UNIVERSAL FRIED FOOD SUPPLIER.

Abstract

A universal snack supplier, capable of providing crunchy snacks to customers, offers a contactless experience and supplies a sufficient quantity of snacks, regardless of type and container.

Description

UNIVERSAL FRIED SNACK SUPPLIER CROSS REFERENCE WITH A RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority from Indian Patent Application No. 202141006548, filed on February 17, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in full into this application.

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to devices for dispensing snacks. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a universal, non-contact snack feeder designed to maintain crispness and reduce breakage of snacks as they are dispensed. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Unlike popcorn machines, there are no widely available dispensers of individual chips from bulk product. Customers typically purchase individual snack portions in pre-packaged, single-serving quantities. For example, purchasing a bag of chips from a vending machine. This is due to several reasons. First, chips are prone to softening and rancidity when exposed to atmospheric moisture for 24 hours or less. Second, it is difficult to separate and prevent chips from coming into contact with customers and pests when dispensing from bulk product. For example, an open bowl of party chips. Third, it is difficult to prevent breakage as the chips are dispensed.Finally, given all the problems described above, it is difficult to design a system that is independent of the type of snack, the size of the snack, and the container used to collect the supplied snack.

[0004] There is a need to construct a frying machine that is independent of frying size and frying ingredients. Furthermore, there is a need to construct a device that is capable of preserving the crispiness of the frying for at least 24 hours, reducing frying breakage, and keeping the frying free of germs and pests. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The aspects and embodiments of the present invention are set forth in the appended claims. These, and other aspects and embodiments of the invention, are also described herein.

[0006] The disclosed device provides a universal snack dispenser. Specifically, the dispenser can be used for any type and size of fried snack, regardless of the presence or absence of seasoning. The non-contact snack dispenser seals the bulk product in a food storage area away from machinery and the external environment. Additionally, the snack dispenser may include sensors that detect the presence of a receiving container to collect the dispensed snacks. Furthermore, the snack dispenser may include a second sensor that detects when the receiving container is sufficiently full. In this way, the device is able to operate without customer intervention.

[0007] The snack dispenser is a universal snack dispenser. Therefore, the snacks introduced into the snack dispenser can be selected from chips, pretzels, Cheetos®, crackers, and the like. In some versions, the snack includes seasoning. In some versions, the snacks are chips. In some versions, the snacks are corn-based chips. In some versions, the snacks are potato-based chips. In some versions, the snacks are vegetable chips.

[0008] In some embodiments, a snack dispenser has i) a food zone and ii) a non-food zone. The food zone and the non-food zone are completely separate. In some embodiments, the food zone is defined by a chamber, and the non-food zone is contained in one or more housings. In some embodiments, the chamber includes a slide, a conveyor belt, a supply discharge chute, a hinged lid, and a heating element. In one embodiment, the snack dispenser also includes a sensor. In some embodiments, the snack dispenser may include at least three sensors.

[0009] In some configurations, the snack dispenser is configured to keep the snack crisp for at least 24 hours. In some configurations, the snack dispenser is configured to keep the snack crisp for at least 12 hours. In some configurations, the snack dispenser is configured to control the atmospheric humidity content inside the chamber.

[0010] In some configurations, the snack dispenser is configured to dispense snacks without breakage. In some configurations, the snack dispenser is configured to dispense fried foods without breakage. In some configurations, the snack dispenser is configured to dispense fried foods with a reduced risk of breakage.

[0011] In some configurations, the snack dispenser may include a sensor to detect the presence of a receiving container. In some configurations, the snack dispenser detects the presence of a receiving container without customer intervention (e.g., there are no buttons or digital displays for the customer to touch). In some configurations, the snack dispenser detects when a sufficient quantity of snacks has been dispensed into the receiving container. In some configurations, the snack dispenser detects when a sufficient quantity of snacks has been dispensed without customer intervention. In some configurations, the snack dispenser is configured to detect both a receiving container and a sufficient quantity of dispensed snacks, regardless of the type of receiving container used to collect the dispensed snacks and the type of snack dispensed.

[0012] In some configurations, a customer approaches the snack dispenser and places a receiving container nearby. In some configurations, a tray provides the location for the customer to place the receiving container. Once the snack dispenser detects the presence of the receiving container, the machine begins dispensing the snack from inside the chamber into the receiving container, without customer intervention. The amount of snack dispensed is based on the available volume within the receiving container. The snack dispenser stops dispensing when it detects that a sufficient amount of snack has been dispensed. The customer then removes the receiving container, now filled with a crunchy, edible snack.

