US20170065947A1 - Blender assembly - Google Patents
Blender assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170065947A1 US20170065947A1 US15/356,761 US201615356761A US2017065947A1 US 20170065947 A1 US20170065947 A1 US 20170065947A1 US 201615356761 A US201615356761 A US 201615356761A US 2017065947 A1 US2017065947 A1 US 2017065947A1
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- jar
- disposed
- housing
- blending
- magnetic
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- A47J43/00—Implements for preparing or holding food, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
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- B01F35/60—Safety arrangements
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- B01F35/6052—Safety devices concerning the operation of the mixer with locking, blocking or interlocking mechanisms for preventing operation of the actuation mechanism of the mixing device
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
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- B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
- B01F35/71—Feed mechanisms
- B01F35/717—Feed mechanisms characterised by the means for feeding the components to the mixer
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- B01F2101/00—Mixing characterised by the nature of the mixed materials or by the application field
- B01F2101/1805—Kitchen, household equipment for mixing
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- B01F2215/0026—
Definitions
- Yet another aspect of the present concept includes a magnetic coupling system for a blending appliance wherein an upper magnetic coupler and a lower magnetic coupler are magnetically coupled using one or more permanent magnets defining upper and lower magnetic arrays.
- the lower magnetic coupler is configured to rotate the upper magnetic coupler using magnetic torque.
- a blade assembly is coupled to a drive shaft which is further coupled to the upper magnetic coupler for rotation therewith.
- a brake mechanism is configured to stop rotation of the upper magnetic coupler when the upper magnetic coupler is in an engaged or braking position.
- FIG. 11B is a front elevational view of the user-interface of FIG. 9 ;
- FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of an upper portion of a blender jar, cap and feed chute assembly
- FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of a blending appliance
- FIG. 28B is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of a heating element
- food goods disposed inside the blending jar 304 can be blended by an upper blending assembly 316 operably coupled with the upper drive shaft 308 , as well as a lower blending assembly 318 operably coupled with the lower drive shaft 310 .
- the upper blending assembly 316 includes a plurality of blades 320 .
- the lower blending assembly 318 includes a vertical transition gear 322 rotatably engaged with a horizontal drive gear 324 that is fixedly coupled with the lower blending assembly 318 .
- Controls for operating the upper and lower blending assemblies 316 , 318 can be disposed on either the housing 302 or the blending jar 304 .
- the body portion 413 of the cup assembly 407 is spaced-apart from the body portion 410 of the funnel 408 to define a gap as indicated by reference number 417 .
- air traveling through the vent 416 can escape around the periphery of the body portion 413 of the cup assembly 407 at the gap 417 towards the clearance apertures 418 .
- the venting path A forces the air to move vertically through vent 416 and then laterally from the vent 416 towards the clearance apertures 418 .
- This lateral flow provides for a nonlinear pathway for air to vent from the blender jar 24 A through the feed chute assembly 400 .
- the central aperture 570 is disposed beneath the cup assembly 407 of the feed chute assembly 400 disposed within the upper housing 402 .
- the feed chute assembly 400 is in communication with the receptacle portion 24 C of the blender jar 24 A along a food path as indicated by arrow 580 .
- the feed chute assembly 400 may be received in aperture 570 to close off aperture 570 when the blender jar 2 A and lid 560 are removed from the blending appliance 10 A, and to act as a feed chute directly into blender jar 2 A.
- the lid 560 includes an outer edge portion 568 which abuts and seals against the open top 561 of the blender jar 24 A.
- a lower portion 403 of the upper housing 402 remains static as the blender jar 24 A is received in the jar receiving area 16 A, and the lid 560 is resiliently flexible, such that the raised portions 569 abut the generally planar lower portion 403 of the upper housing 402 to form a seal between the blender jar 24 A and the upper housing 402 at aperture 570 . In this way, positional tolerances are taken up as the lid 560 is always held down to the blender jar 24 A during use by the engagement of the lid 560 with the upper housing 402 .
- the mounting cylinders 612 , 614 are disposed on mounting posts 403 A, 403 B of the lower portion 403 of the upper housing 402 .
- the horizontal portion 602 B of the switch housing 602 is coupled to the mounting posts 403 A and 403 B using fasteners.
- a spring-biased rocker lever 620 is pivotally coupled to the horizontal portion 602 B of the switch housing 602 above aperture 403 C disposed in the lower portion 03 of upper housing 402 .
- the lever 620 includes first, second, and third contact surfaces 622 , 623 , and 624 , which are disposed along a periphery of a main body portion 626 .
- the lever 620 is a spring-biased rocker lever which is operable between ON and OFF positions as further described below.
- the interlock switch assembly 600 is shown with the switch housing 602 having the switch assembly 604 , shown in FIG. 15 , removed.
- the body portion 626 of the lever 620 includes an outwardly extending mounting rod 628 and a retention clip 630 .
- a torsion spring 632 is mounted on the mounting rod 628 and includes an outwardly extending arm 634 which is retained by the retention clip 630 to bias the lever 620 to an “OFF” position as shown in FIG. 16A .
- the mounting rod 628 is nested into a pivot cradle 636 disposed on the horizontal portion 602 B of the switch housing 602 .
- the torsion spring 632 biases the lever 620 to the OFF position in a direction as indicated by arrow 638 .
- the first contact surface 622 is disposed below the horizontal portion 602 B of the switch housing 602 and extends through aperture 403 C into the blender jar receiving area 16 A.
- the second contact surface 623 abuts an abutment portion 603 disposed on the horizontal portion 602 B to limit the movement of a lever 620 in the direction indicated by arrow 638 .
- the magnetic coupling system 700 magnetically couples the blender jar 24 B to the base portion 22 B of the blending appliance 10 B through the magnetic attraction generated between upper and lower magnetic couplers 702 , 704 , as further described below.
- the upper and lower magnetic couplers 702 , 704 have a generally circular or disc configuration at a prescribed diameter, such that the blender jar 24 B will properly seat on the receiving deck 706 due to the magnetic coupling and attraction forces between the upper and lower magnetic couplers 702 , 704 .
- the motor 20 B drives the belt 682 of the belt drive system 678 , as described above, thereby driving the shaft 684 in a direction as indicated by arrow R 3 .
- the magnetic coupling system 700 magnetically couples the blender jar 24 B to the base portion 22 B of the blending appliance 10 B through inductance and magnetic reluctance generated between upper and lower couplers 702 and 704 .
- the motor 20 B drives the belt 682 of the belt drive system 678 , as described above, thereby driving the shaft 684 in a direction as indicated by arrow R 3 .
- This driving action powered by the motor 20 B drives the lower magnetic coupler 704 along the rotational path indicated by arrow R 3 as coupled to the shaft 684 .
- the rotating lower coupler made from an array of permanent magnets generates a rotation magnetic field.
- blender jar 24 B is shown having a blade assembly 716 disposed within a receptacle portion 24 C of the blender jar 24 B.
- the blade assembly 716 is coupled to a bearing assembly 500 through a drive shaft 710 which is further coupled, at a lower portion 712 thereof, to another embodiment of an upper magnetic coupler 702 C.
- the upper magnetic coupler 702 C is part of magnetic coupling system 700 C, and generally includes, a disc or carrier 736 C having a channel 740 C disposed around a periphery thereof.
- the carrier 736 C is comprised of a nonmagnetic material, such as a polymeric substance suitable for use with the blender jar 24 B.
- a nonmagnetic material such as a polymeric substance suitable for use with the blender jar 24 B.
- FIG. 26 another embodiment of a brake system 800 A is shown as used with another embodiment of a magnetic coupler assembly 700 E.
- the brake system 800 A incorporates bearing assembly 500 , which is similar to bearing assembly 500 described and shown above with reference to FIG. 12 .
- the threaded retaining nut 528 is threadingly coupled to the retainer member 520 , which thereby couples the bearing assembly 500 to receiving aperture 550 disposed on the blender jar 24 A.
- the threaded retaining nut 528 includes a brake surface 529 which is shown in FIG. 26 as being disposed above and adjacent to a lower brake surface 850 disposed on yet another embodiment of the upper magnetic coupler 702 E.
- the engagement features 1006 are twisted into place by turning the ice shaving attachment 1000 in a direction as indicated by arrow 1016 . As coupled in place, the engagement features 1006 ensure that the connectivity pad 1004 of the coupling hub 1002 aligns with an electronically couples to the connection pads 982 of the power module 980 to provide power to a motor and blade assembly disposed within a housing 1010 of the ice shaving attachment 1000 . Disposed on either side of the housing 1010 is an intake chute 1012 for receiving ice and a feed chute 1014 which is adapted to feed shaved ice to the feed chute 976 of the upper housing 970 . In this way, the blending appliance 10 C is capable of powering an accessory, like the shaved ice attachment 1000 for easily blending frozen concoctions.
- the power module 980 is contemplated to be able to power a host of accessories, such as a hot plate or a coffee machine, and non-powered accessories can also be attached to locking ring 974 , such as a strainer, a filter,
Abstract
A blending appliance includes a housing with a jar receiving area defined between an upper housing and a support base. A blender jar includes a base portion and a receptacle portion, and is configured to be laterally received within the jar receiving area of the housing. A magnetic coupling system includes an upper magnetic coupler disposed in the base portion of the blender jar and a lower magnetic coupler disposed in the support base of the housing. The upper and lower magnetic couplers are magnetically coupled to one another for driving a blade assembly disposed in the receptacle portion of the blender jar. A brake mechanism is disposed on the upper magnetic coupler and is configured to stop rotation of the upper magnetic coupler when the blender jar is removed from the jar receiving area.
Description
- The present application represents a divisional application of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/508,133 entitled “BLENDER ASSEMBLY”, currently allowed, and further claims priority to and the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/895,648, filed Oct. 25, 2013, entitled “MAGNETIC DISK COUPLER WITH MILD STEEL BACKING PLATE,” both of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- The present concept generally relates to a blending appliance, and more particularly to a blending appliance, wherein a blade assembly disposed within a blending jar is magnetically coupled to a drive system.
