NL2011344C2

NL2011344C2 - Apparatus and method for irradiating a product.

Info

Publication number: NL2011344C2
Application number: NL2011344A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Petrus Alfred Marie Theije
Original assignee: Wegra Beheer B V
Priority date: 2013-08-27
Filing date: 2013-08-27
Publication date: 2015-03-02

Description

Title: APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR IRRADIATING A PRODUCT

TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND

The present disclosure concerns an apparatus for irradiating a product, in particular for partially or fully baking, drying, curing, and/or melting the product.

It is observed that in this context, “baking” should be understood to mean the at least partial browning and/or cooking of a product. For example, in the food industry, there is an interest for edible products which are ready to be consumed by a consumer or which require only a short preparation time for consumption. Examples thereof include pastas or pieces of meat which are completely or partially pre-baked and which can be prepared by a consumer by heating briefly, for instance by heating in a microwave oven. There are also products that do not require any further heating by a consumer, but for which it is desired to improve an appearance of the product with a browned or seared outer layer or crust, e.g. by means of a Maillard reaction. Alternatively or in addition, the product can be dried by the apparatus, e.g. a portion of water may be evaporated from the product. Alternatively or in addition, the product can be cured and/or melted by the apparatus. Besides edible (food) products, the apparatus may also be used for irradiating non-edible products.

European Patent 1,257,173 B1 describes a baking apparatus for baking edible products located on a conveying surface travelling along a conveyor track. The apparatus comprises a number of infrared radiators arranged above the conveyor track. One effect achieved through the use of infrared radiation is that an (edible) product can be processed contactlessly. Furthermore, the supply of radiation can be controlled so that radiation is supplied only when needed and in the amount needed, which enables energy saving. The infrared radiators have a casing of quartz glass and a reflector layer applied by vaporization, so that the infrared radiation can be bundled in the direction of the conveyor track. By using a directional infrared radiator emitting a bundle of infrared radiation bounded in the direction of the conveyor system, the infrared radiation can be more efficiently utilized, which further contributes to energy saving. The conveyor track is designed as an endless conveyor belt having a tunnel-shaped housing which surrounds the conveyor belt. By enclosing the conveyor track using a tunnelshaped housing, an elevated temperature inside the tunnel can be maintained during use, which further contributes to energy saving. Furthermore external access to the inside of the tunnel during use can be prevented, which contributes to operational safety. The tunnel-shaped housing is built up from segments. The segments are each provided with a cover part supporting a number of the infrared radiators. The cover part is pivotable between a first position forming the tunnel in which the radiators are located above the conveyor track and a second position in which the radiators are accessible for e.g. maintenance operations.

In some cases it is found to be a disadvantage of the known apparatus that it is suitable only for a hmited range of product sizes, e.g. thickness. In particular, it is found that products outside the said limited range experience an uneven baking process. Accordingly there is a need for a more versatile irradiating apparatus that provides an even irradiating process for a wider range of product sizes while maintaining advantages of the known apparatus with respect to energy saving, operational safety, and ease of maintenance.

SUMMARY A first aspect of the present disclosure provides an apparatus for irradiating a product, the apparatus comprising a conveyor system arranged for supporting and/or carrying the product; a displaceable cover and a cover displacement mechanism arranged to displace the cover between an open configuration and a closed configuration; wherein, when the cover is placed in the open configuration, an inside of the cover is externally accessible for e.g. maintenance operations; wherein, when the cover is placed in the closed configuration, the cover together with a base of the apparatus form an irradiation tunnel enclosing the conveyor system for, in use, maintaining an elevated temperature inside the tunnel and preventing external access to the inside of the tunnel; the apparatus further comprising a plurality of directional infrared radiators attached to the cover wherein each radiator is arranged for emitting an expanding bundle of infrared radiation; wherein, when the cover is placed in the closed configuration, the infrared radiators are arranged in the irradiation tunnel for emitting the bundles of infrared radiation bounded within a limited opening angle towards the conveyor system; wherein the radiators are displaceable with respect to the conveyor system while the cover remains in the closed configuration for varying an irradiation pattern of the bounded bundles of infrared radiation on the product. The inside of the cover when the cover is in the open position may also be referred to as an inside processing space. In the closed position of the cover, the inside processing space is formed by the tunnel. So, in open position of the cover the inside processing space is externally accessible and in closed position of the cover the inside processing space is formed by the tunnel and is not externally accessible.

