System and method for the production of fresh almond milk

Abstract

The invention concerns a device 20 for the production of fresh almond milk. The device comprises actuation means 24 and an extraction group 22 with a first constraint element 26 and a second constraint element 28. In the standby configuration, the two constraint elements are placed at a distance d the one from the other. The actuation means are configured for imposing between the two constraint elements at least a first relative translation movement and a second relative rotation movement. The invention then concerns an extraction bag 34 comprising a textile envelope 42 defining two constraint portions 48 arranged at a distance d the one form the other, and a central pocket 46 containing a preparation 44 based on unpeeled and ground almond seeds. The invention further concerns a kit 52, comprising the device and the extraction bag, as well as a method for the production of fresh almond milk by means of the kit.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION OF FRESH ALMOND MILK

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention refers to a system and a method for the production of fresh almond milk, in particular for the production of fresh almond milk understood according to the manual tradition of the Vai di Noto, in Sicily.

[0004] STATE OF THE ART

[0005] Almond milk is a non-alcoholic, sweet, thirst-quenching drink, whose origin can be traced back at least to the Middle Ages. In the context of this discussion, reference is made in particular to almond milk which is derived, using a traditional manual pressing method, from hard-shelled almond seeds historically cultivated in the Vai di Noto.

[0006] Incidentally, in 2017 the Court of Justice of the European Union ruled that the term "milk" must be reserved for products of animal origin and therefore cannot be used with reference to a product of plant origin; the Court therefore prohibited the use of terms such as "soy milk", "oat milk" and the like. However, this ruling excludes almond milk, since the use of this term is historically attested and has a long unbroken tradition.

[0007] The traditional manual production of fresh almond milk, in the Vai di Noto area, requires that the almond seeds, freshly shelled and not peeled, are finely ground and placed in a linen bag. Subsequently, through repeated actions of immersion in water, compression, traction and torsion of the bag, the almond milk is extracted. This procedure is completely manual and requires great skill on the part of the operator in applying the correct movement (compression, traction and torsion) to the bag with the right mechanical force. In this way, with experience, an optimal yield in terms of essence extraction (aromatic component, fat component, etc.) is obtained from the almonds.

[0008] Various types of packaged almond milk are commercially available, however none of these types are produced according to the traditional method described above. Traditional almond milk, in fact, must be consumed fresh, that is, immediately after preparation, since it is an unstable emulsion whose components begin to separate shortly after preparation.

[0009] Almond milk of industrial origin, packaged and made commercially available, is obtained by other processes, such as by centrifuging and / or blending the almond seeds, often peeled, or starting from almond paste. Moreover, industrially produced almond milk often contains stabilising substances and / or preservatives, in order to maintain the original sensory characteristics for an adequate time for distribution and marketing. As the skilled person can well understand, the packaged almond milk that is commercially available today is a different product from the traditional fresh almond milk understood as described above, that is, according to the manual tradition of the Vai di Noto, in Sicily.

[0010] The need is therefore felt for a new type of system and method for the production of fresh almond milk.

[0011] OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Aim of the present invention is therefore to overcome at least partially the drawbacks highlighted above in relation to the prior art.

[0013] In particular, a task of the present invention is to make available a system and a method for the production of fresh almond milk that allow to replicate the traditional manual process of the Vai di Noto.

[0014] Furthermore, a task of the present invention is to make available a system and a method for the production of fresh almond milk that are inexpensive and user-friendly.

[0015] These and other objects and tasks of the present invention are achieved by means of a system (by which is meant a device, an extraction bag and a kit) and a method for the production of fresh almond milk in accordance with the appended claims. Further characteristics are identified in the dependent claims. All appended claims form an integral part of the present disclosure. lin accordance with a first aspect, the invention concerns a device for the production of fresh almond milk. The device comprises an extraction group and actuation means. The extraction group comprises a first constraint element and a second constraint element. The extraction group is configured for assuming a standby configuration and a plurality of extraction configurations. In the standby configuration, the two constraint elements are placed at a distance d the one from the other. The actuation means are configured for bringing the extraction group from the standby configuration to the extraction configurations and vice versa, by imposing at least two relative movements between the first constraint element and the second constraint element, wherein: a first movement implies a relative translation between the two constraint elements and a second movement implies a relative rotation between the two constraint elements.

[0016] Such a device is configured for cooperating with the extraction bag, also in accordance with the invention, which is described below. The device of the invention allows to mechanically and repeatably replicate the movements and the actions traditionally used for the manual production of fresh almond milk.

[0017] Preferably the device defines a containment volume and comprises movement means configured for moving the extraction group between a service position, in which the extraction group is at least partially outside the containment volume, to a working position in which the extraction group is at least partially comprised within the containment volume.

[0018] The possibility of easily moving the extraction group between a service position and a working position facilitates the operations necessary for the preparation of fresh almond milk.