- One aspect of the present concept includes a blending appliance having a housing including a motor compartment and a jar receiving portion spaced laterally therefrom. The jar receiving portion includes an upper retaining member. A motor is disposed in the motor compartment. A support pad is operably coupled to the housing. A jar includes a lid with a feed chute. The jar and lid are configured for reception in the jar receiving portion. The lid is vertically secured onto the jar by the upper retaining member upon reception of the jar into the jar receiving portion. A blade assembly is disposed within the jar and is magnetically coupled to a drive system disposed within a base portion of the housing. A brake mechanism is coupled to the magnetic coupling assembly to stop the rotation of the blade assembly when the jar is laterally removed from the housing base.
- Another aspect of the present concept includes a blending appliance having a housing with a motor compartment and a jar receiving portion spaced laterally therefrom. The housing includes a laterally extending upper housing portion. A motor is disposed in the motor compartment is adapted to drive a blade assembly of the jar through a magnetic coupling system. A jar includes a lid, and the jar and lid are adapted to be laterally received within the jar receiving portion, wherein the lid is vertically secured onto the jar by a lower portion of the upper housing upon reception of the jar into the jar receiving portion.
- Another aspect of the present concept includes a blending appliance having a housing which includes a jar receiving area defined between an upper housing and a support base which both laterally extend from a motor compartment. A blender jar includes a base portion and a receptacle portion, and is configured to be laterally received within the jar receiving area of the housing. A magnetic coupling system includes an upper magnetic coupler disposed in the base portion of the blender jar and a lower magnetic coupler disposed in the support base of the housing. The upper and lower magnetic couplers are magnetically coupled to one another using one or more permanent magnets defining upper and lower magnetic arrays respectively. The lower magnetic coupler is also configured to rotate the upper magnetic coupler within the base portion of the blender jar as powered by a motor. A blade assembly is disposed in the receptacle portion of the blender jar, and is also operably coupled to a drive shaft which is further coupled to the upper magnetic coupler. A brake mechanism is disposed on the upper magnetic coupler and is configured to stop rotation of the upper magnetic coupler when the blender jar is removed from the jar receiving area.
- Another aspect of the present concept includes a blending appliance having a housing which includes a jar receiving area defined between an upper housing and a support base. A blender jar includes a base portion and a receptacle portion, and is removeably received within the jar receiving area of the housing. An upper magnetic coupler is disposed in the base portion of the blender jar for rotation therein. The upper magnetic coupler is vertically movable between engaged and disengaged positions along a drive shaft. A bearing assembly is disposed about the drive shaft. In assembly, the drive shaft couples the upper magnetic coupler to a blade assembly disposed in the receptacle portion of the blender jar. The bearing assembly further includes a first brake surface. A second brake surface is disposed on the upper magnetic coupler and is configured to contact the first brake surface when the blender jar is removed from the jar receiving area and the upper magnetic coupler is in the engaged position. A lower magnetic coupler is disposed in the support base of the housing for rotation therein. The upper magnetic coupler is magnetically coupled to the lower magnetic coupler for rotation therewith when the upper magnetic coupler is in the disengaged position.
- Yet another aspect of the present concept includes a magnetic coupling system for a blending appliance wherein an upper magnetic coupler and a lower magnetic coupler are magnetically coupled using one or more permanent magnets defining upper and lower magnetic arrays. The lower magnetic coupler is configured to rotate the upper magnetic coupler using magnetic torque. A blade assembly is coupled to a drive shaft which is further coupled to the upper magnetic coupler for rotation therewith. A brake mechanism is configured to stop rotation of the upper magnetic coupler when the upper magnetic coupler is in an engaged or braking position.
- Yet aspect of the present concept includes a blending appliance having a housing which includes a motor compartment and a jar receiving portion spaced laterally or vertically therefrom. The motor is disposed in the motor compartment and is adapted to drive the blade assembly of the jar through a magnetic coupling system. A magnetic coupling system may include an upper non-magnetic, electrically conductive coupler disposed in the base of the jar and a lower magnetic coupler disposed in a support base of the housing. The upper and lower couplers are magnetically coupled to one another using one or more permanent magnets defining the lower coupler and a copper, copper alloy or other electrically conductive metal defining the upper coupler. The rotating magnetic field of the lower coupler generates inductive eddy currents in the upper coupler thus coupling the upper and lower coupler with magnetic inductance to drive a blending cutter configured within the jar.
- These and other aspects, objects, and features of the present concept will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and drawings.
- In the drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of a low profile side drive blending appliance of the present concept; -
FIG. 2 is a top perspective cross-sectional view of the low profile side drive blending appliance ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a rear perspective cross-sectional view of the low profile side drive blending appliance ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a low profile side drive blending appliance; -
FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of yet another embodiment of a low profile side drive blending appliance; -
FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of yet another embodiment of a low profile side drive blending appliance; -
FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of yet another embodiment of a low profile side drive blending appliance; -
FIG. 8A is a top perspective exploded view of an upper housing and feed chute assembly; -
FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the feed chute assembly ofFIG. 8A as assembled; -
FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view of the feed chute assembly ofFIG. 8B ; -
FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional perspective view of the feed chute assembly ofFIG. 8B ; -
FIG. 9 is an top perspective exploded view of a user-interface; -
FIG. 10 is an assembled cross-sectional view of the user-interface ofFIG. 9 coupled to an upper housing; -
FIG. 11A is a top perspective view of the user-interface ofFIG. 9 ; -
FIG. 11B is a front elevational view of the user-interface ofFIG. 9 ; -
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a bearing assembly and blade assembly; -
FIG. 13 is a top perspective exploded view of the bearing assembly ofFIG. 12 ; -
FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of an upper portion of a blender jar, cap and feed chute assembly; -
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an upper portion of a blender jar, cap and interlock switch assembly; -
FIG. 16A is a top perspective view of the interlock switch assembly ofFIG. 15 in an “OFF” position; -
FIG. 16B is a top perspective view of the interlock switch assembly ofFIG. 15 in an “ON” position; -
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of a blending appliance; -
FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of a blending appliance; -
FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of the blending appliance shown inFIG. 18 ; -
FIG. 20A is a rear perspective view of a base portion of a blender jar; -
FIG. 20B is a rear perspective view of another embodiment of a base portion of a blender jar; -
FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a base portion of a blender appliance; -
FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view of a blender jar and blender jar base portion having a magnetic coupler disposed therein; -
FIG. 22B is a fragmentary perspective view of the blender jar ofFIG. 22A showing a base portion vent member; -
FIG. 22C is a cross-sectional view of the base portion of the blender jar shown inFIG. 22B ; -
FIG. 23 is a is a cross-sectional view of the blender jar ofFIG. 22A as magnetically coupled to a base portion of a blending appliance, having a magnetic coupler disposed therein; -
FIG. 24 is a schematic view of a magnetic loop of a magnetic coupling system; -
FIG. 25A is a cross-sectional view of a blender jar and blender jar base portion having a magnetic coupler and a braking system in a disengaged position; -
FIG. 25B is a cross-sectional view of the braking system ofFIG. 25A in an engaged position; -
FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a blender jar and blender jar base portion having a magnetic coupler and a braking system of another embodiment in a disengaged position; -
FIG. 27A is a perspective exploded view of another embodiment of a blender jar and lower collar portion having a heating element; -
FIG. 27B is a perspective view of the blender jar and lower collar portion ofFIG. 23A in an assembled view; -
FIG. 27C is a cross-sectional view of the blender jar and lower collar portion ofFIG. 23B ; -
FIG. 27D is a cross-sectional view of the heating element ofFIG. 27A ; -
FIG. 27E is a rear perspective view of the heating element ofFIG. 27D ; -
FIG. 28A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a heating element; -
FIG. 28B is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of a heating element; -
FIG. 29A is a top perspective exploded view of a heating element; -
FIG. 29B is a top perspective view of the heating element ofFIG. 29A in an assembled view; -
FIG. 29C is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of a heating element; -
FIG. 29D is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of a heating element; -
FIG. 30 is a top perspective view of a powered upper housing assembly; and -
FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of a blending appliance. - For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the concept as oriented in
FIG. 1 . However, it is to be understood that the concept may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. - Referring to
FIGS. 1-3 ,reference numeral 10 generally designates a blending appliance having ahousing 12 including amotor compartment 14 and ajar receiving portion 16 spaced laterally therefrom and which defines a cavity. Thejar receiving portion 16 includes an upper retainingmember 18. Amotor 20 is disposed in themotor compartment 14. Asupport pad 22 is operably coupled to thehousing 12. Ajar 24 includes alid 26 with afeed chute 30. Thejar 24 andlid 26 are configured for reception in thejar receiving portion 16. Thelid 26 is vertically secured onto thejar 24 by the upper retainingmember 18 upon reception of thejar 24 into thejar receiving portion 16. - Referring again to
