Apparatus for producing stuffed cheese, especially burrata cheese.

Abstract

The device (1) for producing stuffed cheese, in particular burrata cheese, comprises: a base frame (2); support means (3) for a fresh "pasta filata" type cheese (C) associated with the base frame (2); gripping means (6) for the cheese (C) adapted to hold a component (P) of the cheese (C); filling means (7) adapted to inject a filling inside the cheese (C) through the component (P) to obtain a stuffed cheese (S); a common moving unit (20) between the support means (3) and the gripping means (6) and a common moving assembly (21) between the gripping means (6) and the filling means (7); the gripping means (6) comprises at least one blade element (34) adapted to cut the component (P) from the stuffed cheese (S).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for producing stuffed cheese, particularly burrata cheese. Background Art

[0002] Burrata cheese is a raw pasta filata cheese generally in bag form, and encloses a filling made of pieces of raw cheese, also known as stracciatella, and cream.

[0003] The production process of burrata cheese is manual, and comprises an initial high-temperature processing of pasta filata cheese to obtain a substantially oval-shaped raw cheese known as mozzarella.

[0004] The mozzarella cheese is then held by an operator who inserts an injector through a small portion to deliver the filling inside the mozzarella itself.

[0005] During delivery, the mozzarella cheese deforms, creating space for the filling to achieve the characteristic bag shape.

[0006] After completion of this operation, the operator seals the portion by applying pressure. Through this operation, the portion can be finally removed from the burrata cheese depending on the given shape.

[0007] Finally, the burrata cheese thus obtained is cooled and packaged.

[0008] It is readily understood that this process is particularly labor-intensive and requires skilled artisans, because the work must be performed accurately and precisely to avoid ruining the "bag" and compromising the process.

[0009] This inevitably results in high production costs and consequently high prices for end consumers.

[0010] In addition, this process requires a fairly long processing time, which can affect the quality of the fresh cheese. Fresh cheese needs to be brought to market as quickly as possible after production in order to maintain its quality with minimal change.

[0011] Furthermore, the risk of contamination associated with the manual processes of these raw cheeses should not be underestimated, as it could then affect the final product.

[0012] It is important to note that variations in the quality of these fresh cheeses can significantly impact customer satisfaction, potentially discouraging repeat purchases.

[0013] Therefore, it is clear that there is room for improvement in the manufacturing process of this stuffed cheese. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0014] The main objective of the present invention is to devise an apparatus for producing stuffed cheese, particularly burrata cheese, that can reduce process time and associated costs.

[0015] Another objective of the present invention is to devise a device for producing stuffed cheese, particularly burrata cheese, that does not require skilled craftsmen.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to devise an apparatus for producing stuffed cheese, particularly burrata cheese, which allows for minimizing the risk of bacterial contamination.

[0017] Another object of the present invention is to devise an apparatus for producing stuffed cheese, particularly burrata cheese, that is simple, rational, easy, effective, and can overcome the aforementioned shortcomings of the prior art within a low-cost solution. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0018] The above object is achieved by the present apparatus having the features of claim 1 for producing stuffed cheese, in particular burrata cheese. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of an embodiment of an apparatus for producing stuffed cheese, in particular burrata cheese, which is a preferred but non-exclusive embodiment, also illustrated by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings. [Brief Description of the Drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] It is an axonometric view of a first embodiment of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a detailed axonometric view of the apparatus in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is an exploded view of a gripping means according to the present invention. [Figure 3a] It is a cross-sectional view of a gripping means according to the present invention. [Figure 4] It is an axonometric view of the apparatus according to the present invention in various use configurations. [Figure 5] It is an axonometric view of the apparatus according to the present invention in various use configurations. [Figure 6] It is an axonometric view of the apparatus according to the present invention in various use configurations. [Figure 7] It is an axonometric view of the apparatus according to the present invention in various use configurations. [Figure 8] It is an axonometric view of a second embodiment of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 9] It is an axonometric view of the apparatus in FIG. 8 from a different angle. [Figure 10] It is a detailed side view of the apparatus in FIG. 8. [Figure 11] It is a detailed axonometric view of the apparatus in FIG. 8. [Figure 12] It is a detailed axonometric projection view of the apparatus in FIG. 8 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Referring to these drawings in detail, reference numeral 1 generally indicates an apparatus for producing stuffed cheese, particularly burrata cheese

