ITMI20120219A1 - METHOD FOR THE REALIZATION OF A SUPPORT FOR FOOD, SUPPORT FOR FOOD AND USE OF THE SAME - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

Attached to a patent application for an INDUSTRIAL INVENTION PATENT entitled:

â € œMETHOD FOR MAKING A FOOD SUPPORT, FOOD SUPPORT AND USE OF THE SAMEâ €

FIELD OF THE TROVATO

The present invention relates to a support for food products and a method for its production. For example, the invention finds application in the packaging process, in particular for the support, of food products such as pastry products, sweet or savory cakes, confectionery products and the like. More specifically, the support for food products can be used to define a support and transport element for cakes. STATE OF THE ART

As is known, confectionery products can be simply displayed in the window and also packaged for the purpose of transport to the point of sale. For the packaging and / or display of food products, such as cakes, the latter are placed on paper supports (trays and / or plates under the cake or underdesserts) that allow the confectionery product to be transported or otherwise moved without damaging it.

Furthermore, these supports also perform an important decorative function which gives a pleasant appearance to the packaged product.

A first example concerns supports, essentially consisting of a support element, made of paraffin and / or polythene paper for food use, comprising a central area, on which the confectionery product is placed, and a decorative circular crown, for example worked with lace. , extending around the perimeter to the central area. The circular crown worked in lace, as well as giving the latter a pleasant appearance, defines an area free from food which helps to favor the grip of the support. In order to stiffen the support, in particular the support element, and thus confer the transport capacity of the whole, allowing easier handling of the confectionery product, the support element is generally engaged in a removable way at the bottom, a cardboard reinforcement element with dimensions equal to those of the central area of the sheet itself.

The known types of supports described above, although widely used in the confectionery sector, nevertheless have numerous drawbacks both from the point of view of construction costs and, above all, as regards their practicality and versatility of use.

A first drawback is given by the fact that the reinforcing element and the supporting element are physically separated from each other. Therefore, it is necessary to pay extreme attention during the manual transport of the confectionery product in order to avoid slipping of the support element on the reinforcement element itself with consequent possible damage or even loss of the confectionery product transported. A second drawback is given by the need to manage two components physically separated from each other, that is to say support element and reinforcement element, which also imply problems from the point of view of organization and warehouse management. In this regard, it should be emphasized that confectionery products have considerably different dimensions and, consequently, it is necessary to always have a corresponding number of reinforcing elements and corresponding support elements available.

The fact that the reinforcing element and the supporting element are physically separated from each other also determines a further drawback based on the structurality of the support. In fact, having two separate parts gives the substrate a poor resistance to deformation, especially in the presence of wet surfaces; the reinforcement element, in the configuration described above, is not able to compensate or reduce the deformations of the support element.

A second example of known devices, described in EP 0 621 211 B1, concerns a food support for pastry products. The support consists of a support element made of paraffin and / or polythene paper for food use comprising a central area on which the confectionery product is placed and a decorative circular crown, for example worked with lace, extending around the perimeter of the central area. As for the support described above in the first example, the support element is stiffened by means of a reinforcement element engaged below the support element and able to allow easier transport of the confectionery product. The support of the second example, unlike the support of the first example, has a reinforcing element engaged in an immovable way to the support element. The reinforcing element is made up of two layers of cardboard having fibers oriented transversely between them and joined by means of a thin layer of glue. This last support described allows to solve some drawbacks present in the supports described for the first example. In fact, the irremovable engagement of the reinforcement element to the support element allows to solve the problem of managing two components physically separated from each other. In this way the organization and management of the warehouse is enormously simplified. The fact of having a reinforcing element and a support element physically joined together also allows to increase the structure of the support and to improve its resistance to deformations due to wet surfaces. More in detail, the support described in this last example has a resistance to deformation greater than that of the support described in the first example, particularly thanks to the presence of two reinforcing boards engaged in crossed fibers.

However, even the support described in document EP 0 621 211 B1, although widely used in the confectionery sector, is not without some drawbacks and limitations.

In fact, during the production phase, a possible plant shutdown for the replacement of a cardboard reel (or for any technical reason) involves the drying of the vinyl glue deposited on the various components and the consequent production waste of the pieces already prepared in line. to gluing.

It is in fact important to underline that, in the event of machine downtime beyond a certain period of time (even just a few minutes), the layer of glue already deposited dries and in addition to preventing the reuse of the parts on which the glue requires a correct restoration of operating conditions. In addition to machine downtime, there is a consequent increase in waste and the need to correctly prepare new layers of paper material appropriately hooked for dragging operations before resuming production.

In addition to the not insignificant drawback described above, the fact that the layer of glue present between the two cardboard layers of the reinforcing element moistens the latter already during the coupling phase of the layers: in this way the ™ deformation reinforcement element.

In particular, joining two bodies in anisotropic material (cardboard with fibers directed along a prevailing direction) specially coupled so as to present respective crossed fibers only exacerbates the problem highlighted above since the behavior of the two layers, precisely because of their anisotropy, It is certainly different along the same direction in terms of response to humidity.

This involves the generation of aesthetically unacceptable deformations outside the containment plane both in the production phase and, even worse, in the use phase of the product, when for example the same is placed in a humid environment (refrigerator) for € ™ display or for the preservation of the confectionery product.

In fact, in this situation the support absorbs water and the reinforcement layers, as well as the glue, become moist, modifying their initial geometry.

PURPOSE OF THE FIND

The main object of the present invention is to substantially solve all the drawbacks of the known art by providing a method and a support for food which are extremely practical in use and have reduced production costs. A first purpose of the invention is to provide a production method that reduces the drawbacks associated with downtime during the production phase.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a production method for supporting foodstuffs which allows products to be produced as free as possible from deformation problems outside the development plan.