FIGS. 1-3 , the illustrated blendingappliance 10 is generally configured to include a low profile to easily accommodate use under a cupboard or shelf in a kitchen area. Thejar 24 of the blendingappliance 10 is designed to engage thehousing 12 from a lateral direction. Most traditional blending appliances include a construction that mandates vertical or drop-in placement of a jar onto a base that includes a motor therein. Unfortunately, these constructions require substantial vertical space above the base, and when connected with thejar 24, provide for a very tall appliance. - As shown in the illustrated embodiment of
FIG. 1 , thehousing 12 includes a slightly widenedhousing base 40 andsupport pad 22 disposed below the upper retainingmember 18. The upper retainingmember 18 is designed to maintain thelid 26 of thejar 24 on thejar 24 during mixing of food goods inside thejar 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper retainingmember 18 includes anarcuate recess 44 configured to receive at least a portion of thefeed chute 30 that extends through thelid 26. Thefeed chute 30 includes aremovable cap 46. Theremovable cap 46 can be removed from thelid 26 to install food goods into thejar 24 when thejar 24 is in connection with thehousing 12. A taperedinternal wall 48 is disposed on either side of thearcuate recess 44. The taperedinternal wall 48 of thehousing 12 allows for easy and quick insertion of thejar 24 andlid 26 into thehousing 12, and at the same time, prevents thelid 26 from disengaging with the top of thejar 24 when the blendingappliance 10 is activated. Thesupport pad 22 extends from a forward portion of thehousing 12 and generally defines a base that supports thejar 24 when thejar 24 is engaged in the blendingappliance 10. The base may include a heating element disposed therein adapted to warm or heat food goods located inside the blendingappliance 10. - In addition, the
support pad 22 includes ajar lock 60. Thelower jar lock 60 is designed to engage ajar base 62, such that a bottom of thejar 24 does not move away from the housing during activation of the blendingappliance 10. It is contemplated that thejar lock 60 may be spring-biased to a raised position, such that during insertion of thejar 24 into thehousing 12, thejar lock 60 springs upward to securely engage thejar 24 in thehousing 12. To remove thejar 24, a user would simply push down on the spring-biasedjar lock 60 until atop edge 64 of thejar lock 60 is positioned below a bottom surface of thejar 24. After thejar lock 60 has been moved to this lowered position, thejar 24 can safely be removed laterally from thehousing 12. - Referring again to
FIG. 1 , aslider switch 70 is disposed on a side of thehousing 12. Theslider switch 70 has the effect of controlling the speed of themotor 20 disposed inside themotor compartment 14 of thehousing 12. Theslider switch 70, and therefore, the speed control, is generally linear in the illustrated embodiment. However, it is also contemplated that knobs or other electrical or mechanical user interface assemblies may be utilized to control the rate or speed of themotor 20, such as the dial configuration described below with reference toFIGS. 9 and 10 . In the illustrated embodiment, theslider switch 70 is designed to control the motor speed, and consequently, ablade assembly 72 inside thejar 24 from slow to chop, chop to mix, mix to puree, and puree to liquefy. It is contemplated that theslider switch 70 may have incremental activation points, or may include a continuous electrical switch that allows any of an infinite number of motor speeds. - Referring now to
FIGS. 2 and 3 , the inner componentry of the blendingappliance 10 of the illustrated embodiment will be discussed. As illustrated, theblade assembly 72 of the blendingappliance 10 is fixedly engaged with ajar drive shaft 80. Thejar drive shaft 80 extends downward through a bottom portion of thejar 24 and is sealed by gaskets. The bottom of thejar drive shaft 80 is configured to engage agear assembly 82 disposed below thejar 24. Thegear assembly 82 is positioned above thesupport pad 22 in agear housing 84. In the illustrated embodiment, there are three gears that relay rotational forces from the motor to the blade assembly. However, it is contemplated that more or less gears may be utilized in the blendingappliance 10. In addition, it is also contemplated that a belt driven system may be utilized that requires less gears overall. In the illustrated embodiment, ajar drive gear 86 is disposed below thejar drive shaft 80. Thejar drive gear 86 is rotatably engaged with atransition gear 88, which is operably engaged with amotor drive gear 90. Themotor drive gear 90 is fixedly connected with amotor drive shaft 92 that extends downwardly from themotor 20. Themotor drive shaft 92 is supported by adrive shaft bracket 94. The entire motor assembly is supported over amotor bracket 96 inside themotor compartment 14. In the illustrated embodiment, themotor 20 includes amagnet 98 and a windingassembly 100 that is protected by amotor shroud 102. Themotor shroud 102 protects themotor 20 and keeps it free of moisture and debris. Ashroud bracket 104 is disposed inside themotor shroud 102 and supports afan assembly 106 disposed above themotor 20. Thefan assembly 106 moves air inside themotor compartment 14, preventing or minimizing the likelihood of themotor 20 overheating. - Referring now to
FIG. 4 , in another embodiment, a blending appliance 140 includes ahousing 148 and amotor system 150 positioned above ajar 152. Thejar 152 includes adrive shaft 154 that is operably engaged with a vertically extendingauger 156 that extends into thejar 152 under a lid 157 of thejar 152. The vertically extendingauger 156 is fixedly engaged with ablade assembly 158 disposed at the bottom portion of thejar 152. The vertically extendingauger 156 also includes ahelical flange 160 that extends about a portion of the vertically extendingauger 156, and which minimizes bridging of food during blending. A top portion of thehousing 148 of the blending appliance 140 illustrated inFIG. 4 includes alocking tab 162 that locks thejar 152 and the vertically extendingauger 156 in place in connection with thehousing 148. In use, a user would insert thejar 152 into thehousing 148 from a lateral direction. After insertion, thelocking tab 162 would be moved to a lower locking position, such that the vertically extendingauger 156 is engaged and thejar 152 is secured in place in ajar receiving portion 166 of thehousing 148. At this point, a user is free to operate themotor system 150 at any of a variety of speeds as the lid 157 of thejar 152 is secure on thejar 152. - In another embodiment, as illustrated in
FIG. 5 , a blendingappliance 200 includes ajar 202 having anauger 204 disposed inside thejar 202. Thejar 202 is configured for engagement with ahousing 206 of the blendingappliance 200. In this embodiment, thehousing 206 includes anengagement member 208 that extends forward from atop portion 210 of thehousing 206 and is configured to receive a top portion of theauger 204. Upon reception of the top portion of theauger 204, a motor system can be activated, which will subsequently turn theauger 204 inside thejar 202. - With reference now to
FIG. 6 , in yet another embodiment, a blendingappliance 250 includes ahousing 252 with female receivingports 254 configured to receivemale extensions 256 that protrude from abase 258 of a blendingjar 260. Themale extensions 256 act as power relays configured to activate a heating element disposed in thebase 258 of the blendingjar 260. Thebase 258 of the blendingjar 260 can then serve to warm food goods disposed inside the blendingjar 260. Controls for a desired temperature of the heating element disposed in the blendingjar 260 may be provided on thehousing 252 of the blendingappliance 250, or on the blendingjar 260 itself. This embodiment also includes a top mountedmotor system 262 with adrive shaft 264 that extends downward into the blendingjar 260. Thedrive shaft 264 is operably coupled to ablade assembly 266. - Referring now to
FIG. 7 , in yet another embodiment, a blendingappliance 300 includes ahousing 302 and a blendingjar 304 configured for lateral engagement with thehousing 302. The blendingjar 304 can be fit into ajar receiving portion 306 of thehousing 302. As the blendingjar 304 slides into thejar receiving portion 306 of thehousing 302, upper andlower drive shafts jar 304 engage first andsecond drive assemblies housing 302. Accordingly, food goods disposed inside the blendingjar 304 can be blended by anupper blending assembly 316 operably coupled with theupper drive shaft 308, as well as alower blending assembly 318 operably coupled with thelower drive shaft 310. Theupper blending assembly 316 includes a plurality ofblades 320. Thelower blending assembly 318 includes avertical transition gear 322 rotatably engaged with ahorizontal drive gear 324 that is fixedly coupled with thelower blending assembly 318. Controls for operating the upper andlower blending assemblies housing 302 or the blendingjar 304. - Referring now to
FIGS. 8A-8D ,reference numeral 400 generally indicates a feed chute assembly for use in conjunction with another embodiment of a blendingappliance 10A. As shown inFIG. 8A , the blendingappliance 10A includes anupper housing 402 having ahousing aperture 404 disposed therethrough. Thefeed chute assembly 400 includes acap 406 which is adapted to closehousing aperture 404 in assembly as shown inFIG. 8B . Acup assembly 407 is coupled to thecap 406 and is adapted to be received in afunnel member 408 which includes anupper lip portion 409 and abody portion 410. Thebody portion 410 generally defines acavity 412 in which thecup assembly 407 is received. Together, thecup assembly 407 and funnel 408 define a feed chute or pathway P through theupper housing 402, which opens into ablender jar 24A. Thecup assembly 407 includes abody portion 413 havingchannels 414 that substantially run the length of thebody portion 413 of thecup assembly 407, such that in assembly, thechannels 414 define avent 416 between thecup assembly 407 and thebody portion 410 of thefunnel 408. This vented arrangement is best shown inFIGS. 8B and 8C as an arc-shaped vent as further described below. - Referring specifically to
