DE202014105545U1 - Apparatus for washing and treating elongated food - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus (100) for washing elongated foodstuffs, in particular bar-shaped vegetables, preferably asparagus, comprising a conveyor belt (12) movable along a transport path for receiving and transporting the elongate food, and at least one nozzle arrangement (10 ', 10 ") for spraying a washing fluid to the elongate foodstuffs, wherein the conveyor belt (12) has a first lateral edge (13) and a second lateral edge (14), characterized in that the at least one nozzle arrangement (10 ', 10' ') for spraying the elongated food Food from a first side edge (13) of the conveyor belt opposite direction is formed, wherein the at least one nozzle assembly (10 ', 10' ') preferably for spraying the elongated food exclusively from a first side edge (13) of the conveyor belt opposite direction is trained.

Description

The invention relates to a device for washing elongated foods, in particular rod-shaped vegetables, preferably asparagus. The invention further relates to a device for treating elongated foods, in particular rod-shaped vegetables, preferably asparagus.

State of the art

There are known asparagus washing devices, which are operated either alone or in a sorting system, wherein on the washing device two opposite nozzle arrangements, for example in the form of nozzle arms, are provided, which are aligned parallel to each other. Between the nozzle assemblies, a movable conveyor belt is arranged, on which the asparagus spears are placed, the asparagus spears are arranged when passing through the washing device usually transverse to the direction of travel of the conveyor belt. The nozzles of the nozzle assemblies are in this case arranged and aligned so that they spray the asparagus spears in the direction of travel of the conveyor belt with water. As a result of this alignment, the water jets hit the asparagus spears laterally or approach the asparagus spears from a transverse direction. As a rule, an upper and a lower nozzle each have a common point of intersection in the region of the conveyor belt (where the asparagus spears rest).

Some rod-shaped vegetables, especially asparagus, have on their outside protruding skin or shell sections, especially so-called scales. In asparagus, such scales are arranged on the outside of the bars or on the head and grow viewed in the longitudinal direction of the asparagus spears substantially from the foot to the head. In the gap between asparagus scales and asparagus rod can settle dirt, soil, dust or the like. Such contamination on the outer surface of the asparagus rod could not always be satisfactorily removed with the washing devices known from the prior art, so that residual contamination often remains under the flakes.

As a consequence, such asparagus spears, in which a residual contamination remains under some of the scales, classified by optical detection systems of automatic sorting as inferior quality and wrong, namely in a poorer quality category sorted. Such asparagus spears must then be sorted out by hand again, or there is a risk that these asparagus spears remain in the wrong (worse) category and thus bring a lower price.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION: Problem, Solution, Advantages

It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a washing device which achieves improved cleaning, in particular in the area of the asparagus scales.

This object is achieved by a device for washing elongated foods, in particular bar-shaped vegetables, preferably asparagus, comprising a conveyor belt movable along a transport path for receiving and transporting the elongated food, and at least one nozzle arrangement for spraying a washing fluid onto the elongated foodstuffs, wherein the conveyor belt has a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge, and wherein the at least one nozzle arrangement is designed for spraying the elongated food from a direction opposite to the first lateral edge of the conveyor belt.

In the washing device according to the invention, elongated items to be washed, for example rod-shaped vegetables such as asparagus, are picked up by a movable conveyor belt and transported or conveyed along a transport path. Preferably, the conveyor belt is formed as an elongated band of constant width, wherein the conveyor belt has two lateral edges, a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge, which are expediently parallel to each other and to the transport path. Preferably, the conveyor belt has exactly two lateral edges. Further, the conveyor belt may be formed circumferentially and in particular as a circulating endless conveyor belt, which is guided via drive shafts, preferably also via deflection shafts.

In the washing device according to the invention, the elongated, rod-shaped food to be washed is manually or automatically placed on the conveyor belt, in particular in the transverse direction to the transport path or to the longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt. During the washing process, the food to be washed is sprayed by the at least one nozzle arrangement with a washing fluid, in particular water, from one direction, in particular on one side, which is opposite the first lateral edge of the conveyor belt. That is, the aligned transversely to the transport food, in particular asparagus are (at least partially) sprayed in their longitudinal direction with washing fluid. In particular, the nozzle arrangement is aligned such that the elongated Food, especially asparagus, be sprinkled running from their top end to their foot towards, ie in the reverse direction of growth of the skin or shell sections or (asparagus) dandruff. For this purpose, the asparagus spears are expediently aligned on the conveyor belt such that their foot end faces the first lateral edge and their head end faces the second lateral edge of the conveyor belt. This ensures that contaminations between projecting skin or shell sections and the food body, such as an asparagus, even with closely fitting to the food body skin or shell sections detected by the spray of the nozzle assembly and thus can be better removed. This is possible because the spray from the open, not firmly connected to the food side of the skin or shell section forth the skin or shell section sprayed and thus at least partially reach under the same.

The at least one nozzle arrangement has at least one nozzle, preferably a number of nozzles. Furthermore, the at least one nozzle arrangement preferably has a frame, a carrying device or the like, to which the at least one nozzle is attached. Suitably, the nozzle assembly further comprises means for supplying washing fluid to the at least one nozzle. The frame or supporting device is arranged in such a way and the at least one nozzle is aligned such that a spraying of the elongated food from a direction opposite the first lateral edge of the conveyor belt is made possible. The opposite direction does not necessarily have to be orthogonal on the first lateral edge, although this is of course possible. For the presence of a spraying from the opposite direction of the first edge, it may for example be sufficient if the spraying takes place from a direction transverse to the first lateral edge of the conveyor belt. Preferably, the nozzle arrangement is designed such that the spraying takes place from a direction from the second lateral edge of the conveyor belt to the first lateral edge of the conveyor belt. Preferably, the spray direction of the at least one nozzle arrangement can also run obliquely to the first lateral edge of the conveyor belt. In particular, the at least one nozzle arrangement is designed to spray the elongated food in a plan view of the conveyor belt from a direction opposite to the first lateral edge.

Preferably, the at least one nozzle arrangement for spraying the elongate food can be formed exclusively from a direction opposite the first lateral edge of the conveyor belt. In particular, the at least one nozzle arrangement in this case does not spray the elongated food from a direction that runs along or parallel to the transport path of the conveyor belt. More preferably, the device does not have a nozzle assembly which sprays the elongated food from a direction along or parallel to the transport path of the conveyor belt.

The term "spraying" in the present context means that the washing fluid is discharged from the at least one nozzle arrangement such that the sprayed washing fluid has a kinetic energy sufficient to collide with the dirt or other contamination on the surface of the foodstuffs (at least as far as possible), the surface of the food advantageously remaining intact during the washing process. That means, for example, with asparagus, the scales are not "bloated". The washing fluid preferably impinges on the food to be washed in the form of a pressure jet. The term "fluid" is understood in the present context as a medium in the gaseous or liquid state, ie in the "non-solid state". Preferably, the washing fluid is liquid, more preferably water.