One or more of the objects described above and which will appear better in the course of the following description are substantially achieved by a support for food products in accordance with one or more of the appended claims.

Aspects of the invention are described below.

In a 1st aspect a method is provided for making a support for food (1), in particular a support for cakes or the like, comprising the following steps:

> arrange at least a first stiffening element (2) in a sheet of paper material and extending substantially along a prevailing development plane, said first stiffening element (2) presenting a first and a second surface (2a; 2b) opposite each other,

> arrange at least a second stiffening element (3) in a sheet of paper material and extending substantially along a prevailing development plane, said second stiffening element (3) presenting a first and a second surface (3 a; 3b) opposite each other ,

> prepare at least a first predetermined quantity of glue (4) on the second surface (2b) of the first stiffening element (2) and / or on the first surface (3a) of the second stiffening element (3),

> place the second surface (2b) of the first stiffening element (2) in contact with pressure with the first surface (3 a) of the second stiffening element (3) so that the first predetermined quantity of glue (4) can join between them the first and second stiffening elements (2; 3) to define a reinforcing element (5) in a single body;

> arrange at least one support element (6) in a sheet of paper material and extending substantially along a prevailing development plane, said support element (6) having a first surface (6a) and a second surface (6b) opposite each other, the second surface (6b) being suitable for contact with a food product;

> join the first surface (6a) of the support element (6) to the second surface (3b) of the second stiffening element (3);

the step of preparing the first predetermined quantity of glue is configured to arrange the latter in the form of a plurality of portions distinct from each other and / or in the form of at least a portion developing along a predetermined trajectory.

In a 2nd aspect, in accordance with the previous aspect, the phase of preparing the first predetermined quantity of glue (4) is configured to arrange the latter in the form of a plurality of distinct portions.

In a 3rd aspect in accordance with the previous aspect at least a part of said distinct portions are arranged on said first and / or second stiffening element (2; 3).

In a 4th aspect in accordance with the 2nd or 3rd aspect the distinct portions have an axial symmetry and / or a rotational symmetry and / or a circular symmetry and / or a radial symmetry and / or a translational symmetry.

In a 5th aspect in accordance with any of the preceding aspects, the phase of preparing the first predetermined quantity of glue (4) is configured to arrange the latter in the form of a plurality of distinct portions aligned along respective prevailing alignment directions (22).

In a 6th aspect according to the previous aspect the alignment directions are substantially parallel to each other.

In a 7th aspect in accordance with the 5th or 6th aspect the distinct portions are aligned along said plurality of prevailing alignment directions (22) substantially parallel to each other so as to form, on the stiffening element on which said distinct portions they are in contact, an array of distinct portions of glue.

In an 8th aspect in accordance with any of the foregoing aspects the distinct portions of glue are in the form of drops (23).

In a 9th aspect in accordance with the previous aspect the center of a drop (23) is at a minimum distance from the center of a previous and / or subsequent drop (23) along the same prevailing alignment direction (22) equal to at least 4 mm.

In a 10th aspect according to the 8th aspect the center of a drop (23) is at a minimum distance from the center of a previous and / or subsequent drop (23) along the same prevailing alignment direction (22 ) equal to 5 mm.

In an 11th aspect in accordance with any of the 5th to 10th aspects the distinct portions of glue are in the form of drops (23), the adjacent alignment directions (22) are at a minimum distance greater than 4 mm. In a 12th aspect in accordance with any of the 5th to 11th aspects the adjacent alignment directions (22) are at a minimum distance greater than 10 mm.

In a 13th aspect in accordance with any one of the 5th to 12th aspects the adjacent alignment directions (22) are at a higher minimum distance between 15 and 19 mm.

In a 14th aspect in accordance with any of the foregoing aspects the distinct portions of glue are in the form of droplets (23), the center of one drop (23) being at a minimum distance from the center of an adjacent drop (23) of 3 mm.

In a 15th aspect according to any of the foregoing aspects the distinct portions of glue are in the form of drops (23), the center of a drop (23) being at a minimum distance from the center of an adjacent drop (23) of 4 mm.

In a 16th aspect in accordance with any of the foregoing aspects the distinct portions of glue are in the form of droplets (23), the center of one drop (23) being at a minimum distance from the center of an adjacent drop (23) of 5 mm.

In a 17th aspect in accordance with any of the preceding aspects, the phase of preparing the first predetermined quantity of glue (4) is configured to give each distinct portion a maximum size measured according to a plane parallel to the prevailing development plan of the Stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact, and in which the ratio between the minimum size of the stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact, measured along the prevailing development plane of said stiffening element , and the maximum size of each distinct portion of the predetermined quantity of glue (4) is greater than 20.

In an 18th aspect in accordance with any of the preceding aspects, the phase of preparing the first predetermined quantity of glue (4) is configured to give each distinct portion a maximum size measured according to a plane parallel to the prevailing development plan of the Stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact, and in which the ratio between the minimum size of the stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact, measured along the prevailing development plane of said stiffening, and the maximum size of each distinct portion of the predetermined quantity of glue (4) is greater than 30.

In a 19th aspect in accordance with any of the preceding aspects, the phase of preparing the first predetermined quantity of glue (4) is configured to give each distinct portion a maximum size measured according to a plane parallel to the prevailing development plan of the Stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact, and in which the ratio between the minimum size of the stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact, measured along the prevailing development plane of said stiffening, and the maximum size of each distinct portion of the predetermined quantity of glue (4) is greater than 40.

In a 20th aspect in accordance with any of the preceding aspects, the step of joining the fastening surface (6a) of the support element (6) to the second surface (3b) of the second stiffening element (3), comprises at least a sub-phase of preparation of a second predetermined quantity of glue (8) on the second surface (3b) of the second stiffening element (3) and / or on the fixing surface (6a) of the support element (6).

