US Patent 10529165 Cup lid storage and dispensing apparatus

This invention is an automatic lid dispenser that can include a hopper assembly for receiving and storing an inventory of lids; a dispensing assembly disposed adjacent to the hopper assembly for receiving lids from the hopper assembly; a plurality of pinions included in the dispensing assembly wherein the pinions include pinion threads spaced apart to contact a lid edge; a drive assembly included in the dispensing assembly having a drive motor cooperatively associated with the pinions to rotate the pinions to dispense a lid; and, a ramp disposed under the dispensing assembly for receiving the lid and redirecting the lid external the housing containing the dispensing assembly.