Improved culinary whisk

Abstract

Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) with an elongated profile defining a longitudinal axis (X-X') and having a proximal end and a distal end, comprising a handle section (4, 304, 404, 504) and an action section (6, 306, 406, 506), wherein the action section (6, 306, 406, 506) comprises a plurality of wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508), and wherein each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) has an asymmetrical profile and comprises an upper elongated leg section (14, 314, 414) and a lower foot section (16, 316, 416), and wherein each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) has a fabric element (22, 322, 422, 522) extending over a wire segment (20, 320, 420, 520) of the lower foot section (16, 316, 416).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an improved culinary whisk. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A wide variety of conventional culinary whisks are available on the market. They are designed for use in different scenarios and come in various shapes and designs. Preparing food and mixing or whisking ingredients is a laborious task. On the one hand, there are problems with the efficiency, thoroughness, and consistency of whisking. On the other hand, there are problems with the ease of handling the whisk. For example, many users, especially those with smaller or weaker hands (e.g., those with carpal tunnel syndrome), often find this task difficult or tiring. There are also problems with the interaction between the whisk and the container holding the ingredients to be mixed. Although many whisks in various designs are available on the market, users often still find them inadequate.

[0003] A whisk known from JP 2019-13 452 A comprises a handle and a head connected to the tip of the handle. The head consists of a plurality of linear elements with curved sections, each having a rounded tip, the linear elements being arranged radially. Furthermore, the linear elements extend from top to bottom, their lower end having an inwardly tapering arc, the tip of the curved sections of the linear elements not being in contact with the arc.

[0004] CN 2 03 828 775 U discloses a whisk consisting of a handle and a whisk head that is fixedly connected to the front end of the handle. The handle is cut into a plurality of equal-sized segments along its axis, and when the handle is unfolded, the outer surfaces of each pair of adjacent segments are connected. After the segments are folded together, the handle has a cylindrical structure. The whisk head consists of whisk sets that are fixedly connected to the front ends of the segments, and each whisk set comprises at least one whisk connected to and attached to the front end of each segment. Compared to the prior art, a handle structure consisting of hinged lower segments is adopted. The whisk sets are arranged on the lower segments. When the whisk is cleaned, the handle is unfolded, and the whisks forming the whisk sets can be cleaned.The whisk is easier to clean, and it also prevents the formation of bacteria on the mixing head.

[0005] From EP 1 634 523 A1, a whisk with independent wire movement is known, achieved via a non-intersecting wire pattern. According to one embodiment, this whisk comprises a handle with a first and a second end, and a plurality of whisk elements connected to the second end of the handle and extending outwards from it. The plurality of whisk elements has a first region and a second region, wherein the plurality of whisk elements in the first region generally form a conical shape, and wherein the plurality of whisk elements in the second region do not intersect and generally form a hemispherical shape. In one embodiment, the non-intersecting whisk elements in the second region generally have a hemispherical shape, the end of which has a generally circular gap between the whisk elements.

[0006] JP 2 566 227 Y2 describes a whisk consisting of a longitudinally split handle, the halves of which are articulated together, and a whisk part made of wire, which is attached to the tip of each half, the middle part being bent in a ring shape to form a point, and the two ends being aligned to form a base part, and which can be rotated relative to each other so that the point of the whisk part can be used at any angle.

[0007] The whisk known from DE 37 24 009 A1 consists of two (or more) individual whisks, preferably designed as flat whisks, which are connected to each other at their handles in a handle joint in a fan-like manner, so that the working head formed from the wire elements can be adjusted to suit the respective container size in its effective working width. Preferably, the individual whisks are easily detachable from each other in the handle joint. The wire elements forming the whisk head have shapes in their end regions, preferably in the form of one or more loops.

[0008] From US 671 516 A, a whisk is known with a handle, one end of which is flattened, and with a series of rod-shaped whisks attached to each flattened surface, the whisks of one series being arranged alternately with those of the other series, and the whisks of each series being arranged in a fan shape, with their outer ends each being provided with a loop.

[0009] CN 2 15 272 299 U discloses an easy-to-clean whisk with multiple whisk handles arranged in a fan shape and connected in series. Each whisk handle has a large and a small curved end. The large curved end of each whisk handle is permanently attached to a whisk brush, the end furthest from the corresponding whisk brush is permanently attached to a whisk brush head, and the two whisk handles at the outermost end are fitted with connecting assemblies. The whisk handles can be detachably connected to each other via these connecting assemblies, forming a circular truncated cone shape.

[0010] The whisk described in JP 2016-174 855 A comprises: a body part having at one end a beater section to which several curved elements are combined, and at the other end a handle section; and a handle section having a cylindrical shape with open ends into which the body part is inserted, such that the beater section is exposed at one end and the handle section is exposed at the other. The beater section is inserted into the handle section by sliding the body part relative to the handle section, so that the handle is retracted from the handle section.

