US20180140137A1 - Blending system with a liner for blending container - Google Patents
Blending system with a liner for blending container Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20180140137A1 US20180140137A1 US15/817,608 US201715817608A US2018140137A1 US 20180140137 A1 US20180140137 A1 US 20180140137A1 US 201715817608 A US201715817608 A US 201715817608A US 2018140137 A1 US2018140137 A1 US 2018140137A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- inner liner
- container
- outer sleeve
- blending
- blender
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J43/00—Implements for preparing or holding food, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
- A47J43/04—Machines for domestic use not covered elsewhere, e.g. for grinding, mixing, stirring, kneading, emulsifying, whipping or beating foodstuffs, e.g. power-driven
- A47J43/046—Machines for domestic use not covered elsewhere, e.g. for grinding, mixing, stirring, kneading, emulsifying, whipping or beating foodstuffs, e.g. power-driven with tools driven from the bottom side
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J43/00—Implements for preparing or holding food, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
- A47J43/04—Machines for domestic use not covered elsewhere, e.g. for grinding, mixing, stirring, kneading, emulsifying, whipping or beating foodstuffs, e.g. power-driven
- A47J43/042—Mechanically-driven liquid shakers
Definitions
- the present disclosure generally relates to a sleeve or liner for a blending container. More particularly, this disclosure relates to an interchangeable sleeve for a blending container.
- Blending systems are often used to blend and process foodstuffs.
- personal blending systems have been developed with blending containers that are designed to serve a dual purpose and function as both a blending container and a drinking vessel.
- the container may include the foods for blending and then will connect at its top with a blade assembly.
- the user may invert the container/blade assembly so that the container/blade assembly engages with the personal blending system base.
- a motor may be positioned within the base and activated to impart rotation to the blade assembly to blend the contents within the container.
- the user may remove the container/blade assembly from the base, invert it again, and remove the blade assembly from the container. The user can then directly drink from that container, or insert a top on the container for storage or transport.
- the personal blending system may have an interface between the container and the blade assembly, such as a threaded connection with an O-ring.
- This interface may generally prevent liquid from leaking out of the container when attached to the blade assembly.
- That O-ring may generally create an air-tight seal between the two structures.
- the interface between the container, the blade assembly, and the base of the personal blending system may include an interlock feature to ensure that control of the motor is operational based on the interlocked attachment of the container and blade assembly to the base.
- containers for those conventional personal blending systems have relatively small motors and thus, do not observe the potential pressure build-up in the container as would a blender with a high performance motor, such as a 2 HP motor.
- a blender with a high performance motor such as a 2 HP motor.
- the use of a conventional sealing system with a high performance blender can create a large and unsafe pressure condition within the container.
- blend and go containers may include interlocks for proper operation of the motor, threads, magnets, or other interlock type features that may prevent them from being a preferred drinking vessel.
- a container for personal blending systems that can be constructed of a disposable material or a thin material that may allow a user to store or transport the foodstuffs—especially one that provides a more traditional drinking vessel for the user.
- a blending system may include a base encasing a motor and a blade base in operative communication with the motor and selectively engaged with the base.
- the blade base may include an interior surface having a generally rectangular configuration, a blade positioned in proximity to the interior surface and operatively engaged with the motor, and an engagement member.
- the blade assembly may also include a container having a container engagement member selectively attached with the engagement member of the blade base.
- the container may include a liner and an outer sleeve such that the liner is removable from the sleeve after blending for storage, transport, or consumption of the product therein.
- a blending system may include a base encasing a motor, a blade assembly in operative communication with the motor and selectively engaged with the base, and a container selectively engaged with the blade assembly.
- the blending system may also include a gasket positioned between the container and blade assembly, where the gasket is configured to create a seal between the blade assembly and container at a first pressure and to allow gas to exit between the container and blade assembly at a second pressure.
- the container may include a liner and an outer sleeve such that the liner is removable from the sleeve after blending for storage, transport, or consumption of the product therein.
- a blender assembly for mixing a product in a container may include an inner liner for containing a product to be mixed therein and an outer sleeve for receiving the inner liner therein, the outer sleeve having an interlock feature.
- the inner liner may be made from a disposable material.
- the inner liner may include a radial bulbous portion that is configured to frictionally abut an inner surface of the outer sleeve.
- the inner liner may include a rim that defines an opening such that the rim is configured to abut against a blade base. The rim may be configured to abut against an open top end of a blade base.
- the outer sleeve may include at least one interlock tab configured to engage at least one recessed portion of a blender base for toggled control of a blender motor.
- the inner liner may include a size of at least one of 8, 12, and 16 fluid ounces and the outer sleeve may be configured to receive the inner liner that includes a size of 8, 12, and 16 fluid ounces.
- a blending container for retaining foodstuff to be blended by a blender may include an outer sleeve having an inner surface and at least one interlock tab extending therefrom.
- An inner liner having a wall that extends from a perimeter of a bottom to define a cavity to retain the foodstuff to be blended, wherein at least a portion of the wall of the inner liner frictionally engages against a portion of the inner surface of the outer sleeve.
- a method of mixing a product within a container may include inserting an inner liner into an outer sleeve and inserting foodstuff to be blended into the inner liner.
- a blade base may engage the inner liner and the outer sleeve.
- the blade base and outer sleeve may attach to a blender base for selectively blending the foodstuff therein.
- a blending container for mixing a product with a blender base, the blending container comprising an inner liner for containing a product to be mixed therein; and an outer sleeve for receiving the inner liner therein, the outer sleeve having an interlock feature.
- the inner liner may be made from a disposable material.
- the inner liner may include a radial bulbous portion that is configured to frictionally abut an inner surface of the outer sleeve.
- the inner surface of the outer sleeve comprises may comprise an annular shoulder extending into an inner cavity. A wall of the inner liner may operatively mate with the annular shoulder.
- the inner liner may be operatively removable from the outer sleeve.
- the inner liner includes a rim that defines an opening and operatively abutting against a blade base.
- the rim may be configured to abut against an open top end of a blade base.
- the outer sleeve includes at least one interlock tab configured to engage at least one recessed portion of a blender base for toggled control of a blender motor.
- the inner liner includes a size of at least one of 8, 12, and 16 fluid ounces.
- the outer sleeve is configured to receive the inner liner that includes a size of 8 fluid ounces, 12 fluid ounces, and 16 fluid ounces.
- a blending container for retaining foodstuff to be blended by a blender comprising a blender base comprising a motor, a blade base, a container operatively coupled to the blade base.
- the container may comprise an outer sleeve having an inner surface and at least one interlock tab extending therefrom, and an inner liner having a wall that extends from a perimeter of a bottom, the wall defines a cavity to retain the foodstuff to be blended, wherein at least a portion of the wall of the inner liner frictionally engages against a portion of the inner surface of the outer sleeve.
- the inner liner and outer sleeve may not be coupled through other mechanisms.
- the inner liner may be operatively threadedly engaged with the outer sleeve.
- the blade base may comprise at least one recess operatively receiving the at least one tab.
- the inner liner may comprise a disposable material and the outer liner comprises a different material and is non-disposable.
- the inner liner may comprise a release mechanism that includes at least one of a handle attached with the inner liner, a push button on the outer sleeve, an aperture positioned on the outer sleeve sized to permit access to the inner liner to disengage the inner liner from the outer sleeve, or a tab on the inner liner.
- a method of mixing a product within a container comprising: inserting an inner liner into an outer sleeve; inserting foodstuff to be blended into the inner liner; engaging a blade base to the inner liner and the outer sleeve; and attaching the blade base and outer sleeve to a blender base for selectively blending the foodstuff therein.
- the method may further comprise removing said inner liner from the outer sleeve.
- the method may further comprise inserting an other inner liner into the outer sleeve.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a blender system with a blending container
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a blender base of the blender system
- FIG. 3A is a first cross-sectional view of a blending cup
- FIG. 3B is a second cross-sectional view of the blending cup
- FIG. 4 is a plan view of an embodiment of a blade base
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a blade base
- FIG. 6 is a plan view of an embodiment of a blade base
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a blending container with a lid
- FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a blending container and lid
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a blender container
- FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a gasket of a blender system
- FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a gasket of a blender system
- FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a gasket on a blending system.
- FIG. 13 is a plan view of a blender base.
- FIG. 14 is a cross sectional view of embodiments of a blender container including a liner, an outer sleeve and a blade base.
- FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of the blender container of FIG. 14 without the blade base.
- the words “example” and “exemplary” mean an instance, or illustration.
- the words “example” or “exemplary” do not indicate a key or preferred aspect or embodiment.
- the word “or” is intended to be inclusive rather an exclusive, unless context suggests otherwise.
- the phrase “A employs B or C,” includes any inclusive permutation (e.g., A employs B; A employs C; or A employs both B and C).
- the articles “a” and “an” are generally intended to mean “one or more” unless context suggests otherwise.
- various embodiments described herein may include other components and/or functionality. It is further noted that while various embodiments refer to a blender or a blending system, various other systems may be utilized in view of embodiments described herein. For example, embodiments may be utilized in food processor systems, mixing systems, hand-held blending systems, various other food preparation systems, and the like. As such, references to a blender, blending system, and the like, are understood to include food processor systems, and other mixing systems. Such systems generally include a blender base that may include a motor, a controller, a display, a memory and a processor. Further, such systems may include a blending container and a blade assembly. The blade assembly, the blending container, and the blender base may removably or irremovably attach.
- Foodstuff may be added to the blending container.
- blending of “ingredients,” “contents” or “foodstuff” is described by various embodiments, it is noted that non-food stuff may be mixed or blended, such as paints, epoxies, construction material (e.g., mortar, cement, etc.), and the like.
- the blending systems may include any household blender and/or any type of commercial blending system, including those with covers that may encapsulate or partially encapsulate the blender.
- commercial blending systems may include an overall blending system, such as a modular blending system that may include the blender along with other components, such as a cleaner, foodstuff storage device (including a refrigerator), an ice maker and/or dispenser, a foodstuff dispenser (a liquid or powder flavoring dispenser) or any other combination of such.
- a modular blending system that may include the blender along with other components, such as a cleaner, foodstuff storage device (including a refrigerator), an ice maker and/or dispenser, a foodstuff dispenser (a liquid or powder flavoring dispenser) or any other combination of such.
- blended products may include drinks, frozen drinks, smoothies, shakes, soups, purees, sorbets, butter (nut), dips or the like. It is noted that various other blended products may result from blending ingredients. Accordingly, terms such as “blended product” or “drink” may be used interchangeably unless context suggests otherwise or warrants a particular distinction among such terms. Moreover, such terms are not intended to limit possible blended products and should be viewed as examples of possible blended products.
- foodstuff is placed into a blending container for blending.
- a user may remove the blended product from the blending container.
- the user typically either pours the content out of the blending container and into another container or consumes the product directly from the blending container. In either case, the blending container will have remnants therein after consumption. This typically requires the user to clean the blending container. In other instances, the user may throw out the blending container (e.g., such as when the blending container is disposable.
- the blending system 20 may include a blender base 24 , a blade base 28 and at least one blending container 32 of appropriate configurations.
