WO2022162376A1

WO2022162376A1 - Dispensing system and container for same

Info

Publication number: WO2022162376A1
Application number: PCT/GB2022/050227
Authority: WO
Inventors: Shane Mcgill; Steven Garsden
Original assignee: Mcgill Technology Limited
Priority date: 2021-01-28
Filing date: 2022-01-28
Publication date: 2022-08-04
Also published as: GB202101215D0; GB2605752A; GB2605752B; EP4284185A1; JP2024505473A

Abstract

A system for dispensing a frozen or semi-frozen confection. The system comprises: a container containing frozen or semi-frozen confection, the container including or defining an outlet for dispensing frozen or semi-frozen confection from the container; and a dispensing apparatus having a support for supporting the container, and a movable part for applying a load to the container for a dispensing operation. The container includes a cover extending over the outlet prior to a dispensing operation. The cover is configured to break open under load from frozen or semi-frozen confection within the container generated during normal operation of the movable part for a dispensing operation, to allow frozen or semi-frozen confection to be dispensed through the outlet.

Description

DISPENSING SYSTEM AND CONTAINER FOR SAME

FIELD

The present teachings relate to a dispensing system for dispensing a frozen or semi-frozen confection from a container having an outlet through which the confection is to be dispensed. The present teachings also relate to a container for use in a dispensing system.

BACKGROUND

It is known from previous applications, such as WO96/01224 and WO94/13154, to provide containers from which food product, particularly ice cream or other frozen or semi-frozen confections, e.g. sorbet, frozen yoghurt, can be extruded through an outlet in the container via the action of a dispensing machine. The dispensing machine extrudes product through the outlet of the container by reducing the internal volume of the container, e.g. by deforming the container or using a piston inside the container.

Conventionally, the containers are provided with a protective sticker placed over the outlet in order to protect the product from the outside environment. This protective sticker needs to be removed prior to the container being placed inside the dispensing machine and the product being dispensed. It is common for users to forget to remove the protective sticker from the container. If the protective sticker is not removed prior to a dispensing operation, the sticker will prevent the product from being dispensed. Thus, during the dispensing operation, the presence of the sticker will inhibit the extrusion of product through the outlet, causing the pressure within the container to increase. Over pressurisation in the container may cause the container to rupture, leading to the product within the container going to waste. Additionally or alternatively, an actuation mechanism for the dispensing operation, e.g. for controlling movement of a piston intended to act on the container, may become damaged due to the increased resistance of the container to changes to its internal volume.

The present invention aims to overcome or mitigate the problems associated with the prior art.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect, there is provided a system for dispensing a frozen or semifrozen confection. The system comprises: a container containing frozen or semi-frozen confection, the container including or defining an outlet for dispensing frozen or semifrozen confection from the container; and a dispensing apparatus having a support for supporting the container, and a movable part for applying a load to the container for a dispensing operation. The container includes a cover extending over the outlet prior to a dispensing operation. The cover is configured to break open under load from frozen or semi-frozen confection within the container generated during normal operation of the movable part for a dispensing operation, to allow frozen or semi-frozen confection to be dispensed through the outlet.

The cover extending over the outlet helps to retain the confection within the container during storage and protects the confection from external contaminants. The cover is configured (i.e. specifically designed) to break open during a normal dispensing operation (e.g. at normal dispensing pressures exerted by the dispensing apparatus). When the confection is to be dispensed, the dispensing apparatus can extrude the confection from the container for consumption without the need for the cover to be detached.

This is advantageous, since a user of the dispensing apparatus does not need to remove the cover prior to dispensing the confection, and is thus one less process step for the user to perform. Further, the apparatus does not require any type of sensor to sense a feature of the cover to determine whether the cover has been removed from the container prior to dispensing.

The use of a 'break-open' cover, i.e. a cover specifically designed to break open under a desired load (e.g. so as to burst, rupture, split, tear or the like), and thereby allow the frozen or semi-frozen confection to be dispensed through the cover, via the outlet, also makes the system suitable for automated use, e.g. wherein location of the container in the support is automated, so that a user does not need to manually position the container in the support. The sealed container can be stored locally, e.g. proximal the support (such as in a refrigerated housing of the dispensing apparatus), and automatically delivered to the support (e.g. in response to a selection or input command on a user interface of the dispensing apparatus).

The use of a 'break-open' cover for the outlet also obviates the risk of an unremoved prior art cover being inadvertently dispensed with the product from the container (or falling off the container), eliminating the risk of such a cover being swallowed by a consumer.

In exemplary embodiments, the 'break-open' cover comprises a weakened region, which has a lower breaking strength relative to the remainder of the cover such that the weakened region breaks open during a dispensing operation.

The cover may define first and second portions. The first portion may be secured to the container, e.g. remote from or outboard of the outlet. The second portion may be inboard of the first portion and unsecured directly to the container. The second portion may overlie the outlet and be configured to break open during the dispensing operation. The first portion may define an annulus proximal (optionally, concentric with) the outlet.

The annulus may be secured to the container.

The first portion of the cover anchors the cover to the body of the container. Moreover, the first portion provides a counter force to load applied to the cover via the frozen or semi-frozen confection.

The second portion may comprise a weakened region, which has a lower breaking strength relative to the remainder of the second portion such that the weakened region breaks open during the dispensing operation.

The weakened region may have a lower breaking strength than the first portion.

Advantageously, the weakened region helps to ensure that the second portion of the cover breaks open in a predictable and consistent manner.

The weakened region may comprise at least one line of weakness.

The at least one line of weakness may be formed as a continuous or perforated partial cut. The partial cut may extend part way through a thickness of the second portion.

The weakened region may comprise a plurality of lines of weakness. The weakened region may comprise three or more lines of weakness. The weakened region may comprise five or more lines of weakness. The lines of weakness may be arranged to extend radially outward from within the second portion.

Advantageously, the lines of weakness help to ensure that the second portion of the cover breaks open in a predictable and consistent manner.

The lines of weakness may extend from a common point within the second portion.

By arranging the lines of weakness such that they extend from a common point, a single opening may be formed in the cover when the confection breaks through the second portion, resulting in a single stream of confection being dispensed through the cover.

The lines of weakness may be arranged as a uniformly spaced radial array relative to the common point. The lines of weakness may be equally radially spaced about an axis through the common point.

The lines of weakness may form an asterisk or star shape. The lines of weakness may extend from the common point to a boundary between the first portion and the second portion of the cover.

The cover may define a plurality of tabs. Each tab may be partially defined by two neighbouring lines of weakness and joined to the first portion. Each tab may be configured to move away from the body when the weakened region breaks open during the dispensing operation.

This provides an opening in the cover surrounding the outlet, to allow the confection to pass through the cover relatively unimpeded.

Each tab may be configured to move away from the body about a fold line. The fold lines of neighbouring tabs may define a fold boundary surrounding the outlet.

The fold boundary may be polygonal.

The cover may be of a multi-layer structure, having a first layer and a second layer. The second layer may include the first portion and the second portion. The first layer may be arranged to overlie at least the weakened region of said second portion.

Advantageously, the first layer provides an additional barrier between the outlet and the external environment, which aids in preventing food product contained within the body from passing through the cover, and aids in preventing external contaminants from passing through the cover. This is particularly important for embodiments in which the second layer includes lines of weakness.

The first layer and the second layer may each include one or more lines of weakness. The one or more lines of weakness on the first layer may be offset from the one or more lines of weakness on the second layer.

Providing both the first layer and the second layer with one or more lines of weakness helps to ensure that the cover breaks open in a consistent manner during a dispensing operation. Moreover, offsetting the one or more lines of weakness on the first layer from the one or more lines of weakness on the second layer inhibits food product from passing through the cover unintentionally, since the lack of communication between the lines of weakness on the first and second layers helps to ensure no passages through the cover are present.

The first layer may be of smaller area than the second layer. The first layer may be arranged such that it is surrounded by an area of the second layer in plan view. This allows the first portion of the second layer to be secured to the body of the container around a region of the container body which surrounds the outlet.

The first layer may include a plurality of first lines of weakness. Said first lines of weakness may form an asterisk or star shape. The second layer may include a plurality of second lines of weakness. Said second lines of weakness may form an asterisk or star shape.

This helps to ensure that a single orifice is formed when the cover breaks open, which aids in inhibiting the food product from contacting the cover once the cover has broken open during a dispensing operation.

The first layer may be formed from a paper material, such as rice paper or the like. The second layer may be formed from a plastics material.

Advantageously, forming the second layer from a plastics material may help to strongly and robustly secure the cover to the container, and thus help to inhibit portions of the cover from detaching from the container during a dispensing operation and becoming entrained with the dispensed food product.

Advantageously, by forming the first layer from rice paper or an alternative edible paper material, no harm will come to a consumer of the dispensed food product if a portion of the first layer breaks off from the remainder of the cover during a dispensing operation, becomes entrained with the dispensed food product and is eaten by the consumer.

The first layer may be arranged to overlie the outlet and be interposed between at least a portion of the second layer and the container. The cover may comprise a third layer secured to a surface of the second layer facing away from the first layer.

The third layer may be arranged to overlie a weakened region (e.g. one or more lines of weakness) on the second layer.

Advantageously, the third layer helps to inhibit the lines of weakness from breaking or becoming damaged unintentionally. Further, the third layer helps to inhibit food product contained within the body of the container from passing through the cover via the lines of weakness, unintentionally.

The first and/or third layer may be formed from a paper material, such as rice paper or the like.

Forming the third layer from a paper material helps to ensure that the third layer breaks open by bursting, rupturing, splitting, tearing or the like during a dispensing operation, rather than stretching for example. The second layer may be formed from a plastics material.

The third layer may be of a material having a substantially uniform breaking strength.

Forming the third layer from a material having a substantially uniform breaking strength helps to ensure that the third layer does not include any weakened regions that are more susceptible to breaking relative to the remainder of the third layer.

The third layer may include one or more lines of weakness.

Providing the third layer with one or more lines of weakness helps to ensure that the third layer breaks open in a consistent and predictable manner during a dispensing operation.

A boundary between the first portion and the second portion of the cover may be radially spaced from the outlet.

This may allow for an opening to be formed in the cover during the dispensing operation which has a larger area than the outlet. As such, the confection passing through the cover may be less impeded relative to if the opening formed in the cover was coincident with the outlet.

The first portion may be secured to a body of the container, for example by an adhesive and/or via heat sealing.

The first portion may be secured to a base of the body of the container, where the outlet is formed in said base. The base of the container may define a flat profile.

Securing the first portion to a flat base of the container may simplify the operation of securing the cover to the container, in contrast to if the base had a rounded profile.

A perimeter of the cover may be substantially coincident with a perimeter of the base. The perimeter of the cover may correspond to a perimeter of the second layer of the cover.

Arranging the cover such that the perimeter thereof is coincident with the perimeter of the base may help to maximise the potential contact surface area between the cover and the base, helping to ensure a strong connection between the cover and the container.

The cover may be secured to the container exclusively via the first portion of the cover.

Securing the cover to the container exclusively via the first portion ensures that the second portion is unsecured directly to the container. This helps the second portion to move away from the outlet when broken open during a dispensing operation, to allow the confection to pass through the cover relatively unimpeded. Moreover, such a configuration of the cover may help to simplify the operation of securing the cover to the container.

An area of the second portion of the cover may be in the range of 50% to 75% of an area of the first portion of the cover; preferably in the range of 55% to 70%; more preferably in the range of 60% to 65%. For example, the area of the second portion may be approximately 62% of the area of the first portion.

Configuring the areas of the first and second portions of the cover as such may help to ensure that the area of the first portion is large enough to sufficiently anchor the cover to the body of the container, whilst ensuring that the area of the second portion is large enough to overlie a sufficiently sized outlet of the container.

A perimeter of the first layer may be coincident with a perimeter of the second portion of the second layer, such that the area of the second portion is substantially identical to an area of the first layer.

Such a configuration of the first and second layers may help to ensure that the first layer is large enough to completely overlie the weakened region of the second layer. As such, the first layer helps to prevent frozen or semi-frozen confection contained in the container from passing through the cover via the outlet unintentionally.

An effective area of the outlet may be in the range of 45% to 65% of an area of the second portion of the cover; preferably in the range of 50% to 60%; more preferably in the range of 50% to 55%. For example, the effective area of the outlet may be approximately 54% of the area of the second portion.

Configuring the effective area of the outlet and the area of the second portion of the cover as such helps to ensure that the second portion of the cover can completely overlie the outlet, whilst ensuring that the outlet is sufficiently sized to dispense frozen or semiconfection therethrough without requiring too high a dispensing pressure.

Moreover, since the second portion is not directly secured to the container, such a configuration results in the cover not being directly secured to an area of the body of the container surrounding the outlet. During a dispensing operation, this provides an opening in the cover of greater area than and surrounding the outlet, to allow the confection to pass through the cover relatively unimpeded.

An effective area of the outlet may be in the range of 20% to 45% of an area of the first portion of the cover; preferably in the range of 25% to 40%; more preferably in the range of 30% to 35%. For example, the effective area of the outlet may be approximately 33% of the area of the first portion.

During a dispensing operation, the force acting on the cover by the dispensing frozen or semi-frozen confection may be dependent on the area of the outlet; i.e. the larger the area of the outlet, the higher the force imparted by the frozen or semi-frozen confection on the cover. Such a configuration of the effective area of the outlet and the area of the first portion of the cover has been found to provide sufficient contact surface area between the first portion and the body of the container to anchor the cover to the container during a dispensing operation, whilst ensuring that the outlet is sufficiently sized to dispense frozen or semi-confection therethrough without requiring too high a dispensing pressure.

The container may comprise a portion which is deformable or movable in the direction of the outlet, for reducing volume within the container, in order to urge frozen or semi-frozen confection to be extruded through the outlet.

The movable part of the dispensing apparatus may be configured to deform or move said portion of the container, when the container is located on the support.

The outlet may be formed in a base of the container. The support may have a seating intended to support the base during a dispensing operation.

The dispensing apparatus may comprise an actuation mechanism operable to move the movable part. During a dispensing operation, the actuation mechanism may be configured to move the movable part to pressurise the frozen or semi-frozen confection in the container to a break pressure, the break pressure being sufficient to at least partially break open the cover against the support. Thereafter, the actuation mechanism may be configured to move the moveable part to pressurise the frozen or semi-frozen confection in the container to a dispensing pressure, the dispensing pressure being sufficient to dispense the frozen or semi-frozen confection through the outlet. The break pressure may be higher than the dispensing pressure.

