Dough storage container system

Abstract

A stackable dough storage containment system uses nesting stackable interlocking pan bodies having a locking system for connecting the bodies, such that a pan body in a stack can be locked to pan bodies stacked above and below it. The locking system includes locking members positioned on the outside of each pan body near its base, forming locking connections with locking interfaces located on the outside of each pan body near its top. In the preferred embodiments, the locking members are radial pins and the locking member interfaces are bayonet joints. This allows each pan body to be dropped into position in the open top of the pan body below and rotated slightly to form a secure connection. Vents in each pan body release gases generated during the rising process.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] This invention deals with a dough storage container system for use in the production of pizza. [0003] 2. Description of Related Art [0004] In the pizza industry it is necessary for dough balls or buns to be mass produced and stored on site for use during rush periods. Thus, for example, restaurateurs often must produce large numbers of dough balls, allowing them to rise, and store them in a convenient, easily accessed form for later use. [0005] The first part of this process is accomplished primarily using dough proofing / rising pans. Proofing pans are typically round aluminum pans that can be stacked, but cannot be firmly locked together. These pans are inconvenient to use as they take up a substantial amount of counter or shelf space when they are spread out over available surface areas, and cannot be reliably stacked in a manner that will not allow them to easily be knocked over. Moreover, rising dough can overflo...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009] The system of the invention also serves to create a secure stack of pan bodies that takes up less space and is resistant to toppling.

Problems solved by technology

Proofing pans are typically round aluminum pans that can be stacked, but cannot be firmly locked together.

These pans are inconvenient to use as they take up a substantial amount of counter or shelf space when they are spread out over available surface areas, and cannot be reliably stacked in a manner that will not allow them to easily be knocked over.

Moreover, rising dough can overflow from such pans causing a mess and / or cause a pan stack to tip over.

The aluminum or other metal tends to dent, which makes stacking more difficult as the pans are used over time, and metal pans need to be oiled to aid release of the dough.

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