FIGS. 8B-8D , a venting path from theblender jar 24A through thefeed chute assembly 400 is indicated by arrow A. Thefeed chute assembly 400 is adapted to vent air from theblender jar 24A as air or steam may be forced upwards towards thefeed chute assembly 400. This pressure could remove a lid assembly that is not properly ventilated. As best shown inFIG. 8C , thecup assembly 407, as received in thefunnel 408, forms avent 416 disposed along the length of both thecup assembly 407 and funnel 408. Thecup assembly 407 further includesradial clearance apertures 418 from which air can vent from theblender jar 24A towards thecap 406. As shown inFIG. 8B , thebody portion 413 of thecup assembly 407 is spaced-apart from thebody portion 410 of thefunnel 408 to define a gap as indicated byreference number 417. Thus, air traveling through thevent 416 can escape around the periphery of thebody portion 413 of thecup assembly 407 at thegap 417 towards theclearance apertures 418. Thus, as shown inFIGS. 8B and 8D , the venting path A forces the air to move vertically throughvent 416 and then laterally from thevent 416 towards theclearance apertures 418. This lateral flow provides for a nonlinear pathway for air to vent from theblender jar 24A through thefeed chute assembly 400. In this way, vented air, that may be carrying food particles, does not flow directly through thefeed chute assembly 400 along a linear vertical path during use. Thecap 406 also includes openings orvents 420 from which the air can ultimately escape.Openings 420 are disposed along a finger well 422 which is defined by the coupling of thecap 406 andcup assembly 407. Thus, thefeed chute assembly 400 provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance while allowing venting through thefeed chute assembly 400 without any visibly noticeable gaps between mating surfaces. Having clean mating surfaces, thefeed chute assembly 400 has less potential for trapping food particles in the system as air is ventilated through thefeed chute assembly 400. Further, thecup assembly 407 is removable, as shown inFIG. 8A , and can be inverted to define an ingredient measuring cup for use by the user. As shown inFIG. 8D , the interior portion of thebody portion 413 of thecup assembly 407 includesvolume indicators 415 for precise measuring of varying ingredients. - Referring again to
FIG. 8D , theupper housing 402 includes achannel 424 which is comprised of alower portion 426 which is generally tapered to frictionally receive thefunnel 408 therein. Alanding portion 428 is disposed between thelower portion 426 and anupper portion 430 of thechannel 424. Thelanding portion 428 houses a twist-inlocking mechanism 405 which, as shown inFIG. 8D , engages thecup assembly 407, thereby retaining both thecup assembly 407 andcap 406 in assembly. It is contemplated that thefeed chute assembly 400 can couple to theblender jar 24A, such that thefeed chute assembly 400 can be removed from theupper housing 402 and placed in a lid of theblender jar 24A as further described below. - Referring now to
FIG. 9 , auser interface 440 is shown in the form of an explodedrotating dial assembly 442. Thedial 442 generally includes anouter ring 444 which is engaged by a user and rotated along a rotational path R1 as indicated inFIG. 11B . Theouter ring 444 is disposed about acentral aperture 446 of thedial 442 in which a centralpush button actuator 450 is disposed in assembly. Both therotating dial 442 andpush button actuator 450 may be comprised of a thermoset body portion having a metallic coating. In assembly, thepush button actuator 450 remains stationary while therotating dial 442 rotates along rotational path R1. The stationary positioning of thepush button actuator 450 is generally provided by arotor post 452 engaging arotary plate 454 through aslot 455 disposed thereon. Therotary plate 454 is disposed within aretainer 456 in assembly. A printed circuit board (PCB) 460 is mounted on a central portion of therotary plate 454. ThePCB 460 includes one ormore LEDs 462 and atactile switch 464. Aplastic window 466 is aligned with theLEDs 462 of thePCB 460 and is further disposed within thepush button actuator 450 in assembly. A biasingspring 470 is disposed between thepush button actuator 450 and therotary plate 454, thereby biasing thepush button actuator 450 outwardly in a direction as indicated byarrow 472. In this way, thepush button actuator 450 can be pushed by a user inwardly in a direction as indicated byarrow 474 to activate thetactile switch 464 disposed on thePCB 460. By engaging and pushing thepush button actuator 450, the user makes a selection for a given function as determined by therotating dial 442 as further described below. - As further shown in
FIG. 9 , a plurality offasteners 480 are adapted to couple therotary plate 454 to a mountingportion 447 of therotating dial 442. As coupled together, therotating dial 442 androtary plate 454 are received within aninterior portion 457 of theretainer 456. As best shown inFIG. 10 , theretainer 456 is adapted to retain theuser interface assembly 440 on a location disposed on theupper housing 402 viaclips 458 which are resiliently flexible to engage theupper housing 402. Amain PCB 490 includes apotentiometer 492 which is adapted to read an input from theuser interface 440 for performing a preselected function of the blendingappliance 10A. A plurality offasteners 494 are adapted to couple themain PCB 490 to theretainer 456 via mountingportions 459 disposed on theretainer 456. - Referring now to
FIGS. 11A and 11B , theuser interface 440 includes a plurality of functions F which are disposed at discrete locations around therotating dial 442. In use, a user will rotate therotating dial 442 along the rotational path R1 until a selected function F is disposed at a reference point which may be indicated by lighting up the particular function or by using an audible indicator. As shown inFIG. 11B , the functions F may include, but are not limited to, iced drink, soup, milkshake, juice, smoothie, as well as an OFF position, and a progressive blending speed indicator scale identified asreference numeral 445. Once the user has rotated thedial 442 to the selected function F, the user will push the centralpush button actuator 450 to initiate the specific function F. The design of theuser interface 440 allows therotating dial 442 to rotate a full 360 degrees in either direction along the rotational path R1 while the centerpush button actuator 450 remains stationary. Theuser interface 440 is electronically coupled to a controller - Referring now to
FIGS. 12 and 13 , a bearingassembly 500 is coupled to ametal blade assembly 501 having a plurality ofblades 502. Theblade assembly 501 is coupled to ashaft 504 by afastener 506. Theshaft 504 is pressed into and received within first and secondradial bearing assemblies radial bearing assemblies spacer 514. The first and secondradial bearing assemblies housing 516 defined by the coupling of aretainer member 520 and a retainingnut 528. Theretainer member 520 includes a threadedlower portion 522 which engages threaded retainingnut 528 in assembly. Theretainer member 520 is adapted to be received within a receivingaperture 550 disposed within a lower portion ofblender jar 24A between thereceptacle portion 24C and abase portion 62B. Theretainer member 520 further includes ahead portion 524 which abuts the receivingaperture 550 in theblender jar 24A in assembly. Thus, theretainer member 520 and the retainingnut 528 are disposed on opposite sides of the receivingaperture 550 in an abutting manner to secure thebearing assembly 500 therein. Awave spring 532 is a compressible biasing mechanism that abuts aretainer clip 530 at an upper end, and further abuts the upperradial bearing assembly 510 at a lower end. Thewave spring 532 is disposed around theshaft 504. Theretainer clip 530 is disposed in aninset portion 526 within the bearinghousing 516 of theretainer member 520. Aseal 534 is disposed above theretainer clip 530 and is configured to seal thebearing assembly 500 from contents, such as various ingredients and liquids being processed, disposed in thereceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24A in use. Thewave spring 532, abutting theretainer clip 530 and thefirst bearing 510, imparts a constant downward force on the first andsecond bearings arrow 552 while acting against the retainingclip 530. This constant downward force indicated byarrow 552 eliminates potential for outer housing rotation when theshaft 504 andblade assembly 501 are rotating in use. As further shown inFIG. 12 , the threaded retainingnut 528 includes alower brake surface 529 for use with a brake mechanism as further described below. - Referring now to
FIG. 14 , the blendingappliance 10A is shown with theblender jar 24A having a cover orlid 560 disposed on and received in anopen top 561 of theblender jar 24A. Theopen top 561 of theblender jar 24A opens into thereceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24A. Thelid 560 is a flexibly resilient and removable lid having alower ring portion 562 with aseal member 564 disposed around a periphery thereof. In assembly, thelower ring portion 562 is received within areceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24A. Thelid 560 further includes anupper portion 566 with acentral aperture 570. Thecentral aperture 570 is disposed beneath thecup assembly 407 of thefeed chute assembly 400 disposed within theupper housing 402. In this way, thefeed chute assembly 400 is in communication with thereceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24A along a food path as indicated byarrow 580. Further, thefeed chute assembly 400 may be received inaperture 570 to close offaperture 570 when the blender jar 2A andlid 560 are removed from the blendingappliance 10A, and to act as a feed chute directly into blender jar 2A. Thelid 560 includes anouter edge portion 568 which abuts and seals against theopen top 561 of theblender jar 24A. Theouter edge portion 568 tapers upwardly via a ramped or raisedportion 569 culminating at thecentral aperture 570 to define theupper portion 566 of thelid 560. The raisedportion 569 contacts theupper housing 402 to form a seal there between. Theupper housing 402 generally exerts a downward force on thelid 560 as indicated byarrow 582. This downward force orpressure 582 is realized on thelid 560 as theblender jar 24A is laterally inserted into a jar receiving portion orarea 16A. Alower portion 403 of theupper housing 402 remains static as theblender jar 24A is received in thejar receiving area 16A, and thelid 560 is resiliently flexible, such that the raisedportions 569 abut the generally planarlower portion 403 of theupper housing 402 to form a seal between theblender jar 24A and theupper housing 402 ataperture 570. In this way, positional tolerances are taken up as thelid 560 is always held down to theblender jar 24A during use by the engagement of thelid 560 with theupper housing 402. The constant downward force indicated byarrows 582 reduces the chances of thelid 560 becoming displaced from theopen top 561 of theblender jar 24A due to food contents surging during the startup of a blending procedure, or other upward forces acting on thelid 560. Thus, thelid 560 is retained on theblender jar 24A when theblender jar 24A is received in thejar receiving area 16A of thehousing 12A. - Referring now to
FIG. 15 , aninterlock switch assembly 600 is shown. Theinterlock switch assembly 600 includes aswitch housing 602 which is disposed within an interior 402A of theupper housing 402 of blendingappliance 10A. Theswitch housing 602 includes a generallyvertical portion 602A and a generallyhorizontal portion 602B. Disposed on thevertical portion 602A, one or more electrical airgap switch assemblies 604 are mounted, as shown in this embodiment, to mountingposts 606 and upper andlower clip mechanisms electrical switch assemblies 604 are snap-fit to theswitch housing 602. Thehorizontal portion 602B of theswitch housing 602 is secured to thelower portion 403 of theupper housing 402 via mountingcylinders cylinders posts lower portion 403 of theupper housing 402. Thehorizontal portion 602B of theswitch housing 602 is coupled to the mountingposts rocker lever 620 is pivotally coupled to thehorizontal portion 602B of theswitch housing 602 aboveaperture 403C disposed in the lower portion 03 ofupper housing 402. Thelever 620 includes first, second, and third contact surfaces 622, 623, and 624, which are disposed along a periphery of amain body portion 626. Thelever 620 is a spring-biased rocker lever which is operable between ON and OFF positions as further described below. - Referring now to