- the blade base 28 may be selectively and operatively coupled with the blender base 24 and the blending container 32 as described in more detail below.
- the blending system 20 may include an interlock feature 34 that may generally prevent operation of the blending system when and if the blending container and blade base 28 become disengaged as described in more detail below.
- the blending system 20 may have a smaller configuration than traditional blending systems.
- the blending system 20 may have a smaller footprint and smaller profile than traditional blending systems.
- the blending system 20 may be considered a personal or individual blending system. However, it should be understood that the present teachings are not limited to personal blending systems. The present teachings may apply to any appropriate blending system.
- the blender base 24 may be any appropriate size and configuration.
- the blender base 24 may be of a configuration to house and generally protect the operative components of the blending system 20 .
- the blender base 24 may house a high performance motor, gearing, sound damping components, and fan (all not shown). These operative components may be of any appropriate configuration—the present teachings are not limited to any specific configuration.
- the blender base 24 may include vents 36 of any appropriate configuration.
- the vents 36 facilitate exhaustion of air generated within the blender base 24 .
- the motor 40 may be in operative communication with a power cord 44 configured to operatively communicate with a power supply source to provide the appropriate power to operate the blending system 20 .
- the power cord 44 may be of any appropriate configuration—the present teachings are not limited to the configurations shown and described herein.
- the blender base 24 may include a control panel 64 positioned on a face 68 of the blender base 24 .
- the control panel 64 may be of any appropriate configuration and may be utilized to set the operative condition of the blending system 20 by the user.
- the control panel 64 may include a knob 72 to selectively adjust settings of the blending system 20 , including, without limitation setting rotational speed of the blade base 28 during operation of the blending system 20 .
- the knob 72 can also be used to reset the system, turn the system on/off, select preprogrammed functions, and/or select a pulse function.
- the control panel 64 may further include alternative or additional input devices, such as buttons and switches, and other feedback and readout devices, such as an LCD or LED display.
- the blender base 24 may include a pedestal 76 at a top portion of the blender base 24 .
- the pedestal 76 may be of any appropriate shape and size and can be materially integral with the blender base 24 .
- the pedestal 76 may be sized and shaped to cooperate with the blade base 28 as described in more detail below.
- the pedestal 76 may be of a shape such that an interior of the pedestal 76 corresponds with the external shape of the blade base 28 .
- the interior shape of the pedestal 76 and the external shape of the blade base 28 are generally circular.
- the blending system 20 includes a first blending container 32 that may be of any appropriate configuration shape and size.
- the first blending container 32 may be of a configuration to act as a single serve container, i.e., it is a smaller size than a standard blender.
- the first blending container 32 may also be of a configuration to act as a drinking vessel.
- the first blending container 32 may be a variety of sizes, including, but not limited to, a 20 oz., 24 oz., 32 oz., or a 40 oz. size.
- the first blending container 32 may be a double-walled container having an inner layer 84 and an outer layer 88 spaced from the inner layer 84 .
- a space 92 may be formed between the inner and outer layers 84 , 88 .
- the space 92 may provide an insulative feature to the first blending container 32 , i.e., it may help the contents thereof remain cool or warm, as applicable.
- the first blending container 32 may include elongated ribs 96 projecting from an interior side 100 of the inner layer 84 into a blending are of the first blending container 32 .
- the ribs 96 may comprise one or more protrusions generally spanning a length of the blending container 32 . In the present example, there are two ribs spaced at opposing sides of the first blending container 32 .
- the ribs 96 may be configured to aid in agitating the contents of the first blending container 32 during blending.
- the first blending container 32 also includes a plurality of fins 97 positioned between an outer wall of the inner layer 84 and an inner wall of the outer layer 88 .
- One or more fins 97 can project outwardly from the outer wall of the inner layer 84 or alternatively or additionally, one or more fins 97 can project inwardly from the inner wall of the outer layer 88 .
- the first blending container 32 may include an open end 113 through which material may be inserted in advance of blending or may exit after blending.
- the open end 113 may be of any appropriate configuration and size.
- the open end 113 may be of a configuration to permit a user to drink directly therefrom. This may result in the first blending container 32 being capable of utilization as a drinking vessel.
- the first blending container 32 may include an engaging portion 114 configured to operatively and selectively engage with the blade base 28 .
- the engaging portion 114 may be of any appropriate configuration and type, including, without limitation being a threaded portion, a bayonet engaging member, or the like.
- FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate two different embodiments of the blade base 28 .
- Each embodiment of the blade base 28 may be sized and shaped to operatively fit within an opening 116 in the pedestal 76 in any appropriate manner.
- the blade base 28 may include a housing 120 having a first side and a second side.
- a blade 124 is positioned within the first side of the housing 120 .
- the housing 120 may be of any appropriate configuration. As shown in FIG. 4 , the housing 120 may include a rectangular inner wall 128 wherein the corners are used for agitating the contents of the attached blender container, as will be described herein. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6 , the housing 120 may include a generally circular inner wall 128 with one or more projections used for agitation.
- the blade 124 may be connected to the housing 120 in any appropriate manner.
- the blade 124 may be of any appropriate configuration, type and size.
- the present teachings are not limited to the configuration shown and described.
- the blade 124 can be of a conventional blender blade configuration and, as such, includes a plurality of radially extending blades 136 that are carried by, and positioned above a bottom surface of the blender base 28 by a vertically oriented blade shaft.
- the blade shaft extends downwardly through a hub to the second side of the blender base 28 .
- a spline is secured to the end of the blade shaft on the second side of the blender base 28 .
- the spline of the blade shaft engages with a splined coupler positioned within the pedestal, the splined coupler being connected to a motor shaft. Accordingly, when the blade base 28 is positioned within the pedestal 76 , rotation of the motor shaft caused by actuation of the motor is thereby transferred to the blades, which are rotatably positioned within the blade base.
- the blade base 28 may include features to agitate the flow of material with the blender container 32 .
- the blade base 28 may break up flow of material within the blender container 32 during operation of the blending system 20 .
- the blade base 28 may include a protrusion 148 on the inner wall 128 of the housing 120 .
- the protrusion 148 may be of any appropriate shape and size.
- the protrusion 148 may be a protrusion 148 extending from the inner wall 128 .
- the protrusion 148 may be any appropriate shape, such as generally rounded.
- the protrusion 148 may be monolithically formed with the inner wall 128 or may be attached through a subsequent operation.
- the protrusion 148 may be approximately 1 ⁇ 2 inch in diameter.
- the protrusion 148 may extend from a length of the blade base 28 from the bottom wall 132 to an open top end 152 . It will be appreciated that the blade base 28 may include more than one protrusion 148 .
- the blade base 28 may also include an agitator 164 positioned on the bottom wall 132 .
- the agitator 164 may be of any appropriate configuration and is not limited to that shown and described. Further, any appropriate number of agitators 164 may be utilized, e.g., one, two, three, etc. In some embodiments, the blade base 28 may not include an agitator 164 .
- the agitator 164 may include a ramped surface formed in the bottom wall 132 .
- the ramped surface may be of any appropriate configuration, including, without limitation being a helical ramp formed with the bottom wall 132 .
- the agitator 164 may be monolithically formed with the bottom wall 132 or may be attached through a subsequent operation.
- the agitator 164 may form a ledge 168 in the bottom wall 132 , which may be utilized to disrupt the flow pattern of the material during use of the blending system 20 .
- the blade base 28 may include one or more agitator 164 ; the present teachings are not limited to that shown. Further, the bottom wall 132 may not include an agitator 164 .
- the inner wall 128 of the blade base 28 may be of a shape to agitate the flow of material within the blending container 32 during operation thereof.
- the base 132 may have a generally rectangular shape such as a generally square shape
- the engagement between the blade base 28 and the first and/or second blending container is such that corners 160 of the square-shaped inner wall 128 align with the ribs 96 formed within the inner wall of the container.
- the alignment of the corners 160 and the ribs 96 increases the agitation of the material in the container during the blending operation, thereby improving the blend quality and enhancing the blender performance.
- the user can also visually confirm that the blade base 28 is operatively secured with the blending container 32 .
- the blade base 28 may include an engaging portion 172 configured to operatively and selectively secure with the engaging portion 114 of the blending container 32 .
- the engaging portion 172 may be of any appropriate configuration.
- the engaging portion 172 may be a threaded portion 172 configured to mate with the threaded portion 114 of the container portion 32 .
- the threaded portion 114 of the container portion 32 may be generally circular and the threaded portion 172 of the blade base 28 may correspondingly circular in shape.
- the first blending container 32 may be configured as a drinking vessel. In these embodiments, the first blending container 32 is able to easily convert from a blending container to a drinking vessel.
- the first blending container 32 may include a closed end 176 generally opposite the open end 113 .
- the housing 120 of the blade base 28 is configured such that the housing 120 may create additional blending space for the material to be blended.
- the location of the blade 124 within the housing 120 may be generally cup-shaped, which may provide this additional blending space.
- the first blending container 32 may function as a drinking vessel.
- the first blending container 32 may include a lid assembly 180 that is selectively engageable with the open end 113 of the first blending container 32 .
- the lid assembly 180 may be of any appropriate configuration.
- the lid assembly 180 may include a base member 184 that may be selectively engageable with the open end 113 in any appropriate manner, including, without limitation via a snap-fit, a threaded engagement, or any appropriate means.
- the lid assembly 180 may further include a cap 188 that may be selectively positionable relative the base member 184 .
- the cap 188 may be positionable to and from open and closed positions. In the open position, the cap 188 may allow contents within the blending container 32 to be expelled therefrom. In the closed position, the cap 188 may generally prevent contents of the blending container 32 to be expelled.
- the cap 188 may be engaged with the base member 184 to create a generally liquid tight seal such that regardless of the position of the blending container 32 the contents within the blending container will not be expelled therefrom.
- the blending container 32 may be utilized during travel or otherwise in storage of the contents therein.
- the blending system 20 may include a second blending container 233 of a different configuration that the first blending container 233 , such as being a larger size than the first blending container 32 , e.g., the second blending container 233 may have a volume of 40 oz.
- the second blending container 233 may include at least one spout 280 .
- the second blending container 233 may have at second spout 282 .
- the second blending container 233 also may include at least one handle 300 for ease of use.
- the second blending container 233 may be vented to allow hot liquids to vent during operation of the blending system 20 .
- a tamper or other apparatus may be used to agitate the contents of the second blending container 233 , such as know in the art.
- the first blending container 32 may be a double-walled container having an inner layer 84 and an outer layer 88 spaced from the inner layer 84 .
- a space 92 may be formed between the inner and outer layers 84 , 88 .
- the space 92 may provide an insulative feature to the first blending container 32 , i.e., it may help the contents thereof remain cool or warm, as applicable.
- the first blending container 32 may include elongated ribs 96 projecting from an interior side 100 of the inner layer 84 into a blending are of the first blending container 32 .
- the ribs 96 may comprise one or more protrusions generally spanning a length of the blending container 32 . In the present example, there are two ribs spaced at opposing sides of the first blending container 32 .
- the ribs 96 may be configured to aid in agitating the contents of the first blending container 32 during blending.
- the blending container 32 and blade base 28 may include the interlock feature 34 .