The present inventors find that while the directional infrared radiators provide an advantageous efficiency by only irradiating a specific spot of the conveyor system, the bounded cone of infrared radiation can cause uneven baking of the product. In particular, it is found that if a height between the radiators and the conveyor system is set to homogeneously irradiate a product of a given thickness, another product with a different thickness can be inhomogeneously irradiated because the irradiation pattern on the product is different,. By providing a means for displacing the directional radiators with respect to the conveyor system, an irradiation pattern of the bounded bundles of infrared radiation on the product can be varied. In particular, by adjusting the height of the radiators to the height of the product, the irradiation pattern of the expanding bundles can be adjusted to provide a homogeneous irradiation for products of different height or thickness. By being able to provide a homogeneous irradiation pattern for products of different sizes while still using bundles of infrared radiation bounded within a limited opening angle towards the conveyor system the irradiating apparatus can provide an even irradiating process for a wider range of product sizes or thicknesses while maintaining advantages of the known apparatus with respect to energy saving. Because the radiators are displaceable while the cover remains in the closed configuration further energy saving is achieved and external access to the irradiation tunnel during operation is prevented, which contributes to operational safety. Because the cover can be placed in an open configuration when the apparatus is not in use, an ease of maintenance is improved.

It is noted that U.S. patent number 7,307,243 describes that a first, distance between each one of the plurality of surface-browning infrared emitters and the conveyor can be generally less than a second distance between each one of the plurality of interior-heating infrared emitters and the conveyor. However, the baking apparatus described in said reference is different from that of the present disclosure in that it does not provide the same advantages with respect to energy saving, operational safety, and ease of maintenance. Also the said reference teaches to vary the distance between the radiators and the conveyor to create different heating zones and not to improve a homogeneity of the irradiation profile. A second aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for irradiating a product of a particular thickness. The method comprises providing a base. The base comprises a conveyor system supporting and/or carrying the product. The method further comprises providing a displaceable cover and a cover displacement mechanism arranged to displace the cover between an open configuration and a closed configuration. When the cover is placed in the open configuration, an inside of the cover is externally accessible e.g. for maintenance operations. When the cover is placed in the closed configuration, the cover together with the base form an irradiation tunnel enclosing the conveyor system for, in use, maintaining an elevated temperature inside the tunnel and preventing external access to the inside of the tunnel. The method further comprises providing a plurality of directional infrared radiators attached to the cover. Each radiator emits an expanding bundle of infrared radiation. The cover is placed in the closed configuration and the infrared radiators are arranged in the irradiation tunnel emitting the bundles of infrared radiation bounded within a limited opening angle towards the conveyor system. The radiators are displaced with respect to the conveyor system while the cover remains in the closed configuration depending on the thickness of the product to provide a homogeneous irradiation pattern of the bounded bundles of infrared radiation on a surface of the product.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus, systems and methods of the present disclosure will become better understood from the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawing wherein: FIG 1A schematically shows a cross-section views of an embodiment of the apparatus in an open configuration; FIG IB schematically shows the embodiment of FIG 1A in a first closed position; FIG 1C schematically shows the embodiment of FIG lAin a second closed position wherein the radiators are closer to the conveyor system than in FIG IB; FIG 2 schematically shows a cross-section view of an embodiment of directional infrared radiators over a conveyor system; FIG 3 schematically shows an embodiment of the apparatus comprising radiators on both sides of the product; FIG 4A shows a perspective view of an underside of a cassette comprising infrared radiator tubes; FIG 4B shows a side view of clamping mechanisms for clamping the infrared radiator tubes of FIG 4A; FIG 4C shows a perspective view of one of the clamping mechanisms of FIG 4B; FIG 5 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus; and FIGs 6-15 schematically show cross-section views of various other embodiments of the apparatus.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs as read in the context of the description and drawings. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. In some instances, detailed descriptions of well-known devices and methods may be omitted so as not to obscure the description of the present systems and methods. Terminology used for describing particular embodiments is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be understood that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising" specify the presence of stated features but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features. It will be further understood that when a particular step of a method is referred to as subsequent to another step, it can directly follow said other step or one or more intermediate steps may be carried out before carrying out the particular step, unless specified otherwise. Likewise it will be understood that when a connection between structures or components is described, this connection may be established directly or through intermediate structures or components unless specified otherwise. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

The invention is described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. The description of the exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the drawings, the absolute and relative sizes of systems, components, layers, and regions may be exaggerated for clarity. Embodiments may be described with reference to schematic and/or cross-section illustrations of possibly idealized embodiments and intermediate structures of the invention. In the description and drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Relative terms as well as derivatives thereof should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description and do not require that the system be constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless stated otherwise. FIGs 1A-1C show a schematic cross-section views of an embodiment of an apparatus for irradiating a product 17. The apparatus comprises a conveyor system 14 arranged for supporting and/or carrying the product 17. The apparatus further comprises a displaceable cover 10 and a cover displacement mechanism 12 arranged to displace the cover 10 between an open configuration A (shown in FIG 1A) and a closed configuration B (shown in FIG IB) and/or closed configuration C (shown in FIG 1C). When the cover 10 is placed in the open configuration A, an inside 18 of the cover 10 is externally accessible for e.g. maintenance operations. When the cover 10 is placed in the closed configuration B or C, the cover 10 forms an irradiation tunnel 11 together with a base 15 of the apparatus. The irradiation tunnel encloses the conveyor system 14. In this way an elevated temperature with respect to an outside temperature can be better maintained inside the tunnel 11 while at the same time external access to the inside of the tunnel 11 can be prevented. The inside 18 of the cover 10 can also be referred to as an inside processing space. The inside processing space is formed by the inside 18 of the cover 10 when the cover 10 is in the open position and is formed by the tunnel 11 when the cover 10 is in the closed position.

