Machine for the express preparation of finished foods, such as pasta and the like

A machine for the preparation of finished food items, such as, for example, pasta, is disclosed. The machine comprises a first receptacle within which the pasta is cooked, a second receptacle within which a pasta sauce is prepared, and a transfer structure for transferring the pasta from the first receptacle to the second receptacle such that the pasta can be mixed with the pasta sauce, all internally within the machine.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a machine for the express preparation of finished foods, such as pasta and the like.

BACKGROUND ART

Various types of machines are known for the preparation of single portions of pasta, some of which are described in the US patents US 20050142266 and US 20020152899.

In particular, US 20050142266 describes a method and a machine for the express preparation of “Italian” pasta dishes. The machine described therein comprises a container inside which are housed receptacles for cooking the pre-cooked pasta and outside which, is arranged a pan for heating a single-dose portion of sauce, already prepared and kept at a temperature between 0-4° C. With reference to US 20020152899, an appliance is described for the preparation and the sale of single-dose portions of pasta comprising, substantially, a chamber for cooking single-dose portions of pre-cooked pasta and a chamber containing ready-made sauce. The pasta, after cooking, is tipped onto a relevant plate which is arranged below the chamber containing the sauce. A special nozzle distributes a pre-determined quantity of sauce on the pasta.

The machines forming the subject of the two aforementioned US patents have a number of drawbacks.

Both refer in fact to the preparation of single-dose portions of pasta whereby ready-prepared ingredients are combined that do not allow ensuring a high quality of the finished dish.

Furthermore, these machines do not allow managing the quantity of pasta prepared at one time.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

The main object of the present invention is to provide a machine for the express preparation of finished foods, such as pasta and the like, which allows obtaining a ready-to-use end product and, at the same time, a high quality.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a machine for the express preparation of finished foods, such as pasta and the like, which has compact dimensions and is easy to service and suitable, therefore, both for professional use (catering services in general) and home use.

Not the last object of the present invention is to design a machine characterised by extensive flexibility of use, being able to operate using both fresh raw materials as such and combined with prepared or semi-finished products.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a machine that allows quickly preparing a finished dish while guaranteeing the best hygienic conditions during the preparation phase.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a machine for the express preparation of finished foods, such as pasta and the like which allows overcoming the mentioned drawbacks of the state of the art within the ambit of a simple, rational, easy, effective to use and low cost solution.

The above objects are achieved by the present machine for the express preparation of finished foods, such as pasta and the like comprising a wrapping inside which are housed at least a first receptacle for cooking the pasta and at least a second receptacle for preparing the dressing sauce of the pasta, characterized by the fact that it comprises transfer means for transferring the cooked pasta from said first receptacle to said second receptacle, the mixing of the cooked pasta with said sauce being performed directly in said second receptacle.

EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

With particular reference to such figures, globally indicated by 1 is a machine for the express preparation of finished foods, such as pasta and the like.

For simplicity of representation, the above-listed illustrations show all the elements characterising the machine according to the invention and only a part of the remaining elements, these being of known type.

The machine1comprises a wrapping2inside which is positioned at least a first receptacle3for cooking the pasta and at least a second receptacle4for preparing the pasta dressing sauce.

The wrapping2is externally associated with a supporting frame2a.

Advantageously, the first receptacle3comprises at least a water container3afor cooking and at least a pasta container3bfor the pasta to be cooked.

Preferably, the machine1comprises supply means12for supplying the water inside the water container3a.

The machine1can also comprise pasta stirring means, suitable for preventing the pasta, during cooking, from attaching to the walls of the pasta container3b, which means can be of the air or mechanical type.

More in particular, the stirring means can be of the air type and comprise, e.g., at least a nozzle positionable inside the first receptacle3in correspondence to its bottom and suitable for emitting air under pressure to cause a gurgling in the cooking water that agitates the pasta.

Alternatively, the stirring means can be of the mechanical type, e.g., comprising at least a rotating stirrer arranged inside the pasta container3band which can be lifted with respect to this.

The machine1also comprises heating means7′,7″,7aof at least one between the water container3aand the pasta container3b.

According to the invention, the machine1comprises transfer means5for transferring the cooked pasta from the first receptacle3to the second receptacle4, in such a way as to allow amalgamating over the heat (“mantecare”) the cooked pasta with the sauce just prepared directly in the second receptacle4. The transfer means5can be started automatically, i.e., timed according to a cooking time preset in a control unit, or manually, i.e., selected by an operator by means of a push-button control panel.

Preferably, the machine1comprises mixing means6suitable for mixing the sauce to be prepared contained in the second receptacle4and for amalgamating over the heat the cooked pasta and the sauce together during subsequent mixing. Such mixing means6comprise at least a mobile stirrer6arotating inside the second receptacle4and moved by a motor6b.

The stirrer6acan be lifted with respect to the second receptacle4so as to allow the removal of the second receptacle itself from the wrapping2.

