EP3470342A1 - Package for heating food - Google Patents

Abstract

A package is provided which comprises a tray or tray-like first packaging part (2) for arranging food (1) thereon and a second packaging part (3). The first packaging part (2) is enclosed with the second packaging part (3) such that the top side (4), the bottom side (5), a first peripheral side (6a) and a second peripheral side (6c) opposite the first peripheral side (6a) of the first packaging part (2) are substantially covered by the second packaging part (3). A third peripheral side (6b) of the first packaging part (2) connecting the first and second peripheral sides (6a, 6c) is not covered by the second packing part (3). Between the first packaging part (2) and the second packaging part (3) is a positive connection in the direction of the third peripheral side (6c), which can be canceled to a removal of the first packaging part (2) from the second packaging part (3) with the third peripheral side (6b) to allow pointing in the removal direction.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The invention relates to a method for heating food, a package for use in the method, a set for forming such a package, an apparatus for performing the method and a system consisting of such a device and such a package according to the preambles of the independent claims ,

STATE OF THE ART

Hot-to-consume snack products for immediate consumption at the point of sale, such as Pizzas, paninis, burgers, quiches, strudel, crepes, etc. are now kept ready for sale either when warm, e.g. in heated showcases, or are offered in the unheated or refrigerated state and then need to be heated for consumption.

When products are kept warm, there is the disadvantage that the products are often kept warm for many hours, which is detrimental to the quality and appearance of these products and can lead to high failure rates. In the event that the products are kept warm in a packaged state, there is also the disadvantage that the product is handed over to the end user for consumption in a hot pack, which can be problematic or that the product is not warm enough, because with consideration On the packaging temperature, the holding temperature is set too low. For products that are kept warm without packaging, the latter disadvantage can be avoided, but this results in a corresponding expense for the packaging of the product for delivery to the end user and for the management of suitable packaging.

For the products offered in the unheated or refrigerated state, the packaged or unpackaged product, usually from the sales force, if necessary after removal from a package, is placed in an oven and heated therein. After a period of heating, the heated product is then taken out of the oven and then to the consumer for packaging after being packaged in its original packaging or in a new package with the heated package or, in the event that it has been heated without packaging to hand over. With these products, there is the disadvantage that the overall process for providing the heated products is time-consuming and labor-intensive and thus cost-intensive.

In the event that the product is heated with the packaging, there is also the previously described problem that the consumer is given the product in a hot package for consumption, which can be problematic or that the product is not warm enough because, considering the packaging temperature, the heating temperature is set too low.

In addition, in all cases where the products are temporarily handled without packaging, there are also hygienic problems, as the persons handling the products often handle money and because the items with which the products come in contact with others Come into contact with products whose cleanliness depends on regular and correct cleaning.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore the object to provide a method and devices and products for heating food are available, which do not have the disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above or at least partially avoided.
This object is solved by the subject matters of the independent claims.

Accordingly, a first aspect of the invention relates to a method for heating food, preferably snacks or ready meals, which are offered fresh or sold (eg at + 5 °) or frozen (eg at -18 °), but consumed hot or hot become. When the term "food" is mentioned below, it means both individual and also several and / or various products intended for heating and for consumption.

In this case, the food to be heated in a package, which advantageously has cuboid dimensions provided.

This packaging comprises a tray-like or tray-like first packaging part, on which the food packaged with the packaging is arranged. This first packaging part is advantageously rectangular in plan view of its food-carrying top, but other shapes are conceivable, such as e.g. a triangular shape, the shape of a circle section or another polygonal shape.

The first packaging part with the food arranged thereon is enclosed by a second packaging part, such that the upper side with the food arranged thereon, the underside and two opposite, preferably mutually parallel circumferential sides of the first packaging part are substantially covered by the second packaging part. "Substantially covered" means that, although quite interruptions (eg viewing window) or lateral cut-outs may be present, however, that the second packaging part passes through in its enclosing direction, ie extends without interruption, over the mentioned sides of the first packaging part.

At least one peripheral side of the first packaging part is exposed, i. not covered by the second packaging part, thereby connecting the two aforementioned, opposite from the second packaging part, opposite peripheral sides of the first packaging part.

The package with the food contained therein is placed on a device for heating the food. This is done by inserting one or more holding means provided by the device into the package between the first packaging part and the second packaging part, e.g. by attaching the packaging to holding arms arranged on the device, and then holding the packaging to the device by means of these holding means.

In this state, the first packaging part is removed with the food arranged thereon with its exposed side pointing in the removal direction from the second packaging part. The second packaging part remains held by the holding means on the device.

The foods arranged on the first packaging part removed from the second packaging part are now heated by the device, wherein they remain arranged on the first packaging part.

After heating the food, the first packaging member with the heated food disposed thereon is fed back into the second packaging member held by the holding means on the apparatus, such that the top, bottom and two opposite circumferential sides of the first packaging member having the heated ones disposed thereon Foods are substantially covered by the second packaging part. In this case, the first packaging part preferably returns to its original position within the second packaging part. But it is also conceivable, depending on the shape of the packaging and process sequence, that the first packaging part after returning to the second packaging part occupies a different position therein, for example, rotated by 180 ° position.

The package with the heated food held therein after returning the first packaging part to the second packaging part from the holding means on the device is then removed from the device for transporting the food to the point of consumption.

With the method according to the invention, it is possible to heat individually fresh or chilled food without touching the food with the hands or with items that are foreign to the packaging and then to provide it to the end user in the original packaging in the heated state, without the areas of the packaging , which are touched by the end user during transport of the package to the place of consumption, are heated appreciably. Accordingly, it is possible with the inventive method to create optimal hygienic conditions to keep the packaging logistics and packaging waste as low as possible and at the same time to provide the food with the optimum temperature, without having to compromise on the safety of the end user.

Preferably, a packaging is used in which, in the original state, the first and second packaging parts which contain the food are completely enclosed by an airtight envelope, for example of a transparent plastic film. Within this enclosure, the package may also contain a protective atmosphere which increases the shelf life of the food packaged therein. This wrapper is then usually removed by hand prior to placing the package on the device. By using packaging according to the invention with such wrappings, hygiene, in particular when storing or presenting the packaging, can be further improved.

Advantageously, the packaging is placed on the device and the packaging is removed from the device by hand. Here are the advantages of the invention, which inter alia has the goal to enable the end user a quick and easy and product-appropriate and hygienic heating of freshly bought or chilled food for immediate consumption at the point of sale with small, inexpensive heating machines, especially clearly visible. However, it is also provided, e.g. in the context of larger industrial installations for heating larger quantities of food, e.g. at large franchising restaurants with high throughputs of corresponding products, e.g. Hamburgers, automated placing and removal of the packaging to and from the device

In a preferred embodiment of the method, the removal of the first packaging part with the food arranged thereon takes place from the second packaging part held on the device with the holding means, the heating of the food with the device and the return of the first packaging part with the heated food arranged thereon in the held on the device second packaging part by the device, preferably automatically by the device, eg after actuation of a start button or after the device has detected that a package with food is intended to her arranged. As a result, the safety and hygiene can be further increased and that heating of just purchased food by the end user directly at the point of sale is greatly simplified.

In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the food to be heated is provided in a packaging in which the first packaging part, optionally after removal of an envelope surrounding the packaging prior to arranging the packaging on the device force, shape and / or cohesively connected in the direction of the exposed peripheral side of the first packaging part with the second packaging part. This ensures that the first packaging part with the food arranged thereon can not fall out of the second packaging part when handling the packaging. This force, shape and / or material connection is then canceled during the arrangement of the packaging on the device or between the arrangement of the packaging on the device and the removal of the first packaging part with the food arranged thereon from the second packaging part. In the case of a frictional connection, it is also provided that this is not canceled, but is only overcome when removing the first packaging part with the food arranged thereon from the second packaging part.

A frictional connection can be produced, for example, in that the second packaging part tightly encloses the first packaging part, or in that regions are present in which the two packaging parts adjoin one another directly or via intermediate elements under pressure prestress. A positive connection can e.g. be generated by engaging or snapping elements or contours of the first and second packaging part into each other. An interfacial substance may e.g. be generated by the fact that the two packaging parts are locally connected to each other via glued paper sections, which must be destroyed to remove the first packaging part from the second packaging part.

Preferably, by the insertion of the holding means of the device in the packaging automatically a repeal of the force, shape and / or material connection. This has the advantage that no additional related actions are required.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the method, the food to be heated is provided in a package in which the first packaging part before the arrangement of the packaging on the device non-positively and / or positively in the direction of the exposed peripheral side of the first packaging part is connected to the second packaging part. This positive and / or positive connection is released during the arrangement of the packaging on the device or between the arrangement of the packaging on the device and the removal of the first packaging part with the food arranged thereon from the second packaging part. After heating the food, this force and / or positive connection is then restored by the device before or during the removal of the package with the heated food contained therein, to avoid unintentional falling out of the first packaging part with the heated food arranged thereon from the second packaging part. In this way, a particularly secure transport of the packaging to the place of consumption is possible.

If doing the restoration of the force and / or positive connection by hand, then there is the advantage that simple design, cost-effective packaging can be used. If the restoration of the force and / or form fit is done automatically, e.g. when returning the first packaging part with the heated food arranged thereon in the second packaging part or when removing the packaging from the device, so there is the advantage that this no additional manipulation is required, which further increases security.

