Actuating assembly and kitchen appliance

Abstract

The invention relates to an actuating assembly for actuating a switch and a kitchen appliance, in particular a food processor, with an actuating assembly. An actuating assembly (10) for actuating a switch (12) comprises a manually operated actuating device (20) and a transmission device (30) for transmitting a force from the actuating device (20) to a switch (12). The actuating device (20) further comprises a means for forming a pivot joint (21). In this way, the position of the actuating device can be easily selected at a distance from the switch and independently of the switch's position.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an actuating assembly for actuating a switch and to a kitchen appliance, in particular a kitchen machine, with an actuating assembly.

[0002] Switches are known in which an actuating element for operating the switch is directly connected to the circuit board on which the switch is located. When actuated, the switch on the circuit board is actuated directly. No transmission of force or movement is necessary. Such switches can be configured, for example, for turning and pushing. A disadvantage is that the switch and circuit board must be arranged in close proximity, or the circuit board must be located directly behind the switch, which severely limits the design and construction possibilities of a device containing the switch.

[0003] The object of the invention is to provide an actuating assembly and a kitchen appliance that enable simple and convenient operation and at least partially overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0004] The problem is solved by the actuating assembly according to claim 1 and by the kitchen appliance according to the dependent claim.

[0005] To solve the problem, an actuating assembly is used for operating a switch, comprising a manually operated actuating device and a transmission device for transmitting a force from the actuating device to a switch. In particular, the actuating device includes a means for forming a pivot joint.

[0006] In other words, a user activates the actuator, causing the transmission device to experience a force and transmit that force to the switch. In this way, a force can be indirectly exerted on the switch to activate it.

[0007] The transmission device allows the position of the actuator to be selected independently of the switch's position, for example, regardless of the position of a circuit board containing the switch. Furthermore, tolerances, such as those between the actuator and the switch, can be compensated for. The means for forming a swivel joint enables the actuator to be rotatably mounted. This allows the actuator to rotate during manual actuation, thus enabling simple and reproducible movement for force transmission to the transmission device.

[0008] The force is transmitted primarily through movement of the transmission device, which typically also moves the switch. However, it is possible to use a switch that receives only a force, not a movement. Accordingly, to solve the problem, it is sufficient if the actuating device receives a force through manual operation and transmits it to the transmission device.

[0009] The switch is, in particular, an electrical switch. The switch is designed to be actuated mechanically by a force and / or a movement, especially by pressing. The switch can be a momentary switch and / or a push-button switch. A momentary switch is an electrical switch that can be actuated by pressing and automatically returns to its initial position when released. For example, the switch can generate an electrical signal when actuated. In particular, the switch is designed such that a movement of at most 3 mm, preferably at most 2 mm, and most preferably at most 1.5 mm or 1 mm, is sufficient to actuate the switch. This allows for a short actuation distance and thus particularly convenient operation.

[0010] The operating device is designed to be operated manually. This specifically refers to pressing and / or operating with one or more fingers. The operating device includes, in particular, an operating surface. The operating surface can be operated, for example, by hand by applying force and, if necessary, a movement. The operating surface is largely unobstructed. However, there may be an edge or similar feature adjacent to the operating surface that is not intended for operation.

[0011] The transmission device serves to transfer a force from the actuating device to the switch.

[0012] The actuating device includes a means for forming a pivot joint. In other words, the actuating device is designed for a rotatable mounting. The means for forming a pivot joint enables the actuating device to be rotatably mounted, for example, in the housing of a kitchen appliance. A means for forming a pivot joint serves, in conjunction with another means, to form a pivot joint. A means for forming a pivot joint essentially defines an axis of rotation for the pivot joint.

[0013] The means for forming a reversible joint can, for example, comprise one or more axles. Axles are elements about which rotation can occur. Axles are typically at least partially, and at least substantially, cylindrical. In this case, the means for forming a reversible joint can interact with a bearing to form the reversible joint. Alternatively or additionally, the means for forming a reversible joint can comprise one or more bearings for receiving axles. A bearing typically includes an opening or is designed as an opening. When an axle is inserted into the bearing, a relative rotation can occur between the axle and the bearing. In this way, a reversible joint can be formed.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the means for forming a pivot joint comprises one or more axes. This allows for a particularly simple design of the actuating device as well as particularly easy insertion into the housing of a corresponding device. Typically, a kitchen appliance housing includes a corresponding bearing.

