CN117561016A

CN117561016A - Lighting type food processing device

Info

Publication number: CN117561016A
Application number: CN202280045061.2A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 罗伯特·斯宾塞
Original assignee: Kenwood Ltd
Current assignee: Kenwood Ltd
Priority date: 2021-06-24
Filing date: 2022-06-20
Publication date: 2024-02-13

Abstract

The invention discloses a food processing device, comprising: a drive output for the machining tool on the underside of the device; at least one light source located adjacent the drive output to provide downward illumination from the underside of the device; and a cover configured to seal the at least one light source within the housing and configured to be light transmissive. In addition, other aspects of the invention are disclosed.

Description

Lighting type food processing device

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an illumination type food processing apparatus.

Background

A culinary food preparation machine, such as a culinary food preparation mixer (e.g., a stand mixer), is a kitchen appliance for mixing, kneading, stirring, cutting, or otherwise preparing food/beverage in a container (e.g., a bowl) while heating the food/beverage using an integral heating element or in a separate step. During this process, the user may want to illuminate the food/beverage in the container so that the handling of the food/beverage can be better observed. Applicant's patent application GB2522028 discloses providing lighting components in a stand mixer disposed around a tool for shadow reduction.

However, steam and moisture generated during heating of the beverage/food may affect the lighting means.

Although the use of a breathable bowl cover may reduce the excess steam that is vented from the bowl; however, this solution has the disadvantage that access and visibility to the bowl contents by the user is reduced and additional bowl covers need to be produced and stored. In addition, it is difficult to contain steam within the bowl without increasing pressure. This problem is not only particularly serious in food processing devices with heating elements, but also in those devices without heating elements (which process e.g. pre-heated food material).

In addition, users desire food processing devices to be able to additionally provide them with feedback information regarding the operation and status of the device.

The present invention aims to provide an improved structure of such a food processor.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a food processing device comprising: a drive output on the underside of the device for mounting a processing tool, and a light source for providing illumination downwardly from the underside of the device, the light source optionally being located adjacent the drive output; wherein the light source is sealed, preferably within the housing of the device, e.g. the light source is sealed by a cover for sealing the light source within the housing of the device.

It is convenient to locate the light source near or around the drive output port. The light source may for example surround the drive output.

In particular, the light source may be sealed to prevent ingress of liquids, fluids or vapors from the external environment; preferably the light source is sealable by a light transmissive cover. Sealing the light source may help to prevent damage to the light source, in particular the ingress of steam, such as steam expelled from a container for processing food, which may be heated, or condensed water from frozen food. For example, the light source may be provided as a sealed module mountable in the housing.

In a preferred embodiment, the cover is located between the light source and the underside of the device. In this way, the cover is able to protect the light source from the ingress of rising vapors from the food being processed underneath.

Preferably, the device further comprises a window for light transmission, wherein the window may be reversibly attached to the device. The window may be located below the cover. This may provide a further protective layer against the ingress of food products and associated vapors. Since the windows are reversibly connected, they can be detached and cleaned and then reconnected. It may also be replaced. The window may be connected to the drive output such that the window rotates with the drive output.

In a preferred embodiment, the cover comprises a light guide for guiding light from the light source. The light guide may be configured to guide light toward the window. The light guide can assist in directing light in a desired manner, such as directing light in a particular direction and/or focusing or diverging light.

More preferably, the light guide comprises a lens. In a preferred embodiment, the lens is a concave lens. This may be used to diverge and diffuse light, which may help provide the effect of a continuous flow of light, for example, in the shape of a ring or halo. In another embodiment, the lens is a convex lens. This can be used to focus light in a particular direction.

Preferably, the window and/or the light guide are textured to diffuse light from the lighting module. This helps to ensure uniform light propagation to enhance illumination.

The light guide may comprise a sealing element arranged to seal the at least one light source within the housing. This can help simplify the structure. For example, the sealing module may be part of a light guide formed of an elastic material (e.g., rubber). The light guide may comprise an overmolded (molded) rubber seal. The light guide may be optically transparent while the encapsulant is opaque. Alternatively, the seal itself may be transparent or translucent.

In a preferred embodiment, the drive output is provided on the rotary member, the cover comprising a sealing element forming a dynamic seal between the rotary member and the housing, preferably the sealing element comprising a lip seal. This facilitates sealing between the rotating drive output and the stationary housing. The sealing element may be provided as part of the light guide or as a separate component. The rotary member may provide a further cover for the drive output. To further seal the housing, a separate further cover may be provided, which is configured to interact with the cover. The lowermost sealing element may be provided and may thus provide a seal against the underlying food and its vapour.

The light source may be separated from the drive system by a second sealing element between the housing of the device and the drive system. Preferably, the second sealing element forms a dynamic seal. This may protect the at least one light source from the drive system, for example from lubricants used in the drive system.

