WO2022269242A1

WO2022269242A1 - Illuminated food processing device

Info

Publication number: WO2022269242A1
Application number: PCT/GB2022/051571
Authority: WO
Inventors: Robert Spencer
Original assignee: Kenwood Limited
Priority date: 2021-06-24
Filing date: 2022-06-20
Publication date: 2022-12-29

Abstract

A device is provided for processing food, comprising: a drive outlet on an underside of the device for mounting a processing tool; at least one light source located adjacent to the drive outlet so as to provide downward illumination from the underside of the device; and a cover; wherein the cover is arranged to seal the at least one light source within the housing and to transmit light. Other inventions are also disclosed.

Description

Illuminated food processing device

Field

The present invention relates to an illuminated food processing device.

Background

Cooking food processors, including cooking food mixers (e.g., stand mixers) are kitchen devices used to mix, knead, whisk, cut, or otherwise process foodstuffs/beverages within a container (e.g., a bowl) whilst simultaneously, or in a separate step, applying heat to the foodstuff/beverage using integral heating elements. During such processing it is desirable to illuminate the foodstuffs/beverages within the container so that the user can better observe processing of the food matter/beverage. The applicant’s GB2522028 discloses providing illumination in a stand-mixer that encircles the tool to reduce shadows.

However, steam and moisture produced during heating of the beverage/food stuff represents a problem for such illumination.

Unwanted egress of steam from the bowl may be reduced using a transparent bowl-cover. However, this solution has the drawback of reducing user access and visibility of the bowl contents, and of requiring and additional bowl-cover to be produced and stored. Moreover it is difficult to contain steam within a bowl without building up pressure which is undesirable. This problem is especially acute in food processing devices having heating elements, but also exists in those that do not due to e.g., pre-heated food material being processed by the device.

Additionally, it is desirable to provide additional feedback to the user regarding operation and status of the food processing device.

The present invention aims to provide improved arrangements of such food processors. Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for processing food, comprising: a drive outlet on an underside of the device for mounting a processing tool; and a light source, optionally located adjacent the drive outlet, arranged to provide downward illumination from the underside of the device; wherein the light source is sealed, preferably withing a housing of the device, for example by a cover arranged to seal the light source within a housing of the device.

Conveniently, the light source is arranged adjacent or around the drive outlet. The light source may for example surround the drive outlet.

In particular, the light source may be sealed against liquid, fluid or steam from the external environment, preferably by a cover which may be configured to transmit light. Sealing the light source can assist in prevention of damage to the light source in particular by the ingress of vapour such as steam emitted from a container for foodstuffs to be processed, which may be heated, or condensation from cold food. For example, the light source may be provided as a sealed module, which may be mounted in the housing.

In a preferable implementation, the cover is located between the light source and the underside of the device. In this manner, the cover can protect the light source from the ingress of upwardly rising steam from foodstuffs being processed below.

Preferably, the device further comprises a window configured to transmit light, wherein the window is reversibly attachable to the device. The window may be located below the cover. This can provide a further layer of protection against the ingress of food and related vapours. As the window is reversibly attachable, it can be removed and cleaned, and then reattached. It can further be replaced. The window may be connected to the drive outlet such that the window rotates with the drive outlet.

In a preferable configuration, the cover comprises a light guide configured to guide light from the light source. The light guide may be configured to guide light to the window. A light guide can assist in directing light in a desired manner, for example in a particular direction and/or focusing or diverging the light.

More preferably the light guide comprises a lens. In a preferable implementation, this is a concave lens. This can be used to diverge and diffuse the light, which may aid in providing the effect of a continuous light stream, for example in the arrangement of a ring or halo. In an alternative embodiment, this may be a convex lens. This could be used to focus the light in a particular direction.

Preferably, the window and/or light guide are textured to diffuse light from the illumination means. This can aid in ensuring that the light is spread evenly, to enhance illumination.

The light guide may comprise a sealing element arranged to seal the at least one light source within the housing. This can help simplify construction. For example, the sealing means may be part of the light guide formed of a resilient material, for example rubber. The light guide may comprise an over-moulded rubber seal. The light guide may be optically clear while the seal is opaque. Alternatively, the seal itself may be transparent or translucent.

In a preferable implementation, the drive outlet is provided on a rotating member and the cover comprises a sealing element forming a dynamic seal between the rotating member and the housing, preferably wherein the sealing element comprises a lip seal. This can facilitate sealing between the rotating drive outlet and the static housing. The sealing element may be provided as part of the light guide or may be a separate component. The rotating member may provide a further cover for the drive outlet. A separate further cover may be provided configured to interact with the cover to further seal the housing. The sealing element may provide the lowermost seal, and may as such provide the seal against foodstuffs below and their vapours.