Advantageously, this may allow the cover to be fully broken up prior to the frozen or semifrozen confection being dispensed through the outlet and the cover. As such, the frozen or semi-frozen confection may contact the cover to a lesser extent whilst being dispensed.

The actuation mechanism may be configured to move the movable part at a first speed towards the container until the frozen or semi-frozen confection is pressurised to the break pressure. Thereafter, the actuation mechanism may be configured to move the moveable part at a second speed towards the container such that the frozen or semi-frozen confection is pressurised to the dispensing pressure. The first speed may be greater than the second speed.

Advantageously, moving the movable part at a higher first speed towards the container until the frozen or semi-frozen confection is pressurised to the break pressure may help to reduce the time it takes for the dispensing operation to be performed.

The actuation mechanism may be configured to temporarily cease movement of the moveable part relative to the container between moving the moveable part at the first speed and the second speed.

During the dispensing operation, the actuation mechanism may be configured to move the moveable part:

(i) from a first position, in which the moveable part is spaced from the container, to a second position in which the moveable part initially contacts the container;

(ii) from the second position to a third position, wherein the frozen or semi-frozen confection in the container is pressurised to the break pressure when the moveable part is in the third position; and

(iii) from the third position to a fourth position, wherein substantially all of the frozen or semi-frozen is dispensed from the container when the moveable part in in the fourth position.

The frozen or semi-frozen confection in the container may be pressurised to the dispensing pressure as the moveable part moves from the third position to the fourth position.

The actuation mechanism may move the moveable part via a variable speed electric motor.

The actuation mechanism may be configured to temporarily cease movement of the moveable part relative to the container when the moveable part is in the third position.

Advantageously, this may help to ensure that the frozen or semi-frozen confection is not extruded through the outlet and the cover at too high a dispensing pressure, which may cause spillage of the food product.

The actuation mechanism may be configured to determine when the confection is pressurised to the break pressure via measurement of a voltage of the variable speed electric motor.

Advantageously, using a voltage of the variable speed electric motor to determine the break pressure negates the need for direct sensing of the pressure of the food product within the container. The dispensing apparatus may comprise a breaking means operable to apply a breaking force to a surface of the cover facing away from the outlet when the container is supported by the support. Said breaking force may be sufficient to at least partially break the cover.

The breaking means may at least partially break open the cover prior to a dispensing operation. As such, it is not necessary for the confection to break open the cover during a dispensing operation. Advantageously, this means that the load applied by the moveable part is not required to be high enough for the confection to break the cover. As such, lower loads can be applied by the moveable part to the container, potentially resulting in lower dispensing pressures. Moreover, the cover can potentially be made stronger.

The breaking means may comprise a gas jet apparatus including a nozzle in communication with a supply of pressurised gas. The gas jet apparatus may be operable to direct a jet of pressurised gas from the nozzle towards the surface of the cover facing away from the outlet, the jet of pressurised gas applying the breaking force.

A gas jet apparatus advantageously allows the cover to be broken open without requiring any additional moving parts. Moreover, the gas jet apparatus is able to break open the cover without the need of a solid object contacting the cover. Since a solid object may potentially be unhygienic, the gas jet apparatus may break open the cover in a more hygienic manner.

The breaking means may comprise a pressing member including a pressing surface. The dispensing apparatus may comprise a retaining means configured to inhibit movement of the container in a direction away from the support when the container is supported by the support. The pressing member may be movable between a first position in which the pressing surface is spaced from the surface of the cover facing away from the outlet and a second position in which the pressing surface is in contact with the surface of the cover facing away from the outlet. In the second position, the pressing member may apply the breaking force.

A pressing member provides a simple and consistent mechanism for breaking open the cover. Advantageously, an at least partially hemispherical pressing surface may help to ensure that the cover breaks open from the centre outwards as the pressing surface applies the breaking force to the cover. This may reduce the likelihood that fragments of the cover will break off from the remainder of the cover and/or the base of the container as the breaking force is being applied.

The pressing surface may be at least partially hemispherical. The container may comprise one or more outlet tabs at least partially defining the outlet. Each outlet tab may be connected to the body via a hinged connector. Each outlet tab may be configured to rotate away from the body about its respective hinged connector when the confection applies a load to the outlet tab during the dispensing operation.

Advantageously, the one or more outlet tabs may help to break open the cover during a dispensing operation.

The one or more outlet tabs and the one or more hinged connectors may be integrally formed with the body via a moulding process.

This helps to ensure that the outlet tabs are securely attached to the body.

Each outlet tab may be substantially triangular.

Advantageously, a vertex of a triangular outlet tab may be able to apply a greater pressure to the cover during a dispensing operation, and may therefore be more effective at breaking open the cover.

Each hinged connector may have a thickness which is less than a thickness of the base.

Each hinged connector may have an arch-shaped profile.

Providing each hinged connector with a thickness which less than a thickness of the base and/or providing the hinged connector with an arch-shaped profile may allow the respective outlet tab to rotate more easily about the hinged connector relative to the base.

According to a second aspect, there is provided a system for dispensing a frozen or semifrozen confection. The system comprises: a container containing frozen or semi-frozen confection, the container including or defining an outlet for dispensing frozen or semifrozen confection from the container, wherein the container includes a cover extending over the outlet prior to a dispensing operation; and a dispensing apparatus comprising: a support arranged to support the container; a movable part for applying a load to the container; and an actuation mechanism operable to move the moveable part relative to the container. During a dispensing operation the actuation mechanism is configured to move the moveable part:

(ii) from the second position to a third position, wherein the cover is configured to at least partially break open under load from frozen or semi-frozen confection within the container generated by a load applied by the moveable part in the third position to the container, to allow frozen or semi-frozen confection to be dispensed through the outlet; and

The cover extending over the outlet helps to retain the confection within the container during storage and protects the confection from external contaminants. The cover is configured (i.e. specifically designed) to break open during a normal dispensing operation. When the confection is to be dispensed, the dispensing apparatus can extrude the confection from the container for consumption without the need for the cover to be detached.

The use of a break open cover also makes the system suitable for automated use, e.g. wherein location of the container in the support is automated, so that a user does not need to manually position the container in the support. The sealed container can be stored locally, e.g. proximal the support (such as in a refrigerated housing of the dispensing apparatus), and automatically delivered to the support (e.g. in response to a selection or input command on a user interface of the dispensing apparatus).

The actuation mechanism may be configured to move the movable part at a first speed between the first position and the third position, and a second speed between the third position and the fourth position. The first speed may be greater than the second speed.

Advantageously, moving the movable part at a higher first speed between the first position and the third position may help to reduce the time it takes for the dispensing operation to be performed.

The actuation mechanism may be configured to temporarily cease movement of the moveable part relative to the container when the moveable part is in the third position. According to a third aspect, there is provided a system for filling a container with a frozen or semi-frozen confection comprising: a container comprising: a body for receiving the frozen or semi-frozen confection, the body including or defining an outlet for dispensing the confection therethrough, the body further including a peripheral wall; and a cover arranged to extend across the outlet, the cover configured to break open under a sufficient load applied by the confection to the cover; a support for supporting the peripheral wall of the container; a supporting apparatus comprising a supporting surface for abutting against at least a portion of the cover; and a nozzle for filling the body of the container with the frozen or semi-frozen confection, wherein the supporting surface is configured to abut against at least a portion of the cover which overlies the outlet when the nozzle fills the body of the container with the frozen or semi-frozen confection.

Advantageously, the supporting apparatus helps to counterbalance the force exerted by the confection on the cover during a filling operation. Therefore, the supporting apparatus helps to inhibit the cover from breaking or becoming damaged during the filling operation.

A first portion of the cover may be secured to the body such that the first portion surrounds the outlet. The first portion may define a second portion of the cover which is internal to the first portion and free from the body. The second portion may overlie the outlet and be configured to break open during the dispensing operation. The supporting surface may be configured to at least partially abut against the second portion of the cover.

The supporting surface may be configured to at least partially abut against the first portion of the cover.

According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a system for loading a container onto a container support, comprising: a container comprising: a body for receiving a frozen or semi-frozen confection, wherein the body includes a peripheral wall and a base, the base including or defining an outlet for dispensing the confection therethrough; and a cover arranged to extend across the outlet, the cover configured to break open under a sufficient load applied by a frozen or semi-frozen confection to the cover; a container support for supporting the peripheral wall of the container; and a loading apparatus comprising a temporary connection means mounted to a first surface, wherein the temporary connection means is configured to form a temporary connection with a portion of the base and/or a portion of the cover radially outboard of the outlet such that the cover is spaced from the first surface of the loading apparatus, and wherein the loading apparatus is configured to move the temporarily connected container until the container is supported on the container support.

Advantageously, the loading apparatus is capable of moving the container without contacting the portion of the cover adjacent the outlet. This helps to ensure that the cover does not break open or become damaged when moving the container.

The temporary connection means may comprise a suction mechanism including an annular suction pad, the suction pad extending from the first surface of the loading apparatus by a first distance. The suction pad may be defined by an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter. The inner perimeter may be sized to surround the outlet in the body. The suction pad may be configured to form a temporary connection with the portion of the base and/or the portion of the cover radially outboard of the outlet when the suction mechanism is activated.

Advantageously, the suction mechanism allows for a quick and reliable temporary connection to be formed between the loading apparatus and the container.

The loading apparatus may comprise a support surface spaced from the first surface by the first distance. The suction pad may surround the support surface. The support surface may be configured to abut against at least a portion of the cover which overlies the outlet when the suction pad forms a temporary connection with the portion of the base and/or the portion of the cover radially outboard of the outlet.

Advantageously, the support surface helps to inhibit the cover from breaking during a loading operation. This is because normally, the base may flex slightly during a loading operation, which may cause the cover to break. Therefore, since the support surface abuts against the cover, the ability of the base to flex is reduced.

According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a container containing a frozen or semi-frozen confection. The container comprises: a body containing the frozen or semi-frozen confection, the body including or defining an outlet for dispensing the confection from the body; and a cover arranged to extend across the outlet. The cover is configured to break open under load from the frozen or semi-frozen confection within the container during a dispensing operation, to allow frozen or semi-frozen confection to be dispensed through the outlet. The cover extending over the outlet helps to retain the confection within the container during storage and protects the confection from external contaminants. The cover is configured (i.e. specifically designed) to break open during a normal dispensing operation (e.g. at normal dispensing pressures exerted by the dispensing apparatus).

This is advantageous, since a user of the dispensing apparatus does not need to remove the cover prior to dispensing the confection, and is thus one less process step for the user to perform.

The cover may define first and second portions. The first portion may be secured to the container, e.g. remote from or outboard of the outlet. The second portion may be inboard of the first portion and unsecured directly to the container. The second portion may overlie the outlet and be configured to break open during the dispensing operation.

The first portion may define an annulus proximal (optionally, concentric with) the outlet.

The annulus may be secured to the container.

The weakened region may have a lower breaking strength than the first portion.

The weakened region may comprise at least one line of weakness.

The lines of weakness may extend from a common point within the second portion.

The lines of weakness may form an asterisk or star shape.

The lines of weakness may extend from the common point to a boundary between the first portion and the second portion of the cover.

The fold boundary may be polygonal.

The first layer may be of smaller area than the second layer. The first layer may be arranged such that it is surrounded by an area of the second layer in plan view.

This allows the first portion of the second layer to be secured to the body of the container around a region of the container body which surrounds the outlet.

Advantageously, by forming the first layer from rice paper or an alternative edible paper material, no harm will come to a consumer of the dispensed food product if a portion of the first layer breaks off from the remainder of the cover during a dispensing operation, becomes entrained with the dispensed food product and is eaten by the consumer. The first layer may be arranged to overlie the outlet and be interposed between at least a portion of the second layer and the container. The cover may comprise a third layer secured to a surface of the second layer facing away from the first layer.

Forming the third layer from a paper material helps to ensure that the third layer breaks open by bursting, rupturing, splitting, tearing or the like during a dispensing operation, rather than stretching for example.

The second layer may be formed from a plastics material.

The third layer may include one or more lines of weakness.

The first portion may be secured to a body of the container, for example by an adhesive and/or via heat sealing. The first portion may be secured to a base of the body of the container, where the outlet is formed in said base. The base of the container may define a flat profile.

The outlet may be formed in a base of the container.

According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a cover for extending across a dispensing outlet of a container containing a frozen or semi-frozen confection. A first portion of the cover is for securing to the container, e.g. remote from or outboard of the outlet. A second portion of the cover is inboard of the first portion and is arranged to be unsecured directly to the container. The second portion is for overlying the outlet and is configured to break open during a dispensing operation when a sufficient load is applied to the second portion.

The first portion may be annular.

The second portion may comprise a weakened region, which has a lower breaking strength relative to the remainder of the second portion such that the weakened region breaks open during the dispensing operation. The weakened region may have a lower breaking strength than the first portion.

The weakened region may comprise at least one line of weakness.

The lines of weakness may extend from a common point within the second portion.

The lines of weakness may form an asterisk or star shape.

The cover may define a plurality of tabs. Each tab may be partially defined by two neighbouring lines of weakness and joined to the first portion. In use, each tab may be configured to move away from the container when the weakened region breaks open during a dispensing operation.

Each tab may be configured to be pivotable about a fold line. The fold lines of neighbouring tabs may define a fold boundary. The fold boundary may be polygonal.

This allows the first portion of the second layer to be secured to the container around a region of the container which surrounds the outlet.

The first layer may be formed from a paper material, such as rice paper or the like. The second layer may be formed from a plastics material. Advantageously, forming the second layer from a plastics material may help to strongly and robustly secure the cover to the container, and thus help to inhibit portions of the cover from detaching from the container during a dispensing operation and becoming entrained with the dispensed food product.

The cover may comprise a third layer secured to a surface of the second layer facing away from the first layer.

The second layer may be formed from a plastics material.

The third layer may include one or more lines of weakness.

