Frozen confectionery dispensing machine and cartridge

Abstract

A machine for dispensing individual portions of frozen dessert may include a trolley with walls forming a cavity having a longitudinal central axis and configured to receive the trolley. The trolley may include a tube having a first end and a second end, a nozzle disposed at the first end, and a piston disposed between the nozzle and the second end and configured to be slidably movable along the tube. Individual portions of the frozen dessert may be contained within the tube between the nozzle and the piston. The machine may further include a plunger, a drive source operatively coupled to the plunger and configured to drive the plunger along the central axis, and a support configured to support the first end of the trolley such that actuation of the drive source causes individual portions of the frozen dessert to be dispensed through the nozzle.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Consumers enjoy delicious, high-quality ice cream at home and in other places, especially at ice cream shops. However, ice cream shops face the challenge that dispensing delicious ice cream involves significant expenses. For example, employees must scoop ice cream from large boxes into cups or cones for customers to enjoy. Employees must also add any toppings not already included in the ice cream (such as nuts, chocolate chips, etc.). Worse still, employees may underfill or overfill the ice cream scoops, making it difficult for the shop to track and predict consumption levels. Furthermore, consumers may not want to visit an ice cream shop for their delicious ice cream.

[0002] Retailers attempt to address these challenges by pre-packaging delicious ice cream in containers that consumers can easily purchase. The downside of this approach is that these containers must be stored in large freezers at the retailer's location, which either take up too much space (undesirable) or must be out of the consumer's sight (also undesirable). Furthermore, even after a consumer finds the ice cream, it may not be ready to eat, as it is typically stored at very low temperatures (e.g., 0°F to -20°F), making it too hard for the consumer to enjoy.

[0003] To compensate for some of these drawbacks, retailers have deployed large soft-serve ice cream machines. These machines typically have to run 24 / 7 and may require the addition of stabilizing ingredients to the ice cream mixture. When the mixture is ready to be served, a customer or store employee pulls a handle to dispense the soft-serve ice cream into a cup or cone. However, soft-serve ice cream usually does not contain toppings (e.g., no chocolate chunks) because they can clog the machine's nozzles. Flavor selection is also limited. These machines are bulky. If a new, different flavor is needed, the machine must be cleaned, refilled with the new flavor, and then cooled to the appropriate serving temperature. Traditional soft-serve machines may also require expensive maintenance and cleaning, and may need to run around the clock to keep the ingredients mixed, frozen, and ready to serve. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides an ice cream dispensing machine that extrudes high-quality ice cream from a cone and dispenses it into cups. The machine receives a proprietary cone filled with (but not limited to) ice cream and dispenses the ice cream into cups simply by pressing a button. The machine can then eject the empty cone, eliminating the need for the user to remove the used cone. Interestingly, the process of extruding frozen ice cream from the cone makes the surface of the ice cream immediately edible. This solves a problem in the prior art where it is difficult to enjoy frozen ice cream directly from the freezer, forcing consumers to wait for the ice cream to warm up or struggle to eat hard ice cream. Furthermore, the machine and cone disclosed herein allow for the presence of inclusions in the ice cream. The machine, cone, and process disclosed herein allow for the autonomous supply of frozen desserts in an attractive, clean, and low-maintenance manner, solving problems such as preventing leaks and spills and the disposal of empty cones. The invention disclosed herein offers these and other benefits compared to the prior art.

[0005] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate various example systems, methods, etc., that demonstrate various exemplary embodiments of various aspects of the invention. It should be understood that the element boundaries (e.g., boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) shown in the figures represent one example of that boundary. Those skilled in the art will understand that one element can be designed as multiple elements, or multiple elements can be designed as one element. An element shown as an internal component of another element can be implemented as an external component, and vice versa. Furthermore, the elements may not be drawn to scale. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 A front view of an exemplary machine for dispensing individual portions of frozen desserts is shown.

[0007] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Another exemplary machine for dispensing individual portions of frozen desserts is shown.

[0008] Figure 3A and Figure 3B A perspective view and an exploded view of an exemplary container for preparing individual portions of frozen desserts are shown.

[0009] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2A and Figure 2B A 3D image of the machine with its casing removed.

[0010] Figure 5 A perspective view of an exemplary hopper cart is shown.

[0011] Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing the interaction between the barrel, the barrel carriage, and the plunger is presented.

[0012] Figure 7A and Figure 7B A cross-sectional view of an exemplary barrel is shown.

[0013] Figure 7C and Figure 7D It shows Figure 7A and Figure 7B A front view of an exemplary nozzle of an exemplary barrel.

[0014] Figure 7E It shows Figure 7A and Figure 7B A top perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary barrel.

[0015] Figure 7F It shows Figure 7A and Figure 7B A bottom perspective view of the piston in the barrel.

[0016] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary piston is shown.

[0017] Figure 9 The process of loading the barrel is shown. Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the machine.

[0018] Figure 10 This shows the start of the automated portion of the frozen dessert dispensing process.

[0019] Figure 11 The cap gripper is shown engaging with the barrel cap.

[0020] Figure 12 The removal of the barrel cover is shown.

[0021] Figure 13 The diagram shows the path of the lid gripper moving horizontally to move the lid away from the frozen dessert.

[0022] Figure 14 The engagement of the piston and plunger in the barrel is shown.

[0023] Figure 15 The results of the allocation portion of this process are shown.

[0024] Figure 16A , Figure 16B , Figure 16C and Figure 16D The front view, sectional view, bottom perspective view, and top perspective view of an exemplary cup positioning mechanism are shown respectively.

[0025] Figure 16E A diagram illustrating an exemplary process for controlling this exemplary cup positioning mechanism is shown.

[0026] Figure 16FAn exemplary interface for controlling the exemplary cup positioning mechanism is shown.

[0027] Figure 17A , Figure 17B and Figure 17C A top perspective view and a cross-sectional view of an exemplary cup fixing mechanism are shown.

[0028] Figure 18 The diagram shows the cap being reinstalled onto the barrel.

[0029] Figure 19A The diagram shows a clamping device used to hold the barrel in place for removal from the barrel cart.

[0030] Figure 19B A perspective view of the plunger is shown to reveal more details of the radial clamp.

[0031] Figure 20A An exemplary embodiment of a mechanism for causing the machine to discard a barrel is shown.

[0032] Figure 20B and Figure 20C A front view and perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a mechanism for causing the machine to discard a barrel are shown.

[0033] Figure 21 and Figure 22 It shows from Figure 2A and Figure 2B Remove the trash can from the machine. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Figure 1 An exemplary machine 1 for dispensing individual portions of frozen desserts is shown. Machine 1 may include a housing 2 having a front door 4 or opening for inserting a canister 5 into machine 1. The canister 5 may be filled with any type of frozen dessert, such as ice cream, frozen yogurt, frozen milkshake mixture, etc. The front door 4 or opening connects to a channel that guides the canister 5 to a canister cart 3 as described below. Machine 1 can accommodate canisters 5 of various sizes (e.g., lengths) depending on the serving size. For smaller servings, machine 1 can accommodate shorter canisters 5, while for larger servings, machine 1 can accommodate longer canisters 5.

