Machinery for frozen confectionery

Abstract

To provide apparatuses, systems, and methods for eliminating or greatly reducing the cleaning process of frozen confection apparatus or machines.SOLUTION: The comestible mixture is chilled and / or frozen and dispensed from the bag without contacting other parts of the machine by having the comestible mixture contained in a flexible container or bag, thereby helping to prevent the comestible mixture from being contaminated with bacterial, viral, chemical, or physical contaminants.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority from each of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 801,194, filed on February 5, 2019, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 854,601, filed on May 30, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 942,467, filed on December 2, 2019, the entire disclosures of each of which are hereby fully incorporated herein by reference. [Background Art]

[0002]

[0002] This exemplary embodiment relates to an apparatus, system, and method for freezing and dispensing confectionery products such as ice cream, smoothies, sorbet, gelato, yogurt, daiquiris, and margaritas. This exemplary embodiment is particularly applicable in connection with, and will be described with particular reference to, low-cost disposable packages, typically flexible containers, packages, tubes, or bags that contain an edible mixture for two or more servings of such confectionery. However, it should be understood that this exemplary embodiment may also be modified for other similar applications. Generally, machines for freezing and dispensing products are referred to as "frozen confectionery machines" or apparatus, and can be distinguished from "frozen confectionery dispensing machines", which only dispense an initially liquid mixture or substance and do not perform freezing.

[0003]

[0003] Most existing frozen confectionery machines that freeze and dispense products (e.g., soft serve ice cream machines) have similar structures, despite being made by various manufacturers. Typically, these machines have a storage section for a liquid food mixture. The storage section is often called a hopper. A tube carries the food mixture from the hopper into a cylindrical barrel. If the hopper is located above the barrel, gravity can carry the liquid food mixture into the barrel. If the hopper is located below the barrel, a pump is used to carry the food mixture into the barrel. Usually, for soft serve ice cream and similar products, a means of drawing air into the barrel containing the food mixture is also provided. This is not necessary for some products, such as shaved ice. A refrigeration system cools the barrel walls. A rotatable auger assembly is installed inside the barrel. The auger rotates typically at about 200 RPM and performs several functions. The auger disperses the food mixture along the barrel walls, where freezing takes place. The auger rapidly scrapes the frozen food mixture from the barrel walls, thus keeping the ice crystal size small. The auger vigorously mixes the air and food mixture within the barrel. The air mixed with the frozen product is called overrun. The small ice crystal size and overrun give the soft serve ice cream a smooth and soft texture. The auger typically has a spiral shape, pushing the frozen food mixture to the front of the barrel, where dispensing occurs by a user-operated dispensing nozzle. When the product is dispensed, the liquid food mixture from the hopper is passed to the back of the barrel. It is important that the auger and barrel are designed so that the liquid food mixture on the back of the barrel does not mix with the frozen food mixture on the front of the barrel. This prevents the frozen food mixture, ready for dispensing, from becoming undesirably soft.

[0004]

[0004] A common drawback of the existing technology described above is that frozen confectionery machines must be disassembled periodically to clean and disinfect all components that come into contact with edible mixtures. The cleaning process is typically performed daily or every few days, depending on the type of machine and local hygiene standards. The cleaning process is laborious, time-consuming, requires operator skill, is prone to errors, and poses health risks if performed incorrectly. It is desirable to provide an apparatus, system, and / or method relating to frozen confectionery machines that addresses at least the aforementioned problems of the prior art. The present invention addresses the simple task of dispensing already frozen or viscous products from flexible containers in the United States. This invention differs from prior art such as U.S. Patent Application No. 10,017,371. The present invention differs from prior art such as U.S. Patent Application No. 9591865, which deals with freezing and dispensing single-serving portions of frozen confectionery from a flexible container. [Overview of the project]

[0005]

[0005] The apparatus for frozen confectionery formed by the present disclosure comprises a cooling element and a flexible container for containing an edible mixture or substance (hereinafter referred to as the mixture). The flexible container is positioned so that the cooling element cools the edible mixture through the outer surface of the flexible container. In a preferred embodiment, at least one physical element, such as a roller, shoe, pressing member, or ultrasonic component, is positioned to interact with or in contact with at least a portion of the flexible container. Typically, but not in all cases, the physical element brings the inner walls of the flexible container into contact with each other within the area of ​​the physical element, thus forming a temporary seal. This scrapes and crushes ice crystals on or near the inner surface of the flexible container or other near the physical element, thereby allowing the edible mixture to flow and mix with the flexible container. When the edible mixture is not being dispensed, at least one passage is provided to allow a continuous flow of the edible mixture within the flexible container and thus prevent blockage of the flow. According to this disclosure, flexible containers can be made from disposable materials, such as polyethylene and nylon films, but are not limited to these.

[0006]

[0006] According to some embodiments of the frozen confectionery apparatus, the physical elements / rollers contact portions of the flexible container that are less than the total width of the flexible container in order to form flow passages within the flexible container. The contact less than the total width can be influenced by controlling the width of the rollers, the position of the rollers on the flexible container, or the physical shape of the rollers.

[0007]

[0007] According to another embodiment, the flexible container of the frozen confectionery apparatus further includes a dispensing tube, the passage of which allows the edible mixture to flow around the roller when the dispensing tube is closed.

[0008]

[0008] According to additional embodiments of the frozen confectionery apparatus disclosed herein, the physical element is arranged to be in contact with the entire width of the flexible container, and the physical element has features formed to allow the flow of an edible mixture through the features of the physical element. In certain embodiments, the features of the physical element are dispensing shoes that selectively define gaps through which the edible mixture can flow.

[0009]

[0009] According to some embodiments, the physical element / roller is made up of a plurality of rollers spaced apart from each other to allow the flow of an edible mixture through the space. In other embodiments, the frozen confectionery apparatus of the present disclosure further includes a control mechanism that can be operated to move the rollers. According to some additional embodiments, the frozen confectionery apparatus includes a pump located adjacent to the dispensing tube of the flexible bag.

[0010]

[0010] According to some further embodiments of the frozen confectionery apparatus, the flexible container is pressurized by a liquid or gas. In some more specific embodiments, the frozen confectionery apparatus further includes first and second cooling plates. The pressurized flexible container is structurally supported between the first and second cooling plates. The pressurized flexible container is also in thermal contact with both the first and second cooling plates.

[0011]

[0011] According to other embodiments of the frozen confectionery apparatus, a storage section for containing an edible mixture is also included. The storage section is in fluid communication with the flexible container so that the edible mixture can flow from the storage section container to the flexible container. According to some embodiments, it is desirable that the storage section be flexible. According to other embodiments, the storage section may be rigid or semi-rigid, It can be made from disposable materials such as polyethylene plastic. The disposable material may include a material that provides fluid communication between the storage section and the flexible container and the dispensing nozzle.

[0012]

[0012] According to an additional embodiment of the frozen confectionery apparatus, the flexible container is a first flexible container for containing a first edible mixture, and the apparatus further includes a second flexible container for containing a second edible mixture. In such embodiments, a selective dispensing mechanism can be provided to allow dispensing from one or both of the first and second flexible containers. In some specific embodiments, the selective dispensing mechanism includes a valve or pump unit on the first and second flexible containers. Embodiments showing up to two flexible containers in a single frozen confectionery machine are not intended to be limiting. The frozen confectionery machine may also accommodate three or more flexible containers.

[0013]

[0013] A method for manufacturing a frozen confectionery apparatus according to the present disclosure comprises the steps of providing a flexible container for containing an edible mixture or substance, and at least one physical element that interacts with or contacts at least a portion of the flexible container; moving the physical element to knead the edible mixture in the flexible container; and continuously freezing and dispensing the edible mixture, where the term “continuous” should be understood to mean that as the product is dispensed, more liquid edible mixture or substance is introduced from the storage unit and frozen. Thus, the actual steps of dispensing from the storage unit, freezing, and delivering are typically intermittent, and the user dispenses the product as needed.

[0014]

[0014] According to some embodiments of the method for manufacturing a frozen confectionery apparatus, the method also includes supporting a flexible container between a first support structure and a second support structure. The first and second support structures are optionally a first cooling plate and a second cooling plate. Optionally, the flexible container is pressurized with gas or liquid. In some specific embodiments, the method further includes providing a storage section for containing an edible mixture, introducing the edible mixture from the storage section into the flexible container, thereby enabling continuous freezing and dispensing of the edible mixture.

[0015]

[0015] According to other specific embodiments, the flexible container is provided as a first flexible container for containing a first edible mixture, and the method further includes providing a second flexible container for containing a second edible mixture, and selectively dispensing one or both of the first and second edible mixtures.

[0016]

[0016] A frozen confectionery apparatus formed by another embodiment of the present disclosure includes a pressurized flexible container having at least one inlet and outlet. The pressurized flexible container contains an edible mixture. First and second cooling plates are also included, and the pressurized flexible container is structurally supported between the first and second cooling plates. In addition, one or more rollers are arranged to contact at least a portion of the flexible container in order to allow the edible mixture to flow within the flexible container. At least one passage is located adjacent to the physical element to allow the flow of the edible mixture around a portion of the physical element that interacts with or contacts the flexible container. Finally, a storage section containing the edible mixture is in fluid communication with the inlet of the pressurized flexible container to allow the flow of the edible mixture from the storage section container to the flexible container.

[0017]

[0017] The other non-limiting features of this disclosure described above are further disclosed below.

[0018]

[0018] The following is a brief description of the drawings, which is presented for the purpose of illustrating exemplary embodiments disclosed in the present specification, not for the purpose of limiting the exemplary embodiments disclosed in the present specification.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] [Figure 1]

[0019] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the prior art of a typical frozen confectionery machine such as a soft-serve ice cream machine. [Figure 2]

[0020] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a simplified modified example of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating a simplified modified example of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]

[0021] FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating another modified example of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating another modified example of the present disclosure. [Figure 6]

[0022] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating one modified example of dispensing a flowable frozen confectionery. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating one modified example of dispensing a flowable frozen confectionery. [Figure 8]

[0023] FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrating an alternative arrangement for kneading frozen confectionery. [Figure 9] FIG. 9A is a diagram schematically illustrating an alternative arrangement for kneading frozen confectionery. FIG. 9B is a diagram schematically illustrating an alternative arrangement for kneading frozen confectionery. [Figure 10] FIG. 10A is a diagram schematically illustrating an alternative arrangement for kneading frozen confectionery. FIG. 10B is a diagram schematically illustrating an alternative arrangement for kneading frozen confectionery. [Figure 11]

[0024] FIG. 11A is a diagram showing additional details of a kneader assembly. FIG. 11B is a diagram showing additional details of a kneader assembly.

[0025] FIG. 11C is a diagram showing the kneader assembly of FIG. 11A configured as a belt or a chain to achieve continuous kneading of an ice cream mixture. [Figure 12]

[0026] Figure 12A is a simplified diagram of an exemplary kneader assembly having multiple rollers, including a linkage mechanism, suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 12B is an additional simplified diagram of the kneader assembly shown in Figure 12A. [Figure 13]

[0028] Figure 13A shows one embodiment of the present disclosure in which a vibrating mixer is used to mix an edible mixture in a freezer bag.

[0029] Figure 13B shows additional details of the vibrating mixer shown in Figure 13A.

[0030] Figure 13C is another diagram showing additional details of the vibrating mixer in Figure 13A. [Figure 14]

[0031] Figure 14A is a simplified side view of rollers supported on a rotatable shaft for mixing edible mixtures in a freezer bag.

[0032] Figure 14B is a simplified top view of the roller shown in Figure 14A. [Figure 15]

[0033] This is a perspective view of an exemplary cylindrical cooling plate suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure. [Figure 16]

[0034] Figure 15 is a simplified front view of a cylindrical cooling plate. [Figure 17]

[0035] Figure 15 shows an alternative mixer design suitable for use with the cylindrical cooling plate. [Figure 18]

[0036] Figure 18A shows the first step in a four-step process in which a roller moves over a freezer bag to mix its contents.

[0037] Figure 18B shows the second step in the four-step process of Figure 18A, in which a roller moves over the freezer bag to mix its contents.

[0038] Figure 18C shows the third step in the four-step process of Figure 18A, in which a roller moves over the freezer bag to mix its contents.

[0039] Figure 18D shows the fourth step in the four-step process of Figure 18A, in which a roller moves over the freezer bag to mix its contents. [Figure 19]

[0040] Figure 19A shows the first step in a two-step process in which a roller is moved over a freezer bag to dispense ice cream.

[0041] Figure 19B shows the second step in the two-step process of Figure 19A, in which a roller is moved over a freezer bag to dispense ice cream. [Figure 20]

[0042] This figure shows an alternative embodiment of the freezer bag according to the present disclosure. [Figure 21]

[0043] This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of a frozen confectionery machine created according to the present disclosure. [Figure 22]

[0044] Figure 22A shows a frozen confectionery machine made according to the present disclosure, which can be configured to freeze and dispense two or more flavors simultaneously.

[0045] Figure 22B shows a modified version of the frozen confectionery machine in Figure 22A, in which a pump unit is used instead of a valve configuration to freeze and dispense two or more flavors simultaneously. [Figure 23]

[0046] Figure 23A shows an insulating enclosure having a refrigeration section and a freezing section suitable for use with a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to this disclosure.

[0047] Figure 23B shows a modified form of the insulating enclosure in Figure 23A, where the freezer bag is oriented vertically rather than horizontally within the enclosure. [Figure 24]

[0048] This is a simplified diagram of the freezer bag system created according to this disclosure. [Figure 25]

[0049] This is an isometric view of one embodiment of a frozen confectionery machine created according to the present disclosure. [Figure 26]

[0050] Figure 26A is a simplified diagram of a freezer bag system suitable for use in the frozen confectionery machine shown in Figure 25.

[0051] Figure 26B is another simplified diagram of a freezing bag system suitable for use in the freezing confectionery machine of Figure 25, in which the bag system is supported between the first and second cooling plates of the freezing confectionery machine. [Figure 27]

[0052] This is a front view of the frozen confectionery machine from Figure 25, with the outer cooling plate removed to show additional details of the machine. [Figure 28]

[0053] Figure 28A shows an exemplary embodiment of a dispensing valve suitable for use in the freezing bag system and frozen confectionery machine of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 28B shows a freezing bag separated from the other components of the dispensing valve embodiment shown in Figure 28A.

[0055] Figure 28C shows a modified form of the movable member component of the dispensing valve embodiment shown in Figure 28A.

[0056] Figure 28D shows another deformation of the movable member component from Figure 28C.

[0057] Figure 28E shows yet another modified form of the movable member component from Figure 28C.

[0058] Figure 28F shows yet another modified form of the movable member component from Figure 28C. [Figure 29]

[0059] Figure 29A shows an exemplary embodiment of a freezer bag system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to this disclosure.

[0060] Figure 29B shows additional details of the freezing bag system shown in Figure 29A.

[0061] Figure 29C is another diagram showing additional details of the freezing bag system shown in Figure 29A. [Figure 30]

[0062] Figure 29A is a simplified diagram of the means for supplying air to the freezer bag system. [Figure 31]

[0063] Figure 31A is a simplified diagram of a freezing bag system fabricated according to this disclosure, including features for controlling liquid and air levels.

[0064] Figure 31B shows additional details of the freezing bag system shown in Figure 31A.

[0065] Figure 31C is another diagram showing additional details of the freezing bag system shown in Figure 31A. [Figure 32]

[0066] Figure 32A shows one embodiment of the freezing bag according to the present disclosure, without the accompanying storage bag or dispensing nozzle.

[0067] Figure 32B shows additional details of the freezer bag shown in Figure 32A. [Figure 33]

[0068] This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of a freezer bag system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine, manufactured according to the present disclosure, in which a rigid structure supports the storage bag. [Figure 34]

[0069] This is a schematic diagram of the arrangement of the freezer bag system according to this disclosure, including a fluid communication between the storage section and the freezer bag. [Figure 35]

[0070] This is a diagram of another schematic arrangement, a modified version of Figure 34. [Figure 36]

[0071] Figure 36A is a simplified diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a check valve configuration suitable for use in a freezer bag system and frozen confectionery machine of the present disclosure, made from standard polybag material.