[0013] The invention extends to methods, systems, equipment, parts and apparatus, substantially as described herein and / or as illustrated with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0014] The invention extends to any novel aspect or attribute described and / or illustrated herein. Furthermore, aspects of apparatus may be applied to methodological aspects, and vice versa. Moreover, any, some, and / or all attributes in one aspect may be applied to any, some, and / or all attributes in any other aspect, in any appropriate combination.

[0015] It will also be appreciated that particular combinations of the various attributes, described and defined in any aspect of the invention, can be implemented and / or supplied and / or used independently. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The following description accompanies the drawings, all offered as non-limiting examples that may be helpful in understanding the devices presented. For simplicity and clarity, the elements illustrated in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements may be exaggerated relative to others for clarity. Furthermore, where deemed appropriate, reference labels have been repeated between figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

[0017] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of an illustrative type of supplier.

[0018] Figure 2 is a cross-section perspective of the front, illustrating food areas and non-food areas.

[0019] Figure 3 is a side cutaway view of the camera, duct, and second sensor.

[0020] Figure 4 is a cross-section perspective showing the camera components and the housing components.

[0021] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view looking upwards towards the supplier, showing the air inlet and air outlet.

[0022] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view looking towards a supplier, showing another mode of air intake and air outlet.

[0023] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing one modality of a duct and fan.

[0024] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of three food-free zones.

[0025] Figure 9 is a perspective view of an illustrative type of supplier.

[0026] Figure 10 is a perspective view of an illustrative type of supplier.

[0027] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional perspective looking down towards the supplier, showing the camera, slide, and conveyor belt.

[0028] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional perspective looking down towards the supplier, showing the motor, in the non-food zone, coupled to the conveyor belt in the food zone. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] A universal snack dispenser 10 is disclosed, wherein the geometry of the components is configured to reduce snack breakage as it moves through the dispenser to a waiting receiving container 34.

[0030] For illustrative purposes, a universal snack dispenser 10 is provided. With reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2, the snack dispenser 10 comprises i) a food zone 2 and i) a non-food zone 4. The non-food zone 4 is separated from the food zone 2 by an enclosure 46. In some embodiments, the snack dispenser 10 may include two non-food zones 4. In some embodiments, the snack dispenser 10 may include three non-food zones 4. In some embodiments, the snack dispenser 10 may include four non-food zones 4.

[0031] With reference to Figure 3, in some embodiments, the food zone 2 comprises a chamber 6 having a chamber base 8. In some embodiments, the chamber 6 further comprises a slide 12, a conveyor belt 18, a supply discharge channel 20, a hinged lid 22, and a radiant heating element 42. In some embodiments, the radiant heating element 42 is a halogen lamp.

[0032] With reference to Figure 3 and Figure 5, in some embodiments, the chamber 6 comprises a slide 12, a conveyor belt 18, a supply discharge channel 20 and a hinged lid 22. In some embodiments, the chamber 6 further comprises an air inlet 24, and a.

[0033] With reference to Figure 3, in some embodiments, the food zone 2 further includes an access opening 28 for introducing snacks into chamber 6. In some embodiments, the access opening 28 further comprises a cover 30, configured to seal the access opening 28 against the external atmosphere. In some embodiments, the cover 30 is selected from a lid, a hinged door, and a plug. In some embodiments, the access opening 28 is located on the top of chamber 6. In some embodiments, the access opening 28 is located on the side of chamber 6. Exemplary embodiments of a cover 30 are illustrated in Figure 8, Figure 9, and Figure 10.

