WO2008125710A1 - Method, machine and installation for processing raw artichokes - Google Patents

Method, machine and installation for processing raw artichokes Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2008125710A1
WO2008125710A1 PCT/ES2008/000227 ES2008000227W WO2008125710A1 WO 2008125710 A1 WO2008125710 A1 WO 2008125710A1 ES 2008000227 W ES2008000227 W ES 2008000227W WO 2008125710 A1 WO2008125710 A1 WO 2008125710A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
artichoke
machine according
tank
antioxidant solution
cutting
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/ES2008/000227
Other languages
Spanish (es)
French (fr)
Inventor
Antonio Murcia Alonso
Original Assignee
Antonio Murcia Alonso
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Antonio Murcia Alonso filed Critical Antonio Murcia Alonso
Publication of WO2008125710A1 publication Critical patent/WO2008125710A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23N—MACHINES OR APPARATUS FOR TREATING HARVESTED FRUIT, VEGETABLES OR FLOWER BULBS IN BULK, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; PEELING VEGETABLES OR FRUIT IN BULK; APPARATUS FOR PREPARING ANIMAL FEEDING- STUFFS
    • A23N15/00—Machines or apparatus for other treatment of fruits or vegetables for human purposes; Machines or apparatus for topping or skinning flower bulbs
    • A23N15/001—Machines or apparatus for other treatment of fruits or vegetables for human purposes; Machines or apparatus for topping or skinning flower bulbs for trimming artichokes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23B—PRESERVING, e.g. BY CANNING, MEAT, FISH, EGGS, FRUIT, VEGETABLES, EDIBLE SEEDS; CHEMICAL RIPENING OF FRUIT OR VEGETABLES; THE PRESERVED, RIPENED, OR CANNED PRODUCTS
    • A23B7/00—Preservation or chemical ripening of fruit or vegetables
    • A23B7/10—Preserving with acids; Acid fermentation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23B—PRESERVING, e.g. BY CANNING, MEAT, FISH, EGGS, FRUIT, VEGETABLES, EDIBLE SEEDS; CHEMICAL RIPENING OF FRUIT OR VEGETABLES; THE PRESERVED, RIPENED, OR CANNED PRODUCTS
    • A23B7/00—Preservation or chemical ripening of fruit or vegetables
    • A23B7/14—Preserving or ripening with chemicals not covered by groups A23B7/08 or A23B7/10
    • A23B7/153—Preserving or ripening with chemicals not covered by groups A23B7/08 or A23B7/10 in the form of liquids or solids
    • A23B7/158—Apparatus for preserving using liquids
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23N—MACHINES OR APPARATUS FOR TREATING HARVESTED FRUIT, VEGETABLES OR FLOWER BULBS IN BULK, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; PEELING VEGETABLES OR FRUIT IN BULK; APPARATUS FOR PREPARING ANIMAL FEEDING- STUFFS
    • A23N15/00—Machines or apparatus for other treatment of fruits or vegetables for human purposes; Machines or apparatus for topping or skinning flower bulbs
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
    • B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
    • B26D3/00—Cutting work characterised by the nature of the cut made; Apparatus therefor
    • B26D3/24—Cutting work characterised by the nature of the cut made; Apparatus therefor to obtain segments other than slices, e.g. cutting pies
    • B26D3/26—Cutting work characterised by the nature of the cut made; Apparatus therefor to obtain segments other than slices, e.g. cutting pies specially adapted for cutting fruit or vegetables, e.g. for onions
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
    • B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
    • B26D7/00—Details of apparatus for cutting, cutting-out, stamping-out, punching, perforating, or severing by means other than cutting
    • B26D7/01—Means for holding or positioning work
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
    • B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
    • B26D7/00—Details of apparatus for cutting, cutting-out, stamping-out, punching, perforating, or severing by means other than cutting
    • B26D7/27—Means for performing other operations combined with cutting
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
    • B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
    • B26D7/00—Details of apparatus for cutting, cutting-out, stamping-out, punching, perforating, or severing by means other than cutting
    • B26D7/06—Arrangements for feeding or delivering work of other than sheet, web, or filamentary form

Definitions

  • the present invention concerns in general a method, a machine and an installation for processing raw artichokes, in order to obtain funds or artichoke hearts by means of corresponding cutting and forming stages, and in particular a method, a machine and an installation for the processing of raw artichokes that, in order to avoid the oxidation of the artichoke, make or allow to make a contact of an antioxidant solution with the artichoke during the cutting and forming stages.
  • WO-A-03041518 describes a method and installation for peeling and cutting previously cooked artichokes and obtaining its heart. The cutting operations are carried out in the air over the cooked artichoke.
  • patent ES-A-2171130 concerns a machine for forming and peeling artichokes both raw and cooked.
  • the proposal made in this patent is based on improvements in the artichoke peeling machines that have jaws mounted on a plate moved by a malt cross in a rotating and discontinuous manner to establish successive work cycles in which manual positioning takes place of the artichokes on the jaws, the cross section of the artichoke to obtain the bottom, as well as the subsequent cutting of the stem of the artichoke, the emptying by milling of the bottom and the external turning to give the final conformation, in size and finish to the own artichoke background.
  • the operations of cutting, turning and milling are carried out in the air, which, especially when treated Raw artichokes cause oxidation thereof, which results in a very negative way in the quality of the product obtained.
  • the present invention concerns, in a first aspect, a method for processing raw artichokes, comprising: a) cutting one or both end portions of an artichoke, including the tip and / or the stem of the artichoke , depending on whether you want to obtain the background or the heart of the artichoke, b) eliminate at least the external bracts of said artichoke acting externally on it.
  • the method proposed by the invention comprises contacting an antioxidant solution (such as a citrus solution) with said artichoke for at least said stages a) and b), and preferably also during the time elapsed between carrying out both stages a) and b).
  • an antioxidant solution such as a citrus solution
  • said step b) not only comprises removing the external bracts, that is, peeling, but also comprises turning the artichoke externally to obtain a desired conformation.
  • the method comprises carrying out, also while said antioxidant solution is in contact with the artichoke, a step c) comprising emptying the bottom of the artichoke by milling.
  • the method comprises carrying out said stages with the artichoke held by means of releasable fastening, tale like tweezers or jaws.
  • the proposed method comprises carrying out said contacting of said antioxidant solution with said artichoke by means of a vaporization or spraying process.
  • the method comprises carrying out the contact of said antioxidant solution with said artichoke by immersing the artichoke in said antioxidant solution.
  • the method comprises immersing respective cutting tools in the previous antioxidant solution, simultaneously or subsequently to the immersion of the artichoke.
  • the method comprises carrying out the immersion of the artichoke in the antioxidant solution by introducing the artichoke into a tank containing the antioxidant solution and respective cutting tools suitable for carrying out said steps a) Y 00227
  • the method comprises removing the processed artichoke from said tank and, for an example of embodiment, sending it to a mechanism or conveyor belt for transport to respective locations for performing one or more subsequent stages of processing or treatment such as: slicing, cooking, treatment with a sanitizing solution, refrigeration, freezing and packaging, or a combination thereof.
  • the method comprises contacting the antioxidant solution with the processed artichoke during its transport by means of said mechanism or conveyor belt and / or in later stages.
  • the method proposed by the first aspect of the present invention comprises dragging said leftover parts of the processed artichoke that float in the antioxidant solution to an outlet of the tank, for its evacuation, by generating a current that directs them towards said exit.
  • the present invention concerns, in a second aspect, a machine for processing raw artichokes, comprising:
  • a first cutting tool configured to cut one or both end portions of an artichoke held by said fastening means, including the tip and / or stem of the artichoke, depending on whether it is desired to obtain the bottom or heart of The artichoke, and
  • the machine proposed by the second aspect of the invention comprises means for supplying an antioxidant solution arranged and operable to contact said solution. antioxidant with the artichoke when it is being processed by said first and second tools.
  • said second tool is a second cutting tool configured to externally turn the artichoke held by said fastening means, to obtain a desired conformation.
  • the supply means are arranged and operable to bring the antioxidant solution into contact with the artichoke between the end of the operation on said first cutting tool and the beginning of the action on said second tool. cutting, or vice versa, so that the artichoke is in contact with the antioxidant solution also between both cutting operations.
  • the delivery means comprise one or more vaporizing or spraying devices of the antioxidant solution whose field of action covers at least the areas of operation of said first and second cutting tools.
  • the delivery means comprise a container tank of the antioxidant solution, the releasable fastening means being associated with transport means for transporting the artichoke into said tank by immersing it in the antioxidant solution.
  • first and second cutting tools are both submerged inside said tank, although for another more preferred embodiment the first and second cutting tools are fixed to respective mobile arms configured and operable for immerse the first and second respective cutting tools in the antioxidant solution contained in the tank, before, simultaneously or subsequently to the immersion of the artichoke.
  • the machine proposed by the second aspect of the invention also comprises, for another embodiment, a third cutting tool configured to empty the artichoke bottom by milling, the supply means being arranged and operable to bring the solution into contact. antioxidant with the artichoke when it is being processed by said third cutting tool.
  • the fastening and transport means are adapted to transport
  • the artichoke once processed until removed from said tank.
  • the proposed machine also comprises, in order to act once the processed artichoke is removed from the tank, ejection means arranged and adapted to collaborate with the releasable fastening means to expel the processed artichoke to a mechanism or conveyor belt for transport to respective locations to perform one or more subsequent treatments, such as: slicing, cooking, treatment with a sanitizing solution, refrigeration, freezing and packaging, or a combination thereof.
  • the supply means are arranged and are operable to put the antioxidant solution in contact with the processed artichoke during its transport by means of said mechanism or conveyor belt and / or in later stages, so as to avoid that the processed artichoke can oxidize after being cut and conformed
  • a third aspect of the present invention concerns an installation for processing raw artichokes, which comprises a plurality of machines as proposed by the second aspect of the invention, which, as can be deduced from the previous explanation, are adapted to carry carrying out the method proposed by the first aspect of the present invention.
  • Fig. 1 is an elevation view showing schematically the machine proposed by the second aspect of the invention for an example of embodiment, including a tank shown in the container section of an antioxidant solution
  • Figs. 2a to 2d are respective side elevation views of the machine illustrated by Fig. 1, each illustrating the different stages or phases of the method proposed by the first aspect of the invention, indicated in Fig. 1,
  • Fig. 3 is a view analogous to that of Fig. 1, but for another embodiment that incorporates a closed circuit pumping system of the tank
  • Figs. 4, 5 and 6 are respective elevation views showing schematically the machine proposed by the second aspect of the invention for three respective alternative embodiments to that of Fig. 1, and
  • Fig. 7 is a side elevation view of the machine illustrated by Fig. 6, sectioned through a plane showing a third cutting tool or milling cutter.
  • the antioxidant solution supply means comprise a tank E container of the antioxidant solution 2, the first and second cutting tools D are both submerged inside the tank E, and the releasable fastening means they are associated with transport means for transporting the artichoke 1 to the interior of the tank E immersing it in the antioxidant solution 2.
  • the releasable fastening means comprise several clamps or jaws, one of them indicated with Reference A, which are adapted to exert a first and second degree of closing force between jaws to hold the artichoke 1, respectively, with less or greater force.
  • the releasable fastening means comprise only one of said clamps or jaws.
  • these are for the illustrated embodiments a support structure B with at least one moving part where the clamps are fixed, and in particular the clamp A to move, together with an artichoke 1 supported between its jaws with said first degree of force, to the interior of the tank E immersing the artichoke 1 in the antioxidant solution 2.
  • the support structure B is a rotating support B (moved for example by a malt cross) with the clamps A arranged radially with respect to the center of said rotating support B.
  • four phases are indicated, corresponding to respective processing stages of the artichoke 1, where the clamp 1 that supports the artichoke adopts different positions, each of which respectively illustrated consecutively by one of the four figures 2a to 2d.
  • the artichoke is introduced on the clamp A, generally manually, although the invention also contemplates that it can be carried out automatically.
  • the machine For its uniform placement, the machine comprises a stop G that limits the depth of insertion, leaving all the artichokes 1 positioned in the clamp A equally, so that all the shaped hearts (or bottoms) of artichoke 1 are of equal dimensions.
  • To place the artichoke 1 in the clamp A simply have to overcome a small spring that carries the clamp A, responsible for exercising the said first degree of closing force.
  • the support structure B in this case circular, is moved until it is introduced into the tank E, by means of corresponding drive means (not shown) to which the moving part of the support structure B is mechanically connected, and they are adapted to move it following a discontinuous movement.
  • the first cutting tool C comprises, for the exemplary embodiment, polishing comprises two cutting blades Ci, C 2 (specifically two cutting discs d, C 2 ), arranged substantially in parallel spaced a predetermined distance, said cutting blades Ci, C 2 installed fixedly in the tank E at a position relative to the clamp a which enables the cross section of the tip and the stem of Ia artichoke being 1 when the clamp a , which supports between its jaws with said second degree of force, is displaced (phase 2) between the blades Ci, C 2 .
  • polishing comprises two cutting blades Ci, C 2 (specifically two cutting discs d, C 2 ), arranged substantially in parallel spaced a predetermined distance, said cutting blades Ci, C 2 installed fixedly in the tank E at a position relative to the clamp a which enables the cross section of the tip and the stem of Ia artichoke being 1 when the clamp a , which supports between its jaws with said second degree of force, is displaced (phase 2) between the blades Ci, C 2
  • Figs. 1 and 2c described below to phase 3, in which following with clamp A very tight with said second degree of closing force, in the next movement of the support or plate B the artichoke 1 to which it has been cut the stem and the tip, that is to say the artichoke heart 1, is positioned in front of the second cutting tool D, which, as seen in Fig. 2c, comprises a forming device with a first blade Di substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the artichoke 1 when it is submerged in the tank E, and a second blade D 2 arranged obliquely with respect to said central line, said forming device being installed mobilely inside the tank E for, by means of movements of translation, adopt a non-interference position (position illustrated in Fig.
  • the movements of the second cutting tool D can be carried out mechanically or pneumatically.
  • the ejection means of the proposed machine comprise a pushing device H mobilely installed in an area outside the tank E to, by means of translational movements, adopt a non-interference position (illustrated position in Fig. 2d) to let the clamp A pass with the artichoke 1 held between its jaws, and an interference position to be adopted to push the processed artichoke 1, or artichoke heart 1, when it is positioned in front of said pushing device H supported by the jaws of the clamp A with the first degree of force (because it has been loosened since the second degree of force) in order to perform said ejection of the processed artichoke 1 to said mechanism or Conveyor belt or another system, where the heart of the artichoke 1 soaked in antioxidant solution falls for its transfer to other possible phases of the installation.
  • a third cutting tool L is arranged inside the tank E, configured to empty the bottom of the artichoke 1 when it is positioned with the clamp.
  • the milling operation is carried out with the artichoke 1 in contact with the antioxidant solution 2, thus preventing its oxidation.
  • Figs. 1 and 2a to 2d has been arranged in an upper part of tank E
  • Figs. 4, 5 and 6 can be seen (schematically) alternative embodiments for which it has a moving part that is a movable belt or chain in translation relative to a fixed part of the support structure B, along which a plurality of clamps A are fixed.
  • At least the parts of the machine proposed by the second aspect of the invention that must be immersed in the antioxidant solution 2 are made of a suitable material so as not to deteriorate due to being in contact with the antioxidant solution 2, such as stainless steel.
  • the tank E comprises, for an exemplary embodiment illustrated by Fig. 3, a first outlet K for evacuation by dragging of the remaining parts to said first exit K. Said dragging is carried out thanks to a current generating system comprised in the proposed machine, in order to generate a current directed towards said first exit K.
  • Fig. 3 it can be seen how said current generating system is a closed-circuit pumping system comprising pipes I that communicate an inlet ⁇ of the tank E with a second outlet I 2 thereof, through a hydraulic pump J.
  • the present invention concerns, in a third aspect, an installation for processing raw artichokes comprising a plurality of machines as proposed by the second aspect of the invention.
  • each of the closed circuit pumping systems of each tank E comprises a respective pump J individual.

