Connecting piece

Abstract

The invention provides a connecting piece which is conveyed together with a dish containing food and drink and can inform the content of the food and drink contained in the dish or present a display such as an advertisement. A connector for connecting a pair of storage bodies that store containers containing food and drinks and are conveyed on a conveyance path, the connector being provided with: a pair of attachment parts that are attached to each of the storage bodies; and a connecting portion that connects the pair of mounting portions, the connecting portion being formed to have a length to which a display member to which a display visible to a customer is applied can be mounted.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a coupling member for coupling a pair of containers containing food and beverages and conveyed on a conveying path. Background Art

[0002] Generally, a food conveyor device is provided in a conveyor belt sushi restaurant, and the food conveyor device has a conveyor path that circulates along the customer seats. In such a restaurant, after the cook puts food such as sushi into a container such as a plate, the cook moves the plate containing the food to the conveyor path of the food conveyor device and sequentially conveys it to the customer seats. On the other hand, the customer takes out the plates containing food such as sushi that are sequentially delivered from the conveyor path according to his or her taste and eats the food.

[0003] However, since the sushi on the conveying path is conveyed with the top of the plate open, it is easy to dry or be touched by other customers by mistake. Therefore, it is a problem to prevent the sushi from drying out or to provide sushi hygienically. Therefore, Patent Document 1 discloses that a cover member is placed on the plate containing sushi, and then the plate is conveyed on the conveying path of the conveying device.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-299553. Summary of the invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] However, since the so-called POP advertisement for notifying food and beverages is contained on the plate conveyed on the conveying path, the POP advertisement is contained in the plate, and the food and beverages are contained in another plate for conveying, it is difficult to compare the POP advertisement with the real thing.

[0009] Therefore, the present invention is made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a connector which is transported together with a plate containing food and beverages and can notify the content of the food and beverages contained in the plate or present a display such as a promotional advertisement.

[0010] Technical solutions to solve problems

[0011] Item 1. A connector for connecting a pair of containers containing food and beverages and conveyed on a conveying path, comprising:

[0012] A pair of mounting parts mounted on each of the receiving bodies;

[0013] a connecting portion connecting the pair of mounting portions,

[0014] The connecting portion is formed to have a length that allows attachment of a display member to which a display visible to a customer is applied.

[0015] Item 2. The connecting member according to Item 1, wherein:

[0016] The display component is formed in a plate or sheet shape,

[0017] The lower end portion of the display member is formed in a linear shape, and the connecting portion is formed to have a length capable of arranging the lower end portion of the display member.

[0018] Item 3. A connecting member according to Item 1 or 2, wherein:

[0019] The connecting portion has rigidity capable of maintaining a constant interval between the pair of receiving bodies.

[0020] Item 4. The connecting member according to any one of Items 1 to 3, wherein:

[0021] The container has a base placed on the conveying path.

[0022] The mounting portion includes a support portion on which the base is placed.

[0023] Item 5. The connecting member according to Item 4, wherein:

[0024] The support portion includes a rotation preventing portion for preventing rotation relative to the base.

[0025] Item 6. The connecting member according to any one of Items 1 to 3, wherein:

[0026] The container has a cylindrical base placed on the conveying path.

[0027] The mounting portion is formed in an annular shape that can be mounted on the outer peripheral surface of the base.

[0028] Item 7. A connecting member according to any one of Items 1 to 6, wherein:

[0029] The connecting portion is fixed so that the angle with respect to the housing is constant.

[0030] Item 8. The connecting member according to any one of Items 1 to 7, wherein:

[0031] The connecting portion is fixed to the mounting portion so as to be detachable.

[0032] Item 9. The connecting member according to any one of Items 1 to 8, wherein:

[0033] The connecting portion includes a display component mounting portion for mounting the display component on the connecting portion.

[0034] Item 10. A connector for connecting a pair of containers containing food and beverages and conveyed on a conveying path, comprising:

[0035] A pair of mounting parts mounted on each of the receiving bodies;

[0036] a connecting portion connecting the pair of mounting portions,

[0037] A display visible to a customer is provided on the connecting portion.

[0038] Item 11. The connecting member according to any one of Items 1 to 10, wherein:

[0039] The connecting portion is separably constituted into two.

[0040] Item 12. The connecting member according to Item 11, wherein:

[0041] Each part of the two separated connecting parts is formed into a shape simulating a hand,

[0042] When the above-mentioned parts are connected, they are formed into a shape simulating a handshake.

[0043] Effects of the Invention

[0044] According to the coupling member of the present invention, the coupling member is conveyed together with the dish containing food and drink, and can notify the content of the food and drink contained in the dish or present a display such as a promotional advertisement. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] [ Figure 1 ] is a top view of a food and beverage providing system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] [ Figure 2 ] is a cross-sectional view of the conveying path;

[0047] [ Figure 3 ] is a front view of the receiving body in a closed state;

[0048] [ Figure 4 ]yes Figure 3 Side view of

[0049] [ Figure 5 ] is a front view of the receiving body in an open state;

[0050] [ Figure 6 ]yes Figure 5 Side view of

[0051] [ Figure 7 ] is a top view of the mounting platform;

[0052] [ Figure 8 ]yes Figure 7 Front view of

[0053] [ Fig. 9 ]yes Figure 7 Side view of

[0054] [ Fig.10 ] is a side view of the cover;

[0055] [ Fig.11 ] are a top view (a), a side view (b) and a bottom view (c) of the action body;

[0056] [ Fig.12 ] is a side view of the cover body and the actuator in the closed state;

[0057] [ Fig.13 ] is a side view of the cover body and the action body in the open state;

[0058] [ Fig.14 ] is a front view of the connecting member of the first embodiment;

[0059] [ Fig.15 ]yes Fig.14 A top view of

[0060] [ Fig.16 ] is Fig.14 A front view of a pair of receiving bodies connected by a connecting member;

[0061] [ Fig.17 ]yes Fig.16 A top view of

[0062] [ Fig.18 ] means by Fig.14 A top view of a pair of receiving bodies connected by a connecting member during transportation on a conveying path;

[0063] [ Fig.19 ] means by Fig.14 A top view of a pair of receiving bodies connected by a connecting member during transportation on a conveying path;

[0064] [ Fig. 20 ] means by Fig.14 A top view of a pair of receiving bodies connected by a connecting member during transportation on a conveying path;

[0065] [ Fig.21 ] means by Fig.14 A top view of a pair of receiving bodies connected by a connecting member during transportation on a conveying path;

[0066] [ Fig. 22 ] means by Fig.14A top view of a pair of receiving bodies connected by a connecting member during transportation on a conveying path;

[0067] [ Fig.23 ] means by Fig.14 A top view of a pair of receiving bodies connected by a connecting member during transportation on a conveying path;