[0035] Machine 1 may also include a service area 6 where a user can place a cup into which frozen desserts can be dispensed. Machine 1 may also include controls 8, such as a touchscreen or physical button that allows the user to initiate the dispensing process. Machine 1 may include, for example, an electronic display that shows the user instructions on how to operate the machine. Machine 1 may also include a proximity sensor that detects the user's proximity to machine 1 and initiates the display of instructions based on the detected proximity.

[0036] Machine 1 may include a freezer 10 or be disposed adjacent to a freezer 10 to maintain the container 5 containing frozen dessert at an ideal temperature (e.g., -5°F to 0°F). In one embodiment, the freezer 10 may be operatively connected to machine 1 and may automatically load the container 5 from the freezer 10 into machine 1.

[0037] Machine 1 may also include a supply area 12, which may contain cups, spoons, napkins, etc. for the user's convenience. The user can take cup C from the supply area 12, place it in the service area 6, select the feed hopper 5 from the freezer 10, insert the feed hopper 5 through the channel behind the door 4, and then press "Start" on the control 8 to start the dispensing process.

[0038] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Another exemplary machine 1 is shown for dispensing separate portions of frozen desserts. (Compared to...) Figure 1 The same as machine 1, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The machine 1 may include a housing 2 with a front door 4 or opening for inserting a canister 5 into the machine 1. The canister 5 can be filled with any type of frozen dessert, such as ice cream, frozen yogurt, frozen milkshake mixture, etc. The front door 4 or opening is connected to a channel that guides the canister 5 to a canister cart 3 as described below. The front door 4 can accommodate canisters 5 of various sizes (e.g., lengths) depending on the serving size.

[0039] Machine 1 may also include a service area 6 where a user can place a cup C, into which frozen desserts can be dispensed. Machine 1 may also include controls 8, such as a touchscreen or physical button that allows the user to initiate the dispensing process.

[0040] like Figure 2A As shown, machine 1 may include a freezer 10 or be positioned above the freezer 10 to maintain the container 5 containing frozen desserts at an ideal temperature (e.g., -5°F to 0°F). Figure 2A In the illustrated embodiment, the freezer 10 serves as a support for the machine 1. For example... Figure 2B As shown, the refrigeration unit 10 can be located next to the machine 1. Figure 2B In the illustrated embodiment, machine 1 and freezer 10 are placed on a shelf or counter 14. The shelf 14 may have an opening 14a for receiving waste and may have another opening (not shown) at the top for disposing of used containers 5 into a waste bin. Figure 2A In one embodiment, machine 1 may be stored in trash can 54 (see Figure 17). Machine 1 may also include a supply area 12 or be located next to a supply area 12, which may have cups, spoons, napkins, etc. for the convenience of the user.

[0041] In yet another possible configuration (not shown), machine 1 and supply area 12 may be placed adjacent to each other on counter 14, while refrigerator 10 may be placed on the floor below counter 14. Many other configurations are possible, while remaining within the meaning and intent of the invention.

[0042] The user can take cup C from the supply area 12, place it in the service area 6, select the feed cylinder 5 from the freezer 10, insert the feed cylinder 5 through the channel behind the door 4, and press "Start" on the control 8 to start the dispensing process.

[0043] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Perspective and exploded views of an exemplary cartridge 5 for dispensing individual portions of frozen dessert are shown. The cartridge 5 includes a cylindrical tube 7 having a first end 5a, a second end 5b, and a central axis α. A nozzle 9 is disposed at the first end 5a, and a cap 23 can cover the nozzle 9 before dispensing the frozen dessert. The nozzle 9 can be adhered to or integrated with the tube 7. The nozzle 9 has a shoulder 9a and a neck 9b, the shoulder 9a being in contact with the tube 7 at the first end 5a, and the diameter of the neck 9b being smaller than the diameters of the cylindrical tube 7 and the shoulder 9a. A piston 11 is disposed between the nozzle 9 and the second end 5b. The piston 11 is configured to slide along the cylindrical tube 7 to expel individual portions of the frozen dessert contained in the cartridge 5 through the nozzle 9. Although the cartridge 5 and tube 7 are described herein as cylindrical, such limitation is not mandatory, and the cartridge 5 and tube 7 can have shapes / cross-sections other than cylindrical (e.g., square, rectangular, triangular, etc.).

[0044] The nozzle 9 has an opening 9c through which frozen dessert is dispensed. For example, the opening 9c may be star-shaped to shape the frozen dessert during dispensing. In one embodiment, the interiors of the piston 11 and the nozzle 9 have corresponding shapes such that the space between them is minimized when they press against each other, maximizing the amount of frozen dessert dispensed from the cartridge 5. During dispensing or extrusion through the shaped nozzle 9, the frozen dessert exposed to the nozzle 9 may warm to an ideal serving temperature or at least soften to make it more palatable due to the friction of the extrusion. The opening 9c may be formed by a nozzle portion whose edge rubs against the frozen dessert being dispensed, causing a change in the temperature and / or texture of the frozen dessert exposed at the edge. This helps soften the surface of the frozen dessert, making it easier to enjoy immediately after serving. In one example, extrusion through the nozzle and contact with the nozzle portion may cause the temperature of the frozen dessert exposed at the edge to rise from a freezing temperature of -5°F to 0°F to an ideal serving temperature of 6°F to 10°F.

[0045] A foil seal 21 may be mounted on the nozzle 9, which covers the nozzle 9 before dispensing frozen desserts. In another embodiment, the seal 21 may alternatively be mounted on a cap 23. The foil seal 21 and / or cap 23 may help protect the nozzle 9 during transport of the cartridge 5. The user may remove the seal 21 and / or cap 23 before inserting the cartridge 5 into the machine 1, or the machine 1 may include means for applying force to the seal 21 and / or cap 23 to remove the seal 21 and / or cap 23 from the cartridge 5. The cap 23 may include, for example, a circular recess (not shown) in which means may be inserted to apply an axial force to the cap 23 to remove it from the rest of the cartridge 5. The seal 21 may include a tail that is connected to the neck of the nozzle 9 (e.g., by adhesive, heat welding, etc.) to allow the seal 21 to remain attached to the cartridge 5 after it has been damaged.

[0046] The cartridge 5 may include an identifier (e.g., barcode, Q-code, RFID, etc.), and the machine 1 may include a reader for reading the identifier. The machine 1 can read the ID to identify the production batch, expiration date, specifications, flavor, lot number, manufacturer, etc., and / or ensure that the cartridge 5 is genuine. This information may be displayed to the consumer on the machine 1's screen, or recorded or transmitted (e.g., via Wi-Fi) to monitor usage, consumption, etc.