[0022] The apparatus 1 according to the present invention comprises at least one base frame 2 and support means 3 associated with the base frame 2 for "pasta filata" type cheese C

[0023] Specifically, the cheese C is of the mozzarella type

[0024] However, the possibility of using different types of "pasta filata" cheese, such as scamorza for example, cannot be ruled out

[0025] Cheese C is processed at high temperature, allowing the introduction of filling to obtain stuffed cheese S, which is burrata cheese in this case

[0026] Specifically, the filling comprises one or more raw milk products, specifically pieces of mozzarella and cream

[0027] However, the use involving different types of dairy products (e.g., cottage cheese, butter, gorgonzola, etc.) and / or additional non-dairy ingredients (truffles, olives, ham, vegetables, etc.) to produce different types of stuffed cheese S cannot be ruled out

[0028] The support means 3 advantageously comprises a support surface 4 movable on the base frame 2 along a forward direction of travel D

[0029] In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the support surface 4 is of the conveyor belt type, and the forward direction of travel D is substantially straight

[0030] However, it cannot be ruled out that the support surface 4 is of the type of rotating carousel, with substantially a circular forward movement direction D.

[0031] Other embodiments in which the support surface 4 is fixed cannot be ruled out.

[0032] The support means 3 comprises at least one container element 5 for the cheese C, which is associated with the support surface 4 and adapted to house the cheese C.

[0033] In this case, the container element 5 is of the cup type and is provided with a housing 5a for the cheese C and a stem 5b that helps to separate the housing itself from the support surface 4.

[0034] For example, container element 5 may be made of insulating material, which can maintain the temperature of cheese C that requires high-temperature processing.

[0035] Alternatively, the container element 5 may be made of a metallic material that has minimal thermal resistance and can rapidly reach the temperature of the cheese C.

[0036] The movement of the support surface 4 is detachable, allowing the container element 5 to be positioned between the cheese loading station, the cheese filling station, and the stuffed cheese loading / unloading station.

[0037] In detail, at the loading station, the cheese C is placed inside the housing 5a of the container element 5.

[0038] In the filling station, the apparatus 1 is provided with a gripping means 6 for gripping the cheese C, which is associated with the base frame 2 and adapted to hold at least one component P of the cheese C, and a filling means 7 for the cheese C, which is associated with the base frame 2 and adapted to inject the filling into the cheese C through the component P in order to obtain stuffed cheese S.

[0039] Preferably, the support means 3 comprises a plurality of container elements 5, which are associated with the support surface 4 and are adapted to accommodate a plurality of cheeses C.

[0040] The container elements 5 are arranged sequentially along the forward movement direction D.

[0041] More specifically, the container element 5 is positioned on the support surface 4 at a predetermined distance so that when the container element 5 is at the loading / unloading station, subsequent ones are placed at the filling station.

[0042] This embodiment makes it possible to manufacture stuffed cheese S in a continuous cycle, without requiring the container element 5 to load or unload the stuffed cheese S before each new cycle.

[0043] The filling means 7 will be described in detail later in this document.

[0044] The gripping means 6 comprises at least one gripping frame 8 associated with the base frame 2, and at least one diaphragm device 9 associated with the gripping frame 8, which is accessible around the cheese C to hold the component P and is openable to release the stuffed cheese S.

[0045] In detail, the diaphragm device 9 defines a passage hole 10 through which the cheese C can pass.

[0046] Closing the diaphragm device 9 gradually closes the passage hole 10 until it captures the cheese C.

[0047] Advantageously, the diaphragm device 9 comprises a plurality of gripping elements 11 associated with the gripping frame 8 and arranged along its outer circumference.

[0048] Specifically, the gripping elements 11 are arranged to surround the passage hole 10. The gripping elements 11 are rotatable relative to each other around their respective axis of rotation R, between at least one working position that approaches the center of the outer circumference in order to grasp the cheese C and hold the component P, and at least one home position that moves away from the center in order to release the cheese C.