The device may further comprise a third sealing element between the housing of the device and the housing of the drive system; the housing of the device may comprise a first housing part and a second housing part, the third sealing element forming a static seal. This can provide additional security for the seal and can further protect the drive system and/or the at least one light source from outside the device. The third sealing element may be the uppermost seal. The housing of the drive system may comprise a lower portion of the device underside housing.

Preferably, the third sealing element comprises at least one aperture; preferably, the aperture is configured to release gas pressure. More preferably, the aperture is arranged to prevent liquid ingress. For example, the pores may be sized to allow gas to pass through but to prevent liquid from entering. The aperture may include an inclined or U-shaped bend. The aperture may be located substantially above the location where liquid may collect.

The light source may be connected to the control panel via an electrical connection through the aperture, which may provide a neat and safe structure.

Preferably, the light source comprises a plurality of discrete light emitting elements or light sources. Preferably, the element or light source is disposed around the drive output port and may substantially surround or encircle the drive output port. In this way, illumination of the processing tool and/or illumination of the food product to be processed by the device may be provided when the processing tool is mounted to the drive output. These elements may be light sources driven by electricity. Preferably, they are LEDs. LEDs provide efficient light emission for their power consumption, and are inexpensive and lightweight. Preferably, the light source comprises a sufficient number of discrete light sources to produce a continuous lighting effect. The light sources preferably comprise at least 8 discrete light sources, still preferably at least 10, still preferably at least 12, still preferably at least 14, still preferably at least 16.

In a preferred embodiment, the light source comprises a printed circuit board. This allows for power to be supplied to the light source and is lightweight. The light source may comprise at least two printed circuit boards electrically connected. These circuit boards may be assembled around the drive system. Such assembly may be easier to achieve than a circular printed circuit board.

Preferably, the light source is configured to emit light in dependence on the condition of the device, so as to provide an indication of the condition of the device to a user. The device condition may be related to, for example: power state, on/off/standby state, speed, safety condition, temperature condition, locked state, and/or tool state.

Preferably, the light source is configured to emit light in more than one color.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a food processing apparatus comprising: a drive output port for mounting a machining tool on the underside of the device; at least one light source adjacent the drive output port to provide downward illumination from the underside of the device; wherein the light source is configured to emit light according to a condition of the device.

The device may communicate information by means of light emitted by the light source. This information may relate to, for example, power status, on/off/standby status, speed, safety conditions, temperature conditions, lockout status, and/or tool status. For example, the intensity of the light may be varied, or the light may be moved to indicate movement of the tool.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a food processing apparatus comprising: a drive output on the underside of the device for mounting a machining tool; at least one light source adjacent the drive output port to provide downward illumination from the underside of the device; wherein the light source is configured to emit light of more than one color.

By emitting more than one color, the device is able to convey more information to the user. The device may use light to illuminate and communicate information.

The aforementioned at least one light source may be configured to emit different colors of light based on feedback from the sensor and/or user input. The device may include a temperature sensor, an interlock sensor, a speed sensor, and/or a light sensor. The apparatus may be configured to emit light in accordance with a user selection of an illumination mode, a user selection of a temperature, a user selection of a speed, and/or a user selection of a machining mode.

Preferably, the at least one light source is configured to emit light to provide illumination and to communicate information related to speed, mode, operating status and/or safety. The lighting module may emit light in a pattern to provide an indication of the condition of the device. The pattern may be formed in different colors and/or intensities.

At least one light source may emit light to indicate that actuation of the food processing tool is or is about to occur. At least one light source may emit light to indicate that actuation of the food processing tool is occurring or is about to occur in an intermittent manner.

The at least one light source may be configured to indicate that actuation of the tool is occurring and/or imminent by generating a cyclical light pattern. The circulating light pattern may be dependent on the speed at which the tool is being driven and/or is to be driven. The speed of the circulating light pattern may be the same as the speed of the tool.

Preferably, the at least one light source is configured to emit light in response to sensor feedback, the sensor sensing unsafe operating conditions.

The lighting module may comprise two sets of light sources, a first set for lighting and a second set for signaling. Preferably, the number of light sources of the first group is larger than the number of light sources of the second group, because less light is required for signaling than for illumination. More preferably, the first group is a first color and the second group is a second color; this may improve the clarity of the emitted signal. Also preferably, the first color is white and the second color is red. White light can provide good illumination. The red light may effectively convey a warning signal. Preferably, the at least one light source comprises a red LED and a white LED.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device is configured to heat and/or cook a food product or is connected to a food processor for heating and/or cooking a food product.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device is a vertical mixer, or the device is part of a vertical mixer, or the device is attached to a vertical mixer.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a vertical mixer comprising an apparatus as described above.

In a preferred embodiment, the stand mixer comprises a seating for receiving a container for food processing. The container is preferably configured to receive a tool connected to the drive output. The nest may include heating and/or cooling elements configured to heat and/or cool food products within the container. This may provide a cooking function for the stand mixer, while the sealing element may protect the lighting module from food and steam.

