Kitchen appliance comprising pump and user interface

Abstract

There is provided a kitchen appliance (10) comprising at least one outlet (14A, 14B) through which a fluid or consumable containing a fluid can be delivered. Each at least one outlet is arranged such that delivery of the fluid or consumable via the outlet is visible to the user when the kitchen appliance is in use. The kitchen appliance also includes a fluid displacement system (12) including a pump (26). The fluid displacement system is operable in a delivery mode in which actuation of the pump causes delivery via the at least one outlet and a feedback mode in which actuation of the pump provides auditory and / or tactile feedback but does not cause delivery via any of the at least one outlet. A user interface (40) receives user input from a user, and a control system (31) controls the fluid displacement system to operate in a feedback mode in response to receiving the user input by the user interface. Thereby, the pump is used to provide auditory and / or haptic feedback in response to user input via the user interface, but the auditory and / or haptic feedback is not accompanied by delivery of fluid or consumables containing fluid via any of the at least one outlet. A method of operating such a kitchen appliance and a related computer program are also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a kitchen appliance, such as a beverage dispenser, comprising a pump and a user interface. The invention also relates to a method for operating such a kitchen appliance and related computer programs. Background Technology

[0002] Several kitchen appliances on the market include pumps for moving fluids (such as liquids). These appliances include food processors for handling food and beverage machines for preparing beverages. In such beverage machines, a certain type of food or ingredient, such as coffee, tea, milk, chocolate, etc., is processed by adding water (in many cases, hot water).

[0003] This type of kitchen appliance can be considered to have different functional components (especially the user interface) and a liquid supply system.

[0004] The user interface can accept input from the user of the kitchen appliance and can also provide feedback on the status of the kitchen appliance. The liquid supply system may include containers (e.g., water tanks), pumps, heaters, and food processing chambers / units, with the pumps arranged to deliver liquid from the containers to the food processing units.

[0005] The pumps used in such kitchen appliances, especially in beverage machines, are typically vibratory pumps because they offer good value for money. Vibratory pumps may have, for example, an internal plunger that shifts at the mains frequency, and valves (e.g., check valves) that allow fluid to shift downstream toward the food processing unit.

[0006] As the name suggests, vibratory pumps are known for the vibrations and noise they generate. Vibratory pumps tend to be installed, for example, by suspension (by elastic members) to the structure / base of the kitchen appliance to suppress / minimize the propagation of noise and vibration. However, such vibrations still tend to be detectable at the outer casing / housing of the kitchen appliance.

[0007] In particular, kitchen appliances can be asked to provide feedback when a user has already entered or is entering data through the user interface, indicating when the appliance is being operated.

[0008] This requirement can be met, for example, by the movement of an electromechanical switch or button included in the user interface. However, such a switch / button may compromise the robustness of the kitchen appliance and may make it more difficult to clean, as cleaning fluids need to be prevented from entering the appliance near the switch / button (e.g., in the surrounding area).

[0009] This problem can be solved by including non-movable sensors in the user interface. In fact, user interface solutions without moving parts are increasingly being adopted. However, such non-movable sensors may require kitchen appliances to include additional feedback devices, such as buzzers or whistles, to provide feedback on when the appliance is being operated, and generally enhance the user experience. Including such additional devices increases the complexity and cost of the kitchen appliance. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This invention is defined by the claims.

[0011] According to one aspect of the invention, a kitchen appliance is provided, comprising: at least one outlet through which fluid or a consumable including said fluid can be delivered, said at least one outlet being arranged such that delivery of said fluid or consumable via said at least one outlet is visible to a user when the kitchen appliance is used; a fluid displacement system including a pump, said fluid displacement system being operable in a delivery mode and a feedback mode, wherein in the delivery mode actuation of said pump causes said delivery via said at least one outlet, and in the feedback mode actuation of said pump provides auditory and / or tactile feedback but does not cause said delivery via either of said at least one outlet; a user interface for receiving user input from said user; and a control system configured to control said fluid displacement system to operate in said feedback mode in response to receiving said user input by said user interface.

[0012] This invention is based in part on the understanding that the pump in a fluid displacement system can be used to provide auditory and / or tactile feedback in response to user input received from a user interface.

[0013] Such auditory and / or tactile feedback can enhance the user experience of the user interface, but in a way that minimizes complexity and cost. This is because pumps are already included in kitchen appliances for the delivery of fluids / consumables via the appliance's outlet, and providing auditory and / or tactile feedback serves the additional purpose of confirming that user input has been received through the user interface.

[0014] The movement of pump components inherent in pump actuation can produce vibrations that are perceived by the user through hearing and / or touch.

[0015] In embodiments where the actuation of the pump provides tactile feedback, this can be achieved through a user interface arranged relative to the pump in a kitchen appliance, such that the vibration of the pump (when actuated) is transmitted to the user interface, for example, to a surface of the user interface that the user can touch when the user is inputting user input.

[0016] The fluid transfer system can operate in a delivery mode, in which pump actuation causes delivery of one or both of the fluid and the consumable via one or more of at least one outlet. However, in feedback mode, pump actuation provides audible and / or tactile feedback but does not cause such delivery via any outlet.

[0017] In this way, auditory and / or tactile feedback is provided to the user, for example, to confirm that their user input has been received, but this auditory and / or tactile feedback is not accompanied by the delivery of fluids / consumables via any outlet. This helps to avoid waste observed by the user, such as the waste of liquids (e.g., water).