The device according to the invention ("dandruff washing") can be provided additionally or alternatively to a previously known washing device ("main wash").

A preferred development of the device provides that the device has a receiving device, wherein the receiving device has a plurality of elongated, in particular separate receiving areas, which are formed on the conveyor belt and which extend substantially transversely to the transport path. That is to say, the longitudinal direction or the longitudinal axis of the receiving regions extends transversely to a transport axis of the transport path of the conveyor belt running in the transport direction or parallel to the transport direction, the longitudinal direction or the longitudinal axis of the receiving regions preferably being substantially orthogonal to the transport axis. However, the longitudinal direction or axis of the receiving areas with the transport axis of the transport path can also form a non-right angle, which is greater or less than 90 °. A receiving area can be designed both for holding a plurality of foodstuffs to be washed and for accommodating only a single foodstuff, with a receiving area preferably having one of the foodstuffs to be washed, when formed as a single receptacle. The receiving areas are preferably directly on the Transport belt arranged. In particular, the conveyor belt forms the respective receiving areas, at least partially. Preferably, the receiving areas extend in the plane of the conveyor belt. In this case, the respective longitudinal axis of the receiving areas also runs in the plane of the conveyor belt.

According to a further preferred embodiment it is provided that the device comprises a contact device with a contact surface for abutment of one end of the elongate food, wherein the abutment means along the transport path of the conveyor belt, wherein preferably the contact surface along and / or parallel to the first lateral edge of the Conveyor belt runs, and wherein preferably the at least one nozzle arrangement for spraying the elongated food is formed from a direction opposite to the contact surface. For example, asparagus with their foot at the contact surface of the investment facility. The investment device runs along the transport path of the conveyor belt, so that the asparagus rest on the conveyor belt transversely to the transport path. By the investment device is secured in the longitudinal direction of the food slip-proof food on the conveyor belt during transport and washing process. This is the case in particular when the abutment device is arranged along or in the area of the first lateral edge of the conveyor belt. An arrangement arranged there ensures that even by spraying from the opposite direction of the first edge slipping of food in the direction of the first edge does not occur. In principle, several investment facilities can be provided. For example, an attachment device can be provided on each lateral edge or in the region of each lateral edge.

Further preferably, it is provided that the at least one nozzle arrangement has at least one nozzle for spraying a washing fluid jet, the longitudinal axis of the washing fluid jet forming an acute angle α with a longitudinal axis of the receiving area. A longitudinal axis of the washing fluid jet is to be understood as meaning a longitudinal axis running in the center of the washing fluid jet and in its longitudinal direction, the washing fluid jet preferably being fanned out onto the food to be washed. The washing fluid jet therefore does not have to form a linear line, but may be divergent in both the two- and three-dimensional directions. Furthermore, in the present context, an acute angle is to be understood as an angle between 0 ° and 90 °.

Furthermore, the at least one nozzle arrangement may preferably have a multiplicity of nozzles for spraying respectively one washing fluid jet, wherein preferably the longitudinal axis of each washing fluid jet forms an acute angle α with a longitudinal axis of a receiving area. In the present context, the angle formation is to be understood such that a plane is thought to be laid by the longitudinal axis of the washing fluid jet and the longitudinal axis of the receiving area, wherein the two axes intersect in this plane, so that an angle enclosed by the two axes is formed. This included by the two axes angle corresponds to an acute angle α.

The acute angle α is preferably from 5 ° to 80 °, preferably from 15 ° to 60 °, particularly preferably from 25 ° to 55 °, very particularly preferably from 30 ° to 45 °. Experiments have shown that particularly good cleaning results with regard to the removal of contamination under the protruding skin or shell sections are achieved when the acute angle α has the above-mentioned values.

In a further preferred embodiment, the longitudinal axis of the washing fluid jet can essentially run within a plane that is orthogonal to the conveyor belt plane and orthogonal to the transport path.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the device, it is provided that the receiving device has positioning elements arranged on the conveyor belt for forming the receiving regions, wherein the positioning elements preferably have drivers and / or separating elements arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the respective receiving regions. These positioning elements are advantageously arranged on the surface of the receiving areas receiving the foodstuffs to be washed, in particular the conveyor belt surface. The positioning elements therefore form a separation for two adjacent receiving areas. The positioning elements may be elongated, wherein longitudinal axes of the respective positioning elements preferably run parallel to one another and / or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the associated receiving areas. In principle, the positioning elements can also have other, non-elongated shape, wherein these positioning elements are preferably arranged one behind the other in a row and form a line which is parallel to adjacent positioning elements and / or to the longitudinal axis of the associated receiving areas. By the positioning elements can prevent rotation of the elongated food on the receiving areas during transport and in particular the washing process about an axis perpendicular to the conveyor belt or limited. Preferably, the positioning elements are arranged in the direction of the transport path or in the conveyor belt longitudinal direction at regular intervals, so that there are receiving areas of the same width.

A further preferred development of the device provides that the contact device and / or the receiving device are integrally formed with the conveyor belt and / or integrated. Such a design has the advantage that the shape of the contact device and / or the receiving device with the conveyor belt is compact and also the installation of the contact device and / or the receiving device on the conveyor belt is superfluous. Also, the production of the investment device and / or the receiving device can be simplified. In particular, it is preferred that the abutment device and / or the receiving device are formed out of the material of the conveyor belt.

In a further alternative embodiment of the device, the abutment device can be formed separately from the conveyor belt, and in particular laterally of the conveyor belt lying, preferably on the at least one nozzle arrangement opposite side of the conveyor belt, be arranged. In this case, the contact device can be arranged partially or completely lying on the side of the conveyor belt. Preferably, the abutment means in the region of the first lateral edge of the conveyor belt, but in particular (slightly) spaced therefrom arranged.

It is preferably provided that the contact surface of the abutment means is formed by a sheet, the sheet may preferably be formed stepwise angled, wherein a portion of the step-shaped sheet lying side of the conveyor belt and another part of the stepped plate placed on the conveyor belt or slightly spaced above is arranged. The sheet may preferably be connected to the conveyor belt or be independent of it. The investment facility can also consist exclusively of sheet metal. The contact surface can in principle also be knot, chain or lens-shaped. In particular, the abutment device can also be designed as a bar or rail, in particular made of metal or plastic.