Advantageously, the first packaging part with the food arranged thereon is moved only horizontally and preferably along a single rectilinear trajectory between the removal from the second packaging part and the return to the second packaging part. This makes it possible to perform the method with relatively compact and inexpensive devices.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the method, the first packaging part with the food arranged thereon when removing from the second Packing part, when heating the food arranged thereon and when returning to the second packaging part in particular held uninterrupted in the range of those of its peripheral sides, which were previously covered by the second packaging part.

Preferably, the removal of the first packaging part takes place with the food arranged thereon from the second packaging part, holding the first packaging part with the food arranged thereon during the heating of the food and returning the first packaging part with the heated food arranged thereon in the second packaging part by means of a heat-resistant forked support structure. As a result, particularly practical solutions are possible, in which in addition a very uniform heating of the arranged on the first packaging part food can be realized.

The heating of the food is preferably carried out in a directly behind the holding means of the device arranged heating chamber of the device. In this way, long transport routes within the device can be avoided and particularly compact devices can be used.

A second aspect of the invention relates to a package for use in the method according to the first aspect of the invention.

This packaging has a preferably substantially rectangular tray-like or tray-like first packaging part of a dimensionally stable heat-resistant material, preferably of cardboard, for the arrangement of food to be heated thereon.

Further, the package has a second packaging part made of a dimensionally stable material, e.g. of cardboard and / or PET, which in a preferred embodiment is at least partially transparent.

The first packaging part is circumferentially enclosed by the second packaging part such that its Top, its bottom and a first of its peripheral sides and a second of its peripheral sides, which is opposite to the first peripheral side, are substantially covered by the second packaging part. As already stated under the first aspect of the invention, "substantially covered" here means that interruptions (eg viewing windows) or cutouts may be present in the second packaging part, but that this extends in its surrounding direction without interruption over the mentioned sides of the first packaging part , As such, the second packaging part thus forms a closed circumferential enclosure around the first packaging part.

Between the upper side of the first packaging part and the second packaging part, a packaging space is formed, which is provided for receiving food to be arranged on the upper side of the first packaging part or in which food arranged on the upper side of the first packaging part is located.

At least one further, third peripheral side of the first packaging part, which interconnects the aforementioned first and second peripheral sides of the first packaging part, which are substantially covered by the second packaging part, is exposed, i. not covered by the second packaging part.

In this case, between the first peripheral side of the first packaging part and the area of the second packaging part covering this peripheral side and between the second peripheral side of the first packaging part and the area of the second packaging part covering this peripheral side, at least partially along the respective first and second peripheral side of the first Packing part extending lateral space formed (claimed first and second side rooms). These two lateral spaces are accessible at least from the third peripheral side of the first packaging part, optionally after prior destruction or removal of a covering the respective lateral space thin-layer cover element, for example made of paper and / or foil.

Between the first packaging part and the second packaging part there is a positive connection in the direction of the third peripheral side, which prevents the first packaging part with the third peripheral side from falling out of the second packaging part. This positive fit may be achieved, preferably by introducing such physicalities as e.g. from the support arms of a device according to the invention, in a direction parallel to the first and the second peripheral side of the first packaging part from the third peripheral side of the same forth in the lateral spaces are lifted, to allow removal of the first packaging part from the second packaging part with its third Showing circumferential side in removal direction.

Such a package is particularly well suited for use in the inventive method according to the first aspect of the invention.

Advantageously, in addition to the third peripheral side and a fourth peripheral side of the first packaging part, which also connects the first and the second peripheral side of the same, not covered by the second packaging part. The first and the second lateral space are also accessible from this fourth peripheral side of the first packaging part, optionally after prior destruction or removal of the respective lateral space covering thin-layer cover element, for example made of paper and / or foil. The positive connection between the first packaging part and the second packaging part is also in the direction of the fourth peripheral side and can by retracting Körperlichkeiten, such as from the support arms of an inventive device, in a direction parallel to the first and the second peripheral side of the fourth peripheral side be lifted forth in the lateral spaces, to allow removal of the first packaging part from the second packaging part with the fourth peripheral side pointing in the removal direction. This embodiment of the packaging makes it possible to remove the first packaging part after a release of the positive connection either in a first removal direction (third circumferential side pointing in removal direction) or a second removal direction (fourth circumferential side in removal direction) from the second packaging part, wherein the first Extraction direction and the second removal direction are preferably opposite.

The first packaging part of the packaging according to the invention is preferably cup-shaped, wherein the positive connection between the first packaging part and the second packaging part is at least partially effected in that the second packaging part in the area in which it substantially covers the top of the first packaging part in the From the peripheral sides of the first packaging part limited opening of the shell mold of the first packaging part penetrates. In this way, it is particularly easy to safely create a form fit between the first packaging part and the second packaging part in the direction of the third and possibly also the fourth peripheral side of the first packaging part.

It is advantageous that the second packaging part encompasses the upper ends of the first and the second peripheral side of the first packaging part.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the positive connection between the first packaging part and the second packaging part is at least partially effected by the first and the second packaging part being locked together, preferably in the region of the first and / or the second peripheral side of the first packaging part.

These measures result in a particularly stable packaging.

It is further preferred in a variant that on the inside of the first peripheral side and / or on the Inside the second peripheral side of the first packaging part in the region of the upper end of the respective peripheral side one or more downwardly facing tabs are formed, preferably by an inward folding of the respective peripheral side forming material. Behind this or these tabs of the second packaging part is locked, preferably with one or more formed thereon or connected thereto tabs or locking strips.

In another variant, it is preferred that in each case one or more openings or depressions are arranged on the inside of the first peripheral side and / or on the inside of the second peripheral side of the first packaging part in the region of the upper end of the respective peripheral side. In each of these openings or recesses, one or more projections formed on the inside of the second packaging part engage, which are advantageously formed by unfolded punches in the second packaging part.

By forming the packaging according to these two variants, the locking of the two packaging parts can be accomplished particularly easily and effectively.

In a further preferred embodiment of the packaging, the first packaging part is cup-shaped. In this case, the first and the second peripheral side of the first packaging part in the direction from bottom to top are tilted outwards, with advantage by an angle of at least 5 °. This results in the advantage that the first packaging part becomes narrower towards the bottom, which makes gripping or carrying same possible in the area of its first and second peripheral sides.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the packaging, the areas of the second packaging part which cover the first and second peripheral sides of the first packaging part are in a bottom-up direction seen inclined inwardly, and with advantage by an angle of at least 5 °. In this way, in particular in combination with the previously described measure, a packaging according to the invention can be formed with lateral spaces which have a particularly symmetrical triangular cross-section, which is preferred.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the packaging, the second packaging part provides leading edges in the region adjacent to the lower ends of the first and the second peripheral side of the first packaging part, which run along these peripheral sides. As a result, the first packaging part can be securely guided and centered within the second packaging part, so that the lateral spaces have clearly defined dimensions. These leading edges may e.g. be formed of folds of the material of the second packaging part or of guide rails, which are fixed to the inside of the second packaging part, e.g. by gluing.

In particular, in packages provided for packaging food in a protective atmosphere, it is preferred that the material of the second packaging member be perforated in the region where it covers the top of the first packaging member to allow for gas exchange between the inside and the outside of the second packaging part in this area.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the packaging, the first and the second packaging part are designed such that the dissolution of the positive connection between these two packaging parts is achieved by introducing physical forces, such as from the support arms of a device according to the invention, in a direction parallel to the first or second The second peripheral side of the first packaging part can be made from the third or the fourth peripheral side of the first packaging part into the lateral spaces. Next, the package is designed such that after removal of the first Packaging part from the second packaging part with the third or the fourth circumferential side pointing in the removal direction, the first packaging part can be introduced into the second packaging part with advantage in the reverse direction to the removal direction again so that the first packaging part is enclosed by the second packaging part such that its Top, its bottom and its first and second peripheral side are substantially covered by the second packaging part and in this state either automatically a positive connection between the first packaging part and the second packaging part opposite to the direction of insertion or by manual intervention from the outside can be produced, or at a Moving the Körperlichkeiten from the side rooms is automatically made or can be produced by manual intervention, to prevent accidental dropping out of the first packaging part of the second packaging part. Such packaging allows a particularly safe transport of food heated according to the invention.

It is preferred that the positive connection is produced by latching of the first packaging part with the second packaging part or can be produced. This further increases the transport safety of the packaging.

It is also preferred that the second packaging part comprises means, such as e.g. Grips by means of which the form-fitting can be canceled manually. This facilitates the opening of the packaging.

Preferably, the package includes food disposed therein in the space formed between the top of the first packaging member and the second packaging member. Such packaged foods represent a preferred commercial form of the invention.

It is preferred that on the third and / or the fourth peripheral side of the first packaging part Barcode is arranged, which contains information about the food contained in the package, in particular information regarding the product-specific heating of the food. As a result, an automatic product-appropriate heating of the food with a device according to the invention, which can read the barcode, possible.

It is also preferred that the packaging has an airtight envelope, with advantage of a transparent tubular bag film, which completely and airtight encloses the first and the second packaging part with the food contained therein and optionally contains a protective atmosphere. As a result, the durability and hygiene of the products contained in the packaging can be significantly increased.