- the interlock feature 34 may be of any appropriate configuration to generally prevent access to the blade 124 when it is spinning.
- the blending container 32 may include a first tab 192 extending therefrom.
- the first tab 192 may include a magnet 196 embedded therein.
- the at least one magnet 196 may be secured with the blending container 32 in any appropriate manner.
- the magnet 196 may be welded into a pocket 200 formed in the blending container 32 between the inner layer 84 and the outer layer 88 .
- the magnet 196 may be adhered, such as through use of an adhesive, between the inner layer 84 and the outer layer 88 of the blending container 32 .
- the blending container 32 may include a second tab 204 extending therefrom.
- the second tab 204 may be of a similar configuration as the first tab 192 , but may be of a different size. Further, the second tab 204 may be offset from the first tab 192 along the circumference of the blending container 32 at an angle that is not 180 degrees. In other words, the first tab 192 and second tab 204 are not aligned with one another, as described in more detail below.
- the second tab 204 may include a second magnet 208 embedded therein. The second magnet 208 may be welded into a second pocket 212 formed in the blending container 32 between the inner layer 84 and the outer layer 88 .
- the second magnet 208 may be adhered, such as through use of an adhesive, between the inner layer 84 and the outer layer 88 of the blending container 32 . While the first tab 192 and second tab 204 with the magnet 196 and second magnet 208 are shown and described, any number of tabs and magnets may be used without departing from the present teachings. Further still, the number of tabs and magnets utilized are not limited to that shown. Any appropriate number of tabs and magnets may be utilized, e.g., three, four, etc.
- the first magnet 196 and second magnet 208 may be positioned in the tabs 192 and 204 , respectively. Once inserted therein, the inner and outer layers 84 , 88 may be sonic welded together. Once sonic welded, the magnets 196 and 208 are melted into the tabs 192 and 204 capturing the magnets 196 and 208 between the inner and outer layers 84 , 88 .
- the blender base 24 may include a lip 216 in the opening 116 in the pedestal 76 ; the lip 216 may generally encompass a majority portion or all of the opening 116 .
- the lip 216 may include first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 .
- the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 may be configured such that the tab 192 and second tab 204 are selectively and operatively engageable with such first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 .
- the first recessed portion 220 may be shaped and sized such that only the first tab 192 may be capable of operatively engaging it.
- the second recessed portion 224 may be shaped and sized such that only the second tab 204 is operatively engageable therewith.
- This configuration may help align the blending container 32 and blade base 28 with the blender base 24 .
- the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 may be offset from one another such that they are not aligned at 180 degrees with respect to one another.
- each of the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 may include a sensor, such as a reed switch (not shown) in its proximity.
- the reed switch may be utilized to indicate when both of the tab 192 and second tab 204 are operatively positioned within the first and second recesses 220 , 224 .
- Contacts of the reed switch may be in normally open position when the magnets 196 and 208 are not in proximity thereto, i.e., when the tabs 192 and 204 are not positioned in the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 .
- the reed switch When the magnets 196 and 208 within the tabs 192 , 204 , respectively, are moved in operative proximity to the reed switch, the reed switch will close, i.e., the reed switch will close when a magnetic field is present. Once the magnets 196 and 208 are moved away from the switch, the reed switch will go back to its original open position.
- the motor 40 When the reed switch is in the open position, the motor 40 is configured to be disabled, i.e., not operate. When the motor 40 is disabled, the blade base 28 and more particularly, the blade 124 is not capable of operation. Therefore, in order to operate the blending system 20 , the blending container 32 and blade base 28 must be operatively coupled with the blender base 24 . Specifically, the tabs 192 and 208 must be operatively positioned within the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 , respectively in order for the blending system 20 to operate. This generally prevents the user from being able to access or otherwise contact the blade 124 .
- the aforementioned interlock feature 34 is further configured to generally prevent circumvention by a user.
- the reed switch may be calibrated to disengage or disable the motor 40 anytime the magnet 196 or second magnet 208 or both are a predetermined distance away from the reed switch.
- the predetermined distance may be calibrated so that the user may not create enough space between the blending container 32 , blade base 28 or blender base 24 to access the blade 124 .
- the tabs 192 and 204 being engaged with the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 , respectively may prevent the blending container 32 from rotating—it may maintain the blending container 32 in its operative position with respect to the blender base 24 .
- the tabs 192 and 204 may be generally rectangular in shape. Further, the corresponding first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 may be of a corresponding rectangular shape. The rectangular shape may provide the anti-rotation feature generally keeping the interlock feature 34 operatively aligned.
- the blade base 28 may further include a gasket 232 configured to provide a seal between the blade base 28 and blending container 32 when coupled together.
- the gasket 232 may have a generally X-shaped cross section, such as shown in FIG. 10 .
- the gasket 232 may generally span the periphery of the blade base 28 such that when the blade base 28 and blending container 32 are coupled—such as being threaded together—the gasket 232 is positioned along the entirety of a location of engagement between the blade base 28 and blending container. While the gasket 232 is shown as having a generally X-shaped cross-section, it will be appreciated that the gasket 232 may have any appropriate cross-sectional shape that performs the same function described below.
- the gasket 232 may have a diameter of a narrow portion d N that is shorter than a diameter of a distended portion d D , such as shown in FIG. 11 .
- the gasket 232 may be formed of any appropriate material, including, but not limited to, polymeric materials such as elastomers or rubbers including thermoplastic or thermoset elastomers, rubber-based materials, and other polymers and co-polymers having properties consistent with the features described above.
- the gasket 232 may be configured to seal at low pressures and allow gas to exit at pressures that exceed a predetermined pressure within the blending container 32 during operation of the blending system 20 .
- the gasket 232 may function as a seal when the internal pressure zone within the blending container 32 exists from zero pressure to the predetermined level of pressure. After the internal pressure zone within the blending container 32 exceeds the predetermined level pressure—this may be considered a high pressure condition—the configuration of the gasket 232 may displace the gas within the blending container 32 to safely relieve pressure from the internal pressure zone, as shown in FIG. 11 .
- the gasket 232 also maintains its operative position between the blending container 32 and the blade base 28 so that material within the blending container 32 does not leak as shown in FIG. 12 .
- the friction of the spinning blade 124 may generate heat within the blending container 32 .
- the pressure may continue to build up to a predetermined level. If the force of the internal pressure zone increases above that predetermined level, the gasket 232 is configured to displace that internal pressure to allow interior pressure to escape into the atmosphere. The shape of the gasket 232 allows the internal gas of the blending container 32 to escape while the solids and liquids remain within the blending container 32 . Thus, the pressure within the blending container 32 is generally prevented from exceeding a predetermined level.
- the blending system 20 may, however, include a spill moat 236 if any liquid escapes from the blending container 32 either during operation, during insertion of the material to be blending or while expelling the material from the blending container 32 .
- the spill moat 236 may be of any appropriate configuration and may be positioned in the pedestal 76 .
- the spill moat 236 may be positioned on the periphery of the pedestal 76 .
- the spill moat 236 may be configured to capture any escaping liquid and allow it to flow along a predetermined path.
- the blender base 24 may include at least one aperture 238 .
- the aperture 238 may be configured to allow the liquid to exit from the blending system 20 .
- the combination of the spill moat 236 and aperture 238 may generally prevent liquid from inadvertently entering the blender base 24 and more specifically from entering the working components of the blending system 20 , such as the motor 40 .
- the blending system 20 may include a third blending container 332 of a different configuration than the first and second blending containers 32 , 233 .
- the third blending container 332 may include an inner liner 384 and an outer sleeve 388 spaced from the inner liner 384 .
- a space 392 may be formed between the inner liner 384 and outer sleeve 388 or the inner liner 384 may be immediately adjacent, e.g., touching, the outer sleeve 388 .
- the outer sleeve 388 may comprise similar aspects as first and second blending containers 32 , 233 .
- the inner liner 384 may be utilized with the first and second blending containers 32 , 233 .
- the third blending container 332 and blade base 28 may include the interlock feature 34 .
- the interlock feature 34 may be of any appropriate configuration to generally prevent access to the blade 124 when it is spinning.
- the outer sleeve 388 of the third blending container 332 may include a first tab 492 extending therefrom.
- the first tab 492 may extend from the outer sleeve 388 and include a magnet 396 embedded therein.
- the at least one magnet 396 may be secured with the blending container 332 in any appropriate manner.
- the magnet 396 may be welded into a pocket 500 formed in the first tab 492 extending from the outer sleeve 388 of the third blending container 332 .
- the magnet 396 may be adhered, such as through use of an adhesive on the first tab 492 of the blending container 32 .
- the interlock feature 34 may utilize other devices, such as wireless transmitters (e.g., NFC transmitters).
- the interlock feature 34 may communicate with a blender base.
- an NFC tag within the third blending container 332 may communicate identification information (e.g., a make/model of the third blending container 332 , etc.) to the blender base.
- the blender base may determine or select available blending programs for the blending container 332 based on the identification information.
- the outer sleeve 388 of the third blending container 332 may include a second tab 504 extending therefrom.
- the second tab 504 may be of a similar configuration as the first tab 492 , but may be of a different size. Further, the second tab 504 may be offset from the first tab 492 along the circumference of the outer sleeve 388 of the third blending container 32 at an angle that is not 180 degrees. In other words, the first tab 492 and second tab 504 may not be aligned with one another, as described herein.
- the second tab 504 may include a second magnet 508 embedded therein.
- the second magnet may be welded or otherwise embedded into a second pocket formed in the second tab 504 extending from the outer sleeve 388 of the third blending container 32 .
- the second magnet may be adhered, such as through use of an adhesive, to the second tab 504 .
- first tab 492 and second tab 504 are shown and described, any number of tabs may be utilized.
- any number of magnets may be used without departing from the present teachings.
- the number of tabs and magnets utilized are not limited to that shown. Any appropriate number of tabs and magnets may be utilized, e.g., three, four, etc.
- the first magnet 396 and second magnet 508 may be positioned in the tabs 492 and 504 , respectively.
- the inner liner 384 and outer sleeve 388 may be separate members that are interchangeable.
- the third blending container 332 may include an engaging portion 414 configured to operatively and selectively engage with the blade base 28 .
- the engaging portion 414 may be of any appropriate configuration and type, including, without limitation being a threaded portion, a bayonet engaging member, or the like.
- the engagement portion 414 may include a plurality of threads integrated with an inner surface of the outer sleeve 388 . The threaded portion 414 would engage with the threaded portion 172 along an outer surface of the blade base 28 .
- the inner liner 384 may include a wall 310 and a bottom 320 such that the wall 310 extends from a perimeter 325 of the bottom 320 to define a cavity 330 .
- the wall 310 may include a rim 340 that defines an opening to the cavity 330 .
- the rim 340 may comprise threads, a lip, or the like.
- the rim 340 may be partially disposed between the wall 310 may include a profile shape configured to fit within the outer sleeve 388 .
- the cavity 330 of the inner liner 384 may fill 8 fluid ounces, 12 fluid ounces or 16 fluid ounces of foodstuff—although it may be of any appropriate shape and size and is not limited to the sizes set forth herein.