Providing the third layer with one or more lines of weakness helps to ensure that the third layer breaks open in a consistent and predictable manner during a dispensing operation. An area of the second portion of the cover may be in the range of 50% to 75% of an area of the first portion of the cover; preferably in the range of 55% to 70%; more preferably in the range of 60% to 65%. For example, the area of the second portion may be approximately 62% of the area of the first portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments are now disclosed by way of example only with reference to the drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a side section view of a dispensing system;

Figure 2 is a side section view of the dispensing system of Figure 1 during a dispensing operation;

Figure 3 is an isometric view of a container for use in the dispensing system of Figure 1, exploded to show upper features of the container;

Figure 4 is an isometric view of the container of Figure 3, exploded to show lower features of the container;

Figure 5 is a further isometric view of the container of Figure 4, with lower features in situ;

Figure 6a is an isolated plan view of part of a cover for an aperture in the base of the container of Figures 3 to 5, according to a first embodiment;

Figure 6b is an isolated plan view of part of a cover for an aperture in the base of the container of Figures 3 to 5, according to a second embodiment; Figure 7 is an exploded isometric view of a cover according to the first embodiment, showing first and second layers of the cover;

Figure 8 is a plan view of the cover of Figure 7, with the first and second layers in situ;

Figure 9 is an exploded isometric view of a cover according to the second embodiment, showing first and second layers of the cover;

Figure 10 is a plan view of the cover of Figure 9, with the first and second layers in situ;

Figure 11 is a plan view of a cover for an aperture in the base of the container of Figures 3 to 5, according to a third embodiment showing first and second layers in situ;

Figure 12 is a lower plan view of the container of the first embodiment with tabs folded away from the body.

Figure 13 is a lower isometric view of the container of the first embodiment with food product dispensing through the outlet and the cover;

Figure 14 is a side view of a lower part of the container of the first embodiment and a first example of a loading apparatus, during a step of a loading operation;

Figure 15 is a side view of part of the loading apparatus Figure 14;

Figure 16 is a plan view of the part of the loading apparatus of Figure 14;

Figure 17 is a side view of the lower part of the container of the first embodiment and the loading apparatus of Figures 14 to 16, during a step of the loading operation;

Figure 18a is a side view of a second example of a loading apparatus;

Figure 18b is a side view of a third example of a loading apparatus;

Figure 19 is a side view of the lower part of the container of the first embodiment and an example of a supporting apparatus during a step of a filling operation;

Figure 20 is a side view showing the container and supporting apparatus of Figure 19 during a step of a closing operation;

Figures 21a to 21d are side sectional views of the dispensing system of Figure 1 during steps of an operation for dispensing food product from the container.

Figure 22 is a lower isometric view of an alternative container for use in an alternative dispensing system;

Figure 23 is an upper isometric view of the container of Figure 21; Figures 24a to 24d are side sectional views of an alternative dispensing system for the container of Figures 22 and 23 during steps of an operation for dispensing food product from the container.

Figure 25 is an exploded isometric view of an alternative embodiment of container of the kind similar to the container of Figures 3 to 5;

Figure 26 is a side view of the container of Figure 25 showing a section line A-A';

Figure 27 is a side sectional view of the container of Figure 26 along the section A-A, including a magnified view of a base and an outlet tab of the container;

Figure 28 is a front sectional view of another dispensing system;

Figure 29 is a front sectional view of a further dispensing system;

Figure 30 is a front sectional view of a still further dispensing system; and

Figure 31 is a front sectional view of the dispensing system of Figure 30 during a step of a dispensing operation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(S)

Figures 1 and 2 show a system 100 for dispensing a food product, such as a frozen or semi-frozen confection, e.g. ice cream, sorbet, frozen yoghurt. The system 100 includes a dispensing apparatus 102 and a container 104.

The dispensing apparatus 102 includes a support in the form of a seating 106 configured to receive the container 104, and a movable dispenser in the form of a plunger 101. During a dispensing operation, the plunger 101 is located above the seating 106 and is operable to apply a load to the container 104, in order to extrude food product from the container 104.

The container 104 is shown in greater detail in Figures 3 to 5. The container 104 has a body 105 formed from an upper part 108 and a lower part 110. The body 105 is formed from a plastics material.

The upper part 108 has a central section 112 with an upper surface 114, and a rim 116 located annular to and radially outboard of the central section 112. The rim 116 is configured for locating the container 102 on the seating 106 of the dispensing apparatus 102. The rim 116 is connected to the central section 112 via a convolution portion visible at 115. The upper part 108 is configured to that, in use, the central section 112 is intended to be deformed inwardly, so that the upper surface 114 pushes through the annulus defined by the rim 116, and to extend into the lower part 110 via flexing of the convolution portion 115. Such operation is known from WO96/01224, for example.. The lower part 110 is configured to nest in the seating 106, and includes a flange 119 and a flat base 118 at its lowest point. By 'flat base 118', it is intended to mean that the base 118 defines a flat profile. The base 118 is circular and has an outlet 120 at its centre. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 120 is substantially star-shaped. When the body 105 contains a frozen or semi-frozen confection, the star-shaped outlet 120 ensures that the confection has a star-shaped profile as it is extruded through the outlet 120 (e.g. as illustrated in Figure 13), which makes the extruded confection more aesthetically pleasing to a consumer. However, it will be appreciated that the outlet 120 may have any suitable shape, for example of circular or any polygonal shape.

Typically, the body 105 is filled with food product by introducing the food product into the lower part 110 of the body 105 via opening 122. The upper part 108 is then fitted into the lower part 110, so that the convolution portion 115 of the upper part 108 is received in the opening 122 of the lower part 110. The upper and lower parts 108, 110 are held together, e.g. via in interference fit or a clip or snap-fit between adjacent surfaces of the upper and lower parts 108, 110 (such as between the rim 116 and the flange 119).

Importantly, a cover 124 is provided over the outlet 120. In exemplary embodiments, the cover is secured to the flat base 118 of the lower part 110. The cover 124 is arranged to extend across the outlet 120, so to completely cover the outlet 120. As such, the cover 124 acts as a barrier to prevent food product contained within the body 105 from passing through the outlet 120 and leaving the container 104 when the container 104 is being stored. The cover 124 also acts as a barrier to prevent external contaminants from entering the body 105 through the outlet 120, and thus helps to ensure the food product remains hygienic.

Figure 4 shows an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of the cover 124. The cover 124 includes a first layer 124a, a second layer 124b and a third layer 124c. The first layer 124a and the second layer 124b are secured to each other, and the second layer 124b and the third layer 124c are secured to each other. In exemplary embodiments, the first layer 124a is a paper material. In exemplary embodiments, the second layer 124b is formed from plastics material (e.g. polyethylene). In alternative embodiments (not shown), the second layer 124b may be formed from any suitable material, such as a paper material. In exemplary embodiments, the third layer 124c is a paper material.

In use, the first layer 124a is arranged to directly overlie the outlet 120, such that the first layer 124a is interposed between the body 105 of the container 104 and the second layer 124b. As shown clearly in Figure 6a, the second layer 124b defines a first portion 128 and a second portion 126. The first portion 128 is arranged to surround the second portion 126. The first portion 128 and the second portion 126 are separated by a portion boundary 130 (illustrated via a dot-dot-dash line in Figures 6a and 6b).

The first portion 128 is configured to surround the outlet 120, and is secured to the body 105.

The second portion 126 is inboard of the first portion 128 and is free from secured contact with the body 105. The second portion 126 is arranged to indirectly overlie at least part of the outlet 120, i.e. at least part of the second portion 126 is arranged to extend over the region of the outlet 120, but is separated from the outlet 120 by the first layer 124a. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 128 defines an annulus (e.g. is ring-shaped) and the second portion 126 is circular.

The first portion 128 of the second layer 124b is secured to the base 118 of the body 105 using a strong adhesive. As such, the first portion 128 is resistant to being removed intact from the base 118 during normal use. For example, the first portion 128 may be configured such that it is resistant to being removed manually from the base 118 during normal use.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 124 is secured to the container 104 exclusively via the first portion 128 of the cover 124. Securing the cover 124 to the container 104 exclusively via the first portion 128 simplifies the process of securing the cover 124 to the container 104.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the first portion 128 is secured to the base 118 via any suitable means which ensures that the first portion 128 cannot be removed (e.g. intact) from the base 118 during normal use. For example, in addition to or instead of using a strong adhesive, the first portion 128 may be secured to the base 118 via a heat sealing process. By strongly securing the first portion 128 to the base 118 (e.g. via strong adhesive or heat bonding/sealing), the first portion 128 is substantially equivalent to being integrally formed with the base 118 of the body 105, particularly in those embodiments in which the first portion 128 and the base 118 are of a plastics material.

In exemplary embodiments, the perimeter of the cover 124 is substantially coincident with a perimeter of the base 118. The perimeter of the cover 124 may correspond to the perimeter of the second layer 124b of the cover 124.

Arranging the cover 124 such that the perimeter thereof is coincident with the perimeter of the base 118 may help to maximise the potential contact surface area between the cover 124 and the base 118, helping to ensure a strong connection therebetween. The third layer 124c is secured to a surface 124bx of the second layer 124b, and is furthest from the outlet 120, in use.

It will be understood that, during a dispensing operation, food product contained in the body 105 is urged to extrude through the outlet 120. Accordingly, an increasing load is applied to the cover 124 by the food product. As will be described in more detail below, the first, second and third layers 124a, 124b, 124c are configured to break when the applied load exceeds a predetermined level, so that food product may exit through the outlet 120, e.g. to be received in a cone or other receptacle for the food product.

In order to understand exemplary operation of the cover 124, an exemplary embodiment of the second layer 124b will now be described in more detail with reference to Figure 6a.

In this embodiment, the second portion 126 includes a weakened region 132b having a lower breaking strength relative to the remainder of the second portion 126. Thus, when the food product contained in the body 105 passes through the outlet 120, and a sufficient load is experienced by the second portion 126, the weakened region 132b breaks open to allows food product to pass therethrough.

The weakened region 132b includes a plurality of lines of weakness 134b. Each line of weakness 134b is formed as a continuous partial cut, that is to say the partial cut extends part way through a thickness of the second layer 124b. In alternative embodiments (not shown), each line of weakness 134b may be formed as a continuous full cut, the full cut extending through the second layer 124b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the weakened region 132b includes five lines of weakness 134b, each line of weakness 134b shaped as a predominantly straight line. The lines of weakness 134b are arranged to extend radially outward from a common point within the second portion 126 to the boundary 130. The common point is located centrally in the second portion 126. The lines of weakness 134b are arranged as a uniformly spaced radial array relative to the common point. For example, the lines of weakness 134b are equally radially spaced about an axis through the common point; i.e. the angles formed between each pair of neighbouring lines of weakness 134b are substantially the same.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lines of weakness 134b form an asterisk or star shape.

Each pair of neighbouring lines of weakness 134b partially defines a tab 136 therebetween. In Figure 6a, the second portion 126 includes five tabs 136. The tabs 136 are joined to the first portion 128 of the first layer 124a. With reference to Figures 12 and 13, each tab 136 is configured to move away from the body 105 about a fold line 138. The fold lines 138 are arranged such that the fold lines 138 of each pair of neighbouring tabs 136 are joined together. This forms a fold boundary 140 which encompasses the outlet 120. In Figure 12, the fold boundary 140 forms a pentagonal shape, and is surrounded by the portion boundary 130 between the second portion 126 and the first portion 128. It will be appreciated that any shape of fold boundary 140 may be formed, depending on the arrangement of the lines of weakness. For example, the fold boundary 140 may have any polygonal shape.

In the illustrated embodiment, the portion boundary 130 is circular. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the portion boundary 130 may be co-located with the fold boundary 138. As such, the portion boundary 130, and therefore the second portion 126, may be polygonal (e.g. pentagonal).

In the illustrated embodiment, the portion boundary 130 is radially spaced from the outlet 120; i.e. each point on the portion boundary 130 is spaced from each point on the outlet 120. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the portion boundary 130 may be at least partially coincident with the outlet 120.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the weakened region 132b may include less than or more than five lines of weakness 134b. For example, the weakened region 132b may include three or more lines of weakness, and the second portion 126 may include three or more corresponding tabs 136. In exemplary embodiments, there may be 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more lines of weakness 134b.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the weakened region may include two lines of weakness 124b. In such embodiments, the second portion 126 may define a single tab 136.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the weakened region 132b may include one line of weakness 134b. For example, the weakened region 132b may include a single U-shaped or omega-shaped line of weakness 134b defining a single tab 136. During a dispensing operation, such a single line of weakness 134b may break, and the tab 136 may fold away from the body 105 about a fold line extending between the free ends of the line of weakness 134b, to allow the food product to pass through the cover 124.

Figure 6b shows an alternative embodiment of the second layer 124b'. Features in common with the embodiment shown in Figure 6a are denoted with shared reference numerals.

The weakened region 132b of the second layer 124b' includes a plurality of lines of weakness 134b'. Each line of weakness 134b' is formed as a perforated partial cut extending part way through the thickness of the second layer 124b'. The lines of weakness 134b' are arranged to extend radially outward from within the second portion 126 to the boundary 130. In alternative embodiments (not shown), each line of weakness 134b' may be formed as a perforated full cut extending through the thickness of the second layer 124b'.

In Figure 6b, the lines of weakness 134b' do not extend from or meet at a common point. Instead, the lines of weakness 134b' extend from a central region of the second portion 126. The central region includes a central partial cut 142. The lines of weakness 134b' do not join the central partial cut 142, and are substantially evenly spaced about the central partial cut 142.

In the illustrated embodiment, the central partial cut 142 is star-shaped having five arms corresponding to the location of the five lines of weakness 134b'. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the central partial cut 142 may be any suitable shape, for example cross-shaped or circular.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the lines of weakness 134b' may meet at a common point such as in Figure 6a, or alternatively join the central partial cut 142 in Figure 6b.

Exemplary modes of interaction between the first and second layers 124a, 124b will now be described with reference to embodiments illustrated in Figures 7 and 8.

As can be seen, the first layer 124a is secured to an internal second layer surface 124bi; i.e. a surface of the second layer 124b which faces towards the body 105 of the container 104.

The first layer 124a is arranged to overlie at least the weakened region 132b of the second portion 126.

The first layer 124a has a smaller area than the second layer 124b. In particular, the perimeter of the first layer 124a is arranged within the perimeter of the second layer 124b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second layers 124a, 124b are of circular shape, and the first layer 124a has a smaller diameter relative to the second layer 124b.