[0068] [ Fig.24 ] is a top view showing an example in which the connecting member undergoes elastic deformation;

[0069] [ Fig.25 ] is a front view of the connecting member of the first embodiment;

[0070] [ Fig.26 ]yes Fig.25 A top view of

[0071] [ Fig. 27 ] is a bottom view of the carrying portion of the receiving body;

[0072] [ Fig.28 ] is a top view showing the fixing of the mounting portion of the connecting member and the receiving body;

[0073] [ Fig.29 ] is Fig.25 A front view of a pair of receiving bodies connected by a connecting member;

[0074] [ Fig.30 ]yes Fig.29 A top view of

[0075] [ Fig.31 ] is a front view of a connecting portion of a third embodiment;

[0076] [ Fig.32 ] is a front view of the first part (a), a rear view of the first part (b), and a top view of the first part (c);

[0077] [ Fig.33 ] is a front view of the second part (a), a rear view of the first part (b), and a top view of the first part (c);

[0078] [ Fig.34 ] is a front view showing the process of fixing the first part and the second part;

[0079] [ Fig.35 ] is a top view of the first portion and the second portion after being fixed;

[0080] [ Fig.36 ] is a rear view after the first part and the second part are fixed;

[0081] [ Fig.37 ] is composed of Fig.31Front view of a pair of receiving bodies connected by a connecting member of the connecting portion;

[0082] Fig.38 is a front view of a pair of receiving bodies connected by a connecting member having another example of a connecting portion;

[0083] Fig.39 is a top view showing the outline of the quick rotation mechanism. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0084] <A. First Embodiment>

[0085] <1. Outline of the Food and Beverage Provision System>

[0086] Next, a first embodiment of the food and beverage provision system of the transport receiving body of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 is a top view of the food and beverage provision system, Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the transport path, Figure 3 is a front view of the transport path.

[0087] As Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown, as an example, the food and beverage provision system of the present embodiment is provided in a sushi restaurant, and includes a transport path 1 for transporting a receiving body 5 that houses food and beverages between a guest room S1 and a kitchen S2. In the guest room S1, a plurality of customer seat spaces 3 separated by partitions are provided, and each customer seat space 3 is arranged along the transport path 1. In addition, a rectangular table 31 is provided in each customer seat space 3, and one side of the table 31 is arranged in contact with the transport path 1.

[0088] In the receiving body 5 transported through the transport path 1, a plate 4 containing food and beverages (sushi, soup, snacks, beverages, etc.) is housed, and customers in each customer seat space 3 take out the plate 4 containing food and beverages from the receiving body 5 on the transport path 1 and eat on the table 31.

[0089] In addition, as Figure 2 shown, a touch panel display 32 for placing orders, settling accounts, etc. and a loading device 33 for loading the plate 4 are arranged on the table 31 in the customer seat space 3. The food and beverages ordered through the touch panel display 32 are transported from the kitchen S2 to the table 31 where the order is placed through a second transport path 2. In addition, information related to the ordered food and beverages is stored as order information in a processing device (not shown). Next, each device will be described in detail.

[0090] <2. Transport Path>

[0091] As Figure 2 ​​As shown, the conveying path 1 has two lines equipped with a flat chain conveyor 11, and the flat chain conveyor 11 is circulated between the guest room S1 and the kitchen S2 by a motor (not shown). In addition, on the flat chain conveyor 11, the above-mentioned storage bodies 5 are arranged at predetermined intervals and move on the conveying path 1.

[0092] <3. Input device>

[0093] Next, the input device 33 is described. Figure 2 As shown, the feeding device 33 includes: a guide path 332, which opens on the table 31 and has an inlet 331 for feeding the dish 4; and a sensor 333, which is arranged inside the guide path 332 and detects the dish 4 passing through. The guide path 332 extends obliquely downward from the table 31 and is connected to the dish recovery water path 22 arranged inside the conveying path 1. The dish recovery water path 22 extends toward the kitchen S2 and is connected to the receiving tank (not shown) arranged in the kitchen S2. Moreover, in the dish recovery water path 22, water flows toward the receiving tank, and if the dish 4 fed from the inlet 331 falls into the dish recovery water path 22 via the guide path 332, it will flow into the receiving tank using water. Moreover, the dish 4 is recovered in the receiving tank and reused after washing.

[0094] If the dish 4 passing through the guide path 332 is detected by the sensor 333, its type and quantity are sent to the above-mentioned processing device and stored as input information. The input information is used when checking out. If a checkout button (not shown) is touched on the touch panel display 32, the fee and the number or type of the consumed dishes are displayed on the touch panel display based on the input information and the above-mentioned order information. When the customer agrees, a record urging the payment of the fee in the POS cash register is displayed on the touch panel display 32. Alternatively, the store staff can be summoned to calculate the number of consumed dishes for checkout.

[0095] <4. Containment>

[0096] Next, refer to Figure 3 to Figure 6 The housing 5 will be described. Figure 3 is a front view of the container in a closed state. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Side view of Figure 5 is a front view of the container in an open state. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 In addition, Figure 3 to Figure 6 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, the dish 4 is shown as colored semi-transparent. First, the dish 4 accommodated in the container 5 is described. For example, Figure 3As shown in FIG. 1 , the dish 4 includes a circular dish plate 41 in plan view and a cylindrical raised base 42 protruding downward on the lower surface of the dish plate 41 , which are integrally formed. On the dish plate 41 , food and drink such as sushi (not shown) are placed.

[0097] Next, the container 5 will be described. Figure 3 to Figure 6 As shown, the container 5 comprises: a loading platform 6 having a loading position for loading the dish 4; a cover 7 for covering the upper surface of the loading platform 6; and an opening and closing mechanism 80 for closing the cover 7 as the dish 4 is loaded to the loading position, and opening the cover 7 as the dish 4 is taken out of the loading position. The following will describe each component in detail. Figure 3 to Figure 6 The invention is described in the direction shown, but it is not limited to this direction.

[0098] <4-1. Loading table>

[0099] Figure 7 This is a top view of the mounting platform and operating components. Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Front view of Fig. 9 yes Figure 7 Side view of the Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the mounting table 6 includes a cylindrical base 61 and a mounting portion 62 provided at the upper end thereof, which are integrally formed. The dish 4 is placed on the upper surface of the mounting portion 62, and the dish 4 is held at a mounting position described later. The mounting portion 62 includes a mounting plate 63 that is circular in plan view, a stopper 64 disposed at the front portion of the upper surface of the mounting plate 63, and a pair of support pieces 67 disposed at the rear end of the mounting plate 63 and supporting the cover body 7 so that it can be opened and closed.