[0072] Figure 36B is another diagram of the check valve configuration from Figure 36A. [Figure 37]

[0073] This figure shows a schematic arrangement of a freezer bag system fabricated according to this disclosure, which uses a three-way valve to control the flow between the storage bag and the freezer bag. [Figure 38]

[0074] Figure 38A shows a front view of the valve component, illustrating how to implement the valve component from the freezing bag system shown in Figure 37.

[0075] Figure 38B is a first side view of the valve component of Figure 38A, showing the partition located in the center of the valve component in the neutral position.

[0076] Figure 38C is a second side view of the valve component of Figure 38A, showing the first and second flow channels.

[0077] Figure 38D is a third side view of the valve component shown in Figure 38A, where the pressure in the first flow channel pushes the partition toward the second flow channel, engaging it in a sealed state.

[0078] Figure 38E is a fourth side view of the valve component shown in Figure 38A, where the pressure in the second flow channel pushes the partition toward the first flow channel, causing it to engage in a sealed state. [Figure 39]

[0079] Figure 39A shows an exemplary clamping mechanism suitable for holding a freezer bag in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure.

[0080] Figure 39B shows additional details of the tightening mechanism shown in Figure 39A. [Figure 40]

[0081] Figure 40A shows another exemplary clamping mechanism suitable for holding a freezer bag within a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure.

[0082] Figure 40B shows additional details of the tightening mechanism shown in Figure 40A. [Figure 41]

[0083] This figure shows one embodiment of a freezer bag according to the present disclosure, in which the freezer bag is wrapped around a central cooling plate. [Figure 42]

[0084] Figure 42A shows an exemplary roller assembly suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine, manufactured according to the present disclosure, which includes a roller having a dispensing shoe feature.

[0085] Figure 42B shows additional details of the roller having the dispensing shoe features of Figure 42A. [Figure 43]

[0086] Figure 42A shows another diagram of the roller, with the dispensing shoe features shown in a cutout. [Figure 44]

[0087] Figure 44A shows an exemplary roller assembly suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure, which includes a roller having a dispensing shoe feature that extends the full length / width of the freezer bag.

[0088] Figure 44B shows additional details of the roller having the dispensing shoe features of Figure 44A. [Figure 45]

[0089] Figure 45A is another diagram that includes additional details of the roller and dispensing shoe features of Figure 44A.

[0090] Figure 45B is an additional diagram showing details of the roller and dispensing shoe features in Figure 44A. [Figure 46]

[0091] This figure shows a modified example of the embodiment shown in Figures 25 to 27, in which a roller has been added to the mixing rod. [Figure 47]

[0092] Figure 47A shows additional details of the modified roller and mixing rod in Figure 46.

[0093] Figure 47B is another diagram showing additional details of the modified roller and mixing rod from Figure 46. [Figure 48]

[0094] This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of a freezer bag system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure, in which the dispensing tube is located at or near the top of the freezer bag. [Figure 49]

[0095] Figure 49A is a simplified side view of the freezing bag system shown in Figure 48.

[0096] Figure 49B is a second simplified side view of the freezing bag system shown in Figure 48. [Figure 50]

[0097] This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of a freezer bag system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to this disclosure, the system including a filling pump and a dispensing pump / flow meter. [Figure 51]

[0098] Figure 51A shows an exemplary embodiment intended for stirring the contents of a storage section, suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure.

[0099] Figure 51B is another diagram showing the stirring of the contents of the storage section, as seen in Figure 51A. [Figure 52]

[0100] Figure 52A shows another exemplary embodiment for stirring contents stored in a storage section suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine made according to the present disclosure.

[0101] Figure 52B is another diagram of the design for stirring the contents stored in the storage section, as shown in Figure 52A. [Figure 53]

[0102] This is a simplified diagram of an exemplary kneader assembly having multiple piezoelectric transducers / rollers suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure. [Figure 54]

[0103] This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of a cooling system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure. [Figure 55]

[0104] This figure shows another exemplary embodiment of a cooling system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure, including a heat pipe. [Figure 56]

[0105] Figure 56A is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a modular frozen confectionery machine fabricated by the present disclosure, including a dispensing head and handle for controlling the flow of frozen confectionery.

[0106] Figure 56B is another diagram of the frozen confectionery machine from Figure 56A, modified to include a second dispensing head.

[0107] Figure 56C is another diagram of the frozen confectionery machine from Figure 56A, modified to move the dispensing head to the lower edge of the cooling plate. [Figure 57]

[0108] Figure 57A shows an exemplary embodiment of a freezer bag system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure, in which first and second freezer bags can be used on a pair of cooling plates.

[0109] Figure 57B shows an exemplary embodiment of a freezer bag system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine made according to the present disclosure, in which a single, high-capacity freezer bag is used to supply a single flavor. [Figure 58]

[0110] Figure 58A is a simplified front view of an exemplary cooling plate arrangement suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to this disclosure, configured to dispense multiple flavors.

[0111] Figure 58B is a simplified side view of the cooling plate arrangement shown in Figure 58A. [Figure 59]

[0112] Figure 59A shows an exemplary embodiment of a dispensing head suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to this disclosure, which provides easy attachment of a freezer bag nozzle.

[0113] Figure 59B is another view of the dispensing head from Figure 59A, showing the clamping leg components in the raised position. [Figure 60]

[0114] This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of a freezer bag system, including a pump, suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure. [Figure 61]

[0115] This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of a pressure sensor suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine, manufactured according to the present disclosure, which is fitted to the outside of a fluid tubing in a frozen bag system. [Figure 62]

[0116] Figure 62A shows an exemplary system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine, which is constructed according to the present disclosure, combining liquid and air tubing so that both can be utilized within a peristaltic pump.

[0117] Figure 62B shows additional details of the system shown in Figure 62A.

[0118] Figure 62C is another diagram showing additional details of the system in Figure 62A.

[0119] Figure 62D is yet another diagram showing additional details of the system in Figure 62A. [Figure 63]

[0120] Figure 62A shows additional details of the system, which can efficiently pump both air and liquid when inserted into a peristaltic pump. [Figure 64]

[0121] Figure 64A shows an exemplary embodiment of a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to the present disclosure, which is configured to facilitate the loading of frozen bags into the machine, with the front cooling plate in an open position for loading.

[0122] Figure 64B is another view of the frozen confectionery machine from Figure 64A, with the front cooling plate in the closed position for operation of the machine. [Figure 65]

[0123] Figure 65A shows an exemplary embodiment of a mixing and dispensing assembly suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to this disclosure, including a divided cooling plate.

[0124] Figure 65B shows additional details of the split cooling plate in Figure 65A, including independently movable sections on the left and right sides.

[0125] Figure 65C is a second diagram of the segmented cooling plate shown in Figure 65B.

[0126] Figure 65D is a front view of the divided cooling plate from Figure 65A.

[0127] Figure 65E shows another exemplary embodiment of a mixing and dispensing assembly suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine made according to the present disclosure, which includes a deformable film attached to a first cooling plate.

[0128] Figure 65F shows additional details of the deformable film and the first cooling plate in Figure 65E, including the bulge in the film caused by the application of a magnetic field.

[0129] Figure 65G is a second diagram of the deformable film and the first cooling plate shown in Figure 65F.

[0130] Figure 65H shows another exemplary embodiment of a mixing and dispensing assembly suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine, which is made according to the present disclosure and includes a deformable film divided into separate fluid chambers. [Figure 66]

[0131] Figure 66A shows an exemplary roller assembly suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine manufactured according to this disclosure, configured to work with small freezer bags in both single-flavor and two-flavor settings.

[0132] Figure 66B shows additional details of the roller assembly in Figure 66A, configured to work with larger freezer bags in both single-flavor and two-flavor settings. [Figure 67]

[0133] This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of a stirring system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine, as described herein. [Figure 68]

[0134] Figure 68A shows another exemplary embodiment of a stirring system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine, which is made according to the present disclosure and includes a mixing rod having a piezoelectric actuator that generates ultrasonic vibrations for stirring.

[0135] Figure 68B shows additional details of the stirring system shown in Figure 68A.

[0136] Figure 68C is another diagram showing additional details of the stirring system in Figure 68A.

[0137] Figure 68D is yet another diagram showing additional details of the stirring system in Figure 68A. [Figure 69]

[0138] This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of a freezer bag system suitable for use in a frozen confectionery machine made according to the present disclosure, including an encrypted code associated with the freezer bag and the storage bag. [Figure 70A]

[0139] This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of a dispensing roller device. [Figure 70B]

[0140] This is an end view of the embodiment shown in Figure 70A, where the dispensing roller is in the first position. [Figure 70C]

[0141] This is an end view of the embodiment shown in Figure 70A, where the dispensing roller is in the second position. [Figure 71]

[0142] This figure shows a flexible bag holding system. [Figure 72A]

[0143] This figure shows a flexible bag system with a bypass tube. [Figure 72B] This figure shows a flexible bag system with a bypass tube. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020]

[0144] A more complete understanding of the components, processes, and apparatus disclosed herein is provided below. This can be obtained by referring to the attached drawings. These drawings are merely schematic diagrams based on convenience and ease of demonstrating the present disclosure and are therefore not intended to show the relative sizes and dimensions of the device or its components, and / or to define or limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments.

[0021]

[0145] To make it easier to understand, specific terminology will be used in the following explanation, but these The terminology used is intended to refer only to specific structures of embodiments selected for illustration in the drawings and is not intended to define or limit the scope of this disclosure. In the drawings and the following description, similar numerical designations should be understood to refer to components of similar function.

[0022]

[0146] This disclosure eliminates or significantly reduces the cleaning process for machines that dispense confectionery products. This invention discloses embodiments of apparatus, systems, and methods relating to the dispensing of confectionery. Existing confectionery dispensing machines (e.g., soft-serve ice cream machines, daiquiri machines, etc.) require cleaning procedures that impose a significant maintenance burden on operators. Furthermore, improper cleaning poses a potential health risk to consumers of frozen products. Apparatus, systems, and methods for freezing and dispensing soft-serve ice cream without the maintenance and health risks of prior art machinery are disclosed herein. This is achieved by housing the edible mixture in a flexible container, package, or bag. The edible mixture is cooled and / or frozen and dispensed from the bag without contact with other parts of the machine that could contaminate the edible mixture with bacteria, viruses, chemicals, or physical contaminants. Several embodiments are disclosed, including cooling and / or dispensing. Frozen edible mixtures are generally described as ice cream. However, it should be understood that any edible mixture may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0023]

[0147] Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a typical conventional soft-serve ice cream machine. Conventional Technology The soft-serve ice cream machine is generally made from components known in the art, including, but not limited to, a hopper cover 1, a dispensing pipe 2, a mixture level float 3, a rear panel 4 and a front panel 5, side panels 6 and 7, a drip pan 8, legs 9, a low mixture indicator light 10, a splash shield 11, a drip tray 12, a drip tray holder 13, and a mixture dispensing assembly 14. Most of the components shown require daily cleaning and disinfection in accordance with machine and local regulations.

[0024]

[0148] Figure 2 shows a simplified diagram of one embodiment of the present disclosure. Frozen confectionery machine or apparatus 20 The refrigeration system includes a heat absorber or heat-absorbing element, such as a cooling plate 21, which is maintained at a relatively low temperature, and a heat cutoff device 23. The cooling plate 21 can be one of several shapes and form factors, many of which are known in the art. The refrigeration system can be one or a combination of various refrigeration technologies known in the art, including, but not limited to, vapor compression, thermoelectric, and magnetocaloric. Vapor compression technology is most commonly used in the application field of frozen confectionery machines. The cooling plate may optionally include multiple cooling sections operating at different temperatures or cooling rates. Components of the refrigeration system can be located locally (i.e., inside the machine) or remotely (outside the machine). The edible substance or mixture (hereinafter referred to as “mixture”) is contained in a flexible freezing container or bag (the terms “container” and “bag” can be used essentially synonymously) 24. The freezing bag 24 can also contain a certain amount of gas, such as air, but is not limited to. Bacteriostatic or bactericidal gases may also be used. Carbon dioxide gas can also be used to introduce carbon dioxide into the mixture. The freezer bag 24 is positioned on a cooling plate 21. This lowers the temperature of the edible mixture inside the freezer bag to the desired temperature, generally below 0°C. Typically, the desired temperature is in the range of about -5°C to -20°C. Physical elements are included, such as rollers 27 that are capable of operating to agitate or knead the contents of the freezer bag 24. When ice crystals form on or near the inner surface of the freezer bag, the rollers move along the surface of the freezer bag 24. The freezer bag 24 is clamped between the rollers 27 and the cooling plate 21. This mechanically separates the ice crystals from the inner surface of the bag and makes it easier to further crush the ice crystals. The agitation performed by the rollers 27 prevents the formation of large ice crystals and mixes air into the ice cream. The mixture of air and ice cream is commonly called overrun. The combination of overrun and small-sized ice crystals gives the ice cream a smooth and soft texture. Dispensing tubes 25 are used to dispense the edible mixture 26.

[0025]

[0149] Referring to Figure 8, the upper surfaces of the cooling plate 21, the freezing bag 24, and the roller 27. A diagram is shown. The streamlines on bag 24 indicate how the ice cream flows around the edge of roller 27. The width of the gap through which the ice cream flows can be controlled by the width or position of roller 27. A relatively narrow gap results in a relatively high-speed flow of ice cream, which is useful for increasing overrun. Therefore, the desired overrun can be adjusted by varying the position and speed of roller 27. Referring to Figures 9A and 9B, another embodiment of the exemplary roller 46 is shown. Roller 46 has a non-circular cross-section, thereby providing a flow passage for the ice cream when mixing the mixture.

[0026]

[0150] Figure 3 shows a top view of the kneader 28 on the freezer bag 24. The movement of the kneader is controlled. The control mechanism is not shown in the diagram for simplicity. However, the control mechanism is generally operable to move the mixer 28 up, down, left, and right so that all of the mixture in the freezer bag 24 can be mixed. The shown mixer 28 is smaller than the width of the freezer bag 24. This gives the ice cream mixture space to flow through the freezer bag 24 as the rollers 28 move. The stirring and flow of the ice cream mixture in the freezer bag 24 prevents the formation of large ice crystals and allows air to mix with the ice cream, thereby causing overrun. As a result, smooth and soft ice cream is obtained. Dispensing tubes 25 are used to dispense the edible mixture.

[0027]

[0151] Figures 4 and 5 show a storage bag 35 and a freezing bag 31 that are in fluid communication with each other. Another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, with Figure 4 showing a side view of the embodiment and Figure 5 showing a top view thereof. The freezer bag 31 is located on the cooling plate 21. A first kneader 32 and a second kneader 33 separate the freezer bag 31 into an unfrozen section (A) and a frozen section (B), respectively (Figure 5). Clamping rollers 34 (not shown in Figure 5) prevent the ice cream from coming out of the freezer bag 31 before it is needed. The movements of the kneaders 32 and 33 are coordinated by a motion control mechanism (not shown) so that the ice cream can be continuously frozen and dispensed through the dispensing tube 29 while new unfrozen mixture is introduced from the storage bag 35.

[0028]

[0152] Figure 6 shows a peristaltic pump used for dispensing or assisting the dispensing of ice cream. Figure 7 shows a side cross-sectional view of a dispensing mechanism including a pump such as a pump 40. Figure 7 shows a front view of the dispensing mechanism 40 including a dispensing nozzle 45. A dispensing tube 44 extends between the housing 41 and the peristaltic roller 42. In embodiments in which the peristaltic pump 40 is used to assist in dispensing ice cream, the dispensing tube 44 can be part of or connected to a dispensing tube 25 from Figures 2 and 3 or a dispensing tube 29 from Figures 4 and 5. The housing 41 is generally cooled to maintain the viscosity of the ice cream. The roller 42 has projections 43 that push the ice cream along the dispensing tube 44 as the roller 42 rotates clockwise. The ice cream exits through the nozzle 45. The roller 42 is also configured to rotate counterclockwise to push the undispensed product back into the freezer bag 31. A heating element (not shown) can be housed within the housing 41, within the roller 42, on the surface of the dispensing tube 44, or on the nozzle 45. The heating element is used to disinfect the components located above it (i.e., to kill bacteria or other pathogens and prevent or limit their growth). This may be necessary over long periods (for example, overnight) if ice cream or other products are stored inside the machine.