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

The device may further comprise a third sealing element between the housing of the device and a casing of the drive system, which may comprise first and second housing parts, wherein the third sealing element forms a static seal. This can provide additional security in the sealing, and may further protect the drive system and/or the at least one light source from the exterior of the device. The third sealing element may be the uppermost seal. The casing of the drive system may comprise a lower part or underside of the device housing.

Preferably, the third sealing element comprises at least one aperture, preferably wherein the apertures are configured to allow release of gas pressure. Even more preferably, the apertures are configured to prevent the ingress of liquid. For example, the apertures may be of a size to allow gas through but prevent the ingress of liquid. The apertures may comprise an incline or U-bend. The apertures may be located substantially above locations where liquid might be expected to pool.

The light source may be connected to a control panel via electrical connections which run through the apertures. This can provide a neat and secure arrangement.

Preferably, the light source comprises a plurality of discrete light emitting elements or sources. Preferably these are arranged around the drive outlet, and may substantially surround or encircle the drive outlet. This may thus provide illumination of a processing tool when mounted to the drive outlet and/or foodstuff to be processed by the device. These may be electrically powered light sources. Preferably, these are LEDs. LEDs provide efficient light emission for their electrical consumption and are cheap and lightweight. The light source preferably comprises a sufficient number of discrete light sources to produce a continuous lighting effect. The light source preferably comprises at least 8 discrete light sources, more preferably at least 10, more preferably at least 12, more preferably at least 14, more preferably at least 16. In a preferable implementation, the light source comprises a printed circuit board. This can power the light sources and is lightweight. The light source may comprise at least two printed circuit boards electrically connected. These can be assembled around the drive system. This assembly can be easier than for a ring-shaped printed circuit board.

Preferably, the light source is configured to emit light in dependence on a condition of the device, so as to provide an indication of the condition to the user. This may be in relation to, for example, power status, on/off/standby status, speed, safety conditions, temperature conditions, lock status and/or tool status.

Preferably, the light source is configured to emit light at more than one colour.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for processing food, comprising: a drive outlet on an underside of the device for mounting a processing tool; at least one light source adjacent to the drive outlet so as to provide downward illumination from the underside of the device; wherein the light source is configured to emit light in dependence on a condition of the device.

The device can convey information by the emission of light from the light source. This may be in relation to, for example, power status, on/off/standby status, speed, safety conditions, temperature conditions, lock status and/or tool status. For example, the intensity of the light may be altered, or the light may move to indicate movement of the tool.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for processing food, comprising: a drive outlet on an underside of the device for mounting a processing tool; at least one light source adjacent to the drive outlet so as to provide downward illumination from the underside of the device; wherein the light source is configured to emit light of more than one colour.

Via the capability to emit at more than one colour, the device is able to convey more information to a user. The device can use light to both illuminate and to convey information. The at least one light source may be configured to emit light of different colour in dependence on feedback from a sensor and/or from input by a user. The device may comprise a temperature sensor, an interlock sensor, a speed sensor and/or a light sensor. The device may be configured such that light is emitted in dependence on user selection of lighting mode, user selection of temperature, user selection of speed and/or user selection of processing mode.

Preferably, the at least one light source is configured to emit light both to provide illumination and to convey information relating to speed, mode, operation state and/or safety. The illumination means may emit light in a pattern. The pattern may be formed on different colours and/or intensities.

The at least one light source may emit light to indicate that driving of the food processing tool is occurring or about to occur. The at least one light source may emit light to indicate that driving of the food processing tool is occurring or about to occur in an intermittent mode.

The at least one light source may be configured to indicate that driving of the tool is occurring and/or about to occur by creating a circulating light pattern. The circulating light pattern may be dependent on the speed at which the tool is being driven and/or going to be driven. The speed of the circulating light pattern may be the same as the speed of the tool.

Preferably, the at least one light source is configured emit light in response to sensor feedback sensor indicating an unsafe operating condition.

The illumination means may comprise two sets of light sources, wherein a first set is for illumination and a second set is for signalling. Preferably, there are a greater number of light sources in the first set than the second set. This is because fewer lights may be required for signalling than for illumination. More preferably the first set is a first colour and the second set is a second colour. This can improve the clarity of signalling. Yet more preferably, the first colour is white and the second colour is red. White light can provide good illumination. Red light can convey warning signals effectively. Preferably the at least one light source comprises red and white LEDs.

In preferable implementations of the invention, the device is configured to heat and/or cook foodstuff or be attached to a food processor configured to heat and/or cook foodstuff.

In preferable implementations of the invention, the device is, or is part of, or is attached to a stand mixer.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a stand mixer comprising the device as described above.