[0100] The stopper 64 protrudes from the mounting plate 63 and extends along the front edge of the mounting plate 63. A circular arc-shaped inner peripheral surface 642 is formed at the rear edge of the stopper 64, and the outer peripheral surface of the platform 42 of the dish 4 is in contact with the inner peripheral surface 642. Circular through holes 69 are formed near the outer edges of both sides of the mounting plate 63.

[0101] In addition, a concave portion 635 in a rectangular shape in a top view is formed on the upper surface of the placing plate 63 at the rear of the center in the front-rear direction, and an action body 8 described later is arranged in the concave portion 635. In addition, a plurality of long hole-shaped through holes 636 extending in the front-rear direction are formed on the bottom surface of the concave portion 635, and as described later, a protrusion 811 of the action body 8 is inserted into the through hole 636. Moreover, the high platform 42 of the dish 4 is clamped by the second inner peripheral surface 642 of the stopper 64 and the action body 8 as described later, thereby the dish 4 is held on the placing table 6. The position where the dish 4 is placed at this time is referred to as the placing position. Figure 3 and Figure 4 It shows the state where the dish 4 is in the loading position.

[0102] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the pair of support pieces 67 are mounted on the mounting plate 63 with the recess 635 interposed therebetween, and extend upward from the mounting plate 63. Furthermore, a through hole 671 is formed at the upper end of each support piece 67, and the protrusion 73 of the cover body 7 is rotatably inserted into the through hole 671 to open and close the cover body 7. That is, the support piece 67 functions as a hinge for opening and closing the cover body 7 relative to the mounting portion 62.

[0103] <4-2. Cover>

[0104] Fig.10 is a side view of the cover. Fig.10 As shown, the cover body 7 has a cover body 71 formed in a dome shape and a pair of left and right arm pieces 72 extending downward from the rear end of the cover body 71, which are formed integrally. The cover body 71 and the arm pieces 72 are made of a transparent synthetic resin material, and the interior can be seen from the outside. The above-mentioned protrusions 73 are formed near the upper end of each arm piece 72, and each protrusion 73 is rotatably embedded in the through hole 671 of the support piece 67 of the carrier portion 62. Each protrusion 73 protrudes in the left and right directions, whereby the cover body 7 rotates around the rotation axis L (refer to Figure 4 etc.), and can be opened and closed relative to the mounting plate 63.

[0105] In addition, a long hole-shaped cutout 75 extending upward is formed at the lower end of each arm piece 72. A connecting shaft 85 of the operating body 8 described later is inserted into the cutout 75.

[0106] The outer diameter of the cover 7 is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the mounting plate 63. Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the cover 7 is in the closed state, the lower edge of the cover 7 is arranged above the peripheral edge of the mounting plate 63 with a gap therebetween. The dish 4 is accommodated in the gap. Figure 3 As shown, an arc-shaped cutout 76 is formed at the lower edge of the front portion of the cover 7, and the received dish 4 can be grasped through the cutout 76. A through hole 77 is formed at the uppermost portion of the cover 7, and a display plate 79 indicating the type of food and drink entering each cover 7 is installed in the through hole 77. The types of sushi such as tuna and sea bream can be displayed in the display plate 79.

[0107] <4-3. Opening and closing mechanism>

[0108] Next, the opening and closing mechanism is described. Figure 4 and Figure 6As shown, the opening and closing mechanism 80 includes an operating body 8 disposed on the mounting plate 63 and a coil spring (urging means) 83 for urging the operating body 8 forward.

[0109] First, the operating body 8 will be described. Fig.11 These are the top view (a), side view (b) and bottom view (c) of the moving body. Fig.11 As shown in the figure, the action body 8 comprises: a plate-shaped main body 81, which is arranged in the recess 635 of the above-mentioned mounting plate 63 and slides in the recess 635 in the front-rear direction; and a support part 82, which protrudes upward from the rear part of the main body 81. The support part 82 is formed in a rectangular shape in a plan view, but an inner peripheral surface 821 that is recessed in an arc shape toward the rear is formed at the front part, and the inner peripheral surface 821 is connected to the outer peripheral surface of the high platform 42 of the dish 4. That is, the high platform 42 of the dish 4 is clamped by the inner peripheral surface 821 of the action body 8 and the second inner peripheral surface 642 of the stopper 64.

[0110] like Fig.11 As shown in (c), a plurality of protrusions 811 extending in the front-to-back direction are formed on the lower surface of the main body 81, and these protrusions 811 are embedded in the through holes 634 formed on the bottom surface of the recess 635 of the mounting plate 63 as described above. As a result, the main body 81 can be guided by the protrusions 811 and the through holes 634 while sliding in the front-to-back direction. Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , the coil spring 83 is installed between the protrusion 811a in the middle of the plurality of protrusions 811 in the left-right direction and the mounting portion 638 formed on the lower surface of the mounting plate 63 in front of the protrusion 811a. The actuator 8 is always biased forward by the coil spring 83. However, as described later, Fig.14 As shown, the main body 81 of the actuator 8 is arranged in the recess 635 of the mounting plate 63. Since the front wall of the recess 635 serves as a stopper, although it is urged forward, it will not continue to move forward due to the front wall.

[0111] In addition, if Fig.11 As shown, protrusions 84 extending obliquely upward in the rear direction are formed on both sides of the rear end of the support portion 82. A connecting shaft 85 extending in the left-right direction is formed near the upper end of each protrusion 84, and each connecting shaft 85 is inserted into the cutout 75 formed on the arm piece 72 of the cover body 7 and can move in the cutout 75. In addition, the connecting shaft 85 is inserted into the cutout 75 below the rotation axis L.

[0112] Next, the opening and closing of the cover body by the operating body will be described. Fig.12 Indicates the lid in the closed state, Fig.13 Indicates the cover in the open state. Fig.12 and Fig.13 4 and 5. The cover body 7 and the actuator 8 are mainly shown in the figure, and the support piece 67 of the mounting table 6 is omitted for convenience of explanation.

[0113] Since the actuator 8 is always urged forward by the coil spring 83, Fig.12 As shown, when no external force is applied, the action body 8 is in contact with the front wall of the recess 635. As a result, the connecting shaft 85 pushes the lower end of the arm piece 72 forward. That is, because the connecting shaft 85 presses the lower end of the arm piece 72 forward below the rotation axis L, the cover body 7 swings upward around the swing axis L and becomes an open state. Because the action body 8 is always biased forward by the coil spring 83, the cover body 7 is in an open state in the initial state.

[0114] If the actuator 8 is moved backward from this state against the coil spring 83, Fig.13 The connecting shaft 85 pushes the arm piece 72 backward. As a result, the cover body 7 is pressed backward below the rotation axis L, so it swings downward around the rotation axis L to become a closed state. In this process, the connecting shaft 85 moves upward in the notch 75 of the arm piece 72.