- Foodstuff to be blended may be placed within the cavity 330 of the inner liner 384 as the inner liner 384 is placed within the outer sleeve 388 .
- the outer sleeve 388 may be interchangeable with a plurality of the inner liners 384 of different sized cavities 330 (e.g., 8 oz., 12 oz., and 16 oz.).
- the inner liner 384 may be disposable.
- the outer sleeve 388 may be sized to accept differently sized inner liners.
- the profile of the wall 310 of the inner liner 384 may be shaped with a radially bulbous portion 315 that extends radially outwards relative to the radius dimension of the bottom perimeter 325 .
- the radially bulbous portion 315 may at least partially frictionally abut against an inner surface 350 of the outer sleeve 388 . This may retain the inner liner 384 in place without the need for other mechanisms (e.g., the inner liner 384 may be quickly placed or removed without spinning or other actions), may prevent the inner liner from deforming, or the like.
- the inner liner 384 may comprise a disposable plastic, paper, or foam cup. Certain ingredients may move about in the inner liner 384 during blending. Some hard ingredients tend to impact sides of the inner liner 384 at forces that may damage the inner liner 384 . As the inner liner 384 contacts the inner surface 350 of the outer sleeve 388 , the inner surface 350 may absorb the impact and generally prevent or reduce damage to the inner liner 384 .
- the inner surface 350 may include an annular shoulder 355 that protrudes from the inner surface 350 to align and support the inner liner 384 within the outer sleeve 388 in frictional engagement.
- the annular shoulder 355 may be generally continuous about the inner surface 350 or may include various spaces located along the inner surface 350 of the outer sleeve 388 .
- the annular shoulder 355 may be angled in various arrangements and include various profile shapes that protrude from the inner surface 350 of the outer sleeve 388 , and may form a ledge or ridge in the inner surface 350 .
- the wall 310 of the inner liner 384 may comprise a ledge or annular shoulder that interacts with the shoulder 355 .
- the inner liner 384 may comprise an annular shoulder that is similarly sized, angled, and shaped with the shoulder 355 such that the two shoulders mate and cooperate with each other.
- the bulbous portion 315 may include any type of profile shape to allow the inner liner 384 to frictionally engage the outer sleeve 388 and this disclosure is not limiting.
- the wall 310 or bulbous portion 315 of the wall 310 of the inner liner 384 may slightly deform inwardly for snug engagement thereof thereby preventing further movement of the inner liner 384 within the outer sleeve 388 .
- the outer sleeve 388 of one size may receive various sizes of the inner liner 384 .
- the wall 310 of the inner liner may extend while the radial bulbous portions 315 of the various sizes of inner liners 384 may remain sized to frictionally abut the inner surface 350 of the outer sleeve 388 .
- This may allow one outer sleeve 388 to be sized to fit various sizes of inner liners 384 wherein the wall 310 and bottom 320 of the inner liner 384 may be received within the space 392 of the third container 332 as illustrated by FIGS. 14 and 15 .
- the blade base 28 may engage the outer sleeve 388 such that the engagement portion 414 of the outer sleeve 388 engages the engagement portion 172 of the blade base 28 .
- the rim 340 of the inner liner 384 may be configured to abut against the open top end 152 of the blade base 28 as the engagement portions 414 , 172 are attached.
- the rim 340 may abut the open top end 152 as the bulbous portion 315 of the wall 310 frictionally engages against the inner surface 350 of the outer sleeve 388 .
- the foodstuff within the cavity 330 may be exposed to the blade 124 may be partially disposed between the blade base 28 and contained in the resulting space defined by the blade base 28 and the cavity 330 .
- the blade base 24 may be inserted within the opening 116 in the pedestal 76 in any appropriate manner such that the blade 124 rotatably engages the motor 40 as the outer sleeve 388 may be operably attached to the blender base 24 .
- the gasket 232 may be configured to seal the third container 332 to the blender base 24 as discussed herein.
- the inner liner 384 may be a container that made from generally inexpensive materials that may also be disposable. Additionally, a lid (not shown) may be provided that generally conforms and operably attaches to the rim 340 of the inner liner 384 that may retain the blended foodstuffs therein and make storing blended ingredients in the inner liner convenient. Similarly, a user may add the ingredients intended to be blended into the liner 384 and store it in advance of blending.
- the inner liner 384 may be of such an inexpensive construction that a user may be able to purchase multiple inner liners 384 fill them up with ingredients to be stored and then insert the inner liner 384 into the outer sleeve 388 to conduct the blending as described below.
- the inner liners 384 may come prepackaged such that a user can purchase such, insert it into the outer sleeve 388 and blend. This may provide a means for companies to sell pre-packaged ingredients for blending. In fact, the supplier may be able to position such items in the inner liner 384 in the proper order to assist with blending such ingredients.
- ingredients may be inserted into the cavity 330 of the inner liner 384 .
- the blade base 28 may be threadingly engaged to the outer sleeve 388 and inner liner 384 .
- the inner liner 384 may be held inside the outer sleeve 388 by the blade base 28 .
- This assembly may then be put on to the blender base for blending.
- the blade base may be removed from the outer sleeve 388 and the inner liner 384 .
- the inner liner 384 may be removed from the outer sleeve 388 with the blended ingredients inside the cavity 330 .
- One embodiment may include a secondary base part (not shown) the outer sleeve would sit upon to push out the inner liner.
- Another embodiment may be a flexible part inside the sleeve (not shown) that would compress as the threads are tightened together placing a force against the inner liner 384 such that as the blade base 28 is removed, the inner liner 384 may bias away from its frictional abutment with the outer sleeve 388 .
- the outer sleeve 388 would remain clean and another inner liner 384 may be placed into the outer sleeve 388 for additional subsequent blending.
- an embodiment may be an aperture positioned along the outer sleeve 388 that is configured to allow a mating part such a spatula handle or protrusion to be inserted into the aperture to press against the inner liner 384 and disengage the inner liner 384 from the outer sleeve 388 .
- an aperture may also provide pneumatic pressure relief for the third container 332 .
- a push button may be utilized, a handle (both a fixed handle and removable one), ears on the inner liner 384 , a tab, or any other mechanism may be utilized without departing from the present teachings.
- the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 of the lip 216 in the pedestal 76 of the blender base 24 may be configured such that the first tab 492 and the second tab 504 of the outer sleeve 388 are selectively and operatively engageable with such first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 .
- the first recessed portion 220 may be shaped and sized such that only the first tab 492 may be capable of operatively engaging it.
- the second recessed portion 224 may be shaped and sized such that only the second tab 504 is operatively engageable therewith. This configuration may help align the outer sleeve 388 of the third blending container 332 and blade base 28 with the blender base 24 .
- the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 may be offset from one another such that they are not aligned at 180 degrees with respect to one another.
- each of the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 may include a sensor, such as a reed switch or Hall Effect sensor (not shown) in its proximity.
- the reed switch may be utilized to indicate when both of the first tab 492 and second tab 504 are operatively positioned within the first and second recesses 220 , 224 .
- Contacts of the reed switch may be in normally open position when the magnets 496 and 508 are not in proximity thereto, i.e., when the tabs 492 and 504 are not positioned in the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 .
- the reed switch When the magnets 496 and 508 within the tabs 492 , 504 , respectively, are moved in operative proximity to the reed switch, the reed switch will close, i.e., the reed switch will close when a magnetic field is present. Once the magnets 496 and 508 are moved away from the switch, the reed switch will go back to its original open position.
- the motor 40 When the reed switch is in the open position, the motor 40 is configured to be disabled, i.e., not operate. When the motor 40 is disabled, the blade base 28 and more particularly, the blade 124 is not capable of operation. Therefore, in order to operate the blending system 20 , the third blending container 332 and blade base 28 must be operatively coupled with the blender base 24 . Specifically, the tabs 492 and 508 must be operatively positioned within the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 , respectively in order for the blending system 20 to operate. This generally prevents the user from being able to access or otherwise contact the blade 124 .
- the aforementioned interlock feature 34 is further configured to generally prevent circumvention by a user.
- the reed switch may be calibrated to disengage or disable the motor 40 anytime the first magnet 396 or second magnet 508 or both are a predetermined distance away from the reed switch.
- the predetermined distance may be calibrated so that the user may not create enough space between the blending container 332 , blade base 28 or blender base 24 to access the blade 124 .
- the tabs 492 and 504 being engaged with the first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 , respectively may prevent the blending container 32 from rotating—it may maintain the blending container 332 in its operative position with respect to the blender base 24 .
- the tabs 492 and 504 may be generally rectangular in shape. Further, the corresponding first and second recessed portions 220 , 224 may be of a corresponding rectangular shape. The rectangular shape may provide the anti-rotation feature generally keeping the interlock feature 34 operatively aligned.
- Many separate inner sleeves 384 may also be used for serving, storage, and transport and may apply to any other blender designs where the adaptive parts or interlocks would not be repeated in the inner sleeve 384 or simple storage containers.
- the user may have many disposable or otherwise less expensive blended product storage containers without interlock protrusions such as tabs 492 , 504 .
Abstract
Description
- This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/423,807 entitled “BLENDING SYSTEM WITH A LINER FOR BLENDING CONTAINER,” filed on Nov. 18, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- The present disclosure generally relates to a sleeve or liner for a blending container. More particularly, this disclosure relates to an interchangeable sleeve for a blending container.
- Blending systems are often used to blend and process foodstuffs. In recent years, personal blending systems have been developed with blending containers that are designed to serve a dual purpose and function as both a blending container and a drinking vessel. Typically, the container may include the foods for blending and then will connect at its top with a blade assembly. Once connected, the user may invert the container/blade assembly so that the container/blade assembly engages with the personal blending system base. A motor may be positioned within the base and activated to impart rotation to the blade assembly to blend the contents within the container. Once blending is completed, the user may remove the container/blade assembly from the base, invert it again, and remove the blade assembly from the container. The user can then directly drink from that container, or insert a top on the container for storage or transport.
- The personal blending system may have an interface between the container and the blade assembly, such as a threaded connection with an O-ring. This interface may generally prevent liquid from leaking out of the container when attached to the blade assembly. That O-ring may generally create an air-tight seal between the two structures.
- Additionally, the interface between the container, the blade assembly, and the base of the personal blending system may include an interlock feature to ensure that control of the motor is operational based on the interlocked attachment of the container and blade assembly to the base.
- However, containers for those conventional personal blending systems have relatively small motors and thus, do not observe the potential pressure build-up in the container as would a blender with a high performance motor, such as a 2 HP motor. As a result, the use of a conventional sealing system with a high performance blender can create a large and unsafe pressure condition within the container.
- Additionally, most users will only have a single conventional blend and go type personal blending system container. As such, they need to be washed often and this may be inconvenient for the user. These blend and go containers may include interlocks for proper operation of the motor, threads, magnets, or other interlock type features that may prevent them from being a preferred drinking vessel. However, there is a need to provide a container for personal blending systems that can be constructed of a disposable material or a thin material that may allow a user to store or transport the foodstuffs—especially one that provides a more traditional drinking vessel for the user.