[0034] In one aspect, cover 30 is removed or opened to reveal access opening 28. A bulk quantity of snack is fed into chamber 6 through access opening 28. The snack first makes contact with slide 12. As will be described in more detail below, slide 12 is configured to carry the snack from access opening 28 down to conveyor belt 18. The angle of slide 12 and conveyor belt 18 reduces stress on the snack, resulting in reduced breakage. The conveyor belt is configured to carry the snack to the supply discharge chute 20. In one aspect, the supply discharge chute 20 is positioned below conveyor belt 18 so that the snack can be dropped from conveyor belt 18 into the supply discharge chute 20.The width of the supply discharge channel and the movement of conveyor belt 18 are configured to introduce the least possible stress on the snack, thereby reducing breakage. The supply discharge channel 20 is coupled to the hinged lid 22. The hinged lid 22 is positioned beneath the supply discharge channel 20 to transport the snack from conveyor belt 18, through the supply discharge channel 20, and onto the hinged lid 22. In some respects, the hinged lid 22 is in an open position before conveyor belt 18 begins to move the snack from the slide 12 to the supply discharge channel 20. The hinged lid 22 then transports the snack from the supply discharge channel 20 to the receiving container 34.

[0035] In some embodiments, air inlet 24 and air outlet 26 are coupled to the food-free zone 4. With reference to Figure 4 and Figure 8, in some embodiments, air inlet 24 is located at the base of chamber 8, and air outlet 26 is located at the top of chamber 6. With reference to Figure 4 and Figure 5, in some embodiments, air inlet 24 and air outlet 26 are located at the top of chamber 6. In some embodiments, air inlet 24 and air outlet 26 each include a screen, as illustrated in Figure 6 and Figure 7.

[0036] With reference to Figure 4, Figure 5 and Figure 6, in some embodiments, the air inlet 24 is contained in a duct 44. In some embodiments, the duct 44 is separated from the food zone 2, and includes a fan 40 and a heating element 42, as illustrated in Figure 6 and Figure 7.

[0037] In some embodiments, air inlet 24 supplies hot air to chamber 6. The hot air is able to maintain a crisp snack by removing moisture from the air in chamber 6. In some embodiments, the snack feeder 10 also includes a humidity sensor to detect and maintain a constant atmospheric humidity level with chamber 6. In some embodiments, the temperature of the heating element 42 is adjusted in response to the humidity content in the atmosphere in or outside chamber 6. In some embodiments, the detection of the chamber humidity content and the temperature of the heating device are controlled by a printed circuit board. In some embodiments, the printed circuit board is located in the non-food zone 4.

[0038] In some embodiments, duct 44, air inlet 24, chamber 6, and air outlet 26 are in fluid communication. In some embodiments, a ventilation duct is coupled to air outlet 26 to discharge humid air.

[0039] With reference to Figure 7, in some embodiments, the heating element 42 is a heating coil. In some embodiments, the fan 40 continuously circulates hot air into chamber 6. In some embodiments, the hot air is configured to remove moisture from the food zone 2. In some embodiments, the hot air maintains chamber 6 at approximately 40°C. In some embodiments, the hot air maintains chamber 6 at between approximately 35°C and approximately 55°C. In some embodiments, the hot air maintains chamber 6 at between approximately 40°C and approximately 45°C.

[0040] In some embodiments, chamber 6 is made of food-grade materials acceptable to food safety standards. In some embodiments, chamber 6 is made of plastic, metal, ceramic, glass, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the plastic is acrylic. In some embodiments, the metal is aluminum or steel. In some embodiments, chamber 6 is configured to hold between approximately 0.5 kg and 6 kg of snack. In some embodiments, chamber 6 is configured to hold between approximately 0.5 kg and 4 kg of snack.

[0041] Slide 12 is configured to receive and reduce breakage of snacks as the snack is conveyed through the snack feeder 10. The position and angle of slide 12 play a role in lessening the impact of the force experienced by the snack and maintaining uniform conveying through the snack feeder 10. In some embodiments, slide 12 is made of plastic, metal, ceramic, or a combination thereof.

[0042] With reference to Figure 3, Figure 9, and Figure 11, in some embodiments, slide 12 is configured to receive the snack from the access opening 28 and is positioned to slope downward at an angle away from the access opening 28. In some embodiments, slide 12 includes a first slide 14 that is configured to receive and supply the snack to a second slide 16. With reference to Figure 9, in some embodiments, the second slide 16 is positioned to slope downward in a direction opposite to the first slide 14. With reference to Figure 11, in some embodiments, the second slide 16 is positioned perpendicular to the first slide 14. In some embodiments, the first slide 14 is positioned above the second slide 16. In some embodiments, the first slide 14 and the second slide 16 taper downward to the conveyor belt 18.In some embodiments, the first slide 14 and the second slide 16 are configured to supply the snack to the conveyor belt 18. In some embodiments, the second slide 16 is configured to supply the snack from the first slide 14 to the conveyor belt 18.