Abstract

The method comprises bringing an antioxidant solution into contact with an artichoke during performance of the following steps: a) cutting the point and/or the stem of said artichoke, and b) removing the outer bracteae of the artichoke by acting externally thereon. The machine comprises: - releasable holding means for holding artichoke, - a first cutting tool (C) for cutting the point and/or stem of said artichoke, - a second tool (D) for removing the outer bracteae of the artichoke by acting externally thereon, and - arranged and operational feeding means for bringing said antioxidant solution (2) into contact with said artichoke when it is being processed by the first (C) and second (D) tools. The installation comprises a plurality of machines similar to the one proposed.

Description

Método, máquina e instalación para el procesado de alcachofas en crudo Method, machine and installation for raw artichoke processing
Sector de Ia técnicaTechnical sector
La presente invención concierne en general a un método, una máquina y una instalación para el procesado de alcachofas en crudo, con el fin de obtener fondos o corazones de alcachofa mediante unas correspondientes etapas de corte y conformado, y en particular a un método, una máquina y una instalación para el procesado de alcachofas en crudo que, con el fin de evitar Ia oxidación de Ia alcachofa, realizan o permiten realizar una puesta en contacto de una solución antioxidante con Ia alcachofa durante las etapas de corte y conformado.The present invention concerns in general a method, a machine and an installation for processing raw artichokes, in order to obtain funds or artichoke hearts by means of corresponding cutting and forming stages, and in particular a method, a machine and an installation for the processing of raw artichokes that, in order to avoid the oxidation of the artichoke, make or allow to make a contact of an antioxidant solution with the artichoke during the cutting and forming stages.
Estado de Ia técnica anteriorState of the prior art
Se conocen diferentes propuestas relativas a diversos métodos y máquinas para el tratamiento de alcachofas previamente cocidas o en crudo, algunas de las cuales se encuentran descritas en los siguientes documentos de patente que se citarán a continuación.Different proposals regarding various methods and machines for the treatment of previously cooked or raw artichokes are known, some of which are described in the following patent documents that will be cited below.
La patente WO-A-03041518 describe un método y una instalación para pelar y cortar alcachofas previamente cocidas y poder obtener su corazón. Las operaciones de corte se realizan al aire sobre Ia alcachofa ya cocida. Por otra parte Ia patente ES-A-2171130 concierne a una máquina para conformación y pelado de alcachofas tanto en crudo como cocidas. La propuesta hecha en dicha patente se basa en unas mejoras en las máquinas peladoras de alcachofas que cuentan con mordazas montadas sobre un plato movido por una cruz de malta de manera giratoria y discontinua para establecer sucesivos ciclos de trabajo en los que tienen lugar el posicionado manual de las alcachofas sobre las mordazas, el corte transversal de Ia alcachofa para obtener el fondo, así como el corte posterior del tallo de Ia alcachofa, el vaciado por fresado del fondo y el torneado exterior para darle Ia conformación definitiva, en tamaño y acabado al propio fondo de Ia alcachofa. En dicha propuesta las operaciones de corte, torneado y fresado se realizan al aire Io cual, especialmente cuando se tratan alcachofas crudas, provoca una oxidación de las mismas, Io cual redunda de manera muy negativa en Ia calidad del producto obtenido.WO-A-03041518 describes a method and installation for peeling and cutting previously cooked artichokes and obtaining its heart. The cutting operations are carried out in the air over the cooked artichoke. On the other hand, patent ES-A-2171130 concerns a machine for forming and peeling artichokes both raw and cooked. The proposal made in this patent is based on improvements in the artichoke peeling machines that have jaws mounted on a plate moved by a malt cross in a rotating and discontinuous manner to establish successive work cycles in which manual positioning takes place of the artichokes on the jaws, the cross section of the artichoke to obtain the bottom, as well as the subsequent cutting of the stem of the artichoke, the emptying by milling of the bottom and the external turning to give the final conformation, in size and finish to the own artichoke background. In this proposal the operations of cutting, turning and milling are carried out in the air, which, especially when treated Raw artichokes cause oxidation thereof, which results in a very negative way in the quality of the product obtained.
Una propuesta que enfoca e intenta evitar Ia oxidación de las alcachofas en crudo es Ia descrita en Ia solicitud de patente ES-A-2257179, Ia cual describe un procedimiento para el tratamiento de Ia alcachofa mínimamente procesada, o en IV gama, o gama referente al tratamiento de alcachofas frescas recién recolectadas a las cuales se les eliminan las brácteas externas, se cortan y se envasan. El procedimiento descrito en ES-A-2257179 incluye una etapa previa de refrigeración de Ia alcachofa entre 0 y 5o C, tras Io cual se eliminan rápidamente los tallos y brácteas externas que, para un ejemplo de realización, se realiza bajo unas condiciones ambientales concretas (temperatura entre 2 y 6 0C). Posteriormente se aplica un tratamiento con solución higienizante y otro con solución antioxidante (tal como ácido cítrico) a las alcachofas, pudiéndose cortar las alcachofas entre ambos tratamientos. Si bien dicho procedimiento mejora los resultados obtenidos en cuanto a Ia calidad del producto frente a otras propuestas convencionales, Ia máquina o instalación necesaria para llevarlo a cabo resulta compleja y costosa, necesitándose por ejemplo una cámara de refrigeración con un control muy preciso, así como Ia necesidad de realizar las operaciones de corte y eliminación de brácteas externas de manera muy rápida, antes que se caliente demasiado Ia alcachofa Io que provocaría su oxidación.A proposal that focuses and tries to avoid the oxidation of raw artichokes is that described in patent application ES-A-2257179, which describes a procedure for the treatment of minimally processed artichoke, or in the IV range, or reference range to the treatment of freshly collected fresh artichokes to which external bracts are removed, cut and packaged. The procedure described in ES-A-2257179 includes a previous stage of refrigeration of the artichoke between 0 and 5 o C, after which the external stems and bracts are quickly removed, which, for an embodiment, is performed under environmental conditions concrete (temperature between 2 and 6 0 C). Subsequently, a treatment with a sanitizing solution and another with an antioxidant solution (such as citric acid) are applied to the artichokes, being able to cut the artichokes between both treatments. Although this procedure improves the results obtained in terms of the quality of the product compared to other conventional proposals, the machine or installation necessary to carry it out is complex and expensive, requiring for example a cooling chamber with very precise control, as well as The need to perform the operations of cutting and removing external bracts very quickly, before the artichoke is heated too much, which would cause its oxidation.
Explicación de Ia invenciónExplanation of the invention
Es necesario ofrecer una alternativa al estado de Ia técnica que combata Ia oxidación de las alcachofas cuando son procesadas en crudo de una manera más eficaz, sencilla y menos costosa que Ia propuesta en ES-A-2257179.It is necessary to offer an alternative to the state of the art that combats the oxidation of artichokes when they are processed in a more efficient, simple and less expensive way than the one proposed in ES-A-2257179.
Para ello Ia presente invención concierne, en un primer aspecto, a un método para el procesado de alcachofas en crudo, que comprende: a) cortar una o ambas porciones de extremo de una alcachofa, incluyendo Ia punta y/o el tallo de Ia alcachofa, en función de si se desea obtener el fondo o el corazón de Ia alcachofa, b) eliminar al menos las brácteas externas de dicha alcachofa actuando externamente sobre Ia misma.For this, the present invention concerns, in a first aspect, a method for processing raw artichokes, comprising: a) cutting one or both end portions of an artichoke, including the tip and / or the stem of the artichoke , depending on whether you want to obtain the background or the heart of the artichoke, b) eliminate at least the external bracts of said artichoke acting externally on it.
A diferencia de los métodos convencionales el método propuesto por Ia invención comprende poner en contacto una solución antioxidante (tal como una solución cítrica) con dicha alcachofa durante como mínimo dichas etapas a) y b), y preferentemente también durante el tiempo transcurrido entre Ia realización de ambas etapas a) y b).Unlike conventional methods, the method proposed by the invention comprises contacting an antioxidant solution (such as a citrus solution) with said artichoke for at least said stages a) and b), and preferably also during the time elapsed between carrying out both stages a) and b).
En general dicha etapa b) no solamente comprende eliminar las brácteas externas, es decir pelar, sino que también comprende tornear exteriormente Ia alcachofa para obtener una conformación deseada.In general, said step b) not only comprises removing the external bracts, that is, peeling, but also comprises turning the artichoke externally to obtain a desired conformation.
Par un ejemplo de realización el método comprende llevar a cabo, también mientras se pone en contacto dicha solución antioxidante con Ia alcachofa, una etapa c) que comprende vaciar por fresado el fondo de Ia alcachofa.For an exemplary embodiment, the method comprises carrying out, also while said antioxidant solution is in contact with the artichoke, a step c) comprising emptying the bottom of the artichoke by milling.
Con el fin de llevar a cabo las etapas a) y b) (ó a), b) y c) si es el caso) sin que se mueva Ia alcachofa, el método comprende llevar a cabo dichas etapas con Ia alcachofa sujeta mediante unos medios de sujeción liberables, tale como unas pinzas o mordazas.In order to carry out steps a) and b) (or a), b) and c) if this is the case) without moving the artichoke, the method comprises carrying out said stages with the artichoke held by means of releasable fastening, tale like tweezers or jaws.
Para un ejemplo de realización el método propuesto comprende llevar a cabo dicha puesta en contacto de dicha solución antioxidante con dicha alcachofa mediante un proceso de vaporización o rociado.For an exemplary embodiment, the proposed method comprises carrying out said contacting of said antioxidant solution with said artichoke by means of a vaporization or spraying process.
Para un ejemplo de realización preferido el método comprende llevar a cabo Ia puesta en contacto de dicha solución antioxidante con dicha alcachofa mediante Ia inmersión de Ia alcachofa en dicha solución antioxidante.For a preferred embodiment, the method comprises carrying out the contact of said antioxidant solution with said artichoke by immersing the artichoke in said antioxidant solution.