[0015] In one embodiment, the actuating device is made of plastic. For example, a thermoplastic such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is used, which may preferably be coated. This provides a particularly durable and robust actuating device. Furthermore, the actuating device can be easily customized in one or more colors, for example, by modifying a portion of the actuating device. In another embodiment, the transmission device is made of plastic, which may be glass fiber reinforced. For example, an engineering thermoplastic such as polyoxymethylene (POM) is used. This provides a mechanically strong and durable transmission device. Reinforcement with glass fibers can further increase its strength.

[0016] In one embodiment, the transmission device is configured to mechanically transmit the force of the actuating device to the switch. The transmission device is subjected to a force by the actuating device and, if necessary, moved, and then transmits a force and / or movement to actuate the switch.

[0017] In particular, the actuating device comprises a first contact area and the transmission device comprises a second contact area, wherein the first contact area and the second contact area are configured to contact each other and thereby mechanically transmit a force and, if applicable, a movement. The first contact area may be arranged on a plunger of the actuating device. The second contact area may be arranged on an arm, e.g., a lever arm, of the transmission device.

[0018] In one embodiment, the means for forming the pivot joint is arranged behind an actuating surface of the actuating device. In particular, the actuating surface spans a straight or curved area that may extend beyond the dimensions of the actuating surface. From the user's perspective, the means for forming the pivot joint is located behind this area.

[0019] In one embodiment, the actuating device comprises a central part. The means for forming the pivot joint comprises two parts that extend from the central part along a common axis of rotation in opposite directions.

[0020] A central part is a component positioned between other parts, typically in the middle. When used as intended, the actuating device can be rotated around its axis of rotation. The two parts extend from the central part, forming a two-part pivot joint. In this embodiment, the actuating device is rotatably mounted on both sides of the axis. This ensures a particularly secure mounting and enables reliable, reproducible rotation. Specifically, the two parts are connected to the actuating device only in the region of the axis. In other words, the two parts project freely outwards from the central part.

[0021] In one embodiment, the two parts of the means for forming the pivot joint project outwards beyond the actuating surface of the actuator. In other words, the two parts extend further outwards than the actuating surface of the actuator. This prevents the manufactured joint from tilting. Consequently, a large actuating surface, at least along the axis, can be provided, which can be actuated safely and reliably, regardless of the specific position of the finger on the actuating surface.

[0022] AT is the distance between the outermost points of the two parts, measured parallel to the axis of rotation. AP is the distance between the outermost points of the actuating surface, measured parallel to the axis of rotation. In a supplementary or alternative embodiment, AT = AP * F, where F is at least 60%, preferably at least 75%, in particular at least 90%, most preferably at least 100%, and in one embodiment at least 110% or at least 120%. Alternatively or supplementarily, F is at most 250%, in particular at most 200%, and more preferably at most 150%.

[0023] In principle, a large factor F prevents the joint from tilting particularly reliably and therefore enables especially reliable and smooth rotation, even with large areas of the actuating surface along the axis. However, a large factor F requires more material and more installation space. A smaller factor F is simpler and cheaper to manufacture, but limits the size of the actuating surface and / or the reliability and smoothness of the rotation. Depending on the specific application, the factors mentioned above have proven optimal with regard to the criteria stated.

[0024] In particular, the actuating surface is at least substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to a mirror plane oriented perpendicular to the axis of rotation. Specifically, the axis of rotation of the actuating device is horizontal. Specifically, the width of the actuating device and / or the actuating surface is greater than the depth and / or height of the actuating device or the actuating surface. The dimensions refer to the viewing direction in a top view of an actuating surface of the actuating device.

[0025] In one embodiment, the actuating surface of the actuating device has an extent of at least 25 mm, and in particular at least 30 mm, measured along the direction of extension of the axis of rotation. This can also be referred to as the width of the actuating device.