In a 21st aspect in accordance with the previous aspect, the sub-phase of preparation of the second predetermined quantity of glue (8) is configured to allow the union in a single body of the reinforcing element (5) and the € ™ support element (6).

In a 22 ° aspect in accordance with the 20 ° or 21 ° aspect the first and / or the second predetermined quantity of glue is arranged in the form of a plurality of distinct portions from each other in a drop shape and / or in the form of at least a portion a stripe developing along a predetermined trajectory.

In a 23 ° aspect in accordance with the previous aspect, the drops (23) and / or said strip have, before the joining step, a substantially rounded shape presenting a lower area (23 a) flat in contact with the surface on the which the drop / strip is deposited and an upper zone (23b) with a curved profile developing from an apical portion to the lower flat zone, the lower flat zone defining an encumbrance in the plane having a first area, during the joining phase the apical zone of the drops / strip being squeezed in the plane defined between the two opposite surfaces to be coupled and the glue spreading over an overall surface in the plane of greater area than the first area.

In a 24 ° aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from 8 ° to 23 ° the drops (23) are shaped in such a way as to define, once the respective surfaces are flattened and coupled, substantially circular portions with a diameter greater than 2 mm .

In a 25 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 8 ° to 24 °, the drops (23) are shaped in such a way as to define, once the respective surfaces are flattened and coupled, substantially circular portions with a diameter of less than 15 mm .

In a 26 ° aspect according to any one of claims from 8 ° to 25 °, the drops (23) are shaped so as to define, once the respective surfaces are flattened and coupled, substantially circular portions distinct and separated from each other. € ™ other.

In a 21 aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 8 ° to 26 ° the drops (23), before the crushing step to couple the two surfaces, have a volume greater than 250 nanoliters, in particular 300 nanoliters and in a further form made goes in excess of 350 nanoliters.

In a 28th aspect there is provided a support for food, in particular trays or the like, for pastry products, comprising:

> at least one support element (6) in a sheet of paper material extending substantially along a prevalent development plane and having a first and a second surface (6a; 6b) opposite each other, said support element (6) presenting, in correspondence of the second surface (6b) at least one resting area (7) configured to receive at least one food product,

> at least one reinforcing element (5) also made of a sheet of paper material and developing along a prevalent development plane, said reinforcing element (5) being fixed below the support element (6), substantially in correspondence to the support area (7) and configured to at least partially stiffen the latter, said reinforcement element (5) comprising at least a first and a second stiffening element (2; 3) joined together, said reinforcement element (5 ) comprising at least a first predetermined quantity of glue (4) interposed between said first and second stiffening elements (2; 3) and configured to join the latter in one piece to form said reinforcing element (5);

the first predetermined quantity of glue (4) comprises a plurality of mutually distinct portions of glue and / or at least a portion of glue developing along a predetermined trajectory.

In a 29 ° aspect in accordance with the previous aspect, the first predetermined quantity of glue (4) comprises a plurality of distinct portions. In a 30 ° aspect in accordance with the previous aspect at least a part of said distinct portions being arranged on said first and / or second stiffening element (2; 3).

In a 31st aspect according to the 29th or 30th aspect the distinct portions exhibit an axial symmetry and / or a rotational symmetry and / or a circular symmetry and / or a radial symmetry and / or a translational symmetry.

In a 32 ° aspect in accordance with any one of the 28 ° to 31 ° aspects the first predetermined quantity of glue (4) comprises a plurality of distinct portions at least partially aligned along at least one prevailing alignment direction (22).

In a 33 ° aspect in accordance with the previous aspect at least a part of the distinct portions are aligned along a plurality of prevailing alignment directions (22).

In a 34 ° aspect in accordance with the previous aspect, the prevailing alignment directions (22) are substantially parallel to each other so as to form, on the stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact, an array of portions separate glue.

In a 35 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 29 ° to 34 ° each of the distinct portions has a maximum overall dimensions measured according to a plane parallel to the prevailing development plane of the stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact , and in which the ratio between the minimum overall dimensions of the stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact, measured along the prevailing development plane of said stiffening element, and the maximum overall dimensions of a distinct portion It is above 20.

In a 36 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 29 ° to 35 ° each of the distinct portions has a maximum overall dimensions measured according to a plane parallel to the prevailing development plane of the stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact , and in which the ratio between the minimum overall dimensions of the stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact, measured along the prevailing development plane of said stiffening element, and the maximum overall dimensions of a distinct portion It is above 30.

In a 37 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 29 ° to 36 ° each of the distinct portions has a maximum overall dimensions measured according to a plane parallel to the prevailing development plane of the stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact , and in which the ratio between the minimum overall dimensions of the stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact, measured along the prevailing development plane of said stiffening element, and the maximum overall dimensions of a distinct portion It is above 40.

In a 38 ° aspect according to any one of claims from 28 ° to 37 °, the support comprises at least a second predetermined quantity of glue (8) interposed between the second stiffening element (3) and the support element (6) and configured to allow the union in a single body of the reinforcement element (5) and the support element (6).

In a 39 ° aspect in accordance with any of the 28 ° to 38 ° aspects, the reinforcing element (5) has a substantially circular or elliptical or polygonal profile.

In a 40 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 28 ° to 39 ° the support element (6) has a profile substantially counter-shaped to the profile of the reinforcing element (5).

In a 41 ° aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from 29 ° to 40 ° the support element (6) has a substantially circular or elliptical or polygonal profile.