Suitably, the machine1comprises differentiated and independent heat sources for the first and the second receptacles3and4.

More particulararly, the machine1comprises heat administration means7bto the second receptacle4, independent and distinct from the heating means7′,7″,7a.

The heat administration means7bare composed e.g. of a heatable plate arranged below the second receptacle4.

Advantageously, the machine1further comprises dosing means of the pasta and/or of at least a raw material for preparing the dressing sauce.

The dosing means comprise at least a first hopper17for the containment of the pasta to be cooked, which can be connected to the first receptacle3. More in particular, the first hopper17is arranged above the pasta container3b.

Preferably, the machine1comprises two first hoppers17.

Each first hopper17has one or more compartments18, each of which is suitable for containing a preset quantity of pasta to be cooked, and a relevant bottom wall18ahaving at least an opening51(shown only in theFIG. 1) for transferring the pasta into the pasta container3bbelow.

Suitably, the compartments18are moving in rotation with respect to the relevant bottom wall18aso they can be selectively moved in correspondence to the respective opening51. More in particular, the bottom wall of the first hoppers17is fixed, while its external walls17aand the internal walls17b, separating the compartments18, are moving in rotation.

The first hoppers17are driven in rotation e.g. by respective motors20.

Preferably, the dosing means also comprise at least a second hopper21containing at least a raw material for the preparation of the dressing sauce and which can be connected to the second receptacles4.

The raw material contained in the second hopper21can, e.g., be made up of raw tomatoes, peeled tomatoes, tomato purée, tomato sauce, tomato pulp, tomato concentrate or the like.

The machine1then comprises conveying means27of the raw material contained in the second hopper21into the second receptacle4or into an intermediate receptable23.

Advantageously, the machine1according to the invention comprises at least a housing seat31for at least a pod C containing one or more raw materials for the preparation of the pasta dressing sauce. The pod C can contain a raw material complementary to that contained in the second hopper21, e.g., oil, wine and/or spices, or the same raw material already worked, e.g., tomato purée, sauce, pulp or concentrate.

The pods C can be made of a thermoformed plastic wrapping closed by means of a liftable and/or removable plastic film.

The machine1then comprises opening means of the pod C suitable for making available the contents of the pod itself for the preparation of the sauce.

The machines1according to the invention can therefore be equipped both with the second hopper21for containing the fresh raw material and with the housing seat31of the pods C, the latter containing other raw materials that can be used in combination with those contained in the second hopper21or alternatively the one to the others.

Alternatively, embodiments cannot be ruled out wherein the machine1has just one between the second hopper21and the housing seat31of the pods C.

Advantageously, the wrapping2has one or more opening doors, not shown in the illustrations, defined in correspondence to the second receptacles4to allow extracting the latter at the end of the amalgamating over the heat of the cooked pasta with the prepared sauce. Such opening doors are, preferably, of the transparent type, so that the consumer can assist in the preparation of the pasta dish in real time.

Depending on the quantity of pasta, the second receptacles4can themselves represent the single dishes or, alternatively, the common dish to be served at table and from which the single portions can be taken.

Usefully, the machine1comprises means for extracting and filtering the cooking fumes associated with the frame2aand not shown in the illustrations. Such extraction and filtering means, e.g., of the water, active charcoal type or the like, also make the machine1suitable for use in environments generally devoid of such devices, e.g., cafes or the like, thus allowing its variegated and flexible use.

Two particular embodiments of the machine1according to the invention are described here below, which are shown in theFIGS. 1 and 2and in the figures from3to8respectively.

In the first and preferred embodiment of the machine1shown in theFIGS. 1 and 2, the pasta container3bhas a substantially annular conformation and presents an internal side wall43aand an external side wall43bfacing one another, where the internal side wall43adefines an empty central area40. The pasta container3bis delimited below by a bottom wall43c. The water container3ais arranged alongside the pasta container3b, and consequently is in part delimited at the side by a relevant side wall44and in part by the external side wall43bof the pasta container3band below by a relevant bottom wall45.

The bottom wall43cof the pasta container3bis arranged at a bigger height than the bottom wall45of the water container3a.

More particularly, the heating means7′,7″ comprise first heating means7′ of the water container3a, e.g., made up of a beating element.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the heating means7′,7″ also comprise second heating means7″ of the pasta container3b, e.g., made up of one or more heating elements.

Suitably, the second heating means7″ are arranged below the bottom wall43cof the pasta container3band such bottom wall43cis perforated so as to allow soaking the second heating means7″ in water.

In the preferred embodiment shown inFIG. 2, the machine1comprises first sending means46of the water from the water container3ato the pasta container3b, e.g., consisting of a pump.

Preferably, the external side wall43bof the pasta container3bhas at least an overflow opening47suitable for transferring the water into the water container3aonce a preset level has been reached corresponding to the height of the overflow opening47.

Advantageously, the machine1comprises removal means48for taking the water from the pasta container3bsuitable for removing the water at the end of the cooking phase.

