Methods and Apparatus for Preparing Comestibles

Abstract

Provided are improved methods and apparatus for preparing comestibles in conventional, non-steam generating ovens. Embodiments of the disclosure provide a container for use in non-steam generating ovens comprising an interior space oriented along, and accessible from, the longitudinal, horizontal axis of the container. This and other features of the disclosed embodiments confer improved ease of use and safety when accessing the interior space of the container for loading or unloading the comestibles therein.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/129,354 entitled “Methods and Apparatus for Preparing Comestibles” and filed Mar. 6, 2015, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

USAGE AND TERMINOLOGY

Throughout this application, and unless otherwise specified (or unless the particular context clearly dictates otherwise), any usage or usages of “a” or “an” are meant to be read as “at least one,” any usage or usages of “the” are meant to be read as “the at least one.”

It is noted that terms like “preferably,” “commonly,” and “typically” are not utilized herein to limit the scope of the claimed invention or to imply that certain features are critical, essential, or even important to the structure or function of the claimed invention. Rather, these terms are merely intended to highlight alternative or additional features that can or cannot be utilized in a particular embodiment of this invention.

For the purposes of describing and defining this invention it is noted that the term “substantially” is utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that can be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. The term “substantially” is also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation can vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.

The term “container,” as used herein, is meant to encompass an apparatus for baking or cooking comestibles, and the terms “container,” “apparatus,” or “baking apparatus” are used interchangeably. The term “comestible” is meant to encompass dough, bread, and/or any other commonly edible substance(s).

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present application relates generally to methods and apparatus for baking in conventional, non-industrial, non steam-generating ovens.

2. Description of Related Art

Present baking methods in non steam-generating ovens employ a separate container to regulate temperature and gas during the baking process. Known methods involve loading dough into a super-heated container before baking, and employ a lid to regulate temperature and gas conditions within interior space of the container. However, present methods and apparatus require the user to load, manipulate, and unload baked goods and dough from above, through the top of the container. Thus, present methods require that a user remove the container from the oven for loading and unloading of the contents prior to, during, and after baking is complete, and present difficult and dangerous conditions involving a super-heated container and gases during loading, manipulation, cooking, and unloading. Furthermore, present methods and apparatus exhibit suboptimal retention of heat and gases during baking.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Against this backdrop, embodiments of the present disclosure address one or more of the above-identified drawbacks, among others, of the prior art, and provide several benefits over existing methods and products.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an improved apparatus for cooking or baking in conventional, non-steam generating ovens. Provided are embodiments comprising a container that, when super-heated within a conventional oven, confer improved conditions for preparing comestibles, including baked goods. In embodiments, the container of the present disclosure defines an interior space oriented along the longitudinal, horizontal axis of said container, and conferring improved baking conditions. In certain embodiments, containers of the present disclosure provide an improved means of accessing the interior space for loading or unloading the comestibles therein.

In embodiments, the present disclosure provides an apparatus comprising:

• • a container defining an interior space oriented along a longitudinal, horizontal axis of the container;
    • said container further comprising a first face at a proximal end of the container and a second face at a distal end of the container,
    • wherein the first and second faces are substantially parallel to one another and define the limits of the container and internal space,
    • wherein the first and second faces are substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal, horizontal axis of the container,
    • and wherein at least the first face is open to the interior space of the container;
  • at least one lid capable of engaging with the proximal face of the container, thereby closing the interior space of the container to an exterior environment.

In embodiments, the apparatus of the present disclosure is used for preparing comestibles in conventional, non-steam generating ovens.

In embodiments, the apparatus of the present disclosure comprises a bottom surface of the container that is substantially flat to provide a stable platform for the container while in use.

In embodiments, the apparatus of the present disclosure comprises a distal face closed to the external environment.

In embodiments, the apparatus of the present disclosure comprises a plurality of parts.

In embodiments, the apparatus is comprised of a plurality of parts includes a base element and a cover element.

In embodiments, the apparatus is comprised of a base element and a cover element that are mechanically fastened to one another when in use.

In embodiments, the apparatus is comprised of a lid capable of engaging with the proximal face of the container, which lid further comprises a rib extending from the face of the lid and generally disposed on a plane defined as perpendicular to the lid, and wherein the rib includes a horizontal component and a vertical component.

In embodiments, the apparatus is comprised of a flange element on an interior surface of the container that contacts the lid when the lid is engaged with the container.

In embodiments, the apparatus is comprised of a lid capable of engaging with the proximal face of the container where said lid is coupled to the container by a hinge element.