[0029]

[0153] Figure 6 shows a roller 42 having a projection 43, but this does not deviate from the scope of the present disclosure. It is intended that a number of other peristaltic pump mechanisms can be used. For example, instead of the circular roller 42, a conveyor belt type roller (not shown) can be used. This should provide additional freedom in the design of the form factor of the dispensing system.

[0030]

[0154] Figures 10A and 10B show the shaft 51 connected to the first roller element 52 and the second The roller assembly 50 supporting the roller elements 53 is shown. The roller elements 52, 53 are independently movable along the axis (X) of the shaft (i.e., they are movable horizontally from side to side along the axis (X)). Compare the relative positions of the roller elements along the shaft 51 in Figures 10A and 10B. This provides an ice cream flow passage 54 when the rollers 52, 53 move up and down (i.e., in a direction perpendicular to the axis (X)). This provides a mechanism that allows the ice cream to be thoroughly kneaded and air to be incorporated into the mixture.

[0031]

[0155] Figures 11A to 11C show an embodiment 60 of a kneader using multiple rollers. The rollers 61 are spaced apart so that the ice cream mixture can flow between them. The rollers 61, 62 are similarly spaced apart in fixed positions along their respective shafts (or they may be spaced apart in different ways), but roller 61 is offset from roller 62 on the adjacent shaft. This provides a somewhat steep path for the ice cream to flow, ensuring that all areas of the freezer bag 24 come into contact with the rollers 61, 62, thereby ensuring that the ice cream mixture is thoroughly mixed. The rollers 61, 62 provide the final movement of the ice cream toward the dispensing tube 63, while allowing the ice cream to flow over the rollers when the dispensing tube 63 is closed. As shown in Figure 11C, the rollers 61, 62 can also be configured as a belt or chain 64 so that continuous mixing of the ice cream mixture can be achieved.

[0032]

[0156] Figures 12A and 12B are similar to Figures 11A to 11C, which use multiple rollers. A similar embodiment is shown. In the embodiments of Figures 12A and 12B, a link mechanism 71 is rotatably supported on a cooling plate 21 to switch between one or more different types of rollers. In particular, the link mechanism 71 can be configured to use one or more mixing rollers 72 in a first position shown in Figure 12A, and one or more dispensing rollers 73 in a second position shown in Figure 12B. Of course, other configurations of the link mechanism and / or rollers can also be used without departing from the scope and intent of this disclosure.

[0033]

[0157] Figures 13A to 13C show ice in a freezer bag 24 located on a cooling plate 21. One embodiment is shown in which a vibrating mixer 81 is used to mix a cream mixture. Guide slots 82 are used to control the vibrating motion of the mixer 81 relative to the freezing bag 24 and the cooling plate 21. More specifically, the guide slots 82 are configured to receive a follower extending from the mixer 81, allowing the mixer 81 to vibrate between various positions shown in Figures 13A to 13C to effectively mix the ice cream mixture in the freezing bag 24.

[0034]

[0158] Figure 14A shows one embodiment in which the roller 91 is supported on a rotatable shaft 92. Figure 14B shows a side view and a top view. When the shaft 92 rotates around the vertical axis, the roller 91 rotates around the horizontal axis. The rotation of the roller 91 via the shaft 92 mixes the ice cream mixture in the freezing bag 24 located on the cooling plate 21.

[0035]

[0159] Figures 15 and 16 show an alternative embodiment in which the cooling plate 101 is cylindrical. A freezing bag 102 is positioned within the cooling plate 101. The kneader 103 rotates eccentrically within the cooling plate 101, kneading the ice cream mixture in the freezing bag 102 located within the cooling plate 101. That is, the freezing bag 102 is radially positioned between the inner surface of the hollow cylindrical cooling plate 101 and the kneader 103, and the kneader and the cylindrical cooling plate have parallel offset axes, as shown in Figure 16. The kneader 103 is shown as a cylinder. Various geometric shapes or features on the kneader 103 can be devised to enhance overrun kneading or reduce the power required for kneading. For example, Figure 17 shows an alternative kneader design 104 that can be used with the hollow cylindrical cooling plate 101. The kneader 104 generally includes a support frame 105 for supporting one or more rollers 106 that move along the inner circumference of the cooling plate 101 to knead the ice cream mixture in the freezing bag 102 located within the cooling plate 102.

[0036]

[0160] Figures 18A to 18D show the roller 27 moving over the freezer bag 24 to distribute the contents. The four-step mixing process is shown. In Figure 18A, the roller 27 is positioned or biased toward the right side of the freezer bag 24 and moves downward, as indicated by the arrow adjacent to the roller. In Figure 18B, the roller 27 is still positioned / biased toward the right side of the freezer bag 24 and moves downward, after which the flow direction of the mixture in the bag reverses to the upward direction indicated by the arrow. Thus, the end of the roller 27 is positioned so that the contents of the freezer bag 24 can move around the end of the roller 27. In Figure 18C, the position / bias of the roller 27 changes to the left side of the freezer bag 24, and the roller is moving in the opposite direction to that in Figures 18A and 18B. In Figure 18D, the roller 27 is still biased and moves upward toward the left side of the freezer bag 24, after which the flow direction of the mixture in the bag reverses again to the downward direction indicated by the arrow.

[0037]

[0161] Figures 19A and 19B show the roller 27 moving over the freezer bag 24. The two-step process for dispensing ice cream is shown. The roller 27 starts from the upper position shown in Figure 19A and moves to the lower position shown in Figure 19B, thereby dispensing the contents of the bag 24 in the direction indicated by the arrow. Here, the roller 27 has an axial length that extends across the entire width of the cavity of the freezer bag 24 in order to release / dispense the ice cream from the freezer bag.

[0038]

[0162] Figure 20 shows an alternative embodiment of the freezer bag 120. The first compartment 121 is The liquid ice cream mixture is held in place. The second compartment 122 is exposed to a temperature below freezing point, for example, by contact with a cooling plate 21 (not shown, but understood to be in contact with the freezer bag within that area of ​​the second compartment). The ice cream mixture is kneaded in the second compartment 122 by one or more kneaders (not shown). The third compartment 123 has a roller mechanism (not shown) that further kneads the ice cream to produce a peristaltic pump-like action (similar to the peristaltic pump 40 shown in Figure 6). The roller mechanism (not shown) pumps the ice cream from the second compartment 122 through the third compartment 123, generating enough pressure to overcome resistance by an optional check valve 124, thereby enabling dispensing of the contents of the bag. Passages 125 and 126 provide fluid communication between the compartments. Optional valves or clamping mechanisms (not shown) can be used in passages 125 and 126 to control the movement of the ice cream between the compartments. Mounting holes 127 (or other alternative holding mechanisms) are used to hold the freezer bag 120 in place.

[0039]

[0163] Figure 21 shows an exemplary embodiment of a frozen confectionery machine made according to this disclosure. The configuration is shown. In the embodiment of Figure 21, the cooling plate 21 is oriented perpendicular to the front of the machine. The perpendicular, orthogonal arrangement may be convenient for housing multiple cooling plates (not shown) for multiple freezer bags (e.g., flavors) within a single machine. However, the cooling plate 21 may also be oriented horizontally or obliquely without departing from the scope of this disclosure. A kneader assembly 131 is mounted on the cabinet door 132. The system is housed in the cabinet 133. When the cabinet door 132 is closed, the kneader assembly 131 fits onto the cooling plate 21. Other parts of the system (e.g., the refrigeration system) are not shown. A dispensing handle 134 is used to dispense ice cream or other edible frozen mixtures through a dispensing nozzle 135 when the handle is in a first position (open / dispensing position), and when it is in a second position (closed / non-dispensing position), it prevents the dispensing of frozen confectionery mixtures.

[0040]

[0164] Conventional frozen confectionery machines that utilize flexible containers produce ice cream of one flavor. The machine is configured to freeze and dispense the flavors. As shown in Figures 22A and 22B, the frozen confectionery machine manufactured by this disclosure can be advantageously configured to freeze and dispense two or more flavors simultaneously. In some examples, it may be desirable to dispense the two flavors from the same or nearly the same location on the machine. The frozen bag system 140 shown in Figure 22A shows one embodiment in which the dispensing tube 142 of the first frozen bag 141 is oriented to overlap with the dispensing tube 143 from the second frozen bag 144. The frozen bags 141 and 144 can generally be identical to each other with one bag turned inside out. However, it is not a requirement that the freezing bags be identical. The dispensing pump 145 is configured to dispense from both bags simultaneously. Valves 146 in the freezing bags 141 and 145 can be used to selectively dispense from one or both of the freezing bags. Thus, one pump 145 (for example, a peristaltic pump) can be used to dispense either or both flavors simultaneously.

[0041]

[0165] The freezer bag system 150 shown in Figure 22B is similar to that in Figure 22A, The pump unit 151 has two independently operating pumping mechanisms 151A and 151B to selectively allow dispensing from one or both of the freezing bags. In this regard, pump 151A can be activated to dispense from the first freezing bag 141, and pump 151B can be activated to dispense from the second freezing bag 144.

[0042]

[0166] Figures 23A and 23B show an ice cream machine manufactured according to this disclosure. The possible arrangements of components within the system are shown. Embodiment 160 in Figure 23A includes an insulating enclosure 161 having a refrigerated section 162 and a freezing section 163. Cooling of the refrigerated section 162 and the freezing section 163 can be carried out by one or more independent cooling systems or cooling elements. Freezing of the edible mixture can be carried out by cooling plates 21 cooled with a fluid in the freezing section such as air, liquid (e.g., brine), liquid spray 163, or any combination of cooling fluid and cooling plates, but is not limited to air. The storage section 35 is housed within the refrigerated section 162. Optionally, a fan 164 can be used to circulate air. To mix the ice cream, a roller assembly 165 of the type shown in Figures 11A-11C is used. However, one or more roller assemblies can also be used. The roller assembly 165 pushes the ice cream toward an optional dispensing pump 166. However, as shown in Figure 11A, the space between the rollers 167 allows the ice cream to flow beyond the rollers 167. As a result, a constant pressure pushes the ice cream toward the dispensing pump 166, but dispensing of the ice cream is prevented until the dispensing pump 166 is turned on. Optionally, a simple pinch valve (not shown) can be used for dispensing. The roller assembly 165 turns on and off as needed to mix and / or assist in dispensing the ice cream. The roller assembly 165 can move in either direction or vibrate as needed. However, during typical operation of the roller assembly 165, the rollers 167 move toward the dispensing pump 166. As the ice cream is dispensed, more space becomes available within the horizontally oriented freezer bag 31. This allows the mixture from the storage bag 35 to flow into the freezer bag 31. This flow can be caused by gravity or pressure generated by other means such as a pump. The arrangement shown in Figure 23A allows for continuous freezing and dispensing of the ice cream. The storage bag 35 can be much larger than what is practical for the freezer bag 31.Other parts of the system (for example, refrigeration systems, control electronics, and other components known in the art) are not shown in Figure 23A.

[0043]

[0167] Embodiment 170 in Figure 23B is similar to Embodiment 160 shown in Figure 23A. The configuration is shown and includes a refrigeration section 172 and a freezing section 171. In the configuration of Figure 23B, the freezing bag 31 is oriented vertically. Roller assemblies 165 are positioned on both sides of the freezing bag 31, and the ice cream is cooled via the ambient air in the freezing section 171. However, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a cooling plate may also be used with the vertically oriented freezing bag.

[0044]

[0168] An embodiment 180 of an additional freezer bag system is schematically shown in Figure 24. Here, the storage bag 181 has one or more pipes 182 through which fluid is in communication. 182 can be used to inject air, flavorings, or more ice cream mixture. The freezer bag 183 may have one or more fluid-communicating tubes 184. These can be used to inject air, ice cream, or flavorings into the ice cream mixture. The dispensing tube 185 may have one or more other tubes 186. These can be used to inject air, ice cream, or solid or liquid flavorings. For example, it may not be desirable to inject flavorings such as chocolate sauce, caramel, or strawberry into the freezer bag 183 because such flavorings should be thoroughly mixed with the ice cream, or, in the case of solids, liquefied or ground into very small particles by the mixing rollers. Injection of flavorings into tube 186 can be done during dispensing, thus allowing for swirling viscosity with the flavoring being injected.

[0045]

[0169] Figure 25 shows an example of one embodiment of the frozen confectionery machine 200 manufactured according to this disclosure. A corner view is shown. For clarity, some elements of the system (e.g., parts of the support frame) are not shown. The freezer bag 203 (Figures 26A and 26B) is positioned between the outer cooling plate 201 and the inner cooling plate 202. One or both of the cooling plates 201, 202 are cooled to a temperature suitable for freezing the food mixture. Generally, the suitable freezing temperature is about -5°C to -30°C.

[0046]

[0170] In the embodiment shown in Figure 25, a cooling plate is cooled using a method known in the art. Many methods can be used. One method is to attach a pipe (not shown) that circulates a cooling fluid, such as a refrigerant, from a vapor compression refrigeration system to the cooling plate. The cooling pipe can be received using the channel 204 on the cooling plate. Using two cooling plates offers several advantages. Using two cooling plates increases the heat transfer area for freezing the edible mixture. Using two cooling plates provides structural support for the freezing bag. Since the edible mixture is initially in a liquid state, the mixture settles at the bottom of the freezing bag 203 (Figure 26A). When the bag is supported between cooling plates 201, 202 (Figure 26B), the shape of the bag can be controlled, and the edible mixture remains in contact with the cooling plates over a relatively large area.

[0047]

[0171] In certain embodiments, the freezer bag 203 is pressurized with a liquid or gas. Yes, it is possible. However, gases are generally preferred. Examples of suitable gases for achieving pressurization include, but are not limited to, air, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or nitrous oxide. Different gases have different advantages. Air is readily available from the atmosphere, nitrogen can inhibit oxidation, carbon dioxide can introduce carbon dioxide into edible mixtures, and nitrous oxide is bacteriostatic and dissolves in milk to give ice cream a light and fluffy texture. When pressurized with gas, cooling plates 201, 202 provide structural support, and the conveyor system uses roller chains 205 and pulleys 206, suitably positioned to drive the mixing rod 207 over the freezer bag 203, so that the freezer bag is clamped between the outer cooling plate 201 and the rollers 212 on the mixing rod 210 (Figure 25).

[0048]

[0172] Figure 27 shows the frozen confectionery machine 2 from Figure 25 with the outer cooling plate 201 removed. A front view of 00 is shown. In this figure, mixing rods 210 and 211 can be seen. Mixing rod 210 has a roller 212 positioned generally at the center on the mixing rod 210. The roller 212 shown is generally a right cylinder. However, other shapes are also possible. For example, the ends can be tapered to reduce the stress on the freezer bag 203 at the roller edge. The roller 212 may also be textured, grooved, or have a generally non-circular cross-section. It is not a requirement that the rollers 212, 216 rotate on the freezer bag 203. Other geometric shapes result in sliding motion. The mixing rod 210 has a guide bearing 213 The guide bearing 213 fits into the guide rail 214. The guide bearing 213 and the guide rail 214 tighten the roller 212, sandwiching the freezer bag 203 between the roller 212 and the outer cooling plate 201, leaving little to no gap. The edible mixture freezes on the surface of the freezer bag 203 that is in contact with the cooling plates 201 and 202.