[0018] Consistent with this purpose, at least one outlet may define a single point from which fluids or consumables can be visibly removed from the interior of a kitchen appliance.

[0019] In some embodiments, energy waste that might otherwise occur can be avoided if auditory and / or tactile feedback is accompanied by the delivery of fluids / consumables via an outlet.

[0020] The control system can receive user input signals from the user interface, indicating that user input has been received, and in response to receiving the user input signals, sends control signals to the fluid displacement system. The control signals enable the fluid displacement system to operate in feedback mode.

[0021] The fluid displacement system can be constructed in any suitable manner to be operable such that actuation of the pump provides audible and / or tactile feedback without causing delivery of fluid / consumables via any outlet. In some embodiments, the fluid displacement system includes a valve assembly configured and / or operable to control fluid movement toward an outlet during pump actuation, for example, when the fluid displacement system is controlled to operate in a feedback mode or a delivery mode.

[0022] When a pump is actuated in a fluid displacement system in feedback mode, a relatively limited amount of fluid (e.g., liquid, such as water) can be displaced by the pump.

[0023] Valve assemblies (such as passive check valves downstream of the heater) and / or active valves (such as solenoid valves) can impede the flow of the limited amount of fluid toward the outlet, thereby preventing delivery via any outlet.

[0024] In some embodiments, the control signals to the fluid transfer system may include pump control signals for actuating the pump and valve assembly control signals for operating the valve assembly.

[0025] When a fluid displacement system is controlled to operate in feedback mode, the valve assembly can be controlled by the control system to restrict (e.g., block) the flow of fluid toward the outlet.

[0026] When the fluid transfer system is controlled to operate in delivery mode, the valve assembly allows fluid to flow toward an outlet (e.g., one or more of at least one outlet).

[0027] It should be noted that the liquid supply system of kitchen appliances (such as beverage machines) may be equipped with active and passive valves, which are used in this document to prevent fluid (such as water) from being diverted from outlets (one or more), for example, to the outside of the kitchen appliance, when the pump is actuated to provide audible / tactile feedback in response to the user interface.

[0028] In some embodiments, the pump includes a vibratory pump comprising a pumping member and a solenoid energized to cause displacement of the pumping member when the pump is actuated. The control system is configured to receive an electrical signal from a power source and use the electrical signal to drive the solenoid to cause displacement of the pumping member. For example, the electrical signal may be an AC voltage signal provided by a mains power source.

[0029] This type of vibratory pump can provide noise and vibration during actuation, which can be advantageously used for auditory and / or tactile feedback. Furthermore, this vibratory pump can represent a relatively simple and cost-effective pumping solution.

[0030] In some embodiments, when the fluid displacement system is controlled to operate in delivery mode, displacement of the pumping member in the downstream direction causes delivery of fluid / consumables via the outlet.

[0031] When the fluid displacement system is controlled to operate in feedback mode, the valve assembly can be operated to restrict the flow of fluid toward the outlet during downstream displacement of the pumping member.

[0032] Thus, when the fluid displacement system is controlled to operate in feedback mode, the pump can be actuated. The movement of the fluid displacement system in feedback mode corresponds to the movement when the fluid displacement system is controlled to operate in delivery mode. However, the valve assembly allows fluid to flow downstream toward the outlet in delivery mode, while such fluid flow is not allowed in feedback mode.

[0033] In some embodiments, the control system is configured to, when the fluid displacement system is in the feedback mode, control the pump to actuate instantaneously in response to user input received from the user interface. Therefore, the pump can provide the user with immediate acknowledgment that their user input has been received.

[0034] In other words, auditory and / or tactile feedback provided by pump actuation (e.g., via sudden power supply to the pump) can form part of the user's interaction with the user interface.

[0035] In some embodiments, the control system is configured to actuate the pump with a power pulse in response to user input received from the user interface. This power pulse may cause the pump to emit a "thump" or "click" sound.

[0036] In some embodiments, the control system is configured to drive the solenoid with power pulses by using an electrical signal to drive the solenoid.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, a power pulse may be applied for up to 500 milliseconds, preferably up to 200 milliseconds.

[0038] Therefore, the pump can be conveniently energized for a relatively short time, such as a fraction of a second or preferably a single AC current wave. The term "single AC current wave" can refer to the positive or negative side of a sine wave, so when, for example, the AC power supply frequency is 60 Hz or 50 Hz, the wave lasts for 8.3 milliseconds or 10 milliseconds.

[0039] In some embodiments, the control system is configured to drive the solenoid using a fraction of the positive or negative half-cycle by applying phase angle control (in other words, phase ignition control) to the electrical signal, and to actuate the pump with the power pulse.

[0040] The user interface can have any suitable design, as long as it is capable of receiving user input from the user. In some embodiments, the user interface includes a non-movable touch sensor and / or an optical sensor configured to sense user input.

[0041] Touch sensors may include, for example, capacitive sensors.

[0042] Optical sensors may include, for example, a light source, such as a display or a light-emitting diode, arranged below the sensing area.

[0043] Non-movable contact sensors and / or optical sensors are easy to clean due to their inherently liquid-proof design. While the lack of moving parts in such a user interface may mean that tactile and auditory feedback is not provided or is only limited through interaction with the user interface, the auditory and / or tactile feedback provided by pump actuation ensures that the required feedback is provided.

