Gate plates and gate assemblies for forming food ingredients

Abstract

The shutter piece (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) includes an upper portion (13) and a lower portion (15) of the opening side (7, 107, 207, 307, 407). The upper portion (13) includes an upper edge (13a) and an intermediate edge (14a). When the plurality of shutter pieces (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) are swung to close the opening (5), the top end (13e) of the upper edge (13a) is closed, and then the top end (14e) of the intermediate edge (14a) is closed. The lower portion (15) includes a protruding edge (15a, 115a, 415a) located between the upper edge (13a) and the intermediate edge (14a) when viewed from above. The gate piece (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) is configured so that when the top end (13e) of the upper edge (13a) is closed, a ceiling space (S, SS1, SS4) is formed to receive the peripheral edge (DE) of the outer skin material (D). The gate piece (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) is configured so that while the outer skin material (D) in the ceiling space (S, SS1, SS4) is retained by the lower portion (17), the upper space (S1, SS11, SS41) is reduced until the top end (14e) of the middle edge (14a) is closed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a gate assembly used when wrapping internal materials into flat food raw materials and a gate sheet constituting the gate assembly. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 relates to a method and apparatus for encapsulating and forming food, disclosing a method for encapsulating an inner material by closing a shutter assembly composed of a plurality of shutter pieces. The side surfaces of each shutter piece include a leading edge portion, which is sealed first by the closing action of the shutter assembly; a trailing edge portion, which is closed later than the leading edge portion; and a chamfered portion located between the leading and trailing edges.

[0003] In this molding method, the peripheral edge of the outer skin material is sealed by the rear edge while the front edges or inclined surfaces of adjacent shutter pieces are closed. Therefore, the outer skin material can wrap the inner material without protruding from the shutter assembly (Patent Document 1).

[0004] Patent Document 2 also discloses a shutter plate, a shutter assembly, a shutter device, and a forming device for use in forming stuffed foods. The shutter plate comprises a first side surface that seals the periphery of an outer skin material above an inner skin material, and a second side surface that is located below the first side surface and contacts the outer skin material before the first side surface, thereby gathering the outer skin material toward the upper center of the inner skin material.

[0005] In this gate structure, the second side surface contacts the outer skin material before the first side surface seals the outer skin material. Positioned below the first side surface, the second side surface concentrates and stretches the outer skin material near the inner material, thereby enhancing the gathering effect. The first side surface then seals the outer skin material gathered above the inner material.

[0006] In this gate assembly, when the top edge of the 1st side of each gate piece is located at the center of the opening of the gate assembly, the closing action is stopped and the opening is sealed. At this time, a concave space is formed in the center of the lower surface of the gate assembly (patent document 2).

[0007] Furthermore, in the bottom portion of the shutter pieces described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the angle formed by the intersection of the side surface and the bottom surface of the shutter piece forming the opening is substantially a right angle.

[0008] Prior art literature

[0009] Patent Literature

[0010] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-052299

[0011] Patent Document 2: International Publication No. 2016 / 199720 Summary of the Invention

[0012] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0013] In the gate assembly described in Patent Document 1, the outer skin material does not protrude from the upper surface of the gate assembly during closing. However, since the rear edge is perpendicular to the upper and lower surfaces of the gate piece, the outer skin material easily moves downward, and sometimes the sealing of the outer skin material becomes insufficient.

[0014] In the gate assembly described in Patent Document 2, when the gate assembly opening is closed, the outer covering material sometimes protrudes from the upper surface of the gate assembly. To avoid this, if the closing operation is stopped before the gate assembly opening is closed, more outer covering material than necessary will remain as a protrusion on the top of the stuffed food, sometimes deteriorating the appearance of the stuffed food. Furthermore, the outer covering material may not be sufficiently sealed.

[0015] In addition, when the opening of the gate assembly is closed, the outer skin material may be left in the concave space of the lower surface of the gate assembly. However, due to the physical properties of the outer skin material, the sealing of the outer skin material may sometimes become insufficient.

[0016] Furthermore, when the shutter assembly gathers the outer covering material at the center, the bottom of the shutter piece may roughen the surface of the outer covering material.

[0017] The present invention is made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and a first object thereof is to provide a shutter piece, a shutter assembly, a shutter device, and a forming device that can reliably seal an outer skin material when forming a stuffed food.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a shutter sheet, a shutter assembly, a shutter device, and a forming device that can prevent the surface of the outer skin material from being roughened when forming stuffed food.

[0019] Solutions for solving problems

[0020] The present invention is a gate piece of a gate assembly, which is used for a gate device that uses the peripheral edge of a circular plate-shaped outer skin material to wrap an internal material supplied to the center of the outer skin material to form a stuffed food, wherein the gate piece has: a first side surface, which seals the peripheral edge of the outer skin material above the internal material; and a second side surface, which is located lower than the first side surface and contacts the outer skin material before the first side surface to make the outer skin material gather toward the upper center of the internal material, the first side surface has a convex upper edge extending from the base end to the top end when viewed from above, and a convex lower edge located lower than the upper edge and extending from the base end to the top end at a position indented than the first side surface, and the second side surface has a convex protruding edge extending from the base end to the top end between the upper edge and the lower edge when viewed from above, and has a horizontal portion.

[0021] For example, the shutter piece further includes an intermediate side surface between the first side surface and the second side surface, and the intermediate side surface has the same contour shape as the lower edge of the first side surface in the up-down direction.

[0022] For example, the protruding edge is formed as a peripheral edge of the horizontal portion.

[0023] For example, the protruding edge is formed as a peripheral edge of an upper inclined portion extending obliquely downward from the horizontal portion in a manner protruding relative to the horizontal portion.

[0024] For example, the second side surface has a vertical surface having the same contour shape as that of the protruding edge in the up-down direction.

[0025] For example, in a plan view, the width between the lower edge of the first side surface and the protruding edge narrows from the base end toward the tip end of the second side surface.

[0026] For example, the second side surface further includes a downwardly inclined portion that is set back from the protruding edge and extends obliquely downward from the protruding edge.

[0027] For example, the shutter piece further includes a top end surface located below the first side surface, located closer to the base end than the top end edge of the first side surface, and intersecting with the top end side of the second side surface.

[0028] For example, the shutter piece further includes a horizontal lower surface extending from the upper end of the top end surface toward the top end side of the shutter piece.

[0029] For example, in the shutter piece, when the shutter unit performs a closing operation, at least the first side surface, the second side surface, and the top end surface form a portion of the head space.

[0030] For example, in the shutter piece, when the shutter unit is in the fully closed state, the second side surface, the top surface, and the horizontal lower surface form a portion of the head space.

[0031] For example, a gate assembly is characterized in that it is constructed by combining a plurality of the gate sheets.

[0032] For example, a gate device is characterized in that it includes the gate assembly.

[0033] For example, a forming device comprising the gate device.

[0034] Effects of the Invention

[0035] The gate piece, gate assembly, gate device and forming device of the present invention can reliably seal the outer skin material.

[0036] Furthermore, the gate piece, the gate assembly, the gate device, and the forming device of the present invention can prevent the surface of the outer skin material from being roughened when the outer skin material is sealed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Figure 1 It is a plan view of a gate device including a gate piece and a gate assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention in a state where the opening is opened.

[0038] Figure 2 It is a plan view of the shutter piece according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Bottom view of the gate piece.

[0040] Figure 4 It will Figure 2 A top-down perspective view of the gate pieces combined.

[0041] Figure 5 It will Figure 2 A bottom side stereogram of the gate pieces combined.

[0042] Figure 6 This is a bottom perspective view of a shutter assembly including a shutter piece according to a first embodiment of the present invention, in a state where closing is started.

[0043] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A partial enlarged view of .

[0044] Figure 8 This is a bottom perspective view of a gate assembly including a gate piece according to a first embodiment of the present invention in a fully closed state.

[0045] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A partial enlarged view of .

[0046] Figure 10A It is a top view showing the opening and closing action of the gate assembly.

[0047] Figure 10B It is a top view showing the opening and closing action of the gate assembly.

[0048] Figure 10C It is a top view showing the opening and closing action of the gate assembly.

[0049] Figure 11A It is a top view of a cross section including a protruding edge, showing the opening and closing operation of the gate assembly.