In a 42 ° aspect in accordance with any one of the 28 ° to 41 ° aspects, the paper material of the first stiffening element (2) has fibers oriented along a predetermined direction, the paper material of the second stiffening element (3) has fibers oriented along a predetermined direction transverse to the predetermined direction in which the fibers of the first stiffening element (2) are oriented.

In a 43 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 28 ° to 42 ° the paper material of the first stiffening element (2) has fibers oriented along a predetermined direction, the paper material of the second stiffening element (3) has fibers oriented along a predetermined direction orthogonal to the predetermined direction in which the fibers of the first stiffening element (2) are oriented.

In a 44 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 28 ° to 43 ° the support element (6) has, in correspondence with the support area (7), a surface depression (14) to house the product of pastry shop. In a 45 ° aspect in accordance with the previous aspect in which the superficial depression (14) is circular in shape,

In a 46 ° aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from 28 ° to 45 ° the support area (7) is substantially arranged in the center of the support element (6).

In a 47 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 28 ° to 46 ° the support element (6) is made of paraffin cardboard for food use. In a 48 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 28 ° to 47 ° at least the support area (7) of the reinforcing element (5) is coated with a film in water-repellent material for food use, in particular polyethylene and / or aluminum.

In a 49th aspect in accordance with any of the 28th to 48th aspects the distinct portions of glue are in a circular form, the center of a drop (23) being at a minimum distance from the center of a previous drop (23) and / or subsequent along the same prevailing alignment direction (22) equal to at least 4 mm.

In a 50th aspect in accordance with any of the 28th to 48th aspects the distinct portions of glue are in a circular form, the center of a drop (23) being at a minimum distance from the center of a previous drop (23) and / or subsequent along the same prevailing alignment direction (22) equal to at least 5 mm.

In a 51st aspect in accordance with any of the 32nd to 50th aspects the adjacent alignment directions (22) are at a minimum distance greater than 4mm.

In a 52 ° aspect in accordance with any of the 32 ° to 51 ° aspects the adjacent alignment directions (22) are at a minimum distance greater than 10 mm.

In a 53 ° aspect in accordance with any one of the 32 ° to 52 ° aspects the adjacent alignment directions (22) are at a minimum distance between 15 and 19 mm.

In a 54th aspect in accordance with any of the 28th to 53rd aspects the distinct portions of glue are in a circular form, the center of one drop (23) being at a minimum distance from the center of an adjacent drop (23) of 3 mm.

In a 55 ° aspect in accordance with any of the 28 ° to 54 ° aspects the distinct portions of glue are in a circular form, the center of one drop (23) being at a minimum distance from the center of an adjacent drop (23) of 4 mm.

In a 56 ° aspect in accordance with any of the 28 ° to 55 ° aspects the distinct portions of glue are in a circular form, the center of one drop (23) being at a minimum distance from the center of an adjacent drop (23) of 5 mm.

In a 57th aspect in accordance with any one of the 28th to 56th aspects the distinct portions of glue are in the form of substantially circular portions with a diameter greater than 2 mm.

In a 58 ° aspect in accordance with any one of the 28 ° to 57 ° aspects the distinct portions of glue are in the form of substantially circular portions with a diameter of less than 15 mm.

In a 59 ° aspect in accordance with any one of the 28 ° to 58 ° aspects the distinct portions of glue are shaped so as to define substantially circular portions distinct and separated from each other,

In a 60th aspect there is a use of a food support (1) in accordance with any of the 28th to 59th aspects for the food product support.

In a 61 ° aspect in accordance with the previous aspect, the food support (1) is used for the support of pastry products.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention will be described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided for indicative and therefore not limiting purposes only, in which:

> Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a tray for pastry products according to the present invention;

Figure 2 is a view according to a cross section of the tray according to the invention;

Figures 3 to 7 are top views of a stiffening element having different portions of a first predetermined quantity of glue; > Figure 8 is a sectional view of an edge area of the support before the coupling of the reinforcement element to the support element with the glue suitably deposited;

> Figure 9 is the view according to plane IX-IX of figure 8;

> Figure 10 is an enlarged detail of the view of Figure 9;

> Figure 11 is a sectional view of an edge area of the support after the coupling of the reinforcement element to the support element with the glue pressed between the surfaces;

> Figure 12 is the view according to the XII-XII plane of figure 11;

> Figure 13 is an enlarged detail of the view of Figure 12; And

> Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of a production method for making a support for food in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to the aforementioned figures, 1 has globally indicated a support or tray for food products, in particular for pastry products such as cakes, pastries, pretzels or the like. The support 1 comprises a support element 6 made of paper sheet material which extends substantially along a prevailing development plane. As can be seen from the sectional view of Figure 2, the support element 6 has first and second surfaces 6a, 6b. The first surface 6a or lower surface represents the part of the support element 6 facing downwards and opposite the food product and therefore not in contact with the latter, while the second surface 6b of the food support 1 represents the facing part towards the top and towards said food product and therefore at least partially in contact with the latter. More in detail, the support element 6 has, in correspondence with the second surface 6b, at least one support area 7 on which a surface depression 14 is advantageously formed and is designed to house a predetermined pastry product. As can be seen from the accompanying figures, the support area is, in a non-limiting way, centrally arranged on the support element 6. The support element 6 also has a perimeter edge 13 worked in lace entirely surrounding the support area 7 The perimeter edge 13 has mainly a decorative aesthetic function. The perimeter edge is, as can be seen, equipped with a lace workmanship suitable for decorating the support; this lace border includes a series of graphic decorations obtained by removing material (die-cutting) and substantially defined by repeated cavities along the circular crown.

