Reusable device for cooking puffed food

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for cooking puffed food products, comprising:-a tube (32) extending between an upper edge (32.1) and a lower edge (32.1) and comprising an upper opening (36) delimited by the upper edge (32.1); a lid (38) configured to close the upper opening (36); -at least one holding system (50) configured to removably hold the tray (40) containing corn kernels in a cooking position close to or at the lower edge (32.2) of the tube (32); -at least one lower opening (48) for at least partially exposing a bottom (46.1) of a tray (40) positioned in the cooking device. This solution makes it possible to continuously cook the contents of a plurality of trays (40) using the same cooking device.

Description

[0001] This application relates to an apparatus for cooking puffed foods. The new apparatus is intended to improve upon the apparatus described in document EP1558089.

[0002] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 The embodiment of the storage and cooking device seen herein includes a foldable cardboard box 10, which includes a non-foldable lower portion 12 and a foldable upper portion 14. Therefore, the storage and cooking device is configured to occupy... Figure 1 The compact state seen in part (A) and Figure 1 The unfolded state seen in part (B) is such that, in the compact state, the upper part 14 folds upward and against the lower part 12, and in the unfolded state, the upper part 14 unfolds and provides a large volume above the lower part 12.

[0003] The lower portion 12 includes a bottom and four lower sidewalls. The upper portion 14 includes a baffle 16 and an upper sidewall that is aligned with the lower sidewalls. The baffle 16 includes an attachment system configured to occupy an attached state and a disengaged state, in which the baffle 16 is engaged and remains closed, and in the disengaged state, the baffle 16 is not engaged and can be opened in a manner that allows access to the interior of the enclosure.

[0004] exist Figure 2 In the embodiments shown, the storage and cooking apparatus also includes a tray 18 for holding corn kernels to be cooked. The tray 18 includes a container 20 having a peripheral flange 20.1 and a membrane 22 that is sealed to the peripheral flange 20.1 by heat fusion.

[0005] The tray 18 is configured to be positioned within the lower portion 12 when the device is in a compact state. In operation, the upper portion 14 is expanded to provide a large volume before cooking. The membrane 22 separates from the peripheral flange 20.1 during cooking, and then the corn kernels burst and occupy all the space in the expanded box.

[0006] Document US4959231 describes a cardboard box comprising four side walls forming a truncated conical body, a lower baffle connected to the side walls by fold lines to form the bottom of the box, and an upper baffle forming a lid. For cooking, a tray for holding corn kernels is placed at the bottom of the box. To hold the tray at the bottom, the side walls include recesses that project inward toward the interior of the box and are spaced apart from the bottom.

[0007] The devices described in documents EP1558089 and US4959231 are intended for single use and generate a large amount of waste.

[0008] An embodiment of the storage and cooking device described in document US5097107 includes a rigid truncated conical tube and a tray for holding corn kernels to be cooked, the tray forming the bottom of the storage and cooking device. The tray is tightly connected to the tube. Each storage and cooking device includes the tube and its own tray. As previously stated, this type of device is intended for single use and generates a large amount of waste.

[0009] The present invention aims to overcome some or all of the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0010] For this purpose, the object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for cooking puffed foods, the apparatus comprising: - A tube extending between an upper edge and a lower edge located in an upper transverse plane and a lower transverse plane, respectively, and including at least one sidewall and an upper opening defined by the upper edge. - A cover, which is configured to close the upper opening.

[0011] According to the invention, the cooking apparatus includes at least one lower opening in or near the lower transverse plane and at least one retaining system. The retaining system is configured to removably hold a tray containing corn kernels in a cooking position at or near the lower edge of the tube, such that the bottom of the tray is at least partially released by the one or more lower openings. Furthermore, the retaining system includes a first abutment spaced from the lower edge of the tube and configured to prevent translational movement of the tray toward the lower edge of the tube, and a second abutment configured to prevent translational movement of the tray toward the upper edge of the tube.

[0012] Therefore, the cooking device is reusable and can be used to cook the contents of multiple trays consecutively. This solution allows for a reduction in waste. The presence of one or more lower openings allows for at least partial release of the bottom of the tray positioned within the cooking device without compromising cooking quality. In contrast to prior art solutions, the tray is held in place not by a bottom, but by a first and second abutment. Therefore, a bottom can be omitted, allowing the bottom of the tray to be released during cooking.

