Technical Field

The present invention relates to an automated table for catering.

Background Art

In the catering industry, the use is well known of tables usable by customers to consume their meal and/or drink.

In the case of catered dining, i.e., where there is wait staff on the premises, the latter manually provides the activities related to table service of meals and, following the enjoyment of the meal, the activities of clearing and wiping tables to make way for new customers.

As is well known, at busy times, delays may occur in the performance of the above activities. Specifically, wait staff may be busy serving meals, neglecting the cleaning of the now vacant tables and making new customers wait, or, conversely, they may be busy cleaning tables, delaying the delivery of meals and making existing customers wait.

This may result in too quick and sloppy table cleaning or, conversely, suboptimal table service, leading to customer dissatisfaction.

In the case of canteens and fast food restaurants, the premise does not have staff assigned to table service of meals and the user independently picks up the ready meal from a pick-up station and clears the table. Cleaning of the table itself, on the other hand, is done manually by designated staff or even not done at all. Finally, in the case of automated catering, there is no wait staff present, and the user independently arranges for the ready-made meal to be picked up from a station designated for its preparation and delivery, such as a vending machine, and for the table to be cleared. Here, too, cleaning is the responsibility of the user or is occasionally done by outside staff.

Table cleaning is, therefore, the operation that is most often neglected or performed in a perfunctory manner.

It is evident how poor hygienic conditions in catering premises result in a rapid loss of customers.

In addition to this, the issues related to meal service may also deter customers from frequenting the venue again. Description of the Invention

The main aim of the present invention is to devise an automated table for catering that enables timely, quick and optimal clearance and cleaning.

A further object of the present invention is to devise an automated table for catering that will reduce the waiting time associated with meal preparation.

Still one object of the present invention is to devise an automated table for catering to speed up meal and beverage delivery operations.

Another object of the present invention is to devise an automated table for catering that allows the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art to be overcome within the framework of a simple, rational, easy and effective to use, as well as cost-effective solution.

The aforementioned objects are achieved by this automated table for catering having the characteristics of claim 1.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the description of a preferred, but not exclusive, embodiment of an automated table for catering, illustrated by way of an indicative, yet non limiting example, in the accompanying tables of drawings in which:

Figures 1-4 are schematic representations of an automated table according to the invention, in accordance with a first embodiment;

Figure 5 is a schematic representation of an automated table according to the invention, in accordance with a second embodiment;

Figure 6 is a schematic representation of an automated table according to the invention, in accordance with a third embodiment;

Figures 7-11 are schematic representations of an automated table according to the invention, in accordance with a fourth embodiment;

Figures 12-16 are schematic representations of an automated table according to the invention, in accordance with a fifth embodiment;

Figures 17-18 are schematic representations of an automated table according to the invention, in accordance with a sixth embodiment.

Fmbodiments of the Invention

With particular reference to these figures, reference numeral 1 globally indicates an automated table for catering.

The table 1 comprises: at least one table top 2 to be used by a user to consume at least one meal; and at least one holding frame 3 of the table top 2.

In the context of this disclosure, the term “meal” refers to both food and drink. The holding frame 3 is adapted to arrange the table top 2 at a predefined height. The holding frame 3 may comprise one or more legs arranged to rest on the ground, a structure that can be attached to a wall or other holding systems.

Users can use the table 1 while sitting, through the use of, e.g., chairs or stools, or while standing.

The table 1 may comprise a plurality of table tops 2.

According to the invention, the table 1 comprises: integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 configured to remove at least dishes S resulting from the consuming of the meal by the user from the table top 2 and to clean at least the table top itself; and integrated preparation means 17, associated with at least one of either the table top 2 or the holding frame 3 and configured to cook at least one meal. In the context of this disclosure, the term “dishes” refers to the set of plates, glasses, cutlery, trays or other types of container and tool used for serving the meal and its consumption by the user. The dishes may be of the disposable type or reusable after washing.

