Manufacturing equipment, mixer and / or storage device for manufacturing a composition by a mixed preparation
Through the combination of storage device and mixer, the heating element and electrical contact trace design are used to solve the complex structure and safety problems of existing beauty product manufacturing equipment, and a compact, easy-to-manufacturing and safe beauty product production equipment is realized.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN201911324839.X
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2018-12-21
- Filing Date
- 2019-12-20
- Publication Date
- 2025-08-01
- Estimated Expiration
- 2039-12-20
AI Technical Summary
The existing beauty product manufacturing equipment has complex structure, high cost and large volume, and there is a potential risk of short circuit caused by leakage of liquid preparations.
Using a combination of storage device and mixer, the heating element and electrical contact trace design ensures that the preparations in the capsule are mixed, avoids liquid contact circuits, and uses a compact actuation system and motor design to simplify the structure of the manufacturing equipment.
It realizes a compact, easy-to-manufacturing and safe beauty product production equipment, reduces manufacturing costs and avoids the risk of short circuit caused by liquid leakage.
Smart Images

Figure CN111346554B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a manufacturing device for manufacturing a composition, in particular a cosmetic composition, or more precisely to a manufacturing device for preparing a composition by mixing two preparations. Background Art
[0002] Document FR3026622 discloses a manufacturing device for manufacturing a composition, more specifically a cosmetic product, the manufacturing device comprising:
[0003] a first capsule comprising a first compartment and a first connection part, the first compartment comprising a predetermined amount of a first preparation;
[0004] a second capsule comprising a second compartment and a second connection part, the second compartment comprising a predetermined amount of a second preparation, the second connection part being configured to be connected to the first connection part; and
[0005] a mixer configured to receive the first and second capsules and directly mix the first and second preparations inside the first and second capsules in order to obtain a cosmetic product.
[0006] The mixer particularly comprises:
[0007] a first pressing element comprising a first pressing surface configured to apply a pressure on the deformable first compartment of the first capsule, the pressure being perpendicular to the moving direction of the first pressing element;
[0008] a second pressing element comprising a second pressing surface configured to apply a pressure on the deformable second compartment of the second capsule, the pressure being perpendicular to the moving direction of the second pressing element; and
[0009] a drive motor mechanically connected to the first and second pressing elements and configured to allow the first and second pressing elements to move cyclically between an inactive position and an active position.
[0010] This manufacturing device allows end consumers to manufacture personalized cosmetic products using different capsules.
[0011] However, the structure of the manufacturing device described in document FR3026622 requires the provision of a large-sized drive motor in order to transmit a pressure to the deformable first and second compartments, the pressure being suitable for ensuring the movement of the content from the first compartment towards the second compartment and conversely the movement of the content from the second compartment towards the first compartment, particularly when the deformable first and second compartments or the connection channels connected to the deformable first and second compartments are closed by weak connection areas.
[0012] The provision of a large-sized drive motor significantly increases the manufacturing cost of the manufacturing device as well as the volume and weight of the manufacturing device.
[0013] In addition, the mixing of the capsules appears to be more complex than expected and both the materials and the way they are used need to be improved. Summary of the Invention
[0014] The present invention aims to solve some or all of these problems. The technical problem underlying the present invention is thus to provide a production device for a composition that is simple, compact and easy to manufacture, and at the same time has a simple and cost-reduced structure.
[0015] In particular, when the system is powered, in the event of a leak, the presence of a quasi-liquid and conductive preparation or composition poses a problem. Similarly, placing the manufacturing device in a water chamber creates a potential risk of short circuit, which may damage the components.
[0016] In this regard, the present invention provides a receiving device for forming a mixer when the receiving device is inserted into a manufacturing device, the receiving device comprising:
[0017] - a first receiving position configured to receive a first capsule containing a first preparation,
[0018] - a second receiving position configured to receive a second capsule containing a second preparation, the two capsules being capable of fluid connection,
[0019] - a first actuation surface,
[0020] - a second actuation surface opposite to the first actuation surface,
[0021] - a heating element configured to heat at least one of the first and second capsules when the receiving device equipped with the first and second capsules is received in the mixer,
[0022] - a first electrical contact track for powering the heating element, which is located on the first connection surface of the receiving device,
[0023] - a second contact track for powering the heating element, which is located on the second connection surface of the receiving device.
[0024] In an embodiment:
[0025] - the first connection surface extends between the first and second actuation surfaces of the receiving device, preferably connecting the first and second actuation surfaces of the receiving device, and / or
[0026] - the second connection surface extends between the first and second actuation surfaces of the receiving device, preferably connecting the first and second actuation surfaces of the receiving device.
[0027] In an embodiment, the connection surface is different from the actuation surface.
[0028] In an embodiment, the first connection surface and the second connection surface are opposite to each other.
[0029] In an embodiment, the distance between the first connection surface and the second connection surface is greater than the distance between the first actuation surface and the second actuation surface.
[0030] In an embodiment, the receiving device includes a first protective housing with a first receiving position inside the first protective housing; and a second protective housing with a second receiving position inside the second protective housing. The second protective housing is mounted by a hinge to be movable relative to the first protective housing. A partition wall bears a heating element, and two electrical contact traces are mounted on the partition wall.
[0031] In an embodiment, the receiving device includes an insertion surface through which a capsule can be inserted into its corresponding receiving position; and an opposite removal surface where the hinge is located.
[0032] In an embodiment, the electrical contact traces are positioned in corresponding grooves.
[0033] In an embodiment, the first actuation surface includes a first support element, and the second actuation surface includes a second support element.
[0034] In an embodiment, the receiving device includes a temperature sensor and two electrical contact traces connected to the temperature sensor, with each of the two electrical contact traces located on one of the connection surfaces respectively.
[0035] In an embodiment, the actuation surfaces are opposite in pairs and / or the connection surfaces are opposite in pairs.
[0036] In an embodiment, the connection surface is different from the actuation surface.
[0037] The present invention further provides a mixer configured to receive the receiving device to form a manufacturing apparatus. The mixer includes
[0038] - a support defining a receiving portion generally capable of receiving the receiving device as described above,
[0039] - an actuation system including a kiloohm movable relative to the support inside the receiving portion, including
[0040] * a first actuation member positioned on one side of the receiving portion and movable inside the receiving portion to transfer pressure to the first side of the receiving device or directly to the first capsule,
[0041] * a second actuation member positioned on the other side of the receiving portion, preferably on the opposite side, and movable inside the receiving portion to transfer pressure to the second side of the receiving device or directly to the second capsule.
[0042] - A first electrical contact track for energizing the storage device, which is located on the first connection side of the receiving portion,
[0043] - A second electrical contact track for energizing the storage device, which is located on the second connection side of the receiving portion.
[0044] In an embodiment, each electrical contact track is mounted on a corresponding track.
[0045] The present invention also provides a manufacturing device, which includes the storage device as described above and the mixer as described above. Description of the Drawings
[0046] Through the following purely exemplary and non-limiting description, which should be understood with reference to the drawings, other features, objects, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent.
[0047] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a manufacturing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which has a mixer and a storage device not inserted.
[0048] Figure 1B is according to an embodiment of the present invention and Figure 1A a similar view, in which the storage device is inserted.
[0049] Figure 2A is Figure 1A a 3D view of the storage device according to an embodiment that is consistent with the storage device of
[0050] Figure 2B is Figure 2A a cross-sectional view of the storage device and the capsule similar to the storage device and the capsule of
[0051] Figure 3A is Figure 1A a 3D exploded view of the storage device according to an embodiment that is consistent with the storage device of
[0052] Figure 3B is Figure 3A a similar view, in which each part is rotated approximately 90° by itself.
[0053] Figure 4A is Figure 1A a contour (connection surface) view of the storage device according to an embodiment that is consistent with the storage device of
[0054] Figure 4B is Figure 4A a similar view, in which it is rotated 180° around the longitudinal axis.
[0055] Figure 5 is consistent with the Figure 1A partial exploded 3D view of the storage device according to the embodiment, which is consistent with the storage device.
[0056] Figure 6 is consistent with the Figure 1A
[0057] Figure 7A Figure 1A is consistent with the top view of the mixer according to the embodiment, which is consistent with the mixer, and particularly shows the actuation system and the actuation motor.
[0058] Figure 7B Figure 1A is consistent with the bottom view of the mixer according to the embodiment, which is consistent with the mixer and has a visible battery.
[0059] Figure 8A is a partial top view of the manufacturing equipment with a mixer and a storage device, which is in the middle position for inserting and removing the storage device, and schematically shows the actuation stroke.
[0060] Figure 8B is a partial top view of the manufacturing equipment with a mixer and a storage device, which has an actuation system during the actuation stroke.
[0061] Figure 8C is a partial top view of the manufacturing equipment with a mixer and a storage device, which has an actuation system at the end of the actuation stroke.
[0062] Figure 9 Figure 1A is consistent with the top view of the mixer according to the embodiment, which is consistent with the mixer, particularly shows the actuation system, the actuation motor and the connection for driving the actuation system, and wherein the actuation system is in the end position of the actuation stroke.
[0063] Figure 10A is a partial 3D view of the mixer for showing the holding mechanism, the clamping mechanism and the connection mechanism in the insertion position.
[0064] Figure 10B is a more detailed partial 3D view of the mixer for showing the holding mechanism, the clamping mechanism and the connection mechanism in the insertion position.
[0065] Figure 10C is a more detailed partial 3D view of the mixer for showing the holding mechanism and the connection mechanism in the holding position and the connection position.
[0066] Figure 10D Is a partial 3D view of a manufacturing device, used to show the holding mechanism and the connecting mechanism in the insertion position.
[0067] Figure 10E Is a partial 3D view of a manufacturing device, used to show the holding mechanism and the connecting mechanism in the holding position and the connecting position.
[0068] Figure 10F Is an exploded view of the clamping mechanism, the holding mechanism and the connecting mechanism.
[0069] Figure 11A Is a partial 3D view of a mixer with a first capsule, used to show the clamping mechanism in the insertion position.
[0070] Figure 11B And Figure 11A Similar, is a view seen from another angle, except that some parts have been removed for better visibility.
[0071] Figure 11C And Figure 11A Similar, is a view in the clamping position, except that some other parts have also been removed.
[0072] Figure 12 Is a partial 3D view of the mixer, in which an embodiment of a printed circuit with a controller / processor and a memory can be seen. Detailed Description of the Invention
[0073] Figure 1A And Figure 1B Show a manufacturing device 2 according to a first embodiment of the present invention, the manufacturing device being configured to manufacture a composition, which can be, for example, a beauty product, a hair care product, a pharmaceutical product, a sterilizing product, a maintenance product, a cleaning product or an agricultural and food product. When the composition to be manufactured is a beauty product, the beauty product can be, for example, a homogeneous emulsion, a homogeneous solution or a mixture of multiple soluble phases.
[0074] The manufacturing device 2 is for mainly personal use and for small size: the manufacturing device 2 allows the manufacture of a single ready-to-use portion. Therefore, the size of the manufacturing device should meet the volume limitations in a bathroom, a beauty salon, luggage (for transportation), etc. Therefore, the manufacturing device 2 does not have a size greater than 40 cm.
[0075] The manufacturing device 2 includes a storage mechanism and a mixer 6, the storage mechanism being configured to store the first and second capsules 3, 4, which are also referred to as tablets or encapsulation units, the first and second capsules respectively including a predetermined amount of a first preparation and a predetermined amount of a second preparation, the mixer being configured to mix the first and second preparations contained in the first and second capsules 3, 4 stored in the manufacturing device 2 in order to obtain a beauty product.
