Connecting tool

Abstract

A connecting tool for connecting a pair of receptacles that are for accommodating containers on which food / drink is placed and that are conveyed on a conveyance path, including: a pair of attachment parts attached to the receptacles; and a connecting part for connecting the pair of attachment parts, wherein the connecting part is provided with a display that is visible to a customer.

Description

Connector

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector for connecting a pair of containers that house containers on which food and drink can be placed and that are transported along a transport path.

[0002] Restaurants commonly known as conveyor belt sushi restaurants are equipped with food and beverage conveying devices equipped with conveying paths that move in a circular motion along the seating area. In these restaurants, chefs place food and beverages, such as sushi, onto containers, such as plates, and then transfer the plates onto the conveying path of the food and beverage conveying device, which then conveys the plates to the seats one after another. Meanwhile, customers can pick up the plates carrying the sushi or other food from the conveying path as desired and eat the food and beverages.

[0003] However, since the sushi on the conveyor path is transported with the top of the plate open, it is prone to drying out and there is a risk of it being accidentally touched by other customers. Therefore, preventing the sushi from drying out and serving it hygienically are issues. To address this issue, Patent Document 1 discloses a method in which a cover member is placed on a plate on which sushi has been served, and then the plate is sent onto the conveyor path of the conveyor device.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-299553

[0005] However, because the POP advertisements are placed on the plates, the food and drink are transported on separate plates, making it difficult to compare the POP advertisements with the actual food.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and aims to provide a connector that can be transported together with a plate on which food or drink is placed, and that can indicate the contents of the food or drink on the plate, or display advertising or other information.

[0007] Item 1. A connector for connecting a pair of containers that house food and drink containers and are transported on a transport path, the connector comprising: a pair of mounting parts that are attached to each of the containers; and a connecting part that connects the pair of mounting parts, the connecting part having a marking that is visible to customers.

[0008] Item 2. The connector according to Item 1, further comprising a display member on which a display visible to a customer is provided, and the connecting portion is formed to a length that allows the display member to be attached.

[0009] Item 3. The connector according to Item 2, wherein the display member is formed in a plate or sheet shape, the lower end of the display member is formed in a straight line, and the connecting portion is formed to a length that allows the lower end of the display member to be arranged.

[0010] Item 4. The connector according to Item 1 or 2, wherein the connecting portion has a rigidity that allows the distance between the pair of containers to be maintained constant.

[0011] Item 5. The connector according to any one of Items 1 to 3, wherein the container has a base that is placed on the transport path, and the attachment portion includes a support portion on which the base is placed.

[0012] Item 6. The connector according to Item 5, wherein the support portion includes a rotation prevention portion for preventing rotation relative to the base.

[0013] Item 7. The connector according to any one of Items 1 to 3, wherein the container has a cylindrical base that is placed on the transport path, and the attachment portion is formed in an annular shape that can be attached to an outer circumferential surface of the base.

[0014] Item 8. The connector according to any one of Items 1 to 7, wherein the connecting portion is fixed at a constant angle relative to the container.

[0015] Item 9. The connector according to any one of Items 1 to 8, wherein the connecting portion is detachably fixed to the attachment portion.

[0016] Item 10. The connector according to Item 2 or 3, wherein the connecting portion includes a display member attachment portion for attaching the display member to the connecting portion.

[0017] Item 11. The connector according to any one of Items 1 to 10, wherein the connecting portion is configured to be separable into two parts.

[0018] Item 12. The connector according to Item 11, wherein each portion of the two separated connecting portions is formed in a shape resembling a hand, and when the respective portions are connected together, the shape is resembling a handshake.

[0019] The connector according to the present invention is transported together with a plate on which food or drink is placed, and can inform the customer of the contents of the food or drink placed on the plate, or can display a promotional or advertising message.

[0020] 16 is a plan view of a food and drink providing system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a conveying path. FIG. 18 is a front view of a container in a closed state. FIG. 19 is a side view of FIG. 20 is a front view of a container in an open state. FIG. 21 is a side view of FIG. 22 is a plan view of a placing table. FIG. 23 is a front view of FIG. 24 is a side view of FIG. 25 is a side view of FIG. 26 is a side view of FIG. 27 is a side view of FIG. 28 is a side view of FIG. 29 is a plan view of a container in a closed state. FIG. 29 is a side view of FIG. 30 is a side view of FIG. 31 is a side view of FIG. 32 is a plan view of a container in an open state. FIG. 20 is a front view of a container in a closed state. FIG. 21 is a side view of a container in an open state. FIG. 22 is a front view of a container in a first embodiment. FIG. 23 is a front view of a container connected by the connector of FIG. 24 is a plan view of FIG. 25 is a plan view of FIG. 26 is a plan view of FIG. 27 is a plan view of FIG. 28 is a plan view of FIG. 29 is a plan view of FIG. 30 is a plan view of FIG. 31 is a plan view of FIG. 32 is a plan view of FIG. 33 is a plan view of FIG. 34 is a plan view of FIG. 35 is a plan view of FIG. 36 is a plan view of FIG. 37 is a plan view of FIG. 38 is a plan view of FIG. 39 is a plan view of FIG. 40 is a plan view of FIG. 41 is a plan view of FIG. 42 is a plan view of FIG. 43 is a plan view of FIG. 44 is a plan view of FIG 31 is a plan view showing a process of a pair of containers connected by the connector of FIG. 14 being transported along a transport path. FIG. 32 is a plan view showing a process of a pair of containers connected by the connector of FIG. 14 being transported along a transport path. FIG. 33 is a plan view showing an example when the connector is elastically deformed. FIG. 34 is a front view of the connector of the first embodiment. FIG. 35 is a plan view of FIG. 25. FIG. 36 is a bottom view of the placement part of the container. FIG. 37 is a plan view showing the fastening of the attachment part of the connector to the container. FIG. 38 is a front view of a pair of containers connected by the connector of FIG. 25. FIG. 39 is a plan view of FIG. 39. FIG. 40 is a front view of a connecting part according to a third embodiment. FIG. 41 is a front view of a first part (a), a back view of the first part (b), and a plan view of the first part (c). FIG. 42 is a front view of a second part (a), a back view of the first part (b), and a plan view of the first part (c). FIG. 43 is a front view showing the process of fastening the first part and the second part. FIG. 44 is a plan view after the first part and the second part have been fastened. FIG. 45 is a back view after the first part and the second part have been fastened. FIG. 46 is a front view of a pair of containers connected by the connector having the connecting part of FIG. 31. 10 is a front view of a pair of containers connected by a connector having a connecting portion of another example. FIG. 11 is a plan view showing an outline of a quick turn mechanism.

