Ice cream mold plate

Abstract

Ice cream mold plate set for an ice cream filling line, the ice cream filling line (91) comprising a first roller chain (10) and a second roller chain (20), each roller chain (10, 20) having chain links (11a, 21a) with plate attachment portions (16a, 26a) for securing the ice cream mold plate set (2) therebetween. A pair (9a) of ice cream mold plates (80a, 90a) is connectable to two pairs of opposing plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16d, 26d) and has a combined width (W1) extending beyond the two pairs of plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16d, 26d) and an intermediate pair (16c, 26c) of opposing plate attachment portions therebetween in the direction of movement (D) of the drum chain (10, 20).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the production of ice cream products. More specifically, it relates to a set of ice cream mould slats for use in an ice cream filling line having a drum chain that secures the ice cream mould slats therebetween. BACKGROUND

[0002] Today, linear ice cream filling lines are used for high volume production of moulded frozen food products, such as ice cream, sorbet, water ice and juice bars, commonly referred to as "ice cream products". These filling lines are designed to provide superior efficiency and productivity for continuous linear ice cream production, meeting the requirements of modern food manufacturing processes.

[0003] Linear ice cream filling lines have a long track consisting of elongated mould slats arranged between two drum chains. The short ends of these mould slats are connected to the respective drum chains. Under the drive of an indexing drive, the chains move forward one slat at a time, forming a continuous loop similar to a conveyor belt or "track". The mould slats are equipped with mould pockets for receiving ice cream products. The openings of these pockets are located on the outside of the loop, while the pockets themselves extend to the inside.

[0004] The production process within a linear filling line involves filling ice cream product mix into the pockets of the mould slats. These pockets are critical as they impart a unique shape to the frozen food product. A typical ice cream filling line is about 17 meters long and can accommodate over 400 mould slats. Changing these slats can be a tedious process, for example, when producing moulded frozen food products of different sizes. SUMMARY

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to at least partially overcome one or more of the above-mentioned limitations of the prior art. One such object is to provide a set of ice cream mould slats to improve the efficiency and flexibility of ice cream production in a linear filling line.

[0006] One or more of these objectives, as well as other objectives that can emerge from the following description, are achieved, at least in part, by a set of ice cream mould slats, an ice cream filling line and a method according to the following aspects and embodiments.

[0007] A first aspect relates to a set of ice cream mold plates for an ice cream filling line. The ice cream filling line comprises a first drum chain and a second drum chain, each drum chain being connected with plate attachment portions, the drum chains being arranged to hold the set of ice cream mold plates therebetween, the plate attachment portions fixing opposite ends of each set of ice cream mold plates. A pair of ice cream mold plates of the set can be connected to two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions and have a combined width that extends beyond the two pairs of plate attachment portions and the opposite plate attachment portions of an intermediate pair of plate attachment portions in the direction of movement of the drum chains.

[0008] The aspect provides the advantage of increased versatility in replacing mold plates. By connecting a pair of ice cream mold plates to two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions and extending over the opposite plate attachment portions of an intermediate pair of plate attachment portions, the mold plates can be replaced more easily and quickly. This design facilitates seamless switching between molded products of different sizes and shapes, enhancing the flexibility of the ice cream filling line to accommodate different production requirements. As a result, production downtime is minimized and operational efficiency is significantly improved. As will be discussed below, other mold plates can extend over the plate attachment portions in different ways or can be connected to each plate attachment portion. This allows different types of mold plates to be used, effectively adapting ice cream production to different requirements.

[0009] As used herein, “ice cream” refers to dairy-based frozen confections, including traditional ice cream, gelato, sorbet, frozen yogurt, kulfi, and other frozen foods such as water ice (Italian ice), popsicles (pops), and bombes (layered ice cream and / or water ices).

[0010] As used herein, “set of mold plates” refers to at least two mold plates, but typically more, for example at least one hundred mold plates. The set of mold plates can include mold plates that are identical or can include different types of plates.

[0011] As used herein, “pair” can refer to two ice cream mold plates arranged adjacent to each other.

[0012] In some embodiments, the pair of ice cream mold plates has a combined width that extends over less than four pairs of opposite plate attachment portions in the direction of movement of the drum chains.

[0013] In some embodiments, the set of ice cream mold plates includes a plurality of pairs of ice cream mold plates, wherein each pair of ice cream mold plates is configured to be attached to every two of three consecutive pairs of plate attachment portions, as indicated by the direction of movement of the drum chains.

[0014] In some embodiments, the pair of ice cream mold plates is not connected to an intermediate pair of connection portions when connected to two pairs of opposite plate connection portions.

[0015] In some implementations, when the ice cream mold plate is attached to two pairs of opposing plate attachment portions, the ice cream mold plate is mirrored in a plane having a normal direction parallel to the direction of movement of the roller chain.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second pair of ice cream mold plates in the set may be connected to a second pair of opposing plate attachment portions, the second pair of opposing plate attachment portions being adjacent to each other, and the second pair of ice cream mold plates having a combined width that extends over the second pair of plate attachment portions in the direction of movement of the roller chain.