[0050] Figure 11BIt is a top view of a cross section including a protruding edge, showing the opening and closing operation of the gate assembly.

[0051] Figure 11C It is a top view of a cross section including a protruding edge, showing the opening and closing operation of the gate assembly.

[0052] Figure 12 Yes means including Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the forming device of the gate device.

[0053] Figure 13 Yes means including Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the forming device of the gate device.

[0054] Figure 14 Yes means including Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the forming device of the gate device.

[0055] Figure 15 Yes means including Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the forming device of the gate device.

[0056] Figure 16 Yes means including Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the forming device of the gate device.

[0057] Figure 17 Yes means including Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the forming device of the gate device.

[0058] Figure 18 Yes means including Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the forming device of the gate device.

[0059] Figure 19 Yes means including Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the forming device of the gate device.

[0060] Figure 20 Yes means including Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the forming device of the gate device.

[0061] Figure 21 Yes means including Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the forming device of the gate device.

[0062] Figure 22 Yes means including Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the forming device of the gate device.

[0063] Figure 23 It is a plan view of a shutter piece according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 Bottom view of the gate piece.

[0065] Figure 25 It will Figure 23 A three-dimensional view of the top side of the gate pieces combined.

[0066] Figure 26 It will Figure 23 A three-dimensional view of the bottom side of the gate pieces combined.

[0067] Figure 27 Yes means including Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0068] Figure 28 Yes means including Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0069] Figure 29 Yes means including Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0070] Figure 30 Yes means including Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0071] Figure 31 Yes means including Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0072] Figure 32 Yes means including Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0073] Figure 33 Yes means including Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0074] Figure 34 Yes means including Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0075] Figure 35 Yes means including Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0076] Figure 36 Yes means including Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0077] Figure 37 Yes means including Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0078] Figure 38 It is a perspective view of a shutter piece according to a first modified example of the present invention as seen from above.

[0079] Figure 39 It is a perspective view of a shutter piece according to a second modified example of the present invention as seen from above.

[0080] Figure 40 It is a plan view of a shutter piece according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 41 yes Figure 40 A side view of the opening side of the gate piece.

[0082] Figure 42 yes Figure 40 Bottom view of the gate piece.

[0083] Figure 43 yes Figure 40 A three-dimensional image of the gate piece.

[0084] Figure 44 Yes means including Figure 40 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0085] Figure 45 Yes means including Figure 40 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0086] Figure 46 Yes means including Figure 40 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0087] Figure 47 Yes means including Figure 40 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device.

[0088] Figure 48 Yes means including Figure 40 A schematic diagram of the operation of the gate piece forming device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] Reference Figure 1 to Figure 1 1. A shutter piece and a shutter assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0090] Figure 1 The gate device 23 shown is a part of the forming device 1 described later, and comprises a base plate 23a, a hole plate 23b, a gate assembly 2 composed of eight gate plates 3 according to the first embodiment of the present invention arranged in a circumferential direction, and a drive mechanism 1a for driving the gate plates 3. The gate assembly 2 is constructed so that the eight gate plates 3 can swing synchronously, and in the fully closed state (for example, see Figure 10C) and the open state of the opening 5 (for example, referring to Figure 10A The driving mechanism 1a is, for example, a link mechanism connected to a driving motor (not shown) built into the forming device 1, and since it is conventionally known, its detailed description is omitted.

[0091] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the shutter plate 3 has an upper surface 3a, a lower surface 3b, and side surfaces 7, 9, and 11 located between the upper surface 3a and the lower surface 3b. The side surfaces 7, 9, and 11 include an opening side surface 7 that constitutes the opening 5, a contact side surface 9 that, together with the opening side surface 7, constitutes the topmost edges 13c and 14c, and another side surface 11.

[0092] The lower surface 3b and the other side surfaces 11 are provided with a drive mounting portion 3d mounted on the drive mechanism 1a. The drive mounting portion 3d is, for example, a recess or a hole, and is conventionally known, so a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0093] The opening side surface 7 includes an upper portion 13 , a lower portion 15 located below the upper portion 13 , and an intermediate portion 14 located between the upper portion 13 and the lower portion 15 .

[0094] The upper portion 13 is mainly composed of an upper edge 13a, an intermediate edge 14a, and a top edge 13c, and extends obliquely downward from the upper edge 13a toward the intermediate edge 14a (intermediate portion 14) in a manner that is retracted relative to the upper edge 13a. The upper edge 13a is convex and arc-shaped when viewed from above, and extends from the base end 13b to the top end 13e (see Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). The middle edge 14a is convex and arc-shaped when viewed from above, extending from the base end 14b to the top end 14e. The top edge 13c extends from the top end (upper end) 13e of the upper edge 13a to the top end 14e (lower end) of the middle edge 14a, and is inclined in the vertical direction. Preferably, the position of the top edge 13c is set so that when the gate piece 3 swings, the top edge 13c passes through the center 5a of the opening 5 of the gate assembly 2 (refer to Figure 10B and Figure 10C ).

[0095] The top side portion of the middle portion 14 is mainly composed of the middle edge 14a, the lower middle edge 14d (lower end) and the top edge 14c. It is a surface connecting the middle edge 14a (lower edge of the upper portion 13) and the lower middle edge 14d (upper end of the lower portion 15), and has the same contour shape in the up and down directions. The lower middle edge 14d is convex and arc-shaped when viewed from above, extending from the base end to the top 14g. The top edge 14c extends linearly in the up and down directions from the top 14e of the middle edge 14a (the upper end, i.e., the lower end of the top edge 13c) to the top 14g (lower end) of the lower middle edge 14d. Preferably, the position of the top edge 14c is set so that when the gate piece 3 swings, the top edge 14c passes through the center 5a of the opening 5 of the gate assembly 2 (refer to Figure 10C ). In addition, the width between the upper edge 13a and the middle edge 14a in a plan view widens from the base end 14b toward the top end 14e (topmost edge 14c) (see Figure 2 and Figure 3 ).

[0096] like Figure 3 As shown, the top end of lower portion 15 is positioned, in plan view, to be set back from upper edge 13a and to protrude from intermediate edge 14a and lower intermediate edge 14d (intermediate portion 14). It has a convex, arc-shaped protruding edge 15a. Protruding edge 15a extends from base end 15b to tip 15e. Tip 15e and base end 15b, in plan view, are set back from upper edge 13a toward the side surface 9 and protrude from intermediate edge 14a (lower intermediate edge 14d) toward opening 5.

[0097] In detail, Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the top side portion of the lower portion 15 includes three surfaces, namely a horizontal portion 60, an upper inclined portion 62, and a lower inclined portion 64. The horizontal portion 60 is an upward surface arranged along the lower middle edge 14d (middle portion 14), and extends horizontally from the lower middle edge 14d (middle portion 14) in a protruding manner. The width of the horizontal portion 60 protruding horizontally from the middle portion 14 narrows from the base end 15b toward the top end 15e. The upper inclined portion 62 extends obliquely downward from the horizontal portion 60 in a protruding manner. The lower inclined portion 64 extends obliquely downward from the upper inclined portion 62 in a retracted manner to the lower edge 15d (lower surface 3b). The convex protruding edge 15a is the peripheral edge of the lower portion 15, and is composed of the boundary line between the upper inclined portion 62 and the lower inclined portion 64. In addition, when viewed from above, the width between the protruding edge 15a and the middle edge 14a narrows from the base end 15b toward the top end 15e (refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 ).

[0098] Preferably, the upper inclined portion 62 is an inclined surface extending obliquely upward from the protruding edge 15a, and the longitudinal cross-sectional profile of the inclined surface may be a straight line, a convex or concave curve, or a combination thereof. In the present embodiment, the cross-sectional profile of the inclined surface of the upper inclined portion 62 is a straight line. In addition, preferably, the lower inclined portion 64 is an inclined surface extending obliquely downward from the protruding edge 15a, and the longitudinal cross-sectional profile of the inclined surface may be a straight line, a convex curve, or a combination thereof. In the present embodiment, the longitudinal cross-sectional profile of the inclined surface of the lower inclined portion 64 is a convex curve. The lower edge 15d formed by the intersection of the lower inclined portion 64 (lower side portion 15) and the lower surface 3b is convex and extends in an arc shape when viewed from above (refer to Figure 3 ).