The support element 6, the support area 7, the surface depression 14, are, in a non-limiting way, substantially counter-shaped to the pastry product to be supported. In particular, purely by way of non-limiting indication, in the accompanying drawings reference has been made to a support for food 1 having a circular shape, formed by a circular support element 6, in which the aforementioned depression 14 is possibly obtained. with reference to the embodiment illustrated, the perimeter edge 13 worked in lace has the conformation of a circular crown delimited between an internal diameter "DI" and an external diameter "D2". The internal diameter â € œDIâ € represents the extension of the surface depression 14, as well as of the support area 7 of the support element 6, and / or delimits the area without cavities.

Since the support element 6 must be as waterproof as possible, this support element is made of paraffin cardboard or, alternatively, is covered with a film of water-repellent material suitable for contact with food products, such as, for example, a polyethylene film (and / or an aluminum film).

Below, fixed to the support element 6, there is at least one reinforcement element 5, also made of cardboard and extending along a prevalent development plane parallel to the prevailing development plane of the support element 6. As can be seen in figure 2, the reinforcement element 5 is arranged in correspondence with and coupled with the first surface 6a of the support element 6, in particular arranged in opposition to the support area 7 with respect to the support element 6 . The reinforcement element has a similar extension, and in particular at least equal to the extension of the support area 7: in this way the reinforcement element can provide excellent support to the support element 6. The reinforcing element has, in a non-limiting way, a shape substantially counter-shaped to the pastry product to be placed on the support area 7 and in particular it is counter-shaped to the latter. Advantageously, the reinforcing element 5 has a geometry in a circular or substantially circular plan and particularly an extension substantially equal to the extension of the support area 7. Referring to the configuration shown in the accompanying figures, the element of reinforcement 5 has a radial extension substantially equal to the diameter â € œDIâ € of the support element 6.

Support element 6 and reinforcement element 5 are joined by means of a predetermined quantity of glue 8 interposed between the latter and adapted to allow an optimal and rigid coupling thereof.

In particular, the glue used for the gluing referred to in the present invention is a vinyl-based glue, i.e. a dispersion of water-based polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) resins (although there are also solvent-based PVAc glues). Bonding is achieved by evaporating the water / solvent.

In the illustrated embodiment, it is advantageously provided that the reinforcing element 5 consists of a first and a second stiffening element 2, 3, also joined by means of a respective predetermined quantity of glue 4. The first and the second stiffening element 2, 3 are, in a non-limiting way, made entirely of paper material and both have a predetermined orientation of the fibers constituting the paper material. In a preferential embodiment, the first stiffening element 2 has fibers oriented in a predetermined direction while the second stiffening element 3 has fibers which are oriented transversely, in particular orthogonally, with respect to those of the first stiffening element 2 (condition not visually illustrated in the accompanying figures). The orientation of the fibers of the paper material helps to determine the direction of deformation of the latter. In fact, by orienting the fibers of the first and second stiffening elements 2, 3 in a differentiated manner, it is possible that, during a condition in which the reinforcing element 5 is moistened or even wet, the deformations of the first and second stiffening elements stiffening are compensated: in this way the total deformation of the reinforcing element 5 is lower than that of a reinforcing element 5 having stiffening elements with fibers parallel to each other.

Both the first and second stiffening elements 2, 3 develop along prevalently parallel development planes. The first stiffening element 2 has a first and a second surfaces 2a, 2b opposite each other. As for the first stiffening element 2, also said second stiffening element 3 comprises a first and a second surface 3a, 3b. More in detail, the second stiffening element 3 is interposed between the first stiffening element and the support element 6.

More in detail, the second surface 2b of the first stiffening element 2 faces the first surface 3 a of the second stiffening element 3 while the second surface 2b of the latter faces the first surface 6a of the latter. ™ support element. This configuration of the first and second stiffening elements is clearly visible in the sectional view of figure 2.

The first predetermined quantity of glue 4 is interposed between the first and second stiffening elements 2, 3 and is configured to define said reinforcing element 5 in a single body.

The first predetermined quantity of glue 4 comprises a plurality of mutually distinct portions of glue and / or at least a portion of glue developing along a predetermined trajectory (see Figures 3-7).

In other words, the first quantity of glue is in the form of suitable drop-shaped portions of glue distinct and separated from each other (fig. 3); alternatively (figs. 4-6) or in combination (fig. 7) the first quantity of glue is in the form of one or more suitable stripe portions that develop along a curved and / or rectilinear trajectory.

In particular, in the embodiment of figures 1, 2 and 3, the predetermined quantity of glue 4 comprises a plurality of distinct portions of glue which have a translational symmetry. More particularly, the distinct portions are aligned along a plurality of alignment directions 22 so that such distinct portions define an array of glue drops 23. These distinct portions are essentially glue dots having, when deposited, in a non-limiting way, a substantially circular plan profile. The distinct portions have a maximum overall dimensions in the prevailing development plan of the reinforcing element 5.

Observing in particular figure 8 and the corresponding figures 9 and 10, there is shown a portion of the support in a phase just before the gluing of the reinforcement element 5 to the support element 6.

In particular, it is possible to notice a plurality of glue drops 23 suitably spaced from each other so as to define a predetermined number of elements with a substantially rounded shape presenting a lower flat area 23 in contact with the surface on which the drop is deposited and an upper zone 23b with a curved profile extending from an apical portion to the lower flat zone, the lower flat zone 23 a defines a space in the plane having a first area with a substantially circular profile (Fig. 10).

The volume of each drop of glue 23 is at least 250 nanoliters to prevent it from drying out completely following a machine stop of a few minutes (up to 5 min, and possibly up to 10 min) for the reasons that will be highlighted below. However, the volume will generally be at least 280-300 nanoliters to guarantee approximately 10 minutes of glue open time.

In further detail it is envisaged to deposit about 0.04 grams of vinyl glue per square decimeter in the form of separate drops; in particular, the preferred value is around 0.05 g / dm <2>. About 120 drops of glue are placed in a dm <2>.