[0021] <A. First Embodiment> <1. Overview of Food and Beverage Providing System> A first embodiment of a food and beverage providing system for transporting containers according to the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a plan view of the food and beverage providing system, Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the transport path, and Fig. 3 is a front view of the transport path.

[0022] 1 and 2, the food and drink serving system according to this embodiment is installed in a sushi restaurant, as an example, and includes a transport path 1 for transporting containers 5 containing food and drink between a guest room S1 and a kitchen S2. The guest room S1 is provided with a plurality of customer seating booths 3 separated by partitions, and each customer seating booth 3 is arranged along the transport path 1. Each customer seating booth 3 is also provided with a rectangular table 31, and one side of this table 31 is installed so that it contacts the transport path 1.

[0023] The container 5 transported by the transport path 1 contains plates 4 on which food and drink (sushi, soup, sweets, drinks, etc.) are placed, and customers at each seating booth 3 take out the plates 4 on which food and drink are placed from the container 5 on the transport path 1 and eat and drink at a table 31.

[0024] 2, a touch panel display 32 for placing orders, making payments, etc., and an insertion device 33 for inserting plates 4 are arranged on a table 31 of the customer booth 3. Food and drink ordered on the touch panel display 32 are transported by the second transport path 2 from the kitchen S2 to the table 31 where the order was placed. Information about the ordered food and drink is stored as order information in a processing device (not shown). Each device will be described in detail below.

[0025] 2, the conveying path 1 has two lanes on which flat chain conveyors 11 are arranged, and these flat chain conveyors 11 are driven by a motor (not shown) to move in a circular motion between the guest room S1 and the kitchen S2. The above-mentioned containers 5 are arranged on the flat chain conveyor 11 at predetermined intervals and move along the conveying path 1.

[0026] 3. Insertion Device Next, the insertion device 33 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2 , the insertion device 33 includes a guide path 332 that opens above the table 31 and has an insertion opening 331 through which the dishes 4 are inserted, and a sensor 333 that is provided inside the guide path 332 and detects the dishes 4 that have passed through. The guide path 332 extends diagonally downward from the table 31 and is connected to a dish recovery channel 22 that is provided inside the conveyance path 1. The dish recovery channel 22 extends to the kitchen S2 and is connected to a storage tub (not shown) provided in the kitchen S2. Water flows through the dish recovery channel 22 toward the storage tub. When the dishes 4 are inserted through the insertion opening 331, they fall into the dish recovery channel 22 via the guide path 332 and are carried to the storage tub by the water. The dishes 4 are then collected in the storage tub, washed, and reused.

[0027] When the sensor 333 detects the plates 4 passing through the guide path 332, the type and number of plates are sent to the processing device described above and stored as insertion information. This insertion information is used at the time of payment; when the customer touches the payment button (not shown) on the touch panel display 32, the number and type of plates consumed, as well as the price, are displayed on the touch panel display based on the insertion information and the above-mentioned order information. If the customer agrees, a message urging the customer to pay the price at the POS register is displayed on the touch panel display 32. Alternatively, the payment can be processed by calling a store staff member and having them count the number of plates consumed.

[0028] 4. Container Next, the container 5 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 6. FIG. 3 is a front view of the container in a closed state, FIG. 4 is a side view of FIG. 3, FIG. 5 is a front view of the container in an open state, and FIG. 6 is a side view of FIG. 5. For ease of explanation, in FIGS. 3 to 6, the plates 4 are shown translucently colored. First, the plates 4 stored in the container 5 will be described. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the plate 4 includes a plate 41 that is circular in plan view and a cylindrical base 42 that protrudes downward from the underside of the plate 41, which are integrally formed. Food (not shown), such as sushi, is placed on the plate 41.

[0029] Next, the container 5 will be described. As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the container 5 includes a table 6 having a placement position for placing the dish 4, a lid 7 for covering the top surface of the table 6, and an opening / closing mechanism 80 for closing the lid 7 when the dish 4 is placed in the placement position and for opening the lid 7 when the dish 4 is removed from the placement position. Each component will be described in detail below. For ease of explanation, the following description will be given based on the orientation shown in Figures 3 to 6, but the present invention is not limited to this orientation.

[0030] <4-1. Mounting Table> Fig. 7 is a plan view of the mounting table and the operating member, Fig. 8 is a front view of Fig. 7, and Fig. 9 is a side view of Fig. 7. As shown in Figs. 7 and 8, the mounting table 6 includes a cylindrical base 61 and a mounting portion 62 provided at the upper end thereof, which are integrally formed. A dish 4 is placed on the upper surface of the mounting portion 62, and the dish 4 is held in a mounting position described below. The mounting portion 62 includes a mounting plate 63 that is circular in plan view, a stopper 64 located at the front of the upper surface of the mounting plate 63, and a pair of support pieces 67 located at the rear end of the mounting plate 63 and supporting the lid 7 so that it can be opened and closed.

[0031] The stopper 64 protrudes from the mounting plate 63 and extends along the front edge of the mounting plate 63. The rear edge of the stopper 64 is formed with an arc-shaped inner peripheral surface 642, which contacts the outer peripheral surface of the base 42 of the dish 4. Circular through-holes 69 are formed near the outer edges on both sides of the mounting plate 63.

[0032] Furthermore, a recess 635 having a rectangular shape in plan view is formed on the top surface of the mounting plate 63 rearward of the center in the front-to-rear direction, and an actuator 8 (described later) is disposed in this recess 635. A plurality of elongated through-holes 636 extending in the front-to-rear direction are formed in the bottom surface of this recess 635, and as will be described later, protrusions 811 of the actuator 8 are inserted into these through-holes 636. The platform 42 of the dish 4 is sandwiched between the second inner circumferential surface 642 of the stopper 64 and the actuator 8, as will be described later, thereby holding the dish 4 on the mounting table 6. The position where the dish 4 is placed at this time is referred to as the mounting position. Figures 3 and 4 show the dish 4 in the mounting position.

