Device for packaging various types of food products, and use thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to a device which essentially comprises a bottom piece (1), a cover (2), a base (4) and a cloche (6). Said base and said cloche, which are able to form a closed receiving chamber (3, 3') inserted between the bottom piece and the cover, adopt two different configurations: - a first configuration in which the base is resting on the bottom piece such that the chamber (3) can receive a solid food product, for example a pizza; - a second configuration in which the cloche is resting on the bottom piece such that the chamber (3') can receive a different, non-solid, food product.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Title: DEVICE FOR PACKAGING DIFFERENT TYPES OF FOOD PRODUCTS, AND ITS USE

[0003] Technical field of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to the technical field of food products, in particular so-called takeaway food products. It relates more particularly to a packaging device allowing the transport of food products of different types, from their place of manufacture to their place of consumption. For the purposes of the invention, a first type of food product is said to be solid, for example in that it comprises a food paste, such as in particular a pizza. A second type of food product is said to be non-solid, for example in that it has a liquid or pasty consistency.

[0005] State of the art

[0006] Generally speaking, food products constitute a considerable industrial market. Traditionally, these products are consumed in restaurants. A need has also emerged for so-called "fast" consumption of these products. In this type of fast consumption, the buyer most often takes the food product with him to enjoy it in public places, on public transport, or even on the street.

[0007] Another possibility, more particularly targeted by the present invention, consists of transporting the food products from their place of manufacture to the place where they are eaten, most often to the consumer's home. In this case, the consumer can go directly to the place of manufacture, in order to collect the food product himself and then take it home. Alternatively, the consumer can choose to have the food product delivered by a courier, directly to his home.

[0008] In either of these cases, there are different types of containers for transporting food products. For example, in the case of pizzas, an individual cardboard box is used, usually square. In the case of food products with a fluid consistency, these are received in cups or pots, which can also be made of cardboard or even so-called "kraft" paper. The various solutions currently available on the market have several disadvantages. First of all, it is necessary to provide several types of containers, depending on the nature of the food products to be transported. This tends to make the restaurateur's task more complicated, while creating an increase in overall costs.

[0009] Furthermore, the various containers used are most often single-use, meaning they are not recyclable. Indeed, these containers are generally soiled by the ingredients of various food products. Under these conditions, due to the very high number of containers in circulation, the lack of recycling generates considerable quantities of waste, which leads to a significant ecological problem.

[0010] Furthermore, it has been observed that conventional containers do not have very satisfactory insulating power. In these conditions, food products may not be at a sufficient temperature when they arrive at the consumer's home. It is certainly possible to reheat these products afterward; however, this implies a delay in consumption and, in the case where this reheating is carried out in a microwave oven, a deterioration in taste quality.

[0011] US 2,828,903 describes a disposable container with thermal insulation characteristics that allow hot or cold food to be kept at the correct temperature. This container comprises an outer container made of cardboard, the inner walls of which are coated with thermal insulation. An inner container made of the same material is received in the outer container using a centering device.

[0012] The solution described in this document does not provide any avenues for improvement with regard to the problem posed. Indeed, the container above is disposable, so it is absolutely not suitable for successive uses. Furthermore, the centering device forms a separate part, which can therefore be lost during use. Finally, this document does not deal with the packaging of food products more particularly targeted by the invention, such as pizzas.

[0013] Finally, mention should be made of Belgian document BE 1014682, which describes a rudimentary solution which is broadly similar to that proposed in the above-mentioned American patent. In view of the above, one objective of the present invention is to remedy, at least partially, the disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above.

[0014] Another objective of the invention is to provide a versatile device, in that it lends itself easily to the packaging and transport of food products of different types, in particular solid and non-solid as defined above.

[0015] Another objective of the invention is to provide a device that can be assembled quickly and intuitively, without extending the time taken to fill the food product at the manufacturing site.

[0016] Another objective of the invention is to propose a device suitable for recycling, that is to say which is suitable for the packaging and transport of a large number of successive food products.

[0017] Another objective of the invention is to propose such a packaging device which ensures effective thermal insulation, so as to preserve the food product at an optimal temperature for consumption.