It is in packaging in which the first packaging part is cup-shaped and the positive connection between the first packaging part and the second packaging part is at least partially effected in that the second packaging part in the area in which it covers the top of the first packaging part in the opening of the shell mold of the first packaging part limited by the peripheral sides of the first packaging part, preferably, that the second packaging part in the area in which it covers the top of the first packaging part, forming a depression in the opening bounded by the peripheral sides of the first packaging part the shell shape of the first packaging part penetrates. In this indentation, accessories adapted to the food contained in the packaging are arranged, eg cutlery, a napkin and / or complementary products for consumption together with the food, such as salt, pepper, olive oil, etc. This accessory is also arranged inside the airtight enclosure , This makes it possible to provide product-specific accessories captive on the product packaging.

A third aspect of the invention relates to a set comprising a first packaging part and a second packaging part for forming a packaging according to the second aspect of the invention. Such packaging sets also constitute preferred commercial forms of the invention.

A fourth aspect of the invention relates to an apparatus for carrying out the method according to the first aspect of the invention using a package according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the package includes meals to be heated.

The device comprises a housing and a heating chamber arranged in the housing for heating the food, preferably by means of microwaves and / or infrared radiation.

Next, the device comprises holding means comprising two spaced apart support arms. These support arms are at a substantially identical height in a substantially horizontal direction away from an operating side of the housing, such that the packaging with the third peripheral side of its first packaging part can be plugged ahead of the support arms, wherein the support arms in each of the two lateral spaces of the packaging are inserted, and that the package can be held by the attachment to the holding arms of these on the device. Optionally, in order to enable the packaging to be placed on the holding arms, any wrapping enclosing the first and second packaging parts must be removed and / or any covering elements covering the lateral spaces of the packaging must be removed or destroyed. It is also conceivable that such cover elements can be destroyed by plugging on the support arms.

Also, the device comprises transport means comprising two spaced-apart transport arms, which after the packaging of the packaging on the support arms and held with the holding arms on the device in the area between the holding arms each in one of the two lateral spaces of the packaging are inserted or can be inserted. These transport arms can protrude when attaching the package on the support arms together with the support arms from the housing of the device and retracted together with these in the side rooms, or can only after attaching the package to the support arms and with the holding arms on the device held packaging in the lateral spaces.

With these transport arms, the first part of the packaging with the food arranged thereon can be taken in particular automated and, after lifting the positive connection between the first and the second packaging part, in particular automated with the food arranged thereon in Aufsteckrichtung the packaging on the holding arms out of the second packaging part and transported to the heating chamber. In this case, the second packaging part of the holding arms remains held on the operating side of the device. After heating the food arranged in the heating chamber on the first packaging part, the first packaging part with the heated food arranged thereon can again be returned completely to the second packaging part held with the holding arms on the operating side.

With such a device, the inventive method using the inventive package can be carried out very easily and safely.

In a preferred embodiment of the device, the distance between the transport arms is variable, and preferably, reducible, for gripping the first packaging part with the food arranged thereon.

The heating chamber of the device is preferably located behind the holding arms, as viewed in the direction of attachment of the packaging.

Preferably, the area in which the packaging or the second packaging part can be held with the holding arms on the operating side of the device, separated from the heating chamber via a advantageously movable in a plane parallel to the operating side of the device sliding oven door.

As a result of these measures, particularly short transport paths of the first packaging part and thus particularly compact devices according to the invention become possible.

In this case, it is further preferred that the oven door has on its outer side a scanner, with which read when or after the packaging of the packaging on the holding arms arranged on the third peripheral side of the first packaging part bar code with information regarding the heating of the food contained in the package can be, and that the device has a control with which automatically controlled depending on the data provided via the bar code, the heating of the food. With such a device operating errors can be largely excluded and a variety of foods are always optimally heated to the product adapted.

Preferably, the device is designed such that the transport arms of the device are always disposed within the heating chamber with the oven door closed.

1. 1) Öffnen der Ofentür;
2. 2) Einschieben der Transportarme bei geöffneter Ofentür aus der Heizkammer heraus in die beiden seitlichen Räume der Verpackung;
3. 3) Ergreifen des ersten Verpackungsteils mit den Transportarmen;
4. 4) Herausziehen des ergriffenen ersten Verpackungsteils mit den Transportarmen aus dem zweiten Verpackungsteil und Transport desselben mit den Transportarmen in die Heizkammer; und
5. 5) Erwärmen der auf dem ersten Verpackungs- teil angeordneten Speisen in der Heizkammer.

Derartige Vorrichtungen haben sich als besonders praxistauglich für die Durchführung des er findungsgemässen Verfahrens erwiesen.In this case, the device is further advantageously designed such that with her for heating the arranged on the first packaging part food after attaching the package to the support arms and held with the holding arms on the device packaging the following five steps can be performed automatically in particular:

1. 1) opening the oven door;
2. 2) inserting the transport arms with the oven door open from the heating chamber out in the two lateral spaces of the packaging;
3. 3) gripping the first packaging part with the transport arms;
4. 4) pulling out the gripped first packaging part with the transport arms from the second packaging part and transporting it with the transport arms into the heating chamber; and
5. 5) heating the arranged on the first packaging part food in the heating chamber.

Such devices have proven to be particularly practicable for the implementation of he inventive method.

Advantageously, the oven door and the transport arms on a common drive unit for moving the same. As a result, the apparatus-technical effort can be reduced and it can be saved accordingly costs.

Preferably, the support arms of the device are adjustable in their distance, to allow a proper attachment of different widths according to the invention packaging on these.

It is also preferable that the holding arms of the device can be folded away to reduce the dimensions of the device for transport.

Advantageously, the holding arms of the device are designed as flat wings or wire hoops, preferably made of metal. Such support arms are stable and inexpensive to produce.

A fifth aspect of the invention relates to a system (also arrangement or set) consisting of a device according to the fourth aspect of the invention and at least one packaging according to the second aspect of the invention, the packaging and the device being such are matched to each other, that the positive connection between the first packaging part and the second packaging part of the package when attaching the package to the support arms or after attaching the packaging to the support arms is automatically canceled by the device. As a result, the inventive heating of arranged in the package food with the device is significantly simplified.

In a first preferred embodiment of the system, the holding arms of the device are designed as flat wings or wire hoops which increase in the direction of the operating side of the device in the amount or in the circumference of its envelope, have an increasingly greater distance from each other and / or in their increase the upper area away from each other. The package is designed in this system such that the positive engagement between its first and its second packaging part when sliding the package on the support arms by increasing the height of the support arms, by increasing the envelope circumference of the support arms, by increasing the distance of the support arms to each other and / or is canceled by the use of the support arms. Such a design requires no moving parts to cancel the positive engagement and is therefore robust and inexpensive to implement.

In a second preferred embodiment of the system, the device and the packaging are designed such that the positive connection between the first and the second packaging part can be canceled by moving the holding arms apart after pushing the packaging onto the holding arms. This embodiment represents an alternative to the first preferred embodiment and enables other embodiments of the packaging.
In a third preferred embodiment of the system, the device and the package are such designed such that the positive connection between the first and the second packaging part can be canceled by a retraction of the transport arms in the lateral spaces of the package, preferably after pushing the package onto the support arms. This embodiment represents a further alternative to the first preferred embodiment and in turn allows other embodiments of the package.

In a fourth preferred embodiment of the system, the device and the packaging are designed such that the positive connection between the first and the second packaging part can be canceled by a collapse of the transport arms when gripping the first packaging part with the support arms. This embodiment represents a further alternative to the first preferred embodiment and in turn allows other embodiments of the package.

Depending on the packaging situation and system design, one or the other of these four preferred embodiments may be particularly preferred or even a specific combination of these.

In a further preferred embodiment of the system, the device and the packaging are designed such that a positive connection between the first and the second packaging part in the direction of Aufsteckrichtung the package on the support arms in returning the first packaging part with the heated food in the second packaging part, at a withdrawal of the transport arms from the lateral spaces of the package and / or when removing the packaging of the device is made automatically. In this way, the safety of the packaging containing the heated food can be significantly increased during transport to the place of consumption.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

• Fig. 1 eine perspektivische Darstellung einer ersten erfindungsgemässen Verpackung;
• Fig. 1a eine perspektivische Darstellung des inneren Verpackungsteils der Verpackung aus Fig. 1;
• Fig. 1b eine perspektivische Darstellung des äusseren Verpackungsteils der Verpackung aus Fig. 1;
• Fig. 2 eine perspektivische Darstellung einer erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung;
• die Figuren 3a bis 3g perspektivische Darstellungen der Vorrichtung aus Fig. 2 im bestimmungsgemässen Betrieb zum Erwärmen der in der Verpackung aus Fig. 1 enthaltenen Speisen gemäss dem erfindungsgemässen Verfahren;
• Fig. 4 eine perspektivische Darstellung der Verpackung in einer direkt auf die in der Fig. 3b dargestellten Situation folgenden Betriebssituation;
• Fig. 5a eine perspektivische Darstellung des inneren Verpackungsteils einer zweiten erfindungsgemässen Verpackung;
• Fig. 5b einen Vertikalschnitt entlang der Linie A-A in Fig. 5a durch die zweite erfindungsgemässe Verpackung;
• Fig. 5c eine Darstellung wie Fig. 5b einer Ausführungsvariante;
• Fig. 6a eine perspektivische Darstellung des inneren Verpackungsteils einer dritten erfindungsgemässen Verpackung;
• Fig. 6b eine perspektivische Teildarstellung des äusseren Verpackungsteils der dritten erfindungsgemässen Verpackung;
• Fig. 6c einen Vertikalschnitt entlang der Linie B-B in Fig. 6a durch die dritte erfindungsgemässe Verpackung;
• Fig. 6d das Detail X aus Fig. 6c; und
• Fig. 6e eine Darstellung wie Fig. 6d einer Ausführungsvariante.