In exemplary embodiments, the first layer 124a is configured to be secured to the second layer 124b such that the first layer 124a covers all of the second portion 126 of the second layer 124b. Moreover, the first portion 128 of the internal second layer surface 124bi is at least partially not covered by the first layer 124a. As such, the first portion 128 of the second layer 124b can be secured to the base 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the perimeter of the first layer 124a is coincident with the portion boundary 130. Thus, the perimeter of the first layer 124a is coincident with a perimeter of the second portion 126 of the second layer 124b. As such, the area of the second portion 126 is substantially identical to the area of the first layer 124a. In the illustrated embodiment, the first layer 124a is interposed between the second portion 126 of the second layer 124b and the body 105 of the container 104. As such, the first layer 124a is located between the outlet 120 and the weakened region 132 of the second layer 124b. Advantageously, the first layer 124a provides an additional barrier between the outlet 120 and the external environment, which aids in preventing food product contained within the body 105 from passing through the cover 124, and aids in preventing external contaminants from passing through the cover 124, for example via the lines of weakness 134b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first layer 124a, the second layer 124b and the body 105 are assembled by first covering the internal second layer surface 124bi with a layer of adhesive. Subsequently, the first layer 124a is placed on the internal second layer surface 124bi as shown in Figure 8, which secures the first layer 124a to the second layer 124b. The first portion 128 of the internal second layer surface 124bi is then secured to the body 105 of the container 105 via the layer of adhesive on the first portion 128.

The type of adhesive may be chosen such that the layer of adhesive between the first layer 124a and the second layer 124b provides a waterproof or water resistant barrier between the outlet 120 and the external environment. Advantageously, this helps to inhibit any liquid product contained within the body 105 of the container 105 from passing through the cover 124 via the outlet 120 unintentionally.

No adhesive is applied to an internal first layer surface 124ai, i.e. a surface of the first layer 124a which faces towards the body 105 of the container 104. As such, the first layer 124a is free from the body 105, i.e. the first layer 124a is not directly secured to the body 105.

Similar to the second layer 124b, exemplary embodiments of the first layer 124a include a weakened region 132a. The weakened region 132a of the first layer 124a has a lower breaking strength relative to the remainder of the first layer 124a. Thus, when the food product contained in the body 105 passes through the outlet 120 and applies a sufficient load to the first layer 124a, the weakened region 132a breaks open.

In exemplary embodiments, the weakened region 132a of the first layer 124a includes a plurality of lines of weakness 134a. Each line of weakness 134a is formed as a continuous partial cut, the partial cut extending part way through a thickness of the first layer 124a.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), each line of weakness 134a may be formed as a continuous full cut, the full cut extending through the first layer 124a. Alternatively, each line of weakness 134a may be formed as a perforated partial cut similar to the lines of weakness 134b', or a perforated full cut. In the illustrated embodiment, the first layer 124a includes five lines of weakness 134a, each line of weakness 134a shaped as a predominantly straight line. The lines of weakness 134a are arranged to extend radially outward from a central region of the first layer 124a. The lines of weakness 134a are arranged as a uniformly spaced radial array relative to the central region. For example, the lines of weakness 134a are equally radially spaced about an axis through the central region; i.e. the angles formed between each pair of neighbouring lines of weakness 134a are substantially the same.

In Figures 7 and 8, the lines of weakness 134a do not extend from or meet at a common point. Instead, the lines of weakness 134a extend from a central region of the first layer 124a.

In the illustrate embodiment, the lines of weakness 134a form an asterisk or star shape.

In alternative embodiments, the first layer 124a may include less than or more than five lines of weakness 134a. For example, the first layer 124a may include two or more lines of weakness 134a. In exemplary embodiments, there may be 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more lines of weakness 134a.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the first layer 124a may include one line of weakness 134a. For example, the first layer 124a may include a single U-shaped or omega-shaped line of weakness 134a.

Figure 8 shows a plan view of the first layer 124a secured to the second layer 124b such that the internal first layer surface 124ai and the internal second layer surface 124bi are visible. The lines of weakness 134b on the second layer 124b are covered by the first layer 124a, and therefore are shown in phantom in Figure 8.

It can be seen in Figure 8 that the lines of weakness 134a on the first layer 124a (hereinafter referred to as the "first lines of weakness 134a") are offset from the lines of weakness 134b on the second layer 124b (hereinafter referred to as the "second lines of weakness 134b"); i.e. the first lines of weakness 134a do not intersect the second lines of weakness 134b.

In Figure 8, the first lines of weakness 134a and the second lines of weakness 134b both form an asterisk or star shape consisting of five straight lines which are equally radially spaced. The first lines of weakness 134a are 36 degrees out of phase relative to the second lines of weakness 134b. As such, the angle between each first line of weakness 134a and its two adjacent second lines of weakness 134b is 36 degrees; i.e. the first lines of weakness 134a are equally radially spaced relative to the second lines of weakness 134b.

Since the first lines of weakness 134a are equally radially spaced relative to the second lines of weakness 134b, and since the first lines of weakness 134a do not meet at a common point, the first lines of weakness 134a and the second lines of weakness 134b do not intersect and are thus offset from each other.

Advantageously, since the first lines of weakness 134a and the second lines of weakness 134b do not intersect, there are no passages for food product contained within the body 105 of the container 104 to pass through the outlet 120 and the cover 104 unintentionally. This is because if the food product was to pass through the outlet 120 and the first lines of weakness 134a (prior to a dispensing operation), the food product would be prevented from passing through the second layer 124b due to the absence of any second lines of weakness 134b directly adjacent the first lines of weakness 134a. Moreover, once the food product has passed through the first lines of weakness 134a, the food product is prevented from moving across the internal second layer surface 124bi laterally by the layer of adhesive between the first layer 124a and the second layer 124b.

It will be appreciated that offsetting the first lines of weakness 134a from the second lines of weakness 134b also helps to inhibit the ingress of external contaminants into the body 105.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the first lines of weakness 134a may extend from or meet at a common point. For example, the first lines of weakness 134a may meet at a common point such as the second lines of weakness 134b in Figure 6a, or the first lines of weakness 134a may extend from a partial cut in the central region of the first layer 124a, such as the second lines of weakness 134b' in Figure 6b. This may help to reduce the force that is needed to break open the first layer 124a during a dispensing operation. In such embodiments, the second lines of weakness 134b may not extend from or meet at a common point, and instead may extend from a central region of the second portion 126 without contact between the second lines of weakness 134b within said central region such that the first lines of weakness 134a do not intersect the second lines of weakness 134b. Such an arrangement of the first lines of weakness 134a and second lines of weakness 134b helps to ensure that there are no passages for food product contained within the body 105 of the container 104 to pass through the outlet 120 and the cover 104 unintentionally.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the second layer 124b in Figures 7 and 8 may be replaced with the second layer 124b' of Figure 6b. In such embodiments, the first lines of weakness 134a may meet at a common point, or may extend from a partial cut in the central region of the first layer 124a. In such embodiments, the second layer 124b' may not include the central partial cut 142, and the second lines of weakness 134b' may extend from a central region of the second portion 126 of the second layer 124b' without contact between the second lines of weakness 134b' within said central region such that the first lines of weakness 134a do not intersect the second lines of weakness 134b'. Such an arrangement again helps to ensure that there are no passages for food product contained within the body 105 of the container 104 to pass through the outlet 120 and the cover 104 unintentionally.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first layer 124a is formed from a paper material, such as rice paper or the like, for example. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the first layer 124a may be formed from any suitable material.

By "rice paper", it is meant an edible paper-like material made using rice. Instead of rice paper, alternative edible paper-like materials could be used. Forming the first layer 124a from an edible paper-like material is advantageous, since no harm will come to a consumer of the dispensed food product if a portion of the first layer 124a breaks off from the cover 124 during a dispensing operation, becomes entrained with the dispensed food product and is eaten by the consumer.

Figures 9 and 10 show an alternative embodiment of the first layer 124a'. Features in common with the embodiment shown in Figures 7 and 8 are denoted with shared reference numerals.

The first layer 124a' includes a plurality of first lines of weakness 134a'. Each first line of weakness 134a' is formed as a continuous partial cut, the partial cut extending part way through a thickness of the first layer 124a'.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), each first line of weakness 134a' may be formed as a continuous full cut, the full cut extending through the first layer 124a'. Alternatively, each first line of weakness 134a' may be formed as a perforated partial cut similar to the lines of weakness 134b', or a perforated full cut,

In Figures 9 and 10, the first layer 124a' includes five first lines of weakness 134a'. Each first line of weakness 134a' includes an inner portion 135 joined to an outer portion 137.

Each inner portion 135 is a predominantly straight line. The inner portions 135 form an asterisk or star shape and do not meet at a common point, in a similar fashion to the first lines of weakness 134a in Figures 7 and 8. The inner portions 135 are arranged such that they are out of phase with the second lines of weakness 134b.

Each outer portion 137 extends radially outward from the inner portion 135 to which it is joined as a predominantly straight line. Furthermore, each outer portion 137 is oriented at a non-zero angle to the inner portion 135 to which it is joined. In the illustrated embodiment, each outer portion 137 is arranged to be substantially parallel to an adjacent second line of weakness 134b. Such an arrangement has been found to provide consistent breaking performance.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the first lines of weakness 134a' may extend from or meet at a common point. For example, the inner portions 135 of the first lines of weakness 134a' may meet at a common point such as the second lines of weakness 134b in Figure 6a, or the inner portions 135 of the first lines of weakness 134a' may extend from a partial cut in the central region of the first layer 124a', such as the second lines of weakness 134b' in Figure 6b. This may help to reduce the force that is needed to break open the first layer 124a during a dispensing operation. In such embodiments, the second lines of weakness 134b may not extend from or meet at a common point, and instead may extend from a central region of the second portion 126 without contact between the second lines of weakness 134b within said central region such that the first lines of weakness 134a' do not intersect the second lines of weakness 134b. Such an arrangement of the first lines of weakness 134a' and second lines of weakness 134b helps to ensure that there are no passages for food product contained within the body 105 of the container 104 to pass through the outlet 120 and the cover 104 unintentionally.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the second layer 124b in Figures 9 and 10 may be replaced with the second layer 124b' of Figure 6b. In such embodiments, the first lines of weakness 134a' may meet at a common point, or may extend from a partial cut in the central region of the first layer 124a'. In such embodiments, the second layer 124b' may not include the central partial cut 142, and the second lines of weakness 134b' may extend from a central region of the second portion 126 of the second layer 124b' without contact between the second lines of weakness 134b' within said central region such that the first lines of weakness 134a' do not intersect the second lines of weakness 134b'. Such an arrangement again helps to ensure that there are no passages for food product contained within the body 105 of the container 104 to pass through the outlet 120 and the cover 104 unintentionally.

Figure 11 shows an alternative embodiment of the second layer 124b" in situ with the first layer 124a. Features in common with the embodiments shown in Figures 6a to 10 are denoted with shared reference numerals.

The second layer 124b" includes a plurality of second lines of weakness 134b". Each second line of weakness 134b" may be formed as a perforated partial cut, a perforated full cut, a continuous partial cut, or a continuous full cut.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second layer 124b" includes five second lines of weakness 134b" having the same shape and arrangement as the first lines of weakness 134a' in Figures 9 and 10. As such, each second line of weakness 134b" includes an inner portion 135 joined to an outer portion 137. The inner portions 135 extend from a central region of the second portion 126 of the second layer 124b" without meeting at a common point.

As in previous embodiments, the first lines of weakness 134a are offset from the second lines of weakness 134b", i.e. the first lines of weakness 134a do not intersect the second lines of weakness 134b".

In Figure 11, the first lines of weakness 134a do not extend from or meet at a common point. Instead, the first lines of weakness 134a extend from a central region of the first layer 124a.

The first lines of weakness 134a have radially inner ends in the central region of the first layer 124a, and radially outer ends adjacent the perimeter of the first layer 124a. Similarly, the second lines of weakness 134b" have radially inner ends in the central region of the second portion 126 of the second layer 124b", and radially outer ends adjacent the portion boundary 130.

In the illustrated embodiment, the radially inner ends of the first lines of weakness 134a are inboard of the radially inner ends of the second lines of weakness 134b". Such an arrangement helps to reduce the force that is needed to break open the first layer 124a during a dispensing operation and ensure that the cover 124 breaks open in a reliable and consistent manner.

Each first line of weakness 134a is located between two adjacent second lines of weakness 134b" such that each first line of weakness 134a is closer to a first adjacent second line of weakness 134b" relative to a second adjacent second line of weakness 134b"; i.e. the first lines of weakness 134a are unequally radially spaced relative to the second lines of weakness 134b".

In the illustrated embodiment, each first line of weakness 134a neighbours, i.e. is directly adjacent to, an inner portion 134 of a second line of weakness 134b", such that each first line of weakness 134a is quasi-parallel to a directly adjacent inner portion 134. Such an arrangement has been found to provide consistent breaking performance.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the first lines of weakness 134a may be substantially equally radially spaced relative to the second lines of weakness 134b". Additionally or alternatively, each second line of weakness 134b" may be a single straight line, like the first lines of weakness 134a.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the first lines of weakness 134a may meet at a common point. Alternatively, the first lines of weakness 134a may extend from a partial cut in the central region of the first layer 124a, such as the second lines of weakness 134b' in Figure 6b. Such arrangements may help to reduce the force that is needed to break open the first layer 124a during a dispensing operation.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the inner portions 135 of the second lines of weakness 134b" may meet at a common point. Alternatively, the inner portions 135 may extend from a partial cut in the central region of the second portion 126 of the second layer 124b", such as the second lines of weakness 134b' in Figure 6b. Such an arrangement may help to reduce the force that is needed to break open the second layer 124b" during a dispensing operation. In such embodiments, the radially inner ends of the first lines of weakness 134a may be outboard of their positions shown in Figure 11, to help ensure that the first lines of weakness 134a do not intersect the second lines of weakness 134b".

The second layer 124b" includes a tab 400 for aiding in removing the second layer 124b", and thus the cover 124, from the container 104. The tab 400 is separated from the first portion 128 of the second layer 124b" via a boundary 402. Unlike the first portion 128, the tab 400 is not directly secured to the body 105 of the container 104.

In the illustrated embodiment, the tab 400 has a substantially tear drop-shaped profile. Such a shaped profile has been found to be ergonomic. In alternative embodiments (not shown), the tab 400 may have any suitably shaped profile.

The first portion 128 of the second layer 124b" is secured to the body 105 of the container 104 such that the second layer 124b", and thus the cover 124, can be removed from the body 105 intact by pulling on the tab 400 in a direction away from the body 105. Moreover, the first portion 128 of the second layer 124b" is secured to the body 105 such that the second layer 124b" remains secured to the body 105 throughout a dispensing operation. For example, the first portion 128 of the second layer 124b" may be secured to the base 118 via a suitable adhesive and/or heat-sealing process.

Advantageously, the provision of the tab 400 aids a user in removing the cover 124 intact from the container 102 prior to a dispensing operation. A user may wish to remove the cover 124 from the container 102 in order to inspect the contents of the container 102 prior to a dispensing operation.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the second layer 124b" may not include the tab 400.

