초록 ▼

An autonomously operated automated food dispenser provides sustenance to one or more animals at prescribed intervals. The dispenser is portable and suitable for use for animals in space vehicle life support systems. A micro-controller controls operation of the outlet valve of a food reservoir that c

An autonomously operated automated food dispenser provides sustenance to one or more animals at prescribed intervals. The dispenser is portable and suitable for use for animals in space vehicle life support systems. A micro-controller controls operation of the outlet valve of a food reservoir that contains a food paste maintained under pressure by a pressurized gas source. Predetermined volume of food paste are extruded through the outlet upon the micro-controller's command. The food cannister is characterized by a novel two part assembly and houses a rolling diaphragm. Pressurized gas is applied to the bottom of the diaphragm, allowing the diaphragm to roll against the food paste, when the outlet valve is opened.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An automated food dispensing apparatus comprising:a container for storing food to be dispensed, said container defining a first portion and a second portion, said first and second portions having cooperating flanges, said first portion of said container defining a gas inl

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An automated food dispensing apparatus comprising:a container for storing food to be dispensed, said container defining a first portion and a second portion, said first and second portions having cooperating flanges, said first portion of said container defining a gas inlet and said second portion of said container defining a food outlet;a rolling diaphragm, said rolling diaphragm having a closed end and an open end and defining a food sack for at least partially holding food, said open end of said rolling diaphragm having a sealing bead adapted and arranged to sealably engage said cooperating flanges of said first and second portions of said container such that said rolling diaphragm is disposed within said first portion of said container when full and said second portion of said container when empty;said gas inlet arranged and adapted to admit pressurized gas into said container to telescopically urge said closed end of said diaphragm towards said food outlet relative to said open end of said diaphragm thereby urging food contained in said food sack and said container toward said food outlet.