[0019] Preferably the containment volume is defined by a container configured for holding liquids. Advantageously, the container is removable.

[0020] This solution allows the user to easily provide for the required quantity of water and to easily remove the fresh almond milk at the end of the preparation.

[0021] Preferably, the actuation means are configured for imposing to the whole extraction group a movement which brings the extraction group deeper into the containment volume with respect to the service position reached thanks to the movement means.

[0022] This solution allows to obtain a deeper immersion of the extraction group into the containment volume, then in the water, during the preparation of fresh almond milk.

[0023] In accordance with a second aspect, the invention concerns an extraction bag comprising a permeable textile envelope and a preparation. The textile envelope is configured in such a manner to define a completely closed central pocket arranged between two constraint portions, placed at a distance d the one form the other. The preparation is arranged inside the completely closed central pocket and comprises a predefined amount of ground almonds.

[0024] Such an extraction bag is configured for cooperating with the device, also in accordance with the invention, which has been described above.

[0025] The extraction bag of the invention allows to replicate the manual solution traditionally used in the production of fresh almond milk.

[0026] Preferably the extraction bag further comprises a gas -impermeable outer envelope.

[0027] The gas-impermeable outer envelope allows a long shelf life of the ground almond-based preparation.

[0028] In accordance with a third aspect, the invention concerns a kit comprising a device and an extraction bag in accordance with what is described above. The extraction bag is configured so that it can be constrained to the extraction group of the device.

[0029] The kit allows optimal cooperation between the device and the extraction bag of the invention.

[0030] Preferably the actuation means of the device are configured for imposing a compression action and a torsion action of the extraction bag.

[0031] The compression and torsion actions are among those traditionally used for the manual production of fresh almond milk.

[0032] In accordance with a fourth aspect, the invention concerns a method for the production of fresh almond milk. The method comprises the steps of:

[0033] - providing a kit in accordance with what is described above;

[0034] - providing the extraction group in the standby configuration;

[0035] - constraining the constraint portions of the extraction bag to the constraint elements of the extraction group, so as to firmly applying the extraction bag on the extraction group;

[0036] - providing a predetermined quantity of water in the containment volume;

[0037] - immersing at least partially the extraction group and the extraction bag in the water;

[0038] - imposing to the constraint elements a predefined sequence of movements so as to impose a predefined sequence of mechanical actions on the extraction bag;

[0039] - collecting in the water the essence extracted from the ground almonds provided within the extraction bag, so as to obtain the fresh almond milk;

[0040] - pulling the extraction group and the extraction bag out of the water; and

[0041] - removing the fresh almond milk.

[0042] The method of the invention allows to replicate, in a simple and repeatable way, the manual solution traditionally used to obtain fresh almond milk. Preferably, the cyclical sequence of movements imposed to the two constraint elements imposes, one or more times, the sequence of actions on the extraction bag:

[0043] - Torsion;

[0044] - Release of the torsion;

[0045] - Immersion and compression; and

[0046] - Emersion and traction.

[0047] This particular sequence of mechanical actions, which can be repeated several times, allows the optimal extraction of the essence of the almonds, in order to obtain fresh almond milk.

[0048] Further features and purposes of the present invention will become more evident from the description below.

[0049] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] The invention will be described hereinbelow with reference to some examples, provided for illustrative and non-limiting purpose, and illustrated in the appended drawings. These drawings illustrate different aspects and embodiments of the present invention and, where appropriate, similar structures, components, materials and / or elements in different figures are indicated by similar reference numerals. Moreover, for clarity of illustration, some references may not be repeated in all drawings.

[0051] Figure 1 represents an axonometric view of a device in accordance with the invention, in a first configuration;

[0052] Figure 2 represents an axonometric view of the device of Figure 1, in a second configuration;

[0053] Figure 3 represents a front elevational view, partially in transparency, of a device in accordance with the invention;

[0054] Figure 4 represents a side elevational view of the device of Figure 3;

[0055] Figure 5 represents an axonometric view, partially in transparency, of an internal component of the device of Figure 3;

[0056] Figure 6 represents an axonometric view of an alternative solution of the detail indicated with VI in Figure 1;

[0057] Figure 7 represents an axonometric view of an extraction bag in accordance with the invention; Figure 8 represents a side view of the extraction bag of Figure 7 , ready for use;

[0058] Figure 9 represents a view of the section made along trace IX-IX of Figure 8;

[0059] Figures 10 to 12 schematically represent a detail of the kit of the invention in subsequent steps of use;

[0060] Figures 13 schematically represent a possible sequence of the actions carried out by the device of Figure 1 on the extraction bag of Figure 8.

[0061] Figure 14 represents an axonometric view of a kit in accordance with the invention;

[0062] Figure 15 represents an exploded enlarged view of a detail similar to that indicated with XV in Figure 14;

[0063] Figure 16 schematically represents an axonometric view of another extraction group in accordance with the invention; and

[0064] Figure 17 represents an axonometric view of an extraction bag intended to cooperate with the extraction group of Figure 16; and

[0065] Figure 18 represents a block diagram of the device in accordance with the invention.