[0013] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention, which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] - Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a popcorn storage and cooking device in a compacted state in part (A) and an expanded state in part (B), depicting an embodiment of the prior art.

[0015] - Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-section of a popcorn tray.

[0016] - Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-section depicting a popcorn cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] - Figure 4 Before cooking Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the popcorn cooking device seen in the image.

[0018] - Figure 5 It is after cooking Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the popcorn cooking device seen in the image.

[0019] - Figure 6 It is the popcorn eaten after cooking. Figure 3 A schematic cross-section of the popcorn cooking device seen in the image.

[0020] - Figure 7 This is a perspective view depicting an embodiment of the popcorn cooking apparatus of the present invention.

[0021] - Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The cross-section of the upper part of the popcorn cooking device seen in the image.

[0022] - Figure 9 yes Figure 7 The cross-section of the lower part of the popcorn cooking device seen in the image.

[0023] - Figure 10 yes Figure 7 The image shows a perspective view of a popcorn cooking device, with the lid positioned below the popcorn storage and cooking unit.

[0024] - Figure 11 It is a cross-section of two popcorn cooking devices nested inside each other.

[0025] - Figure 12 It is during tray insertion. Figure 7 The cross-section of the popcorn cooking device seen in the image.

[0026] - Figure 13 yes Figure 7 The image shows a cross-section of a popcorn cooking device, with the tray correctly positioned for cooking.

[0027] - Figure 14 This is a view taken from below depicting a popcorn cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] - Figure 15 This is a perspective view depicting a popcorn cooking apparatus including a tray, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] - Figure 16It is trayless. Figure 15 Side view of the popcorn cooking device seen in the image.

[0030] - Figure 17 yes Figure 15 The image shows a perspective view of a popcorn cooking device, with a tray inserted into the device.

[0031] - Figure 18 yes Figure 15 The vertical cross-section of the cooking device seen in the image.

[0032] - Figure 19 This is a cross-section depicting the lower portion of a cooking apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] - Figure 20 This is a perspective view depicting a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] - Figure 21 yes Figure 20 The vertical cross-section of the cooking device seen in the image.

[0035] - Figure 22 This is a cross-section depicting the lower portion of a cooking apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] - Figure 23 yes Figure 22 A three-dimensional view of the various components of the cooking apparatus seen in the image.

[0037] - Figure 24 yes Figure 22 A cross-section of a portion of the tube and groove of the cooking apparatus seen in the image.

[0038] - Figure 25 yes Figure 22 A side view of a portion of the cooking apparatus seen therein, and

[0039] - Figure 26 yes Figure 22 A perspective view of the lower part of the cooking device seen in the image.

[0040] exist Figures 3 to 13 In the embodiments of the invention seen herein, the cooking device 30 includes a rigid tube 32 (not made of cardboard) that includes at least one side wall 34 and an upper opening 36 and a cover 38 configured to close the upper opening 36.

[0041] The tube 32 extends between an upper edge 32.1 in the upper transverse plane defining the upper opening 36 and a lower edge 32.2 in a lower transverse plane that is substantially parallel to the upper transverse plane. The lower edge 32.2 is oriented towards the bottom during use.

[0042] In one configuration, tube 32 is cylindrical or slightly truncated conical, such as... Figures 3 to 19 As depicted herein, and including a single sidewall 34. Figure 11 As depicted, multiple cooking devices 30 can be stacked one inside another using a slightly truncated conical or trumpet-shaped tube 32.

[0043] Of course, the invention is not limited to this geometry of tube 32; tube 32 may include multiple sidewalls. Alternatively, as Figure 20 and Figure 21 As depicted, tube 32 may have a prismatic horizontal cross section, such as an approximately square cross section with rounded corners.

[0044] Tube 32 can have different capacities from one tube to another. Therefore, Figure 20 and Figure 21 The tube 32 seen in the text has less than Figures 7 to 19 The capacity of tube 32 seen in the text.