The integrated preparation means 17 allow extemporaneous preparation of the usable meal by the user.

Subsequently, the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 allow for extremely rapid cleaning of the table top 2 and doing without the intervention of assigned staff, thus allowing the table 1 to be freed for a new user without excessive delays.

The integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 can be operated electronically, e.g. by the users themselves or automatically.

For this purpose, the table 1 comprises at least one software electronic unit operationally connected to at least the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4, programmable by an operator and configured to operate at least the integrated clearance and cleaning means themselves.

Conveniently, the table 1 also comprises manual control means configured to allow the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 to be operated by the user. For example, the manual control means may comprise a user interface or a radio wave communication system configured to receive a control signal from the uses themselves, such as e.g. by means of an electronic device.

In combination or as an alternative thereof, the table 1 comprises automatic control means configured to allow the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 to be operated automatically.

For example, the automatic control means may comprise sets of sensor, of the photocell type, configured to detect prolonged user departure from the table top 2 or a timer configured to operate the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 after a predefined time frame.

Appropriately, the electronic unit is also operationally connected to the integrated preparation means 17, which are in turn electronically operable by the user, similarly to what is done in automated catering.

The integrated preparation means 17 will be described in more detail later in this disclosure.

The integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 comprise at least one supporting structure 5 associated with the table top 2 and at least one removal unit 6 for removing the dishes S from the table top 2 associated with the supporting structure 5.

Usefully, the removal unit 6 comprises at least one collecting washbasin 7 of at least the dishes S arranged at a lower height than the table top 2.

The collecting washbasin 7 is further configured to also collect waste from meal enjoyment, such as napkins, placemats or other waste.

The collecting washbasin 7 is housed inside the supporting structure 5 and is hidden by it.

The removal unit 6 also comprises at least one removal system 8 configured to remove the dishes S from the table top 2 by gravity.

In the embodiments shown in the figures, the table top 2 is movable to allow the transfer of the dishes S to the collecting washbasin 7.

In more detail, the table top 2 is movable inwards to the supporting structure 5 so as to communicate with the collecting washbasin 7.

Advantageously, the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 comprise at least one washing unit 12 that is mutually movable with respect to the table top 2 and adapted to clean the table top itself.

The washing unit 12 comprises: at least one brush element 13 adapted to exert a mechanical action on the table top 2; and at least one dispenser 14 adapted to dispense at least one washing liquid on the table top 2.

In the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, the brush element 13 is movable on itself in rotation with respect to the table top 2 to carry out the cleaning operation.

For example, the brush element 13 can be of the type of a roller or of a rotating brush.

In combination or as an alternative thereof, the brush element 13 is movable by shift with respect to the table top 2.

The washing unit 12 may comprise a plurality of brush elements 13.

The dispenser 14 can usefully comprise a first dispenser for a cleaning liquid and a second dispenser for a sanitizing liquid.

In conjunction with the cleaning operation, the brush element 13 can also, at the same time, remove solid and liquid waste residues from the cleaning operation itself.

Usefully, the washing unit 12 also comprises a drying device 15 adapted to dry the table top 2.

The drying device 15 may comprise, e.g. a suction system adapted to remove the residual washing liquid.

The washing unit 12 can also be provided with a radiation emitting device 16 e.g., UV rays, adapted to sterilize the table top 2 following the washing operation.

A first embodiment of an automated table in accordance with the present invention is shown in Figures 1 through 4.

In the solution shown in Figure 2, the removal system 8 comprises rotational means 9 adapted to move the table top 2 in rotation with respect to the collecting washbasin 7.

In more detail, the table top 2 is rotatable around a substantially horizontal axis towards the collecting washbasin 7 so that the dishes S can drop into the collecting washbasin itself.

The washing unit 12 is movable with respect to the table top 2 to arrange itself above it.