[0099] like Figure 5 As shown, the lower portion 15 further includes a top edge 62c on the top side of the upper inclined portion 62 and a top edge 64c on the top side of the lower inclined portion 64. The top 15e of the convex protruding edge 15a is the intersection of the top edge 62c of the upper inclined portion 62 and the top edge 64c of the lower inclined portion 64.

[0100] In addition, if Figure 3 As shown, the top edge 62c of the upper inclined portion 62 and the top edge 64c of the lower inclined portion 64 are not located at the top edge 13c of the upper portion 13 and the top edge 14c of the middle portion 14 when viewed from above, that is, they are offset toward the base end 15b side of the protruding edge 15a in a manner that does not pass through the center 5a of the opening 5.

[0101] like Figure 5 As shown, the abutment side 9 has an upper portion 17 , a middle portion 18 and a lower portion 19 . Furthermore, the lower portion 19 includes a horizontal portion 70 , an upper inclined portion 72 and a lower inclined portion 74 .

[0102] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the upper portion 17 is mainly composed of an upper edge 17a, an intermediate edge 18a, and a top edge 13c common to the upper portion 13 of the opening side 7. The middle portion 18 is mainly composed of an intermediate edge 18a, a lower intermediate edge 18d, and a top edge 14c common to the middle portion 14 of the opening side 7 (see Figure 7). The horizontal portion 70 of the lower portion 19 is a downward surface extending horizontally from the lower middle edge 18d in an indented manner. The upper inclined portion 72 extends obliquely downward from the horizontal portion 70 in an indented manner and has a top edge 72c on the top side. The lower inclined portion 74 extends obliquely downward from the upper inclined portion 72 in a protruding manner to the lower edge 19d (lower surface 3b) and has a top edge 74c on the top side. The indented edge 19a between the upper inclined portion 72 and the lower inclined portion 74 extends from the base end 19b to the top end 19e, and the top end 19e is the intersection of the top edge 72c of the upper inclined portion 72 and the top edge 74c of the lower inclined portion 74 (refer to Figure 3 and Figure 9 ).

[0103] Preferably, the top edge 13c, the top edge 14c and the top edges 72c, 74c are respectively formed so that when the gate piece 3 swings, they are always in contact with the upper part 13, the middle part 14, the upper inclined part 62, and the lower inclined part 64 of the lower part 15 of the opening side 7 of the adjacent gate piece 3 without substantially generating a gap.

[0104] Furthermore, it is preferable that when the top end of the lower intermediate edge 14d of the intermediate portion 14 of the opening side surface 7 is located above the horizontal portion 60 of the lower side portion 15 of the opening side surface 7 of the adjacent shutter piece 3, the top end of the lower intermediate edge 14d is formed so as to always abut against the horizontal portion 60 without substantially any gap (see FIG. Figure 4 and Figure 5 ).

[0105] In the following description, the positions of the top end 13e (upper end) and the top end 14e (lower end) of the top edge 13c of the upper portion 13 of the opening side surface 7 at the center 5a of the opening 5 are respectively referred to as the "starting closing state" and the "fully closed state" of the gate assembly. In this embodiment, in the fully closed state, the top edge 14c of the middle portion 14 of the opening side surface 7 is also located at the center 5a of the opening 5.

[0106] Preferably, the upper portion 17, the middle portion 18 and the lower portion 19 of the abutting side 9 are respectively formed into a concave shape in a manner that abuts against the upper portion 13, the middle portion 14 and the lower portion 15 of the opening side 7 of the adjacent gate piece when the gate assembly 2 is in a fully closed state.

[0107] Specifically, the upper edge 13a and the middle edge 14a of the upper portion 13 of the opening side 7 can respectively abut against the upper edge 17a and the middle edge 18a of the upper portion 17 of the abutting side 9 of the adjacent shutter piece 3 (see Figure 10CThe middle edge 14a and the lower middle edge 14d of the middle portion 14 of the opening side surface 7 can respectively abut against the middle edge 18a and the lower middle edge 18d of the middle portion 18 of the abutting side surface 9 of the adjacent gate piece 3. The protruding edge 15a and the lower edge 15d of the lower portion 15 of the opening side surface 7 can respectively abut against the indented edge 19a and the lower edge 19d of the lower portion 19 of the abutting side surface 9 of the adjacent gate piece 3 (refer to Figure 8 That is, the upper edge 17a, the middle edge 18a, the lower middle edge 18d, the setback edge 19a, and the lower edge 19d of the contact side surface 9 are each formed in a concave arc shape in a plan view.

[0108] In addition, when viewed from above, the top edge 72c of the upper inclined portion 72 and the top edge 74c of the lower inclined portion 74 are not located at the top edge 13c of the upper portion 17 and the top edge 14c of the middle portion 18, that is, they are offset toward the base end 19b side of the indented edge 19a in a manner that does not pass through the center 5a of the opening 5.

[0109] The shutter piece 3 has a top end surface 80 that is offset from the top end edge 14c to the base end 14b side. The top end surface 80 is a combination of an upper top end surface 82 and a lower top end surface 84 (see Figure 7 ). The upper top surface 82 is a roughly quadrilateral surface with the top edge 62c of the upper inclined portion 62 of the opening side surface 7 and the top edge 72c of the upper inclined portion 72 of the abutting side surface 9 as opposite sides. In addition, the lower top surface 84 is a roughly quadrilateral surface with the top edge 64c of the lower inclined portion 64 of the opening side surface 7 and the top edge 74c of the lower inclined portion 74 of the abutting side surface 9 as opposite sides. The top surface 80 is formed to intersect with the lower side portions 15 and 19 at the top end side of the lower side portions 15 and 19. Moreover, the gate piece 3 has a downwardly facing horizontal surface extending from the upper end of the top surface 80 to the top end side of the gate piece 3. When the gate piece 3 is viewed from below, a planar intermediate lower surface 3f (refer to FIG. 3 ) including the horizontal surface and the horizontal portion 70 of the lower side portion 19 is formed on the top end side of the gate piece 3. Figure 5 and Figure 7 ).

[0110] like Figure 6 、 Figure 7 as well as Figure 10BAs shown, when the top 13e of the upper edge 13a of the opening side 7 of the gate piece 3 is positioned at the center 5a of the opening 5, the opening 5 of the gate assembly 2 is sealed by the top 13e (initial closing state). At this point, the topmost edges 13c and 14c of the gate piece 3, the top edges 72c and 74c, and the top portion of the lower intermediate edge 14d abut against the upper portion 13, the middle portion 14, and the lower portion 15 of the opening side 7 of the adjacent gate piece 3, respectively. Consequently, a concave and convex ceiling space S is formed on the opening side 7 of each gate piece 3, defined by the inclined upper portion 13, the vertically extending middle portion 14, the lower portion 15 protruding toward the opening 5, the top surface 80 offset from the top end of the gate piece 3 toward the base end, the lower portion 19 continuous with the top surface 80, and the intermediate lower surface 3f. The ceiling space S is composed of a first space S1 having a substantially octagonal pyramid shape surrounded by eight upper portions 13, a second space S2 having a substantially octagonal column shape surrounded by eight middle portions 14, and the remaining third space S3, in order from the top (see FIG. Figure 19 ).

[0111] When the gate assembly 2 is moved from the initial closed state to Figure 8 、 Figure 9 as well as Figure 10C During the fully closed state shown, the entire ceiling space S is reduced. Specifically, the height and diameter of the first space S1 are reduced, and the diameter of the second space S2 is reduced.

[0112] As a result, when the shutter assembly 2 reaches the fully closed state, the first space S1 and the second space S2 disappear, and the top space S is composed only of the reduced third space S3 (see Figure 21 Specifically, the top of the third space S3 is formed by the intermediate lower surfaces 3f of the top ends of the eight shutter pieces 3, and the remaining portion of the third space S3 is surrounded by eight top ends 80 offset from the topmost edges 13c and 14c toward the base end, and a lower portion 19 continuous with the top ends 80.

[0113] Next, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 16 , an overview of an exemplary forming apparatus using a gate device including a gate assembly is described.

[0114] The forming device 1 is used to form a stuffed food product P in which an inner material F is wrapped with an outer material D. In the forming device 1, the portion related to the present invention will be mainly described, and description of other conventionally known portions will be omitted.