[0115] <5. How to use the container>

[0116] Next, the method of using the container 5 is described. First, after the cook puts food such as sushi (not shown) on the plate 41 of the plate 4, he holds the edge of the plate 41 by hand and puts the plate 4 into the container 5 in the open state placed on the conveyor path 1. That is, the plate 4 is placed from the Figure 6 At this time, the plate 42 of the dish 4 is brought into contact with the inner circumference 821 of the actuator 8, and the dish 4 and the actuator 8 are pressed downwardly toward the rear. Furthermore, if the plate 42 of the dish 4 is engaged with the second inner circumference 642 of the stopper 64, the plate 42 is held between the actuator 8 and the stopper 64. Since the actuator 8 moves toward the rear during this process, Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the cover 7 swings downward to become a closed state. As a result, since the upper part of the dish 4 is covered by the cover 7, the sushi is protected by the cover 7 to prevent dust and the like from adhering. However, since the cover 7 is transparent, the sushi inside can be seen from the outside. In addition, since the actuator 8 is biased forward by the coil spring 83, the high platform 42 of the dish 4 is pressed into the actuator 8. Therefore, the high platform 42 is firmly held between the actuator 8 and the stopper 64. Since the cover 7 is then kept in a closed state, it will not be accidentally opened.

[0117] The container 5 in which the plates 4 are placed is conveyed along the conveying path 1, and the customer takes out the plates 4 from the container 5 on the table 31. Figure 3 and Figure 4In this state, the user inserts a finger through the cutout 76 of the cover 7, and grasps the plate 41 with the finger and pushes it upward. As a result, if the platform 42 is separated from the stopper 64, the platform 42 is pushed forward by the operating body 8. Since the operating body 8 moves forward during this process, the cover 7 swings upward accordingly and becomes an open state. In this state, the customer can take out the plate 4 from the storage body 5 while grasping the plate 41.

[0118] <6. Connectors>

[0119] Fig.14 is the front view of the connecting part. Fig.15 yes Fig.14 A top view of Fig.16 is a front view of the receiving body with the connecting member installed, Fig.17 yes Fig.16 In this embodiment, two adjacent containers 5 are transported through the transport path 1 in a state of being connected by a connecting member 9. Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown, the connecting member 9 has a pair of mounting portions 91 mounted on the housing 5, and a connecting portion 92 connecting the two mounting portions 91. The mounting portion 91 is formed in an annular shape and is detachably mounted on the outer peripheral surface of the base 61 of the housing 5. Therefore, the mounting portion 91 is formed of an elastic member such as rubber, and has an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the base 61 in the initial state. Moreover, when the mounting portion 91 is mounted on the base 61, the inner diameter of the mounting portion 91 is expanded and mounted on the base 61. As a result, the mounting portion 91 presses down the outer peripheral surface of the base 61 and is fixed to the base 61.

[0120] The connecting part 92 is a component for maintaining the interval between adjacent storage bodies 5. In more detail, the connecting part 92 has a plate-shaped main body 921, a fixing part 922 formed on the upper surface of the main body 921, and a pair of protrusions 923 mounted on the upper surface of the main body 921 at both ends of the fixing part 921, which are formed integrally. The main body 921 extends in a rod shape in order to maintain the interval between adjacent storage bodies 5, and its two ends are fixed to the mounting part. The fixing part 922 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and a slit 924 is formed on the upper surface. A sheet-shaped or plate-shaped display component 97 formed of paper or resin is installed in the slit 922. For example, the content of the food and beverages stored in the storage body 5, publicity (so-called POP advertising, etc.), and notification matters to customers (for example, thanks to customers, matters to be requested to customers) are displayed in the display component 97. That is, a display visible to customers is applied to the display component 97. In this case, the display unit 97 may be a display using paper or the like, or may be an electronic display using electronic paper.

[0121] The slit 924 is used as a display component mounting portion for mounting the display component 97 on the connecting portion 92 . By forming such a display component mounting portion on the connecting portion 92 , the display component 97 is stably mounted on the connecting portion 92 .

[0122] The connecting portion 92 is formed to have a length that allows the display component 97 to be installed. In this case, there is no particular limitation as long as the display content can be seen from the customer seat. For example, it is conceivable to connect the two receiving bodies 5 in a state where the distance between them is separated by a certain amount according to the horizontal length of the display component 97 (at least the length of the lower end). In this way, a space in the horizontal direction (the conveying direction of the conveying path) is ensured between the two receiving bodies 5, and the display component 97 can be installed on the connecting portion 92.

[0123] Each protrusion 923 is fixed in the through hole 69 formed on the mounting plate 63. Thus, the installation angle of the connecting portion 92 and the mounting plate 63 is fixed. Therefore, if the connecting member 9 is fixed in the container 5, the distance between the two containers 5 and the angle between the two containers 5 are fixed, and the two containers 5 are transported through the transport path 1 while maintaining this fixed state.

[0124] The maximum value of the distance between the two receiving bodies 5 is not particularly limited, for example, preferably less than 12 cm, more preferably less than 11 cm, and further preferably less than 10 cm. On the other hand, the minimum value of the distance between the two receiving bodies 5 is also not particularly limited, for example, preferably more than 7 cm, more preferably more than 8 cm. Moreover, the connecting member 9 is designed so that the distance between the two receiving bodies 5 is the distance described above. The length of the connecting member 9 is set to a length that allows the two receiving bodies 5 to be smoothly transported based on the outer diameter of the receiving body 5, the width of the conveying path 1, and the curvature radius of the curved path 103 described later.

[0125] In this case, as the upper limit of the length of the connecting portion 62, for example, the moving range (moving trajectory) of one assembly consisting of two receiving bodies 5 connected by the connecting portion 62 is preferably less than the length that does not exceed the passing area formed by the U-shaped conveying path formed by the straight path and the curved path. This is because if the length of the connecting portion is set so as not to exceed the moving range of one assembly consisting of two receiving bodies 5 connected by the connecting portion 62 with respect to the passing area formed by the U-shaped conveying path, when the conveying path turns, any one of the assemblies contacts the outer edge or the inner edge of the passing area, and it is difficult for the two receiving bodies 5 connected by the connecting portion 62 to pass.

[0126] The outer diameter of the container 5 needs to be set based on the outer diameter of the portion that contacts the conveying path 1 (the portion affected by the passage), and may be set based on the outer diameter of the base 61 or the mounting portion 62.

[0127] In addition, in the case where a rapid rotation mechanism (a blade and a conveyor for taking a shortcut in the conveying path) is provided in the conveying path 1, the passing area formed by the conveying path formed by the rapid rotation mechanism is preferably not longer than the length of a moving range of an assembly consisting of two containers 5 connected by a connecting portion 62.

