Method for producing folded-edge pie crusts in a dough processing machine for producing folded-edge pie crusts and such a processing machine
The dough processing machine automates the production of folded-edge pie crusts, addressing the inefficiencies and health issues of manual methods by using a control device and processing modules to press, transfer, and fold dough pieces, enhancing productivity and quality.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- FR2023014845
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-12-21
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-21
- Estimated Expiration
- 2043-12-21
AI Technical Summary
Manual production of pie crusts with folded edges is labor-intensive, requires significant muscular effort, and results in health issues for operators, while also being inefficient in terms of productivity.
A dough processing machine with a control device and processing modules, including a press, folding station, and transfer means, automates the production of pie crusts with folded edges by pressing, transferring, and folding dough pieces on a rotating platform to create overlapping folds.
The machine improves productivity and reduces operator strain by automating the process of creating folded-edge pie crusts, ensuring consistent quality and reducing health risks associated with manual labor.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Method for producing folded-edge pie crusts in a dough processing machine for producing folded-edge pie crusts and such a processing machine
[0001] The present invention relates to the food industry and more particularly to the field of machines for processing dough before baking. It relates to a method for producing pie crusts with folded edges in a dough processing machine for making pie crusts with folded edges. It also relates to such a processing machine.
[0002] Industrially produced pie bases with folded edges are already known to exist, as manufactured by the present applicant. Such pie bases are then filled to form pies with folded edges and then generally frozen for sale.
[0003] The folded edge, in addition to its original aesthetic effect, makes it possible to even out a pie base edge that is not perfectly circular (or round) and to create mechanical resistance in the pie base avoiding a pre-cooking operation.
[0004] These folded-edge tart bases are currently made manually by operators on production lines. They are made from dough balls, that is, shaped pieces of dough, particularly into balls, which the operator manually places in a press. The operator controls the press and then transfers the tart base, obtained by hot pressing in the press, onto a horizontal rotating platform. The operator then folds the edge of the tart base by hand around its entire circumference, making a series of overlapping folds that give the folded edge a braided appearance.
[0005] These manual operations require a long learning period to achieve satisfactory productivity and are demanding for the operators because they require muscular efforts which can be accompanied by joint pain impacting their health and exposing them to factors of hardship which can leave lasting traces.
[0006] The present invention aims to overcome these drawbacks, while allowing an improvement in productivity, by proposing a method for making pie bases with folded edges in a dough processing machine for making pie bases with folded edges and such a processing machine.
[0007] The method, according to the present invention, for producing folded-edge pie crusts in a dough processing machine for producing folded-edge pie crusts, the processing machine comprising a control device and at least one processing module, the processing module comprising at least one press, to at least one folding station comprising a horizontal rotating platform and at least one mobile folder in a folding zone fixed relative to the rotating platform and first, second and third transfer means, is characterized in that it consists of carrying out the following steps commanded by the control device following the transfer, using the first transfer means, of each dough piece into the press:
[0008] - to control the press to form a pie base with a circular edge by pressing the dough ball in the press,
[0009] - to control the transfer of the pie base from the press onto the rotating plate at with the aid of the second transfer means, then coordinate the folding mechanism and the rotation of the rotating plate to obtain, by successive foldings of the section of the edge of the pie base located in the folding zone and protruding from the rotating plate, over all or part of the circumference of the edge of the pie base, a succession of overlapping folds,
[0010] - to order the evacuation, using third means of transfer, of the bottom of The folded-edge pie thus obtained.
[0011] The dough processing machine according to the present invention, for making pie crusts with folded edges, is characterized in that it comprises a control device and at least one processing module, the processing module comprising:
[0012] - at least one press enabling the production, by pressing, preferably hot, of Each piece of dough transferred to the press, circular-edged pie crusts,
[0013] - at least one bending station comprising a horizontal rotating plate of the shape circular and at least one mobile folder in a folding zone fixed relative to the rotating plate, the control device being suitable and intended, after the transfer of a pie base onto the rotating plate, to control in a coordinated manner the folder and the rotating plate to obtain, by successive foldings of the section of the edge of the pie base located in the folding zone extending beyond the rotating plate, over all or part of the circumference of the edge of the pie base, a succession of overlapping folds,
[0014] - of the first means of transfer allowing the press to be fed with dough, of the second means of transfer allowing to feed the folding station with pie base being suitable and intended to transfer each pie base formed by the press to the rotating plate and with centering on the latter, third means of transfer allowing to evacuate each pie base with folded edge thus obtained, the control device being suitable and intended to control the first, second and third means of transfer.