Further embodiments, advantages and applications of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and from the following description with reference to FIGS. Show:

• Fig. 1 a perspective view of a first inventive package;
• Fig. 1a a perspective view of the inner packaging part of the packaging Fig. 1 ;
• Fig. 1b a perspective view of the outer packaging part of the packaging Fig. 1 ;
• Fig. 2 a perspective view of an inventive device;
• the FIGS. 3a to 3g perspective views of the device Fig. 2 during normal operation for heating in the packaging Fig. 1 food contained according to the inventive method;
• Fig. 4 a perspective view of the packaging in a directly on the in the Fig. 3b situation illustrated following operating situation;
• Fig. 5a a perspective view of the inner packaging part of a second inventive package;
• Fig. 5b a vertical section along the line AA in Fig. 5a by the second package according to the invention;
• Fig. 5c a representation like Fig. 5b a variant embodiment;
• Fig. 6a a perspective view of the inner packaging part of a third inventive package;
• Fig. 6b a partial perspective view of the outer packaging part of the third inventive package;
• Fig. 6c a vertical section along the line BB in Fig. 6a by the third packaging according to the invention;
• Fig. 6d the detail X out Fig. 6c ; and
• Fig. 6e a representation like Fig. 6d an embodiment variant.

WAYS FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Fig. 1 shows a first inventive packaging in a perspective plan view. As in synopsis with the FIGS. 1a and 1b it can be seen which perspective top views on the inner part 2 of the package ( Fig. 1a ) and on the outer part 3 of the packaging ( Fig. 1b ), the packaging is also made of a shell-like rectangular inner packaging part 2 (first packaging part) of a heat-resistant and microwaveable cardboard material, on which the foodstuffs 1 packed with the packaging are arranged, and an outer packaging part 3 (second packaging part) Cardboard material, formed. The outer packaging part 3 encloses the inner packaging part 2 with the food 1 arranged thereon such that its upper side 4, its lower side 5 and the opposite shorter circumferential sides 6a, 6c of the same (first and second peripheral sides claimed) are essentially covered by the outer packaging part 3 are.

In this case, a packaging space is formed between the upper side 4 of the inner packaging part 2 and the outer packaging part 3, in which the food 1 are arranged.

The other two longer peripheral sides 6b, 6d of the inner packaging part 2 (claim according third and fourth peripheral sides) are not covered by the outer packaging part 3 and carry in its center a bar code 19, which information about the packaged Food 1 contains, in particular information regarding the product-appropriate heating of the food. 1

The outer packaging part 3 penetrates in the region in which it covers the upper side 4 of the inner packaging part 2 with the food 1 arranged thereon, forming an opening 20 in the opening bounded by the peripheral sides 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d of the inner packaging part 2 of its shell shape. This creates between the inner packaging part 2 and the outer packaging part 3 a positive connection in the direction of the two longer peripheral sides 6b, 6d, which prevents the inner packaging part 2 can fall out of the outer packaging part 3 in the direction of one of the longer peripheral sides 6b, 6d.

Is the packaging according to Fig. 1 provided for storage and sale with an airtight envelope (not shown), eg from a transparent tubular bag film, which completely encloses the inner 2 and the outer 3 packaging part, which is preferred, is in this recess 20, also enclosed by the envelope , arranged on the packaged food 1 adapted accessories, such as cutlery and a napkin and / or complementary products for consumption together with the food 1, such as pepper, salt, olive oil, etc.

As can further be seen, the two shorter circumferential sides 6a, 6c of the inner packaging part 2 are inclined from the bottom upwards by an angle of about 5 ° and the areas of the outer packaging part 3 which cover these peripheral sides 6a, 6c are tilted from bottom to top inwards at an angle of about 5 °. In this way, the package, each formed between one of the two shorter peripheral sides 6a, 6c of the inner packaging part 2 and the outer packaging part 3, two along the respective shorter peripheral side 6a; 6c extending through openings IIa, IIb (claim lateral spaces) with substantially constant triangular cross-sections, which are each accessible from the two longer peripheral sides 6b, 6d of the inner packaging part 2 ago.

Fig. 2 shows a perspective top view of an inventive device 7 for heating the in the packaging Fig. 1 contained food 1 according to the inventive method. The device 7 comprises a housing 21 in which a heating chamber 10 for heating the food 1 by means of microwaves and / or infrared radiation is arranged. In the in Fig. 2 shown inoperative situation, the heating chamber 10 is closed by a furnace door 22. On the operating side of its housing 21, the device 7 has two support arms 8a, 8b made of stainless steel with a triangular cross-section which protrude at an identical height in the horizontal direction from its housing 21. As can not be seen in the illustration, the retaining arms 8a, 8b are slightly conical and / or slightly twisted, such that they increase in height in the direction of the housing 21 of the device 7 and / or in their upper region an increasingly larger one Have distance to each other.

As in conjunction with the FIGS. 3a to 3g shows which perspective representations of the device 7 in different phases of operation in carrying out the inventive method, the device 7 is designed such that the packaging of Fig. 1 optionally with the one 6b or the other 6d longer peripheral side of the inner packaging part 2 by hand on the holding arms 8a, 8b can be plugged, wherein the holding arms 8a, 8b each case in one of the two openings IIa; IIb of the packaging are inserted, and that the package can then be held by these two support arms 8a, 8b on the device 7. In this case, the holding arms 8a, 8b each claim only about the outer half of the triangular cross section of the respective passage opening IIa, IIb.

As a result of the retaining arms 8a, 8b being conical and / or twisted as described above, the areas of the outer packaging part 3, which are the ones of FIG cover shorter circumferential sides 6a, 6c of the inner packaging part 2, at its upper ends when attaching the package on the support arms 8a, 8b increasingly pushed upwards or outwards, thereby forming the area of the outer packaging part 3, which is the top 4 of the inner packaging part 2 with the formation of a recess 20, lifts and the positive connection between the inner packaging part 2 and the outer packaging part 3 in the direction of the two longer peripheral sides 6b, 6d is repealed. This situation is in Fig. 3a shown.

When attaching the on the respective longer peripheral side 6b; 6d arranged bar code 19 brought into the detection range of the furnace door 22 arranged bar code scanner 23, which lays out the information contained therein regarding the food 1 and in particular concerning their product-specific preparation parameters and then activates a control by means of which the steps described below from the Device 7 are performed automatically and product-specific.

After the bar code 19 has been read out, the oven door 22 opens, with the packaging held on the operating side of the device 7 via the holding arms 8a, 8b, being moved into the housing 21 and then moved along a plane running parallel to the operating side. From the now open heating chamber 10 drive, in each case adjacent to the inside of one of the two support arms 8a, 8b, two transport arms 9a, 9b made of quartz glass in the non-claimed by the support arms 8a, 8b cross-sectional areas of the openings IIa, IIb (see Fig. 3b ) until they completely pass through the passage openings IIa, IIb together with the holding arms 8a, 8b. This situation is with a greater level of detail in Fig. 4 shown.

Starting from the in Fig. 4 illustrated situation, the two transport arms 9a, 9b moved toward each other, wherein the inner packaging part 2 at the take two shorter circumferential sides 6a, 6c. Then, the inner packaging part 2 is moved out with the food arranged thereon 1 with the transport arms 9a, 9b in Aufsteckrichtung the packaging on the support arms 8a, 8b from the outer packaging part 3 and transported into the heating chamber 10 (see Fig. 3c ). As soon as the inner packaging part 2, supported by the transport arms 9a, 9b, is arranged completely in the heating chamber 10, the oven door 22 closes and the food 1 arranged thereon is heated in the heating chamber 10, while the outer packaging part 3 is connected to the holding arms 8a, 8b at the Operating side of the device 7 remains held. This situation is in Fig. 3d shown.

After the product-specific heating of the food 1 in the heating chamber 10 using the information provided by the bar code 19, the oven door 22 opens again and the inner 'packaging part 2 with the heated food 1 arranged thereon by means of the transport arms 9a, 9b again in the the holding arms 8a, 8b on the operating side of the device 7 held outer packaging part 3 is inserted (see Fig. 3e ) until it assumes its original position.

Then, the transport arms 9a, 9b are moved apart until they release the inner packaging part 2 and then moved back into the heating chamber 10 (see Fig. 3f ), whereupon the oven door 22 closes again and the packaging 2, 3 with the heated food 1 contained therein remains provided by the holding arms 8a, 8b provided on the operating side of the device 7 (see FIG Fig. 3g ).