In particular, the washing unit 12 is movable by shift along a substantially horizontal direction. In this case, cleaning of the table top 2 can take place during the movement of the washing unit 12 or by subsequent movement of the brush element 13 with respect thereto.

It cannot however be ruled out that the washing unit 12 is movable by shift along a substantially vertical direction. In this case, cleaning of the table top 2 is done by subsequent movement of the brush element 13 with respect thereto.

At the end of the cleaning operations, the waste products resulting from the cleaning operation are collected through the removal unit 6 together with the dishes S.

Alternatively, the washing unit 12 may comprise a drainage tank adapted to remove the waste products.

In the solution shown in Figure 3, on the other hand, the washing unit 12 is fixed with respect to the table top 2 and the table top 2 is movable with respect thereto.

In more detail, the removal system 8 comprises transfer means 10 adapted to displace the table top 2 by shift with respect to the collecting washbasin 7.

The transfer means 10 are adapted to move the table top 2 along a substantially horizontal direction of shift T between an exposed configuration, wherein it is arranged outside the supporting structure 5, and a retracted configuration, wherein it is arranged at least partly inside the supporting structure itself. Advantageously, in accordance with this embodiment solution, the removal system 8 also comprises at least one removal device 11 mutually movable with respect to the table top 2 and at least partly adherent thereto.

The removal device 11 comprises a shutter vertically movable with respect to the table top 2 between a closed position, wherein it adheres to the table top 2, and an open position, wherein it is moved away from the table top 2.

During meal enjoyment, the table top 2 is in the exposed configuration and the removal device 11 is in the closed position.

To carry out the clearance operation, the removal device 11 is brought to the open position and the table top 2 is shifted to the retracted configuration. At this point, the removal device 11 is brought back to the closed position so that it adheres to the table top 2 and the latter is shifted to the exposed configuration. During this movement, the removal device 11 retains the dishes S inside the supporting structure 5 and causes them to drop into the collecting washbasin 7. In more detail, in the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the table top 2 is movable by shift with respect to the supporting structure 5 between the exposed configuration and the retracted configuration.

In accordance with this embodiment solution, when the table top 2 is in the retracted configuration, the brush element 13 is vertically movable close thereto to carry out washing.

In accordance with an alternative embodiment, not shown in detail in the figures, the table top 2 is fixed and the removal device 11 is movable with respect thereto to remove the dishes S.

In more detail, the removal device 11 comprises a movable blade body with respect to the table top 2 between a working position, wherein it is extracted with respect to the table top 2 and adheres to an extreme edge of the table top itself, and a home position, opposite the working position.

To carry out the clearance operation, the removal device 11 is partly lifted and extracted from the supporting structure 5 and placed in the working position to adhere to the table top 2. At this point, the removal device 11 is shifted to the home position, dragging the dishes S therewith and causing them to drop into the collecting washbasin 7.

In accordance with one possible embodiment, not shown in detail in the figures, the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 comprise a movable collection system, e.g. of the type of a conveyor belt, configured to receive the dishes S and to transfer them towards a disposal/recovery area.

Figure 4 shows in greater detail the integrated preparation means 17.

The integrated preparation means 17 are associated with the holding frame 3.

In even more detail, the holding frame 3 defines a cavity adapted to contain the integrated preparation means 17.

Advantageously, the integrated preparation means 17 comprise at least one heating unit 31 adapted to heat the meal and arranged in the proximity of the table top 2.

Thanks to the heating unit 31, the integrated preparation means 17 thus enable the meal to be heated and/or cooked according to the customer’s specific needs. The heating unit 31 may comprise at least one microwave oven.

In combination or as an alternative thereof, the heating unit 31 may comprise an electric oven.

The integrated preparation means 17 may comprise a plurality of heating units 31.

Advantageously, the integrated preparation means 17 also comprise at least one dispensing unit 23 adapted to dispense the meal to a user.

The dispensing unit 23 is arranged at the table top 2.

In more detail, the dispensing unit 23 comprises a pickup opening 24 communicating with the outside, through which the meal is made available to the user.