More in particular, the removal means48are suitable for re-circulating the water taken from the pasta container3binside the water container3a.

In the embodiment shown inFIG. 2, the first sending means46coincide with the removal means48and comprise, e.g., a two-directional pump not shown in detail in the illustrations.

Suitably, the water supply means, not shown in theFIGS. 1 and 2for the sake of simplicity, are operatively connected to a float or to a solenoid valve arranged inside the water container3aand are suitable for introducing water inside the latter when the level drops below a preset value. The water level in correspondence to which the supply means are started is obviously below the height of the overflow opening47.

In this preferred embodiment, the transfer means5comprise at least an unloading area49defined on the pasta container3band movable between a closed position in which it prevents the pasta from coming out, and an open position, in which it allows the pasta to come out.

More in particular, the unloading area49is defined in correspondence to the bottom wall43cof the pasta container3band comprises, e.g., an operable door not visible in detail in the figures.

Suitably, the second receptacle4is arranged below the pasta container3b, and so the cooked pasta falls inside the second receptacle itself by gravity.

Advantageously, the transfer means5also comprise at least a mobile transfer element50inside the pasta container3bto allow the cooked pasta to fall through the unloading area49with the latter in open position. The transfer element50is therefore equipped with rotary motion and is placed between the side walls43aand43bof the pasta container3b. The transfer element50, e.g., driven in rotation by an electric motor71by means of gears72, besides ensuring easier transfer of the pasta into the second receptacle4, also allows moving the same during the cooking phase.

AsFIG. 1shows, the first hoppers17(only one is shown inFIG. 2) are arranged above the pasta container3band can be connected to it by effect of the rotation of the relative compartments18.

More in particular, the openings51defined on the bottom wall of the first hoppers17face directly the pasta container3bunderneath.

In this embodiment, the second hopper21comprises a single container having an exit mouth of the raw material and comprises movement means52for moving the raw material, consisting e.g. of a pair of buckets moving in rotation, suitable for conveying the raw material towards the relative exit mouth. The buckets52are driven in rotation by a relative motor73, arranged in two different positions in theFIGS. 1 and 2.

In this embodiment, the conveying means27comprise extraction means53,54for extracting the pulp from at least one raw material, such as a vegetable or a fruit.

More in particular, the extraction means53,54comprise at least a chopping device53for chopping the raw material and at least a filtering device54for filtering the raw material ground by the chopping device itself.

Suitably, the chopping device53is arranged in the central area40defined by the internal side wall43aof the pasta container3band comprises an inlet opening for the raw material substantially facing the exit mouth of the second hopper21and an exit opening of the ground raw material connected to the filtering device54. The chopping device53comprises chopping means53aconsisting e.g. of one or more blades moving in rotation around a relevant axis. The filtering device54, arranged below the chopping device53and above the second receptacle4, comprises at least a filtering chamber55and filtering means56,57for filtering the raw material arranged inside the filtering chamber itself. The filtering chamber55has at least an inlet opening55afor the chopped raw material and at least an exit opening55bfor the solid part of the filtered raw material.

More in detail, the filtering means56,57comprise a filtering wall56and at least a rotor element57suitable for pressing the chopped raw material against the filtering wall56.

More in detail, the exit opening55bis arranged substantially opposite the inlet opening55awith respect to the rotor element57.

The filtering wall56substantially defines the bottom of the filtering chamber55and has a plurality of meshes suitable for allowing the flow of the juice and pulp of the chopped raw material and not of its solid part.

The rotor element57, which can be operated in rotation around a substantially horizontal axis, comprises at least a bucket58suitable for pressing the chopped raw material coming from the chopping device53against the filtering wall56, in such a way that the pulp passes through the meshes of the filtering wall itself and the solid part on the other hand remains inside the filtering chamber55.

The rotor element57turns inside the filtering chamber55in such a way as to drag the solid part of the filtered raw material towards the exit opening55b. More in detail, the direction of rotation of the rotor element57is such that the bucket58moves along the filtering wall56, pressing the chopped raw material against the latter, from the inlet opening55atowards the exit opening55b.

The exit opening55bis suitably arranged along the trajectory of the bucket58, preferably in correspondence to the filtering wall56and, more in particular, close to one of its top extremity area.

The filtering chamber55and the position of the rotor element57inside it are such that the extremities of the bucket58, after arriving in correspondence to the exit opening55b, come into contact with the top edge of the exit opening itself. This way, any remains of solid material still on the bucket58after the crushing of the chopped raw material against the filtering wall56are removed from the bucket itself and conveyed through the exit opening55bby effect of the rubbing of its extremity portion against the edge of the filtering wall56delimiting at the top the exit opening itself.

Advantageously, the rotor element57comprises elastic means not visible in detail in the illustrations, suitable for pressing the bucket58against the filtering wall56, so as to ensure the crushing of the chopped raw material against the filtering wall itself.