Preferably, the invention is implemented on kitchen appliances capable of processing hot and/or cold food. More preferably, the kitchen appliance is capable of heating and/or cooling the food itself. The temperature of the food may exceed 60 degrees celsius, preferably up to at least 90 degrees celsius, still preferably up to at least 100 degrees celsius, still preferably up to at least 120 degrees celsius, still preferably up to at least 150 degrees celsius, more preferably up to at least 180 degrees celsius. The temperature of the food may be below 10 degrees celsius, preferably below 5 degrees celsius, still preferably below 8 degrees celsius, still preferably between 1 and 5 degrees celsius, still preferably below 1 degree celsius, still preferably at 0 degrees celsius.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a food processing apparatus comprising a nest for receiving a container and a food processing tool drive output located above the nest for driving a food processing tool attached thereto for food processing within the container, wherein the apparatus further comprises an illumination module positioned and configured to illuminate the interior of the container during food processing, the illumination module being located within a vapor proof enclosure configured and arranged to be substantially sealed against vapor discharged from the container.

In a preferred embodiment, the mount comprises heating and/or cooling elements for heating and/or cooling the food within the container.

Preferably, the illumination module substantially surrounds the food processing tool drive output.

The vapor proof housing may include a dynamic seal extending between a static portion of the housing and a moving portion of the food processing tool drive output.

Preferably, the dynamic seal is integrally formed with a light guide configured to direct light from the illumination module to one or more windows substantially surrounding the food processing tool drive output port for transmission into the container.

The vapor proof enclosure may be vented through a vent seal located at a position remote from the container to prevent condensate from accumulating within the container; venting is preferably performed on the device in a position not facing the container.

Preferably, the lighting module comprises two or more PCB assemblies, more preferably two PCB assemblies, connected to each other by a cable.

In a preferred configuration, the lighting module is configured to selectively change the pattern, color, or intensity of the emitted light in response to sensor feedback and/or user input.

The lighting module may be configured to emit light of two or more colors, preferably two colors, more preferably white and red.

In a preferred embodiment, the illumination module is configured to emit a signal in response to user input and/or sensor feedback indicating that actuation of the food processing tool by the tool actuation output port is occurring and/or is about to occur.

The food processing device may be configured to drive the food processing tool in an intermittent mode, and wherein the illumination module is configured to signal to a user that the tool is being driven in the intermittent drive mode.

The lighting module may also be configured to indicate that tool actuation is occurring and/or is about to occur by generating a cyclical light pattern.

In a preferred embodiment, the speed of circulation of the circulating light pattern depends on the speed at which the tool is driven and/or is to be driven.

Preferably, the lighting module is configured to change the color of the emitted light in response to sensor feedback, the sensor sensing unsafe operating conditions.

The lighting module may be further configured to change the color of the emitted light in response to any of:

feedback from the interlock sensor indicating that the accessory of the device is not properly attached;

feedback from the temperature sensor indicating whether the container is above or below a predetermined temperature;

feedback from the speed sensor indicating that the tool is being driven at a speed above a predetermined speed;

user selection of a tool speed above a predetermined speed via the user interface;

user selection of heating and/or cooling operations selected via the user interface.

Preferably, the lighting module comprises a plurality of light sources, preferably LEDs.

Preferably, the plurality of light sources comprises a first set of signal light sources for primarily emitting a first color to the user to indicate the status of the device and a second set of illumination light sources for primarily illuminating in a second color different from the first color.

The number of signal light sources may be less than the number of illumination light sources.

In a preferred embodiment, the lighting module is configured to be activatable by a user independently of the food processing performed by the device.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a food processing apparatus comprising a food processing tool drive output for receiving and driving a processing tool, the processing tool being attached to the tool drive output, wherein the apparatus further comprises an illumination module substantially surrounding the food processing tool drive output, the illumination module being configured to emit a pattern of circulating light prior to and/or during driving of the food processing tool.

Preferably, the apparatus is configured to drive the food processing tool in an intermittent mode.

The recycled light pattern may be emitted according to the direction of the tool.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of assembling a food processing device having an illumination module, comprising the steps of:

a) There is provided a food processing device having a tool drive assembly,

b) The lighting PCB assembly is placed around the tool drive assembly,

c) The lighting PCB components are electronically interconnected to form a lighting module.

Preferably, the method may further comprise the steps of:

d) The lighting module is surrounded by a vapor proof housing to prevent vapor from entering from below.

Any of the apparatus features described herein may also be provided as method features and vice versa. As used herein, means-plus-function features may alternatively be expressed in terms of their corresponding structures, such as a suitably programmed processor and associated memory.

Any feature of one aspect of the invention may be applied to other aspects of the invention in any suitable combination. In particular, method aspects may be applied to apparatus aspects and vice versa. Furthermore, any, part, and/or all features of one aspect may be applied to any, part, and/or all features of any other aspect in any suitable combination.