With reference back to Figure 4, an exemplary embodiment of the third layer 124c of the cover 124 has a substantially uniform breaking strength across its surface; i.e. the third layer 124c does not include a weakened region like exemplary embodiments of the first layer 124a and the second layer 124b described above.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the third layer 124c may include one or more lines of weakness similar to the first layer 124a, 124a' or the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b". In such embodiments, the lines of weakness of the third layer 124c may be arranged to be offset from the lines of weakness 134b, 134b', 134b" of the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b".

The third layer 124c is secured to an external second layer surface 124bx; i.e. a surface of the second layer 124b which faces away from the base 118. The third layer 124c is configured to directly overlie at least the weakened region 132b of the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b".

By their construction, the lines of weakness 134b, 134b', 134b" are more prone to breaking or becoming damaged relative to the remainder of the second layer 124b. Hence, the third layer 124c helps to inhibit the lines of weakness 134b, 134b', 134b" from breaking or becoming damaged unintentionally, for example, due to forces imparted on the external second layer surface 124bx.

The third layer 124c acts as an additional barrier between the outlet 120 and the external environment, and so helps to inhibit any food product contained within the body 105 of the container 104 from passing through the cover 124 via the lines of weakness 134b, 134b', 134b" unintentionally.

Further, the third layer 124c helps to inhibit the ingress of external contaminants into the body 105 via the lines of weakness 134b, 134b', 134b". Thus, the third layer 124c helps to ensure that the food product contained within the body 105 remains hygienic.

In exemplary embodiments, the third layer 124c has at least substantially the same shape and size as the second layer 124b. In the illustrated embodiment, both the second layer 124b and the third layer 124c are circular. When the third layer 124c is secured to the second layer 124b, the third layer 124c is positioned such that the perimeter of the third layer 124c is coincident with the perimeter of the second layer 124b.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the third layer 124c may have a different size and/or shape to the second layer 124b. In such embodiments, the third layer 124c may be secured to and/or overlie at least the second portion 126 of the second layer 124b. Preferably, the third layer 124c may be secured to and/or overlie at least the lines of weakness 134b, 134b', 134b". In some embodiments, the third layer 124c may be secured to a region of the first portion 128, said region defining an annular surface of the first portion 128 surrounding the outlet 120. The entirety of the third layer 124c is secured to the second layer 124b using an adhesive. In the illustrated embodiment, an adhesive is applied to the entirety of the surface of the third layer 124c which faces the second layer 124b to ensure a strong connection between the second layer 124b and the third layer 124c.

The type of adhesive may be chosen such that the layer of adhesive between the third layer 124c and the second layer 124b provides a waterproof or water resistant barrier between the outlet 120 and the external environment. Advantageously, this helps to inhibit any liquid product contained within the body 105 of the container 105 from passing through the cover 124 via the outlet 120 unintentionally.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), only a portion of the third layer 124c may be secured to the second layer 124b. For example, only a portion of the third layer 124c including the perimeter of the third layer 124c may be secured to the second layer 124b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the third layer 124c is formed from a paper material, such as rice paper or the like. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the third layer 124c may be formed from any suitable material.

During an exemplary dispensing operation, food product contained in the body 105 passes through the outlet 120 and applies an increasing load to the first layer 124a, 124a'. Once the load applied by the food product to the first layer 124a, 124a' exceeds a sufficient amount, the first layer 124a, 124a' begins to break open along the first lines of weakness 134a, 134a' and the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" begins to break open along the second lines of weakness 134b, 134b', 134b".

Prior to, at the same time as, or after the first lines of weakness 134a, 134a' and/or the second lines of weakness 134b, 134b', 134b" begin to break open, the third layer 124c is configured to break open by bursting/tearing/rupturing/splitting or the like to allow the tabs 136 of the second layer 124b to move away from the body 105 of the container 105 and allow food product to pass through the cover 124, e.g. as shown in Figure 13. The cover 124 is configured so that the first layer 124a and the third layer 124c remain attached to the second layer 124b and thus do not impede the food product passing through the cover 124. As the food product passes through the second layer 124b, the food product pushes against the tabs 136, causing the tabs 136 to move away from the body 105 of the container 104.

If the third layer 124c is formed from a paper material, the third layer 124c will not stretch when the food product applies a load to the second layer 124b. Instead, the third layer 124c will tear/split/rupture in the regions of the highest stress and eventually burst open to allow the tabs 136 to fold away from the body 105 of the container 105. If the third layer 124c is adhered to both the first portion 128 and the second portion 126 of the second layer 124b, the third layer 124c helps to inhibit pieces of the second portion 126 from breaking off from the remainder of the second layer 124b during a dispensing operation. For example, during a dispensing operation, a tab 136 or a portion thereof may undesirably break away from the remainder of the second layer 124b as the second portion 126 breaks open. Since the third layer 124c is adhered to both the first portion 128 and the second portion 126, the third layer 124c helps to ensure that any fragments of the second portion 126 remain connected to at least the first portion 128 of the second layer 124b. Advantageously, this helps to inhibit fragments of the cover 124 from mixing with the dispensed food product.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the cover 124 consists of only the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b"; i.e. the cover 124 may not include the first layer 124a, 124a' and the third layer 124b. Alternatively, the cover 124 may include only the first layer 124a, 124a' and the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b"; i.e. the cover 124 may not include the third layer 124b. Alternatively, the cover 124 may include only the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" and the third layer 124b; i.e. the cover 124 may not include the first layer 124a, 124a'.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" is formed from a plastics material and both the first layer 124a, 124a' and the third layer 124c are formed from a paper material. Further, the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" is the only layer of the cover 124 which is directly secured to the body 105 of the container 104.

Forming the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" from a plastics material provides a stronger and more robust connection between the cover 124 and the body 105 relative to if the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" was formed from a paper material for example. This is because plastics materials tend to have a higher yield strength relative to paper materials. Therefore, advantageously, forming the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" from a plastics material helps to inhibit portions of the cover 124 breaking off from the remainder of the cover 124, disconnecting from the body 105 and being entrained with the dispensed food product during a dispensing operation.

Moreover, forming the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" from a plastics material allows the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" to be secured to the body 105 via heat sealing, which is not possible with alternative materials.

The first layer 124a, 124a' and the third layer 124c supplement the protection provided by the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" by providing additional barriers between the outlet 120 and the external environment. It is preferred to form the first layer 124a, 124a' and the third layer 124c from a paper material since paper materials tend to have a lower yield strength relative to other materials such as plastics materials. If the first layer 124a, 124a' and the third layer 124c were formed from relatively higher strength materials, such as plastics materials for example, the cover 124 may be too strong, and therefore may not break open during a dispensing operation as required.

In exemplary embodiments, the area of the second portion 126 of the cover 124 is in the range of 50% to 75% of the area of the first portion 128 of the cover 124. Preferably, the area of the second portion 126 is in the range of 55% to 70% of the area of the first portion 128. More preferably, the area of the second portion 126 is in the range of 60% to 65%. For example, the area of the second portion 126 may be approximately 62% of the area of the first portion 128.

Configuring the areas of the first 128 and second 126 portions of the cover 124 as such may help to ensure that the area of the first portion 128 is large enough to sufficiently anchor the cover 124 to the body 118 of the container 104, whilst ensuring that the area of the second portion 126 is large enough to overlie a sufficiently sized outlet 120.

An effective area of the outlet 120 is defined as the area of a circle with minimal diameter, which can fit the whole of the outlet 120 within the perimeter of said circle.

In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 120 is star shaped. As such, the effective area of the outlet 120 is the area of a circle connecting the radially outermost points of the starshaped profile of the outlet 120.

In exemplary embodiments, the effective area of the outlet 120 is in the range of 45% to 65% of the area of the second portion 126 of the cover 124. Preferably, the effective area of the outlet 120 is in the range of 50% to 60% of the area of the second portion 126. More preferably, the effective area of the outlet 120 is in the range of 50% to 55% of the area of the second portion 126. For example, the effective area of the outlet 120 may be approximately 54% of the area of the second portion 126.

Configuring the effective area of the outlet 120 and the area of the second portion 126 as such helps to ensure that the second portion 126 can completely overlie the outlet 120, whilst ensuring that the outlet 120 is sufficiently sized to dispense frozen or semiconfection therethrough without requiring too high a dispensing pressure. Moreover, since the second portion 126 is not directly secured to the container 124, such a configuration results in the cover 124 not being directly secured to an area of the body 105 of the container 124 surrounding the outlet 120. During a dispensing operation, this provides an opening in the cover 124 surrounding the outlet 120, to allow the confection to pass through the cover 124 relatively unimpeded. In exemplary embodiments, the effective area of the outlet 120 may be in the range of 20% to 45% of the area of the first portion 128 of the cover 124. Preferably, the effective area of the outlet 120 is in the range of 25% to 40% of the area of the first portion 128. More preferably, the effective area of the outlet 120 is in the range of 30% to 35% of the area of the first portion 128. For example, the effective area of the outlet 120 may be approximately 33% of the area of the first portion 128.

During a dispensing operation, the force acting on the cover 124 by the food product being dispensed through the outlet 120 may be dependent on the area of the outlet 120; i.e. the larger the area of the outlet 120, the higher the force imparted by the food product on the cover 124. Such a configuration of the effective area of the outlet 120 and the area of the first portion 128 of the cover 124 has been found to provide sufficient contact surface area between the first portion 128 and the body 105 of the container 104 to anchor the cover 124 to the container 104 during a dispensing operation, whilst ensuring that the outlet 120 is sufficiently sized to dispense frozen or semi-confection therethrough without requiring too high a dispensing pressure.

Figures 25 to 27 show an alternative embodiment of the container 104'. Features in common with the container 104 shown in Figures 3-13 share common reference numerals.

The container 104' includes a plurality of outlet tabs 500 partially defining the outlet 120. As shown in Figure 25, the outlet 120 is defined by seven outlet tabs 500 and seven edges 502 of the base 118 of the body 105. Each edge 502 is interposed between two adjacent outlet tabs 500.

As shown in Figure 25, each outlet tab 500 is substantially triangular, and the outlet tabs 500 are arranged such that the outlet 120 is substantially star-shaped. This is achieved, at least in part by arranging the triangular outlet tabs 500 such that a vertex of each triangular outlet tab 500 points towards the centre of the outlet 120.

An edge of each outlet tab 500 is connected to the body 105 via a hinged connector 504. Each hinged connector 504 accommodates rotation of the respective outlet tab 500 away from the body 105 about the hinged connector 504.

For example, during a dispensing operation, the food product contained in the body 105 of the container 104' will apply a load to the outlet tabs 500 when the plunger 101 applies a load to the container 104'. The load applied by the food product to each outlet tab 500 will result in the outlet tab 500 rotating away from the body 105 about its respective hinged connector 504. As each outlet tab 500 rotates away from the body 105, the outlet tab 500 presses against and applies a load to the cover 124, which aids in breaking open the cover 124. It will be appreciated that the vertex 506 of each outlet tab 500 will apply a higher pressing pressure to the cover 124 relative to the remainder of the outlet tab 500 due to the relatively smaller surface area of the vertex 506 which is in contact with the cover 124. Thus, the vertices 506 may help to initialise breaking open the cover 124 during a dispensing operation.

Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the container 104' along the section A-A shown in Figure 26. Figure 27 includes a magnified view of one of the hinged connectors 504 along the section A-A.

As shown in Figure 27 , the hinged connector 504 is interposed between and secured to the outlet tab 500 and the base 118 of the body 105. The hinged connector 504 has a thickness T1 which is less than a thickness T2 of the outlet tab 500 and a thickness T3 of the base 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the thicknesses T2 and T3 are substantially identical.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the thickness T2 of the outlet tab 500 may be less than or greater than the thickness T3 of the base 118.

It will be appreciated that since the thickness T1 of the hinged connector 504 is less than the thickness T3 of the base 118, the outlet tab 500 is able to more easily rotate about the hinged connector 504 relative to the base 118.

It can be seen in Figure 27 that the hinged connector 504 has an arch-shaped profile. The apex of the arch-shaped profile faces towards the internal space defined by the body 105. As such, the hinged connector 504 allows the outlet tab 500 to more easily rotate about the hinged connector 504 in a direction away from the body 105.

In the illustrated embedment, the outlet tabs 500 and the hinged connectors 504 are integrally formed with the remainder of the container 104' via a moulding process. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the outlet tabs 500 and/or the hinged connectors 504 may be manufactured separately to the remainder of the container 104', and secured to the container 104' via an adhesive for example.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the container 104' may include less than seven outlet tabs 500; for example, one, two, three, four, five or six outlet tabs 500. Alternatively, the container 104' may include more than seven outlet tabs 500. Alternatively or additionally, the outlet tabs 500 may not be triangular and may have any suitable shape, for example semi-circular or trapezoidal.

An operation for filling a container 104 with a food product will now be described with reference to Figures 14 to 20. Prior to filling the container 104 with a food product, the lower part 110 of the container 104 is included in a magazine 300. The magazine 300 includes a plurality of lower parts 110 stacked together such that the base 118 of each lower part 110, except for a next lower part 110 to be filled, is received within an adjacent lower part 110 via the opening 122 of the adjacent lower part 110.

At a loading station, the next lower part 110 to be filled is removed from the magazine 300 via a loading apparatus 302. The loading apparatus 302 includes a shaft 304 attached to a head 306.

The head 306 includes a surface 308 and a temporary connection means 310 mounted to the surface 308. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface 308 is substantially flat. The surface 308 is arranged to face the base 118 of the lower part 110 during a loading operation. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface 308 is located on a flange 311 with a circular profile, which is attached to the shaft 304.

The temporary connection means 310 is in the form of a suction mechanism 310. The suction mechanism 310 includes an annular (e.g. ring-shaped) suction pad 312 which is arranged to contact a portion of the base 118 and/or a portion of the cover 124 radially outboard of the outlet 120. When the suction mechanism 310 is activated, air is drawn into the suction pad 312 under a vacuum. Hence, when the base 118 and/or the cover 124 is in contact with the suction pad 312 and the suction mechanism 310 is activated, the base 118 and/or the cover 124 is temporarily connected to the suction pad 312.

The suction pad 312 extends a distance d in a direction substantially normal to the surface 308. The suction pad 312 is defined by an inner perimeter 314 and an outer perimeter 316.