[0049] In other words, the gripping element 11 moves concentrically at the same time in order to grasp the component P and keep the cheese C fixed.

[0050] In addition, the diaphragm device 9 is provided with a means 12 for rotating the gripping element 11 at least between the working position and the home position, and it comprises at least one connecting element 13 associated with the gripping element 11.

[0051] The connecting element 13 is substantially circular in shape, positioned at the top of the gripping element 11, and comprises a plurality of slots 13a. The plurality of slots 13a are arranged along the outer circumference, and each of the slots 13a is associated with a corresponding pin 11a defined on each gripping element 11.

[0052] More specifically, the pin 11a is slidably housed inside the slot 13a, and the shape of the slot 13a determines the trajectory of the pin 11a, thereby determining the magnitude of rotation of the gripping element 11 around each rotation axis R.

[0053] The rotating mechanism 12 comprises at least one actuating body 14, which is operably connected to the connecting element 13 by a gear wheel 14a. The gear wheel 14a is adapted to mesh with each toothed portion 13b defined on the connecting element itself.

[0054] The rotation of the two-way rotating gear wheel 14a determines the movement of the gripping element 11 between the working position and the home position.

[0055] Specifically, the rotation of the connecting element 13 determines the displacement of the slot 13a, which then drives each pin 11a to transmit its movement to the gripping element 11.

[0056] In addition, the gripping element 11 can be conveniently moved toward the sealing position, where the passage hole 10 is further closed, and the gripping element 11 applies pressure to the component P to firmly seal the stuffed cheese S.

[0057] At the end of this operation, the stuffed cheese S has a sealing region which separates the component P from the lower stuffing portion.

[0058] The gripping means 6 comprises at least one blade element 34 adapted for cutting components P from stuffed cheese S.

[0059] Apparatus 1 actually enables the production of stuffed cheese S provided in a characteristic "bag" shape, and / or stuffed cheese S having an oval shape, and component P is removed from stuffed cheese S.

[0060] The blade element 34 is associated with the diaphragm device 9 and is adapted to cut the component P after the gripping element 11 is positioned in the sealing position.

[0061] To make it easy to understand, the removal of component P is essentially done after sealing.

[0062] After separation, component P remains in the diaphragm device 9 until the next movement of the gripping element 11 toward the home position, where it is placed on the support surface 4 by gravity.

[0063] The blade element 34 enables highly accurate and precise cutting of the component P, making it possible to obtain a defect-free stuffed cheese S.

[0064] In fact, the cutting of component P can also be completed by the movement of the gripping elements 11 toward the cutting position, which completely close the through hole 10 and confirm the separation of component P from the stuffed cheese S.

[0065] However, the separation of the component P is sometimes achieved by separating the stuffed cheese mixture S, even within the sealed region.

[0066] By using the blade element 34 instead of the gripping element 11 to cut the component part P, it is ensured that the stuffed cheese S is kept in its complete shape, that the filling does not leak out, and that a more aesthetically satisfying cut is achieved.

[0067] Thus, the presence of the blade element 34 makes it possible to avoid the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0068] In fact, the blade element 34 is capable of cutting the component P precisely and cleanly, preventing the stuffed cheese mixture S from tearing.

[0069] The blade element 34 extends along a longitudinal direction L that unfolds onto a substantially horizontal, lying surface G and includes a cutting end 35.

[0070] More specifically, the blade element 34 has a substantially slab-like structure and unfolds onto the reclining surface G.

[0071] Usefully, the cut end 35 has a sharp edge.

[0072] The cut end 35 is oriented transversely with respect to the longitudinal direction L.

[0073] Preferably, the cut end 35 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L.

[0074] The blade element 34 is positioned between the gripping element 11 and the rotating means 12.

[0075] More specifically, the gripping element 11 and the rotating means 12 define a gap between them, where the blade element 34 is adapted to define a lying surface G.

[0076] In fact, the blade element 34 is positioned above the gripping element 11.

[0077] Thus, the cutting of component P is performed above the sealed area of ​​the stuffed cheese S.

[0078] The blade element 34 slides so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction L between a non-operating position where the cutting end 35 is separated from the component P and an operating position where the cutting end 35 cuts the component P from the stuffed cheese S.