[0049]

[0173] Roller 212 provides several functions. Pressing against the freezer bag 203. Pressure and rotation push the frozen mixture out from the surface of the bag and mix it with the unfrozen mixture. This action helps to crush the ice crystals and minimize their size, resulting in smooth ice cream. Also, the ice crystals are kept small because the mixing rods 210, 211 move over the freezer bag 203 frequently enough that there is no time for large ice crystals to form. The freezer bag 203 can be fully or partially filled with the edible mixture. In a preferred embodiment, the freezer bag is partially filled with the edible mixture, as indicated by the liquid level 215. Gas, typically air, occupies the space above the liquid level 215. In the embodiment of Figure 27, the mixing rod 210 moves from the gas side to the liquid side of the freezer bag with the dispensing nozzle 217 at the bottom of the freezer bag. Alternatively, the dispensing nozzle may be located at or near the top of the freezer bag, and the rollers may move upward or change direction. Roller 212 does not extend across the entire width of the freezer bag 203. This allows the mixture to flow beyond roller 212, helping to create an overrun and mix the frozen and unfrozen mixtures. Also, when not dispensing, the mixture needs to flow within the bag. The mixing rod 211 has roller 216 positioned generally toward the edge of the bag. The functions of rollers 212 and 216 are similar. Roller 216 is positioned to contact the areas of the bag that roller 212 misses, so that all surfaces of the freezer bag that are in contact with the cooling plate are also in contact with the roller. Preferably, there is some overlap between roller 212 and roller 216, so that no part of the freezer bag is inadvertently missed by the roller.

[0050]

[0174] As shown in Figures 25 and 27, the mixing rod is connected to the roller chain 205. The chain 205 is fitted onto the drive shaft 219 and the idler shaft 218. The drive shaft 219 is driven by a motor (not shown). This arrangement allows the mixing rod to operate on a continuous loop. Another function of the rollers 212, 216 is to push the edible mixture toward the dispensing nozzle 217. The gap between the rollers 212, 216 allows the rollers to pass across the freezing bag 203 without dispensing the product, providing the desired agitation of the mixture. As the nozzle 217 opens, the rollers supply sufficient pressure to the frozen edible mixture, dispensing the mixture from the nozzle. The dispensing nozzle 217 can be sealed by several methods known in the art, for example, a pinch valve can be used. Another example is the use of a pump, such as a peristaltic pump.

[0051]

[0175] In the embodiments shown in Figures 25 to 27, the cooling plates 201 and 202 are oriented vertically. The mixing rod 211 moves downward. However, the cooling plate can be oriented in any direction without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, the cooling plate can be oriented horizontally or at a 45-degree angle. In addition, the mixing rod can also be configured to move upward or change direction. For example, when the rollers 212, 216 are moving upward, the dispensing nozzle can be positioned at the upper end of the freezer bag 203. This arrangement has the advantage of separating the liquid contents of the freezer bag 203 from the frozen contents. This is important for having continuous dispensing, freezing, and replenishment from the storage unit, because when the liquid mixture and the frozen food mixture are mixed, the frozen food mixture, which would normally be ready for dispensing, becomes softer. The separation of the liquid mixture and the frozen mixture is implemented as follows: The liquid mixture enters the freezer bag 203, preferably from the bottom. The liquid mixture settles at the bottom of the freezer bag due to gravity. The liquid mixture is cooled by the cooling plates. Rollers 212 and 216 move upward, pushing some of the liquid mixture up along the cooling plates to facilitate freezing. Flow paths around the rollers 212 and 216 allow the liquid mixture to return to the bottom of the freezer bag. When the mixture is sufficiently frozen, it becomes semi-solid and has relatively high viscosity. When this occurs, the upward movement of the rollers 212 and 216 pushes the mixture upward. When the rollers reach the top of the freezer bag, the frozen mixture flows out of the roller gaps or flow paths. If the viscosity of the frozen mixture is high and the spacing between the cooling plates is relatively narrow, the frozen mixture remains packed at the top of the freezer bag 203. Liquid mixture that has not yet frozen, or new liquid mixture from the storage section, remains at the bottom of the freezer bag. Multiple methods can be used to influence the separation of liquid and frozen mixtures within the freezer bag 203. For example, the cooling plates 202, 204 do not need to be perfectly vertical. The cooling plates may also have a vertical section for freezing and an upper horizontal section for storing the frozen product. Rollers may also move horizontally across the freezer bag, and the vertical position of the rollers is implemented to push the frozen mixture upwards. Rollers may also move diagonally (i.e., neither vertical nor horizontal). It should be noted that the separation of liquid and frozen mixtures within the freezer bag is beneficial even when the storage bag is not in use. Generally, the freezer bag 203 holds several cups of food mixture. Relatively large quantities of food mixture require an undesirably long time to freeze. The upward movement of the rollers 212, 216 allows more of the frozen portion of the food mixture to be packed to the top of the freezer bag 203, and less of the frozen or liquid portion of the food mixture remains at the bottom of the freezer bag 203. Therefore, at least a portion of the edible mixture can be prepared for dispensing relatively quickly. Figures 28A to 28F show one embodiment of an exemplary dispensing valve 251. The freezer bag 203 has a dispensing tube 250 that fits into the dispensing valve 251.In the embodiment shown, the valve 251 has a fixed member 252 and a movable member 253. However, both members 252, 253 can also be configured to move. The dispensing tube 250 needs to be long enough to reach the dispensing point outside the machine from the freezing bag 203. When the movable member 253 is moved toward the fixed member 252, the dispensing tube 250 is crushed and closed. The dispensing valve 251 is configured to contact the substantial length of the dispensing tube 250. This has the effect of emptying the contents of the tube 250, which is desirable. A portion of the dispensing tube 250 is located outside the cold zone of the frozen confectionery machine. Any frozen mixture trapped inside the tube 250 melts and drips out, or remains trapped inside the tube until the next supply is dispensed.

[0052]

[0176] The movable member 253 can move in any number of ways, as shown in Figure 28C. The movable member 253 can pivot from the top end and thus close to push the mixture out of the tube. As shown in Figure 28D, the movable member 253 can pivot from the bottom end to push the mixture toward the freezing bag 203. As shown in Figure 28E, the movable member 253 can also translate linearly to push the mixture in both directions. Multiple mechanisms can be used to influence the movement of the movable member 253, including mechanical, electromechanical, manual, or automatic options. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 28F, an elastic member such as a spring 254 can be used to bias the movable member 253 toward the fixed member 252. This should allow the movable member 253 to automatically move toward the fixed member 252 when the dispensing pressure is reduced or when the secondary valve 255 is closed.

[0053]

[0177] Figures 29A to 29C and Figure 30 show another embodiment of the bag system 260. The bag system 260 houses a freezer bag 203, a dispensing tube 250, a storage bag 261, an air tube 262, and a liquid tube 263, the liquid tube 263 extending in fluid communication between the storage bag 261 and the freezer bag 203. The flexible freezer bag 203 is preferably structurally supported by a cooling plate, for example, as shown in Figure 26B. 1 can be deformable, rigid, or semi-rigid, and can be located within a support structure or have a support. The liquid tube 263 is in fluid communication with the freezer bag 203 at a level between the top and bottom of the freezer bag 203. Air enters the air tube 262 via an air compressor or other means known in the art, so that the pressure inside the bag system 260 is higher than outside the bag system. In addition, the pressure around the bag system 260 can be reduced to create a differential pressure. As with other embodiments discussed herein, gases other than air may also be used.

[0054]

[0178] The differential pressure created by the air being forced into the air tube 262 is used in the freezer bag The air pressure inflates 203, and this differential pressure has several benefits. The air pressure presses the freezer bag against the cooling plates 201, 202, thereby ensuring good thermal contact between the freezer bag 203 and the cooling plates 210, 202. The air pressure also returns any liquid food mixture above the level of the liquid tube 263 back into the storage bag 261. This ensures that an air pocket exists above the liquid tube 263. When the contents of the freezer bag are still liquid, the liquid level line 264 indicates the liquid level in the freezer bag 203. The storage bag 261 is in fluid communication with the freezer bag 203 through the liquid line 263. When ice cream is dispensed from the dispensing tube 250, the level of the mixture in the freezer bag 203 drops. This allows the liquid mixture from the storage bag 261 to be drawn into the freezer bag 203. This enables continuous dispensing and freezing of the food mixture. The dispensing tube 250 is located at the bottom of the freezing bag 203. The dispensing tube 250 can also be located at the top of the freezing bag 203, as described above with respect to the separation of the frozen mixture and the liquid mixture. In this case, the flow of the liquid mixture from the storage bag 261 to the freezing bag 203 should function as it does when the frozen mixture is pushed to the top of the freezing bag 203.

[0055]

[0179] The bag system 260 in Figures 29A to 29C is not shown in proportion to its actual size. Typically, the volume of the storage bag 261 is much larger than that of the freezer bag 203. In addition, optionally, a pump 265 can be used in the liquid tube 263, as shown in Figure 29B. This should allow the storage bag 261 to be at a lower pressure than the freezer bag 203. Furthermore, using the pump 265 should eliminate the need to position the storage bag 261 above the freezer bag 203 for gravity-driven dispensing. Moreover, the storage bag 261 can also be housed outside the frozen confectionery machine, thereby allowing the use of a bag with a larger volume. In addition, it may be desirable to prevent any backflow from the freezer bag 203 to the storage bag 261. In this case, an optional check valve 268 can be used in the liquid tube 263, as shown in Figure 29C.

[0056]

[0180] As shown in Figure 30, one method or means for supplying air to the air pipe 262 is This is done by the air compressor 267. To minimize the cost of the system, it is desirable to use a small compressor. However, a small air compressor may not provide enough flow rate to quickly inflate the freezer bag 203. In addition, as the rollers 212, 216 rotate over the freezer bag 203, the volume of the bag decreases. This can cause air to be pushed out of the freezer bag through the air tube 262. When this occurs, it is desirable to quickly reinflate the freezer bag 203. To enable the use of a small compressor 267, an air tank 266 can be used to store a certain volume of air at the required pressure. This makes it possible to quickly fill the freezer bag 203 with the required volume of air without requiring an excessively large air compressor 267.

[0057]

[0181] Figures 31A to 31C show the control of liquid and air levels inside the freezer bag 271. Another embodiment of the bag system 270 having features for the purpose of freezing is shown. Freezer bag 27 The unit has an integrated air tube 272 and an integrated liquid tube 273. An air inlet 274 supplies air to the freezer bag 271 and the storage bag 275 via air tubes 272 and 276, respectively. Air tube 272 extends into the freezer bag 271 over a greater distance than liquid tube 273. As roller 277 (Figures 31B and 31C) passes over tubes 272 and 273, the contents of these tubes are drawn into the freezer bag 271. Because liquid tube 273 is shorter than air tube 272, roller 277 exposes the liquid tube first. This allows for backflow from the freezer bag 271 to the storage bag 275. Therefore, when roller 277 exposes air tube 272, there is no pressure difference to introduce liquid into air tube 272 and air inlet 274. Otherwise, the liquid could enter the air pipe and damage the pressurized air source (e.g., an air compressor).

[0058]

[0182] Figures 32A and 32B show the accompanying storage bag or dispensing nozzle. The freezer bag 280 is not included. The freezer bag 280 can be used in the machine of the embodiments shown in Figures 25 and 27. The freezer bag 280 can also be used to make hard ice cream, if desired. In such embodiments, the machine operates until the viscosity of soft ice cream is achieved. The operation of the mixing rollers can be stopped. The bag 280 can be left in the machine between the cooling plates 201, 202 until it is frozen solid, or it can be removed and placed in a conventional freezer.

[0059]

[0183] Figure 33 shows a bag system similar to Figures 29A to 29C, and the storage bag The 261 is housed by a rigid structure 281. The lid 282 applies force to the storage bag 261. This force can be due to the weight of the lid or by other means. The bag system can be initially inflated using the air tube 262, and the force of the lid can be used to maintain the pressure inside the bag. This should allow the freezer bag 203 to quickly reinflate if the rollers cause a flow from the freezer bag 203 to the storage bag 261.

[0060]

[0184] Figure 34 shows a schematic arrangement of the bag system 290. The tube 291 is the storage section. A fluid connection is established between bag 292 and the freezer bag 293. An air pipe 294 is connected to pipe 291. A check valve 295 prevents flow back to the air pipe 294 but allows flow through the air pipe 294 to reach pipe 291, thus connecting the storage bag 292 and the freezer bag 293. Flow from the storage bag 292 to the freezer bag 293 is enabled by gravity or a pump (not shown).

[0061]

[0185] Figure 35 shows another overview of the bag system, which is a modified form of system 290 in Figure 34. A schematic arrangement is shown. Here, an additional check valve 296 is used to prevent backflow of the liquid mixture into the storage bag 292. An air pipe 297 communicates with the air storage section 298 or, optionally, with an air pipe 294, as shown by the dashed line within the bag system. This allows the freezer bag 293 to quickly reinflate after a roller (not shown) has pushed out a certain volume from the bag.

[0062]

[0186] Figures 36A and 36B show standard plastic film materials (for example, A check valve configuration that can be constructed from polyethylene or nylon is shown. This type of pipe material has very high flexibility and very low elasticity. Therefore, such pipe material will deflate unless the pressure inside the pipe is greater than the pressure outside the pipe. Pipe member 240 extends over a certain distance within pipe member 241. A seal 242 exists between the outer wall of pipe 240 and the inner wall of pipe 241. When pressure pushes the flow in a first direction (Figure 36A), the pressure causes the flexible pipe material to expand, and the flow proceeds unimpeded. When pressure pushes the flow in a second direction (Figure 36B), the portion of pipe 240 located within pipe 242 experiences higher pressure at the outer wall 243 than at the inner wall 244 of pipe 240. This causes pipe 240 to deflate, and the flow in the second direction To prevent the flow.

[0063]

[0187] Figure 37 shows the flow control between the storage bag 302 and the freezer bag 303. A schematic arrangement of the bag system 300 using a three-way valve 301 is shown. When the three-way valve 305 is in the first position, air flows into the air line 304 and is guided into the storage bag 302. The liquid mixture from the storage bag 302 is pushed through the valve 305 into the freezer bag 303. When a roller (not shown) passes over the freezer bag 303, the valve 305 allows backflow into the storage bag 302 but prevents flow into the pipe 306 and the three-way valve 301. This prevents contamination of the three-way valve 301, which is generally not a disposable element of the system. When the three-way valve 301 is in the second position, air flows from the air line 304 into the pipe 306 and enters the freezer bag 303 through the valve 305.

[0064]

[0188] Figures 38A to 38E show the method for implementing the valve 305 in Figure 37 described above. More specifically, plastic film material is used to make the valve 305, so that it is inexpensive to manufacture and the valve can be disposable. Figure 38A shows a front view of the valve 305, and Figures 38B to 38E show side views of the valve 305. The valve 305 houses a left wall 307, a right wall 308, and a partition 309, as shown in Figure 38B. These components are arranged to form a first flow channel 310 and a second flow channel 311. When air enters the first flow channel 310, the pressure (P air When the pressure exceeds the pressure inside the storage section 302, the flexible partition 309 is pushed toward the second flow channel 311, as shown in Figure 38D. The second flow channel 311 is connected to the storage bag 302 (Figure 37). When the three-way valve 301 is in the first position and air is directed toward the storage bag 302, the pressure inside the storage section (P res ) pushes the partition 309, sealing the first flow channel 310 as shown in Figure 38E.

[0065]

[0189] Figures 39A and 39B show how to hold the freezer bag 203 at its upper end. An exemplary clamping mechanism 245 used is shown. The clamping mechanism 245 holds the freezer bag 203 in place between the cooling plates 201 and 202. Alternatively, pins or other retaining features may be used.

[0066]

[0190] Figures 40A and 40B show the freezer bag 203 along its edge and side corners. One embodiment is shown in which the bag is held via a ramp 246. A flexible member 311 (Figure 40B) may be included to allow some movement of the bag 203 as a roller (not shown) rotates over the bag. This prevents excessive stress from being placed on the bag.

[0067]

[0191] Figure 41 shows a freezer bag 312 wrapped around a central cooling plate 313. An embodiment is shown. Cooling plates 314 are positioned at both ends of the central cooling plate 313. Rollers 315 move in a counterclockwise loop when mixing ice cream in the bag 312. A dispensing tube 316 extends from one end of the freezer bag. A storage tube inlet 317 extends from another end of the freezer bag 312. This arrangement allows for the use of a larger capacity freezer bag 312 in a smaller space. It also provides separation of liquid and frozen food mixtures.