[0033] 8 and 9, the pair of support pieces 67 are attached to the mounting plate 63 on either side of the recess 635, and extend upward from the mounting plate 63. A through-hole 671 is formed at the upper end of each support piece 67, and the protrusion 73 of the lid body 7 is rotatably inserted into this through-hole 671, allowing the lid body 7 to open and close. In other words, the support pieces 67 function as hinges for opening and closing the lid body 7 relative to the mounting portion 62.

[0034] <4-2. Lid> Figure 10 is a side view of the lid. As shown in Figure 10, the lid 7 includes a dome-shaped lid main body 71 and a pair of left and right arm pieces 72 extending downward from the rear end of the lid main body 71, which are integrally formed. The lid main body 71 and the arm pieces 72 are made of a transparent synthetic resin material, allowing the interior to be viewed from the outside. The aforementioned protrusion 73 is formed near the upper end of each arm piece 72, and each protrusion 73 is rotatably fitted into the through-hole 671 of the support piece 67 of the mounting portion 62. Each protrusion 73 protrudes in the left-right direction, allowing the lid 7 to rotate about a pivot L (see Figure 4, etc.) that passes through both protrusions 73 and extends in the left-right direction, thereby allowing it to be opened and closed relative to the mounting plate 63.

[0035] An upwardly extending slot-shaped notch 75 is formed at the lower end of each arm piece 72. A connecting shaft 85 of the actuator 8, which will be described later, is inserted into this notch 75.

[0036] The outer diameter of the lid body 7 is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the mounting plate 63. As shown in FIG. 3, when the lid body 7 is closed, the lower edge of the lid body 7 is positioned above the peripheral edge of the mounting plate 63, leaving a gap. A plate 4 is placed in this gap. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3, an arc-shaped notch 76 is formed in the lower edge of the front of the lid body 7, allowing the placed plate 4 to be grasped through this notch 76. A through-hole 77 is formed in the top of the lid body 7, and a label 79 indicating the type of food or drink contained in each lid body 7 is attached to this through-hole 77. This label 79 can indicate the type of sushi, such as tuna or sea bream.

[0037] 4 and 6, the opening / closing mechanism 80 includes an actuator 8 disposed on the mounting plate 63, and a coil spring (biasing means) 83 for biasing the actuator 8 forward.

[0038] First, the actuator 8 will be described. FIG. 11 shows a plan view (a), a side view (b), and a bottom view (c) of the actuator. As shown in FIG. 11, the actuator 8 is disposed in the recess 635 of the mounting plate 63 and includes a plate-shaped main body 81 that slides in the front-rear direction within the recess 635, and a support portion 82 that protrudes upward from the rear of the main body 81. The support portion 82 is rectangular in plan view, but has an inner peripheral surface 821 at its front that is recessed in an arc shape toward the rear. This inner peripheral surface 821 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the platform 42 of the dish 4. In other words, the platform 42 of the dish 4 is sandwiched between the inner peripheral surface 821 of the actuator 8 and the second inner peripheral surface 642 of the stopper 64.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 11C , a plurality of protrusions 811 extending in the front-rear direction are formed on the underside of the main body 81. As described above, these protrusions 811 are fitted into the through-holes 634 formed in the bottom surface of the recess 635 of the mounting plate 63. This allows the main body 81 to slide in the front-rear direction while being guided by the protrusions 811 and the through-holes 634. As shown in FIG. 4 and other figures, the coil spring 83 described above is attached between the central protrusion 811a in the left-right direction among the plurality of protrusions 811 and the mounting portion 638 formed on the underside of the mounting plate 63, further forward than the protrusion 811a. This coil spring 83 constantly biases the actuator 8 forward. However, as shown in FIG. 14 (described later), the main body 81 of the actuator 8 is disposed in the recess 635 of the mounting plate 63. The front wall of the recess 635 acts as a stopper, so although the actuator 8 is biased forward, the front wall prevents it from moving further forward.

[0040] 11, protrusions 84 extending diagonally upward toward the rear are formed on both sides of the rear end of the support portion 82. A connecting shaft 85 extending in the left-right direction is formed near the upper end of each protrusion 84, and each connecting shaft 85 is inserted into a notch 75 formed in the arm piece 72 of the cover 7 and is movable within the notch 75. The connecting shaft 85 is inserted into the notch 75 below the pivot axis L.

[0041] Next, the opening and closing of the lid body by the actuator will be described. Figure 12 shows the lid body in a closed state, and Figure 13 shows the lid body in an open state. Figures 12 and 13 mainly show the lid body 7 and the actuator body 8, and for ease of explanation, the support piece 67 of the mounting base 6 is omitted.

[0042] The actuator 8 is constantly biased forward by the coil spring 83, and therefore, as shown in Figure 12, when no external force is acting, the actuator 8 is in contact with the front wall of the recess 635. As a result, the connecting shaft 85 pushes the lower end of the arm piece 72 forward. In other words, the connecting shaft 85 presses the lower end of the arm piece 72 forward below the pivot axis L, causing the lid 7 to swing upward around the swing axis L and enter an open state. Since the actuator 8 is constantly biased forward by the coil spring 83, the lid 7 is initially in an open state.

[0043] From this state, when the actuator 8 is moved rearward against the coil spring 83, the connecting shaft 85 pushes the arm piece 72 rearward, as shown in Figure 13. As a result, the cover 7 is pressed rearward below the pivot axis L, so it swings downward about the pivot axis L and enters the closed state. During this process, the connecting shaft 85 moves upward within the notch 75 of the arm piece 72.