[0128] In addition, the connecting piece 9 is formed by a component having rigidity such that the distance or angle between the two receiving bodies 5 does not change during transportation. For example, it can be formed by a resin material or a metal material that is not easily elastically deformed. More specifically, for example, it is preferably rigid such that one end of the connecting part 92 is supported and horizontally extended, and it does not deform when a load of less than 60g acts on the other end, and more preferably, it is rigid such that it does not deform when a load of less than 80g acts. In addition, although the connecting piece 9 does not deform during transportation, it is not a rigid body, and some deformation is allowed when a strong force acts.

[0129] <7. Transport of containers connected by connectors>

[0130] Next, the conveyance of two containers 5 connected by the connecting member 9 will be described. Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown, the coupling member 9 is mounted on the container 5. Next, the pair of container 5 connected by the coupling member 9 is arranged on the conveying path 1. At this time, although the two container 5 are arranged on the conveying path 1, the coupling member 9 is not in contact with the conveying path 1 and is arranged above the conveying path 1. Figure 18 to Figure 23 The conveyor path 1 shown in the figure is used for conveying. The conveyor path 1 has a first straight line 101, a second straight line 102 extending parallel to the first straight line 101, and a curved path 103 connecting the ends of the two straight lines 101 and 102. Moreover, after the container enters the left side on the first straight line 101, it passes through the curved path 103 and changes direction, and then enters the right side on the second straight line 102. The table 31 faces the first straight line 101 and the second straight line 102. In addition, the conveyor path 1 is arranged at a position slightly lower than the surrounding base. Therefore, the conveyor path 1 is arranged in the area between the outer edge 201 and the inner edge 202. However, although the placement plate 63 is at a higher position than the surrounding base and does not contact during conveyance, it may contact the outer edge 201 or the inner edge 202 if the base 61 is not properly conveyed. In addition, for the convenience of explanation, the first container is called the first container 501 and the last container is called the second container 502. In addition, the portion indicated by a black square in each of the housing bodies 501 and 502 is a position where the cutout 76 is formed, indicating the front portion of each of the housing bodies 501 and 502 .

[0131] As an example of conveying the containers 501 and 502, the widths of the straight paths 101 and 102 and the curved path 103 are set to 15 cm, the radius of curvature of the curved path 103 is set to 21 cm, the interval between the first and second straight paths 101 and 102 is set to 12 cm, the outer diameter of the base 61 of each container 5 is set to 10 cm, the outer diameter of the mounting plate 63 is set to 16 cm, and the distance between the containers (the distance between the mounting plates 63) is set to 12 cm. Fig.18 18cm is the distance between the bases 61: 12cm+3cm+3cm). In addition, the speed of the conveying path 1 is 80 to 100 mm / second. However, these are just examples, and the dimensions can be appropriately changed so that the two containers 501 and 502 can be smoothly moved on the conveying path 1 in a state of being connected as described above. In addition, Figure 18 to Figure 23 Parts denoted by reference numerals 501 and 502 in the figure represent bases 61 of the respective housing bodies 501 and 502 .

[0132] First, if Fig.18 As shown, the two receiving bodies 501 and 502 enter the right side on the first straight line 101. At this time, the front parts of the two receiving bodies 501 and 502 face the table 31. Fig.19 As shown, if the first receiving body 501 enters the curved path 103, the connecting member 9 rotates and follows the first receiving body 501. The second receiving body 502 moves on the first straight line 101 while slightly rotating.

[0133] like Fig. 20 As shown in FIG. 1 , if the first receiving body 501 enters the downstream side of the curved path 103, the second receiving body 502 enters the curved path 103. Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown in FIG. 1 , if the first receiving body 501 enters the second straight path 102, the connecting member 9 rotates and follows the first receiving body 501. The second receiving body 502 also rotates slightly and moves on the curved path 103. Fig.23 As shown, the two receiving bodies 501 and 502 enter the second straight road 102 and move to the right. At this time, the front parts of the two receiving bodies 501 and 502 are both facing the table 31.

[0134] <8. Features>

[0135] As described above, the housing 5 and the connector according to the present embodiment can obtain the following effects.

[0136] (1) Since the two receiving bodies 501 and 502 are connected by a connecting member 9 and a display member 97 is installed in the connecting member 9, it is possible to notify or promote the contents of the food and beverages contained in the receiving body 5 and to notify the customer. In this case, for example, it is easy to recognize the correlation between the displayed contents and the food and beverages contained in the receiving body 5.

[0137] (2) Since the two receiving bodies 501 and 502 are connected by the connecting member 9 and the distance and angle between them are fixed, the front surfaces of the two receiving bodies 501 and 502 always move toward the side of the table 31. Therefore, the customer eating at the table 31 can easily take out the dish 4 from the receiving body 5.

[0138] In addition, since the display member 97 attached to the connecting member 9 is always facing the table 31 side, it is easy for customers to see it, and the promotion effect can be improved.

[0139] (3) Since the connecting member 9 is formed of a rigid member, even if there is a certain distance between the two receiving bodies 501 and 502, the two receiving bodies 501 and 502 can be transported while keeping the interval and angle between them fixed. Fig.24 The connecting member 9 shown may turn during transportation on the curved path 103. Furthermore, if the connecting member 9 turns, the positional relationship between the two receiving bodies 501 and 502 on the conveying path 1 changes, and as a result, the receiving bodies 501 and 502 cannot pass through the conveying path 1 and may stop on the conveying path 1. In contrast, if a rigid connecting member 9 is used as in the present embodiment, the positional relationship between the two receiving bodies 501 and 502 can be maintained, so the two receiving bodies 501 and 502 can be stably conveyed.

[0140] In addition, when a rigid coupling 9 is used, it is also effective to provide a rapid rotation mechanism (a blade and a conveyor for making the conveyor 1 take a shortcut) in the conveying path 1. In this case, by making the conveying speed different between the conveyor of the rapid rotation mechanism and the conveyor of the conveying path 1, the positional relationship between the two containers 501 and 502 can be easily changed. In addition, there may be a problem that the height difference between the conveyor of the rapid rotation mechanism and the conveyor of the conveying path 1 becomes an obstacle to the movement of the two containers 501 and 502. Therefore, by using a rigid coupling 9, the front container 501 can be advanced by utilizing the propulsion force accompanying the movement of the rear container 502, or conversely, the rear container 502 can be pulled by the movement of the front container 501 via the coupling portion 92, and the two connected containers 501 and 502 can be moved smoothly even if there is a difference in conveying speed or the influence of the height difference.

[0141] In addition, in the case of using the rigid connecting member 9, by turning the connecting member 9 during conveyance on the curved path 103, it is possible to prevent the shape of the display member 97 attached to the connecting member 9 from changing. Thus, the display to the customer is appropriately performed.