It should also be appreciated that the particular combinations of features described and defined in any aspect of the invention may be implemented and/or provided and/or used independently.

In this specification, the term "or" is to be interpreted in an exclusive or inclusive sense unless otherwise indicated.

Furthermore, the functions implemented in hardware may typically be implemented in software and vice versa. Any reference herein to software and hardware functionality should be construed accordingly.

Although the present invention has been described in the context of domestic food processing and preparation machines, the present invention may be used in any application where efficient, effective and convenient preparation and/or processing of materials is desired, whether on a scale of industrial and/or small scale. The field of use includes preparation and/or processing: a chemical; painting; building materials; clothing material; including the supply and/or disposal of fertilizers, grains, and other agricultural and/or veterinary products; oils; a fuel; a dye; cosmetic products; a plastic; tar; a coating; a wax; a varnish; a beverage; solder; an alloy; waste water; and/or other substances. Also, the "food" mentioned herein may be replaced by such a working medium.

The invention described herein may be used with any kitchen appliance and/or as a stand alone device. This includes any home food processing and/or preparation machine, for example top-driven machines (such as a stand mixer) and bottom-driven machines (such as a blender). It may be implemented in a heated and/or cooled machine. It can be used in machines built into a work table or worktop, or in stand alone devices. The invention may also be provided as a stand-alone device.

As used herein, "food processing" shall be considered to include shredding, stirring, kneading, chopping, grinding, shaping, shredding, grinding, cooking, freezing, making ice cream, juicing (centrifugation or in a roll-to-roll manner) or other food processing activities involving physical and/or chemical conversion of food and/or beverage materials by mechanical, chemical and/or thermal means. "food processing accessory" includes any attachable component, such as a rotating and/or power supply component, to perform any of the aforementioned food processing tasks.

Drawings

One or more aspects will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a food processing device according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a partial side view of a head piece of the food processing device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view through section A-A of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the lower drive output of the head piece of FIG. 2;

fig. 5 is an enlarged view of a portion B of fig. 3.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows a food processing device 100 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The exemplary food processing device 100 is generally C-shaped having a base 110, a frame member 120, and a head member 130, wherein the frame member 120 extends upwardly from the base 110 and the head member 130 extends horizontally from the frame member 120 to overhang the base 110.

The base 110 includes a bowl 111, and the bowl 200 may be attached to the bowl 111. The bowl 111 may include a weighing scale for weighing the contents of the bowl 200, and a heating element (e.g., an induction heating element) for heating the contents of the bowl 200. Additionally or alternatively, the bowl 111 may include a cooling element for cooling the bowl 200.

The stand member 120 contains a motor (not shown) for powering the food processing tool 150 via the various drive output ports 131, 132, 140 through a suitable transmission mechanism. The stand component 120 includes control interfaces, such as a touch screen display 121 and control knobs 122, through which a user can input instructions to cause the device 100 to perform and receive feedback from sensors (e.g., temperature and weight sensors).

The head member 130 may be hinged toward and away from the base 110 by a hinge. Such articulation may be locked or released through the use of a lever 123 located on the base 110. The head piece 130 may include upper drive outlets 131 and 132 (shown as covered), to which accessories (e.g., meat grinders, vegetable cutters, etc.) may be attached.

As shown in fig. 2, the head piece 130 also includes a lower drive output 140. Preferably, the lower drive output 140 is suspended above the bowl 111 such that when the tool 150 is attached to the drive output 140, it will be held extending into the bowl 200 located in the bowl 111. In this way, the tool 150 can be lowered into the bowl 200 containing the foodstuff so that when the user selects the tool 150 that should be actuated, it can process the foodstuff in the bowl 200. The drive output 140 as shown is a planetary output with a rotating hub 9, which rotating hub 9 is provided with a hub cap 10. The hub 9 is centrally provided with a hub nut 6. A hub nut extends through the hubcap 10 to secure and seal the hubcap 10. On the hub 9 and/or the hub cover 10, a connection point 7 for a detachable connection tool 150 is provided. The connection point 7 in the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures is a bayonet socket which is off-centre with respect to the central hub nut 6. The tool 150 may be driven to rotate about the axis of the connection point 7 while being driven to run about the central hub nut 6 to effect planetary motion. In alternative exemplary embodiments, the tool 150 may remain stationary relative to the connection point 7 while rotating about the hub nut 6, or the connection point 7 may be centered on the hub 9 or the hub cover 10. The hubcap 10 may rotate with the hub 9 or may remain stationary.

Fig. 3 and 4 show the structure of the head member 130 and the lower drive output 140 in more detail. Fig. 3 shows a cross-section through the head piece 130 and the lower drive output 140 of fig. 2, line A-A. The head member 130 has a housing 1, and the housing 1 encloses components such as a transmission mechanism for transmitting driving power to the output port 140. The gearbox 2 is arranged in a gearbox housing 3. The gearbox 2 has a ring gear 5 and a drive shaft 17, the drive shaft 17 extending through a drive shaft bearing 15 and being connected at a lower end to the hub nut 6. The drive shaft may be rotated by the drive via a gear 16. The drive shaft 17 is driven by the motor to rotate the hub 9 of the hub cap 10. The components of the gearbox 2 are typically lubricated with a suitable lubricant.