[0017] In some implementations, the second pair of ice cream mold plates has a combined width that extends over fewer than three pairs of opposing plate attachment portions in the direction of movement of the roller chain.

[0018] In some implementations, the set of ice cream mold plates includes multiple pairs of second pairs of ice cream mold plates, wherein each pair of ice cream mold plates is configured to attach to each pair of consecutive plate attachment portions, as indicated by the direction of movement of the roller chain.

[0019] In some embodiments, the third pair of ice cream mold plates in the group may be connected to the two pairs of opposing plate attachment portions and have a combined width that extends in the direction of movement of the roller chain over the corresponding portions of the two pairs of plate attachment portions, the middle pair of opposing plate attachment portions located between them, and the two pairs of opposing plate attachment portions located on either side of them.

[0020] In some implementations, the third pair of ice cream mold strips has a combined width that extends a distance less than the distance between the five pairs of opposing plate attachment portions in the direction of movement of the roller chain.

[0021] In some implementations, the set of ice cream mold plates includes multiple sets of third pairs of ice cream mold plates, wherein each pair of ice cream mold plates is configured to connect to each of the second pairs of four pairs of continuous plate attachment portions, as indicated by the direction of movement of the roller chain.

[0022] In some implementations, the third pair of ice cream mold plates is not connected to the middle pair of attachments when it is connected to the two pairs of opposing plates.

[0023] Various implementations of ice cream mold plates offer several significant advantages, enhancing the overall functionality and efficiency of ice cream filling lines. By allowing plates of varying widths, such as 2-inch, 3-inch, and 4-inch plates, to be configured in a variety of attachment patterns, the system offers high flexibility in accommodating different mold sizes and shapes. This adaptability enables rapid and seamless transitions between different production needs, reducing downtime and increasing throughput. Furthermore, the ability to connect plates on varying numbers of attachment sections or skip intermediate sections further optimizes the use of available space, maximizing the capacity and efficiency of the filling line. These design features collectively contribute to a more versatile and efficient production process, capable of meeting diverse manufacturing requirements with minimal reconfiguration time and effort.

[0024] The second aspect relates to an ice cream filling line comprising an assembly of ice cream mold plates according to the first aspect and any embodiment. The ice cream filling line also includes a first roller chain and a second roller chain, each roller chain being connected to a plate attachment portion, the roller chains being arranged to hold the ice cream mold plate assembly between them, the plate attachment portion holding opposite ends of each ice cream mold plate in the assembly.

[0025] The third aspect relates to a method for operating an ice cream filling line according to the second aspect. The method includes producing ice cream using multiple pairs of first ice cream mold plates, replacing multiple pairs of first ice cream mold plates with multiple pairs of second ice cream mold plates, and producing ice cream using multiple pairs of second ice cream mold plates.

[0026] The second and third aspects build upon the advantages of the first. The second aspect integrates multi-functional mold plates into the filling line, enabling rapid conversion between different mold sizes and shapes. This reduces downtime, optimizes space utilization, and improves the filling line's ability to meet diverse production needs. The third aspect focuses on operational methods, ensuring seamless slat changes during production. This allows for rapid adjustments with minimal disruption, increasing output and overall efficiency.

[0027] The implementation scheme of the first aspect, including various plate sizes and attachment configurations, can be fully realized within the filling lines and methods described in the second and third aspects.

[0028] Other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an ice cream filling line, showing the overall arrangement of the mold plates, roller chains, and their direction of movement.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a partial perspective view of the mold plate and roller chain.

[0031] Figure 3 and Figure 4 It is a detailed view of the roller chain and its components, including the plate attachments.

[0032] Figure 5 It is a perspective view of the mold plate showing its structural features, including the attachment slot and mold bag.

[0033] Figure 6 The arrangement of multiple pairs of mold plates fixed by roller chains is shown.

[0034] Figure 7 and Figure 8 These are, respectively, a side view and a top view of a pair of mold plates according to the first embodiment.

[0035] Figure 9 and Figure 10 These are, respectively, a side view and a top view of a pair of mold plates according to the second embodiment.

[0036] Figure 11 and Figure 12 These are, respectively, a side view and a top view of a pair of mold plates according to the third embodiment.

[0037] Figure 13 The arrangement of multiple pairs of different mold plates fixed by a roller chain is shown.

[0038] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of an ice cream molding machine, which includes a filling line, a filling station, a stick insertion station, and a product removal station.

[0039] Figure 15 This is a flowchart outlining the method of operating an ice cream molding machine, including the steps of producing ice cream using different pairs of mold plates and changing them sequentially. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, of the embodiments. In fact, the subject matter of this disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein; rather, these embodiments are provided to enable this disclosure to meet applicable legal requirements.