The apparatus comprises a plurality of directional infrared radiators 13 attached to the cover 10. Each radiator 13 is arranged for emitting an expanding bundle of infrared radiation 16. When the cover 10 is placed in the closed configuration, the infrared radiators 13 are arranged in the irradiation tunnel 11 for emitting the bundles of infrared radiation 16 bounded within a limited opening angle towards the conveyor system 14.

The radiators 13 are displaceable with respect to the conveyor system 14 while the cover 10 remains in the closed configuration. By the displacing of the radiators 13, an irradiation pattern of the bounded expanding bundles of infrared radiation 16 on the product 17 can be varied.

In use the apparatus can thus be used for irradiating the product 17 with the infrared radiation thereby at least partially baking, drying, curing, and/or melting the product 17 in the irradiation tunnel 11. By varying a distance of the cover 10 while the cover 10 is in the closed configuration the bundles of infrared radiation, in particular the radiation profile impinging a product can be adjusted depending on a thickness of the product 17 to be irradiated. The apparatus can perform an irradiation process at an optimum setting of the distance between the radiators 13 and the conveyor system 14, which optimum setting is dependent on a thickness of the product. Preferably, the radiators 13 are electrically displaceable. Alternatively, also a mechanical displacement mechanism can be envisaged, or other means of displacement e.g. hydraulic. FIG 1A illustrates an open position of the apparatus, e.g. for access to the inside 18 of the apparatus while the apparatus is not in use. FIG IB illustrates that a relatively large (e.g. thick or high) product 117 experiences an even irradiation profile in the first closed position B, i.e. radiation falls relatively homogeneously on a top side of the product. On the other hand, a relatively small (e.g. thin or low) product 17 may experience a more uneven irradiation profile (less homogeneous) wherein an overlap 29 can be present from the top of the product where radiation falls onto the product from two adjacent bundles. The radiation profile can be considered more “even” when perimeters of adjacent bundles connect as best as possible on an outside (e.g. top side) of the product to form a homogeneous irradiation pattern. The radiation profile can term “uneven” can be considered more “uneven” when adjacent bundles partly overlap or are spaced apart with a gap therein between on an outside (e.g. top side) of the product to form an inhomogeneous irradiation pattern.

To adjust the apparatus for the smaller product 17, a distance of the radiators 13 with respect to the conveyor system 14 can be decreased, in this case by moving the cover to position C. Similarly, FIG 1C illustrates that the relatively large product 117 may experience an uneven irradiation profile in the second closed position C wherein a gap 27 can be present from the top of the product where no radiation falls onto the product. To adjust the apparatus for the larger product 117, the distance of the radiators 13 with respect to the conveyor system 14 can be increased, in this case by moving the cover back to position B. It is thus demonstrated how the apparatus with directional irradiation can be adjusted for even baking of products in a range of sizes or thicknesses.

In one embodiment, as shown, the cover 10 is displaceable between a first position B of the closed configuration and a second position C of the closed configuration. As shown, the irradiation tunnel 11 remains enclosed by the cover 10 and base 15 during displacement between the said first and second positions B,C while a distance between the radiators 13 and the conveyor system, e.g. platform 14 is altered by said displacement.

In one embodiment, the cover 10 is displaceable, e.g. by pivoting and/or sliding between a first position forming the irradiation tunnel 11 in which the radiators 13 are located above the conveyor track and a second position in which the radiators are accessible for at least maintenance operations. Also other displacement mechanisms are possible. In one embodiment, the cover 10 is displaceable between at least three different positions, one open position (A) and two different closed positions (B and C). In another embodiment, the cover 10 is displaceable between two different positions, open and closed, wherein the radiators are moveable with respect to the conveyor system 14 in the closed position. In one embodiment, the radiators 13 are displaceable at least in an upwards and downward direction with respect to the conveyor system 14. In one embodiment, the radiators 13 are displaceable at least in a direction transverse to a displacement direction of the conveyor system 14.

In one embodiment, as shown, either one or both of the cover 10 and/or base 15 comprises a skirt or flap 7 arranged to cover and close off the irradiation tunnel 11 between the cover 10 and base 15 in a first position B of the closed configuration. The skirt or flap 7 is arranged to shde over or into a corresponding part 19 of the cover 10 and/or base 15 when a distance between the cover 10 and base 15 is decreased to arrive at a second position C of the closed configuration.

In one embodiment, the radiators 13 are arranged to have adjacent bundles of infrared radiation 16 as close as possible on a top surface of the product at least in a closed configuration. As shown in the figure, because the bundles are expanding and the conveyor system lies further away from the radiators than the product, this means that the bundles at least partially overlap on the conveyor system 14, e.g. the conveying surface.