FIGS. 16A and 16B , theinterlock switch assembly 600 is shown with theswitch housing 602 having theswitch assembly 604, shown inFIG. 15 , removed. Thebody portion 626 of thelever 620 includes an outwardly extending mountingrod 628 and aretention clip 630. Atorsion spring 632 is mounted on the mountingrod 628 and includes an outwardly extendingarm 634 which is retained by theretention clip 630 to bias thelever 620 to an “OFF” position as shown inFIG. 16A . As further shown inFIG. 16A , the mountingrod 628 is nested into apivot cradle 636 disposed on thehorizontal portion 602B of theswitch housing 602. Thetorsion spring 632 biases thelever 620 to the OFF position in a direction as indicated byarrow 638. As shown inFIG. 16A , when theswitch 620 is in the OFF position, thefirst contact surface 622 is disposed below thehorizontal portion 602B of theswitch housing 602 and extends throughaperture 403C into the blenderjar receiving area 16A. Thesecond contact surface 623 abuts anabutment portion 603 disposed on thehorizontal portion 602B to limit the movement of alever 620 in the direction indicated byarrow 638. - Referring now to
FIG. 16B , thelever 620 is shown in an “ON” position such that thelever 620 is adapted to articulate between ON and OFF positions along an arcuate path as indicated by arrow R2. In the ON position, thetorsion spring 632 is loaded and prepared to move thelever 620 to the OFF position as shown inFIG. 16A by a biasing force. When in the ON position, thethird contact surface 624 of thelever 620 abuts anabutment portion 605 of theswitch housing 602. - Referring again to
FIG. 15 , thelever 620 is moved to the ON position when theblender jar 24A is received in ajar receiving area 16A of the blendingappliance 10A as further described above with reference toFIG. 14 . Thelid 560 of theblender jar 24A has anupper-most portion 569A disposed on the raised or rampedportion 569 of thelid 560. As theblender jar 24A is received in thejar receiving area 16A, theupper-most portion 569A of thelid 560 contacts thefirst contact surface 622 of thelever 620 which protrudes fromaperture 403C of thelower portion 403 of theupper housing 402 into thejar receiving area 16A. This engagement between therocker lever 620 and thelid 560 causes thelever 620 to move or rotate to the ON position as shown inFIGS. 15 and 16B . In the ON position, thelever 620 activates theair gap switch 604 to provide power to the blendingappliance 10A as further described below. When theblender jar 24A is removed from the blendingappliance 10A, thetorsion spring 632 biases thelever 620 to the OFF position, such that the blendingappliance 10A is cut-off from power by theinterlock switch assembly 600. As further shown inFIG. 15 , thethird engagement surface 624 is adapted to contact aswitch mechanism 607 disposed on theswitch assembly 604 which in turn activates anactivation button 609 to provide power to the blendingappliance 10A when thelever 620 is in the ON position. In this way, theinterlock switch assembly 600 is configured to selectively provide power to the blendingappliance 10A by engagement with theblender jar 24A. It is further contemplated that in another embodiment theblender jar 24A can engage therocker lever 620 without thelid 560 in place on theblender jar 24A. - Referring now to
FIG. 17 , theblender jar 24A is received in the blenderjar receiving area 16A in a generally horizontal or lateral direction as indicated by arrow H. The blendingappliance 10A, as shown inFIG. 17 , also includes amotor compartment 14A which houses amotor 20A. Themotor 20A is adapted to drive amotor drive shaft 92A having upper andlower portions lower portion 92C is adapted to drive theblade assembly 501 disposed within thereceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24A through abelt drive system 678 as further described below. Theupper portion 92B is coupled to aducted fan 650 which operates in a similar manner to fan 106 described above with reference toFIG. 3 . Thefan 650 is adapted to draw air through a ventedportion 14B of themotor compartment 14A, and then exhaust air through a ventedportion 22B disposed on the support pad orbase 22A along a venting path as indicated by arrow G. In this way, the ventedportion 14B of themotor compartment 14A defines an air intake portion of themotor compartment 14A to draw air into themotor compartment 14A from an exterior environment of the blendingappliance 10A. As indicated by arrow G, the air drawn from the intake or ventedportion 14B of themotor compartment 14A is pulled towards theducted fan 650 where it is then directed towards heat producingboard components 20B of themotor 20A. Thecomponents 20B of themotor 20A generate heat during use of the blendingappliance 10A. As the air is pushed through themotor compartment 14A, the air is exhausted out of the ventedportion 22B of the support pad orbase 22A as shown along the venting path indicated by arrow G. In this way, theducted fan 650 is adapted to prevent or minimize the likelihood of themotor 20A overheating during the operation of a blending function of the blendingappliance 10A. It is further contemplated that thefan 650 can be mounted to thelower portion 92C ofmotor drive shaft 92A to draw air through themotor compartment 14A. - Referring again to
FIG. 17 , the blendingappliance 10A includes, in the illustrated embodiment, aspeaker 660 which is disposed on theupper housing 402 adjacent the user-interface 440. Thespeaker 660 may be directly connected to themain PCB 490 of the user-interface 440 and may be coupled to acontroller 664 through a lead 662 shown inFIG. 17 . In the embodiment shown inFIG. 17 , thecontroller 664 is housed within themotor compartment 14A, however, thecontroller 664 may be housed anywhere within the blendingappliance 10A, such as theupper housing 402. Thecontroller 664 is configured to store and run automated blending sequences or functions F (FIG. 11A ) by controlling the speed of themotor 20A. Thus, the function settings F correlate to preprogrammed blending sequences stored in thecontroller 664. Thespeaker 660 is adapted to provide an audible tone which may signal the completion of a specific function, such as any one of the functions F as described above with reference toFIGS. 11A-11B . In use, it is contemplated that the user-interface 440 would be used to select a function F that would be relayed through the user-interface lead 662 to thecontroller 664 which will then electronically relay a signal tospeaker 660 to audibly indicate the status of a function F of the blendingappliance 10A. The status may indicate the completion of a function F, or may further indicate that a setting is incorrect, such as theblender jar 24A not being fully received in thejar receiving area 16A. Thus, thecontroller 664 includes a number of audio files that can be played through thespeaker 660. - As further shown in
FIG. 17 , thecontroller 664 may also be coupled to aUSB port 668 such that the blendingappliance 10A may be coupled to another electronic device, such as a portable electronic device, for loading different blending functions, programs or other protocols into thecontroller 664. Awireless receiver 670 is also shown inFIG. 17 which may be used to wirelessly couple thecontroller 664 of the blendingappliance 10A to a data-transfer protocol of a portable electronic device to load recipes, various audible tones, instruction information, use and care guides, and other such remote files that can be stored in thecontroller 664 and audibly played through thespeaker 660. Thewireless receiver 670 can also be used to wirelessly upload preprogrammed blending sequences to thecontroller 664. - Referring now to
FIG. 18 , another embodiment of ablender apparatus 10B is shown having a number of features which are similar to the blendingappliance FIGS. 18-19 , blendingappliance 10B generally includes ahousing 12B having amotor compartment 14B and ajar receiving area 16B. Amotor 20B is disposed in themotor compartment 14B and a support pad orbase 22B is operably coupled to thehousing 12B. Ablender jar 24B includes alid 26B having afeed chute 30B. Theblender jar 24B andlid 26B are configured to be received in thejar receiving area 16B in a lateral direction as indicated by arrow H. As noted above, most traditional blending appliances include a construction that mandates vertical or drop-in placement of a jar onto a base that includes a motor therein. These types of constructions generally require substantial vertical space above the base to couple the jar to the base and for mechanically connecting the blades of the jar with a drive mechanism. The driving of the blending mechanism of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 18-19 , does not require such a mechanical coupling as further described below. - With specific reference to
FIG. 18 , the blendingappliance 10B includes amotor drive shaft 92B which is rotatably driven by themotor 20B and further includes anupper end 93B and alower end 95B. Theupper end 93B is coupled to and adapted to drive anexhaust fan 106B to ventilate themotor compartment 14B. Thelower end 95B ofmotor drive shaft 92B is adapted to power or drive afirst pulley 680A which is connected to asecond pulley 680B via abelt 682 in thebelt drive system 678. Thesecond pulley 680B is coupled to ashaft 684 which is adapted to rotate along a rotational path R3 as powered by themotor 20B through thebelt drive system 678. Amagnetic coupling system 700 includes upper and lowermagnetic couplers magnetic coupler 704 is coupled toshaft 684 and is disposed within thesupport base 22B of the blendingappliance 10B. The lowermagnetic coupler 704 is rotatably disposed adjacent to a receivingdeck 706 of thejar receiving area 16B which encapsulates the lowermagnetic coupler 704 within thesupport base 22B. Thesecond pulley 680B may be an integrated part of the lowermagnetic coupler 704, or may be a separate part disposed on a shared drive shaft, such asshaft 684. The uppermagnetic coupler 702 is rotatably disposed within abase portion 62B of theblender jar 24B. The uppermagnetic coupler 702, as disposed within thebase portion 62B of theblender jar 24B, is removable from the blendingappliance 10B when theblender jar 24B is removed from thejar receiving area 16B. The uppermagnetic coupler 702 is coupled to ashaft 708 which is further coupled to adrive shaft 710 at alower end 712. Anupper end 714 of thedrive shaft 710 is connected to ablade assembly 716 which is fully disposed within areceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24B. Driveshaft 710 andshaft 708 are shown inFIG. 18 as separate parts, but may be combined to form a unitary drive shaft for rotating the uppermagnetic coupler 702 andblade assembly 716. As further shown inFIG. 18 , themagnetic coupling system 700 magnetically couples theblender jar 24B to thebase portion 22B of the blendingappliance 10B through the magnetic attraction generated between upper and lowermagnetic couplers FIG. 18 , the upper and lowermagnetic couplers blender jar 24B will properly seat on the receivingdeck 706 due to the magnetic coupling and attraction forces between the upper and lowermagnetic couplers motor 20B drives thebelt 682 of thebelt drive system 678, as described above, thereby driving theshaft 684 in a direction as indicated by arrow R3. This driving action powered by themotor 20B drives the lowermagnetic coupler 704 along the rotational path indicated by arrow R3 as coupled to theshaft 684. Due to the magnetic coupling of the lowermagnetic coupler 704 to the uppermagnetic coupler 702, the uppermagnetic coupler 702 rotates along with the rotation of the uppermagnetic coupler 704. As the uppermagnetic coupler 702 rotates, thedrive shaft 710, coupled thereto, also rotates in a direction as indicated by arrow R4 which corresponds to the rotational path R3 of the lowermagnetic coupler 704. In this way, the upper and lowermagnetic couplers blade assembly 716 disposed within thereceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24B through a magnetic torque coupling, rather than a conventional mechanical coupling. Themagnetic coupling system 700 is contemplated for use with all versions of the blending appliance herein. - In another embodiment, referring to