[0066] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0067] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, some preferred embodiments are shown in the drawings and are described hereinbelow in detail. It must in any case be understood that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated, but, on the contrary, the invention intends covering all the modifications, alternative and equivalent constructions that fall within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0068] The description addresses in detail the peculiar technical aspects and features of the invention, while the known aspects and technical features per se can only be mentioned. In these respects, what is stated above with reference to the prior art remains valid.

[0069] The use of "for example", "etc.", "or" indicates non-exclusive alternatives without limitation, unless otherwise indicated. The use of "comprises" and "includes" means "comprises or includes, but is not limited to", unless otherwise indicated.

[0070] The invention is intended to be used in the presence of acceleration due to gravity g. In the following discussion, it is intended that the acceleration due to gravity unambiguously defines the vertical direction and the horizontal directions perpendicular to it.

[0071] Furthermore, still with reference to the acceleration due to gravity, the terms "above", "high", "upper" and the like are defined unambiguously with respect to the terms "below", "low", "lower" and the like.

[0072] In the following description reference is made to geometric concepts (parallel, perpendicular, etc.) and to geometric entities (plane, axis, etc.). As the skilled person can well understand, such expressions must not be understood in the abstract and perfect sense of pure geometry, but must be interpreted in relation to the technical scope of the invention and the tolerances typical of the sector.

[0073] The present invention concerns a system, intending thereby a device, an extraction bag and a kit, and a method for the production of fresh almond milk, understood according to the manual tradition of the Vai di Noto. lin accordance with a first aspect, the invention concerns a device 34 for the production of fresh almond milk. The device 20 of the invention comprises an extraction group 22 and actuation means 24, wherein the extraction group 22 comprises a first constraint element 26 and a second constraint element 28; the extraction group 22 is configured for assuming a standby configuration and a plurality of extraction configurations. In the standby configuration, the two constraint elements 26, 28 are placed at a distance d the one from the other. The actuation means 24 are configured for bringing the extraction group 22 from the standby configuration to the extraction configurations and vice versa, by imposing at least two relative movements between the first constraint element 26 and the second constraint element 28: a first movement implies a relative translation between the two constraint elements 26, 28 and a second movement implies a relative rotation between the two constraint elements 26, 28.

[0074] Preferably, the device 20 of the invention defines a containment volume 30 and comprises movement means 32 configured for moving the extraction group 22 between a service position, in which the extraction group 22 is at least partially outside the containment volume 30, to a working position in which the extraction group 22 is at least partially comprised within the containment volume 30. As the skilled person can well understand, the extraction group 22, and in particular at least one of its constraint elements 26, 28, is configured to be received within the containment volume 30.

[0075] As will be better described below, the device 20 of the invention is intended to cooperate with an extraction bag 34, which also constitutes a part of the invention. The service position, in which the extraction group 22 is at least partially outside the containment volume 30, is a position that facilitates the application and removal of the extraction bag 34 from the extraction group 22. Differently, the working position, in which the extraction group 22 is at least partially inside the containment volume 30, is a position in which the extraction group 22 cooperates with the extraction bag 34 applied thereto to obtain the fresh almond milk.

[0076] Preferably, the containment volume 30 is defined by a container 36 configured for holding liquids, in particular for holding a predefined volume of water, for example equal to 100 ml. Advantageously the container 36 is removable from the device 20; for example, the removable container 36 may be a cup intended for use by the user to drink almond milk. In accordance with such embodiments, the predefined volume of water may be introduced into the container 36 manually by the user. lin accordance with some embodiments, for example the one schematically represented in Figure 18, the device 20 comprises a connection 54 to the water network and may advantageously comprise means 56 configured for dispensing the predefined volume of water into the container 36.

[0077] In accordance with other embodiments, the device 20 comprises a tank (not shown) configured for holding a water reservoir equal to a multiple of the predefined volume of water for the single extraction. Also in this case, the device may advantageously comprise means 56 configured for dispensing the predefined volume of water into the container 36. lin accordance with some embodiments, for example the one schematically represented in Figure 18, the device 20 comprises heating / cooling elements 58 configured for heating / cooling the water before it is dispensed into the container 36. lin accordance with some embodiments, for example those represented in the Figures, the containment volume 30 is placed in the lower part of the device 20. Advantageously, the extraction group 22 extends in a vertical direction, so that the first constraint element 26 is arranged much higher than the second constraint element 28.