[0045] The cooking apparatus 30 is configured to receive a tray 40 containing corn kernels to be cooked. The tray 40 includes a container 42 with a peripheral flange and a membrane 44 attached to the peripheral flange in a sealing manner via a heat-sealing connection. The container 42 includes a bottom 46.1 in a first plane, at least one peripheral flange 46.2 in a plane parallel to the first plane, and at least one inclined wall 46.3 connecting the bottom 46.1 and the peripheral flange 46.2. Before cooking, the membrane 44 is attached to the peripheral flange 46.2, and the corn kernels to be cooked are stored between the container 42 and the membrane 44.

[0046] The tray 40 is configured to cook corn kernels in a microwave oven and convert them into popcorn. For this purpose, the tray 40 includes at least one coating at the level of the bottom 46.1 and optionally at the level of one or more inclined walls 46.3, which absorbs electromagnetic waves generated by the microwave oven and generates heat that causes the corn kernels to cook.

[0047] In one configuration, the tray 40, when viewed from above, has a square shape with rounded corners. Of course, the invention is not limited to this shape of the tray 40.

[0048] In one embodiment, tray 40 is identical to trays from the prior art. Of course, the present invention can be used with other trays.

[0049] Regardless of the implementation method, the tray 40 has a height corresponding to the size that separates the bottom 46.1 and the membrane 44, a width corresponding to the maximum size of the peripheral flange 46.2, a first profile C1 corresponding to the outer profile of the peripheral flange 46.2, and a second profile C2 corresponding to the inner profile of the peripheral flange 46.2, the second profile C2 connecting the peripheral flange 46.2 to the inclined wall 46.3.

[0050] like Figure 3 As depicted, tube 32 has a cross-section (parallel to the upper and lower transverse planes) that allows it to accommodate at least one tray 40, the bottom 46.1 of which lies in the transverse plane. In one configuration, such as Figure 3 As depicted, tube 32 is configured to accommodate multiple trays 40 during storage, with the multiple trays 40 stacked one on top of another.

[0051] In one embodiment, pipe 32 is designed to be washable and recyclable.

[0052] A specific feature of the invention is that the cooking device 30 includes at least one holding system 50 and at least one lower opening 48 located in or near the lower transverse plane. The holding system 50 is configured to hold the tray 40 in a cooking position at or near the lower edge 32.2 of the tube 32, such that the bottom 46.1 of the tray 40 is at least partially released by one or more lower openings 48. The presence of at least one lower opening 48 that at least partially releases the bottom 46.1 of the tray 40 ensures that the cooking quality of the popcorn is not compromised. Compared to prior art devices, the bottom 46.1 of the tray 40 does not rest on the bottom of the tube 32. Therefore, the bottom 46.1 of the tray 40 is free, and there is no element between the bottom 46.1 of the tray 40 and the cooking support.

[0053] The holding system 50 is configured to removably and continuously hold multiple trays 40 that are substantially fixed within the tube 32. Therefore, the cooking device 30 is reusable and can be used to continuously cook the contents of multiple trays 40. For reusability, the tube 32 is made of a rigid material such as plastic. This solution allows for a reduction in waste. Therefore, only the trays 40 are not reusable. However, the trays 40 are recyclable.

[0054] To optimize cooking, the holding system 50 is configured such that when the tray 40 is held by the holding system, the bottom 46.1 of the tray 40 is substantially in the lower transverse plane.

[0055] In one arrangement, the cooking device 30 includes a single lower opening 48 defined by a lower edge 32.2.

[0056] The holding system 50 includes at least one support surface 52 and at least one tongue 54. The at least one support surface 52 is located in a transverse support plane and configured to receive a peripheral flange 46.2 of the tray 40. The at least one tongue 54 is spaced from the transverse support plane by a distance substantially equal to or slightly greater than the thickness of the peripheral flange 46.2. Therefore, when the tray 40 is positioned in the cooking appliance 30 and held by the holding system 50, the peripheral flange 46.2 of the tray 40 is positioned between one or more support surfaces 52 and one or more tongues 54. The support surface 52 forms a first abutment to prevent translational movement of the tray 40 toward the lower edge 32.2 of the tube 32, the first abutment being spaced apart from the lower edge 32.2 of the tube 32. Furthermore, each tongue 54 forms a second abutment to prevent translational movement of the tray 40 toward the upper edge 32.1 of the tube 32.