[0026] In one embodiment, the actuating surface extends at least 20 mm, preferably approximately 35 mm. The extension is typically less than 100 mm, less than 70 mm, or less than 45 mm. This design provides a particularly large actuating surface, enabling especially convenient operation. The depth of the actuating surface can be at least 5 mm, preferably at least 7 mm, and / or at most 10 mm, preferably at most 8 mm. The height of the portion forming the actuating surface can be at least 5 mm, preferably at least 6 mm, and / or less than 10 mm, preferably less than 8 mm.

[0027] In one embodiment, the transmission device includes a means for forming a pivot joint. In particular, an axis of rotation of the pivot joint of the transmission device is aligned perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the pivot joint of the actuating device.

[0028] In this configuration, the transmission device is also designed to be rotated during intended use. A rotation of the actuating device thus causes a rotation of the transmission device. This enables simple and reproducible movement of the transmission device. Everything said regarding the means for forming a pivot joint (actuating device) also applies to the means for forming a pivot joint of the transmission device.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the means for forming a pivot joint includes a bearing. This allows for particularly easy insertion into a housing. Typically, the housing of a kitchen appliance includes a corresponding axle, for example, a pin.

[0030] In one embodiment, the means for forming a pivot joint of the actuating device is integrally manufactured with the actuating device. In another embodiment, the means for forming a pivot joint of the transmission device is integrally manufactured with the transmission device. In other words, the respective means is an integral part of the respective device.

[0031] In this way, the respective means for forming a pivot joint are provided in a technically simple manner. The respective means for forming a pivot joint is therefore an integral component of the respective device and is integrally connected to the other parts of the respective device. The respective means for forming a pivot joint can be made of the same material as the respective device.

[0032] In one embodiment, the actuating device comprises a first contact area and the transmission device comprises a second contact area. The first contact area and the second contact area are configured to contact each other in order to mechanically transmit a force. The transmission device has a switch area for contacting the switch. The second contact area and the switch area are arranged on a common arm of the transmission device.

[0033] A contact area comprises, for example, a point, a line, and / or an area for contacting. This applies analogously to the switch area. The transmission device comprises at least one arm. In particular, this refers to an arm extending from a pivot joint or axis of rotation. There may be several arms pointing in different directions. An arm is typically long compared to its width and height. For example, the length of an arm is at least five times greater than its width and height. In some embodiments, the factor is at least ten. The second contact area and the switch area are therefore located on the same arm of the transmission device, for example, at different positions on the arm, such as at different distances from the pivot joint of the transmission device.If the second contact area moves in a specific direction when the actuator is rotated, the switch area will move in the same direction. This ensures that the direction of force remains constant.

[0034] The switch section can be arranged on a plunger of the transmission device. Typically, the transmission device is designed such that the switch section performs a substantially linear movement. In other words, the arm between the switch section and the axis of rotation of the transmission device is very long relative to the path traveled by the switch section when the switch is actuated. In one embodiment, the transmission device is designed such that the second contact section performs a substantially linear movement. In other words, the arm between the second contact section and the axis of rotation of the transmission device is long relative to the path traveled by the second contact section when the switch is actuated. This facilitates operation, as only a small force is required for actuation.

[0035] In one embodiment, the lever arm of the contact area is shorter than the lever arm of the switch area. This means that a particularly small movement of the actuating device is sufficient to operate the switch. For example, the lever arm of the contact area can be at least 150% of the length of the lever arm of the switch area, in particular at least 175%, and preferably at least 200%, at least 215%, or at least 230%. This ensures particularly convenient operation.

[0036] In one embodiment, the actuating assembly comprises a first spring element for exerting a restoring force on the transmission device in the direction of a starting position. In particular, the first spring element and a second contact area and / or a switch area of ​​the transmission device are arranged on a common arm of the transmission device.

[0037] The initial position of the transmission device and, if applicable, the actuating device, is in the unactuated position of the actuating assembly. During actuation, the transmission device and, if applicable, the actuating device can be temporarily moved into an actuated position. The first spring element ensures that the transmission device, and thus in particular the actuating device, returns to its initial position after actuation.

[0038] The spring element can be manufactured as a single piece with the transmission device and / or made of the same material as the transmission device. This allows for particularly simple and cost-effective manufacturing and assembly, as well as a component-free assembly. One or more support and / or retaining elements for each spring element can be provided on the housing of the device containing the actuating assembly. This allows the respective spring element of the transmission device to be directly supported or held by the housing.