The vinyl glue used (base: dispersion PVAC) has a specific weight between 1.1 and 1.2 g / cm <3>; the viscosity (Brookfield rot. 6/20 Rpm.) is 13,000 ± 2000 mPas; the open time at 20 ° is 5-10 min.

All the parameters identified above are measured at 20 ° and atmospheric pressure (1 Atm).

Observing the arrangement of figures 9 and 10, it can be seen that the drops 23 have their respective center at a distance (a; b) from the center of the nearest drop not less than 3 mm, in particular not less than 4 mm and in greater detail still not less than 5 mm.

In case of array droplet deposition along the predetermined alignment directions 22, the minimum distance â € ̃aâ € ™ is defined precisely along these directions and in the preferred (but not limiting) form is equal to 5 mm.

Vice versa, the distance between parallel rows of drops â € ̃bâ € ™ (distance between the respective axes passing through the center of the drops 23) is not less than 5 mm and in general not less than 10 mm; in the preferred embodiment this distance is between 15 and 19 mm (table 10 not to scale).

Obviously the drops 23 are deposited on the paper surface in a discreet and point-like manner, ie they are not sprayed or sprayed.

In general, the drops are substantially the same, in particular in terms of glue volume and / or dimensions and / or geometry.

In this sense, at least the drops present along a same prevalent direction are substantially the same, in particular in terms of glue volume and / or dimensions and / or geometry.

More generally, all the drops are substantially the same, in particular in terms of glue volume and / or size and / or geometry.

During the joining phase, the apical area of the drops is squeezed in the plane defined between the two opposing surfaces to be coupled and the glue is distributed over an overall surface in the plane with an area greater than the area occupied in the deposition phase alone.

In other words, the circular size of each drop 23 shown in figure 9 (drop just deposited and not crushed between the surfaces to be glued) is smaller than the corresponding size of figure 13 which represents the gluing situation.

In this second situation the minimum distances between the centers of the drops 23 (distance a) and also the distances between the alignment axes 22 (distance b) remain unchanged.

Vice versa, the diameter â € ̃dâ € ™ of the overall dimensions of the drop 23 increases to a minimum of 2 mm and is equal to approximately 2.25 mm; in particular this diameter more than doubles passing from the condition of figure 10 to that of figure 13.

In any case, the drops continue to occupy distinct areas from each other, not overlapping the respective material even after crushing (fig.

13).

Under the dimension profile, it is possible to define a ratio between the minimum size of the reinforcement element 5, measured along the prevailing development plane of the latter, and the maximum size of a distinct portion which is It is above 20, especially above 30, even more especially above 40.

Figures 4 to 7 illustrate variants of embodiment of how it is possible to arrange the predetermined quantity of glue 4; in these figures the latter presents a portion of glue in the form of one or more strips developing along a predetermined trajectory. In the latter embodiment described, the predetermined quantity of glue can have, for example, an axial symmetry and / or a rotational symmetry and / or a circular symmetry and / or a radial symmetry. As shown in figures 4 to 7, the predetermined quantity of glue, in this last configuration described, can substantially define one or more lines of glue defining, for example, a helical shape as illustrated in figure 4. It is useful to remember that the predetermined quantity of glue may comprise both distinct portions of glue (drops) and portions developing along a predetermined trajectory (strips); see for example figure 7.

Both configurations guarantee excellent cohesion between the reinforcing element 5 and the supporting element 6 without however wetting the surfaces of the latter excessively. This condition prevents deformation of the reinforcing element 5 during the union of the first and second stiffening elements 2, 3 without affecting the bonding strength between the latter. As for the support element 6 also the reinforcement element 5 can alternatively present a water-repellent protection. In particular, it is possible to apply the protection to the exposed part of the reinforcing element which in this case is represented by the first surface 2a of the stiffening element 2. This surface can include paraffin cardboard or, alternatively, is covered from a film at least one polyethylene film and / or at least one aluminum film for food products.

REALIZATION METHOD

In accordance with the present invention, a method is described for making a support for food 1, in particular trays for food and / or the like.

The method comprises at least one step of preparing at least a first roll or tape 15 of paper material which is unwound from a reel and made to advance along a first process direction P 1. The method also comprises the preparation of a second roll or tape 16 which is unwound from the coil and made to advance along a second process direction P2. The accompanying figures illustrate a configuration in which the first and second process directions P1, P2 are placed transversely (orthogonally) to each other. Alternatively, the two directions can be parallel or in other configuration with each other (configurations not illustrated). The stage of preparation of the first and second roll or tape of paper material is configured to arrange, in a non-limiting way, the fibers of the two paper materials along transversal directions between them (typically the fibers are aligned with the direction of advancement of the tape, for eg. P1 and P2).

The method further comprises a step of preparing a predetermined quantity of glue 4 on a portion 17 of the first and / or second roll of paper material before a step (station) of coupling the two materials. In the process diagram of figure 14, a condition is represented in which the predetermined quantity of glue is applied, in a non-limiting way, only on a portion 17 of the first roll 15 in paper material.

The phase of application of the predetermined quantity of glue 4 is configured to arrange the latter in the form of a plurality of portions distinct from each other in the form of drops (and / or in the form of at least a portion developing along a predetermined trajectory - strips ). Figure 14 schematically illustrates a configuration in which the predetermined quantity of glue is arranged on the first roll 15 in the form of distinct portions, in particular in the form of points of glue or drops 23. In particular, the step of preparing the predetermined quantity of glue 4 is configured to allow the arrangement of the latter in at least one of the configurations of the predetermined quantity of glue 4 described above. The preferred embodiment provides for the adoption of drops 23 suitably aligned.