[0079] More specifically, the longitudinal direction L is directed towards the center of the diaphragm device 9.

[0080] In other words, the longitudinal direction L passes through the center of the diaphragm device 9.

[0081] As mentioned above, the gripping element 11 is actually movable to move closer to the center of the diaphragm device 9, and it grasps the cheese C and holds the component P.

[0082] Therefore, as a result of the sealing, component P is positioned at the center of the diaphragm device 9.

[0083] The movement of the blade element 34 toward the center results in interaction between the cutting end 35 and the component P, and the cutting operation of the component P.

[0084] Usefully, the gripping means 6 includes at least one actuator 36 of the blade element 34, which is adapted to move the blade element 34 between a non-operating position and an operating position.

[0085] In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the actuator 36 is a pneumatic cylinder.

[0086] However, we cannot rule out the possibility that the actuator 36 is of a different type.

[0087] The actuator 36 comprises a fixed portion 36a associated with the diaphragm device 9 and a movable portion 36b that is movable relative to the fixed portion 36a and associated with the blade element 34.

[0088] More specifically, the blade element 34 is connected to the actuator 36 via the end opposite to the cutting end 35.

[0089] Conveniently, the apparatus 1 may include a plurality of diaphragm devices 9 that are concentrically arranged and can operate independently depending on the type of stuffed cheese S obtained.

[0090] For example, two diaphragm devices 9, positioned at the top of each other, may be used, depending on the size of the resulting stuffed cheese S. When producing a small stuffed cheese S, only one diaphragm device 9 is activated to hold the reduced component P. On the other hand, to produce a larger stuffed cheese S, it is necessary to hold a larger component P, and both diaphragm devices 9 will be activated simultaneously.

[0091] Alternatively, or in combination with the diaphragm device 9, the gripping means 6 may include a gripping device. This gripping device is associated with the gripping frame 8 and is movable to hold and / or seal the cheese C.

[0092] As described above, the apparatus 1 includes a filling means 7 adapted for injecting the filling into the cheese C.

[0093] The filling means 7 comprises at least one filling frame 15 associated with the base frame 2, and at least one injection device 16 associated with the filling frame 15 and adapted for injecting the filling into the cheese C.

[0094] Conveniently, the apparatus 1 further comprises at least one tank 17 adapted for holding packing material and connected to the injection device 16 in a fluid-operated manner, and at least one pump device 18 adapted for transferring the packing material from the tank 17 to the injection device 16.

[0095] More specifically, the injection device 16 is partially inserted into the cheese C through a component P suitably held by the gripping means 6, and delivers the filling placed in the tank 17 into the cheese C.

[0096] Upon filling, the injection device 16 is withdrawn from the component P to obtain stuffed cheese S, and the gripping means 6 seals the component P and, if necessary, removes the component P.

[0097] The stuffed cheese S obtained in this way is released from the gripping means 6 and moved toward the loading / unloading position. Specifically, the gripping element 11 is moved toward the home position, freeing up the passage hole 10.

[0098] During this operation, all removed components P are released onto the support surface 4, allowing them to be moved together with the stuffed cheese S from the filling station to the loading / unloading station.

[0099] Apparatus 1 comprises at least one cooling tub 19a, 19b located at the loading / unloading station, inside which the stuffed cheese S is transferred.

[0100] More specifically, as shown in the drawing, at the loading / unloading station, the support surface 4 inverts the container element 5, thereby dropping the stuffed cheese S into the cooling tubs 19a and 19b.

[0101] Ideally, the cooling tabs 19a, 19b consist of a first tab 19a adapted to hold component P and a second tab 19b adapted to hold stuffed cheese S.

[0102] In the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 7, the first tab 19a and the second tab 19b are aligned along the forward movement direction D such that the first tab 19a is positioned in close proximity to the support surface 4.

[0103] A special solution provides a container element 5 with a stem portion 5b, which allows the component P to fall into the first tab 19a and the stuffed cheese S to fall into the second tab 19b as a result of the movement of the support surface 4 at the loading / unloading station.