[0044] 5. How to Use the Container 5 Next, we will explain how to use the container 5. First, a chef places food (not shown), such as sushi, on the tray plate 41 of the dish 4. Then, the chef holds the rim of the tray plate 41 and places the dish 4 on the open container 5 placed on the conveyor path 1. That is, from the state shown in FIG. 6 , the chef pushes the dish 4 backward against the loading plate 63. At this time, the platform 42 of the dish 4 contacts the inner circumferential surface 821 of the actuator 8, pushing the dish 4 and the actuator 8 backward. Then, when the platform 42 of the dish 4 engages with the second inner circumferential surface 642 of the stopper 64, the platform 42 is held between the actuator 8 and the stopper 64. During this process, the actuator 8 moves backward, causing the lid 7 to swing downward and enter the closed state, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 . This causes the lid 7 to cover the top of the dish 4, protecting the sushi and preventing dust and other particles from adhering to it. However, because the lid 7 is transparent, the sushi inside can be seen from the outside. The actuator 8 is biased forward by the coil spring 83, so the base 42 of the plate 4 is pushed into the actuator 8. Therefore, the base 42 is firmly held between the actuator 8 and the stopper 64. As a result, the lid 7 is held in the closed state and will not open accidentally.

[0045] The container 5 with the dish 4 thus placed therein is transported along the transport path 1, and the customer removes the dish 4 from the container 5 at the table 31. That is, from the state shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the customer inserts their fingers through the notch 76 in the lid 7, grasps the dish plate 41 with their fingers, and pushes it upward. As a result, the platform 42 is released from the stopper 64, and the actuator 8 pushes the platform 42 forward. In this process, the actuator 8 moves forward, and the lid 7 swings upward and opens. In this state, the customer can remove the dish 4 from the container 5 while still grasping the dish plate 41.

[0046] 6. Connector> FIG. 14 is a front view of the connector, FIG. 15 is a plan view of FIG. 14, FIG. 16 is a front view of a container with the connector attached, and FIG. 17 is a plan view of FIG. 16. In this embodiment, two adjacent containers 5 are connected by a connector 9 and transported along the transport path 1. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the connector 9 has a pair of attachment portions 91 attached to the containers 5 and a connecting portion 92 connecting the two attachment portions 91. The attachment portions 91 are formed in an annular shape and are detachably attached to the outer circumferential surface of the base 61 of the container 5. Therefore, the attachment portions 91 are formed of an elastic material such as rubber and have an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the base 61 in an initial state. When attaching the attachment portions 91 to the base 61, the inner diameter of the attachment portions 91 is expanded and attached to the base 61. As a result, the attachment portions 91 press against the outer circumferential surface of the base 61 and are fixed to the base 61.

[0047] The connecting portion 92 is a member for maintaining the spacing between adjacent containers 5. More specifically, the connecting portion 92 includes a plate-shaped main body 921, a fixing portion 922 formed on the upper surface of the main body 921, and a pair of protrusions 923 attached to both ends of the fixing portion 921 on the upper surface of the main body 921, which are integrally formed. The main body 921 extends like a rod to maintain the spacing between adjacent containers 5, and both ends are fixed to the mounting portions. The fixing portion 922 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape and has a slit 924 formed on its upper surface. A sheet- or plate-shaped display member 97 made of paper, resin, or the like is attached to this slit 922. The display member 97 displays, for example, at least one of the following: the contents of the food or beverage contained in the container 5, an advertisement (such as a so-called POP advertisement), and a notice to customers (e.g., a message of gratitude to the customer, or a message to appeal to customers). In other words, the display member 97 is provided with a display that can be seen by customers. In this case, the display member 97 may be a display made of paper or the like, or may be an electronic display made of electronic paper.

[0048] The slit 924 is used as a display member mounting portion for attaching the display member 97 to the connecting portion 92, and by forming such a display member mounting portion in the connecting portion 92, the display member 97 can be stably attached to the connecting portion 92.

[0049] The connecting portion 92 is formed to a length that allows the display member 97 to be attached. In this case, there are no particular limitations as long as the display content is visible from the passenger seats, but for example, it is conceivable to connect the two containers 5 with a certain distance between them, taking into account the horizontal length of the display member 97 (at least the length of the lower end). This ensures space in the horizontal direction (the conveying direction of the conveying path) between the two containers 5, making it possible to attach the display member 97 to the connecting portion 92.

[0050] Each protrusion 923 is fixed to a through-hole 69 formed in the mounting plate 63. This fixes the attachment angle between the connecting part 92 and the mounting plate 63. Therefore, when the connector 9 is fixed to the container 5, the distance between the two containers 5 and the angle between the two containers 5 are fixed, and the two containers 5 are transported on the transport path 1 while maintaining this fixed state.

[0051] The maximum distance between the two containers 5 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 12 cm or less, more preferably 11 cm or less, and even more preferably 10 cm or less. On the other hand, the minimum distance between the two containers 5 is also not particularly limited, but is preferably 7 cm or more, and even more preferably 8 cm or more. The connector 9 is designed so that the distance between the two containers 5 is as described above. The length of the connector 9 is set to a length that allows the two containers 5 to be transported smoothly, based on the outer diameter of the containers 5, the width of the transport path 1, the radius of curvature of the curved path 103 (described later), and the like.

[0052] In this case, the upper limit of the length of the connecting portion 62 is preferably equal to or less than a length such that the movement range (movement trajectory) of one assembly made up of both containers 5 connected by the connecting portion 62 does not exceed the passage area formed by a U-shaped conveying path consisting of a straight path and a curved path. This is because if the length of the connecting portion is set so as to exceed the movement range of one assembly made up of both containers 5 connected by the connecting portion 62 in the passage area formed by the U-shaped conveying path, one of the assemblies will come into contact with the outer edge or inner edge of the passage area when turning on the conveying path, making it difficult for both containers 5 connected by the connecting portion 62 to pass through.

[0053] The outer diameter of the container 5 needs to be set, for example, based on the outer diameter of the part that abuts against the conveying path 1 (the part that is affected by the passage), and in addition to being determined by the outer diameter of the base 61, it may also be determined by the loading section 62.

[0054] Furthermore, when a quick turn mechanism (a blade and conveyor for shortcutting the conveying path) is provided in the conveying path 1, it is preferable that the length of the quick turn mechanism be equal to or less than the range of movement of a single assembly consisting of both containers 5 connected by the connecting portion 62 in the passing area formed by the conveying path of the quick turn mechanism.