To remove the packaging 2, 3 from the device 7, it is grasped by the hands in the region of the shorter peripheral sides 6a, 6c of the inner packaging part 2 and pulled down against the attachment direction by the holding arms 8a, 8b, the outer packaging part 3 being in the region, in which he covers the top 4 of the inner packaging part 2 and the heated food 1, again in the of the Circumferential sides 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d of the inner packaging part 2 limited opening of the shell shape of this packaging part 2 is pressed so that the originally existing positive connection between the inner packaging part 2 and the outer packaging part 3 is restored and thus falling out of the inner packaging part 2 the outer packaging part 3 is prevented.

The inner packaging part 2 of a second packaging according to the invention is shown in a perspective plan view in FIG Fig. 5a shown. As in synopsis with Fig. 5b can be seen which a vertical section along the line AA in Fig. 5a shows by the second inventive package, this packaging differs from the in Fig. 1 shown only in that the inner packaging part 2 on the inner sides of its shorter peripheral sides 6a, 6c in the region of the upper ends thereof each have two downwardly facing tabs 12, which by an inward folding of the respective peripheral side 6a; 6c forming cardboard material are formed. These upper ends with the tabs 12 formed thereon are encompassed by the outer packaging part 3, wherein on the inside of the outer packaging part 3 in each case by gluing a cardboard strip a tab 13 is formed, which in each case behind the two tabs 12 of the respective peripheral side 6a, 6c of the inner packaging part 2 is locked. This latching is automatically canceled when pushing the package 2, 3 on the two support arms 8a, 8b of the device by the previously described force application of the support arms 8a, 8b on the outer packaging part 3, together with the above-mentioned positive connection between the two packaging parts 2, 3rd ,

Fig. 5c shows a representation like Fig. 5b a variant of the second inventive packaging, in which in each case on the inside of the outer packaging part 3 instead of the tab 13, a locking strip 13a is formed, which under the tabs 12 of the respective peripheral side 6a, 6c of the inner Packing part 2 is locked. These locking is automatically lifted when pushing the package 2, 3 on the two support arms 8a, 8b of the device by the previously described force application of the support arms 8a, 8b on the outer packaging part 3, together with the above-mentioned positive connection between the two packaging parts 2, third

The inner packaging part 2 of a third packaging according to the invention is shown in a perspective plan view in FIG Fig. 6a shown. As in synopsis with Fig. 6b , which shows a partial perspective view of the outer packaging part 3 of the third inventive package, with Fig. 6c , which is a vertical section along the line BB in Fig. 6a by a part of the third inventive package shows and with Fig. 6d showing the detail X out Fig. 6c As can be seen, this packaging differs from that in Fig. 1 shown in that the inner packaging part 2 on the inner sides of its shorter circumferential sides 6a, 6c in the region of the upper ends thereof each have two openings 14, which are respectively produced by punching out the cardboard wall. These openings 14 are penetrated by corresponding arranged on the inside of the outer packaging part 3 projections 15, which are formed by herauskrempelte punched 15 in the outer packaging part 3. As a result, the two packaging parts 2, 3 are locked together. This latching is automatically canceled when pushing the package 2, 3 on the two support arms 8a, 8b of the device 7 by the previously described force application of the support arms 8a, 8b on the outer packaging part 3, together with the above-mentioned positive connection between the two packaging parts 2, third

Another difference of this third packaging over in Fig. 1 In the first package shown, the outer packaging member 3 is located in the region adjacent to the lower ends of the shorter peripheral sides 6a, 6c of the inner packaging member 2 along the same Circumferential sides provides 6a, 6c extending guide edges 16, which are formed by connected thereto by gluing guide strips 17.

Yet another difference is that in this case the outer packaging part 3 in each case in the region of the locking grips 18, by means of which the locking and the positive connection between the two packaging parts 2, 3 can be picked up by pulling it by hand.

Fig. 6e shows a representation like Fig. 6d a variant of the third embodiment of the invention. As can be seen, here the inner packaging part 2 has on the inner sides of its shorter circumferential sides 6a, 6c in the region of the upper ends thereof two recesses 14a, which are respectively produced by punching one of the two layers of a double-layered cardboard wall. In these recesses 14a corresponding to the inside of the outer packaging part 3 arranged projections 15 are latched, which are formed by herauskrempelte punched-15 in the outer packaging part 3. These locking is automatically lifted when pushing the package 2, 3 on the two support arms 8a, 8b of the device 7 by the previously described force application of the support arms 8a, 8b on the outer packaging part 3, together with the above-mentioned positive connection between the two packaging parts. 2 , 3.

While preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the present application, it should be clearly understood that the invention is not limited to these and may be practiced otherwise within the scope of the following claims.

ASPECTS FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

1. a) Bereitstellen der zu erwärmenden Speisen 1 in einer insbesondere quaderförmigen Verpackung 2, 3 umfassend einen insbesondere rechteckigen schalen- oder tablettartigen ersten Verpackungsteil 2, auf welchem die Speisen 1 angeordnet sind, und einen zweiten Verpackungsteil 3, welcher den ersten Verpackungsteil 2 mit den darauf angeordneten Speisen 1 derartig umschliesst, dass die Oberseite 4, die Unterseite 5)und zwei sich gegenüberliegende, insbesondere parallele Umfangsseiten 6a, 6c des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 durch den zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 im Wesentlichen abgedeckt sind und zumindest eine Umfangsseite 6b, 6d des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 freiliegend ist;
2. b) Anordnen der Verpackung 2, 3 mit den darin enthaltenen Speisen 1 an einer Vorrichtung 7 zur Erwärmung der Speisen 1, wobei ein oder mehrere Haltemittel (8a, 8b) zwischen dem ersten Verpackungsteil 2 und dem zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 in die Verpackung 2, 3 eingeschoben werden und die Verpackung 2, 3 anschliessend durch diese Haltemittel 8a, 8b an der Vorrichtung 7 gehalten wird;
3. c) Entnehmen des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 mit den darauf angeordneten Speisen 1 mit der freiliegenden Seite 6b in Entnahmerichtung zeigend aus dem zweiten Verpackungsteil 3, wobei der zweite Verpackungsteil 3 mit den Haltemitteln 8a, 8b an der Vorrichtung 7 gehalten verbleibt;
4. d) Erwärmen der Speisen 1 mit der Vorrichtung 7, wobei die Speisen 1 beim Erwärmen auf dem ersten Verpackungsteil 2 angeordnet verbleiben;
5. e) Zurückführen des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 mit den darauf angeordneten erwärmten Speisen 1 in den mit den Haltemitteln 8a, 8b an der Vorrichtung 7 gehaltenen zweiten Verpackungsteil 3, derart, dass die Oberseite 4, die Unterseite 5 und zwei sich gegenüberliegende Umfangsseiten 6a, 6c des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 mit den darauf angeordneten erwärmten Speisen 1 durch den zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 im Wesentlichen abgedeckt sind; und
6. f) Entfernen der Verpackung 2, 3 mit den darin enthaltenen erwärmten Speisen 1 von der Vorrichtung 7.

In a first aspect, the method of heating food comprises (1) the steps of:

1. a) providing the food to be heated 1 in a particular cuboidal packaging 2, 3 comprising a particular rectangular tray or tray-like first packaging part 2, on which the food 1 are arranged, and a second packaging part 3, which the first packaging part 2 with the on arranged food 1 so encloses that the top 4, the bottom 5) and two opposite, in particular parallel peripheral sides 6a, 6c of the first packaging part 2 are substantially covered by the second packaging part 3 and at least one peripheral side 6b, 6d of the first packaging part is exposed;
2. b) arranging the packaging 2, 3 with the food 1 contained therein on a device 7 for heating the food 1, wherein one or more holding means (8a, 8b) between the first packaging part 2 and the second packaging part 3 in the package 2, 3rd are pushed and the package 2, 3 is then held by this holding means 8a, 8b on the device 7;
3. c) removing the first packaging part 2 with the food 1 arranged thereon with the exposed side 6b pointing in the withdrawal direction out of the second packaging part 3, wherein the second packaging part 3 with the holding means 8a, 8b remains held on the device 7;
4. d) heating the food 1 with the device 7, wherein the food 1 remain arranged when heated on the first packaging part 2;
5. e) returning the first packaging part 2 with the heated food 1 arranged thereon in the second packaging part 3 held with the holding means 8a, 8b on the device 7, such that the top 4, the bottom 5 and two opposite circumferential sides 6a, 6c of the first packaging part 2 with the on it arranged heated food 1 are substantially covered by the second packaging part 3; and
6. f) removing the packaging 2, 3 with the heated food 1 contained therein from the device 7.

In a second aspect of the method, the first packaging part 2 is returned to the second packaging part 3 in such a way that it assumes its original position within the second packaging part 3 again.

In a third aspect of the method, the packaging comprises an envelope completely enclosing the first and second packaging parts, in particular from a plastic film, and this casing is removed before the packaging is arranged on the device, in particular by hand.

In a fourth aspect of the method, the packaging 2, 3 is placed on the device 7 and the packaging 2, 3 is removed from the device 7 by hand.