[0115] The forming device 1 includes: a supply and conveying device 21, which supplies a circular plate-shaped outer skin material D carrying an internal material F; a gate device 23, which is located below the supply and conveying device 21; a pressing device 25, which is located above the supply and conveying device 21; and a supporting device 27, which is located below the gate device 23. These devices are controlled by a control device (not shown).

[0116] The supply conveyor device 21 has a distal end portion 21 a that is extendable and retractable between an entry position and a standby position.

[0117] The shutter device 23 comprises a base plate 23a; a perforated plate (receiving member) 23b that supports the outer skin material D supplied from the supply conveyor 21; and a shutter assembly 2 that slides and swings on the perforated plate 23b. The perforated plate 23b has a circular central opening 23c. The diameter and thickness (height) of the central opening 23c are appropriately selected based on the stuffed food product P being formed.

[0118] The pressing device 25 includes a pressing member 25a and a lifting device 25b that raises and lowers the pressing member 25a. The pressing member 25a is cup-shaped with a downward-facing opening 25c. It has an annular peripheral wall 25d and a top portion 25e disposed above the peripheral wall 25d. In this embodiment, the lifting device 25b includes a piston rod 25f that moves up and down. The piston rod 25f has a through-hole 25g for conveying compressed air downward. The top portion 25e has a through-hole 25h that communicates with the through-hole 25g of the piston rod 25f.

[0119] The support device 27 is composed of a belt conveyor and is configured to be movable upward and downward.

[0120] Next, refer to Figures 12 to 22 , explaining the operation of the forming device 1.

[0121] like Figure 12 As shown, the disc-shaped outer skin material D carrying the inner material F is conveyed by the supply conveyor 21 to a position where the center of the outer skin material D is aligned with the center 5a of the opening 5 of the gate assembly 2, that is, the center of the opening 23c of the orifice plate 23b. The top end 21a of the supply conveyor 21 is located at the entry position.

[0122] like Figure 13 As shown, the tip portion 21a of the supply conveyor device 21 is retracted from the entry position to the standby position, and the outer material D and the inner material F are placed on the orifice plate 23b.

[0123] like Figure 14As shown, the gate device 23 is activated to move the gate assembly 2 toward the closed state. On the opening side 7 of the gate plate 3, the protruding edge 15a of the lower portion 15 is brought into contact with the peripheral edge DE of the outer skin material D. Next, the upper inclined portion 62 and the horizontal portion 60 are brought into contact with the lower surface of the peripheral edge DE. Furthermore, the middle portion 14 is brought into contact with the peripheral edge of the outer skin material D, after which the closing action of the gate assembly 2 is temporarily stopped. As a result, the required amount of peripheral edge DE required for sealing remains evenly on the orifice plate 23b. In addition, by utilizing the deadweight of the outer skin material D and the internal material F, the outer skin material D pushed from the peripheral edge by the gate assembly 2 is immersed near the center in the opening 23c of the orifice plate 23b.

[0124] like Figure 15 As shown, the pressing member 25a of the pressing device 25 is lowered and stops at an appropriate lowered position according to the thickness and hardness of the outer skin material D. The annular peripheral wall 25d of the pressing member 25a presses the peripheral edge DE of the outer skin material D toward the orifice plate 23b, thereby sealing the internal space formed between the outer skin material D and the pressing member 25a.

[0125] like Figure 16 As shown, compressed air is supplied to the interior space through through-hole 25h, causing the outer skin material D to expand downward inside opening 23c, forming a bowl shape. Support device 27 supports the bottom of the downwardly expanding outer skin material D, thereby preventing excessive deformation of the outer skin material D and maintaining its shape. The position of support device 27 determines the position of the head of the inner material F relative to the upper surface of the orifice plate 23b. It is desirable that the head of the inner material F be positioned at the same level as or below the orifice plate 23b.

[0126] like Figure 17 As shown in FIG, the pressing member 25a is raised. Figure 18 As shown, the gate assembly 2 is moved toward the closed state again. The lower portion 15 of the gate plate 3 is used to centrally gather and stretch the outer skin material D close to the inner material F toward the upper center of the inner material F. Since the horizontal portion 60 is configured to protrude from the middle portion 14 toward the opening 5 side, the holding force of the outer skin material D can be improved, and the gathering effect can be further improved. In addition, since the lower inclined portion 64 of the lower portion 15 is configured to be inclined in an end-expanded shape toward the abutting side 9, the surface roughness (scratches) of the outer skin material D can be prevented. In this embodiment, since the longitudinal cross-sectional profile of the inclined surface of the lower inclined portion 64 is formed by a convex curved surface, the effect of preventing surface roughness can be further improved.

[0127] The closing action of the gate assembly 2 is advanced, and the inner material F is sealed above the outer material D surrounded by the eight lower side portions 15. Figure 19 As shown, the closing action of the gate assembly 2 is further promoted so that the top 13e is located at the center 5a, thereby closing the opening 5 of the gate assembly 2 and forming a top space S. As a result, the outer skin material D can be prevented from leaking to the upper surface 3a of the gate piece 3, that is, the upper surface of the gate assembly 2.

[0128] like Figure 20 As shown, as the shutter assembly 2 is pushed forward to close, the volume of the covered space S decreases. Furthermore, because the diameter of the third space S3 of the covered space S is smaller than the diameter of the second space S2 above the third space S3, the third space S3 acts as a throttle valve for the outer skin material D that is extruded from the interior of the covered space S. As a result, the outer skin material D remaining in the covered space S is squeezed out of the gradually shrinking third space S3 while being strongly pressed by the shutter assembly 2. This ensures that the peripheral edge DE of the outer skin material D is securely sealed.

[0129] The width of the lower portion 15 protruding horizontally relative to the middle portion 14 narrows from the base end 15b toward the top end 15e. Therefore, as the ceiling space S gradually shrinks, the protruding width of the lower portion 15 narrows, and the third space S3 can be kept open without being blocked.

[0130] like Figure 21 As shown, the gate assembly 2 is moved to the fully closed state, the closing action of the gate unit 2 is stopped, and the sealing of the outer skin material D by the gate unit 2 is completed. At this time, as described above, the top space S only has the shrunken third space S3. As a modification, as long as the outer skin material D can be sealed, the gate assembly 2 may not be moved to the fully closed state. At this time, a top space S having the first spaces S1, S2, and S3 is formed, and the outer skin material D is retained in the top space S, and the amount of the outer skin material D gathered in the upper center of the stuffed food P increases. When the outer skin material D in the upper center of the stuffed food P is pulled toward the surroundings due to elasticity, the retained outer skin material D is stretched, which can prevent the top of the stuffed food P from being concave (refer to Figure 20 ).

[0131] like Figure 22 As shown, the shutter assembly 2 is moved toward the open state to release the outer covering material D at the head of the stuffed food P, and the support device 27 on which the stuffed food P is placed is lowered.

[0132] Next, refer to Figures 23 to 26 , describing a gate piece and a gate assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0133] The shutter piece 103 of the second embodiment of the present invention has a structure similar to that of the shutter piece 3 of the first embodiment, and has a structure that is mainly different in the lower side portions 15 and 19 and the top end surface 80 of the shutter piece 3. The structures of the shutter piece 103 of the second embodiment that are the same as those of the shutter piece 3 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the shutter piece 3, and their detailed description is omitted.

[0134] The opening side surface 107 of the shutter piece 103 has an upper portion 13 , a middle portion 14 and a lower portion 115 .

[0135] like Figure 24 As shown, the top end of the lower portion 115 is positioned, in a plan view, to be recessed from the upper edge 13a and to protrude from the intermediate edge 14a and lower intermediate edge 14d (intermediate portion 14). This portion has a convex, arc-shaped protruding edge 115a. Protruding edge 115a extends from a base end 115b to a tip end 115e. Protruding edge 115a is positioned between the upper edge 13a and the intermediate edge 14a (lower intermediate edge 14d) in a plan view. The tip end 115e and the base end 115b are positioned, in a plan view, to be recessed from the upper edge 13a toward the side surface 9 and to protrude from the intermediate edge 14a (lower intermediate edge 14d) toward the opening 5.