[0043] In some embodiments, slide 12 tilts downward at an angle of approximately 30° to approximately 70° from the base of chamber 8. In some embodiments, slide 12 tilts downward at an angle of approximately 60°, approximately 55°, approximately 50°, or approximately 45° from the base of chamber 8. In some embodiments, when slide 12 includes the first slide 14 and the second slide 16, the second slide 16 tilts downward at an angle of approximately 30° to approximately 70° from the base of chamber 8. In some embodiments, the second slide 16 tilts downward at an angle of approximately 60°, approximately 55°, approximately 50°, or approximately 45° from the base of chamber 8.

[0044] With reference to Figure 12, in some embodiments, the conveyor belt 18 is driven by a motor 48 located in the food-free zone 4. In some embodiments, the conveyor belt 18 is a bucket conveyor. In some embodiments, the conveyor belt 18 includes buckets configured to receive a specified quantity of snacks. With reference to Figure 3 and Figure 11, in some embodiments, the angle of the slide 12 or second slide 16 to the conveyor belt 18 is configured to reduce snack breakage by minimizing the impact force exerted on the snack as it is fed onto the conveyor belt 18.

[0045] In some embodiments, the conveyor belt 18 is made of a food-grade material. In some embodiments, the conveyor belt 18 includes a tension control mechanism 32 to prevent snack remnants or powdered spices from obstructing the conveyor belt 18 mechanism. As shown in Figure 3, in some embodiments, the tension control mechanism 32 includes a third spring-loaded roller to maintain tension on the conveyor belt 18.

[0046] Referring to Figure 3, in some embodiments, the conveyor belt 18 is coupled to the supply discharge channel 20. In some embodiments, the supply discharge channel 20 is heated by hot air, where the hot air maintains the supply discharge channel 20 at approximately 40°C to approximately 50°C. In some embodiments, the geometry of the supply discharge channel 20 reduces snack breakage. For example, in some embodiments, the width and depth of the discharge channel match the size of the hinged lid 22 to avoid breakage surfaces for the snack. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the area within the supply discharge channel 20 is large enough to accommodate snacks of any size without concern for jamming or crushing.In some embodiments, the supply discharge channel 20 is configured to supply the snack through the hinged lid 22 into the receiving container 34. Referring to Figure 3, in an illustrative embodiment, the supply discharge channel 20 is located above the hinged lid 22.

[0047] With reference to Figure 3 and Figure 10, in some embodiments, the hinged lid 22 is configured to open in the presence of a receiving container 34. In some embodiments, the receiving container 34 can be selected from a container, a plate, a cardboard box, a cup, a bowl, a bag, a clamshell container, or a box. In some embodiments, the hinged lid 22 has a width of approximately 65 mm to approximately 85 mm. In some embodiments, the width is approximately 70 mm to approximately 75 mm. In some embodiments, the width is 74.5 mm.

[0048] In some embodiments, the hinged lid 22 is configured to open to an open position when a first sensor 36 detects a receiving container 34, and to close to a closed position when a second sensor 38 determines that the receiving container 34 contains a sufficient quantity of snacks. In this document, the term "sufficient quantity of snacks" means cases where the receiving container 34 is filled to at least approximately 70%, at least approximately 75%, at least approximately 80%, at least approximately 85%, at least approximately 90%, at least approximately 95%, or at least approximately 100% with the supplied snacks. The percentage fill level can be programmed in the snack dispenser software 10 on the printed circuit board. In some embodiments, when the hinged lid 22 is in the closed position, the food zone 2 is sealed against the outside elements.Referring to Figure 3, in some embodiments, the hinged lid 22 is coupled to a first sensor 36. The first sensor 36 is coupled to the printed circuit board in the food-free zone 4. In some embodiments, the first sensor 36 is configured to detect the presence of a receiving container 34. As illustrated in Figure 3 and Figure 10, the sensor is activated when the receiving container 34 is placed under the hinged lid 22. In some embodiments, the hinged lid 22 is coupled to the second sensor 38. The hinged lid 22 moves to the closed position once the second sensor 38 detects that a sufficient quantity of snack has been dispensed into the receiving container 34.