[0011] Accordingly, the present invention aims to provide an alternative that enables a user, among other things, to effectively and efficiently mix foodstuffs, or at least to provide the public with a useful alternative. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] According to a first aspect of the present invention, this problem is solved by a culinary whisk with an elongated profile defining a longitudinal axis and having a proximal end and a distal end, comprising a handle section and an action section, wherein the action section comprises a plurality of wire loops, each wire loop having an asymmetrical profile and comprising an upper elongated leg section and a lower foot section, and wherein each wire loop has a fabric element extending over a wire segment of the lower foot section.

[0013] Preferably, the wire loops can be arranged not one above the other, with the lower foot sections being oriented outwards and / or extending radially.

[0014] Suitablely, the wire loops can extend from a front end of the handle section with a narrower width or diameter of the broom to the distal end with the greatest width of the broom, with the lower foot sections (similar to pointed areas) together defining the greatest width, and with the lower foot sections being located at the point furthest from the handle section.

[0015] Advantageously, the longitudinal axis can run along the handle section, the wire loops can be of equal length, the distal end defines a plane arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the whisk can stand vertically supported on itself at the distal end, and the wire loops generally resemble a symmetrical or conical structure.

[0016] In one embodiment, the wire loops may be of unequal length, wherein the distal end defines a plane that is not perpendicular or oblique to the longitudinal axis, and wherein the wire loops together may generally resemble an asymmetrical structure.

[0017] In one embodiment, each wire loop can define a structure with a three-dimensional profile. Alternatively, each wire loop can define a structure with a non-three-dimensional or planar profile.

[0018] The problem is solved according to a second aspect of the present invention by a culinary whisk with an elongated profile defining a longitudinal axis and having a proximal end and a distal end, comprising a handle section and an action section, wherein the action section may comprise a plurality of non-overlapping wire loops, and wherein each wire loop may comprise an upper elongated leg section and a lower foot section, and wherein each wire loop has an asymmetrical profile and includes a fabric element extending over a wire segment of the lower foot section.

[0019] Suitablely, the wire loops can extend from a front end of the handle section with a narrower width or diameter of the broom to the distal end with the greatest width or diameter of the broom, the lower foot sections being located furthest from the handle section along the longitudinal axis of the broom, and the lower foot sections together defining the greatest width of the broom.

[0020] Advantageously, the wire loops can be of equal length, with the distal end defining a plane arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the whisk being able to stand vertically supported on itself at the distal end, and the wire loops generally resembling a conical structure.

[0021] In one embodiment, the wire loops can be of unequal length, wherein the distal end of them defines a plane that is not perpendicular or oblique to the longitudinal axis, and wherein the wire loops together can generally resemble an asymmetrical structure.

[0022] In one embodiment, each wire loop can define a structure with a three-dimensional profile. Alternatively, each wire loop can define a structure with a non-three-dimensional or planar profile.

[0023] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the problem is solved by a culinary whisk with an elongated profile, which defines a longitudinal axis with a proximal end and a distal end, comprising a handle section with a rear end and a front end and an action section, wherein: - the impact area includes several non-overlapping wire loops, - each wire loop encloses an upper elongated leg section extending from the front end of the handle section and a lower foot section, and - each wire loop is provided with a fabric element that extends over a wire segment of the lower foot section.

[0024] Preferably along the longitudinal axis: - the wire loops can extend from the front end of the handle section with a narrower width or diameter of the whisk to the distal end with the greatest width of the whisk, - the lower foot sections together define the greatest width of the whisk, and - the fabric can be made of a polymer material.

[0025] Suitablely, the wire loops can be of equal length, with the distal end defining a plane arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, with the whisk standing vertically on the distal end, and with the wire loops generally resembling an asymmetrical or conical structure.

[0026] Advantageously, the wire loops can be of unequal length, with the distal end defining a plane that is neither perpendicular nor oblique to the longitudinal axis, and with the wire loops together generally resembling an asymmetrical structure.