Para un ejemplo de realización y con el fin de llevar a cabo dichas etapas a) y b) el método comprende sumergir unas respectivas herramientas de corte en Ia solución antioxidante previa, simultánea o posteriormente a Ia inmersión de Ia alcachofa.For an exemplary embodiment and in order to carry out said steps a) and b) the method comprises immersing respective cutting tools in the previous antioxidant solution, simultaneously or subsequently to the immersion of the artichoke.
Para otro ejemplo de realización el método comprende llevar a cabo Ia inmersión de Ia alcachofa en Ia solución antioxidante mediante Ia introducción de Ia alcachofa en un tanque que contiene a Ia solución antioxidante y a unas respectivas herramientas de corte adecuadas para llevar a cabo dichas etapas a) y 00227For another embodiment, the method comprises carrying out the immersion of the artichoke in the antioxidant solution by introducing the artichoke into a tank containing the antioxidant solution and respective cutting tools suitable for carrying out said steps a) Y 00227
4 b), de manera que Ia alcachofa durante su proceso de corte y conformación no está en contacto con el aire.4 b), so that the artichoke during its cutting and forming process is not in contact with the air.
Una vez Ia alcachofa ha sido procesada, es decir cortada y torneada (y si es el caso fresada) el método comprende sacar Ia alcachofa procesada de dicho tanque y, para un ejemplo de realización, enviarla a un mecanismo o cinta transportadora para su transporte hasta unas respectivas ubicaciones para realizar una o más etapas posteriores de procesado o tratamiento tales como: troceado, cocción, tratamiento con una solución higienizante, refrigeración, congelación y envasado, o una combinación de las mismas. Con el fin de evitar que Ia alcachofa procesada pueda oxidarse tras sacarla del tanque, el método comprende poner en contacto Ia solución antioxidante con Ia alcachofa procesada durante su transporte mediante dicho mecanismo o cinta transportadora y/o en etapas posteriores.Once the artichoke has been processed, that is, cut and turned (and if it is the case milled), the method comprises removing the processed artichoke from said tank and, for an example of embodiment, sending it to a mechanism or conveyor belt for transport to respective locations for performing one or more subsequent stages of processing or treatment such as: slicing, cooking, treatment with a sanitizing solution, refrigeration, freezing and packaging, or a combination thereof. In order to avoid that the processed artichoke can oxidize after removing it from the tank, the method comprises contacting the antioxidant solution with the processed artichoke during its transport by means of said mechanism or conveyor belt and / or in later stages.
Como deshecho del procesado de Ia alcachofa se producen unas partes sobrantes que quedan flotando en el tanque. Con el fin de eliminar dichas partes sobrantes el método propuesto por el primer aspecto de Ia presente invención comprende arrastrar hasta una salida del tanque a dichas partes sobrantes de Ia alcachofa procesada que flotan en Ia solución antioxidante, para su evacuación, mediante Ia generación de una corriente que las dirija hacia dicha salida. La presente invención concierne, en un segundo aspecto, a una máquina para el procesado de alcachofas en crudo, que comprende:As waste from the processing of the artichoke there are some spare parts that remain floating in the tank. In order to eliminate said leftover parts, the method proposed by the first aspect of the present invention comprises dragging said leftover parts of the processed artichoke that float in the antioxidant solution to an outlet of the tank, for its evacuation, by generating a current that directs them towards said exit. The present invention concerns, in a second aspect, a machine for processing raw artichokes, comprising:
- unos medios de sujeción liberables para sujetar una alcachofa,- releasable fastening means for holding an artichoke,
- una primera herramienta de corte configurada para cortar una o ambas porciones de extremo de una alcachofa sujeta por dichos medios de sujeción, incluyendo Ia punta y/o el tallo de Ia alcachofa, en función de si se desea obtener el fondo o el corazón de Ia alcachofa, y- a first cutting tool configured to cut one or both end portions of an artichoke held by said fastening means, including the tip and / or stem of the artichoke, depending on whether it is desired to obtain the bottom or heart of The artichoke, and
- una segunda herramienta configurada para eliminar como mínimo las brácteas externas de dicha alcachofa actuando externamente sobre Ia misma.- a second tool configured to eliminate at least the external bracts of said artichoke acting externally on it.
A diferencia de las máquinas convencionales Ia máquina propuesta por el segundo aspecto de Ia invención comprende unos medios de suministro de una solución antioxidante dispuestos y operables para poner en contacto dicha solución antioxidante con Ia alcachofa cuando está siendo procesada por dicha primera y segunda herramientas.Unlike conventional machines, the machine proposed by the second aspect of the invention comprises means for supplying an antioxidant solution arranged and operable to contact said solution. antioxidant with the artichoke when it is being processed by said first and second tools.
En general dicha segunda herramienta es una segunda herramienta de corte configurada para tornear exteriormente Ia alcachofa sujeta por dichos medios de sujeción, para obtener una conformación deseada.In general said second tool is a second cutting tool configured to externally turn the artichoke held by said fastening means, to obtain a desired conformation.
De manera preferida los medios de suministro están dispuestos y son operables para poner en contacto Ia solución antioxidante con Ia alcachofa entre el final de Ia actuación sobre Ia misma de dicha primera herramienta de corte y el inicio de Ia actuación sobre Ia misma de dicha segunda herramienta de corte, o viceversa, de manera que Ia alcachofa esté en contacto con Ia solución antioxidante también entre ambas operaciones de corte.Preferably, the supply means are arranged and operable to bring the antioxidant solution into contact with the artichoke between the end of the operation on said first cutting tool and the beginning of the action on said second tool. cutting, or vice versa, so that the artichoke is in contact with the antioxidant solution also between both cutting operations.
Para un ejemplo de realización los medios de suministro comprenden uno o más dispositivos vaporizadores o rociadores de Ia solución antioxidante cuyo campo de acción cubre como mínimo las zonas de actuación de dichas primera y segunda herramientas de corte.For an exemplary embodiment, the delivery means comprise one or more vaporizing or spraying devices of the antioxidant solution whose field of action covers at least the areas of operation of said first and second cutting tools.
Para un ejemplo de realización preferido los medios de suministro comprenden un tanque contenedor de Ia solución antioxidante, estando los medios de sujeción liberables asociados a unos medios de transporte para transportar a Ia alcachofa hasta el interior de dicho tanque sumergiéndola en Ia solución antioxidante.For a preferred embodiment, the delivery means comprise a container tank of the antioxidant solution, the releasable fastening means being associated with transport means for transporting the artichoke into said tank by immersing it in the antioxidant solution.
Para un ejemplo de realización dichas primera y segunda herramientas de corte se encuentran ambas sumergidas en el interior de dicho tanque, aunque para otro ejemplo de realización más preferido las primera y segunda herramientas de corte se encuentran fijadas a unos respectivos brazos móviles configurados y operables para sumergir a las primera y segunda respectivas herramientas de corte en Ia solución antioxidante contenida en el tanque, previa, simultánea o posteriormente a Ia inmersión de Ia alcachofa.For an exemplary embodiment said first and second cutting tools are both submerged inside said tank, although for another more preferred embodiment the first and second cutting tools are fixed to respective mobile arms configured and operable for immerse the first and second respective cutting tools in the antioxidant solution contained in the tank, before, simultaneously or subsequently to the immersion of the artichoke.
La máquina propuesta por el segundo aspecto de Ia invención también comprende, para otro ejemplo de realización, una tercera herramienta de corte configurada para vaciar por fresado el fondo de Ia alcachofa, estando los medios de suministro dispuestos y siendo operables para poner en contacto Ia solución antioxidante con Ia alcachofa cuando está siendo procesada por dicha tercera herramienta de corte.The machine proposed by the second aspect of the invention also comprises, for another embodiment, a third cutting tool configured to empty the artichoke bottom by milling, the supply means being arranged and operable to bring the solution into contact. antioxidant with the artichoke when it is being processed by said third cutting tool.
Los medios de sujeción y de transporte están adaptados para transportar aThe fastening and transport means are adapted to transport
Ia alcachofa una vez procesada hasta sacarla de dicho tanque. La máquina propuesta también comprende, con el fin de actuar una vez sacada Ia alcachofa procesada del tanque, unos medios de expulsión dispuestos y adaptados para colaborar con los medios de sujeción liberables para expulsar a Ia alcachofa procesada a un mecanismo o cinta transportadora para su transporte hasta unas respectivas ubicaciones para realizar uno o más tratamientos posteriores, tales como: troceado, cocción, tratamiento con una solución higienizante, refrigeración, congelación y envasado, o una combinación de las mismas.The artichoke once processed until removed from said tank. The proposed machine also comprises, in order to act once the processed artichoke is removed from the tank, ejection means arranged and adapted to collaborate with the releasable fastening means to expel the processed artichoke to a mechanism or conveyor belt for transport to respective locations to perform one or more subsequent treatments, such as: slicing, cooking, treatment with a sanitizing solution, refrigeration, freezing and packaging, or a combination thereof.
Los medios de suministro están dispuestos y son operables para poner en contacto Ia solución antioxidante con Ia alcachofa procesada durante su transporte mediante dicho mecanismo o cinta transportadora y/o en etapas posteriores, para evitar así que Ia alcachofa procesada pueda oxidarse tras haber sido cortada y conformada.The supply means are arranged and are operable to put the antioxidant solution in contact with the processed artichoke during its transport by means of said mechanism or conveyor belt and / or in later stages, so as to avoid that the processed artichoke can oxidize after being cut and conformed