The dispensing unit 23 comprises at least one supporting surface 25 of the meal. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the dispensing unit 23 faces the table top 2 and the supporting surface 25 is substantially contiguous therewith.

In even more detail, the dispensing unit 23 is communicating with the table top 2. The pickup opening 24 faces the table top 2.

In accordance with this embodiment solution, the user is able to take the meal from the supporting surface 25 while sitting at the table 1.

It cannot however be ruled out that the dispensing unit 23 be arranged differently. In such a case, the user picks up the meal from the supporting surface 25 and sits at the table 1 at a later time. In accordance with a possible alternative embodiment, not shown in detail in the figures, the supporting surface 25 may be of the type of a conveyor belt, and the extraction system 33 comprises a system for moving the supporting surface itself.

Again, in accordance with a further embodiment, not shown in detail in the figures, the integrated distribution means 32 comprise at least one distribution surface that can be moved along a predefined direction.

Specifically, the distribution surface is of the type of a conveyor belt or the like, and is configured to receive the meal from the dispensing unit 23 and to transport it towards the table top 2. In more detail, this embodiment solution may provide that the distribution surface stops at an area of the table top 2 where the user is positioned and the user autonomously picks up the meal from the distribution surface itself.

Usefully, the heating unit 31 and the dispensing unit 23 are arranged in succession along a first direction Dl.

In more detail, the heating unit 31 and the dispensing unit 23 are arranged on top of each other and the first direction Dl is substantially vertical. In this case, the dispensing unit 23 is arranged above the heating unit 31.

Conveniently, the integrated preparation means 17 comprise at least one transfer system 26 adapted to transfer the meal between the heating unit 31 and the dispensing unit 23.

The transfer system 26 enables the transfer of the meal in an automated manner, freeing it from the need for intervention by dedicated staff and enabling quick meal dispensing upon the user’s request.

The electronic unit is operationally connected to the integrated preparation means 17 and is configured to operate the transfer system 26.

The transfer system 26 comprises at least one meal pickup arm 27 and movement members 28 of the pickup arm itself.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the movement members 28 comprise at least one guide 29 running parallel to the first direction Dl and on which the pickup arm 27 is mounted in a sliding manner and at least one motorized actuator adapted to move the pickup arm along the first direction Dl. Hence, the movement members 28 allow the positioning of the pickup arm 27 at different heights so that it is arranged alternately where the heating unit 31 and the dispensing unit 23 are located.

The movement members 28 also comprise displacement means 30 adapted to shift the pickup arm 27 along a second, substantially horizontal direction D2 to arrange with respect to the heating unit 31 or to the dispensing unit 23.

The movement members 28 may also comprise rotating members adapted to rotate the pickup arm 27 around an axis substantially parallel to the first direction D 1.

It cannot however be ruled out that the transfer system 26 be of a different type, e.g., of the type of an articulated arm.

The table 1 in accordance with the first embodiment also comprises integrated preservation means 18.

The integrated preservation means 18 are associated with the holding frame 3 and are adapted to preserve at least one meal.

The integrated preservation means 18 comprise at least one shelf 19, 20 adapted to contain the meal.

Specifically, the integrated preservation means 18 comprise a plurality of shelves 19, 20 each adapted to hold at least one meal.

The shelves 19, 20 are of the fixed type, separate and independent of each other. The shelves 19, 20 are arranged one on top of the other along the first, substantially vertical direction Dl.

In other words, the integrated preservation means 18 can be arranged inferiorly or superiorly to the integrated preparation means 17.

In more detail, the heating unit 31 is positioned between the integrated preservation means 18 and the dispensing unit 23.

It cannot however be ruled out that the heating unit 31 be arranged differently with respect to the integrated preservation means 18 and/or to the dispensing unit 23.