- A blending system may include a base encasing a motor and a blade base in operative communication with the motor and selectively engaged with the base. The blade base may include an interior surface having a generally rectangular configuration, a blade positioned in proximity to the interior surface and operatively engaged with the motor, and an engagement member. The blade assembly may also include a container having a container engagement member selectively attached with the engagement member of the blade base. The container may include a liner and an outer sleeve such that the liner is removable from the sleeve after blending for storage, transport, or consumption of the product therein.
- A blending system may include a base encasing a motor, a blade assembly in operative communication with the motor and selectively engaged with the base, and a container selectively engaged with the blade assembly. The blending system may also include a gasket positioned between the container and blade assembly, where the gasket is configured to create a seal between the blade assembly and container at a first pressure and to allow gas to exit between the container and blade assembly at a second pressure. The container may include a liner and an outer sleeve such that the liner is removable from the sleeve after blending for storage, transport, or consumption of the product therein.
- A blender assembly for mixing a product in a container may include an inner liner for containing a product to be mixed therein and an outer sleeve for receiving the inner liner therein, the outer sleeve having an interlock feature. The inner liner may be made from a disposable material. The inner liner may include a radial bulbous portion that is configured to frictionally abut an inner surface of the outer sleeve. The inner liner may include a rim that defines an opening such that the rim is configured to abut against a blade base. The rim may be configured to abut against an open top end of a blade base. The outer sleeve may include at least one interlock tab configured to engage at least one recessed portion of a blender base for toggled control of a blender motor. The inner liner may include a size of at least one of 8, 12, and 16 fluid ounces and the outer sleeve may be configured to receive the inner liner that includes a size of 8, 12, and 16 fluid ounces.
- A blending container for retaining foodstuff to be blended by a blender, the blending container may include an outer sleeve having an inner surface and at least one interlock tab extending therefrom. An inner liner having a wall that extends from a perimeter of a bottom to define a cavity to retain the foodstuff to be blended, wherein at least a portion of the wall of the inner liner frictionally engages against a portion of the inner surface of the outer sleeve.
- A method of mixing a product within a container, the steps may include inserting an inner liner into an outer sleeve and inserting foodstuff to be blended into the inner liner. A blade base may engage the inner liner and the outer sleeve. The blade base and outer sleeve may attach to a blender base for selectively blending the foodstuff therein.
- Described herein is a blending container for mixing a product with a blender base, the blending container comprising an inner liner for containing a product to be mixed therein; and an outer sleeve for receiving the inner liner therein, the outer sleeve having an interlock feature. The inner liner may be made from a disposable material. The inner liner may include a radial bulbous portion that is configured to frictionally abut an inner surface of the outer sleeve. The inner surface of the outer sleeve comprises may comprise an annular shoulder extending into an inner cavity. A wall of the inner liner may operatively mate with the annular shoulder. The inner liner may be operatively removable from the outer sleeve. The inner liner includes a rim that defines an opening and operatively abutting against a blade base. The rim may be configured to abut against an open top end of a blade base. The outer sleeve includes at least one interlock tab configured to engage at least one recessed portion of a blender base for toggled control of a blender motor. The inner liner includes a size of at least one of 8, 12, and 16 fluid ounces. The outer sleeve is configured to receive the inner liner that includes a size of 8 fluid ounces, 12 fluid ounces, and 16 fluid ounces.
- A blending container for retaining foodstuff to be blended by a blender, the blending container comprising a blender base comprising a motor, a blade base, a container operatively coupled to the blade base. The container may comprise an outer sleeve having an inner surface and at least one interlock tab extending therefrom, and an inner liner having a wall that extends from a perimeter of a bottom, the wall defines a cavity to retain the foodstuff to be blended, wherein at least a portion of the wall of the inner liner frictionally engages against a portion of the inner surface of the outer sleeve. The inner liner and outer sleeve may not be coupled through other mechanisms. In other instances, the inner liner may be operatively threadedly engaged with the outer sleeve. The blade base may comprise at least one recess operatively receiving the at least one tab. The inner liner may comprise a disposable material and the outer liner comprises a different material and is non-disposable. The inner liner may comprise a release mechanism that includes at least one of a handle attached with the inner liner, a push button on the outer sleeve, an aperture positioned on the outer sleeve sized to permit access to the inner liner to disengage the inner liner from the outer sleeve, or a tab on the inner liner.
- A method of mixing a product within a container, the steps comprising: inserting an inner liner into an outer sleeve; inserting foodstuff to be blended into the inner liner; engaging a blade base to the inner liner and the outer sleeve; and attaching the blade base and outer sleeve to a blender base for selectively blending the foodstuff therein. The method may further comprise removing said inner liner from the outer sleeve. The method may further comprise inserting an other inner liner into the outer sleeve.
- The present teachings may be better understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in connection with the following illustrations, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a blender system with a blending container; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a blender base of the blender system; -
FIG. 3A is a first cross-sectional view of a blending cup; -
FIG. 3B is a second cross-sectional view of the blending cup; -
FIG. 4 is a plan view of an embodiment of a blade base; -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a blade base; -
FIG. 6 is a plan view of an embodiment of a blade base; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a blending container with a lid; -
FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a blending container and lid; -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a blender container; -
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a gasket of a blender system; -
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a gasket of a blender system; -
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a gasket on a blending system; and -
FIG. 13 is a plan view of a blender base. -
FIG. 14 is a cross sectional view of embodiments of a blender container including a liner, an outer sleeve and a blade base. -
FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of the blender container ofFIG. 14 without the blade base. - Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the present teachings, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional changes may be made without departing from the respective scope of the present teachings. Moreover, features of the various embodiments may be combined or altered without departing from the scope of the present teachings. As such, the following description is presented by way of illustration only and should not limit in any way the various alternatives and modifications that may be made to the illustrated embodiments and still be within the spirit and scope of the present teachings.
- As used herein, the words “example” and “exemplary” mean an instance, or illustration. The words “example” or “exemplary” do not indicate a key or preferred aspect or embodiment. The word “or” is intended to be inclusive rather an exclusive, unless context suggests otherwise. As an example, the phrase “A employs B or C,” includes any inclusive permutation (e.g., A employs B; A employs C; or A employs both B and C). As another matter, the articles “a” and “an” are generally intended to mean “one or more” unless context suggests otherwise.
- It is noted that the various embodiments described herein may include other components and/or functionality. It is further noted that while various embodiments refer to a blender or a blending system, various other systems may be utilized in view of embodiments described herein. For example, embodiments may be utilized in food processor systems, mixing systems, hand-held blending systems, various other food preparation systems, and the like. As such, references to a blender, blending system, and the like, are understood to include food processor systems, and other mixing systems. Such systems generally include a blender base that may include a motor, a controller, a display, a memory and a processor. Further, such systems may include a blending container and a blade assembly. The blade assembly, the blending container, and the blender base may removably or irremovably attach. Foodstuff may be added to the blending container. Furthermore, while blending of “ingredients,” “contents” or “foodstuff” is described by various embodiments, it is noted that non-food stuff may be mixed or blended, such as paints, epoxies, construction material (e.g., mortar, cement, etc.), and the like. Further, the blending systems may include any household blender and/or any type of commercial blending system, including those with covers that may encapsulate or partially encapsulate the blender. Further, commercial blending systems may include an overall blending system, such as a modular blending system that may include the blender along with other components, such as a cleaner, foodstuff storage device (including a refrigerator), an ice maker and/or dispenser, a foodstuff dispenser (a liquid or powder flavoring dispenser) or any other combination of such.
- Moreover, blending of foodstuff or ingredients may result in a blended product. Such blended products may include drinks, frozen drinks, smoothies, shakes, soups, purees, sorbets, butter (nut), dips or the like. It is noted that various other blended products may result from blending ingredients. Accordingly, terms such as “blended product” or “drink” may be used interchangeably unless context suggests otherwise or warrants a particular distinction among such terms. Moreover, such terms are not intended to limit possible blended products and should be viewed as examples of possible blended products.
- In some traditional blending systems, foodstuff is placed into a blending container for blending. After blending, a user may remove the blended product from the blending container. In an aspect, the user typically either pours the content out of the blending container and into another container or consumes the product directly from the blending container. In either case, the blending container will have remnants therein after consumption. This typically requires the user to clean the blending container. In other instances, the user may throw out the blending container (e.g., such as when the blending container is disposable.