[0015] The invention will be better understood from the following description, which relates to a preferred embodiment, given by way of non-limiting example, and explained with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which:
[0016] [Fig-1] is a schematic perspective view of a processing module of a processing machine according to the present invention, in a preferred embodiment of the processing module with two folding stations located on either side of the press,
[0017] [Fig.2] is a schematic perspective view of one of the two bending stations represented in [Fig. 1],
[0018] [Fig.3] shows the folding station of [Fig.2] with a pie base transferred into the folding station and resting on the rotating plate with the retaining finger in the retaining position,
[0019] [Fig.4] shows the folding station of [Fig.3] with the marker in the position of marking,
[0020] [Fig.5] is a partial view of the bending station of [Fig.4] in another orientation and without the pie crust
[0021] [Fig.6] is a perspective view of the bending station of [Fig.1] with the bender in final folding position
[0022] [Fig.7] is a perspective view of the suction cup gripper of the third means transfer,
[0023] [Fig.8] is a schematic representation of the pie base in top view according to the three following situations:
[0024] [Fig. 8a] the edge of the pie base has no folds,
[0025] [Fig. 8b] the edge of the pie base is folded over part of its circumference,
[0026] [Fig. 8c] the edge of the pie base is folded over its entire circumference,
[0027] [Fig.9] is a schematic perspective view of a processing machine according to the present invention comprising a plurality of processing modules.
[0028] Figures 1 to 7 and 9 show a processing machine, according to the present invention, for dough pieces for making pie bases F with folded edge.
[0029] Such a machine can be installed in a processing line, not shown, comprising at least one dough-making station and at least one filling station for folded-edge tart shells. In such a processing line, the processing machine is then positioned between the dough-making station and the filling station.
[0030] In accordance with the present invention, the processing machine comprises a control device and at least one processing module, the processing module(s) comprising:
[0031] - at least one press 1 for producing, by pressing, preferably hot, From each dough piece transferred to press 1, circular-edged tart bases F,
[0032] - at least one bending station P comprising a horizontal rotating plate 2 of the shape circular and at least one mobile folder 3 in a folding zone fixed relative to the rotating plate 1, that is to say, relatively with respect to the rotational movement of rotating plate 2. It is understood that rotating plate 2 is in motion (rotation) relative to the folding area which is defined by the movement area of the folder 3, in particular between a waiting position and a final folding position which will be detailed later.
[0033] In accordance with the present invention, the control device is adapted and intended, after the transfer of a pie base F onto the rotating plate 2, to coordinately control the folder 3 and the rotation of the rotating plate 1 to obtain, by successive folding of the section of the edge of the pie base F located in the folding zone and extending beyond the rotating plate 2, over all or part of the circumference of the edge of the pie base, a succession of overlapping folds Fl. Overlap is understood to mean a section of the edge of the pie base partially overlapping a previous fold. Such a succession of overlapping folds in the edge of the pie base F gives said folded edge a braided or twisted appearance. It is understood that the rotating plate 2 has a diameter smaller than that of the pie bases F.
[0034] It is also understood that the edge of the pie base F is the peripheral edge (or the contour or the perimeter) of the pie base F. The section of the edge of the pie base F is understood to be a section corresponding to a section of the edge of the pie base F substantially between two radii of the circular pie base F, and whose angle between the two radii is less than 45 degrees, preferably an angle between 15 and 25 degrees.
[0035] Each fold Fl can thus be made using the folder 3 by folding substantially towards the center of the pie base F the section of the edge of the pie base F that is in the folding area and protrudes from the rotating plate 1, i.e. from its peripheral edge.
[0036] In accordance with the present invention, in order to supply the press 1 with dough and the folding station P with pie crust F, the processing module further comprises:
[0037] - of the first transfer means 4 for feeding the press 1 with dough,
[0038] - of the second transfer means 5 for supplying the folding station with pie base F, being suitable and designed to transfer each pie base F formed by the press 1 onto the rotating plate 1 and centered on the latter,
[0039] - third transfer means 6 allowing each pie base F to be evacuated to folded edge thus obtained (in the folding station).
[0040] The control device is also suitable and intended to control the first, second and third transfer means 4, 5, 6.