In one embodiment, the conveyor system 14 comprises an endless belt arranged to carry the product 17 through the irradiation tunnel 11. Also other conveyor systems are possible, e.g. a chain from which products can be hanged, a plurality of pins onto which a product (e.g. sausage) can be pinned, rollers which transport a product by rolling, etc. Some embodiments of the conveyor system may allow irradiation not only from a top side of the product, but also from the bottom side. In such embodiments, e.g. shown in FIG 3, radiators can also be provided from the bottom side. FIG 2 schematically shows a cross-section view of an embodiment of directional infrared radiators 13a, 13b over a conveyor system 14. The figure shows a cross-section view through a pair of tubes (twin-tube). In the embodiment shown, the tubes are arranged with a length direction transverse to a transport direction 14t of the product. In one embodiment, the radiators 13a, 13b comprises one or more tubes, wherein a tube comprises a heating filament or strip along a length of the tube for emitting the infrared radiation.

In the embodiment shown, the radiators 13 comprise a reflective surface 20 over a partial circumference thereof for reflecting the infrared radiation 16. Thereby the infrared radiation 16 of the bundle is bounded within a limited opening angle 01+03. Also other means can be provided for bounding the infrared radiation to a limited opening angle, e.g. a directional light source.

As used herein, the term “expanding bundle” means than the opening angle is positive, i.e. the bundle becomes larger further away from the radiator. In one embodiment, the opening angle 01+03 is between 60 -120 degrees. The individual angles 01 or 03 are preferably between 30 - 60 degrees. In one embodiment, the infrared radiators 13 are displaceable at least in a direction of the expanding bundles (i.e. in a direction of the emitted light) while the cover remains closed. In this way, a size of the projection can be varied. The angles of the radiators are preferably the same, e.g. 02 = 03. The radiators are preferably arranged to provide a symmetric bundle onto the conveyor system 14, i.e. 01 = 03. In one embodiment, the infrared radiators 13 are displaceable along a symmetry axis of the emitted bundle of infrared radiation, i.e. in this case in the vertical direction.

One method for irradiating a product 17 of a particular thickness comprises providing the product 17 to an apparatus as described herein. The cover (not shown here) is placed in the closed configuration and the infrared radiators 13a, 13b are arranged in the irradiation tunnel emitting the bundles of infrared radiation 16a, 16b bounded within a limited opening angle 01, 02, 03 towards the conveyor system 14. The radiators 13 are displaced with respect to the conveyor system 14 while the cover remains in the closed configuration. In particular, the distance H+Y between the radiators 13 and conveyor system 14 is set depending on the thickness Y of the product 17 to provide a homogeneous irradiation pattern of the bounded bundles of infrared radiation on a surface 25 of the product 17.

In one embodiment, a distance H+Y between the radiators 13 and the platform 14 is adjusted with respect to an opening angle 01+03 of the bundles of infrared radiation 16a, 16b, a distance X between adjacent radiators 16a, 16b, and a height Y of the product 17 on the platform 14 to have a top surface 25 of the product homogeneously irradiated by adjacent bundles of infrared radiation 16a, 16b from the adjacent radiators 13a, 13b.

It will be clear that when a distance H+Y between the radiators 13a, 13b and conveyor system 14 (e.g. a platform or chain) is decreased compared to the shown configuration, a gap will be formed in the irradiation profile on the top 25 of the product 17 between the adjacent bundles 16a and 16b where no radiation falls onto the product. Such a gap may e.g. lead to an uneven irradiation of the product, e.g. an uneven baking process. Similarly, when a distance H+Y between the radiators and conveyor system is increased compared to the shown configuration, an overlap will be formed in the irradiation profile on the top 25 of the product 17 between the adjacent bundles 16a and 16b where double the radiation falls onto the product. Such an overlap may also lead to an uneven irradiation of the product. Therefore, preferably the height is adjusted to have the adjacent bundles 16a, 16b cover the top surface 25 of the product as close together as possible with minimal or no overlap as shown in the present figure. In this way a most homogeneous or uniform irradiation of the product can be provided. Of course there is some margin wherein the irradiation is not ideal but still acceptable, especially for irregularly shaped products with varying heights or thicknesses either across the product or between products. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the distance H+Y between the radiators 13 and the platform 14 is adjusted to have the adjacent bundles of infrared radiation 16a, 16b have a minimal and preferably no overlap on the top surface 25 of the product 17, e.g. at the highest position of the product. Preferably, there is as httle overlap or as little distance between the bundles as possible to provide a homogeneous irradiation of the product. Ideally, there is no overlap or no distance between the adjacent bundles on the top surface 25 of the product 17. In practice, there will be strived for a zero overlap or a zero distance of the adjacent bundles, although in practice this may not always be achievable, depending on e.g. irregularities of the product and/or other limitations. It will be appreciated that the same considerations can also be applied when the radiators are arranged below the conveyor system, e.g. a semi-open conveyor system or conveyor system that otherwise allows radiation to pass from below through to the product. FIG 3 shows an embodiment, wherein the conveyor system 14 allows irradiation from a top side 25 and bottom side 26 of the product 17.