In an advantageous embodiment of the device is provided that the conveyor belt has openings for passing the washing fluid, wherein the conveyor belt is preferably designed as a Siebgurt. Furthermore, it is expediently provided that the screen belt comprises or consists of a plurality of parallel, partially interwoven wires or rods. The screening belt has the advantage that on the one hand it serves as a mechanically stable carrier and on the other hand it also provides the necessary openings for the passage of the washing fluid. With this embodiment, it is possible to spray the food to be washed from directions both above and below the conveyor belt. Also, the wash fluid sprayed from above onto the food can be dripped down through the openings of the conveyor belt and collected and reused in a collector or the like.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the device, it is provided that the contact surface of the contact device protrudes upward over the conveyor belt. That is, the contact surface protrudes beyond the surface of the conveyor belt receiving the food to be washed, the contact surface being designed to abut one end of the food to be washed. The contact surface can in this case be arranged above the conveyor belt or also, in particular slightly, laterally thereof. Preferably, the contact surface is approximately perpendicular to the conveyor belt level.

In a preferred embodiment of the device, the positioning elements of the receiving device and / or the contact surface of the contact device consist of material which comprises plastic and / or metal. In principle, the receiving device can be made entirely of plastic or metal. Furthermore, it is possible to completely form the abutment means of metal or plastic.

A further preferred embodiment of the device provides that the at least one nozzle arrangement is designed such that a drying section of the conveyor belt extending in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt can not be sprayed by the at least one nozzle arrangement, the drying section preferably viewed in the transverse direction of the conveyor belt opposite the contact surface the investment device is arranged.

In this embodiment of the device, it is further preferred that a distance a, preferably an average distance a, particularly preferably a maximum distance a, between the contact surface and the drying section is 15 cm to 30 cm, preferably 18 cm to 25 cm, particularly preferably 21 cm to 24 cm, most preferably 22 cm to 23 cm, is, this distance a is preferably constant. The distance a depends essentially on the length of the food to be washed. For example, the food to be washed before washing to a certain Be pre-cut length so that they have a uniform length or lie within a predetermined length range. Thus, targeted only a portion of the food, such as the rod portion of the asparagus, be sprayed. Especially with asparagus, it is advantageous to specify the distance a such that the head regions of the asparagus lie substantially in the dry section. The head areas are particularly sensitive to asparagus, so that it may be advantageous not to spray the head areas, not to destroy them or to prevent the dandruff in the head area are not opened during the washing process or bloom.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the drying section has a width b, preferably an average width b, particularly preferably a maximum width b of 0.5 cm to 4 cm, preferably 1 cm to 3 cm, particularly preferably 1.5 cm to 2.5 cm, wherein this width b is preferably constant. The width b depends, for example, on asparagus essentially on the head length of the asparagus.

In a further expedient embodiment, two, preferably exactly two nozzle arrangements are provided, wherein the one above and the other below the conveyor belt is arranged. Preferably, the nozzle assemblies are arranged in mirror image. In principle, it is possible to provide the device additionally with further nozzle arrangements. The terms "above" and "below" used in the present context are defined by the arrangement of the foodstuffs to be washed on the conveyor belt, namely the surface side of the conveyor belt on which the foodstuffs rest is referred to as "above" and the rear side as "below" considered. This allows the food to be sprayed from both its top and bottom.

In a further preferred development, the device has a cover which is permeable to washing fluid, wherein the cover element is preferably arranged congruently on or above the conveyor belt, and wherein the oblong foodstuffs to be washed are to be arranged between the cover element and the conveyor belt, and wherein the cover element is preferably movable , in particular synchronously with the conveyor belt movable, is formed. In principle, the cover element can be articulatedly connected to a support frame of the device, in particular not designed to be movable. This embodiment has the particular advantage that the food to be washed are further fixed by the cover and sprayed by the washing fluid jets from the nozzle assemblies, in particular from below the conveyor belt, not from their position. Thus, the cover contributes to further position fixation of the food during the transport or washing process.

Furthermore, it is preferred in this case that a weighting device is provided on the cover, which is designed to weight the cover. As a result, the position fixation of the food is further improved, or the washing fluid jets can be applied with greater pressure without the food leave its position during the spraying process. The weighting device can advantageously be articulated to the device so that only the conveyor belt and / or the cover element can be moved. The weighting device is expediently located on the cover. The weighting device preferably comprises one or more roller chains, wherein in the case of a plurality of roller chains these are preferably connected transversely via at least one connecting element, in particular a weighting bar, particularly preferably transversely. Advantageously, exactly two roller chains are provided, in particular each arranged in an edge region of the cover. Preferably, the at least one connecting element and the roller chain can lie on one plane. Alternatively, one or more connecting elements can be connected to the roller chain by means of a preferably multi-legged supporting element such that the connecting element lies on a plane raised in relation to the plane of the roller chain, so that the washing fluid jets can hit the food to be washed undisturbed by the connecting elements.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a device for treating elongated foods, in particular bar-shaped vegetables, preferably asparagus, comprising a device according to one of the above-described embodiments and a main washing device for washing the elongated food, wherein the main washing device is preferably so functionally connected to the device that the in the device elongated food from the device to the main washing device, preferably automated, übergebbar or vice versa, and / or a cutting device for cutting the elongated food, in particular to a predetermined length or a predetermined length range, the cutting device preferably such functional with the Device or main washing device is connected, that cut in the cutting device elongated food from the cutting device to the device or Hauptwaschv orrichtung, preferably automated, can be transferred. In particular, the apparatus for treating elongated foods forms one integrated whole unit, in which several individual devices are integrated and functionally cooperate.

• a) Auflegen der zu waschenden Lebensmittel auf das Transportband, insbesondere in einer zum Transportweg quer verlaufenden Richtung, und
• b) Besprühen der zu waschenden Lebensmittel mit einem Waschfluid aus einer dem ersten seitlichen Rand des Transportbandes gegenüberliegenden Richtung.

A washing process for a device for washing elongated foodstuffs, in particular bar-shaped vegetables, preferably asparagus, the device comprising a conveyor belt which can be moved along a transport path with a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge for receiving and transporting the elongate foodstuffs, comprises the following steps :

• a) placing the food to be washed on the conveyor belt, in particular in a direction transverse to the transport direction, and
• b) spraying the food to be washed with a washing fluid from a direction opposite the first lateral edge of the conveyor belt.

During the washing process, the food to be washed is sprayed with a washing fluid, in particular water from one direction, in particular on one side, which is opposite the first lateral edge of the conveyor belt. That is, it is sprayed, for example, asparagus running from the top of the asparagus to the foot of the asparagus, ie in the reverse direction of growth of the asparagus scales, so that any, arranged below the scales contaminations can be removed.

An advantageous development provides that the washing fluid is sprayed by means of at least one nozzle arrangement. The nozzle arrangement is advantageously a component of the device.

In a further development, it is provided that, before step a), the elongate foods are cut to a predetermined length or a predetermined length range. Preferably, the food to be washed, for example asparagus spears in asparagus, to a length of 15 cm to 30 cm, preferably 18 cm to 25 cm, more preferably 21 cm to 24 cm, most preferably 22 cm to 23 cm, precut, so that they preferably have a substantially uniform length or a uniform length range. Thus, for example, specifically only the rod portion of the asparagus can be sprayed, so that the scales in the head area of the asparagus can not be affected.