[0041] As can be seen in [Fig. 9], the processing machine according to the present invention may comprise one or more processing modules M, for example five processing modules M as can be seen in [Fig.9]. In the case of a plurality of processing modules M, the processing modules M can preferably be aligned ([Fig.9]).
[0042] The control device may include at least one control unit (or in other words, for example: a control unit, a controller, a management unit, or a control unit) per processing module M. In the case of a single processing module, the control device may then include a single control unit. In the case of multiple processing modules, each processing module may include its own control unit. Such a control unit may include a program executed by a processor (or microcontroller or computer) of the control unit to implement in the processing module M the operating steps, in particular the rhythm and cadence of the operations, and in particular the coordinated control of the folder 3 and the rotation of the rotary table 1 and the control of the first, second, and third transfer means. In the case where the processing machine includes several processing modules ([Fig.9]), the control device may include a central control unit connected to the control units specific to each processing module M.
[0043] In a preferred embodiment of such a processing module M, the rotating plate 2 is suitable and intended to be rotated step by step so as to be able to modify, at each step controlled by a control signal, the angular position of the rotating plate 2. In addition, the control unit can then be suitable and intended to control in a coordinated manner the folder 3a and the step-by-step rotation of the rotating plate 2 according to a predetermined number of steps so as to perform each fold Fl in a predetermined angular position of the rotating plate 2 and to modify during the next step the angular position of the pie base F resting on the rotating plate 1 to perform the next fold Fl.
[0044] The rotating plate 2 can thus be rotated step by step so as to be moved by a predetermined degree of rotation at each step. It is understood that the rotation of the rotating plate 2 causes the pie base F, which rests on the rotating plate 2 and is fixed to it, to rotate as well. For example, to create 18 folds Fl, the rotating plate 2 can rotate by 20° (or approximately 20°) at each step.
[0045] It is understood that at each step, a different section of the edge of the pie base F is in the folding area.
[0046] Preferably, the folder 3 is mounted to pivot about a horizontal axis. Preferably, the folder 3 may include a plate, preferably of generally rectangular shape. Preferably, as can be seen in [Fig. 6], the folder 3 may include a beveled corner 3a allowing a section of the edge of the pie base F to be folded, giving more volume to the fold so as not to obtain a flat or flattened fold (see in particular [Fig.6]).
[0047] Preferably, the movable folder 3 is adapted and intended to be moved, preferably by pivoting about a horizontal axis, from a waiting position located next to the rotating plate 2 and substantially aligned with the edge of the rotating plate 2 (Figures 2 and 5) to a final folding position located above the rotating plate 2 ([Fig. 6]). The movement between the waiting position and the final folding position ensures that the corresponding section of the edge of the pie base F is folded to form a crease Fl. Such a waiting position allows the folder 3 to extend under the section of the edge of the pie base F located in the folding zone, protruding from the rotating plate 2, so that it can grasp said section and fold it during its movement towards the final folding position, in particular by folding it towards the center of the rotating plate 2.
[0048] Preferably the folder 3 can be mobile in a vertical plane, called the folding plane, offset from the center of the rotating plate 2. By "off-center" means that the folding plane does not pass through the center of the rotating plate 2. This offset allows the folder 3 to fold a larger quantity of dough and to obtain a wider fold Fl.
[0049] To actuate the folder 3 under the control of the control device, the processing module M may include an actuator 10, which may consist, for example, of a cylinder or an electric motor, controlled by the control device. The folder 3 may be mounted on a support 11 driven in rotation about a horizontal axis XI so as to be able to move the folder 3 by pivoting between its standby position and its final folding position. The axis XI thus forms a pivot axis of the folder 3.
[0050] In a preferred embodiment, as can be seen in particular in Figures 2 to 7, the bending station P may further include a movable marker 7, preferably metallic, associated with the bender 3. "Associated" means that the marker 7 and the bender 3 form a marking / bending unit enabling the optimized execution of a bend fl. The marker 7 may have a horizontal support edge 7a, preferably straight, and may be movable between a standby position (Figures 1 to 3, 6) and a marking position in the bending zone (Figures 4 and 5). The support edge 7a is preferably rounded. In the marking position, the marker 7 may be suitable and intended to exert, by its bearing edge 7a, a pressure in the pie base F set back from the section of the edge of the pie base F located in the folding area so as to create a mark in the dough (material of the pie base F) forming in the latter a point of inflection.The inflection point should be understood as forming a zone of weakness in the dough, the zone being able to... to be presented in the form of a line. The control device can then be and is intended for the execution of each fold Fl:
[0051] - to command the marker 7 to move it from the waiting position to the marking position, then to command the return of marker 7 to its waiting position,
[0052] - then to control the folder 3 to fold the corresponding section of the bottom edge of pie F around the inflection point.