[0078] Preferably, the movement means 32 are configured for imposing a vertical translation movement to the extraction group 22. In particular, the movement means 32 are configured for moving the extraction group 22 between the standby position, in which the extraction group 22 is raised above the containment volume 30 (Figure 1), and the working position, in which the extraction group 22 is partially comprised within the containment volume 30 (Figures 2-4). Advantageously, when the extraction group 22 is in the working position and when the container 36 is arranged with the predefined volume of water, at least the second constraint element 28 is immersed in the water.

[0079] In the attached figures from 1 to 6 and from 10 to 13, the constraint elements 26 and 28 of the extraction group 22 each comprise a cantilevered peg 26o, 28o; in the extraction bag 34 intended to cooperate with this embodiment of the device 20, the constraint portions 48 comprise respective longitudinal slots 48o, suitable to be fitted on the pegs 26o, 28o.

[0080] In such a case, the extraction group 22 may advantageously comprise accessory pins 40, preferably arranged in proximity to and parallel to the second peg 28o. As will be described below, the accessory pins 40 allow the cooperation between the extraction group 22 and the extraction bag 34 to be made firmer. By way of example, in the embodiment of Figure 1, the detail indicated with VI shows two accessory pins 40 arranged immediately below the second peg 28o. Otherwise, the detail of Figure 6 shows two accessory pins 40 arranged immediately above the second peg 28o.

[0081] The solution described above, wherein the constraint elements 26, 28 comprise respective pegs 26o, 28o and wherein the constraint portions 48 comprise respective longitudinal slots 48o, is only one of the possible solutions for constraining the extraction bag 34 to the extraction group 22. This solution, thanks to the simplicity of graphical representation of the pegs 26o, 28o, is adopted below to describe, in relation to Figures 13, some possible sequences of the actions carried out by the device 20 on the extraction bag 34. Notwithstanding this, as the skilled person may well understand, other embodiments of the constraint elements 26, 28 and of the respective constraint portions 48 may be adopted, without thereby departing from the scope of the invention.

[0082] In the embodiment of Figures 14 and 15, the constraint elements 26, 28 of the extraction group 22 comprise respective slits 262, 282 and each constraint portion 48 comprises a flat band 482 and a gripping cord 484, having a greater thickness than the flat band 482. For example, the flat band 482 can be obtained by simply superimposing the layers of material that make up the textile envelope 42, while the gripping cord 484 can be obtained by rolling up a part of the textile envelope, so as to increase the number of layers of material superimposed to each other. Alternatively, the gripping cord 484 can be obtained by adding to the textile envelope an elongated element such as a piece of rope or a cane of semi-rigid material.

[0083] In accordance with this embodiment, the flat band 482 of the upper constraint portion 48 is introduced into the respective slit 262 of the first constraint element 26, so that the gripping cord 484 remains above the slit 262 and prevents the extraction bag 34 from slipping downwards. Respectively, the flat band 48? of the lower constraint portion 48 is introduced into the respective slit 28? of the second constraint element 28, so that the gripping cord 484 remains below the slit 28? and prevents the extraction bag 34 from slipping upwards. As the skilled person can well understand, in this way the extraction bag 34 is firmly constrained to the extraction group.

[0084] As the skilled person can well understand, other solutions, not shown, can also be adopted for constraining the extraction bag 34 to the extraction group 22. By way of example, in the case where the constraint elements 26, 28 comprise respective pegs 26o, 28o, the longitudinal slots 48o of the constraint portions 48 may advantageously comprise rigid or semi-rigid internal tubular structures, intended to keep the longitudinal slot 48o open and to facilitate the action of inserting the peg 26o, 28o. Still, in the case where the constraint portions 48 of the extraction bag 34 comprise the gripping cords 484, the constraint elements 26, 28 may advantageously comprise an articulated grasp (not shown), suitable for assuming an open configuration that facilitates the approaching of the gripping cord 484 and a closed configuration that firmly grasps the gripping cord 484.

[0085] The rigid or semi-rigid internal tubular structures intended to keep open the longitudinal slots 48o as well as the canes intended to give thickness to the gripping cords 484 can for example be made of polymer, preferably with a compostable polymer, such as Mater-Bi or polylactic acid (PLA).

[0086] The extraction group 22 is shown in the standby configuration in Figures 1 and 2. In these figures, only the second constraint element 28, arranged in the lower part of the extraction group 22, is visible, while the first constraint element 26, arranged in the upper part of the extraction group 22, remains hidden by the box containing the actuation means 24. Both the constraint elements 26, 28 of the extraction group 22 are shown, in schematic form, in Figures 10 to 13, of which a detailed description will be provided.