[0018] Objects of the invention

[0019] According to the invention, at least one of the above objectives is achieved by means of a packaging device (I; II; III) suitable for packaging food products of different types, in particular of respectively solid and non-solid types, this device comprising a base (1; 101; 201) and a cover (2; 102; 202) movable relative to the base between a closed position, in which they delimit an interior volume (V), and a position for access to this interior volume, this device further comprising a base (4; 104; 204) and a bell (6; 106; 206), the height (H6) of the bell being significantly greater than the height of the base, this base and this bell being capable of forming a receiving enclosure (3,3'; 103,103';203,203') substantially closed, which is housed in said interior volume, said receiving enclosure being capable of receiving, successively, food products of different types, said sole and said bell being capable of adopting two different configurations, namely - a first configuration in which the sole rests on the bottom, so that the enclosure (3; 103; 203) can receive a food product of solid type, for example a pizza (P);

[0020] - a second configuration in which the bell rests on the bottom, so that the enclosure (3'; 103'; 203') can receive another non-solid food product.

[0021] According to other characteristics of the invention of the packaging device according to the invention:

[0022] - the base and the cover are at least partly made of a moldable plastic material, in particular one capable of being injected, in particular expanded polystyrene, while the sole and the bell are made of stainless steel.

[0023] - in the first configuration, the bell and the cover mutually delimit a first intermediate space, called upper (8; 108; 208), of thermal insulation, while the sole and the bottom mutually delimit a first intermediate space, called lower (9; 109; 209), of thermal insulation.

[0024] - in the second configuration, the sole and the cover mutually delimit a second intermediate space, called upper (8'; 108'), of thermal insulation, while the bell and the bottom mutually delimit a second intermediate space, called lower (9'; 109'), of thermal insulation.

[0025] - in the second configuration, the cover (206) rests directly on the bottom (201), without defining an intermediate space.

[0026] - the sole and the bell delimit zones (E, E'; E1, E'1) of mutual interlocking, both in the first configuration and in the second configuration.

[0027] - the sole and the bell delimit a mutual interlocking zone (E'2), only in the second configuration, the sole having a rim (242) projecting opposite the bell in the first configuration.

[0028] - the rim rests on the bottom in the first configuration, so as to define the lower intercalary space (E209).

[0029] - in the first configuration, the upper surface (S240) of the sole is located at an altitude substantially equal to that of the upper surface (S212) of the bottom.

[0030] - the bottom delimits a first blocking zone (B; B1; B2) with the sole, in the first configuration, as well as a second blocking zone (B'; B'1; B'2) with the bell, in the second configuration.

[0031] - the bottom comprises support means, which are suitable for supporting the sole in the first configuration as well as the bell in the second configuration, these support means comprising in particular a continuous peripheral collar (14), or several point supports (114).

[0032] - the bottom has a base extended upwards by a seat (212) whose internal face (213) is smooth, so as to define the blocking zone with the sole and with the bell.

[0033] - the cover is movable relative to the bottom, between the closed position and the access position, according to a vertical sliding movement with reference to a device resting on its bottom, the device advantageously comprising rapid locking means between the cover and the bottom.

[0034] - the cover (2) has an internal diameter which is close to the external diameter of the bottom (1), the internal wall of this cover being able to cover the external wall of this bottom.

[0035] - the external diameters respectively of the bottom (101) and of the cover (102) are substantially identical, the mutual fixing between this bottom and this cover being ensured by the cooperation between a barrel (122) of the cover and a seat (112) of the bottom (101), in particular by the cooperation by interlocking between a skirt (116) formed on said barrel and a veil (124) provided on said seat.

[0036] - the mutual fixing between the base and the cover is ensured by electrical snap-fastening, in particular between a rib of the cover penetrating removably into a groove in the base.

[0037] - the plate is pierced with holes to allow condensation from the solid food product such as pizza to escape, in the first configuration.

[0038] These additional features may be implemented with the above main object, individually or in any technically compatible combinations.

[0039] The invention also relates to the use of a device such as above, for the successive packaging and transport of food products of different types, for example a solid type food product, for example comprising food dough, such as a pizza (P), and then for example a non-solid type food product (S).

[0040] According to other characteristics of the above use:

[0041] - the base, the lid, the sole and the bell are assembled together at the same time as the food product to be transported is filled, so that this assembly takes place in hidden time. - immediately before filling the food product, the sole and the bell are heated to a temperature close to that of the food product.

[0042] - the sole (4) is placed on the bottom (1), the solid food product (P) is placed on the sole, the bell (6) is placed on the sole so as to form the receiving enclosure (3), then this enclosure is covered by means of the cover (2).

[0043] - the bell (6) is placed on the bottom, the non-solid food product (S) is poured into the bell, the sole (4) is placed on the bell so as to form the receiving enclosure (3'), then this enclosure is covered by means of the lid (2).