[0041] Where possible, any advantages, features, functions, arrangements, and / or operational aspects of any embodiments described and / or considered herein may be included in any other embodiments described and / or considered herein, and / or vice versa. Furthermore, unless expressly stated otherwise, any term expressed in the singular herein is intended to include the plural form and / or vice versa, where possible. Thus, the terms “a” and / or “an” shall mean “at least one” or “one or more,” even though the phrases “one or more” or “at least one” are used herein. The terms “group,” “many,” “multiple,” and “numerous” mean providing two or more elements. The term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed elements. Although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0042] For the sake of brevity and / or clarity, well-known functions or structures may not be described in detail. Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Identical reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0043] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 14 The image shows the ice cream filling line 91 of the ice cream molding machine 1. The ice cream molding machine 1 is used for the mass production of molded frozen products such as ice cream, popsicles, ice water, and juice popsicles, collectively referred to herein as "ice cream." The molding machine 1 operates continuously in a linear manner, ensuring efficient production while maintaining the quality and consistency of the ice cream products. The filling line 91 has a set of elongated ice cream mold plates 2 arranged in a belt-like pattern, forming a continuous loop similar to a conveyor belt or "track." The short ends of the plates 2 are designed to be securely attached to two roller chains 10 and 20, referred to as the first roller chain 10 and the second roller chain 20, respectively. The roller chains 10 and 20 are driven by a drive unit 8.

[0044] The drive unit 8 has a stepper motor and a sprocket that rotates discontinuously by the stepper motor in steps. Each step of the stepper motor causes the sprocket to rotate a precise angle, equivalent to a precise small movement. This rotation moves the roller chain along the direction of movement D of roller chains 10 and 20, advancing the distance of one mold plate per step. This step-by-step motion allows for precise control of the mold plate position. Alternatively, the roller chain can also advance the distance of several (e.g., two or three) mold plates per step, as required by the operation described below in conjunction with the filling line 91.

[0045] Filling station 92 is located at filling section 3 of filling line 91. Filling section 3 is the end of filling line 91 where ice cream is dispensed in mixture form into mold bags 88a of mold plates 2. The filling head of filling station 92 is aligned with the mold bags 88a in mold plates 2. The mold bags 88a extend toward the inside of the conveyor belt formed by plates 2, roller chains 10, and roller chains 20. As mold plates 2 move through filling line 91, the filling head accurately fills the mixture into each mold bag 88a, ensuring consistent product shape and volume. This process is controlled to maintain uniformity across all filled mold plates 2, preparing them for subsequent freezing and extraction stages.

[0046] Before the mixture is fully frozen to form the ice cream product, the stick insertion station 94 is used to insert sticks into the ice cream mixture. The stick insertion station 94 includes a stick sorting machine for aligning the bulk-supplied sticks and a dispensing device for placing the sticks onto the mixture in the mold bag 88a. The stick insertion station 94 is synchronized with the movement of the mold plate 2 to ensure that the sticks are accurately inserted into each mold bag 88a.

[0047] Filling line 91 has a brine tank 5 for frozen products. It is a long, rectangular, double-walled tank insulated with polyurethane foam to maintain the low temperatures required for freezing. Tank 5 includes a cold brine distribution system for circulating brine around the mold bag 88a, typically at around -40°C. As the mold plate 2 moves above the brine tank 5, the mold bag is "immersed" in the brine as it extends downwards from the plate 2, thus surrounding the outside of the mold bag 88a at the bottom of the plate 2 with cold brine. This freezes the product inside the mold bag 88a.

[0048] The brine tank 5 is designed to ensure uniform distribution of cold brine around each mold bag 88a, which is beneficial for even freezing of the ice cream. Tank 5 is made of stainless steel, with the parts exposed to the brine made of a high-quality corrosion-resistant material. The brine tank 5 has a brine flow system for circulating the brine and maintaining it at the optimal temperature for freezing. The brine flow system includes a return device that allows the brine to flow into the filter tank under gravity. From there, a pump divides the brine into two streams: one stream is recirculated back to the brine tank, while the other stream is pumped through an optional external plate heat exchanger before returning to the brine tank 5. This circulation ensures that the temperature and flow rate of the brine remain consistent.

[0049] The filling line 91 also features a defrosting system 6 that facilitates the removal of frozen ice cream from the mold plate 2. As the mold plate 2 leaves the brine tank 5, the defrosting system 6 sprays warm water onto the bottom of the mold plate 2 outside the mold bag 88a. The warm water slightly defrosts the outer layer of the frozen ice cream in the mold bag 88a, forming a thin, slippery film that allows the ice cream to be easily removed from the mold plate 2. The defrosting water circulates in the tank and is heated with steam; the temperature is controlled by a precision steam valve to maintain ideal defrosting conditions.