The inner perimeter 314 is sized such that it encompasses the outlet 120 in the container 104; i.e. the outlet 120 is surrounded by the inner perimeter 314. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner perimeter 314 encompasses the second portion 126. Therefore, since the suction pad 312 is spaced a distance d from the surface 308 and the inner perimeter 314 is sized to encompass the second portion 126, during a loading operation, the suction pad 312 can be arranged such that it can contact the base 118 and/or the cover 124 of the container 104 without any part of the loading apparatus 302 applying pressure to the second portion 126 of the inner cover 124a.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the inner perimeter 314 may also encompass the first portion 128.

The outer perimeter 316 is sized such that the entirety of the outer perimeter 316 can contact a portion of the base 118 and/or a portion of the cover 124 of the container 104. As shown in Figure 14, during a loading operation, the loading apparatus 302 is moved towards the magazine 300 along an axis 318 until the suction pad 312 contacts the base 118 of the lower part 110. The axis 318 is substantially normal to the base 118 and the surface 308. The loading apparatus 302 is moved by an actuation mechanism (not shown) that may be electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically actuated.

The loading apparatus 302 is arranged such that the inner circumference 314 of the suction pad 312 encompasses the second portion 126 of the inner cover 124a. As such, no portion of the loading apparatus 302 applies a pressure to the second portion 126. As shown in Figure 14, the surface 308 of the head 306 is spaced from the base 118 and the cover 124 when the suction pad 312 contacts the base 118. The suction mechanism 310 is then activated, which provides a temporary connection between the lower part 110 and the loading apparatus 302.

As shown in Figure 17, the loading apparatus 302 is then moved away from the magazine 300 along the axis 318, pulling the lower part 110 away from the magazine 300, until the lower flange 119, which forms a peripheral wall on the lower part 110, abuts against a seating 320. The suction mechanism 310 is deactivated at the same time as, or prior to, the lower flange 119 abutting against the seating 320. As such, the lower part 110 and the loading apparatus 302 disconnect when the lower part 110 abuts against the seating 320 as the loading apparatus 302 continues to move away from the magazine 300 along the axis 318.

Figure 18a shows an alternative embodiment of a loading apparatus 302'. Features of the loading apparatus 302' in Figure 18a that are in common with the loading apparatus 302 of Figures 15 and 16 are denoted with shared reference numerals.

The loading apparatus 302' includes a head 306' attached to a shaft 304. The head 306' includes the suction pad 312 of Figures 15 and 16 extending a distance d from a surface 308'. The head 306' further includes a support platform 322 extending normal to the surface 308'. The support platform 322 is encompassed by the suction pad 312. The support platform 322 includes a flat support surface 324 which is substantially parallel to the surface 308' and is spaced the distance d from the surface 308'. As such, the suction pad 312 and the flat support surface 324 lie in the same plane. Therefore, since the base 118 of the container 104 is flat, both the suction pad 312 and the flat support surface 324 may abut the base 118 simultaneously.

During a loading operation, when the loading apparatus 302' is moved such that the suction pad 312 contacts the flat base 118 of the lower part 110, the flat support surface 324 is arranged to abut against the cover 124. In particular, the flat support surface 324 abuts against the second portion 126 of the cover 124 and at least part of the first portion 128.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the flat support surface 324 may abut against all or part of the second portion 126 of the cover 124 only.

Advantageously, the flat support surface 324 helps to inhibit the weakened region 132a of the first layer 124a and/or the weakened region 132b of the second layer 124b from breaking during the loading operation. This is because when the lower part 110 is being removed from the magazine 300, the base 118 may flex slightly since it is formed from a plastics material, which may cause the weakened regions 132a, 132b to break or become damaged. The flat support surface 324 reduces the ability of the base 118 to flex during a loading operation, and therefore helps to inhibit the weakened regions 132a, 132b from breaking or becoming damaged.

Figure 18b shows an alternative embodiment of a loading apparatus 302". Features of the loading apparatus 302" in Figure 18b that are in common with the loading apparatus 302 of Figure 15 and the loading apparatus 302' of Figure 18a are denoted with shared reference numerals.

The loading apparatus 302" includes a head 306" attached to a shaft 304. The head 306" includes the suction pad 312 of Figures 15 and 16 extending a distance d from a surface 308'. The head 306' further includes a support platform 322" extending normal to the surface 308'. The support platform 322 includes a support surface 324". The support surface 324" includes a flat region 326 which is substantially parallel to the surface 308' and spaced the distance d from the surface 308'. The support surface 324" further includes a central domed region 328, which extends away from the flat region 326.

The loading apparatus 302" is configured for use with a container 104 having a base 118 with a corresponding shape to the support surface 324. In particular, the loading apparatus 302" is configured for use with a base 118 where the outlet 120 is formed in an indented dome-shaped portion of the base 118, and the cover 124 has a corresponding dome shape. As such, the central domed region 328 of the support surface 324" may be arranged to abut against and to support the cover 124 during a loading operation, and help inhibit the weakened regions 132a, 132b from breaking or being damaged.

With reference to Figures 17, 19 and 20, once the lower part 110 is seated on the seating 320, the lower part 110 and the seating 320 are transported, either manually or automatically, to a filling station where a filling operation is performed.

Figure 19 shows the lower part 110 and the seating 320 at the filling station. Prior to or at the start of the filling operation, a supporting apparatus 330 is moved along the axis 318 towards the base 118 of the lower part 110. The supporting apparatus 330 is moved by an actuation mechanism (not shown) that may be electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically actuated.

The supporting apparatus 330 includes a shaft 332 attached to a head 334. The head 334 includes a supporting surface 336 arranged to face the base 118 of the lower part 110 and which is orientated substantially parallel to the base 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the supporting surface 336 is substantially flat.

Prior to or at the start of the filling operation, the supporting apparatus 330 is moved along the axis 318 until the support surface 336 abuts the cover 124 on the lower part 110. The supporting surface 336 is arranged such that the supporting surface 336 indirectly overlies the outlet 120 in the lower part 110. In particular, the supporting surface 336 is arranged such that it at least partially abuts against the portion of the third layer 124c which is secured to the second portion 126 of the second layer 124b. Additionally, the supporting surface 336 may also be arranged such that it at least partially abuts against the portion of the third layer 124c which is secured to the first portion 128 of the second layer 124b.

During the filling operation, a food product 338, such as a frozen or semi-frozen confection, is dispensed from a dispensing nozzle 340 under a dispensing pressure. Once the food product 338 has exited the nozzle 340, the food product 338 enters the lower part 110 via the opening 122 under the influence of the dispensing pressure and gravity.

As the food product 338 is dispensed into the lower part 110, the weight of the food product 338 acts on the cover 124. In addition to the weight of the food product 338, a force is exerted onto the cover 124 by the food product 338 due to the dispensing pressure. It will be appreciated that the dispensing pressure may be substantial if the food product 338 has a high viscosity, such as a frozen or semi-frozen confection. Therefore, the food product 338 may exert a significant force on the cover 124.

Since the support surface 334 abuts and is in contact with the cover 124, the support surface 334 acts to provide a reaction force to the cover 124 in order to counterbalance the force exerted by the food product 338 on the cover 124, during the filling operation. The actuation mechanism (not shown) may generate the reaction force. As such, the resultant force acting on the cover 124 is reduced relative to if the support surface 334 was not present. Therefore, the supporting apparatus 330 helps to inhibit the weakened regions 132a, 132b of the first layer 124a and the second layer 124b from breaking or becoming damaged during the filling operation. If the supporting apparatus 330 was not present, there would be a risk that the weakened regions 132a, 132b may break due to the force exerted by the food product 338 on the cover 124. With reference to Figure 20, once the lower part 110 is filled with a portion of food product 338, the lower part 110 and the seating 320 are transported, either manually or automatically, to a closing station where the upper part 108 is secured to the lower part 110.

Prior to or at the start of the closing operation, the supporting apparatus 330 is moved along the axis 318 towards the base 118 of the lower part 110 until the support surface 336 abuts the base 118 of the lower part 110. The supporting apparatus 330 used in the closing operation may be the same as or different to the supporting apparatus 330 used in the filling operation. The supporting apparatus 330 is moved by an actuation mechanism (not shown) that may be electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically actuated.

During the closing operation, the upper part 112 is either manually or automatically secured to the lower part 110. As the upper part 112 is moved towards the opening 122 of the lower part 110, the upper part 112 will press against any food product 338 sitting proud of the opening 122 of the lower part 110, and force the food product 338 into available space within the lower part 110. This process will cease when the upper flange 116 of the upper part 112 engages the lower flange 119 of the lower part 110 to secure the two parts 108, 110 together.

Whilst the upper part 112 is forcing the food product 338 into available space within the lower part 110 as described, the food product 338 will exert a force on the cover 124. It will be appreciated that the force exerted by the food product 338 to the cover 124 may be substantial if the food product 338 has a high viscosity, such as frozen or semi-frozen confection.

Since the support surface 334 abuts and is in contact with the cover 124, the support surface 334 acts to provide a reaction force to the cover 124 in order to counterbalance the force exerted by the food product 338 on the cover 124 during the closing operation, in a similar manner to the filling operation. The actuation mechanism (not shown) may generate the reaction force.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), two or three of: the loading operation, the filling operation and the closing operation may be performed at a single station. In such embodiments, the lower part 110 and the seating 320 are not transported in between the operations performed at said single station.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the loading apparatus 302' of Figure 18a may be used during the filling and closing operations instead of the supporting apparatus 330.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the loading apparatus 302" of Figure 18b may be used during the filling and closing operations instead of the supporting apparatus 330. In such embodiments, the container 104 has a base 118 with a corresponding shape to the support surface 324". In particular, the outlet 120 is formed in an indented domeshaped portion of the base 118, and the cover 124 has a corresponding dome shape.

It will be appreciated that the foregoing operation for filling the container 104 may be used to fill the container 104'.

An operation for dispensing food product from the container 104 will now be described with reference to Figures 1, 2 and 21a to 21d.

With reference to Figures 1 and 21a, the container 104 is first received on the seating 106 of the dispensing apparatus 102 and the plunger 101 is stationary. It can be seen in Figure 21a in particular that prior to the dispensing operation commencing, the plunger 101 is in a first position in which it is spaced from the container 104 and is separated by a first distance dl from the base 118 of the container 104.

An actuation mechanism 103, which is operable to move the plunger 101 relative to the container 104, is then activated. The actuation mechanism 103 moves the plunger 101 from the first position shown in Figure 21a to a second position shown in Figure 21b. In the second position, the plunger 101 kisses the container 104, i.e. makes initial contact with the container 104. In particular, the plunger 101 kisses the deformable section 112 of the body 105 of the container 104. In the second position, the plunger 101 is separated by a second distance d2 from the base 118, where the second distance d2 is less than the first distance dl.

The actuation mechanism 103 then moves the plunger 101 from the second position shown in Figure 21b to a third position shown in Figure 21c. In the third position, the plunger 101 is separated by a third distance d3 from the base 118, where the third distance d3 is less than the second distance d2.

In the third position, the plunger 101 applies a load to the container 104, in particular to the deformable section 112 of the container 104. Said load, causes the deformable section 112 to move inwardly, thereby reducing the internal volume of the body 105 of the container 104 and thus increasing the pressure of the food product contained within the body 105. This action causes the food product to exert a load on the surface of the first layer 124a of the cover 124 facing the outlet 120.

As the pressure of the food product within the container 104 increases, the food product will also exert a load on the body 105 of the container 104. Since the seating 106 surrounds the periphery and the base 118 of the body 105, the seating 106 inhibits expansion of the container 104 caused by the load applied by the food product to the body 105. This helps to maximise the transfer of the load from the plunger 101 to the cover 124 via the food product within the body 105.

The third position of the plunger 101 is chosen such that the load exerted by the food product to the cover 124 is sufficient to at least partially break open the cover 124. This is shown in Figure 21c where it can be seen that the tabs 136 have folded away from the body 105 of the container 104.

By "at least partially break open the cover 124" it is meant that the cover 124 is sufficiently broken open to allow food product container within the container 104 to pass through the cover 124. It may not be necessary for all the lines of weakness on each layer of the cover 124 to be full broken open to allow food product to pass through the cover 124.

Preferably, when the plunger 101 is in the third position, all the lines of weakness on each layer of the cover 124 have fully broken open, the tabs 136 have folded away from the body 105 of the container 104, and food product has started to extrude through the outlet 120 and through the cover 124.

The actuation mechanism 103 then moves the plunger 101 from the third position shown in Figure 21c to a fourth position shown in Figure 21d. Between the third position and the fourth position, the plunger 101 continues to move the deformable section 112 inwardly towards the base 118 causing the food product in the container to be dispensed through the outlet 120 and the at least partially broken open cover 124 as the internal volume of the body 105 decreases, as shown in Figure 2. Once the plunger 101 reaches the fourth position, substantially all of the food product that was in the container 104 is dispensed.

In the fourth position, the plunger 101 is separated by a fourth distance d4 from the base 118, where the fourth distance d4 is less than the third distance d3.

The plunger 101 may move from the first position to the fourth position in a single continual motion. Alternatively, the plunger 101 may stop moving relative to the container 104 at one or more, and/or between one or more of the first, second, third and fourth positions.

In the illustrated embodiment, the actuation mechanism 103 is configured to vary the speed of movement of the plunger 101. To achieve this, the actuation mechanism 103 includes a variable speed electric motor.

At the start of the dispensing operation, the actuation mechanism 103 may be configured to initially move the plunger 101 such that the plunger 101 applies an initial "shock" to the deformable section 112 of the body 105 in order to at least partially break open the cover 124. For example, the actuation mechanism 103 may be configured to move the plunger 101 at a first speed from the first position shown in Figure 21a to the third position shown in Figure 21c. To achieve this, the voltage of the variable speed electric motor of the actuation mechanism 103 may be set to a first voltage. The first speed is chosen such that as the plunger 101 pushes against the upper surface 114 of the deformable section 112 and the deformable section 112 moves inwardly, the food product within the body 105 is pressurised until the pressure of the food product reaches a break pressure. The break pressure is chosen to be sufficient to at least partially break open the cover 124 due to the load exerted by the food product on the first layer 124a.

Subsequently, the actuation mechanism 103 may be configured to move the plunger 101 at a second speed towards the container 104 from the third position shown in Figure 21c to the fourth position shown in Figure 21d. The second speed is less than the first speed. This is achieved by setting the voltage of the variable speed electric motor of the actuation mechanism 103 to a second voltage, which is less than the first voltage. The second speed is chosen such that as the plunger 101 pushes against the upper surface 114 of the deformable section 112 and the deformable section 112 moves inwardly, the food product within the body 105 is pressurised to a dispensing pressure. The dispensing pressure is less than the break pressure and is chosen to be sufficient to allow food product to be dispensed through the outlet 120 and the at least partially broken cover 124 at a desired rate; for example, at a rate which inhibits spillage of the dispensed food product.