More in detail, the filtering chamber55has an eccentric shape and the configuration of the filtering wall56and of the rotor element57is such that the distance between the rotation axis of the rotor element itself, and therefore between the bucket58and the filtering wall56drops during movement from the inlet opening55atowards the exit opening55b.

During the rotation of the rotor element57from the inlet opening55atowards the exit opening55b, the bucket58moves in a radial direction towards the rotation axis of the rotor element itself by effect of the reduction in available space, compressing the elastic means.

As the rotor element57gradually moves towards the exit opening55bthe pressure exercised by the bucket58against the filtering wall56therefore increases.

The pulp that exits from the filtering device54can fall directly inside the second receptacle4or inside a collection receptacle not shown in the illustrations.

In the embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2, the filtering device54is positioned above the second receptacle4and the pulp exiting from the filtering wall56falls directly by gravity inside the second receptacle itself.

The machine1also comprises operating means59of the chopping means53aand/or of the rotor element57.

Suitably, as can be seen in the embodiment shown inFIG. 2, the operating means59are suitable for moving both the blades53aand the rotor element57. More in particular, the operating means59comprise at least an electric motor59ahaving an exit shaft59bconnected to the blades53aby means of a bevel gear pair59cand connected to the rotor element57by means of a reduction gear59d.

In this preferred embodiment, then, the machine comprises at least a housing seat31, e.g. four housing seats31.

Advantageously, the opening means comprise at least a first supporting element60of at least a first portion C′ of each pod C and first cutting means61afor opening the first portion C′.

The first supporting element60is movable along a cutting direction and defines at least partially the relative housing seat31.

The first supporting element60is movable along the cutting direction between an idle configuration, in which it is away from the first cutting means61a, and an active configuration, in which it is close to the first cutting means61awith respect to the idle configuration so that the first portion C′ is intercepted by the first cutting means themselves.

More in particular, the first supporting element60is moving in rotation around a relevant axis and the machine1comprises first fixed thrust means62suitable for cooperating with the first supporting element60during its rotation movement to move it from the idle configuration to the active configuration.

Suitably, the first thrust means62, e.g., composed of a cam, are associated integral with the frame2aand are arranged in correspondence to the second receptacle4.

The machine1also comprises first contrast means63, e.g., one or more springs, suitable for pushing the first supporting element60towards the idle configuration.

More in particular, the first contrast means63are placed in between the first supporting element60and a plate64arranged below the first supporting element60. The plate64is driven in rotation by a relevant motor65and thus drags the first supporting element60in rotation.

Suitably, the first cutting means61aare connected integral in rotation to the first supporting element60. More in detail, the first cutting means61aare associated with the plate64and are arranged below the first supporting element60, in such a way as to cut the first portion C′ by effect of the downward movement of the first supporting element itself.

The first supporting element60thus approaches the plate64moving downwards from its idle configuration towards the active configuration.

Advantageously, the opening means comprise at least a second supporting element66of at least a second portion C″ of a relevant pod C; the second supporting element66is also moving along the cutting direction but is released along such direction with respect to the relevant first supporting element60.

Just like the first supporting element60, the second supporting element66partially defines the relevant housing seat31of a pod C and in particular defines the housing seat of the relevant second portion. C″. Suitably, the second portion C″ comprises raw materials different to those contained in the corresponding first portion C′.

The opening means then comprise second cutting means61bsuitable for opening the second portion C″.

The second supporting element66is also moving along the cutting direction from a relevant idle configuration, in which it is positioned away from the second cutting means61b, to a relevant active configuration, in which it is positioned close to the second cutting means61bwith respect to the idle configuration so that the second portion C″ is intercepted by the second cutting means themselves.

The second supporting element66is connected integral in rotation to the relevant first supporting element60and the second cutting means61bare connected in rotation to the second supporting element66.

Suitably, the opening means also comprise second thrust means67movable to move the second supporting element66along the cutting direction from the relevant idle configuration to the relevant active configuration.

More in particular, the second thrust means66comprise a cam that can be operated in rotation by a lever mechanism68and suitable for cooperating with the second supporting element66when this is in correspondence to the second receptacle4, i.e., in correspondence to the first thrust means62.

Preferably, the machine1comprises second contrast means69, e.g., one or more springs, suitable for pushing the second supporting element66towards the relevant idle configuration.

More in detail, the second contrast means69are placed in between the relevant second supporting element66and the plate64. The plate64therefore also drags in rotation each second supporting element66and is arranged below this. Just like the first supporting element60, the second supporting element66also moves downwards nearer to the plate64from its idle configuration towards its active configuration.

The first and the second supporting element60and66are therefore connected integral in rotation by means of the plate64. The machine1comprises a number of first and second supporting elements60and66equal to the number of housing seats31.

Suitably, the plate64also has as many openings as the number of housing seats31to allow the contents of the corresponding pods C to fall inside the second receptacle4.

The first and the second cutting means61aand61bare, e.g., made up of one or more small blades arranged along the edge of each opening defined on the plate64.