[0142] <B. Second Embodiment>

[0143] Next, with reference to Figure 25 to Figure 28 a second embodiment of the connecting member of the present invention will be described. In addition, the housing and the like other than the connecting member are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

[0144] Fig.25 is a front view of the connecting member, Fig.26 is Fig.25 a top view of Fig. 27 is a front view of the housing in which the connecting member is mounted, Fig.28 is Fig. 27 a top view of . The connecting member of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment in that the mounting portion 91 and the connecting portion 92 can be separated.

[0145] <1. Outline of Connecting Member>

[0146] As Fig.25 and Fig.26 shown, the connecting member 9 has a pair of mounting portions 91 and a connecting portion 92. The pair of mounting portions 91 have the same structure. The mounting portion 91 has a plate-shaped substrate 911, a first support portion 912 and a second support portion 913 provided on the upper surface of the substrate 911, a standing portion 914 standing on the upper surface of the substrate 911, and a fixing portion 915 provided at the upper end of the standing portion 914.

[0147] The substrate 911 is formed in a ring shape and is formed such that a part thereof protrudes radially. A cylindrical first support portion 912 is disposed around the inner peripheral edge of the substrate 911, and gaps (rotation prevention portions) 912a are formed at two positions on the front side of the first support portion 912 at positions symmetric with respect to the center of the first support portion 912. Moreover, the first support portion 912 is housed inside the base 61 of the housing 5. Therefore, the outer diameter of the first support portion 912 is substantially the same as the inner diameter of the base 61.

[0148] The standing portion 914 is formed in a plate shape and protrudes upward from the protruding portion of the base 911. Moreover, a fixing portion 915 is mounted at the outermost upper end of the standing portion 914. The fixing portion 915 is formed in a rectangular plate shape, and a through hole 916 is formed at the center thereof in a top view.

[0149] The connecting portion 92 has a thin plate-shaped main body 924 and a square column-shaped protrusion 925 protruding downward from both ends of the lower surface of the main body 924. The protrusion 925 is inserted into the through hole 916 of each mounting portion 91. In addition, the above-mentioned display component 97 is provided on the upper surface of the main body 924. In addition, the distance between the two receiving bodies 5 shown in the first embodiment is substantially the same as the length of the main body 924. In addition, the material of the connecting member 9 of this embodiment can also be made the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0150] <2. How to use the connector>

[0151] Next, the method of using the connecting member 9 is described. Fig. 27 and Fig.28 The fixation of the base 61 and the mounting portion 91 of the housing 5 will be described. Fig. 27 6 is a bottom view of the loading portion of the container. As described above, a cylindrical base 61 is provided on the lower surface of the loading plate 63 of the loading portion 62. A coil spring 83 extending in the front-rear direction is provided in the internal space of the base 61 as described above. In addition, a pair of hammers 68 are provided on the lower surface of the loading plate 63 in a manner of sandwiching the coil spring 83. The hammers 68 are provided to stably arrange the container 5 on the conveying path 1.

[0152] Each weight 68 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and is provided at two locations on the front side of the internal space of the base 61 symmetrically with respect to the center of the base 61. In addition, each weight 68 is provided so as to be in contact with the inner wall surface of the base 61.

[0153] like Fig.28 As shown, when the mounting portion 91 is mounted on the base 61, the first support portion 912 of the mounting portion 91 contacts the inner wall surface of the base 61. At this time, a part of the weight 68 enters a pair of slits 913 respectively formed in the first support portion 912. Thus, the housing 5 is prevented from rotating relative to the mounting portion 91.

[0154] Next, each protrusion 925 of the connecting portion 92 is inserted into the through hole 916 of the fixing portion 915 of each mounting portion 91. As described above, since each protrusion 925 is formed in a square column shape and the through hole 916 is formed in a rectangular shape in plan view, the protrusion 925 cannot rotate relative to the through hole 915. Thus, the connecting portion 92 is fixed so that the angle relative to each mounting portion 91 does not change. As a result, the two receiving bodies 5 are connected via the connecting member 9. Thereafter, these receiving bodies 5 and the connecting member 9 are transported on the transport path 1 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0155] According to the above structure, since the housing portion 5 is mounted on the mounting portion 91 by placing the housing portion 5 on the mounting portion 91, the mounting operation of the mounting portion 91 can be easily performed. In addition, in the above second embodiment, the structure in which the base 61 is placed on the upper surface of the mounting portion 91 may also be employed.

[0156] Thus, in the present embodiment, although the mounting portion 91 and the connecting portion 92 are separately formed, if various forms of the connecting portion 92 are prepared in advance, the connecting member 9 can be constituted by only exchanging the connecting portion 92. For example, if various connecting portions 92 such as a connecting portion 92 having a different length of the main body portion 924 and a connecting portion 92 having a different shape of the display member 97 are prepared in advance, the mounting portion 91 can be directly used.

[0157] <C. Third Embodiment>

[0158] Next, Figure 31 to Figure 36 A third embodiment of the connecting member of the present invention will be described. In addition, the housing body and the like other than the connecting portion in the connecting member are the same as those in the second embodiment, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

[0159] Fig.31 is a front view of the connecting member. The connecting member of the present embodiment is different from the second embodiment in that the connecting portion 100 can be separated.

[0160] <1. Outline of Mounting Portion>

[0161] As Fig.31 shown, the connecting portion 100 of the present embodiment is configured to have a shape like two hands shaking hands, and further, the above-described display member 97 can be mounted. The connecting portion 100 is composed of a first portion 110 and a second portion 120. These first portion 110 and second portion 120 are colored in different colors. Hereinafter, each portion will be described.

[0162] <2. First Portion>

[0163] Fig.32 is a front view (a) of the first portion, a rear view (b) of the first portion, and a top view (c) of the first portion. As Fig.32 shown, the first portion 110 includes a plate-shaped base portion 111 formed in a rectangular shape, a plate-shaped insertion portion 112 extending obliquely downward from the base portion 111 toward the right side (the second portion 120 side), a support portion 113 provided on the back surface of the base portion 111, and a fixing portion 114 extending downward from the support portion 113, which are integrally formed.

[0164] The front end of the insertion portion 112 is formed in a shape simulating four fingers except the thumb, and the insertion portion 112 is inserted into the second portion 120 to fix the first portion 110 and the second portion 120. In addition, as Fig.32 As shown in (b), a recess 118 is formed on the back of the insertion portion 112, and the engaging portion 1281 of the second portion 120 described later is embedded in the recess 118. The support portion 113 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and a slit 116 extending in the left-right direction and opening to the right side (the second portion 120 side) is formed on the upper surface. The display component 97 is inserted into the slit 116 as described later.