[0053] Preferably, the rotating plate 2 may include on its upper face an annular rim 2a recessed from its peripheral edge (or contour) so as to create an annular groove 20a (or a shoulder) facing outwards from the rotating plate 2, and the bearing edge 7a of the marker 7 is adapted and intended to come into the marking position in the annular groove 20a. The position of the bearing edge 7a in the annular groove makes it possible to exert pressure in the paste to form the aforementioned inflection point (Figures 4, 5).
[0054] To actuate the marker 7 under the control of the control device, the processing module M may include an actuator 12 controlled by the control device, which may consist, for example, of a cylinder or an electric motor. The marker 7 may be mounted on a support 13 driven in rotation by the actuator 12 around a horizontal axis X2. The axis X2 thus forms a pivot axis for the marker 7.
[0055] Preferably, the marker 7 may have an L-shape, one end of which forms the support edge 7a.
[0056] Thanks to such a folding assembly, the present invention can provide, in a preferred form for finalizing the folding of the last fold Fl, that the folder 3 is suitable and intended to be located, in its final folding position, on the path of the marker 7, and that the folder 3 includes a support element 3a. The marker 7 can then be suitable and intended, during its movement towards the marking position and when the folder 3 is in its final folding position, to come into contact with pressure on the support element 3a of the folder 3a. Preferably, the marker 7 can include a contact element 7b suitable and intended to come into contact with the support element 3a of the folder 3 (see in particular Figures 2 to 6). The contact with pressure (or the pressure) on the folder 3 makes it possible to finalize the last fold Fl, in particular to close the edge thus folded.
[0057] Preferably, the folding station P, as can be seen in particular in figures 2 to 6, may include a movable retaining finger 8 between a waiting position (figures 2, 6) and a retaining position above the rotating plate 2 (figures 3 to 5) so as to allow, at the beginning of the folding, during the execution of a predetermined number of folds Fl, the pie base F to be held under the retaining finger 8. This holding makes it possible to obtain sufficient resistance of dough for the rest of the folding.
[0058] To actuate the retaining finger 8 under the control of the control device, the processing module M may include an actuator 14, which, for example, is a cylinder or an electric motor, controlled by the control device. The retaining finger 8 may be mounted on a support 15 driven in rotation by means of the actuator 14 around a vertical axis X3. The axis X3 thus forms a pivot axis of the retaining finger 8.
[0059] The folding station P may further include a movable holding pad 16 between a waiting position and a holding position above the rotating plate 2. The holding pad 16 allows the pie base F to be held in the holding position, preventing an excessively large section of the edge of the pie base F from being lifted by the folder 3 from a certain length of the folded edge, in particular from approximately two-thirds of the circumference of the pie base F ([Fig. 8b]), because from this length (circumference) the dough is no longer heavy enough so that an excessively large section (compared to the previous sections) would be folded by the folder 3. The pad 16 may be fixed on a support 16a driven in rotation around a horizontal axis X4 by means of an actuator 16b, for example of the cylinder type, controlled by the control device. The axis X4 thus forms a pivot axis of the shoe 16.
[0060] Preferably, the respective pivot axes XI, X2 and / or X4 of the plier 3, marker 7 and / or skate 16 are parallel to each other.
[0061] Referring in particular to Figures 1 to 6, it can be seen that the second transfer means 5 can be configured to be able to transfer each pie base F from the press 1 to the rotating plate 2 by grasping it and moving it by sliding on a continuous or quasi-continuous horizontal transfer surface 17 extending at the same level as the rotating plate 2 (in particular its upper face) and at least between the press 1 (the surface supporting the pie base F) and the rotating plate 2. These second transfer means 5 can include a carriage moving in translation between the press 1 and the rotating plate 2 and being able to be equipped with suction cups or other gripping means allowing the pie base F to be grasped in order to move it by sliding on the horizontal transfer surface 17.