[0076] The mixer 6 includes a receiving portion which is part of a receiving mechanism and is arranged to receive the first and second capsules 3, 4 either directly or via a specific receiving device 5.
[0077] In a preferred embodiment, which is visible in all of the attached Figures 1A, 1B, 7A, 8A, 8B, 8C, the mixer 6 includes a receiving portion 32 which is arranged to removably receive the receiving device 5. In this case, the receiving portion 32 has a shape which is substantially complementary to the shape of the receiving device 5. Figure 1A The mixer 6 further includes an actuation system 35 which is configured to apply a force on the first and second capsules 3, 4, if necessary via the receiving device 5, in order to allow mixing and agitation of the composition to be manufactured.
[0078] The receiving device 5 is also referred to as a shuttle (since it serves as a carrier for the first and second capsules 3, 4) and preferably has a relatively symmetrical shape, such as a parallelepiped or an elliptical / oval shape. A longitudinal direction X can be defined for the receiving device, which corresponds to the direction along which the receiving device is inserted into the receiving portion 32. Thus, when the receiving device 5 is inserted into the mixer 6, the longitudinal direction X and the insertion direction coincide.
[0079] Advantageously, the mixer 6 is configured to mix the first and second formulations inside the receiving device 5 and preferably inside the first and second capsules 3, 4 without any of the formulations coming into contact with the manufacturing equipment 2.
[0080] As pointed out above, some of the embodiments present here can be used with a manufacturing equipment 2 without a receiving device 5, i.e. where the first and second capsules 3, 4 can be directly positioned in the mixer.
[0081] Advantageously, the first formulation is the first phase of the cosmetic product to be manufactured, such as the oil phase of the cosmetic product, while the second formulation is the second phase of the cosmetic product, such as the aqueous phase of the cosmetic product. For example, the oil phase can constitute the matrix of the cosmetic product to be manufactured, and the aqueous phase can include active ingredients and thus constitute the active complex of the cosmetic product to be manufactured.
[0082]
[0083] Capsule
[0084] Two capsules can be used in the manufacturing equipment 2 given, which is described in detail in the document filed under application number FR1755744, and the description of the capsules is incorporated herein.
[0085] The capsules are thus not the subject of the present invention. For the following description, the following points will be recalled.
[0086] More specifically, as Figure 2A shown in Figures 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B, the first and second capsules 3, 4 are different from each other and are configured to be in fluid communication with each other. Additionally, each of the first and second capsules 3, 4 is advantageously disposable.
[0087] The first capsule 3 includes a first deformable compartment 3.1 having a convex shape, a first connection portion 3.2, and a first connection channel 3.3. The first deformable compartment contains a first formulation, and the first connection channel is configured to fluidly connect the first deformable compartment 3.1 and the first connection portion 3.2. Advantageously, the first connection channel 3.3 is formed by a first connection pipe. The first connection portion 3.2 more specifically includes, for example, a female connection joint 3.4 having a cylindrical shape, which is in fluid communication with the first connection channel 3.3. The first capsule 3 includes a flat surface 3.7 through which the first connection portion 3.2 passes.
[0088] The first capsule 3 further includes an output channel 3.5, such as an output pipe, which is in fluid communication with the first connection channel 3.3 and is provided with an output hole 3.6. Advantageously, the output channel 3.5 is in the extension of the first connection channel 3.3 and extends substantially parallel to the first connection channel 3.3. In this case, the output channel 3.5 can be mounted on either the first capsule 3 or the second capsule 4 indifferently. In fact, the output channel 3.5 is only required to operate when the manufacturing device 2 is in use.
[0089] The second capsule 4 includes a second deformable compartment 4.1 having a convex shape, a second connection portion 4.2, and a second connection channel 4.3. The second deformable compartment contains a second formulation, the second connection portion 4.2 is configured to be connected to the first connection portion 3.2, and the second connection channel is configured to fluidly connect the second deformable compartment 4.1 and the second connection portion 4.2. Advantageously, the second connection channel 4.3 is formed by a second connection pipe, and the second connection portion 4.2 extends substantially perpendicular to the second connection channel 4.3. The second connection portion 4.2 more specifically includes, for example, a male connection joint 4.4 having a cylindrical shape, which is in fluid communication with the second connection channel 4.3 and is configured to receive the female connection joint 3.4 in a sealed manner. The second capsule 4 includes a flat surface 4.7 through which the second connection portion 4.2 passes.
[0090] The first and second capsules 3, 4 and more specifically the first and second deformable compartments 3.1, 4.1 are each closed by connection solders that ensure the hermeticity of the first and second capsules 3, 4, and these connection solders are frangible as long as a pressure threshold is reached. These pressure thresholds can be reached in the mixer 6. Furthermore, these connection solders are described in detail in the description of the document filed under application number FR1755744.
[0091] Each of the first and second capsules 3, 4 is configured to contain the whole or substantially the whole of a mixture formed by a predetermined quantity of a first preparation and a predetermined quantity of a second preparation. To this end, the deformable compartment is flexible and is provided with a buffer zone. Moreover, the description of the document filed under application number FR1755744 describes this precisely.
[0092] Storage device
[0093] More specifically, as Figure 2A , shown in Figures 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B and 5, the receiving device 5 is capable of occupying an open position and a closed position. In this open position, the first and second capsules 3, 4 can be introduced into the receiving device 5. In this closed position, the receiving device 5 can hold the first and second capsules 3, 4 in place.
[0094] The receiving device 5 more specifically takes the form of a receiving box 7 ( Figure 2A , 2B), which is configured to at least partially receive and accommodate the first and second capsules 3, 4. The receiving device 5 particularly includes a first protective shell 8 and a second protective shell 9, which are hingedly mounted relative to each other about a hinge axis 10 (or hinge) between a first position (see Figure 2A , 2B, 5) and a second position ( Figure 4A , 4B). The first position corresponds to the open position of the receiving device 5, and the second position corresponds to the closed position of the receiving device 5. The receiving device 5 further includes a first support portion 11 and a second support portion 12 provided in the receiving box 7. The first and second support portions 11, 12 respectively include a first receiving position 13 and a second receiving position 14, which are configured to receive the first capsule 3 and the second capsule 4 respectively. The first and second protective shells 8, 9 each include an opening 8.2, 9.2 for allowing access to the first or second receiving position 13, 14. These openings 8.2, 9.2 define the insertion surface of the receiving device 5. The receiving device 5 includes a removal surface opposite to the insertion surface.
[0095] Advantageously, the first support portion 11 includes a receiving gasket 15 configured to receive the peripheral portion of the capsule 3, and the second support portion 12 also includes a receiving gasket 15 configured to receive the peripheral portion of the second capsule 4. These receiving gaskets 15 partially define the first and second receiving positions 13, 14.
[0096] The first support portion 11 includes a first placement surface 11.1, which is configured to guide (with contact) and receive the flat surface 3.7 of the first capsule 3. The first placement surface 11.1 thus partially defines the first receiving position 13.
[0097] In the same way, the second support part 12 includes a second placement surface 12.1, which is configured to guide (with contact) and receive the flat surface 4.7 of the second capsule. The second placement surface 12.1 thus partially defines the second receiving position 14.
[0098] When the first and second capsules 3, 4 are inserted, their respective flat surfaces 3.7, 4.7 face each other, and there are two placement surfaces 11.1, 12.1 between the flat surfaces.
[0099] In order to allow the first and second connection parts 3.2, 4.2 of the first and second capsules 3, 4 to pass through, the first and second placement surfaces 11.1, 12.1 each include through openings 11.2, 12.2, which have the form of a cut and open towards the outside along the insertion axis X ( Figure 1A )
[0100] The receiving device 5 further includes a partition wall 22, which defines a separating surface ( Figure 3A , 3B). The partition wall 22 is located between the first and second receiving positions 13, 14. The partition wall is also integrally connected to the first support part 11. The partition wall 22 includes a through opening 22.2 to allow the first and second connection parts 3.2, 4.2 to be positioned in the receiving device. The through opening 22.2 has the form of a through cut in thickness and is open to the outside.
[0101] The openings 11.2, 22.2, 12.2 thus form a space for receiving the connection joints 3.4, 4.4 of the first and second capsules 3, 4.
[0102] In addition, a first actuation surface 8.1 and a second actuation surface 9.1 are defined. The first actuation surface includes the first shell 8 and the first support part 11, and the second actuation surface includes the second shell 9 and the second support part 12.
[0103] Each actuation surface 8.1, 9.1 participates in the transmission of the force received by the receiving device 5 towards the first and second capsules 3, 4. This will be explained in detail below.
[0104] Hinge
[0105] According to the embodiment visible in Figure 2A , 2B, 3A, 3B, 5, the first and second shells 8, 9 are around the hinge axis 10 and in the receiving position (see Figure 2A , 2B, 3A, 3B) and the connection position (see Figure 4A, are hinged to each other between the receiving position, in which the first and second housings 8, 9 are away from each other, and the first and second capsules 3, 4 can be received in the first and second receiving positions 13, 14 respectively, and the connecting position, in which the first and second housings 8, 9 are close to each other, and the first and second capsules 3, 4 are pre-connected to each other. Being pre-connected to each other means that the male connecting joint 4.4 of the second capsule 4 is partially inserted into the female connecting joint 3.4 of the first capsule 3, without establishing a sealed connection between the first and second capsules 3, 4.
[0106] When the first and second housings 8, 9 are in the receiving position, the first and second housings 8, 9 can have an inclination angle greater than or equal to 7° and, for example, about 7°. When the first and second housings 8, 9 are in the connecting position, the first and second housings 8, 9 are substantially parallel to each other. More precisely, there are two main wholes that are only hinged to each other: on the one hand, the first housing 8, the first support portion 11, the partition wall 22 and the second support portion 12; on the other hand, the second housing 9.
[0107] Advantageously, the first and second housings 8, 9 (or the actuating surfaces 8.1, 9.1) are configured to insert the first connecting portion 3.2 into the second connecting portion 4.2 when the receiving device 5 is moved to the closed position. In fact, when the first and second housings 8, 9 are in the closed position, the connecting portions 3.2, 4.2 are partially nested with each other.
[0108] The first and second support portions 11, 12 are more specifically configured such that when the first and second housings 8, 9 are in the connecting position, the first and second capsules 3, 4 extend substantially parallel to each other. As Figure 4A , as shown in 4B, when the first capsule is received in the receiving device 5 and the receiving device 5 is in the closed position, the first capsule 3 is configured to partially extend outside the receiving device 5. Advantageously, when the first capsule 3 is received in the receiving device 5 and the receiving device 5 is in the closed position, the output hole 3.6 is configured to extend outside the receiving device 5.
[0109] Heating element
[0110] The manufacturing device 2 includes a heating element 46 visible in Figure 3A , 3B. In the embodiment described in the figure, the heating element 46 belongs to a part of the receiving device 5. However, in the absence of the receiving device 5, this heating element can be integrated with the mixer.
[0111] The heating element 46 is fixed to the partition wall 22. In the design, it has been selected that the heating element 46 is on the side of the first support portion 11, which means that the heating element 46 is mounted on the side of the partition wall 22 on the side of the first support portion 11.
[0112] The heating element 46 preferably includes one or more heating resistors 46.1 and a diffusion plate 46.2. The heating element 46 thus has a flat shape in order to better diffuse heat. If possible, the heating element has an area of at least 500 mm 2 and preferably about 800 mm 2 .
[0113] However, since the first support portion 11 is located between the first capsule 3 and the heating element 46, a communication opening 46.3 is provided in the first support portion 11, which directly connects the flat surface 3.7 of the first capsule 3 to the heating element 46 (i.e., separated only by air).