The plate64also comprises a breaking70for the cooked pasta to pass through and this falls from the unloading area49inside the second receptacle4.

In the alternative embodiment, shown in the figures from3to8, the pasta container3bis housed inside the water container3aand can be moved with respect to this to drain the cooked pasta in the second receptacle4.

Preferably, the machine1comprises means for moving the pasta container3bbetween a cooking position, in which it is moved close to the bottom of the water container3a, and a transfer position, in which it is moved away from the bottom of the water container with respect to the cooking position to drain the cooked pasta.

Suitably, in this embodiment, at least one of the walls of the pasta container3bis perforated to allow the water to flow out in the transfer position.

More in particular, the pasta container3bis moving in rotation around a first rotation axis8and the transfer means5coincide with the movement means and are therefore suitable for rotating the first receptacle3around such axis8.

The pasta container3bis therefore moving in rotation around the first rotation axis8and the transfer means5are suitable for allowing the rotation of the pasta container3baround such axis8to move it from the cooking position, in which it is arranged inside the water container3a, to the transfer position, in which it is rotated with respect to the cooking position to transfer the cooked pasta inside the second receptacle4.

In the embodiment shown inFIG. 7, the first rotation axis8is arranged substantially horizontal.

As clearly visible inFIG. 5, the pasta container3bis connected, by means of a substantially C-shaped connection element9, to a revolving pin10rotating around the first rotation axis8.

In this preferred embodiment, the transfer means5comprise at least a fluid-dynamic actuator11(shown inFIG. 6), e.g. of the pneumatic type, the stem11aof which is operatively connected to the pin10.

The start of the actuator11causes the rotation of the pin10, and therefore of the pasta container3b, around the first rotation axis8. More in particular, the stem11ais in extended position with the pasta container3bin cooking position and is in retracted position with the pasta container3bin transfer position.

Suitably, the pasta container3bhas at least a curvilinear side wall, so as not to interfere with the side walls of the water container3aduring its rotation towards the transfer position.

Alternative embodiments of the transfer means5cannot however be ruled out, equivalent from a functional viewpoint and comprising, e.g., cam means.

The transfer means5also comprise a funnel36, arranged above the second receptacle4and suitable for guiding the transfer of the cooked pasta from the perforated receptacle3binside the second receptacle4.

This embodiment also envisages the presence of the supply means12of the water inside the first receptacle3, and in particular of the water container3a, composed e.g. of a pipe that can be connected to a water supply utility.

In addition of the supply means12are also provided means of exchange of the cooking water, not illustrated, suitable for periodically removing the water from the first receptacle3.

Usefully, after each pasta portion has been cooked, the water used can be removed by means of the means of exchange and replaced by means of the supply means12, so as to maintain substantially constant the degree of salinity and starch of the water between the various cooking phases.

In this embodiment, the heating means7acomprise a heatable plate arranged below the water container3a.

Advantageously, in the alternative embodiment shown in the figures from3to8, the wrapping2comprises a first chamber13inside which is housed the first receptacle3and a second chamber14inside which is housed the second receptacle4.

The two chambers13and14are at least partially separated the one from the other by at least a partition wall15and by at least a dividing wall16swinging and openable in the switch of the pasta container3bfrom the cooking position to the transfer position.

The partition wall15and the dividing wall16are suitable for preventing the steam produced by the boiling water and by pasta cooking from ending up in the environment wherein the preparation is made of the dressing sauce, i.e., in the second chamber14.

As is clearly shown in theFIGS. 4 and 8, the machine1comprises, inside the wrapping2, two first containers3and two second containers4, so as to be able to perform staggered cooking operations and/or prepare different dressing sauces at the same time.

In a further embodiment, not shown in detail in the illustrations, both the water container3aand the pasta container3bare substantially C-shaped and each has respective inner and outer side walls facing one another. More in particular, the water container3ais closed at its extremities while the pasta container3bhas at least an open extremity and can be lifted with respect to the water container. The pasta container3bis therefore contained in the water container3ain the cooking position and is lifted with respect to it in transfer position. In this case as well, inside the pasta container3bis arranged a mobile transfer element, suitable for conveying the cooked pasta towards the extremity of the pasta container itself and allowing it to fall into the area between such extremities. In the embodiment shown in the figures from3to8, each of the first hoppers17can be connected to a relevant first receptacle3arranged below it.

More in particular, below each first hopper17a fixed chute19is arranged, suitable for conveying the pasta contained in one of the compartments18inside the relevant first receptacle3.

The second hopper21is split into several sectors22each suitable for containing a specific quantity of raw material and moving in rotation with respect to the bottom of the second hopper itself.

Advantageously, the machine1also comprises an intermediate receptacle23for steam cooking the raw material contained in the second hopper21, which can be connected to the second hopper itself and positioned between the latter and the second receptacle4.

To convey the raw material contained in the second hopper21inside the intermediate receptacle23, on the bottom of the second hopper itself a swinging door24is arranged.