[0027] In one embodiment, each wire loop can define a structure with a three-dimensional profile. Alternatively, each wire loop can define a structure with a non-three-dimensional or planar profile. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Some embodiments of the present invention will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings: Fig. Figure 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of a whisk according to the present invention; Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the whisk from Fig. 1; Fig. 3A is a schematic drawing of the whisk from Fig. 1, wherein parts of the whisk are shown with dashed lines and the remaining parts (handle section and a wire loop) of the whisk are shown with solid lines; Fig. 3B is a schematic drawing of a lower section of the wire loop of the whisk, represented by solid lines. Fig. 3A; Fig. 3C is an exploded view of the lower section of Fig. 3B and shows the lower section, which essentially consists of a wire segment and a surface-enlarging element; Fig. 3D, Fig. 3E, Fig. 3F and Fig. 3G are front view, left side view, right side view and top view of the surface-enlarging element of Fig. 3C; Fig. 4A is a schematic drawing showing the viewing direction from the top of the whisk. Fig. 1 represents; Fig. 4B is a schematic drawing showing possible mixing movements of the whisk. Fig. 1 represents; Fig. 4C is another schematic drawing showing one of the possible mixing movements of the whisk. Fig. 4B represents; Fig. 4D is a schematic drawing that illustrates the interaction between a liquid to be mixed and a surface-enlarging element of the whisk. Fig. 4C shows; Fig. 4E is yet another schematic drawing, illustrating another of the possible mixing movements of the whisk. Fig. 4B represents; Fig. 4F is a schematic drawing that illustrates the interaction between the liquid to be mixed and another surface-enlarging element of the whisk. Fig. 4E shows; Fig. 5A is a schematic drawing showing a conventional standard whisk placed in a pot for comparison purposes, and Fig. 5B is a schematic drawing showing the whisk located in a similar pot. Fig. 1 shows; Fig. 6A is a side view of the conventional standard whisk from Fig. 5A; Fig. 6B is a cross-sectional view BB' of Fig. 6A; Fig. Figure 7A is a side view of the whisk according to the invention of Fig. 5B; Fig. 7B is a cross-sectional view AA' of Fig. 7A; Fig. Figure 8A is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a whisk according to the present invention; Fig. Figure 8B is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a whisk according to the present invention; Fig. Figure 9 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a whisk according to the present invention; Fig. 10A is a schematic drawing showing an exploded view of a lower section of an impact section of the snow brush of Fig. 9 shows; Fig. 10B is an enlarged view showing a surface-enlarging element of the whisk from Fig. 9 shows; Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a whisk according to the present invention; Fig. 12A is a schematic drawing of the whisk from Fig. 11, wherein parts of the whisk are shown with dashed lines and the remaining parts (handle section and a wire loop) of the whisk are shown with solid lines; Fig. 12B is a schematic drawing showing an exploded view of a lower section of the wire loop of the whisk. Fig. 12A indicates; Fig. Figure 13A is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a whisk according to the present invention; Fig. Figure 13B is a schematic drawing showing an exploded view of a lower section of the wire loop (wire segment and surface-enlarging element) of the whisk. Fig. 13A shows; Fig. 13C, Fig. 13D, Fig. 13E and Fig. 13F are top view, left side view, front view and section view of the surface-enlarging element of Fig. 13B; Fig. Figure 14A is a schematic drawing showing a conventional standard whisk placed in a pot for comparison purposes, and Fig. 14B is a schematic drawing showing the whisk located in a similar pot by Fig. 13A shows; Fig. 15A, Fig. 15B and Fig. 15C are three different embodiments of a lower section of a wire loop according to the present invention; Fig. 16A and Fig. Figure 17A is a comparison of the wire loops of a conventional standard whisk and an embodiment of a wire loop of a whisk of the present invention; Fig. 16B and Fig. Figure 17B is a comparison of the wire loops of a conventional standard whisk and an embodiment of a wire loop of a whisk of the present invention; and Fig. 16C and Fig. Figure 17C is a comparison of the wire loops of a conventional standard whisk and an embodiment of a wire loop of a whisk of the present invention. PREFERRED FORMS OF THE INVENTION

[0029] Although there are many different types of culinary whisks on the market, they all have several disadvantages. For example, a conventional culinary whisk is known as a standard whisk. See, for example, Fig. 5A. Such a whisk generally comprises a handle section and an action section. This whisk is referred to as a standard whisk because the action section has the standard balloon-shaped loops. The action section consists of several separate but overlapping wire loops extending from the handle section. It is conceivable that, when the whisk is viewed from its rear end, its wire loops overlap. The inner wire loops are smaller (and shorter) than the outer wire loops. Each wire loop, or at least the distal end of each wire loop, generally has an elliptical shape. Studies prior to the present invention show that such a whisk does not provide a sufficiently efficient or effective whisking action.Furthermore, due to the overall balloon shape of the whisk's working section, it would often be unable to reach food or liquids that adhere to a specific area of ​​a mixing container with, for example, a generally vertical side wall and a flat bottom (or tight corners). Other culinary whisks are available on the market, although these still have some drawbacks.

[0030] The present invention therefore relates to an improved culinary whisk and is illustrated and explained by means of the following examples.