[0062] It can also be seen in Figures 1 to 6 that the folding station 7 may include a horizontal retaining and / or sliding plate 18, preferably metallic, for example a sheet metal plate, in which a through opening 19 is formed to receive the rotating plate 2 and a cutout 20 opening into the through opening 19, creating a passage space allowing the section of the edge of the pie base F located in the folding zone to rest on the folder 3 in the waiting position and the folder 3 to pass through during its movement to the final folding position. The horizontal plate 18 makes it possible to create a horizontal surface around the rotating plate, with the exception of the opening created by the cutout 20, to retain the edge of the pie base F. Preferably, the horizontal plate 18 can extend to the press 1 so as to form by its upper face the horizontal surface 17 of transfer by sliding.
[0063] Preferably, as can be seen in Figures 2 and 5, the folder 3 is configured to be able to extend into a horizontal position in the standby position.
[0064] Referring to Figures 1, 2, 5, and 6, it can be seen that the present invention may preferably provide that the rotating plate 2 may have suction holes 2b for holding the pie base F on the rotating plate 2, particularly during its rotation. The suction or vacuum (or depression) created by each suction hole 2b may be achieved using a vacuum pump, for example, a piston vacuum pump or a centrifugal pump, or using a vacuum generator such as ejectors operating on the Venturi principle, which are particularly well-suited for automating such a processing machine.
[0065] Referring now to [Fig. 1] and [Fig. 7], it can be seen that the third transfer means 6 may preferably include a suction gripper 6a. The suction gripper 6a may have a suction face 60a, preferably circular and flat, provided with suction and / or blowing holes 61a for gripping the pie base F, preferably set back from the folded edge. The diameter of the suction face 6a is preferably determined so as to grip the pie base by suction set back from the folded edge so as not to deform or damage the latter. The suction face 6a thus has a shape and dimensions that allow it to be positioned in the inner part of the pie base F with the folded edge.In operation, the suction gripper is lowered, for example by means of an articulated arm 9, towards the folded-edge pie base F resting on the rotating platform 2. It grips the pie base F by means of a suction / vacuum effect and is then moved with the pie base F outside the module M for removal. Removal can consist of transferring the pie base F to a discharge conveyor (not shown) and releasing it onto it, thus interrupting the vacuum. A blowing effect through the suction / blowing holes 60a assists in ejecting the pie base F, which may otherwise remain stuck to the suction cup.Furthermore, to optimize release / ejection and preserve the shape and folded edge of the pie crust, which can be affected by ejection, the suction gripper also includes a movable ejection grid 62a extending in front of the suction / blowing face 60a or during operation when gripping a pie crust F between the pie crust F and the suction / blowing face 60a. Preferably, the ejection grid 62a can be movable in translation perpendicular to the suction / blowing face 60a. Preferably, the ejection grid 62a can be made of a material, such as Teflon, that prevents the dough (of the pie crust F) from adhering to the ejection grid 62a. The movement of the ejection grid 62a thus allows the pie crust F to be pushed and prevents the dough from sticking to the face. Suction / blowing 60a. Finally, the present invention advantageously provides that a flexible annular seal 63a surrounds the edge of the suction / blowing face 60a. In the gripping position of the suction gripper, the annular seal 63a extends against the inner face of the folded edge of the pie plate base F, thus maintaining the folded edge during gripping of the pie plate base F, as it may fall and / or deform due to gravity during the movement of the suction gripper. The suction or vacuum (or depression) created by each suction hole 61a can be achieved using a vacuum pump, for example, a piston vacuum pump or a centrifugal pump, or using a vacuum generator such as ejectors operating on the Venturi principle, which are particularly well-suited for automating such a processing machine.
[0066] The third transfer means 6 may further comprise a mobile trolley 6b, preferably moving in translation, above the rotating platform 2 and between the folding station P and a discharge and ejection point for the pie base F, for example, located above a discharge conveyor next to the processing module M, to transport the pie base F with folded edge to a filling station of a processing line. A guide rail 6c enables the translational movement of the trolley 6b mounted on the latter.
[0067] Preferably, the processing machine may include at least one human-machine interface, referred to as an HMI, comprising a display screen for controlling and / or programming the various parameters (number of folds, folding speed, platen pitch, etc.). More specifically, the processing module(s) M may have its own HMI for controlling and / or programming the various parameters (number of folds, folding speed, platen pitch, etc.) specific to the operation of the processing module M.