In a preferable implementation, the stand mixer comprises a seat for receiving a container for food processing. The container is preferably configured to receive a tool connected the drive outlet. The seat may comprise a heating and/or cooling element configured to heat and/or cool foodstuffs within the container. This can provide cooking functionality to the stand mixer, while sealing elements can protect the illumination means from foodstuff and steam.

Preferably, the invention is implemented on a kitchen appliance capable of processing hot and/or cold foodstuffs. More preferably, the kitchen appliance is capable of heating and/or cooling the foodstuffs themselves. The foodstuff may be at a temperature over 60 degrees Celsius, preferably up to at least 90 degrees Celsius, more preferably up to at least 100 degrees Celsius, more preferably up to at least 120 degrees Celsius, even more preferably up to at least 150 degrees Celsius, most preferably up to at least 180 degrees Celsius. The foodstuff may be below 10 degrees Celsius, preferably below 5 degrees Celsius, more preferably below 8 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 1 and 5 degrees Celsius, more preferably below 1 degree Celsius, and even more preferably at 0 degrees Celsius.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a food processing device comprising a seat for receiving a container, and a food processing tool drive outlet located above the seat configured to drive a food processing tool attached to the tool drive outlet to carry out food processing within the container, wherein the device further comprises a lighting module located and configured to illuminate an interior of the container during food processing, the lighting module is located within an enclosure configured and arranged to be substantially sealed against steam emitted from the container.

In a preferable implementation, the seat comprises a heating and/or cooling element configured to heat and/or cool food within the container.

Preferably, the lighting module substantially encircles the food processing tool drive outlet.

The steam-proof enclosure may comprise a dynamic seal extending between a static part of the enclosure and a moving part of the food processing tool drive outlet.

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

The enclosure may be vented via a gas-permeable seal at a point distant to the container to prevent the accumulation of condensation within the container, and more preferably is vented at a point on the device that does not face the container.

Preferably, the lighting module comprises a two or more PCB components inter-connected by cables, and more preferably comprises two PCB components.

In a preferable configuration, the lighting module is configured to selectively vary a pattern, colour, or intensity of light emitted responsive to sensor feedback and/or user input.

The lighting module may be configured to emit light of two or more colours, and preferably of two colours, and more preferably white and red. In a preferable implementation, the lighting module is configured to signal that driving of the food processing tool by the tool drive outlet is occurring and/or going to occur responsive to user input and/or sensor feedback.

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

The light module may be further configured to indicate that driving of the tool is occurring and/or going to occur by creating a circulating light pattern.

In a preferable implementation, a circulation speed of the circulating light pattern is dependent on the speed at which the tool is being driven and/or going to be driven.

Preferably, the lighting module is configured to vary a colour of the light emitted responsive to sensor feedback sensor indicating an unsafe operating condition.

The lighting module may be further configured to vary the colour of light emitted responsive to any one of:

• feedback from an interlock sensor indicating that an attachment of the device is not properly attached,

• feedback from a temperature sensor indicating that the container is above or below a predetermined temperature,

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

• user selection of a tool-speed above a predetermined speed via a user interface, or,

• user selection of a heating and/or cooling operation via a user interface.

Preferably, the lighting module comprises multiple light sources, preferably LEDs. Preferably, the multiple light sources comprise a first group of signalling light sources primarily used for signalling a state of the device to the user of a first colour, and a second group of illumination light sources primarily used for illumination of a second colour different to the first colour.

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

In a preferable implementation, the lighting module is configured to user-activable independent of food processing being carried out by the device.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a food processing device comprising a food processing tool drive outlet configured to receive and drive a food processing tool attached to the tool drive outlet to carry out food processing, wherein the device further comprises a lighting module substantially encircling the food processing tool drive outlet, and the lighting module is configured to emit a circulating light pattern prior to and/or during driving of the food processing tool.

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

The circulating light pattern may be emitted dependent on an orientation of the tool. According to a yet further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of assembling a food processing device having a lighting module comprising steps of: a) providing a food processing device having a tool drive assembly, b) locating lighting PCB segments around the tool drive assembly, c) interconnecting the lighting PCB segments electronically to form a lighting module.

The method may preferably further comprise the step of: d) enclosing the lighting module with an enclosure sealed against steam-ingress from below.

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

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

It should also be appreciated that particular combinations of the various features described and defined in any aspects of the invention can be implemented and/or supplied and/or used independently.

In this specification the word 'or' can be interpreted in the exclusive or inclusive sense unless stated otherwise.

Furthermore, features implemented in hardware may generally be implemented in software, and vice versa. Any reference to software and hardware features herein should be construed accordingly.