[0049] In some embodiments, the hinged lid 22 opens to a position at an angle of between approximately 75° and approximately 110° to a tray. In some embodiments, the hinged lid 22 opens to a position at a moderate angle (i.e., not 90°) to the tray. In this way, the hinged lid 22 conveys the snack from the supply discharge channel 20 to the receiving container 34, in a manner that reduces the force and stress on the snack compared to snacks dropped directly from the dispenser.

[0050] In some embodiments, the first sensor 36 is coupled to the motor 48 that drives the conveyor belt 18. In one aspect, once the first sensor 36 detects the presence of a receiving container 34, the hinged lid 22 opens and the motor 48 drives the conveyor belt 18. Once the second sensor 38 detects that a sufficient quantity of snack has been dispensed, the motor 48 stops rotating and the hinged lid 22 closes to the closed position.

[0051] In some modalities, the first sensor 36 and the second sensor 38 are coupled to the food-free zone 4. In some modalities, the first sensor 36 is located below the hinged cover 22. With reference to Figure 3 and Figure 10, in some modalities, the second sensor 38 is located in front of the hinged cover 22. In some modalities, the first sensor 36, the second sensor 38, or both, are infrared (IR) sensors.

[0052] In some embodiments, the snack dispenser 10 further includes a tray positioned beneath the hinged lid 22. The tray is configured to receive the receiving container 34. In some embodiments, the tray is detachable. In some embodiments, the tray is made of metal or plastic. In some embodiments, the tray has a flat surface for placing the receiving container in a position ready to accept the dispensed snack. In some embodiments, the tray comprises raised ridges to hold the receiving container 34 in place, or to prevent the receiving container 34 from sliding or falling. In some embodiments, the tray can be folded from a closed vertical or near-vertical position to a flat open position. In the open position, the tray is capable of receiving a receiving container 34.In some respects, the distance from the tray to the hinged lid 22 can be adjusted to further reduce the forces experienced by the snack as it is fed into a receiving container 34.

[0053] In some embodiments, the non-food zone 4 is sealed from the food zone 2. With reference to Figure 2, Figure 4, and Figure 12, in some embodiments, the non-food zone 4 comprises a housing 46, a motor 48, electronics, and a printed circuit board. In some embodiments, the housing 46 is made of sheet metal or plastic, or a combination thereof.

[0054] In some embodiments, motor 48 is coupled to the first sensor 36 and the second sensor 38. In some embodiments, the first sensor 36 provides a signal to start motor 48, and the second sensor 38 provides a signal to stop motor 48. In some embodiments, motor 48 is programmed in a timing mechanism to operate for a set amount of time when the first sensor 36 is activated.

[0055] In some embodiments, the snack dispenser 10 comprises two food zones 2 and one non-food zone 4. In some embodiments, the snack dispenser 10 comprises two first sensors 36 and two second sensors 38. In some embodiments, the snack dispenser 10 further comprises two trays configured to receive the receiving container 34. In some embodiments, the two food zones 2 comprise two access openings 28 covered by a single lid. In some embodiments, the two food zones 2 may dispense the same snack or different snacks. In some embodiments, the non-food zone 4 is configured to allow one food zone 2 to dispense a snack while the second food zone 2 is not activated. In other embodiments, the non-food zone 4 is configured to dispense snacks from more than one food zone 2 at or nearly at the same time.In some embodiments, in cases where the snack supplier includes two food zones 2, the non-food zone 4 may use a single motor 48 or two separate motors 48, to drive the conveyor belts 18. In some embodiments, the first conveyor belt 18 operates independently of the second conveyor belt 18.

[0056] A method is provided for supplying a snack on demand from a snack supplier 10. The method comprises i) receiving a signal that the receiving container 34 is present; ii) opening the hinged lid 22; iii) engaging the motor 48 to rotate a conveyor belt 18; iv) receiving a signal that the receiving container 34 has a sufficient quantity of snack; v) disengaging the motor 48; and vi) closing the hinged lid 22.

[0057] The following numbered modalities are contemplated and are not limiting:

[0058] Clause 1. A snack supplier 10 comprising i) a food zone 2 and i) a non-food zone 4.

[0059] Clause 2. The snack supplier 10 of clause 1, wherein the food zone 2 comprises a chamber 6.

[0060] Clause 3. The snack supplier 10 of clause 2, wherein the chamber 6 comprises a slide 12, a conveyor belt 18, a supply discharge channel 20, a hinged lid 22 and a radiant heating element 42.