[0114] The electrical contact tracks of the heating element
[0115] The heating element 46 needs to be powered. Preferably, the receiving device 5 does not include its own battery and should be powered when the receiving device is inserted into the receiving portion 32.
[0116] Therefore, an electrical connection is provided between the receiving device 5 and the mixer 6.
[0117] The receiving device 5 includes an insertion surface and a removal surface. The openings 8.2, 9.2 are located on the insertion surface, and the insertion surface is the surface that first enters the receiving portion 32. The removal surface is opposite to the insertion surface and is the surface visible when the receiving device 5 is inserted into the receiving portion 32. The receiving device 5 also includes opposite first actuation surfaces 8.1 and second actuation surfaces 9.1.
[0118] Finally, the receiving device 5 includes preferably opposite first connection surfaces 23 and second connection surfaces 24. In the embodiments shown in Figure 2A , 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, the connection surfaces 23 and 24 correspond to the sides of the heating element 46 and are thus different from the first and second actuation surfaces 8.1, 9.1 and the insertion / removal surface.
[0119] The connection surfaces 23, 24 extend between the actuation surfaces 8.1, 9.1 of the receiving device 5. Preferably, the actuation surfaces 8.1, 9.1 of the receiving device 5 are connected between the connection surfaces 23, 24, i.e., they are adjacent.
[0120] The general shape of the receiving device 5 is chosen such that the connection surfaces 23, 24 are spaced more than the actuation surfaces 8.1, 9.1 (and more than the insertion / removal surface). On the other hand, if the smallest parallelepiped into which the receiving device 5 is inserted is used, the surfaces in contact with the connection surfaces 23, 24 are farther away than the surfaces in contact with the actuation surfaces 8.1, 9.1 and closer than the surfaces in contact with the insertion / removal surface. This results from the fact that the width of the receiving device is greater than the thickness (in addition, the height is greater than the width).
[0121] The first connection surface 23 includes a first electrical contact track 23.1 for powering the heating element 46, and the second connection surface 24 includes a second electrical contact track 24.1 also for powering the heating element 46( Figure 2A , 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B). The electrical contact tracks 23.1, 24.1 are thus outside the receiving device 5 in order to come into contact with complementary tracks( Figure 2A , 4A, 4B).
[0122] This configuration has several advantages: firstly, this configuration ensures a simple and effective electrical connection. This configuration also avoids the risk of short - circuit. In fact, once a liquid flows in the receiving portion 32 (such as water in a shower or a sink or simply a ruptured capsule), it is impossible for the two electrical contact tracks 23.1, 24.1 to come into contact with the same amount of liquid simultaneously.
[0123] The first connection surface 23 includes the first and second housings 8, 9, a first support portion 11 and a part of the partition wall 22.
[0124] Specifically, the first connection surface 23 includes a longitudinal groove 23.2 which has a bottom 23.21 and two side walls 23.22, 23.23. The first electrical contact track 23.1 is preferably positioned on the side wall 23.22 of the longitudinal groove 23.2. In Figure 3A , the embodiment shown in 3B, the bottom 23.21 and the side wall 23.23 are formed by a part of the first support portion 11. A suitable cut 8.5 is thus provided in the first housing 8 to make room for the longitudinal groove 23.2. The opposite side wall 23.22 is formed by a part of the partition wall 22. The first electrical contact track 23.1 is thus positioned on this side wall 23.22 (since the heating element 46 is mounted on the partition wall).
[0125] Similarly, a similar longitudinal groove 24.2 is provided on the second connection surface 24, which has a cut 9.5 in the second housing 9 and has a bottom 24.21 and two opposite side walls 24.22, 24.23. Due to the non - centering of the groove, the cut 9.5 in the second housing 9 is not as obvious as the cut 8.5 in the first housing 8.
[0126] The grooves 23.2, 24.2 are configured to engage on respective complementary guide rails 31.1, 31.2 (sliding connection) provided in the receiving portion 32 and on (preferably opposite) connection sides( Figure 1A , 7A). Thus, the grooves 23.2, 24.2 form a cut - out portion that extends over the entire height of the part of the receiving device 5 where the grooves are located, at least up to the insertion height. The complementary guide rails 31.1, 31.2 help to define the receiving portion 32 and are positioned on opposite edges.
[0127] In particularFigure 4A In the embodiment visible in FIGS. 4B, the electrical contact tracks 23.1, 24.1 are not in the same horizontal plane but are offset.
[0128] The electrical contact tracks 23.1, 24.1 can take various forms: electric needles, metal sheets (as shown), etc. The electrical contact tracks 23.1, 24.1 are preferably slightly deformable to ensure permanent contact when the receiving device 5 is placed in the receiving part 32.
[0129] Therefore, it is noted that the longitudinal grooves 23.2, 24.2 are not centered with respect to the first and second actuating surfaces 8.1, 9.1 (see in particular Figure 2A , FIGS. 4A, 4B). In the design, this is caused by the grooves mainly formed in the first support part 11 and the first protective shell 8.
[0130] The benefit of this asymmetry lies in the positioning function. In fact, it is impossible to place the receiving device 5 in the wrong direction (rotating 180° around the longitudinal axis X) because the grooves 23.2, 24.2 cannot be inserted into the guide rails 31.1, 31.2 and the second shell 9 abuts against the guide rails 31.1, 31.2.
[0131] In order to have a positioning effect for vertical rotation (i.e., trying to place the removal surface first instead of the insertion surface), the longitudinal grooves 23.2, 24.2 do not extend over the entire height of the part of the first or second shell 8, 9 in which they are located. Therefore, there is no need to provide a dedicated part, and the stop effect is simply obtained by the part of the first or second shell 8, 9 that is not penetrated by the cutting effect. On the other hand, when the receiving device 5 is in the wrong direction, the first or second shell 8, 9 prevents the insertion of the grooves 23.2, 24.2 onto the guide rails 31.1, 31.2.
[0132] In addition, the longitudinal grooves 23.2, 24.2 each include end stops 23.3, 24.4 on the side of the removal surface. These end stops 23.3, 24.4 act as insertion stops to define the maximum insertion position in the receiving part 32.
[0133] In fact, there are two different types of stops, and they are generally located in the same position: at the ends of the longitudinal grooves 23.2, 24.2.
[0134] Electrical contact track of the temperature sensor
[0135] Because of the heating element 46 for mainly heating the first capsule 3, the first support part 11 is preferred to the second support part 12 in order to support the walls 23.23, 24.23 of the grooves 23.2, 24.2.
[0136] In fact, a temperature sensor (not shown in the figure) is connected to the rear of the diffusion plate 46.2 in order to measure the temperature in the first receiving position 13 and thus in the vicinity of the first capsule 3.
[0137] The temperature sensor is typically a CTN (negative temperature coefficient thermistor).
[0138] The temperature sensor should also be electrically connected to the mixer 6 (especially ultimately connected to a processor in order to collect data) and to the battery 44 provided in the mixer 6 in order to power the temperature sensor. To this end, a first supplementary electrical contact track 46.51 is provided at the first contact surface 23. This first supplementary electrical contact track 46.51 is different from the first electrical contact track 23.1. More precisely, the first supplementary electrical contact track 46.41 is provided in the first recess 23.2, on the side wall 23.23, that is to say on the side wall formed by the first support portion 11.
[0139] Similarly, a second supplementary electrical contact track 46.52 is provided in the second recess 24.2.
[0140] The two supplementary electrical contact tracks 46.51, 46.52 are also advantageously offset. In a particular example, the supplementary electrical contact track 46.51 and the electrical contact track 24.1 are in the same horizontal plane, and the supplementary electrical contact track 46.52 and the electrical contact track 23.1 are in the same horizontal plane.
[0141] Figure 2A , 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5 show these tracks.
[0142] Positioning part
[0143] The receiving device 5 includes a positioning portion 17 which is used to ensure the correct positioning of the first and second capsules 3, 4, that is to say the "correct" capsules 3, 4 are placed in the "correct" receiving positions 13, 14 (differently visible in Figure 2A , 5). The positioning portion 17 is preferably located at the end of the openings 11.2, 12.2 in order to prevent the unwanted passage of the unwanted connection joints 3.2, 4.2.
[0144] The positioning portion 17 includes at least one door leaf 17.1 which opens towards the outside of the receiving device 5 (preferably two door leaves on each side, as shown in the figure; preferably, the two door leaves 17.1 have a barroom configuration, that is to say are hinged towards the outside of the receiving device).
[0145] Specifically, the positioning portion 17 serves two different functions.
[0146] The door leaf 17.1 includes an opening 17.2 having a shape complementary to the female connection joint 3.4 of the first capsule 3 to permit its insertion into the opening 8.2. In addition, the door leaf 17.1 includes a stop 17.3 that helps define the opening 17.2 to prevent the insertion of a second connection part 4.2 that is laterally longer than the first connection part 3.2 into the opening 8.2. In fact, if an attempt is made to insert the second capsule 4 into the first receiving position 13, the end of the second connection part 4.2, i.e., a part of the male connection joint 4.4, abuts against the stop 17.3.
[0147] For entry into the second receiving position 14, when the receiving device 5 is in the closed position, the positioning part 17 blocks the second receiving position: it is blocked by the opening 12.2 and preferably also by the stop 17.3. Conversely, when the receiving device 5 is in the open position, i.e., when the second housing 9 rotates on its hinge, it is released through the opening 12.2.
[0148] Finally, since the door leaf 17.1 opens towards the outside, when the first and second capsules 3, 4 are removed from the receiving device 5 (both simultaneously as they are fixed together), they are not functionally blocked.
[0149] According to the design of the relative movement of the parts, the positioning part 17 can be fixed to the first support part 11 or the second support part 12 (as shown in the drawings): if the second support part 12 is fixed to the second housing 9 (and thus rotationally movable relative to the first support part 11), then preferably the positioning part is fixed to the first support part 11. In other words, it makes no difference.
[0150] The return spring 17.4 holds the positioning part 17 in the default position, i.e., the closed position.
[0151] Pressing element - vane
[0152] Especially as Figure 2B , 3A, 3B, 5 show, the receiving device 5 further includes a first pressing element 19 and a second pressing element 21. The first pressing element 19 is configured to enter the interior of the second receiving position 14, i.e., to apply pressure on the first capsule 3 and more specifically on the first deformable compartment 3.1. The second pressing element 21 is configured to enter the interior of the first receiving position 13, i.e., to apply pressure on the second capsule 4 and more specifically on the second deformable compartment 4.1.
[0153] The first pressing element 19 (or the second pressing element 21) is preferably mounted on the first support part 11 (or the second support part 12) and is movable between an inactive position, i.e., the deployed position, and an active position, i.e., the folded position. In the inactive position, the first or second receiving position 13, 14 is easily accessible for the first or second capsule 3, 4 (see Figure 2B, 3A, 3B), in this effective position, the first pressing element 19 (or the second pressing element 21) enters the interior of the first receiving position 13 (or the second receiving position 14), that is, the first pressing element (or the second pressing element) can exert pressure on the first deformable compartment 3.1 of the first capsule 3 (or the second deformable compartment 4.1 of the second capsule 4).
[0154] The first pressing element 19 (or the second pressing element 21) is advantageously rotatably mounted about the hinge 19.1 (or the hinge 21.1). The hinge 19.1 (or the hinge 21.1) is located opposite the opening 8.2 (or the opening 8.1) of the first housing 8 (or the second housing 9). The hinges 19.1, 21.1 are thus both located near the extraction face of the receiving device 5.