Above the hub 9 there is provided a lighting module 4, which may be an annular Printed Circuit Board (PCB) comprising a set of LEDs placed around the axis of the drive shaft 17, and located between the gearbox 2 and the hub 9. In this position, light from the lighting module 4 may be emitted into the bowl 200 through the window 11 via the light guide 12. The lighting module 4 is thus spaced from the lower surface of the lower drive output 140 (the underside of the drive output 140) to help prevent any steam from the food below from contacting the lighting module.

The light guide 12 conveys the emitted light downwards to the window 11 at the bottom of the drive output opening. The light guide 12 has an upper annular surface corresponding to the shape and position of the lighting module 4 so that it can collect most of the light emitted by the lighting module 4. It then curves down to a narrower bottom annular surface, the annular inner side wall forming a concave lens pointing down towards the window 11. It is optically clear and textured at least in the area of each LED to diffuse the light. The concave lens diverges the light and directs it toward the window 11. Thus, the light guide 12 serves to spread light outwards, so that light emission through the window 11 is more uniform. The window 11 is a transparent molding having a uniform texture on the outer surface to uniformly spread light. A sufficient number of LEDs are provided so that a sense of continuous illumination can be created by the diffusion of light through the light guide 12 and the window 11. The window 11 and the light guide 12 are halo-shaped (ring-shaped) so that the light will substantially surround the tool 150 when the tool 150 is attached to the connection point 7, thereby avoiding shadows. This can be achieved by a continuous annular window 11 and light guide 12 or a plurality of windows 11 and light guides 12 arranged annularly. The window 11 is sealingly attached to the hub 9 and/or the hubcap 10 to substantially prevent steam from entering therebetween under ordinary kitchen use conditions. Preferably, the window 11 is mounted on the hubcap 10 so as to be stationary with respect thereto, simplifying the seal therebetween. If the hubcap 10 is rotated, the window will also rotate. The window 11 is clamped to the hub 9 and/or the hubcap 10. It may be snap fit, for example using a tongue and groove mechanism, and is preferably reversible so that the window can be removed for cleaning and then reattached. In this configuration, the window can also be replaced if it is damaged or dirty.

The lighting module 4 is composed of a plurality of point light sources, so that the redundancy can be improved. In a preferred embodiment, 16 LEDs may be provided which are equally spaced in a ring. Preferably, the lighting module 4 is capable of emitting light of more than one color (i.e. light of different wavelengths over the electromagnetic spectrum) and light of more than one intensity. For example, the PCB may include 12 white LEDs and 4 red LEDs. In this way, a choice of patterns transmitting different colors and intensities may be provided, depending on which color LEDs are activated and how many of them are activated simultaneously. More colors may be provided, but two colors are sufficient to indicate at least an emergency state and a normal operating state, and a possible third state (e.g., standby state) by emitting light of both colors simultaneously. If one color (e.g., red) is used to indicate an emergency condition, fewer LEDs of that color are required because the corresponding LEDs are not used for illumination.

As shown in fig. 4, an exploded view of the assembly driving the output port 140 is shown. The lighting module 4 is a two-piece PCB assembly comprising two PCBs 4a and 4b electrically connected by a short connection cable 4 c. Each of the two PCBs 4a and 4b is semi-circular arc shaped such that, when connected, the lighting module 4 forms a ring around the axis of the drive shaft 17 of the lower drive output 140. This two-piece construction allows the two parts to be assembled together horizontally in situ and then connected to each other (by the cable 4c or by another means such as welding) thereby avoiding the need to place the annular PCB vertically around the various parts of the gearbox 2. The use of more than two PCB components has similar advantages in allowing assembly in situ, although the complexity increases as the number of PCB segments increases. Furthermore, the PCB components/segments are more readily available and cheaper than a ring PCB.

As shown in the exploded view of fig. 4, the structure of the sealing member of the lower drive output 140 will be described from the upper surface downward. At the bottom of the head piece 130 is a piece that forms the underside 14 of the head, which sits atop the lower drive output 140. The bottom housing of the head member 130 is thus formed and shaped to mate accordingly, forming a generally saddle-shaped housing having a circular aperture through which the drive shaft 17 extends. It also includes structure for attachment to the head piece 130. A hubcap seal 13 is located between the head underside 14 and the lighting module 4. This is formed as an annular collar 132 configured to fit within the gearbox housing 3. As described in connection with the axis of the drive shaft 17, a first annular lip 134 extends radially outwardly at an axial end and a second annular lip 136 extends radially inwardly at the other axial end. The connection between the housing 1 and the gearbox housing 3 is sealed by an uppermost seal 20, which seal 20 is formed between the cover seal 13 and the underside 14 of the head. Fig. 5 is an enlarged view of a portion B marked in fig. 3. Specifically, the first annular lip 134 of the lid seal 13 extends up and down around the housing 3 to accommodate the upper edge; from which the V-shaped structure 134a then extends upwardly into which the beveled edge of the underside 14 of the head fits. The head underside 14 is quite similar in shape to this first lip of the cap seal 13: it also includes a radially outwardly extending lip 14a extending downwardly around the cap seal 13 terminating in a beveled edge located within the V-shaped formation 134a of the cap seal 13. It then extends into the V-shaped lip itself, within which the lip of the head housing 1 is located. This structure provides the function of substantially preventing the ingress of steam under ordinary kitchen use conditions. The uppermost seal 20 may be a static seal (e.g., a polymer gel seal) because there is little or no relative movement between the components.