Whilst the invention has been described in the field of domestic food processing and preparation machines, it can also be implemented in any field of use where efficient, effective and convenient preparation and/or processing of material is desired, either on an industrial scale and/or in small amounts. The field of use includes the preparation and/or processing of: chemicals; paints; building materials; clothing materials; agricultural and/or veterinary feeds and/or treatments, including fertilisers, grain and other agricultural and/or veterinary products; oils; fuels; dyes; cosmetics; plastics; tars; finishes; waxes; varnishes; beverages; solders; alloys; effluent; and/or other substances, and any reference to “food” herein may be replaced by such working mediums.

The invention described here may be used in any kitchen appliance and/or as a stand alone device. This includes any domestic food-processing and/or preparation machine, including both top-driven machines ( e.g . stand-mixers) and bottom-driven machines ( e.g . blenders). It may be implemented in heated and/or cooled machines. It may be used in a machine that is built-in to a work-top or work surface, or in a stand-alone device. The invention can also be provided as a stand-alone device.

“Food processing” as described herein should be taken to encompass chopping, whisking, stirring, kneading, mincing, grinding, shaping, shredding, grating, cooking, freezing, making ice-cream, juicing (centrifugally or with a scroll), or other food-processing activities involving the physical and/or chemical transformation of food and/or beverage material by mechanical, chemical, and/or thermal means. “Food processing attachment” encompasses any attachable component configured, for example on rotation and/or energising, to carry out any of the previously described food processing tasks.

Brief Description of Drawings

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

Figure 1 is a perspective drawing of a food processing device according to the invention;

Figure 2 is a partial, side-on drawing of the head-section of the food processing device shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is a side-on view through the section A-A of Figure 2;

Figure 4 is an exploded, perspective drawing of the lower drive outlet section of the head- section of Figure 2; and, Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the section B of Figure 3.

Specific Description

Figure 1 depicts a food processing device 100 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The exemplary food processing device 100 is generally c-shaped, with a base 110, from which a stand section 120 extends upwardly, and a head section 130 extending horizontally from the stand section 120 so as to over-hang the base 110.

The base 110 includes a bowl-seat 111 to which a bowl 200 may be attached. The bowl- seat 111 can include weighing scales for weighing the contents of the bowl 200, and heating elements, for example induction heating elements, for heating the contents of the bowl 200. Additionally or alternatively, the bowl seat 111 may incorporate cooling elements for cooling the bowl 200.

The stand 120 section contains a motor (not shown) for powering food processing tools 150 via differing drive-outlets 131 , 132, 140 via suitable gearing. The stand section 120 includes a control interface such as a touch screen display 121 and a control knob 122, through which the user may input instructions for the device 100 to carry out and receive feedback from sensors, including e.g., temperature and weight sensors.

The head section 130 can hinge towards and away from the base 110. The hinges may be locked and released using a lever 123 located on the base 110. The head section 130 can include upper drive outlets 131 and 132 (shown covered) to which attachments (e.g., meat grinders, choppers etc.) may be attached.

As shown in Figure 2, the head section 130 additionally includes a lower drive outlet 140. The lower drive outlet 140 is preferably suspended above the bowl-seat 111 such that when a tool 150 is attached to the drive outlet 140, it is held so as to extend into a bowl 200 located in the bowl seat 111. In this way the tool 150 may be lowered within a bowl 200 containing food matter so that when the user selects that the tool 150 should be driven, it can process the food within the bowl 200. The drive outlet 140 as illustrated is a planetary outlet having a rotating hub 9, provided with a hub cover 10. At the centre of the hub 9, there is a hub nut 6. The hub nut extends over the hub cover 10 to secure and seal it. On the hub 9 and/or hub cover 10, there is provided an attachment point 7 for the removable- attachment of the tool 150. The attachment point 7 in the exemplary embodiment as illustrated is a bayonet socket that is off-centred relative to a central hub nut 6. The tool 150 can be driven to rotate about the axis of the attachment point 7 as it is simultaneously driven to orbit about the central hub nut 6 to effect planetary motion. In alternative exemplary embodiments, the tool 140 may remain static relative to the attachment point 7 whilst orbiting the hub nut 6, or the attachment point 7 may be located centrally on the hub 9 or hub cover 10. The hub cover 10 may rotate with the hub 9, or it may remain static.

Figures 3 and 4 show in further detail the construction of the head section 130 and lower drive outlet 140. Figure 3 shows a cross-section through the head section 130 and lower drive outlet 140 across the line A-A as indicated in Figure 2. The head section 130 has a housing 1 that encloses the components, including the gearing used to transmit drive- impetus to the outlet 140. A gearbox 2 is provided within a gearbox casing 3. The gearbox 2 has a ring-gear 5, and a drive-shaft 17 extending through a drive-shaft bearing 15 and connected at a lower-end to the hub-nut 6. The drive-shaft 17 can be driven to rotate by the motor via gear 16. The drive-shaft 17 drives hub 9 with hub cover 10 to rotate, the drive-shaft 17 being driven by the motor. The components of the gearbox 2 are often lubricated by a suitable lubricant.