[0044] For example, when a pump in the form of a vibratory pump is excited with a single current wave, the movement of the pumping component can cause the vibration wave to propagate to the rest of the kitchen appliance, such as to the surface of the user interface, such as a sensing area monitored by a non-movable touch sensor and / or optical sensor, where the user's finger is entering user input.

[0045] In some embodiments, the control system is configured to control the fluid displacement system to operate in a feedback mode and then in a delivery mode in response to receiving user input from a user interface.

[0046] Therefore, the pump can be initially actuated without delivering fluid / consumables from any outlet in order to provide auditory and / or tactile feedback to confirm that user input has been received, and then the pump can be actuated to deliver fluid / consumables from the outlet, for example, based on the user selection made when entering user input.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, the user interface may receive additional user input from the user that causes operation in feedback mode. The control system may be configured to control the fluid transfer system to operate in delivery mode in response to additional user input.

[0048] Additional user input can be received after the user input, in other words, after the previous user input, which results in operation in a feedback mode.

[0049] In some embodiments, inputting additional user input can cause the control system to operate in a delivery mode, for example, not initially in a feedback mode.

[0050] More generally, kitchen appliances can be of any suitable type. In some embodiments, kitchen appliances include, for example, beverage machines.

[0051] In other embodiments, kitchen appliances include, for example, food processors.

[0052] In the case of kitchen appliances that are food processors, liquids (such as water) can be delivered to the food processing unit of the food processor via a fluid transfer system.

[0053] Kitchen appliances in the form of beverage machines can be used to prepare various types of beverages, such as coffee, tea, milk, and drinking chocolate (e.g., hot chocolate).

[0054] The aforementioned feedback mode can be redundant in some operations of kitchen appliances, such as when “one-touch” hot water and / or steam delivery via an outlet is required. For this purpose, additional user input can cause the control system to operate in delivery mode to trigger hot water and / or steam delivery without first operating in feedback mode.

[0055] According to another aspect, a method for operating a kitchen appliance is provided, the appliance comprising: at least one outlet through which fluid or a consumable containing fluid is visibly delivered; a user interface for receiving user input from a user; a fluid displacement system including a pump, the fluid displacement system being operable in a delivery mode and a feedback mode, wherein in the delivery mode, actuation of the pump causes the delivery via the at least one outlet, and in the feedback mode, actuation of the pump provides auditory and / or tactile feedback but does not cause the delivery via either of the at least one outlet; and the user interface for receiving user input from the user. The method includes controlling the fluid displacement system to operate in a feedback mode in response to receiving user input from the user interface.

[0056] In some embodiments, the fluid displacement system includes a valve assembly operable to control the displacement of fluid toward an outlet during pump actuation, depending on whether the fluid displacement system is controlled to operate in a feedback mode or a delivery mode.

[0057] Alternatively or additionally, the pump may include a vibratory pump, which includes a pumping component and a solenoid energized to cause displacement of the pumping component when the pump is actuated. Controlling the fluid displacement system to operate in a feedback mode includes receiving an electrical signal from a power source and using the electrical signal to drive the solenoid to cause displacement of the pumping component.

[0058] In such an embodiment, when the fluid displacement system is controlled to operate in delivery mode, displacement of the pumping member in the downstream direction can result in delivery of fluid / consumables via the outlet. Controlling the fluid displacement system to operate in feedback mode may include operating a valve assembly to restrict the flow of fluid toward the outlet during displacement of the pumping member in the downstream direction.

[0059] Alternatively or additionally, when the fluid displacement system is in feedback mode, controlling the pump to actuate can provide an instantaneous response to user input received from the user interface.

[0060] Alternatively or additionally, in feedback mode, controlling the fluid displacement system to actuate the pump may include: actuating the pump with a power pulse in response to receiving user input from the user interface.

[0061] In such an embodiment, the pump can be actuated with power pulses by driving a solenoid using one positive or negative half-cycle of an electrical signal, a fraction of the positive or negative half-cycle (e.g., by applying phase angle control to the electrical signal), or no more than 15 of the positive or negative half-cycles. Alternatively or additionally, power pulses can be applied for up to 500 milliseconds, preferably up to 200 milliseconds.

[0062] Alternatively or additionally, the user interface includes a non-movable touch sensor and / or an optical sensor configured to sense user input.

[0063] Alternatively or additionally, the method may also include controlling the fluid displacement system to operate in a feedback mode, followed by operation in a delivery mode.

[0064] Alternatively or additionally, the user interface may be used to receive additional user input from the user that is different from the user input that caused operation in a feedback mode. The method may also include controlling the fluid displacement system to operate in a delivery mode in response to the additional user input.

[0065] According to another aspect, a computer program including computer program code is provided, which, when run on one or more processors, is configured to cause the one or more processors to implement the method according to any embodiment described herein.

[0066] One or more non-transitory computer-readable media may be provided having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program including computer program code configured to, when the computer program is run on the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to implement the method according to any of the embodiments described herein.

[0067] The processor can be included in the control system of kitchen appliances.

[0068] More generally, the embodiments described herein with respect to kitchen appliances can be applied to the method and the computer program, the embodiments described herein with respect to the method can be applied to kitchen appliances and the computer program, and the embodiments described herein with respect to the computer program can be applied to kitchen appliances and the method.