[0050] The ice cream molding machine 1 has a product extraction station 93 located in the extraction section 4 of the filling line 91. Therefore, the extraction section 4 is located at the end of the filling line 91 where the ice cream is extracted from the mold plate 2.

[0051] A rinsing and cleaning system 7 is located below the filling line 91 to maintain the hygiene and operational efficiency of the filling line 91. The rinsing and cleaning system 7 includes tanks for rinsing the mold plates 2 with water during production. The rinsing is performed on the mold plates 2 as they move from the extraction section 4 to the filling section 3, i.e., below the conveyor belt. The molds are typically rinsed three times with water spray followed by one rinse with tap water. The rinsing and cleaning primarily consists of spraying water upwards into the mold bags to remove residues from the mold bags and the top of the mold plates 2. The water used for rinsing can optionally be reused via a backward overflow system to minimize water consumption. Additional tanks can be used after production or during planned cleaning periods to apply cleaning agents such as alkali or disinfectants.

[0052] The filling line 91 also includes electrical equipment, including a main circuit breaker, motor controller, and relays, for powering and controlling all operations, such as servo drive units 8 for the roller chains 10 and 20 that move the plate 2 forward, brine tank 5, defrosting system 6, and cleaning system 7. The electrical equipment can also control the filling station 91, the bar insertion station 94, and the product removal station 93.

[0053] The control panel, typically featuring a touchscreen interface, serves as the central hub for operating the filling line 91. Operators can manage all functions, monitor machine status in real time, and adjust settings for different products from a convenient location near the dispensing area.

[0054] The equipment also includes a dipping device and a feeding device to process the ice cream after it has been removed from the mold. It uses a servo-driven chain conveyor to clamp the ice cream and remove it from the mold plate 2. The ice cream is then dipped into chocolate or other coating materials by the controlled dipping device and then conveyed to the packaging machine conveyor belt in the correct position by the feeding device.

[0055] The ice cream filling line 91 operates as a continuous, automated process divided into several stages. First, while roller chains 10 and 20 securely hold plate 2 in place, ice cream mix or other frozen product base is filled into bags 88a of the mold plate. If a stick is to be placed on the ice cream, it is automatically inserted as plate 2 moves along line 91. Next, the filled mold plate 2 enters the brine tank 5, where the ice cream is frozen by circulating cold brine. Once frozen, the outer layer of the ice cream is slightly melted by a defrosting system 6 that sprays warm water onto the outside of the mold plate bags 88a, facilitating extraction at product removal station 93. If desired, the extracted product can be coated and then packaged in a packaging machine. Throughout the process, the various components of the filling line, including roller chains, brine tank, defrosting system, and cleaning system, work together to ensure high efficiency and high quality in ice cream production. The mold plate 2 moves forward in the direction D of movement of roller chains 10 and 20 at steps corresponding to the width of one plate. Between steps of moving the mold plate 2, plate 2 remains stationary so that filling station 92 and product removal station 93 can perform their tasks, namely filling and removing one plate of product from plate 2 each time.

[0056] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The roller chains, which take the form of a first roller chain 10 and a second roller chain 20, are components in the filling line 91 that fix the ice cream mold plate 2. The roller chains 10 and 20 are similar in structure, arranged in parallel to each other to form a continuous loop, and are designed to fix and convey the mold plate 2 in the production line 91.

[0057] The first roller chain 10 has a series of interconnected links 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d, including inner and outer links. Inner links 11a and 11c consist of two parallel inner plates 12a and 13a, with bushings 14 on the inner plates, around which the roller 15 can rotate. Outer links 11b and 11d consist of two outer plates 12b and 13b, with bearing pins on the outer plates passing through the bushings of the inner links. The rollers rotate freely around the bushings and mesh with the sprocket teeth of the rotating drive unit 8.

[0058] The first roller chain 10 has plates 12a and 12b facing the second roller chain, each having a plate attachment portion 16a and a plate attachment portion 16b. These portions 16a and 16b extend toward the second roller chain 20, forming a series of racks for placing plates. The top of each attachment portion has a pair of headed attachment pins 17 and 18, referred to as the first headed attachment pin 17 and the second headed attachment pin 18, respectively.

[0059] Each second attachment portion is offset in the height direction H of chain 10. For example, as seen when the attachment pins 17, 18 of the belt head are facing upwards, the plate attachment portion 16a of each inner link is vertically below the plate attachment portion 16b of each outer link, and vice versa. The height direction H is perpendicular to the direction of movement D of roller chains 10 and 20, and also perpendicular to the direction in which the plates 2 attached to roller chains 10 and 20 extend between chains 10 and 20.

[0060] Support wheels 19 are attached to some chain links, allowing the chain 10 to run on the support structure of the filling line 91. For example, at least most of the second chain links can be fitted with a support wheel. The support wheels can face the same direction as the plate attachment portions 16a, 16b.