A lighting module 4 is provided above the hub 9. This is a ring-shaped printed circuit board (PCB) comprising an array of LEDs positioned around the axis of the drive-shaft 17, and is located between the gearbox 2 and the hub 9. At this position, light from the lighting module 4 can be emitted into the bowl 200 to a window 11 via a light guide 12. The lighting module 4 is thus spaced from the lower surface of the lower drive outlet 140 (the underside of the drive outlet 140), which aids in preventing any steam rising from foodstuffs below reaching the lighting module 4.

The light guide 12 carries the light emitted down to the window 11 at the base of the drive outlet. The light guide 12 has an upper ring-shaped surface which corresponds to the shape and position of the lighting module 4, such that it collects the majority of the light emitted by the lighting module 4. It then curves downwards to a narrower bottom ring- shaped surface, the inner sidewall of the ring forming a concave lens pointing down to the window 11. It is optically clear and textured at least in the region of each LED to diffuse the light. The concave lens diverges the light and directs it towards the window 11. Thus, the light guide 12 serves to spread light out, making light emission through the window 11 more even. The window 11 is a clear moulding with a uniform texture on the outer surface to diffuse the light evenly. There are provided a sufficient number of LEDs such that the impression of continuous lighting is created by the light guide 12 and window 11 diffusing the light. The window 11 and light guide 12 are halo-shaped (ring-shaped) so as to substantially surround the tool 150 with light when it is attached to the attachment point 7, thus avoiding shadows. This can be achieved by a continuous ring-shaped window 11 and light guide 12, or a ring-shaped arrangement of multiple windows 11 and light guides 12. The window 11 is sealingly attached to the hub 9 and/or hub cover 10 to substantially prevent steam ingress therebetween under ordinary conditions of kitchen use. Preferably the window 11 is mounted on the hub cover 10 so as to be static relative thereto for simplifying sealing therebetween. If the hub cover 10 rotates, the window 11 will then rotate along with it. The window 11 is clipped onto the hub 9 and/or hub cover 10. This may be a snap fit, for instance using a tongue and groove mechanism, and preferably is reversible so that the window can be removed for cleaning and then reattached. In this configuration, the window can also be replaced if it becomes damaged or dirty.

The lighting module 4 is made up of multiple point-source light sources, which can improve redundancy. In a preferable embodiment, there are provided sixteen equally spaced LEDs in a ring. Preferably the lighting module 4 is capable of emitting light in more than one colour (that is, light at different wavelengths on the electro-magnetic spectrum), and at more than one intensity. For example, the PCB may comprise 12 white LEDs and 4 red LEDs. This provides the option of transmitting patterns of differing colours and intensities depending on which colour LEDs are activated and how many of them are activated at once. More colours may be provided, but two is sufficient to indicate at least an emergency state and an ordinary operating state, as well as potentially a third state (e.g., a stand-by state) by emitting both colours at once. Where one colour (e.g., red) is used to indicate an emergency state, fewer LEDs of that colour are required as these LEDs are not used for illumination.

As illustrated in Figure 4, which shows an exploded view of the components of the drive outlet 140, the lighting module 4 is a two-piece PCB assembly comprising two PCBs 4a and 4b inter-connected electronically by short link cables 4c. Each of the two PCBs 4a and 4b is in the shape of a semi-circular arc, such that when connected the lighting module 4 forms a ring around the axis of the drive-shaft 17 of the lower drive outlet 140. This two- piece construction allows the two parts to be assembled horizontally together in situ and then interconnected (either with the cables 4c, or by another means such as soldering) thus avoiding having to vertically locate a ring-shaped PCB around the various components of the gearbox 2. More than two PCB parts may be used with a similar advantage in terms of enabling assembly in situ, though with increased number of PCB segments complexity increases. PCB parts/segments are also easier and cheaper to obtain than a ring-shaped PCB.