[0136] In detail, Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown, the top side portion of the lower portion 115 includes three surfaces: a horizontal portion 160, a vertical portion 162, and a lower inclined portion 164. The horizontal portion 160 is an upward-facing surface arranged along the lower middle edge 14d (middle portion 14) and extends horizontally from the lower middle edge 14d (middle portion 14). The width of the lower portion 115, which protrudes horizontally relative to the middle portion 14, narrows from the base end 115b toward the top end 115e. The vertical portion 162 extends downward from the horizontal portion 160 in a manner perpendicular to the horizontal portion 160. The lower inclined portion 164 extends diagonally downward from the vertical portion 162 in an indented manner to the lower edge 15d (lower surface 3b). The convex protruding edge 115a forms the periphery of the lower portion 115 and is formed by the boundary between the horizontal portion 160 and the vertical portion 162. In addition, the width between the protruding edge 115a and the intermediate edge 14a becomes narrower from the base end 115b toward the top end 115e (see FIG. Figure 23 and Figure 24 ).

[0137] Preferably, the vertical portion 162 is a curved surface extending downward from the protruding edge 115a to the lower protruding edge 115d, and has the same contour shape in the up and down directions. The lower protruding edge 115d extends from the base end 115f to the top end 115g. In addition, preferably, the lower inclined portion 164 is an inclined surface extending obliquely downward from the lower protruding edge 115d of the vertical portion 162, and the longitudinal cross-sectional profile of the inclined surface can be a straight line, a convex curve, or a combination thereof. In the present embodiment, the longitudinal cross-sectional profile of the inclined surface of the lower inclined portion 64 is a convex curve. The lower edge 15d formed by the intersection of the lower inclined portion 164 and the lower surface 3b is convex and extends in an arc shape when viewed from above (refer to Figure 24 ).

[0138] like Figure 26 As shown, the lower portion 115 further includes a top edge 162c on the top side of the vertical portion 162 and a top edge 164c on the top side of the lower inclined portion 164. The top end 115g of the lower protruding edge 115d is the intersection of the top edge 162c of the vertical portion 162 and the top edge 164c of the lower inclined portion 164.

[0139] In addition, if Figure 24 As shown, the top edge 162c of the vertical portion 162 and the top edge 164c of the lower inclined portion 164 are not located at the top edge 13c of the upper portion 13 and the top edge 14c of the middle portion 14 when viewed from above, that is, they are offset toward the base end 115f side of the protruding edge 115a in a manner that does not pass through the center 5a of the opening 5.

[0140] like Figure 26 As shown, the abutting side surface 109 of the shutter piece 103 has an upper portion 17 , a middle portion 18 and a lower portion 119 . Furthermore, the lower portion 119 includes a horizontal portion 170 , a vertical portion 172 and a lower inclined portion 174 .

[0141] like Figures 23 to 26As shown, the horizontal portion 170 of the lower portion 115 is a downwardly facing surface extending horizontally indented from the lower intermediate edge 18d. A vertical portion 172 extends downwardly from the horizontal portion 170 perpendicularly thereto and has a top edge 172c on the top side. A lower inclined portion 174 extends obliquely downward from the vertical portion 172 to the lower edge 19d (lower surface 3b) and has a top edge 174c on the top side. The indented edge 119a between the horizontal portion 170 and the vertical portion 172 extends from a base end 119b to a top edge 119e, which is the intersection of the top edge 170c of the horizontal portion 170 and the top edge 172c of the vertical portion 172. The lower indented edge 119d between the vertical portion 172 and the lower inclined portion 174 extends from the base end 119f to the top end 119g, which is the intersection of the top end edge 172c of the vertical portion 172 and the top end edge 174c of the lower inclined portion 174.

[0142] Preferably, the top edge 13c, the top edge 14c, and the top edges 172c and 174c are each formed so that, when the shutter piece 103 is swung, they always abut against the upper portion 13, the middle portion 14, and the vertical portion 162 and the lower inclined portion 164 of the lower portion 115 of the opening side surface 107 of the adjacent shutter piece 103 without substantially creating a gap. In other words, the upper edge 17a, the middle edge 18a, the lower middle edge 118d, the setback edge 119a, the lower setback edge 119d, and the lower edge 19d of the abutting side surface 109 are each formed into a concave arc shape in a plan view.

[0143] Furthermore, it is preferable that when the top end of the lower middle edge 14d of the middle portion 14 of the opening side surface 107 is located above the horizontal portion 160 of the lower side portion 115 of the opening side surface 107 of the adjacent shutter piece 103, the top end of the lower middle edge 14d is formed so as to always abut against the horizontal portion 160 without substantially any gap (see FIG. Figure 25 and Figure 26 ).

[0144] Preferably, the upper portion 17, the middle portion 18 and the lower portion 119 of the abutting side 109 are respectively formed into a concave shape in a manner that abuts against the upper portion 13, the middle portion 14 and the lower portion 115 of the opening side 107 of the adjacent gate piece when the gate assembly 102 is in a fully closed state.

[0145] Specifically, the upper edge 13a and the middle edge 14a of the upper portion 13 of the opening side surface 107 are respectively capable of abutting the upper edge 17a and the middle edge 18a of the upper portion 17 of the adjacent contact side surface 109 of the shutter piece 103. The middle edge 14a and the lower middle edge 14d of the middle portion 14 of the opening side surface 107 are respectively capable of abutting the middle edge 18a and the lower middle edge 18d of the adjacent contact side surface 109 of the shutter piece 103. The protruding edge 115a and the lower protruding edge 115d of the vertical portion 162 of the opening side surface 107, as well as the lower edge 15d of the lower inclined portion 164, are respectively capable of abutting the indented edge 119a and the lower indented edge 119d of the vertical portion 172 of the contact side surface 109 of the adjacent shutter piece 103. That is, the upper edge 17a, the middle edge 18a, the lower middle edge 18d, the setback edge 119a, the lower setback edge 119d, and the lower edge 19d of the contact side surface 109 are each formed in a concave arc shape in a plan view.

[0146] In addition, when viewed from above, the top edge 172c of the vertical portion 172 and the top edge 174c of the lower inclined portion 174 are not located at the top edge 13c of the upper portion 17 and the top edge 14c of the middle portion 18, that is, they are offset toward the base end 119b side of the indented edge 119a in a manner that does not pass through the center 5a of the opening 5.

[0147] The shutter piece 103 has a top end surface 180 below the top end edge 14c, which is offset from the top end edge 14c to the base end 14b side. The top end surface 180 is a combination of an upper top end surface 182 and a lower top end surface 184 (see Figure 26 The upper top surface 182 is a generally square surface with the top edge 162c of the vertical portion 162 of the opening side surface 107 and the top edge 172c of the vertical portion 172 of the abutting side surface 109 as opposite sides. Furthermore, the lower top surface 184 is a generally square surface with the top edge 164c of the lower inclined portion 164 of the opening side surface 107 and the top edge 174c of the lower inclined portion 174 of the abutting side surface 109 as opposite sides. The top surface 180 is formed so as to intersect with the lower side portions 115 and 119 at the top ends of the lower side portions 115 and 119. Furthermore, the gate piece 103 has a downwardly facing horizontal surface extending from the upper end of the top surface 180 toward the top end of the gate piece 103. When the shutter piece 103 is viewed from below, a planar intermediate lower surface 103f including the horizontal surface and the horizontal portion 170 of the lower portion 119 is formed on the top side of the shutter piece 103 (see FIG. Figure 26 ).

[0148] When the top 13e of the upper edge 13a of the opening side surface 107 of the shutter piece 103 is positioned at the center 5a of the opening 5, the opening 5 of the shutter assembly 102 is closed by the top 13e (starting closing state) (see Figure 34 At this time, the top edges 13c and 14c, the top edges 172c and 174c, and the top portions of the lower intermediate edges 14d of the gate pieces 103 respectively abut against the upper portion 13, the middle portion 14, and the lower portion 115 of the opening side surface 107 of the adjacent gate piece 103. Therefore, a concave and convex ceiling space SS1 is formed on the opening side surface 107 of each gate piece 103, which is surrounded by the inclined upper portion 13, the middle portion 14 extending vertically, the lower portion 115 protruding toward the opening 5, the top surface 180 offset from the top end toward the base end of the gate piece 103, the lower portion 119 continuous with the top surface 180, and the intermediate lower surface 103f. The ceiling space SS1 is composed of, in order from the top, a first space SS11 having a substantially octagonal pyramid shape surrounded by eight upper portions 13 , a second space SS12 having a substantially octagonal column shape surrounded by eight middle portions 14 , and the remaining third space SS13 .