The sectors22are moving in rotation around a substantially vertical axis so they can be selectively positioned in correspondence to the door24.

More in particular, the walls delimiting the sectors22, i.e., the outer walls21aand the inner walls21b, are moving in rotation around a substantially vertical axis.

The second hopper21is driven by a motor25with which it is mechanically connected, e.g., by means of gear wheels.

The door24is opened and closed by a fluid-dynamic actuator26the stem26aof which is in extended position to keep the door24closed and retracts to move it to open position, so as to allow the transit of the raw material contained in the corresponding sector22towards the intermediate receptacle23.

Preferably, the intermediate receptacle23is arranged above at least one of the first receptacles3and is perforated in correspondence to its side parts, in such a way as to allow the steam of the pasta cooking water to penetrate inside it.

Advantageously, the conveying means27are suitable for transferring the steam-cooked raw material into the intermediate receptacle23in at least one between the second receptacle4and a collection receptacle28(FIGS. 7 and 8) placed in between the second receptacle itself and the intermediate receptacle23.

In the embodiment shown in the illustrations, the conveying means27comprise separation means29for separating the skin from the pulp of the steam-cooked raw material into the intermediate receptacle23, e.g., a tomato masher (FIG. 5).

The tomato masher comprises, inside, at least a screw feeder, which also makes up the bottom of the intermediate receptacle23and which, when operated in rotation, drags inside it the fresh steam-cooked tomatoes.

The skin is expelled through an outlet29aof the separation means29, while the pulp is conveyed into the collection receptacle28arranged above the second receptacles4.

In the case of the machine1containing a single second receptacle4, the pulp extracted from the separation means29can be conveyed directly inside the second receptacle itself.

Alternatively, as shown in theFIGS. 7 and 8, the collection receptacle28comprises means of infusion of the pulp inside the second receptacle4, e.g., made up of a valve30.

Because, in the embodiment shown in the figures from3to8, the machine1comprises two second receptacles4, the collection receptacle28comprises two valves30, suitably in a number equal to that of the second receptacles4, to selectively convey its contents into one of the two receptacles. The valves30, e.g., of the solenoid valve type, allow controlling the quantity of product conveyed inside each second receptacle4.

In an alternative embodiment, not shown, the machine1can comprise, instead of the second hopper21or in addition to this, a funnel accessible from outside and suitable for conveying a raw material, e.g., mashed tomato or other vegetables, directly inside the second receptacle4. The machine1can comprise a single funnel having several branches suitable for reaching the respective second receptacles4, or a plurality of funnels separate the one from the other, of the same number as the second receptacles4.

In this alternative embodiment, the machine1comprises then two housing seats31of relative pods C, each of which is arranged in correspondence to a relative second receptacle4.

Suitably, the opening means of the pods C, not shown in detail in the illustrations, are positioned close to the housing seat31and are suitable for lifting the plastic film to make the contents of the pod C itself available.

The machine1comprises second sending means32of the contents of the pods C inside the second receptacles4.

More in particular, each housing seat31is moving in rotation around a relevant second rotation axis33and the second sending means32are suitable for rotating the relevant housing seat31around its second rotation axis33to move it from a pod C receiving position to a sending position for sending its contents into the corresponding second receptacle4.

Advantageously, each housing seat31has means for withholding the pod C suitable for preventing this, in the sending position, from also falling inside the second receptacle4.

As theFIG. 6shows, each housing seat31is associated integral with a pin34revolving around the relevant second rotation axis33and the second sending means32comprise a fluid-dynamic actuator35, the stem35aof which is integrally connected to the pin34.

The housing seats31are in receiving position of the capsule C with the relevant stem35ain extended position and move towards the sending position by effect of its movement towards the corresponding retracted position.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the second rotation axis33is arranged substantially horizontal.

In this embodiment, the stirrer6aarranged inside the second receptacle4is driven in rotation by the motor6bby means of movement drive means6c, e.g., a plurality of gear wheels connected together in rotation.

For the technician in the sector, combining the characteristics described for each of the embodiments mentioned and obtaining a machine for the express preparation of finished foods which in any case falls within the protection ambit of the present invention appears banal.

A possible, but not only, operation of the machine according to the invention is the following.

The operation of the machine1according to the invention in the preferred embodiment shown in theFIGS. 1 and 2is described below.

First of all, the water contained in the water container3ais transferred and heated by the first heating means7′, inside the pasta container3b.

The water thus transferred is kept hot by the second heating means7″.

The raw pasta is inserted inside the compartments18of the first hopper and the desired raw material, e.g., fresh tomatoes, is inserted inside the second hopper21.

By effect of the rotation of the compartments18, the raw pasta contained inside them falls into the pasta container3bbelow, passing through the opening51defined on its bottom wall18a.

It is preferable to leave one of the compartments18empty so that, during normal operation of the machine1, such sector is kept in correspondence to the opening51and then rotate the remaining compartments18precisely when the pasta inside them has to be conveyed towards the first receptacle3.