FIG. 18 , themagnetic coupling system 700 magnetically couples theblender jar 24B to thebase portion 22B of the blendingappliance 10B through inductance and magnetic reluctance generated between upper andlower couplers motor 20B drives thebelt 682 of thebelt drive system 678, as described above, thereby driving theshaft 684 in a direction as indicated by arrow R3. This driving action powered by themotor 20B drives the lowermagnetic coupler 704 along the rotational path indicated by arrow R3 as coupled to theshaft 684. The rotating lower coupler made from an array of permanent magnets generates a rotation magnetic field. The upper coupler made from electrically conductive copper or copper alloy will react with this field through inductance. The electrical current generated in theupper coupler 702 produces a magnetic field that is opposite from the field produced by thelower coupler 704. Due to magnetic induction the upper coupler will rotate in the same direction as thelower coupler 704 as indicated by arrow R3. As the uppermagnetic coupler 702 rotates, thedrive shaft 710, coupled thereto, also rotates in a direction as indicated by arrow R4 which corresponds to the rotational path R3 of the lowermagnetic coupler 704. In this way, the upper and lowermagnetic couplers blade assembly 716 disposed within thereceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24B through a magnetic torque coupling, rather than a conventional mechanical coupling. Themagnetic coupling system 700 is contemplated for use with all versions of the blending appliance herein. - Referring specifically to
FIG. 19 , themotor 20B, as shown, is coupled to thebelt drive system 678 atfirst pulley 680A which is further connected tosecond pulley 680B viabelt 682 as described above. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 19 , the blendingappliance 10B includes aslide lock 60B which operates in a manner similar to slidelock 60 as described above with reference toFIG. 2 . In the configuration shown inFIG. 19 , the upper and lowermagnetic couplers coupler discs surfaces magnetic couplers - Referring now to
FIGS. 20A and 20B , thebase portion 62B ofblender jar 24B is shown having uppermagnetic coupler 702A rotatably disposed therein. The uppermagnetic coupler 702A includes a generallyplanar body portion 730 in the form of a disc having a plurality ofmagnetic elements 732 disposed along aperiphery 734 of thedisc 730. Themagnetic elements 732 are disposed about theperiphery 734 to define amagnetic array 735. As shown, themagnetic elements 732 are individual magnetic elements which are separated by portions of thedisc 730 which is contemplated to be made of a non-magnetic polymeric material. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 20B , the uppermagnetic coupler 702B includes adisc 736 having a plurality ofmagnets 738 disposed within anouter channel 740 of thedisc 736. In this configuration, the individualmagnetic elements 738 are aligned on ametallic disc 736 in thechannel 740, such that themagnetic elements 738 are not individually separated by a polymeric material, such as found in the embodiment ofFIG. 20A . While the configurations shown inFIGS. 20A and 20B include a plurality of individual magnetic elements, it is contemplated that themagnetic elements lower coupling mechanisms magnetic couplers magnetic coupling system 700. Further, it is contemplated that themagnetic elements permanent magnets - Referring now to
FIG. 21 , abase 22B andmotor 20B are shown with thebelt drive system 678 coupled to themotor 20B and further coupled to another embodiment of a lowermagnetic coupler 704A. In this embodiment, atensioner pulley 679 is incorporated into thebelt drive system 678 to reduce slack within thebelt 682. As further shown in this embodiment, the lowermagnetic coupler 704A includes adisc portion 750 having a plurality ofmagnetic elements 752 disposed within anouter channel 754 of thedisc 750. The magnetic array ofmagnetic elements 752 shown in this embodiment is akin to the magnetic array ofmagnetic elements 738 shown inFIG. 20B . Again, as noted above, themotor 20B is adapted to drive the lowermagnetic coupler 704A in a direction as indicated by arrow R3. - With regards to the
magnetic coupling system 700, as shown and described above, it is contemplated that a plurality of nonmagnetic layers will exist between the upper andlower coupling mechanisms support base 22B of the blendingappliance 10B, or may be included on thebase portion 62B of theblender jar 24B, or both. In this way, the magnetic elements disposed within the upper and lowermagnetic couplers magnetic coupler 704 will transfer to the uppermagnetic coupler 702 purely through magnetic attraction forces that exist across the nonmagnetic layers as further described below. - Referring now to
FIG. 22A ,blender jar 24B is shown having ablade assembly 716 disposed within areceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24B. In this embodiment, theblade assembly 716 is coupled to abearing assembly 500 through adrive shaft 710 which is further coupled, at alower portion 712 thereof, to another embodiment of an uppermagnetic coupler 702C. As further shown in this embodiment, the uppermagnetic coupler 702C is part ofmagnetic coupling system 700C, and generally includes, a disc orcarrier 736C having achannel 740C disposed around a periphery thereof. Thecarrier 736C is comprised of a nonmagnetic material, such as a polymeric substance suitable for use with theblender jar 24B. As further shown inFIG. 22A , abacking plate 780 is disposed within thechannel 740C and is coupled to amagnetic element 738C, wherein themagnetic element 738C defines an upper magnetic array. Thebacking plate 780 may include any magnetic soft material or magnetizable material, such as a mild steel backing plate, suitable to provide for efficiencies in themagnetic coupling system 700C as further described below. Thebacking plate 780 may be a continuous backing plate disposed throughout thechannel 740C of thecarrier 736C. Further, it is contemplated that themagnetic element 738C may be made up of discrete magnetic elements or a continuous magnetic ring disposed within thechannel 740C. As further shown inFIG. 22 , the uppermagnetic coupler 702C is rotatably disposed within abase portion 62C of theblender jar 24B. Thebase portion 62C includes alower bottom wall 782 that closes off thebase portion 62C to form a sealedcavity 784 in which the uppermagnetic coupler 702C is disposed. Anair gap 786 is disposed between the uppermagnetic coupler 702C and thebottom wall 782 of thebase portion 62C, such that thebottom wall 782 and theair gap 786 provide exemplary embodiments of the plurality of nonmagnetic layers disposed between the uppermagnetic coupler assembly 702C and a lowermagnetic coupler 704C (FIG. 23 ), as further described below. - Referring now to
FIGS. 22B and 22C , thebase portion 62C ofblender jar 24B is configured to house the uppermagnetic coupler 702C within the sealedcavity 784 for rotation therein. As the uppermagnetic coupler 702C rotates within the sealedcavity 784, heat is generated, such that pressure can build-up within the sealedcavity 784. Thus, as shown inFIG. 22B , aventing system 787 is disposed on the sidewall of thebase portion 62C which generally includes anaperture 788, shown inFIG. 22C , formed through the sidewall of thebase portion 62C having a one-way valve 789 disposed therein. In assembly, theventing system 787 is configured to allow for air to pass from the sealedcavity 784 to the outside environment through thevalve 789. In this way, as heat is generated by the movement of the uppermagnetic coupler 702C within the sealedcavity 784 to build-up pressure therein, that pressure can be relieved through theventing system 787 which is shown inFIGS. 22B and 22C as a one-way check valve 789. It is further contemplated that thevalve 789 can be a membrane which coversaperture 788, so long as the membrane allows for pressure equalization from the sealedcavity 784 in use. - Referring now to
FIG. 23 , themagnetic coupling system 700C is shown having the lowermagnetic coupler 704C disposed within aninterior portion 790 of thesupport base 22C. In this embodiment, the lowermagnetic coupling portion 704C is coupled to abelt drive system 678C at abelt receiving portion 792. Thebelt receiving portion 792 further defines ahousing 794 in which abearing assembly 500C is disposed, much like bearing assembly 500 disposed between theblade assembly 716 and the uppermagnetic coupler 702C as described above with reference toFIGS. 12 and 13 . The bearingassembly 500C is coupled toshaft 684C, such that lowermagnetic coupler 704C is adapted to rotate as driven by thebelt drive 678 C using belt 682C. Much like uppermagnetic coupler 702C, the lowermagnetic coupler 704C includes acarrier disc portion 750C having achannel 754C disposed around a periphery thereof. Thecarrier disc 750C is comprised of a nonmagnetic material similar tocarrier 736C noted above. As further shown inFIG. 22A , abacking plate 796 is disposed within thechannel 754C and is coupled to amagnetic element 752C. Again, thebacking plate 796 is exemplary in nature, and may include any magnetic soft material or magnetizable material, such as mild steel. Thebacking plate 796 may be a continuous backing plate disposed throughout thechannel 754C of thecarrier disc 750C. Further, it is contemplated that themagnetic element 752C may be made up of separate and discrete magnetic elements or may be in the form of a continuous magnetic ring disposed within thechannel 754C. Thus, the upper and lowermagnetic couplers magnetic coupling system 700C each include abacking plate FIG. 24 . - Referring now to
FIG. 24 , a schematic drawing of themagnetic couplers upper backing plate 780 and alower backing plate 796. Four magnets M1, M2, M3, and M4 are positioned on the upper andlower backing plates magnet elements 752C shown inFIG. 23 for the lowermagnetic coupler 704C, while magnets M2, M3 are akin tomagnetic elements 738C shown inFIG. 23 for the uppermagnetic coupler 702C. In this arrangement, an air gap AG is defined between the uppermagnetic coupler 702C and the lowermagnetic coupler 704C, which is akin toair gap 782 shown inFIG. 23 . The magnets M1 through M4 have alternating north and south poles (N, S) to define a magnetic field loop. When arranged in an arcuate orientation, the magnets M1 through M4, as disposed in the upper and lowermagnetic couplers magnetic couplers magnetic couplers - As noted above, the air gap AG provides for reluctance in the