[0068] The present invention also relates to a method for producing folded-edge tart shells (F) in a dough processing machine. The processing machine may be a processing machine according to the present invention, which then allows the method to be implemented.
[0069] According to the present invention, the process consists of carrying out the following steps controlled by the control unit following the transfer, using the first transfer means 4, of each dough piece into the press 1:
[0070] - to control the press 1 to form a pie base F with a circular edge by pressing the dough in press 1,
[0071] - to control the transfer of the pie base F from the press 1 onto the rotating plate 1 to using the second transfer means 5, then coordinately control the folder 3 and the rotation of the rotating plate 1 to obtain, by successive folds (using the folder 3) of the section of the edge of the pie base F located in the folding zone and extending beyond the rotating plate 2, over all or part of the circumference of the edge of the pie base, a succession of overlapping folds Fl,
[0072] - to order the evacuation, using the third transfer means 6, of the bottom of F-shaped tart with braided edge thus obtained.
[0073] Such a succession of folds made in the edge of the base of the pie F, overlapping each other, gives said edge a braided or twisted appearance.
[0074] When the rotating plate 2 is suitable and intended to be rotated step by step and stopped at each step so as to be able to modify, at each step controlled by a control signal, the angular orientation of the rotating plate 2, the method may consist of coordinating the folder 3a and the step-by-step rotation of the rotating plate 2 according to a predetermined number of steps so as to make each fold Fl in a predetermined angular position of the rotating plate 2 and to modify at the next step the angular position of the pie base F resting on the rotating plate 1 to make the next fold Fl.
[0075] Preferably, each fold Fl is made using the folder 3 by folding substantially towards the center of the pie base F the section of the edge of the pie base F located in the folding area protruding from the rotating plate 1.
[0076] Preferably, the method consists of controlling the folder 3 to move, preferably by pivoting about a horizontal axis, from a waiting position located next to the rotating plate 2 such that the folder 3 extends under the section of the edge of the pie base F located in the folding zone, extending beyond the rotating plate 2, to a final folding position located above the rotating plate 2. The movement between the waiting position and the final folding position ensures that the corresponding section of the edge of the pie base F is folded to form a crease FL
[0077] Preferably, the folder 3 is mobile in pivoting around a horizontal axis.
[0078] When the folding station P includes a movable marker 7 associated with the folder 3, the method may consist of performing the following sequence for each fold:
[0079] - to control the marker 7 to move it into the folding area in a marking position above the rotating plate 2 so as to exert, in the marking position, by its support edge 7a, pressure in the pie base F (slightly) recessed from the section of the edge of the pie base F located in the folding area to create a mark in the dough forming an inflection point, then to command the return of the marker 7 to its waiting position,
[0080] - then to control the folder 3 to fold said section of the edge of the pie base F around the inflection point.
[0081] During the execution of the last fold Fl, the process may consist of commanding the marker 7 again to move it towards the folder 3 in the folding position of so that the marker 7 comes into contact with pressure on the foldr 3 to finalize the last fold Fl, in particular to close the edge thus folded.
[0082] Preferably, the process consists of hot-pressing the dough to form the base of the pie.
[0083] Preferably, the method can consist of moving the folder 3 in a vertical plane, called the folding plane, offset from the center of the rotating plate 2. By "off-center" means that the folding plane does not pass through the center of the rotating plate or, in other words, is parallel to a radius of the rotating plate 2.
[0084] Preferably, when the folding station P includes a movable retaining finger 8 between a waiting position and a retaining position above the rotating plate 2, the method can consist, at the beginning of the folding, during the execution of a predetermined number of folds Fl, of commanding the retaining finger 8 into the retaining position to hold the pie base F under the retaining finger 8. As seen previously, this holding makes it possible to obtain sufficient resistance of dough for the rest of the folding.
[0085] Preferably, when the processing module M includes two folding stations P arranged on either side of the press 1, the method can consist of alternately controlling the pie base F feed to the two folding stations P using the second transfer means 4.
[0086] Preferably, the method can consist of transferring each pie base F from the press 1 to the rotating plate 2 by sliding the pie base F, using the second transfer means 5, on a continuous or quasi-continuous horizontal surface 17 extending at the same level as the rotating plate 2 and at least between the press 1 and the rotating plate 2. An example of a particular shape of the second transfer means 5 and of the horizontal surface 17 allowing this transfer by sliding are described previously.