To prepare several portions of pasta at the same time, it is enough to rotate the compartments18in sequence, so as to convey the required number of portions in succession inside the first container3.

The fall of the pasta inside the container3bcauses an increase in the water level and so the excess amount returns into the water container3athrough the overflow opening47.

During the cooking phase, the unloading area49remains suitably in closed position.

At the end of the cooking phase, the water is sucked up by the pasta container3bby means of the removal means48and again conveyed inside the water container3a. Obviously, part of the water is absorbed by the pasta during cooking, and so the level inside the water container gradually drops until the relative float or the relative solendoid valve enables the supply means.

Once cooking has been completed, the unloading area49is moved to open position and the transfer element50, by rotating, conveys the pasta towards the unloading area itself.

The cooked pasta then falls inside the second receptacle4arranged below the pasta container3b.

The raw material contained in the second hopper21is guided by the buckets52towards its exit mouth, through which it falls inside the chopping device53.

The operating means59are then enabled so as to cause the blades53aand the rotor element57to rotate.

The chopped raw material exiting from the chopping device53then passes into the filtering device54.

Inside the filtering device54, the pulp of the chopped raw material is separated from the relative solid part by effect of the interaction of the buckets58with the filtering wall56.

The pulp exiting from the filtering wall56thus falls inside the second receptacle4arranged below the filtering wall itself, while the solid parts exit from the exit opening55band are collected up in a special receptacle.

The cooked pasta and the pulp of the raw material are then both collected up inside the second receptacle4, where the stirrer6amixes them and amalgamates them together over the heat.

Obviously, the cooking of the pasta and the preparation of the sauce can be done at the same time or at different times, depending on the various cooking times and the specific requirements of the case.

In case further ingredients in a pod C have to be added to the sauce, this pod C is inserted in the relative housing seat31and the opening means are operated. More in particular, the plate64is made to rotate and in its movement this also drags the first and the second supporting element60,66which define the housing seat31of the pod C. During the rotation of the plate64, the first supporting element60arrives in correspondence to the first thrust means62. The interaction between the first supporting element60and the first thrust means62cause the first supporting element itself to move to its active configuration, i.e., approaching the plate64.

By effect of such movement, the first portion C′ supported by the first supporting element60makes contact with the first cutting means61aand opens up.

The contents of the first portion C′ thus fall inside the second receptacle4and combines with the pasta and any raw material present.

Because the embodiment of the machine1shown in theFIGS. 1 and 2also permits using pods C with two portions C′ and C″ distinct the one from the other and containing different ingredients, after the first portion C′ has been opened using the method just described, the second portion C″ is also opened, keeping the pod C and therefore the relevant housing seat31in the same position.

More in particular, after the opening of the first portion C′, the second thrust means67are operated in rotation, keeping the plate64fast in the same position. During their rotation movement, the second thrust means67make contact with the second supporting element66causing this to move towards the relevant active configuration. By effect of such movement, the second supporting element66approaches the plate64and the second portion C″ makes contact with the second cutting means61bwhich cause it to open and cause the relevant contents to fall into the second receptacle below.

Once terminated the interaction with the first and the second thrust means62and67respectively, the first and the second supporting element60and66return to their respective idle configurations by effect of the first and the second contrast means63and69respectively.

Because the machine1shown in theFIGS. 1 and 2comprises four housing seats31(only one of which is visible), different types of sauces can be prepared using pods C having different contents the one from the other or else several portions of the same type of pasta can be prepared using pods C having the same contents.

Obviously, the pods C arranged in the various housing seats31are opened by turning the plate64so the relevant first supporting elements60are conveyed in correspondence to the first thrust means62and, with the plate64in such position, the second thrust means67are operated.

After pouring the contents of the pods C into the second receptacle4, the plate64is returned to a neutral position, i.e., to the position corresponding to the substantial alignment between the breaking70defined on the plate itself and the unloading area49of the pasta container3b, so as to allow the cooked pasta to fall into the second receptacle4.

The cooked pasta thus combines with the sauce and the stirrer6aensures these are amalgamated together. What is more, the heat administration means7bcontinue to heat the second receptacle4so as to allow the completion of pasta cooking and a correct mixing over the heat of same.

After the mixing over the heat phase, an operator opens the door defined on the side walls of the wrapping2in correspondence to the second receptacle4to be extracted.

Once this door has been opened and the relevant stirrer6araised, the corresponding second receptacle4can be picked up, which can be served as a single dish in the case of its containing a single portion or as a common dish in the case of the contained pasta being intended for several people.

The operation of the machine1as regards the alternative embodiment shown in the figures from3to8is more or less similar to that of the machine1described above and is indicated below.

In this case as well, the raw pasta is inserted inside the sectors18of the first hopper17and the required raw material, e.g. fresh tomatoes, is inserted inside the sectors22of the second hopper21.

It is best to leave one of the sectors18empty so as to maintain, during normal operation of the machine1, such sector in correspondence to the chute19and then rotate the remaining sectors18whenever the pasta contained inside them is to be conveyed towards the first receptacle3.