[0087] In the embodiments of the device 20 illustrated in Figures 1 to 6, the movement means 32 are manual and comprise a movement lever by means of which the user can manually move the extraction group 22 between the standby position (Figure 1) and the working position (Figures 2-4). In particular, by lowering the movement lever the user brings the extraction group 22 into the standby position, in which he / she can easily apply or remove the extraction bag 34 from the extraction group 22. Subsequently, by lifting the movement lever the user brings the extraction group 22 into the working position, in which the extraction group 22 enters in the containment volume 30 and can cooperate with the extraction bag 34 for the extraction of almond milk. In accordance with other embodiments, the movement means 32 may be motorized. In the embodiments of the device 20 illustrated in Figures 1 to 6, the actuation means 24 are motorised. They comprise an electric motor and transmission members 38 configured for transforming the movement of the electric motor into the desired movements for the two constraint elements 26, 28 of the extraction group 22. Such relative movements are described in detail below, with reference to Figures 13. By way of example, the transmission members 38 may comprise a cam (see Figure 5) which, in a manner that can be well understood by the skilled person, transforms the movement of the electric motor into the desired movements for the two constraint elements 26, 28 of the extraction group 22. In accordance with other embodiments, the movement means 32 may be manual.

[0088] Preferably, the actuation means 24 are configured to also impose a movement to the entire extraction group 22, in particular to impose a movement that continues the one imposed by the movement means 32; in particular, the actuation means 24 are configured for imposing a movement that brings the extraction group 22 deeper into the containment volume 30 with respect to the service position reached by the movement imposed by the movement means 32.

[0089] Preferably, the actuation means 24 are configured for imposing the rotation movement only to one of the two constraint elements 26, 28, while the other always remains parallel to itself.

[0090] As the skilled person can well understand, the distance d, measured between the first constraint element 26 and the second constraint element 28 of the extraction group 22 in standby configuration, can be defined in different ways. During this discussion it is assumed that the distance d is measured between the central axes of the two constraint elements 26, 28 (see Figures 10 and 15).

[0091] Considering an extraction group 22 similar to the one represented in Figures 10 to 12, and referring to Figures 13, the relative movements that are imposed by the actuation means 24 to the two constraint elements 26, 28 (in particular to two pegs) for bringing the extraction group 22 from the standby configuration to the extraction configurations and vice versa are described below.

[0092] Figure 13. a shows the two constraint elements 26, 28 of the extraction group 22 when the latter is in the standby configuration. In accordance with one embodiment, the two constraint elements 26, 28 are parallel to each other and are placed at the distance d. This same relative position between the two constraint elements 26, 28 can also be maintained during the movement of the extraction group 22 inwards and, respectively, outwards of the containment volume 30. These movements are imposed by the movement means 32 but, possibly, can also be some of the movements imposed by the actuation means 24 for bringing the extraction group 22 into one or more of the extraction configurations.

[0093] Figure 13.b shows a first relative movement imposed by the actuation means 24 to the two constraint elements 26, 28 in order to bring the extraction group 22 into one or more of the extraction configurations. Specifically in Figure 13.b, the two constraint elements 26, 28 are parallel to each other, but they have been translated in the plane containing the respective longitudinal axes. The two constraint elements 26, 28 are therefore placed at a distance smaller than d. In the example of Figure 13.b the two constraint elements 26, 28 have been brought to a distance equal to about half of d. Preferably, the two constraint elements 26, 28 can be brought to an even smaller distance, for example equal to about one third of d. Of course, after bringing the two constraint elements 26, 28 closer together, the actuation means 24 are also configured for bringing them back to the initial distance d.

[0094] Figure 13. c shows a second relative movement imposed by the actuation means 24 to the two constraint elements 26, 28 in order to bring the extraction group 22 into one or more of the extraction configurations. Specifically in Figure 13.c, the two constraint elements 26, 28 are placed at the distance d, but they have been rotated with respect to each other around the axis that joins the midpoints. In particular, the two constraint elements 26, 28 have been rotated within two planes parallel to each other. In the example of Figure 13.b the relative rotation imposed between the two constraint elements 26, 28 is about 90° (considering the projection of the two axes on a single plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation). Preferably, the relative rotation imposed between the two constraint elements 26, 28 can be even greater, for example about 180°. Of course, after the two constraint elements 26, 28 have been rotated relative to each other, the actuation means 24 are also configured to return them to the initial parallel position.

[0095] Figures 13.b and 13. c show the two separate movements, but in accordance with some embodiments of the device 20, the actuation means 24 can be configured for imposing the two movements also in various combinations, thus obtaining a relative rototranslation between the two constraint elements 26, 28. Some possible sequences and combinations of the two movements will be described in more detail below.

[0096] As the skilled person can well understand, other embodiments are possible for the extraction group 22. Consider, for example, the one schematized in Figure 16. In relation to this embodiment, Figure 16 shows the two constraint elements 26, 28 of the extraction group 22 when the latter is in the standby configuration. In accordance with an embodiment, the two constraint elements 26, 28 are twisted between them and are placed at distance d. In particular, the two constraint elements 26, 28 are arranged in such a way that the projections of the respective axes on a plane parallel to both axes are perpendicular to each other. The distance d can be calculated along the direction of the line perpendicular to both axes. The extraction group 22 of Figure 16 is intended to cooperate with an extraction bag 34 of the type schematically represented in Figure 17.