[0069] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the embodiments described below. Attached Figure Description

[0070] To better understand the invention and to more clearly illustrate how to implement it, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings by way of example only, wherein: Figure 1 A block diagram of a kitchen appliance based on an example is provided; and Figure 2A and Figure 2B The user interface, control system, and fluid displacement system are schematically depicted according to an example. Detailed Implementation

[0071] The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0072] It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, system, and method, are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus, system, and method of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the following description, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are merely schematic and not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used in all the drawings to denote the same or similar parts.

[0073] A kitchen appliance is provided, comprising at least one outlet through which fluid or a consumable comprising the fluid is delivered. Each of the at least one outlet is arranged such that the delivery of fluid or consumable via the outlet is visible to a user when the kitchen appliance is used. The kitchen appliance also includes a fluid displacement system comprising a pump. The fluid displacement system is operable in a delivery mode and a feedback mode, in which actuation of the pump causes the delivery via one or more outlets, and in the feedback mode, actuation of the pump provides audible and / or tactile feedback but does not cause such delivery via any of the at least one outlet. A user interface receives user input from a user, and a control system controls the fluid displacement system to operate in feedback mode in response to the user input received by the user interface. In this way, the pump is used to provide audible and / or tactile feedback in response to user input via the user interface, but this audible and / or tactile feedback is not accompanied by the delivery of fluid or a consumable comprising the fluid via any of the at least one outlet. A method of operating such a kitchen appliance and an associated computer program are also provided.

[0074] Figure 1 A block diagram of a kitchen appliance 10 according to an example is provided. The kitchen appliance 10 includes a fluid displacement system 12, which includes a pump 26 for displacing fluids (e.g., liquids and / or air).

[0075] Kitchen appliance 10 includes at least one outlet 14A, 14B through which fluids or consumables containing fluids can be delivered. The term "consumables" as used herein refers to materials that can be consumed through eating or drinking.

[0076] The outlets 14A and 14B are arranged such that when using the kitchen appliance, for example when operating the kitchen appliance 10 to dispense fluids or consumables, the delivery of fluids or consumables via the outlets 14A and 14B is visible to the user.

[0077] In some embodiments, outlets 14A, 14B are arranged such that fluids or consumables are delivered to the outside of a kitchen appliance, for example, to a container (e.g., a cup) arranged by the user to receive fluids or consumables delivered from outlets 14A, 14B.

[0078] When operating the kitchen appliance 10 to dispense fluids or consumables, the user can directly see this delivery of fluids or consumables to the outside of the kitchen appliance 10.

[0079] Alternatively, outlets 14A and 14B may be arranged such that fluids or consumables are delivered within kitchen appliance 10, but to a portion of kitchen appliance 10 (e.g., a food processing unit) that is visible to the user so that the user can visually inspect the delivery of fluids or consumables thereto.

[0080] In some embodiments, for example Figure 1 As shown, at least one outlet 14A, 14B includes a liquid outlet 14A through which a liquid, such as water, can be delivered. Alternatively or additionally, at least one outlet 14A, 14B may include a hot fluid outlet 14B through which steam and / or hot water can be delivered. In such embodiments, the hot fluid outlet 14B may include, for example, the form of a steam nozzle.

[0081] In at least some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the kitchen appliance 10 includes a container 16 for containing liquids (e.g., water) and a processing chamber 18. In such an embodiment, a fluid transfer system 12 is operable to transfer liquid from the container 16 to the processing chamber 18.

[0082] Liquid can be moved to processing chamber 18 via valve 20 (e.g., electronic valve, such as a solenoid valve).

[0083] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the kitchen appliance 10 includes a heater 22 for heating liquids. In such an embodiment, the fluid transfer system 12 may be arranged to pump liquids to the heater 22, for example, as the liquids pass toward the processing chamber 18, to heat the liquids.

[0084] It should be noted that the liquid supply system of the kitchen appliance 10 can be considered to include the fluid transfer system 12, the container 16, the processing chamber 18, and the optional heater 22.

[0085] In embodiments of the kitchen appliance 10 that include a hot fluid outlet 14B, hot water and / or steam can be delivered to the hot fluid outlet 14B via a hot fluid valve 24. Heated water and / or steam can be delivered through the hot fluid outlet 14B, for example, for the purpose of heating and / or foaming milk and / or preparing other beverages, such as tea.

[0086] The hot fluid valve 24 can be an electronic valve, such as a solenoid valve.

[0087] The kitchen appliance 10 can selectively supply hot liquid (e.g., hot water) at about 100°C and steam at about 140°C (or higher) to the processing chamber 18 using a single heater 22. Alternatively, in addition to the heater 22, the kitchen appliance 10 may also include a dedicated heater for generating hot water and / or steam.

[0088] More generally, kitchen appliance 10 can be any suitable type. In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, kitchen appliance 10 is a beverage machine. In other embodiments, kitchen appliance 10 is a food processor.

[0089] In the case where the kitchen appliance 10 is a food processor, liquids (e.g., water) can be delivered to the food processing unit of the food processor via the fluid transfer system 12.

[0090] The kitchen appliance 10, in the form of a beverage machine, can be used to prepare various types of beverages, such as coffee, tea, milk, and drinking chocolate (e.g., hot chocolate).