magnetic coupling system 700C. This reluctance is similar to resistance in an electric circuit. A magnetic field causes magnetic flux to follow the path of least magnetic reluctance in use. The larger the air gap AG, the higher the reluctance which would interfere with and ultimately reduce the magnetic attraction, indicated by arrows MA, and result in lower magnetic torque capacity for the blending appliance between the upper and lowermagnetic couplers metallic backing plates back plates backing plates magnetic coupling system 700C by reducing the reluctance caused by the air gap AG. Thus, thebacking plates magnetic coupling system 700C by minimizing any stray magnetic field that may exist in the system, such that magnetic attraction between the magnets M1-M4, is focused or otherwise maximized. - Referring now to
FIG. 25A , abrake system 800 is shown for use in conjunction with another embodiment of the uppermagnetic coupler 702D. In this embodiment, ablade assembly 716 is coupled to ashaft 710 having alower portion 712. Thelower portion 712 includes steppedcoupling portions magnetic coupler 702D includes acentral hub 806 which has a brake surface orbrake ring 808 disposed around thecentral hub 806. Thebrake surface 808 is disposed on anupper portion 810 of the uppermagnetic coupler 702D. Thecentral hub 806 defines aninterior cavity 812, in which abiasing mechanism 814 is disposed around aninner column 816 of thecentral hub 806. Thebiasing mechanism 814 is shown in the form of a coil spring, and is retained within thecavity portion 812 of thecentral hub 806 by aretainer plug 820 which includes a pressfit portion 822 and aslideable interface portion 824. In use, the retainingplug 820 is adapted to provide an outer slidinginterface 826 between theslideable interface portion 824 of theretainer plug 820 and theinner column 816 of thecentral hub 806. Thebrake system 800 further comprises anupper brake surface 830 which is disposed on, or adjacent to, thebearing system 500 of theblender jar 24B. InFIG. 25A , thebrake surface 808 is considered a lower brake surface which is spaced apart from theupper brake surface 830. Thus, in the disengaged position ofFIG. 25A , it is contemplated that the uppermagnetic coupler 702D is being pulled downward by a magnetic attraction, indicated by arrow MA, towards a lower magnetic coupling mechanism. Thus, the magnetic attraction MA provides for a force strong enough to overcome the biasing force of thebiasing mechanism 814 to allow the uppermagnetic coupler 702D to be moved downward such that the upper and lower brake surfaces 830, 808 are not engaged. In this way, the upper magnetic coupled 702D can freely rotate and drive theblade assembly 716 in the disengaged position. - Referring now to
FIG. 25B , thebrake system 800 is shown in an engaged position, wherein theupper brake surface 830 is in contact with thelower brake surface 808. Thus, thebrake mechanism 800 is in an engaged position, wherein the uppermagnetic coupler 702D is in a braking position, such that the uppermagnetic coupler 702D is no longer free to rotate. As shown inFIG. 25A , theblender jar 24B is disposed on the receivingdeck 706, such that theblender jar 24B is likely coupled to a lower magnetic coupling mechanism that is providing the magnetic attraction MA necessary to overcome the biasing force of thebiasing mechanism 814 and lower the upper magnetic coupled 702D to the free rotation position. As shown inFIG. 25B , theblender jar 24B has been removed from the receivingdeck 706, such that the uppermagnetic coupler 702D no longer has the magnetic attraction force pulling the uppermagnetic coupler 702D downward towards the disengaged position shown inFIG. 25A . Thus, the uppermagnetic coupler 702D is adapted to move vertically in a direction as indicated byarrow 832 between the engaged and disengaged positions. This movement in a vertical direction, as indicated byarrow 832, occurs at theslideable interface 826inner column 816 of thecentral hub 806 and theretainer plug 820. The engagement ofupper brake surface 830 withlower brake surface 808 stops the rotation of the uppermagnetic coupler 702D via friction between the twobrake surfaces blender jar 24B from the blender base, uppermagnetic coupler 702D will move upward to the engaged position, and theblade assembly 716 will stop its rotation due to the interaction of the brake surfaces 830, 808 of thebrake system 800 as discussed above. Theblade assembly 716 can ramp up a significant amount of inertia in use, such that the, without thebraking system 800, a user could be exposed to moving blades with in the jar. - Referring now to
FIG. 26 , another embodiment of abrake system 800A is shown as used with another embodiment of amagnetic coupler assembly 700E. Thebrake system 800A incorporates bearingassembly 500, which is similar to bearingassembly 500 described and shown above with reference toFIG. 12 . Thus, as shown inFIG. 26 , the threaded retainingnut 528 is threadingly coupled to theretainer member 520, which thereby couples the bearingassembly 500 to receivingaperture 550 disposed on theblender jar 24A. As noted with reference toFIG. 12 , the threaded retainingnut 528 includes abrake surface 529 which is shown inFIG. 26 as being disposed above and adjacent to alower brake surface 850 disposed on yet another embodiment of the uppermagnetic coupler 702E. Thelower brake surface 850 is disposed on aring bracket 852 which is biased by abiasing mechanism 854, shown inFIG. 26 in the form of a coil spring, that is disposed around acentral hub 856. The biasingspring 854 biases thering bracket 852 upward, such that thelower brake surface 850 will rise up to contact theupper brake surface 529 to effectively stop the rotation of the uppermagnetic coupler 702E via friction betweensurfaces brake system 800A further includesmagnetic element 860 which is disposed along alower surface 862 of the uppermagnetic coupler 702E. Thismagnetic element 860 can be in the form of a ring or otherwise comprised of discrete magnetic elements. The lowermagnetic coupler 704E similarly includesmagnetic element 870 disposed in a generally central location along theupper surface 872 of lowermagnetic coupler 704E directly belowmagnetic element 860. In assembly, themagnetic elements spring 854. In this way, the magnetic attraction betweenmagnetic elements upper brake surface 529 disposed on the threaded retainingnut 528 of thebearing system 500. Thus, thebrake system 800A, shown inFIG. 26 , provides for amoveable brake surface 850 disposed within the uppermagnetic coupler 702E, such that the brake surfaces andring bracket magnetic coupler 702E that are adapted to move. In this way, thebody portion 736E of the uppermagnetic coupler 702E remains vertically stationary, such that the uppermagnetic coupler 702E is less prone to wobble or vibration during rotation. As further shown inFIG. 26 ,magnetic elements 864 are disposed at an outer periphery of the uppermagnetic coupler 702E and are adapted to magnetically coupling withmagnetic elements 866 disposed in the lowermagnetic coupler 704E. - Referring now to
FIGS. 27A and 27B , another embodiment of ablender jar 900 is shown. Theblender jar 900 includes areceptacle portion 902 and alower coupling portion 904. Theblender jar 900, like the jar assemblies noted above, is adapted to be received in a housing module by laterally movement of thejar 900 into a jar receiving area of the housing. As shown inFIGS. 27A and 27B , theblender jar 900 includes a removable twist-onbase collar 906 which couples to thelower coupling portion 904 of theblender jar 900. Thelower coupling portion 904 includes engagement features 905 which are adapted to engage reciprocal features disposed in achannel 908 of thebase collar 906 in a locking configuration. In this way, thelower coupling portion 904 seals against thechannel 908 of thebase collar 906, as shown inFIG. 27B . As shown inFIG. 27A , an upwardly extendingblade assembly 910 is centrally disposed on thebase collar 906, and is adapted to be received in thereceptacle portion 902 of thejar 900 through alower aperture 912 disposed on thejar 900. Theblade assembly 910 is mounted on ashell 914 which houses a heating element, as further described below. Alower portion 916 ofbase collar 906 includes afemale power socket 920, which is adapted to receive a male connection pin, or other like power connector, as thejar 900 is laterally received in a blender housing. It is contemplated that theshell 914 and thejar 900 are composed of a highly thermally conductive material such as metal (stainless steel) or glass for use with the heating element as further described below. - Referring now to
FIG. 27C , theblender jar 900 is shown with theblade assembly 910 disposed within the interior cavity orreceptacle portion 902. Adrive shaft 922 is coupled to abearing assembly 924 and is adapted to rotatably drive theblade assembly 910 within thereceptacle portion 902 of theblender jar 900 during a blending function. As further shown inFIG. 27C , a heater orheating element 926 is coupled to thebase collar 906 and disposed about the bearingassembly 924. - As best shown in
FIGS. 27D and 27E , theheating element 926 generally includes acalrod heater coil 928 disposed within theshell 914, wherein thecoil 928 is surrounded by aheat transferring material 930. Thecoil 928 is shown in the form of a calrod wire or coil which is adapted to produce heat via an electric current. Other such heating elements can also be used with this embodiment. Theheating element 926 further includes ahousing 932, wherein the bearingassembly 924 is disposed in assembly. Theheating element 926 further includes acavity portion 934 having alower flange portion 936 disposed thereabout. Thelower flange portion 936 includes a plurality of mountingapertures 937 disposed therealong for mounting theheating element 926 to thebase collar 906. Disposed within thecavity 934, male connection pins 938 are disposed for coupling tofemale connection ports 940 disposed within thecollar 906. Thefemale connection ports 940 are further coupled to a lead 942 that is in communication with thepower port 920 for powering thecalrod coil 928 of theheating element 926. As noted above, it is contemplated that theouter shell 914 of theheating element 926 is comprised of a metallic material, such that heat produced by thecalrod heater coil 928 is conductively transferred to theblender jar 900 in use, as thebase collar 906 andreceptacle portion 902 are in thermal communication with one another. Thus, in use, theheating element 926 allows the user to heat the contents of theinterior cavity 902 of theblender jar 900, while also performing a blending function, such as for use when preparing soups and other warm purees. Further, it is contemplated that theheating element 926 may be comprised of a die-cast aluminum member having a non-stick coating, thereby obviating the need for anouter shell 914. - Referring now to
FIG. 28A , another embodiment of aheating element 926A is shown wherein acalrod heater coil 928 is disposed within themetallic shell 914, such thatheating element 926A is suitable to heat the thermallyconductive blender jar 900 in use, much likeheating element 926 described above. Theheating element 926A further includes a portion of thecalrod heater coil 928 disposed within thereceptacle portion 902 of theblender jar 900. As further shown in the embodiment ofFIG. 28A , theheating element 926 includes apower lead 942 that is disposed within thebase collar 906, and which further culminates in amale connector pin 944 which extends outwardly from thebase collar 906. Themale connector pin 944 is adapted to electrically couple with a female connection header orport 946. In assembly, it is contemplated that thefemale connection header 946 is disposed along the blender housing for coupling with themale connector pin 944 to power theheating element 926A. - Referring now to