[0047] Figure 4 A perspective view of machine 1 with the outer casing 2 removed is shown. Key components of machine 1 include a cartridge cart 3 that inserts into the frozen dessert cartridge 5 and a plunger 13. The cartridge cart 3 moves relative to the plunger 13 along the central axis α to expel the frozen dessert from the cartridge 5. Other key components include a turntable 33 and a waste bin 54. A cup C rests on the turntable 33 to receive the frozen dessert expelled from the cartridge 5. After use, the empty cartridge can be discarded into the waste bin 54.

[0048] Machine 1 may include a main frame 30 and a hinged frame 32 hingedly connected to the main frame 30.

[0049] A first vertical moving structure 34 and a first fixed structure 35 can be constructed on the main frame 30. The first vertical moving structure 34 carries the hopper 3. The first vertical moving structure 34 may also include a servo mechanism (not shown) to tilt the hopper 3 during loading of the hopper 5, as described below. The fixed structure 35 carries the plunger 13 and a first drive source 36. The fixed structure 35 may also include a servo mechanism 43 to actuate a radial clamp on top of the plunger 13 so that the hopper 5 remains attached to the plunger 13 once the frozen dessert has been extruded from the hopper 5. The fixed structure 35 may also include a servo mechanism (not shown) to tilt the plunger 13 holding the empty hopper 5 to discard the hopper 5 into the waste bin 54. The first drive source 36 may include a motor 38, a gear 40, and a lead screw 42. Actuating the first drive source 36 will cause the first vertical moving structure 34 to move vertically relative to the fixed structure 35. Therefore, actuating the first drive source 36 will cause the hopper 3 to move vertically relative to the plunger 13.

[0050] A second vertical moving structure 44 and a second fixed structure 45 can be constructed on the articulated frame 32. The second vertical moving structure 44 carries a turntable 33 on which a cup C rests to receive frozen dessert extruded from the barrel 5. The second vertical moving structure 44 may also include a motor 58 for rotating the turntable 33. The second fixed structure 45 carries a second drive source 46. The drive source 46 may include a motor 48, a gear 50, and a lead screw 52. Actuating the second drive source 46 causes the second vertical moving structure 44 to move vertically relative to the second fixed structure 45. Thus, actuating the second drive source 46 causes the cup C to move vertically relative to the plunger 13 while simultaneously rotating the turntable 33.

[0051] Figure 5 A perspective view of an exemplary hopper cart 3 is shown. The hopper cart 3 has a wall forming a cylindrical cavity 3a that can accommodate a hopper 5. The cavity 3a has a large top opening 3b and a smaller bottom opening 3c. The hopper cart 3 also includes a support wall 3d surrounding the bottom opening 3c. The hopper cart 3 may also include a protrusion 3e connected to a tilting mechanism of the machine 1 to tilt the hopper cart 3 such that the top opening 3b can appear in front of the machine 1 for the user to insert the hopper 5 into the hopper cart 3. Once inserted, the nozzle neck 9b of the hopper 5 will protrude from the bottom opening 3c, and the nozzle shoulder 9a will rest inside the support wall 3d. The hopper cart 3 can accommodate hoppers of various sizes (e.g., lengths) depending on the quantity. For small quantities, the hopper cart 3 can accommodate shorter hoppers 5, while for larger quantities, the hopper cart 3 can accommodate longer hoppers 5. Although the barrel 5 and barrel carriage 3 are described as cylindrical in this document, such a limitation is not necessary, and the barrel 5 and barrel carriage 3 may have shapes / cross-sections other than cylindrical (e.g., square, rectangular, triangular, etc.).

[0052] Figure 6 A schematic diagram illustrating the interaction between the cartridge carriage 3, the cartridge 5, and the plunger 13 is shown. The cartridge carriage 3 includes a support wall 3d, which supports the first end 5a of the cartridge 5, or more specifically, the nozzle shoulder 9a of the cartridge 5, when the plunger 13 is engaged with the piston 11. The support wall 3d provides axial support (against gravity and the force exerted by the plunger 13) to the cartridge 5.

[0053] The hopper carriage 3 also radially supports the cylinder 5. When the plunger 13 pushes the piston 11 along the central axis α, the hopper carriage 3 resists the radial force exerted on the cylindrical tube 7 by the frozen dessert. Therefore, actuating the first drive source 36 causes the frozen dessert to be dispensed through the nozzle 9 without causing the cylinder 5 (even if made of a relatively soft material, such as paper, cardboard, or lightweight plastic) to rupture or explode due to the applied pressure. The hopper carriage 3 may be made of a material whose tensile strength withstands the loads applied to its walls (when the drive source 36 causes individual portion dispensing of the frozen dessert) without causing the hopper carriage 3 to fail or plastically deform. In one embodiment, the hopper carriage 3 is made of steel. In other embodiments, the hopper carriage 3 is made of a material other than steel.

[0054] Figures 7A-7F Various views of an embodiment of a cartridge 5 including a piston 11 are shown. At the manufacturing site, frozen desserts (e.g., ice cream) are filled into the cartridge 5 through a large-diameter opening 7a at the second end 5b of the cartridge 5, after which the piston 11 can first insert a nose-like body 11a into the large-diameter opening 7a. A cap 23 is used to cover the nozzle opening 9c (see...). Figure 7E The frozen dessert is held within the barrel 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the piston 11 is funnel-shaped. The piston 11 has several functions, including: (1) reducing the internal volume of the barrel 5 to allow the frozen dessert to move. This is achieved by being pushed by an external element (i.e., plunger 13); (2) maintaining a sufficient seal with the barrel orifice 7b to prevent leakage of the frozen dessert through the interface between the piston 11 and the orifice 7b; and (3) the nose 11a passing through the nozzle 9 such that the shape of the nose 11aa matches the shape of the nozzle opening 9c, which can reduce the flow rate of individual portions of the frozen dessert from the nozzle 9, thereby increasing the ability of individual portions of the frozen dessert to be cleanly separated from the nozzle 5.

[0055] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a longitudinal sectional view of barrel 5. (Example) Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, when the plunger 13 pushes the piston 11 along the central axis α, the piston 11 moves toward the nozzle 9. Figure 7A It shows that the plunger 11 passes approximately halfway through the cylindrical tube 7, while Figure 7B The plunger 11 is shown in its final position after the individual portions of the frozen dessert have been dispensed.

[0056] For a frozen dessert dispenser 1 using containers or drums 5, it is important to provide a device for protecting and containing the frozen desserts within the drums 5. A sealing or closure device must be provided to reduce the possibility of contamination of the frozen desserts and to prevent soiling of storage containers, transport vehicles, freezers, dispensers, trash cans, etc. The seal formed at the interface between the piston 11 and the bore 7b also needs to withstand the high pressure generated during the dispensing process. For this purpose, the piston 11 includes a circumferential seal 11b made of a flexible material that engages the bore 7b of the cylindrical tube 7, having an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the bore 7b. When one or both of the tube 7 and the piston 11 are made of flexible materials (e.g., elastomers), the engagement of the components typically forces the diameter of the tube 7 to be larger, the diameter of the piston 11 to be smaller, or some combination of both.

