DEVICE AND METHOD FOR EXTRACTION OF PLANT FLUID

Abstract

TITLE OF THE INVENTION: DEVICE AND METHOD FOR EXTRACTING PLANT FLUID 1. A device (300) for extracting plant fluid from plants, comprising: - a support (301) for these plants, - at least one enclosure (302), - at least one microwave emitting antenna (304) oriented to transmit microwaves into each enclosure and configured to heat at least one fluid contained in the plants, and - a means (305, 306) for separating the fluid from the plants from which this fluid has been extracted. The support (301) is a plant conveyor belt within the enclosure (302). The device further comprises at least one impermeable belt (309) for the extracted fluid, arranged under the plant conveyor belt and configured to recover by gravity the fluid separated from the plants, and a means (314) for moving this impermeable belt. Figure for the abstract: Figure 4

Description

Title of the invention: DEVICE AND METHOD FOR EXTRACTION OF PLANT FLUID Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and a method for extracting plant fluid. It is applicable, in particular, to the food, pharmaceutical and perfume industries. State of the art

[0002] For the extraction of plant fluids, existing solutions in the prior art involve using aqueous or organic solvents to extract plant essential oils, for example, when using a hydrodistillation device. However, the plant from which a fluid is to be extracted is dissolved in the solvent. This type of extraction has many drawbacks. In particular, the plant can no longer be used or consumed after this extraction.

[0003] Other solutions are taught in the prior art involving dry distillation devices for essential oils. However, these devices involve continuous and significant heating of the plants, which leads to their destruction. This technique also results in overheating of the extracted fluids, which can alter them.

[0004] Other solutions known to those skilled in the art involve using cold expression devices for extracting plant essence. However, these devices are used only for citrus peels and also involve their destruction.

[0005] Other solutions are taught in the prior art involving the use of sulfur compounds previously applied to the plant material to be dried. However, the use of such sulfur compounds leads to an alteration of the organoleptic properties and nutritional value of the partially dried plants. These compounds may also present a health risk. Description of the invention

[0006] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of these drawbacks. In particular, the invention makes it possible to recover, on the one hand, at least one fluid and, on the other hand, partially dried plants without alteration.

[0007] To this end, according to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a device for extracting plant fluid from plants, which comprises: - a support for these plants, - at least one enclosure, - at least one microwave transmitting antenna oriented to transmit microwaves within the enclosure and configured to heat at least one fluid contained in the plants and - a means of separating the fluid from the plants from which this fluid was extracted.

[0008] Thanks to these features, the device of the invention allows for the rapid and efficient recovery of fluid from plants without overexposure to microwaves. Thus, alteration of the fluid during extraction is avoided. These features also allow for the non-destructive drying of the plants, and therefore their recovery, preservation, reuse, and even consumption. Ultimately, these features allow for the simultaneous recovery of plants, at least partially dried, and of the fluid extracted from these plants, which can then be utilized.

[0009] In embodiments, the separation means is integrated into the support and includes at least one filter retaining the plants from which the fluid has been extracted and allowing the filtered fluid to pass through.

[0010] Thanks to these provisions, the device allows a separation by gravity of the plants and the fluid coming from these plants.

[0011] In embodiments, the support includes a plant movement mat in the enclosure containing the filter, and the device further includes at least one mat impermeable to the extracted fluid disposed under the movement mat and configured to recover the filtered fluid by gravity.

[0012] Thanks to these provisions, the device allows simultaneously exposure of plants to microwaves and extraction by gravity of the fluid from these plants.

[0013] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a drive motor for the impermeable mat at a speed greater than the speed of movement of the plant support.

[0014] Thanks to these arrangements, the exposure time of the extracted fluid to microwaves is reduced. Overexposure to microwaves and thermal alteration of the extracted fluid are therefore limited. These arrangements also allow for a longer exposure time of the plants to microwaves. More efficient extraction of the fluid from the plants is thus achieved.

[0015] In embodiments, the separation means includes a means for aspirating at least one fluid released by the plants in said enclosure.

[0016] Thanks to these arrangements, the device allows for the aspiration of the released fluid.

[0017] In some embodiments, at least one enclosure is airtight.

[0018] Thanks to these provisions, when a vacuum is applied to the device, the device allows for more efficient release and extraction of plant fluid When plants are exposed to microwaves, these measures also allow for a reduction in the microwave power applied within the chamber. This lowers the extraction temperature of both the extracted fluid and the plants, preventing degradation of either the plants or the extracted fluid. Furthermore, aerosolized liquids are also extracted.