The shelves 19, 20 may comprise one or more refrigerated shelves 19, that is, maintained at temperatures below 20°C, and one or more non-refrigerated shelves 20, that is, maintained at temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. Specifically, the integrated preservation means 18 may comprise room temperature shelves, refrigerator shelves and freezer shelves.

For this purpose, the integrated preservation means 18 comprise at least one refrigeration system 21 associated with at least one shelf 19, 20 and configured to maintain the shelf 19, 20 at a predefined refrigeration temperature.

More specifically, the refrigeration system 21 is associated with at least the refrigerated shelves 19.

The integrated preservation means 18 may comprise closing means 22 associated with each shelf 19, 20 and adapted to isolate one from the other. For example, the closing means 22 comprise an airtight door.

Appropriately, the non-refrigerated shelves 20 are arranged above the refrigerated shelves 19.

Conveniently, the transfer system 26 is further configured to transfer the meal between the integrated preservation means 18 and the heating unit 31 and/or between the integrated preservation means 18 and the dispensing unit 23. Specifically, the transfer system 26 is configured to pick a meal from a shelf 19, 20 and bring it to the heating unit 31 for heating/cooking and then from the heating unit 31 to the dispensing unit 23 for the pickup by the user.

The transfer system 26 can also be configured to transfer a meal from the dispensing unit 23 to the heating unit 31 e.g. to allow further heating/cooking of the meal itself, and from the heating unit 31 to the integrated preservation means 18 to allow preservation of a freshly cooked meal.

For this purpose, the electronic unit is configured to move the transfer system 26 between the integrated preservation means 18, the heating unit 31 and the dispensing unit 23.

The transfer system 26 can be used in a loading mode. In fact, the transfer system 26 can also be configured to transfer a meal from the dispensing unit 23 to the integrated preservation means 18, e.g. to load new meals into the shelves 19, 20.

In combination or as an alternative thereof, the integrated preparation means 17 may comprise a door associated with the integrated preservation means 18 for loading meals into the relevant shelves 19, 20. The table 1 in accordance with the first embodiment also comprises integrated distribution means 32 associated with at least one of either the table top 2 or the holding frame 3 and adapted to arrange the meal where the table top 2 is located.

The integrated distribution means 32 enable meal delivery to the user, freeing them from the need for dedicated staff and avoiding delays.

The electronic unit is also operationally connected to the integrated distribution means 32.

In accordance with the embodiment shown in the figures, the integrated distribution means 32 are associated with the integrated preparation means 17 and are adapted to transfer the meal from the dispensing unit 23 to the table top

2.

In more detail, the integrated distribution means 32 comprise at least one meal extraction system 33 associated with the supporting surface 25.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the supporting surface 25 is contiguous with the table top 2 and the extraction system 33 comprises a pusher body 34 associated with the supporting surface 25 in a movable manner and adapted to push the meal onto the supporting surface itself.

As shown above, the table 1 comprises an electronic unit provided with a user interface.

Through the user interface, the user can enter a variety of data related to the meal, e.g., the type of desired meal, the relevant serving temperature and possibly the area in the table top 2 wherein the user will consume the meal itself. The electronic unit then operates the integrated preparation means 17 and the integrated distribution means 32 according to the data entered.

At the end of meal enjoyment, the user can then set the operation of the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4.

Alternatively, the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 can be operated automatically by means of automatic means, e.g., a photocell.

Figure 5 shows in section a second embodiment of the present automated table, wherein a different embodiment solution of the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 is shown. This solution requires that the removal system 8 be provided with sliding means 35 comprising at least one transport surface 36 partly defining the table top 2 and movable sliding with respect to the collecting washbasin 7.

In more detail, the transport surface 36 is of the type of a conveyor belt.

The transport surface 36 extends at least partly inside the supporting structure 5. The transport surface 36 has at least one exposed portion 37 facing outwards that defines the table top 2.

The sliding means 35 also comprise at least one motorized roller 38 around which the transport surface 36 is wrapped at least partly and configured to allow it to slide.