In a fifth aspect of the method, the removal of the first packaging part 2 takes place with the food 1 arranged thereon from the second packaging part 3, the heating of the food 1 with the device 7 and the return of the first packaging part 2 with the heated food 1 arranged thereon second packaging part 3 in particular automated by the device. 7

In a sixth aspect of the method, the food 1 to be heated is provided in a package 2, 3, in which the first packaging part 2 before the arrangement of the package on the device 7 force, form and / or cohesively toward its exposed peripheral side 6b , 6d is connected to the second packaging part 3, to avoid unintentional falling out of the first packaging part 2 with the food 1 arranged thereon from the second packaging part 3, and is this force, shape and / or Deadlock during the placement of the package 2, 3 on the device 7 or between placing the package 2, 3 on the device 7 and the removal of the first packaging part 2 with the food arranged thereon 1 lifted from the second packaging part 3 or is in the case of Constraint overcome this when removing the first packaging part with the food arranged thereon from the second packaging part.

In a seventh aspect of the method, a release of the force, form and / or material bond by the insertion of the holding means 8a, 8b in the package 2, 3 causes.

In an eighth aspect of the method, the food to be heated is provided in a packaging in which the first packaging part is force-locked and / or positively connected to the second packaging part in the direction of its exposed peripheral side before the packaging is arranged on the device and becomes this force - And / or positive engagement before or during the removal of the packaging with the heated food contained therein restored by the device, to avoid accidental falling out of the first packaging part with the heated food arranged thereon from the second packaging part.

In a ninth aspect of the method, the force and / or form-fitting is restored by hand.

In a tenth aspect of the method, the first packaging part 2 with the food 1 arranged thereon is displaced horizontally and in particular along a single rectilinear trajectory between the removal from the second packaging part 3 and the return to the second packaging part 3.

In an eleventh aspect of the method, the first packaging part 2 with the food arranged thereon 1 when removing from the second packaging part 3 when heating the food 1 and when returning to the second packaging part 3 in the area of his Peripheral sides 6a, 6c held, which were previously covered by the second packaging part 3.

In a twelfth aspect of the method, the first package part 2 with the food 1 arranged thereon is taken out of the second packaging part 3 by holding the first packaging part 2 with the food 1 arranged thereon while heating the food 1 and returning the first packaging part 2 with it arranged heated food 1 in the second packaging part 3 by means of a fork-like support structure 9a, 9b.

In a thirteenth aspect of the method, the heating of the food 1 takes place in a heating chamber 10 of the device 7 arranged behind the holding means 8a, 8b.

Two or more aspects of the process can be combined, provided that they do not contradict each other.

1. a) einen insbesondere im Wesentlichen rechteckigen schalen- oder tablettartigen ersten Verpackungsteil 2 aus formstabilem hitzefestem Material, insbesondere aus Karton, zur Anordnung von Speisen 1 darauf, und
2. b) einen zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 aus formstabilem, insbesondere zumindest teilweise transparentem Material, insbesondere aus Karton und/oder PET,

wobei der erste Verpackungsteil 2 derartig mit dem zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 umschlossen ist, dass die Oberseite 4, die Unterseite 5, eine erste Umfangsseite 6a und eine der ersten Umfangsseite 6a gegenüberliegende zweite Umfangsseite 6c des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 durch den zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 im Wesentlichen abgedeckt sind,
wobei zwischen der Oberseite 4 des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 und dem zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 ein Verpackungsraum gebildet ist zur Aufnahme von auf dem ersten Verpackungsteil 2 anzuordnenden oder angeordneten Speisen 1,
wobei eine dritte Umfangsseite 6b des ersten Verpackungsteils 2, welche die erste und die zweite Umfangsseite 6a, 6c miteinander verbindet, nicht vom zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 abgedeckt ist,
wobei zwischen der ersten Umfangsseite 6a des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 und dem zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 ein sich zumindest teilweise entlang der ersten Umfangsseite 6a erstreckender erster seitlicher Raum IIa gebildet ist und zwischen der zweiten Umfangsseite 6c des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 und dem zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 ein sich zumindest teilweise entlang der zweiten Umfangsseite 6c erstreckender zweiter seitlicher Raum IIb gebildet ist, wobei dieser erste und dieser zweite seitliche Raum IIa, IIb von der dritten Umfangsseite 6b des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 her zugänglich sind, gegebenenfalls nach vorheriger Zerstörung oder Entfernung eines den jeweiligen seitlichen Raum IIa; IIb abdeckenden dünnschichtigen Abdeckungselements, insbesondere aus Papier- und/oder Folie,
und wobei zwischen dem ersten Verpackungsteil 2 und dem zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 ein Formschluss in Richtung der dritten Umfangsseite 6c vorliegt, welcher insbesondere durch Einführen von Körperlichkeiten 8a, 8b in einer Richtung parallel zu der ersten 6a bzw. der zweiten 6c Umfangsseite von der dritten Umfangsseite 6b her in die seitlichen Räume IIa, IIb aufgehoben werden kann, zur Ermöglichung einer Entnahme des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 aus dem zweiten Verpackungsteils 3 mit der dritten Umfangsseite 6b in Entnahmerichtung zeigend.In a first aspect, the package for use in the method of any one of the preceding aspects of the method comprises:

1. a) a particular substantially rectangular tray- or tray-like first packaging part 2 of dimensionally stable heat-resistant material, in particular of cardboard, for the arrangement of food 1 thereon, and
2. b) a second packaging part 3 of dimensionally stable, in particular at least partially transparent material, in particular of cardboard and / or PET,

wherein the first packaging part 2 is enclosed with the second packaging part 3 in such a manner that the upper side 4, the lower side 5, a first peripheral side 6a and a second peripheral side 6c of the first packaging part 2 opposite the first peripheral side 6a are substantially covered by the second packaging part 3 .
wherein between the top 4 of the first packaging part 2 and the second packaging part 3 a Packaging space is formed for receiving on the first packaging part 2 to be arranged or arranged food 1,
wherein a third peripheral side 6b of the first packaging part 2 connecting the first and second peripheral sides 6a, 6c is not covered by the second packaging part 3,
wherein between the first peripheral side 6a of the first packaging part 2 and the second packaging part 3 is at least partially along the first peripheral side 6a extending first lateral space IIa is formed and between the second peripheral side 6c of the first packaging part 2 and the second packaging part 3 at least partially second lateral space IIb extending along the second circumferential side 6c, this first and second lateral space IIa, IIb being accessible from the third peripheral side 6b of the first packaging part 2, possibly after previous destruction or removal of the respective lateral space IIa; IIb covering thin-layer cover element, in particular of paper and / or foil,
and between the first packaging part 2 and the second packaging part 3 is a positive fit in the direction of the third peripheral side 6c, which in particular by introducing Körperlichkeiten 8a, 8b in a direction parallel to the first 6a and the second 6c peripheral side of the third peripheral side 6b forth in the lateral spaces IIa, IIb can be repealed, to allow removal of the first packaging part 2 from the second packaging part 3 with the third peripheral side 6b pointing in the removal direction.

In a second aspect of the package, a fourth peripheral side 6d of the first packaging part 2 connecting the first 6a and the second peripheral side 6c is not covered by the second packaging part 3, the first IIa and the second IIb having lateral space of the fourth peripheral side 6d of the first packaging part 2 are accessible forth, optionally after previous destruction or removal of the respective lateral space IIa; IIb covering thin-layer cover element, in particular of paper and / or foil,
and between the first packing part 2 and the second packing part 3 is a positive connection in the direction of the fourth peripheral side 6d, which by retracting Körperlichkeiten 8a, 8b in a direction parallel to the first 6a and the second 6c peripheral side of the fourth peripheral side 6d ago can be stored in the lateral spaces IIa, IIb, to allow removal of the first packaging part 2 from the second packaging part 3 with the fourth peripheral side 6d pointing in the withdrawal direction.

In a third aspect of the packaging, the first packaging part 2 is cup-shaped and the positive connection between the first packaging part 2 and the second packaging part 3 at least partially effected by the second packaging part 3 in the area in which he the top 4 of the first packaging part. 2 essentially covers, in the limited by the peripheral sides 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d of the first packaging part 2 opening of the shell mold of the first packaging part 2 penetrates.

In a fourth aspect of the packaging, the second packaging part 3 surrounds the upper ends of the first 6 a and the second 6 c peripheral side of the first packaging part 2.

In a fifth aspect of the packaging, the positive connection between the first packaging part 2 and the second packaging part 3 is at least partially effected by the first 2 and the second 3 packaging part being locked together, in particular in the region of the first 6a and / or the second 6c peripheral side of the first packaging part 2.

In a sixth aspect of the packaging are on the inside of the first 6a and / or the second 6c peripheral side of the first packaging part 2 in the area of upper end of the respective peripheral side 6a; 6c each one or more downwardly facing tabs 12 formed, in particular by an inward folding of the respective peripheral side 6a; 6c forming material, behind or below which or which tabs 12 of the second packaging part 3 is locked, in particular with one or more tabs arranged thereon 13 or locking strips 13a.

In a seventh aspect of the packaging, one or more openings 14 or depressions 14a are arranged on the inside of the first 6a and / or the second 6c peripheral side of the first packaging part 2 in the region of the upper end of the respective peripheral side 6a, 6c or several arranged on the inside of the second packaging part 3 projections 15 engage, which are formed in particular by auskrempelten punched-15 in the second packaging part 3.

In an eighth aspect of the packaging, the first packaging part 2 is cup-shaped and the first 6a and the second 6c peripheral side are outwardly inclined from the bottom upwards, in particular at an angle of at least 5 °.