[0031] Fig. Figure 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of an elongated culinary whisk, generally designated by the number 2. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the whisk 2 with a proximal end and a distal end and a longitudinal axis X-X'. The whisk 2 comprises two main sections: a handle section 4 with a rear end and a front end in the form of a cylindrical rod, and an action section 6 extending from the front end of the handle section 4 such that the longitudinal axis XX' also passes through the handle section 4. The action section 6 comprises several separate but non-overlapping wire loops 8. Fig. Figure 4A clearly shows, viewed from the rear end of the whisk 2, that the wire loops 8 do not overlap and are not in contact with each other. In this embodiment, there are eight such wire loops. In alternative embodiments, it would also be practical to provide four to twelve wire loops. From the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3A, the overall shape of the action section 6 has a conical profile, with the base defined by a plane YY' and generally circular, and the ends 10 of the wire loops 8 converging to a relatively small end face 12, which is provided by and connected to the distal end of the handle section 4. Together, the ends 10 thus define a narrower (or narrowest) width or diameter of the whisk. In other words, the action section 6 has a symmetrical structure, and the plane YY' is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis XX'. As such, the whisk 2 can rest on a flat surface, supported by the action section 6 or the wire loops 8, as shown in Figure 3A. Fig. 1 shown. In other words, the whisk 2 can stand independently.

[0032] Fig. 3A corresponds to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, with the difference that, for illustrative purposes, all but one wire loop are shown with dashed lines, and the remaining wire loop 8 and the handle section 4 are shown with solid lines. It can be seen that the wire loop 8 extends downwards and outwards from the end of the handle section 4. Towards the distal end of the whisk 2, the wire loops 8 widen, increasing the distance between them. Each wire loop 8 comprises an upper section (or leg section) 14 and a lower section (or foot section) 16. The leg section 14 (of each wire loop 8) begins with opposite ends or two adjacent sections 18a, 18b of the wire (loop 8). The opposite ends 18a, 18b of the wire loops together form the ends 10 at the front end of the handle section 4.However, as leg section 14 moves further downwards, the distance between the adjacent wire sections of loop 8 increases, which then transition into foot section 16. Leg section 14, or its wire sections, generally defines a first plane, which (for simplicity) is represented by line A. See also . Fig. 4A. The foot section 16, which is also part of the wire loop 8, extends laterally or radially from the leg section 14. The foot section 16, or its wire section, generally defines a second plane, which (for simplicity) is represented by the hatched area B. The first plane A and the second plane B together define an angle of intersection. See further Fig. 4A. In this embodiment, the foot section 16 generally extends laterally along or parallel to a tangent of the circle of the action section 6. Although each leg section 14 and each foot section 16 has a planar profile, the leg section 14 and the foot section 16 together define a three-dimensional structure. See Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B.

[0033] Fig. 3B is an enlarged view showing a lower end (or distal end) of leg segment 14 and the foot segment 16 extending from it. Fig. Figure 3C is an exploded view showing a more detailed construction of foot section 16. Foot section 16 comprises a segment 20 of wire loop 8 and an element 22, which is partially configured to increase the surface area of ​​wire loop 8, or at least of segment 20 of wire loop 8. This element 22 can be understood as a mixing enhancer. Element 22 has two main parts: a first part 24, which encloses segment 20 of wire loop 8, and a second part 26, which extends over wire loop segment 20. From the Fig. 3B and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3C, the first part 24 resembles a sheath that encloses the wire segment 20 to increase its circumference, while the second part 26 resembles a wing or fabric that extends over the segment 20 to further increase its surface area. In other words, the surface area of ​​the wire loop segment 20 is increased in two ways: first, by enclosing the wire loop segment 20 with the sheath 24 to increase its width or diameter and thus its surface area; and second, by arranging the fabric 26 over the wire loop segment 20 to create an additional striking surface. It is particularly important to note that the sheath 24 only encloses the wire loop segment 20 of the foot section 16 and not the entire length of the entire wire loop 8.

[0034] Fig. 3D, Fig. 3E, Fig. 3F and Fig. 3G are front view, left side view, right side view and top view of the surface-enlarging element 22. Fig. 3D shows the front view of the surface-enlarging element 22. Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B and Fig. When viewed together in 3D, it is evident that a convex surface 28 of the tissue 26 faces outwards. The opposite side of the convex surface 28 thus provides a concave surface 30, as shown in Fig. 3E, Fig. 3F and Fig. Figure 3G shows that the surface-enlarging element 22 adopts an asymmetrical profile. The fabric 26 resembles a spoon and acts as such during the striking action. In this embodiment, both the convex surface 28 and the concave surface 30 are relatively smooth. However, in alternative embodiments, ribs or rough features can be provided or formed on the surfaces 28 and 30 to further increase the surface area of ​​the element 22 or to achieve even more traction, thereby additionally increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the striking action.

[0035] Fig. Figure 4A is a schematic drawing showing the view from the top or rear of the handle section 4. It can be seen that eight wire loops 8 of the action section 6 extend from the handle section 4, with the leg section 14 of each wire loop 8 generally defining the first level A and the foot section 16 of each wire loop 8 generally defining the second level B, positioned at an angle to the first level A. Each foot section 16 is provided with the surface-enlarging element 22, which has the sheath 24 enclosing the wire loop segment 20, and with the fabric 26 extending over the wire loop segment 20.