[0039] Alternatively or additionally to this design, a spring element can be provided to directly exert a restoring force on the actuating device in the direction of a starting position. The above applies analogously to this spring element. A spring element acting on the transmission device can fulfill the same purpose, but has the advantage that the limited installation space in the area of ​​the actuating device is not occupied by additional components. In particular, there is no spring element that directly applies a force to the actuating device.

[0040] In one embodiment, the actuating assembly has a second spring element for exerting a restoring force on the transmission device in the direction of a starting position. In particular, the second spring element is arranged on a different arm of the transmission device than an arm on which a second contact area and / or a switching area of ​​the transmission device is arranged.

[0041] A second spring element can contribute to exerting a force on the actuating assembly in the direction of its initial position. This ensures a particularly reliable return force. The first and second spring elements can be arranged in different positions, for example, on different arms of the transmission device. In this case, it is particularly reliable that both the switch area and the second contact area of ​​the transmission device, which may be located in different positions, return to their initial positions after actuation.

[0042] Another aspect of the invention is a kitchen appliance, in particular a food processor. The kitchen appliance comprises an actuating assembly according to the invention and a switch that can be actuated by the transmission device of the actuating assembly. All features, advantages, and embodiments of the actuating assembly also apply to the kitchen appliance and vice versa.

[0043] The switch is primarily a switch for operating the kitchen appliance. For example, the switch can function as an on / off switch. It can also function as an emergency stop and / or emergency shutdown switch. Therefore, the switch is preferably designed to be robust. Alternatively or additionally, the switch can control other functions of the kitchen appliance. It can be a multi-function switch that can control different functions depending on a context, which can be displayed, for example, on a screen. Specifically, the kitchen appliance includes a functional component that can be switched on, off, and / or controlled by the switch. This functional component is typically electrically operated. Specifically, the kitchen appliance includes a control unit that can control the operation of at least one functional component. Specifically, the switch interacts with the control unit to influence control processes.

[0044] Basically, any appliance with a switch can qualify as a kitchen appliance. Examples include an oven, a microwave, a steam cooker, a deep fryer, a range hood, a refrigerator, or a freezer.

[0045] The kitchen appliance can be, for example, a food processor. The food processor can be designed to prepare food in a preparation vessel. The food processor can include a tool for mixing and / or chopping the food in the preparation vessel and / or a heating element for heating the food in the preparation vessel. The food processor can include a base unit with a control unit for the food processor and / or a drive for the tool and the removable food preparation vessel. The base unit can include one or more input devices and / or one or more output devices for interacting with a user. In one embodiment, a control unit of the food processor can access a recipe and be caused by a recipe step to operate the tool and / or the heating element in a manner defined by that recipe step.

[0046] In one embodiment, the operating mechanism is positioned essentially centrally with respect to the width of the kitchen appliance. This central positioning allows for equally convenient operation by both right- and left-handed users, thus providing a high level of user comfort for all users. The operating assembly makes it possible to position the operating mechanism centrally, regardless of the position of the actual switch, for example, a circuit board containing the switch. In this way, the advantage of the central positioning can be achieved in a particularly simple technical manner.

[0047] In one embodiment, the kitchen appliance includes a display, which, from the user's perspective, is positioned above the operating mechanism. The display can be a touchscreen. Specifically, the display is positioned directly above the operating mechanism, such that any edge of the display is directly adjacent to any edge of the operating mechanism. This allows for input of information via the operating mechanism directly next to the visual output and, if applicable, also for input of information via the display, further enhancing ease of use.

[0048] If the display and operating surface are arranged in the center, a particularly high level of user comfort can be achieved, as all associated control functions are equally accessible to right-handed and left-handed users.

[0049] In particular, the operating mechanism is rotatably mounted around an axis that is at least substantially horizontal. This results in further improved comfort for both right- and left-handed users, as neither side is favored during operation. Furthermore, a horizontal axis reduces the technical complexity of designing an elongated pivot joint.

[0050] In one embodiment, the kitchen appliance features a centrally located loudspeaker module, with the transmission device extending beyond the loudspeaker module on both sides. The loudspeaker module specifically contains a loudspeaker. Its primary function is the acoustic output of information. The central arrangement allows for particularly high coverage of the appliance's surroundings, ensuring that the user can clearly hear the loudspeaker module's signals regardless of their position. This creates a directional acoustic environment. Any other functional module can be used in place of the loudspeaker module.