[0044] These additional features may be implemented with the second main object above, individually or in any technically compatible combinations.

[0045] DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0046] The invention will be described below, with reference to the appended drawings, given solely as non-limiting examples, in which:

[0047] Figure 1 is a perspective view, generally illustrating a device for packaging food products, in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention.

[0048] Figure 2 is a perspective view, with parts broken away, illustrating in an exploded manner the different constituent elements of this device.

[0049] Figure 3 is a diametrical sectional view, illustrating on a larger scale the placement of a pizza on a base, belonging to a receiving enclosure of this packaging device.

[0050] Figure 4 is a diametrical sectional view, similar to Figure 3, illustrating the installation of a bell belonging to the receiving enclosure, then of the cover of this conditioning device.

[0051] Figure 5 is a diametrical sectional view, similar to Figure 3, illustrating the filling of a portion of soup in the bell of Figure 4, in another configuration of the receiving enclosure.

[0052] Figure 6 is a diametrical sectional view, similar to Figure 5, illustrating the positioning of the sole above the bell, then of the cover as in Figure 4.

[0053] Figure 7 is a perspective view, similar to Figure 1, illustrating a packaging device according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0054] Figure 8 is a perspective view, illustrating the base and the bell forming the receiving enclosure of the device of Figure 7. Figure 9 is a perspective view, illustrating the base and the cover belonging to the device of Figure 7.

[0055] Figure 10 is a diametrical sectional view illustrating the device of Figures 7 to 9.

[0056] Figure 11 is a larger-scale diametrical sectional view, similar to Figure 3, illustrating the placement of a pizza on the base of the device of Figures 7 to 10; and

[0057] Figure 12 is a larger scale diametrical sectional view, similar to Figure 5, illustrating the filling of a portion of soup in the bell of the device of Figures 7 to 11.

[0058] Figure 13 is a diametrical sectional view, similar to Figure 11, illustrating the placement of a pizza on the base of a packaging device according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0059] Figure 14 is a diametrical sectional view similar to Figure 13, illustrating the sliding of the pizza along the base and then out of the device according to this third embodiment.

[0060] Figure 15 is a diametrical sectional view, similar to Figure 12, illustrating the filling of a portion of soup in the bell of the device according to this third embodiment.

[0061] Detailed description

[0062] Figures 1 to 6 illustrate a packaging device according to a first embodiment of the invention, designated as a whole by the reference I. This device is more particularly suitable for receiving different types of food products. As seen above, the invention relates more particularly to such a device suitable for packaging both solid and non-solid products. In the various figures, in particular figures 2 to 6, the actual proportions of the various constituent parts of the device I are not necessarily shown to scale, for the sake of clarity of the drawings. Furthermore, these proportions may vary from one figure to another, in order to better emphasize the various characteristics of the invention.

[0063] This device I firstly comprises a base 1, as well as a cover 2 capable of cooperating with this base. In the following, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “central”, “peripheral”, “horizontal” and “vertical” are used with reference to a normal position of use of the device. In essence, this normal position corresponds to a base resting on a horizontal surface, for example a table. XX and YY are also noted in Figure 2 as the longitudinal and transverse directions respectively of the device I.

[0064] In more detail, the base 1 comprises a base 10, from which a cylindrical neck 11 extends upwards. The latter is extended by a peripheral seat 12, surrounded by a side wall 13. Finally, a collar 14 extends radially inwards from the neck 11. This collar delimits, with the seat 12, a shoulder 15 whose function will be described below. In order to guarantee optimum stability, in particular by avoiding any slipping, the lower face of the base is advantageously equipped with stabilizing pins, not shown.

[0065] The cover 2 firstly comprises a circular roof 20, the diameter of which is slightly greater than that of the bottom. This roof is extended downwards by a cylindrical barrel 22. The typical thickness, respectively E1 and E2 in Figure 2, of the bottom and the cover is between 2 and 6 millimeters (mm), in particular close to 4 mm. This thickness may vary in particular, depending on the overall dimensions of the packaging device. The bottom 1 and the cover 2 define an interior volume V, visible in particular in Figures 4 and 6, which is intended to house a receiving enclosure as will be seen below.

[0066] Advantageously, this base and this cover are provided with complementary quick locking means. In the example illustrated, with reference to FIG. 1, the side wall 13 has at least one pin 16, in particular of hemispherical shape. Preferably, a plurality of pins are provided, for example four in number, regularly distributed. Each pin cooperates with a notch 24, provided at the lower end of the barrel 22. Given their profile, advantageously L-shaped, the different notches allow the respective pins to be locked, which guarantees reliable locking between the base and the cover.