The configuration of the sealing elements of the lower drive outlet 140, as illustrated in exploded view in Figure 4, will be described from the upper surface downwards. At the base of the head section 130 is a piece forming a head underside 14, which sits at the top of the lower drive outlet 140. This forms the bottom casing of the head section 130, and is shaped to fit accordingly, being a generally saddle-shaped shell with a circular aperture through which the drive-shaft 17 extends. It further comprises formations for attachment to the head section 130. A hub cover seal 13 sits between the head underside 14 and the lighting module 4. This is formed as a ring-shaped collar 132 configured to fit within the gearbox casing 3. Described with respect to the axis of the drive-shaft 17, a first annular lip 134 extends radially outwardly at one axial end and a second annular lip 136 extends radially inwardly at the other. The join between the housing 1 and the gearbox casing 3 is sealed by an uppermost seal 20, which is formed between the cover seal 13 and the head underside 14. Figure 5 provides an enlarged view of section B as labelled in Figure 3. In particular, the first annular lip 134 of the cover seal 13 extends over and down around the housing 3 to accommodate the upper edge. From this a V-shaped formation 134a then extends upwardly, into which fits a bevelled edge of the head underside 14. The head underside 14 mirrors the shape of this first lip of the cover seal 13: it also comprises a lip 14a extending radially outwardly, which extends downwards around the cover seal 13. This terminates in a bevelled edge, which sits within the V-shaped formation 134a of the cover seal 13. It then extends into a V-shaped lip itself, within which sits a lip of the head section housing 1. This arrangement provides that steam ingress is substantially prevented under ordinary conditions of kitchen use. This uppermost seal 20 can be a static-type seal (e.g., a polymer glue seal) as there is little or no relative movement between the components.

The gap between the ring-gear 5 and the casing 3 is sealed by a second seal 30, which is also provided by the hub cover seal 13. This seal is a dynamic-type seal (i.e. , one capable of accommodating relative movement between two components) and may be formed as a lips-seal (i.e., a seal comprising one or more resilient lips, preferably rubber or elastomeric lips). The second lip 136 of the hub cover seal 13 extends inwardly towards the ring-gear 5 at an angle. The lip extends in a downwards-facing V-shape (or U-shaped, tick-shape, or similar). For example, the first part of the lip 136a extends upwardly inwards from the collar 132 with respect to the axis of the tool shaft (where the tool is considered to extend downwards) at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. The second part 136b, which is located further inwards than the first part 136a, then extends at an angle of approximately 90 degrees from the first part 136a, such that it is also at an approximate angle of 45 degrees to the collar 136b. The second part 136b makes contact with the ring-gear 5 to form a dynamic seal. In this way upward ingress of steam, and downward egress of lubricant, may be substantially reduced or prevented under ordinary kitchen use. Through the uppermost seal 20 and the second seal 30, the hub cover seal 13 protects the lighting module 4 from contamination by the gearbox 2 above.

A cable allowing at least one-way transmission of instructions from the touch screen display 121 and/or control knob 122 to the lighting module 4 may pass sealingly through the hub cover seal 13 between the lighting module 4 and the head section 130. Preferably it allows bi-directional communication therebetween for permitting telemetry data from sensors associated with the lower drive outlet 140 (e.g., temperature and light-level sensors) to be transmitted to the touch screen display 121.

The hub cover seal 13 may have apertures 13a sized and arranged so as to prevent liquid ingress/egress through them whilst allowing gas/vapour transmission through the seal 13, and preferably to an external vent distant from the bowl 200 (e.g., at a point on the housing 1 that does not face the container 200, such as e.g., on the stand 120) such that steam emitted from the bowl is substantially prevented from reaching the lighting module 4 through the vent. For example, the apertures 13a may be too small to allow substantial amounts of water to flow through them whilst allowing gas to go through. Additionally or alternatively the apertures 13a may form an upwards incline or U-bend such that liquid will not flow down them under ordinary use. In a further additional or alternative configuration, the apertures 13a may be located substantially above locations where liquid might be expected to pool. In this way the build-up of condensation may be prevented whilst preventing liquid ingress/egress. These apertures 13a may also double as a passage for the above-discussed cable connecting the lighting module 4 to the display 121 and/or control knob 122.

The gap at the base of the drive outlet 140, between the casing 3 and the hub 9 (and/or hub cover 10 and/or window 11), is sealed by a further, lowermost seal 40. This lowermost seal 40 extends axially downwards from the lighting module 4 and light guide 12, curving radially outwards to where it makes contact with the hub 9. The radial width of the hub 9 extends further beyond the point at which the hub 9 meets the lowermost seal 40; this provides further protection against the ingress of steam. The hub cover 10 is attached to the hub 9, to which the window 11 is attached, extending to an even greater radial width. In alternative embodiments, the lowermost seal 40 may be in contact with the hub cover and/or window directly, in addition to or alternatively to the hub 9. This lowermost seal 40 may be integrally-formed with the light guide 12 to simplify construction, or it may be an additional component e.g., snapped or glued to the light guide 12. Where the lowermost seal 40 is integrally-formed with the light guide 12, the light guide 12 may be made of a transparent, flexible material such as a transparent elastomer. The light guide 12 may vary in density/hardness so as to be relatively hard in its light guide section and relatively flexible at its sealing section 40. Flexing of the light guide section may be undesirable as this can cause unwanted variations in light output. The lowermost seal 40 is preferably a dynamic seal as previously described for sealingly accommodating relative movement between the hub 9/hub cover 10 and the casing 3 so as to substantially prevent liquid/vapour/steam ingress from an external environment into the space in which the lighting module 4 is located, thus substantially preventing harm to lighting module 4 from e.g., steam/water vapour created by heating of food/beverage material within the bowl 200 by heating elements in the bowl-seat 111. The hub cover 10 provides The hub nut 6, which secures the base of the hub 9 and hub cover 10, comprises a collar 6a which extends wider than the central apertures in the hub 9 and hub cover 10 through which it passes. This further aids prevention of steam ingress. The lighting module 4 is thus substantially enclosed by an enclosure that is sealed against steam emitted from the bowl 200. The combination of all three seals 20, 30, 40 ensures that there are provided seals both above and below the lighting module 4.