The gap between the ring gear 5 and the housing 3 is sealed by a second sealing element 30, which second seal 30 may also be provided by a hubcap seal 13. The seal is a dynamic seal (i.e. a seal capable of accommodating relative movement between two components) and may form a multi-lip seal (i.e. a seal consisting of one or more resilient lips, preferably rubber or elastomeric lips). The second lip 136 of the hubcap seal 13 is angled. Extending inwardly towards the ring gear 5. The lip extends in a downward V-shape (or U-shape, gauge or the like). For example, a first portion of the lip 136a extends inwardly and upwardly from the collar 132 at an angle of about 45 degrees relative to the axis of the tool shaft (where the tool is considered to extend downwardly). The second portion 136b is closer inward than the first portion 136a and then extends from the first portion 136a at an angle of about 90 degrees so that it also extends to the collar 132 at an angle of about 45 degrees. The second portion 136b is in contact with the ring gear 5 to form a dynamic seal. In this way, under ordinary kitchen use conditions, steam ingress and lubricant egress may be substantially reduced or prevented. By means of the uppermost piece 20 and the second sealing element 30, the hubcap seal 13 may protect the lighting module 4 from the upper gearbox 2.

The cable enables at least one way transmission of instructions from the touch screen display 121 and/or the control knob 122 to the lighting module 4. The cable may pass sealingly through the hubcap seal 13 between the lighting module 4 and the head piece 130. Preferably, it allows two-way communication between the two to allow telemetry data from sensors associated with the lower drive output 140 (e.g., temperature and light intensity sensors) to be transmitted to the touch screen display 121.

The hubcap seal 13 may have apertures 13a sized and arranged to prevent liquid from flowing in/out through them while the housing 1 allows gas/vapor to pass through the seal 13, preferably to an external vent remote from the bowl 200 (e.g., in a position not facing the container 200, such as on the stand 120) so that vapor discharged from the bowl is substantially prevented from reaching the lighting module 4 through the vent. For example, the holes 13a may be too small to allow a large amount of water to flow through them while allowing gas to pass through. Additionally or alternatively, the apertures 13a may be formed to slope upwardly or to curve in a U-shape so that liquid does not flow downwardly through them under normal use. In another additional or alternative configuration, the aperture 13a may be located substantially above the location where liquid is expected to pool. This can prevent accumulation of condensation while preventing inflow/outflow of liquid. These holes 13a may also double as the passage of the cables connecting the lighting module 4 to the display 121 and/or the control knob 122 described above.

The gap at the bottom of the drive output 140 between the housing 3 and the hub 9 (and/or the hubcap 10 and/or the window 11) is sealed by another lowermost seal 40. The lowermost seal 40 extends axially downwardly from the lighting module 4 and the light guide 12 and curves radially outwardly to a position where it contacts the hub 9. The radial width of the hub 9 extends further than the location where the hub 9 meets the lowermost seal 40; this further provides protection against steam ingress. The hubcap 10 is attached to the hub 9, while the window 11 is attached to the hubcap 10, extending a larger radial width. In alternative embodiments, the lowermost seal 40 may be in direct contact with the hubcap and/or window in addition to the hub 9 or instead of the hub 9. The lowermost seal 40 may be integrally formed with the light guide 12 to simplify construction, or it may be an additional component such as a snap or adhesive to the light guide 12. In the case where the lowermost seal 40 is integrally formed with the light guide 12, the light guide 12 may be made of a transparent, flexible material such as a transparent elastomer. The density/hardness of the light guide 12 may be varied so that its light guiding portion is relatively hard and its sealing portion 40 is relatively soft. Bending of the light guiding portion may be undesirable, as it may lead to undesired variations of the light output. The lowermost seal 40 is preferably a dynamic seal as previously described to sealingly accommodate relative movement between the hub 9/hubcap 10 and the housing 3 to substantially prevent liquid/moisture/vapor from entering the space in which the lighting module 4 is located from the external environment. Thus, damage to the lighting module 4 by steam/water vapor generated, for example, by heating food/beverage within the bowl 200 by the heating element in the bowl 111 may be substantially prevented. The hubcap 10 provides a hub nut 6 which secures the bottom of the hub 9 and the hubcap 10. The hub nut 6 comprises a collar 6a which extends wider than the central holes in the hub 9 and the hubcap 10 through which it passes, which further helps to prevent steam ingress. The lighting module 4 is thus substantially enclosed by a vapor proof enclosure that prevents vapor from being emitted from the bowl 200. The combination of all three seals 20, 30, 40 ensures that the seals are provided both above and below the lighting module 4.

