * 2020-09-04 2020-11-13 中国农业大学 Plasma seed processor for uniform distribution of dielectric barrier discharge vibration under normal pressure
WO2023226377A1 (en) * 2022-05-25 2023-11-30 华能伊敏煤电有限责任公司 Flow-dividable hydraulic slide plate gate protection device

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US1337585A (en) * 1919-06-28 1920-04-20 Elmer O Beardsley Molding-machine
US2905311A (en) * 1956-04-07 1959-09-22 Buehler Ag Geb Distributor, in particular for shortlength food-paste products
US3097738A (en) * 1958-03-28 1963-07-16 Nat Iron Company Heavy burden plate feeder suspension

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1337585A (en) * 1919-06-28 1920-04-20 Elmer O Beardsley Molding-machine
US2905311A (en) * 1956-04-07 1959-09-22 Buehler Ag Geb Distributor, in particular for shortlength food-paste products
US3097738A (en) * 1958-03-28 1963-07-16 Nat Iron Company Heavy burden plate feeder suspension

Cited By (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4094399A (en) * 1976-07-28 1978-06-13 Procter & Schwartz, Inc. Oscillating feed assembly and drive especially for a dryer conveyor
WO2010057511A1 (en) * 2008-11-24 2010-05-27 Rwe Power Aktiengesellschaft Device for scattering bulk material
RU2477251C1 (en) * 2008-11-24 2013-03-10 Рве Пауэр Акциенгезелльшафт Loose material spreader
US8485345B2 (en) 2008-11-24 2013-07-16 Rwe Power Aktiengesellschaft Device for scattering bulk material
CN102224091B (en) * 2008-11-24 2014-05-21 Rwe动力股份公司 Device for scattering bulk material
ITTO20130010A1 (en) * 2013-01-09 2014-07-10 Siem S A S Di Babero & C SPIRAL LOCKER FOR THE DISCHARGE OF METAL PARTS OUTPUT FROM A HOT PRINTING PRESS
CN105129451A (en) * 2015-09-14 2015-12-09 柏红梅 Synthetic particle preparation system and automatic feeding device thereof
CN105129451B (en) * 2015-09-14 2017-09-01 柏红梅 Synthetic particle preparation system and its automatic feeding device
WO2020099168A1 (en) * 2018-11-12 2020-05-22 M&K Holdings (Ireland) Ltd. Distribution apparatus
US20220002094A1 (en) * 2018-11-12 2022-01-06 M&K Holdings (Ireland) Limited Distribution Apparatus
US11795006B2 (en) * 2018-11-12 2023-10-24 M&K Holdings (Ireland) Limited Distribution apparatus
CN111717686A (en) * 2020-06-18 2020-09-29 卢莉芬 Forage scattering device for livestock raising
CN111573210A (en) * 2020-06-22 2020-08-25 沈阳利笙电子科技有限公司 Automatic sorting device and control method thereof
CN111924508A (en) * 2020-09-04 2020-11-13 中国农业大学 Plasma seed processor for uniform distribution of dielectric barrier discharge vibration under normal pressure
WO2023226377A1 (en) * 2022-05-25 2023-11-30 华能伊敏煤电有限责任公司 Flow-dividable hydraulic slide plate gate protection device

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