[0036] Fig. 4B is a schematic drawing showing a circular movement of the whisk 2 clockwise or counterclockwise during the execution of the beating. Fig. Figure 4C is a more detailed illustration of the counterclockwise motion. It shows that during this circular motion, the surface-enhancing elements 22 act on the liquid to be mixed. In particular, the concave surface 30 of some of the surface-enhancing elements 22 acts directly on the liquid. Fig. 4D is a further illustration of fluid dynamics, as the concave surface 30 acts on the fluid.

[0037] Fig. 4E is a schematic drawing showing a clockwise circular motion of the whisk 2 during its use. Fig. Figure 4F is a more detailed illustration of the circular motion. It shows that in this other circular motion, the surface-enhancing elements 22 also act on the liquid to be mixed. In particular, the concave surface 30 of some of the surface-enhancing elements 32 acts directly on the liquid. Fig. 4F is a further illustration of fluid dynamics as the concave surface 30 acts on the fluid.

[0038] Fig. 5A and Fig. Figure 5B are schematic drawings showing a side-by-side comparison of a conventional standard whisk and the whisk 2 according to the present invention. The conventional whisk is located in a pot with a flat bottom and vertical walls. However, due to the round or balloon-like shape of the whisk's working section, its working section or wire loops cannot reach the corner of the pot, regardless of the whisk's orientation. This is because the balloon-shaped section is generally round and has a relatively large radius X. It is therefore foreseeable that foodstuffs, e.g., dough, located in the corner within a distance X from the wall or the bottom will not be mixed with foodstuffs in the rest of the container. The whisk 2 of the present invention is similarly located in a similar pot with a flat bottom and vertical walls.In contrast to a conventional whisk, the conical shape of the working section 6 of the whisk 2 allows its wire loops 8, and especially the distal ends of the wire loops 8, to reach essentially all areas in (or any) container, including the corners. There is essentially no radius that the distal ends cannot reach. The wire loops 8, with their conical profile or lower foot sections, effectively act as spatulas to reach the corners.

[0039] Fig. 6A is a side view of the conventional whisk. Fig. 6B is a cross-sectional view BB' of Fig. 6A. It is evident that, while the opposite ends of the (five) wire loops extend from the distal end of the handle section, the opposite ends are arranged in a single circular arrangement, as indicated by the ten round dots, with one end of the wire loop on one side of the circular arrangement and the other end of the same wire loop on the opposite side of the circular arrangement.

[0040] Fig. 7A is a side view of the whisk 2. Fig. 7B is a cross-sectional view AA' of Fig. 7A. It can be seen that opposite ends of each wire loop 8 extend from the distal end of the handle section 4 and are arranged side by side. See the labeled outer point 32 and the inner point 34 of the same wire loop 8. Fig. Figure 7B shows a first (larger or outer) circular arrangement represented by eight round points 32. These outer points 32 represent one end of each of the wire loops 8. Fig. Figure 7B shows a second (smaller or inner) circular arrangement represented by eight circular dots 34. These inner dots 34 represent the opposite ends of each of the wire loops. Studies prior to the present invention suggest that the distance between the opposite ends of each wire loop on the handle section, which is preferably in the range of 0 to 7.0 mm, can enable the wire loops to achieve a more satisfactory vibration frequency and thus a more satisfactory striking effect. This configuration is technically significant. In particular, if the opposite ends of each wire loop are arranged side by side or close to each other, the wire loops can vibrate at a higher frequency when a blow is delivered, thus generating greater striking effectiveness.In this embodiment, the distance between the opposite ends of the wire loops on the handle section is essentially 0.9 mm. However, experiments have shown that the distance can preferably be 0 to 7.0 mm or more preferably 0 to 0.9 mm.

[0041] The whisk 2 is technically advantageous in several respects. First, by positioning the opposite ends of each wire loop 8 closer together, each wire loop 8 can vibrate at a higher frequency, thus improving its striking effectiveness. Second, the base section of each wire loop is equipped with a power enhancer to increase the striking surface, further resulting in an improved vortex effect and enhanced mixing performance. Furthermore, the power enhancers (when made of a polymer or silicone material) positioned at the distal ends also act as buffers, preventing scratching of delicate container surfaces. With reference to Fig. Figures 1-3A show that the most distal ends of the wire loops are covered by the improvers, thus protecting sensitive container surfaces from scratches or damage. Unlike the whisk made of Fig. 5A 2 The whisk has a smaller or essentially zero corner radius, which means that the working section 6 or its wire loops 8 can reach into tighter corners of a container for mixing or cleaning purposes, thus preventing, for example, residues from burning on during cooking. In the context of the present invention, "corner radius" refers to the shape and width of the working section. The smaller the corner radius, the smaller the area of ​​the whisk that can reach into corners or hard-to-reach areas of a container during a single whisking action.

