Susan C Ward

US Patent:

54602092, Oct 24, 1995

Filed:

Dec 8, 1993

Appl. No.:

8/164098

Inventors:

Louise Jandura - Belmont MA
Amy B. Smith - Lexington MA
Susan D. Ward - Vancouver WA

Assignee:

Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Cambridge MA

International Classification:

G01G 1302

US Classification:

141 83

Abstract:

An apparatus for dispensing dry ingredient has a plurality of containers, each for a different ingredient. Each has a body having an internal chamber, and a port for dispensing the ingredient, which is arranged gravitationally below the chamber when in use. Each container has at least two baffles adjacent the port. The baffles are inclined and define a passageway through which the ingredient may pass. The passageway is sized and the baffles are inclined such that the ingredient rests upon the baffles. The apparatus also includes a collection stage that is arranged relative to each of the plurality of container ports so that ingredient dispensed from each port is deposited upon the collection stage. The apparatus also includes a vibrator for exciting at least one of the baffles of each container such that the ingredient is urged to pass through the respective passageway and out of the chamber. The apparatus typically further includes a controller for activating and deactivating the vibrators.