[0057] The circumferential seal 11b may have multiple radial grooves 11bb formed thereon to form radially extending ribs, each rib contributing to the overall sealing capability between the piston 11 and the bore 7b. These grooves reduce the contact surface area between the sidewall of the piston 11 and the bore 7b of the tube 7. The result is the formation of circumferential stress, leading to an increase in contact pressure and thereby increasing the interface's ability to form a seal.

[0058] The tube 7 may also have a flange or lip 7d formed on its second end 5b so that it can be gripped by claws as described below during the discharge tube 5.

[0059] Figure 7C and Figure 7D A bottom view of the feed cylinder 5 is shown. It can be seen from the figure that the nozzle opening 9c can be star-shaped. Figure 7C (corresponding to) Figure 7A In the process, the nose 11aa of the plunger 11 is not yet visible because the plunger 11 only passes through about half of the cylindrical tube 7. Figure 7D (corresponding to) Figure 7B In the process, after the individual portions of the frozen dessert are dispensed, the plunger 11 is in its final position, so that the nose tip 11aa of the plunger 11 can be seen penetrating the nozzle opening 9c, or even protruding slightly from the nozzle opening 9c.

[0060] The extended nose 11aa of piston 11 can be sized and shaped to pass through, penetrate, or even slightly protrude from nozzle opening 9c, facilitating the cutting off of the frozen dessert flow from nozzle 9. Thus, when cap 23 is removed, as piston 11 travels from second end 5b to first end 5a until piston 11 reaches nozzle 9, nozzle opening 9c can first be fully opened. Then the nose 11aa penetrates nozzle 9, causing the nose tip 11aa to reduce the flow of individual portions of frozen dessert from nozzle opening 9c, thereby increasing the ability to cleanly separate individual portions of frozen dessert from the container 5.

[0061] Therefore, as Figure 7F As best seen in the middle, the piston 11 may include a cylindrical or truncated conical nose 11a with a nose tip 11aa, a sealing region 11b, and a conical surface 11c connecting the nose 11a to the sealing region 11b.

[0062] Figure 7E A perspective cross-sectional view of the feed cylinder 5 is shown. The feed cylinder 5 may include ribs 7c, which are designed to divide the frozen dessert flow into channels as it advances toward the star-shaped nozzle opening 9c. When the ribs 7c are aligned with the star shape of the nozzle opening 9c and are able to guide the resulting ice cream channels to each convex corner of the star pattern of the nozzle opening 9c, the accumulation of frozen dessert pressure is mitigated to some extent.

[0063] Therefore, the nozzle 9 may include a star-shaped nozzle opening 9c, through which at least a majority of a single portion of the frozen dessert exits the barrel 5. Internal ribs 7c may be aligned with the star-shaped nozzle opening 9c. Each rib 7c may taper gradually as it extends radially inward from the hole 7b of the cylindrical tube 7 toward the axial center α of the cylindrical tube 7. As each rib 7c extends radially inward from the hole 7b of the cylindrical tube 7 toward the axial center α of the cylindrical tube 7, it may descend from the second end 5b toward the first end 5a (i.e., toward the nozzle opening 9c). A single portion of the frozen dessert may ultimately resemble the star shape of the nozzle opening upon exit.

[0064] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary plunger 13 is shown. Machine 1 can operate 24 / 7 in a typical retail environment. Therefore, preventing frozen dessert leakage is crucial, as it can impair the normal functioning of machine 1, thereby adversely affecting the quality of the dispensed products or the overall effectiveness of the dispensing equipment. The plunger 13 is designed to mitigate leakage.

[0065] The plunger 13 may include an upper plunger portion 13a, a lower plunger portion 13b, and an elastic ring 15 disposed between the two. The upper plunger portion 13a may have an inclined surface 13aa that engages the elastic ring 15 from the top. The lower plunger portion 13b may have an inclined surface 13ba that engages the elastic ring 15 from the bottom. The upper plunger portion 13a and the lower plunger portion 13b may be elastically connected with a gap 13c between them, such that when the plunger 13 applies an axial force to the piston 11, the upper plunger portion 13a and the lower plunger portion 13b are pushed against each other to at least partially close the gap 13c. Similarly, the first inclined surface 13aa and the second inclined surface 13ba are pushed against each other, axially compressing the elastic ring 15, thereby causing the elastic ring 15 to expand radially outward against the inner wall of the piston 11. This forces the outer wall of piston 11 against the hole 7b of tube 7 of barrel 5, which promotes a seal between piston 11 and hole 7b of barrel 5, thereby preventing leakage of frozen dessert between the two.

[0066] The dynamic sealing / force feedback nature of plunger 13 exists in the fact that the greater the force applied to plunger 13 (typically for colder, harder frozen desserts), the more forceful the radial expansion of the elastic ring 15 will be. Therefore, colder, harder frozen desserts are more likely to bypass piston 11 due to high pressure buildup, leading to increased sealing pressure. Conversely, warmer, softer frozen desserts will flow out of barrel 5 under less force from plunger 13, resulting in less radial force buildup on the elastic ring 15 between orifice 7b of tube 7 and piston 11. In this case, despite the lower sealing pressure, warmer frozen desserts will not build up enough pressure to break the seal from piston 11 to tube 7, as they will tend to leave barrel 5 via the path of least resistance (specifically nozzle opening 9c).

[0067] The plunger 13 may also include an electromechanical force sensing device 16 capable of monitoring the compression force level of the plunger 13 during dispensing. The output of the force sensing device 16 can be read by a motor controller capable of changing the power input of the motor 38. Sensing a force level exceeding a predefined safety limit may cause a reduction in the power of the motor 38, thereby reducing mechanical stress in the drive system, plunger 13, and barrel 5. Conversely, sensing a force level below the predefined safety limit during dispensing may cause an increase in the power of the motor 38, thereby accelerating the dispensing process while keeping mechanical stress below or equal to the predefined safety limit.

[0068] Figures 9-15 A cross-sectional side view of machine 1 is shown to illustrate a method of dispensing frozen desserts using machine 1.

[0069] Figure 9The process of loading the barrel 5 into the machine 1 is illustrated. As described above, the barrel carriage 3 is mounted at an angle to the first vertical moving structure 34, tilting such that the top opening 3b moves toward the front of the machine 1 to allow the user to insert the barrel 5 into the barrel carriage 3. Once inserted, the nozzle neck 9b of the barrel 5 protrudes from the bottom opening 3c, and the nozzle shoulder 9a rests on the support wall 3d of the barrel carriage 3. After the user inserts the barrel 5 into the barrel carriage 3, the user can close the door 4 of the machine 1 and can also press the "Start" button on the control 8 of the machine 1 to start the automatic part of the process.