[0091] Therefore, various types of raw materials can be added to the processing chamber 18 to mix with the liquid (e.g., water) pumped therein by the fluid transfer system 12.

[0092] Raw materials can be added to the processing chamber 18 in various ways. In some embodiments, raw materials, such as ground coffee, can be provided in a pre-dispensed form, such as in capsules, pods, pads, etc.

[0093] Specifically, kitchen appliances 10, including coffee machines, are mentioned, such as ground coffee that is supplied to the coffee machine in pre-dispensed forms such as capsules, pods, mats, etc.

[0094] The fluid transfer system 12 can have any suitable design. In some embodiments, such as Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the fluid displacement system 12 includes a vibratory pump 26, which includes a pumping component 28 and a solenoid 30, which is energized to cause displacement of the pumping component 28 when the pump is actuated.

[0095] The control system 31 can be configured to receive an electrical signal from a power source and use that signal to drive the solenoid 30, thereby causing displacement of the pumping member 28. For this purpose, the pumping member 28 may include a magnetic material, such as a ferromagnetic material.

[0096] Electrical signals can be, for example, AC voltage signals provided by mains power.

[0097] This vibratory pump 26 can provide noise and vibration during actuation, which can be advantageously used for auditory and / or tactile feedback, as will be explained in more detail below. This vibratory pump 26 can also represent a relatively simple and cost-effective pumping solution.

[0098] The pumping member 28 can have any suitable design, as long as the pumping member 28 is able to displace fluid when the solenoid 30 moves the pumping member 28. The pumping member 28 may include, for example, a plunger or a diaphragm.

[0099] The vibratory pump 26 may include a spring 32 arranged to be compressed when the pumping member 28 is moved by the solenoid 30. Specifically, the solenoid 30 may cause the pumping member 28 to compress the spring 32, such as... Figure 2B As shown, fluid is drawn into the pump chamber 34 in this way, and the pumping component 28 can move within the pump chamber 34.

[0100] In such an embodiment, fluid can be drawn into the pump chamber 34 from the container 16 via the first valve 36, for example.

[0101] The subsequent movement of the pumping component 28 (driven by the return of the spring 32) can cause the fluid drawn into the pump chamber 34 to be discharged from the pump chamber 34 toward the outlets 14A and 14B via the second valve 38.

[0102] In some embodiments, the first valve 36 and the second valve 38 are check valves that allow fluid to move in only one direction. In such embodiments, the first valve 36 and the second valve 38 may be passive valves, in other words, valves that are not actively controlled by the controller system 31.

[0103] In other embodiments, such as Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the first valve 36 and / or the second valve 38 are controllable, such that actuation of the pump 26 does not require moving any fluid, such as liquid, toward outlets 14A and 14B. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0104] Refer again Figure 1 The user interface 40 receives user input from the user, and the control system 31 controls the kitchen appliance 10 in response to the user input received by the user interface 40, and specifically controls the fluid transfer system 12.

[0105] For example, safety standards such as IEC 60335.1 can require kitchen appliance 10 to provide feedback to indicate when the appliance 10 is being operated, especially when the user has entered / is entering user input through user interface 40. IEC 60335.1 requires tactile or auditory feedback to "stop function".

[0106] This feedback requirement can be met, for example, through the tactile response inherent in button movement. However, buttons, and more generally electromagnetic switches / buttons, can compromise the robustness of the kitchen appliance 10 and make it more difficult to clean, as cleaning fluid needs to be prevented from entering the appliance 10 near the button (e.g., around the button).

[0107] This problem can be solved by including a user interface 40 with a non-movable sensor. However, such a non-movable sensor may require the kitchen appliance 10 to include additional feedback devices, such as a buzzer or whistle, to provide feedback indicating when the kitchen appliance 10 is being operated. Including such additional devices increases the complexity and cost of the kitchen appliance 10.

[0108] This disclosure is based in part on the understanding that the pump 26 of the fluid displacement system 12 can be used to provide auditory and / or tactile feedback in response to user input received by the user interface 40.

[0109] In this respect, the movement of the pump components inherent in pump actuation can produce vibrations that are perceived by the user's hearing and / or touch.

[0110] In embodiments where the actuation of pump 26 provides tactile feedback, this can be achieved via a user interface 40 arranged relative to pump 26 in kitchen appliance 10, such that vibrations of the pump are transmitted to user interface 40, for example, to the surface of user interface 40 that is accessible to the user when the user is inputting user input.

[0111] User interface 40 can have any suitable design, as long as it is capable of receiving user input from the user. In some embodiments, user interface 40 includes a non-movable touch sensor and / or an optical sensor configured to sense user input.

[0112] Touch sensors may include, for example, capacitive sensors.

[0113] Optical sensors may include, for example, a light source, such as a display or a light-emitting diode, arranged below the sensing area.

[0114] Non-movable contact sensors and / or optical sensors are easy to clean due to their inherently liquid-proof design. While the absence of moving parts in such a user interface 40 may mean that tactile and auditory feedback is not provided or is only limited through interaction with the user interface 40, the auditory and / or tactile feedback provided by the actuation of the pump 26 still ensures that the necessary feedback is provided.