[0155] The pressing elements 19, 21 each have a flat inner face 19.2, 21.2 so as to form a rotatable blade. Each flat inner face 19.2, 21.2 cooperates with its first or second capsule 3, 4 respectively. As pressure is applied to the pressing element, the space between the blade and the placement surfaces 11.1, 12.1 gradually and continuously decreases. When the first or second capsule 3, 4 is installed, the output hole 3.6 and the connecting portions 3.2, 4.2 are located on opposite sides of the hinge 10: this allows the cream in the first or second capsule 3, 4 to be effectively expelled while avoiding any unwanted retention areas inside the first or second capsule.
[0156] In order to hold the pressing elements 19, 21 in the default open position (i.e., when the receiving device 5 is not actuated or when the second housing 9 is in the pivoted position), a restoring mechanism 21.3, such as a spring, is provided against the first or second housing 8, 9 ( Figure 5 ). The restoring mechanism 21.3 can tend to push the blade that extends slightly on the other side of the hinge 21.1.
[0157] In use, as will be described subsequently, the two pressing elements 19, 21 are actuated in sequence to allow the cream to be agitated. Thus, the cream is transferred from the first or second capsule 3, 4 to the other second or first capsule 4, 3.
[0158] Preferably, in order to optimize the operation of the blade, the hinge 19.1 (or the hinge 21.1) defines a rotation axis that is contained in the plane of the placement surface 11.1 (or the placement surface 12.1) and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receiving device 5. In the absence of a capsule, the inner faces 19.2, 21.2 can abut against the placement surfaces 11.1, 12.1.
[0159] Similarly, the hinges 19.1, 21.1 are preferably located just at the ends of the first or second receiving positions 13, 14.
[0160] To move the pressing elements 19, 21, the first and second housings 8, 9 each preferably include pressing points 8.3, 9.3 opposite the ends of the blade (to utilize the lever effect and minimize the force to be applied), which are configured to receive an external force and will be described in more detail later. The pressing points 8.3, 9.3 are fixed to flexible areas 8.4, 9.4, which are deformable (made of an elastomer or the like). The flexible areas 8.4, 9.4 are themselves fixed to the remaining parts of the first or second housing 8, 9 made of a more rigid plastic.
[0161] The pressing points 8.3, 9.3 are implemented by a rigid material (typically plastic).
[0162] Alternatively (not shown), the first and second housings 8, 9 have two holes, preferably opposite the ends of the blade, to allow free access to the pressing elements 19, 21.
[0163] The user can grasp the receiving device 5 with the hand and simultaneously press the pressing points 8.4, 9.4, for example, with the thumb and index finger / middle finger. The simultaneous pressure allows the cream of the first and second capsules 3, 4 to be directed towards the output hole 3.6.
[0164] In another embodiment (not shown), the receiving device 5 is integrated with the mixer 6, and the blade can be directly integrated in the mixer 6.
[0165] Retention stop
[0166] To prevent the receiving device 5 from being removed from the accommodation part 32 during the stirring process, a holding mechanism 50, which will be described in more detail later, is provided in the manufacturing device 2. To have a support point of the holding mechanism 50 on the receiving device 5, a holding stop 9.6 is provided on one of the first or second housings 8, 9 (on Figure 2A , 2B, 3A, 3B, 4B, 5 it is the second housing 9). The holding stop 9.6 mainly corresponds to a radially extending protrusion, i.e., a protrusion extending in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X. The holding stop can be located at any position along the height of the receiving device 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the holding stop 9.6 is provided near the insertion surface.
[0167] For example, for ergonomic reasons, another stop can be provided on the other housing.
[0168] Grip handle
[0169] To allow the user to grip the receiving device 5 when the receiving device 5 is inserted into the receiving portion 32, gripping handles 8.7, 9.7 are provided on each of the first and second protective shells 8, 9 (visible in particular in FIGS. 1, 2B, 4A, 4B). These gripping handles 8.7, 9.7 are located at the extraction face, which is the face that can be accessed when the receiving device 5 is positioned.
[0170] The gripping handles 8.7, 9.7 can simply consist of radially extending protrusions, i.e., protrusions extending in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X, and are long enough for a part of the user's finger joints to be lifted above.
[0171] Connecting button
[0172] As pointed out above, the actuation faces 8.1, 9.1 and more specifically the first and second protective shells 8, 9 each include pressing points 8.3, 9.4 for transmitting force towards the internal pressing elements 19, 21. These pressing points 8.3, 9.4 are formed in flexible areas 8.4, 9.4.
[0173] When the receiving device 5 is moved to the closed position, the connection joints 3.4, 4.4 face each other and are partially nested. To establish a sealed and reliable fluid connection between the first and second capsules 3, 4, a connection mechanism 52 is provided in the manufacturing device 2. The connection mechanism 52 applies a force towards the receiving device 5. The connection mechanism 52 simultaneously allows a fluid connection to be established between the first and second capsules 3, 4 under the action of the force applied by the connection mechanism 52, and also allows any unwanted disconnection between the first and second capsules 3, 4 under the pressure generated by the agitation of the first and second capsules 3, 4 to be avoided. This will be described subsequently.
[0174] One (or even both) of the first or second protective shells 8, 9 includes a connection button 9.8 that moves towards the second receiving position 14 ( Figure 2A , 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5). More precisely, the connection button moves towards the area near the opening 9.2 because the connection button 9.8 is used to press the second capsule 4 near the connection part 4.2. For this purpose, the connection button 9.8 is fixed to a flexible area, which can be the flexible area 9.4 of the pressing point 9.3. It should be noted here that the connection button 9.8 is different from the pressing point 9.3.
[0175] The connection button 9.8 is preferably rigid in order to better transmit the force of the connection mechanism 52 to the first and second capsules 3, 4, and thus the first and second capsules are kept connected.
[0176] Mixing machine
[0177] More specifically, as Figure 6, as shown in 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B, 8C, 9, 10A, 11A, 11B, 11C, the mixer 6 includes a support part 31 and a receiving part 32, the receiving part being at least partially defined by the support part 31 and configured to at least partially receive the receiving device 5. According to Figure 1A , in the embodiment shown in 1B, the mixer 6 and the receiving device 5 are configured such that when the receiving device 5 is received in the receiving part 32, the receiving device 5 at least partially extends outside the mixer 6. The support part 31 serves as a base, that is, when the mixer 6 is placed on a support (table, work surface...), the support part defines the whole of the fixing element, whether the mixer is in use or not. The support part 31 of the mixer 6 further includes a housing 33 and an insertion opening 34 leading to the receiving part 32, and the receiving device 5 is configured to be inserted into the receiving part 32 through the insertion opening 34. Advantageously, the insertion opening 34 is arranged in the central part of the upper surface of the base 33 and is configured to be oriented upward when the mixer 6 is arranged on a horizontal support surface (table, work surface...).
[0178] The base 33 also serves as an outer housing, which has a desired design for the mixer. The base 33 may include a lower base and an upper base.
[0179] Actuation system
[0180] The mixer 6 further includes an actuating system 35, which is pivotally mounted on the support part 31 around a substantially vertical pivot axis 36 when the mixer 6 is arranged on a horizontal support surface (table, work surface...) ( Figure 6 , 8A, 8B, 8C, 9, 10A).
[0181] Preferably, the actuating system 35 performs a reciprocating motion around the pivot axis 36 along a maximum angular stroke of 45°. The motion thus consists of a maximum rotation of +45° and then -45° and so on. The movement of the actuating system is along a rated stroke C35 (not shown in the figure), which is combined with the maximum angular stroke in the case of rotation around the pivot axis 36. The rated stroke C35 of the actuating system 35 is defined as the stroke between the two end positions of the actuating system 35. The intermediate position of the actuating system 35 is defined between these two end positions, and the intermediate position of the actuating system 35 corresponds to the insertion position at which the receiving device 5 can be positioned inside the receiving part 32 of the mixer 6 without being interfered with by the actuating system 35.
[0182] The mixer 6 further includes a drive motor 39 mounted on the support part 31. The drive motor 39 is configured such that the actuating system 35 pivots around the pivot axis 36 and within a predetermined angular range. Preferably, the drive motor 39 rotates only in a single direction.
[0183] The actuation system 35 includes a first actuation member 37 and a second actuation member 38. The first actuation member may include a first actuation finger 37.1 configured to transmit pressure to the first capsule 3. The second actuation member may include a second actuation finger 38.1 opposite the first actuation member 37 and configured to transmit pressure to the second capsule 4.
[0184] When the receiving device 5 is received in the mixer 6 and more precisely in the receiving part 32, the first and second actuation members 37, 38 are configured to be arranged on both sides of the receiving part 32 and thus on both sides of the receiving device 5.
[0185] The actuation members 37, 38 have at least one position in which the actuation members are at least partially inside the receiving part 32. In the intermediate position of the actuation system 35, the actuation members 37, 38 are arranged relative to the receiving part 32 to allow the receiving device 5 to be positioned inside the receiving part 32 of the mixer 6; this is the insertion position.
[0186] The first and second actuation members 37, 38 are more specifically configured to apply pressure respectively and alternately on the first and second pressing elements 19, 21 so as to transmit pressure respectively and alternately to the first and second compartments 3.1, 4.1. In particular, the first and second actuation members 37, 38 are configured to cooperate respectively with the first and second pressing points 8.3, 9.3 of the first and second protective casings 8, 9 or to cooperate directly with the pressing elements 19, 21.
[0187] Define an actuation stroke C37 for the first actuation member 37 and an actuation stroke C38 for the second actuation member 38.
[0188] The actuation stroke C37 is defined as the stroke between the intermediate position of the first actuation member 37 in the actuation system 35 and the maximum actuation position of the first actuation member 37, in which the first actuation member 37 presses the first pressing element 19 maximally.
[0189] Conversely, the actuation stroke C38 is defined as the stroke between the intermediate position of the second actuation member 38 in the actuation system 35 and the maximum actuation position of the second actuation member 38, in which the second actuation member 38 presses the second pressing element 21 maximally.
[0190] Preferably, the movement of the actuation system 35 can be tracked by means of different sensors, in particular Hall effect sensors. More precisely, each of the first actuation member 37 and the second actuation member 38 may include a magnet for interacting with a fixed Hall effect sensor. Advantageously, the Hall effect sensor can be directly provided on the control unit 45 to be described later, as Figure 12As can be seen, the control unit 45 can thus track the movement of the actuation system 35 and, likewise, the movement of each of the first and second actuation members 37 , 38 . It is also conceivable that the control unit 45 can precisely know the position of each of the first and second actuation members within their respective actuation travels C37 , C38 , for example, by providing a plurality of Hall effect sensors.
[0191] According to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 12 , the first and second actuating members 37 , 38 extend substantially in the same plane of extension and converge opposite the pivot axis 36 .
[0192] like Figure 6 8A, 8B, 8C, 9, the actuation system 35 has a generally annular shape defining an opening around the housing 32. In an embodiment, the actuation system 35 is primarily formed from a single part that includes an opening for receiving a shaft defining the pivot axis 36.
[0193] The first and second actuating members 37, 38 are each arranged on opposite sides of the actuating system 35. Thus, there is an actuating system 35 extending on two faces facing each other twice: the actuating members 37, 38, the opening for the pivot shaft 36 and the drive mechanism with the groove to be described later.
[0194] The actuating members 37, 38 can each comprise a drive support 37.3, 38.3 which is joined on one side at the pivot axis 36. On the other side, a connecting portion 36.1 is defined which connects the two drive supports 37.3, 38.3. The connecting portion 36.1 can be fixed to the drive supports 37.3, 38.3 or be made of the same material.
[0195] Preferably, the two actuating members 37, 38 rotate about the same pivot axis 36. In this case, the two drive supports 37.3, 38.3 are preferably rotated in one piece.