[0042] Fig. Figure 8A shows a second embodiment of a whisk 102 of the present invention. The whisk 102 is similar to the whisk 2, except that the wire loops 108 of the whisk 102 are longer than those of the whisk 2. Within the scope of the present invention, a whisk with longer wire loops may be better suited for mixing thinner or less viscous foods, or for use in a larger container.

[0043] Fig. Figure 8B shows a third embodiment of a whisk 202 of the present invention. The whisk 202 is similar to the whisk 2, except that the wire loops 208 of the whisk 202 are shorter than those of the whisk 2. Within the scope of the present invention, a whisk with shorter wire loops may be better suited for mixing thinner or less viscous foods, or for use in a shallower container.

[0044] It should be noted that, while the whisks 2, 102, and 202 differ in the length of their wire loops, their working sections generally still have a conical shape, with the distal end of the working section defining a flat surface. When not in use, the whisks can all stand on the distal end of their wire loops.

[0045] Fig. Figure 9 shows a fourth embodiment of a whisk 302 according to the present invention. The whisk 302 is generally similar to the whisk 2, although there are differences. The whisk 302 similarly defines a longitudinal axis X-X', which also passes through a handle section 304. The whisk 302 also includes an action section 306 with its distal end, but defines a disc with a general oval shape. Several wire loops 308 also extend from the action section 306, each wire loop 308 having an upper leg section 314 and a lower foot section 316, which extends at an angle from the leg section 314.While the upper leg section 314 defines a plane and generally assumes a two-dimensional structure, and the lower foot section 316 also defines a plane and generally assumes a two-dimensional structure, each wire loop 308 as a whole still assumes a three-dimensional profile and is also asymmetrical in structure. However, the action section 206 does not have a symmetrical or conical profile, and the disc that lies on the line / plane (represented by YY' in . Fig. 9), defined by the end face of the distal end of the wire loops 308 of the whisk 302, is not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X-X', but rather oblique to the longitudinal axis. The action section 306 resembles a cone, but is truncated at an angle at the bottom. This is because the wire loops 308 of the action section 306 of the whisk 302 are not of equal length. Due to the unbalanced weight distribution, the whisk 302 cannot stand freely and vertically on the wire loops on its own.

[0046] Fig. Figure 10A shows a lower section of the action section 306, with its surface-enlarging elements 322 separated from it. Fig. Figure 10B is an enlarged view showing one of the surface-enhancing elements 322. Similar to element 22, these surface-enhancing elements consist of a sheath 324 that encloses a wire segment 320 of the wire loop 308, and a fabric 326 that extends over the wire segment 320.

[0047] Fig. Figure 11 shows a fifth embodiment of a whisk 402 of the present invention. Similar to the whisk 2, the whisk 402 has a handle section 404 and an action section 406 extending from it. The action section 406 comprises eight wire loops 408. Fig. Figure 12A shows that each wire loop 408 has an upper leg section 414 and a lower foot section 416. One difference is that, while the upper leg section 414 defines a plane and generally assumes a two-dimensional structure, and the lower leg section also defines a plane and generally assumes a two-dimensional structure, each wire loop as a whole also generally defines a plane and assumes a two-dimensional profile, but is also asymmetrical in profile. Fig. Figure 12B shows that each wire loop 408 is provided with a surface-enlarging element 422. In contrast to the surface-enlarging element 22, this surface-enlarging element 422 has a symmetrical structure, with its left and right sides being mirror images of each other. In this embodiment, the surface-enlarging element 22, in particular, does not have a convex or concave shape.

[0048] Fig. Figure 13A shows a fifth embodiment of a whisk 502 of the present invention. Similar to the whisk 402, the whisk 502 has a handle section 504 and an action section 506 extending from it. The action section 506 also includes eight wire loops 508. A key difference is that the action section 506 does not have a symmetrical or conical shape. In this respect, the whisk 502 is similar to the whisk 302. Fig. Figure 13B shows a lower section of one of the wire loops, 508 of them. Fig. 13C, Fig. 13D, Fig. 13E and Fig. Figures 13F are top view, left side view, front view and section view of a surface-enlarging element 522 of the wire loop 508. Fig. 13C and Fig. 13D shows that the surface-enlarging element 522 is symmetrical in the profile. Fig. 13D and Fig. Figure 13E shows that while a wire segment 520 of the wire loop 508 is encased by a sheath 524 and thus becomes thicker, a fabric 526 extending over the wire segment 520 is relatively thin or thinner compared to the sheathed wire segment. Fig. Figure 13F shows the configuration of the inner wire segment core 520, which is enclosed by the sheath 524.

[0049] Fig. 14A and Fig. Figure 14B shows a side-by-side comparison of a conventional standard whisk and the whisk 502. Similar to the whisk 302, partly due to its asymmetrical profile, the lower foot sections 516 of the whisk 502 have protruding areas and can reach into narrower areas or corners in a container.