The portion of the first (or second) roll 15 (16) in paper material having the predetermined quantity of glue 4 is placed in contact with a respective surface of the second (or first) roll 16 (15). The presence of the glue allows the two parts to be joined to form a single body.

In general, the two coupled portions have a polygonal shape, in particular rectangular and even more in detail square, in the sense that the glue is distributed in such a way as to have an envelope with a polygonal shape (or rectangular or square); in this regard see figure 14.

Subsequently to the union of the two portions, the latter undergo a punching phase configured to define a reinforcement module 18 and possibly a first reject portion 10. In the diagram of figure 14 a reinforcement module 18 is illustrated which presents, limiting, a polygonal (square) profile. As regards, on the other hand, the first reject portion 10, the latter is, in a non-limiting way, advanced along the second process direction P2 and separated from the reinforcement module 18; alternatively, the first reject portion 10 is, in a non-limiting way, advanced along the first process direction P1 and subsequently eliminated.

The method also comprises a second punching phase (carried out separately with respect to the first as shown in figure 14 or also carried out simultaneously with the previous one) configured to obtain, from the reinforcement module 18, the reinforcing element 5 of the appropriate (circular) shape . More in detail, the second punching phase is configured to obtain, from the reinforcement module 18, said reinforcement element 5 and a second scrap portion 11 placed perimeter to the reinforcement element 5. The reinforcement module thus constituted it is advanced along the first process direction PI. Subsequently, the manufacturing method comprises a step of preparing the second predetermined quantity of glue 8 on at least a part of the reinforcing module 18, in particular exclusively in correspondence with the reinforcing element 5 and not on the second reject portion 11.

In other words, while the arrangement of the first quantity of glue 4 requires that a gluing surface greater than the final overall dimensions in plan of the reinforcing element 5 be involved, vice versa the arrangement of the second quantity of glue 8 is carried out in so as to have a footprint in plan substantially with a circular envelope coinciding with the dimensions of the reinforcement element 5 itself.

The method also comprises a step of preparing a third roll or tape 20 also made of paper material which is made to advance along a third process direction P3. Figure 14 schematically illustrates, but is not limited to, a condition in which the third process direction P3 is placed transversely to the first process direction PI and parallel to the second process direction P2. Obviously the third process direction could be any as long as it leads to coupling the third layer 20 of paper material to the reinforcing element 5.

Subsequently to the application of the second predetermined quantity of glue 8, the method comprises a step of joining a portion 21 of the third roll 20 with the reinforcing element 5. After joining these portions, the method provides a further punching phase configured to define the shape of the support element 6, in particular to define the perimeter edge 13 worked with lace. More in detail, the third punching phase allows to define the perimeter edge 13 on the portion 21 of the third roll 20.

Finally, the method provides for a step of removing the second portion of waste 11 so that the finished food support 1 can be picked up. ADVANTAGES OF THE FOUND

The invention achieves important advantages. First of all, the production method ensures that, in the event of a machine stop, the drops of glue 23 or strips thereof do not solidify immediately but that a thin film of glue is formed above the drop / strip itself, while the substance adhesive remains in liquid conditions inside. In this way, at the resumption of production, during the phases of coupling with pressure of the parts (coupling stations), the glue film that has formed actually breaks allowing the correct distribution of the glue still in the liquid phase and optimal gluing.

This eliminates production waste and still allows for optimal gluing where the machine is down for a few minutes (i.e. in most real plant downtime situations).

In fact, the thin film slows down the crosslinking of the vinyl glue as the air is no longer in direct contact with the liquid glue and the water / solvent evaporates with greater difficulty, slowing down the hardening times.

Furthermore, the smaller surface wetted by the adhesive considerably reduces the problems of deformation of the various components which therefore tend to remain flat, avoiding aesthetically unacceptable deformations, particularly in use.

Moreover, the overall robustness of the food support 1 and the particular production method adopted ensure that the latter behaves optimally in the presence of humidity.

In fact, this food support 1 not only consists of a particularly robust and waterproofed support element 6, but is also provided with a reinforcing element 5 composed of two stiffening elements 2, 3 with fibers transversal to each other. which, even in the presence of humidity, contributes to maintaining the flatness of the substrate itself.

Finally, from the constructive point of view, the support 1 is particularly ecological and economical since the quantity of glue used and of cardboard to be discarded are minimized with respect to the known art.

Naturally, the present invention is susceptible of numerous modifications and variations, all of which are within the scope of the inventive concept which characterizes it. In particular, it should be noted that, in the practical embodiment of the invention, the shapes and dimensions of the supports can be any according to requirements.

LEGEND

1 Food stand

2 First stiffening element

2a First surface of the first stiffening element 2 b Second surface of the first stiffening element 2 Second stiffening element

a First surface of the second stiffening element 3 b Second surface of the second stiffening element 3 Predetermined quantity of glue

Reinforcement element

Support element

a First surface of the support element

b Second surface of the support element

Support area

According to predetermined quantity of glue

Useful portion of the reinforcement element 5

0 First portion of waste

1 Second portion of waste

3 Perimeter edge

4 Superficial depression

5 First roll or ribbon of paper material

6 Second roll or ribbon of paper material

7 Portion

8 Reinforcement module

9 Third portion of waste

20 Third roll or tape in paper material 21 Portion of the third roll

22 Alignment directions

23 Drops of glue

D1 Internal diameter

D2 Outside diameter

P1 First process direction

P2 Second process direction

P3 Third process direction

a Minimum distance between centers of glue dots b Distance between alignment directions d Crushed drop diameter

Claims (10)