[0097] As the skilled person can well understand, the description given above for the movements imposed by the actuation means 24 to the two constraint elements 26, 28 remains valid, even starting from a standby configuration such as that of Figure 16. In particular, a translation movement can bring the two constraint elements 26, 28 closer to each other, while a second rotation movement can lead them to form a different angle between them or to be parallel (thus reaching a configuration such as that of Figure 13. a).

[0098] In accordance with a second aspect, the invention concerns an extraction bag 34 comprising a permeable textile envelope 42 and a preparation 44. The textile envelope 42 is configured in such a manner to define a completely closed central pocket 46 arranged between two constraint portions 48, placed at a distance d the one from the other. The preparation 44 is arranged inside the completely closed central pocket 46 and comprises a predefined quantity of ground almonds.

[0099] Preferably the textile envelope 42 consists of a raw fabric of a natural fibre of vegetable origin, such as for example linen or cotton. Preferably, the central pocket 46 and the two constraint portions 48 of the textile envelope 42 are obtained exclusively by means of stitches. The use of a raw fabric (therefore free of dyes, conditioners or other treatments) and the use of only stitching (therefore without adhesives or the like) allows to obtain a textile envelope 42 that does not release any substance into the almond milk. In particular, in addition to not releasing any potentially harmful chemicals, the textile envelope 42 remains completely neutral with respect to the taste of almond milk. lin accordance with some embodiments (see Figures 7 to 12) each of the two constraint portions 48 comprises a longitudinal slot forming a channel having a straight development, inside which a peg 26, 28 can slide. In the textile sector, this type of longitudinal slot is also called hem or casing.

[0100] In accordance with other embodiments, (see Figures 14 and 15) each of the two constraint portions 48 comprises a flat band 48? and a gripping cord 484, having a greater thickness than the flat band 48?.

[0101] Preferably the preparation 44 comprises unpeeled and ground seeds of hard- shelled almonds of the Vai di Noto. Preferably the preparation 44 comprises an amount of seeds comprised between 7 grams and 12 grams. Even more preferably, the seeds intended to constitute the preparation 44 are ground immediately after being shelled.

[0102] As the skilled person can well understand, the distance d between the two constraint portions 48 of the textile envelope 42 can be defined in different ways. During this discussion it is assumed that the distance d is measured between the central axes of the two constraint portions 48 when the textile envelope 42 is completely extended (see Figures 10 and 15).

[0103] Preferably the extraction bag 34 further comprises a gas-impermeable outer envelope 50. Advantageously the outer envelope 50 is configured for stably and durably separating its content from the external atmosphere. For this purpose, by way of example and in a manner known per se in the field of food packaging, the outer envelope 50 may comprise a polymeric layer and / or an aluminium layer, possibly laminated together to form a single film.

[0104] Furthermore, still by way of example and in a manner known per se in the field of food packaging, vacuum and / or an atmosphere modified with an inert gas (such as, for example, nitrogen or CO2) may be provided inside the outer envelope 50. These solutions allow ground almonds to be preserved for a long time, preventing their degradation and organoleptic alteration that can occur due to exposure to atmospheric oxygen and / or UV rays.

[0105] In accordance with a third aspect, the invention concerns a kit 52 comprising a device 20 and an extraction bag 34, both in accordance with what is described above. As the skilled person can well understand, the extraction bag 34 is configured so that it can be applied to the extraction group 22 of the device 20. In particular, the constraint portions 48 are configured to be constrained to the constraint elements 26, 28 of the extraction group 22. Preferably the distance d between the constraint portions 48 is equal to the distance d between the two constraint elements 26, 28 when the extraction group 22 is in the standby configuration.

[0106] In the following, by way of example, the use of the kit 52, shown in the attached figures, for the purpose of producing fresh almond milk is described.

[0107] In case the bag comprises an outer envelope 50 (Figure 7), this is removed in such a way as to expose the textile envelope 42 (Figures 8-12); subsequently the extraction bag 34 is applied on the extraction group 22. In particular, by keeping the extraction group 22 in the standby configuration (Figure 10), the two constraint portions 48 of the textile envelope 42 are constrained to the two constraint elements 26, 28 of the extraction group 22 (Figure 11). The application of the extraction bag 34 preferably takes place while the extraction group 22 is in the service position, i.e. at least partially outside the containment volume 30.

[0108] When the extraction bag 34 is correctly constrained, the extraction group 22 is brought into the working position, in which the extraction group 22 is at least partially inside the containment volume 30.

[0109] To proceed with the extraction of almond milk, a predefined volume of water must be added to the containment volume 30, for example 100 ml. In the device 20 of the attached figures, the containment volume 30 is defined by the removable container 36, which makes it particularly easy to provide for the water.