[0061] Clause 4. The snack supplier 10 of clause 3, wherein the radiant heating element 42 is a halogen lamp.

[0062] Clause 5. The snack supplier 10 of clause 2, wherein the chamber 6 comprises a slide 12, a conveyor belt 18, a supply discharge channel 20, a hinged lid 22, an air inlet 24 and an air outlet 26.

[0063] Clause 6. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 2 to 5, wherein the food zone 2 further comprises an access opening 28 for introducing snacks into chamber 6.

[0064] Clause 7. The snack supplier 10 of clause 6, wherein the access opening 28 further comprises a cover 30 configured to seal the access opening 28 against the outside atmosphere, and wherein the cover 30 is selected from a lid, a hinged door, or a sliding and locking top.

[0065] Clause 8. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 6 and 7, where the access opening 28 is located at the top of chamber 6.

[0066] Clause 9. The snack supplier 10 of clause 5, where the air inlet 24 and air outlet 26 are coupled to the non-food zone 4.

[0067] Clause 10. The snack supplier 10 of clause 9, wherein the air inlet 24 is located at or near the base of chamber 8, and the air outlet 26 is located at the top of chamber 6.

[0068] Clause 11. The snack supplier 10 of clause 5, wherein the air inlet 24 and the air outlet 26 are located at the top of chamber 6.

[0069] Clause 12. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 5 and 9 to 11, wherein the air inlet 24 and the air outlet 26 include a screen.

[0070] Clause 13. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 5 and 9 to 12, where the air inlet 24 is coupled to a duct 44.

[0071] Clause 14. The snack supplier 10 of clause 13, wherein the duct 44 is separated from the food zone 2 and includes a fan 40 and a heating element 42.

[0072] Clause 15. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 5 and 9 to 14, wherein the air inlet 24 supplies hot air to chamber 6 and the hot air exits through the air outlet 26.

[0073] Clause 16. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 13 to 15, where duct 44, air inlet 24, chamber 6 and air outlet 26 are in fluid communication.

[0074] Clause 17. The snack supplier 10 of clause 5, where a ventilation duct is coupled to air outlet 26.

[0075] Clause 18. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 14 to 17, wherein the heating element 42 is a heating coil.

[0076] Clause 19. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 13 to 18, where duct 44 circulates hot air to chamber 6.

[0077] Clause 20. The snack supplier 10 of clause 19, where hot air is configured to remove moisture from food zone 2.

[0078] Clause 21. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 19 to 20, where hot air keeps the chamber 6 at approximately 40 °C.

[0079] Clause 22. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 2 to 21, wherein chamber 6 is made of food-grade materials acceptable to food safety standards, including plastic, metal, ceramic, glass, or a combination thereof.

[0080] Clause 23. The snack supplier 10 of clause 22, where the plastic is acrylic or polycarbonate.

[0081] Clause 24. The supplier of snacks 10 of clause 22, where the metal is aluminum or steel.

[0082] Clause 25. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 2 to 23, wherein chamber 6 is configured to hold between approximately 0.5 kg and 6 kg of snack.

[0083] Clause 26. The snack feeder 10 of clauses 3 to 25, wherein the slide 12 is configured to receive the snack from the access opening 28 and is positioned to tilt downwards at an angle away from the access opening 28.

[0084] Clause 27. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 26, wherein the slide 12 includes a first slide 14 configured to receive and supply the snack to a second slide 16, wherein the second slide 16 is positioned to tilt downwards in a direction opposite to the first slide 14.

[0085] Clause 28. The snack supplier 10 of clause 27, wherein the first slide 14 is placed above the second slide 16.

[0086] Clause 29. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 28, wherein the slide 12 is tilted downwards at an angle of approximately 30° to approximately 70° from the base of chamber 8.

[0087] Clause 30. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 29, wherein the slider 12 is tilted downwards at an angle of approximately 60° from the base of chamber 8.

[0088] Clause 31. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 30, wherein slide 12 includes the first slide 14 and the second slide 16, wherein the second slide 16 is tilted downwards at an angle of approximately 30° to approximately 70° from the base of chamber 8.

[0089] Clause 32. The snack dispenser 10 of clause 31, wherein the second slide 16 is tilted downwards at an angle of approximately 60° from the base of chamber 8.