[0057] exist Figures 7 to 13 In the embodiment of the invention seen herein, the cooking device 30 includes a transverse wall 56 attached to the tube 32. The transverse wall 56 includes an orifice 58 substantially centered relative to the tube 32, the orifice 58 having a periphery P58 substantially the same as and smaller than the second profile C2 of the tray 40 and smaller than the first profile C1. Therefore, only the bottom 46.1 of the tray 40 and one or more inclined walls 46.3 pass through the orifice 58. A peripheral flange 46.2 rests on the top of the transverse wall 56. The transverse wall 56 includes at least one flange 60 and at least one lateral surface 62 substantially perpendicular to the transverse plane, the at least one flange 60 extending in the transverse plane above at least a portion of the orifice 58 and forming a support surface 52, the at least one lateral surface 62 having a periphery P62 substantially equal to or slightly larger than the first profile C1 of the tray 40. The lateral surface 62 is configured to secure the tray 40 in the transverse plane. Thus, the flange 60 and the lateral surface 62 form a housing configured to receive the peripheral flange 46.2 of the tray 40.

[0058] exist Figures 3 to 19 In the embodiment of the invention seen herein, the transverse wall 56 further includes a junction region 64 connecting each lateral surface 62 and the tube 32. For example... Figure 19 As depicted, the joining area 64 is inclined and forms an angle α greater than 10° with the transverse plane. Therefore, if uncooked grains bounce and fall back at the level of the joining area 64 during cooking, the grains will automatically roll or slide toward the tray 40 due to the inclination of the joining area 64.

[0059] exist Figure 20 and Figure 21In the embodiment of the invention seen herein, the lower portion of the tube 32 has a horizontal section approaching the horizontal section of the lateral face 62. Therefore, the wall 56 does not include the joining region 64 or includes a very small joining region 64. Thus, if uncooked grains jump during cooking, the uncooked grains systematically fall back into the tray 40.

[0060] In one configuration, each tongue 54 is attached to the transverse wall 56, more specifically, to the lateral surface 62 of the transverse wall 56, and positioned in a straight line with the engagement region 64.

[0061] The tube 32, the transverse wall 56, and each tongue 54 are specifically made of plastic material as a single piece.

[0062] exist Figure 7 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 In the first embodiment of the invention as seen herein, the tube 32 includes a lateral opening 66 in the lateral wall 34 near its lower edge 32.2, the lateral opening 66 having dimensions that allow the tray 40 to be inserted into the tube 32. The lateral opening 66 is defined by a lower side portion 66.1, an upper side portion 66.2 parallel to the lower side portion 66.1, a right-hand side portion 66.3 connecting the lower side portion 66.1 and the upper side portion 66.2, and a left-hand side portion 66.4 parallel to the right-hand side portion 66.1 and the upper side portion 66.2. The lateral opening 66 has a plane of symmetry P equidistant from the right-hand side portion 66.3 and the left-hand side portion 66.4. In the case of a tray 40 having a substantially square first profile C1, the transverse wall 56 includes four lateral surfaces 62 symmetrical with respect to the plane of symmetry P. Therefore, the transverse wall 56 includes at least two right-hand lateral faces and a left-hand lateral face 62 symmetrical with respect to the plane of symmetry P, the right-hand lateral face and the left-hand lateral face 62 being straight lines with the right-hand side 66.3 and the left-hand side 66.4 of the lateral opening 66, respectively. The retaining system 50 includes a right-hand tongue 54 attached to the right-hand lateral face 62, a left-hand tongue attached to the left-hand lateral face, and a front tongue 54' attached to the lateral face 62 opposite to the lateral opening 66.

[0063] The side opening 66 has a height equal to or slightly greater than the height of the tray 40 (the distance separating the lower side 66.1 and the upper side 66.2) and a width equal to or slightly greater than the width of the tray 40 (the distance separating the right side 66.3 and the left side 66.4). The height of the side opening 66 is sized to prevent popcorn from passing through it.

[0064] exist Figure 7 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 andFigure 13 In the first embodiment of the invention as seen herein, the lateral opening 66 is located directly above the transverse wall 56. The lower portion 66.1 is in a straight line with the engagement area 64 of the transverse wall 56.