[0019] In embodiments, the separation means further comprises at least one means for accumulating at least one aerosolized and aspirated liquid.

[0020] Thanks to these arrangements, the accumulation means allows for the separation of the aerosolized liquid and the aspirated gas. Thus, the recovery of the aerosolized liquid is achieved.

[0021] In embodiments, the enclosure further comprises a tray being at least partially made of microwave-reflecting material, the tray being configured to recover the filtered fluid by gravity.

[0022] Thanks to these provisions, the overexposure of the extracted fluid to the microwaves in the tank is limited, and thus the overheating of the filtered fluid is limited.

[0023] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a process for extracting plant fluid from plants, which comprises: - a step involving the introduction of plants into at least one enclosure, - a microwave emission stage in each enclosure and - a step of separating the fluid from the plants from which this fluid was extracted.

[0024] In some embodiments, the microwave emission step and the fluid separation step are simultaneous.

[0025] In embodiments, the process further comprises a step of depressurizing at least one enclosure downstream of the step of introducing the plants into the enclosure and upstream of the microwave emission step.

[0026] The aims, advantages and special characteristics of the process which is the subject of the present invention being similar to those of the device which is the subject of the present invention, they are not recalled here. Brief description of the figures

[0027] Other advantages, purposes and particular features of the invention will become apparent from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the device and method of the present invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0028] [Fig. 1] represents, schematically and in cross-section, a first particular embodiment of the device which is the subject of the invention,

[0029] [Fig.2] represents, schematically, in perspective and in top view, a enlargement of a part of the device illustrated in [Fig.1],

[0030] [Fig.3] represents, schematically and in cross-section, a second particular embodiment of the device which is the subject of the invention,

[0031] [Fig.4] represents, schematically and in cross-section, a third particular embodiment of the device that is the subject of the invention,

[0032] [Fig.5] represents, schematically and in cross-section, a fourth particular embodiment of the device that is the subject of the invention,

[0033] [Fig.6] represents, schematically, an enlargement of part of the device illustrated in [Fig.5],

[0034] [Fig.7] schematically represents an enlargement of part of the device illustrated in [Fig.6] and

[0035] [Fig.8] represents, schematically and in the form of a flowchart, a particular succession of steps of the process which is the subject of the invention. Description of the implementation methods

[0036] The present description is given by way of non-limiting grammar, each feature of an embodiment being able to be advantageously combined with any other feature of any other embodiment.

[0037] The following definitions are recalled here:

[0038] The term “plants” refers to plants or parts of plants, but also to fruits or parts of fruits, such as saffron pistils, mint leaves, apricots, apples or plums.

[0039] The term “fluid” refers to a set of compounds present in plants in gaseous or liquid form, such as aromas, essential oils, water or air.

[0040] The term “liquid” refers to one of the three physical states of matter characterizing a compound that can flow over an impermeable surface or through a porous surface, for example aromas, essential oils or water.

[0041] The term “aerosolized” refers to liquids suspended in a gas, such as aromas or essential oils suspended in the air.

[0042] The term "partially dried" refers to a physical state of a body that has been transformed in order to limit the amount of fluids it contains. Fluids such as aromas, essential oils, or water are examples.

[0043] The terms "arranged under" refer to the arrangement of one element in relation to another element, under normal operating conditions of the device for extracting plants.

[0044] The term "microwave-reflecting material" refers to a material configured to form a barrier to microwaves without absorbing them. A material Microwave-reflecting material is a type of material that blocks microwaves, and is contrary to the term "microwave-transparent material".

[0045] Throughout this description, "upper" refers to everything at the top in Figures 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, which correspond to the normal configurations for using the devices. "Lower" refers to everything at the bottom in Figures 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7. The terms "vertical" and "height" are derived from these definitions. The devices illustrated in the figures generally have a vertical plane of symmetry (parallel to the plane of the figures). The intersection of this plane with the plant support, which will be described later, defines an axis. "Internal" refers to anything close to or oriented toward this axis, and "external" refers to anything further from this axis or oriented in the opposite direction to it. Lengths are defined parallel to the axis, and widths are defined perpendicular to the overall plane of symmetry. The axes are labeled A, B, C and D respectively in figures 1, 3, 4 and 5.

[0046] It should be noted from the outset that the figures are not to scale.