[0070] Figure 10 This shows the beginning of the automated portion of the frozen dessert dispensing process. From Figure 9 At the outward tilted position, the hopper carriage 3 carrying the hopper 5 can then tilt in the opposite direction, causing the top opening 3b to move to a position where the hopper carriage 3 and the piston 11 are axially aligned with the plunger 13. However, before dispensing frozen desserts, the machine 1 removes the lid 23 of the hopper 5.

[0071] Figure 11 The engagement of the lid gripper 60 with the lid 23 is shown. The vertical movement structure 34 includes a servo mechanism 62 that moves the lid gripper 60 horizontally forward to engage with the lid 23 at a recess in the lid 23.

[0072] Figure 12 The removal of cap 23 is shown. After engaging cap 23, cap gripper 60 can move vertically downward to remove cap 23 from barrel 5. Cap 23 can be installed on barrel 5 by interference fit, and cap gripper 60 can apply sufficient axial force downward to break the interference fit, while nozzle shoulder 9a rests on support wall 3d of barrel carriage 3.

[0073] Figure 13 The diagram shows that after the lid 23 is removed, the lid gripper 60 moves horizontally, moving the lid 23 from the path of the frozen dessert toward the rear of the machine.

[0074] Figure 14 The engagement of piston 11 and plunger 13 is shown. Drive source 36 moves the first vertical moving structure 34 vertically upward to move the barrel trolley 3 vertically upward, causing plunger 13 to enter the opening 3b at the top. Finally, plunger 13 engages with piston 11 and pushes piston 11 along the central axis α, while support wall 3d moves vertically upward against shoulder 5a of barrel 5, thereby pushing the frozen dessert through nozzle 9.

[0075] Simultaneously, the second drive source 46 drives the second vertical moving structure 44 vertically upward, while the turntable 33 rotates. Therefore, the machine 1 simultaneously rotates and moves the dessert cup C upward. This simultaneous motion causes at least some of the frozen dessert to be dispensed into the dessert cup C through the nozzle 9 in a rotating spiral shape. In one embodiment, the first vertical moving structure 34 moves vertically upward at a different speed than the second vertical moving structure 44.

[0076] Figure 15 The result of the dispensing portion of the process is shown. Piston 11 reaches nozzle 9, thereby extracting most of the frozen dessert that was previously located in barrel 5.

[0077] Figure 16A and Figure 16B A front view and a cross-sectional view of frame 32 in its initial position are shown. Frame 32 and its components represent a cup positioning mechanism configured to support and transport cups C, which are set to receive individual portions of frozen dessert. Cup positioning mechanism 32 lifts cup C from its initial position to one or more dispensing positions along a central axis β. In some embodiments, the central axis β of cup C may coincide with the central axis α of the container 5, while in other embodiments, the central axis β of cup C may be horizontally offset relative to the central axis α of the container 5. This allows the frozen dessert to be evenly distributed within cup C, rather than just at the center of cup C. Cup positioning mechanism 32 may also rotate cup C to aid in shaping as the frozen dessert is dispensed into cup C. Figure 16C and Figure 16D The top and bottom perspective views of frame 32, which raises cup C from the starting position to one or more assigned positions, are shown. Figure 16E and Figure 16F The control system / process for the cup positioning mechanism 32 is shown.

[0078] A potential problem with dispensing frozen desserts in the manner described herein is that spillage may occur because the cup C may not be at the proper distance / position from the nozzle 9 at certain stages of the dispensing cycle. However, in the device 1 of the present invention, the cup positioning mechanism 32 can lift / lower and rotate the cup C as needed during the dispensing cycle to ensure that the cup C is always in the correct position to avoid spillage. The cup positioning mechanism 32 can lift the cup C toward the dispensing nozzle 9, putting it in motion, and then dynamically maintain it in a position determined relative to the dispensing nozzle 9 to ideally complete the dispensing. The device 1 and / or the cup positioning mechanism 32 may include a computer program that determines the correct position, speed, and rotation during the dispensing cycle.

[0079] Device 1 and / or cup positioning mechanism 32 can also provide post-dispensing movement (rotation and / or translation) for the cup to neatly break the frozen dessert at the nozzle 9. The cup positioning mechanism 32 can again translate and rotate relative to the nozzle 9 as needed to separate the ice cream from the nozzle 9 and ideally complete the dispensing. Finally, the cup positioning mechanism 32 can return the cup C to the unloading / reloading position (i.e., the starting position) so that it can be taken away by the user after the frozen dessert dispensing is complete.

[0080] A second vertical moving structure 44 and a second fixed structure 45 can be constructed on the cup positioning mechanism 32. The second vertical moving structure 44 carries a turntable 33 on which the cup C rests to receive frozen dessert extruded from the barrel 5. The second vertical moving structure 44 may also include a motor 58 for rotating the turntable 33. The second fixed structure 45 carries a second drive source 46. The drive source 46 may include a motor 48, a gear 50, and a lead screw 52. Actuating the second drive source 46 causes the second vertical moving structure 44 to move vertically relative to the second fixed structure 45. Therefore, actuating the second drive source 46 causes the cup C to move vertically relative to the plunger 13 while simultaneously rotating the turntable 33.

[0081] The fine translation and rotational movements of cup C can be programmed using multiple control segments. The cup positioning mechanism 32 can divide the dispensing process into four increments (also known as positions), such as... Figure 16E As shown. Each increment has specified distance, velocity, and rotation values, which can be used... Figure 16F The interface allows programming of the specified distance, speed, and rotation values. Setting the program / controller to specific values ​​allows control of the cup positioning mechanism 32, as different positions require different speeds and rotations to deposit frozen desserts into the cup C in the desired manner.

[0082] To begin dispensing, the cup positioning mechanism 32 can be raised from the initial position to the starting position. This movement can be achieved solely through translation; no rotational motion is required to bring the cup C to the starting position. The distance and speed are defined by the starting position and the jogging speed, respectively. Once the cup C is in the starting position and with the assistance of the controller / program, the cup positioning mechanism 32 can raise the cup C to the next position, namely dispensing position #1. The dispensing position is determined by the dispensing distance (in inches). At this point, rotational motion can begin to shape the frozen dessert dispensed into the cup C. The cup positioning mechanism 32 can continue to raise the cup C from dispensing position #1 to dispensing position #2, dispensing position #3, and dispensing position #4. Typically, the cup positioning mechanism 32 follows the lifting motion of the nozzle 9 to raise the cup C to dispensing position #4, although not necessarily at the same speed or distance.