[0055] The connector 9 is formed of a member having a rigidity that prevents the distance and angle between the two containers 5 from changing during transport. For example, it can be formed of a resin material or a metal material that is resistant to elastic deformation. More specifically, for example, the connector 9 is preferably rigid enough to support one end of the connecting portion 92 and extend it horizontally, and not deform when a load of 60 g or less is applied to the other end, and more preferably rigid enough to prevent deformation when a load of 80 g or less is applied. Note that while the connector 9 does not deform during transport, it is not rigid and some deformation is acceptable when a strong force is applied.

[0056] 7. Transporting Containers Connected by a Connector Next, the transport of two containers 5 connected by a connector 9 will be described. First, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 , the connector 9 is attached to the containers 5. Next, the pair of containers 5 connected by the connector 9 is placed on the transport path 1. At this time, both containers 5 are placed on the transport path 1, but the connector 9 is not in contact with the transport path 1 and is placed above the transport path 1. Below, transport is performed along the transport path 1 shown in FIGS. 18 to 23 . This transport path 1 has a first straight path 101, a second straight path 102 extending parallel to the first straight path 101, and a curved path 103 connecting the ends of the straight paths 101 and 102. The containers then travel left along the first straight path 101, change direction by passing through the curved path 103, and then travel right along the second straight path 102. A table 31 faces the first straight path 101 and the second straight path 102. The transport path 1 is positioned slightly lower than the surrounding platforms. Therefore, the transport path 1 is located in the area between the outer edge 201 and the inner edge 202. The loading plate 63 is positioned higher than the surrounding platforms and does not come into contact with them during transport. However, if the base 61 is not transported correctly, it may come into contact with the outer edge 201 or the inner edge 202. For ease of explanation, the leading container will be referred to as the first container 501, and the trailing container will be referred to as the second container 502. The black squares in each container 501 and 502 indicate the positions where the notches 76 are formed, indicating the front of each container 501 and 502.

[0057] In the following, as an example of the transport of the containers 501 and 502, the widths of the straight paths 101 and 102 and the curved path 103 are 15 cm, the radius of curvature of the curved path 103 is 21 cm, the distance between the first and second straight paths 101 and 102 is 12 cm, the outer diameter of the base 61 of each container 5 is 10 cm, the outer diameter of the mounting plate 63 is 16 cm, and the distance between the containers (the distance between the mounting plates 63) is 12 cm (18 cm in FIG. 18 is the distance between the bases 61: 12 cm + 3 cm + 3 cm). The speed of the transport path 1 is 80 to 100 mm / sec. However, these are just examples, and as described above, each dimension can be changed as appropriate so that the containers 501 and 502 can move smoothly along the transport path 1 while connected. 18 to 23, the portions denoted by reference numerals 501 and 502 indicate the bases 61 of the respective containers 501 and 502.

[0058] First, as shown in Fig. 18, both containers 501 and 502 move to the right along the first straight path 101. At this time, the fronts of both containers 501 and 502 face the table 31. Then, as shown in Fig. 19, when the first container 501 enters the curved path 103, the connector 9 rotates accordingly to follow the first container 501. Accordingly, the second container 502 moves along the first straight path 101 while rotating slightly.

[0059] As shown in Figure 20, when the first container 501 proceeds downstream of the curved path 103, the second container 502 enters the curved path 103. Then, as shown in Figures 21 and 22, when the first container 501 enters the second straight path 102, the coupler 9 rotates accordingly to follow the first container 501. Accordingly, the second container 502 also rotates slightly as it proceeds along the curved path 103. Thereafter, as shown in Figure 23, both containers 501, 502 enter the second straight path 102 and proceed to the right. At this time, the front portions of both containers 501, 502 face the table 31.

[0060] 8. Features As described above, the container 5 and the connector according to this embodiment can provide the following effects.

[0061] (1) The containers 501 and 502 are connected by the connector 9, and the display member 97 is attached to the connector 9, so that the contents of the food and drink contained in the container 5 can be notified, advertised, and notified to customers. In this case, for example, it is easy to recognize the relationship between the displayed contents and the food and drink contained in the container 5.

[0062] (2) The two containers 501 and 502 are connected by the connector 9, and the distance and angle between them are fixed, so the fronts of the two containers 501 and 502 always face the table 31. This makes it easier for customers eating at the table 31 to take out the plates 4 from the containers 5.

[0063] Furthermore, the display member 97 attached to the connector 9 always faces the table 31, making it easy for customers to see, thereby enhancing the advertising effect.

[0064] (3) Because the connector 9 is made of a rigid material, even if there is a certain distance between the containers 501 and 502, the containers 501 and 502 can be transported while maintaining a fixed distance and angle. In contrast, if the connector 9 were made of an elastically deformable material, the connector 9 might bend during transport along the curved path 103, as shown in FIG. 24 . If the connector 9 were to bend, the positional relationship between the containers 501 and 502 on the transport path 1 would change, potentially causing the containers 501 and 502 to be unable to pass through the transport path 1 and to stop on the transport path 1. In contrast, when a rigid connector 9 is used as in this embodiment, the positional relationship between the containers 501 and 502 is maintained, allowing the containers 501 and 502 to be transported stably.

[0065] The use of a rigid connector 9 is also effective when providing a quick-turn mechanism (a blade and conveyor for shortcutting the conveyance path 1) in the conveyance path 1. In this case, the difference in conveyance speed between the conveyor of the quick-turn mechanism and the conveyance path 1 easily changes the positional relationship between the two containers 501, 502. Furthermore, a step between the conveyor of the quick-turn mechanism and the conveyance path 1 may hinder the movement of the two containers 501, 502. Therefore, by using a rigid connector 9, the propulsive force generated by the movement of the rear container 502 can be used to advance the front container 501, or conversely, the movement of the front container 501 can pull the rear container 502 via the connecting portion 92, thereby allowing the two connected containers 501, 502 to move smoothly despite the difference in conveyance speed or the influence of a step.

[0066] Furthermore, when a rigid connector 9 is used, it is possible to prevent the connector 9 from bending during transport on the curved path 103, which would otherwise cause the shape of the display member 97 attached to the connector 9 to change. This allows for appropriate display to customers.