[0047] Figure [1], which is not to scale, shows a schematic view of a mode of the realization of the device 100 which is the subject of the invention. This device 100 for extracting plant fluid 101 from plants 103 comprises: - a support 102 for these plants 103, - a chamber 104, - a means for moving the support 102, - at least one microwave transmitting antenna 106 107 oriented to transmit the microwaves 107 into the chamber 104 and configured to heat at least one fluid 101 contained in the plants 103 and - a means for separating the fluid 101 and the plants 103 from which this fluid 101 has been extracted, positioned on the lower part of the chamber 104.

[0048] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 1], the plant support 102 is made of a material that is chemically neutral with respect to the plants 103 to be extracted. More preferably, this material complies with the standards in force in the food industry. For example, this material comprises a metal or an alloy, such as brass or stainless steel, for example, of the reference "316L stainless steel".

[0049] Preferably, the support 102 is configured to be resistant under microwave exposure conditions 107. The microwave exposure conditions are defined, for example, by a microwave power of between 1 and 10 kilowatts (kW), preferably between 1 and 3 kilowatts (kW).

[0050] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.1], the support 102 is a moving mat.

[0051] In embodiments (not shown), the movement mat 102 is waterproof.

[0052] In some embodiments, the conveyor belt 102 comprises various means for individually separating (not shown) the plants 103. Preferably, the individual separation means are configured to be resistant under microwave exposure conditions 107 as defined for the support 102. The individual separation means are, for example, fixed partitions or separation compartments affixed directly to the conveyor belt 102. In some embodiments, the conveyor belt 102 has, for example, a corrugated or square relief configured to form the individual separation means. Preferably, the belt 102 is a track forming the individual separation means. Even more preferably, the portion of the track not supporting the plants serves to drive and thus move the conveyor belt 102 by rotation of the movement means 105.

[0053] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.1], the enclosure 104 is compatible with microwave emissions 107. Preferably, the walls of the enclosure 104 reflect the microwaves 107. Even more preferably, the walls of the enclosure 104 comprise a metal or an alloy, such as stainless steel, for example, of reference "316L stainless steel".

[0054] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.1], the enclosure 104 is unique and covers the entire moving mat 102 during the microwave emissions 107. The enclosure 104 is thus configured for continuous exposure of the plants 103 to the microwaves 107.

[0055] In some embodiments (not shown), several enclosures 104 are in series. Each enclosure covers a portion of the conveyor belt 102. The enclosures 104 are thus configured for discontinuous exposure of the plants 103 to the microwaves 107.

[0056] In embodiments, such as those represented in [Fig.1], the means of movement 105 of the support 102 is a means of relative movement of the support with respect to the enclosure 104. Preferably, the means of movement 105 is a drive roller configured to be rotated.

[0057] In some embodiments, the microwave transmitting antenna 106 107 emits a microwave power of, for example, between 1 and 10 kilowatts (kW). To achieve this power, the microwave frequency is preferably between 3000 and 500 megahertz (MHz) and even more preferably between 900 and 2500 MHz, for example, 2450 megahertz (MHz) or 915 megahertz (MHz). The microwave power 107 emitted by this antenna is predetermined according to the plants 103 to be extracted. Unidirectional or multidirectional emissions 107 are also implemented by this antenna 106 according to the physical characteristics of the plants 103 to be extracted. Preferably, the transmitting antenna 106 is a slotted radiating antenna.

[0058] In embodiments, the separation means 108 is integrated into the support 102 and includes at least one plant-retaining filter 103. For example, the filter 108 may be a sieve or membrane filter, a grid or a mesh mat comprising glass mesh coated with Teflon.

[0059] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 1], the separation means 108 is a filter and is incorporated into the entire conveyor belt 102. In other words, the belt 102 and the filter 108 form a single element, preferably a mesh belt. Preferably, the mesh belt 102 comprises Teflon-coated glass mesh. In other embodiments (not shown), the filter 108 is incorporated into the conveyor belt 102 discontinuously.

[0060] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 1], the device The conveyor 100 further comprises an impermeable mat 109 for the extracted fluid 101. The impermeable mat 109 is positioned beneath the plant support 102. The plant support 102 is a mat incorporating a separation means 108. Preferably, the separation means 108 is a filter integrated into the entire conveyor 102. Even more preferably, the mat 102 and the filter 108 form a single unit, preferably a meshed mat. The fluid 101 is separated from the plants 103 by gravity as it passes through the mesh of the filter 108. The fluid 101 is then collected by the impermeable mat 109. Preferably, the impermeable mat 109 has a V-shaped or U-shaped cross-section, the cross-section of the impermeable mat 109 being perpendicular to the axis A of the conveyor's movement.In variants, a tray (not shown) located under the mesh mat receives the flowing fluid, the mesh mat being formed by the conveyor belt 102 and the separation means 108.