[0083] At dispensing position #4, the frozen dessert can be dispensed, but some frozen dessert may still be attached to cup C from nozzle 9. To disconnect any remaining frozen dessert, a new motion called the Fatigue Cycling Mode can be introduced. This motion alternately lifts and lowers cup C and / or alternately rotates cup C clockwise and counterclockwise (i.e., twists and unwinds) to fatigue any frozen dessert that may still be attached to cup C from nozzle 9. This programmed mode can be repeated as needed, alternatingly stretching and compressing the frozen dessert until it is finally disconnected.

[0084] Once the frozen dessert has been configured and the fatigue cycle mode has ended, the cup positioning mechanism 32 can return cup C to its starting position (i.e., the initial position or the unloading / reloading position). The user can then remove cup C from service area 6, and machine 1 is ready for another cycle / distribution.

[0085] use Figure 16F The interface shown combines Figure 16E The diagram shows that the movement (translation and rotation) of the cup positioning mechanism 32 and the cup C can be controlled almost perfectly using device 1. Furthermore, this control can be customized according to the specific type of frozen dessert to be dispensed. Therefore, compared to frozen desserts such as frozen yogurt, another frozen dessert, such as ice cream, may require different translation distances and speeds and / or rotations to be dispensed perfectly and neatly into cup C. Device 1 can be configured to acquire information about the specific type of frozen dessert to be dispensed (e.g., using a barcode in the container 5, information input using control 8, etc.) and select a program including optimal parameters (dispensing position, translation speed, rotation speed, fatigue algorithm, etc.) specifically tailored for that particular type of frozen dessert.

[0086] When dispensing frozen desserts, it is important to keep cup C secure to properly shape the frozen desserts inside and prevent potential spills. For example, rotating cup C during a dispensing cycle may cause it to tip over due to uneven initial loading. A displaced cup C may cause frozen desserts to spill out of its container. Ideally, cup C should remain centered and secured on the movable cup holder / turntable 33. Furthermore, after dispensing, the user should be able to easily remove cup C and insert a new empty cup for the next dispensing.

[0087] Figure 17A A top perspective view of the cup holder / turntable 33 is shown. Figure 17B A cross-sectional view of the cup holder / turntable 33 in its initial position is shown. Figure 17C A cross-sectional view is shown shortly after the cup holder / turntable 33 is lifted from its initial position.

[0088] The cup positioning mechanism 32 may include a cup clamping mechanism and a system located within the device 1 that accepts a serving cup C, in which frozen desserts will be stored. The user can easily and intuitively place the cup C into the cup holder / turntable 33 and remove it after serving. As described above, the cup clamping mechanism is designed to automatically clamp the cup C after it has been raised from its initial position to one of the serving positions. This keeps the cup C fixed during serving, preventing spillage as described above and ensuring that the cup C rotates as needed to provide the desired appearance. When the cup holder / turntable 33 returns to its initial position, the cup clamping mechanism automatically retracts to release the cup C, facilitating the removal of a full cup and the placement of a new empty cup for the next serving. This cup clamping mechanism can utilize the existing motors of machine 1; no additional motors are required except for those initially used for other functions.

[0089] The cup clamping mechanism may include three or more spring-loaded jaws 37, each configured to pivot toward the cup C under the push of a spring 39 to clamp the cup C when the cup positioning mechanism 32 lifts the cup C from its initial position. When the cup positioning mechanism 32 returns the cup C to its initial position, the jaws 37 pivot away from the cup C to compress the spring 39 and release the cup C. Each spring-loaded jaw 37 may include a lever member 41 having a generally vertical lever end 41a operably connected to the spring 39 and a generally horizontal lever end 41b extending perpendicularly to the lever end 41a. The two lever ends 41a, 41b meet at a fulcrum 47 about which the lever member 41 pivots.

[0090] The cup clamping mechanism may also include a step 49, which, when the cup holder / turntable 33 is in the initial position, applies a force to the generally horizontal lever end 41b, causing the generally vertical lever end 41a to pivot away from the cup C and compress the spring 39. When the cup positioning mechanism 32 lifts the cup holder / turntable 33 from the initial position, the lever component 41 lifts away from the step 49, thereby releasing the force from the generally horizontal lever end 41b, causing the generally vertical lever end 41a to pivot towards the cup C under the push of the spring 39 to clamp the cup C. When the cup positioning mechanism 32 lifts the holder / turntable 33 from the initial position, the step 49 disengages from the fixing post 51 statically mounted to the second fixing structure 45 (in Figure 16C and Figure 16D (best shown in the diagram) contact, which allows the spring 39 to act on the vertical lever end 41a, which in turn allows the horizontal lever end 41b to force the pedal 49 downward through a controlled gap, which in turn allows the vertical lever end 41a to move to contact the cup C.

[0091] Figure 18The diagram shows the reattachment of lid 23 to the container 3. Frozen desserts such as ice cream can become messy if not properly managed. Therefore, some dessert may still remain inside the container 3 before it is discarded, and the machine 1 reattaches the container 3 to prevent spillage. After the frozen dessert has been dispensed, the lid gripper 60 can move generally horizontally toward the front of the machine 1, and thereafter, typically vertically (e.g., along axis α) toward the container trolley 3, to reattach lid 23 to the container 3. In another embodiment, lid 23 can be disposed of independently of the container 3 into the waste bin 54, and vice versa.

[0092] Figure 19A An embodiment of a mechanism is shown for clamping and holding the barrel 5 so as to remove it from the barrel carriage 3 when the barrel carriage 3 moves vertically downward. The plunger 13 may include one or more radial clamps 70 and a servo mechanism 43 configured to cause the radial clamps 70 to extend radially within the cylindrical tube 7 to grip the barrel 5. Figure 19B A perspective view of an exemplary plunger 13 is shown to reveal more details of the radial clamp 70. The radial clamp 70 can extend radially and clamp the barrel 5 from the inside to hold it. Actuating the first drive source 36 causes the first vertical moving structure 34 to move vertically downward, thereby moving the barrel carriage 3 vertically downward, while the radial clamp 70 holds the barrel 5, thereby removing the barrel 5 from the barrel carriage 3.

[0093] Figure 20A An embodiment of a mechanism for discarding the cartridge 5 using a radial clamp 70 is shown. The plunger 13 can be tiltably connected to a fixed structure 35 and to a servo mechanism configured to tilt the plunger 13. The machine 1 may include a ramp 72 that descends as it extends away from the front of the machine 1. The higher end of the ramp 72 can be configured to receive the cartridge 5 from the plunger 13 when the plunger 13 is tilted. The lower end of the ramp 72 can be positioned above the waste bin 54 to feed the cartridge 5 into the waste bin 54. Once the plunger 13 is tilted... Figure 20A As shown, the ramp 72 can be tilted to a position below the plunger 13. Then, the radial clamp 70 can release the cartridge 5 by radial retraction. The ramp 72 receives the cartridge 5 and feeds it into the bin 54. Afterward, the ramp 72 can return to its initial position to allow the plunger 13 to rotate back to a vertical position. The bin 54 can be located within the main frame 30 relative to the ramp 72 to receive the fed cartridge 5. The ramp 72 may include a sensor 73 to sense and send a signal and / or alarm to stop the machine 1 for maintenance when the bin 54 is full. The machine 1 may include a sensor 75 to sense and send a signal and / or alarm to stop the machine 1 for maintenance when the bin 54 is not present.