[0067] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, both the base 1 and the cover 2 are made of a moldable type plastic material. Consequently, it is suitable for an industrial molding operation, in particular by injection, so that it can be manufactured in large series. This moldable material is advantageously a plastic material having insulating properties, such as expanded polystyrene by way of non-limiting example. Such a material can also be of the “bioplastic” type, namely for example made from sugar cane or the like, or even based on wood. The base 4, which has a disc shape, delimits a horizontal plate 40 intended to receive a solid type food product, as will be seen below. This plate 40 is extended by a vertical projection 42, forming a rim, itself terminated by a peripheral crown 44.The bell 6 firstly comprises a surface 60, from which extends a rim 62 of cylindrical shape. Unlike the bottom and the lid, the base and the bell are not made of a plastic material, but advantageously of stainless steel. The typical thickness, respectively E4 and E6 in Figure 2, of both the base and the bell, is between 1 and 3 mm, in particular close to 2 mm. As above, this thickness may possibly vary depending on the overall dimensions of the packaging device.

[0068] The respective dimensions of the sole 4 and the bell 6 are such that they allow both mutual interlocking between these two parts, but also blocking of each of these parts relative to the bottom 1. Under these conditions, with reference to figure 2, the external diameter D62 of the rim 62 is close to the external diameter D40 of the plate 40. Furthermore, the diameter D42, taking into account the thickness of the rim 42, is similar to the internal diameter D12 of the seat 12.

[0069] The overall dimensioning of the device described above depends, first of all, on the size of the food products it is to receive. In the case where this device is intended to receive, among other things, pizzas, the size of which can vary in particular depending on the country, the external diameter of the base is chosen for information purposes between 20 and 70 centimeters. Depending on the value of this diameter, a height H6 of the bell will be chosen, visible in figure 2, which is well adapted to the usual volume of non-solid food product, served during each sale.

[0070] The use of the conditioning device I, which has been described above, will now be explained in particular with reference to figures 3 to 6.

[0071] It is initially assumed that a solid food product is to be packaged, in particular a dough-based product such as a pizza P. For this purpose, as illustrated in Figure 3, the base 4 is placed on the bottom 1 by making the rim 42 cooperate with the shoulder 15. The base is then locked relative to the bottom, at the level of zone B, while the peripheral crown 44 rests on the seat 12. As shown in Figure 3, the operator can then place the pizza P directly on the tray 40, advantageously immediately after it leaves the oven. As illustrated in Figure 4, this operator then covers both the tray 40 and the pizza, by means of the bell 6 according to the arrow F6. At the end of this movement, the periphery 64 of the rim 62 is fitted against the inner face of the rim 42 opposite, at the level of zone E.

[0072] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, both the base 4 and the cover 6 are heated to a temperature close to that of the pizza, before placing the latter on the tray. Under these conditions, there is substantially no heat exchange between, on the one hand, the pizza, and on the other hand, this base and this cover. Consequently, before tasting, the pizza tends to cool very little. This is advantageous in economic terms, since the consumer has little or no need to reheat this pizza. Furthermore, the fact of avoiding such reheating makes it possible to better preserve the taste qualities of the pizza.

[0073] In this first configuration of Figure 4, the sole and the bell form a first receiving enclosure 3, more particularly intended for a solid food product, given that the reception is ensured by the sole. It will be noted that this receiving enclosure, generally closed, is bordered directly by the sole 4 and the cover 6 made of stainless steel, which is particularly advantageous in terms of thermal insulation. The term "directly" means that no other mechanical part, in particular made of plastic material, is interposed between the pizza and the above elements made of stainless steel.

[0074] Still referring to Figure 4, the operator finally brings the cover 2 around the base, which supports both the sole, the pizza and the cover. This step, which is carried out according to an axial movement from top to bottom, is materialized by the arrows F2. During this axial movement, the operator first makes each pin 16 penetrate the entrance of a respective notch 24. Then he pivots the cover, according to the arrow f2 in Figure 1, so as to place this pin in this notch. The receiving enclosure is then housed in the interior volume V, defined by the base and the cover. The packaging device I according to the invention is therefore ready to be transported, either by the end consumer himself, or by a specialized courier.