[0051] The transmission device extends beyond the loudspeaker module on both sides, particularly when viewed from the kitchen appliance. In other words, the transmission device extends beyond the loudspeaker module on two sides. Typically, the transmission device is positioned adjacent to the loudspeaker module. This results in an elongated transmission device that fits within the limited installation space created by the loudspeaker module. For example, the means for forming a swivel joint are located on one side of the loudspeaker module, and the switch area is located on the other. This utilizes the limited installation space and allows for the advantageously elongated design of the corresponding arm of the transmission device despite the placement of the loudspeaker module.

[0052] In one embodiment, the actuating surface of the actuator travels a distance of at most 5 mm, preferably at most 4 mm, when manually actuated. In another embodiment, the actuating surface rotates by at most 30°, preferably at most 20°, when manually actuated. The user therefore only needs to make a slight movement of the actuating surface to activate the device. This increases ease of use. The travel distance is typically longer than 1 mm or 2 mm.

[0053] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below, also with reference to figures. Features of the exemplary embodiments can be combined individually or in multiples with the claimed subject matter, unless otherwise specified. The claimed scope of protection is not limited to the exemplary embodiments.

[0054] They show: Fig. 1: a perspective view of an actuating assembly, Fig. 2: a sectional view of an actuating assembly, Fig. 3: a top view of an actuating assembly, as well as Fig. 4: A section of a kitchen appliance with the operating assembly.

[0055] The Fig. Figures 1 to 3 show an actuating assembly 10 according to the invention for transmitting a force manually exerted on an actuating surface 24 to an electrical or electronic switch 12. The actuating assembly 10 is shown with a part of a kitchen appliance 40, which comprises a housing 42 and a centrally arranged loudspeaker module 46. The loudspeaker module 46 is in Fig. 2 omitted.

[0056] The actuating assembly 1 comprises an actuating device 20 and a transmission device 30. The actuating device 20 includes a means for forming a pivot joint 21 in the form of an axle. The axle is formed from two axle sections arranged on a common axis of rotation 22. The axis of rotation 22 is horizontal. The two axle sections are essentially cylindrical and extend outwards on both sides from a central part 25 of the actuating device 20. The two axle sections are thus two parts 26, 27 of the means for forming a pivot joint 21.

[0057] The central section 25 connects a user-facing front part of the actuating device 20, which includes the manually operated actuating surface 24, with a user-away rear part of the actuating device 20, which includes a plunger 29. The plunger 29 comprises a first contact area 28, which is configured to press against a corresponding second contact area 38 of the transmission device 30, as is particularly evident in Fig. 2 is visible. In the cross-sectional view of the Fig. 2 It is also evident that the plunger 29 is aligned at an angle between 90° and 120° to the actuating surface 24 with respect to the axis of rotation 22.

[0058] The transmission device 30 comprises a plunger 39 with a switch area 33 for actuating the switch 12. In the embodiment shown here, the switch area 33 corresponds to the end face of the plunger 39. The transmission device 30 further comprises a second contact area 38, which is located in particular in Fig. Figure 2 is shown. In the embodiment shown here, the second contact area 38 is a lateral surface of the respective arm 34 of the transmission device 30.

[0059] The transmission device 30 further comprises a means for forming a pivot joint 31, which is designed as a bearing with a vertically oriented opening. In the embodiment shown here, this opening is designed as a through-hole or bore. In conjunction with a pin 43 on the housing 42 of the kitchen appliance, this enables the transmission device 30 to pivot about a vertical axis of rotation 32.

[0060] With regard to the means for forming a pivot joint 31, the switch area 33 is arranged on the same arm 34 as the second contact area 38. A first spring element 36 is also arranged on this arm 34. A further arm 35 comprises only a second spring element 36. Both spring elements 35, 36 are configured to exert a force on the transmission device 30 in order to push it in the direction of the illustrated initial position 15. For this purpose, support and / or retaining elements 44 of the kitchen appliance 40 are arranged next to each of the two spring elements 35, 36, against which the spring elements 35, 36 can be supported and / or held.