- A blending
system 20 of the present teachings is shown inFIG. 1 . The blendingsystem 20 may include ablender base 24, ablade base 28 and at least one blendingcontainer 32 of appropriate configurations. Theblade base 28 may be selectively and operatively coupled with theblender base 24 and the blendingcontainer 32 as described in more detail below. The blendingsystem 20 may include aninterlock feature 34 that may generally prevent operation of the blending system when and if the blending container andblade base 28 become disengaged as described in more detail below. The blendingsystem 20 may have a smaller configuration than traditional blending systems. The blendingsystem 20 may have a smaller footprint and smaller profile than traditional blending systems. The blendingsystem 20 may be considered a personal or individual blending system. However, it should be understood that the present teachings are not limited to personal blending systems. The present teachings may apply to any appropriate blending system. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , theblender base 24 may be any appropriate size and configuration. Theblender base 24 may be of a configuration to house and generally protect the operative components of theblending system 20. Theblender base 24 may house a high performance motor, gearing, sound damping components, and fan (all not shown). These operative components may be of any appropriate configuration—the present teachings are not limited to any specific configuration. - The
blender base 24 may includevents 36 of any appropriate configuration. Thevents 36 facilitate exhaustion of air generated within theblender base 24. - The
motor 40 may be in operative communication with apower cord 44 configured to operatively communicate with a power supply source to provide the appropriate power to operate theblending system 20. Thepower cord 44 may be of any appropriate configuration—the present teachings are not limited to the configurations shown and described herein. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , theblender base 24 may include acontrol panel 64 positioned on aface 68 of theblender base 24. Thecontrol panel 64 may be of any appropriate configuration and may be utilized to set the operative condition of theblending system 20 by the user. By way of a non-limiting example, thecontrol panel 64 may include aknob 72 to selectively adjust settings of theblending system 20, including, without limitation setting rotational speed of theblade base 28 during operation of theblending system 20. Theknob 72 can also be used to reset the system, turn the system on/off, select preprogrammed functions, and/or select a pulse function. It will be appreciated that thecontrol panel 64 may further include alternative or additional input devices, such as buttons and switches, and other feedback and readout devices, such as an LCD or LED display. - The
blender base 24 may include apedestal 76 at a top portion of theblender base 24. Thepedestal 76 may be of any appropriate shape and size and can be materially integral with theblender base 24. By way of a non-limiting example, thepedestal 76 may be sized and shaped to cooperate with theblade base 28 as described in more detail below. Thepedestal 76 may be of a shape such that an interior of thepedestal 76 corresponds with the external shape of theblade base 28. In the present example, the interior shape of thepedestal 76 and the external shape of theblade base 28 are generally circular. - The blending
system 20 includes afirst blending container 32 that may be of any appropriate configuration shape and size. Thefirst blending container 32 may be of a configuration to act as a single serve container, i.e., it is a smaller size than a standard blender. Thefirst blending container 32 may also be of a configuration to act as a drinking vessel. Thefirst blending container 32 may be a variety of sizes, including, but not limited to, a 20 oz., 24 oz., 32 oz., or a 40 oz. size. - The
first blending container 32 may be a double-walled container having aninner layer 84 and anouter layer 88 spaced from theinner layer 84. Aspace 92 may be formed between the inner andouter layers space 92 may provide an insulative feature to thefirst blending container 32, i.e., it may help the contents thereof remain cool or warm, as applicable. Further, thefirst blending container 32 may includeelongated ribs 96 projecting from aninterior side 100 of theinner layer 84 into a blending are of thefirst blending container 32. Theribs 96 may comprise one or more protrusions generally spanning a length of the blendingcontainer 32. In the present example, there are two ribs spaced at opposing sides of thefirst blending container 32. Theribs 96 may be configured to aid in agitating the contents of thefirst blending container 32 during blending. - The
first blending container 32 also includes a plurality of fins 97 positioned between an outer wall of theinner layer 84 and an inner wall of theouter layer 88. One or more fins 97 can project outwardly from the outer wall of theinner layer 84 or alternatively or additionally, one or more fins 97 can project inwardly from the inner wall of theouter layer 88. - The
first blending container 32 may include anopen end 113 through which material may be inserted in advance of blending or may exit after blending. Theopen end 113 may be of any appropriate configuration and size. Theopen end 113 may be of a configuration to permit a user to drink directly therefrom. This may result in thefirst blending container 32 being capable of utilization as a drinking vessel. Thefirst blending container 32 may include an engagingportion 114 configured to operatively and selectively engage with theblade base 28. The engagingportion 114 may be of any appropriate configuration and type, including, without limitation being a threaded portion, a bayonet engaging member, or the like. Regardless of the configuration of the engagingportion 114, when secured to the threadedportion 172 of theblade base 28, additional blending space is created between an interior portion of theblade base 28 and theopen end 113 of thefirst blending container 32, as will be described in greater detail herein. -
FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate two different embodiments of theblade base 28. Each embodiment of theblade base 28 may be sized and shaped to operatively fit within anopening 116 in thepedestal 76 in any appropriate manner. Theblade base 28 may include ahousing 120 having a first side and a second side. Ablade 124 is positioned within the first side of thehousing 120. Thehousing 120 may be of any appropriate configuration. As shown inFIG. 4 , thehousing 120 may include a rectangularinner wall 128 wherein the corners are used for agitating the contents of the attached blender container, as will be described herein. Alternatively, as shown inFIG. 6 , thehousing 120 may include a generally circularinner wall 128 with one or more projections used for agitation. Theblade 124 may be connected to thehousing 120 in any appropriate manner. Theblade 124 may be of any appropriate configuration, type and size. The present teachings are not limited to the configuration shown and described. By way of a non-limiting example, theblade 124 can be of a conventional blender blade configuration and, as such, includes a plurality of radially extendingblades 136 that are carried by, and positioned above a bottom surface of theblender base 28 by a vertically oriented blade shaft. The blade shaft extends downwardly through a hub to the second side of theblender base 28. A spline is secured to the end of the blade shaft on the second side of theblender base 28. The spline of the blade shaft engages with a splined coupler positioned within the pedestal, the splined coupler being connected to a motor shaft. Accordingly, when theblade base 28 is positioned within thepedestal 76, rotation of the motor shaft caused by actuation of the motor is thereby transferred to the blades, which are rotatably positioned within the blade base. - As mentioned above, the
blade base 28 may include features to agitate the flow of material with theblender container 32. For example, theblade base 28 may break up flow of material within theblender container 32 during operation of theblending system 20. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 5 , theblade base 28 may include aprotrusion 148 on theinner wall 128 of thehousing 120. Theprotrusion 148 may be of any appropriate shape and size. By way of a non-limiting example, theprotrusion 148 may be aprotrusion 148 extending from theinner wall 128. Theprotrusion 148 may be any appropriate shape, such as generally rounded. Theprotrusion 148 may be monolithically formed with theinner wall 128 or may be attached through a subsequent operation. Theprotrusion 148 may be approximately ½ inch in diameter. Theprotrusion 148 may extend from a length of theblade base 28 from thebottom wall 132 to an opentop end 152. It will be appreciated that theblade base 28 may include more than oneprotrusion 148. Theblade base 28 may also include anagitator 164 positioned on thebottom wall 132. Theagitator 164 may be of any appropriate configuration and is not limited to that shown and described. Further, any appropriate number ofagitators 164 may be utilized, e.g., one, two, three, etc. In some embodiments, theblade base 28 may not include anagitator 164. Theagitator 164 may include a ramped surface formed in thebottom wall 132. The ramped surface may be of any appropriate configuration, including, without limitation being a helical ramp formed with thebottom wall 132. Theagitator 164 may be monolithically formed with thebottom wall 132 or may be attached through a subsequent operation. Theagitator 164 may form a ledge 168 in thebottom wall 132, which may be utilized to disrupt the flow pattern of the material during use of theblending system 20. Theblade base 28 may include one ormore agitator 164; the present teachings are not limited to that shown. Further, thebottom wall 132 may not include anagitator 164. - In addition or alternatively, as shown in
FIG. 4 , theinner wall 128 of theblade base 28 may be of a shape to agitate the flow of material within the blendingcontainer 32 during operation thereof. In these embodiments, thebase 132 may have a generally rectangular shape such as a generally square shape - The engagement between the
blade base 28 and the first and/or second blending container is such thatcorners 160 of the square-shapedinner wall 128 align with theribs 96 formed within the inner wall of the container. The alignment of thecorners 160 and theribs 96 increases the agitation of the material in the container during the blending operation, thereby improving the blend quality and enhancing the blender performance. Once aligned, the user can also visually confirm that theblade base 28 is operatively secured with the blendingcontainer 32. - The
blade base 28 may include an engagingportion 172 configured to operatively and selectively secure with the engagingportion 114 of the blendingcontainer 32. The engagingportion 172 may be of any appropriate configuration. By way of a non-limiting example, the engagingportion 172 may be a threadedportion 172 configured to mate with the threadedportion 114 of thecontainer portion 32. In these embodiments, the threadedportion 114 of thecontainer portion 32 may be generally circular and the threadedportion 172 of theblade base 28 may correspondingly circular in shape. As described above, thefirst blending container 32 may be configured as a drinking vessel. In these embodiments, thefirst blending container 32 is able to easily convert from a blending container to a drinking vessel. For example, in addition to theopen end 113 noted above, thefirst blending container 32 may include aclosed end 176 generally opposite theopen end 113. When thefirst blending container 32 is operatively secured to theblade base 28, thehousing 120 of theblade base 28 is configured such that thehousing 120 may create additional blending space for the material to be blended. As an example, the location of theblade 124 within thehousing 120 may be generally cup-shaped, which may provide this additional blending space. When removed from theblade base 28, thefirst blending container 32 may function as a drinking vessel. In some embodiments, thefirst blending container 32 may include alid assembly 180 that is selectively engageable with theopen end 113 of thefirst blending container 32. Thelid assembly 180 may be of any appropriate configuration. For example, thelid assembly 180 may include abase member 184 that may be selectively engageable with theopen end 113 in any appropriate manner, including, without limitation via a snap-fit, a threaded engagement, or any appropriate means. Thelid assembly 180 may further include acap 188 that may be selectively positionable relative thebase member 184. Thecap 188 may be positionable to and from open and closed positions. In the open position, thecap 188 may allow contents within the blendingcontainer 32 to be expelled therefrom. In the closed position, thecap 188 may generally prevent contents of the blendingcontainer 32 to be expelled. Further, in the closed position, thecap 188 may be engaged with thebase member 184 to create a generally liquid tight seal such that regardless of the position of the blendingcontainer 32 the contents within the blending container will not be expelled therefrom. In this closed position, the blendingcontainer 32 may be utilized during travel or otherwise in storage of the contents therein. - Alternatively or in addition, the blending
system 20 may include asecond blending container 233 of a different configuration that thefirst blending container 233, such as being a larger size than thefirst blending container 32, e.g., thesecond blending container 233 may have a volume of 40 oz. Thesecond blending container 233 may include at least onespout 280. Alternatively or in addition, thesecond blending container 233 may have atsecond spout 282. Thesecond blending container 233 also may include at least onehandle 300 for ease of use. Thesecond blending container 233 may be vented to allow hot liquids to vent during operation of theblending system 20. A tamper or other apparatus may be used to agitate the contents of thesecond blending container 233, such as know in the art. - The