In addition, the removal system 8 also comprises at least one removal wall 39 adapted to convey the dishes S to the collecting washbasin 7 during the movement of the transport surface 36.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the transport surface 36 is of the continuous type and is made of a reusable material, such as e.g. plastic.

It cannot be ruled out that the transport surface 36 be made of a disposable material, e.g. paper, and wrapped around itself in the form of rolls that can be replaced when exhausted.

To carry out the clearance operation, the motorized roller 38 is operated and causes the transport surface 36 to slide towards the collecting washbasin 7. During sliding, the removal wall 39 causes the dishes S to be transferred to the collecting washbasin 7.

The sliding of the transport surface 36 causes the exposure of a new exposed portion 37 usable by a new user.

The supporting structure 5 is conveniently provided with an opening door so that the collecting washbasin 7 can be removed and periodically emptied at the end of the operations at the end of the day.

A third embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figure 6, wherein a different embodiment solution of the integrated preparation means 17 is shown. This solution requires the dispensing unit 23 to be placed side by side with the integrated preservation means 18.

In more detail, the supporting surface 25 is defined by the pickup arm 27, which is configured to pick up the meal from the heating unit 31 and to place it where the pickup opening 24 is located.

In this case, the extraction system 33 comprises a shift system for shifting the pickup arm 27 along a third direction D3 that is substantially horizontal and transverse to the second direction D2. Once the meal has been picked up from the relevant shelf 19, 20 or from the heating unit 31, the transfer system 26 is, therefore, configured to transfer the meal itself to the table top 2.

Again with reference to the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the table 1 comprises integrated partitioning means 40 adapted to divide the table itself into a plurality of stations P, each usable by a single user.

The integrated partitioning means 40 comprise a plurality of fixed partitions 41. The table in accordance with the embodiment shown in Figure 6 preferably comprises integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 similar to those shown in Figure 2, i.e., wherein the washing unit 12 is movable by shift along a substantially horizontal direction.

Conveniently, this embodiment solution requires that the washing unit 12 also be configured to clean the integrated partitioning means 40.

A fourth embodiment of this automated table is shown in Figures 7 through 11. The table 1 comprises a plurality of modular bodies 42 each provided with at least one table top 2, at least one holding frame 3, the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 and the integrated preparation means 17. The modular bodies 42 can be assembled by means of linking means of known type which allow both structural and electronic connection thereof.

The modular bodies 42 shown in the figures have a straight pattern, therefore, it is possible for these to also have a curved pattern in order to create complex structures adaptable to any type of environment.

Each modular body 42 also comprises the integrated partitioning means 40. For representative simplicity, in Figure 7, the integrated partitioning means 40 are shown for only one of the modular bodies 42.

Specifically, in accordance with the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the integrated partitioning means 40 are of the movable type.

The integrated partitioning means 40 comprise at least one side partition 43 movable sliding along a direction of work L between an exposed position, wherein it divides the table 1 into at least two stations P, and a retracted position, wherein it frees the table 1.

In other words, in the retracted position, the table 1 is not divided into stations.

In this case, the integrated partitioning means 40 comprise a framework 44 associated with the holding frame 3 and supporting the side partition 43. Specifically, the modular body 42 comprises two table tops 2 opposite each other and the partitioning means comprise two side partitions 43 associated with the framework 44 and opposite each other with respect to the framework itself. The direction of work L is substantially parallel to a bedding plane of the side partition 43.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the direction of work L is substantially vertical.

The integrated partitioning means 40 comprise at least one washing system 45 adapted to cleanse at least one respective side partition 43.

The washing system 45 is configured to cleanse the side partition 43 during the movement between the exposed position and the retracted position.