In use, the lighting module 4 may be configured to emit light of different colors, intensities, and/or patterns depending on the state of the device 100. For example, the lighting module 4 may selectively activate and deactivate the white light LEDs in sequence to create a sensation that one or more lights are circulating around the drive output, serving as a visual indicator that the tool 150 is being driven or is to be driven. The speed at which the lights are activated/deactivated may be varied to correspond to the speed at which the tool 150 is being driven (or be, for example, proportional or as a function of other speed dependent tool 150). The location of the light emitted by the illumination module may vertically correspond to the location of a horizontal protrusion of the tool 150 (e.g., a lateral protrusion of a whisk or whisk) to signal the direction of the tool 150 to the user. This may help visually indicate to the user that the tool 150 is rotating, particularly if the tool 150 is located in the bowl such that it is not visible from the outside other than from above (e.g., if the tool 150 extends completely below the edge of the bowl 200, or most of it extends below the edge of the bowl). This arrangement is also advantageous when the tool 150 is driven in an intermittent mode, wherein a predetermined (or sensor feedback related) period of movement is followed by a period of tool rest, so that it is known to the user that the tool 150 can start rotating at any time even if it is currently stationary.

The lighting module 4 may indicate an emergency state. This may take the form of activating a red LED. The emergency condition may be indicated in response to the interlock sensor being actuated. For example, an emergency condition may be indicated when an interlock sensor (e.g., a micro-switch actuated by the bowl 200 when the bowl 200 is secured in the bowl 111) is used to sense that the bowl 200 is not properly positioned in the bowl 111. An emergency condition may also be indicated when the bowl 200 is overheated or overcooled, which may be detected using a temperature sensor in the bowl 111. Alternatively, it may be indicated as a function of time elapsed since heating/cooling, such as when it is sensed that the bowl 200 is located in the bowl 111 and the time to heat or cool the bowl 200 is less than a predetermined amount corresponding to the cooling/heating time. In another example, an indicator light may display the time when the bowl 200 is currently heating/cooling.

A red light may also be activated to indicate a high speed process sensed by, for example, a hall sensor or in response to a user selection of a high speed process. Attachment of a blade (or other dangerous) tool may also lead to the lighting module 4 displaying a red warning light. The device 100 may detect the attachment of a dangerous tool using, for example, an RFID chip associated with the tool that is being sensed by an RFID sensor associated with the device 100.

The lighting module 4 may automatically change the illumination based on feedback from a local sensor, which may be, for example, a speed sensor such as a hall sensor associated with the drive shaft 17, the lighting module 4 being directly connected to the drive shaft 17 instead of, for example, via an intermediate data processor. Alternatively or additionally, it may change the illumination based on input from the touch screen display 121 and/or the control knob 122. Changing the illumination based on the local sensor is advantageous because it reduces the communication requirements between the illumination module 4 and the other data processors of the device 100.

The lighting module 4 may also change the lighting depending on the position of the head piece 130, for example depending on whether the head piece 130 is pivoted away from the base 110 or locked in place. For example, when the head piece 130 is pivoted away, light may be emitted at a lower intensity to avoid dazzling the user. When the head piece 130 is locked in place, the intensity may be automatically increased to illuminate the contents of the bowl 200.

The lighting module 4 may be switched between a user controlled mode and an automatic mode. In the user control mode, the user controls the illumination intensity, pattern and/or light color directly using the touch screen interface 121 and/or the control knob 122; in the automatic mode, the lighting module 4 is automatically illuminated. For example, the user may choose to activate the lighting module 4 even when no machining is performed and/or when the head 130 is pivoted away from the base 110, e.g. using the device 100 as a lamp.

While the above description and description is based on a stand mixer with a bowl, the present invention may also be implemented in a hand-held mixer (e.g., a bar mixer, a hand mixer, etc.). In fact, the invention may be implemented in any food processing appliance having an extension tool and used for processing hot and/or cold food.

The tool 150 and bowl 200 are preferably made of food safety grade, dishwasher safety grade materials. The housing 1, shell 3, hubcap 10 and other external components of the device 100 are preferably made of food safe materials.

As used herein, the term "detachable attachment" (and similar terms such as "removably attached" or "reversibly attached") are used for attachments between a first object and a second object, preferably the term means that the first object is attached to the second object and can be detached (preferably reattached, etc.), and/or the first object can be removed from the second object without damaging the first object or the second object; more preferably, the term means that the first object may be reattached to the second object without damaging the first object or the second object, and/or the first object may be removed from the second object (and optionally also reattached to the second object) by hand and/or without the use of tools (e.g., screwdrivers, wrenches, etc.). In this regard, mechanisms such as snaps, bayonet connections, and manual rotation of the lock nut may be used.