first blending container 32 may be a double-walled container having aninner layer 84 and anouter layer 88 spaced from theinner layer 84. Aspace 92 may be formed between the inner andouter layers space 92 may provide an insulative feature to thefirst blending container 32, i.e., it may help the contents thereof remain cool or warm, as applicable. Further, thefirst blending container 32 may includeelongated ribs 96 projecting from aninterior side 100 of theinner layer 84 into a blending are of thefirst blending container 32. Theribs 96 may comprise one or more protrusions generally spanning a length of the blendingcontainer 32. In the present example, there are two ribs spaced at opposing sides of thefirst blending container 32. Theribs 96 may be configured to aid in agitating the contents of thefirst blending container 32 during blending. - As described above, the blending
container 32 andblade base 28 may include theinterlock feature 34. Theinterlock feature 34 may be of any appropriate configuration to generally prevent access to theblade 124 when it is spinning. As shown inFIG. 3A , for example, the blendingcontainer 32 may include afirst tab 192 extending therefrom. As shown inFIG. 3A , thefirst tab 192 may include amagnet 196 embedded therein. The at least onemagnet 196 may be secured with the blendingcontainer 32 in any appropriate manner. By way of a non-limiting example, themagnet 196 may be welded into apocket 200 formed in the blendingcontainer 32 between theinner layer 84 and theouter layer 88. In a further non-limiting example, themagnet 196 may be adhered, such as through use of an adhesive, between theinner layer 84 and theouter layer 88 of the blendingcontainer 32. - Further, as shown, the blending
container 32 may include asecond tab 204 extending therefrom. Thesecond tab 204 may be of a similar configuration as thefirst tab 192, but may be of a different size. Further, thesecond tab 204 may be offset from thefirst tab 192 along the circumference of the blendingcontainer 32 at an angle that is not 180 degrees. In other words, thefirst tab 192 andsecond tab 204 are not aligned with one another, as described in more detail below. Thesecond tab 204 may include a second magnet 208 embedded therein. The second magnet 208 may be welded into asecond pocket 212 formed in the blendingcontainer 32 between theinner layer 84 and theouter layer 88. In a further non-limiting example, the second magnet 208 may be adhered, such as through use of an adhesive, between theinner layer 84 and theouter layer 88 of the blendingcontainer 32. While thefirst tab 192 andsecond tab 204 with themagnet 196 and second magnet 208 are shown and described, any number of tabs and magnets may be used without departing from the present teachings. Further still, the number of tabs and magnets utilized are not limited to that shown. Any appropriate number of tabs and magnets may be utilized, e.g., three, four, etc. - In these embodiments, the
first magnet 196 and second magnet 208 may be positioned in thetabs outer layers magnets 196 and 208 are melted into thetabs magnets 196 and 208 between the inner andouter layers - As shown in
FIG. 13 , theblender base 24 may include alip 216 in theopening 116 in thepedestal 76; thelip 216 may generally encompass a majority portion or all of theopening 116. Thelip 216 may include first and second recessedportions portions tab 192 andsecond tab 204 are selectively and operatively engageable with such first and second recessedportions portion 220 may be shaped and sized such that only thefirst tab 192 may be capable of operatively engaging it. Similarly, the second recessedportion 224 may be shaped and sized such that only thesecond tab 204 is operatively engageable therewith. This configuration may help align the blendingcontainer 32 andblade base 28 with theblender base 24. As noted above regarding the relative positions of thetab 192 andsecond tab 204, the first and second recessedportions - Further each of the first and second recessed
portions tab 192 andsecond tab 204 are operatively positioned within the first andsecond recesses magnets 196 and 208 are not in proximity thereto, i.e., when thetabs portions magnets 196 and 208 within thetabs magnets 196 and 208 are moved away from the switch, the reed switch will go back to its original open position. - When the reed switch is in the open position, the
motor 40 is configured to be disabled, i.e., not operate. When themotor 40 is disabled, theblade base 28 and more particularly, theblade 124 is not capable of operation. Therefore, in order to operate theblending system 20, the blendingcontainer 32 andblade base 28 must be operatively coupled with theblender base 24. Specifically, thetabs 192 and 208 must be operatively positioned within the first and second recessedportions blending system 20 to operate. This generally prevents the user from being able to access or otherwise contact theblade 124. - The
aforementioned interlock feature 34 is further configured to generally prevent circumvention by a user. For example, the reed switch may be calibrated to disengage or disable themotor 40 anytime themagnet 196 or second magnet 208 or both are a predetermined distance away from the reed switch. The predetermined distance may be calibrated so that the user may not create enough space between the blendingcontainer 32,blade base 28 orblender base 24 to access theblade 124. - While the
blending system 20 is operating, i.e., themotor 40 is operating, the blendingsystem 20 tends to attempt to rotate the blendingcontainer 32 relative to theblender base 24. Thetabs portions container 32 from rotating—it may maintain the blendingcontainer 32 in its operative position with respect to theblender base 24. Thetabs portions interlock feature 34 operatively aligned. - The
blade base 28 may further include agasket 232 configured to provide a seal between theblade base 28 and blendingcontainer 32 when coupled together. Thegasket 232 may have a generally X-shaped cross section, such as shown inFIG. 10 . Thegasket 232 may generally span the periphery of theblade base 28 such that when theblade base 28 and blendingcontainer 32 are coupled—such as being threaded together—thegasket 232 is positioned along the entirety of a location of engagement between theblade base 28 and blending container. While thegasket 232 is shown as having a generally X-shaped cross-section, it will be appreciated that thegasket 232 may have any appropriate cross-sectional shape that performs the same function described below. By way of a non-limiting example, thegasket 232 may have a diameter of a narrow portion dN that is shorter than a diameter of a distended portion dD, such as shown inFIG. 11 . Thegasket 232 may be formed of any appropriate material, including, but not limited to, polymeric materials such as elastomers or rubbers including thermoplastic or thermoset elastomers, rubber-based materials, and other polymers and co-polymers having properties consistent with the features described above. - The
gasket 232 may be configured to seal at low pressures and allow gas to exit at pressures that exceed a predetermined pressure within the blendingcontainer 32 during operation of theblending system 20. For example, thegasket 232 may function as a seal when the internal pressure zone within the blendingcontainer 32 exists from zero pressure to the predetermined level of pressure. After the internal pressure zone within the blendingcontainer 32 exceeds the predetermined level pressure—this may be considered a high pressure condition—the configuration of thegasket 232 may displace the gas within the blendingcontainer 32 to safely relieve pressure from the internal pressure zone, as shown inFIG. 11 . Thegasket 232, however, also maintains its operative position between the blendingcontainer 32 and theblade base 28 so that material within the blendingcontainer 32 does not leak as shown inFIG. 12 . - In operation, if the user requires the
blending system 20 to perform a recipe requiring a longer operation time, the friction of thespinning blade 124 may generate heat within the blendingcontainer 32. As the heat in the blendingcontainer 32 increases, so does the pressure. As the operation continues, the pressure may continue to build up to a predetermined level. If the force of the internal pressure zone increases above that predetermined level, thegasket 232 is configured to displace that internal pressure to allow interior pressure to escape into the atmosphere. The shape of thegasket 232 allows the internal gas of the blendingcontainer 32 to escape while the solids and liquids remain within the blendingcontainer 32. Thus, the pressure within the blendingcontainer 32 is generally prevented from exceeding a predetermined level. - The blending
system 20 may, however, include aspill moat 236 if any liquid escapes from the blendingcontainer 32 either during operation, during insertion of the material to be blending or while expelling the material from the blendingcontainer 32. Thespill moat 236 may be of any appropriate configuration and may be positioned in thepedestal 76. By way of a non-limiting example, thespill moat 236 may be positioned on the periphery of thepedestal 76. Thespill moat 236 may be configured to capture any escaping liquid and allow it to flow along a predetermined path. At a conclusion of the predetermined path of thespill moat 236, theblender base 24 may include at least oneaperture 238. Theaperture 238 may be configured to allow the liquid to exit from the blendingsystem 20. The combination of thespill moat 236 andaperture 238 may generally prevent liquid from inadvertently entering theblender base 24 and more specifically from entering the working components of theblending system 20, such as themotor 40. - As illustrated by
FIGS. 14 and 15 , the blendingsystem 20 may include athird blending container 332 of a different configuration than the first andsecond blending containers third blending container 332 may include aninner liner 384 and anouter sleeve 388 spaced from theinner liner 384. Aspace 392 may be formed between theinner liner 384 andouter sleeve 388 or theinner liner 384 may be immediately adjacent, e.g., touching, theouter sleeve 388. It is noted that theouter sleeve 388 may comprise similar aspects as first andsecond blending containers inner liner 384 may be utilized with the first andsecond blending containers - As described above, the
third blending container 332 andblade base 28 may include theinterlock feature 34. Theinterlock feature 34 may be of any appropriate configuration to generally prevent access to theblade 124 when it is spinning. As shown inFIG. 14 , for example, theouter sleeve 388 of thethird blending container 332 may include afirst tab 492 extending therefrom. Thefirst tab 492 may extend from theouter sleeve 388 and include amagnet 396 embedded therein. The at least onemagnet 396 may be secured with the blendingcontainer 332 in any appropriate manner. By way of a non-limiting example, themagnet 396 may be welded into apocket 500 formed in thefirst tab 492 extending from theouter sleeve 388 of thethird blending container 332. In a further non-limiting example, themagnet 396 may be adhered, such as through use of an adhesive on thefirst tab 492 of the blendingcontainer 32. It is noted that theinterlock feature 34 may utilize other devices, such as wireless transmitters (e.g., NFC transmitters). Moreover, theinterlock feature 34 may communicate with a blender base. As an example, an NFC tag within thethird blending container 332 may communicate identification information (e.g., a make/model of thethird blending container 332, etc.) to the blender base. The blender base may determine or select available blending programs for the blendingcontainer 332 based on the identification information. - Further, as shown, the
outer sleeve 388 of thethird blending container 332 may include asecond tab 504 extending therefrom. Thesecond tab 504 may be of a similar configuration as thefirst tab 492, but may be of a different size. Further, thesecond tab 504 may be offset from thefirst tab 492 along the circumference of theouter sleeve 388 of thethird blending container 32 at an angle that is not 180 degrees. In other words, thefirst tab 492 andsecond tab 504 may not be aligned with one another, as described herein. Thesecond tab 504 may include asecond magnet 508 embedded therein. The second magnet may be welded or otherwise embedded into a second pocket formed in thesecond tab 504 extending from theouter sleeve 388 of thethird blending container 32. In a further non-limiting example, the second magnet may be adhered, such as through use of an adhesive, to thesecond tab 504. While thefirst tab 492 andsecond tab 504 are shown and described, any number of tabs may be utilized. In another aspect, any number of magnets may be used without departing from the present teachings. Further still, the number of tabs and magnets utilized are not limited to that shown. Any appropriate number of tabs and magnets may be utilized, e.g., three, four, etc. - In these embodiments, the
first magnet 396 andsecond magnet 508 may be positioned in thetabs inner liner 384 andouter sleeve 388 may be separate members that are interchangeable. In one embodiment, thethird blending container 332 may include an engagingportion 414 configured to operatively and selectively engage with theblade base 28. The engagingportion 414 may be of any appropriate configuration and type, including, without limitation being a threaded portion, a bayonet engaging member, or the like. Regardless of the configuration of the engagingportion 414, when secured to with a threadedportion 172 along an outer surface of theblade base 28, additional blending space may be created between an interior portion of theblade base 28 and anopen end 413 of thethird blending container 332. Theengagement portion 414 may include a plurality of threads integrated with an inner surface of theouter sleeve 388. The threadedportion 414 would engage with the threadedportion 172 along an outer surface of theblade base 28. - The