[0196] However, a pivot axis may be provided for each actuating member 37 , 38 ; however some simple adaptation should be provided.
[0197] Alternatively, in an embodiment not shown, the actuating member is movable in translation.
[0198] Spring
[0199] The actuating system 35 moves along a nominal stroke C35 in order to exert a force on the receiving device 5 .
[0200] However, the clearances associated with manufacturing tolerances in the transmission chain can interfere with the force transmission by varying the position of the actuating system 35. Thus, once the stroke is completed, there may be a few micrometers missing or, conversely, a few micrometers more. This can cause insufficient compression of the manufacturing device 2 or, conversely, damage to the manufacturing device 2.
[0201] To overcome this problem, the actuating system 35 can include springs 37.4, 38.4 (specifically visible in Figure 8A , 8B, 8C). Specifically, the springs 37.4, 38.4 are configured to be compressed when the actuating system 35 reaches near the end of its rated stroke C35 and the actuating fingers 37.1, 38.1 abut against the flat surfaces 3.7, 4.7 of the capsule. The springs 37.4, 38.4 thus generate a force tending to separate the actuating members 37, 38 of the receiving device 5.
[0202] More precisely, each actuating member 37, 38 includes a spring 37.4, 38.4.
[0203] The springs 37.4, 38.4 can be located in different positions. In an embodiment not shown, the springs 37.4, 38.4 are located at the "free" ends of the fingers 37.1, 38.1.
[0204] In another embodiment, preferably because the springs are covered, the springs 37.4, 38.4 are mounted between the fingers 37.1, 38.1 and the drive supports 37.3, 38.3. Thus, since the springs are behind the base, they cannot be touched by the user.
[0205] To place the springs in this position, for each actuating member 37, 38, arms 37.2, 38.2 are simply provided that are movably mounted relative to the drive supports 37.3, 38.3. The fingers 37.1, 38.1 are thus integrally mounted with the arms 37.2, 38.2.
[0206] In an embodiment such as Figure 8A , 8B, 8C, 9 shown, the arms 37.2, 38.2 are rotatably movable relative to the drive supports 37.3, 38.3 by hinges 37.5, 38.5. The springs 37.4, 38.4 are positioned between the arms 37.2, 38.2 and the drive supports 37.3, 38.3.
[0207] The springs 37.4, 38.4 thus work in compression, meaning that the empty or non-stressed position of the springs is not compressed. The springs are compressed in the translational or rotational direction of the actuating members 37, 38.
[0208] The springs 37.4, 38.4 can be helical, leaf-type springs, or even include elastic materials or elastic assemblies (elastomers, bubbles, etc.).
[0209] Rotary drive
[0210] According to Figure 6 , in the embodiment shown in 8A, 8B, 8C, 9, the mixer 6 further includes a cam 41 in the form of a drive wheel or arm, which is rotatably connected to the output shaft 39.1 of the drive motor 39 and is configured to be rotationally driven about the rotational axis 41.1 of the cam. The cam 41 is mounted on the support portion 31. In order to permit a reciprocating movement with a large lever arm, preferably, the pivot shaft 36 and the cam 41 are on both sides of the receiving portion 32.
[0211] The cam 41 is provided with a drive finger 42, which is eccentric with respect to the rotational axis 41.1 of the cam.
[0212] The cam 41 is typically driven by the drive motor 39 by means of one or more belts. In this case, starting from the drive motor 39 and the output shaft 39.1 equipped with a pulley, the transmission chain is as follows: belt 39.2, pulley 39.3 connected to the pulley 39.4 by a shaft, belt 39.5, cam 41.
[0213] The drive finger 42 is received in a drive groove 43 provided on the actuating system 35. Specifically, the drive groove 43 is formed in the connecting portion 36.1. The drive groove 43 is elongated and extends along a direction substantially parallel to the extension direction of the pivot shaft 36. This configuration of the mixer 6 allows a reciprocating movement of the actuating system 35 to be obtained while the drive motor 39 always rotates in the same rotational direction, so that an expensive control system of the drive motor 39 is not required.
[0214] The drive groove 43 extends towards the pivot shaft 36 along its depth.
[0215] Now the connection between the drive groove 43 and the drive finger 42 will be described. Given the situation where the actuating system 35 rotates, the alignment of the drive groove 43 and the drive finger 42 is variable, which means that a simple adjustment will jam the system. Conversely, the presence of a gap that causes misalignment generates noise and gives a delay time at the end of each stroke.
[0216] To solve this problem, a ball-and-socket joint is provided between the drive finger 42 and the drive groove 43, which allows the above-mentioned misalignment to occur.
[0217] Specifically, the ball 42.1 is mounted on the drive finger 42, and the ball is received in the ring 43.1. The connection between the ball 42.1 and the ring 43.1 is a ball-and-socket joint. The ring 43.1 itself is received in the drive groove 43, and the ring is translationally movably mounted in the drive groove along a direction parallel to the pivot axis 36 (and thus along the length of the drive groove 43). Finally, the ball 42.1 is translationally movably mounted along the drive finger 42. The arrangement of these different connections can be different, meaning that the ring can also translationally move along the depth of the groove and the ball is thus fixed to the drive finger.
[0218] Therefore, the complete connection between the drive finger 42 and the actuation system 35 sequentially includes a guide rail, a ball-and-socket joint, and a guide rail perpendicular to the other guide rail. Therefore, in the movement torque, it is noted that the force is only transmitted on one of the six torque components, that is, the translational component tangent to the rotational movement of the actuation system 35, that is, the component that allows the actuation system 35 to rotate. The kinematic equivalent is a ball-spherical connection (also known as a point connection).
[0219] In order for the above connection not to be more complex and useless, the rotational axis 41.1 of the cam and the pivot axis 36 are preferably orthogonal. This allows for a drive finger 42 that performs a circular motion in a plane parallel to the pivot axis 36.
[0220] The movement of some settings of the connection can be simply achieved by a plastic slide rail / plastic, and the wear of the plastic slide rail is slow enough to ensure a satisfactory service life.
[0221] According to an implementation variant of the present invention, the mixer 6 can be configured such that the rotation of the drive motor 39 in the first rotation direction drives the actuation part 35 to pivot in the first pivot direction, and the rotation of the drive motor 39 in the second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction drives the actuation part 35 to pivot in the second pivot direction opposite to the first pivot direction.
[0222] Eccentricity of the pivot axis
[0223] The actuating members 37, 38 each move along the actuating strokes C37, C38.
[0224] However, in the embodiment shown in the figure, one of the two actuating members 37, 38 has an actuating stroke C37, C38, and the length of this actuating stroke is strictly greater than the length of the actuating stroke of the other actuating member. This difference in the actuating strokes C37, C38 allows for better mechanical and electrical management of the force to be provided in order to deform the first capsule 3 relative to the second capsule 4. In fact, as Figure 2BAs shown, the first capsule 3 has a greater thickness than the second capsule 4, which means that more space is required on the side of the thickest capsule, and the pressing element 19 will contact and operate faster than the pressing element 21.
[0225] To achieve this difference in stroke, several solutions can be considered. One solution consists of having a drive groove 43 that is not centered in the connection part 36.1.
[0226] In particular Figure 8A , another solution as shown in 8B, 8C, 9 aims to make the pivot axis 36 eccentric. On the other hand, the rotation axis 41.1 of the cam does not intersect the pivot axis 36. When the cam 41 makes a complete revolution, this results in a difference in stroke between the two actuating members 37, 38. The distance (orthogonal, i.e., by orthogonal projection) between the rotation axis 41.1 of the cam and the pivot axis 36 being 1% to 5% of the distance between the drive groove 43 and the pivot axis 36 is sufficient and does not affect the overall symmetrical appearance too much. In absolute terms, a distance between 1 mm and 2 mm is appropriate.
[0227] The eccentricity can also be defined by means of the receiving part 32 relative to the rotation axis of the cam 41: thus the end position of the actuating system 35 is not centered around the receiving part 32.
[0228] The eccentricity can also be defined relative to the first and second mounting surfaces 11.1, 12.1 or relative to the position of the first and second capsules 3, 4 in the receiving part 32: by means of the flat surfaces 3.7, 4.7, which thus define a virtual surface in the receiving part 32. The maximum distance of the first actuating member 37 to the surface of the flat surface 3.7 is greater than the maximum distance of the second actuating member 38 relative to the flat surface 4.7.
[0229] For this purpose, in a variant, the pivot axis 36 is included in a plane equidistant from the two mounting surfaces 11.1, 12.1.
[0230] Under the action of the eccentricity, the first actuating finger 37.1 is advantageously longer than the second actuating finger 38.1. This is especially due to the fact that, due to the eccentricity, the end positions of the compensating actuating fingers 37.1, 38.1 are compensated. More precisely, the actuating fingers 37.1, 38.1 working on the thicker first or second capsule 3, 4 have a greater length than the other actuating finger 37.1, 38.1.
[0231] Figure 8AAnother solution shown aims to not define an intermediate position of the actuation system 35 at the high or low dead points of the cam 41. In fact, by choosing the intermediate position of the actuation system 35 at a non-zero angle Ag (typically between 5° and 30°) relative to the 12 o'clock direction (when the mixer 6 is placed on the horizontal support), the distribution of the actuation strokes C37, C38 is staggered. Additionally, it should be noted that for an angle Ag' = 180° - Ag, another intermediate position is thus obtained.
[0232] In fact, the actuation strokes C37, C38 at the cam 41 correspond to a rotation from the angle Ag to the nearest 90° (i.e., the 3 o'clock direction or the 9 o'clock direction, when the mixer 6 is placed on the horizontal support), and then to a rotation from the angle Ag' to 270°. Since Ag and Ag' are not at 0° and 180° (the 12 o'clock direction and the 6 o'clock direction), it is immediately noted that the strokes C37 and C38 are not equal. Regarding a full rotation of the cam 41, thus in the first direction through the first actuation stroke C37, then in the second direction through the first actuation stroke C37, then in the first direction through the second actuation stroke C38, and then in the second direction through the second actuation stroke C38, i.e., two rated strokes C35.
[0233] Contact track of the mixer
[0234] As mentioned above, the mixer 6 itself further includes electrical contact tracks 31.11, 31.12 and electrical contact tracks 31.51, 31.52, which are configured to engage with the electrical contact tracks 23.1, 24.1 of the longitudinal grooves 23.2, 24.2 of the receiving device 5, and the electrical contact tracks 31.51, 31.52 are configured to engage with the complementary electrical contact tracks 46.51, 46.52 of the longitudinal grooves 23.2, 24.2.
[0235] These electrical contact tracks are mounted on guide rails 31.1, 31.2 ( Figure 1A , 7A), which are integral with the support 31 and mounted on two connecting sides of the receiving portion 32. The positions of the electrical contact tracks 31.11, 31.12 (and 31.51, 31.52) on the guide rails 31.1, 31.2 are complementary to the positions of the electrical contact tracks 23.1, 24.1 (and 46.5, 46.52) of the connecting surfaces 23, 24 of the receiving device 5. The guide rails 31.1, 31.2 help to define the receiving portion 32. The guide rails are located, for example, on the edges and are preferably fixed to the support 31 over their entire length.
[0236] The positions of the electrical contact tracks 31.51, 46.51, and 31.52, 46.52 on the two opposite and spaced-apart guide rails 31.1, 31.2 have the advantage that once the liquid flows by gravity onto one of the guide rails 31.1, 31.2, the risk of short circuit is limited.
[0237] Blocking mechanism, connecting mechanism, removing mechanism
[0238] The mixer 6 further includes a holding mechanism 50, a connecting mechanism 52, and a clamping mechanism 54( Figure 10A , 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 11A, 11B, 11C).