Un tercer aspecto de Ia presente invención concierne a una instalación para el procesado de alcachofas en crudo, que comprende una pluralidad de máquinas como Ia propuesta por el segundo aspecto de Ia invención, las cuales como se deduce de Ia explicación anterior, están adaptadas para llevar a cabo el método propuesto por el primer aspecto de Ia presente invención.A third aspect of the present invention concerns an installation for processing raw artichokes, which comprises a plurality of machines as proposed by the second aspect of the invention, which, as can be deduced from the previous explanation, are adapted to carry carrying out the method proposed by the first aspect of the present invention.
Breve descripción de los dibujos Las anteriores y otras ventajas y características se comprenderán más plenamente a partir de Ia siguiente descripción detallada de unos ejemplos de realización con referencia a los dibujos adjuntos, que deben tomarse a título ilustrativo y no limitativo, en los que:Brief description of the drawings The foregoing and other advantages and characteristics will be more fully understood from the following detailed description of some examples of embodiment with reference to the attached drawings, which should be taken by way of illustration and not limitation, in which:
Ia Fig. 1 es una vista en alzado que muestra a nivel esquemático Ia máquina propuesta por el segundo aspecto de Ia invención para un ejemplo de realización, incluyendo un tanque mostrado en sección contenedor de una solución antioxidante, las Figs. 2a a 2d son unas respectivas vistas en alzado lateral de Ia máquina ilustrada por Ia Fig. 1 , ilustrando cada una de ellas las diferentes etapas o fases del método propuesto por el primer aspecto de Ia invención, indicadas en Ia Fig. 1 ,Fig. 1 is an elevation view showing schematically the machine proposed by the second aspect of the invention for an example of embodiment, including a tank shown in the container section of an antioxidant solution, Figs. 2a to 2d are respective side elevation views of the machine illustrated by Fig. 1, each illustrating the different stages or phases of the method proposed by the first aspect of the invention, indicated in Fig. 1,
Ia Fig. 3 es una vista análoga a Ia de Ia Fig. 1 , pero para otro ejemplo de realización que incorpora un sistema de bombeo en circuito cerrado del tanque, las Figs. 4, 5 y 6 son unas respectivas vistas en alzado que muestran a nivel esquemático Ia máquina propuesta por el segundo aspecto de Ia invención para tres respectivos ejemplos de realización alternativos al de Ia Fig. 1, yFig. 3 is a view analogous to that of Fig. 1, but for another embodiment that incorporates a closed circuit pumping system of the tank, Figs. 4, 5 and 6 are respective elevation views showing schematically the machine proposed by the second aspect of the invention for three respective alternative embodiments to that of Fig. 1, and
Ia Fig. 7 es una vista en alzado lateral de Ia máquina ilustrada por Ia Fig. 6, seccionada a través de un plano que deja ver una tercera herramienta de corte o fresa.Fig. 7 is a side elevation view of the machine illustrated by Fig. 6, sectioned through a plane showing a third cutting tool or milling cutter.
Descripción detallada de unos ejemplos de realizaciónDetailed description of some embodiments
En las figuras adjuntas se ilustran diferentes ejemplos de realización de Ia máquina propuesta por el segundo aspecto de Ia invención, y descrita en el apartado de explicación de Ia invención de una manera más genérica.In the attached figures different examples of embodiment of the machine proposed by the second aspect of the invention are illustrated, and described in the explanation section of the invention in a more generic way.
En todos los ejemplos de realización ilustrados los medios de suministro de solución antioxidante comprenden un tanque E contenedor de Ia solución antioxidante 2, las primera y segunda herramientas D de corte se encuentran ambas sumergidas en el interior del tanque E, y los medios de sujeción liberables están asociados a unos medios de transporte para transportar a Ia alcachofa 1 hasta el interior del tanque E sumergiéndola en Ia solución antioxidante 2. En todas las figuras adjuntas puede verse cómo los medios de sujeción liberables comprenden varias pinzas o mordazas, una de ellas indicada con Ia referencia A, las cuales están adaptadas para ejercer un primer y un segundo grados de fuerza de cierre entre mandíbulas para sujetar a Ia alcachofa 1 , respectivamente, con menor o mayor fuerza. Para otro ejemplo de realización no ilustrado los medios de sujeción liberables comprenden solamente una de dichas pinzas o mordazas. Por lo que se refiere a los medios de transporte citados anteriormente, éstos son para los ejemplos de realización ilustrados una estructura de soporte B con como mínimo una parte móvil donde se encuentra fijadas las pinzas, y en concreto Ia pinza A para desplazarse, junto con una alcachofa 1 sustentada entre sus mandíbulas con dicho primer grado de fuerza, hasta el interior del tanque E sumergiendo a Ia alcachofa 1 en Ia solución antioxidante 2.In all the illustrated embodiments, the antioxidant solution supply means comprise a tank E container of the antioxidant solution 2, the first and second cutting tools D are both submerged inside the tank E, and the releasable fastening means they are associated with transport means for transporting the artichoke 1 to the interior of the tank E immersing it in the antioxidant solution 2. In all the attached figures it can be seen how the releasable fastening means comprise several clamps or jaws, one of them indicated with Reference A, which are adapted to exert a first and second degree of closing force between jaws to hold the artichoke 1, respectively, with less or greater force. For another exemplary embodiment, the releasable fastening means comprise only one of said clamps or jaws. As regards the transport means mentioned above, these are for the illustrated embodiments a support structure B with at least one moving part where the clamps are fixed, and in particular the clamp A to move, together with an artichoke 1 supported between its jaws with said first degree of force, to the interior of the tank E immersing the artichoke 1 in the antioxidant solution 2.
Haciendo referencia a Ia Fig. 1, en ella puede verse cómo Ia estructura de soporte B es un soporte giratorio B (movido por ejemplo por una cruz de malta) con las pinzas A dispuestas radialmente respecto al centro de dicho soporte giratorio B. En dicha Fig. 1 aparecen indicadas cuatro fases, correspondientes a unas respectivas etapas de procesamiento de Ia alcachofa 1 , donde Ia pinza 1 que sustenta a Ia alcachofa adopta diferentes posiciones, cada una de las cuales ilustrada respectivamente de manera consecutiva por una de las cuatro figuras 2a a 2d. Por Io que se refiere a Ia fase 1 (ver Fig. 1 y 2a), en ella se introduce Ia alcachofa sobre Ia pinza A, en general manualmente, aunque Ia invención también contempla que pueda llevarse a cabo de manera automática. Para su colocación uniforme Ia máquina comprende un tope G que limita Ia profundidad de inserción quedando todas las alcachofas 1 posicionadas en Ia pinza A por igual, de manera que todos los corazones (o fondos) de alcachofa 1 conformados sean de iguales dimensiones. Para colocar Ia alcachofa 1 en Ia pinza A simplemente hay que vencer un pequeño muelle que lleva Ia pinza A, responsable de ejercer el mencionado primer grado de fuerza de cierre.Referring to Fig. 1, it can be seen how the support structure B is a rotating support B (moved for example by a malt cross) with the clamps A arranged radially with respect to the center of said rotating support B. In said Fig. 1 four phases are indicated, corresponding to respective processing stages of the artichoke 1, where the clamp 1 that supports the artichoke adopts different positions, each of which respectively illustrated consecutively by one of the four figures 2a to 2d. As regards the phase 1 (see Figs. 1 and 2a), the artichoke is introduced on the clamp A, generally manually, although the invention also contemplates that it can be carried out automatically. For its uniform placement, the machine comprises a stop G that limits the depth of insertion, leaving all the artichokes 1 positioned in the clamp A equally, so that all the shaped hearts (or bottoms) of artichoke 1 are of equal dimensions. To place the artichoke 1 in the clamp A simply have to overcome a small spring that carries the clamp A, responsible for exercising the said first degree of closing force.
Una vez finalizada Ia fase 1 , Ia estructura de soporte B, en este caso circular, es movida hasta introducirla en el tanque E, por mediación de unos medios de accionamiento correspondientes (no ilustrados) a los cuales Ia parte móvil de Ia estructura de soporte B está conectada mecánicamente, y que están adaptados para desplazarla siguiendo un movimiento discontinuo.Once the phase 1 is finished, the support structure B, in this case circular, is moved until it is introduced into the tank E, by means of corresponding drive means (not shown) to which the moving part of the support structure B is mechanically connected, and they are adapted to move it following a discontinuous movement.
Una vez en dicha fase 2 (ver Fig. 1 y 2b) se Ie ejerce presión a Ia pinza A mecánica o reumáticamente hasta alcanzar el comentado segundo grado de fuerza de cierre, estando Ia alcachofa bajo Ia solución antioxidante impregnándose de ésta para que en el siguiente movimiento del soporte B quede al alcance de Ia primera herramienta de corte C, y ésta pueda actuar sobre Ia alcachofa 1 para cortarle Ia punta y el tallo.Once in said phase 2 (see Figs. 1 and 2b), pressure is applied to the clamp A mechanically or rheumatically until reaching the said second degree of closing force, the artichoke being under the antioxidant solution impregnated with it. so that in the next movement of the support B it is within reach of the first cutting tool C, and this can act on the artichoke 1 to cut the tip and the stem.
En Ia Fig. 2b puede verse cómo Ia primera herramienta de corte C comprende para el ejemplo de realización ¡lustrado comprende dos hojas de corte Ci, C2 (en concreto dos discos de corte d, C2), dispuestas sustancialmente en paralelo distanciadas una distancia predeterminada, estando dichas hojas de corte Ci, C2 instaladas de manera fija en el interior del tanque E en una posición en relación a Ia pinza A que posibilita el corte transversal de Ia punta y el tallo de Ia alcachofa 1 cuando Ia pinza A, que Ia sustenta entre sus mandíbulas con dicho segundo grado de fuerza, es desplazada (fase 2) entre las hojas de corte Ci, C2. Al realizar el corte bajo Ia disolución se evita Ia oxidación en el momento del corte.In Fig. 2b it can be seen how the first cutting tool C comprises, for the exemplary embodiment, polishing comprises two cutting blades Ci, C 2 (specifically two cutting discs d, C 2 ), arranged substantially in parallel spaced a predetermined distance, said cutting blades Ci, C 2 installed fixedly in the tank E at a position relative to the clamp a which enables the cross section of the tip and the stem of Ia artichoke being 1 when the clamp a , which supports between its jaws with said second degree of force, is displaced (phase 2) between the blades Ci, C 2 . When cutting under dissolution, oxidation is avoided at the time of cutting.