"liquid seal" or "fluid seal" or similar terms are used to refer to a seal that prevents the ingress of fluids and vapors, such as vapors or condensed water from food products.

As used herein, "food safety" refers to any substance that, if ingested, does not release substantial amounts of substances that are clinically detrimental to human health. For example, it should be BPA-free.

"dishwasher safe" means that its physical and chemical properties should be stable under conditions prevalent in a dishwasher over prolonged exposure. For example, it should be able to withstand exposure to a mixture of water and common dishwasher substances (e.g., washing with FairyTM or FinishTM dishwasher tablets and water at a temperature of 82 degrees Celsius for up to 8 hours without significant degradation (e.g., cracking)).

It will be appreciated that the invention has been described above by way of example only and that modifications of detail may be made within the scope of the invention.

Each feature disclosed in the specification and (where appropriate) the claims and drawings may be provided independently or in any appropriate combination.

Reference signs appearing in the claims are for illustration only and do not limit the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A food processing device comprising:

a drive output port for mounting a machining tool on the underside of the device;

a light source arranged to illuminate downwards from the underside of the device;

a cover arranged to seal the light source within a housing, preferably the housing is the housing of the device.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the cover is configured to seal the light source in at least one of a liquid seal, a vapor seal, and a fluid seal.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover comprises a light guide for guiding light from the light source downwards, preferably the light guide comprises a lens, optionally the lens is a concave lens.

4. A device according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the light source comprises a lighting module arranged near or around the drive output, preferably the lighting module surrounds the drive output.

5. A device according to claim 3 or 4, further comprising a window for transmitting light from the light source, wherein the window is reversibly attached to the device, preferably the window is located below the cover.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein the cover is configured to direct light towards the window, preferably the window has a corresponding shape.

7. The device of any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the window and/or the cover is textured to diffuse light from at least one light source.

8. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the drive output is provided on a rotating component and comprises a first sealing element, preferably associated with and optionally integrally formed with the cover, the first sealing element being arranged to form a dynamic seal between the rotating component and the housing, preferably the first sealing element comprises a lip seal.

9. The device of any preceding claim, further comprising a drive system for the drive output, wherein the light source is spaced apart from the drive system.

10. The device according to claim 9, the light source being separated from the drive system by a second sealing element between the housing of the device and the drive system, preferably the second sealing element forming a dynamic seal.

11. Device according to claim 10, characterized in that the housing of the device comprises a first housing part and a second housing part with a third sealing element between them, wherein optionally one of the housing parts comprises a housing for the drive system, preferably the seal does not face downwards.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the third sealing element is gas permeable, preferably the third seal comprises an aperture, optionally configured to release gas pressure.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the light source is connected to the control panel via an electrical connection through the aperture.

14. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the light source comprises a plurality of discrete light emitting elements, preferably the light emitting elements are arranged around the drive output aperture, more preferably the light source is an LED.

15. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the light source comprises a printed circuit board, preferably the printed circuit board has two parts for fitting around the drive output, optionally the two parts being electrically connected.

16. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the light source is selectively configured to emit light of more than one colour, preferably two colours.

17. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the light source is selectively configured to change the pattern, colour or intensity of light it emits, preferably the light source changes the pattern, colour or intensity of light it emits in response to user input or in response to input from at least one sensor, optionally the light source changes the pattern, colour or intensity of light it emits to provide an indication of at least one condition of the device.

18. A food processing device comprising:

a light source disposed adjacent to the drive output, preferably the light source surrounds the drive output;

wherein the light source is configured to emit light in a pattern to provide an indication of a condition of the device.

19. A food processing device comprising:

Wherein the light source is capable of emitting light of more than one color.

20. The apparatus of any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the light source is configured to emit light in accordance with feedback from the sensor and/or input from a user.

21. The device of claim 20, wherein the light source is configured to emit light to provide illumination and to provide an indication to a user regarding a condition of the device, preferably the condition comprises speed, mode, operational status and/or safety.

22. The device of claim 21, wherein the light source comprises two sets of light emitting elements, wherein a first set of light emitting elements is configured to provide illumination and a second set of light emitting elements is configured to provide an indication to a user.

23. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the first set of light-emitting elements comprises a greater number of light-emitting elements than the second set of light-emitting elements; preferably the first set of light emitting elements is a first color and the second set of light emitting elements is a second color; still preferably, the first color is white and the second color is red.

24. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is configured to heat and/or cook a food product or is attached to a food processor for heating and/or cooking a food product.

25. A stand mixer comprising a device according to any one of claims 1 to 24, the stand mixer having a nest for receiving a container, the nest being disposed below the underside of the device.