[0061] The second roller chain 20 is the same as the first roller chain 10, except that the plate attachment portions 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d on its links 21a, 21b, 21c, and 21d are arranged facing the first roller chain 10, and its attachment pins 27 and 28 are straight instead of headed.

[0062] The spacing between each roller chain is 2 inches. Spacing is defined as the distance along the chain length from the center of one bearing pin (or roller) to the center of the next bearing pin (or roller). That is, the spacing between plate attachments 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d is also 2 inches, the distance measured from the center of one attachment to the center of the next. The distance between the centers of adjacent plate attachments is called the "plate attachment pitch." Therefore, the plate attachment pitch is also 2 inches.

[0063] The mold plate 2 is a component in filling line 91 used for molding ice cream. Each mold plate is a flat, elongated workpiece made of durable, food-grade material (typically stainless steel). These plates have multiple bags or cavities, the shape of which depends on the desired product design. The ice cream mixture to be frozen is poured into these bags and solidifies during the freezing process. Mold plates are available in various sizes and configurations to produce products of different shapes and sizes. The two ends of the plate are designed to be securely fixed to roller chains 10 and 20 to ensure precise movement within the molding machine.

[0064] Reference Figure 5 The illustration shows one type of ice cream mold plate 2, in this case, a 3-inch wide plate 80a (width measured in the direction of movement D). Plate 80a forms the plate top 81a of the upper surface of the ice cream mold plate 80a.

[0065] Mold bags 88a are distributed along the surface of plate 80a. These bags are the recessed areas where the ice cream mixture is filled during the filling process. The number, size, and arrangement of these mold bags are designed to produce the desired ice cream shape by extending the mold bags to a specific depth 81a on the top of the plate.

[0066] The plate is elongated and has a first longitudinal plate edge 82a and a second longitudinal plate edge 83a. The distance between these edges 82a and 83a is 3 inches, or slightly more than 3 inches (±15%), because the plates may overlap (as described later). Edges 82a and 83a extend along the length of the plate 80a, providing structural integrity and defining the boundaries of the mold plate in the longitudinal direction.

[0067] At each end of plate 80a there is a first short end 84a and a second short end 85a. These ends 84a and 85a cover the plate, enclosing the plate structure and facilitating the proper positioning of plate 80a between roller chain 10 and roller chain 20.

[0068] The first short end 84a of plate 80a is provided with an attachment groove 86a, and the second short end 85a is provided with an attachment opening 87a. Plate 80a is connected to two pairs of opposing plate attachment portions 16a and 26a on chain 10 and chain 20 (see...). Figure 3 and Figure 4 First, the attachment groove 86a on the first end 84a is moved onto the headed attachment pins 17 and 18, so that these heads are positioned above the attachment groove 86a. Then, the second short end 85a of the plate 80a is folded downwards toward the first attachment pin 27 and the second attachment pin 28, so that pins 27 and 28 extend through the opening 87a. The head diameters of the headed pins 17 and 18 are larger than the width of the groove 86a in the first end 84a, while the diameters of pins 27 and 28 are the same as the diameter of the opening 87a on the second end 85a. Thus, the first end 84a is fixed in all directions, while the second end 85a is fixed in all directions except directly upwards from pins 27 and 28.

[0069] To prevent the second end 85a from detaching from the second chain 20 when the plate 80a is located under the loop formed by chains 10 and 20, a reversing element (not shown) is provided on the filling line 91, on which the second end 85a slides and retracts towards the chain 20. This reversing element extends along the length of the filling line 91 and is located under the loop formed by chains 10 and 20.

[0070] When plate 80a is located above the loop formed by chain 10 and chain 20, it can be removed from chain 10 and chain 20. The method is to lift the second end 85a from pins 27 and 28, and then pull plate 80a out and away from the lead pins 17 and 18.

[0071] Reference Figure 6 Multiple boards 2, similar to the 3-inch board 80a shown in the illustration, can be arranged adjacent to each other. Since the board attachment spacing is 2 inches and the width of each board is 3 inches or approximately 3 inches, two boards will cover three pairs of attachment points. Figure 7 and Figure 8 This is further illustrated by showing how the first plate 80a and the second plate 90a are arranged adjacent to each other to form a pair of ice cream mold plates 80a and 90a (referred to as 3-inch mold plates). Multiple pairs of such plates are arranged adjacent to each other until chains 10 and 20 are completely filled with plates.

[0072] This pair of 91s can be connected to two pairs of opposing plate attachment portions 16b, 26b, 16d, and 26d, and has a combined width W1 that extends across the two pairs of plate attachment portions 16b, 26b, 16d, and 26d in the direction of movement D of the roller chains 10 and 20, as well as the middle pair of opposing plate attachment portions 16c and 26c located between them. Plates 80a and 90a then occupy three pairs of opposing links in the roller chains 10 and 20: 11b, 11c, 11d, 21b, 21c, and 21d.