[0090] Clause 33. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 31 to 32, wherein the second slide 16 tilts downwards in the opposite direction to the first slide 14.

[0091] Clause 34. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 27 to 33, wherein the first slide 14 is placed above and perpendicular to the second slide 16.

[0092] Clause 35. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 27 to 34, wherein the first slide 14 and the second slide 16 taper down to the conveyor belt 18.

[0093] Clause 36. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 27 to 35, where the first slide 14 and the second slide 16 are configured to supply the snack to the conveyor belt 18.

[0094] Clause 37. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 36, where the conveyor belt 18 includes coils.

[0095] Clause 38. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 37, wherein conveyor belt 18 is a bucket conveyor belt.

[0096] Clause 39. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 38, where the angles of the slide 12 are configured to reduce snack breakage.

[0097] Clause 40. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 39, wherein the first slide 14 and the second slide 16 are made of plastic, metal, ceramic, or a combination thereof.

[0098] Clause 41. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 27 to 40, wherein the second slide 16 is configured to supply the snack from the first slide 14 to the conveyor belt 18.

[0099] Clause 42. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 41, where the conveyor belt 18 is powered by a motor 48 located in the food-free zone 4.

[00100] Clause 43. The snack supplier 10 of clause 3 to 42, wherein the conveyor belt 18 includes buckets configured to receive a specified quantity of snacks.

[00101] Clause 44. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 43, wherein the angle of the slide 12 or second slide 16 to the conveyor belt 18 is configured to reduce snack breakage by minimizing the force of the impact exerted on the snack as it is supplied to the conveyor belt 18.

[00102] Clause 45. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 44, where the conveyor belt 18 is made of a food-grade material.

[00103] Clause 46. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 45, wherein the conveyor belt 18 includes a tension control mechanism 32 configured to prevent snack debris from obstructing the conveyor belt mechanism 18.

[00104] Clause 47. The snack supplier 10 of clause 46, wherein the tension control mechanism 32 includes a third spring-driven roller to maintain tension on the conveyor belt 18.

[00105] Clause 48. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 47, where the conveyor belt 18 is coupled to the supply discharge channel 20.

[00106] Clause 49. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 15 to 48, wherein the supply discharge channel 20 is heated by hot air, and wherein the hot air maintains the supply discharge channel 20 at approximately 40°C to approximately 50°C.

[00107] Clause 50. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 49, where the supply discharge channel 20 is coupled to the hinged lid 22.

[00108] Clause 51. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 50, where the hinged lid 22 is attached to a first sensor 36 and a second sensor 38.

[00109] Clause 52. The snack supplier 10 of clause 51, where the first sensor 36 and the second sensor 38 are coupled to the food-free zone 4.

[00110] Clause 53. The snack dispenser 10 of clauses 51 to 52, wherein the first sensor 36 and the second sensor 38 are located below the hinged cover 22 in the snack dispenser 10.

[00111] Clause 54. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 51 to 53, where the first sensor 36 and the second sensor 38 are IR sensors.

[00112] Clause 55. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 54, where the hinged lid 22 is configured to open in the presence of a receiving container 34.

[00113] Clause 56. The snack supplier 10 of clause 55, wherein the receiving container 34 is selected from a tray, a cardboard box, a cup, a bowl, a bag, or a box.

[00114] Clause 57. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 56, wherein the supply discharge channel 20 is configured to supply the snack through the hinged lid 22 to the receiving container 34.

[00115] Clause 58. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 57, where the geometry of the supply discharge channel 20 reduces snack breakage.

[00116] Clause 59. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 3 to 58, wherein the hinged lid 22 has a width of approximately 65 mm to approximately 80 mm.

[00117] Clause 60. The snack supplier 10 of clause 59, where the width is approximately 70 mm to approximately 75 mm.

[00118] Clause 61. The snack supplier 10 of clause 60, where the width is 74.5 mm.

[00119] Clause 62. The snack dispenser 10 of clause 3 to 61, wherein the hinged lid 22 is configured to open in an open position when the first sensor 36 detects a receiving container 34, and to close in a closed position when the second sensor 38 determines that the receiving container 34 has a sufficient amount of snack.

[00120] Clause 63. The snack supplier 10 of clause 51, wherein, when the hinged lid 22 is in the closed position, the food zone 2 is sealed against the outside elements.