[0061] In embodiments, the separation means 108 further comprises a vacuum means (not shown) configured to draw in the fluid 101. The vacuum separates the fluid 101 from the plants 103 by passing this fluid 101 through the mesh of the filter 108. For example, the vacuum is created by a pump exerting a negative pressure in the lower part of the enclosure and more particularly under the conveyor belt 102.

[0062] In embodiments (not shown), the separation means further comprises one or more intermediate mats having filters and arranged between the mesh mat 102 and the impermeable mat 109. Each filter of each mat has a pore size which decreases from one mat to the other and between each successive filtration.

[0063] These different means are configured to perform multiple filtration of the extracted fluid 101. Thus, the filtrate obtained contains a limited quantity of solid particles.

[0064] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.1], the device 100 further comprises a drive motor which drives the impermeable mat 109 at a speed greater than the speed of movement of the mat 102. It is noted in [Fig.1] that the speed of movement of the impermeable mat 109 is represented by three arrows and the speed of movement of the plant transport mat 102 103 is represented by one arrow.

[0065] In embodiments (not shown), the impermeable mat 109 moves in the opposite direction to the movement of the plant transport mat 102 103. Preferably, the speed of movement of the impermeable mat 109 is greater than the speed of movement of the plant transport mat 102 103.

[0066] In embodiments (not shown), the device 100 comprises one or more impermeable mats placed side by side, located under the plant transport mat 102 and moving in a direction orthogonal to the direction of movement of the transport mat 102 and in a plane parallel to the transport mat 102. The impermeable mats are thus configured to increase the transport speed of the extracted fluid 101 out of the enclosure 104 exposed to microwaves 107. Thus, overexposure to microwaves 107 and therefore thermal alteration of the extracted fluid 101 are limited.

[0067] In some embodiments (not shown), the device 100 comprises a conveyor belt 102 having a filter 108 and a waterproof belt 109 disposed under the belt 102 and further comprising separations such as compartments for separating fluids extracted by gravity. The individual separation means are, for example, fixed partitions or separation compartments affixed directly to the waterproof belt 109. In some embodiments, the waterproof belt 109 has, for example, a corrugated or square relief configured to form the individual separation means. Preferably, the waterproof belt 109 is a track forming the individual separation means. Even more preferably, the portion of the track not recovering the extracted fluid serves to drive and thus move the waterproof belt 109.The 109 waterproof mat with individual separation means is configured to separate different fractions of extracted fluids according to the microwave exposure time and / or microwave power.

[0068] In particular, Figure 2, which is not to scale, shows an enlarged and perspective view 110 of a portion of the device 100 illustrated in Figure 1. Figure 2 shows the plant 103 positioned on the conveyor belt 102 and subjected to microwaves 107. It also shows that the fluid droplets 101 extracted from the Plant 103 flows downwards through the mesh of the filter 108 incorporated in the mat 102. These fluid droplets 101 are collected by the impermeable mat 109. The impermeable mat 109 has a higher movement speed than the movement speed of the mat 102.

[0069] Figure 3, which is not to scale, shows a schematic view of an embodiment of the device 200 of the invention. This device 200 for extracting plant fluid 201 from plants 203 comprises: - a support 202 for these plants 203, - an enclosure 204, - a means for moving the support 205, - at least one microwave transmitting antenna 206 207 oriented to transmit microwaves 207 into the enclosure 204 and configured to heat at least one fluid 201 contained in the plants 203, and - a means 208 for separating the fluid 201 from the plants 203 from which this fluid 201 has been extracted, positioned on the upper part of the enclosure 204.

[0070] In embodiments, the support 202 has the same physico-chemical and material characteristics described previously for the support 102 shown in [Fig.1].

[0071] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.3], the plant support 202 is a moving mat 202. Preferably, the moving mat 202 is impermeable.

[0072] In some embodiments, the conveyor belt 202 comprises various means for individually separating (not shown) the plants 203, similar to the individual separation means described previously for the conveyor belt 102. Preferably, the belt 202 is a caterpillar forming the individual separation means. Even more preferably, the portion of the caterpillar not supporting the plants 203 serves to drive and thus move the conveyor belt 202 by rotation of the movement means 205.

[0073] In some embodiments, the enclosure 204 is airtight and is thus configured so that reduced pressure is applied during exposure to microwaves 207.

[0074] In embodiments, the enclosure 204 has the same physico-chemical and material characteristics described previously for the enclosure 104 shown in [Fig.1].

