Importance

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Abstract

An ice cream filling apparatus for simultaneously filling multiple ice cream containers as they move along a predetermined path of travel extending between a receiving station and a discharge station and a method of operating the filling apparatus in a manner controlling the volumetric fill of each container as a function of the speed that the container moves along its predetermined path of travel. The filling apparatus includes a transport and filling mechanism which quickly and easily adapts to different size and shape containers and includes a series of cantilevered container supports. Each container support individually holds and positions an ice cream container beneath a filling nozzle in a manner facilitating clean operation of the filling apparatus and such that board caliper and bouncing of the container have an inconsequential effect on volumetric fill accuracy of the filling apparatus. The flow of ice cream to each container is automatically stopped at the discharged station and the filled ice cream container is automatically removed from the transport and filling mechanism in a smooth and continuous motion while permitting uninterrupted movement of the transport and filling mechanism toward the receiving station. A supply mechanism positively provides containers to the receiving station in timed relation with the arrival of a container support at the receiving station.

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First Claim