[0104] However, it cannot be ruled out that the apparatus 1 is equipped with individual cooling tabs, and that the separation of the stuffed cheese S and the component P is carried out at a later date.

[0105] Advantageously, the device 1 includes moving means 20, 21 adapted to move at least one of the support means 3, gripping means 6, or filling means 7.

[0106] In detail, the moving means 20, 21 consist of at least one common moving unit 20 between the support means 3 and the gripping means 6, and at least one common moving assembly 21 between the gripping means 6 and the filling means 7.

[0107] The common moving unit 20 is adapted to move at least one of the support means 3 or the gripping means 6 relative to the other along a moving axis A1 that is substantially perpendicular to the support surface 4.

[0108] Basically, the common moving unit 20 has the function of moving the support means 3 closer to the gripping means 6 or away from the gripping means 6 so that the cheese C can be held by the diaphragm device 9.

[0109] In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the common moving unit is adapted to move the gripping means 6 relative to the support means 3.

[0110] The common moving unit 20 also has the function of moving the diaphragm device 9 away from the container element 5 during filling by the filling means 7.

[0111] During this stage, cheese C actually tends to deform to create space for the filling, and therefore its volume increases.

[0112] The common moving unit 20 comprises a drive unit 22 operably connected to the gripping frame 8 and a guide unit 23 associated with the base frame 2 and extending along the moving axis A1.

[0113] The gripping frame 8 is slidably linked to the guide unit 23.

[0114] The drive unit 22 comprises a rack and pinion element 22a associated with the gripping frame 8 and substantially parallel to the guide unit 23, and an actuation device 22b of electric motor type, connected to the rack and pinion itself and adapted to move the gripping frame 8 on the guide unit 23.

[0115] The common moving assembly 21 is adapted to move at least one of the gripping means 6 or the filling means 7 relative to the other along a sliding axis A2 that is substantially perpendicular to the support surface 4.

[0116] In other words, the common moving assembly 21 has the function of bringing the filling means 7 and the gripping means 6 closer together or further apart from each other, allowing the injection device 16 to be inserted into and removed from the component P.

[0117] In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the common moving assembly 21 is adapted to move the filling means 7 relative to the gripping means 6.

[0118] The common moving assembly 21 also has the function of moving the injection device 16 from the container element 5 substantially simultaneously with the gripping means 6 during filling in order to facilitate the deformation of the cheese C.

[0119] The common moving assembly 21 comprises a motor assembly 24 operably connected to the filling frame 15 and a guide assembly 25 associated with the base frame 2 and extending along the sliding axis A2.

[0120] The filling frame 15 is slidably associated with the guide assembly 25.

[0121] The motor assembly 24 comprises a rack and pinion body 24a associated with the filling frame 15 and substantially parallel to the induction assembly 25, and an actuation element 24b of electric motor type, connected to the rack and pinion body itself and adapted to move the filling frame 15 in the induction assembly 25.

[0122] Conveniently, the induction assembly 25 aligns with the induction unit 23, and the sliding shaft A2 aligns with the moving shaft A1.

[0123] In other words, the filling frame 15 and the gripping frame 8 are positioned at the other top, mounted on the same rail, and movable along the same axis as the support means 3.

[0124] The device 1 also includes an electronic control system 26. The electronic control system 26 is provided with at least one electronic unit 26a configured to actuate at least one of the following: the support means 3, the gripping means 6, the filling means 7, the common moving unit 20, or the common moving assembly 21.

[0125] The electronic control system 26 also includes at least one position sensor 26b. The position sensor 26b is operably connected to the electronic unit 26a and is configured to determine the position of at least one of the connecting element 13, the gripping frame 8, or the filling frame 15.

[0126] The operation of the apparatus 1 according to the present invention is as follows:

[0127] First, container element 5 is positioned at the loading station, where the cheese C is loaded into housing 5a.

[0128] Next, the container element 5 is moved toward the filling station along the forward movement direction D by the support surface 4.

[0129] At this point, the common moving unit 20 moves the gripping means 6 toward the support means 3.

[0130] In detail, the drive unit 22 brings the diaphragm device 9 closer to the cheese C so that the cheese C can pass through the through hole 10.