[0065] In one embodiment of the invention, the cooking device 30 includes a guiding system 68 configured to guide each tray 40 in the insertion tube 32 via a lateral opening 66 to a cooking position. The guiding system 68 is symmetrical with respect to the plane of symmetry P.

[0066] The guiding system 68 includes a first inclined guide 70 on a corresponding opposite side of the plane of symmetry P. The first inclined guide 70 is aligned with the right-hand or left-hand tongue 54 and the lateral opening 66, and is configured such that the peripheral flange 46.3 of the tray 40 slides beneath one or more tongues 54. The inclined guide 70 has a first end 70.1 oriented toward the lateral opening 66 and a second end 70.2 attached to the right-hand or left-hand tongue 54, the first end 70.1 being offset relative to the second end 70.2 toward the upper edge 32.1 of the tube 32.

[0067] The guidance system 68 further includes a horizontal guide 72 and a second inclined guide 74 on corresponding opposite sides of the plane of symmetry P. The horizontal guide 72 is connected to the right-hand side surface 54 or the left-hand side surface 54 and is offset downward relative to the flange 60. The second inclined guide 74 connects the horizontal guide 72 and the flange 60. The horizontal guide 72 and the second inclined guide 74 are configured such that the peripheral flange 46.3 of the tray 40 slides on one or more support surfaces 52.

[0068] like Figure 12 As depicted, the horizontal guide 72 is positioned such that when the tray 40 is inserted, the peripheral flange 46.2 contacts the horizontal guide 72 when the tray 40's peripheral flange 46.2 contacts the first inclined guide 70.

[0069] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 To describe how the guide system 68 works: When the tray 40 is inserted into the cooking device 30 through the side opening 66, the peripheral flange 46.2 of the tray 40 abuts against the first inclined guide until the peripheral flange 46.2 contacts the horizontal guide 72, as... Figure 12 As depicted. The tray 40 tilts during this movement. Next, the peripheral flange 46.2 slides below the first tilting guide 70 and on the horizontal guide 72, and then slides on the second tilting guide 74 until the peripheral flange 46.2 is above the flange 60. When the tray 40 has been fully inserted and positioned...Figure 13 When in the cooking position as seen, the tray 40 is substantially horizontal, and the peripheral flange 46.2 of the tray 40 rests on one or more flanges 60 between the support surface 52 and the tongue 54.

[0070] exist Figures 15 to 17 In the second embodiment of the invention as seen herein, the lateral opening 66 extends from the lower transverse plane and does not have a lower side portion 66.1. This also applies to... Figures 20 to 26 The embodiments of the invention are shown below. In these embodiments, the lateral opening 66 is positioned directly below the transverse wall 56. In these embodiments, the lateral opening 66 forms an inverted U-shaped recess. In these embodiments of the invention, the guide system 68 may include only a right-hand tongue and a left-hand tongue 54, in addition to the support surface 52. As indicated above, the guide system 68 may include a first inclined guide 70 aligned with the right-hand tongue or the left-hand tongue 54 on the corresponding opposite sides of the plane of symmetry P. In this embodiment of the invention, the horizontal guide 72 and the second inclined guide 74 are not necessary. In this second embodiment of the invention, the support surface 52 and the engagement area 64 are configured such that no opening is retained between the lateral wall 34 and the tray 40 when the tray 40 is in the cooking position.

[0071] In a second embodiment of the invention, the holding system 50 and the guiding system 68 are the same, and the insertion of the tray 40 is simplified. Figure 17 As depicted, a simple translational movement is sufficient to insert the tray 40 into the cooking device 30. Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 Another advantage of this embodiment compared to the first embodiment of the invention is that no opening is retained at the level of the side wall 34 above the tray 40 when the tray 40 is in the cooking position.