In the embodiment, the base 15 of the apparatus additionally comprises a plurality of upwards directed infrared radiators 13b wherein each upwards directed radiator 13b is arranged for emitting an expanding bundle of infrared radiation 16b. The infrared radiators 13 are arranged for emitting the bundles of infrared radiation 16b bounded within a limited opening angle towards a bottom side of the conveyor system 14. The upwards directed radiators 13b are displaceable with respect to the conveyor system 14 for varying an irradiation pattern of the bounded bundles of infrared radiation 16b on a bottom side of the product 17.

In the embodiment shown, a bottom radiator displacement mechanism 12b is shown for displacing the radiators with respect to the conveyor system 14. Any suitable system, e.g. as described herein for the top radiators, can be used as the displacement mechanism 12b.

In one embodiment, the conveyor system 14 comprises a chain arranged to carry the product 17 through the irradiation tunnel 11. The chain allows access to the product both from the bottom and top side. It will be appreciated that the product thickness or size in this case can determine a distance both with respect to the top radiators 13 and the bottom radiators 13b. Accordingly, there can be a similar need to also displace the bottom radiators for providing a more even irradiation profile also from a bottom of the product 17. For example, the present figure illustrates that a larger product 117 may experience an uneven irradiation profile wherein gaps 27 and 28 can be present from the top and bottom of the product where no radiation falls onto the product. To adjust the apparatus for the larger product 117, the distance of the top and bottom radiators with respect to the conveyor system 14 can be increased. FIG 4A shows a perspective bottom view of an embodiment, wherein a plurahty of radiators 13 is comprised in a cassette 21. The cassette 21 can be displaceable with respect to the conveyor system (not shown here) as a single unit. The apparatus may comprise one or more cassettes which may optionally be separately displaceable. FIG 4B shows a cross-section view of one embodiment for clamping an infrared radiator 13 in the cassette by means of clamping mechanisms 39a and 39b. FIG 4C shows a perspective view of one clamping mechanism 39a. As shown, a ceramic block 38 can be provided between the lamp and the clamp 39a. Wiring can run through holes 37 in the block 38.

Of course also other embodiments of the cassette, radiators, and clamping mechanism are possible. FIG 5 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an apparatus for irradiating a product 17. The apparatus comprises a conveyor system 14 arranged for transporting a product (not shown) here along a trajectory through the apparatus. An infrared radiator 13 is arranged above the trajectory for directing infrared radiation (not shown) from the radiator 13 towards the trajectory for irradiating the product with the infrared radiation. The conveyor system 14 of the present embodiment comprises a conveyor surface for supporting and/or carrying the product. Also other conveyor systems are possible.

In the figure, the apparatus is shown with the cover comprising the radiators 13 in an elevated position, such that the apparatus is open, e.g. for maintenance. During operation of the apparatus, the cover 10 is in a downward position such that the apparatus is closed.

In the embodiment shown, the apparatus comprises a controller interface 23 arranged for monitoring and setting of baking parameters such as a distance between the radiators 13 and the conveyor surface, depending on a height and/or thickness of the product to be irradiated. Also other parameters such as velocity of the conveyor surface and/or an infrared radiation intensity provided by the infrared radiator 13 may be set by the controller 23.

In the embodiment shown, the cover displacement mechanism comprises a retractable shaft 22 between the cover 10 and the base 15. The shaft 22 carries the cover 10 over the base 15. The cover 10 is placed in the open configuration by extending the shaft between the base 15 and the cover 10 and the cover is placed in the closed configuration by retracting the shaft 22 into the base 15 and/or into the cover 10.

In one embodiment, the base 15 is arranged to carry the apparatus. In one embodiment, the conveyor system 14 is comprised in the base 15. Also other configurations are possible, e.g. wherein the conveyor system 14 is independently suspended over the base 14. In the embodiment shown, the base 15 comprises a plurality of compartments 55 that are optionally accessible via respective doors, e.g. for maintenance and cleaning. In another embodiment, the base 15 can be open. In the embodiment shown, the base 15 is suspended from the floor by optional feet 56. In one embodiment, the base 15 also comprises a plurality of bottom radiators (not shown) to additionally irradiate a product from the bottom.