In a ninth aspect of the packaging, the regions of the second packaging part 3, which substantially cover the first 6a and the second 6c peripheral side of the first packaging part 2, are inclined inwards from the bottom to the top, in particular at an angle of at least 5 °.

In a tenth aspect of the packaging, the second packaging part 3 provides in the region adjacent to the lower ends of the first 6a and the second 6c peripheral side of the first packaging part 2 along these peripheral sides 6a, 6c extending leading edges 16, which in particular of convolutions of the material of the second packaging part are formed or from it in particular by gluing associated guide rails 17th

In an eleventh aspect of the packaging, the material of the second packaging part 3, at least in the region in which it covers the top 4 of the first packaging part 2, perforated to allow gas exchange between the inside and the outside of the second packaging part 3 in this area.

In a twelfth aspect of the package, the first 2 and the second 3 packing parts are formed such that, after releasing the positive engagement therebetween, by inserting bodies 8a, 8b in a direction parallel to the first 6a and the second peripheral side 6c, respectively third 6b or the fourth 6d peripheral side forth in the lateral spaces IIa, IIb and after removal of the first packaging part 2 from the second packaging part 3 with the third 6b or the fourth 6d peripheral side pointing in the removal direction, the first packaging part 2 in particular in a direction of removal reverse direction in the second packaging part 3 is inserted, so that the first packaging part 2 is so enclosed with the second packaging part 3 that the top 4, the bottom 5, a first peripheral side 6a and one of the first peripheral side 6a opposite second peripheral side 6c of first packaging part 2 by the second Verpa 3 are substantially covered and thereby a positive connection against the insertion direction between the first packaging part 2 and the second packaging part 3 is produced automatically or by manual intervention from the outside can be produced or in a retraction of the corporealities 8a, 8b from the side spaces IIa, IIb is produced automatically or can be produced by manual intervention, to prevent accidental falling out of the first packaging part 2 from the second packaging part. 3

In a thirteenth aspect of the package, the positive fit is by or under latching of the first one Packing parts 2 made with the second packaging part 3 or produced.

In a fourteenth aspect of the packaging, the second packaging part 3 has means 18 for manually releasing the positive locking, in particular grip tabs 18, by means of which the positive locking can be canceled.

In a fifteenth aspect of the package, food 1 is arranged on the first packaging part 2.

In a sixteenth aspect of the packaging, a barcode 19 is arranged on the third 6b and / or the fourth 6d peripheral side of the first packaging part 2, which contains information about the food 1 to be packaged with the packaging as intended or about the food 1 packed with the packaging, in particular information concerning the intended heating of the food 1.

In a seventeenth aspect of the packaging, the packaging comprises an airtight envelope, in particular a transparent tubular bag film, which completely encloses the first 2 and the second 3 packaging parts.

In an eighteenth aspect of the packaging, the second packaging part 3 penetrates in the region in which it substantially covers the upper side 4 of the first packaging part 2, forming a depression 20 in that of the peripheral sides 6 a, 6 b, 6 c, 6 d of the first packaging part 2 limited opening of the shell mold of the first packaging part 2,
wherein in this recess 20 is arranged on the food in the package 1 adapted accessories, in particular cutlery, a napkin and / or complementary products for consumption together with the food 1,
and wherein this accessory is disposed within the enclosure.

Two or more aspects of the packaging can be combined if they are not inconsistent.

In a further aspect, a set comprises a first packaging part 2 and a second packaging part 3 for forming a packaging according to one of the preceding aspects.

1. a) ein Gehäuse 21;
2. b) eine Heizkammer 10 zum Aufwärmen von Speisen 1, insbesondere mittels Mikrowellen und/oder InfrarotStrahlung, welche innerhalb des Gehäuses 21 angeordnet ist;
3. c) Haltemittel umfassend zwei voneinander beabstandete Haltearme 8a, 8b, welche auf einer im Wesentlichen identischen Höhe in einer im Wesentlichen horizontalen Richtung von einer Bedienseite des Gehäuses 21 wegstehen, derart, dass eine Verpackung 2, 3 nach einem der Ansprüche 28 bis 31,
   gegebenenfalls nach vorheriger Entfernung einer den ersten 2 und den zweiten 3 Verpackungsteil umschliessenden Umhüllung und gegebenenfalls nach einer vorherigen Zerstörung oder Entfernung etwaiger den ersten IIa und/oder den zweiten IIb seitlichen Raum der Verpackung abdeckender Abdeckelemente oder unter einer Zerstörung solcher Abdeckelemente,
   mit der dritten Umfangsseite 6b des ersten Verpackungsteils 2 voraus auf die Haltearme 8a, 8b aufgesteckt werden kann, wobei die Haltearme 8a, 8b jeweils in einen der beiden seitlichen Räume IIa; IIb der Verpackung eingeschoben werden, und sodann von diesen zwei Haltearmen 8a, 8b an der Vorrichtung 7 gehalten werden kann,
4. d) Transportmittel umfassend zwei voneinander beabstandete Transportarme 9a, 9b, welche nach dem Aufstecken der Verpackung 2, 3 auf die Haltearme 8a, 8b und bei mit den Haltearmen 8a, 8b an der Vorrichtung 7 gehaltener Verpackung 2, 3 im Bereich zwischen den Haltearmen 8a, 8b jeweils in einen der beiden seitlichen Räume IIa, IIb eingeschoben sind oder eingeschoben werden können und mit denen, nach dem Aufheben des Formschlusses zwischen dem ersten 2 und dem zweiten 3 Verpackungsteil, der erste Verpackungsteil 2 mit den darauf angeordneten Speisen 1 insbesondere automatisiert ergriffen und in Aufsteckrichtung der Verpackung auf die Haltearme 8a, 8b aus dem zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 herausgefahren und in die Heizkammer 10 transportiert werden kann, wobei der zweite Verpackungsteil 3 mit den Haltearmen 8a, 8b an der Bedienseite der Vorrichtung 7 gehalten verbleibt, und nach einem Erwärmen der darauf angeordneten Speisen 1 in der Heizkammer 10 wieder vollständig in den mit den Haltearmen 8a, 8b an der Bedienseite gehaltenen zweiten Verpackungsteil 3 zurückgeführt werden kann.

In a first aspect of an apparatus 7 for carrying out the method according to one of the preceding method aspects using the packaging according to one of the preceding packaging aspects, the apparatus comprises:

1. a) a housing 21;
2. b) a heating chamber 10 for heating food 1, in particular by means of microwaves and / or infrared radiation, which is arranged within the housing 21;
3. c) holding means comprising two spaced-apart holding arms 8a, 8b, which project at a substantially identical height in a substantially horizontal direction from an operating side of the housing 21, such that a package 2, 3 according to any one of claims 28 to 31,
   optionally after the removal of a cover enclosing the first 2 and the second 3 parts of the packaging, and possibly after a previous destruction or removal of any cover elements covering the first IIa and / or the second side space of the packaging or by destroying such cover elements,
   with the third peripheral side 6b of the first packaging part 2 can be pushed ahead of the support arms 8a, 8b, wherein the support arms 8a, 8b respectively in one of the two lateral spaces IIa; IIb of the packaging can be inserted, and then held by these two holding arms 8a, 8b on the device 7,
4. d) transport means comprising two spaced-apart transport arms 9a, 9b, which after the attachment of the package 2, 3 on the support arms 8a, 8b and held with the holding arms 8a, 8b on the device 7 packaging 2, 3 in the region between the support arms 8a , 8b are respectively pushed into one of the two lateral spaces IIa, IIb or can be inserted and with which, after lifting the positive connection between the first 2 and the second 3 packaging part, the first packaging part 2 with the food arranged thereon 1 in particular automated taken and in Aufsteckrichtung of the packaging on the support arms 8a, 8b can be moved out of the second packaging part 3 and transported into the heating chamber 10, wherein the second packaging part 3 with the holding arms 8a, 8b remains held on the operating side of the device 7, and after heating the food arranged thereon 1 in the heating chamber 10 again completely in the with the holding arm 8a, 8b held on the operating side second packaging part 3 can be returned.

In a second aspect of the device, the distance between the transport arms 9a, 9b for gripping the first packaging part 2 with the food 1 arranged thereon can be changed, in particular reduced to grip the first packaging part 2.

In a third aspect of the device, the heating chamber 10 is arranged behind the holding arms 8a, 8b in the direction of attachment of the packaging to the holding arms 8a, 8b.

In a fourth aspect of the device, the area in which the packaging 2, 3 or the second packaging part 3 can be held with the holding arms 8a, 8b on the operating side of the device 7 is displaceable over a plane extending in particular parallel to the operating side Oven door 22 separated from the heating chamber 10 and separable.

In a fifth aspect of the device, the oven door 22 on its outer side on a scanner 23, with which when or after plugging the package 2, 3 on the support arms 8a, 8b arranged on the third peripheral side 6b of the first packaging part 2 barcode 19 with Information regarding the heating of the food contained in the packaging 1 can be read, and the device 7 comprises a controller with which, depending on the data provided via the barcode 19, the heating of the food 1 is automatically controlled.

In a sixth aspect of the device, the transport arms 9a, 9b are disposed within the heating chamber 10 when the oven door 22 is closed.