[0075] We assume in a second step that we wish to package a non-solid food product, for example a portion of a soup marked S. To this end, with reference to figure 5, we attach to the base 1, not the sole 4 as above, but the bell 6. Under these conditions the area 60 of this bell bears against the upper face of the collar 14, being blocked laterally by the walls of the shoulder 15 at the level of the zone B'.

[0076] As shown in this figure 5, the operator can then pour the soup S directly inside the bell 6, up to a certain level of its rim 62. In a manner similar to what was described above, with reference to the placement of the pizza on the base, it is advantageous to preheat the base and the bell to a temperature close to that of the soup S. As illustrated in figure 6, this operator then brings the base 4 to the level of the zone E', by fitting the rim 42 around the periphery 64.

[0077] In this second configuration of Figure 6, the floor and the bell form a second receiving enclosure 3', which is turned upside down with respect to the first enclosure 3 above. Finally, in a manner similar to that described with reference to Figure 4, the operator covers the bottom 1 by means of the lid 2, then mutually locks these two parts. The packaging device according to the invention, now containing a non-solid food product, is then ready to be transported.

[0078] As more particularly shown in Figures 4 and 6, the packaging device delimits different intermediate spaces, in one or other of the configurations adopted by the receiving enclosure 3 respectively 3'. Thus, in the first configuration of Figure 4, the cover 2 and the bell 6 delimit an upper intermediate space 8, while the bottom 1 and the base 4 delimit a lower intermediate space 9. Furthermore, in the second configuration of Figure 6, the cover 2 and the base 4 delimit another upper intermediate space 8', while the bell 6 delimits with the bottom 1 another lower intermediate space 9'.

[0079] The upper intermediate spaces 8 and 8' have similar thicknesses, denoted E8 and E8' in Figures 4 and 6. Typically, the value of these thicknesses E8 and E8' is between 6 and 8 millimeters. Similarly, the lower intermediate spaces 9 and 9' have similar thicknesses, denoted E9 and E9' in the same Figures 4 and 6. Typically, the value of these thicknesses E9 and E9' is also between 6 and 8 mm. It will be noted that these different thicknesses are generally invariant, whatever the overall dimensions of the packaging device. Furthermore, each upper space 8 or 8' typically has a similar thickness, in particular identical, with respect to the thickness of each lower space 9 or 9'. Figures 7 to 12 illustrate a second embodiment of the food product packaging device, in accordance with the invention.In these figures 7 to 12 the mechanical elements, similar to those of figures 1 to 6 described above, are assigned the same reference numbers increased by the number 100.

[0080] The packaging device according to this second embodiment, which is designated as a whole by the reference II, differs firstly from that I by the structure of the sole 104. In fact the latter is devoid of a crown, such as that 44, so that this sole 104 is formed by a plate 140 extended only by a projecting rim 142.

[0081] The removal of this crown makes it possible to reduce the external diameter of the cover 102, which is substantially identical to that of the base 101. As shown in particular in Figure 10, the mutual fixing between this base and this cover is ensured by a skirt 124 formed on the barrel 122 of the cover, cooperating by interlocking with a web 116 provided on the seat 112 of the base. As a variant not shown, other fixing systems can be provided, replacing or supplementing that described above. In particular, mention may be made of the use of cleats, an external closing system, or the like.

[0082] The bottom 101 further differs from that 1 in that it does not have a continuous support collar 14. On the contrary, the seat 112 of the bottom 101 comprises a plurality of support surfaces 114, each extending over a small angular sector. Furthermore, the base 110 of the bottom 101 comprises a central boss 118, as well as a plurality of reliefs 119 provided in the vicinity of this boss. Similarly, the roof 120 of the cover 102 is also equipped with a central boss 128 and peripheral reliefs 129. Finally, the external faces respectively of the base 110 and the roof 120 are provided with ribs 117 and 127, ensuring a stiffening function.

[0083] The use of the packaging device II, described with reference to figures 7 to 12, is generally similar to that of the device I which was explained above. With reference to figure 11, if one wishes to package a food dough product such as a pizza P, the base 104 is placed on the bottom 101. The plate 104 of this base rests, on the one hand on the supports 114, on the other hand on the boss 118 and the reliefs 119. We note B1 the blocking zone of the base relative to the bottom, in this first configuration. Then the pizza P is placed on the plate 140, before covering the base by means of the bell. There is a mutual interlocking zone, between the base 104 and the bell 106, as in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the boss 128 and the reliefs 129 of the cover 102 bear against the area 160 of the bell.As described with reference to the first embodiment, it is advantageous to heat both the base and the bell to a temperature close to that of the pizza, immediately before inserting the latter into the receiving enclosure 103. The operator finally brings the cover 102 against the bottom 101, by making the skirt 116 and the barrel 122 cooperate. In the configuration of figure 11, there are intermediate spaces 108 and 109, similar to those 8 and 9 of the first embodiment.