CLAIMS 1. Method for making a support for food (1), in particular a support for cakes or the like, comprising the following steps:> providing at least a first stiffening element (2) in a sheet of paper material and extending substantially along a prevailing development plan, said first stiffening element (2) presenting a first and a second surface (2a; 2b) opposite each other, > arrange at least a second stiffening element (3) in a sheet of paper material and extending substantially along a prevailing development plane, said second stiffening element (3) presenting a first and a second surface (3 a; 3b) opposite each other , > prepare at least a first predetermined quantity of glue (4) on the second surface (2b) of the first stiffening element (2) and / or on the first surface (3 a) of the second stiffening element (3), > place the second surface (2b) of the first stiffening element (2) in contact with pressure with the first surface (3 a) of the second stiffening element (3) so that the first predetermined quantity of glue (4) can join between them the first and second stiffening elements (2; 3) to define a reinforcing element (5) in a single body; > arrange at least one support element (6) in a sheet of paper material and extending substantially along a prevailing development plane, said support element (6) having a first surface (6a) and a second surface (6b) opposite each other, the second surface (6b) being suitable for contact with a food product; > join the first surface (6a) of the support element (6) to the second surface (3b) of the second stiffening element (3); characterized in that the step of preparing the first predetermined quantity of glue is configured to arrange the latter in the form of a plurality of portions distinct from each other and / or in the form of at least a portion developing along a predetermined trajectory. 2. Method according to the preceding claim, in which the step of preparing the first predetermined quantity of glue (4) is configured to arrange the latter in the form of a plurality of distinct portions aligned along respective directions of prevailing alignment (22) substantially parallel to each other, and in which the distinct portions are aligned along said plurality of prevailing alignment directions (22) substantially parallel to each other so as to form, on the stiffening element on which said distinct portions are in contact, an array of portions separate glue. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distinct portions of glue are in the form of drops (23), the center of a drop (23) being at a minimum distance from the center of a previous drop (23) and / or subsequent along the same prevailing alignment direction (22) equal to at least 4 mm, and in general equal to 5 mm. Method according to the preceding claim 2 or 3, wherein the distinct portions of glue are in the form of drops (23), the adjacent alignment directions (22) being at a minimum distance greater than 4 mm and in particular at a distance minimum greater than 10 mm optionally between 15 and 19 mm. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distinct portions of glue are in the form of drops (23), the center of a drop (23) being at a minimum distance from the center of an adjacent drop (23) of 3 mm, in particular of 4 mm and preferably of 5 mm. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the step of joining the fastening surface (6a) of the support element (6) to the second surface (3b) of the second stiffening element (3), comprises at least a sub-phase of preparation of a second predetermined quantity of glue (8) on the second surface (3b) of the second stiffening element (3) and / or on the fixing surface (6a) of the support element (6), the sub-phase for the preparation of the second predetermined quantity of glue (8) is configured to allow the union in a single body of the reinforcement element (5) and the support element (6) and in which the second predetermined quantity of glue is arranged in the form of a plurality of portions distinct from each other in a drop shape and / or in the form of at least one stripe portion developing along a predetermined trajectory. 7. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein said drops (23) and / or said strip have, before the joining step, a substantially convex shape presenting a lower flat area (23 a) in contact with the surface on which the drop / strip is laid and an upper zone (23b) with a curved profile developing from an apical portion to the lower flat zone, the lower flat zone defining a space in the plane having a first area, during the joining phase, the apical zone of the drops / strip being squeezed in the plane defined between the two opposing surfaces to be coupled and the glue distributing itself over an encumbrance surface in the plane of greater area than the first area. 8. Method according to the preceding claim, in which said drops (23) are shaped so as to define, once the respective surfaces are squashed and coupled, substantially circular portions with a diameter greater than 2 mm and particularly less than 15 mm and in which said drops (23) are shaped in such a way as to define, once the respective surfaces are flattened and coupled, substantially circular portions distinct and separated from each other. Method according to any one of claims 5, 7 or 8, wherein said drops (23), before the crushing step to couple the two surfaces, have a volume greater than 250 nanoliters, in particular a volume greater than 280 nanoliters. 10. Support for food, in particular trays or the like, for pastry products, comprising: > at least one support element (6) in a sheet of paper material extending substantially along a prevalent development plane and having a first and a second surface (6a; 6b) opposite each other, said support element (6) presenting, in correspondence of the second surface (6b) at least one resting area (7) configured to receive at least one food product, > at least one reinforcing element (5) also made of a sheet of paper material and developing along a prevalent development plane, said reinforcing element (5) being fixed below the support element (6), substantially in correspondence to the support area (7) and configured to at least partially stiffen the latter, said reinforcing element (5) comprising at least a first and a second stiffening element (2; 3) joined together, the reinforcing element (5) having a substantially circular or elliptical or polygonal profile, said reinforcing element (5) comprising at least a first predetermined quantity of glue (4) interposed between said first and second stiffening element (2; 3) and configured to join the latter for the formation of said reinforcing element (5), the support element (6) being made of cardboard for food use in which at least the support area (7) of the reinforcing element (5) Ã ̈ r coated with a film in water-repellent material for food use, in particular polyethylene and / or aluminum and / or paraffin; > at least a second predetermined quantity of glue (8) interposed between the second stiffening element (3) and the support element (6) and configured to allow the union of the reinforcing element into a single body ( 5) and the support element (6); > characterized in that said first predetermined quantity of glue (4) comprises a plurality of distinct portions of glue from each other and in which the distinct portions of glue are in a substantially circular form, the center of a drop (23) being at a distance minimum from the center of a previous and / or subsequent drop (23) equal to at least 3 mm, in particular 4 mm and preferably 5 mm and in which the distinct portions of glue are in the form of substantially circular portions with a diameter greater than 2 mm and particularly less than 15 mm shaped so as to define substantially circular portions distinct and separated from each other.