In one embodiment, the base 15 comprises a basin (not shown) below the conveyor system 14. The basin is arranged for holding a fluid for capturing parts, e.g. debris, falling off of the product through or past the conveyor system. This embodiment can alleviate build-up of debris. For example, the basin can be connected to a water supply (not shown) for feeding water as fluid into the basin. Optionally, also a cleaning solution can be provided in the fluid. In one embodiment, the fluid can be flushed through the basin as a stream to flush away the particles. Advantageously, the fluid can be arranged for absorbing and/or carrying away excess heat caused by part of the infrared radiation. This can be advantageous in preventing overheating of the apparatus. The heat can be absorbed and carried away e.g. by hooking the apparatus up to a water supply, wherein water of a certain temperature is continuously provided to the apparatus. This water can heat up by absorption of the infrared radiation. The heated water or other fluid can be drained out of the apparatus. At the same time also debris falling from the product can be drained with the water. Alternatively a closed circuit can be used wherein the heated water is cooled down before re-entering the apparatus. For example a filter can be used in such a recycled stream to filter debris falling from the product in the water.

In the embodiment shown, the cover 10 comprises a flap 7 arranged to cover and close off the irradiation tunnel between the cover 10 and base 15 in a first position of the closed configuration. The flap 7 is arranged to slide over or into a corresponding part 19 of the base 15 when a distance between the cover 10 and base 15 is decreased to arrive at a second position of the closed configuration. The inside processing space formed by the tunnel 11 thus remains closed when the cover 10 is in closed position. The inside processing space is accessible when lifting the cover 10 to the open position.

In one embodiment, one or more of a plurahty of radiators are controllable. In one embodiment, not only the height, but also the radiation intensity of the radiators is controllable along the trajectory such that an intensity of infrared radiation delivered to the trajectory is controllable to provide different zones along the trajectory. By having controllable radiators along the trajectory, a baking process can be better monitored. For example a first radiator can be controlled and/or set for providing a more intense dose of infrared radiation than a second radiator. For example, a first radiator can be set for slowly cooking a product while a second radiator can be set for searing the product. In one embodiment, a controller is arranged for independently setting a radiation intensity of different radiation zones along the trajectory. This can give a better control e.g. of a baking and/or drying process. FIG 6 shows an embodiment of the apparatus wherein the radiators 13 are adjustable in height by rotating the fixed brackets 1 towards or away from each other over the spindles 2, driven by a motor 3. The brackets 1, spindles 2, and motor 3 thus form a radiator displacement mechanism 4 arranged for displacing the radiators 13 with respect to the cover 10, e.g. between a first closed position B and a second closed position C. Additionally, the cover 10 can be moved vertically with respect to the oven 11 by means of the spindles 12, e.g. to move the cover to an open position (not shown here) FIG 7 shows an embodiment of the apparatus wherein the radiators 13 are adjustable in height by means of a cable system 4, that is manually or mechanically driven. Once the maximum adjustable height is reached, the radiator module 13 will lift the cover with respect to the oven or base. Of course the opposite occurs for a downward movement, i.e. first the cover will close to position B, then the radiators will move further down to position C while the cover remains closed. The cable system 4 is one of many possible embodiments, wherein the radiator displacement mechanism 4 and the cover displacement mechanism 12 are part of a combined displacement mechanism 42. The combined displacement mechanism 42 is arranged for displacing the radiators 13 with respect to the cover in a first displacement range (between C and B) and for displacing both the cover 10 and the radiators 13 with respect to the base in a second displacement range (between B and A). The combined displacement mechanism 42 is thus arranged for displacing both the radiators 13 with respect to the conveyor system (not shown here) and for displacing the cover 10 with respect to the base. Having a single mechanism can save costs and space. FIG 8 shows an embodiment of the apparatus wherein the radiators 13 are adjustable in height by means of a cable system 4, that is manually or mechanically driven with respect to the cover 10. In addition, the cover 10 can be vertically displaced with respect to the oven 11 by means of spindles 12 and/or a cylinder 12b, e.g. hydraulic or pneumatic. FIG 9 shows an embodiment of the apparatus wherein the radiators 13 are adjustable in height by means of a bracket 6 that is mounted onto spindle 12. Once the maximum adjustable height is reached, the radiator module 13 will lift the cover with respect to the oven 11. Of course the opposite occurs for a downward movement. FIG 10 shows an embodiment of the apparatus wherein the radiators 13 are fixed in the cover 10. By means of the spindles 12 the cover 10 is adjustable in height. The opening that would otherwise be created to the outside is closed by means of protecting flaps that can be optionally removable such that the inside processing space is closed off by the flaps during operation, and the inside processing space is accessible from the outside, by removing or lifting the flaps, when the apparatus is not in operation e.g. for maintenance. FIG 11 shows another embodiment of the apparatus wherein the radiators 13 are fixed in the cover 10. By means of the spindles 12 the cover 10 is adjustable in height. The opening that would otherwise be created to the outside is closed by means of folding flaps 8 (harmonica system) that can be optionally removable. This is one example of an embodiment, wherein either one or both of the cover and/or base comprises a skirt or flap 8 arranged to cover and close off the irradiation tunnel 11 between the cover and base in a first position B of the closed configuration; wherein the skirt or flap 8 is arranged to fold when a distance between the cover 10 and base 15 is decreased to arrive at a second position C of the closed configuration. Also in this embodiment, the inside processing space is closed off by the flaps during operation, and the inside processing space is accessible from the outside, by folding the flaps, when the apparatus is not in operation e.g. for maintenance. FIG 12 shows an embodiment of the apparatus wherein the radiators 13 are adjustable in height by means of cylinders 9, e.g. (aqua)hydraulic or pneumatic. The cover 10 can be vertically displaced with respect to the oven 11 by means of spindles 12 and/or a cylinder 12b , e.g. (aqua)hydraulic or pneumatic. FIG 13 shows an embodiment of the apparatus wherein the radiators 13 are adjustable in height by means of a bracket 6 that is mounted onto a cylinder 5 , e.g. aqua-hydraulic or pneumatic. Once the maximum adjustable height is reached, the radiator module 13 will lift the cover 10 with respect to the oven 11. Of course the opposite occurs for a downward movement FIG 14 shows an embodiment of the apparatus wherein the radiators 13 are fixed in the cover 10. The cover 10 is adjustable in height with respect to the oven 11 by means of cylinder 12b , e.g. aquahydraulic or pneumatic. The opening that would otherwise be created to the outside is closed by means of protecting flaps that can be optionally removable. Here too, the inside processing space is closed off by the flaps during operation, and the inside processing space is accessible from the outside, e.g. by removing the flaps, when the apparatus is not in operation e.g. for maintenance. FIG 15 shows an embodiment similar to FIG 14 but with a harmonica system instead of sliding flaps.