[0084] If it is desired to package a non-solid food product such as a soup S, the bell 106 is placed on the base 101 as shown in Figure 12. The area 160 of the bell 106 then rests on the bearing surfaces 114, as well as on the boss 118 and the reliefs 119. Just as in the first embodiment, the soup S is then poured into the interior volume of the bell, before placing the base 104. B'1 denotes the blocking zone between the bell and the base, while there is a nesting zone between the bell and the base as above. The lid 102 is then placed against the base, as in Figure 11. In this second configuration, illustrated in Figure 12, there are intermediate spaces 108' and 109', similar to those 8' and 9' of the first embodiment.

[0085] Figures 13 to 15 illustrate a third embodiment of the food product packaging device, in accordance with the invention. In these figures 13 to 15 the mechanical elements, similar to those of the second embodiment described in figures 7 to 12, are assigned the same reference numbers increased by the number 100.

[0086] The packaging device according to this third embodiment, which is designated as a whole by the reference III, firstly has a base 204 similar to that 104 of the device II. Thus this base 204 comprises a plate 240 extended by a rim 242, without a peripheral collar. Furthermore, the structure of the bell 260 is similar to that of the bell 160, belonging to the device II.

[0087] On the other hand, the base 201 and the cover 202 of the device III differ from the mechanical elements 101 and 102 of the device II, in particular in that they have a simplified structure. Thus, the base 201 comprises a base 210 extended upwards by a seat 212, in the upper part of which a peripheral groove 216 is formed. The cover 202 comprises a roof 220 extended downwards by a barrel 222, the lower part of which is provided with a peripheral rib 224. This rib is capable of cooperating, by elastic snap-fastening, with the groove 216. This makes it possible to provide a reliable fixing between the base and the cover, which can be easily removable.

[0088] The implementation of device III, which will be described below, differs substantially from those of devices I and II above. As shown in particular in Figures 13 and 14, in the first functional configuration, the sole 204 rests directly on the base 210 of the bottom 201. For this purpose, unlike the embodiments of Figures 1 to 12, the rim 242 does not protrude upwards, but on the contrary downwards. Consequently, the presence of this rim 242 contributes to forming the intermediate space 209. This characteristic makes it possible to simplify the structure of the bottom, namely that the internal face 213 of the seat 212 is advantageously smooth. B2 denotes the blocking zone between this smooth face 213 and the rim 242, by analogy with the previous zones B and B1.

[0089] Furthermore, the plate 240 of the sole is advantageously pierced with small orifices, not shown. As shown in particular in Figure 13, these orifices allow the condensation from the pizza to be evacuated, which is shown by the arrows C. Furthermore, by advantageously providing a base made of a high-porosity material, such condensation can be extracted from the device through this base, according to the arrows C'. It will be noted that the characteristic described in this paragraph can be combined with the other embodiments.

[0090] Figure 14 illustrates a particularly advantageous characteristic of the invention. As seen above, the rim 242 does not protrude above the tray 240. Furthermore, the surface S240 of this tray is located substantially at the same altitude as the upper surface S212 of the seat 212. With this in mind, it is chosen to provide a female fixing element, such as the groove 216, in the seat 212 and not in the cover. When eating the pizza, after removing the cover 202 and the cover 206, this pizza can be slid along the base and the upper surface of the seat, according to the arrow G. Such a maneuver is particularly convenient for the consumer. As shown in Figure 15, the implementation of device III also differs from those of devices I and II in the second functional configuration.Indeed, the roof 260 of the bell 206 rests directly on the base 210, so that there is no intermediate space similar to those 9 and 109 of the previous figures. However, as a variant shown in dotted lines, it is possible to provide for the formation of a boss 214 on this base. This makes it possible to raise the cover 206 and, in this way, to create an intermediate space 209' also shown in dotted lines.

[0091] Furthermore, in this second functional configuration, the sole 204 and the cover 206 are mutually nested, as in the other embodiments. According to the arrangement of Figure 15 for which the cover rests on the bottom, the free space 208' formed between the cover and the sole has a height greater than that of the spaces 8' and 108' above. If a boss is made to raise the cover, this space then has dimensions close to those of the previous embodiments.