In a seventh aspect of the device, the device 7 is designed such that for heating the food 1 arranged on the first packaging part 2 after attaching the packaging 2, 3 to the holding arms 8a, 8b and with the holding arms 8a, 8b on the device 7 held packaging 2, 3 in a first step, the oven door 22 is opened, in a second step with the oven door 22 open the transport arms 9a, 9b are pushed out of the heating chamber 10 in the two lateral spaces IIa, IIb of the package 2, 3, in a third step the first packaging part 2 with the transport arms 9a, 9b is grasped, in a fourth step the gripped first packaging part 2 with the transport arms 9a, 9b is pulled out of the second packaging part 3 and transported into the heating chamber 10 and in a fifth step the arranged on the first packaging part 2 food 1 are heated in the heating chamber 10.

In an eighth aspect of the apparatus, the oven door 22 and the transport arms 9a, 9b are moved by a common drive unit.

In a ninth aspect of the device, the distance of the support arms 8a, 8b is adjustable to allow an intended attachment of variously wide packages 2, 3 according to one of the preceding aspects of the packaging.

In a tenth aspect of the device, the holding arms 8a, 8b are foldable to reduce the dimensions of the device 7 for transporting the same.

In an eleventh aspect of the device, the holding arms 8a, 8b are formed as flat wings or wire hoops, in particular made of metal.

Two or more aspects of the device may be combined with each other, as long as they are not inconsistent.

In a first aspect of a system comprising a device 7 according to one of the preceding device aspects and at least one packaging 2, 3 according to one of the preceding packaging aspects, the packaging 2, 3 and the device 7 are matched to one another such that the positive connection between the first packaging part 2 and the second packaging part 3 is lifted automatically by the device 7 when the packaging is placed on the holding arms 8a, 8b or after the packaging has been placed on the holding arms 8a, 8b.

In a second aspect of the system, the support arms 8a, 8b are formed as flat wings or wire stirrups, which increase in the direction of the housing 21 of the device 7 in height or in the circumference of its envelope, the support arms 8a, 8b an increasingly greater distance from each other on or increasingly twisting away in their upper region, and the packaging 2, 3 is formed such that the positive connection between the first 2 and the second 3 Packing part when pushing the package on the support arms 8a, 8b by increasing the height the support arms, the envelope circumference of the support arms, the distance between the support arms to each other and / or the distortion of the support arms is canceled.

In a third aspect of the system, the device and the package are designed such that the positive connection between the first and the second packaging part can be canceled by a movement apart of the holding arms after pushing the packaging onto the retaining arms.

In a fourth aspect of the system, the device and the packaging are designed such that the positive connection between the first and the second packaging part can be canceled by retracting the transport arms into the lateral spaces of the packaging, in particular after the packaging has been pushed onto the holding arms.

In a fifth aspect of the system, the device and the packaging are designed such that the positive connection between the first and the second packaging part can be canceled by a collapse of the transport arms when gripping the first packaging part with the support arms.

In a sixth aspect of the system, the device and the packaging are designed such that a positive connection between the first and the second packaging part in the direction of Aufsteckrichtung the package on the support arms in returning the first packaging part with the heated food in the second packaging part, in a Extracting the transport arms from the lateral spaces of the package and / or automatically removed when removing the packaging from the device.

Two or more aspects of the system can be combined if they are not inconsistent.

Claims (15)

Including packaging a) a tray or tray-like first packaging part (2) of dimensionally stable heat-resistant material for arranging food (1) thereon, and b) a second packaging part (3) of dimensionally stable material, wherein the first packaging part (2) is enclosed with the second packaging part (3) such that the top side (4), the bottom side (5) has a first peripheral side (6a) and a second peripheral side (6c) opposite the first peripheral side (6a) ) of the first packaging part (2) are substantially covered by the second packaging part (3),
wherein between the upper side (4) of the first packaging part (2) and the second packaging part (3) a packaging space is formed for receiving food (1) to be arranged or arranged on the first packaging part (2),
wherein a third peripheral side (6b) of the first packing part (2) connecting the first and second peripheral sides (6a, 6c) is not covered by the second packing part (3),
wherein between the first peripheral side (6a) of the first packaging part (2) and the second packaging part (3) there is formed a first lateral space (IIa) extending at least partially along the first peripheral side (6a) and between the second peripheral side (6c) of the first peripheral part (6a) first packaging part (2) and the second packaging part (3) is at least partially along the second peripheral side (6c) extending second lateral space (IIb) is formed, said first and second lateral space (IIa, IIb) from the third peripheral side (6b) of the first packaging part (2) are accessible,
and wherein between the first packaging part (2) and the second packaging part (3) a positive connection in the direction the third peripheral side (6c) is present, which can be canceled to allow removal of the first packaging part (2) from the second packaging part (3) with the third peripheral side (6b) pointing in the withdrawal direction. A package according to claim 1, wherein a fourth peripheral side (6d) of said first packaging part (2) connecting said first (6a) and second (6c) peripheral sides is not covered by said second packaging part (3), said first (IIa ) and the second (IIb) lateral space are accessible from the fourth peripheral side (6d) of the first packaging part (2),
and wherein between the first packaging part (2) and the second packaging part (3) is a positive fit in the direction of the fourth peripheral side (6d), which can be canceled to allow removal of the first packaging part (2) from the second packaging part (3) showing the fourth peripheral side (6d) in the withdrawal direction. Packaging according to one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the first packaging part (2) is cup-shaped and the positive connection between the first packaging part (2) and the second packaging part (3) is at least partially effected by the second packaging part (3) in the region in which it substantially covers the upper side (4) of the first packaging part (2) into the opening of the shell mold of the first packaging part (2) bounded by the peripheral sides (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) of the first packaging part (2) ) penetrates. A package according to claim 3, wherein the second packaging member (3) engages around the upper ends of the first (6a) and second (6c) peripheral sides of the first packaging member (2). Packaging according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the positive connection between the first packaging part (2) and the second packaging part (3) is at least partially effected by the fact that the first (2) and the second (3) Packaging part are locked together, in particular in the region of the first (6a) and / or the second (6c) peripheral side of the first packaging part (2). Packaging according to claim 4 and claim 5, wherein on the inside of the first (6a) and / or the second (6c) peripheral side of the first packaging part (2) in the region of the upper end of the respective peripheral side (6a; a plurality of downwardly facing tabs (12) are formed behind or below which or which tabs (12) of the second packaging part (3) is locked, in particular with one or more tabs arranged thereon (13) or locking strips (13a). Packaging according to claim 4 and claim 5, wherein on the inside of the first (6a) and / or the second (6c) peripheral side of the first packaging part (2) in the region of the upper end of the respective peripheral side (6a, 6c) in each case one or a plurality of openings (14) or depressions (14a) are arranged, in which one or more on the inside of the second packaging part (3) arranged projections (15) engage, which are formed in particular by auskrempelten punched-out portions (15) in the second packaging part (3) , Packaging according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first packaging part (2) is cup-shaped and the first (6a) and the second (6c) peripheral side are inclined outwardly from bottom to top, in particular at an angle of at least 5 °. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the portions of the second packaging member (3) which substantially cover the first (6a) and second (6c) peripheral sides of the first packaging member (2) are inclined inwardly from bottom to top are, in particular at an angle of at least 5 °. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second packaging member (3) is disposed adjacent the lower ends of the first (6a) and second (6c) portions. Circumferential side of the first packaging part (2) along these peripheral sides (6a, 6c) extending guide edges (16) provides, which are formed in particular of folds of the material of the second packaging part or of this in particular by gluing associated guide strips (17). Packaging according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the material of the second packaging part (3) at least in the area in which it covers the top (4) of the first packaging part (2) is perforated to allow gas exchange between the inside and the Outside of the second packaging part (3) in this area. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first (2) and second (3) packing parts are formed such that, after releasing the positive engagement therebetween, by inserting bodies (8a, 8b) in a direction parallel to the package First (6a) and the second (6c) peripheral side of the third (6b) or the fourth (6d) peripheral side in the lateral spaces (IIa, IIb) and after removal of the first packaging part (2) from the second packaging part ( 3) with the third (6b) or the fourth (6d) circumferential side pointing in the withdrawal direction, the first packaging part (2) can be inserted again into the second packaging part (3), in particular in a direction opposite to the removal direction, so that the first packaging part (2 ) is enclosed with the second packaging part (3) in such a way that the upper side (4), the underside (5), a first peripheral side (6a) and a second peripheral side (6c) opposite the first peripheral side (6a) of the first packaging part (2) are substantially covered by the second packaging part (3) and thereby a positive connection against the insertion direction between the first packaging part (2) and the second packaging part (3) is automatically produced or can be produced by external intervention from the outside or in a retraction of the physicalities (8a, 8b) from the lateral spaces (IIa, IIb) is automatically produced or can be produced by manual intervention, to prevent inadvertent falling out of the first packaging part (2) from the second packaging part (3). Packaging according to claim 12, wherein the positive connection is produced or can be produced by or under latching of the first packaging part (2) to the second packaging part (3). Packaging according to one of claims 12 to 13, wherein the second packaging part (3) comprises means (18) for manually canceling the positive connection, in particular grip tabs (18), by means of which the positive connection can be canceled. Packaging according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein on the third (6b) and / or the fourth (6d) peripheral side of the first packaging part (2) a bar code (19) is arranged, which information about the intended packaging with the packaging food (1), in particular information concerning the intended heating of the food (1).

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