[0110] When the extraction group 22 enters in the containment volume 30, the extraction bag 34 is at least partially immersed in the water. In particular, the second constraint element 28 of the extraction group 22 and, therefore, the lower part of the textile envelope 42 are immersed in the water. Since the textile envelope 42 is permeable, water enters inside the central pocket 46 wetting the ground almonds. The subsequent movements imposed by the actuation means 24 to the constraint elements 26, 28 of the extraction group 22 allow a sequence of mechanical actions to be exerted on the ground almonds leading to the extraction of the almond milk. In this phase, therefore, the extraction group 22 assumes a plurality of extraction configurations that follow one another in a predefined sequence.

[0111] In particular, the relative translation in approach between the two constraint elements 26, 28 (schematically illustrated in Figure 13.b) implies an action of compression of the extraction bag 34 and its content. Furthermore, the relative rotation between the two constraint elements 26, 28 (schematically illustrated in Figure 13.c) implies a torsion action of the extraction bag 34 and its content. As already mentioned above, the two movements can be combined with each other in various sequences and combinations.

[0112] Furthermore, among the plurality of extraction configurations, some may also provide for a variation of the immersion depth of the extraction group 22 in the water. As mentioned above, in fact, the actuation means 24 can also impose a movement of the entire extraction group 22 between a position of maximum immersion in the water (thus obtained with a movement toward the interior of the containment volume 30) and an emersion position, at least partially raised with respect to the water (thus obtained with an movement outward of the containment volume 30).

[0113] Finally, in addition to the mechanical compression and torsion actions described above, it is also necessary to consider a further effect deriving from the relative movements between the two constraint elements 26, 28. The presence of water inside the textile envelope 42 tends to soak the ground almonds and increase their volume. As the skilled person can well understand, the increase in the volume of the ground almonds tends to swell the central pocket 46 and therefore bring the two constraint portions 48 closer together, albeit slightly. Therefore, the relative movement of bringing the two constraint elements 26, 28 back to the initial distance d, which is imposed when the textile envelope 42 and the ground almonds are soaked with water, is equivalent to a traction action.

[0114] Preferably the actuation means 24 are configured for imposing a predefined sequence of relative movements between the two constraint elements 26, 28, so as to obtain a succession of mechanical actions of compression, torsion and traction. Furthermore, the relative movements between the two constraint elements 26, 28 can advantageously be accompanied by overall movements of the entire extraction group 22, so as to obtain repeated immersions and emersions of the extraction bag 34 in the containment volume 30 and therefore in the water. Preferably the last mechanical action of the sequence is aimed at extracting as much water as possible from the extraction bag 34; preferably the last mechanical action of the sequence is a torsion performed while the extraction bag 34 is outside the water.

[0115] Preferably the actuation means 24 are configured for imposing one or more times in succession the following cyclic sequence:

[0116] - Torsion;

[0117] Release of the torsion;

[0118] Immersion and compression; and Emersion and traction.

[0119] At the end of the predefined sequence of movements imposed by the actuation means 24, the water in the containment volume 30 has collected all the essence extracted from the ground almonds present in the extraction bag 34. The water present in the containment volume 30 has therefore become fresh almond milk that can be removed for consumption. In particular, if the containment volume 30 is defined by a removable container 36, the user can easily remove it from the device 20 and proceed with instant consumption of the fresh almond milk.

[0120] At the end of the step described above, once the desired fresh almond milk has been obtained, the extraction group 22 is preferably returned to the standby configuration, in such a way as to facilitate the removal of the exhausted extraction bag 34. In this way, the device 20 returns to the initial configuration. In particular, once a new quantity of clean water has been replenished in the containment volume 30, the device 20 is again ready for another extraction cycle.

[0121] In accordance with a fourth aspect, the invention concerns a method for the production of fresh almond milk, understood according to the tradition of the Vai di Noto. The method of the invention comprises the steps of:

[0122] - providing a kit 52 in accordance with what is described above;

[0123] - providing the extraction group 22 in the standby configuration;

[0124] - constraining the constraint portions 48 of the extraction bag 34 to the constraint elements 26, 28 of the extraction group 22, so as to firmly apply the extraction bag 34 on the extraction group 22;

[0125] - providing a predetermined quantity of water;

[0126] - immersing at least partially the extraction group 22 and the extraction bag 34 in the water;

[0127] - imposing to the constraint elements 26, 28 a predefined sequence of relative movements so as to impose a predefined sequence of mechanical actions on the extraction bag 34;

[0128] - collecting in the water the essence extracted from the ground almonds provided within the extraction bag 34, so as to obtain the fresh almond milk;

[0129] - pulling the extraction group 22 and the extraction bag 34 out of the water;

[0130] - removing the fresh almond milk.