[0068]

[0192] Figures 42A and 42B show the roller assembly 320 with roller 321 and An embodiment having a dispensing shoe 322 is shown. When the dispensing shoe 322 is in the first position shown in Figure 42A, the shoe presses the freezer bag (not shown) against the cooling plate 201. The dispensing shoe 322, together with the rollers 321, contacts the entire width of the freezer bag to assist dispensing as the roller assembly 320 moves down the cooling plate. When the dispensing shoe 322 is in the second position shown in Figure 42B, a gap 323 is created between the rollers 321, and the edible mixture passes through the gap 323. This allows the product to pass through and flow. Figure 43 shows a cutaway view of the roller assembly 320. Thus, as the roller assembly 320 moves upward and / or downward, the roller 321 rotates, and the shoe 322, in a first orientation of the shoe (Figure 42A), slides against the freezer bag pressed against the cooling plate 201 and is positioned to dispense the product from the freezer bag, and when the shoe is in a second orientation (Figure 42B), the food product is allowed to flow around the roller.

[0069]

[0193] Figures 44A and 44B show the dispensing shoe 324 with a freezer bag (not shown). An embodiment extending along the entire length is shown. The dispensing shoe 324 can be positioned in a first position (Figure 44A) during dispensing and in a second position (Figure 44B) during mixing by the roller 321. Figures 45A and 45B show enlarged detail views of the dispensing shoe 324 and roller 321, respectively.

[0070]

[0194] Many of the cooling plates shown in the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are known in the art. One or more of several types of coatings or surface treatments can be used. These can be used to reduce wear, friction, or the likelihood of ice forming and adhering to the cooling plate surface. For example, SurfTec's lcephobicr® coating can be used to reduce frost buildup on the cooling plate surface.

[0071]

[0195] It may be necessary to remove frost from the cooling plates. Moist air from the atmosphere. When gas leaks into the insulating space around the cooling plate, the cooling plate may become covered with frost. Many methods known in the art can be used to remove frost from the cooling plate. These include, but are not limited to, hot gas bypasses for vapor compression refrigeration, or electric resistance heaters on the cooling plate.

[0072]

[0196] The embodiments shown in Figures 25 to 27 above utilize a mechanism for kneading edible mixtures. Figures 46, 47A, and 47B show a modified example of the embodiment in Figures 25-27, in which a roller 350 is added to the mixing rod 210. Furthermore, the mixing rod 210 includes a substantially cylindrical roller 212, with one end of the roller 212 tapering. As described above, the roller may have a tapered end to reduce stress on the freezer bag at the roller edge. The additional roller 350 is used in conjunction with a peristaltic pump 354 that pumps the edible mixture in the liquid tube 263 to the freezer bag 203 adjacent to the cooling plate 202. The advantage of this is that a separate motor is not required to drive the peristaltic pump 354. To control the pumping action, the pump plates 352 and / or 353 can be made movable. Other means can also be devised to use the output of the mixing motor to drive the pump. For example, the drive shaft 217 (Figure 25) may house gears or other driving means for driving the pump. Optionally, a magnetic clutch can also be used to start and stop the pump.

[0073]

[0197] Figures 48 and 49A-49B show the dispensing tube 361 on top of the freezing bag 362. An embodiment of the bag system 360 located in or near the section is shown. In this arrangement, rollers (not shown) tend to move the mixture upward. This can be achieved by upward-moving rollers, by cooperatively moving horizontal rollers, or by other methods obvious to those skilled in the art. An air line 363 pressurizes the freezer bag 362 and the storage section bag 364. A liquid tube 365 is in fluid communication with the freezer bag 362 at an intermediate distance between the top and bottom. An air pocket located at the top of the freezer bag 362 brings the liquid level to the level at which the liquid tube 365 enters the freezer bag 362. The edible mixture becomes viscous when frozen. The viscosity of the frozen edible mixture 366 (Figure 49B) is high enough to suspend in the freezer bag 362 between the cooling plates 201, 202. This provides separation between the frozen mixture 366 and the liquid mixture 367. The action of the rollers causes the frozen mixture When the mixture 366 is pushed towards the top of the freezer bag, the liquid level in the freezer bag 362 drops. This allows more liquid to flow from the storage bag 364 to the freezer bag 361. This provides an automatic but passive means of moving the edible mixture from the storage bag 364 to the freezer bag 362.

[0074]

[0198] Another benefit of the embodiments shown in Figures 48 and 49A-49B is that liquid mixture 3 The objective is that when 67 enters the freezing bag 362, it is separated from the frozen mixture 366. As the roller moves upward, some of the liquid mixture 367 is pushed upward by the roller and begins to freeze on the cooling plate. This creates a shaved ice-like section 368, which tends to float on top of the liquid mixture 367 but is separated from the frozen mixture 366 by gravity. Thus, the new liquid mixture 367 does not dilute the frozen mixture 366 that is ready to be dispensed. In this embodiment and other embodiments, the action of the roller or other mixing method may inadvertently push the frozen mixture 366 into the liquid tube 365 or other tubes in the various embodiments described herein. This may cause blockage of the tube. A heating element or heating means 368 can be used to melt the frozen mixture in the tube and restore its openness. For convenience, the dispensing tube 361 is shown positioned approximately in the center at the top of the freezing bag 362. However, the dispensing tube can also be positioned along either end of the freezing bag 362 or along the edge of the freezing bag. The orientation of the dispensing tube 361 relative to the cooling plates 201, 202 can also be changed in a similar manner. The position of the dispensing tube can be orthogonal, parallel, or any other orientation relative to the cooling plates 201, 202, as convenient based on several design choices.

[0075]

[0199] Figure 50 shows a machine with a filling pump 371 and a dispensing pump or flow meter 372. An embodiment of the bag system 370 is shown. A communication means 373 (electronic communication, e.g., wire) is present between the filling pump 371 and the dispensing pump / flow meter 372. When the product is dispensed, the pump / flow meter 372 communicates how much has been dispensed into the filling pump 371. This allows the appropriate amount of liquid mixture to be delivered from the storage bag 374 to the freezing bag 375. The storage bag 374 may include, but is not limited to, sensors or sensing means 376 for sensing a wide range of physical parameters, including liquid level, pressure, temperature, weight, flow rate, color, and opacity. The freezing bag 375 may also include sensors or sensing means 377 that can sense the same or different parameters as the sensing means 376. A processing unit 378 can be used to collect information from the sensors or sensing means 376, 377 to control the operation of the machine.

[0076]

[0200] Some edible mixtures must be stirred to prevent the separation of components within the mixture. There are times when this is necessary. In conventional soft-serve ice cream machines, a motor-driven stirrer is used in the storage hopper. While such arrangements can be effective, they may require cleaning of components. In this disclosure, a stirrer or means for agitating the storage bag can be used to maintain the homogeneity of the mixture in the storage bag 381. One embodiment of such a system 380 is shown in Figures 51A and 51B. The storage bag 381 of the system 380 is placed on a surface or container 382 that is capable of vibrating around a pivot point 383. Numerous suitable methods are known in the art for causing movement of the container 382, ​​and thus providing the desired agitation of the mixture and preventing separation of the mixture components.

[0077]

[0201] Figures 52A and 52B show one method for stirring a liquid mixture in the storage section. As shown, a cam 390 is attached to a shaft such as shaft 218 in Figure 25. When the cam 390 rotates, as a result of the eccentric motion of the cam around the shaft centerline, one end of the storage bag platform 391 moves up and down, while the other end is attached to the pivot point 392. This causes the contents to be shaken around inside the bag, ensuring they are thoroughly mixed.

[0078]

[0202] Figure 53 shows one embodiment of another exemplary mixing / dispensing system 400 for edible mixtures. The configuration is shown. In particular, the system 400 uses multiple piezoelectric transducers 401 to generate ultrasonic vibrations, which are known in the art to be useful for agitating, mixing, homogenizing, and pumping fluids. In this case, the vibrations from the piezoelectric transducers 401 mix the edible mixture and prevent ice crystals from adhering to the walls of the freezer bag 402. Agitation also mixes air into the mixture. Generally, the transducers 401 can be controlled independently. By varying the operating sequence and intensity of the transducers 401, a pumping action can be achieved to move the edible mixture toward the dispensing end 403 of the freezer bag.

[0079]

[0203] Figure 25 shows one embodiment in which the cooling channel 204 is located within the cooling plates 201 and 202. Figure 54 shows a configuration 200. The cooling channel 204 is one of several useful methods for cooling the cooling plate. Figure 54 shows another cooling system 410 which is particularly advantageous. As with other embodiments disclosed herein, the cooling plate is housed in a refrigerated space 417 that is partially or completely sealed by insulating walls 411. Cooling coils 413 are used to keep the refrigerated space 417 at a desired low temperature. One or more secondary refrigeration systems are located on one or both cooling plates 414. Several types of systems can be used, but this embodiment shows a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) 412. The TEC 412 absorbs heat from the cooling plate 414 and heat (Q) into the refrigerated space 417. out) is blocked. In the refrigerated space 412, a circulation fan 418 can also be used to enhance convective heat transfer. The cooling plate 414 is typically cooled to a temperature below the temperature of the refrigerated space 412. This arrangement has several advantages. The TEC 412 is a solid-state cooling device with no moving parts. The cooling capacity of the TEC 412 is infinitely adjustable between maximum cooling and no cooling. By using multiple independently controllable TECs, it is easy to create different temperature intervals on the cooling plate. Since the TEC 412 requires only power to operate, it can be attached to the rest of the system by flexible wire. This makes it possible to easily move or remove the plate from the system for purposes such as loading, cleaning, and repair of food mixtures. The temperature of the cooling plate can be easily adjusted to optimize the temperature for different products. The temperature rise on the TEC 412 occurs only from the cooling plate 414 to the temperature of the refrigerated space 412, and there is no need to block heat from the surroundings. The TEC 412 can be used to provide all the cooling for the system. However, TEC412 may be highly inefficient, which would negate the benefits of the aforementioned configuration.

[0080]

[0204] Figure 55 shows an embodiment 420 similar to the embodiment in Figure 54, and the cooling plate 41 A heat pipe 415 is attached to or embedded in 4. Any number of heat pipe techniques known in the art can be used. The cooling plate 414 itself can also be constructed as a heat pipe. A heat pipe is a passive (unpowered) device with very efficient thermal conductivity. The heat pipe contains a liquid, which evaporates at the warm end and condenses at the cold end. Due to capillary action, the liquid returns to the warm end, absorbing more heat. As cold air 416 moves over the thermally insulated end of the heat pipe 415, it very quickly lowers the cooling plate 414 to approximately the same temperature as the cold air 416. As with embodiment 410 in Figure 54, no streamlines of coolant or refrigerant are directly attached to the cooling plate, which has the aforementioned advantages. While TEC 412 (Figure 54) or heat pipe 415 (Figure 55) are ideal for maintaining a desired temperature on the cooling plate, the system described is supposed to work by pure conduction between cold air and a cooling plate 414 made of a highly conductive material such as aluminum or copper. Typically, in such a configuration, fins would be used on the side of the cooling plate 414 that faces the refrigerated space 417.

[0081]

[0205] Conventional frozen confectionery machines typically produce one, two, or three items from a single machine. It is possible to supply multiple flavors. However, one- and two-flavor machines are the most common. Currently, very similar technology is used for machines that make soft serve ice cream products and frozen beverages or shakes. Although the technology for making soft serve ice cream and frozen beverages is similar, they are different enough that each requires a different machine. In addition, there is no way to convert a single-flavor machine to a two-flavor machine, and vice versa. A benefit of this disclosure is that the machine is configurable. This machine can be configured to supply a single flavor or multiple flavors. In addition, this machine can be configured to supply soft serve ice cream products, frozen beverages, or one or more of each. Referring to Figures 56A–56C, isometric views of exemplary embodiments of the frozen confectionery machine 430 are shown. The dispensing head 431 has a handle 432 that controls the flow of frozen confectionery. The dispensing head 431 is modular and movable. The frozen confectionery machine 430 can be converted by adding a second dispensing head 433, as shown in Figure 56B. This allows the machine to dispense and supply two flavors. A third dispensing head (not shown) can also be added in between to dispense a mixture of two flavors. Figure 56C shows a configuration in which the dispensing head 431 is moved to the lower end of the cooling plate. This configuration may be more ideal for dispensing frozen beverages and other frozen desserts with lower viscosity, and having the dispensing head near the top of the cooling plate may be more beneficial for soft serve ice cream products with higher viscosity. Figures 56A–56C show a cooling plate that is substantially parallel to the front of the machine. The cooling plate can also be positioned in other orientations. For example, the cooling plate can be perpendicular to the front of the machine. This should be particularly advantageous for multi-flavor machines.

[0082]

[0206] Figures 56A to 56C show the arrangement of freezer bags for system 430. Embodiments are shown in Figures 57A and 57B. Figure 57A shows how a first freezing bag 435 and a second freezing bag 436 can be used on a pair of cooling plates 437. The front cooling plate has been removed for better visibility. This is one option for a machine that can switch between single or multiple flavors. Freezing bags 435, 436 may have a dispensing tube 434 for dispensing a single flavor and a dispensing tube 439 for dispensing two flavors simultaneously or as a mixture. Figure 57B shows how a single freezing bag 438 can be used to supply a larger volume of a single flavor in the same machine.

[0083]

[0207] Figures 58A and 58B show that one or more flavors can be supplied. Front and side views of an alternative cooling plate arrangement for a machine are shown. The rear cooling plate 443 has a first side section 440, a second side section 441, and an intermediate section 442. The intermediate section 442 can be made of a thermally insulating material or simply an air gap. The temperatures of the first side section 440 and the second side section 441 can be controlled independently, which is useful when the frozen confectionery on both sides needs to be at different temperatures. The side view of Figure 58B shows a front cooling plate 444 divided similarly to the rear cooling plate 443.

[0084]

[0208] Figures 59A and 59B show the easy mounting of the freezer bag nozzle 450. An embodiment of the designed dispensing head is shown. The nozzle 450 is attached to a second side section 441 of the dispensing end of a freezer bag (not shown). The nozzle is a disposable plastic element permanently attached to the dispensing end 451. A rotating pin 454 (Figure 59B) allows the top plate 455 to swivel out of the way. The nozzle 450 and dispensing end 451 are positioned as shown. The top plate 455 is returned to its original position and the pin 454 is reinserted. The movement of the handle 453 causes the clamping leg 452 to move up and down. When the clamping leg 452 is lowered (Figure 59A), it clamps onto the dispensing end 451 and thus onto the edible mixture. This prevents the flow. When the clamping leg 452 is lifted (Figure 59B), the mixture can flow.

[0085]

[0209] Figure 60 shows one embodiment of a particularly advantageous bag system 460. Air line Pump 462 delivers air to the liquid line 463 coming from the storage bag 461. The pressure inside the storage bag 461 can be the ambient pressure or near it. In most embodiments, the storage bag 461 does not need to be a flexible container, but it should be noted that it is generally desirable that the storage bag 461 be made from a disposable material such as plastic film. It is also desirable that all tubing materials that come into contact with the edible mixture, such as the liquid line 463, be made from a similar low-cost plastic film. Although the storage bag 461 is shown positioned above the other components in the bag system, the bag can be placed above or below the other components at any position without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, although Figure 60 shows a sealed storage bag 461, the bag can also be open to the atmosphere or ventilated. Pump 470 is shown as a peristaltic pump and pumps the mixture of air and the edible mixture into the freezer bag 464. This pressurizes the freezer bag 464 with air (or other gas) to the edible mixture in the desired ratio. This also provides some pre-mixing of the air and edible mixture, which can help achieve the desired overrun. The pump 470 can be optimized to homogenize the air and edible mixture. When the storage bag 461 is at ambient pressure, the air line 462 delivered by the air compressor 465 only needs to achieve a low charge pressure because air is injected upstream of the pump 470. To prevent backflow from the freezer bag 464, an optional check valve 466, schematically shown, can be used. The pump 470 can also prevent backflow, thereby eliminating the need for the check valve 466. The pump 470 can optionally be operated in reverse to pump the edible mixture back from the freezer bag 464 to the storage bag 461. This can be useful in eliminating the waste of the edible mixture when it is time to replace the disposable freezer bag 464. An optional check valve 467 is provided within the air line 462. This prevents the edible mixture from entering the compressor 465.