The first voltage of the variable speed electric motor of the actuation mechanism 103 may be double the second voltage. For example, the first voltage may be 240 volts and the second voltage may be 120 volts.

It will be appreciated that a first average speed and a second average speed of the plunger 101 may be used instead of the first speed and the second speed respectively.

The actuation mechanism 103 may be configured to temporarily cease movement of the plunger 101 relative to the container 104 when the plunger 101 is in the third position shown in Figure 21c. For example, the first speed and the first time interval may be chosen such that the cover 124 has at least partially broken open once the plunger 101 is in the third position due to the load exerted on the cover 124 by the food product pressurised to the break pressure. During an interim time interval when the plunger 101 is in the third position and has stopped moving relative to the container 104, food product may start to dispense through the outlet 120 and the broken cover 124 due to the build-up in pressure of the food product within the body 105 caused by the movement of the plunger 101 from the first position to the third position. By the end of the interim time interval, the pressure of the food product within the body 105 may no longer be sufficient to dispense food product from the body 105 at a desired rate. Hence, after the interim time interval, movement of the plunger 101 from the third position to the fourth position at the second speed causes the food product to be dispensed through the outlet 120 and the broken cover 124 under the dispensing pressure and at the desired rate.

Advantageously, stopping movement of the plunger 101 during the interim time interval helps to ensure that the food product is not extruded through the cover 124 at too high a pressure, which may cause spillage of the food product.

The actuation mechanism 103 includes a position sensor (not shown) to determine the position of the plunger 101 relative to the container 104. The position sensor may be a linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) for example. The actuation mechanism 103 receives information regarding the position of the plunger 101 relative to the seating 106 from the position sensor. Since the geometry of the container 104 is known, the actuation mechanism 103 can determine the position of the plunger 101 relative to the container 104 from the position of the plunger 101 relative to the seating 106.

The actuation mechanism 103 is configured to determine when the food product in the body 105 is pressurised to the break pressure when the plunger 101 is in the third position shown in Figure 21c. The third position, which is predetermined in the illustrated embodiment, is determined from prior experimentation.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the actuation mechanism 103 may be configured to determine when the food product in the body 105 is pressurised to the break pressure via measurement of a voltage of the variable speed electric motor. As the plunger 101 moves from the second position shown in Figure 21b to the third position shown in Figure 21c and is moving towards the container 104 at the first speed, the voltage of the variable speed electric motor will increase in order to maintain the plunger 101 moving at the first speed whilst overcoming the increased resistance resulting from the plunger 101 abutting against the container 104. The actuation mechanism 103 is configured to determine when the food product in the body 105 is pressurised to the break pressure when the voltage of the variable speed electric motor reaches a predetermined voltage. Said predetermined voltage is determined from prior experimentation. In such embodiments, the third position of the plunger 101 may not be predetermined and may instead vary between dispensing operations.

It will be appreciated that the foregoing dispensing operation for the container 104 may be used to dispense food product from the container 104'. Figures 22-24d illustrate a second embodiment of a system 200 for dispensing a food product, such as a frozen or semi-frozen confection. The system 200 includes a dispensing apparatus 202 and a container 204.

The container 204 includes a body 205 containing a food product (e.g. a frozen or semifrozen confection). The body 205 defines an opening 214 at a first end 206 of the body 205. The body 205 includes a lid 212, which covers the opening 214 and acts a barrier to protect the food product contained in the body 205 from external contaminants.

In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 214 and the lid 212 have corresponding circular profiles. However, in alternative embodiments, the opening 214 and the lid 212 may have any correspondingly shaped profiles, for example, any polygonal shape, or star-shaped.

The body 205 includes a base 218 at a second end 208 of the body 205, the base 218 including an outlet 220 for extruding food product therethrough.

The body 205 is substantially cylindrical, and the lid 212 is not fixedly secured to the body 205. As such, the lid 212 is able to pass through the body 205 from the first end 206 to the second end 208.

The cover 124 is secured to the base 218 of the body 205 in a similar manner as in the embodiments of Figures 1 to 13. The second lines of weakness 134b of the second layer 124b are shown in phantom in Figure 22. The cover 124 is arranged to extend across the outlet 220. As such, the cover 124 acts as a barrier to prevent food product contained within the body 205 from passing through the outlet 220 and leaving the container 204 when the container 204 is being stored. The cover 124 also acts as a barrier to prevent external contaminants from entering the body 205 through the outlet 220, and thus helps to ensure the food product remains hygienic.

With reference to Figures 24a to 24d, the dispensing apparatus 202 includes a support in the form of a seating 230 configured to receive the container 204, and a movable part in the form of a piston 201 located centrally relative to the seating 230. During a dispensing operation, the piston 201 is configured to apply a load to the container 204, in order to extrude food product (e.g. frozen or semi-frozen confection) from the container 204.

An operation for dispensing food product from the container 204 will now be described with reference to Figures 24a to 24d.

With reference to Figure 24a, the container 204 is first received on the seating 230 of the dispensing apparatus 202 and the piston 201 is stationary. The seating 230 supports the base 218 against the action of the piston 201 during the dispensing operation. Prior to the dispensing operation commencing, the piston 201 is in a first position in which it is spaced from the container 204 and is separated by a first distance dl from the base 218 of the container 204.

Although not shown, the dispensing apparatus 202 includes an actuation mechanism similar to the actuation mechanism 103 shown in Figures 1 and 2.

The actuation mechanism is then activated, which moves the piston 201 from the first position shown in Figure 24a to a second position shown in Figure 24b. In the second position, the piston 201 kisses the container 204, i.e. makes initial contact with the container 204. In particular, the piston 201 kisses the lid 212 of the container 204. In the second position, the piston 201 is separated by a second distance d2 from the base 218, where the second distance d2 is less than the first distance dl.

The actuation mechanism then moves the piston 201 from the second position shown in Figure 24b to a third position shown in Figure 24c. In the third position, the piston 201 is separated by a third distance d3 from the base 218, where the third distance d3 is less than the second distance d2.

In the third position, the piston 201 applies a load to the container 204, in particular to the lid 212 of the container 204. Said load, causes the lid 212 to move inwardly towards the base 218, thereby reducing the internal volume of the body 205 of the container 204 and thus increasing the pressure of the food product contained within the body 205. This action causes the food product to exert a load on the surface of the first layer 124a of the cover 124 facing the outlet 220. The third position of the piston 201 is chosen such that the load exerted by the food product to the cover 124 is sufficient to at least partially break open the cover 124. This is shown in Figure 24c where it can be seen that the tabs 136 have folded away from the body 205 of the container 204. Preferably, when the piston 201 is in the third position, all the lines of weakness on each layer of the cover 124 have fully broken open, the tabs 136 have folded away from the body 105 of the container 104, and food product has started to extrude through the outlet 220 and through the cover 124 as shown in Figure 24c.

The actuation mechanism then moves the piston 201 from the third position shown in Figure 24c to a fourth position shown in Figure 24d. Between the third position and the fourth position, the piston 201 continues to move the lid 212 inwardly towards the base 218 causing the food product in the container 204 to be dispensed through the outlet 220 and the at least partially broken open cover 124 as the internal volume of the body 205 decreases. Once the piston 201 reaches the fourth position, substantially all of the food product that was in the container 204 is dispensed. In the fourth position, the piston 201 is separated by a fourth distance d4 from the base 218, where the fourth distance d4 is less than the third distance d3.

The system 200 and its components shown in Figures 22 to 24d may have one or more features in common with the system 100 and its components shown in Figures 1 to 13 and 21a to 21d.

For example, the actuation mechanism of the system 200 may be configured to move the piston 201 at a first speed between the first position and the third position, and a second speed between the third position and the fourth position, where the first speed is greater than the second speed. Moreover, the actuation mechanism may be configured to temporarily cease movement of the piston 201 relative to the container 204 when the piston 201 is in the third position.

The container 204 may be filled with a food product in a similar fashion to the container 104, as illustrated in Figures 14 to 20.

Figure 28 illustrates a third embodiment of a system 600 for dispensing a food product, such as a frozen or semi-frozen confection. The system 600 includes several features that are present in the system 100 shown in Figures 1 and 2. Features in common with the system 100 are denoted with shared reference numerals.

The system 600 includes a dispensing apparatus 602 and the container 104.

The dispensing apparatus 602 includes a holder support 601 for supporting a product holder 603. The holder 603 is configured to receive and contain food product dispensed from the container 104 during a dispensing operation.

In the illustrated embodiment, the holder 603 is a cup that is suitable for holding a frozen or semi-frozen confection. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the holder 603 may be a cone, such as an ice cream cone, similar to that shown in Figures 1 and 2.

The holder support 601 is secured to a member 605. A drive means 607, which is mounted to a housing 616 of the dispensing apparatus 602, is connected to the member 605 and is operable to move the member 605 such that the holder support 601 moves towards or away from the seating 106 along a substantially vertical direction in Figure 28.

The dispensing apparatus 602 further includes a breaking means 604, which is operable to apply a breaking force to the external surface 124bX of the outer cover 124b; i.e. the surface of the cover 124 facing away from the outlet 120. The breaking force is defined as a force which is sufficient to at least partially break the cover 124; e.g. to at least partially burst/tear/split/rupture the cover 124. In the embodiment shown in Figure 28, the breaking means 604 is in the form of a gas jet apparatus 604, which includes a nozzle 606 in fluid communication with a supply of pressurised gas 608. A pipe 610 connects the supply 608 to the nozzle 606, and provides a conduit for gas to travel from the supply 608 to the nozzle 606. The pipe 610 includes a valve 612 which is configured to control the passage of pressurised gas from the supply 608 to the nozzle 606 via the pipe 610.

Note that in Figure 28, the supply 608, the valve 612 and a portion of the pipe 610 are located behind other components of the dispensing apparatus 602 and are thus shown in phantom.

In the illustrated embodiment, the supply 608 is in the form of a cylinder of compressed air, i.e. a cylinder containing air at a pressure which is higher than atmospheric pressure.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the supply 608 may be a compressed air cartridge, or an air compressor. In some embodiments, the gas may not be air; for example, the gas may be carbon dioxide.

The valve 612 is controllable by a controller (not shown). The controller is operable to switch the valve 612 from a first condition in which gas can travel from the supply 608 to the nozzle 606 via the pipe 610 and the valve 612, and a second condition in which the valve 612 prevents gas from travelling from the supply 608 to the nozzle 606 via the pipe 610 and the valve 612. The valve 612 may be any suitable valve, such as a butterfly valve for example.

The nozzle 606 is arranged such that when the valve 612 is in the first condition, a jet of pressurised gas 614 exits the nozzle 606 and is directed towards an external surface 124X of the cover 124. In particular, the jet 614 is directed towards the portion of the external surface 124X indirectly overlying the outlet 120. Preferably, the jet 614 is directed towards the portion of the external surface 124X indirectly overlying the centre of the outlet 120.

The pressure of the pressurised gas supplied by the supply 608 is sufficient to ensure that the jet 614 applies the breaking force to the external surface 124X of the cover 124. It will be appreciated that determining said sufficient pressure of the pressurised gas supplied by the supply 608 depends on a number of factors, such as the distance between the nozzle and the external surface 124X and the size of the nozzle 606 for example.

In Figure 28, the nozzle 606 is secured to the housing 616 of the dispensing apparatus 602 via the pipe 610. The pipe 610 is formed from a rigid material such as a metallic material for example. As such, the position of the nozzle 606 is fixed relative to the housing 616. In alternative embodiments (not shown), the dispensing apparatus 602 may include more than one nozzle 606 arranged to direct a jet of pressurised gas 614 towards the external surface 124X of the cover 124.

To dispense food product from the container 104 in a dispensing operation via the system 600 of Figure 28, the container 104 is first received on the seating 106 of the dispensing apparatus 602. Further, the holder 601 is received on the holder support 601 with the holder support in a first position spaced a first distance from the seating 106, as shown in Figure 28.

The actuation mechanism 103 is then activated, which moves the plunger 101 towards the seating 106 and into engagement with the deformable section 112 of the body 105. Once the plunger 101 is in contact with the deformable section 112, the actuation mechanism 103 is deactivated and the plunger 101 ceases to move. As such, the container 104 is inhibited from moving away from the seating 106.

The valve 612, which is initially in the second condition, is then switched to the first condition for a predetermined amount of time. As such, the jet of pressurised gas 614 exits the nozzle 606 and applies the breaking force to the external surface 124X of the cover 124, which causes the cover 124 to at least partially break open. The plunger 101 provides a reaction force to the force exerted by the jet 614 to the cover 124. The predetermined amount of time is preferably between 0.5 and 2 seconds.

The drive means 607 then moves the holder support 601 and thus the holder 603 towards the seating 106 to a second position spaced a second distance from the seating 106, where the second distance is less than the first distance.

Subsequently, the actuation mechanism 103 is activated, and the plunger 101 moves towards the seating 106. As the plunger 101 travels towards the seating 106, the plunger 101 pushes against the upper surface 114 of the deformable section 112, causing it to move inwardly, thereby reducing the internal volume of the body 105 of the container 104. This action causes the food product to be extruded through the outlet 120 and the broken cover 124. The extruded food product is received in the holder 603.

It will be appreciated the container 204 may be used in the system 600 instead of the container 104 with suitable modifications.

Figure 29 illustrates a fourth embodiment of a system 700 for dispensing a food product, such as a frozen or semi-frozen confection. The system 700 includes several features that are present in the system 100 shown in Figures 1 and 2 and the system 600 shown in Figure 28. Features in common with the system 100 and the system 600 are denoted with shared reference numerals. The system 700 includes a dispensing apparatus 702 and the container 104.

The dispensing apparatus 702 includes the gas jet apparatus 604 of the system 600 in Figure 28. However, in the dispensing apparatus 702, the nozzle 606 is secured to the member 605. As such, the nozzle 606 is movable relative to the seating 106 via the drive means 607.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 29, the supply 608 is secured to the housing 616, and the nozzle 606 is operable to move relative to the housing 616 via the drive means 607. As such, the pipe 610 is configured to accommodate the potential movement of the nozzle 606 relative to the supply 608 via means well known in the art.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the dispensing apparatus 702 may include more than one nozzle 606 arranged to direct a jet of pressurised gas 614 towards the external surface 124X of the cover 124. For example, the dispensing apparatus 702 may include an additional one or more nozzles 606 secured to the housing 616 in a similar fashion to the nozzle 606 shown in Figure 28.