[0115] For example, when the pump 26 in the form of a vibratory pump 26 is powered by a single current wave, the pumping member 28 (e.g., a pump plunger) can move substantially according to a single motion cycle, causing the main vibration wave to propagate to the rest of the kitchen appliance 10, particularly to the surface of the user interface where the user's fingers are inputting user input.

[0116] The control system 31 controls the fluid transfer system 12 to operate in a feedback mode, in which the pump 26 is actuated to provide auditory and / or tactile feedback in response to user input received from the user interface 40. The control system 31 can receive a user input signal from the user interface 40 indicating that the user interface 40 is receiving user input, and sends a control signal to the fluid transfer system 12 in response to receiving the user input signal. The control signal causes the fluid transfer system 12 to operate in feedback mode.

[0117] The fluid transfer system 12 can also operate in a delivery mode, in which actuation of pump 26 causes delivery of one or both of the fluid and the consumables via outlets 14A, 14B. However, in a feedback mode, actuation of pump 26 provides auditory and / or tactile feedback but does not cause such delivery via at least one of outlets 14A, 14B.

[0118] In this way, auditory and / or tactile feedback is provided to the user, for example, to confirm that their user input has been received, but this auditory and / or tactile feedback is not accompanied by the delivery of fluid / consumables via at least one of the outlets 14A, 14B. This can help avoid waste, such as liquid (e.g., water) waste, and in some embodiments, energy waste may occur if auditory and / or tactile feedback is accompanied by the delivery of fluid / consumables via outlets 14A, 14B.

[0119] In embodiments where the kitchen appliance 10 includes a heater 22 for heating liquids, the fluid displacement system 12 may be configured such that, in feedback mode, actuation of the pump 26 provides audible and / or tactile feedback but does not cause liquid to shift to or from the heater 22 toward outlets 14A, 14B.

[0120] Therefore, actuating pump 26 to provide feedback will not result in unnecessary / unsafe delivery of heated liquid via outlets 14A, 14B, and in some cases, will not result in unnecessary heating of the liquid by heater 22. In the latter case, additional energy consumption can be avoided.

[0121] The fluid transfer system 12 can be constructed in any suitable manner to be operable such that actuation of the pump 26 provides audible and / or tactile feedback without causing fluid / consumable delivery via outlets 14A, 14B. In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the fluid displacement system 12 includes valve assemblies 20, 24; 36, 38, configured and / or operable to control the displacement of fluid toward outlets 14A, 14B during actuation of pump 26, depending on whether the fluid displacement system 12 is being controlled to operate in feedback mode or delivery mode.

[0122] When pump 26 is actuated in the fluid displacement system 12 in feedback mode, a relatively limited amount of fluid (e.g., liquid, such as water) can be displaced by pump 26.

[0123] Valve assemblies 20, 24; 36, 38 include, for example, passive check valves downstream of heater 22 and / or active valves 20, 24 such as solenoid valves, which can impede the passage of the limited amount of fluid toward outlets 14A, 14B, thereby preventing delivery via either outlet 14, 14B.

[0124] In some embodiments, the control signals to the fluid transfer system 12 may include pump control signals for actuating pump 26 and valve assembly control signals for operating valve assemblies 20, 24; 36, 38.

[0125] Valve assemblies 20, 24; 36, 38 can be constructed in any suitable manner to enable the fluid displacement system 12 to operate in a feedback mode. In some embodiments, for example... Figure 1 As shown, valve 20 and hot fluid valve 24 are operated by controller system 31 to limit (e.g., block) the flow of fluid in the downstream direction toward outlets 14A, 14B when fluid displacement system 12 is controlled to operate in feedback mode.

[0126] One or both of valve 20 and hot fluid valve 24 can be operated by controller system 31 to allow fluid to flow downstream toward outlets 14A, 14B when fluid shifting system 12 is being controlled to operate in delivery mode.

[0127] In some embodiments, for example Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, at least one of the first valve 36 and the second valve 38 is controlled by the controller system 31 to open, thereby allowing fluid (e.g., liquid) to be drawn into the pump chamber 34 when the pumping member 28 moves to expand the pump chamber 34 during actuation of the pump 26. Furthermore, the first valve 36 can be opened to allow fluid to be discharged from the pump chamber 34 during subsequent movement of the pumping member 28, for example, to the container 16, to reduce the volume of the pump chamber 34, while the second valve 38 is closed to limit, for example, obstructing fluid from flowing therethrough in the downstream direction toward the outlets 14A, 14B.

[0128] When operating in delivery mode, the second valve 38 can be opened to allow fluid to flow downstream toward outlets 14A, 14B.

[0129] Therefore, more generally, when the fluid displacement system 12 is controlled to operate in feedback mode, during the downstream displacement of the pumping member 28, the valve assemblies 36, 38 are operable to restrict the flow of fluid toward the outlets 14A, 14B.

[0130] Thus, when the fluid displacement system 12 is controlled to operate in feedback mode, the pump 26 can be actuated, and its movement corresponds to the movement when the fluid displacement system 12 is controlled to operate in delivery mode. However, in delivery mode, valve assemblies 36, 38 allow fluid to flow downstream toward outlets 14A, 14B, but in feedback mode, such fluid flow is not allowed.