[0075] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.3], the enclosure 204 is unique and covers the entire moving mat 202 during the microwave emissions 207. The enclosure 204 is thus configured for continuous exposure of the plants 203 to the microwaves 207.

[0076] In some embodiments (not shown), several enclosures 204 are in series. Each enclosure covers a portion of the conveyor belt 202. The enclosures 104 are thus configured for discontinuous exposure of the plants 203 to the microwaves 207.

[0077] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.3], the means of movement 205 of the support 202 is a means of relative movement of the support with respect to the enclosure 204. Preferably, the means of movement 205 is a drive roller configured to be rotated.

[0078] In some embodiments, the transmitting antenna 206 has the same characteristics as the antenna 106 previously mentioned.

[0079] In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 3], the means 208 for separating the fluid 201 from the plants 203 includes a suction means 209 for drawing the fluid 201 released from the plants 203 and aerosolized in the enclosure 204. Preferably, the vacuum exerted in the enclosure 204 has a constant value. For example, this suction means 209 corresponds to a suction pump configured to impose, for example, a vacuum of less than 1 bar in order to extract the fluid 201 from the enclosure 204. Even more preferably, the vacuum is close to a vacuum.

[0080] In embodiments, the suction means 209 for the fluid 201 released from the plants 203 and aerosolized in the enclosure 204 is configured to apply a suction flow rate of between 10 and 80 cubic meters per hour (m3 / h).

[0081] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 3], the separation means 208 further comprises a means 210 for accumulating the initially aerosolized liquid 211 201. [Fig. 3] shows the aspiration and subsequent accumulation of the aerosolized liquid 201 to form liquid 211 in the reservoir 210. The accumulation means 209 further comprises a valve 212 configured to recover the accumulated liquid 210. Preferably, the accumulation means 210 is a demister. The air aspirated simultaneously with the accumulation of liquid 211 is vented from the top of the reservoir 210, which has an air outlet.

[0082] In embodiments (not shown), the separation means 208 comprises several accumulation means 210 in parallel and associated with an enclosure 204, or in series and each associated with an enclosure 204.

[0083] Preferably, when the accumulation means 210 are in series, the suction flow rate applied downstream of each accumulation means decreases along the plant material conveyor 202 as a function of the extraction time. The suction flow rate gradient thus applied is configured to avoid the suction of light plant material 203 after it has dried out, such as saffron pistils.

[0084] In other embodiments, when the accumulation means 210 are in series, the vacuum applied in the chamber 204 increases along the plant movement path and as a function of the extraction time. The vacuum gradient thus applied is configured for the progressive extraction and accumulation of the denser fluids 201 present in the plants 203.

[0085] In some embodiments (not shown), the device 200 includes an additional separation means. This additional separation means is a filter and is incorporated into the support 202. This filter is configured to separate a denser, non-aerosolized fluid by gravity. Preferably, the device 200 also includes an impermeable mat for recovering the filtered, non-aerosolized fluid. The characteristics of the filter and the impermeable mat of the device 200 are identical to the characteristics stated previously for the device 100 shown in [Fig. 1]. In some variants, a tray (not shown) receives the flowing fluid.

[0086] These embodiments allow for simultaneous and separate recovery of the aerosolized fluid 201, the non-aerosolized fluid and the plants 203. In addition, the exposure of the aerosolized fluid 201 and the non-aerosolized fluid to microwaves 207 is limited.

[0087] Figure 4, which is not to scale, shows a schematic view of one embodiment of the device 300 of the invention. This device 300 for extracting plant fluid from plants comprises: - a support 301 for these plants, - an enclosure 302, - a means 303 for moving the support 301, - at least one microwave transmitting antenna 304 oriented to transmit microwaves into the enclosure 302 and configured to heat at least one fluid contained in the plants and - a set of means for separating fluids and plants, 350 and 306, which includes: - a first means of separating the non-aerosolized fluid and the vegetation by gravity, positioned on the lower part of the enclosure 302 and - a second means of separating 306 of the aerosolized fluid and the plants by aspiration and positioned on the upper part of the enclosure 302.

[0088] In embodiments, the support 301 has the same physico-chemical and material characteristics described previously for the supports 102 and 202 shown respectively in figures 1 and 3.

[0089] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 4], the plant support 301 is a moving mat. The plants are introduced into the enclosure 302 by moving the mat 301 to the right.