[0087] The present invention also relates to a processing line, not illustrated in the accompanying figures, comprising:
[0088] - at least one dough-making station,
[0089] - at least one pie base filling station F,
[0090] - and a processing machine, enabling the production of pie bases from dough pieces, located downstream of the dough piece manufacturing station and upstream of the filling station.
[0091] According to the present invention, in such a processing line, the processing machine consists of a processing machine, according to the present invention, for dough pieces for the production of pie bases F with folded edge.
[0092] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described and shown in the accompanying drawings. Modifications remain possible, particularly from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without going outside the scope of protection of the invention.
Claims
1.
2. Demands Method for producing pie bases (F) with folded edges in a dough processing machine for producing pie bases (F) with folded edges, the processing machine comprising a control device and at least one processing module (M), the processing module (M) comprising at least one press (1), at least one folding station (P) having a horizontal rotating plate (2) and at least one folder (3) movable in a folding zone fixed relative to the rotating plate (2) and first, second and third transfer means (4, 5, 6), characterized in that it consists of carrying out the following steps controlled by the control device following the transfer, using the first transfer means (4), of each dough piece in the press (1): - to operate the press (1) to form a pie base (F) with a circular edge by pressing the dough into the press (1), - to control the transfer of the pie base (F) from the press (1) onto the rotating plate (1) using the second transfer means (5), then to coordinately control the folder (3) and the rotation of the rotating plate (1) to obtain, by successive foldings of the section of the edge of the pie base (F) located in the folding zone and protruding from the rotating plate (2), over all or part of the circumference of the edge of the pie base, a succession of overlapping folds (Fl), - order the evacuation, using the third means of transfer (6), of the pie base (F) with folded edge thus obtained. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the rotating plate (2) is suitable and intended to be rotated step by step and stopped at each step so as to be able to modify, at each step controlled by a control signal, the angular orientation of the rotating plate (2) and in that it consists of controlling in a coordinated manner the folder (3a) and the step-by-step rotation of the rotating plate (2) according to a predetermined number of steps so as to carry out each fold (Fl) in a predetermined angular position of the rotating plate (2) and to modify during the next step the angular position of the pie base (F) resting on the rotating plate (1) to carry out the next fold (Fl).
3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each fold (Fl) is made using the folder (3) by folding substantially towards the center of the pie base (F) the section of the edge of the pie base (F) located in the folding area protruding from the rotating plate (1).
4. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it consists of controlling the folder (3) to move it, preferably by pivoting about a horizontal axis, from a waiting position located next to the rotating plate (2) so that the folder (3) extends under the section of the edge of the pie base (F) located in the folding zone by protruding from the rotating plate (2) to a final folding position located above the rotating plate (2), the movement between the waiting position and the final folding position ensuring the folding of the corresponding section of the edge of the pie base (F) to form a fold (Fl).
5. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the folding station (P) comprises a movable marker (7) associated with the folder (3) and in that it consists of carrying out the following sequence for the realization of each fold: - to command the marker (7) to move it in the folding zone in a marking position above the rotating plate (2) so as to exert, in the marking position, by its bearing edge (7a), a pressure in the pie base (F) in retreat from the section of the edge of the pie base (F) located in the folding zone to create a mark in the dough forming an inflection point, then to command the return of the marker (7) to its waiting position, - then to command the folder (3) to fold said section of the edge of the pie base (F) around the inflection point.
6. Method, according to claim 5, characterized in that it consists, during the making of the last fold (Fl), of commanding the marker (7) again to move it towards the folder (3) in final folding position so that the marker (7) comes into contact with pressure on the folder (3) to finalize the last fold (Fl).
7. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the folding station (P) comprises a retaining finger (8) movable between a waiting position and a retaining position above the rotating plate (2) and in that it consists, at the beginning of the folding, during the execution of a predetermined number of folds (Fl), to control the retaining finger (8) in the retaining position to hold the pie base (F) under the retaining finger (8).
8. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it consists of transferring each pie base (F) from the press (1) to the rotating plate (2) by sliding the pie base (F), using the second transfer means (5), on a continuous or quasi-continuous horizontal transfer surface (17) extending at the same level as the rotating plate (2) and at least between the press (1) and the rotating plate (2).
9. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it consists of hot-pressing the dough to form the base of the pie (F).
10. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the processing module (M) comprises two folding stations (P) arranged on either side of the press (1) and in that it consists of alternately controlling the pie base feed (F) of the two folding stations (P) using the second transfer means (4).