inner liner 384 may include awall 310 and a bottom 320 such that thewall 310 extends from aperimeter 325 of the bottom 320 to define acavity 330. Thewall 310 may include arim 340 that defines an opening to thecavity 330. Therim 340 may comprise threads, a lip, or the like. In one instance, therim 340 may be partially disposed between thewall 310 may include a profile shape configured to fit within theouter sleeve 388. In one embodiment, thecavity 330 of theinner liner 384 may fill 8 fluid ounces, 12 fluid ounces or 16 fluid ounces of foodstuff—although it may be of any appropriate shape and size and is not limited to the sizes set forth herein. Foodstuff to be blended may be placed within thecavity 330 of theinner liner 384 as theinner liner 384 is placed within theouter sleeve 388. Theouter sleeve 388 may be interchangeable with a plurality of theinner liners 384 of different sized cavities 330 (e.g., 8 oz., 12 oz., and 16 oz.). For example, theinner liner 384 may be disposable. Theouter sleeve 388 may be sized to accept differently sized inner liners. In at least one embodiment, the profile of thewall 310 of theinner liner 384 may be shaped with a radiallybulbous portion 315 that extends radially outwards relative to the radius dimension of thebottom perimeter 325. The radiallybulbous portion 315 may at least partially frictionally abut against aninner surface 350 of theouter sleeve 388. This may retain theinner liner 384 in place without the need for other mechanisms (e.g., theinner liner 384 may be quickly placed or removed without spinning or other actions), may prevent the inner liner from deforming, or the like. For instance, theinner liner 384 may comprise a disposable plastic, paper, or foam cup. Certain ingredients may move about in theinner liner 384 during blending. Some hard ingredients tend to impact sides of theinner liner 384 at forces that may damage theinner liner 384. As theinner liner 384 contacts theinner surface 350 of theouter sleeve 388, theinner surface 350 may absorb the impact and generally prevent or reduce damage to theinner liner 384. - In at least one embodiment, the
inner surface 350 may include anannular shoulder 355 that protrudes from theinner surface 350 to align and support theinner liner 384 within theouter sleeve 388 in frictional engagement. Theannular shoulder 355 may be generally continuous about theinner surface 350 or may include various spaces located along theinner surface 350 of theouter sleeve 388. Theannular shoulder 355 may be angled in various arrangements and include various profile shapes that protrude from theinner surface 350 of theouter sleeve 388, and may form a ledge or ridge in theinner surface 350. In at least some embodiments, thewall 310 of theinner liner 384 may comprise a ledge or annular shoulder that interacts with theshoulder 355. For instance, theinner liner 384 may comprise an annular shoulder that is similarly sized, angled, and shaped with theshoulder 355 such that the two shoulders mate and cooperate with each other. Thebulbous portion 315 may include any type of profile shape to allow theinner liner 384 to frictionally engage theouter sleeve 388 and this disclosure is not limiting. Thewall 310 orbulbous portion 315 of thewall 310 of theinner liner 384 may slightly deform inwardly for snug engagement thereof thereby preventing further movement of theinner liner 384 within theouter sleeve 388. - Additionally, the
outer sleeve 388 of one size may receive various sizes of theinner liner 384. Thewall 310 of the inner liner may extend while the radialbulbous portions 315 of the various sizes ofinner liners 384 may remain sized to frictionally abut theinner surface 350 of theouter sleeve 388. This may allow oneouter sleeve 388 to be sized to fit various sizes ofinner liners 384 wherein thewall 310 andbottom 320 of theinner liner 384 may be received within thespace 392 of thethird container 332 as illustrated byFIGS. 14 and 15 . - As illustrated by
FIG. 14 , theblade base 28 may engage theouter sleeve 388 such that theengagement portion 414 of theouter sleeve 388 engages theengagement portion 172 of theblade base 28. Therim 340 of theinner liner 384 may be configured to abut against the opentop end 152 of theblade base 28 as theengagement portions rim 340 may abut the opentop end 152 as thebulbous portion 315 of thewall 310 frictionally engages against theinner surface 350 of theouter sleeve 388. - The foodstuff within the
cavity 330 may be exposed to theblade 124 may be partially disposed between theblade base 28 and contained in the resulting space defined by theblade base 28 and thecavity 330. In this engaged position, theblade base 24 may be inserted within theopening 116 in thepedestal 76 in any appropriate manner such that theblade 124 rotatably engages themotor 40 as theouter sleeve 388 may be operably attached to theblender base 24. Additionally, thegasket 232 may be configured to seal thethird container 332 to theblender base 24 as discussed herein. - In one embodiment, the
inner liner 384 may be a container that made from generally inexpensive materials that may also be disposable. Additionally, a lid (not shown) may be provided that generally conforms and operably attaches to therim 340 of theinner liner 384 that may retain the blended foodstuffs therein and make storing blended ingredients in the inner liner convenient. Similarly, a user may add the ingredients intended to be blended into theliner 384 and store it in advance of blending. In fact, theinner liner 384 may be of such an inexpensive construction that a user may be able to purchase multipleinner liners 384 fill them up with ingredients to be stored and then insert theinner liner 384 into theouter sleeve 388 to conduct the blending as described below. Further still, theinner liners 384 may come prepackaged such that a user can purchase such, insert it into theouter sleeve 388 and blend. This may provide a means for companies to sell pre-packaged ingredients for blending. In fact, the supplier may be able to position such items in theinner liner 384 in the proper order to assist with blending such ingredients. - In operation, ingredients may be inserted into the
cavity 330 of theinner liner 384. Then, theblade base 28 may be threadingly engaged to theouter sleeve 388 andinner liner 384. Theinner liner 384 may be held inside theouter sleeve 388 by theblade base 28. This assembly may then be put on to the blender base for blending. After blending, the blade base may be removed from theouter sleeve 388 and theinner liner 384. Theinner liner 384 may be removed from theouter sleeve 388 with the blended ingredients inside thecavity 330. - There may be various ways to extract the
inner liner 384 from theouter sleeve 388 without placing a user's fingers into the blended ingredients. One embodiment may include a secondary base part (not shown) the outer sleeve would sit upon to push out the inner liner. Another embodiment may be a flexible part inside the sleeve (not shown) that would compress as the threads are tightened together placing a force against theinner liner 384 such that as theblade base 28 is removed, theinner liner 384 may bias away from its frictional abutment with theouter sleeve 388. Theouter sleeve 388 would remain clean and anotherinner liner 384 may be placed into theouter sleeve 388 for additional subsequent blending. Further, another embodiment, may be an aperture positioned along theouter sleeve 388 that is configured to allow a mating part such a spatula handle or protrusion to be inserted into the aperture to press against theinner liner 384 and disengage theinner liner 384 from theouter sleeve 388. Further, an aperture may also provide pneumatic pressure relief for thethird container 332. Further still, a push button may be utilized, a handle (both a fixed handle and removable one), ears on theinner liner 384, a tab, or any other mechanism may be utilized without departing from the present teachings. - As shown in
FIGS. 13-15 , the first and second recessedportions lip 216 in thepedestal 76 of theblender base 24 may be configured such that thefirst tab 492 and thesecond tab 504 of theouter sleeve 388 are selectively and operatively engageable with such first and second recessedportions portion 220 may be shaped and sized such that only thefirst tab 492 may be capable of operatively engaging it. Similarly, the second recessedportion 224 may be shaped and sized such that only thesecond tab 504 is operatively engageable therewith. This configuration may help align theouter sleeve 388 of thethird blending container 332 andblade base 28 with theblender base 24. As noted above regarding the relative positions of thefirst tab 492 andsecond tab 504, the first and second recessedportions - Further each of the first and second recessed
portions first tab 492 andsecond tab 504 are operatively positioned within the first andsecond recesses magnets 496 and 508 are not in proximity thereto, i.e., when thetabs portions magnets 496 and 508 within thetabs magnets 496 and 508 are moved away from the switch, the reed switch will go back to its original open position. - When the reed switch is in the open position, the
motor 40 is configured to be disabled, i.e., not operate. When themotor 40 is disabled, theblade base 28 and more particularly, theblade 124 is not capable of operation. Therefore, in order to operate theblending system 20, thethird blending container 332 andblade base 28 must be operatively coupled with theblender base 24. Specifically, thetabs portions blending system 20 to operate. This generally prevents the user from being able to access or otherwise contact theblade 124. - The
aforementioned interlock feature 34 is further configured to generally prevent circumvention by a user. For example, the reed switch may be calibrated to disengage or disable themotor 40 anytime thefirst magnet 396 orsecond magnet 508 or both are a predetermined distance away from the reed switch. The predetermined distance may be calibrated so that the user may not create enough space between the blendingcontainer 332,blade base 28 orblender base 24 to access theblade 124. - While the
blending system 20 is operating, i.e., themotor 40 is operating, the blendingsystem 20 tends to attempt to rotate the blendingcontainer 332 relative to theblender base 24. Thetabs portions container 32 from rotating—it may maintain the blendingcontainer 332 in its operative position with respect to theblender base 24. Thetabs portions interlock feature 34 operatively aligned. - Many separate
inner sleeves 384 may also be used for serving, storage, and transport and may apply to any other blender designs where the adaptive parts or interlocks would not be repeated in theinner sleeve 384 or simple storage containers. The user may have many disposable or otherwise less expensive blended product storage containers without interlock protrusions such astabs - Although the embodiments of the present teachings have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the foregoing detailed description, it is to be understood that the present teachings are not to be limited to just the embodiments disclosed, but that the teachings described herein are capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the scope of the claims hereafter.
Claims (20)
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US17/560,740 US20220110486A1 (en) | 2016-11-18 | 2021-12-23 | Blending system with a liner for blending container |
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US17/560,740 Pending US20220110486A1 (en) | 2016-11-18 | 2021-12-23 | Blending system with a liner for blending container |
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Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2019152963A1 (en) * | 2018-02-05 | 2019-08-08 | Vita-Mix Management Corporation | Reverse draft open top blending container |
US20200229646A1 (en) * | 2017-07-18 | 2020-07-23 | Blix Ltd. | Single-use food preparation container assemblies, systems and methods |
US10863866B2 (en) * | 2018-06-13 | 2020-12-15 | Shenzhen Ningrui Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. | Detachable juicer |
US20210015304A1 (en) * | 2018-04-30 | 2021-01-21 | Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A. | Handling of beverage |
US20210059474A1 (en) * | 2019-08-29 | 2021-03-04 | Defond Electech Co., Ltd. | Food processor with pulsing mode module |
US11272812B2 (en) | 2019-09-06 | 2022-03-15 | Beast Health, LLC | Blender apparatus with safety interlock system |
US11369230B2 (en) * | 2017-04-19 | 2022-06-28 | Sunbeam Corporation Pty Ltd | Closed food processor or blender with a mechanism to open the container to atmosphere |
USD982971S1 (en) * | 2020-10-22 | 2023-04-11 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Blade holder |
USD984210S1 (en) | 2020-10-22 | 2023-04-25 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Blender container |
USD985330S1 (en) | 2020-10-22 | 2023-05-09 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Blender base |
USD999020S1 (en) | 2020-10-22 | 2023-09-19 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Blender container |
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Cited By (18)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11369230B2 (en) * | 2017-04-19 | 2022-06-28 | Sunbeam Corporation Pty Ltd | Closed food processor or blender with a mechanism to open the container to atmosphere |
US20200229646A1 (en) * | 2017-07-18 | 2020-07-23 | Blix Ltd. | Single-use food preparation container assemblies, systems and methods |
US11844465B2 (en) | 2017-07-18 | 2023-12-19 | Blix Ltd. | Single-use food preparation container assemblies, systems and methods |
US11684216B2 (en) | 2018-02-05 | 2023-06-27 | Vita-Mix Management Corporation | Reverse draft open top blending container |
WO2019152963A1 (en) * | 2018-02-05 | 2019-08-08 | Vita-Mix Management Corporation | Reverse draft open top blending container |
US20210015304A1 (en) * | 2018-04-30 | 2021-01-21 | Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A. | Handling of beverage |
US11918148B2 (en) * | 2018-04-30 | 2024-03-05 | Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A. | Handling of beverage |
US10863866B2 (en) * | 2018-06-13 | 2020-12-15 | Shenzhen Ningrui Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. | Detachable juicer |
US20210059474A1 (en) * | 2019-08-29 | 2021-03-04 | Defond Electech Co., Ltd. | Food processor with pulsing mode module |
US11272812B2 (en) | 2019-09-06 | 2022-03-15 | Beast Health, LLC | Blender apparatus with safety interlock system |
US11471844B2 (en) | 2019-09-06 | 2022-10-18 | Beast Health, LLC | Blender apparatus with safety interlock system |
USD982971S1 (en) * | 2020-10-22 | 2023-04-11 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Blade holder |
USD992338S1 (en) | 2020-10-22 | 2023-07-18 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Blender and blender base |
USD999020S1 (en) | 2020-10-22 | 2023-09-19 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Blender container |
USD999589S1 (en) | 2020-10-22 | 2023-09-26 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Blender base |
USD985330S1 (en) | 2020-10-22 | 2023-05-09 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Blender base |
USD1012613S1 (en) | 2020-10-22 | 2024-01-30 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Blade holder |
USD984210S1 (en) | 2020-10-22 | 2023-04-25 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Blender container |
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