[0131] Preferably the method also comprises the steps of moving the extraction group 22 and the extraction bag 34 applied thereto. In particular, these steps provide for moving back and forth between the service position, in which the extraction group 22 is at least partially outside the containment volume 30, and the working position, in which the extraction group 22 is at least partially comprised within the containment volume 30. Preferably, the steps of moving the extraction group 22 back and forth between the service position and the working position comprise the step of vertically translating the extraction group 22.

[0132] Preferably the predetermined quantity of water, for example 100 ml, is provided inside the containment volume 30. Preferably the predefined sequence of mechanical actions imposed to the extraction bag 34 comprise repeated compression, traction and torsion actions.

[0133] Preferably, during the predefined sequence of relative movements imposed to the two constraint elements 26, 28, further movements are imposed to the entire extraction group 22. In particular, repeated movements of immersion in water and at least partial emersion from water may be imposed to the extraction bag 34.

[0134] Preferably the relative movements imposed to the two constraint elements 26, 28 and the movements imposed to the entire extraction group 22 obtain the following sequence of actions on the extraction bag 34:

[0135] - Torsion;

[0136] Release of the torsion;

[0137] Immersion and compression; and

[0138] Emersion and traction.

[0139] In light of the above, the skilled person may well understand how the invention overcomes the drawbacks highlighted in relation to the prior art.

[0140] In particular, the present invention makes available a system and a method for the production of fresh almond milk that allow to mechanically and repeatably replicate the traditional manual process of the Vai di Noto.

[0141] Furthermore, the present invention makes available a system and method for the production of fresh almond milk that are inexpensive and user-friendly.

[0142] In conclusion, all the details can be replaced by other technically equivalent elements; the characteristics described in relation to a specific embodiment can also be used in the other embodiments; the materials used, as well as the contingent shapes and dimensions, can be any according to the specific implementation needs without leaving the scope of protection of the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Device (20) for the production of fresh almond milk, comprising an extraction group (22) and actuation means (24), wherein:- the extraction group (22) comprises a first constraint element (26) and a second constraint element (28);- the extraction group (22) is configured for assuming a standby configuration and a plurality of extraction configurations;- in the standby configuration, the two constraint elements (26, 28) are placed at a distance d the one from the other;- the actuation means (24) are configured for bringing the extraction group (22) from the standby configuration into the extraction configurations and vice-versa, by imposing at least two relative movements between the first constraint element (26) and the second constraint element (28), and wherein:- a first movement implies a relative translation between the two constraint elements (26, 28) and- a second movement implies a relative rotation between the two constraint elements (26, 28).

2. Device (20) according to claim 1, wherein the device (20) defines a containment volume (30) and comprises movement means (32) configured for moving the extraction group (22) between a service position, in which the extraction group (22) is at least partially outside the containment volume (30), to a working position in which the extraction group (22) is at least partially comprised within the containment volume (30).

3. Device (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the containment volume (30) is defined by a removable container (36).

4. Device (20) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the actuation means (24) are configured for imposing to the whole extraction group (22) a movement which brings the extraction group (22) deeper into the containment volume (30) with respect to the service position reached by virtue of the movement means (32).

5. Extraction bag (34) comprising a permeable textile envelope (42) and a preparation (44), wherein the textile envelope (42) is configured in such a manner to define a completely closed central pocket (46) arranged between two constraint portions (48) placed at adistance d the one form the other; and wherein the preparation (44) is arranged inside the completely closed central pocket (46) and comprises a predefined quantity of ground almonds.

6. Extraction bag (34) according to the preceding claim, further comprising a gas- impermeable outer envelope (50).

7. Kit (52) comprising a device (20) according to one or more of claims 1 to 4 and an extraction bag (34) according to one or more of claims 5 to 6, wherein the constraint elements (26, 28) of the device (20) are configured for constraining the constraint portions (48) of the extraction bag (34).

8. Kit (52) according to the preceding claim, wherein the actuation means (24) of the device (20) are configured for imposing a compression action and a torsion action on the extraction bag (34).

9. Method for the production of fresh almond milk, comprising the steps of:- providing a kit (52) according to one or more of claims 7 to 8;- providing the extraction group (22) in the standby configuration;- constraining the constraint portions (48) of the extraction bag (34) to the constraint elements (26, 28) of the extraction group (22), so as to firmly applying the extraction bag (34) on the extraction group (22);- providing a predetermined quantity of water;- immersing at least partially the extraction group (22) and the extraction bag (34) in the water;- imposing to the constraint elements (26, 28) a predefined sequence of movements so as to impose a predefined sequence of mechanical actions on the extraction bag (34);- collecting in the water the essence extracted from the ground almonds provided within the extraction bag (34), so as to obtain the almond milk;- pulling the extraction group (22) and the extraction bag (34) out of the water;- removing the fresh almond milk.

10. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the sequence of movements imposed to the two constraint elements (26, 28) impose, one or more times, the sequenceof actions on the extraction bag (34):- Torsion;Release of the torsion;Immersion and compression; and - Emersion and traction.

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