[0090] In some embodiments, the conveyor belt 301 comprises various means for individually separating (not shown) the plants, as described previously for conveyor belts 202 and 102. Preferably, the belt 301 is a caterpillar forming the individual separation means. Even more preferably, the portion of the caterpillar not supporting the plants serves to drive and thus move the conveyor belt 301 by rotation of the transport means 303.

[0091] In embodiments (not shown), the enclosure 302 is airtight and is thus configured so that reduced pressure is applied during microwave exposure.

[0092] In embodiments, the enclosure 302 has the same physico-chemical and material characteristics described previously for the enclosures 104 and 204 shown respectively in figures 1 and 3.

[0093] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 4], the enclosure 302 is a single unit and covers the entire conveyor belt 301 during microwave emissions. The enclosure 302 is thus configured for continuous exposure of the plants to microwaves.

[0094] In embodiments, as represented in [Fig.4], the enclosure 302 has an inlet 307 and an outlet 308 for the mats 301 and 309.

[0095] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 4], the enclosure 302 further comprises at least one microwave trap 310 configured to render the enclosure microwave-tight. Preferably, these traps 310 are located at the inlet 307 and outlet 308 of the enclosure 302.

[0096] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.4], the means of movement 303 of the conveyor 301 is a means of relative movement of the conveyor 301 with respect to the enclosure 302. Preferably, the means of movement 303 of the conveyor 301 is a drive roller configured to be rotated.

[0097] In some embodiments, the transmitting antenna 304 has the same characteristics as the antennas 106 and 206 described previously. In other variations, the power of the series-connected antennas 304 varies along the enclosure 302, so as to apply decreasing power along the enclosure 302 and in the direction of movement of the exposed plants. This reduction in microwave power from the antennas 304 is designed to limit overexposure of the plant to microwaves during extraction. Furthermore, a significant extraction of the plant fluid is carried out at the beginning of the extraction, when the microwave power is at its maximum.

[0098] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 4], the first separation means 305 is a filter and is incorporated into the entire conveyor belt 301. The characteristics of the filter 305 are identical to the stated characteristics previously for filter 108 shown in [Fig. 1]. Preferably, the conveyor belt 301 and the filter 305 form a single element, and preferably a mesh conveyor belt comprising, for example, glass mesh coated with Teflon. In some variants, the filter 305 is incorporated discontinuously into the conveyor belt 301.

[0099] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 4], the device 300 further comprises a conveyor belt 309 impermeable to the extracted fluid. Preferably, the conveyor belt 309 has a V- or U-shaped profile, the cross-section of the conveyor belt 309 being perpendicular to the axis C of the conveyor belt's movement. It should be noted that the conveyor belt 309 is located under the plant support 301. The plant support 301 is a belt incorporating a separation means 305. Preferably, the separation means 305 is a filter integrated into the entire conveyor belt 301. Even more preferably, the belt 301 and the filter 305 form a single element, preferably a mesh belt.

[0100] In variants, a tray (not shown) arranged under the mesh mat receives the flowing fluid, the mesh mat being formed by the displacement mat 301 and the separation means 305.

[0101] In embodiments, the means of movement 314 of the waterproof mat 309 has the same characteristics described for the means of movement 303. Preferably, the means of movement 314 of the waterproof mat 309 is a drive roller supported by a frame and configured to be rotated.

[0102] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 4], the second separation means 306 comprises a means 311 for drawing in air and aerosolized liquid. The second separation means further comprises a fluid accumulation means 312 for fluid 313. Preferably, the accumulation means 312 is a reservoir configured to separate the air and the aspirated liquid 313. Even more preferably, the accumulation means 312 is a demister having a liquid drain 313 on its lower part and an air outlet on its upper part.

[0103] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.4], the device 300 further comprises at least one temperature sensor 315 associated with at least one microwave emitting antenna 304.

[0104] These embodiments allow for temperature monitoring during extraction.

[0105] Preferably, the microwave-emitting antenna 304 includes a means for adapting (not shown) the power of the emitted waves according to the measured temperature. The adaptation means includes: - a means of comparison between a predetermined threshold value and the actual measured value and - a means of regulating the microwave power applied in enclosure 304 according to the result of the comparison.

[0106] The predetermined threshold value is a limit value or a minimum value. When the measured value exceeds the predetermined limit value, the microwave power is reduced to fall below the predetermined limit value. When the measured value is below the predetermined minimum value, the microwave power is increased to rise above the predetermined minimum value.

[0107] Thus, the power of the microwaves emitted in the enclosure 304 is adapted according to the fluid and the plants to be extracted and according to predetermined constraints, such as the degradation temperature of the fluid and / or the plants.

