Abstract: A pre-separating device includes a channel which has a feed opening and an outlet opening and through which joining elements can be conveyed. A first channel-blocking element has a first actuating device and a second channel-blocking element has a second actuating device. Each of the first channel-blocking element and the second channel-blocking element is movable between a blocking position and a passage position. The second channel-blocking element is disposed downstream of the first channel-blocking element in a conveying direction of the joining elements. A first compressed-air supply opening leads into the channel upstream of the first channel-blocking element in the conveying direction and a second compressed-air supply opening leads into the channel between the first channel-blocking element and the second channel-blocking element.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for automated food preparation comprising at least one preparation vessel which is substantially rotationally symmetrical about an axis of rotation and is adapted to receive at least one foodstuff, and at least one mixing device which is adapted to mix the contents of the preparation vessel, wherein the preparation vessel comprises a coupling element extending substantially along the axis of rotation, the coupling element being adapted to cooperate with a complementary coupling element of the mixing means so that the preparation vessel is received in the mixing means and can be caused to rotate about the axis of rotation of the preparation vessel, and an associated method.

Abstract: A device for the treatment and/or decontamination of surfaces has at least one generator configuration with which directed waves, in particular of an electromagnetic type, can be generated and its energy transmitted by a transmission device onto contaminated surface deposits, in particular surface deposits of a reactor pressure vessel and/or reactor internals. The surface deposits are dissolved and/or sublimated by the directed waves. In a corresponding method, the device is used to generate the directed waves and bring about transmissions of energy onto the contaminated surface deposits, in particular surface deposits of a reactor pressure vessel and/or reactor internals, in such a way that these surface deposits are dissolved and/or sublimated.