[0073] When plates 80a and 90a are connected adjacently to chains 10 and 20, a second longitudinal edge 83a of one of the plates 90a extends below the first longitudinal edge 82a of the adjacent plate 80a. Thus, the plates overlap. For this purpose, a portion of the first edge 82a extends downward from the top of the plate 80a, perpendicular to the top of the plate 80a. The second edge 83a includes a first portion extending downward from the top of the plate 80a, also perpendicular to the top of the plate 80a, and a second portion extending from the first portion parallel to the top of the plate 80a and in a direction away from the first edge 82a.

[0074] Therefore, the ice cream mold plates 80a and 90a are designed such that each pair of 9a plates 80a and 90a, viewed in the direction of movement D, has a combined width W1 on fewer than four pairs of opposing plate attachment portions. As described above, the ice cream mold plate 2 typically includes multiple pairs of 9a plates 80a and 90a. Each pair of 9a plates 80a and 90a is then arranged to attach to every two pairs of three consecutive plate attachment portions. This configuration can be seen in the direction of movement D of the roller chains 10 and 20. The ice cream mold plates are configured such that when connected to two pairs of opposing plate attachment portions 16b, 26b, 16d, 26d, the pair of plates 80a and 90a cannot be connected to the middle pair of attachment portions 16c, 26c. This means that every third pair of attachment portions is unused, that is, without any plates. When ice cream mold plates 80a and 90a are connected to two pairs of opposing plate attachment portions 16b, 26b, 16d, and 26d, they are mirror images. This mirroring occurs on a plane whose normal direction is parallel to the direction of movement D of the roller chains 10 and 20.

[0075] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 A set of ice cream mold plates 2 may include a second set of ice cream mold plates, namely a second pair of 9b plates 80b and 90b, also known as "2-inch mold plates". Therefore, the second pair of mold plates 9b are structurally different from those of the other sets. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The mold plate pair 9a discussed in the text can be referred to as the "first mold plate pair" 9a.

[0076] The second pair of 9b is designed to connect to the second set of two pairs of opposing plate attachment portions 16b, 26b, 16c, 26c. These second pairs of plate attachment portions 16b, 26b, 16c, 26c are adjacent to each other in the direction of movement D of the roller chains 10, 20.

[0077] The second pair of plate attachments, 16b, 26b, 16c, and 26c, are identical to the plate attachments discussed earlier. The difference lies in which attachment secures the end of the plate.

[0078] The combined width W2 of the second pair of 9b boards 80b and 90b extends across the attachment portions 16b, 26b, 16c, and 26c of the two pairs of boards. This means that the width of the boards is approximately 2 inches or slightly more than 3 inches (±15%).

[0079] Multiple second pairs of 9b plates 80b and 90b can be attached to chains 10 and 20. As described above, the 3-inch paired plates 9a can be partially or entirely replaced with 2-inch paired plates 9b. Since the plate attachment pitch is 2 inches, and each plate is 2 inches or approximately 2 inches wide, two plates will cover two pairs of attachment portions. Therefore, each of these second pairs of 9b plates 80b and 90b is configured to attach to each consecutive pair of plate attachment portions.

[0080] Unlike the first pair of mold plates 9a, the second pair of plates 80b and 90b are configured such that their combined width W2 extends across fewer than three pairs of opposing plate attachment portions in the direction of movement D of the roller chains 10 and 20. Thus, plates 80b and 90b occupy two pairs of opposing links in the roller chains 10 and 20: 11b, 11c, 21b, and 21c.

[0081] When plates 80b and 90b are connected adjacently to chains 10 and 20, a second longitudinal edge 83b of one of the plates 90b extends below the first longitudinal edge 82b of the adjacent plate 80b. Thus, plates 80b and 90b overlap. For this purpose, a portion of the first edge 82b extends downward from the top of the plate 80b, perpendicular to the top of the plate 80b. The second edge 83b includes a first portion extending downward from the top of the plate 80b (also perpendicular to the top of the plate 80b) and a second portion extending downward from the first portion (parallel to the top of the plate 80b, away from the direction of the first edge 82b).

[0082] As shown in the figure, the ice cream mold plate 2 may include multiple pairs of 9b plates 80b and 90b. Each pair of 9b plates 80b and 90b is arranged to attach to the attachment portion of every two consecutive pairs of plates; that is, each plate 80b and 90b is attached to the corresponding attachment portion. This configuration can be seen in the direction of movement D of the roller chains 10 and 20.

[0083] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 This set of ice cream mold plates 2 may include a third set of ice cream mold plates, namely the third pair of 9c plates 80c and 90c, also known as "4-inch mold plates". Therefore, the third pair of 9c mold plates is structurally different from... Figure 7 and Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The first pair of mold plates 9a and the second pair of mold plates 9b are discussed separately.