[0131] The operating body 14 of the rotating mechanism 12 is operated by determining the rotation of the gripping element 11 toward the working position, partially closing the through hole 10 and holding the component P.

[0132] The common moving assembly 21 moves the filling means 7 toward the gripping means 6.

[0133] More specifically, the motor assembly 24 brings the injection device 16 closer to the diaphragm device 9 so that the injection device itself can be inserted into the cheese C through component P.

[0134] The pump device 18 is operated to deliver the filling.

[0135] During this stage, in order to promote the deformation of cheese C, the common moving unit 20 and the common moving assembly 21 move the gripping means 6 and the filling means 7 simultaneously away from the support means 3, respectively.

[0136] When the transfer is complete, the common moving assembly 21 moves the filling means 7 away from the gripping means 6, allowing the injection device 16 to be withdrawn from the component P.

[0137] At this point, the gripping element 11 is moved toward the sealing position, applying pressure to the component P to close the stuffed cheese S.

[0138] If necessary, the blade element 34 is moved toward the operating position to cut the component P from the stuffed cheese S.

[0139] Next, the gripping element 11 is moved to the home position, the stuffed cheese S is released, and, if necessary, the removed components P are moved onto the support means 3.

[0140] The support surface 4 moves the stuffed cheese S and, if necessary, moves the removed components P toward the loading / unloading station, where they are transferred to their respective tabs 19a and 19b.

[0141] According to the second embodiment shown in Figures 8 to 12, the gripping means 6 comprises a plurality of diaphragm devices 9. The plurality of diaphragm devices 9 are associated with the gripping frame 8 and are arranged side by side along at least one working direction W which is transverse to the forward movement direction D.

[0142] Preferably, the working direction W is substantially perpendicular to the forward movement direction D.

[0143] However, alternative embodiments in which the working direction is substantially inclined with respect to the forward movement direction, and / or alternative embodiments in which the diaphragm device 9 is arranged in a zigzag pattern along several working directions W cannot be ruled out.

[0144] Each of the diaphragm devices 9 is fitted to hold its respective cheese C.

[0145] This embodiment appropriately provides that the support means 3 comprises a plurality of container elements 5 arranged at least partially side-by-side along at least one positioning direction B which is parallel to the working direction W.

[0146] Specifically, the container elements 5 are arranged in several rows on a support surface 4 extending along the forward movement direction D, and are positioned side by side along their respective positioning directions B.

[0147] Conveniently, each diaphragm device 9 is equipped with its own operating body 14.

[0148] This allows the diaphragm devices 9 to act independently of each other to hold / release the cheese C.

[0149] In this way, only the diaphragm device 9 that is actually needed can be activated.

[0150] Referring again to this second embodiment, the filling means 7 comprises a plurality of injection devices 16 fluidly connected to the tank 17. These filling means 7 are associated with the filling frame 15 and are arranged side by side along at least one operating direction F transverse to the forward movement direction D.

[0151] Preferably, the direction of movement F is substantially perpendicular to the direction of forward movement D.

[0152] Advantageously, the direction of motion F is substantially parallel to the working direction W.

[0153] More preferably, the operating direction F and the working direction W extend substantially horizontally and rest on the top of the other on the same substantially vertical plane.

[0154] Ideally, each diaphragm device 9 corresponds to one injection device 16.

[0155] Each of the injection devices 16 is adapted to inject the filling into each cheese C.

[0156] Each injection device 16 is conveniently connected to its respective pump device 18.

[0157] This allows the injection devices 16 to operate independently of each other in order to deliver the filling material.

[0158] Thus, each injection device 16 delivers the filling only when actually needed, i.e., only when the corresponding diaphragm device 9 is closed to hold the cheese C.

[0159] In addition, it is possible to provide an injection device 16 to deliver different amounts of stuffing in order to obtain different types of stuffed cheese S.

[0160] Therefore, the apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment enables the simultaneous processing of several cheeses C and the production of different types of stuffed cheeses S.

[0161] In detail, the solution provides diaphragm devices 9 associated with individual gripping frames 8 and injection devices 16 associated with individual filling frames 15, which can be moved simultaneously by the drive unit 22 and the motor assembly 24, respectively.