[0086]

[0210] The bag system 460 shown in Figure 60 is used for soft serve ice cream and shaved ice-like beverages. It can be used. In the case of soft serve ice cream, a mixing roller (not shown) assists in dispensing the soft serve ice cream, and pump 470 adds additional mixture. Pump 470 generally cannot apply enough pressure to dispense the soft serve ice cream, or the required pressure may be high enough to rupture the tubing or any other components in the bag system 460. In the case of shaved ice-like beverages, as shown in certain embodiments, the low-viscosity mixture may flow over the roller, which is not very useful for dispensing. In this case, the pressure from pump 470 can be made sufficient to dispense the beverage. In the case of shaved ice, little to no overrun is required. In this case, the compressor 465 can be omitted. Air line 468 can also be used as an alternative to or in conjunction with air line 467. The pressure required to inject air in air line 468 is higher, but it has the advantage of allowing air to be added to the freezer bag 464 without adding any edible mixture.

[0087]

[0211] The bag system 460 in Figure 60 and other embodiments of the present disclosure are examples of applications. This may include surface treatments and material reinforcement to optimize performance. Many surface treatments are known in the art. For example, it may be desirable to have an anti-frost coating on the inner surface of a freezer bag to help remove ice crystals from the bag surface. Antimicrobial coatings for plastics are also known in the art. These coatings may be used on bag system components to increase the time required between bag system changes. This is possible. Optionally, the exterior of the freezer bag or other bag system components may have a surface coating of a low-friction material such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This should reduce friction between the bag and the rollers, with the aim of increasing bag life and reducing friction and wear on components within the machine.

[0088]

[0212] Liquid line 463 or freezer bag inlet line 469 or within the system It may be desirable to sense pressure at other locations. Pressure sensors in fluid communication with edible mixtures should be undesirable because they would need to be cleaned and disinfected or would need to be disposable. Figure 61 shows the pressure sensor 480 of the present invention fitted to the outside of a tube in a bag system. The tube 481 is held between a stationary member 482 and a movable member 483. The movable member 483 can move freely from side to side in Figure 61. A force 485 is applied to the movable member 483. The force can be generated, for example, from a spring. The tube 481 has high flexibility. Theoretically, the tube 481 is made from a plastic material, such as a freezer bag. The force 485 applied to the movable member 483 tends to deflate the tube 481, and the pressure in the tube 481 tends to expand the tube. The position of the movable member where these forces balance can be calibrated to indicate the pressure in the tube 481. A sensing member 484 measures the position of the movable member 483. The sensing element 484 can communicate the sensed pressure for display or system control.

[0089]

[0213] In the embodiments of this disclosure, the air compressor used to supply pressurized air is , it can be any type known in the art. The compressor itself does not come into contact with the food mixture, as it only comes into contact with air or other relatively clean gases and not with the food mixture, and therefore does not undergo periodic cleaning and disinfection. However, it may be even more advantageous that the air compressor is a peristaltic pump. Conventional peristaltic pumps require tubing that is rigid enough to maintain a typically circular shape while having some elasticity. In this disclosure, it is particularly advantageous to use the same material for the tubing as for the freezer bags and storage bags. One advantage is the very low cost of this tubing. Tubbing made from this material will remain flattened unless it expands due to higher internal pressure. This may make it unsuitable for use in peristaltic pumps. If the storage bag 461 (Figure 60) is placed above the pump 470, the hydrostatic pressure from the liquid food mixture will expand the tubing, making it possible to use the tubing with the peristaltic pump. If the storage bag 461 is below the pump 470 and / or the freezing bag 464, the storage bag can be pressurized using any of the means discussed above so that the pressure in the storage bag is higher than the ambient pressure. This causes the tubing to expand, allowing the peristaltic pump to function properly.

[0090]

[0214] Figures 62A to 62D show a combination of liquid and air tubing, and both are peristaltic pumps. The system 490 is shown, made available for use within a pump. An inner tube 496 is fitted inside a larger diameter outer tube 495. When there is no pressure in the inner tube 496, it remains collapsed, as shown in the bottom cross section of Figure 62B. When liquid 492 pressurizes the inner tube 496, the outer tube 495 partially expands (Figure 62C). When inserted into a peristaltic pump, both air 491 and liquid 492 (Figure 63) can be efficiently pumped. The front cross section of Figure 62D shows one method of injecting air 491 into the liquid line 496. A seal 496 is formed at one end of the air line 495. A hole 494 in the liquid line 496 provides a passage for air 491 to enter the liquid line 496 from the outer tube 495. The sealed end 493 and the hole end 494 are located downstream of the pump. One or more holes can be used to control the flow rate and pre-mixing of air and edible mixture.

[0091]

[0215] Figures 64A and 64B show how to easily install the freezer bags into the machine. An embodiment of a frozen confectionery machine 500 is shown. The front cooling plate 501 pivots forward on a hinge 502. A flexible tubing (not shown) cools the coolant tubing 503 through the cooling system. It connects to (not shown). The front cooling plate 501 rotates to provide space between the front cooling plate 501 and the rear cooling plate 504 to facilitate insertion of a freezer bag (not shown). Figure 64A shows the front cooling plate 501 in the open position for mounting. Figure 64B shows the front cooling plate 501 in the closed position for operating the machine.

[0092]

[0216] Figures 65A to 65H show how to mix and dispense frozen confectionery into freezer bags. The following are side views of several alternative embodiments. The alternative embodiment 510 shown in Figures 65A to 65D shows a divided cooling plate 511. The cooling plate sections 512 are independently movable left and right, as shown in Figures 65B and 65C. The coordinated movement of the sections 512 is used for mixing and dispensing the mixture. Figure 65D shows a front view of the divided cooling plate 511 with one possible arrangement of these sections. A second cooling plate 513 without sections is shown, but it can also be divided in the same way as plate 511.

[0093]

[0217] The alternative embodiment 515 shown in Figures 65E to 65G is attached to the first cooling plate 517. The attached deformable film 516 is shown. A ferromagnetic fluid 518 or magnetorheological fluid is contained between the film 516 and the first cooling plate 517. Ferromagnetic fluids and magnetorheological fluids are known in the art and contain nanoscale or microscale ferromagnetic particles in a carrier fluid. The ferromagnetic fluid can be molded, deformed, and moved by the appropriate application of a magnetic field. The ferromagnetic fluid is preferably cooled by the cooling plate 517. As shown in Figures 65F and 65G, the application of a magnetic field (not shown) can cause a bulge 519 within the film 516. The movement of the magnetic field is used to move the bulge 519 upward for kneading and dispensing an edible mixture. The bulge 519 can extend to a portion of the width of the cooling plates 517, 520, which is ideal for kneading. The bulge 519 can also extend to the full width of the cooling plates 517, 520 for dispensing. The movement of a magnetic field can be achieved by moving a permanent magnet, distorting the magnetic field using an intermediate material, using an electromagnet, or a combination of these.

[0094]

[0218] Figure 65H shows an alternative embodiment 5 similar to embodiment 515 in Figures 65E to 65G. The diagram shows 30. The deformable film 531 is divided into separate fluid chambers 532. Each fluid chamber 532 is in fluid communication with a port 533 in the cooling plate 534. The port 533 is used to fill or empty the fluid chambers 532 with cooling fluid. The fluid can be a liquid, a gas, or a two-phase fluid, but is preferably a liquid. Using independent control of the filling of each fluid chamber, ridges 535 or other shapes are formed within the film 531 for the purpose of kneading and dispensing edible mixtures.

[0095]

[0219] The arrangement in Figures 57A and 57B is a machine that can switch between a single flavor and two flavors. An exemplary frozen confectionery machine is shown. In such a machine, it would be desirable that the same configuration of mixing rollers work for both single-flavor and two-flavor settings. Figures 66A and 66B show a roller configuration that works for both single-flavor and two-flavor settings. The inner roller 541 is used together with the outer roller 542. The roller conveyor system shown in Figures 66A and 66B should generally include three or more roller bars 545. However, for convenience, only two are shown. When the shown roller setup is used with a small frozen bag 543 (Figure 66A) or a large frozen bag 544 (Figure 66B), the rollers 541, 542 cover all parts of the frozen bag. However, the roller setup for each roller bar 545 does not cover the entire width of the frozen bag 543, 544, as such an arrangement should prevent the edible mixture from flowing around the rollers during the mixing and freezing process if necessary.

[0096]

[0220] Therefore, regarding the stirring of food mixtures inside a freezer bag, This has been described herein as being performed on the outside. However, the mixture is stirred and small To achieve a suitable ice crystal size and overrun, low-cost, disposable elements can also be inserted into the freezer bag. Figure 67 shows one such internal stirring system 550. A storage bag 551 is fitted into a substantially tubular freezer bag 552. The freezer bag 552 is supported by a cooling tube 555 that cools and freezes the edible mixture. A mixing rod 553 fits inside the freezer bag 552. The mixing rod 553 is made from injection-molded plastic and is therefore low-cost and disposable. Other low-cost materials and manufacturing methods can also be used. An air line 554 is used to introduce air into the edible mixture. The mixing rod 553 has a helical or other geometric shape so that as the rod rotates, it mixes and pushes the edible mixture downwards. The edible mixture exits from a dispensing end 556 of the freezer bag 552. A pump 557 can be used to assist with dispensing.

[0097]

[0221] Figures 68A to 68D show a mixing roller having a piezoelectric actuator 568. Replacing the rod 561, the piezoelectric actuator 568 shows an alternative arrangement 560 that generates ultrasonic vibrations in the mixing rod. The mixing rod 561 fits between the cooling plates 562 and 563. The freezer bag 564 is also located between the cooling plates 562 and 563. The mixing rod 561 contacts the freezer bag 564, as shown in Figure 68A. The ultrasonic vibrations from the actuator 568 agitate the edible mixture in the vicinity 565 of the mixing rod 561. This agitation removes ice crystals from the freezer bag 564 and moves the unfrozen mixture to the surface of the freezer bag. Because the ultrasonic vibrations from the actuator 568 are provided by the mixing action, the mixing rod 561 does not need to clamp the freezer bag 564 so that there is no gap between the two sides of the freezer bag 564. The gap 566 present at the location of the mixing rod 561 within the freezing bag 564 allows the edible mixture to flow over the mixing rod 561 as the mixing rod 561 moves across the freezing bag 564. Thus, the mixing rod 561 can extend across the entire width of the freezing plates 562 and 563, as shown in Figure 68C. When it is time to dispense the product, the mixing rod 561 is moved to one side so that the gap 566 is eliminated, as shown in Figure 68B. The arrangement of the system 560 shown in Figures 68A to 68D has several advantages over rollers. For example, mixing of liquid and frozen edible mixtures is reduced, a reliable dispensing method is provided that eliminates the need for a dispensing pump, and allows for the dispensing of both soft serve and shaved ice-like beverages.

[0098]

[0222] The end user of the embodiment of the frozen confectionery machine of the invention disclosed herein is a bag system There is a possibility that components may be used beyond their recommended lifespan. This could result in component breakage or allow sufficient time to pass for pathogens to reach unacceptable levels in the food mixture. Additionally, unauthorized counterfeit bag system components may be used within the frozen confectionery machine. To avoid these scenarios, Figure 69 shows a system having a storage bag 570 with an encrypted code 571. Similarly, a freezer bag 572 may also have an encrypted code 573. Other bag system components may have similar codes. Codes 572, 573 can be physically attached to the bag system components, made removable, or provided pre-installed on the components. The encrypted codes may use any encryption means known in the art (or may not be encrypted at all), and the information may be stored by any means known in the art. Examples include, but are not limited to, visible marks (machine or human-readable), barcodes, QR codes (registered trademarks), and / or RFID tags. In such implementations, one or more data storage methods may be active or passive. The frozen confectionery machine includes one or more sensors 574 or methods that communicate encrypted information to the processing unit 575 of the frozen confectionery machine. The processing unit 575 determines whether the bag system components are acceptable for use in the machine. The processing unit 575 is also configured to track other parameters within the machine, such as the total time that various bag system components have been used. The processing unit 575 determines whether the bag system components are acceptable for use in the machine. It is further configured to notify the user when it is time to replace the component.

[0099]

[0223] It is not limited to these, but also includes weight, temperature, pressure, speed, torque, and position. Numerous methods are known in the art that can be used with the frozen confectionery machine of the present invention to sense various physical parameters, such as position, orientation, volume or mass flow rate, current, and power. All or part of this information may be processed, actuated, displayed, logged, and transmitted. This can be achieved by electrical, mechanical, or other means known in the art. For example, a sensor that measures the weight of the storage bag can be used to determine if the storage bag is insufficient, and this information can be transmitted to a mobile device to notify the user.

[0100]

[0224] Figures 70A to 70C show a roller system for stirring and dispensing edible mixtures. A partial assembly of the 580 is shown. The roller system operates similarly to embodiment 200 in Figure 25, but has additional features to improve dispensing. Referring to Figure 70, the outer diameter of the dispensing roller 581 is smaller than the outer diameter of the stirring roller 582. The dispensing roller extends across the entire width of the cooling plate 584 and the freezing bag (not shown). An inner guide rail 585 controls the distance between the stirring roller 582 and the cooling plate 584. Typically, the stirring roller 582 is very close to the cooling plate 584, and the freezing bag is clamped between the stirring roller 582 and the cooling plate 584, as previously described. An outer guide rail 583 controls the distance between the dispensing roller 581 and the cooling plate 584. When the guide rail 583 is in the first dispensing position (Figure 70B), the roller 581 is separated from the cooling plate 584. For example, the space between the dispensing roller 581 and the cooling plate 584 can be approximately 0.3175 cm (1 / 8 inch) to 5.08 cm (2 inches). This allows the food mixture to flow between the dispensing roller 581 and the cooling plate 584. When the guide rail 583 is in the second position (Figure 70C), the dispensing roller 581 is very close to the cooling plate 584. Therefore, as the dispensing roller 581 moves toward the dispensing end of the freezer bag, the food mixture is pushed toward the dispensing end and extruded from the dispensing nozzle. Although only two positions of the outer guide rail 583 and the dispensing roller 581 are shown, it should be noted that in reality many positions can exist between them, and there are other advantages to this. For example, when the freezer bag is relatively full with frozen food mixture, it may be desirable to maintain some clearance between the dispensing roller 581 and the cooling plate 584 to prevent dispensing from occurring too quickly or exceeding the pressure limit of the freezer bag. Furthermore, the outer guide rail 583 does not have to extend along the entire length of the cooling plate 584, or it can be divided in various ways, so that the distance between the dispensing roller 581 and the cooling plate 584 can vary along the length of the cooling plate. For example, when preparing to dispense a frozen food mixture, it may be desirable for the dispensing roller 581 to be close to the cooling plate 584 only at the edges of the cooling plate.The outer guide rails 583 in Figures 70B to 70C are shown moving together, but they can optionally move independently to produce a specific desired action. The inner guide rail 585 is shown stationary, but it can also be made movable to produce a specific desired action. Figures 70A to 70C show only one dispensing roller 581 and one stirring roller 582, but as described above in the embodiments, multiple rollers of either and other types may be included.

[0101]

[0225] A method for securing the freezer bag 590 is shown in Figure 71. The loop-shaped upper end 591 receives the upper rod 593, which is supported by a spring 594. The loop-shaped lower end 595 of the freezer bag 592 receives the lower rod 596, which is supported by a restraint 597.

[0102]

[0226] Figures 72A and 72B show alternative freezer bag systems 600. The bag 602 is connected to the bypass pipe 601, the outlet pipe 603, the inlet pipe 604, the return pipe 605, and It has a dispensing tube 606. A roller 607 or any of the aforementioned types of physical elements moves upward in this figure, pushing all or part of the edible mixture into the outlet tube 603 and bypass line 601. As shown in Figure 72A, when the bypass valve 608 and dispensing valve 609 are in the first position, the dispensing valve 609 is closed and the bypass valve 608 is open. In this case, the edible mixture flows back into the freezer bag 602 through the return tube 605. It is shown that the return tube 605 enters the freezer bag above the liquid level 610 of the edible mixture. This has certain desirable effects, such as preventing the freezer mixture from mixing with the liquid mixture. However, the return tube 605 could also be placed in other positions, such as below the liquid edible mixture level 610, which also has certain advantages. As shown in Figure 72B, when the bypass valve 608 and the dispensing valve 609 are in the second position, the edible mixture exits the dispensing tube 606 and is prevented from entering the freezer bag 602 by the return tube 605.