[0131] It should be noted that the liquid supply system of the kitchen appliance 10 (e.g., a beverage machine) may be equipped with active and passive valves 36, 38, which in this context utilize the function of such valves 36, 38 to prevent fluid (e.g., water) from being discharged from outlets 14A, 14B, for example, to the outside of the kitchen appliance 10, when the pump 26 is actuated to provide audible / tactile feedback in response to the user interface.

[0132] In at least some embodiments, the control system 31 is configured to control the pump 26 to be actuated instantaneously in response to user input received by the user interface 40 when the fluid displacement system 12 is in feedback mode. Therefore, the pump 26 can respond to user input, thereby providing the user with immediate acknowledgment that their user input has been received.

[0133] In other words, auditory and / or tactile feedback provided by the actuation of pump 26 (e.g., by sudden energization of pump 26) can form part of the user’s interaction with user interface 40.

[0134] In some embodiments, the control system 31 is configured to control the fluid transfer system 12 to actuate the pump 26 with power pulses in response to user input received by the user interface 40.

[0135] This power pulse can cause pump 26 to make a "thump" or "click" sound.

[0136] This "thump" or "click" sound can be distinguished from the sound emitted by pump 26 when pump 26 is operating in delivery mode (e.g., when pump 26 is powered to perform liquid displacement).

[0137] For example, the sound of a pump 26 (e.g., a vibratory pump 26) operating under constant water flow can be described as a persistent, low-frequency hum, which can be relatively loud and stable, or have periodic variations in tone and intensity.

[0138] The frequency of the short "thump" or "click" sound can depend on various factors, such as the characteristics of the pump 26, the pump mounting / suspension system that mounts the pump 26 in the kitchen appliance 10 (e.g., to the base or structure of the kitchen appliance 10), and the overall construction of the kitchen appliance 10.

[0139] In some embodiments, the control system 31 is configured to drive the solenoid 30 by using a positive or negative half-cycle of an electrical signal, a fraction of such a positive or negative half-cycle, or no more than 15 positive or negative half-cycles, thereby actuating the pump 26 with power pulses.

[0140] Alternatively or additionally, a power pulse may be applied for up to 500 milliseconds, preferably up to 200 milliseconds.

[0141] Therefore, pump 26 can be conveniently energized for a relatively short time, such as a fraction of a second or preferably a single AC current wave. The term "single AC current wave" can refer to the positive or negative side of a sine wave, so when, for example, the AC power supply frequency is 60 Hz or 50 Hz, the wave lasts for 8.3 milliseconds or 10 milliseconds.

[0142] In some embodiments, the control system 31 is configured to drive the solenoid 30 using fractional portions of the positive or negative half-cycle by applying phase angle control (in other words, phase ignition control) to an electrical signal (e.g., AC voltage signal), and to actuate the pump 26 with power pulses.

[0143] In some embodiments, the control system 31 is configured to control the fluid transfer system 12 to operate in a feedback mode and then in a delivery mode in response to user input received by the user interface 40.

[0144] Therefore, pump 26 can be initially actuated without delivering fluid / consumables from any outlet 14A, 14B to provide auditory and / or tactile feedback to confirm that user input has been received. Then, pump 26 can be actuated to deliver fluid / consumables from outlet 14A, 14B, for example, based on user selections made by the user when entering user input.

[0145] Alternatively or additionally, the user interface 40 may receive additional user input from the user that is different from the user input, and the control system 31 is configured to control the fluid transfer system 12 to operate in delivery mode in response to the additional user input.

[0146] Therefore, inputting additional user input can cause the control system 31 to operate in delivery mode, for example, not initially in feedback mode. This can be reflected in the fact that feedback mode may be redundant in some operations of the kitchen appliance 10, such as when it is desired to deliver hot water and / or steam "with one touch" via outlets 14A, 14B.

[0147] It should be noted that, more generally, the auditory and / or tactile feedback provided by the actuation of the pump 26 in response to user input received by the user interface 40 can be directly and definitively verified by observation, in particular by listening to the kitchen appliance 10, and by performing measurements using an oscilloscope or similar testing instrument.

[0148] A method for operating a kitchen appliance 10 is also provided, the kitchen appliance 10 comprising: at least one outlet 14A, 14B through which fluid or consumables are visibly delivered; a user interface 40 for receiving user input from a user; and a fluid displacement system 12 including a pump 26 operable in a delivery mode and a feedback mode, wherein in a delivery mode, actuation of the pump 26 causes said delivery via one or more of the at least one outlet 14A, 14B, and in a feedback mode, actuation of the pump 26 provides auditory and / or tactile feedback but does not cause delivery via any of the at least one outlet 14A, 14B. The kitchen appliance 10 may be adapted according to any embodiment described herein.

[0149] The method includes controlling the fluid displacement system 12 to operate in a feedback mode in response to user input received by the user interface 40.

[0150] A computer program including computer program code is also provided, wherein when the computer program is run on one or more processors, the computer program code is configured to cause the one or more processors to implement the method according to any embodiment described herein.

[0151] The processor may be included in the control system 31 of the kitchen appliance 10.

[0152] As described above, the embodiments utilize a control system 31. The control system 31 can be implemented in various ways, using software and / or hardware, to perform a variety of desired functions. A processor is one example of a control system 31 employing one or more microprocessors, which can be programmed using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the desired functions. However, the control system 31 can be implemented with or without a processor, and can also be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware for performing certain functions and processors (e.g., one or more programmable microprocessors and associated circuitry) for performing other functions.