[0067] B. Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment of the coupler of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 25 to 28. Note that components other than the coupler, such as the container, are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0068] Fig. 25 is a front view of the connector, Fig. 26 is a plan view of Fig. 25, Fig. 27 is a front view of a container to which the connector is attached, and Fig. 28 is a plan view of Fig. 27. The connector according to this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the attachment portion 91 and the connecting portion 92 are separable.

[0069] 25 and 26 , the connector 9 has a pair of attachment portions 91 and a connecting portion 92. The pair of attachment portions 91 have the same structure. The attachment portion 91 has a plate-shaped base plate 911, a first support portion 912 and a second support portion 913 provided on the upper surface of the base plate 911, an upright portion 914 that stands on the upper surface of the base plate 911, and a fixing portion 915 provided at the upper end of the upright portion 914.

[0070] The substrate 911 is formed in an annular shape, with a portion of it protruding in the radial direction. A cylindrical support portion 912 is arranged around the inner peripheral edge of the substrate 911, and slits (rotation prevention portions) 913 are formed in two locations on the front side of this support portion 912, at positions symmetrical with respect to the center of the support portion 912. The first support portion 912 is housed inside the base 61 of the housing body 5. Therefore, the outer diameter of the support portion 912 roughly matches the inner diameter of the base 61.

[0071] The standing portion 914 is formed in a plate shape and protrudes upward from the protruding portion of the base 911. The fixing portion 915 is attached to the outermost upper end of the standing portion 914. The fixing portion 915 is formed in a rectangular plate shape and has a through-hole 916 in the center when viewed from above.

[0072] The connecting portion 92 has a thin, plate-like main body 924 and rectangular pillar-like protrusions 925 protruding downward from both ends of the underside of the main body 924. The protrusions 925 are inserted into the through-holes 916 of the mounting portions 91, respectively. The above-mentioned display member 97 is provided on the upper surface of the main body 924. The distance between the two containers 5 shown in the first embodiment is approximately the same as the length of the main body 924. The material of the connector 9 in this embodiment can also be the same as that in the first embodiment.

[0073] 2. How to Use the Connector Next, how to use the connector 9 will be described. First, the fixation of the base 61 of the container 5 and the mounting portion 91 will be described with reference to FIGS. 27 and 28. FIG. 27 is a bottom view of the placement portion of the container. As described above, the cylindrical base 61 is provided on the underside of the placement plate 63 of the placement portion 62. As described above, the internal space of the base 61 is provided with the coil spring 83 extending in the front-to-rear direction. A pair of weights 68 is provided on the underside of the placement plate 63 so as to sandwich the coil spring 83. The weights 68 are provided to stably position the container 5 on the transport path 1.

[0074] Each weight 68 is formed in a cylindrical shape and is provided at two locations on the front side of the internal space of the base 61, symmetrically with respect to the center of the base 61. Each weight 68 is also provided so as to be in contact with the inner wall surface of the base 61.

[0075] 28 , when the mounting portion 91 is attached to the base 61, the support portion 912 of the mounting portion 91 comes into contact with the inner wall surface of the base 61. At this time, a portion of the weight 68 enters each of a pair of slits 913 formed in the support portion 912. This prevents the container 5 from rotating relative to the mounting portion 91.

[0076] Next, each protrusion 925 of the connecting portion 92 is inserted into the through-hole 916 of the fixing portion 915 of each mounting portion 91. As described above, each protrusion 925 is formed in a prismatic shape, and the through-hole 916 is formed in a rectangular shape in a plan view, so the protrusion 925 cannot rotate relative to the through-hole 915. This fixes the connecting portion 92 to each mounting portion 91 so that the angle does not change. As a result, the two containers 5 are connected via the connecting device 9. Thereafter, these containers 5 and connecting device 9 are transported on the transport path 1, as in the first embodiment.

[0077] According to the above configuration, the storage unit 5 is attached to the attachment unit 91 by placing the storage unit 5 on the attachment unit 91, which facilitates the attachment of the attachment unit 91. Note that in the second embodiment, the base 61 may be placed on the upper surface of the attachment unit 91.

[0078] In this embodiment, the attachment portion 91 and the connecting portion 92 are formed separately, but this allows for preparing connecting portions 92 of various shapes, and for the connector 9 to be configured by simply replacing the connecting portion 92. For example, if various connecting portions 92 are prepared, such as connecting portions 92 with main body portions 924 of different lengths or connecting portions 92 with display members 97 of different shapes, the attachment portion 91 can be used as is.

[0079] C. Third Embodiment Next, a third embodiment of the coupler of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 31 to 36. Note that the container and other components of the coupler other than the connecting portion are the same as those in the second embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0080] 31 is a front view of the connector. The connector according to this embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the connector 100 is separable.

[0081] 31 , the connecting part 100 of this embodiment is configured to show the shape of two hands shaking hands, and can further be fitted with the above-mentioned display member 97. The connecting part 100 is made up of a first part 110 and a second part 120. The first part 110 and the second part 120 are colored differently. Each part will be described below.

[0082] 32A is a front view of the first part, FIG. 32B is a rear view of the first part, and FIG. 32C is a plan view of the first part. As shown in FIG. 32 , the first part 110 includes a base 111 formed in a rectangular plate shape, a plate-shaped insertion part 112 extending obliquely downward from the base 111 to the right (toward the second part 120), a support part 113 provided on the rear face of the base 111, and a fixing part 114 extending downward from the support part 113, which are integrally formed.

[0083] The tip of the insertion portion 112 is formed in a shape resembling four fingers other than the thumb, and the insertion portion 112 is inserted into the second portion 120 to fix the first portion 110 and the second portion 120 together. As shown in FIG. 32( b), a recess 118 is formed in the back surface of the insertion portion 112, and an engaging portion 1281 of the second portion 120 (described later) fits into this recess 118. The support portion 113 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and a slit 116 is formed in the top surface, extending in the left-right direction and opening to the right (toward the second portion 120). A display member 97 is inserted into this slit 116, as described later.