[0108] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.4], the device 300 further comprises at least one means for evacuating plants 316 located at the exit of the enclosure 304. The means for evacuating plants 316 is configured to recover the plants located on the conveyor belt 301 and obtained after extraction.

[0109] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 4], the device 300 further comprises at least one means, 317 and 318, for recovering extracted liquids located at the outlet of the enclosure 304. The recovery means 317 is configured to recover the liquid extracted from the plants and accumulated on the impermeable mat 309. The recovery means 318 is configured to recover the residual liquid extracted from the plants present on the mesh mat 301.

[0110] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 4], the device 300 further comprises at least one means, 319 and 320, for removing residual traces of vegetation. The removal means 320 is located downstream of the discharge means 316 and the recovery means 318. The removal means 319 is located downstream of the recovery means 317. The removal means 319 and 320 are configured to remove residual traces of vegetation present on the support 301 and the impermeable mat 309. Preferably, the removal means is a scraper.

[0111] Figure 5, not to scale, shows a schematic view of an embodiment of the device 400 of the invention. This device 400 for extracting plant fluid, 418 and 419, from plants comprises: - a support 401 for these plants 402, - a hermetically sealed enclosure 403 configured to be pressurized, - a means 404 for moving the support 401, - at least one microwave transmitting antenna 405 oriented to transmit microwaves 417 into the enclosure 403 and configured to heat at least one fluid, 418 or 419, contained in the plants, and - a set of means for separating the fluid, 418 or 419, from the plants 402, which comprises: - a first means of separating 406 the non-aerosolized fluid 418 and the plants 402 by gravity and - a second means of separating 407 the aerosolized fluid and the plants 402 by aspiration.

[0112] In embodiments, the support 401 has the same physico-chemical and material characteristics described previously for the supports 102, 202 and 301 shown respectively in [Fig.1], 3 and 4.

[0113] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.5], the plant support 401 is composed of a continuous succession of plates joined together to form a linear support along the axis D. It is noted in [Fig.5] that the means of movement 404 of the support 401 corresponds to a belt driven by a drive roller, configured to be rotated and supported by a frame.

[0114] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 5], the enclosure 403 is formed by a lower box 408 and an upper box 409. The lower box 408 and the upper box 409 are configured to achieve airtightness of the enclosure 403 when a reduced pressure is applied within the enclosure 403. Preferably, a gasket is present between the boxes, 408 and 409, configured to improve the adhesion between the two boxes, 408 and 409, and thus the airtightness of the enclosure 403.

[0115] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.5], the lower box 408 is moved by a second means of movement 410 and the upper box 409 is moved by a third means of movement 411. For example, these two means of movement are drive rollers supported by a frame and configured to be rotated.

[0116] In some embodiments, the transmitting antenna 405 has the same characteristics as the antennas 106, 206 and 304 previously described.

[0117] In embodiments, as represented in [Fig.5], the device further comprises a means for cleaning 412 of the support 401 and the lower boxes 408.

[0118] In particular, Figure 6, which is not to scale, shows an enlarged view 413 of a portion of the device 400 illustrated in Figure 5. Figure 6 shows that the enclosure 403 is formed by the two boxes 408 and 409. Figure 6 also shows hinges 414 between the lower boxes 408 for connecting these boxes together. The connection of the lower boxes 408 to each other allows them to be moved by the drive means 410. Figure 6 also shows hinges 414 between the upper boxes 409 configured to connect these boxes together. The connection of the boxes 409 allows them to be moved by the drive means 411.

[0119] In particular, we observe, in [Fig. 7], which is not to scale, an enlarged view 416 of part of the device 400 illustrated in [Fig. 6]. In [Fig. 7], the plants 402 are positioned on the support 401 and subjected to microwaves 417 in the enclosure 403. It is observed that the enclosure 403 is formed by the lower box 408 and the upper box 409.

[0120] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 7], the first separation means 406 is a filter and is incorporated into the entire support 401. The characteristics of the filter 406 are identical to those previously stated for the filters 108 and 305. Preferably, the first separation means 406 is a sieve filter. [Fig. 7] shows that the non-aerosolized fluid 418, extracted from the plants 402 and corresponding to droplets, flows by gravity through the filter 406.

[0121] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig. 7], the second separation means 407 is an aspiration of the aerosolized fluid 419 extracted from the plants 402 and released into the enclosure 403. Communication between the enclosure 403 and the second separation means 407 is achieved by a solenoid valve 415. The solenoid valve 415 is fixed to the upper enclosure 409, as seen in [Fig. 6], and is configured to be open during the extraction of the plants 402 subjected to microwaves.