[0239] Each of these mechanisms has its own and independent function. However, these mechanisms can advantageously be driven simultaneously by the same auxiliary motor 40.
[0240] The function of the holding mechanism 50 is to prevent the removal of the storage device 5 during stirring.
[0241] The holding mechanism 50 is movably mounted relative to the support portion 31 between an insertion position and a holding position. In the insertion position, the holding mechanism 50 allows the insertion and removal of the storage device 5 relative to the mixer 6. In the holding position, the holding mechanism 50 prevents the removal of the storage device 5 (and thus prevents the insertion of the storage device).
[0242] The holding mechanism 50 includes a movable element 50.1 that moves between the above two positions, and the movable element extends in the receiving portion 32 in the holding position. Specifically, in the holding position, the movable element 50.1 cooperates with the holding stop 9.6 to prevent the translational movement of the storage device 5 intended to be removed from the mixer 6 (in fact, in the case of removal, the holding stop 9.6 abuts against the movable element 50.1 and gets stuck). For this purpose, when the storage device 5 is placed in the mixer, the movable element 50.1 and the holding stop 9.6 are arranged to be located near the holding position, preferably less than 2 mm.
[0243] In Figure 10A , 10B, 10C shown in the embodiment, the movable element 50.1 is a wheel, that is, a holding wheel, which moves around the wheel rotation axis 50.2. The wheel 50.1 has at least two different radii, the smaller radius is configured not to extend into the receiving portion 32 in the insertion position, and the larger radius is configured to extend into the receiving portion 32 in the holding position so as to contact the holding stop 9.6 in the case of removal.
[0244] The wheel 50.1 is preferably circular with a flat portion that allows the insertion position.
[0245] The wheel 50.1 is mounted on a shaft extending along the wheel rotation axis 50.2. The shaft includes a gear 51 or a pulley, which is connected to at least one other gear or another pulley 51.1.
[0246] Alternatively, the movable element 50.1 is translated by means of a gear-rack system via the gear 51, for example.
[0247] The function of the connecting mechanism 52 is to establish a sealed connection between the first and second capsules 3, 4 by pressing on the connection button 9.8 of the second protective shell 9 and to ensure that the first and second capsules are well held nested by their connection joints 3.4, 4.4.
[0248] The connecting mechanism 52 is movably mounted relative to the support 31 between an insertion position and a connection position. In the insertion position, the connecting mechanism 52 allows the insertion and removal of the receiving device 5. In the connection position, the connecting mechanism 52 locks the first and second capsules 3, 4.
[0249] The connecting mechanism 52 includes a connecting element 52.1 that is movable between the above two positions, and the connecting element extends in the receiving portion 32 in the connection position. Specifically, in the connection position, the connecting element 52.1 cooperates with the connection button 9.8, which moves inside the second receiving position 14. For this purpose, when the receiving device 5 is installed in the mixer 6, the connecting element 52.1 and the connection button 9.8 are opposite to each other.
[0250] In Figure 10A , 10B, 10C, in the illustrated embodiment, the connecting element 52.1 is a wheel, i.e., a connecting wheel, which is movable about the wheel rotation axis 52.2, and the wheel rotation axis preferably coincides with the wheel rotation axis 50.2. The wheel 52.1 has at least two different radii, with the smaller radius configured not to extend into the receiving portion 32 in the insertion position, and the larger radius configured to extend into the receiving portion 32 in the connection position in order to contact and press the connection button 9.8.
[0251] The wheel 52.1 preferably has an elliptical shape in a plane.
[0252] The wheel 52.1 is mounted on a shaft extending along the wheel rotation axis 52.2. The shaft includes a gear or a pulley, which is connected to at least one other gear or another pulley 51.1. The shaft and the gear are preferably the same as the shaft and the gear 51. Thus, a first sub-assembly with a rotational connection is obtained.
[0253] Alternatively, the connecting element 52.1 is translated by means of a gear-rack system via the gear 51, for example.
[0254] The connecting mechanism 52 is different from the actuation system 35. This is caused by different positions (e.g., different heights) in the mixer 6. Similarly, the receiving device 5 includes pressing points 8.3, 9.3 that are different from the connecting button 9.8.
[0255] The function of the clamping mechanism 54 is to clamp the output channel 3.5 of the first capsule 3 when the mixing process is in progress. In fact, the pressure inside the first or second capsule 3, 4 can cause an unwanted output of the cream. In this case, the cream spreads in the mixer 6, which is to be prohibited. This is shown in Figure 11A , 11B, 11C.
[0256] The clamping mechanism 54 is movable between an insertion position and a clamping position relative to the support 31. In the insertion position, the clamping mechanism 54 allows the insertion and removal of the receiving device 5 that holds the first capsule 3. In the clamping position, the clamping mechanism 54 clamps the output channel 3.5.
[0257] The clamping mechanism 54 includes a clamping wheel 54.1 that rotates movably about a clamping wheel axis 54.2.
[0258] The mixer 6 also includes a fixed guide wall 54.3 (integrated with the support 31 and even made of the same material as the support) and a clamping wall against which the clamping wheel 54.1 rolls or slides, and against which the clamping wheel is clamped in the clamping position. The clamping wall is advantageously part of the guide wall 54.3. Multiple variants are distinguished: one variant in which the clamping wheel 54.1 approaches the guide wall 54.3 towards the clamping position, one variant in which the distance is constant or variable, and in which the clamping wall has a particular recess for capturing the clamping wheel 54.1 (which is possible due to the translatory movement of the clamping wheel 54.1, as can be seen below).
[0259] The teeth 54.11 present on the clamping wheel 54.1 (in practice, the wheel includes a circular or substantially circular part that clamps the first capsule 3 and a toothed part that is preferably below the circular part) can engage in the teeth 54.31 in the guide wall 54.3 such that the clamping wheel 54.1 rolls against the guide wall 54.3. In addition, due to the teeth 54.11, 54.31, the clamping wheel 54.1 has a rolling motion against the clamping wall 54.3 without a sliding motion, which allows avoiding the dangerous sliding that would result in a poor clamping of the output channel 3.5. Finally, due to the teeth 54.11, 54.31, the distance (except for the teeth, i.e., the average distance) between the clamping wheel 54.1 and the guide wall 54.3 can be made to almost become zero under the first capsule 3 while maintaining the rolling motion against the guide wall 54.3.
[0260] To permit this transmission, the clamping wheel 54.1 is mounted on the arm 54.5 and preferably rotatably mounted, and the arm itself is rotatably mounted about the arm rotation axis 54.51.
[0261] The arm 54.5 is integral with a gear (or pulley) or gear portion 54.52, and the gear 54.52 is itself connected to the common gear 40.1 via various gears or pulleys. Thus, the arm 54.5 is rotationally driven by the same auxiliary motor 40.
[0262] To ensure clamping in the clamping position, including when the auxiliary motor 40 is no longer energized, the clamping wheel 54.1 is mounted so as to be radially translatable along the arm 54.5. The restoring mechanism 54.4 provided between the clamping wheel 54.1 and the arm 54.5 tends to separate the clamping wheel 54.1 from the arm rotation axis 54.51 and thus tends to press the clamping wheel 54.1 against the guide wall 54.3. More precisely, an intermediate support portion including the rotation axis 54.2 of the clamping wheel 54.1 is provided. This support portion is translatable relative to the shaft 54.5. In the intermediate support portion, the sliding connection with the pin 54.42 sliding in the groove 54.53 of the shaft 54.5 allows guiding the translation and also advantageously allows restricting the translational movement.
[0263] The restoring mechanism 54.4 thus works in compression, where, by default, the restoring mechanism is not compressed (or is rarely compressed). A helical spring, leaf spring or other type of spring may be suitable.
[0264] Due to the restoring mechanism 54.4, the clamping wheel 54.1 can remain in contact with the guide wall 54.3 even if the distance between the guide wall 54.3 and the arm rotation axis 54.51 is variable (the distance can gradually decrease towards the region where the output channel 3.5 is located).
[0265] Common drive
[0266] Preferably, the holding mechanism 50, the connecting mechanism 52 and the clamping mechanism 54 are simultaneously driven by a common drive, as described according to the following embodiments. The holding mechanism 50 is driven by a gear 51 which is at least connected to another gear 51.1 ( Figure 10A , 10B).
[0267] The connecting mechanism 52 is driven by a gear which is at least connected to another gear, preferably the gear 51 and another gear 51.1 ( Figure 10A , 10B).
[0268] The clamping mechanism 54 is driven by the gear portion 54.52.
[0269] Different transmission chains can be provided, and preferably a common gear 40.1 is provided, which then drives another gear 51.1 and the gear portion 54.52.
[0270] As Figure 11A shown in FIGS. 11B, 11C, the common gear 40.1 is located on the output shaft of the auxiliary motor 40. This common gear meshes directly with the gear 51.1, which is mounted on a shaft including another gear 51.2. This gear 51.2 itself meshes with the gear portion 54.52. Thus, there is a very simple transmission chain, which has a minimum number of gears, and thus has a minimum frictional loss, a minimum risk of damage, and a very small clearance.
[0271] Due to this common gear 40.1 located on the output shaft of the auxiliary motor 40, at least two of the three mechanisms 50, 52, 54 are simultaneously in the insertion position or the holding position, the connecting position or the clamping position. The same auxiliary motor 40 thus drives the three mechanisms, which constitutes a major simplification of the mixer 6 and its working principle.
[0272] Visual and sound display
[0273] The mixer 6 advantageously includes a screen 60 and / or a loudspeaker ( Figure 1A , 1B, 7) that allows for the exchange of information with the user.
[0274] The screen 60 is preferably touch-sensitive in order to avoid the setting of physical buttons. The screen allows the user to indicate the start of the cycle and the moment of removal. The screen 60 can also display the end of the cycle, for example, accompanied by a sound reminder.
[0275] Power supply and control unit
[0276] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the mixer 6 further includes a power supply (not shown in the figures), which is configured to supply power to the mixer 6, in particular to the drive motor 39 and the auxiliary motor 40. The power supply advantageously even uniquely includes at least one rechargeable battery 44 ( Figure 7B ). In the example shown, the rechargeable battery 44 advantageously consists of a lithium-ion battery having two battery cells, which provides a rated output voltage of 7.4V.
[0277] As Figure 12 shown, the mixer 6 further includes a control unit 45, which, for example, includes a controller such as a microcontroller or a processor 45.1, which is configured to control the operation of the manufacturing device 2, more specifically to control the operation of the drive motor 39, the auxiliary motor 40, the heating element 46, the temperature sensor, and the screen 60 (for the screen, preferably a processor), as well as all the sound or visual devices. The control unit 45 advantageously includes a non-volatile type of memory 45.2, which stores instruction lines in the form of a program to be executed by the controller or the processor 45.1, in particular in order to implement some of the steps described in the following method.
[0278] Other embodiments
[0279] In a variant, the storage device 5 is integrated with the mixer 6. Thus, it is only necessary to insert the first or second capsule 3, 4 into the first or second storage positions 13, 14. The receiving portion 32 is still defined, which corresponds to the space occupied by the storage device 5.
[0280] In addition, in this variant, the actuating surfaces 8.1, 9.1 may be absent: the actuating members 37, 38 directly press on the first or second capsule 3, 4 in this case.
[0281] Method of use
[0282] Now, at least one manufacturing method of a composition such as a beauty product will be described by means of the manufacturing device 2. This manufacturing method is broken down into a plurality of sub-methods (referred to as "methods" for the sake of clarity), and one or more variants of this method will be described. Specifically, it is divided into a preparation method Ep, an initial method Ei, a mixing method Em, and a removal method Er.