In use, the lighting module 4 can be configured to emit different colours, intensities, and/or patterns of light depending on the status of the device 100. For example, the lighting module 4 may selectively activate and de-activate white light LEDs sequentially to create the impression of one or more lights circulating about the drive outlet 140, as a visual indicator that the tool 150 is being driven, or is going to be driven. The speed at which the lights activate/deactivate may be varied so as to correspond to (or be a function of, e.g., proportionate to, or otherwise dependent on) the speed at which the tool 150 is being driven. The location of the light emitted by the lighting module may correspond vertically to the location of a horizontal protrusion of the tool 150 (e.g., the sideways protrusion of a whisk or beater) to signal the orientation of the tool 150 to the user. Particularly where the tool 150 is located in the bowl so as to not be visible from the outside except from above (e.g., where the tool 150 extends entirely below the rim of the bowl 200, or the majority of it does) this can help indicate visually to the user that the tool 150 is rotating. This arrangement is also advantageous when the tool 150 is being driven in an intermittent mode, with predetermined (or sensor feedback-dependent) periods of movement followed by periods when the tool is stationary, as it allows the user to know that, even though the tool 150 is currently stationary, it may start rotating at any time. The lighting module 4 may indicate an emergency state. This can take the form of activating red LEDs. This emergency state may be indicated in response to an interlock sensor being actuated. For example the emergency state may be indicated when it is sensed that the bowl 200 is not properly located in the bowl-seat 111 using an interlock sensor such as a micro-switch actuated by the bowl 200 when it is secured in the bowl- seat 111. The emergency state may also be indicated when the bowl 200 is excessively hot or cold - this may be detected using a temperature sensor in the seat 111. Alternatively, it may be indicated as a function of time passed since heating/cooling, for example the bowl 200 is sensed as being located in the bowl seat 111 and the time since heating or cooling of the bowl 200 is less than a predetermined amount corresponding to a cool-down/warm-up time. As a further example, the indication lights may show when the bowl 200 is currently being heated/cooled.

Red lights may also be activated to indicate high-speed processing e.g., sensed by a Hall sensor or responsive to user selection of a high speed. The attachment of a bladed (or otherwise dangerous) tool may also cause the lighting module 4 to display red warning lights. The device 100 may detect the attachment of a dangerous tool using e.g., an RFID chip associated with the tool being sensed by an RFID sensor associated with the device 100.

The lighting module 4 may vary lighting automatically based on feedback from local sensors (e.g., a speed-sensor such as a Hall sensors associated with the drive-shaft 17, to which the lighting module 4 is connected directly and not e.g., via an intermediate data processor). Alternatively or additionally it may vary lighting based on input from the touch screen display 121 and/or control knob 122. Varying lighting based on local sensors is advantageous as it reduces the need for communication between the lighting module 4 and other data processors of the device 100.

The lighting module 4 may also vary the lighting dependent on the position of the head section 130, for example dependent on whether the head section 130 is pivoted away from the base 110 or locked into position. For example, the light may be emitted at a lower intensity when the head section 130 is pivoted away so as not to dazzle the user. When the head section 130 is locked into position, the intensity can be automatically increased to illuminate the contents of the bowl 200.

The lighting module 4 may be switchable between a user-controlled mode, in which the user controls light-level, pattern, and/or light colour directly using the touch-screen interface 121 and/or control knob 122, and an automatic mode in which the lighting module 4 lights automatically. For example, the user may choose to activate the lighting module 4 even when no processing is taking place and/or when the head 130 is pivoted away from the base 110, for e.g., using the device 100 as a lamp.

Although illustrated and described above as implemented in a stand mixer with a bowl pedestal, the invention may also be implemented in handheld mixers such as stick blenders, hand whisks and similar. Indeed, the invention may be implemented in any food processing appliance with an extending tool, and which is used for the processing of hot and / or cold foodstuffs.