11. Dough processing machine for producing pie bases (F) with folded edges, characterized in that it comprises a control device and at least one processing module (M), the processing module (M) comprising: - at least one press (1) for producing, by pressing, preferably hot, each dough piece transferred into the press (1), pie bases (F) with circular edges, - at least one folding station (P) comprising a horizontal rotating plate (2) of circular shape and at least one folder (3) movable in a folding zone fixed relative to the rotating plate (1), the control device being capable and intended to control in a coordinated manner the folder (3) and the rotating plate (1), after the transfer of a pie base (F) onto the rotating plate (2), to obtain, by successive foldings of the section of the edge of the pie base (F) located in the folding zone extending beyond the rotating plate (2),over all or part of the circumference of the edge of the pie base, a succession of overlapping folds (Fl), - first transfer means (4) for supplying the press (1) with dough, second transfer means (5) for supplying the folding station (P) with pie base (F) being suitable and intended to transfer each pie base (F) formed by the press (1) onto the rotating plate (1) and centered on the latter, third transfer means (6) for evacuating each pie base (F) with folded edge thus obtained, the control device being suitable and intended to control said first, second and third transfer means (4, 5, 6).
12. Processing machine according to claim 11, characterized in that the rotating plate (2) is suitable and intended to be rotated step by step so as to be able to modify, at each step controlled by a control signal, the angular position of the rotating plate (2) and in that the control device is suitable and intended to control in a coordinated manner the folder (3a) and the step-by-step rotation of the rotating plate (2) according to a predetermined number of steps so as to carry out each fold (Fl) in a predetermined angular position of the rotating plate (2) and to modify during the next step the angular position of the pie base (F) resting on the rotating plate (1) to carry out the next fold (Fl).
13. Processing machine according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the movable folder (3) is suitable and intended to be moved, preferably by pivoting around a horizontal axis, from a waiting position located next to the rotating plate (2) being substantially aligned with the edge of the rotating plate (2) to a final folding position located above the rotating plate (2), the movement between the waiting position and the final folding position making it possible to ensure the folding of the corresponding section of the edge of the pie base (F) to form a fold (Fl).
14. A processing machine according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the bending station (P) comprises a movable marker (7) associated with the folder (3), said marker (7) having a horizontal support edge (7a) and being movable between a standby position and a marking position in the bending zone, in which marking position the marker (7) is able and intended to exert, by its support edge (7a), pressure in the pie base (F) set back from the section of the edge of the pie base (F) located in the folding area so as to create a mark in the dough forming in the latter a point of inflection and in that the control device is suitable and intended, for the realization of each fold (Fl): - to command the marker (7) to move it from the waiting position to the marking position, then to command the return of the marker (7) to its waiting position, - then to command the folder (3) to fold the corresponding section of the edge of the pie base (F) around the point of inflection.
15. Processing machine according to claim 14, characterized in that the rotating plate (2) includes on its upper face an annular rim (2a) set back from its edge so as to create an annular groove (20a) turned outwards from the rotating plate (2) and in that the bearing edge (7a) of the marker (7) is suitable and intended to come into the marking position in the annular groove (20a).
16. Processing machine according to any one of claims 14 to 15 taken each in combination with claim 13, characterized in that the folder (3) is adapted and intended to be, in the final folding position, on the path of the marker (7) and in that it comprises a support element (3a), the marker (7) then being adapted and intended, during its movement towards the marking position and when the folder (3) is in the folding position, to come into contact with pressure on the support element (3a) of the folder (3a) so as to be able to finalize the last fold (Fl).
17. Processing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the folding station (P) includes a movable retaining finger (8) between a waiting position and a retaining position above the rotating plate (2) so as to allow, at the beginning of the folding, during the making of a predetermined number of folds (Fl), to keep the pie base (F) under the retaining finger (8).
18. Processing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the third transfer means (6) comprise a suction gripper (6a) having a face suction (60a), preferably circular in shape, provided with suction holes (61a) for gripping the base of the pie (F), preferably set back from the folded edge.
19. Processing line, said line comprising: - at least one dough-making station, - at least one pie-base filling station (F), - a processing machine, enabling the production of pie bases from dough pieces, located downstream of the dough piece production station and upstream of the filling station, characterized in that the processing machine consists of a dough processing machine for the production of pie bases (F) with folded edge according to any one of claims 11 to 18.