[0050] The whisks described above (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) are similar in some respects, but different in others. One difference lies in the shape of the wire loops of the working section. Fig. 15A, Fig. 15B and Fig. Figure 15C shows and summarizes some embodiments of the lower foot section of the wire loop of the action section. Fig. Figure 15B shows a lower foot section, which is essentially foot section 216 of the whisk 2. Fig. 15C shows a lower foot section 216, which is essentially the foot section 416 of the whisk 402. Fig. Figure 15A shows a lower foot section somewhat similar to foot section 416, yet the specific profile differs. While foot section 416 has a more triangular profile, generally defined by three straight wire sections 416a, 416b, 416c, the foot section differs in particular in that wire section (or lower wire section) 416a' is curved outwards and convexly, and wire section 416c' is slightly concavely curved to fit into the Fig. to move to the leg section shown in 15A.

[0051] Fig. 16A and Fig. Figure 17A are schematic drawings showing a side-by-side comparison of the wire loops of a conventional standard whisk and a wire loop of a whisk by Fig. Represent 15A. Fig. 16A is a wire with a gray highlighted segment 600. This segment 600 has a length of 16.6 mm and a diameter of 1.4 mm. Fig. In 17A, the wire loop has a segment 602, which is provided with a sheath 604 and a fabric 606, and this segment 602 also has a length of 16.6 mm and a diameter of 1.4 mm. The calculation carried out during the research and development of the present invention shows that the surface area provided by the wire segment 600 of the conventional whisk is approximately 26 mm². 2 is, while the surface area provided by the wire segment 602 with the sheathing 604 and the fabric 606 is 156 mm 2 amounts.

[0052] Fig. 16B and Fig. Figure 17B are schematic drawings that attempt to compare the surface areas of a wire segment 608 of a conventional standard whisk and the wire segment 20 of the whisk 2. The relevant segment 20 similarly has a length of 16.6 mm and a diameter of 1.4 mm. The calculation carried out during the research and development of the present invention shows that the surface area provided by the wire segment 608 of the conventional whisk is approximately 26 mm². 2 is, while the surface area provided by the wire segment with the sheathing 24 and the fabric 26 of the whisk 2 is 286 mm 2 amounts.

[0053] Fig. 16C and Fig.Figure 17C are schematic drawings that attempt to compare the surface areas of a wire segment 610 of a conventional standard whisk and the wire segment 420 of the whisk 402. The relevant segment similarly has a length of 16.6 mm and a diameter of 1.4 mm. Calculations performed during the research and development of the present invention show that the surface area provided by the wire segment of the conventional whisk is approximately 26 mm². 2 is, while the surface area provided by the sheathing 424 and the fabric 426 is 156 mm 2 amounts.

[0054] It is evident from the above that, while a different sheathing and fabric profile would affect the extent of the surface area increase, all sheathing and fabric configurations of the present invention, as described above, significantly increase the surface area and thus the turbulence effect and impact performance.

[0055] In the various embodiments of whisks described above according to the present invention, in one possible embodiment each wire loop is formed by first bending a stainless steel wire of a predetermined length into shape, i.e., into the wire loop. For example, in the case of whisk 2, the wire is bent into a wire loop in a three-dimensional shape, with the upper leg section and the foot section extending at an angle from the foot section. The wire loop is then further processed and placed in a mold to accommodate the surface-enhancing element. In particular, after being placed in the mold, a polymer material (e.g., silicone) is formed over a segment of the wire loop at the foot section. Once formed, the surface-enhancing element is firmly and immovably connected to the foot section.As mentioned above, while in the embodiment described above the surface of the surface-enlarging element is generally smooth, in alternative embodiments the surface can be shaped or processed to have ribs or be structured to improve traction or interaction with the food being mixed. After forming, the finished wire loops can then be mounted on the handle, thus forming the whisk.

[0056] Alternatively, studies preceding the present invention suggest that both the wire loop and the surface-enhancing element can be entirely molded from a single plastic or polymer material, or that the combination of the wire loop and the surface-enhancing element can form a single, integral structure from a single material. In this way, the entire combination of wire loop and surface-enhancing element is formed, for example, by injection molding, thus eliminating the wire bending and forming steps. As a further alternative, the surface-enhancing element can be manufactured from various materials, such as a welded stainless steel sheet, a cast fabric, or other materials that allow the surface-enhancing element to be formed on the food section.

[0057] It is understood that certain features of the invention, which for the sake of clarity are described in the details of various embodiments, may be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which for the sake of brevity are described in the details of a single embodiment, may be provided separately or in any suitable subcombinations. It should be noted that certain features of the embodiments are illustrated by means of non-limiting examples. A person skilled in the art will also be familiar with the prior art, which is not discussed above for the sake of brevity. Furthermore, reference to the orientation or position of a feature is relative. For example, when reference is made to a front end and a rear end of an elongated structure, this means that the front and rear ends are arranged and are opposite ends of the structure.