[0084] The fixing portion 114 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in the vertical direction, and is the portion that is attached to one of the attachment portions 91. Therefore, a protrusion 115 similar to the protrusion 925 shown in the second embodiment is provided at the lower end of the fixing portion 114.

[0085] 3. Second Part Figure 33 shows (a) a front view of the second part, (b) a back view of the second part, and (c) a plan view of the second part. As shown in Figure 33, the second part 120 includes a rectangular base 121, a plate-shaped receiving part 122 extending diagonally downward from the left side of the base 121 (the first part 110 side), and a fixing part 127 extending downward from the base 121, which are integrally formed. The front surfaces of the base 121 and the receiving part 122 are flush with each other.

[0086] The base 121 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and a slit 129 extending in the left-right direction and opening to the left (first section 110 side) is formed on the top surface. The display member 97 is inserted into this slit 129, as described below. A plate-shaped front section 123 is provided on the right side of the front surface of the base 121. The thickness of this front section 123 is approximately the same as the thickness of the insertion section 112 of the first section 110. A left edge 1231 of the front section 123 extends downward and diagonally to the right, which corresponds to the insertion direction of the insertion section 112. A plate-shaped first pressing section 124 is provided at the upper end on the left side of the front section 123. This first pressing section 124 is provided to cover the upper side of the base 121 and is shaped like a thumb.

[0087] A protrusion 125 protruding forward is provided on the edge of the lower end of the receiving portion 122, and a second pressing portion 126 is provided extending from this protrusion 125 toward the upper right. The second pressing portion 126 is shaped to resemble four fingers other than the thumb. As a result, a gap is formed between the receiving portion 122 and the second pressing portion 126 by the protrusion 125, and the insertion portion 112 is inserted into this gap. Therefore, the right edge 1251 of the protrusion 125 extends downward and diagonally to the right. This is the insertion direction of the insertion portion 112. Therefore, the insertion portion 112 inserted into the receiving portion 122 is covered by the first pressing portion 124 and the second pressing portion 126.

[0088] A U-shaped through hole is formed in receiving portion 122, and the portion surrounded by this through hole constitutes elastically deformable deformation portion 128. In addition, a protruding engagement portion 1281 is formed on the front surface of deformation portion 128, and this engagement portion 1281 is adapted to fit into recess 118 of insertion portion 112.

[0089] The fixing portion 127 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in the vertical direction, and is a portion that is attached to one of the attachment portions 91. Therefore, a protrusion 1271 similar to the protrusion 925 shown in the second embodiment is provided at the lower end of the fixing portion 127.

[0090] 4. Method of Fixing the First Part and the Second Part Next, a method of fixing the first part 110 and the second part 120 will be described. Fig. 34 is a front view showing the process of fixing the two parts, Fig. 35 is a plan view after fixing, and Fig. 36 is a rear view after fixing.

[0091] To secure the first part 110 and the second part 120 together, as shown in Figure 34, the insertion part 112 of the first part 110 is inserted diagonally downward to the right between the front surface of the receiving part 122 of the second part 120 and the first and second pressing parts 124, 126. At this time, the deformation part 128 of the second part 120 elastically deforms, and the engagement part 1281 fits into the recess 118. As a result, as shown in Figure 31, the first part 110 and the second part 120 are secured together, forming a shape that resembles them shaking hands.

[0092] After fixing, as shown in Fig. 35, the slit 116 of the first section 110 and the slit 129 of the second section 120 are connected in the left-right direction, forming a recess for inserting the display member 97. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 36, after fixing, the end of the support section 113 of the first section 110 and the end of the base section 121 of the second section 120 come into contact, so that the insertion section 112 is restricted from being inserted further than in the state shown in Fig. 31.

[0093] As described above, once the first section 110 and the second section 120 are fixed, the protrusions 116, 1271 are fixed to the fixing section 915 of the mounting section 91. In this way, a structure is formed in which the two housings 5 ​​are connected by the connector 9, as shown in FIG.

[0094] 5. Features According to the connecting portion 100 configured as described above, the following effects can be obtained.

[0095] (1) The first section 110 and the second section 120 are colored in different colors, which emphasizes that the two sections are connected. In addition, since the connecting portion 100 itself can be separated into two parts, even after the connecting device 9 is attached to each of the two containers 5, the connecting device 9 can be separated into two parts, allowing the two containers 5 to be stored separately.

[0096] (2) Since the first part 110 and the second part 120 are formed to resemble hands, when the two are connected together they form a handshake shape, which further emphasizes the connection between the two.

[0097] (3) Since the connecting portion 100 is colored in a color different from that of the housing body 5, the presence of the connecting portion 100 can be emphasized.

[0098] (4) Because the insertion portion 112 of the first part 110 is inserted obliquely downward into and fixed to the second part 120, the first part 110 and the second part 120 are fixed in a direction intersecting the conveying direction of the conveying path. This prevents the first part 110 and the second part 120 from separating during conveyance. Furthermore, when the first part 110 and the second part 120 are fixed together, the engagement portion 1281 fits into the recess 118, thereby firmly fixing the two parts 110 and 120 together.

[0099] 6. Modifications The following modifications can be combined with the above-described embodiments, or the aspects described in the following modifications can be combined as appropriate. In this embodiment, as one aspect, the first part 110 and the second part 120 are formed in a shape resembling a hand, and when the two parts are connected, they form a shape resembling a handshake. However, this is not limiting. In other words, the shapes of the parts 110 and 120 can be modified in various ways, as long as they are formed so that at least two separate parts can be connected. For example, various shapes, such as a company logo, can be separated into two parts that can be connected.

[0100] The first portion 110 and the second portion 120 do not necessarily have to be colored in different colors, and may be the same color.

[0101] There are no particular limitations on the connection structure between the first part 110 and the second part 120. In this embodiment, as described above, the insertion part 112 of the first part 110 is inserted into the receiving part 122 of the second part 120 and fixed, but other methods are also possible, and the first part 110 and the second part 120 can be connected using various members, for example, fastening members such as screws.