[0094] Figure 20B and Figure 20C Another embodiment of the mechanism using a claw 74 to discard the feed cylinder 5 is shown. Figure 20B and Figure 20C In one embodiment, machine 1 includes a track 76 and a trolley 78 that travels on the track 76. A plunger 13 is operatively connected to the trolley 78, and the trolley 78 includes at least two spring-loaded claws 74 forming a claw mechanism. Each claw 74 may have a chamfered surface 74a formed thereon, which can engage with the chamfered surface 74a to pivotally open the claw 74 during the process of the trolley 3 fully raising the trolley 5 to complete the dispensing of frozen dessert. The trolley 5 may have a flange or lip 7d formed thereon, which can engage with the spring-loaded claws 74 to retain the trolley 5. Figure 20B and Figure 20C In the embodiment, the plunger 13 does not require a radial clamp because the claw 74 instead holds the barrel 5.

[0095] After the claw 74 engages with the cylinder 5, the cylinder trolley 3 can descend, leaving the cylinder 5 behind (i.e., above). Subsequently, the trolley 78 can be driven by the motor 80 to travel along the track 76, while the cylinder 5 is pulled toward the rear of the machine 1. The machine 1 may also include a mounting plate 79 disposed adjacent to the rear end 76a of the track 76. The mounting plate 79 may have features (e.g., fingers) corresponding to features (e.g., chamfered surfaces) of the spring-loaded claw 74, such that the features of the mounting plate 79 can interact with the features of the spring-loaded claw 74 to open the claw mechanism and thereby release the cylinder 5. The machine 1 may include a ramp 72 disposed below the mounting plate 79. The ramp 72 can receive the cylinder 5 and feed it into the bin 54. The bin 54 may be located within the main frame 30 relative to the ramp 72 to receive the fed cylinder 5.

[0096] After processing the material cylinder 5, the trolley 78 can return to the front of the machine 1 so that the machine is ready for the next use.

[0097] Figure 21 and Figure 22 The removal of trash can 54 is illustrated. Installing and removing trash can 54 via the side or rear panel of machine 1 may not be feasible because obstructions (such as adjacent machines or walls) could block such a path. The hinged frame 32 can be hinged to the main frame 30 to pivot relative to the main frame 30. (As shown...) Figure 21 As shown, in the service mode of machine 1, the first vertical moving structure 34 moves vertically upward relative to the main frame 30, and the articulated frame 32 pivots relative to the main frame 30. This creates sufficient openings to allow for frontal removal of the trash can 54 from within the main frame 30, as... Figure 22 As shown.

[0098] definition

[0099] The following includes definitions of selected terms used herein. These definitions include various examples or component forms that fall within the scope of the terms and can be used for implementation. These examples are not intended to be limiting. Both singular and plural forms of the terms may be within the scope of the definitions.

[0100] As used herein, "operable connection" or "operable coupling," or the connection of entities through their "operable connection" or "operable coupling," refers to a way in which entities are connected that enables the entities to perform as intended. An operational connection can be a direct or indirect connection, wherein an intermediate entity collaborates or otherwise becomes part of the connection or is located between the entities in the operational connection. In the context of signaling, an "operable connection," or the connection of entities in an operational connection, refers to a connection that allows the sending or receiving of signals, physical communication, or logical communication. Typically, operational connections include physical interfaces, electrical interfaces, or data interfaces; however, it should be noted that operational connections may include different combinations of these or other types of connections sufficient to allow for operable control. For example, two entities can be operationally connected by communicating directly with each other or by communicating with each other through one or more intermediate entities (such as processors, operating systems, logic, software, or other entities). Logical or physical communication channels can be used to create operational connections.

[0101] Whenever the terms “comprising” or “containing” are used in a detailed description or claims, they are intended to be inclusive, similar to the term “including”, when used as a transitional word in the claims. Furthermore, whenever the term “or” (e.g., A or B) is used in a detailed description or claims, it is intended to mean “A or B or both.” When the applicant intends to indicate “only A or B, not both,” the term “only A or B, not both” will be used. Therefore, the use of the term “or” in this document is inclusive, not exclusive. See Bryan A. Garner, Dictionary of Modern Legal Usage 624 (2nd edition, 1995).

[0102] Although exemplary systems, methods, etc., have been described by way of example, and although the examples have been described in considerable detail, the applicant does not intend to limit or in any way restrict such detail. Of course, it is impossible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methods used to illustrate the systems, methods, etc., described herein. Other advantages and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the specific details, representative devices, and illustrative examples shown and described. Thus, this application is intended to include changes, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, the foregoing description is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Rather, the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A machine (1) for dispensing separate portions of frozen desserts, said machine comprising: A hopper cart (3) having a longitudinal central axis (α) and configured to receive a hopper (5) comprising a tube (7) having a first end (5a) and a second end (5b), a nozzle (9) disposed at the first end, and a piston (11) disposed between the nozzle and the second end and configured to slidably move along the tube, wherein the frozen dessert is contained within the tube between the nozzle and the piston; A plunger (13) is installed to move the trolley relative to the plunger along the central axis; A drive source, operably coupled to the hopper carriage and configured to drive the hopper carriage to engage the plunger along the central axis; A support, configured to support a first end of the barrel, wherein the plunger engages with the piston such that the tube is radially supported by the barrel carriage and axially supported by the support, and the drive source is actuated to dispense at least some of the frozen dessert as individual portions through the nozzle; A cup positioning mechanism (32) is configured to support and transport a cup set to receive a portion of a dispensed frozen dessert, wherein the cup positioning mechanism is configured to lift the cup from an initial position to one or more dispensing positions. The plunger (13) includes an elastic ring (15) disposed between an upper plunger portion (13a) and a lower plunger portion (13b). The upper plunger portion (13a) has a first surface (13aa) that engages with the elastic ring (15), and the lower plunger portion (13b) has a second surface (13ba) that engages with the elastic ring. The upper and lower plunger portions are elastically connected, with a gap (13c) between them, such that when the plunger (13) engages with the piston (11), the upper plunger... The plug portion and the lower plunger portion are pushed toward each other to at least partially close the gap (13c), and the first surface (13aa) and the second surface (13ba) are pushed toward each other to axially compress the elastic ring (15), thereby causing the elastic ring to expand radially outward to abut against the inner wall of the piston (11), thereby forcing the outer wall of the piston against the hole (7b) of the barrel (5), thereby promoting a seal between the piston (11) and the hole (7b) of the barrel, thereby preventing leakage of frozen dessert between them.