[0061] The individual elements of the actuating assembly 10 interact as follows: When the user pushes the actuating surface 24 of the actuating device 20 forward and / or downward, the actuating device 20 rotates about the horizontal axis of rotation 22 from its initial position along a first direction of movement into the actuating position, and the plunger 29 contacts the second contact area 38 of the actuating assembly 30 with its first contact area 28. Since the axis of rotation 22 is located behind the actuating surface 24 from the user's perspective, the actuating surface 24 typically pivots downward and forward. However, actuation in another direction, for example upward, is not excluded. The transmission device 30 now rotates about the vertical axis of rotation 32 from its initial position into the actuating position along a second direction of movement, so that the plunger 39 actuates the switch 12 with its switching area 33.Simultaneously, the first spring element 36 and the second spring element 37 move relative to their respective support and / or retaining elements 44 and therefore deform. After the finger is removed from the actuating surface 24, the two spring elements 36, 37 each exert a restoring force that pushes the transmission device 30 from the actuating position back to its initial position. The resulting movement of the transmission device 30, due to the contact between the two contact areas 28, 38, also pushes the actuating device 20 back to its initial position.

[0062] The rotation of the actuating device 20 about the horizontal axis of rotation 22 can, for example, occur at an angle of at least 0.1°, in particular at least 1°, and / or at most 20°, in particular at most 10°. The rotation of the transmission device 30 about the vertical axis of rotation 32 can, for example, occur at an angle of at least 0.1°, in particular at least 0.3°, and / or at most 5°, in particular at most 3°. The actuating surface 24 of the actuating device 20 can, for example, travel a distance of at least 0.1 mm and / or at most 3 mm. The switching area 33 of the transmission device 30 can, for example, travel a distance of at least 0.2 mm and / or at most 3 mm, preferably at most 2 mm. Due to the lever arms, it is possible to select a switch with a larger actuating distance while still enabling a short actuating distance for the actuating surface.The actuation path of the switch can therefore be greater than the actuation path of the actuating surface.

[0063] The actuating surface 24 has an extent along the direction of the axis of rotation 22 of more than 20 mm, preferably more than 25 mm, in particular more than 30 mm and / or less than 60 mm, in particular less than 55 mm. In particular in Fig. Figure 3 shows that the two parts 26, 27 of the means for forming a pivot joint 21 project beyond the actuating surface 24 on both sides along the direction of the axis of rotation 22. In this way, smooth actuation is achieved, which is independent of the specific point at which the actuating surface 24 is actuated or pressed.

[0064] The actuating device 20 and the transmission device 30, each with all of the features and properties described above, are each manufactured as a one-piece component made of plastic in the example shown here.

[0065] The described actuation assembly 10 is housed in a kitchen appliance 40 in the embodiment shown here. The kitchen appliance 40 includes a functional module, namely a loudspeaker module 46, through which signals can be output to a user. For reasons of optimal acoustics, the loudspeaker module 46 is centrally located. Another functional module may be centrally located for other reasons. The central location reduces the installation space required for the actuation assembly 10. The transmission device 30 is designed such that it extends beyond the loudspeaker module 46 on both the right and left sides. The design and arrangement of the actuation assembly 10 according to the invention make it possible to easily actuate an off-center switch 12 by actuating the actuation surface 24, which is also centrally located.

[0066] In Fig. Figure 3 also shows an optional stop 48 for the transmission device 30. The stop can be configured to block downward movement of the transmission device in the opposite direction of actuation and / or to the left. The stop 48 serves in particular to simplify assembly. An upper part, which includes the transmission device 30 and, if applicable, other components of the actuation assembly 10, or the entire actuation assembly 10, can thus be more easily mounted, for example, placed on a lower part. The stop 48 can ensure that the transmission device is held in position during assembly. This prevents collisions with other parts, such as the lower part. The upper part can be designed as a cover. The stop 48 can be arranged on the upper part and / or on a housing 42 of the kitchen appliance 40.