Haciendo ahora referencia a las Figs. 1 y 2c se describe a continuación a Ia fase 3, en Ia cual siguiendo con Ia pinza A muy apretada con dicho segundo grado de fuerza de cierre, en el siguiente movimiento del soporte o plato B Ia alcachofa 1 a Ia cual se Ie ha cortado el tallo y Ia punta, es decir el corazón de alcachofa 1 , se posiciona delante de Ia segunda herramienta de corte D, Ia cual tal y como se aprecia en Ia Fig. 2c comprende un dispositivo de conformado con una primera cuchilla Di sustancialmente paralela al eje central longitudinal de Ia alcachofa 1 cuando se encuentra sumergida en el tanque E, y una segunda cuchilla D2 dispuesta oblicua respecto a dicha línea central, estando dicho dispositivo de conformado instalado de manera móvil en el interior del tanque E para, mediante unos movimientos de translación, adoptar una posición de no interferencia (posición ilustrada en Ia Fig. 2c) para dejar pasar a Ia pinza A con Ia alcachofa 1 sustentada entre sus mandíbulas con el segundo grado de fuerza, y una posición de interferencia a adoptar para penetrar en Ia alcachofa 1 cuando se encuentra posicionada enfrente de las primera y segunda cuchillas D1, D2, y mediante un movimiento giratorio hacer girar al dispositivo de conformado respecto a un eje paralelo a Ia línea central de Ia alcachofa 1 para tornear a Ia alcachofa 1 , girando a gran velocidad y aplicando un movimiento de translación para penetrar en Ia alcachofa 1 cortando las hojas y conformando el corazón según Ia disposición de las cuchillas Di, D2, las cuales son regulables en altura para obtener un corazón de alcachofa 1 deseado resultante de dicho torneado, tras Io cual las partes sobrantes suben a Ia superficie donde en un principio quedan flotando.Referring now to Figs. 1 and 2c described below to phase 3, in which following with clamp A very tight with said second degree of closing force, in the next movement of the support or plate B the artichoke 1 to which it has been cut the stem and the tip, that is to say the artichoke heart 1, is positioned in front of the second cutting tool D, which, as seen in Fig. 2c, comprises a forming device with a first blade Di substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the artichoke 1 when it is submerged in the tank E, and a second blade D 2 arranged obliquely with respect to said central line, said forming device being installed mobilely inside the tank E for, by means of movements of translation, adopt a non-interference position (position illustrated in Fig. 2c) to allow the clamp A to pass with the artichoke 1 supported between its jaws with the second degree of force, and a p interference position to be adopted to penetrate the artichoke 1 when it is positioned in front of the first and second blades D 1 , D 2 , and by means of a rotating movement, rotate the forming device with respect to an axis parallel to the central line of the Ia artichoke 1 for turning to the artichoke 1, rotating at high speed and applying a translational movement to penetrate the artichoke 1 by cutting the leaves and forming the heart according to the arrangement of the Di, D 2, blades which are adjustable in height to obtain a desired artichoke heart 1 resulting from such turning, after which the excess parts Io rise to the surface where initially remain floating.
Los movimientos de Ia segunda herramienta de corte D pueden llevarse a cabo mecánica o neumáticamente.The movements of the second cutting tool D can be carried out mechanically or pneumatically.
En Ia Fig. 2d puede verse cómo los medios de expulsión de Ia máquina propuesta comprenden un dispositivo de empuje H instalado de manera móvil en una zona fuera del tanque E para, mediante unos movimientos de translación, adoptar una posición de no interferencia (posición ilustrada en Ia Fig. 2d) para dejar pasar a Ia pinza A con Ia alcachofa 1 sustentada entre sus mandíbulas, y una posición de interferencia a adoptar para empujar a Ia alcachofa 1 procesada, o corazón de alcachofa 1, cuando se encuentra posicionada enfrente de dicho dispositivo de empuje H sustentada por las mandíbulas de Ia pinza A con el primer grado de fuerza (debido a que Ia misma se ha aflojado desde el segundo grado de fuerza) con el fin de realizar dicha expulsión de Ia alcachofa 1 procesada a dicho mecanismo o cinta transportadora o a otro sistema, donde cae el corazón de Ia alcachofa 1 empapado de solución antioxidante para su traslación a otras posibles fases de Ia instalación.In Fig. 2d it can be seen how the ejection means of the proposed machine comprise a pushing device H mobilely installed in an area outside the tank E to, by means of translational movements, adopt a non-interference position (illustrated position in Fig. 2d) to let the clamp A pass with the artichoke 1 held between its jaws, and an interference position to be adopted to push the processed artichoke 1, or artichoke heart 1, when it is positioned in front of said pushing device H supported by the jaws of the clamp A with the first degree of force (because it has been loosened since the second degree of force) in order to perform said ejection of the processed artichoke 1 to said mechanism or Conveyor belt or another system, where the heart of the artichoke 1 soaked in antioxidant solution falls for its transfer to other possible phases of the installation.
En el ejemplo de realización ilustrado por Ia Fig. 7 puede verse cómo en el interior del tanque E se encuentra dispuesta una tercera herramienta de corte L configurada para vaciar por fresado el fondo de Ia alcachofa 1 , cuando Ia misma se encuentra posicionada con Ia pinza A encarada con dicha tercera herramienta de corte o fresa L, llevándose a cabo Ia operación de fresado con Ia alcachofa 1 en contacto con Ia solución antioxidante 2, evitando así su oxidación. En las Figs. 1 y 2a a 2d se ha dispuesto en una parte superior del tanque EIn the exemplary embodiment illustrated by Fig. 7, it can be seen how a third cutting tool L is arranged inside the tank E, configured to empty the bottom of the artichoke 1 when it is positioned with the clamp. When faced with said third cutting tool or milling cutter L, the milling operation is carried out with the artichoke 1 in contact with the antioxidant solution 2, thus preventing its oxidation. In Figs. 1 and 2a to 2d has been arranged in an upper part of tank E
(el cual está relleno de solución antioxidante 2 hasta un nivel N) de una protección antisalpicaduras F.(which is filled with antioxidant solution 2 up to a level N) of a splash protection F.
Por Io que se refiere a Ia estructura de soporte B, en las Figs. 4, 5 y 6 pueden verse (a nivel esquemático) ejemplos de realización alternativos para los que ésta tiene una parte móvil que es una cinta o cadena desplazable en translación respecto a una parte fija de Ia estructura de soporte B, a Io largo de Ia cual se hallan fijadas una pluralidad de pinzas A.As regards the support structure B, in Figs. 4, 5 and 6 can be seen (schematically) alternative embodiments for which it has a moving part that is a movable belt or chain in translation relative to a fixed part of the support structure B, along which a plurality of clamps A are fixed.
En todas las figuras adjuntas puede verse cómo las diferentes estructuras de soporte B allí ilustradas, están en parte sumergidas en Ia solución antioxidante 2, auque para otros ejemplos de realización no ilustrados Ia estructura de soporte B no está en contacto con Ia solución antioxidante, como por ejemplo sería el caso en el que los brazos de las pinzas A fuesen más largos de los ilustrados.In all the attached figures it can be seen how the different support structures B illustrated therein are partly submerged in the antioxidant solution 2, although for other examples not illustrated the support structure B is not in contact with the antioxidant solution, such as for example it would be the case in which the arms of the tweezers A were longer than those illustrated.
En cualquier caso como mínimo las partes de Ia máquina propuesta por el segundo aspecto de Ia invención que deban sumergirse en Ia solución antioxidante 2 están fabricadas de un material adecuado para no deteriorarse por estar en contacto con Ia solución antioxidante 2, tal como acero inoxidable.In any case at least the parts of the machine proposed by the second aspect of the invention that must be immersed in the antioxidant solution 2 are made of a suitable material so as not to deteriorate due to being in contact with the antioxidant solution 2, such as stainless steel.
Con el fin de arrastrar fuera el tanque E a las partes sobrantes de Ia alcachofa 1 procesada que flotan en Ia solución antioxidante 2, el tanque E comprende, para un ejemplo de realización ilustrado por Ia Fig. 3, una primera salida K para su evacuación por arrastre de las partes sobrantes hasta dicha primera salida K. Dicho arrastre se lleva a cabo gracias a un sistema generador de corrientes comprendido en Ia máquina propuesta, con el fin de generar una corriente dirigida hacia dicha primera salida K.In order to drag out the tank E to the remaining parts of the processed artichoke 1 that float in the antioxidant solution 2, the tank E comprises, for an exemplary embodiment illustrated by Fig. 3, a first outlet K for evacuation by dragging of the remaining parts to said first exit K. Said dragging is carried out thanks to a current generating system comprised in the proposed machine, in order to generate a current directed towards said first exit K.
En Ia Fig. 3 puede verse cómo dicho sistema generador de corrientes es un sistema de bombeo de circuito cerrado que comprende unas tuberías I que comunican una entrada \^ del tanque E con una segunda salida I2 del mismo, a través de una bomba hidráulica J.In Fig. 3 it can be seen how said current generating system is a closed-circuit pumping system comprising pipes I that communicate an inlet ^ of the tank E with a second outlet I 2 thereof, through a hydraulic pump J.
La presente invención concierne, en un tercer aspecto, a una instalación para el procesado de alcachofas en crudo que comprende una pluralidad de máquinas como las propuestas por el segundo aspecto de Ia invención.The present invention concerns, in a third aspect, an installation for processing raw artichokes comprising a plurality of machines as proposed by the second aspect of the invention.
En dicha instalación, para un ejemplo de realización los sistemas de bombeo de circuito cerrado de todos los tanques E comparten una bomba común y para otro ejemplo de realización cada uno de los sistemas de bombeo de circuito cerrado de cada tanque E comprende una respectiva bomba J individual. Un experto en Ia materia podría introducir cambios y modificaciones en los ejemplos de realización descritos sin salirse del alcance de Ia invención según está definido en las reivindicaciones adjuntas. In said installation, for one embodiment the closed circuit pumping systems of all the tanks E share a common pump and for another embodiment each of the closed circuit pumping systems of each tank E comprises a respective pump J individual. A person skilled in the art could introduce changes and modifications in the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