In embodiments, the disclosure provides an apparatus comprised of a container element defining an internal space oriented along the longitudinal axis of the container. Embodiments of the container further comprise faces on either end that define the proximal and distal ends of the internal space. The proximal face of the container element further comprises an opening allowing in-use access to the internal space of the container. The distal face, opposite the proximal, open face, is enclosed to define the distal limit of the internal space. By way of this positioning, the opening at the proximal face offers improved access to the internal space of the container and improved safety of use.

In some embodiments, the container of the present disclosure is comprised of a single, continuous element that defines the internal space, wherein the open proximal face provides the only access to the internal space. In alternative embodiments, the container of the present disclosure is comprised of one or more parts that are combined to form the container defining the interior space. In some embodiments, the container comprising one or more parts includes a base element and a cover element, wherein the base element and cover element are reversibly combined. Thus, in certain embodiments the base element and cover element can be separately placed in or removed from an oven for ease and safety of use.

In addition, embodiments of the disclosure provide an optionally removable lid closure. The lid is used to define the state of the container as either opened or closed during baking. In embodiments, the lid facilitates an easy means of capturing or releasing steam or gases present within the internal space when said lid is engaged or removed respectively. Said gases are optionally introduced separately, or are released from the comestibles present within the internal space of the container. Similarly, the lid is removable to allow loading and unloading of dough or baked goods from the interior space defined by the container. A feature of the present embodiments is that the removable lid is accessible when the container is in use in a heated oven, and the lid can be engaged with, or removed from, the container without removing the super-heated container from the oven.

Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in conjunction with a peel, paddle, or tray which the user may manipulate to adjust, load and unload the comestibles into and from the interior space of the container.

In some embodiments, the positioning and arrangement of the lid facilitates ease of access to the interior space of the container without removing the container from the oven. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure provide improved safety during the preparation of comestibles in super-heated containers.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are useful for preparing comestibles, such as bread. Accordingly, embodiments are useful, for example, in methods of baking bread from dough. In a non-limiting example, embodiments of the present disclosure are used in the following method:

The container of the present disclosure is placed into a conventional, non-industrial, non steam-generating oven with the proximal, open end of the container oriented toward front of the oven for ease of access. The lid is engaged, thereby closing the container during heating. The oven, and container within, are heated to between about 300-550 degrees Fahrenheit, preferably to about 400-550 degrees Fahrenheit.

When the oven and container within are at the desired temperature the lid is removed from the container to allow access to the interior space, and a comestible, such as uncooked bread dough, is placed within the interior space of the container. The lid is re-engaged onto the container to regulate heat and gases. The features of the present disclosure thereby enable loading of the comestible into the super-heated container without unduly exposing the user to the hazardous conditions within the conventional oven, and without the risk associated with handling the super heated container.

The dough is heated in the container, and moisture released from the dough is retained within the interior space, creating desirable conditions during the baking process. The conditions within the super-heater container of the present embodiments are thereby improved relative to those present in the conventional, non-steam generating oven.

During baking, the lid of the container may be disengaged to release gases from the interior space. Baking continues either with the container open or closed until the baked good has reached the desired temperature and, in the case of some breads, until the crust has browned sufficiently. Embodiments of the present disclosure thereby facilitate regulating the cooking environment within the super-heated apparatus during baking, and simultaneously avoid undue exposure to the hazards of handling the super-heated container or the hazardous conditions present within the oven itself.

At the completion of cooking, the comestible is extracted through the proximal, open end of the container. The container is optionally left in the oven for further baking or to cool.

It should be understood that the brief description is provided by way of illustration and not by way of limitation, and that various embodiments of the present baking apparatus may have none, some, or all of the above-described features and benefits.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following detailed description can be best understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings in which:

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the container in an open state and in use. The container of the presented embodiment 100 is comprised of a base 102 and a cover 104 where the cover rests on top of the base when in use in a conventional oven. The embodiment 100 includes a lid 106 that is disengaged from the base and cover, and thus the container in the illustrated embodiment is in the open state. In the illustrated embodiment 100, the cover 104 is open at the proximal end and closed at the distal end.

FIG. 2 shows an embodiment 200 of a container in a closed state. The container is comprised of a cover 104 resting on a base 102. In the illustrated embodiment 200 the lid 106 is engaged with the container in the closed position, thus closing the interior space of the container. In the closed state the container and the lid limit gas exchange between the interior space of the container and the oven environment.

FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of an embodiment 300 of the apparatus showing the lid 106, and the container comprising a base 102 and a cover 104. In the illustrated embodiment 300, the base 102 is formed with a ridge 302 extending from the surface of the base on the distal end, and on both sides. The base 102 in the presented embodiment also includes a tongue 304 extending beyond the ridge on the proximal end of the base to provide a platform for the lid when engaged with the container. In the illustrated embodiment 300, the cover 104 further comprises a lip 306 extending out from the wall of the container on the distal end and both sides. The cover in the presented embodiment 300 also comprises a flange 308 positioned on the interior side of the cover sized to pair with the lid 106 when the lid is engaged with the container. The lid 106 of the illustrated embodiment further comprises a rib 310 extending perpendicularly from the face of the lid. The rib includes horizontal and vertical components. The horizontal component provides stability for the lid and pairs with the tongue of the base when in use. The vertical component provides a handle facilitating placement and removal of the lid when in use.

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment 400 comprising a container 402 and a lid 404. The container 402 of the illustrated embodiment is formed as a single unit with an open proximal face and closed distal face. The lid 404 of the illustrated embodiment comprises a recessed face 406 sized and shaped to be inserted into the proximal, open face of the container 402. The recessed face is connected to a shoulder 408 that engages the interior surfaces of the proximal face of the container when the lid is engaged. In embodiments, such as the illustrative embodiment 400, the lid 404 is further comprised of a flange 410 connected to the shoulder 408 in order to secure the lid to the proximal face of the container. The lid of the illustrated embodiment 400 further includes a strut 412 providing structural support for the recessed face and shoulder, and useful as a handle for placing and removing the lid during operation.

FIG. 5 shows yet another embodiment 500 of a container comprising a base 502 and a cover 504. The base includes a ridge 506 that serves as an indexing feature to align the cover and the base. The lid 508 and the base are coupled via a pinned, hinged joint 510.

FIG. 6 shows an embodiment 600 with linear styling applied to the container comprised of base 602, cover 604, and lid 606.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

All publications, patents and patent applications cited herein are hereby expressly incorporated by reference for all purposes.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an improved apparatus for cooking or baking in conventional, non-steam generating ovens. Provided are embodiments comprising a container that, when super-heated within a conventional oven, confer improved conditions for preparing comestibles, including baked goods. In embodiments, the container of the present disclosure defines an interior space conferring improved baking conditions. In some embodiments, containers of the present disclosure provide an improved means of accessing the interior space for loading or unloading the comestibles therein.

Embodiments of the present disclosure consist of a container useful for preparing comestibles in conventional, non-steam generating ovens. In some embodiments, the container defines an interior space oriented along the longitudinal axis of the container. The container is comprised of a proximal face that is optionally open or closed to allow access into the interior space or to regulate the conditions within the container. In embodiments, the distal end of the container is closed to define the terminus of the interior space.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an illustrated embodiment of the disclosure provides a container comprised of separate base 102 and cover 104 elements. Accordingly, in some embodiments the container of the present disclosure is comprised of multiple separate parts that are combined when in use. In alternative embodiments, the container is comprised of a single part that includes an open proximal end and closed distal end, with a top, bottom, and sides that define the interior space of the container. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment presented as FIG. 4, the container 402 is comprised of a single part.

In embodiments where the container is comprised of a cover and a base, the cover and base may be identical in form and size, so as to pair together into a symmetrical container. In other embodiments, the cover and base are of different sizes, forms, and proportions. In yet further embodiments, the container will consist of more than two parts, such as three or more parts.

In some embodiments, the container of the present disclosure is comprised of multiple parts that are mechanically fastened together. Thus, in some embodiments the multiple parts comprising the container may be permanently fastened together. In other embodiments, the multiple parts of the container are reversibly attached. Those skilled in the art will recognize different methods of permanent and reversible attachment, such as, without limitation, by welding, riveting, tongue-in-groove joint, clasps, pins, bolts, or magnetic fastening. In other embodiments, the parts of the container are coupled by passive force without any further attachment means.

In all embodiments in which the container is comprised of multiple parts, the parts are shaped to fit with one another in a secure and specific way. For example, referring now to the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 3, the base 102 of the container includes a ridge 302 that extends vertically above the plane of the base 102. The ridge 302 extends on the distal end and both sides of the base. The cover 104 of the illustrative embodiment similarly includes a lip 306 extending from the cover at the distal end and both sides. Thus, when combined, the ridge 302 of the base indexes, or pairs, with the lip on the cover 104, providing a secure and specific means of joining the base and cover of the container.

The specific pairing achieved also serves to confer improved conditions for preparing food within the interior space of the container. For example, the ridge and lip on the embodiment in FIG. 3 provide a secure and specific pairing between the base and the cover, but also increase the surface area between the parts and thereby improve the retention of heat and gases within the interior space.