[0067] In Fig.As shown in Figure 4, a kitchen appliance 40, which has the operating assembly 10, can also include a display 47. Like the operating surface 24, the display 47 can be centrally located with respect to the width of the kitchen appliance. A display 47 can be positioned above a speaker module 46 and / or another functional module. The advantages described above for the central arrangement of the display 47, the speaker module 46, and the operating surface 24 can be achieved. Reference symbol list 10 Actuating assembly 12 switches 15 Starting position 20 Actuating device 21 Means of forming a pivot joint 22 axis of rotation 24 operating area 25 Middle section 26, 27 part 28 first contact area 29 pestles 30 Transmission device 31 Means of forming a pivot joint 32 Rotary axis 33 Switch area 34 Arm 35 Arm 36 First spring element 37 Second spring element 38 second contact area 39 pestles 40 kitchen appliances 42 cases 43 pens 44 Support and / or holding element 46 speaker module 47" Display 48 strokes

Claims

[1] Actuating assembly (10) for actuating a switch (12), comprising a manually operated actuating device (20) and a transmission device (30) for transmitting a force from the actuating device (20) to a switch (12), characterized by , that the actuating device (20) comprises a means for forming a pivot joint (21). [2] Actuating assembly (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized by , that the transmission device (30) is designed to mechanically transmit the force of the actuating device (20) to the switch (12). [3] Actuating assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the actuating device (20) comprises a central part (25) and the means for forming the pivot joint (21) comprises two parts (26, 27) which extend from the central part (25) along a common axis of rotation (22) in opposite directions. [4] Actuating assembly (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized by , that the two parts (26, 27) of the means for forming the pivot joint (21) project outwards beyond an actuating surface (24) of the actuating device (20). [5] Actuating assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that an actuating surface (24) of the actuating device (20) has an extent of at least 25 mm, in particular at least 30 mm, measured along an extension direction of a rotation axis (22) of the rotary joint. [6] Actuating assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the transmission device (30) comprises a means for forming a pivot joint (31), wherein an axis of rotation (32) of the pivot joint of the transmission device (30) is oriented in particular perpendicular to the axis of rotation (22) of the pivot joint of the actuating device (20). [7] Actuating assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the means for forming a pivot joint (21) of the actuating device (20) is manufactured integrally with the actuating device (20) and / or that the means for forming a pivot joint (31) of the transmission device (30) is manufactured integrally with the transmission device (30). [8] Actuating assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the actuating device (20) comprises a first contact area (28) and the transmission device (30) comprises a second contact area (38), wherein the first contact area (28) and the second contact area (38) are configured to contact each other in order to mechanically transmit a force, wherein the transmission device (30) has a switch area (33) for contacting the switch (12), wherein the second contact area (38) and the switch area (33) are arranged on a common arm (34) of the transmission device (30). [9] Actuating assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the actuating assembly (10) has a first spring element (36) for exerting a restoring force on the transmission device (30) in the direction of an initial position (15), in particular wherein the first spring element (36) and a second contact area (38) and / or a switch area (33) of the transmission device (30) are arranged on a common arm (34) of the transmission device (30). [10] Actuating assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the actuating assembly (10) has a second spring element (37) for exerting a restoring force on the transmission device (30) in the direction of an initial position (15), in particular wherein the second spring element (37) is arranged on a different arm (35) of the transmission device (30) than an arm (34) on which a second contact area (38) and / or a switch area (33) of the transmission device (30) is arranged. [11] Kitchen appliance (40), in particular a kitchen machine, comprising an actuating assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims and a switch (12) which can be actuated by the transmission device (30) of the actuating assembly (10). [12] Kitchen appliance (40) according to the preceding claim, characterized by , that the actuating device (20) is arranged essentially centrally with respect to a width of the kitchen appliance (40). [13] Kitchen appliance (40) according to one of the two preceding claims, characterized by , that the kitchen appliance (40) includes a display (47), wherein the display (47) is arranged above the operating device (20). [14] Kitchen appliance (40) according to one of the three preceding claims, characterized by , that the kitchen appliance (40) has a centrally arranged loudspeaker module (46), wherein the transmission device (30) extends beyond the loudspeaker module (46) on both sides. [15] Kitchen appliance (40) according to any one of the four preceding claims, characterized by , that the kitchen appliance (40) is designed such that an actuation surface (24) of the actuation device (20) travels a distance of at most 5 mm, preferably at most 4 mm, when actuated manually.

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