[0165] The fixing portion 114 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in the up-down direction, and is a portion mounted on the one mounting portion 91. Therefore, a protrusion 115 similar to the protrusion 925 shown in the second embodiment is provided at the lower end of the fixing portion 114.

[0166] <3. Second part>

[0167] Fig.33 : is a front view of the second part (a), a rear view of the second part (b), and a top view of the second part (c). Fig.33 As shown, the second part 120 has a rectangular base 121, a plate-shaped receiving part 122 extending obliquely downward from the left side (first part 110 side) of the base 121, and a fixing part 127 extending downward from the base 121, and they are formed integrally. In addition, the front surfaces of the base 121 and the receiving part 122 are coplanar.

[0168] The base 121 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and a slit 129 extending in the left-right direction and open to the left side (first part 110 side) is formed on the upper surface. The display component 97 is inserted into the slit 129 as described later. In addition, a plate-like front section 123 is provided on the right side of the front surface of the base 121. The thickness of the front section 123 is substantially the same as the thickness of the insertion part 112 of the first part 110. In addition, the edge 1231 on the left side of the front section 123 extends downward along the oblique right side. This becomes the insertion direction of the insertion part 112. A plate-like first pressing down portion 124 is provided at the upper end portion on the left side of the front section 123. The first pressing down portion 124 is provided in a manner covering the upper side of the base 121, and is in the shape of a simulated thumb.

[0169] A protrusion 125 protruding forward is provided at the edge of the lower end side of the receiving portion 122, and a second pressing portion 126 extending from the protrusion 125 toward the upper right is provided. The second pressing portion 126 is formed to simulate the shape of four fingers except the thumb. Thus, a gap is formed between the receiving portion 122 and the second pressing portion 126 by the protrusion 125, and the insertion portion 112 is inserted into the gap. Therefore, the right end edge 1251 of the protrusion 125 extends downward along the oblique right side. This becomes the insertion direction of the insertion portion 112. Therefore, the insertion portion 112 inserted into the receiving portion 122 is covered by the first pressing portion 124 and the second pressing portion 126.

[0170] A U-shaped through hole is formed in the receiving portion 122, and the portion surrounded by the through hole constitutes an elastically deformable deformable portion 128. In addition, a protruding engaging portion 1281 is formed on the front surface of the deformable portion 128, and the engaging portion 1281 is embedded in the recess 118 of the insertion portion 112.

[0171] The fixing portion 127 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in the up-down direction, and is a portion mounted on the mounting portion 91. Therefore, a protrusion 1271 similar to the protrusion 925 shown in the second embodiment is provided at the lower end of the fixing portion 127.

[0172] <4. Method for fixing the first part and the second part>

[0173] Next, a method of fixing the first portion 110 and the second portion 120 will be described. Fig.34 This is a front view showing the process of fixing the two. Fig.35 This is the top view after fixing. Fig.36 This is the rear view after fixation.

[0174] In order to fix the first part 110 and the second part 120, as Fig.34 As shown in FIG. 1 , the insertion portion 112 of the first portion 110 is inserted downwardly and obliquely to the right between the front surface of the receiving portion 122 of the second portion 120 and the first and second pressing portions 124 and 126. At this time, the deformation portion 128 of the second portion 120 is elastically deformed, and the engaging portion 1281 is embedded in the recess 118. Fig.31 As shown, the first part 110 and the second part 120 are fixed to form a shape like the two are shaking hands.

[0175] After fixation, Fig.35 As shown in FIG. 1 , the slit 116 of the first portion 110 and the slit 129 of the second portion 120 are connected in the left-right direction to form a recess for inserting the display component 97. Fig.36 As shown in FIG. 1 , after being fixed, the end of the support portion 113 of the first portion 110 and the end of the base portion 121 of the second portion 120 are connected, so the insertion portion 112 is limited to be larger than Fig.31 The state shown is further interpolated.

[0176] As described above, if the first portion 110 and the second portion 120 are fixed, the protrusions 116 and 1271 are fixed to the fixing portion 915 of the mounting portion 91. Fig.37 As shown, the two receiving bodies 5 form a structure connected by a connecting member 9.

[0177] <5. Features>

[0178] According to the connection portion 100 configured as described above, the following effects can be obtained.

[0179] (1) Since the first portion 110 and the second portion 120 are colored in different colors, the connection between the two portions can be emphasized. In addition, since the connecting portion 100 itself is separated into two, the connecting member 9 can be separated into two even after the connecting member 9 is respectively installed in the two receiving bodies 5, so that the two receiving bodies 5 can be stored separately.

[0180] (2) Since the first part 110 and the second part 120 are formed to simulate a hand, when the two are connected, they are in the shape of a handshake, and thus the connection between the two can be further emphasized.

[0181] (3) Since the connection portion 100 is colored in a color different from that of the housing 5 , the presence of the connection portion 100 can be emphasized.

[0182] (4) Since the insertion portion 112 of the first portion 110 is inserted and fixed obliquely downward relative to the second portion 120, the first portion 110 and the second portion 120 are fixed in a direction intersecting the conveying direction in the conveying path. Therefore, the first portion 110 and the second portion 120 can be prevented from being separated during conveyance. In addition, since the engaging portion 1281 is embedded in the recess 118 when the first portion 110 and the second portion 120 are fixed, the two portions 110 and 120 can be firmly fixed.

[0183] <6. Modifications>

[0184] The following modified examples can also be combined with the above-mentioned embodiments, or the methods described in the following modified examples can be appropriately combined with each other. In this embodiment, as one method, the first part 110 and the second part 120 are formed in a shape that simulates a hand, and when the two are connected, they are in a shape like a handshake, but are not limited to this. That is, the shapes of the parts 110 and 120 can be changed in various ways, as long as the parts separated into at least two are formed to be connected. For example, various shapes such as the logo of a company can be configured to separate it into two and connect them.

[0185] The first portion 110 and the second portion 120 do not necessarily need to be colored in different colors, and may be the same color.

[0186] The connection structure of the first part 110 and the second part 120 is not particularly limited. In the present embodiment, as described above, the insertion part 112 of the first part 110 is inserted and fixed to the receiving part 122 of the second part 120, but it can also be a structure other than this, for example, it can also be connected using various parts such as fastening parts such as screws.

[0187] In this embodiment, the content recorded in the customer demand display component 97 is displayed by installing the display component 97 in the connecting component 9. However, even in the absence of the display component 97, the customer demands can still be met. That is, in this embodiment, the connecting part 100 is in the shape of a simulated "handshake". For example, according to the "Da辞泉" (Shogakukan), a handshake expresses friendly feelings and joy. Therefore, it can be said that the handshake shape of the connecting part 100 conveys such a meaning. In addition, since the connecting component 9 connects the two containers 5, the simulated handshake shape can present the friendly relationship between the two objects. Therefore, for example, if different countries' dishes are placed in the containers 5, the friendly relationship between the two countries can be presented.