[0084] The third pair of 9c is designed to connect with the two opposing pairs of plate attachment portions 16b, 26b, 16d, and 26d of the second group. These third pairs of plate attachment portions 16b, 26b, 16d, and 26d constitute each of the second pairs of connecting portions in the direction of movement D of the roller chain 10 and the roller chain 20.

[0085] The third pair of plate attachments, 16b, 26b, 16d, and 26d, are identical to the plate attachments discussed earlier. The difference lies in which attachment secures the end of the plate.

[0086] The extension length of the combined width W3 of the third pair of 9c boards (80c, 90c) corresponds to the lengths of the attachment portions 16a, 26a, 16b, 26b, 16c, 26c, 16d, 26d, 16e, 26e of the four pairs of boards (three full attachment portions and two half attachment portions located on the corresponding sides of the three full portions). This means that the width of the board is approximately 4 inches, or slightly greater than 4 inches (±15%).

[0087] Chains 10 and 20 can connect multiple pairs of third plates 9c, 80c, and 90c. As described above, the 3-inch and 2-inch pairs of plates 9a and 9b can be partially or entirely replaced with 4-inch pairs of plates 9c. Since the plate attachment pitch is 2 inches and the width of each plate is 4 inches, or approximately 4 inches, two plates will cover four pairs of attachment portions. Therefore, each of these third pairs of plates 80c and 90c is configured to attach to each of the attachment portions of the second pair of plates.

[0088] The third pair of plates 80c and 90c are configured such that the extension length of their combined width W3 exceeds the attachment portions of three opposing plates in the direction of movement D of the roller chains 10 and 20. Thus, plates 80b and 90b occupy four pairs (0.5+1+1+1+0.5) of opposing links in the roller chains 10 and 20: 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, and 21e.

[0089] When plates 80c and 90c are connected adjacent to each other with chains 10 and 20, the second longitudinal edge 83c of one of the plates 90c extends below the first longitudinal edge 82c of the adjacent plate 80c. Thus, plates 80c and 90c overlap. For this purpose, a portion of the first edge 82c extends downward from the top of the plate 80c, perpendicular to the top of the plate 80c. The second edge 83c includes a first portion extending downward from the top of the plate 80c, also perpendicular to the top of the plate 80c, and a second portion extending from the first portion in a direction parallel to the top of the plate 80c and away from the first edge 82c.

[0090] As shown in the figure, the ice cream mold plate 2 may include multiple pairs of 9c plates 80c and 90c. The plates 80c and 90c of the third pair of 9c are arranged to attach to the attachment portion of each second pair of plates; that is, plates 80b and 90b are attached to the empty plate attachment portion in the middle between them. This configuration can be seen in the direction of movement D of the roller chains 10 and 20. This means that each second attachment portion is unused, i.e., it does not carry any plates.

[0091] Reference Figure 13 The diagram illustrates different types of mold plates attached to chains 10 and 20, including 3-inch plates 80a and 90a with two rows of mold bags per plate, a 2-inch mold plate 80b with one row of mold bags per plate, and a 4-inch plate 80c with one row of mold bags per plate. Other configurations are also shown, such as 3-inch plates 180a and 190a with a single row of mold bags, and a 2-inch plate 192a with a single row of mold bags of different shapes. This diagram demonstrates the ability of the ice cream molding machine to simultaneously process plates of different widths (3-inch, 2-inch, and 4-inch) on the same production line, as well as the ability to arrange mold bags of different sizes and shapes on the plates.

[0092] This set of ice cream plates 2 can include any number of plates, or pairs of plates, and can be mounted on chains 10 and 20. During production, the same type of mold plates can be used throughout the filling line 91, or different types of plates can be used. Using different types of plates can be achieved by appropriately adjusting the chain's movement index and adjusting the distribution of the ice cream mixture as needed.

[0093] To improve production efficiency, the same type of mold plates are typically used throughout the entire filling line 91. Some plates in this set of ice cream mold plates 2 can be attached to chains 10 and 20, while the other plates in this set 2 can be stored beside the filling line 91 or in a dedicated storage area where the plates can be retrieved. This allows the operator to easily change the plates used on the filling line.

[0094] Reference Figure 15 The diagram illustrates an operation method 200 for an ice cream filling line 91, including changing mold plates. Method 200 includes producing ice cream 201 with a first pair of mold plates, replacing the first pair of mold plates 202 with a second pair of mold plates, and producing ice cream 203 with the second pair of mold plates. Optionally, method 200 also includes replacing the second pair of mold plates 204 with a third pair of mold plates and producing ice cream 205 with the third pair of mold plates. This sequence illustrates efficient transitions between different production settings, minimizing downtime and increasing the overall output of the molding machine.