[0162] This solution reduces the number of components and moving parts, allowing device 1 to be significantly smaller and providing agile operation.

[0163] As shown in Figures 8 to 12, the apparatus 1 also includes at least one presence sensor 27 configured to detect the presence of cheese C inside the container element 5.

[0164] More specifically, the presence sensor 27 is configured to detect the presence of cheese C, along with a container element 5 located at the detection station, between the loading station and the filling station.

[0165] The presence sensor 27 is, for example, of the type of diffuse reflection photocell.

[0166] The injection device 16 is linked to the presence sensor 27 and dispenses the filling only if cheese C is present in the container element 5.

[0167] In detail, the apparatus 1 is equipped with a presence sensor 27 for each injection device 16.

[0168] The presence sensor 27 is operably connected to the electronic unit 26a.

[0169] When the presence sensor 27 detects the presence of cheese C in each housing 5a, the electronic unit 26a is programmed to activate the pump device 18 of the corresponding injection device 16.

[0170] On the other hand, if the presence sensor 27 does not detect the presence of cheese C, the pump device 18 of the corresponding injection device 16 is not activated so as not to dispense the filling.

[0171] It cannot be ruled out that the presence sensor 27 can also be applied to the apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 7.

[0172] Referring to Figures 8 to 12, the apparatus 1 includes a cleaning means 28 associated with the base frame 2 and adapted to deliver at least one type of cleaning solution to at least the gripping means 6.

[0173] The cleaning solution is, for example, of the type of hot water and / or a disinfectant product.

[0174] More specifically, the cleaning means 28 includes at least one delivery element 29 configured to guide the spray of cleaning fluid toward the diaphragm device 9.

[0175] The delivery element 29 has the function of removing all residual cheese C and / or stuffing remaining in the diaphragm device 9 by the preparation of the stuffed cheese S.

[0176] The cleaning means 28 includes at least one delivery element 29 for each diaphragm device 9.

[0177] The cleaning means 28 includes a dispensing element 30 configured to guide the sprayed cleaning liquid toward the container element 5.

[0178] More specifically, the distribution element 30 delivers the cleaning fluid towards the housing 5a.

[0179] The distribution element 30 has the function of cleaning the housing 5a after loading and unloading the stuffed cheese S and before positioning new cheese C on the housing 5a.

[0180] In detail, the movement of the support surface 4 allows the container element 5 to be positioned at the washing station, where it is washed before starting a new process cycle.

[0181] The distribution element 30 is associated with the base frame 2 below the support surface 4.

[0182] Specifically, in the washing station, the container element 5 is provided with a housing 5a facing downwards, and the dispensing element 30 sends the washing liquid upwards.

[0183] In this way, after the housing 5a is cleaned, the cleaning solution flows downward due to gravity.

[0184] Therefore, this operation does not require an additional step of removing the cleaning solution from container element 5 in order to start a new process cycle.

[0185] The washing means 28 includes a dispensing element 30 for each container element 5 arranged along the positioning direction B.

[0186] Therefore, the cleaning means 28 enables cleaning of the diaphragm device 9 and the container element 5 in each process cycle.

[0187] It cannot be ruled out that the cleaning means 28 can also be applied to the apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 7.

[0188] For the collection and recovery of the cleaning fluid delivered by the cleaning means 28, the apparatus 1 is equipped with a collection tank 32 conveniently located below the support surface 4 below the cleaning station.

[0189] Any filling that was not accurately injected into the cheese C by the injection device 16 is also clearly collected in the collection tank 32.

[0190] All products accumulated in the collection tank 32 can be discharged from there (for example, by suction via the union 33), and may be recovered and / or ultimately discarded.

[0191] Furthermore, in a second embodiment, the separation of the stuffed cheese S and the component P is carried out using an alternative method to that described above.

[0192] More specifically, as shown in the drawing, the second tab 19b, intended to hold the stuffed cheese S, is positioned on the support surface 4 along the forward movement direction D, and receives the stuffed cheese S as the support surface itself moves forward.