[0103]

[0227] The specific features of the embodiments of this disclosure are shown in several drawings, rather than elsewhere. However, this is for convenience only, and according to this disclosure, several features can be combined with any or all other features. Other embodiments can also be conceived by those skilled in the art and are within the scope of the following claims.

[0104]

[0228] This description explains the disclosure, including its best form, Examples are used so that a person skilled in the art can implement and use this disclosure. Other examples conceivable to a person skilled in the art are also intended to be within the scope of this disclosure if they have structural elements that are not different from the same concept, or if they contain structurally equivalent elements that are little different.

[0105]

[0229] Exemplary embodiments have been described with reference to preferred embodiments. A detailed reading and understanding of the description will make it clear that modifications and changes may also be conceived. The exemplary embodiments are intended to be construed as including all such modifications and changes, insofar as they fall within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents.

[0106]

[0230] To assist the Patent Office and any reader of this application and any resulting patents in interpreting the claims attached herein, the applicant does not intend to apply Section 112(f) of the Patent Act to any of the attached claims or claim elements unless the phrase “means for” or “step for” is expressly used in a particular claim. (1) According to a first aspect of the present invention, a frozen confectionery apparatus comprises at least one container configured to receive a related edible mixture, at least one physical element arranged to agitate the related edible mixture received in the container, and a cooling element for cooling the related edible mixture. (2) According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the at least one container is flexible. (3) According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the second aspect, the at least one flexible container is sized to hold two or more servings of the associated food mixture. (4) According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the second or third aspect, the flexible container has a dispensing tube. (5) According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the second aspect, the at least one physical element interacts with at least a portion of the surface of the flexible container to provide stirring. (6) According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the fifth aspect, the width of the at least one physical element is smaller than the width of the flexible container, and a flow passage exists from the front to the end of the physical element so that the associated edible mixture can flow through the flexible container. (7) According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in any of the first, second, and fifth aspects, the physical element is configured to cause stirring of the relevant food mixture on or near the inner surface of the container to remove at least partially the frozen food mixture. (8) According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in a seventh aspect, the physical element is configured such that the relevant edible mixture on or near the inner surface of the container mixes with the relevant edible mixture located away from the inner surface of the container. (9) According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, in the seventh or eighth aspect, the physical element is configured to change the flow direction to the associated edible mixture. (10) According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in a sixth aspect, the flexible container further includes a dispensing tube, and when the dispensing tube is closed, the flow passage allows the associated edible mixture to flow around the physical element. (11) According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in a fifth aspect, the at least one physical element is configured to selectively contact the entire width of the flexible container or a portion of the width of the flexible container. (12) According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in a fifth aspect, the at least one physical element is configured to contact the entire width of the flexible container and has the features to allow the flow of the associated edible mixture through the features of the physical element. (13) According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in a twelfth aspect, the feature is a dispensing shoe configured to prevent the flow of the associated edible mixture. (14) According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in a fifth aspect, the at least one physical element comprises a plurality of rollers, the plurality of rollers being spaced apart to allow the flow of the associated edible mixture around the plurality of rollers. (15) According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the fifth aspect further comprises a control mechanism that is operable to move the physical element. (16) According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the fifteenth aspect, the control mechanism includes a motor. (17) According to a 17th aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, a pump is further provided which is located adjacent to the dispensing tube of the flexible container. (18) According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in a second aspect, the flexible container is configured to be pressurized with a liquid or a gas. (19) According to a 19th aspect of the present invention, in a second 19th aspect, a first support structure and a second support structure are further provided, wherein the flexible container is structurally supported between the first support structure and the second support structure. (20) According to a 20th aspect of the present invention, in the 19th aspect, at least one of the support structures is movable, removable or adjustable. (21) According to the 21st aspect of the present invention, in the 19th aspect, the support structure forms at least one of the physical elements. (22) According to the 22nd aspect of the present invention, in the 19th aspect, at least one of the support structures is a heat absorbing element. (23) According to the 23rd aspect of the present invention, in the 18th aspect, the flexible container is in thermal contact with the first and second cooling plates. (24) According to a 24th aspect of the present invention, the second aspect further comprises a storage section configured to contain the related edible mixture, wherein the storage section is in fluid communication with the flexible container to allow the flow of the related edible mixture from the storage section to the flexible container. (25) According to a 25th aspect of the present invention, in a second aspect, the at least one flexible container comprises a plurality of flexible containers, each of which is configured to contain a relevant edible mixture. (26) According to a 26th aspect of the present invention, the 25th aspect further comprises a dispensing mechanism configured to enable selective dispensing from at least one of the at least one flexible containers. (27) According to a 27th aspect of the present invention, in a 26th aspect, the dispensing mechanism includes a valve or pump unit on one or more of the flexible containers. (28) According to a 28th aspect of the present invention, in a second aspect, the refrigeration system is operably attached to the flexible container, and the associated edible mixture has a first end of the flexible container with a higher viscosity (or freezes) and a lower viscosity (does not freeze as much), and a second end of the flexible container. (29) According to the 29th aspect of the present invention, in any of the first to third and fifth aspects, the physical element is configured to move from the first end of the container to the second end. (30) According to the 30th aspect of the present invention, in any of the first to third and fifth aspects, the contact pressure or displacement of the physical element to the surface of the flexible container is controlled. (31) According to the 31st aspect of the present invention, in the 28th aspect, the first end of the flexible container is an inlet, and the second end of the flexible container, separated from the first end, is an outlet. (32) According to the 32nd aspect of the present invention, in the 28th aspect, the first end of the flexible container is attached below the second end. (33) According to the 33rd aspect of the present invention, in the 32nd aspect, the relevant edible mixture having high viscosity adheres to the second end of the flexible container, and the relevant edible mixture having low viscosity falls toward the first end of the flexible container by gravity. (34) According to the 34th aspect of the present invention, in the 28th aspect, a physical element separates the first end of the flexible container from the second end. (35) According to the 35th aspect of the present invention, in the fifth aspect, the flexible container is divided into separate compartments. (36) According to the 36th aspect of the present invention, in the 35th aspect, the separate compartments include a storage section, a freezer, a pumping section, and a dispensing section. (37) According to the 37th aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the cooling element includes a cooling fluid. (38) According to the 38th aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the cooling element includes a solid cooling element. (39) According to the 39th aspect of the present invention, in the 38th aspect, the solid cooling element is frost-proof, wear-resistant, or otherwise coated. (40) According to a forty-thorough aspect of the present invention, the thirty-eighth aspect further comprises means for removing frost from the solid cooling element. (41) According to the 41st aspect of the present invention, in the 38th aspect, the solid cooling element is cooled by a fluid, a heat pipe, or a thermoelectric cooler. (42) According to a forty-second aspect of the present invention, in a twenty-fourth aspect, the storage section has an inlet for receiving a liquid or gas and an outlet communicating with the flexible container. (43) According to the 43rd aspect of the present invention, in the 24th aspect, the storage section is pressurized with a liquid or gas. (44) The apparatus according to claim 24, wherein, in the 44th aspect of the present invention, the outer surface of the storage section is compressed in the 24th aspect. (45) According to a forty-fifth aspect of the present invention, in a second aspect, the flexible container includes a plurality of inlets and a plurality of outlets. (46) According to the 46th aspect of the present invention, in the 24th aspect, the flexible container and the storage section are formed from a pressurized, disposable, non-elastic flexible material. (47) According to the 47th aspect of the present invention, in the second or 24th aspect, a gas compressor is further provided for pressurizing at least one of the storage section and the flexible container. (48) According to the 48th aspect of the present invention, the 47th aspect further comprises a gas storage section disposed between the compressor, the storage section, and the flexible container. (49) According to the 49th aspect of the present invention, in the 24th aspect, the outer surface of the storage section is configured to mechanically stir the associated food mixture. (50) According to a 50th aspect of the present invention, in a 24th aspect, the storage section is configured to be stirred to mix the related edible mixture. (51) According to a 51st aspect of the present invention, in a first embodiment, the apparatus is configured to freeze and dispense one or more related food mixtures. (52) According to a 52nd aspect of the present invention, in a second aspect, at least one of the storage section or the flexible container includes a readable code. (53) According to a 53rd aspect of the present invention, in a 52nd aspect, the readable code of the flexible container includes one of human-readable, machine-readable, passive and / or active, encrypted and / or unencrypted information. (54) According to a 54th aspect of the present invention, in a 52nd aspect, the readable code of the storage unit includes one of human-readable, machine-readable, passive and / or active, encrypted and / or unencrypted information. (55) In a 55th embodiment of the present invention, in the first embodiment, the cooling element is divided into different cooling or temperature intervals. (56) According to the 56th aspect of the present invention, in the 24th aspect, the flexible container is initially empty when it is received into the frozen confectionery apparatus. (57) According to a 57th aspect of the present invention, in a 24th aspect, the storage unit has one or more inlets for receiving the relevant edible mixture or gas. (58) According to a 58th aspect of the present invention, in a 24th aspect, the storage unit has one or more outlets for releasing the associated food mixture or gas. (59) According to a 59th aspect of the present invention, in a second aspect, the flexible container has one or more inlets for receiving the relevant edible mixture or gas. (60) According to a 60th aspect of the present invention, in a second aspect, the flexible container has one or more outlets for releasing the associated edible mixture or gas. (61) According to a 61st aspect of the present invention, in a fourth aspect, the dispensing tube has one or more inlets for receiving the relevant edible mixture or gas. (62) According to a 62nd aspect of the present invention, in a fourth aspect, the dispensing tube has one or more outlets for releasing the associated edible mixture or gas. (63) According to the 63rd aspect of the present invention, in the 24th aspect, the passage for fluid communication is positioned between the upper and lower ends of the flexible container so as to define the liquid level in the flexible container. (64) According to the 64th aspect of the present invention, in the 24th aspect, the passage for fluid communication between the storage section and the flexible container has one or more flow passages for an inlet and an outlet. (65) According to 65 aspects of the present invention, in any of the second, fourth, 24, 31, 42, 43, 44, and 45 aspects, a fluid passage, inlet, or outlet houses a check valve for allowing flow in a first direction and obstructing flow in a second direction. (66) According to the 66th aspect of the present invention, in the 65th aspect, the check valve is constructed of a tubular flexible material, wherein a first pipe of a first expansion diameter is inserted into a second pipe of a second expansion diameter for a certain distance, and the diameter of the second pipe is larger than the diameter of the first pipe, so that when a fluid is pushed into the first pipe by differential pressure, the first and second pipes expand due to the differential pressure, allowing for a relatively unobstructed flow, and when a fluid is pushed into the second pipe by differential pressure, the portion of the first pipe inserted into the second pipe deflates due to the differential pressure, so that the flow is obstructed. (67) According to the 67th aspect of the present invention, in a second aspect, the holding feature holds the flexible container in a fixed position within the frozen confectionery machine. (68) According to the 68th aspect of the present invention, in the fifth aspect, the physical element has a corresponding peristaltic element for contacting at least a portion of the tube attached to the flexible container so as to affect the pumping action. (69) According to the 69th aspect of the present invention, in the 16th embodiment, the motor drives the pump. (70) According to the 70th aspect of the present invention, in the 16th aspect, the motor drives the gas compressor. (71) According to the 71st aspect of the present invention, in the 16th aspect, the motor drives the storage section agitator. (72) According to a 72nd aspect of the present invention, in a second embodiment, sensing, control, and communication are used together for the automation of machine operation or for other purposes. (73) According to a 73rd aspect of the present invention, in a fifth aspect, the physical element includes an ultrasonic transducer. (74) According to a 74th aspect of the present invention, in a fifth aspect, the physical element includes an ultrasonic transducer. (75) According to a 75th aspect of the present invention, in the 19th aspect, the support structure includes an ultrasonic transducer. (76) According to the 76th aspect of the present invention, in a second aspect, the outer surface of the flexible container, storage section, or any pipe material attached to the flexible container or storage section is deflected by a force acting on the movable member, and the amount of deflection is calibrated so as to measure the internal fluid pressure. (77) According to the 77th aspect of the present invention, in the 24th aspect, a pump and a gas inlet are further provided in a fluid passage between the flexible container and the storage section, the fluid passage delivers liquid or gas together or individually into the flexible container inlet. (78) According to the 78th aspect of the present invention, in the 77th aspect, the inlet of the flexible container is located at the liquid end of the flexible container, and the dispensing tube is located at the freezing end of the flexible container. (79) According to the 79th aspect of the present invention, in the 77th aspect, the pump is a peristaltic pump. (80) According to the 80th aspect of the present invention, in the 79th aspect, the peristaltic pump is configured to pump liquids and gases. (81) According to the 81st aspect of the present invention, in the 80th aspect, a tubular member is constructed from a tubular flexible material, a first tube having a first expansion diameter is inserted into a second tube having a second expansion diameter, the second tube having a larger diameter than the first tube, the second tube being sealed at one end but allowing the first tube to pass through, one or more holes in the first tube facing the sealed end of the second tube, so that fluid communication is established between the first tube and the second tube, and the first tube expands At this time, a fluid volume is formed between the first pipe and the second pipe, the peristaltic element clamps the first pipe and the second pipe together, the peristaltic element moves toward the sealed end of the second pipe, pushing the fluid in the first pipe toward the sealed end of the second pipe and beyond the sealed end of the second pipe, the fluid in the second pipe pushed by the peristaltic element moves toward the sealed end of the second pipe and further enters the first pipe through the hole in the first pipe. (82) According to the 82nd aspect of the present invention, in the fifth aspect, the physical element is a deformable film. (83) According to the 83rd aspect of the present invention, in the 19th aspect, at least one support structure is constructed from a movable section for influencing the simultaneous or individual stirring and dispensing of the edible mixture. (84) According to the 84th aspect of the present invention, in the 25th aspect, the physical element is arranged to be in contact with one or more of the flexible containers. (85) According to an 85th aspect of the present invention, in a first aspect, one or more dispensing devices are modular, which allows the frozen confectionery machine to be configured for one or more flavors of frozen confectionery or one or more types of frozen confectionery. (86) According to the 86th aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the invention comprises a cylindrical cooling element, a removable container fitted to the cylindrical cooling element, a storage section having fluid communication with the removable container at its inlet end, a dispensing tube fitted to the removable container at its outlet end, and an auger positioned inside the removable container to agitate an edible mixture. (87) According to an 87th aspect of the present invention, a method for making frozen confectionery is a method for making frozen confectionery using a frozen confectionery apparatus that receives an edible mixture, comprising the steps of: providing at least one container configured to contain the edible mixture; stirring the edible mixture in the container; providing a cooling element for freezing the edible mixture; and dispensing the frozen edible mixture from the apparatus. (88) According to the 88th aspect of the present invention, in the 87th aspect, the step of providing the at least one container includes forming the container from a flexible material. (89) According to the 89th aspect of the present invention, the 87th aspect further includes the step of dispensing a plurality of supplies from the edible mixture. (90) According to the 90th aspect of the present invention, in the 88th aspect, the step of stirring the edible mixture includes bringing at least a portion of the surface of the flexible container into contact with at least one physical element. (91) According to a 91st aspect of the present invention, a 90th aspect further includes the step of creating a flow passage from the tip of the physical element to the end of the physical element, thereby enabling the flow of the edible mixture within the flexible container. (92) According to a 92nd aspect of the present invention, the 91st aspect further includes the step of providing the at least one physical element having a width smaller than the width of the flexible container. (93) According to a 93rd aspect of the present invention, in a 91st aspect, a dispensing tube is provided on the flexible container, and when the dispensing tube is closed, the edible mixture is flowed through the flow passage around the at least one physical element. (94) According to a 94th aspect of the present invention, a 90th aspect further includes the step of changing the direction of the flow of the edible mixture by the at least one physical element. (95) According to a 95th aspect of the present invention, the 90th aspect further includes the step of selectively bringing the entire width or a portion of the width of the flexible container into contact with the at least one physical element. (96) According to a 96th aspect of the present invention, a 90th aspect further includes the step of bringing the entire width of the flexible container into contact with the at least one physical element and forming a feature on the at least one physical element that allows the edible mixture to flow. (97) According to a 97th aspect of the present invention, in a 96th aspect, the feature formed on the at least one physical element is a dispensing shoe, further comprising the step of selectively preventing the flow of the edible mixture through the dispensing shoe. (98) According to the 98th aspect of the present invention, in the 97th aspect, a dispensing tube is provided on the flexible container, and when the dispensing tube is closed, the edible mixture is flowed through the dispensing shoe of the at least one physical element. (99) According to a 99th aspect of the present invention, in a 90th aspect, the at least one physical element further comprises a plurality of spaced rollers, and the step of flowing the edible mixture around the plurality of spaced rollers. (100) According to a 100th aspect of the present invention, in a 90th aspect, the step of moving the at least one physical element from a first end to a second end of the flexible container is further included. (101) According to a 101st aspect of the present invention, a 100th aspect further includes the step of using gravity to cause the highly viscous portion of the edible mixture to adhere to the second end of the flexible container and the less viscous portion of the edible mixture to fall to the first end of the flexible container. (102) According to a 102nd aspect of the present invention, the 100th aspect further includes the step of separating the first and second ends of the flexible container by a physical element. (103) According to a 103rd aspect of the present invention, in a 90th aspect, the step of controlling the contact pressure or displacement of the at least one physical element to the flexible container further includes. (104) According to the 104th aspect of the present invention, the 90th aspect further includes the step of dividing the flexible container into separate compartments. (105) According to a 105th aspect of the present invention, in a 104th aspect, the separate compartments include forming at least one of a storage room, a freezer room, a pumping room, and a dispensing room. (106) According to the 106th aspect of the present invention, in the 88th aspect, the step of stirring the edible mixture includes removing at least a partially frozen portion of the edible mixture from or near the inner surface of the flexible container. (107) According to the 107th aspect of the present invention, the 106th aspect further includes the step of mixing the edible mixture, which is located on or near the inner surface of the flexible container, with the edible mixture, which is located away from the inner surface of the flexible container. (108) According to the 108th aspect of the present invention, the 88th aspect further includes the step of providing a pump located adjacent to the dispensing of the flexible container. (109) According to the 109th aspect of the present invention, the 88th aspect further includes the step of pressurizing the flexible container with a liquid or gas. (110) According to the 110th aspect of the present invention, the 88th aspect further includes the step of structurally supporting the flexible container between a first support structure and a second support structure. (111) According to a 111th aspect of the present invention, in a 110th aspect, the step of supporting the flexible container by the first and second support structures includes moving, removing or adjusting at least one of the support structures. (112) According to a 112th aspect of the present invention, in a 110th aspect, the step of mechanically stirring the edible mixture includes bringing at least a portion of the surface of the flexible container into contact with the first and second support structures. (113) According to a 113th aspect of the present invention, in a 110th aspect, the step of supporting the flexible container by one or both of the first and second support structures includes using a cooling plate as the support structure. (114) According to the 114th aspect of the present invention, the 113th aspect further includes the step of bringing the flexible container into thermal contact with the first and second cooling plates. (115) According to the 115th aspect of the present invention, in the 88th aspect, a storage section is provided which is in fluid communication with the flexible container and configured to contain the edible mixture, and the step of flowing the edible mixture from the storage section to the flexible container is further included. (116) According to the 116th aspect of the present invention, the 115th aspect further includes providing the storage section with an outlet to the flexible container and an inlet for receiving a liquid or gas. (117) According to the 117th aspect of the present invention, the 115th aspect further includes the step of pressurizing the storage section with a liquid or gas. (118) According to the 118th aspect of the present invention, the 117th aspect further includes the step of pressurizing the storage section with a gas compressor. (119) According to the 119th aspect of the present invention, the 115th aspect further includes the step of compressing the outer surface of the storage section. (120) According to the 120th aspect of the present invention, the 115th aspect further includes the step of mechanically stirring the edible mixture on the outer surface of the storage section. (121) According to the 121st aspect of the present invention, the 115th aspect further includes the step of stirring the edible mixture to mix the edible mixture in the storage section. (122) According to the 122nd aspect of the present invention, the 115th aspect further includes the step of providing a human or machine-readable identifier in the storage unit. (123) According to the 123rd aspect of the present invention, the 88th aspect further includes the step of providing a human or machine-readable identifier to the flexible container. (124) According to the 124th aspect of the present invention, the 88th aspect further includes the step of continuously freezing and dispensing one or more edible mixtures. (125) According to the 125th aspect of the present invention, the 87th aspect further includes the step of dividing the cooling element into different cooling or temperature intervals. (126) According to the 126th aspect of the present invention, the 87th aspect further includes the step of providing a plurality of flexible containers configured to contain the edible mixture. (127) According to the 127th aspect of the present invention, the 126th aspect further includes the step of selectively dispensing the edible mixture from one or more flexible containers. (128) According to the 128th aspect of the present invention, in the 127th aspect, the selective dispensing step includes selective dispensing from a valve or pump unit on one or more of the flexible containers. (129) According to the 129th aspect of the present invention, in the 87th aspect, the cooling element is a fluid or a solid. (130) According to the 130th aspect of the present invention, in the 129th aspect, the cooling element is solid, and further comprises the step of covering the cooling element with a frost-proof or wear-resistant coating. (131) According to the 131st aspect of the present invention, in the 129th aspect, the cooling element is solid, and the further step includes providing means for removing frost from the solid cooling element. (132) According to the 132nd aspect of the present invention, in the 129th aspect, the cooling element is solid, and the step of cooling the solid cooling element by a fluid, a heat pipe, or a thermoelectric cooler is further included. (133) According to the 133rd aspect of the present invention, in the 115th aspect, the storage unit further comprises the step of providing one or more inlets for receiving the relevant edible mixture or gas. (134) According to the 134th aspect of the present invention, in the 115th aspect, the storage section further includes the step of providing one or more outlets for releasing the associated edible mixture or gas. (135) According to the 135th aspect of the present invention, in the 88th aspect, the step of providing the flexible container with one or more inlets for receiving the associated edible mixture or gas is further included. (136) According to the 136th aspect of the present invention, in the 88th aspect, the step of providing the flexible container with one or more outlets for releasing the associated edible mixture or gas is further included. (137) According to the 137th aspect of the present invention, in the 93rd aspect, the step of providing the dispensing tube with one or more inlets for receiving the associated edible mixture or gas is further included. (138) According to the 138th aspect of the present invention, in the 93rd aspect, the step of providing the dispensing tube with one or more outlets for releasing the associated edible mixture or gas is further included. (139) According to the 139th aspect of the present invention, the 87th aspect further includes the step of arranging a passage for fluid communication between the upper and lower ends of the flexible container so as to define the liquid level in the flexible container. (140) According to the 140th aspect of the present invention, in the 139th aspect, the step of providing one or more flow passages for an inlet and an outlet in the passage for fluid communication between the storage section and the flexible container is further included. (141) According to a 141st aspect of the present invention, a 140th aspect further includes providing a check valve at the fluid passage, inlet, or outlet to allow flow in a first direction and to obstruct flow in a second direction. (142) According to the 142nd aspect of the present invention, in the 141st aspect, the check valve is constructed from a tubular flexible material, and a first pipe having a first expansion diameter is inserted into a second pipe having a second expansion diameter at a certain distance apart, and the diameter of the second pipe is larger than the diameter of the first pipe, so that when fluid is pushed into the first pipe by differential pressure, the first and second pipes expand due to the differential pressure, allowing for a relatively unobstructed flow, and when fluid is pushed into the second pipe by differential pressure, the portion of the first pipe inserted into the second pipe deflates due to the differential pressure, so that the flow is obstructed. (143) According to the 143rd aspect of the present invention, the 88th aspect further includes the step of providing a holding feature for holding the flexible container in a fixed position within the frozen confectionery machine. (144) According to the 144th aspect of the present invention, in the 88th aspect, the physical element further includes the step of providing a relevant peristaltic element to contact at least a portion of a tube attached to the flexible container so as to affect the pumping action. (145) According to the 145th aspect of the present invention, the 87th aspect further includes the step of providing a motor for driving the pump. (146) According to the 146th aspect of the present invention, the 87th aspect further includes the step of providing a motor for driving a gas compressor. (147) According to the 147th aspect of the present invention, the 87th aspect further includes the step of providing a motor for driving a storage section agitator. (148) According to the 148th aspect of the present invention, in the 87th aspect, the step of providing sensors, controls, and communications in order to automate the operation of a machine is further included. (149) According to the 149th aspect of the present invention, in the 87th aspect, the physical element includes an ultrasonic transducer. (150) According to the 150th aspect of the present invention, in the 90th aspect, the physical element includes an ultrasonic transducer. (151) According to the 151st aspect of the present invention, in the 95th aspect, the support structure includes an ultrasonic transducer. (152) According to the 152nd aspect of the present invention, in the 88th aspect, the step of providing a force acting on a movable member to deflect the outer surface of the flexible container, storage section, or any tubular material attached to the flexible container or storage section, thereby calibrating the amount of deflection to measure the internal fluid pressure. (153) According to the 153rd aspect of the present invention, the 100th aspect further includes the step of providing a pump and a gas inlet located in a fluid passage between the flexible container and the storage section, the fluid passage delivering a liquid or a gas together or individually into the flexible container inlet. (154) According to the 154th aspect of the present invention, the 153rd aspect further includes the step of providing the flexible container inlet at the liquid end of the flexible container and providing the dispensing tube at the freezing end of the flexible container. (155) According to a 155th aspect of the present invention, the 153rd aspect further includes the step of providing a peristaltic pump as the pump. (156) According to a 156th aspect of the present invention, the step of configuring the peristaltic pump to pump liquids and gases, as in the 155th aspect, is further included. (157) According to a 157th aspect of the present invention, in a 156th aspect, further comprising the step of constructing a tubular member from a tubular flexible material, wherein a first tube of a first expansion diameter is inserted into a second tube of a second expansion diameter, the second tube having a larger diameter than the first tube, the second tube being sealed at one end but allowing the first tube to pass through, one or more holes in the first tube facing toward the sealed end of the second tube, and thus establishing fluid communication between the first tube and the second tube, the first When the tubes expand, a fluid volume is formed between the first tube and the second tube, and the peristaltic element clamps the first tube and the second tube together, and the peristaltic element moves toward the sealed end of the second tube, pushing the fluid in the first tube toward the sealed end of the second tube and beyond the sealed end of the second tube, and the fluid in the second tube that has been pushed toward the sealed end of the second tube moves toward the sealed end of the second tube and enters the first tube through the hole in the first tube. (158) According to the 158th aspect of the present invention, the 90th aspect further includes the step of providing a deformable film as the physical element. (159) According to the 159th aspect of the present invention, the 95th aspect further includes providing at least one support structure constructed from movable parts for influencing the simultaneous or individual stirring and dispensing of the associated edible mixture. (160) According to the 160th aspect of the present invention, the 101st aspect further includes the step of positioning the physical element to be in contact with one or more of the flexible containers. (161) According to the 161st aspect of the present invention, in the 87th aspect, the step of configuring one or more dispensing devices so that the frozen confectionery machine can provide one or more flavors of frozen confectionery or one or more types of frozen confectionery is further included. (162) According to the 162nd aspect of the present invention, the 87th aspect further includes providing a cylindrical cooling element, a removable container fitted into the cylindrical cooling element, a storage section having fluid communication with the removable container at its inlet end, a dispensing tube fitted into the removable container at its outlet end, and an auger positioned inside the removable container for stirring an edible mixture.