[0102] In this embodiment, the display member 97 is attached to the connector 9 to appeal to customers with the content written on the display member 97, but appeal to customers is possible even without the display member 97. That is, in this embodiment, the connector 100 is shaped like a "handshake." According to the Daijisen dictionary (Shogakukan), for example, a handshake expresses affection and joy, so the handshake shape of the connector 100 can be said to convey such meaning. Furthermore, because the connector 9 connects two containers 5, the handshake shape can indicate the affectionate relationship between the two objects. Therefore, for example, placing dishes from different countries on the containers 5 can indicate the affectionate relationship between the two countries.

[0103] The shape of the connecting part 100 is not limited to the handshake shape as described above, and various other shapes are possible. For example, as shown in FIG. 38 , the connecting part 100 can be shaped like a hand with a thumbs-up, which expresses a "like" and indicates that the food or drink being served is good. The connecting part 100 can be formed as a single unit, or, as described above, can be configured to be separable into two parts. The connecting part 100 can also have a character design. Therefore, in the phrase "the connecting part has a display visible to customers" in this specification, the "display" refers to the connecting device being given a generally meaningful shape or a character design, or some other expression according to the design. In addition to displaying some kind of information through the shape of the connecting part, the "display" can also be achieved by adding letters, symbols, logos, etc. to the connecting part.

[0104] D. Modifications Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. The following modifications can be combined as appropriate.

[0105] (1) The configuration of the container 5 shown in the above embodiment is an example, and its structure is not particularly limited as long as it can accommodate the plate 4 on which food and drink are placed. For example, in the above embodiment, the base 61 is formed in a cylindrical shape, but the outer shape may be formed in a polygonal prism shape.

[0106] (2) The conveying path 1 is an example, and the length of the connector 9 can be determined appropriately based on the outer diameter of the containers 5, the radius of curvature of the curved path 103 of the conveying path 1, and the width of the conveying path 1, as described above. For example, the above-described quick turn mechanism is configured as shown in FIG. 39 . As shown in FIG. 39 , the quick turn mechanism is used, for example, to form a bypass path for conveying the containers 5 from the middle of the second straight path 102 to the middle of the first straight path 101. More specifically, the quick turn mechanism includes a conveyor 106 that is disposed between the second straight path 102 and the first straight path 101 and conveys the containers 5 from the second straight path 102 to the first straight path 101, a first guide plate 107 that guides the containers 5 from the second straight path 102 to the conveyor 106, a second guide plate 108 that guides the containers 5 from the conveyor 106 to the first straight path 101, and a cylindrical inner edge member 109 that forms the inner edge of the bypass path. Each guide plate 10 is disposed so as to obliquely intersect with the second straight path 102 and the first straight path 101, respectively.

[0107] The dimensions of the bypass path created by this quick turn mechanism are as shown in Figure 31. The conveyor speed is 180 to 220 mm / sec. Even with such a bypass path, smooth passage is possible by adjusting the dimensions of the connector 9 and container 5 relative to the path as described above.

[0108] (3) The configuration of the connector 9 is not particularly limited, as long as it can be connected so that the angle with respect to the container 5 does not change and the distance between the containers 5 does not change. In the above embodiment, the protrusion 93 is provided and inserted into the through-hole 69 of the container 5 to prevent the connector 9 from rotating with respect to the container 5, but other configurations are also possible.

[0109] Furthermore, the configuration of the mounting portion 91 is not particularly limited, and it may be configured to be mounted to a location other than the base 61 of the housing 5. Furthermore, it may be mounted by a method other than using a rubber material. Therefore, the mounting location and mounting method to the housing 5 are not particularly limited.

[0110] The configuration of the connecting portion 92 is not particularly limited as long as it is configured to allow the display member 97 to be attached. In this case, the slit 924 is used as the display member attachment portion, but this is not limited thereto, and screws, hook-and-loop fasteners, etc. may also be used. In this case, it is not necessarily necessary for the display member attachment portion to be formed on the connecting portion 92 itself, and the display member 97 may be attached to the connecting portion 92 using adhesive, clips, etc.

[0111] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the connecting portion 92 and the mounting portion 91 are integrally formed, but as in the second embodiment, the connecting portion 92 may be detachably fixed to the mounting portion 91. In this case, the connecting structure between the mounting portion 91 and the connecting portion 92 is not particularly limited, and may be a method other than that of the second embodiment. Furthermore, the connecting portion 92 itself may be made up of multiple members that are connectable to each other.

[0112] In the above embodiment, the display member 97 is attached to the connecting portion 92, but the present invention is not limited to this and may be applied to a configuration in which the display member 97 is not attached. In this case, the connecting portion is formed to a length that maintains a constant distance between the multiple containers, and can also be used as a connector for connecting a pair of containers that are transported on a transport path.

Claims

1. A connector for connecting a pair of containers that hold food and beverages and are transported on a transport path, the connector comprising: a pair of mounting parts that are attached to each of the containers; and a connecting part that connects the pair of mounting parts, the connecting part having a marking that is visible to customers.

2. The connector according to claim 1, further comprising a display member on which a display visible to customers is provided, and the connecting portion is formed to a length that allows the display member to be attached.

3. The connector according to claim 2, wherein the display member is formed in a plate or sheet shape, the lower end of the display member is formed in a straight line, and the connecting portion is formed to a length that allows the lower end of the display member to be positioned.

4. The connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting portion has a rigidity that enables the distance between the pair of containers to be maintained constant.

5. A connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the container has a base that is placed on the transport path, and the mounting part has a support part on which the base is placed.

6. The connector according to claim 5, wherein the support portion includes an anti-rotation portion for preventing rotation relative to the base.

7. A connector as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the container has a cylindrical base that can be placed on the transport path, and the attachment part is formed in a ring shape that can be attached to the outer circumferential surface of the base.

8. The connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting portion is fixed at a constant angle relative to the container.

9. A connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting portion is detachably fixed to the mounting portion.

10. The connector according to claim 2, wherein the connecting portion includes a display member attachment portion for attaching the display member to the connecting portion.

11. The connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting portion is configured to be separable into two parts.

12. The connector according to claim 11, wherein each of the two separated connecting parts is formed in a shape resembling a hand, and when the respective parts are connected together, the shape resembles a handshake.

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