Patent attributes
Dispensing apparatus is provided for dispensing viscous product from containers (10) of product, usually by extruding product from a container outlet. Product is discharged by a plunger (13) which causes product to be discharged and the plunger is operated by a drive arrangement having a linear actuator (15) by which the plunger is moveable. The linear actuator uses an electric motor as the prime mover and the motor's rotary motion is converted into a linear motion of the plunger. By the use of a linear drive it is possible to achieve constant velocity of movement of the plunger independent of the resistance to movement, within the predetermined limits. The movement of the plunger can be controlled according to the resistance encountered. The apparatus also includes means for removing containers from their seating after discharge.