FIG. 28B , another embodiment of aheating element 926B is shown in the form of acalrod heating element 928 disposed within another embodiment of the twist-onbase collar 906B. In this embodiment, thebase collar 906B includes ametallic ring portion 948 which is disposed adjacent thecalrod heating element 928. In this way, themetallic ring portion 948 of thebase collar 906B is in thermal communication with themetallic shell 914 of theheating element system 926B. Thus, heat produced by thecalrod heating element 928 can radiate through themetallic shell 914 from thebase collar 906B, into the thermallyconductive blender jar 900. Likeheating element 926A described above,heating element 926B also includes a portion of thecalrod heater coil 928 disposed within thereceptacle portion 902 of theblender jar 900 for directly heating the contents of theblender jar 900. - Referring now to
FIG. 29A , an exploded view of a thickfilm heater plate 950 is shown having acover coat 952, a film circuit 954, a first bioelectric coating 956, acensor layer 958, a second bioelectric coating 960 and a carriersheet metal plate 962. As shown inFIG. 29B , the component parts noted above are assembled to form a unitary thickfilm heater plate 950. The thickfilm heater plate 950 provides for another embodiment of aheating element 926C as shown inFIG. 29C . As specifically shown inFIG. 29C , the thickfilm heater plate 950 is disposed below and adjacent to the metallic outer casing or shell 914 ofheating element 926C. Thus, heat produced by the thickfilm heater plate 950 is conductively transferred to theblender jar 900 through the casing orshell 914, which, as noted above, is highly thermally conductive. - Referring now to
FIG. 29D , the thickfilm heater plate 950 is disposed within a cavity portion of the base collar 906D, to create another embodiment of aheating element 926D. The base collar 906D includes ametallic ring 948D which is in thermal communication with themetallic shell 914 of theheating element system 926D. Thus, heat produced by the thickfilm heater plate 950 can radiate through themetallic shell 914 from the base collar 906D, into the thermallyconductive blender jar 900 for heating a food substrate disposed in thereceptacle 902. - Referring now to
FIG. 30 , another embodiment of anupper housing assembly 970 is shown for a blendingappliance 10C. Theupper housing assembly 970 includes anaperture 972 having a lockingring 974 disposed therein. Thelocking ring 974 is adapted to couple a number of blender accessories as further described below. In assembly, it is contemplated that theaperture 972 opens into afeed chute 976 that is disposed through theupper housing 970 and which further opens into the receptacle portion of a blender jar. Theupper housing 970 further includes a forward facinguser interface module 978 in the form a rotatable dial, much likedial 442 described above. Theupper housing 970 is considered a powered housing, as theupper housing 970 includes apower module 980 having metallizedconnection pads 982 disposed thereon. Thepower module 980 is contemplated to be coupled to a lead that connects with the power supply for the blendingappliance 10C and theuser interface 978. As an exemplary accessory, anice shaver attachment 1000 is shown exploded away from theupper housing 970. Theice shaver attachment 1000 includes acoupling hub 1002 having aconnectivity pad 1004 disposed there on. Thecoupling hub 1002 is adapted to couple to thelocking ring 974 disposed in theaperture 972, via engagement features 1006 disposed on thecoupling hub 1002. The engagement features 1006 are twisted into place by turning theice shaving attachment 1000 in a direction as indicated byarrow 1016. As coupled in place, the engagement features 1006 ensure that theconnectivity pad 1004 of thecoupling hub 1002 aligns with an electronically couples to theconnection pads 982 of thepower module 980 to provide power to a motor and blade assembly disposed within a housing 1010 of theice shaving attachment 1000. Disposed on either side of the housing 1010 is anintake chute 1012 for receiving ice and afeed chute 1014 which is adapted to feed shaved ice to thefeed chute 976 of theupper housing 970. In this way, the blendingappliance 10C is capable of powering an accessory, like the shavedice attachment 1000 for easily blending frozen concoctions. Thepower module 980 is contemplated to be able to power a host of accessories, such as a hot plate or a coffee machine, and non-powered accessories can also be attached to lockingring 974, such as a strainer, a filter, etc. - Referring now to
FIG. 31 , another embodiment of the blendingappliance 10D is shown which incorporates several of the features discussed above. Specifically, the blendingappliance 10D includes afeed chute assembly 400 disposed withinupper housing 402. Disposed within an interior 402A of theupper housing 402, aninterlock switch assembly 600 is coupled to alower portion 403 of theupper housing 402. On a front portion of theupper housing 402, auser interface 440 is shown in the form of arotating dial 442. Ablender jar 24D is laterally received in a jar receiving area 16D in a substantially horizontal manner as indicated by arrow H. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 31 , theblender jar 24D is received within the jar receiving area 16D on receivingdeck 706. Theblender jar 24D further includes alid 560 which is in abutting engagement with thelower portion 403 of theupper housing 402. Theblender jar 24D is shown in open communication with thefeed chute assembly 400 through to areceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24D. Ablade assembly 506 is further disposed within thereceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24D and is coupled to adrive shaft 504 received within a bearingassembly 500. Amagnetic coupling system 700E includes an uppermagnetic coupler 702E disposed within abase portion 62D of theblender jar 24D. A lowermagnetic coupler 704E is disposed within thesupport base 22 of the blendingappliance 10D. The lowermagnetic coupler 704E is operably coupled to abelt drive system 678 which is further coupled to a motor 20D disposed within amotor compartment 14. In use, themotor 20B is adapted to drive thebelt drive system 678 to rotate the lowermagnetic coupler 704E which in turn rotates the uppermagnetic coupler 702E through magnetic forces to power theblade assembly 506 within thereceptacle portion 24C of theblender jar 24D. Themagnetic coupling system 700E further includes abrake mechanism 800A which is disposed on the uppermagnetic coupler 702E and adapted to engage a lower portion of the bearingassembly 500 when theblender jar 24D is laterally removed from theblender housing 12 to stop rotation of the uppermagnetic coupler 702E. Afan member 650 is disposed on anupper portion 92B of amotor drive shaft 92A. Themotor drive shaft 92A is coupled to and driven by themotor 20B in assembly. It is further contemplated that thefan member 650 may be disposed at alower end 92C of themotor drive shaft 92A for venting the heat produced by themotor 20A andother board components 20B of themotor 20A. As coupled to thelower portion 92C of themotor drive shaft 92A, thefan member 650 will draw air from the ventedportion 14B of themotor compartment 14, to then be exhausted out ventilatedportions 22B of thesupport base 22. In this way, a high pressure area in themotor compartment 14, is separated from a low pressure area of thesupport base 22. - It is contemplated that for any of the embodiments disclosed herein that the drive system could include a series of gears or belts, as generally described. With regard to all of these embodiments, it is contemplated that various components of certain embodiments may be utilized across different embodiments. For example, the auger assembly generally illustrated in the embodiments of
FIGS. 4 and 5 could also be utilized in the first embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-3 to minimizing food bridging. In addition, for each of the embodiments disclosed herein, the blendingappliance 10 is designed for unassisted operational blending. More specifically, a user can insert a jar into a jar receiving area, and once the jar is received in the jar receiving area, the jar can be secured in place via the upper locking tab or the base jar lock. The user can then activate the blendingappliance 10 and leave the area. Monitored blending of the blendingappliance 10 is not required. In addition, because of the construction of the blending appliances disclosed herein, and the lateral insertion of the jar into the jar receiving area, a lowprofile blending appliance 10 can be maintained that is aesthetically pleasing and does not require substantial vertical space above the blendingappliance 10. - It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the concept as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.
- It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present concept. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.
- It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present concept, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.
Claims (7)
1. A blending appliance, comprising:
a housing having an upper housing portion spaced vertically from a support base to define a jar receiving area therebetween;
a blender jar configured for lateral reception in the jar receiving area and having a blade assembly powered by a motor disposed within the housing;
a controller disposed within the housing, wherein the controller includes one or more preprogrammed blending sequences for controlling the motor; and
a user interface disposed on the upper housing and electronically coupled to the controller, wherein the user interface includes a plurality of function settings for selection by a user.
2. The blending appliance of claim 1 , wherein the user interface includes a rotatable dial having the plurality of function settings disposed thereon and a progressive speed indicator scale for adjusting a speed of the motor of the blending appliance.
3. The blending appliance of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of function settings correlate to the preprogrammed blending sequences stored in the controller.
4. The blending appliance of claim 1 , including:
a speaker electronically coupled to the controller for playing select audio files stored in the controller.
5. The blending appliance of claim 4 , wherein the select audio files stored in the controller are selected from the group consisting of a user manual, a recipe, a care and maintenance manual and a function status indication.
6. The blending appliance of claim 5 , including:
a wireless receiver coupled to the controller for wirelessly loading remote files to the controller.
7. The blending appliance of claim 5 , including:
a USB port electronically coupled to the controller for loading files to the controller from a portable electronic device.
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP2865305A3 (en) | 2015-07-08 |
AU2014253470B2 (en) | 2018-07-26 |
EP2865305A2 (en) | 2015-04-29 |
US9555384B2 (en) | 2017-01-31 |
US20150117137A1 (en) | 2015-04-30 |
AU2014253470A1 (en) | 2015-05-14 |
EP2865305B1 (en) | 2016-10-05 |
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