This mechanism synchronizes a slow rotation of the dispenser body with a periodic lifting motion that operates the outlet gate. The bottom yellow gear drives the green gear above it, spinning the entire platform and hopper. Mounted to this rotating frame, a small purple pinion engages a rack linked to the pink rod; as the frame turns, the pinion rotates and pushes the rod upward and downward. The top of the rod connects directly to the gate, so its vertical motion opens the outlet at the correct moment during each rotation.

Components — Yellow drive gear, green platform gear, rotating hopper assembly, purple pinion, vertical rack and pink lifting rod, outlet gate mechanism, support posts, and ring frame.

How it works — When the yellow gear is driven, it rotates the green gear and the entire dispenser body. Since the purple pinion is co-rotating with this upper structure, the pinion runs along the fixed rack and spins, converting relative motion into a vertical stroke on the pink rod. As the rod rises it flips the gate open; when it drops, the gate closes. Because the rotation and lift occur on the same mechanical cycle, the dispenser releases material only at a particular angular position, ensuring directional, timed outflow.

Applications — Seed or grain spreaders, powder metering devices, rotating feeders, spice or pellet dispensers, and systems requiring periodic release synchronized with rotation.

Why it matters — The design achieves precise dispensing with remarkably few parts. Timing depends purely on the geometry of gears and the rack, eliminating the need for sensors or electronics. The result is a compact, dependable mechanism that meters material exactly when the rotating outlet passes the target location.