Advantageously, the device may be designed according to one of the previously described embodiments.

In the (main) washing apparatuses for elongated foodstuffs known from the prior art, in particular for asparagus, an upper and a lower nozzle arrangement are generally provided, which may for example each comprise a nozzle arm. The nozzle assemblies may be part of a frame and / or interconnected by a frame. The connection of the two nozzle assemblies can be made by an intermediate connector. The frame can be formed from rectangular or square hollow sections in which the washing fluid, in particular water, can flow. The upper and lower nozzle assemblies each comprise two parallel longitudinal profiles and transverse profiles arranged in a rung-like manner therebetween. At one end of the two nozzle arms, a transverse profile is arranged in each case, wherein the two transverse profiles are connected to one another with a further vertical profile. In the vertical profile an opening or a connection to a water pipe is provided, through which the water is introduced into the hollow profile by means of a line and a pump connected to the line. The flowing into the vertical profile water flows transversely to the longitudinal direction of the vertical profile, since the connection is provided accordingly. As a result, the incoming water bounces against a wall shortly after entering the hollow profile, and it forms turbulence before the water can continue to flow into the other profiles.

To improve the flow guidance and thus the performance of the device according to the invention a device for washing elongated food, especially rod-shaped vegetables, preferably asparagus, provided, wherein the device along a transport path movable conveyor belt for receiving and transporting the elongated food, a first nozzle assembly comprising a first nozzle plane and a second nozzle assembly having a second nozzle plane for spraying a wash fluid onto the elongate foodstuffs, the first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly each having an inlet for supplying the wash fluid to the nozzle assemblies, wherein two conduits for supplying wash fluid to the first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly are provided, wherein in each case a line is connected to an inlet, wherein the first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly facing each other , In particular, are arranged parallel to each other, and wherein between the first and the second nozzle assembly, the conveyor belt is arranged, wherein the one inlet disposed within the first nozzle plane and the other inlet within the second nozzle plane.

Preferably, the two nozzle arrays are arranged in mirror image. Furthermore, the first nozzle level and the second Düsenebene preferred in each case at least two pipe sections, pipes and / or lines. The nozzle planes are formed by the nozzle arrangements and are preferably aligned substantially parallel to the surface of the conveyor belt to be received by the food to be washed. Preferably, all tubes, pipe sections and / or lines of the nozzle plane have a longitudinal axis which lies within the nozzle plane and in particular does not run transversely to the nozzle plane. The nozzle plane need not be limited to a two-dimensional plane, but may also have an extension in the third dimension, preferably a height, wherein the dimension in the third dimension is preferably smaller, in particular significantly lower, compared to the other two dimensions , In the present context, the height of the nozzle plane can be defined, for example, by the greatest extent of the nozzle arrangement in the height direction. Alternatively, the height of the nozzle plane can also be defined, for example, by the maximum extent of the pipes, pipe sections and / or lines belonging to the nozzle arrangement and / or in the height direction. Preferably, the height direction of the nozzle plane corresponds to the height of the device in the constructed or installed state of the device. Preferably, the device has exactly two nozzle arrangements. In principle, additional nozzle arrangements can additionally be provided on the device. A further advantageous embodiment provides to provide further inlets to the nozzle assemblies, so that a plurality of inlets are arranged on a nozzle arrangement, wherein the further inlets are preferably also arranged within the nozzle plane.

Preferably, the lines are designed as tubes or hoses, wherein the lines are preferably connected directly to a source which promotes washing fluid, preferably a pump.

Providing two inlets and two conduits, each with one conduit connected to an inlet and the inlets each within a nozzle plane, ensures that the wash fluid can flow directly from the conduits into the nozzle planes without being deflected beforehand , As a result, turbulences are avoided or reduced and reduced turbulence in the washing fluid flow. Overall, the management of the device is improved.

Furthermore, in a further preferred embodiment, the first nozzle arrangement and the second nozzle arrangement each have at least two pipe sections which run within the nozzle plane of the respective nozzle arrangement and are each fluidically connected to one another in a connection region, wherein the connection region is rounded and / or in the connection region a rounding is provided, and / or wherein at least one intermediate piece is provided in the connecting region, which at an angle, preferably 10 ° to 80 °, more preferably 20 ° to 70 °, most preferably 45 °, to at least one of the two pipe sections, especially to both. For example, this can be done by a plate-shaped intermediate piece is arranged in the interior of the connection region, so that there are two 45 degree angle. Alternatively, a rounded intermediate piece can be used. The rounding in the connection region has an advantage that, as a result of this construction, the flow resistance, and thus also the turbulence in the connection region, is further reduced. As a result, the flow characteristics and the pressure losses are improved. Furthermore, a plurality of intermediate pieces, which are arranged one behind the other and each at an angle to each other and / or to one of the at least two pipe sections, may be provided. The angles are to be considered in the present embodiment, respectively in the flow direction of the washing fluid. The intermediate pieces can be arranged between the pipe sections or even within the pipe sections in a connecting region of the two pipe sections.

Other spacers that form a kind of "rounded" corners can also be provided in other corner regions of the pipe sections.

A further advantageous embodiment of the device is that the first nozzle arrangement and the second nozzle arrangement are connected to each other by means of a connecting piece, wherein the first and the second nozzle arrangements are preferably fluidly connected to each other by means of the connecting piece. In particular, the connecting piece can be connected to an end region of the first nozzle arrangement and of the second nozzle arrangements in each case. As a result, the two nozzle assemblies are firmly connected to each other and fixed in their positions relative to each other. Also, a wash fluid exchange between two nozzle assemblies take place as far as the connector fluidly connects the two nozzle assemblies.

A further preferred embodiment of the device provides that, in particular at the respectively opposite end regions of the first nozzle arrangement and the second nozzle arrangement, a connecting line for pressure equalization between the first nozzle arrangement and the second nozzle arrangement is provided, which fluidly with the first nozzle arrangement and with the second Nozzle arrangement is connected. Through this embodiment, a pressure balance between the set both nozzle arrangements and the water flow rate, that is, the flow rate per unit time, can be increased.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the device comprises a pump which is provided for supplying the device with the washing fluid, the two lines extending between the pump and the two inlets or wherein a main line is connected to the pump and the two lines with the Main line via an adapter piece, in particular a reusable distributor piece, particularly preferably a Ypsilon piece, are connected. The advantage of using a reusable manifold is that multiple lines can be connected to a pump and simultaneously supplied with wash fluid.