Similar to the washing unit 12, the washing system 45, not shown in detail in the figures, comprises one or more brush elements, detergent liquid dispensers and possibly a drying device as well as a sterilizing radiation emitter. Conveniently, the electronic unit is operationally connected to the partitioning means 40 and is configured to operate the movement of the side partition 43 and the relevant washing system 45. The integrated partitioning means 40 also comprise at least one front partition 46 associated with the holding frame 3 and movable with respect thereto to define at least partly a respective station P.

The front partition 46 is movable in rotation between a lifted position and a lowered position.

The integrated partitioning means also comprise a cleaning system of the front partition 46, not shown in the figures.

Conveniently, the electronic unit is also configured to operate the movement of the front partition 46 and the relevant washing system.

The table 1 also comprises at least one preservation module 47 provided with the integrated preservation means 18. The preservation module 47 also comprises linking means of known type that allow it to be connected both structurally and electronically to the modular bodies 42. Figures 8 and 9 show the frontal sections of the table 1 in accordance with the fourth embodiment. Each modular body 42 comprises a heating unit 31 for each table top 2 and a dispensing unit 23.

Specifically, the heating unit 31 is openable towards the respective table top 2, so that each user is able to cook/heat their meal independently, while the dispensing unit 23 is openable from both sides and used by both users. Conveniently, the supporting surface 25 is of the type of a conveyor belt.

The table 1 also comprises the transfer system 26 for transferring meals from the preservation module 47 to the dispensing unit 23.

In this case, the transfer system 26 comprises in turn a conveyor belt.

Thanks to the linking means, the electronic unit is operationally connected to the supporting surfaces 25 and is configured to operate/stop the sliding of the latter according to a station to be served.

In accordance with the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the integrated preservation means 18 comprise a pair of belt conveyors 48 opposite each other, defining the shelves 19, 20 and movable to release the meal onto the transfer system 26. In detail, the belt conveyors 48 have a plurality of rigid blades, wherein each shelf 19, 20 is defined by a blade of a belt conveyor 48 and a corresponding blade of the adjacent belt conveyor 48.

The sliding of the belt conveyors 48 gradually causes the drop of a meal on the transfer system 26.

In accordance with an alternative embodiment shown in Figure 9, on the other hand, the integrated preservation means 18 comprise a vertical carousel storage system 49, comprising the shelves 19, 20 and movable to release the meal on the transfer system 26.

In this case, the storage system 49 may be moved according to the desired meal and operated to release the meal on the transfer system 26, according to mechanisms known to the technician in the field.

Conveniently, the table 1 may comprise a plurality of preservation modules 47, possibly provided with integrated preservation means 18 of different types. Figures 10 and 11 show side sections of the table 1 in accordance with the fourth embodiment, wherein the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 are shown in greater detail.

Such an embodiment solution requires that the table top 2 be rotatable around a substantially horizontal axis, towards the collecting washbasin 7 so as to allow the dishes S to drop into the collecting washbasin itself.

At the same time, the washing unit 12 is movable with respect to the holding frame 3 to move closer to the table top 2 to arrange itself in contact therewith.

In particular, the washing unit 12 is movable by shift along a substantially horizontal direction.

In the present case, the washing unit 12 is arranged inside the holding frame 3, inferiorly to the integrated preparation means 17.

The washing unit 12 is shaped so as to come into contact with the table top 2 with the latter rotated towards the collecting washbasin 7.

Once in contact with the table top 2, the brush elements 13 and the dispenser 14 are operated to clean the table top itself.

Similarly to the above, the washing unit 12 may also comprise the drying device and the emitter device (not shown in detail in the figures).

A fifth embodiment of this automated table is shown in Figures 12 through 16. Again, the table 1 comprises a plurality of modular bodies 42, each provided with at least one table top 2, at least one holding frame 3, integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 and integrated preparation means 17.

The modular bodies 42 can be assembled by means of connection means of known type that allow both structural and electronic connection.

Each modular body 42 also comprises integrated partitioning means 40. Specifically, in accordance with the embodiment shown in Figure 12, the integrated partitioning means 40 are of the movable type.