[0092] According to an advantageous characteristic not shown, which can be combined with any of the embodiments above, the device can comprise sealing means. In particular, a seal of any suitable type, made for example of rubber, can be provided, which is inserted between the walls facing the base and the bell. This seal then ensures a seal with respect to the receiving enclosure, which is particularly advantageous in the case of liquid or semi-liquid.

[0093] The above description highlights the various advantages of the invention.

[0094] First of all, the presence of a receiving enclosure, having two different configurations, guarantees optimal packaging regardless of the type of food product. Thus, in the first configuration, the generally flat surface of the tray allows easy placement of the pizza, or any other similar product. Furthermore, in the second configuration, the hollow shape of the bell ensures convenient reception of any type of non-solid dish. There is also no food communication between, on the one hand, the receiving enclosure and, on the other hand, the bottom and its cover.

[0095] The invention provides a considerable improvement, in economic terms, over the prior art. In essence, the device of the invention consists substantially of four main parts, which can be conveniently constructed separately. Depending on the final size of the packaging device, it is only necessary to vary the diameter or height of each of its parts. Consequently, the tooling necessary for this manufacture is considerably simplified. For example, it can be considered that the packaging device, in accordance with the invention, is accompanied by a cost equal to only about one third of that of a conventional double-walled box. In particular, the invention makes it possible to dispense with any overmolding operation, which is particularly expensive.

[0096] The invention is also based on a concept, according to which the operator constructs the packaging device at the same time as he fills the food product to be transported. Consequently, this construction takes place in hidden time. In other words, the overall time, for the assembly and filling of the packaging device according to the invention, is barely longer or even similar to the time required only for filling a box according to the prior art. Furthermore, a manufacturer, producing a packaging device according to the invention, will be able to benefit from two different uses for the same device.

[0097] Thanks in particular to the cooperation of shapes between the base and the lid, the transport of the food product can be carried out in complete safety. In addition, during this transport, this product is kept at an optimal temperature, without significant loss of heat. In this spirit, the device according to the invention has a high thermal insulation capacity. In addition, the presence of the various interlayer spaces creates an air vacuum, contributing to this thermal insulation.

[0098] Once the packaging device has arrived at the place of consumption, it is possible to conveniently remove the lid opposite the base. To this end, it will be noted that this lid and this base can slide in a vertical direction. Unlike certain boxes of the prior art which involve an articulation of the lid on the base, this sliding movement allows a circular shape of the device, which guarantees a saving of material.

[0099] It should also be noted that the combination of a plastic material, for example bioplastic, and stainless steel is particularly advantageous. On the one hand, such a plastic material can easily be used for marking operations, allowing the manufacturer's name to be identified, for example. In addition, this material is suitable for industrial production in large series, given its moldable nature. Finally, in the case of a bioplastic material, the latter has remarkable ecological characteristics.

[0100] On the other hand, stainless steel has high thermal insulation properties. In particular, it is likely to induce electromagnetic radiation reflecting heat towards the food product. Furthermore, in the first configuration, the consumer is likely not only to cut the solid product on the stainless steel base, but also to consume it directly on this base, which then forms a flat plate. Furthermore, in the second configuration, the consumer is likely to eat the non-solid product directly in the cover, which then forms a deep plate.

[0101] The use of these two distinct materials also allows separate treatment between the lid and the base on the one hand, and the receiving enclosure on the other. Due to its stainless steel construction, this enclosure can be conveniently washed at high temperatures independently of the base and the lid. However, the latter, due to their more fragile plastic nature, are subject to less aggressive washing. In particular, in the case of a bioplastic material that cannot withstand a temperature of more than 30°C, the base and the lid are only subject to a disinfected wipe. Finally, the stainless steel parts on the one hand, and the plastic parts on the other, can be destroyed and recycled separately after prolonged use.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Packaging device (I; II; III) suitable for packaging food products of different types, in particular of solid and non-solid types respectively, this device comprising a base (1; 101; 201) and a cover (2; 102; 202) movable relative to the base between a closed position, in which they delimit an interior volume (V), and a position for access to this interior volume, this device further comprising a base (4; 104; 204) and a bell (6; 106; 206), the height (H6) of the bell being significantly greater than the height of the base, this base and this bell being capable of forming a substantially closed receiving enclosure (3, 3'; 103, 103'; 203, 203'), which is housed in said interior volume, said receiving enclosure being capable of receiving, successively, food products of different types, said base and said bell being capable of adopting two different configurations, to know - a first configuration in which the sole rests on the bottom, so that the enclosure (3; 103; 203) can receive a solid-type food product, for example a pizza (P) - a second configuration in which the bell rests on the bottom, so that the enclosure (3'; 103'; 203') can receive another non-solid food product.