Reivindicaciones Claims
1.- Método para el procesado de alcachofas en crudo, del tipo que comprende: a) cortar al menos una porción de extremo de una alcachofa, b) eliminar al menos las brácteas externas de dicha alcachofa actuando externamente sobre Ia misma, caracterizado porque comprende poner en contacto una solución antioxidante con dicha alcachofa durante al menos dichas etapas a) y b). 1.- Method for processing raw artichokes, of the type comprising: a) cutting at least an end portion of an artichoke, b) removing at least the external bracts of said artichoke acting externally on it, characterized in that it comprises contacting an antioxidant solution with said artichoke for at least said stages a) and b).
2.- Método según Ia reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque comprende poner en contacto dicha solución antioxidante con dicha alcachofa también durante el tiempo transcurrido entre Ia realización de ambas etapas a) y b).2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises contacting said antioxidant solution with said artichoke also during the time between the realization of both stages a) and b).
3.- Método según Ia reivindicación 1 ó 2, caracterizado porque dicha etapa b) comprende tornear exteriormente dicha alcachofa para obtener una conformación deseada.3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said step b) comprises turning said artichoke outwardly to obtain a desired conformation.
4.- Método según Ia reivindicación 1, 2 ó 3, caracterizado porque dicha etapa a) comprende cortar ambas porciones de extremo de dicha alcachofa, incluyendo Ia punta y el tallo de Ia alcachofa.4. Method according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that said step a) comprises cutting both end portions of said artichoke, including the tip and stem of the artichoke.
5.- Método según Ia reivindicación 1 , 2, 3 ó 4, caracterizado porque comprende llevar a cabo dicha puesta en contacto de dicha solución antioxidante con dicha alcachofa mediante un proceso de vaporización o rociado.5. Method according to claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, characterized in that it comprises carrying out said contact of said antioxidant solution with said artichoke by means of a vaporization or spraying process.
6.- Método según Ia reivindicación 1 , 2, 3 ó 4, caracterizado porque comprende llevar a cabo dicha puesta en contacto de dicha solución antioxidante con dicha alcachofa mediante Ia inmersión de Ia alcachofa en dicha solución antioxidante.6. Method according to claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, characterized in that it comprises carrying out said contact of said antioxidant solution with said artichoke by immersing the artichoke in said antioxidant solution.
7.- Método según Ia reivindicación 6, caracterizado porque para llevar a cabo dichas etapas a) y b) comprende sumergir unas respectivas herramientas de corte en Ia solución antioxidante previa, simultánea o posteriormente a Ia inmersión de Ia alcachofa. 7. Method according to claim 6, characterized in that to carry out said steps a) and b) comprises immersing respective cutting tools in the previous antioxidant solution, simultaneously or subsequently to the immersion of the artichoke.
8.- Método según Ia reivindicación 6, caracterizado porque comprende llevar a cabo dicha inmersión de dicha alcachofa en dicha solución antioxidante mediante Ia introducción de Ia alcachofa en un tanque que contiene a Ia solución antioxidante y a unas respectivas herramientas de corte adecuadas para llevar a cabo dichas etapas a) y b), de manera que Ia alcachofa durante su proceso de corte y conformación no está en contacto con el aire. 8. Method according to claim 6, characterized in that it comprises carrying out said immersion of said artichoke in said antioxidant solution by The introduction of the artichoke into a tank containing the antioxidant solution and respective cutting tools suitable for carrying out said steps a) and b), so that the artichoke during its cutting and forming process is not in contact with the air.
9.- Método según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado porque comprende llevar a cabo, también mientras se pone en contacto dicha solución antioxidante con Ia alcachofa, una etapa c) que comprende vaciar por fresado el fondo de dicha alcachofa.9. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it also comprises carrying out said antioxidant solution with the artichoke, a step c) comprising emptying the bottom of said artichoke by milling.
10.- Método según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado porque dichas etapas a), b) ó a), b) y c) se realizan con Ia alcachofa sujeta mediante unos medios de sujeción liberables.10. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said steps a), b) or a), b) and c) are performed with the artichoke held by releasable fastening means.
11.- Método según Ia reivindicación 8, caracterizado porque comprende sacar Ia alcachofa procesada de dicho tanque.11. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that it comprises removing the processed artichoke from said tank.
12.- Método según Ia reivindicación 11, caracterizado porque comprende enviar a Ia alcachofa procesada a un mecanismo o cinta transportadora para su transporte hasta unas respectivas ubicaciones para realizar al menos una etapa posterior de procesado o tratamiento incluyendo al menos una etapa del grupo que comprende las siguientes etapas: troceado, cocción, tratamiento con una solución higienizante, refrigeración, congelación y envasado, o una combinación de las mismas.12. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that it comprises sending the processed artichoke to a mechanism or conveyor belt for transport to respective locations to perform at least one subsequent stage of processing or treatment including at least one stage of the group comprising the following stages: slicing, cooking, treatment with a sanitizing solution, refrigeration, freezing and packaging, or a combination thereof.
13.- Método según Ia reivindicación 12, caracterizado porque comprende poner en contacto dicha solución antioxidante con Ia alcachofa procesada durante su transporte mediante dicho mecanismo o cinta transportadora y/o en etapas posteriores. 13. Method according to claim 12, characterized in that it comprises contacting said antioxidant solution with the processed artichoke during its transport by means of said mechanism or conveyor belt and / or in later stages.
14.- Método según Ia reivindicación 8, caracterizado porque comprende arrastrar hasta una salida de dicho tanque a las partes sobrantes de Ia alcachofa procesada que flotan en Ia solución antioxidante, para su evacuación, mediante Ia generación de una corriente dirigida al menos hacia dicha salida.14. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that it comprises dragging to an outlet of said tank the remaining parts of the processed artichoke that float in the antioxidant solution, for its evacuation, by generating a current directed at least towards said exit .
15.- Máquina para el procesado de alcachofas en crudo, del tipo que comprende: - unos medios de sujeción liberables para sujetar al menos una alcachofa15.- Machine for processing raw artichokes, of the type comprising: - releasable fastening means to hold at least one artichoke
(D,(D,
- una primera herramienta de corte (C) configurada para cortar al menos una porción de extremo de una alcachofa (1) sujeta por dichos medios de sujeción, y - una segunda herramienta (D) configurada para eliminar al menos las brácteas externas de dicha alcachofa (1) actuando externamente sobre Ia misma, caracterizada porque comprende unos medios de suministro de una solución antioxidante (2) dispuestos y operables para poner en contacto dicha solución antioxidante (2) con dicha alcachofa (1) cuando está siendo procesada por dicha primera (C) y segunda herramientas (D).- a first cutting tool (C) configured to cut at least an end portion of an artichoke (1) held by said fastening means, and - a second tool (D) configured to remove at least the external bracts of said artichoke (1) acting externally on it, characterized in that it comprises means for supplying an antioxidant solution (2) arranged and operable to contact said antioxidant solution (2) with said artichoke (1) when it is being processed by said first ( C) and second tools (D).
16.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 15, caracterizada porque dicha segunda herramienta (D) es una segunda herramienta de corte (D) configurada para tornear exteriormente dicha alcachofa (1) sujeta por dichos medios de sujeción, para obtener una conformación deseada. 16. Machine according to claim 15, characterized in that said second tool (D) is a second cutting tool (D) configured to externally turn said artichoke (1) held by said fastening means, to obtain a desired conformation.
17.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 15 ó 16, caracterizada porque dichos medios de suministro están dispuestos y son operables para poner en contacto dicha solución antioxidante (2) con dicha alcachofa (1) entre el final de Ia actuación sobre Ia misma de dicha primera herramienta de corte (C) y el inicio de Ia actuación sobre Ia misma de dicha segunda herramienta de corte (D), o viceversa. 17. Machine according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that said supply means are arranged and operable to put said antioxidant solution (2) in contact with said artichoke (1) between the end of the action on said first one. cutting tool (C) and the start of the action on said second cutting tool (D), or vice versa.
18.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 15 ó 16, caracterizada porque dicha primera herramienta de corte (C) está configurada para cortar ambas porciones de extremo de dicha alcachofa (1), incluyendo Ia punta y el tallo de Ia alcachofa (1).18. Machine according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that said first cutting tool (C) is configured to cut both end portions of said artichoke (1), including the tip and stem of the artichoke (1).
19.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 15, 16, 17 ó 18, caracterizada porque dichos medios de suministro comprenden al menos un dispositivo vaporizador o rociador de dicha solución antioxidante (2) cuyo campo de acción cubre al menos las zonas de actuación de dichas primera y segunda herramientas (D) de corte.19. Machine according to claim 15, 16, 17 or 18, characterized in that said delivery means comprise at least one vaporizer or spray device of said antioxidant solution (2) whose field of action covers at least the areas of action of said first and second cutting tools (D).
20.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 15, 16, 17 ó 18, caracterizada porque dichos medios de suministro comprenden un tanque (E) contenedor de dicha solución antioxidante (2). 20. Machine according to claim 15, 16, 17 or 18, characterized in that said supply means comprise a tank (E) container of said antioxidant solution (2).
21.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 20, caracterizada porque dichos medios de sujeción liberables están asociados a unos medios de transporte para transportar a dicha alcachofa (1) hasta el interior de dicho tanque (E) sumergiéndola en Ia solución antioxidante (2).21. Machine according to claim 20, characterized in that said releasable fastening means are associated with transport means for transporting said artichoke (1) to the interior of said tank (E) immersing it in the antioxidant solution (2).
22.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 21 , caracterizada porque dichas primera y segunda herramientas (D) de corte se encuentran ambas sumergidas en el interior de dicho tanque (E).22. Machine according to claim 21, characterized in that said first and second cutting tools (D) are both submerged inside said tank (E).
23.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 21 , caracterizada porque dichas primera y segunda herramientas (D) de corte se encuentran fijadas a unos respectivos brazos móviles configurados y operables para sumergir a las primera y segunda respectivas herramientas de corte en Ia solución antioxidante (2) contenida en el tanque (E), previa, simultánea o posteriormente a Ia inmersión de Ia alcachofa (1).23. Machine according to claim 21, characterized in that said first and second cutting tools (D) are fixed to respective mobile arms configured and operable to immerse the first and second respective cutting tools in the antioxidant solution (2) contained in the tank (E), before, simultaneously or after the immersion of the artichoke (1).
24.- Máquina según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 15 a 23, caracterizada porque comprende una tercera herramienta de corte (L) configurada para vaciar por fresado el fondo de dicha alcachofa (1), estando dichos medios de suministro dispuestos y siendo operables para poner en contacto dicha solución antioxidante (2) con Ia alcachofa (1) cuando está siendo procesada por dicha tercera herramienta de corte.24. Machine according to any one of claims 15 to 23, characterized in that it comprises a third cutting tool (L) configured to empty the bottom of said artichoke (1), said supply means being arranged and operable to put in said antioxidant solution (2) contact with the artichoke (1) when it is being processed by said third cutting tool.