The raw pasta is then conveyed by the chute19inside the relevant first receptacle3, where the cooking water is located, suitably heated and brought to boil by the heating means7a.

To prepare several portions of pasta at the same time, it is enough to rotate the sectors18in sequence, so as to convey in succession inside the first container3the raw pasta contained in it.

To prepare the pasta dressing sauce, one of the sectors22is positioned in correspondence to the swinging door24and the actuator26is operated so as to lower the door24and allow the fall of the raw material contained in the corresponding sector22inside the intermediate receptacle23.

The tomatoes contained in the intermediate receptacle23thus start to cook by effect of the steam of the boiling cooking water contained in the first receptacle3underneath.

After the tomatoes have cooked, the separation means29are operated, i.e., the tomato masher screw feeder is operated, so as to separate the skin from the pulp.

The pulp falls by gravity inside the collection receptacle28positioned above the second receptacles4, while the skin is conveyed inside a special container not visible in the illustrations.

The pulp contained in the collection receptacle28is then conveyed, by means of the controlled opening of the valves30, inside the corresponding second receptacle4, which is suitably heated by the heat administration means7b.

At the same time, to complete the preparation of the dressing sauce, a pod C, containing oil, aromas or also the same already-worked raw material, is inserted inside the housing seat31.

With the pod C inserted, after the opening means have removed its protective film, the relevant actuator35is operated so its stem35a, moving towards the retracted position, causes the rotation of the housing seat31and therefore the overturning of the contents of the pod C inside the corresponding second receptacle4.

The pod C remains inside the housing seat31by effect of its retention means, so it can be subsequently removed and disposed of.

If necessary, several pods C, containing different ingredients, can be inserted in succession.

Alternatively, the machine according to the invention can have a plurality of housing seats31for each second receptacle4, suitable for containing an equal number of pods C.

In any case, each second receptacle4receives all the ingredients needed for the preparation of the sauce, both the tomato pulp or the like, contained in the collection receptacle28, and the contents of the pod/s C.

The stirrer6a, by means of its rotation, allows amalgamating together all the various contained ingredients.

Meanwhile, pasta cooking proceeds inside the first receptacle3. The cooking can occur at the same time as the preparation of the sauce or in a staggered way, depending on the required preparation needs and times.

After the pasta has been cooked inside the first receptacle3the transfer means5are started so as to pour the cooked pasta inside the relevant second receptacle4.

More precisely, the actuator11moves its stem11ato retracted position thereby causing the rotation of the pin10and therefore of the pasta container3baround the relevant first rotation axis8.

As described above, the start of the transfer means5can be automatic, i.e., timed according to a cooking time preset in a control unit, or else manual, i.e., selectable by an operator by means of a push-button control panel.

The pasta container3bis generally separated from the water container3aafter a time such as to obtain the “al dente” cooking of the pasta, which finishes cooking inside the second receptacle4.

The rotation of the pasta container3baround the relevant first rotation axis8results in the opening of the swinging dividing wall16that separates the first chamber13from the second chamber14, and the overturning of the cooked pasta inside the second receptacle4which already contains the sauce prepared according to the previously-described procedures, passing through the funnel36.

The cooked pasta thus combines with the sauce and the stirrer6aamalgamates them together. Furthermore, the heat administration means7bcontinue to heat the second receptacle4so as to allow completing the cooking of the pasta and a correct mixing over the heat of same.

After the mixing over the heat phase, an operator opens the door defined on the side walls of the wrapping2in correspondence to the second receptacle4to be extracted.

Once this door is open and the relevant stirrer6araised, it is then possible to take out the corresponding second receptacle4, which can be served as a single dish in the case of its containing a single portion or as a common dish in the case of the contained pasta being intended for several people.

The machine1shown in the illustrations, having two first receptacles3and two second receptacles4can be exploited in different ways depending on requirements, i.e., it can allow the preparation of two recipes, different from one another, the staggered preparation of single portions or the contemporaneous preparation of several portions.

For technicians in the sector, the operation is immediately comprehensible of different embodiments of the machine according to the invention, in the case of its having only the second hopper21for containing the fresh raw materials for the preparation of the sauce or housing seats31for the pods containing the already-prepared ingredients.

It has in point of fact been ascertained how the described invention achieves the proposed objects and in particular the fact is underlined that the machine according to the invention allows preparing a complete plate of pasta in a professional way, starting with the fresh or already-prepared raw materials and also including the pasta mixing over the heat phase, essential for obtaining a top-quality dish.

Furthermore, the machine according to the invention, besides being equipped to perform all the phases required to prepare a top-quality plate of pasta, is at the same time of compact dimensions, making it suitable for both professional and home use.

Again, the machine according to the invention allows quickly preparing a top-quality plate of pasta, while at the same time maintaining stringent hygienic conditions, so as to prevent the alteration of the organoleptic properties of the finished product.