2. Packaging device according to claim 1 in which the base and the cover are at least partly made of a moldable plastic material, in particular capable of being injected, in particular expanded polystyrene, while the base and the bell are made of stainless steel.

3. Packaging device according to one of the preceding claims in which, in the first configuration, the bell and the cover mutually delimit a first intermediate space, called upper (8; 108; 208), for thermal insulation, while the base and the bottom mutually delimit a first intermediate space, called lower (9; 109; 209), for thermal insulation.

4. Packaging device according to one of the preceding claims in which, in the second configuration, the base and the cover mutually delimit a second intermediate space, called upper (8'; 108'), of thermal insulation, while the bell and the base mutually delimit a second intermediate space, called lower (9'; 109'), of thermal insulation.

5. Packaging device according to one of claims 1 to 3 wherein, in the second configuration, the cover (206) rests directly on the base (201), without defining an intermediate space.

6. Packaging device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the base and the bell delimit zones (E, E'; E1, E'1) of mutual nesting, both in the first configuration and in the second configuration.

7. Packaging device according to one of claims 1 to 5 in which the base and the bell delimit a mutual nesting zone (E'2), only in the second configuration, the base having a rim (242) projecting opposite the bell in the first configuration.

8. Packaging device according to the preceding claim, in which the rim rests on the bottom in the first configuration, so as to define the lower intermediate space (E209).

9. Packaging device according to the preceding claim wherein, in the first configuration, the upper surface (S240) of the sole is located at an altitude substantially equal to that of the upper surface (S212) of the bottom.

10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the bottom delimits a first zone (B; B1; B2) of blocking with the sole, in the first configuration, as well as a second zone (B'; B'1; B'2) of blocking with the bell, in the second configuration.

11. Device according to the preceding claim, in which the bottom comprises support means, which are suitable for supporting the sole in the first configuration as well as the bell in the second configuration, these support means comprising in particular a continuous peripheral collar (14), or else several point supports (114).

12. Device according to one of claims 1 to 10, in which the bottom comprises a base extended upwards by a seat (212) whose internal face (213) is smooth, so as to define the blocking zone with the sole and with the bell.

13. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the cover is movable relative to the bottom, between the closed position and the access position, according to a vertical sliding movement with reference to a device resting on its bottom, the device advantageously comprising rapid locking means between the cover and the bottom.

14. Device according to the preceding claim, in which the cover (2) has an internal diameter which is close to the external diameter of the bottom (1), the internal wall of this cover being capable of covering the external wall of this bottom.

15. Device according to one of claims 1 to 12, in which the external diameters respectively of the bottom (101) and of the cover (102) are substantially identical, the mutual fixing between this bottom and this cover being ensured by the cooperation between a barrel (122) of the cover and a seat (112) of the bottom (101), in particular by the cooperation by fitting between a skirt (116) formed on said barrel and a web (124) provided on said seat.

16. Device according to one of claims 1 to 12, in which the mutual fixing between the base and the cover is ensured by electrical snap-fastening, in particular between a rib of the cover penetrating removably into a groove in the base.

17. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the plate is pierced with holes allowing condensation from the solid food product such as pizza to be evacuated, in the first configuration.

18. Use of a device according to one of the preceding claims, for the successive packaging and transport of food products of different types, for example a solid type food product, for example comprising food dough, such as a pizza (P), and then for example a non-solid type food product (S).

19. Use according to the preceding claim, in which the base, the lid, the sole and the bell are assembled together, at the same time as the food product to be transported is filled, so that this assembly takes place in hidden time.

20. Use according to claim 18 or 19 in which, immediately before filling the food product, the base and the cover are heated to a temperature close to that of the food product.

21. Use according to one of claims 18 to 20 in which the base (4) is placed on the bottom (1), the solid food product (P) is placed on the base, the cover (6) is placed on the base so as to form the receiving enclosure (3), then this enclosure is covered by means of the lid (2).

22. Use according to one of claims 18 to 20 in which the cover (6) is placed on the bottom, the non-solid food product (S) is poured into the cover, the base (4) is placed on the cover so as to form the receiving enclosure (3'), then this enclosure is covered by means of the lid (2).

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