[0149] When the shutter assembly 102 is moved from the initial closing state to the fully closed state (refer to Figure 36 ), the entire top space SS1 is reduced. Specifically, the height and diameter of the first space SS11 are reduced, and the diameter of the second space SS12 is reduced.

[0150] As a result, when the shutter assembly 102 reaches the fully closed state, the first space SS11 and the second space SS12 disappear, and the topped space SS1 is composed only of the reduced third space SS13. Specifically, the top of the third space SS13 is formed by the intermediate lower surfaces 103f on the top ends of the eight shutter pieces 103, and the remaining portion of the third space SS13 is surrounded by the top end surface 180 offset from the eight topmost edges 13c and 14c toward the base end, and the lower portion 119 continuous with the top end surface 180.

[0151] Next, refer to Figures 27 to 37 , the operation of the forming device 101 will be described. Detailed description of the operation of the forming device 101 of the second embodiment, which is the same as the forming device 1 of the first embodiment, will be omitted.

[0152] like Figure 27 As shown, the disk-shaped outer cover material D on which the inner material F is placed is conveyed by the supply conveyor device 21 so as to be positioned at the center 5 a of the opening 5 .

[0153] like Figure 28As shown, the tip portion 21a of the supply conveyor device 21 is retracted from the entry position to the standby position, and the outer material D and the inner material F are placed on the orifice plate 23b.

[0154] like Figure 29 As shown, the shutter device 23 is activated, moving the shutter assembly 102 toward the closed position. The vertical portion 162 of the lower portion 115 of the shutter piece 103 is brought into contact with the peripheral edge DE of the outer skin material D. Subsequently, the horizontal portion 160 is brought into contact with the lower surface of the peripheral edge DE. Furthermore, the intermediate portion 14 is brought into contact with the peripheral edge of the outer skin material D, after which the closing movement of the shutter assembly 102 is temporarily stopped.

[0155] like Figure 30 As shown, the pressing member 25a of the pressing device 25 is lowered to press the peripheral edge DE of the outer skin material D toward the orifice plate 23b, thereby sealing the internal space formed between the outer skin material D and the pressing member 25a.

[0156] like Figure 31 As shown, compressed air is supplied to the internal space, causing the outer skin material D to expand downward inside the opening 23c and form a bowl shape. The bottom of the outer skin material D expanding downward is supported by the support device 27.

[0157] like Figure 32 As shown in FIG, the pressing member 25a is raised. Figure 33 As shown, the shutter assembly 102 is moved back toward the closed position. The protruding lower portion 115 of the shutter piece 103 holds the outer skin material D near the inner material F while simultaneously gathering and stretching it toward the upper center of the inner material F. Since the horizontal portion 160 is configured to protrude more than the horizontal portion 60 of the first embodiment, the outer skin material retention effect is further enhanced. Furthermore, since the curvature of the lower inclined portion 164 of the lower portion 115 is formed as a convex surface greater than the curvature of the lower inclined portion 64 of the first embodiment, the effect of preventing surface roughness is further enhanced.

[0158] The closing action of the gate assembly 102 is advanced, and the inner material F is sealed above the outer material D surrounded by the eight lower side portions 115. Figure 34 As shown, by further advancing the closing action of the gate assembly 102, the opening 5 of the gate assembly 102 is closed, forming a top space SS1.

[0159] like Figure 35As shown, as the shutter assembly 102 is pushed forward to close, the volume of the covered space SS1 decreases. In this embodiment, the lower portion 115 does not have an upwardly inclined portion, and its upper surface is formed solely by the horizontal portion 160. As a result, the lower portion 115 is more effective in retaining the outer skin material D than in the first embodiment. The outer skin material D remaining within the covered space SS1 is squeezed out while receiving stronger pressure from the shutter assembly 102. As a result, the peripheral edge DE of the outer skin material D is more securely sealed.

[0160] Furthermore, as the ceiling space SS1 gradually shrinks, the protruding width of the lower portion 115 becomes narrower, and the third space SS13 can be maintained open without being closed.

[0161] like Figure 36 As shown, the shutter assembly 2 is moved to the fully closed state, the closing action of the shutter unit 2 is stopped, and the sealing of the shutter unit 2 to the outer skin material D is completed. At this time, as described above, only the reduced third space SS13 exists in the ceiling space SS1.

[0162] like Figure 37 As shown, the shutter assembly 102 is moved toward the open state to release the outer covering material D at the head of the stuffed food P, and the support device 27 on which the stuffed food P is placed is lowered.

[0163] Next, refer to Figures 40 to 43 , describing a gate piece and a gate assembly according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0164] The shutter piece 403 of the third embodiment of the present invention has a structure similar to that of the shutter piece 3 of the first embodiment, and has a structure that is mainly different in the upper portions 13 and 17, the lower portions 15 and 19, and the top end surface 80 of the shutter piece 3. The structures of the shutter piece 403 of the third embodiment that are the same as those of the shutter piece 3 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the shutter piece 3, and their detailed description is omitted.

[0165] like Figures 40 to 43 As shown, the shutter piece 403 has an upper surface 3a, a lower surface 3b, and side surfaces 407, 409, and 11 located between the upper surface 3a and the lower surface 3b. The side surfaces 407, 409, and 11 include an opening side surface 407 that constitutes the opening 5, a contact side surface 409 that, together with the opening side surface 407, constitutes the topmost edges 13c and 14c, and another side surface 11.

[0166] The opening side surface 407 of the shutter piece 403 has an upper portion 13 , a middle portion 14 and a lower portion 415 .

[0167] The upper portion 13 includes an upper inclined portion 413a and a lower inclined portion 413b. The upper inclined portion 413a of the upper portion 13 is primarily comprised of an upper edge 13a, an inclined edge 413d, and a topmost edge 413ca. It extends diagonally downward from the upper edge 13a toward the inclined edge 413d, retracting relative to the upper edge 13a. The lower inclined portion 413b is primarily comprised of an inclined edge 413d, an intermediate edge 14a, and a topmost edge 413cb. It extends diagonally downward from the inclined edge 413d toward the intermediate edge 14a, retracting relative to the inclined edge 413d. Preferably, the downward inclination of the upper inclined portion 413a is steeper than that of the lower inclined portion 413b. Preferably, the top edge 13c (413ca, 413cb) of the upper portion 13 is positioned so as to pass through the center 5a of the opening 5 of the gate assembly 402 when the gate piece 403 swings.

[0168] The top end of the lower portion 415 is arranged to be recessed from the upper edge 13a and to be protruding from the middle edge 14a and the lower middle edge 14d (middle portion 14) in a plan view, and has a convex and arc-shaped protruding edge 415a. The protruding edge 415a extends from the base end 415b to the top end 415e (see Figure 41 The protruding edge 415a is located between the upper edge 13a and the middle edge 14a (lower middle edge 14d) in a plan view. The top end 415e and the base end 415b are located in a position that is retracted from the upper edge 13a toward the contact side surface 409, and are located in a position that protrudes from the middle edge 14a (lower middle edge 14d) toward the opening 5 (opening side surface 407).

[0169] Specifically, the top end portion of the lower portion 415 includes three surfaces, namely, an upper inclined portion 460, a vertical portion 462, and a lower inclined portion 464. The upper inclined portion 460 is an upwardly directed surface arranged along the lower middle edge 14d (middle portion 14), and extends obliquely downward from the lower middle edge 14d (middle portion 14) in a protruding manner. The width of the upper inclined portion 460 protruding relative to the middle portion 14 widens from the base end 415b toward the top end 415e in a plan view (see FIG. Figure 42 and Figure 43 ). The vertical portion 462 extends downward from the upper inclined portion 460. The lower inclined portion 464 extends obliquely downward from the vertical portion 462 in a retracted manner to the lower edge 15d (lower surface 3b). The convex protruding edge 415a is the peripheral edge of the lower portion 415, and is formed by the boundary line between the upper inclined portion 460 and the vertical portion 462. In addition, when viewed from above, the width between the protruding edge 415a and the intermediate edge 14a widens from the base end 415b toward the top end 415e (see FIG. Figure 40 、 Figure 42 as well as Figure 43 ).