[00121] Clause 64. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 55 to 63, wherein the food zone 2 further comprises a tray placed under the hinged lid 22, and wherein the tray is configured to receive the receiving container 34.

[00122] Clause 65. The snack supplier 10 of clause 64, where the tray is removable.

[00123] Clause 66. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 64 to 65, where the tray is made of metal or plastic.

[00124] Clause 67. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 1 to 66, wherein the non-food zone 4 comprises accommodation 46, an engine 48, electronics and a printed circuit board.

[00125] Clause 68. The snack supplier 10 of clause 67, where the accommodation 46 is made of sheet metal or plastic.

[00126] Clause 69. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 1 to 68, where the non-food zone 4 is sealed and separated from the food zone 2.

[00127] Clause 70. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 67 to 69, where the motor 48 is coupled to the first sensor 36 and second sensor 38.

[00128] Clause 71. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 67 to 70, wherein the motor 48 is programmed in a timing mechanism to operate for a set amount of time when the first sensor 36 is activated.

[00129] Clause 72. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 1 to 71, wherein the snack supplier 10 comprises two food zones 2 and one non-food zone 4.

[00130] Clause 73. The snack supplier 10 of clause 72, wherein the snack supplier 10 comprises first two sensors 36 and second two sensors 38.

[00131] Clause 74. The snack supplier 10 of clauses 72 to 73, wherein the snack supplier 10 further comprises two trays configured to receive the receiving containers 34.

[00132] Clause 75. The snack supplier 10 of clause 72 to 74, wherein the two food zones 2 comprise two access openings 28 covered by a single lid.

[00133] Clause 76. A method of supplying a snack on demand from a snack supplier 10, as described in Clauses 1 to 75, comprising: i) receiving a signal that the receiving container 34 is present; ii) opening the hinged lid 22; iii) engaging the motor 48 to rotate a conveyor belt 18; iv) receiving a signal that the receiving container 34 contains a sufficient quantity of snack; v) disengaging the motor 48; and vi) closing the hinged lid. 22.

[00134] Clause 77. The snack supplier of clauses 1 to 76, wherein the geometries of the slide, conveyor belt, supply discharge channel, and hinged lid are configured to reduce the breakage of fritters as a fritter is supplied from the snack supplier.

Claims

1. A snack dispenser, comprising: i) a chamber defining a food zone configured to contain a snack product, wherein the chamber comprises means for transporting the snack product from the food zone to a hinged lid for dispensing; and ii) a non-food zone physically separated from the food zone and including a motor for driving the transport means, a first sensor and a second sensor associated with the hinged lid and the motor.

2. The snack dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the first sensor is configured to detect the presence of a receiving container.

3. The snack dispenser according to claim 2, wherein the hinged lid moves to an open position and the motor drives the transport means when the receiving container is detected by the first sensor.

4. The snack dispenser according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the second sensor is configured to detect when a sufficient quantity of snack has been dispensed into the receiving container.

5. The snack dispenser according to claims 2 to 4, wherein the motor is configured to stop the drive of the transport means, and the hinged lid moves to a closed position when the second sensor detects that a sufficient quantity of snack is dispensed into the receiving container.

6. The snack dispenser according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the chamber further comprises a fan and a heating element.

7. The snack dispenser according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the heating and fan element is configured to circulate hot air into the chamber.

8. The snack dispenser according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a humidity sensor configured to detect the moisture content within the chamber.

9. The snack supplier according to claims 6 to 8, wherein the heating element is configured to keep the snack crisp for at least 24 hours, in response to the detected moisture content.

10. The snack dispenser according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first sensor is placed below the hinged lid, and the second sensor is placed in front of the hinged lid.

11. The snack dispenser according to any of claims 8 to 10, wherein the first sensor, second sensor, humidity sensor, heating element and motor are electrically connected to a circuit board.

12. The snack supplier according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the chamber further comprises a tapered slide configured to direct the snack product to the means of transport.

13. The snack supplier according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the means of transport include a conveyor belt.

14. The snack dispenser according to any of claims 3 to 13, wherein the hinged lid forms an angle to the receiving container when the hinged lid is in the open position, to reduce stress on the snack as it is transported from the chamber to the receiving container.

15. The snack dispenser according to any of claims 2 to 14, wherein the conveying means and hinged lid are angled in a manner to reduce breakage of the snack product as it is dispensed from the chamber to the receiving container.

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