25.- Máquina según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 21 , 22 ó 23, caracterizada porque dichos medios de sujeción y de transporte están adaptados para transportar a Ia alcachofa (1) una vez procesada hasta sacarla de dicho tanque (E).25. Machine according to any of claims 21, 22 or 23, characterized in that said fastening and transport means are adapted to transport the artichoke (1) once processed until it is removed from said tank (E).
26.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 25, caracterizada porque comprende unos medios de expulsión dispuestos y adaptados para colaborar con los medios de sujeción liberables para expulsar a Ia alcachofa (1) procesada a un mecanismo o cinta transportadora para su transporte hasta unas respectivas ubicaciones para realizar al menos un tratamiento posterior, incluyendo al menos un tratamiento del grupo que comprende los siguientes tratamientos: troceado, cocción, tratamiento con una solución higienizante, refrigeración, congelación y envasado, o una combinación de las mismas. 26.- Machine according to claim 25, characterized in that it comprises ejection means arranged and adapted to collaborate with the releasable securing means for expelling the processed artichoke (1) to a mechanism or conveyor belt for transport to respective locations for carry out at least one subsequent treatment, including at least one treatment of the group comprising the following treatments: slicing, cooking, treatment with a sanitizing solution, refrigeration, freezing and packaging, or a combination thereof.
27.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 26, caracterizada porque dichos medios de suministro están dispuestos y son operables para poner en contacto dicha solución antioxidante (2) con Ia alcachofa (1) procesada durante su transporte mediante dicho mecanismo o cinta transportadora y/o en etapas posteriores.27.- Machine according to claim 26, characterized in that said supply means are arranged and operable to bring said contact antioxidant solution (2) with the artichoke (1) processed during transport by means of said mechanism or conveyor belt and / or in later stages.
28.- Máquina según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 20 a 23, caracterizado porque dicho tanque (E) comprende al menos una primera salida (K) y porque Ia máquina comprende un sistema generador de corrientes para Ia generación de una corriente dirigida al menos hacia dicha primera salida (K) con el fin de arrastrar a las partes sobrantes de Ia alcachofa (1) procesada que flotan en Ia solución antioxidante (2) hasta dicha primera salida (K) del tanque (E) para su evacuación.28. Machine according to any of claims 20 to 23, characterized in that said tank (E) comprises at least a first outlet (K) and that the machine comprises a current generating system for generating a current directed at least towards said first outlet (K) in order to drag the remaining parts of the processed artichoke (1) that float in the antioxidant solution (2) to said first outlet (K) of the tank (E) for evacuation.
29.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 28, caracterizada porque dicho sistema generador de corrientes es un sistema de bombeo de circuito cerrado que comprende unas tuberías (I) que comunican una entrada (IO del tanque (E) con una segunda salida (I2) del mismo, a través de al menos una bomba hidráulica (J).29. Machine according to claim 28, characterized in that said current generating system is a closed circuit pumping system comprising pipes (I) that communicate an inlet (IO of the tank (E) with a second outlet (I 2 ) thereof, through at least one hydraulic pump (J).
30.- Máquina según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 15 a 29, caracterizada porque dichos medios de sujeción liberables comprenden al menos unas pinzas (A) o mordazas adaptadas para ejercer al menos un primer y un segundo grados de fuerza de cierre entre mandíbulas para sujetar a Ia alcachofa (1), respectivamente, con menor o mayor fuerza.30. Machine according to any of claims 15 to 29, characterized in that said releasable clamping means comprise at least some clamps (A) or jaws adapted to exert at least a first and a second degree of closing force between jaws to hold The artichoke (1), respectively, with less or greater force.
31.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 30 cuando depende de Ia 21 , caracterizada porque dichos medios de transporte son una estructura de soporte (B) móvil, al menos en parte, estando dicha pinza (A), que es al menos una, fijada a dicha parte móvil de dicha estructura de soporte (B) para desplazarse, junto con una alcachofa (1) sustentada entre sus mandíbulas con dicho primer grado de fuerza, hasta el interior del tanque (E) sumergiendo a Ia alcachofa (1) en Ia solución antioxidante (2). 31.- Machine according to claim 30 when it depends on Ia 21, characterized in that said transport means are a mobile support structure (B), at least in part, said clamp (A), which is at least one, fixed to said mobile part of said support structure (B) to move, together with an artichoke (1) supported between its jaws with said first degree of force, to the interior of the tank (E) submerging the artichoke (1) in the solution antioxidant (2).
32.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 31 , caracterizada porque dicha primera herramienta de corte (C) comprende dos hojas de corte dispuestas sustancialmente en paralelo distanciadas una distancia predeterminada, estando dichas hojas de corte instaladas de manera fija en el interior del tanque (E) en una posición en relación a dicha pinza (A), que es al menos una, que posibilita el corte transversal de Ia punta y el tallo de Ia alcachofa (1) cuando Ia pinza (A), que Ia sustenta entre sus mandíbulas con dicho segundo grado de fuerza, es desplazada entre las hojas de corte.32.- Machine according to claim 31, characterized in that said first cutting tool (C) comprises two cutting blades arranged substantially in parallel spaced a predetermined distance, said cutting blades being fixedly installed inside the tank (E) in a position in relation to said clamp (A), which is at least one, which allows the transverse cutting of the tip and the stem of the artichoke (1) when the clamp (A), which supports between its jaws with said second degree of force, is displaced between the cutting blades.
33.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 31 ó 32, caracterizada porque dicha segunda herramienta de corte (D) comprende un dispositivo de conformado con al menos una primera cuchilla (Di) sustancialmente paralela al eje central longitudinal de Ia alcachofa (1) cuando se encuentra sumergida en el tanque (E), y una segunda cuchilla (D2) dispuesta oblicua respecto a dicha línea central, estando dicho dispositivo de conformado instalado de manera móvil en el interior del tanque (E) para, mediante unos movimientos de translación, adoptar al menos una posición de no interferencia para dejar pasar a Ia pinza (A) con Ia alcachofa (1) sustentada entre sus mandíbulas con el segundo grado de fuerza, y una posición de interferencia a adoptar para penetrar en Ia alcachofa (1) cuando se encuentra posicionada enfrente de las primera y segunda cuchillas (Di, D2), y mediante un movimiento giratorio hacer girar al dispositivo de conformado respecto a un eje paralelo a Ia línea central de Ia alcachofa (1) para tornear a Ia alcachofa (1).33. Machine according to claim 31 or 32, characterized in that said second cutting tool (D) comprises a forming device with at least one first blade (Di) substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the artichoke (1) when it is found submerged in the tank (E), and a second blade (D 2 ) disposed obliquely with respect to said central line, said forming device being installed mobilely inside the tank (E) to, by means of translational movements, adopt at least one non-interference position to allow the clamp (A) to pass with the artichoke (1) held between its jaws with the second degree of force, and an interference position to be adopted to penetrate the artichoke (1) when It is positioned in front of the first and second blades (Di, D 2 ), and by means of a rotating movement, rotate the forming device with respect to an axis parallel to the central line of Ia a Artichoke (1) to turn to the artichoke (1).
34.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 33, caracterizada porque dichas primera y segunda cuchillas (Di, D2) son regulables al menos en altura para obtener un corazón de alcachofa (1) deseado resultante de dicho torneado.34. Machine according to claim 33, characterized in that said first and second blades (Di, D 2 ) are adjustable at least in height to obtain a desired artichoke heart (1) resulting from said turning.
35.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 31 , 32 ó 33 cuando dependen de Ia 26, caracterizada porque dichos medios de expulsión comprenden un dispositivo de empuje (H) instalado de manera móvil en una zona fuera del tanque (E) para, mediante unos movimientos de translación, adoptar al menos una posición de no interferencia para dejar pasar a Ia pinza (A) con Ia alcachofa (1) sustentada entre sus mandíbulas, y una posición de interferencia a adoptar para empujar a Ia alcachofa (1) procesada, o corazón de alcachofa (1), cuando se encuentra posicionada enfrente de dicho dispositivo de empuje (H) sustentada por las mandíbulas de Ia pinza (A) con el primer grado de fuerza, con el fin de realizar dicha expulsión de Ia alcachofa (1) procesada a dicho mecanismo o cinta transportadora. 35.- Machine according to claim 31, 32 or 33 when they depend on Ia 26, characterized in that said ejection means comprise a pushing device (H) movably installed in an area outside the tank (E) for, by means of movements of translation, adopt at least one non-interference position to let the clip (A) pass with the artichoke (1) held between its jaws, and an interference position to be adopted to push the processed artichoke (1), or heart of artichoke (1), when it is positioned in front of said pushing device (H) supported by the jaws of the clamp (A) with the first degree of force, in order to perform said ejection of the processed artichoke (1) to said mechanism or conveyor belt.
36.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 31 a 35, caracterizada porque dicha estructura de soporte (B) es un soporte giratorio (B). 36. Machine according to claim 31 to 35, characterized in that said support structure (B) is a rotating support (B).
37.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 31 a 35, caracterizada porque Ia parte móvil de dicha estructura de soporte (B) es una cinta o cadena desplazable en translación respecto a una parte fija de Ia estructura de soporte (B).37. Machine according to claim 31 to 35, characterized in that the mobile part of said support structure (B) is a belt or chain movable in translation with respect to a fixed part of the support structure (B).
38.- Máquina según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 31 a 37, caracterizada porque comprende una pluralidad de dichas pinzas (A) fijadas a Io largo de Ia parte móvil de Ia estructura de soporte (B).38. Machine according to any of claims 31 to 37, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of said clamps (A) fixed along the moving part of the support structure (B).
39.- Máquina según Ia reivindicación 38 cuando depende de Ia 36, caracterizada porque dichas pinzas (A) están dispuestas radialmente respecto al centro de dicho soporte giratorio (B). 39. Machine according to claim 38 when it depends on Ia 36, characterized in that said clamps (A) are arranged radially with respect to the center of said rotating support (B).
40.- Máquina según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 31 a 39, caracterizada porque Ia parte móvil de Ia estructura de soporte (B) está conectada mecánicamente a unos medios de accionamiento adaptados para desplazarla siguiendo un movimiento discontinuo.40. Machine according to any of claims 31 to 39, characterized in that the mobile part of the support structure (B) is mechanically connected to drive means adapted to move it following a discontinuous movement.
41.- Instalación para el procesado de alcachofas en crudo, caracterizada porque comprende una pluralidad de máquinas según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 15 a 40.41.- Installation for processing raw artichokes, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of machines according to any of claims 15 to 40.
42.- Instalación según Ia reivindicación 41 , caracterizada porque los sistemas de bombeo de circuito cerrado de todos los tanques (E) comparten una bomba común. 42.- Installation according to claim 41, characterized in that the closed circuit pumping systems of all the tanks (E) share a common pump.
43.- Instalación según Ia reivindicación 41 , caracterizada porque cada uno de los sistemas de bombeo de circuito cerrado de cada tanque (E) comprende una respectiva bomba (J) individual. 43.- Installation according to claim 41, characterized in that each of the closed circuit pumping systems of each tank (E) comprises a respective individual pump (J).
PCT/ES2008/000227 2007-04-13 2008-04-11 Method, machine and installation for processing raw artichokes WO2008125710A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
ESP200700990 2007-04-13
ES200700990A ES2304887B1 (en) 2007-04-13 2007-04-13 METHOD, MACHINE AND INSTALLATION FOR PROCESSING RAW ARTICHOKES.