Moreover, in the various embodiments disclosed herein, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there may be multiple ways in which the multiple parts of the container can fit together for use, display, cleaning, storage, shipping, and storage.

In embodiments, the container of the present disclosure is comprised of a proximal face that is open to the interior space of the container, and a distal face that is closed. In other embodiments, the container possesses more than one opening which can be manipulated for loading, adjusting, of unloading dough and baked goods, or for regulating temperature and gases within the container interior space. In other embodiments the container is open at both the proximal and distal faces.

In some embodiments, the opening at one or both faces is contacted with one or more optionally removable closure elements, or lids. In embodiment, the lid, or lids, is/are used to define the state of the container as either opened or closed during baking. The lid facilitates control of the internal environment of the container, for example to either capture or release steam or gases present within the internal space, whether introduced separately or released from the baking goods. In certain embodiments, the closure itself can contain multiple openings used to regulate gases and temperature conditions within the container.

Accordingly, when in use embodiments of the present disclosure provide means of regulating the internal environment of the container without removing the container from the oven. Similarly, embodiments of the present disclosure provide means to load and unload dough or baked goods from the container without removing the container from the oven.

Referring now to FIG. 3, the lid 106 of the illustrated embodiment 300 further comprises a rib 310 with horizontal and vertical elements extending perpendicularly from the face of the lid. In some embodiments, such as the illustrative embodiment 300, the horizontal component of the rib 310 provides stability for the lid 106, and pairs with the tongue 304 that extends from the base 102. In embodiments, the vertical component of the rib 310 provides a handle facilitating placement and removal of the lid when in use.

In embodiments, the container and lid are shaped and sized in order to form a specific and secure engagement between the container and lid when the lid in the closed position at the proximal face of the container (see e.g. the illustrative embodiment 200 of FIG. 2). Thus, in embodiments, such as the exemplary embodiment 300, the container further comprises an internal flange 308 that pairs with the lid 106 when in the engaged, closed position. In some embodiments, the lid is further secured by fastening the lid to the container when closed and in use, such as with clamps that engage the lid to the container in the closed position. In still further embodiments, the seal between the two parts may be improved in some instances with the use of a gasket or sealing material.

Referring now to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, such as the illustrative embodiment 400, the lid 404 comprises a recessed face 406 sized and shaped to be inserted into the proximal, open face of the container 402. The recessed face is connected to a shoulder 408 that engages the interior surfaces of the proximal face of the container when the lid is engaged. In embodiments, such as the illustrative embodiment 400, the lid 404 is further comprised of a flange 410 connected to the shoulder 408 in order to secure the lid to the proximal face of the container. The lid of the illustrated embodiment 400 further includes a strut 412 providing structural support for the recessed face and shoulder, and useful as a handle for placing and removing the lid during operation.

In some embodiments the lid includes a feature which registers placement in relation to the container. In some embodiments, the container is comprised of multiple parts wherein the lid registers with either or both, or all of the parts which comprise the container.

In some embodiments the lid of the present disclosure is coupled to the container element. Thus, in embodiments a lid is coupled to the bottom, top, or one of the sides of the container.

In embodiments that include such coupling between the lid and the container, said coupling may comprise a hinge joint. In a non-limiting example, a hinge joint between the lid and container of the present disclosure comprises a pinned hinge. In other embodiments, the hinged joint allows for uncoupling without the use of a pin, or need to remove said pin from the hinge joint. In still further embodiments, the hinge is a separate part that is fastened to the lid or other coupling element.

Referring now to FIG. 5, the illustrative embodiment 500 comprises a lid 508 coupled to the base 502 of the container. The coupling of the illustrative embodiment is achieved using a pinned hinge 510. Accordingly, when in use the lid 508 of the illustrious embodiment 500 is engaged or disengaged from the cover 504 of the container by rotating the lid on the hinge axis in order to open or close the interior space of the container.

In embodiments, the lid includes a handle that allows the user to engage or disengage the lid and the container during use. In some embodiments, the handle is permanently attached to the lid. In other embodiments, the handle is reversibly attached to the lid. Thus, in certain embodiments, the handle remains attached to the lid during use, whereas in other embodiments the handle is removable during use

Embodiment of the container and lid of the apparatus, or of the parts comprising the container and lid, are made from heat-tolerant materials. For instance, embodiments may contain earthenware, clayware, glass, glass composites, ceramics, ceramic hybrids, aramid fibers, cements, cement composites, alloys of grey iron, alloys of ductile iron, alloys of steel, alloys of aluminum, alloys of bronze, alloys of brass, alloys of copper, titanium alloys, zinc alloys, alloys of magnesium, tin alloys, nickel alloys, silicon, other synthetic rubbers, phenolic resins, natural stone, and any combination of said materials.