A further advantageous embodiment of the device provides that the conveyor belt is designed to be circumferentially movable and forms a first conveyor belt level and a second conveyor belt plane, wherein the first nozzle arrangement to a first conveyor belt level of the movable conveyor belt has a first distance d ₁ , and wherein the second nozzle arrangement to a second conveyor belt level of the movable conveyor belt has a second distance d ₂ . Preferably, the conveyor belt is designed as an elongated endless conveyor belt, which is preferably guided via drive shafts via deflection shafts. In the present context, the first transport plane is defined by the plane on which the foodstuffs to be washed rest, the second transport plane corresponding to the rear side of the first transport plane. Preferably, it is further provided that the first and second distances (d ₁ , d ₂ ) are substantially equal.

In a feeding method of a washing liquid for an elongated food washing device, in particular bar-shaped vegetables, preferably asparagus, the device comprising a conveyor belt for transporting and transporting the elongated food, a first nozzle arrangement having a first nozzle plane and a second nozzle arrangement having a transport path second nozzle plane for spraying a wash fluid onto the elongated foodstuffs, the first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly each having an inlet for supplying the wash fluid to the nozzle assemblies, wherein two conduits are provided for supplying wash fluid to the first nozzle assembly and to the second nozzle assembly , wherein in each case a line is connected to an inlet, wherein the first nozzle arrangement and the second nozzle arrangement are arranged opposite one another, in particular parallel to one another, and wherein between d the first and the second nozzle arrangement, the conveyor belt is arranged, wherein the one inlet is arranged within the first nozzle plane and the other inlet within the second nozzle plane, it is provided that the washing fluid from the two lines without deflection is supplied to the respective nozzle assemblies.

Brief description of the drawings

Embodiments of the invention are illustrated below with reference to the figures.

Show it:

1 a perspective view of a portion of a washing device according to an embodiment of the invention;

2 a side view of a washing device according to another embodiment of the invention;

3 a side view of a washing device according to another embodiment of the invention;

4 a perspective view of a portion of a washing device according to another embodiment of the invention with a schematic representation of a cover;

5 a perspective view of a portion of a washing device according to another embodiment of the invention with a schematic representation of a weighting device;

6 a perspective view of an apparatus for treating elongated food;

7 a perspective, schematic representation of a washing device according to another embodiment of the invention;

8th a side view of a development of a washing device according to 7 ;

9 a front view of a further development of a washing device according to 7 ;

10 a perspective view of the arrangement of the lines between the inlets and a pump; and

11a -C are cross-sectional views of various embodiments of the connecting region with an intermediate piece in the interior of the connecting region in a schematic representation

Preferred embodiments of the invention

1 shows a section of a device 100 for washing elongated food comprising two nozzle arrangements ( 10 ' . 10 '' ), where in 1 only a first, upper nozzle arrangement 10 ' is shown in detail. The nozzle arrangement 10 ' includes a number of nozzles 11 , From a second, lower nozzle arrangement 10 '' (see, for example 2 ) are in 1 only a few nozzles 11 indicated schematically. Every nozzle 11 is for applying a washing fluid jet (see 3 ) educated. Furthermore, the device comprises 100 a trained as Siebgurt conveyor belt 12 constant width with a first lateral edge 13 and a second side edge 14 and a receiving device 15 with several recording areas 16 , The individual recording areas 16 the receiving device 15 be through a variety of positioning elements 20 educated. The positioning elements consist of individual wire rods of the conveyor belt formed as Siebgurt 12 formed out and upwardly projecting, triangular projections, wherein the in 1 shown embodiment of a wire rod ten individual and in the transverse direction to the conveyor belt 12 seen consecutively arranged positioning elements 20 are formed out and being in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt 12 seen from every fourth wire rod positioning elements 20 are formed out. This results in a large number of adjacent receiving areas 16 same dimensions and a one-piece design of the receiving device 15 with the conveyor belt 12 ,

Furthermore, the device comprises 100 an investment facility 17 with a (not shown here) contact surface, wherein the investment facility 17 from one side beside the first edge 13 arranged and up over the conveyor belt 12 protruding sheet or rail. In the 1 not shown) bearing surface forms the inside of the upper portion of the investment device 17 , The direction of the transport route is with the arrow 18 marked and the elongated foods to be washed are in 1 as asparagus 19 shown. The individual asparagus 19 are essentially each on a receiving area 16 on, with the asparagus 19 by several positioning elements 20 each one receiving area 16 be held sideways and with her foot end 19 '' at a contact surface of the investment device 17 issue. The reception areas 16 on the conveyor belt 12 run in the transverse direction to the transport path and the investment facility 17 runs along the transport path of the conveyor belt 12 so the asparagus 19 are also aligned in the transverse direction to the transport path. Through the contact surface and the positioning elements 20 become the asparagus 19 essentially captured in their position, so that the asparagus 19 during transport and the washing process by washing fluid jets or the movement of the conveyor belt 12 not from the device 100 slipping or falling and essentially maintaining their transverse orientation. The nozzles 11 are oblique to the direction of the transport route 18 aligned and arranged and adapted to receive their respective wash fluid jet (at least a portion of the respective beam) from the direction of the second edge 14 towards the first edge 13 can deploy (see 3 ).

In 2 is another embodiment of a device 100 shown in a side view, wherein the device 100 two nozzle arrangements 10 , each with several nozzles 11 for spraying a washing fluid, a conveyor belt 12 and a cover member 21 includes, the latter being indicated only schematically. The conveyor is equal to the one out 1 educated. The food to be washed is here as asparagus 19 shown schematically. As in 2 shown are the asparagus between the conveyor belt 12 and a cover formed as Siebgurt cover 21 arranged, with the asparagus 19 lie in the transverse direction to the transport route. The nozzle arrangements 10 ' . 10 '' have a first nozzle arrangement 10 ' and a second nozzle arrangement 10 '' on, wherein the first nozzle arrangement 10 ' above the conveyor belt 12 and the cover 21 and the second nozzle assembly 10 '' below the conveyor belt 12 are arranged. As well as in 1 shown, is the conveyor belt 12 in 2 formed as a Siebgurt, so that the conveyor belt 12 is wash fluid permeable. This allows the asparagus 19 also from the direction below the conveyor belt 12 from the second nozzle assembly 10 '' sprayed and cleaned on the underside. By the formation of the cover 21 as a washing-fluid-permeable sieve belt is a spraying from above by means of the first nozzle assembly 10 ' also possible. The first and second nozzle arrangements 10 ' . 10 '' are essentially parallel and mirror-image to the conveyor belt 12 or to the cover 21 arranged. The cover element 21 is just like the conveyor belt 12 as a movable belt, namely as Siebgurt, trained and preferably congruent over the conveyor belt 12 arranged horizontally. The cover element 21 is synchronous with the conveyor belt 12 movably formed, so that the asparagus during the washing process by the washing fluid jets from the below the conveyor belt 12 arranged second nozzle arrangement 10 '' not from its position, in particular upwards in the direction of the first nozzle arrangement 10 ' be sprayed. The nozzles 11 the nozzle arrangements 10 ' . 10 '' are each on hollow profile carriers 321 attached. The hollow section beams 321 are hollow bodies and form lines for the washing fluid through which the washing fluid enters the nozzles. The hollow section beams 321 run obliquely to the direction 18 the transport path and are each with their ends to a pipe section 32 (see also 7 ) and fluidly connected thereto, ie, washing fluid flows from the pipe sections 32 in the hollow section beam 321 and then into the nozzles 11 ,