[0283] Specifically, these methods (or their variants) are advantageously implemented by means of different embodiments of the above-mentioned manufacturing device 2. Preferably, most of the steps of the methods Ei, Em, and Er are stored in the non-volatile type memory 45.2 in the form of code line instructions that can be executed by the processor 45.1.
[0284] The preparation method Ep includes a preparation step Ep1 for the entire use of the preparation of the manufacturing device 2, which aims to connect the manufacturing device to the power grid or charge the battery 44. In addition, this preparation step Ep1 can be before or after the step Ep2 of placing the manufacturing device 2 on a flat support, and if necessary, it can have a power-on step.
[0285] Then the initial method Ei is implemented. In step Ei1 ("receiving step"), the processor of the manufacturing device 2 receives a start command. This start command is typically generated by the action of the user (contact with the touch screen 60, buttons, switches, etc.).
[0286] After this step Ei1, in step Ei2 (“verification step”), the method ensures that the actuation system 35 is in an intermediate position that allows the insertion of the receiving device 5 or the insertion of the first and second capsules 3, 4. Typically, it should be ensured that the receiving portion 32 (for the insertion of the receiving device 5) or the first or second receiving positions 13, 14 (for the insertion of the first or second capsules 3, 4 without the receiving device 5) are not blocked by the actuation system 35. During this step Ei2, it is also appropriate to check that the clamping mechanism 54, the connecting mechanism 52, and the holding mechanism 50 are not activated, i.e., in their respective insertion positions.
[0287] After this step Ei2, in the receiving portion 32, the receiving device 5 including the first or second capsule 3, 4 can be manually inserted, or even the first or second capsule 3, 4 can be directly inserted.
[0288] Finally, in the subsequent step Ei3 (closing step), at least one of the clamping mechanism 54, the connecting mechanism 52, and the holding mechanism 50 is activated, i.e., they move. This step Ei3 includes, for example, the processor sending a command to the auxiliary motor 40 to start the auxiliary motor so that, in the case where the above three mechanisms are all connected to a common gear (or pulley) 40.1, the auxiliary motor drives these three mechanisms. The auxiliary motor 40 moves from the first position to the second position so that the clamping mechanism 54, the connecting mechanism 52, and the holding mechanism 50 move from their respective insertion positions to their respective clamping, connecting, and holding positions. Preferably, the auxiliary motor 40 remains in the second position at the end of step Ei3, even if the auxiliary motor is no longer powered.
[0289] Steps Ei1, Ei2, Ei3 are particularly executed by the processor 45.1.
[0290] After this initial method Ei, the mixer 6 is ready to start working on the first and second capsules 3, 4: this is the purpose of the mixing method Em and the removal method Er.
[0291] The mixing method Em includes a first step Em1 (“initial step of moving the actuation system”) of the preparation phase, during which the connecting solder of the capsule positioned farther from the heating element 46 (the second capsule 4 in the figure) is broken, and the capsule is compressed so that the content of the capsule is partially sent towards the capsule closer to the heating element 46. According to the given embodiment, the second actuating member 38 moves to break the connecting solder in the second capsule 4 (the second capsule includes, for example, a preparation of the oil phase). Thus, a part of the content of the second capsule 4 is sent towards the side of the first capsule 3, especially into the connecting channel 3.3 (because the connecting solder of the first capsule 3 has not been broken yet). The second actuating member 38 preferably moves along its actuating stroke C38. For reasons of design simplicity, a partial stroke sensor for the second actuating member 38 is not required.
[0292] In the step Em2 of the preparation phase (“second step of moving the actuation system” or “prestressing step”), the first actuating member 37 moves along a partial stroke that is strictly less than its actuation stroke C37 and maintains its position in order to apply a prestress on the first capsule 3 (which, for example, contains an aqueous preparation) so that the flat surface 3.7 bears against the diffusion plate 46.2. This prestress allows for a favorable heat exchange between the diffusion plate 46.2 and the first capsule 3 during the subsequent step Em3 (“heating step”). It should be noted that due to the movement of the first actuating member 37 over a partial stroke, this pressing of the first capsule 3 against the diffusion plate 46.2 is carried out without causing the breakage of the connecting solder in the first capsule 3 (which would cause the preparation in the first capsule 3 to be sent towards the second capsule 4).
[0293] In the step Em3 of the preparation phase (“heating step”), the heating element 46 is activated to generate heat towards the first capsule 3. Since the heating element 46 is positioned on the side of the flat surface 3.7 of the first capsule 3 and the prestressing step has allowed for good thermal contact between the diffusion plate 46.2 and the first capsule 3, the heat provided by the heating element 46 is well distributed over the contents of the first capsule 3. Step Em3 is thus activated in the absence of any movement of the actuating members 37, 38.
[0294] During the step Em3 of the preparation phase, the temperature of the heating element 46 reaches a target temperature Tc that is between 80 °C and 90 °C. The purpose of this target temperature Tc is to bring the contents of the first capsule 3 to a target temperature Tc' that is also between 80 °C and 9 °C and preferably around 85 °C. In fact, it has been observed that during this heating step Em3, the temperature of the contents of the first capsule 3 roughly corresponds to the target temperature Tc of the heating element 46, albeit with a slight time lag.
[0295] Then, in step Em3’ (“mixing step”) of the stirring phase, the heating element 46 is deactivated and then the first actuating member 37 moves along its rated stroke in order to break the connecting solder in the first capsule 3. The interruption of the power supply to the heating element 46 before activating the first actuating member 37 allows for the integrity of the power provided by the power supply, which can be used to power the drive motor 39. This feature is particularly advantageous when the mixer 6 is powered by a low-power power converter or battery 44. In fact, this feature allows to avoid that the power supplied to the drive motor 39 is insufficient to allow the breaking of the connecting solder of the first capsule 3 (which results in jamming of the device), and this breaking step of the connecting solder requires a large motor torque. When the first actuating member 37 reaches the end of its actuating stroke C37, the content of the first capsule 3 is sent into the second capsule 4, and the two preparations can thus freely circulate from the first or second capsule 3, 4 towards the second or first capsule 4, 3 via the connecting parts 3.2, 4.2 during each reciprocating movement of the actuating system 35, and the connecting solder originally present in each of the first and second capsules 3, 4 has been broken.
[0296] Subsequently, steps Em4, Em5, Em6 are successive steps of stirring, with or without heating (referred to as the stirring phase).
[0297] Step Em4 (“stirring step without heating”) of the stirring phase is intended to cause the actuating members 37, 38 to perform reciprocating movements without activating the heating element 46, i.e. without heating. During this step, the first and second capsules 3, 4 each deform at least once. According to an embodiment, step Em4 lasts at least 1.4 seconds and preferably between 2 seconds and 4 seconds. This stirring step without heating allows to start the drive motor 39 at a constant speed while favoring the entire power of the power supply.
[0298] Steps Em1, Em2 and Em3, Em3’, Em4 alternate the movement of the actuating system 35 and the heating by the heating element 46. This is specifically caused by the power supply dedicated to the actuating system 35 or the heating element 46. This unique alternation allows to protect the battery 44 by distributing the high-power moments. In fact, the start of the movement causes a large resistance torque, which requires a large motor torque, and the temperature rise also requires a large power: the battery 44 is thus strongly demanded. This alternative solution also allows to reduce the size of the components, which is inherent in the manufacture of the mixer and in the design limitations on the battery.
[0299] Conversely, once the temperature is near the target temperature Tc’ and once the actuating system 35 has been moved, the demand on the battery 44 is reduced and it is permitted to supply power to the heating element 46 and the actuating system 35 in parallel: this is the purpose of step Em5.
[0300] During step Em5 (“stirring step with heating”) of the stirring phase, the actuation system 35 remains activated and the heating element 46 is activated in order to keep the preparation mixed at a temperature which is preferably the target temperature Tc’. Thus, the heating element is maintained at the target temperature Tc. This step Em5 lasts for example between 5 seconds and 30 seconds and preferably between 7 seconds and 15 seconds. Although the battery 44 is less demanded than for starting or for temperature rise, the battery may tend to discharge quickly during this phase with a limited duration.
[0301] However, in order for the first and second capsules 3, 4 to each deform a number of times and for the emulsion obtained from the preparation mixture to be satisfactory, this step Em5 is long enough.
[0302] Between steps Em4 and Em5, the actuation system 35 is not stopped.
[0303] Subsequently, step Em6 (“cooling step with stirring”) of the stirring phase is implemented. Alternatively, this step can be achieved without stirring, but preferably the actuation system 35 is kept activated in order to improve or maintain the homogenization of the preparation. During step Em6, the temperature of the cream decreases to the withdrawal temperature Tr’ which is between 35 °C and 48 °C and preferably between 38 °C and 42 °C. In the case of the illustrated embodiment, the withdrawal temperature Tr’ of the cream corresponds to the withdrawal temperature Tr of the heating element 46 which is between 55 °C and 60 °C. During the cooling step, this temperature difference between the contents of the first and second capsules 3, 4 and the temperature of the heating element 46 is explained in particular by the fact that during stirring, the composition is present only for a part of the time in the first capsule 3 and thus is opposite the diffusion plate 46.2 only for a part of the time, while the temperature measurement is carried out at this diffusion plate.
[0304] The simplest technique for cooling is to stop the power supply to the heating element 46 and to cool the cream by air at ambient temperature. Thus, the duration of step Em6 actually depends on the ambient temperature. For this purpose, the temperature sensor is advantageously positioned in the mixer 6 and more precisely in the receiving device 5. In order to limit the number of temperature sensors, the same sensor measures the temperature of the heating element 46.
[0305] As in the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensor measures the temperature of the heating element 46 and then uses the same sensor: this means that the end of step Em6 is determined by the temperature measured by said sensor, i.e. by the withdrawal temperature Tr’ which is between 55 °C and 60 °C.
[0306] Once the withdrawal temperature is reached, the actuation system 35 is stopped.
[0307] The cooling step Em6 generally lasts at least 20 seconds and preferably 40 seconds.
[0308] In the implementation of the variant example, step Em6 may also advantageously include a minimum stirring duration of, for example, about 40 seconds, followed by a supplementary stirring duration which is interposed only if the removal temperature Tr’ has not been reached. The minimum stirring duration allows ensuring good emulsification. On the other hand, even if the temperature is less than the removal temperature Tr’, stirring still takes place during a certain duration.
[0309] It should be noted that, according to an embodiment not shown, the mixer 6 may include a cooling system for cooling the cream in an efficient manner and accelerating the process. For example, a cooling system equipped with a small-sized fan may be provided, with or without supplementary cooling elements, the fan forcing air to circulate in the mixer 6, thus forcing cooling by forced convection.
[0310] Once the mixing method Em is ended, the removal method Er may be started. The removal method Er will now be described.
[0311] Since the above steps take a certain time (usually more than one minute), the user may not be next to the mixer 6 but be busy with his daily affairs (having breakfast, listening to the radio, watching TV, buttering bread, dressing, ironing clothes, etc.). Therefore, it is important that the mixer 6 can keep the cream in a ready-to-use state during a predetermined duration.
[0312] For this purpose, in step Er1 (“transfer step for storage”), the actuation system 35 is activated once in order to transfer the cream into a capsule (i.e., here the first capsule 3) located on the side of the heating element 45. This step is non-mandatory once step Em6 has been stopped in a good configuration.