[0072] In this second embodiment of the invention, the tube 32 includes at least one abutment portion 84 configured to secure the tray 40 when it is in the cooking position. Figure 15 and Figure 18In the configuration seen, the transverse wall 56 has an edge 56.1 near the opening 66, which extends the side wall 62 to form a profile P62 that matches the first profile C1 of the tray 40. The transverse wall 56 bends downward between the opening 66 and the edge 56.1 to form an abutment 84. The abutment 84 has a first curvature in the insertion direction of the tray 40, with the transverse wall 56 becoming closer to the lower transverse wall and further away from the lateral opening 66 to achieve a minimum distance from the lower transverse plane that is in a straight line with the edge 56.1. This first curvature allows the tray 40 to be inserted through the lateral opening 66 until it reaches the cooking position and secures the tray 40 in that position, with the flange 46.2 of the tray 40 supported against the edge 56.1. Edge 56.1 has curved regions on the right-hand side 66.3 and left-hand side 66.4 near the lateral opening 66 between the first end 84.1 and the second end 84.2, respectively. Edge 56.1 is furthest from the lower transverse plane that is in a straight line with the first end 84.1 and the second end 84.2, and is closest to the lower transverse plane that is in a straight line with the midpoint 84.3 that is equidistant from the first end 84.1 and the second end 84.2.

[0073] Alternatively, the cooking device 30 need not include either the side opening 66 or the guide system 68. In this case, each tray 40 is inserted into the cooking device 30 via the upper opening 36 and positioned horizontally in the holding system 50. However, the side opening 62 facilitates the placement of the tray 40 between the first and second abutments of the holding system 50.

[0074] In one embodiment of the invention, the tube 32 and the cap 38 can be separated. In one configuration, the cap 38 includes a first surface F38 oriented toward the tube 32 when the cap 38 closes the upper opening 36, and a second surface F38' opposite to the first surface F38. The cap 38 includes a handle 76 on the second surface F38', allowing the cap 38 to be operated. Figure 7 As depicted, the cover 38 includes a peripheral flange 78 configured to nest on the upper edge 32.1 of the tube 32 to close the upper opening 36.

[0075] like Figure 10 As depicted, the cover 38 includes a circular rib 80 projecting relative to its first face F38. This circular rib 80 has an inner diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the lower edge 32.2 of the tube 32, allowing the cover 38 to be positioned below the tube 32 for closing one or more lower openings 48. Alternatively, if the tube 32 is not cylindrical or slightly truncated conical, the rib 80 may be non-circular. In this case, the rib 80 has an inner section substantially equal to the outer section of the lower edge 32.2 of the tube 32. The rib 80 may be located on the second face F38'.

[0076] In one arrangement, tube 32 includes two completely opposite handles 82, allowing the cooking device 30 to be operated without risk of burns.

[0077] The cooking device 30 can be sold separately from the tray 40. Alternatively, such as Figure 3 As depicted, the cooking device 30 can be sold together with one or more trays 40.

[0078] The cooking device has the following functions:

[0079] Insert tray 40 into the cooking device before the cooking step.

[0080] like Figure 7 As depicted, the lid 38 is positioned on top of the tube 32 to close the upper opening 36 during cooking. The cooking device 30 is then placed in a microwave oven. The amount of corn kernels contained in the tray 40 and the tube 32 in the volume between the tray 40 and the lid 38 allows all the corn kernels to be freely converted into popcorn.

[0081] At the end of the cooking step, remove the lid 38 to release the upper opening 36. The cooking device 30 then functions as a container for eating popcorn. Figure 10 As depicted, to prevent soiling, the cover 38 is positioned below the tube 32 to close one or more lower openings 48.

[0082] During the cooking process, the tray 40 can be kept at a relatively high temperature.

[0083] exist Figures 7 to 21 In the embodiments shown, the tube 32 and the retaining system 50 are made as a single component of the same high-temperature resistant material.

[0084] exist Figures 22 to 26 In the third embodiment seen therein, the tube 32 is made of a first material, and at least a portion of the system 50 that is in contact with the tray 40 is made of a second material that is more heat-resistant than the first material.

[0085] By way of example, the first material is polypropylene and the second material is vinylmethylsiloxane (VMS). Alternatively, the retaining system 50 is made of both materials and includes a first part of polypropylene and a second part of liquid silicone rubber (LSR).

[0086] exist Figures 22 to 26In one embodiment of the invention as seen herein, the retaining system 50 includes at least one profile 86 having a C-shaped cross-section. The profile 86 includes a bottom 90 and a first branch 88.1 and a second branch 88.2 in a transverse plane, the first branch 88.1 and the second branch 88.2 being slightly spaced apart and forming a first abutment and a second abutment, the bottom 90 connecting the first branch 88.1 and the second branch 88.2, the bottom 90 and the first branch 88.1 and the second branch 88.2 being formed as a single piece and forming a groove configured to receive a peripheral flange 46.2 of a tray 40.