[0153] Examples of control system 31 components that may be employed in various embodiments of this disclosure include, but are not limited to, conventional microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).

[0154] In various implementations, the processor or control system 31 may be associated with one or more storage media, such as volatile and non-volatile computer memories, such as RAM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. The storage media may be encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more processors and / or control systems 31, perform the required functions. The various storage media may be fixed within the processor or control system 31, or may be transferable, allowing one or more programs stored thereon to be loaded into the processor or control system 31.

[0155] By studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement variations of the disclosed embodiments in practicing the claimed invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality.

[0156] A single processor or other unit can implement the functions described in the claims.

[0157] The fact that certain measures are described in mutually different dependent claims does not imply that combinations of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0158] Computer programs can be stored / distributed on suitable media, such as optical or solid-state media provided with or as part of other hardware, but can also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems.

[0159] If the term “suitable” is used in the claims or specification, it should be noted that the term “suitable” is intended to be equivalent to the term “configured as”.

[0160] Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A kitchen appliance (10), comprising: At least one outlet (14A, 14B) through which fluid or a consumable containing said fluid can be delivered, said at least one outlet being arranged such that the delivery of said fluid or consumable via said at least one outlet is visible to the user when the kitchen appliance is used; A fluid displacement system (12) includes a pump (26) capable of operating in a delivery mode and a feedback mode, wherein in the delivery mode, actuation of the pump causes the delivery via the at least one outlet, and in the feedback mode, actuation of the pump provides auditory and / or tactile feedback but does not cause the delivery via either of the at least one outlet. User interface (40) is used to receive user input from the user; as well as The control system (31) is configured to control the fluid displacement system to operate in the feedback mode in response to receiving the user input from the user interface.

2. The kitchen appliance (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The fluid displacement system (12) includes valve assemblies (20, 24; 36, 38) configured and / or operable to control the displacement of the fluid toward the at least one outlet (14A, 14B) during actuation of the pump (26) when the fluid displacement system is controlled to operate in the feedback mode or the delivery mode.

3. The kitchen appliance (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The pump (26) includes a vibratory pump, which includes a pumping component (28) and a solenoid (30) energized to cause displacement of the pumping component when the pump is actuated. The control system (31) is configured to receive an electrical signal from a power source and use the electrical signal to drive the solenoid to cause displacement of the pumping component.

4. The kitchen appliance (10) according to claim 3 when dependent on claim 2, wherein, The fluid displacement system (12) is configured such that: when the fluid displacement system is controlled to operate in the delivery mode, displacement of the pumping member (28) in the downstream direction causes the delivery via the at least one outlet (14A, 14B); and when the fluid displacement system is controlled to operate in the feedback mode, the valve assembly (20, 24; 36, 38) restricts the flow of fluid toward the at least one outlet during displacement of the pumping member in the downstream direction.

5. The kitchen appliance (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The control system (31) is configured to control the pump (26) to be actuated instantaneously in response to the user input received by the user interface (40) when the fluid displacement system (12) is operating in the feedback mode.

6. The kitchen appliance (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The control system (31) is configured to actuate the pump (26) with a power pulse in response to receiving the user input from the user interface (40) when the fluid displacement system (12) is operating in the feedback mode.

7. The kitchen appliance (10) according to claim 6 when dependent on claim 3 or 4, wherein, The control system (31) is configured to drive the solenoid (30) by using the electrical signal for one positive or negative half-cycle, a fraction of the positive or negative half-cycle, or no more than 15 of the positive or negative half-cycles, and to actuate the pump (26) with the power pulse.

8. The kitchen appliance (10) according to claim 7, wherein, The control system (31) is configured to drive the solenoid (30) by applying phase angle control to the electrical signal using a fraction of the positive or negative half-cycle, and to actuate the pump (26) with the power pulse.

9. The kitchen appliance (10) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein, The power pulse is applied for a maximum of 500 milliseconds, preferably a maximum of 200 milliseconds.

10. The kitchen appliance (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The user interface (40) includes a non-movable touch sensor and / or optical sensor configured to sense the user input.

11. The kitchen appliance (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The control system (31) is configured to control the fluid transfer system (12) to operate in the delivery mode and then in the feedback mode in response to receiving the user input from the user interface (40).

12. The kitchen appliance (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The user interface (40) is used to receive additional user input from the user that is different from the user input, and the control system (31) is configured to control the fluid transfer system (12) to operate in the delivery mode in response to the additional user input.

13. The kitchen appliance (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, including a beverage machine and / or a food processor.

14. A method for operating a kitchen appliance (10), said kitchen appliance comprising: At least one outlet (14A, 14B) through which fluid or consumables containing said fluid can be visibly delivered; A user interface (40) for receiving user input from a user; a fluid displacement system (12) including a pump (26) capable of operating in a delivery mode and a feedback mode, wherein in the delivery mode, actuation of the pump causes delivery via the at least one outlet, and in the feedback mode, actuation of the pump provides auditory and / or tactile feedback but does not cause delivery via either of the at least one outlet, the method comprising controlling the fluid displacement system to operate in the feedback mode in response to receiving the user input from the user interface.

15. A computer program including computer program code, wherein when the computer program is run on one or more processors, the computer program code is configured to cause the one or more processors to implement the method according to claim 14.

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