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WO2008125710A1 true WO2008125710A1 (en) 2008-10-23

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PCT/ES2008/000227 WO2008125710A1 (en) 2007-04-13 2008-04-11 Method, machine and installation for processing raw artichokes

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ES (1) ES2304887B1 (en)
PE (1) PE20090008A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2008125710A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ES2390896B1 (en) * 2009-05-26 2013-10-16 Michael Scattini METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVING FROSTED DAMAGED ARTICHOKES
CN109429738B (en) * 2018-11-14 2023-05-12 黑龙江省炎鼎机械设备制造有限公司 Fresh corn husker

Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2073006A (en) * 1935-04-20 1937-03-09 Herbert E Gray Method of processing artichokes
US3075634A (en) * 1958-02-03 1963-01-29 Raymond C Schwacofer Machine for handling artichokes
FR2116868A5 (en) * 1970-12-10 1972-07-21 Baptistal Pierre Prepn of receptacles from vegetables - partic from artichoke bottoms
FR2582484A1 (en) * 1985-06-04 1986-12-05 Felix Alexandre Method for preserving vegetables cut into pieces
ES2137869A1 (en) * 1997-10-31 1999-12-16 Alfonso Isabel Linana Process for cleaning, bleaching and disinfecting food products, and device therefor
ES2219170A1 (en) * 2003-02-19 2004-11-16 Conservas Alguazas, S.L. Method is for preparing products of artichokes preserved in appropriate containers
ES2223301A1 (en) * 2003-08-14 2005-02-16 Universidad De La Rioja Lengthening of fresh artichoke useful life comprises successive treatment in e.g. sodium hypochlorite based solution and an acids mixture
ES2257179A1 (en) * 2004-10-01 2006-07-16 Consejo Superior Investig. Cientificas Method of preparing ready-to-eat or minimally-processed artichoke (cynara scolymus l.) and minimally-processed artichokes thus obtained

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2073006A (en) * 1935-04-20 1937-03-09 Herbert E Gray Method of processing artichokes
US3075634A (en) * 1958-02-03 1963-01-29 Raymond C Schwacofer Machine for handling artichokes
FR2116868A5 (en) * 1970-12-10 1972-07-21 Baptistal Pierre Prepn of receptacles from vegetables - partic from artichoke bottoms
FR2582484A1 (en) * 1985-06-04 1986-12-05 Felix Alexandre Method for preserving vegetables cut into pieces
ES2137869A1 (en) * 1997-10-31 1999-12-16 Alfonso Isabel Linana Process for cleaning, bleaching and disinfecting food products, and device therefor
ES2219170A1 (en) * 2003-02-19 2004-11-16 Conservas Alguazas, S.L. Method is for preparing products of artichokes preserved in appropriate containers
ES2223301A1 (en) * 2003-08-14 2005-02-16 Universidad De La Rioja Lengthening of fresh artichoke useful life comprises successive treatment in e.g. sodium hypochlorite based solution and an acids mixture
ES2257179A1 (en) * 2004-10-01 2006-07-16 Consejo Superior Investig. Cientificas Method of preparing ready-to-eat or minimally-processed artichoke (cynara scolymus l.) and minimally-processed artichokes thus obtained

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PE20090008A1 (en) 2009-02-03
ES2304887A1 (en) 2008-10-16
ES2304887B1 (en) 2009-05-21

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