[0087] In this third embodiment of the invention, the tube 32 is the same as that in the second embodiment, but without the tongue 54. The lower opening 48 is defined by the lower edge 32.2 of the tube 32. The tube 32 includes a lateral opening 66 extending between the lower transverse plane and the transverse wall 56. This lateral opening 66 has no lower side portion.

[0088] The transverse wall 56 includes an aperture 58 having a periphery P58 substantially identical to the inner profile C2 of the peripheral flange 46.2 of the tray 40. In one configuration, the transverse wall 56 includes:

[0089] - At least one flange 60 extending in a transverse plane and comprising three regions: a first region 60.1 opposite to the lateral opening 66, and a second region 60.2 and a third region 60.3 connecting the first region 60.1 and the lateral opening 66.

[0090] - At least one lateral surface 62, which is substantially perpendicular to the flange 60, the flange 60 and the lateral surface 62 forming a housing configured to receive the peripheral flange 46.2 of the tray 40.

[0091] Flange 60 extends between the periphery P58 of orifice 58 and side surface 62. Side surface 62 has a periphery P62 that is slightly larger than the first profile C1 of tray 40.

[0092] In this third embodiment of the invention, the profile 86 has three segments: a first segment 92.1, a second segment 92.2, and a third segment 92.3. The first segment 92.1 is configured to cover a first region 60.1, and the second and third segments 92.2 and 92.3 are respectively configured to cover a second region 60.2 and a third region 60.3. A first branch 88.1 presses against the transverse wall 56, and in particular against the flange 60. The bottom 90 is placed against the lateral surface 62. The first, second, and third segments 92.1 and 92.2 have C-shaped cross-sections. Figure 23The first section 92.1, the second section 92.2 and the third section 92.3 are connected to each other, the second section 92.2 and the third section 92.3 are basically parallel to each other, and the first section 92.1 is basically perpendicular to the second section 92.2 and the third section 92.3.

[0093] In one embodiment of the invention, the profile 86 includes a fourth segment 92.4, which connects the second segment 92.2 and the third segment 92.3 and is substantially parallel to the first segment 92.1. Thus, each segment 92.1 to 92.4 defines a square or rectangular frame. The fourth segment 92.4 is a strip of material connecting the second segment 92.2 and the third segment 92.3, the strip being located above the transverse wall 56 and pressing against the transverse wall 56 at the level of the lateral opening 66.

[0094] like Figure 23 As depicted, profile 86 and tube 32 are two distinct elements manufactured separately and connected together by any suitable means. In one configuration, at least a first element of the combination of tube 32 and profile 86 includes at least one lug 94 configured to mate with an orifice 96 located at the level of a second element different from the first element of the combination of tube 32 and profile 86, so as to fix profile 86 relative to tube 32. In one arrangement, profile 86 includes lugs 94 located at the level of first segment 92.1, second segment 92.2, and third segment 92.3 configured to mate with orifices 96 in first region 60.1, second region 60.2, and third region 60.3, and an orifice 96' in fourth segment 92.4 configured to receive lugs 94' and located at the level of transverse wall 56 adjacent to a lateral opening 66.

[0095] Alternatively, profile 86 is glued to pipe 32.

[0096] Profile 86 may more or less cover the transverse wall 56. Therefore, profile 86 may extend up to the lateral wall 34.

[0097] In another embodiment of the invention, the profile 86 and the tube 32 are manufactured by co-injection.

[0098] In another embodiment of the invention, the area of ​​tube 32 that is readily in contact with tray 40 is covered with a coating made of a high-temperature resistant material.

[0099] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Although described as being applied to popcorn, the present invention is not limited to popcorn. The present invention can be applied to all puffed foods. Therefore, tray 44 can hold puffed foods, such as popcorn or any other puffed food.