The integrated partitioning means 40 comprise at least one side partition 43 movable sliding along a direction of work L between the exposed position and the retracted position.

In this case, the direction of work L is substantially horizontal. In detail, in the retracted position, the side partition 43 is housed inside the holding frame 3.

The integrated partitioning means 40 also comprise the washing system 45 adapted to cleanse the respective side partition 43.

The washing system 45 is configured to cleanse the side partition 43 during the movement between the exposed position and the retracted position.

Figures 13 to 16 show side sections of the table 1 in accordance with the fifth embodiment, wherein the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 are shown in greater detail.

This embodiment solution requires that the integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 comprise transfer means 10 adapted to move the table top 2 along the substantially horizontal direction of shift T between the exposed configuration, wherein it is arranged outside the supporting structure 5, and the retracted configuration, wherein it is arranged at least partly inside the supporting structure itself.

Advantageously, in accordance with this embodiment solution, the washing unit 12 is integrated with the removal system 8.

In detail, the removal system 8 comprises a shutter 50 which can be moved vertically with respect to the table top 2 between a closed position, wherein it adheres to the table top 2, and an open position, wherein it is moved away from the table top 2, and a blade element 51, locked together with the shutter 50, that extends inwards to the supporting structure 5 and defines, with the shutter itself, a housing for the washing unit 12.

Also in this case, the washing unit 12 comprises at least one brush element 13 and at least one dispenser 14. The washing unit 12 may also comprise the drying device and the emitter device (not shown in detail in the figures).

During meal enjoyment, the table top 2 is in the exposed configuration and the shutter 50 is in the closed position.

To carry out the clearance operation, the shutter 50 is brought to the open position and the table top 2 is shifted to the retracted configuration. At this point, the shutter 50 is brought back to the closed position so that it adheres to the table top 2 and the latter is shifted to the exposed configuration. During such movement, the blade element 51 retains the dishes S inside the supporting structure 5 and causes them to fall into the collecting washbasin 7. At the same time, the washing unit 12 is operated to carry out the cleaning of the table top 2.

A sixth embodiment of this automated table 1 is shown in Figures 17 and 18.

In this case, the table 1 comprises movement means 52 associated with the holding frame 3 and adapted to enable the table itself to be moved.

In the present case, the movement means 52 comprises a tractor on wheels. In other words, the table 1 is of the type of a van-restaurant, also known as a “food truck”. Thus, this embodiment allows for automatic traveling catering, which can be easily installed at fairs, festivals, etc.

The integrated clearance and cleaning means 4 are similar to those described for the solution shown in Figures 10 and 11 and will not be further described.

The integrated preparation means 17 have the heating unit 31 that is configured to transfer the meal directly to the dispensing unit 23, e.g. by means of a conveyor belt, as shown in the figures, or by dropping.

The table 1 in accordance with this embodiment may also comprise integrated preservation means 18 in accordance with one or more of the embodiment solutions described above.

In addition, the table 1 comprises integrated partitioning means 40.

In this case, the side partition 43 comprises a plurality of separate portions 43 a, which are mutually movable between the exposed position, wherein they are substantially side-by-side with each other along the direction of work L, and the retracted position, wherein they are at least partly overlapping each other along a direction perpendicular to the direction of work L.

The side partition 43 is substantially of the telescopic type.

It is easy to appreciate that the various solutions described so far for one specific embodiment can be applied to others and vice versa.

It has in practice been ascertained that the described invention achieves the intended objects, and in particular, the fact is emphasized that the automated table according to the invention enables timely, quick and optimal clearance and cleaning. In addition to this, the present automated table makes it possible to reduce the waiting time associated with meal preparation and, in addition, enables faster meal and beverage delivery.

The present automated table, therefore, makes it possible to overcome the drawbacks associated with traditional catering at every stage of service and, in particular, from the stage of preserving and preparing meals, to the stage of distributing them, and finally to the stage of clearing from dishes and cleaning the table itself.