[0095] As can be seen from the above description, although various embodiments of the invention have been described and illustrated, the invention is not limited to these embodiments. Rather, the invention may be embodied in other ways within the scope of the subject matter defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A set (2) of ice cream mould plates for an ice cream filling line (91) comprising a first drum chain (10) and a second drum chain (20), each drum chain (10, 20) having links (11a, 21a) with plate attachment portions (16a, 26a) through which the drum chains (10, 20) are arranged to secure opposite ends (84a, 85a) of each ice cream mould plate of the set (2) to fix the set (2) of ice cream mould plates in between, wherein pairs (9a) of ice cream mould plates (80a, 90a) of the set (2) are connectable to two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16d, 26d) and have a combined width (W1) extending across the two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16d, 26d) and an intermediate pair (16c, 26c) of opposite plate attachment portions located between the two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16d, 26d) in a direction of movement (D) of the drum chains (10, 20). The pairs (9a) of ice cream mould plates have a combined width (W1) extending across less than four pairs of opposite plate attachment portions in the direction of movement (D) of the drum chains (10, 20).

2. The ice cream mold plate set (2) according to claim 1, wherein, Each pair (9a) of ice cream mould plates (80a, 90a) is configured to be attached to every two of three consecutive pairs of plate attachment portions as seen in the direction of movement (D) of the drum chains (10, 20).

3. The ice cream mold plate set (2) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of pairs (9a) of ice cream mold plates (80a, 90a), wherein, The pairs of ice cream mould plates (80a, 90a) are not connectable to the intermediate pair (16c, 26c) of attachment portions when the pairs of ice cream mould plates (80a, 90a) are connected to the two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16d, 26d).

4. Ice cream mold plate set (2) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein The pairs of ice cream mould plates (80a, 90a) are mirror images in a plane parallel to the direction of movement (D) of the drum chains (10, 20) in a normal direction when the pairs of ice cream mould plates (80a, 90a) are connected to the two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16d, 26d).

5. An ice cream mould plate set (2) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein A second pair (9b) of ice cream mould plates (80b, 90b) of the set (2) is connectable to a second two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16c, 26c) located adjacent to each other and the second pair (9b) of ice cream mould plates (80b, 90b) has a combined width (W2) extending across the second two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16c, 26c) in the direction of movement (D) of the drum chains (10, 20).

6. An ice cream mould plate set (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein ​ 7. The ice cream mold plate set (2) according to claim 6, wherein, The second pair (9b) of ice cream mold plates (80b, 90b) has a combined width (W2) extending across less than three pairs of opposite plate attachment portions in the direction of movement (D) of the drum chain (10, 20).

8. The ice cream mold plate set (2) according to claim 6 or 7, comprising a plurality of second pairs (9b) of ice cream mold plates (80b, 90b), wherein, Each pair (9b) of ice cream mold plates (80b, 90b) is configured to be attached to each second pair of four consecutive plate attachment portions, as seen in the direction of movement (D) of the drum chain (10, 20).

9. Ice cream mold plate set (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The third pair (9c) of ice cream mold plates (80c, 90c) in the set (2) is connectable to two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16d, 26d) and has a combined width (W3) extending across the two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16d, 26d), a middle pair (16c, 26c) of opposite plate attachment portions therebetween, and respective portions (16c, 26d) of the two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions thereon either side, in the direction of movement (D) of the drum chain (10, 20).

10. The ice cream mold plate set (2) according to claim 9, wherein, The third pair (9c) of ice cream mold plates (80c, 90c) has a combined width (W3) extending less than a distance between five pairs of opposite plate attachment portions, in the direction of movement (D) of the drum chain (10, 20).

11. The set (2) of ice cream mold plates according to claim 9 or 10, comprising a group of a plurality of third pairs (9c) of ice cream mold plates (80c, 90c), wherein each pair (9c) of ice cream mold plates (80c, 90c) is configured to be attached to each second pair of four consecutive plate attachment portions, as seen in the direction of movement (D) of the drum chain (10, 20).

12. The ice cream mold plate set (2) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein The third pair (9c) of ice cream mold plates (80c, 90c) is not connected to the middle pair (16c, 26c) of plate attachment portions when the third pair of ice cream mold plates (80c, 90c) is connected to the two pairs of opposite plate attachment portions (16b, 26b, 16d, 26d).

13. An ice cream filling line (91) comprising: The set (2) of ice cream mold plates according to any of the preceding claims, and a first drum chain (10) and a second drum chain (20), each drum chain (10, 20) having links (11a, 21a) with plate attachment portions (16a, 26a) through which the opposite ends (84a, 85a) of each ice cream mold plate in the set (2) are secured, fixing the set (2) of ice cream mold plates therebetween.

14. A method (200) of operating an ice cream filling line (91) according to claim 13, the method comprising: producing (201) ice cream with a plurality of first pairs (9a) of ice cream mold plates (80a, 90a), replacing (202) the plurality of first pairs (9a) of ice-cream mold plates (80a, 90a) with a plurality of second pairs (9b) of ice-cream mold plates (80b, 90b), and producing (203) ice cream with the plurality of second pairs (9b) of ice-cream mold plates (80b, 90b).

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