Claims

1. An apparatus for cooking puffed food, the apparatus comprising: - A tube (32) extending between an upper edge (32.1) and a lower edge (32.2) located in an upper transverse plane and a lower transverse plane, respectively, and including at least one sidewall (34) and an upper opening (36) defined by the upper edge (32.1). - Cover (38), the cover (38) is configured to close the upper opening (36). The cooking device (30) is characterized by including at least one lower opening (48) in or near the lower transverse plane and at least one retaining system (36), the at least one retaining system (36) being configured to removably hold a tray (40) containing corn kernels at a cooking position at or near the lower edge (32.2) of the tube (32), such that the bottom (46.1) is at least partially released by one or more of the lower openings (48), the retaining system (50) including a first abutment and a second abutment, the first abutment being spaced apart from the lower edge (32.2) of the tube (32) and configured to prevent the tray (40) from translating toward the lower edge (32.2) of the tube (32), the second abutment being configured to prevent the tray (40) from translating toward the upper edge (32.1) of the tube (32).

2. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooking device includes a single lower opening (48) defined by the lower edge (32.2).

3. The cooking apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The tube (32) includes a lateral opening (66) in the sidewall (34) which is sized to allow a tray (40) to be inserted into the tube (32).

4. The cooking apparatus according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The cooking device includes a guiding system (68) configured to guide each tray (40) inserted into the tube (32) via the lateral opening (66) to the cooking position.

5. The cooking apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The cooking device includes a transverse wall (56) attached to the tube (32), the transverse wall (56) including an opening (58) having a periphery (P58) that is substantially the same as the inner contour (C2) of the peripheral flange (46.2) of the tray (40).

6. The cooking apparatus according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The transverse wall (56) includes at least one flange (60) that extends in the transverse plane above at least a portion of the opening (58) and forms a support surface (52) configured to receive a peripheral flange (46.2) of the tray (40).

7. The cooking apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The tube (32) is made of a rigid first material.

8. The cooking apparatus according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, At least a portion of the retaining system (50) that comes into contact with the tray (40) is made of a second material that is more heat-resistant than the first material.

9. The cooking apparatus according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The retaining system (50) includes at least one profile (86) having a C-shaped cross section, the at least one profile (86) including a bottom (90) and a first branch (88.1) and a second branch (88.2) in a transverse plane, the first branch (88.1) and the second branch (88.2) being slightly spaced apart and forming a first abutment portion and a second abutment portion, the bottom (90) connecting the first branch (88.1) and the second branch (88.2), the bottom (90) and the first branch (88.1) and the second branch (88.2) being made as a single piece and forming a groove configured to receive a peripheral flange (46.2) of the tray (40).

10. The cooking apparatus according to claims 6 and 9, characterized in that, The profile (86) has a first section (92.1), a second section (92.2) and a third section (92.3), the first branch (88.1) pressing against the transverse wall (56), the first section (92.1), the second section (92.2) and the third section (92.3) having a C-shaped cross-section, the first section (92.1), the second section (92.2) and the third section (92.3) being interconnected, the second section (92.2) and the third section (92.3) being substantially parallel to each other, and the first section (92.1) being substantially perpendicular to the second section (92.2) and the third section (92.3).

11. The cooking apparatus according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The profile (86) includes a fourth segment (92.4) that connects the second segment (92.2) and the third segment (92.3) and is substantially parallel to the first segment (92.1).

12. The cooking apparatus according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The fourth segment (92.4) is a strip of material connecting the second segment (92.2) and the third segment (92.3) to the second branch (88.2), the strip of material being located above the transverse wall (56) and pressing against the transverse wall (56) at the level of the lateral opening (66).

13. The cooking apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that, At least one first element comprising the combination of the tube (32) and the profile (86) includes at least one lug (94) configured to engage with an orifice (96) disposed at the level of a second element different from the first element comprising the combination of the tube (32) and the profile (86).

14. The cooking apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The cover (38) includes a peripheral flange (78) configured to nest on the upper edge (32.1) of the tube (32).

15. The cooking apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The cover (38) includes a first face (F38) oriented toward the tube (32) when the cover (38) closes the upper opening (36), a second face (F38') opposite to the first face (F38), and a rib (80) protruding relative to the first face (F38) or the second face (F38'), the rib (80) having an inner section that is substantially equal to the outer section of the lower edge (32.2) of the tube (32).

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