[0188] In addition, the shape of the connecting part 100 is not limited to the shape representing a handshake as described above and can be various shapes. For example, as Fig.38 shown, by setting the connecting part 100 to the shape of a hand simulating a thumbs up, it is possible to express so-called "very good". Therefore, for example, it shows that the provided food and drinks are very good. The connecting part 100 can be integrally formed or can be configured to be separable into two as described above. In addition, the connecting part 100 can also be designed as a figure. Therefore, the meaning of "display" in the "display visible to the customer on the connecting part" of the present invention is to present some design-related expressions such as making the connecting component into a generally meaningful shape or figure design. In addition to making some displays according to the shape of the connecting part, "display" can also be performed by labeling the connecting part with words, marks, signs, etc.

[0189] <D. Variation Example>

[0190] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and various changes can be made without departing from its gist. In addition, the following variation examples can be appropriately combined.

[0191] (1) The structure of the container 5 shown in the above embodiment is only an example, and its structure is not particularly limited as long as it can accommodate the plate 4 for placing food and drinks. For example, in the above embodiment, the base 61 is formed in a cylindrical shape, but its outer shape can also be formed in a polygonal column shape.

[0192] (2) The conveying path 1 is only an example, and the length of the connecting component 9 can be appropriately determined based on the outer diameter of the container 5, the curvature radius of the curved path 103 of the conveying path 1, and the width of the conveying path 1 as described above. For example, the above-mentioned rapid rotation mechanism is configured as Fig.39 as such. As Fig.39As shown, the rapid rotation mechanism is used, for example, to form a bypass path for conveying the container 5 from the middle of the second straight path 102 to the middle of the first straight line 101. More specifically, the rapid rotation mechanism includes: a conveyor 106, which is arranged between the second straight path 102 and the first straight path 101 and conveys the container 5 from the second straight path 102 to the first straight path 101; a first guide plate 107, which is used to guide the container 5 from the second straight path 102 to the conveyor 106; a second guide plate 108, which is used to guide the container 5 from the conveyor 106 to the first straight path 101; and a cylindrical inner edge member 109, which constitutes the inner edge of the bypass path. Each guide plate 10 is arranged so as to obliquely cross the second straight path 102 and the first straight path 101.

[0193] The size of the bypass path based on the rapid rotation mechanism is as follows Fig.31 The conveyor speed is 180 to 220 mm / sec. Even in such a bypass path, as long as the dimensions of the coupling 9 or the container 5 relative to the path are adjusted as described above, the container can pass smoothly.

[0194] (3) The structure of the connecting member 9 is not particularly limited as long as it can be connected in a manner that the angle relative to the receiving body 5 is constant and the distance between the two receiving bodies 5 is constant. In the above embodiment, the connecting member 9 is prevented from rotating relative to the receiving body 5 by providing the protrusion 93 and inserting the protrusion 93 into the through hole 69 of the receiving body 5, but other structures may also be used.

[0195] In addition, the structure of the mounting portion 91 is not particularly limited, and it may be configured to be mounted on a portion other than the base 61 of the housing 5. In addition, it may be mounted by a method other than the method of using a rubber material. Therefore, the mounting portion and mounting method to the housing 5 are not particularly limited.

[0196] The structure of the connecting portion 92 is not particularly limited, as long as it is configured to be mounted with the display component 97. In this case, the slit 924 is used as the display component mounting portion, but it is not limited to this, and screws, Velcro, etc. may also be used. In this case, it is not necessary to form the display component mounting portion on the connecting portion 92 itself, and the display component 97 may be mounted on the connecting portion 92 using an adhesive, a clip, etc.

[0197] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the connecting portion 92 and the mounting portion 91 are formed integrally, but the connecting portion 92 may be detachably fixed to the mounting portion 91 as in the second embodiment. In this case, the connecting structure of the mounting portion 91 and the connecting portion 92 is not particularly limited, and a method other than the second embodiment may be used. In addition, the connecting portion 92 itself may be composed of a plurality of components that can be connected to each other.

[0198] In addition, in the above embodiment, the display member 97 is mounted on the connecting portion 92, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the present invention can be applied even if the display member 97 is not mounted. In this case, the connecting portion is formed to have a length for maintaining a certain distance between the plurality of containers, and can also be used as a connecting member for connecting a pair of containers transported on the transport path.

[0199] Description of Reference Numerals

[0200] 1 Conveyor route

[0201] 5 Containment

[0202] 9 Connectors

[0203] 91 Installation

[0204] 92 Connection

[0205] 921 Main Body

[0206] 922 Fixed part

[0207] 923 protrusion

[0208] 97 Display components.

Claims

1. A connecting member for connecting a pair of containers containing food and beverages and conveyed on a conveying path, characterized in that: have: A pair of mounting parts mounted on each of the receiving bodies; a connecting portion connecting the pair of mounting portions, The connecting portion is formed to have a length that allows attachment of a display member to which a display visible to a customer is applied.

2. The connecting piece according to claim 1, characterized in that: The display component is formed in a plate or sheet shape, The lower end portion of the display member is formed in a linear shape, and the connecting portion is formed to have a length capable of arranging the lower end portion of the display member.

3. The connecting member according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connecting portion has rigidity capable of maintaining a constant interval between the pair of receiving bodies.

4. The connecting piece according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The container has a base placed on the conveying path. The mounting portion includes a support portion on which the base is placed.

5. The connecting piece according to claim 4, characterized in that: The support portion includes a rotation preventing portion for preventing rotation relative to the base.

6. The connecting piece according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The container has a cylindrical base placed on the conveying path. The mounting portion is formed in an annular shape that can be mounted on the outer peripheral surface of the base.

7. The connecting piece according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The connecting portion is fixed so that the angle with respect to the housing is constant.

8. The connecting piece according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The connecting portion is fixed to the mounting portion so as to be detachable.

9. The connecting piece according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The connecting portion includes a display component mounting portion for mounting the display component on the connecting portion.

10. A connecting member for connecting a pair of containers containing food and beverages and conveyed on a conveying path, characterized in that: have: A pair of mounting parts mounted on each of the receiving bodies; a connecting portion connecting the pair of mounting portions, A display visible to the customer is applied to the connecting portion.

11. The connecting piece according to claim 1 or 10, characterized in that: The connecting portion is separably constituted into two.

12. The connecting piece according to claim 11, characterized in that: Each part of the two separated connecting parts is formed into a shape simulating a hand, When the above-mentioned parts are connected, they are formed into a shape simulating a handshake.

Images