While example embodiments were shown for displacement mechanisms for displacing radiators with respect to the conveyor system while a cover remains closed, also alternative ways may be envisaged by those skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure for achieving a similar function and result. E.g. elements of the shown embodiments, may be combined or split up into one or more alternative embodiments. It will be clear that the principles of some embodiment, e.g. FIGs 6, 8, and 12 can also be applied to displacing of the optional bottom radiators (not shown). The various elements of the embodiments as discussed and shown offer certain advantages, such as providing an improved irradiation profile for products of various sizes or thicknesses. Of course, it is to be appreciated that any one of the above embodiments or processes may be combined with one or more other embodiments or processes to provide even further improvements. It is appreciated that this disclosure offers particular advantages to baking of edible products, and in general can be applied for any application wherein there is a desire for uniformly irradiating a product, edible or otherwise.

While the present systems and methods have been described in particular detail with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof, it should also be appreciated that numerous modifications and alternative embodiments may be devised by those having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Finally, the above-discussion is intended to be merely illustrative of the present systems and/or methods and should not be construed as limiting the appended claims to any particular embodiment or group of embodiments. The specification and drawings are accordingly to be regarded in an illustrative manner and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims. In interpreting the appended claims, it should be understood that the word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or acts than those listed in a given claim; the word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements; any reference signs in the claims do not limit, their scope; several "means" may be represented by the same or different item(s) or implemented structure or function; any of the disclosed devices or portions thereof may be combined together or separated into further portions unless specifically stated otherwise. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. In particular, all working combinations of the claims are considered inherently disclosed.

Claims

Device for irradiating a product (17), the device comprising - a transport system (14) adapted to support and / or support the product (17); - a movable lid (10) and a lid displacement mechanism (12) adapted to move the lid (10) between an open configuration (A) and a closed configuration (B); o wherein, when the lid (10) is placed in the open configuration (A), an inside (18) of the lid (10) is externally accessible for at least maintenance work; o wherein, when the cover (10) is placed in the closed configuration (B, C), the cover (10) together with a base (15) of the device form an irradiation tunnel (11) which encloses the transport system (14) for maintaining, during use, an elevated temperature in the tunnel (11) and preventing external access to the inside of the tunnel (11); the device further comprising - a plurality of focused infrared emitters (13) attached to the cover (10) wherein each emitter (13) is adapted to emit an expanding beam of infrared radiation (16); wherein, when the cover (10) is placed in the closed configuration, the infrared heaters (13) are arranged in the irradiation tunnel (11) for emitting the beams of infrared radiation (16) bounded within a limited opening angle (01 + 03) towards the transport system (14); the emitters (13) being movable relative to the conveying system (14) while the cover (10) remains in the closed configuration (B, C) for varying an irradiation pattern of the limited beams of infrared radiation (16) on the product ( 17).

Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover (10) is movable between a first position (B) of the closed configuration and a second position (C) of the closed configuration; wherein the irradiation tunnel (11) remains enclosed by the cover (10) and base (15) during movement between said first and second positions (B, C) while changing a distance between the emitters (13) and the conveying system (14) by said displacement.

Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein one or both of the cover and / or base (15) comprises a skirt or flap (7) adapted to cover and close off the irradiation tunnel (11) between the cover (10) and base (15) in a first position (B) of the closed configuration; wherein the skirt or flap (7) is arranged to slide over or into a corresponding part (19) of the lid (10) and / or base (15) when a distance between the lid (10) and base (15) becomes to get to a second position (C) of the closed configuration.

Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein one or both of the cover and / or base (15) comprises a skirt or flap (8) adapted to cover and close the irradiation tunnel (11) between the cover and base ( 15) in a first position (B) of the closed configuration; wherein the skirt or flap (8) is adapted to fold when a distance between the cover (10) and base (15) is reduced to get into a second position (C) of the closed configuration.

Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the cover (10) comprises a radiator displacement mechanism (4) adapted for displacing the radiators (13) relative to the cover (10).

Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the radiator displacement mechanism (4) and the lid displacement mechanism (12) are part of a combined displacement mechanism (42), said combined displacement mechanism (42) being adapted to displace the emitters (13) ) with respect to the cover (10) in a first displacement range (C-> B) and for displacing both the cover (10) and the emitters (13) with respect to the base in a second displacement range (B->;A).

Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lid displacement mechanism comprises a retractable shaft (22) between the lid (10) and the base (15); wherein the shaft (22) carries the cover (10) above the base (15); wherein the cover (10) is placed in the open configuration by sliding the shaft between the base (15) and the cover (10); and the lid is placed in the closed configuration by retracting the shaft (22) within the base (15) and / or within the lid (10).

Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the emitters (13) are adapted to have adjacent beams of infrared radiation (16) at least partially overlap on the transport system (14) in a closed configuration.

Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the radiators (13) comprise a reflective surface (20) over a portion of their circumference for reflecting the infrared radiation (16) and thereby limiting the infrared radiation (16) of the beam within the limited opening angle (01 + 03).

Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the opening angle (01 + 03) is between 60 - 120 degrees.

Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a radiator (13) comprises one or more tubes, wherein a tube comprises a heating filament or strip along a length of the tube for emitting the infrared radiation.

Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the tubes are arranged with a longitudinal direction transverse to a direction of transport of the product through the irradiation tunnel (11).

Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transport system (14) comprises an endless belt adapted to carry the product (17) through the irradiation tunnel (11).

Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the transport system (14) comprises a chain adapted to carry the product (17) through the irradiation tunnel (11).

Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transport system (14) allows irradiation on an upper side (25) and lower side (26) of the product (17); wherein the base (15) of the device further comprises a plurality of upwardly directed infrared radiators (13b) wherein each upwardly directed radiator (13b) is adapted to emit an expanding beam of infrared radiation (16b); wherein the infrared emitters (13) are adapted to emit the beams of infrared radiation (16b) bounded within a limited opening angle towards an underside of the conveying system (14); wherein the upwardly directed radiators (13b) are movable relative to the transport system (14) for varying an irradiation pattern of the limited beams of infrared radiation (16b) on a bottom side of the product (17).

An apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein a plurality of emitters (13) is included in a cassette that is movable relative to the conveying system (14) as a single unit.

A method for irradiating a product (17) with a specific thickness (Y), the method comprising - providing a base (15) comprising a transport system (14) that supports and / or carries the product (17); - providing a movable lid (10) and a lid displacement mechanism (12; 4) adapted to move the lid (10) between an open configuration (A) and a closed configuration (B); o wherein, when the lid (10) is placed in the open configuration (A), an inside (18) of the lid (10) is externally accessible for at least maintenance work; o wherein, when the cover (10) is placed in the closed configuration (B, C), the cover (10) together with the base (15) form an irradiation tunnel (11) which encloses the transport system (14) for use, maintaining an elevated temperature in the tunnel (11) and preventing external access to the inside of the tunnel (11); the method further comprising - providing a plurality of focused infrared emitters (13) attached to the cover (10) wherein each emitter (13) emits an expanding beam of infrared radiation (16); wherein, the cover (10) is placed in the closed configuration and the infrared heaters (13) are arranged in the irradiation tunnel (11) while they emit the beams of infrared radiation (16) bounded within a limited opening angle (01 + 03) towards the transport system ( 14); the emitters (13) being displaced relative to the conveying system (14) while the lid (10) remains in the closed configuration (B, C) depending on the thickness (Y) of the product (17) to achieve a homogeneous irradiation pattern providing the limited beams of infrared radiation (16) on a surface (25,26) of the product (17).

Method according to claim 17, wherein a distance (H + Y) between the emitters (13) and the transport system (14) is adjusted relative to an opening angle (01 + 03) of the infrared radiation beams (16a, 16b), a distance (X) between adjacent radiators (16a, 16b), and a height (Y) of the product (17) on the transport system (14) to ensure that an upper surface (25) of the product is homogeneously irradiated by adjacent beams of infrared radiation ( 16a, 16b) of the adjacent emitters (13a, 13b).

A method according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the distance (H + Y) between the emitters (13) and the transport system (14) is adjusted to ensure that the adjacent beams of infrared radiation (16a, 16b) have less overlap than 1 cm and / or have a distance of less than 1 cm on the top surface (25) of the product (17), the adjacent bundles preferably covering the top surface (25) as close as possible without overlap.