The tool 150 and bowl 200 are preferably made of food-safe, dishwasher-safe material. The housing 1 , casing 3, hub cover 10, and other external elements of the device 100 are preferably made of food-safe material.

As used herein, the term "removable attachment" (and similar terms such as “removably attachable” or “reversibly attachable”), as used in relation to an attachment between a first object and a second object, preferably connotes that the first object is attached to the second object and can be detached (and preferably re-attached, detached again, and so on, repetitively), and/or that the first object may be removed from the second object without damaging the first object or the second object; more preferably the term connotes that the first object may be re-attached to the second object without damaging the first object or the second object, and/or that the first object may be removed from (and optionally also re-attached to) the second object by hand and/or without the use of tools (e.g. screwdrivers, spanners, etc.). Mechanisms such as a snap-fit, a bayonet attachment, and a hand-rotatable locking nut may be used in this regard. “Liquid-tight” or “fluid-tight” or similar such terms are used to mean that the seal prevents the ingress of fluids and vapours, for example steam or condensation from foodstuffs

“Food safe” in this context means any substance that does not shed substances harmful to human health in clinically significant quantities if ingested. For example, it should be BPA-free.

“Dishwasher safe” means that it should be physically and chemically stable during prolonged exposure to the conditions prevailing within a dishwasher machine. For example it should be able to withstand exposure to a mixture of water and a typical dishwasher substance (e.g., washing with Fairy™ or Finish™ dishwasher tablets and water, at temperatures of 82 degrees centigrade for as long as 8 hours without visibly degrading (e.g., cracking)). It will be understood that the present invention has been described above purely by way of example, and modifications of detail can be made within the scope of the invention.

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

Reference numerals appearing in the claims are by way of illustration only and shall have no limiting effect on the scope of the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A device for processing food, comprising: a drive outlet on an underside of the device for mounting a processing tool; a light source arranged to provide downward illumination from the underside of the device; and a cover arranged to seal the light source within a housing, preferably a housing of the device.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein cover is arranged to seal the light source in at least one of a liquid-tight, steam-tight and fluid-tight manner.

3. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover comprises a light guide configured to guide light downwardly from the light source, preferably wherein the light guide comprises a lens, optionally a concave lens.

4. The device of claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the light source comprises a lighting module arranged adjacent or around the drive outlet, preferably surrounding the drive outlet.

5. The device of claim 3 or 4, further comprising a window configured to transmit light from the light source, wherein the window is reversibly attachable to the device, preferably wherein the window is located below the cover.

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

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

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

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

10. The device of claim 9, wherein the light source is sealed from the drive system by a second sealing element between the housing of the device and the drive system, preferably wherein the second sealing element forms a dynamic seal.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the housing of the device comprises first and second housing parts, and comprising a third sealing element between the housing parts, optionally wherein one of the housing parts comprises a casing for the drive system, and preferably wherein the seal does not face downwardly.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the third sealing element is gas permeably, preferably comprising apertures, optionally wherein the apertures are configured to allow release of gas pressure.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the light source is connected to a control panel via electrical connections which pass through the apertures.

14. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the light source comprises a plurality of discrete light emitting elements, preferably arranged around the drive outlet, more preferably wherein the light sources are LEDs.

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

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

17. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the light source is configured selectively to vary a pattern, colour or intensity of light emitted from the light source, preferably in response to a user input or an input from at least one sensor, optionally to provide an indication of at least one condition of the device.

18. A device for processing food, comprising: a drive outlet on an underside of the device for mounting a processing tool; and a light source arranged adjacent the drive outlet, preferably surrounding the drive outlet; wherein the light source is configured to emit light in a pattern to provide an indication of a condition of the device.

19. A device for processing food, comprising: a drive outlet on an underside of the device for mounting a processing tool; and a light source arranged adjacent the drive outlet, preferably surrounding the drive outlet; wherein the light source is capable of emitting light of more than one colour.

20. The device of any of claims 16 to 19, wherein the light source is configured to emit light in dependence on feedback from a sensor and/or from input by a user.

21. The device of claim 20, wherein the light source is configured to emit light both to provide illumination and to provide an indication to a user relating to a condition of the device, preferably speed, mode, operation state and/or safety.

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

23. The device of claim 21 , wherein the first set comprises a greater number of elements than the second set, more preferably wherein the first set is a first colour and the second set is a second colour, yet more preferably wherein the first colour is white and the second colour is red.

24. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the device is configured to heat and/or cook foodstuff or be attached to a food processor configured to heat and/or cook foodstuff.

25. A stand mixer comprising the device of any of claims 1 to 24, the stand mixer having a seat for receiving a container, the seat being provided below the underside of the device.