To dispense food product from the container 104 in a dispensing operation in the system 700 of Figure 29, the container 104 is first received on the seating 106 of the dispensing apparatus 702. Further, the holder 601 is received on the holder support 601 with the holder support in a first position spaced a first distance from the seating 106, as shown in Figure 28.

The drive means 607 then moves the holder support 601 and thus the holder 603 and the nozzle 606 towards the seating 106 to a second position shown in Figure 29, which is spaced a second distance from the seating 106, where the second distance is less than the first distance.

The valve 612, which is initially in the second condition, is then switched to the first condition for a predetermined amount of time. As such, the jet of pressurised gas 614 exits the nozzle 606 and applies the breaking force to the external surface 124X of the cover 124, which causes the cover 124 to break. The plunger 101 provides a reaction force to the force exerted by the jet 614 to the cover 124. The predetermined amount of time is preferably between 0.5 and 2 seconds. Subsequently, the actuation mechanism 103 is activated, and the plunger 101 moves towards the seating 106. As the plunger 101 travels towards the seating 106, the plunger 101 pushes against the upper surface 114 of the deformable section 112, causing it to move inwardly, thereby reducing the internal volume of the body 105 of the container 104. This action causes the food product to be extruded through the outlet 120 and the broken cover 124. The extruded food product is received in the holder 603.

It will be appreciated the container 204 may be used in the system 700 instead of the container 104 with suitable modifications.

Figures 30 and 31 illustrate a fifth embodiment of a system 800 for dispensing a food product, such as a frozen or semi-frozen confection. The system 800 includes several features that are present in the system 100 shown in Figures 1 and 2 and the system 600 shown in Figure 28. Features in common with the system 100 and the system 600 are denoted with shared reference numerals.

The system 800 includes a dispensing apparatus 802 and the container 104.

The dispensing apparatus 802 includes a breaking means 804 in the form of a pressing member 806, which includes a pressing surface 808.

In the illustrated embodiment, the pressing member 806 is substantially U-shaped and includes a first arm 806a, a second arm 806b and a bridge 806c connecting the first arm 806a to the second arm 806b. The first arm 806a and the second arm 806b are substantially parallel to each other, and the bridge 806c is substantially perpendicular to both the first arm and the second arm 806b.

In alternative embodiments (not shown) the pressing member 806 may have any suitable shape.

The pressing surface 808 is formed on a free end of the second arm 806b. In the illustrated embodiment, the pressing surface is spherical and is formed as the external surface of a ball bearing.

In alternative embodiments (not shown) the pressing surface 808 may have any suitable curved shape, for example the pressing surface 808 may be hemispherical or at least partially hemispherical.

An actuation mechanism 809 mounted to the housing 616 of the dispensing apparatus 802 is operable to engage the first arm 806a in order to independently translate the pressing member 806 along an axis 810 (represented by a dashed line in Figures 30 and 31) and to pivot the pressing member 806 about the axis 810. The actuation mechanism 809 may include a first drive means operable to translate the pressing member 806 and a second drive means operable to pivot the pressing member 806.

The dispensing apparatus 802 includes a retaining means 812, which is configured to inhibit movement of the container 104 in a direction away from the seating 106 when the container 106 is supported by the seating 106.

In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining means 812 comprises a retaining ring 814 which is configured to abut against the upper flange 116 of the container 104 when the container 104 is in the seating 106. The retaining means 812 further comprises a retaining actuation mechanism (not shown), which is operable to move the retaining ring 814 from a first position which is spaced from the seating 106, as shown in Figure 30, to a second position in which the retaining ring abuts against the upper flange 116 of the container 104, as shown in Figure 31.

Once the retaining ring 814 is in the second position, the retaining ring 814 is configured to inhibit movement of the container 104 in a direction away from the seating 106. This may be achieved via the mass of the retaining ring 814, the actuation mechanism, and/or a securing mechanism configured to temporally secure the retaining ring 814 to the housing 616 and/or the seating 106.

In alternative embodiments (not shown), the retaining means 812 may include any suitably shaped retaining member or members. Alternatively, the plunger 101 may form at least part of the retaining means 812.

To dispense food product from the container 104 in a dispensing operation in the system 800 of Figures 30 and 31, the container 104 is first received on the seating 106 of the dispensing apparatus 802. Further, the holder 603 is received on the holder support 601 with the holder support 601 in a first position spaced a first distance from the seating 106, as shown in Figures 30 and 31.

The retaining means 812 is then moved from its first position to its second position via the retaining actuation mechanism (not shown). In its section position, the retaining means 812 abuts against the upper flange 116 of the container 104 as shown in Figure 31. As such, the container 104 is inhibited from moving in a direction away from the seating 106.

The actuation mechanism 809 then moves the pressing surface 808 from a first position in which the pressing surface 808 is horizontally and vertically spaced from the external surface 124X (as shown in Figure 30), to a second position in which the pressing surface 808 is in contact with the external surface 124X (as shown in Figure 31). To achieve this, the actuation mechanism 809 may pivot the pressing member 806 about the axis 810 until the pressing surface 808 is vertically aligned with the external surface 124X, and then translate the pressing member 806 along the axis 810 towards the external surface 124X. Alternatively, the actuation mechanism 809 may pivot the pressing member 806 about the axis 810 and translate the pressing member 806 along the axis 810 simultaneously.

Once the pressing surface 808 is in the second position shown in Figure 31, the actuation mechanism 809 moves the pressing surface 808 towards the outlet 120 by a predetermined amount. As such, the pressing surface 808 applies the breaking force to the external surface 124X of the cover 124, which causes the cover 124 to at least partially break open. The retaining means 812 provides a reaction force to the force exerted by the pressing surface 808 to the cover 124.

The actuation mechanism 809 then moves the pressing surface 808 back to the first position shown in Figure 30 by translating the pressing member 806 along the axis 810 away from the seating 106, and pivoting the pressing member 806 about the axis 810 such that the pressing surface 808 is horizontally spaced from the external surface 124bX.

It will be appreciated that the breaking means 604, 804 shown in Figures 28 to 31 could be incorporated into the system 200 shown in Figures 21 to 24.

It will be appreciated that container 104' may be used in any one of the systems 600, 700, 800 of Figures 28 to 31.

In the foregoing description, the cover 124 is a multi-layer structure formed from the first layer 124a, 124a', the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" and the third layer 124c; the third layer 124c being a layer of paper material.

However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the third layer 124c may instead be an edible coating (e.g. an edible wax coating such as an edible paraffin wax) arranged to at least partially coat the external second layer surface 124bx of the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b". In such embodiments, the third layer 124c may be arranged to seal/cover at least the weakened region 132b of the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b"; e.g. at least the lines of weakness 134b, 134b', 134b". The edible coating of the third layer 124c may be configured to break at normal operating pressures during a dispensing operation to allow dispensed food product to pass therethrough. Preferably, the edible coating has waterproofing properties which help to prevent liquids from passing from the second layer 124b, 124b', 124b" (e.g. from the lines of weakness 134b, 134b', 134b") through the third layer 124c prior to a dispensing operation. This may be achieved by using an edible wax coating as the third layer 124c for example.

In the foregoing description, systems 100, 200, 600, 700, 800 for dispensing a food product, such as a frozen or semi-frozen confection have been described. It will be appreciated that said systems may also be suitable for dispensing chilled food products.

Claims

1. A system for dispensing a frozen or semi-frozen confection, the system comprising: a container containing frozen or semi-frozen confection, the container including or defining an outlet for dispensing frozen or semi-frozen confection from the container; and a dispensing apparatus having a support for supporting the container, and a movable part for applying a load to the container for a dispensing operation; wherein the container includes a cover extending over the outlet prior to a dispensing operation, and wherein the cover is configured to break open under load from frozen or semifrozen confection within the container generated during normal operation of the movable part for a dispensing operation, to allow frozen or semi-frozen confection to be dispensed through the outlet; optionally, wherein the cover comprises a weakened region which has a lower breaking strength relative to the remainder of the cover such that the weakened region breaks open during a dispensing operation.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the cover is of a multi-layer structure, having a first layer and a second layer, wherein the second layer defines first and second portions, the first portion secured to the container, e.g. remote from or outboard of the outlet, the second portion inboard of the first portion and overlying the outlet; wherein the second portion comprises a weakened region which has a lower breaking strength relative to the remainder of the second portion such that the weakened region breaks open during a dispensing operation, and wherein the first layer is arranged to overlie at least the weakened region of the second portion; optionally, wherein the first portion defines an annulus proximal (optionally, concentric with) the outlet; optionally, wherein the annulus is secured to the container.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the second portion is unsecured directly to the container; optionally, wherein the first layer is interposed between the second portion and the container, the first layer overlying the outlet; optionally, wherein the first layer is secured to the second portion, and wherein the first layer is unsecured directly to the container.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the weakened region comprises at least one line of weakness; optionally, wherein the at least one line of weakness is formed as a continuous or perforated partial cut, wherein the partial cut extends part way through a thickness of the second portion.

64

5. The system of claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the weakened region comprises a plurality of lines of weakness, optionally three or more lines of weakness, optionally five or more lines of weakness, the lines of weakness arranged to extend radially outward from within the second portion.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the lines of weakness extend from a central region of the second portion; optionally, wherein the lines of weakness are arranged as a uniformly spaced radial array relative to the central region, for example, wherein the lines of weakness are equally radially spaced about an axis through the central region; optionally, wherein the lines of weakness form an asterisk or star shape.

7. The system of claims 5 or 6, wherein the lines of weakness do not meet at a common point, or wherein the lines of weakness extend from a common point; optionally, wherein the lines of weakness are arranged as a uniformly spaced radial array relative to the common point, for example, wherein the lines of weakness are equally radially spaced about an axis through the common point.

8. The system of any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the cover defines a plurality of tabs, each tab partially defined by two neighbouring lines of weakness and joined to the first portion, wherein each tab is configured to move away from the body when the weakened region breaks open during the dispensing operation; optionally, wherein each tab is configured to move away from the body about a fold line, wherein the fold lines of neighbouring tabs define a fold boundary surrounding the outlet; optionally, wherein the fold boundary is polygonal.

9. The system of any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the first layer incudes a weakened region which has a lower breaking strength relative to the remainder of the first layer such that said weakened region breaks open during the dispensing operation; optionally, wherein the weakened region of the first layer includes one or more lines of weakness.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the first layer and the second layer each include one or more lines of weakness, and wherein the one or more lines of weakness on the first layer are offset from the one or more lines of weakness on the second layer; optionally, wherein the first layer includes a plurality of first lines of weakness, said first lines of weakness forming an asterisk or star shape, and/or wherein the second layer includes a plurality of second lines of weakness, said second lines of weakness forming an asterisk or star shape; optionally, wherein each first line of weakness or each second line of

65 weakness includes an inner straight line portion joined to an outer straight line portion, the outer straight line portion oriented at a non-zero angle to the inner straight line portion; optionally, wherein the inner straight line portions form an asterisk or star shape, and wherein each outer straight line portion extends radially outward from the inner straight line portion to which it is joined.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the first layer includes a plurality of lines of weakness and the second layer includes a plurality of lines of weakness, wherein the lines of weakness on one of the first layer and the second layer extend from a common point, and wherein the lines of weakness on the other of the first layer and the second layer do not extend from a common point.

12. The system of any one of claims 2 to 11, wherein the first layer is of smaller area than the second layer, and wherein the first layer is arranged such that it is surrounded by an area of the second layer in plan view.

13. The system of any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein the first layer is formed from a paper material, such as rice paper or the like, and the second layer is formed from a plastics material.

14. The system of any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein the first layer is arranged to overlie the outlet and is interposed between at least a portion of the second layer and the container.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the cover comprises a third layer secured to a surface of the second layer facing away from the first layer; optionally, wherein the third layer is arranged to overlie the weakened region of the second layer; optionally, wherein the third layer is of a material having a substantially uniform breaking strength, or wherein the third layer includes one or more lines of weakness.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the first and/or third layer is formed from a paper material, such as rice paper or the like; optionally, wherein the second layer is formed from a plastics material.

17. The system of any one of claims 2 to 16, wherein the first portion is secured to a body of the container, for example by an adhesive and/or via heat sealing.

66

18. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the container comprises a portion which is deformable or movable in the direction of the outlet, for reducing volume within the container, in order to urge frozen or semi-frozen confection to be extruded through the outlet; optionally, wherein the movable part of the dispensing apparatus is configured to deform or move said portion of the container, when the container is located on the support; optionally, wherein the outlet is formed in a base of the container, and the support has a seating intended to support the base during a dispensing operation.

19. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the dispensing apparatus comprises an actuation mechanism operable to move the movable part, wherein during a dispensing operation, the actuation mechanism is configured to move the movable part to pressurise the frozen or semi-frozen confection in the container to a break pressure, the break pressure being sufficient to at least partially break open the cover against the support, thereafter the actuation mechanism is configured to move the moveable part to pressurise the frozen or semi-frozen confection in the container to a dispensing pressure, the dispensing pressure being sufficient to dispense the frozen or semi-frozen confection through the outlet, wherein the break pressure is higher than the dispensing pressure; optionally, wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to move the movable part at a first speed towards the container until the frozen or semi-frozen confection is pressurised to the break pressure, thereafter the actuation mechanism is configured to move the moveable part at a second speed towards the container such that the frozen or semifrozen confection is pressurised to the dispensing pressure, wherein the first speed is greater than the second speed; optionally, wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to temporarily cease movement of the moveable part relative to the container between moving the moveable part at the first speed and the second speed.

20. A system for dispensing a frozen or semi-frozen confection, the system comprising : a container containing frozen or semi-frozen confection, the container including or defining an outlet for dispensing frozen or semi-frozen confection from the container, wherein the container includes a cover extending over the outlet prior to a dispensing operation; and a dispensing apparatus comprising: a support arranged to support the container; a movable part for applying a load to the container; and an actuation mechanism operable to move the moveable part relative to the container, wherein during a dispensing operation the actuation mechanism is configured to move the moveable part:

67 (i) from a first position, in which the moveable part is spaced from the container, to a second position in which the moveable part initially contacts the container;

(iii) from the third position to a fourth position, wherein substantially all of the frozen or semi-frozen is dispensed from the container when the moveable part in in the fourth position; optionally, wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to move the movable part at a first speed between the first position and the third position, and a second speed between the third position and the fourth position, wherein the first speed is greater than the second speed; optionally, wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to temporarily cease movement of the moveable part relative to the container when the moveable part is in the third position.

68