2. The machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The cup positioning mechanism (32) is also configured to rotate the cup located at a first distribution position among the one or more distribution positions to shape it when the individual portion is distributed into the cup.

3. The machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The cup positioning mechanism (32) is also configured to rotate the cup as it lifts the cup from a first allocation position among the one or more allocation positions to a second allocation position among the one or more allocation positions, to a third allocation position among the one or more allocation positions, and to a fourth allocation position among the one or more allocation positions.

4. The machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The cup positioning mechanism (32) is also configured to rotate the cup as it vertically lowers and vertically raises the cup from one of the one or more dispensing positions to another of the one or more dispensing positions and returns, so that the frozen dessert is at least partially fatigued when the individual portion is dispensed, and to further lower the cup relative to the hopper cart to disconnect the individual portion from any remaining frozen dessert in the hopper.

5. The machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The cup positioning mechanism (32) is also configured to, when it vertically lowers and vertically raises the cup from one of the one or more distribution positions to another of the one or more distribution positions and returns, first rotate clockwise and then counterclockwise, or first rotate counterclockwise and then clockwise, so that the frozen dessert is at least partially fatigued when the individual portion is dispensed, and further lowers the cup relative to the hopper cart to disconnect the individual portion from any remaining frozen dessert in the hopper.

6. The machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The cup positioning mechanism (32) is also configured to lower the cup to its initial position after the individual portion has been assigned to the cup.

7. The machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The cup positioning mechanism (32) includes a cup clamping mechanism that receives and clamps the cup when the cup positioning mechanism lifts the cup from the initial position to one or more assigned positions, and releases the cup when the cup positioning mechanism returns the cup from one or more assigned positions to the initial position.

8. The machine as claimed in claim 7, wherein, The cup clamping mechanism includes three or more spring-loaded jaws (37), each spring-loaded jaw being configured to pivot away from the cup to compress the spring (39) and release the cup when the cup positioning mechanism is in the initial position, and to pivot toward the cup under the push of the spring to clamp the cup when the cup positioning mechanism is lifted from the initial position.

9. The machine as claimed in claim 8, wherein, Each of the spring-loaded jaws (37) includes a lever member (41) having a first lever end (41a) and a second lever end (41b). The first lever end (41a) extends approximately along a central axis in an initial position and is operatively connected to the spring (39). The second lever end (41b) extends approximately perpendicular to the first lever end (41a). The first and second lever ends meet at a fulcrum (47). The lever member (41) pivots about the fulcrum (47). The cup clamping mechanism includes a pedal. (49) When the cup positioning mechanism (32) is in the initial position, the pedal applies a force to the second lever end (41b), causing the first lever end to pivot away from the cup and compress the spring (39), and the cup clamping mechanism is configured to lift the lever member (41) away from the pedal (49) when the cup positioning mechanism (32) is lifted from the initial position, thereby releasing the force from the second lever end (41b), causing the first lever end (41a) to pivot toward the cup under the push of the spring (39).

10. The machine of claim 1, wherein the plunger (13) includes a plunger force sensor configured to monitor the plunger force during dispensing and to change the power of the drive source based on the plunger force.

11. The machine as claimed in claim 1, comprising: Track (76); A trolley (78) travels on the track and the plunger (13) is operably connected to the trolley (78). The trolley includes at least two spring-loaded claws (74) forming a claw mechanism. Each claw has a chamfered surface (74a) and is configured to pivot to open the claw mechanism and subsequently hold the barrel when the barrel (5) is axially raised to engage the chamfered surface. Mounting plate (79) is disposed near one end of the track and has features thereon that correspond to the features of the spring-loaded claw. and The ramp (72) is provided below the mounting plate (79); The machine is configured to transport the trolley (78) together with the barrel (5) toward the mounting plate (79) along the track (76) after the individual portions have been dispensed, such that features of the mounting plate interact with features of the spring-loaded claw (74) to open the claw mechanism and thereby release the barrel (5) to fall into the ramp (72).

12. The machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims, comprising a container (5) for dispensing separate portions of frozen desserts within the machine, the container comprising: A tube having a first end and a second end (7); A nozzle (9) is provided at the first end; and A piston (11) is disposed between the nozzle and the second end and is configured to move slidably along the tube, wherein a separate portion of the frozen dessert is contained within the tube between the nozzle and the piston.

13. The machine of claim 12, wherein the piston (11) comprises: A circumferential seal engages with a bore in the tube and has an outer diameter greater than the inner diameter of the bore. The circumferential seal has a plurality of radial grooves formed thereon to form radially extending ribs, each rib contributing to the overall sealing capability between the piston and the bore.

14. The machine as claimed in claim 12, wherein, The nozzle (9) includes: A star-shaped nozzle opening (9c) from which at least a majority of a single portion of the frozen dessert exits the container (5). Multiple internal ribs (7c) aligned with the star-shaped nozzle opening, each of which tapers radially inward from the hole of the tube (7) toward the axial center of the tube, each of which descends from the second end toward the first end as it extends radially inward from the hole of the tube toward the axial center of the tube, the multiple internal ribs (7c) serving to divide the individual portions of the frozen dessert into channels as they advance toward the opening (9c), ultimately presenting a star shape as the individual portions of the frozen dessert depart.

15. The machine as described in claim 12, The piston (11) comprises: A circumferential seal (11b) engages with the bore of the tube (7) and has an outer diameter greater than the inner diameter of the bore. The circumferential seal (11b) has a plurality of radial grooves (11bb) formed thereon to form radially extending ribs, each rib contributing to the overall sealing capability between the piston (11) and the bore. and A cylindrical or truncated conical nasal body (11a) with a nasal tip (11aa). and The truncated conical surface (11c) connects the seal and the nose-like body. The nozzle (9) includes: A star-shaped nozzle opening (9c) from which at least a majority of a single portion of the frozen dessert exits the barrel (5), and the diameter of the circle intersecting the intersecting edge of the star-shaped nozzle opening corresponds to the diameter of the nose tip (11aa). A plurality of internal ribs (7c) aligned with the star-shaped nozzle opening (9c), each of the ribs (7c) tapering radially inward from the hole of the tube (7) toward the axial center of the tube, each of the ribs descending from the second end toward the first end as it extends radially inward from the hole of the tube (7) toward the axial center of the tube, the plurality of internal ribs (7c) serving to divide the individual portions of the frozen dessert into channels as they advance toward the opening; as well as As the piston (11) travels from the second end toward the first end until it reaches the nozzle (9), the nozzle opening (9c) first fully opens, and then the nose (11a) penetrates the nozzle (9), causing the nose tip (11aa) to reduce the flow rate of individual portions of the frozen dessert from the nozzle, thereby increasing the ability to cleanly separate individual portions of the frozen dessert from the barrel (5).

Images