The spray direction of the washing fluid is in the side view of an embodiment according to 3 shown. The components of the device 3 that are equal to those from the 1 and 2 , in relation to 3 not described separately. The washing fluid jet 22 runs from the nozzles 11 to asparagus 19 fanned out, ie, its width increases in the longitudinal direction. The washing fluid is from the head of the asparagus 19 ' to the foot of the asparagus 19 '' sprayed out, with the longitudinal axis 23 the washing fluid jet 22 the nozzles 11 the upper nozzle assembly 10 ' with the longitudinal axis 24 of the recording area 16 forms an acute angle α ₁ , so that the washing fluid jet 22 from an open, not solid with the asparagus 19 Connected side of the superficial on the asparagus 19 sitting or grown scales 19 ''' the scales 19 ''' sprayed and thus at least partially under the scales 19 ''' can get. As a result, contamination or contamination on or under the scales 19 ''' the asparagus 19 can be removed. Also the longitudinal axes 23 the washing fluid jets 22 the nozzles 11 the lower, second nozzle assembly 10 '' form an acute angle α ₂ with the longitudinal axis 24 the reception areas 16 , wherein the amount of the angle α _{2 of} the lower, second nozzle assembly 10 '' is smaller than the amount of the angle α _{1 of} the upper, first nozzle assembly 10 ' , Preferably, the amounts of all angles α _{1 of} the washing fluid jets 22 the upper nozzles 11 the first nozzle arrangement 10 ' in each case the same and / or the amounts of all angles α _{2 of} the washing fluid jets 22 the lower nozzles 11 the second nozzle arrangement 10 '' are the same. In principle, it would also be possible in certain embodiments that the angles α ₁ and α _{2 are} equal (not the case in the figures).

Both nozzle arrangements 10 ' . 10 '' are formed such that the spraying from a transversely to the first lateral edge 13 of the conveyor belt 12 extending and in particular opposite direction takes place. At the in 3 shown spray the nozzles 11 the asparagus from the direction of the second edge 14 towards the first edge 13 , Furthermore, not all the rods of asparagus 19 but sprayed only a portion of the asparagus stalks 19 , In the area of the second lateral edge 14 of the conveyor belt 12 is a dry section 25 provided with a width b, so that the head portions of the asparagus 19 essentially in the dry section 25 lie, with the drying section 25 from the contact surface 17 ' the investment facility 17 is arranged at a distance a. The foot ends 19 '' the asparagus 19 lie on the contact surface 17 ' at. At the second edge 14 is also an investment facility 17 provided the second edge 14 of the conveyor belt 12 limited and arranged parallel to this. The head end 19 ' the asparagus 19 is spaced from the investment facility 17 of the second edge 14 arranged.

4 shows a portion of a cover 21 designed as a washing fluid-permeable wire mesh or as Siebgurt in exploded view. The cover element 21 is in operation on or above the conveyor belt 12 arranged so that the asparagus 19 between the cover 21 and the conveyor belt 12 lie. The cover element 21 contributes during transport or washing in addition to the positioning elements 20 to fix the position of the asparagus.

In 5 is another embodiment of the device 100 shown, where 5 only a section of the device 100 shows. In addition to the with 1 to 4 The above-described embodiments include the device 100 a weighting device 26 , wherein the weighting device 26 on the cover 21 rests. The weighting device 26 comprises two roller chains arranged parallel to each other 27 , each in an edge region of the cover 21 are arranged. These roller chains 27 are over several fasteners 28 , which are designed here as weighting rods, connected to each other. The weighting device 26 is with the device 100 preferably articulated and connected to their respective last roller members, such that only the conveyor belt 12 and the cover 21 in the direction 18 the Transportweges proceed, but the weighting device 26 is essentially stationary. By the providence of the roles 271 can the cover 21 under the roller chains 27 be moved. By articulated connections of the individual roles 271 a respective roller chain 27 among themselves, the roller chain 27 in particular different Spargeldicken the between cover element 21 and conveyor belt 12 asparagus 19 (please refer 2 ) compensate by appropriate movements in height.

6 shows a device 200 for treating elongated foods comprising a washing device 100 , as in the example 1 to 5 is described above, a main washing device 210 and a cutting device 220 , wherein the devices 100 . 210 . 220 are so functionally interconnected that the food to be washed and cut from a device to an adjacent device, preferably automated, can be transferred. The device 200 forms an integrated entity in which the devices 100 . 210 . 220 are integrated and work together functionally. The asparagus are first in the cutting device 220 entered and cut there to a predetermined length. After that they are successively in the devices 100 and 210 washed, being in device 100 Contaminations are removed under the asparagus scales. The devices 100 and 210 each have a Waschfluidaufbereitungseinrichtung 230 on, in the in the respective device 100 . 210 used washing fluid is prepared for reuse.

As in 7 . 8th and 9 shows a further embodiment of a device 100 the invention, a first nozzle assembly 10 ' with a first nozzle level 29 and a second nozzle arrangement 10 '' with a second nozzle level 30 on, wherein the first nozzle arrangement 10 ' and the second nozzle assembly 10 '' one inlet each 31 for supplying the washing fluid to the nozzle assemblies 10 ' . 10 '' exhibit. Both nozzle arrangements 10 ' . 10 '' are essentially mirror-inverted and arranged one above the other. The first nozzle arrangement 10 ' and the second nozzle assembly 10 '' are in particular opposite and arranged parallel to each other, wherein between the first and the second nozzle arrangement 10 ' . 10 '' a conveyor belt, not shown here is arranged.

Furthermore, the first nozzle level 29 and the second nozzle level 30 three pipe sections each 32 that are inside the nozzle plane 29 . 30 the respective nozzle arrangement 10 ' . 10 '' run and each in a slanted connection area 33 are fluidly connected to each other. In the slanted connection area 33 are beveled, in plan view wedge-shaped coupling pieces 331 provided, each two pipe sections 32 connect with each other. The coupling pieces 331 each border at an approximately 45 ° angle to two pipe sections to be joined together 32 at.