Claims

1. A frozen confectionery apparatus for freezing related liquid food mixtures to produce related products that are at least partially frozen, A flexible freezer bag configured to receive an associated edible mixture inside, At least one physical element configured to contact the outer surface of the freezer bag and move along the outer surface, and to agitate the relevant food mixture inside the freezer bag, A cooling element cools the associated food mixture in the freezer bag from an initial liquid state to at least a partially frozen state via the outer surface of the freezer bag. Equipped with, The physical element has a circular or non-circular cross-section perpendicular to the direction in which the physical element extends, and is configured to roll or slide along its outer surface. When the aforementioned freezer bag is received into the frozen confectionery device, it is initially empty. A freezer bag outlet is associated with the upper end of the freezer bag, and a freezer bag inlet is associated with the lower end of the freezer bag, so that a more viscous, at least partially frozen food mixture will clump together at the upper end of the freezer bag against gravity, and a less viscous, mostly liquid food mixture will clump together at the lower end of the freezer bag.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one physical element includes a roller, and the apparatus for frozen confectionery is configured such that the roller pushes the at least partially frozen food mixture up to the upper end of the freezer bag, and the liquid food mixture returns to the lower end of the freezer bag through a flow passage around the roller.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one physical element has two ends that are at both ends along the direction in which the physical element extends, and the width of the at least one physical element is less than the width of the at least one freezer bag, so that by stirring, a portion of the associated edible mixture flows around the at least one end of the at least one physical element from one side to the other relative to the physical element along the direction in which the physical element moves relative to the freezer bag.

4. The at least one physical element comprises a plurality of such physical elements, each having the two ends. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first of the two ends is on the first side of the at least one flexible freezer bag, the second of the two ends is on the second side opposite to the first side of the at least one freezer bag, and the associated edible mixture flows from one side to the other of the physical element along the direction of movement around at least one of the first ends of the plurality of physical elements, and flows from one side to the other of the physical element along the direction of movement around at least one of the second ends of the other plurality of physical elements.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the plurality of physical elements allows flow from one side to the other along the direction of movement around both the first end and the second end of the physical element.

6. A method for making frozen confectionery using a frozen confectionery apparatus that freezes a liquid food mixture and dispenses at least partially frozen products, The apparatus for frozen confectionery includes at least one flexible freezer bag that is initially empty when received and configured to receive the associated edible mixture inside, The edible mixture inside the freezer bag is stirred by at least one physical element configured to contact the outer surface of the freezer bag and move along the outer surface, The cooling element cools the edible mixture in the freezer bag from its initial liquid state in the first part of the freezer bag to at least a partially frozen state in the second part of the freezer bag via the outer surface of the freezer bag. Includes, The physical element has a circular or non-circular cross-section perpendicular to the direction in which the physical element extends, and is configured to roll or slide along its outer surface. A method wherein the outlet of the freezer bag is associated with the upper end of the freezer bag, and the inlet of the freezer bag is associated with the lower end of the freezer bag, so that a more viscous, at least partially frozen food mixture will clump together at the upper end of the freezer bag against gravity, and a less viscous, mostly liquid food mixture will clump together at the lower end of the freezer bag.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the at least one physical element includes a roller, and the frozen confectionery apparatus is configured such that the roller pushes the at least partially frozen food mixture up to the upper end of the freezer bag, and the liquid food mixture returns to the lower end of the freezer bag through a flow passage around the roller.

8. The method according to claim 6, wherein the at least one physical element has two ends that are at both ends along the direction in which the physical element extends, and the width of the at least one physical element is less than the width of the at least one freezer bag, so that by stirring a portion of the associated edible mixture flows around the at least one end of the at least one physical element from one side to the other relative to the physical element along the direction in which the physical element moves relative to the freezer bag.

9. The at least one physical element comprises a plurality of such physical elements, each having the two ends. The method according to claim 8, wherein the first of the two ends is on the first side of the at least one flexible freezer bag, the second of the two ends is on the second side of the at least one freezer bag opposite to the first side, and the associated edible mixture flows from one side to the other of the physical element along the direction of movement around at least one of the first ends of the plurality of physical elements, and flows from one side to the other of the physical element along the direction of movement around at least one of the other second ends of the plurality of physical elements.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the plurality of physical elements allows flow from one side to the other along the direction of movement around both the first end and the second end of the physical element.

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