[0193] On the other hand, the first tab 19a, intended to hold component P, is positioned laterally to the support surface 4 on the base of the device 1. As the support surface 4 moves forward by a sliding part 31 located below the support surface 4, component P is moved from the support surface 4 to the first tab 19a by gravity (and possibly by being pushed by a jet of water). To facilitate the falling of component P along the sliding part 31, a nozzle adapted to deliver a jet of water along the sliding part 31 can be conveniently provided.

[0194] The described invention has indeed achieved its intended purpose. In detail, it is clearly shown that the apparatus for producing stuffed cheese, particularly burrata cheese, can reduce process time and associated costs.

[0195] The presence of multiple diaphragm and injection devices allows for further reduction of process time and the simultaneous production of different types of stuffed cheese.

[0196] Furthermore, the apparatus according to the present invention enables the fully automated production of stuffed cheese, particularly burrata cheese, thus avoiding the need for skilled craftsmen.

[0197] Furthermore, the apparatus according to the present invention enables the rapid production of stuffed cheese while minimizing the risk of bacterial contamination.

Claims

1. Apparatus (1) for manufacturing stuffed cheese, At least one base frame (2), Support means (3) for fresh "pasta filata" type cheese (C), associated with the base frame (2), A gripping means (6) for the cheese (C), which is associated with the base frame (2) and is adapted to hold at least one component (P) of the cheese (C), A filling means (7) for the cheese (C), which is associated with the base frame (2) and is adapted to inject filling into the inside of the cheese (C) via the component (P) in order to obtain stuffed cheese (S), At least one mutual movement unit (20) between the support means (3) and the gripping means (6), and At least one mutually moving assembly (21) between the gripping means (6) and the filling means (7), To be equipped with, The support means (3) includes a support surface (4) that is movable on the base frame (2) along the forward movement direction (D), The gripping means (6) comprises at least one blade element (34) adapted to cut the component (P) from the stuffed cheese (S), at least one gripping frame (8) associated with the base frame (2), and at least one diaphragm device (9) associated with the gripping frame (8), which is accessible around the cheese (C) to hold the component (P) and is openable to release the stuffed cheese (S). The mutual movement unit (20) is configured to move at least one of the support means (3) or the gripping means (6) relative to the other along a movement axis (A1) that is substantially perpendicular to the support surface (4), The mutual movement assembly (21) is configured to move at least one of the gripping means (6) or the filling means (7) relative to the other along a sliding axis (A2) that is substantially perpendicular to the support surface (4), Apparatus (1) characterized by the following.

2. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the support means (3) comprises a plurality of container elements (5) associated with a support surface (4) and adapted to accommodate a plurality of disc-shaped cheeses (C).

3. The diaphragm device (9) is A plurality of gripping elements (11) associated with the gripping frame (8), wherein the gripping elements (11) are arranged to be rotatable relative to each other around their respective axes of rotation (R) along the outer circumference, between at least one working position approaching the center of the outer circumference for capturing the cheese (C) and holding the component (P), and a home position where the gripping elements (11) are moved away from the center for releasing the stuffed cheese (S), and Rotating means (12) for rotating the gripping element (11) at least between the working position and the home position, comprising at least one connecting element (13) associated with the gripping element (11), and at least one operating body (14) operably connected to the connecting element (13) by a gear wheel (14a) adapted to mesh with each toothed portion (13b) defined on the connecting element (13), wherein the rotation of the gear wheel (14a) in two directions causes the movement of the gripping element (11) between the working position and the home position, The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized by comprising:

4. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the blade element (34) extends along a longitudinal direction (L) that unfolds onto a substantially horizontally lying surface (G) and has a cutting end (35).

5. The apparatus (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the blade element (34) is movably associated with the diaphragm device (9) along the longitudinal direction (L) between a non-operating position in which the cutting end (35) is separated from the component (P) and an operating position in which the cutting end (35) cuts the component (P) from the stuffed cheese (S).

6. The apparatus (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the longitudinal direction (L) is directed towards the center with respect to the diaphragm device (9).

7. The apparatus (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the blade element (34) is positioned between the gripping element (11) and the rotating means (12).

8. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the gripping means (6) comprises an actuator (36) for the blade element (34), and the actuator (36) is adapted to move the blade element (34) between a non-operating position and an operating position.

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