In certain embodiments, the container, lid, or parts which comprise the container and lid, are made from a single material. For example, in certain embodiments the material from which the container and lid are constructed is an alloy of iron.

In other embodiments, the container, lid, or parts comprising the container and lid, are made from different materials. For example, some embodiments comprise a container and lid that are made of the same material, whereas the handle of the lid is comprised of a different material that is resistant to heat and thus confers improved safety during handling.

In embodiments, the container and lid of the apparatus, or parts comprising the container and lid, are made via casting processes and associated finishing processes. In other embodiments, the container and lid components of the apparatus, or parts comprising container and lid, are made using processes involving forming, stamping, green sand casting, airset mold casting, investment casting, injection molding, resin casting, molding, pressing, machining, forging, welding, and additive manufacturing such as fuse deposition or laser metal sintering.

In embodiments, the container and lid of the apparatus, or parts comprising container and lid, may be finished to provide performance benefit, aesthetic enhancement, protection of materials, or improved tactility.

Finishing, as used herein, is defined as machining, flattening, polishing, grinding, deburring, wire wheeling, filing, tumbling, passivation, abrasive blasting, sanding, as well as coating, sealing, spraying, heat treating, baking, glazing, enameling, painting, dipping, or the addition of gaskets, seals, sealing materials, decals, embossing, engraving, etching, pads, or bumpers.

In some embodiments, the container and lid components of the apparatus, or parts comprising container and lid, are not finished. In yet other embodiments, portions or parts of either the container or lid components of the apparatus or parts comprising container and lid are both finished and unfinished.

Although this document includes description of certain example embodiments, variations (i.e., changes, substitutions, alterations, and the like) of the herein-described embodiments will be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art, where such variations do not depart from the scope of that which is set forth in the following claims. Accordingly, the inclusion in this document of the herein-described embodiments is not meant and should not be read to limit or constrain—but rather only to illustrate by example—that which is set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising:

(a) a container defining an interior space oriented along a longitudinal, horizontal axis of the container;

said container further comprising a first face at a proximal end of the container and a second face at a distal end of the container, wherein the first and second faces are substantially parallel to one another and define the limits of the container and internal space, wherein the first and second faces are substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal, horizontal axis of the container, and wherein at least the first face is open to the interior space of the container;

(b) at least one lid capable of engaging with the proximal face of the container, thereby closing the interior space of the container to an exterior environment.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is used for preparing comestibles in conventional, non-steam generating ovens.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a bottom surface of the container is substantially flat to provide a stable platform for the container while in use.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the distal face of the container is closed to the external environment.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the container is comprised of a plurality of parts.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the plurality of parts comprises a base element and a cover element.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the base element and cover element are mechanically fastened to one another when in use.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lid capable of engaging with the proximal face of the container further comprises a rib extending from the face of the lid and generally disposed on a plane defined as perpendicular to the lid, and wherein the rib includes a horizontal component and a vertical component.

8. The apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a flange element on an interior surface of the container that contacts the lid when the lid is engaged with the container.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lid capable of engaging with the proximal face of the container is coupled to the container by a hinge element.

10. An apparatus comprising;

(a) a container defining an interior space oriented along a longitudinal, horizontal axis of the container;

said container comprising a base and a cover; wherein the base comprises a substantially flat planar surface having a proximal end, a distal end, and two sides, and wherein the cover is substantially conical and comprises a top, a proximal end, a distal wall, and two side walls;

said container further comprising a first face at a proximal end of the container and a second face at a distal end of the container, wherein the first and second faces are substantially parallel to one another and define the limits of the container and internal space, wherein the first and second faces are substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal, horizontal axis of the container, and wherein at least the first face is open to the interior space of the container;

(b) at least one lid capable of engaging with the proximal face of the container, thereby closing the interior space of the container to an exterior environment.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the apparatus is used for preparing comestibles in conventional, non-steam generating ovens.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the cover contacts the base on the distal end and the two sides.

13. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a ridge extending vertically from the surface of the base on the distal end and two sides.

14. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a lip extending horizontally from the cover at the bottom of the distal wall and side walls.

15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the lid capable of engaging with the proximal face of the container contacts a flange on an interior surface of the cover when engaged.

16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the lid capable of engaging with the proximal face of the container comprises a rib disposed substantially perpendicular to a face of the lid, and extending both horizontally along a bottom side of the lid, and vertically from the bottom side of the lid to a top side of the lid.

17. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the lid capable of engaging with the proximal face of the container is coupled to the container by a hinge element.