[0170] The upper inclined portion 460 extends obliquely downward from the lower middle edge 14d (middle portion 14) in a protruding manner to the protruding edge 415a. Preferably, the vertical portion 462 is a curved surface extending downward from the protruding edge 415a to the lower protruding edge 415d, and has the same contour shape in the up and down directions. The lower protruding edge 415d extends from the base end 415f to the top end 415g. In addition, preferably, the lower inclined portion 464 is an inclined surface extending obliquely downward from the lower protruding edge 415d of the vertical portion 462, and the longitudinal cross-sectional profile of the inclined surface can be a straight line, a convex curve, or a combination thereof. In the present embodiment, the longitudinal cross-sectional profile of the inclined surface of the lower inclined portion 464 is a convex curve. The lower edge 15d formed by the intersection of the lower inclined portion 464 and the lower surface 3b is convex and extends in an arc shape when viewed from above (refer to Figure 42 ).

[0171] like Figure 41 As shown, the lower portion 415 further includes a top edge 460c on the top side of the upper inclined portion 460, a top edge 462c on the top side of the vertical portion 462, and a top edge 464c on the top side of the lower inclined portion 464. The top 415e of the protruding edge 415a is the intersection of the top edge 460c of the upper inclined portion 460 and the top edge 462c of the vertical portion 462. The top 415g of the lower protruding edge 415d is the intersection of the top edge 462c of the vertical portion 462 and the top edge 464c of the lower inclined portion 464.

[0172] Furthermore, the top edge 460c of the upper inclined portion 460, the top edge 462c of the vertical portion 462, and the top edge 464c of the lower inclined portion 464 are not located at the top edge 13c of the upper portion 13 and the top edge 14c of the middle portion 14 when viewed from above, that is, they are offset toward the base end 415b of the protruding edge 415a so as not to pass through the center 5a of the opening 5. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 41 As shown, the upper inclined portion 460 , the vertical portion 462 , and the lower inclined portion 464 form an angle of, for example, 45 degrees with respect to the topmost edge 14 c of the middle portion 14 (the direction of the top 14 e of the middle edge 14 a in a plan view).

[0173] like Figures 40 to 43 As shown, the contact side 409 of the shutter piece 403 has an upper portion 17, a middle portion 18 and a lower portion 419. Moreover, the upper portion 17 includes an upper inclined portion 417a and a lower inclined portion 417b, and the lower portion 419 includes an upper inclined portion 470, a vertical portion 472 and a lower inclined portion 474.

[0174] like Figures 40 to 43As shown, the upper inclined portion 417a of the upper portion 17 is primarily composed of the upper edge 17a, the inclined edge 417d, and the topmost edge 413ca. It extends diagonally downward from the upper edge 17a toward the inclined edge 417d, projecting relative to the upper edge 17a. The lower inclined portion 417b is primarily composed of the inclined edge 417d, the intermediate edge 18a, and the topmost edge 413cb. It extends diagonally downward from the inclined edge 417d toward the intermediate edge 18a, projecting relative to the inclined edge 417d. Preferably, the downward inclination of the upper inclined portion 417a is steeper than the downward inclination of the lower inclined portion 417b.

[0175] The upper inclined portion 470 of the lower portion 415 extends obliquely downward from the lower intermediate edge 18d in an indented manner and has a top edge 470c on the top side. The vertical portion 472 extends downward from the upper inclined portion 470 and has a top edge 472c on the top side. The lower inclined portion 474 extends obliquely downward from the vertical portion 472 in a protruding manner to the lower edge 19d (lower surface 3b) and has a top edge 474c on the top side. The indented edge 419a between the upper inclined portion 470 and the vertical portion 472 extends from the base end to the top edge 419e. The top edge 419e is the intersection of the top edge 470c of the upper inclined portion 470 and the top edge 472c of the vertical portion 472. The lower indented edge 419 d between the vertical portion 472 and the lower inclined portion 474 extends from the base end to a top end 419 g , which is the intersection of the top end edge 472 c of the vertical portion 472 and the top end edge 474 c of the lower inclined portion 474 .

[0176] Preferably, the top edge 13c (413ca, 413cb), the top edge 14c and the top edges 470c, 472c, 474c are respectively formed so that when the gate piece 403 swings, they are always in contact with the upper part 13, the middle part 14, the upper inclined part 460, the vertical part 462, and the lower inclined part 464 of the lower part 415 of the opening side 407 of the adjacent gate piece 403 without substantially generating a gap.

[0177] Preferably, the upper portion 17, the middle portion 18 and the lower portion 419 of the abutting side 109 are respectively formed into a concave shape in a manner that abuts against the upper portion 13, the middle portion 14 and the lower portion 415 of the opening side 407 of the adjacent gate piece when the gate assembly 404 is in a fully closed state.

[0178] Specifically, the upper edge 13a, inclined edge 413d, and intermediate edge 14a of the upper portion 13 of the opening side surface 407 are respectively capable of abutting the upper edge 17a, inclined edge 417d, and intermediate edge 18a of the upper portion 17 of the adjacent contact side surface 409 of the gate piece 403. The intermediate edge 14a and lower intermediate edge 14d of the intermediate portion 18 of the opening side surface 407 are respectively capable of abutting the intermediate edge 18a and lower intermediate edge 18d of the adjacent contact side surface 409 of the gate piece 403. The protruding edge 415a, lower protruding edge 415d, and lower edge 15d of the lower portion 415 of the opening side surface 407 are respectively capable of abutting the indented edge 419a, lower indented edge 419d, and lower edge 19d of the lower portion 419 of the adjacent contact side surface 409 of the gate piece 403. That is, the upper edge 17a, inclined edge 417d, middle edge 18a, lower middle edge 18d, setback edge 419a, lower setback edge 419d, and lower edge 19d of the contact side surface 409 are each formed into a concave arc shape in a plan view.

[0179] In addition, the top edge 470c of the upper inclined portion 470, the top edge 472c of the vertical portion 472, and the top edge 474c of the lower inclined portion 474 are not located at the top edge 13c of the upper portion 17 and the top edge 14c of the middle portion 18 when viewed from above, that is, they are offset toward the base end 419b side of the indented edge 419a in a manner that does not pass through the center 5a of the opening 5.

[0180] The shutter piece 403 has a distal end surface 480 below the distal end edge 14c and offset toward the base end 14b. The distal end surface 480 intersects the lower portions 415 and 419 at their distal ends.

[0181] When the top 13e of the upper edge 13a of the opening side surface 407 of the shutter piece 403 is positioned at the center 5a of the opening 5, the opening 5 of the shutter assembly 402 is sealed by the top 13e (initial closing state). At this point, the topmost edges 13c (413ca, 413cb) and 14c of the shutter piece 403, as well as the top edges 470c, 472c, and 474c, respectively, abut against the upper portion 13, middle portion 14, and lower portion 415 of the opening side surface 407 of the adjacent shutter piece 403. Consequently, a concave and convex ceiling space SS4 is formed on the opening side surface 407 of each shutter piece 403, surrounded by the inclined upper portion 13, the vertically extending middle portion 14, the lower portion 415 protruding toward the opening 5, and the top surface 480 offset from the top end toward the base end of the shutter piece 403. The top space SS4 is composed of, from the top, a first space SS41 of approximately octagonal pyramid and octagonal pyramid shape surrounded by eight upper parts 13, a second space SS42 of approximately octagonal column shape surrounded by eight middle parts 14, and the remaining third space SS43.

[0182] While the shutter assembly 402 is moving from the initial closed state to the fully closed state, the entire ceiling space SS4 is reduced. Specifically, the height and diameter of the first space SS41 are reduced, and the diameter of the second space SS42 is reduced.

[0183] As a result, when the shutter assembly 402 reaches the fully closed state, the first space SS41 and the second space SS42 disappear, and the ceiling space SS4 is composed of only the shrunken third space SS43.

[0184] Next, refer to Figures 44 to 48 , the operation of the forming device 401 is described. In addition, the detailed description of the operation of the forming device 104 of the third embodiment, which is the same as the forming device 1 of the first embodiment, is omitted. Specifically, the first embodiment Figures 12 to 17 Since it is substantially the same as the third embodiment, its description is omitted.