[0122] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 7], the enclosure 403 further comprises a tank 420 configured to collect the non-aerosolized fluid 418 by gravity. Figure 7 shows that the tank 420 has an upper portion 421 configured to filter the non-aerosolized liquid. Preferably, the upper portion 421 of the tank 420 is a filter or a grid.

[0123] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 7], the container 420 and its upper part 421 are at least partially made of microwave-reflective material. Preferably, the container 420 and its upper part 421 are entirely made of microwave-reflective material. For example, the reflective material comprises metals or alloys, such as brass or stainless steel, for example, stainless steel of the type "316L". The microwave-reflective material prevents the temperature of the non-aerosolized liquid 418, which falls by gravity into the container 420, from rising.

[0124] In embodiments, such as those shown in [Fig.7], the device 400 further comprises at least one temperature sensor 422 associated with at least one microwave emitting antenna 405 417. The characteristics of the temperature sensor 422 described for the device 400 are identical to the characteristics stated previously for the sensor 315 of the device 300.

[0125] A schematic embodiment of the process 500 of the invention is shown in [Fig. 8]. This process 500 for extracting plant fluid from plants comprises: - a step 501 of introducing plants into at least one enclosure, - a 502 microwave emission stage in each enclosure and - a separation step 503 of the fluid and the plants from which this fluid was extracted.

[0126] In embodiments, the microwave emission step 503 in the enclosure and the fluid separation step 504 are simultaneous.

[0127] In embodiments such as those shown in [Fig. 8], the process 500 further comprises a step of creating a negative pressure 504 in at least one enclosure downstream of the step of introducing the plants into the enclosure 501 and upstream of the microwave emission step 502. This negative pressure 504 can be achieved, for example, by the separation means 208, 306 or 407, comprising suction means 209 or 311, described previously.

[0128] Preferably, the means of devices 100, 200, 300 and / or 400 are configured to implement the steps of process 500 and their embodiments as set out above and process 500 and its various embodiments can be implemented by means of device 100, 200, 300 and / or 400.

Claims

Claims

1. Device (100, 300) for extracting plant fluid (101) from plants (103), which comprises: - a support (102, 301) for these plants, - at least one enclosure (104, 302), - at least one transmitting antenna (106, 304) for microwaves (107) oriented to transmit the microwaves into each enclosure and configured to heat at least one fluid contained in the plants, and - a means (108, 305, 306) for separating the fluid and the plants from which this fluid has been extracted; characterized in that the support (102, 301) is a mat for moving the plants in the enclosure (104, 302), the device further comprising at least one mat (109, 309) impermeable to the extracted fluid (101) arranged under the mat for moving the plants and configured to recover by gravity the fluid separated from the plants, and a means (314) for moving this impermeable mat.

2. Device (100, 300) according to claim 1, in which the separation means is integrated into the support and comprises at least one filter (108, 305) retaining the plants from which the fluid has been extracted and allowing this filtered fluid (101) to pass.

3. Device (100, 300) according to one of claims 1 or 2, which comprises one or more impermeable mats attached to each other, located under the plant movement mat 102 and moving in a direction orthogonal to the direction of movement of the movement mat 102 and in a plane parallel to the movement mat 102.

4. Device (100, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which an impermeable mat (109) comprises compartments for separating fluids extracted by gravity.

5. Device (100, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 4, in which a drive motor of the waterproof mat (109, 309) is configured to move the waterproof mat at a speed greater than the speed of movement of the plant support (102, 301).

6. Device (100, 300) according to claim 2 or one of claims 3 to 5 when dependent on claim 2, in which the separating means (108, 305, 306) comprises,

7.

8.

9.

10. plus one or more intermediate mats comprising filters and arranged between the support (102) and the waterproof mat (109). The device (100, 300) of claim 6, wherein each filter of each mat has a pore size that decreases from mat to mat and between each successive filtration. Device (100, 300) according to claim 2 or one of claims 3 to 7 when they depend on claim 2, which comprises a second separation means (208, 306, 407) comprising a suction means (209, 311) of at least one aerosolized fluid released (201, 419) by the plants in a said enclosure. Device (200, 300, 400) according to claim 8, wherein at least one enclosure (204, 302, 403) is airtight. Device (100, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 9, in which the waterproof mat (109, 309) has a V-shaped or U-shaped profiled section, this section of the waterproof mat being perpendicular to the axis of movement of the waterproof mat.

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