The nozzle arrangements 10 ' . 10 '' are in accordance with the execution 8th and 9 via a connecting line for pressure equalization 34 interconnected, wherein in the embodiment according to 8th the first nozzle arrangement 10 ' and the second nozzle assembly 10 '' additionally by means of a connecting piece 35 connected to each other, wherein the first and the second nozzle assemblies 10 ' . 10 '' , preferably fluidly, by means of the connecting piece 35 connected to each other. The connector 35 connects the two nozzle arrangements 10 ' . 10 '' in the area of their inlets 31 whereas the connecting line 34 the two nozzle arrangements 10 ' . 10 '' in the inlets 31 connects opposite area together. Each nozzle arrangement 10 ' . 10 '' has exactly one inlet 31 ,

The nozzle levels 29 . 30 are in their height expansion in the execution according to 7 to 9 on the height pipe sections 32 limited. All pipe sections 32 and couplers 331 as well as the inlets 31 lie within the nozzle levels 29 . 30 , In particular, the longitudinal axes of the pipe sections 32 within the respective nozzle levels 29 . 30 , The pipe sections 32 make up together with the coupling pieces 331 in plan view, approximately a rectangle with three bevelled corners. In the fourth corner is a laterally projecting section 322 provided, on the front side of an inlet 31 is provided. The inlets 31 include round fittings with sealing elements. Within the approximate rectangle of the two nozzle assemblies 10 ' . 10 '' are each three, parallel to each other and obliquely to the two long sides of the rectangle running hollow profile carrier 321 provided, in turn, in each case two nozzles 11 are attached. The nozzles 11 the lower nozzle assembly 10 '' are up and the nozzles 11 the upper nozzle assembly 10 ' are directed downwards.

At the inlets 31 is one line each 36 for supplying washing fluid to the nozzle assemblies 10 ' . 10 '' connected, as in 10 shown. Further shows 10 a pump 37 to supply the device 100 with washing fluid, the lines 36 between the pump 37 and the inlets 31 via an adapter piece 38 into a main line 39 to be united, in turn, to the pump 37 connected. The adapter piece 38 in 10 is designed as a Ypsilon piece. Between adapter piece 38 and main 39 is also a shut-off unit 41 intended.

11a . 11b and 11c each show a schematic representation of different embodiments of connection areas 33 two pipe sections 32 , The pipe sections 32 are at an approximate right angle in the connection area 33 connected with each other. To the flow resistance and turbulence in the connection area 33 to reduce is an intermediate piece 40 inside the connection area 33 ie, within the pipe sections 32 , intended. The intermediate piece 40 according to 11a is as a flat plate and the intermediate piece 40 according to 11b formed as a curved or rounded plate. The intermediate piece according to FIG. 11c comprises a plurality of flat plates which adjoin adjacent plates to be connected at several angles, in particular different angles. Inflowing wash fluid is thus through the intermediate piece 40 aerodynamically deflected or at the intermediate pieces 40 Guided along and turbulence as they are usually in the corner of the rectangularly interconnected pipe sections 32 occur, are avoided or reduced. The training as plates is particularly useful when the pipe sections, as in the present embodiments, rectangular hollow sections.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

100

Apparatus for washing elongated food

10 '

first nozzle arrangement

10 ''

second nozzle arrangement

11

jet

12

conveyor belt

13

First lateral edge of the conveyor belt

14

Second lateral edge of the conveyor belt

15

recording device

16

reception area

17

equipment installation

17 '

contact surface

18

Direction of the transport route

 19

asparagus

 19 '

Head of asparagus

 19 ''

Foot of the asparagus

 19 '' '

Asparagus Shed

 20

positioner

 21

cover

 22

Washing fluid jet

 23

Longitudinal axis of the washing fluid jet

 24

Longitudinal axis of the receiving area

25

drying section

26

weight means

 27

roller chain

271

role

 28

fasteners

29

first nozzle level

30

second nozzle level

 31

inlet

 32

pipe section

 321

Hollow profile carrier

322

projecting section

33

connecting area

331

coupling piece

34

Connecting line for pressure equalization

35

joint

36

management

37

pump

38

adapter piece

39

main

40

connecting piece

41

Shut-off

200

Apparatus for treating elongated foods

210

Main washing device

220

cutter

230

Washing fluid preparation device

α ₁ , α ₂

acute angle between the longitudinal axis of the washing fluid jet and the longitudinal axis of the receiving area

a

Distance between the drying section and the contact surface of the system

b

Width of the dry section

Claims (29)