[0185] like Figure 44As shown, the gate assembly 402 is moved toward the fully closed state. The protruding lower portion 415 of the gate piece 403 is used to hold the outer skin material D close to the inner material F while centrally gathering and stretching it toward the upper center of the inner material F. The width of the upper inclined portion 460 protruding relative to the middle portion 14 widens from the base end 415b toward the top end 415e when viewed from above, so that as the gate assembly 402 becomes fully closed, the holding force of the outer skin material D can be increased. Moreover, the outer skin material D can be held until the gate assembly 402 is about to become fully closed. As a result, the amount of gathered outer skin material D can be stabilized, and production can be stabilized. In addition, since the lower inclined portion 464 of the lower portion 415 is composed of a convex curved surface, the effect of preventing surface roughness can be further improved.

[0186] The closing action of the push gate assembly 402 seals the inner material F above the outer material D surrounded by the eight lower side portions 15. Figure 45 As shown, by further advancing the closing action of the gate assembly 102, the opening 5 of the gate assembly 102 is closed to form a top space SS4.

[0187] like Figure 46 As shown, the volume of the headspace SS4 decreases with the closing action of the push gate assembly 102. As a result, the peripheral edge DE of the outer skin material D is more firmly sealed.

[0188] In addition, since the top sides of the upper inclined portion 460, the vertical portion 462 and the lower inclined portion 464 form an angle of 45 degrees relative to the top edge 14c of the middle portion 14, the third space SS43 can be maintained open without being closed while the top space SS4 gradually shrinks.

[0189] like Figure 47 As shown, the shutter unit 402 is moved to the fully closed state, the closing action of the shutter unit 402 is stopped, and the sealing of the shutter unit 402 to the outer skin material D is completed. At this time, the top space SS4 only has the reduced third space SS43.

[0190] like Figure 48 As shown, the shutter assembly 402 is moved toward the open state to release the outer covering material D at the head of the stuffed food P, and the support device 27 on which the stuffed food P is placed is lowered.

[0191] The shutter piece and the shutter assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention are roughly described above, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims.

[0192] For example, in the above embodiment, it is described that the gate piece 3, 103, 403 has the middle part 14, 18, but it can also be, for example Figure 38 Like the shutter piece 203 of the first modified example of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , it does not include an intermediate portion.

[0193] The shutter plate 203 has an opening side surface 207 and an abutting side surface 209. The opening side surface 207 has an upper portion 13 and a lower portion 15 located below it. The upper portion 13 has a concave longitudinal cross-section. In a plan view, the protruding edge 15a of the lower portion 15 is located between the upper edge 13a, the intermediate edge 14a, and the lower edge 13d. Furthermore, the abutting side surface 209 has an upper portion 17 and a lower portion 19 corresponding to the opening side surface 207.

[0194] In this modified example, a headspace can also be formed in the shutter unit, allowing the stuffed food product P to be formed without the sealed skin material D leaking out of the upper surface of the shutter unit. Furthermore, by forming the upper portion 13 into a concave longitudinal cross-section, the amount of skin material retained in the headspace can be increased, and a third space, functioning as a throttle valve, can be formed in the headspace, thereby reliably sealing the peripheral edge DE of the skin material D.

[0195] In addition, it can also be, Figure 39 As in the shutter piece 303 of the second modified example of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , a vertical portion is added between the upwardly inclined portion and the downwardly inclined portion of the lower portion.

[0196] The lower portion 315 of the opening side 307 of the shutter piece 303 includes a horizontal portion 60, an upwardly inclined portion 62, a vertical portion 63, and a downwardly inclined portion 64. The vertical portion 63 is a curved surface extending downward from the protruding edge 15a at the lower end of the upwardly inclined portion 62 and having a uniform contour in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the downwardly inclined portion 64 extends obliquely downward from the vertical portion 63, being recessed relative to the vertical portion 63.

[0197] The contact side surface 309 of the shutter piece 303 includes a lower portion 319 corresponding to the lower portion 315 of the opening side surface 307. Furthermore, the top surface 380 intersects the lower portions 315 and 319 at their top ends. By increasing the height of the bottom portion and extending the conduit of the third space S3 in this manner, a higher pressure can be applied to the outer skin material D extruded from the top space S, thereby reliably sealing the peripheral edge DE of the outer skin material D.

[0198] Alternatively, a vertical portion having the same contour shape as the upper surface 3a of the shutter piece 3 may be added so as to extend upward from the upper portions 13 and 15. Even in this case, a ceiling space S can be formed.

[0199] Description of Reference Numerals

[0200] 1. 101. 401. Forming device; 2. 102. 402. Gate assembly; 3. 103. 403. Gate piece; 3c. Top edge; 3f. Middle lower surface (horizontal lower surface); 4c. Top edge; 5. Opening; 5a. Center; 7. 107. 207. 307. 407. Opening side; 9. 109. 209. 309. 409. Abutment side; 13. Upper portion (first side); 13a. Upper edge (peripheral edge); 13b. Base end; 13e. Top end; 13d. Lower edge; 14. Middle portion (middle side); 14a. Middle edge (lower edge of upper portion); 15. 115. 315. 415. Lower portion (second side) ; 15a, 115a, 415a, protruding edge (peripheral edge); 15b, 115b, 415b, base end; 15e, 115e, 415e, top end; 23, gate device; 60, 160, horizontal part; 62, upper inclined part; 63, vertical part; 64, 164, lower inclined part; 80, 180, 380, top surface; 162, vertical part; D, outer skin material (food raw material); DE, peripheral edge; F, internal material; P, stuffed food; S, SS1, SS4, top space; S1, SS11, SS41, first space; S2, SS14, SS42, second space; S3, SS13, SS43, third space.

Claims

1. A gate piece (3, 103, 203, 303, 403), wherein: The gate piece (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) of the gate device (23) is used to use a circular outer skin material (D) to wrap an inner material (F) supplied to the center of the outer skin material (D) so that the peripheral edge (DE) of the outer skin material (D) is sealed above the inner skin material (F). The gate device (23) has an opening (5) formed by a plurality of gate pieces (3, 103, 203, 303, 403), and the opening (5) can be opened and closed by swinging the plurality of gate pieces (3, 103, 203, 303, 403). The gate piece (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) has an opening side surface (7, 107, 207, 307, 407) facing the opening (5), and the opening side surface (7, 107, 207, 307, 407) includes an upper side portion (13) and a lower side portion (15) arranged below the upper side portion (13). The upper portion (13) includes an upper edge (13a) and an intermediate edge (14a) located below the upper edge (13a), and is configured such that when the plurality of shutter plates (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) are swung to close the opening (5), the top end (13e) of the upper edge (13a) is closed, and then the top end (14e) of the intermediate edge (14a) is closed, and the intermediate edge (14a) is configured to be retracted relative to the upper edge (13a). The lower portion (15) includes a protruding edge (15a, 115a, 415a) located between the upper edge (13a) and the intermediate edge (14a) in a plan view, The gate piece (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) is constructed so that when the top end (13e) of the upper edge (13a) is closed, a top space (S, SS1, SS4) is formed to receive the peripheral edge portion (DE) of the outer skin material (D), and the top space (S, SS1, SS4) includes an upper space (S1, SS11, SS41) formed by the upper portion (13) and a lower space (S3, SS13, SS43) formed by the lower portion (15) and having a smaller diameter than the upper space (S1, SS11, SS41). The gate piece (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) is constructed so as to reduce the upper space (S1, SS11, SS41) while maintaining the outer skin material (D) in the top space (S, SS1, SS4) by using the lower part (15) until the top end (14e) of the middle edge (14a) is closed.

2. The gate piece (403) according to claim 1, wherein: The width between the protruding edge (415a) of the lower portion (15) and the middle edge (14a) of the upper portion (13) widens toward the top end (14e) of the middle edge (14a) when viewed from above.

3. The gate piece (3, 103, 203, 303) according to claim 1, wherein: The width between the protruding edge (15a, 115a) of the lower portion (15) and the middle edge (14a) of the upper portion (13) when viewed from above narrows toward the top end (14e) of the middle edge (14a).

4. The gate piece (3, 103, 203, 303) according to claim 1, wherein: The lower portion (15) has a horizontal portion (60, 160) as an upward surface for holding the outer skin material (D).

5. The gate piece (3, 103, 303, 403) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The opening side surface (7, 107, 307, 407) includes a middle portion (14) having the same contour shape in the upper and lower directions between the upper portion (13) and the lower portion (15).

6. A gate assembly, wherein: The gate assembly is formed by combining the gate pieces according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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