Claims

[1] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) with an elongated profile defining a longitudinal axis (X-X') and having a proximal end and a distal end, comprising a handle section (4, 304, 404, 504) and an action section (6, 306, 406, 506), wherein the action section (6, 306, 406, 506) comprises a plurality of wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508), and wherein each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) has an asymmetrical profile and an upper elongated leg section (14, 314, 414) and a lower foot section (16, 316, 416) and wherein each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) has a fabric element (22, 322, 422, 522) extending over a wire segment (20, 320, 420, 520) of the lower foot section (16, 316, 416). [2] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 1, wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) do not overlap and wherein the lower foot sections (16, 316, 416) are oriented outwards and / or extend radially. [3] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 1, wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) extend from a front end of the handle section (4, 304, 404, 504) with a narrower width or diameter of the whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) and extend to the distal end with a greatest width of the whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502), wherein the lower foot sections (16, 316, 416) of the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) together define the greatest width of the elongated whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502), and wherein the lower foot sections (16, 316, 416) are arranged at the point furthest from the handle section (4, 304, 404, 504). [4] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal axis (X-X') runs along the handle section (4, 304, 404, 504), wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) are of equal length, wherein the distal end thereof defines a plane (Y-Y') arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X-X'), wherein the whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) can stand vertically supported on itself at the distal end, and wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) generally resemble a symmetrical or conical structure. [5] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 1, wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) are of unequal length, the distal end thereof defining a plane (Y-Y') which is not perpendicular or oblique to the longitudinal axis (X-X'), and wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) together generally resemble an asymmetric structure. [6] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 1, wherein each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) defines a structure with a three-dimensional profile. [7] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 1, wherein each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) defines a structure with a non-three-dimensional or planar profile. [8] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) with an elongated profile defining a longitudinal axis (X-X') and having a proximal end and a distal end, comprising a handle section (4, 304, 404, 504) and an action section (6, 306, 406, 506), wherein the action section (6, 306, 406, 506) comprises a plurality of non-overlapping wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508), each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) comprising an upper elongated leg section (14, 314, 414) and a lower foot section (16, 316, 416) and wherein each of the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) has a fabric element (22, 322, 422, 522) that extends over a wire segment (20, 320, 420, 520) of the lower foot section (16, 316, 416) and has an asymmetric profile. [9] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 8, wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) extend from a front end of the handle section (4, 304, 404, 504) with a narrower width or diameter of the whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) and extend to the distal end with a largest width or diameter of the whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502), wherein the lower foot sections (16, 316, 416) are located furthest from the handle section (4, 304, 404, 504) are arranged at the remote location and the lower foot sections (16, 316, 416) together define the greatest width of the whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502). [10] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 8, wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) are of equal length, wherein the distal end thereof defines a plane (Y-Y') arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X-X'), wherein the whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) can stand vertically supported on itself at the distal end, and wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) generally resemble a conical structure. [11] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 8, wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) are of unequal length, the distal end thereof defining a plane (Y-Y') which is not perpendicular and is oblique to the longitudinal axis (X-X'), and wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) together generally resemble an asymmetric structure. [12] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 8, wherein each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) defines a structure with a three-dimensional profile. [13] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 9, wherein each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) defines a structure with a non-three-dimensional or planar profile. [14] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) having an elongated profile, defining a longitudinal axis (X-X') with a proximal end and a distal end, comprising a handle section (4, 304, 404, 504) with a rear end and a front end and an action section (6, 306, 406, 506), wherein: - the action section (6, 306, 406, 506) includes several non-overlapping wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508), - each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) encloses an upper elongated leg section (14, 314, 414) extending from the front end of the handle section (4, 304, 404, 504) and a lower foot section (16, 316, 416), and - each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) is provided with a fabric element (22, 322, 422, 522) that extends over a wire segment (20, 320, 420, 520) of the lower foot section (16, 316, 416). [15] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 14, wherein along the longitudinal axis (X-X'): - the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) extend from the front end of the handle section (4, 304, 404, 504) with a narrower width or diameter of the whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) and extend to the distal end with the greatest width of the whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502), - the lower foot sections (16, 316, 416) together define the greatest width of the whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502), and - the fabric is made of a polymer material. [16] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 14, wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) are of equal length, wherein the distal end defines a plane (Y-Y') arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X-X'), wherein the whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) can be vertical at the distal end, and wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) generally resemble an asymmetrical structure or a conical structure. [17] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 14, wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) are of unequal length, the distal end defining a plane (Y-Y') which is not perpendicular or oblique to the longitudinal axis (X-X'), and wherein the wire loops (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) together generally resemble an asymmetric structure. [18] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 14, wherein each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) defines a structure with a three-dimensional profile. [19] Culinary whisk (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to claim 14, wherein each wire loop (8, 108, 208, 308, 408, 508) defines a structure with a non-three-dimensional or planar profile.

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