Contraption ( 100 ) for washing elongated foods, in particular rod-shaped vegetables, preferably asparagus, comprising a conveyor belt which can be moved along a transport path ( 12 ) for receiving and transporting the elongated food, and at least one nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' . 10 '' ) for spraying a washing fluid onto the elongated foodstuffs, wherein the conveyor belt ( 12 ) a first lateral edge ( 13 ) and a second lateral edge ( 14 ), characterized in that the at least one nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' . 10 '' ) for spraying the elongated food from a first lateral edge ( 13 ) of the conveyor belt opposite direction is formed, wherein the at least one nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' . 10 '' ) preferably for spraying the elongate foodstuffs exclusively from a first lateral edge ( 13 ) of the conveyor belt opposite direction is formed. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the device comprises a receiving device ( 15 ), wherein the receiving device ( 15 ) a plurality of elongated, in particular separate receiving areas ( 16 ) located on the conveyor belt ( 12 ) are formed and extend substantially transversely to the transport path. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the device comprises an abutment device ( 17 ) with a contact surface ( 17 ' ) for abutment of one end of the elongated foodstuffs, wherein the abutment device ( 17 ) along the transport path of the conveyor belt ( 12 ), wherein preferably the contact surface ( 17 ' ) along and / or parallel to the first lateral edge ( 13 ) of the conveyor belt, and wherein preferably the at least one nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' . 10 '' ) for spraying the elongated food from one of the abutment surfaces ( 17 ' ) opposite direction is formed. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' . 10 '' ) at least a nozzle ( 11 ) for spraying a washing fluid jet ( 22 ), wherein the longitudinal axis ( 23 ) of the washing fluid jet with the longitudinal axis ( 24 ) of the receiving area forms an acute angle (α). Device according to claim 4, characterized in that the longitudinal axis ( 23 ) of the washing fluid jet extends substantially within a plane orthogonal to the conveyor belt plane and orthogonal to the transport path. Apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the acute angle (α) 5 ° to 80 °, preferably 15 ° to 60 °, more preferably 25 ° to 55 °, most preferably 30 ° to 45 °. Device according to one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that the receiving device ( 15 ) to form the reception areas ( 16 ) on the conveyor belt ( 12 ) arranged positioning elements ( 20 ), wherein the positioning elements ( 20 ) preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis ( 24 ) of the respective receiving areas arranged driver and / or separating elements. Device according to one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the investment device ( 17 ) and / or the receiving device ( 15 ) with the conveyor belt ( 12 ) are integrally formed and / or integrated. Device according to one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the investment device ( 17 ) separately from the conveyor belt ( 12 ) is formed, and in particular laterally of the conveyor belt ( 12 ), preferably on the at least one nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' . 10 '' ) opposite side of the conveyor belt ( 12 ) is arranged. Apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the contact surface ( 17 ' ) of the investment facility ( 17 ) is formed by a metal sheet. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the conveyor belt ( 12 ) Has openings for the passage of the washing fluid, wherein the conveyor belt ( 12 ) is preferably formed as a Siebgurt. Apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the screen belt comprises a plurality of parallel, partially intertwined wires or rods. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact surface ( 17 ' ) of the investment facility ( 17 ) upwards over the conveyor belt ( 12 ) projects away. Device according to one of claims 7 to 13, characterized in that the positioning elements ( 20 ) of the recording device ( 16 ) and / or the contact surface ( 17 ' ) of the investment facility ( 17 ) consist of material which comprises plastic and / or metal. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' . 10 '' ) is formed such that a drying section extending in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt (US Pat. 25 ) of the conveyor belt ( 12 ) not from the at least one nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' . 10 '' ) is sprayable, wherein the drying section ( 25 ) in the transverse direction of the conveyor belt ( 12 ) preferably viewed opposite to the contact surface ( 17 ' ) of the investment facility ( 17 ) is arranged. Apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that the distance a between the contact surface ( 17 ' ) and the dry section ( 25 ) 15 cm to 30 cm, preferably 18 cm to 25 cm, particularly preferably 21 cm to 24 cm, very particularly preferably 22 cm to 23 cm. Apparatus according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the drying area ( 25 ) has a width b of 0.5 cm to 4 cm, preferably 1 cm to 3 cm, particularly preferably 1.5 cm to 2.5 cm. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two nozzle arrangements ( 10 ' . 10 '' ) are provided, one above and the other below the conveyor belt ( 12 ) are arranged. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device comprises a washing-fluid-permeable cover element ( 21 ), wherein the cover element ( 21 ) on the conveyor belt ( 12 ), is preferably arranged congruently one above the other, and wherein between the cover ( 21 ) and the conveyor belt ( 12 ) to be arranged to be washed elongated food, and wherein the cover element ( 21 ) preferably movable, in particular synchronously with the conveyor belt ( 12 ) is designed movable. Apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that on the cover ( 21 ) a weighting device ( 26 ) is provided, which for weighting the cover ( 21 ) is trained. Apparatus according to claim 20, characterized in that the weighting device ( 26 ) one or more roller chains ( 27 ), in the case of several roller chains ( 27 ) this preferably via at least one connecting element ( 28 ), in particular a weighting bar. Apparatus for treating elongated foodstuffs, in particular bar-shaped vegetables, preferably asparagus, comprising a device according to one of the preceding claims, and a further main washing device ( 210 ) for washing the elongated food, the main washing device ( 210 ) is preferably operatively connected to the device so that the elongated food sprayed in the device is transferred from the device to the main washing device ( 210 ) or vice versa, and / or a cutting device ( 220 ) for cutting the elongated food, in particular to a predetermined length or a predetermined length range, wherein the cutting device ( 220 ) preferably functional with the device or main washing device ( 210 ), that in the cutting device ( 220 ) sliced elongated food from the cutting device ( 220 ) to the device or main washing device ( 210 ) can be transferred. Apparatus for washing elongated foodstuffs, in particular rod-shaped vegetables, preferably asparagus, comprising a conveyor belt that can be moved along a transport path ( 12 ) for receiving and transporting the elongated food, a first nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' ) with a first nozzle level ( 29 ) and a second nozzle arrangement ( 10 '' ) with a second nozzle level ( 30 for spraying a washing fluid onto the elongated foodstuffs, wherein the first nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' ) and the second nozzle arrangement ( 10 '' ) each have an inlet ( 31 ) for supplying the washing fluid to the nozzle assemblies ( 10 ' . 10 '' ), wherein two lines ( 35 ) for supplying washing fluid to the first nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' ) and to the second nozzle arrangement ( 10 '' ) are provided, wherein in each case a line ( 35 ) to an inlet ( 31 ), wherein the first nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' ) and the second nozzle arrangement ( 10 '' ) are arranged opposite one another, in particular parallel to one another, and wherein between the first and the second nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' . 10 '' ) the conveyor belt ( 12 ), wherein the one inlet ( 31 ) within the first nozzle level ( 29 ) and the other inlet ( 31 ) within the second nozzle plane ( 30 ) are arranged. Apparatus according to claim 23, characterized in that the first nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' ) and / or the second nozzle arrangement ( 10 '' ) at least two pipe sections ( 32 ) within the nozzle plane ( 29 . 30 ) of the respective nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' . 10 '' ) and in each case in a connection area ( 33 ) are fluidly connected to each other, wherein the connection area ( 33 ) is rounded and / or in the connection area ( 33 ) a rounding is provided, and / or where in the connection area ( 33 ) at least one intermediate piece ( 40 ) is provided that at an angle to one or both of the at least two pipe sections ( 32 ) stands. Apparatus according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that the first nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' ) and the second nozzle arrangement ( 10 '' ) are connected together by means of a connecting piece, wherein the first and the second nozzle arrangements ( 10 ' . 10 '' ), preferably fluidically, are interconnected by means of the connecting piece, wherein preferably the connecting piece is in each case connected to an end region of the first nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' ) and the second nozzle arrangements ( 10 '' ) is connected to these. Apparatus according to claim 25, characterized in that, in particular at respectively opposite end regions of the first nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' ) and the second nozzle arrangement ( 10 '' ), a connecting line ( 34 ) for pressure equalization between the first nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' ) and the second nozzle arrangement ( 10 '' ), which is fluidically connected to the first nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' ) and with the second nozzle arrangement ( 10 '' ) connected is. Device according to one of claims 23 to 26, characterized in that a pump ( 37 ) is provided for supplying the device with the washing fluid, wherein the two lines ( 36 ) between the pump ( 37 ) and the two inlets ( 31 ) or where a main line ( 39 ) to the pump ( 37 ) and the two lines ( 36 ) with the main line ( 39 ) via an adapter piece ( 38 ), in particular a reusable distributor piece, are connected. Device according to one of claims 23 to 27, characterized in that the conveyor belt ( 12 ) is formed circumferentially movable and forms a first conveyor belt level and a second conveyor belt level, wherein the first nozzle arrangement ( 10 ' ) to a first conveyor belt level of the movable conveyor belt ( 12 ) has a first distance d ₁ , and wherein the second nozzle arrangement ( 10 '' ) to a second conveyor belt level of the movable conveyor belt ( 12 ) has a second distance d ₂ . Apparatus according to claim 28, characterized in that the first and second distances (d ₁ , d ₂ ) are substantially equal.

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