[0313] In step Er2 (“prestress maintenance step”), the actuation system 35 returns to the prestressed position, where the first actuation member 37 exerts a prestress on the first capsule 3 in order to bring the first capsule into contact with the diffusion plate 46.2. Then, in step Er3 (“thermal insulation step”), the heating element 46 is activated in order to keep the cream at the removal temperature Tr’. The step Er2 for maintaining the prestress allows better heat conduction, as in step Em2. Preferably, the stirring or movement of the actuation system 35 is periodically implemented during step Er3 in order to ensure good emulsification, which may be partly damaged by the presence of hot spots on the diffusion plate 46.2.
[0314] In the case of implementing the variant example, the removal method may include step Er2’ (“holding step in the intermediate position”) instead of step Er2, in which the actuation system 35 is activated to be placed in the intermediate position, that is, without forcing the first or second capsule 3, 4 and specifically without forcing the first capsule 3 against the heating element 46. Surprisingly, this variant example allows better emulsification to be maintained and avoids the use of periodic stirring during the holding phase.
[0315] Step Er3 is implemented during a predetermined waiting duration. This duration is less than 15 minutes so as not to supply power to the heating element 46 for too long a time, and this duration is greater than 1 minute and preferably about 5 minutes so as to allow flexibility for the user in morning time management.
[0316] On the other hand, this means that after the movement of the actuation system 35 ends, the user has a time between 1 minute and 15 minutes and preferably about 5 minutes (selected according to factory parameters or user parameters) to restore the cream to a good temperature.
[0317] As soon as the user is ready to use the cream, the user touches the touch screen or presses a button, which starts step Er4 (“receiving step of the removal instruction”), during which the mixer 6 receives the removal command.
[0318] Then, in step Er5 (“step of placing in the intermediate position”), the actuation system 35 is activated to be placed in the intermediate position.
[0319] In the case where the actuation system 35 is prestressed at the first actuating member 37, the first actuating member should end its movement, which moves the preparation to the second capsule 4, and then the actuation system 35 stops at the intermediate position, which corresponds to a position suitable for removing the receiving device 5. This position also corresponds to the starting position suitable for implementing the next manufacturing cycle of the above method. In fact, starting from the start of the drive motor 39, the second actuating member 38 is ready to compress the second capsule 4 at step Em1.
[0320] In the case of implementing the variant example, the actuation system 35 is already in the intermediate position at step Er2’ for the heat preservation of step Er3. It may be necessary for the actuation system 35 to perform a reciprocating movement in order to be positioned in the intermediate position suitable for implementing the next manufacturing cycle of the above method, that is, the second actuating member 38 is ready to compress the second capsule 4 at step Em1.
[0321] During this reciprocating movement of the actuation system 35, the cream present in the first capsule 3 is partially sent into the second capsule.
[0322] Finally, in the last step Er6 (unlocking step), each mechanism activated in step Ei3 is placed in the insertion position. Similarly, this step Er6 implies the activation of the auxiliary motor 40.
[0323] Subsequently, the user grasps the storage device 5 and removes the storage device from its receiving portion 32. Then, the user presses the actuation surfaces 8.1, 9.1 in order to pivot the blades, so as to expel the cream present in the first and second capsules 3, 4 through the output channel 3.5 of the first capsule 3. Finally, what remains to be done is to remove the first or second capsule 3, 4 from the storage device 5 so that the storage device is ready for use again. In fact, no part of the mixer 6 (manufacturing device 2 or storage device) comes into contact with the preparation.
[0324] The different steps of implementing the above method can be carried out continuously, for example, and are thus the following steps:
[0325] Ei1: Reception step of receiving the start command (implemented by the mixer and more precisely by the processor);
[0326] Ei2: Positioning step of the actuation system (implemented by the mixer and more precisely by the processor controlling the drive motor);
[0327] Ei3: Preferably parallel closing step of the clamping mechanism, holding mechanism and connecting mechanism (implemented by the mixer and more precisely by the processor controlling the auxiliary motor);
[0328] Em1: Initial step of the movement of the actuation system for breaking the connecting solder of one of the capsules (implemented by the mixer and more precisely by the processor controlling the drive motor);
[0329] Em2: Second step of the movement of the actuation system for applying prestress on the other capsule (implemented by the mixer and more precisely by the processor controlling the drive motor);
[0330] Em3: Heating step of the prestressed capsule (implemented by the mixer and more precisely by the processor controlling the heating element);
[0331] Em3’: Mixing step of the movement of the actuation system for breaking the connecting solder of the other capsule and allowing the free circulation of the preparation between the capsules (implemented by the mixer and more precisely by the processor controlling the drive motor);
[0332] Em4: Stirring step without heating for starting the motor at a constant speed (implemented by the mixer and more precisely by the processor controlling the drive motor);
[0333] Em5: A stirring step with heating for emulsification (implemented by a mixer and more precisely by a processor that controls a drive motor and a heating element);
[0334] Em6: A cooling step with stirring and without heating (cooling) until the removal temperature (implemented by a mixer, and the processor of the mixer controls the drive motor);
[0335] Er1: A non - mandatory step for transfer for storage by the movement of an actuation system (implemented by a mixer and more precisely by a processor that controls a drive motor);
[0336] Er2: A step of placing the actuation system in a prestressed position (implemented by a mixer and more precisely by a processor);
[0337] Er2’: A step of placing the actuation system in an intermediate position (which can replace step Er2) (implemented by a mixer and more precisely by a processor that controls a drive motor);
[0338] Er3: A heat - preservation step (implemented by a mixer and more precisely by a processor);
[0339] Er4: A receiving step for receiving a removal command (implemented by a mixer and more precisely by a processor);
[0340] Er5: A step of placing the actuation system in an intermediate position (implemented by a mixer and more precisely by a processor that controls a drive motor);
[0341] Er6: A unlocking step (implemented by a mixer and more precisely by a processor that controls an auxiliary motor).
Claims
1. A movable storage device (5) for forming a mixer (6) when the storage device (5) is inserted into a manufacturing device (2), the storage device (5) comprising - a first storage position (13) configured to receive a first capsule (3) containing a first preparation, - a second storage position (14) configured to receive a second capsule (4) containing a second preparation, the two capsules (3, 4) being capable of fluid connection, - a first actuating surface (8.1), - a second actuating surface (9.1) opposite the first actuating surface (8.1), - a heating element (46) configured to heat at least one of the first and second capsules (3, 4) when the storage device (5) equipped with the first and second capsules (3, 4) is received in the mixer (6), - a first electrical contact track (23.1) for powering the heating element (46), located on a first connection surface (23) of the storage device (5), - a second electrical contact track (24.1) for powering the heating element (46), located on a second connection surface (24) of the storage device (5) different from the first connection surface (23).
2. The storage device (5) according to claim 1, wherein - the first connection surface (23) extends between the first and second actuating surfaces (8.1, 9.1) of the storage device (5), and / or - the second connection surface (24) extends between the first and second actuating surfaces (8.1, 9.1) of the storage device (5).
3. The storage device (5) according to claim 1, wherein - the first connection surface (23) extends between the first and second actuating surfaces (8.1, 9.1) of the storage device (5), and / or - the second connection surface (24) connects the first and second actuating surfaces (8.1, 9.1) of the storage device (5).
4. The storage device (5) according to claim 1, wherein - the first connection surface (23) connects the first and second actuating surfaces (8.1, 9.1) of the storage device (5), and / or - the second connection surface (24) extends between the first and second actuating surfaces (8.1, 9.1) of the storage device (5).
5. The storage device (5) according to claim 1, wherein - the first connection surface (23) connects the first and second actuating surfaces (8.1, 9.1) of the storage device (5), and / or - the second connection surface (24) connects the first and second actuating surfaces (8.1, 9.1) of the storage device (5).
6. The storage device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first connection surface (23) and the second connection surface (24) are different from the first actuating surface (8.1) and the second actuating surface (9.1).
7. The storage device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first and second connection surfaces (23, 24) are opposite each other.
8. The storage device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The distance between the first and second connection surfaces (23, 24) is greater than the distance between the first and second actuating surfaces (8.1, 9.1).
9. The storage device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a first protective housing (8), the first storage position (13) being located inside the first protective housing; and a second protective housing (9), the second storage position (14) being located inside the second protective housing, the second protective housing (9) being mounted by a hinge (10) so as to be movable relative to the first protective housing (8), a partition wall (22) carrying the heating element (46), and the first electrical contact track (23.1) and the second electrical contact track (24.1) being mounted on the partition wall (22).
10. The storage device (5) according to claim 9, comprising an insertion face and an opposite extraction face, the first capsule (3) and the second capsule (4) being insertable through the insertion face into the respective first storage position (13) and second storage position (14); and the hinge (10) being located at the position of the extraction face.
11. The storage device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first electrical contact track (23.1) and the second electrical contact track (24.1) are located in respective grooves (23.2, 24.2).
12. The storage device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first actuation face (8.1) comprises a first pressing element (19), and the second actuation face (9.1) comprises a second pressing element (21).
13. The storage device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a temperature sensor and a first supplementary electrical contact track (46.51) and a second supplementary electrical contact track (46.52) connected to the temperature sensor, the first supplementary electrical contact track (46.51) and the second supplementary electrical contact track (46.52) being respectively located on one of the first connection face (23) and the second connection face (24).
14. The storage device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first actuation face (8.1) and the second actuation face (9.1) are opposite to each other and / or the first connection face (23) and the second connection face (24) are opposite to each other.
15. A mixer (6) configured to removably receive the storage device (5) to form a manufacturing device (2), the mixer (6) comprising - a support (31) defining a receiving portion (32) capable of receiving the storage device (5) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 11, - an actuation system (35) movable relative to the support (31) inside the receiving portion (32), comprising * a first actuation member (37) located on one side of the receiving portion (32) and movable inside the receiving portion to transmit pressure to the first side of the storage device (5) or directly to the first capsule (3), * a second actuation member (38) located on the other side of the receiving portion (32) and movable inside the receiving portion to transmit pressure to the second side of the storage device (5) or directly to the second capsule (4). - A first electrical contact track (31.11) for energizing the receiving device (5), which is located on the first connection side of the receiving portion (32), - A second electrical contact track (31.12) for energizing the receiving device (5), which is located on the second connection side of the receiving portion (32).
16. A mixer (6) configured to removably receive a receiving device (5) to form a manufacturing apparatus (2), the mixer (6) comprising - A support member (31) defining a receiving portion (32) capable of receiving the receiving device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, - An actuating system (35) capable of moving inside the receiving portion (32) relative to the support member (31), including * A first actuating member (37) positioned on one side of the receiving portion (32) and capable of moving inside the receiving portion to transmit pressure to the first side of the receiving device (5) or directly to the first capsule (3), * A second actuating member (38) positioned on the opposite side of the receiving portion (32) and capable of moving inside the receiving portion to transmit pressure to the second side of the receiving device (5) or directly to the second capsule (4), - A first electrical contact track (31.11) for energizing the receiving device (5), which is located on the first connection side of the receiving portion (32), - A second electrical contact track (31.12) for energizing the receiving device (5), which is located on the second connection side of the receiving portion (32).
17. The mixer (6) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein, Each electrical contact track (31.11, 31.12) is mounted on a corresponding track (31.1, 31.2).
18. A manufacturing apparatus (2) for manufacturing a product, comprising the receiving device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and the mixer (6) according to any one of claims 15 to 17.
19. The manufacturing apparatus (2) for manufacturing a product according to claim 18, wherein, The product is a cosmetic.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
system FOR MANUFACTURING A COSMETIC PRODUCT BY MIXING FROM SEVERAL SINGLE-USE PACKAGING UNITS.
FR3026622A1
System for making a cosmetic product by mixing components from several single-use packaging units
CN106999873A
Mixer for preparation of samples for microbiological testing
FR2781695A1