Variable temperature mixer

Abstract

The present invention discloses a variable temperature blender for cooking and preparing heated sauces, jams, soups, spreads, alternative milks, smoothies, and the like. The variable temperature blender has a lid assembly, a container assembly, and a base assembly. The container assembly has a blending container and a collar attached to a bottom portion of the blending container. The base assembly has a user interface, a motor, and a controller. A heating element positioned within the collar of the container assembly receives an electronic signal from the controller via an electrical interface connecting the base assembly to the container assembly. The electronic signal activates or deactivates the heating element to heat food contained in the blending container based on an operating mode of the variable temperature blender.

Description

[0001] Cross-references and priority claims to related patent applications

[0002] This International PCT Patent Application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 878,571, filed on July 25, 2019, and entitled “Variable Temperature Blender,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] introduction

[0004] Food processing products are usually used to reduce the preparation time in the preparation of dietary ingredients. These processed products can also have independent uses in the preparation of beverages and other specific dishes, where the food products must be prepared with a certain consistency. Together with food processors, blenders are common products for preparing ingredients and beverages in this way. Common blenders usually include a cover, a food holding container, a blade, a motor and a base. An accessible user interface allows chefs and consumers to adjust and operate these blenders. Many blenders have a circular or square base structure, allowing the blender to be stably placed on a countertop or other flat surface. Blenders are common food processing tools, and there are many blenders on the market today, which provide various container sizes, different blade configurations, and utilize different component materials to best meet customer needs. These needs include whether the blender will be used for commercial or home cooking purposes and the type of food preparation to be performed in its holding container. Traditionally, blenders for food preparation utilize sharp "X" blades designed for food cutting and chopping, while blenders for beverage preparation utilize blunter "wing" blades suitable for crushed ice.

[0005] Blender operation typically requires the user to remove the lid, insert the ingredients into the blending container, and ultimately select the desired blending setting or speed to achieve the desired final consistency. Some blender designs allow the container to be detachable from the base to easily transfer the blended food or beverage ingredients. Blenders are often sold with a mashing attachment to adjust the position of the ingredients within the container, which would interfere with optimal operation of the blades.

[0006] Blenders are typically used to prepare room temperature or cold ingredients. Blenders themselves are not ideal for preparing hot or heated ingredients because the shape and size of the container are not ideal for providing sufficient and appropriate cooking heat for food products. In order to improve existing blender technology, the inventors have envisioned a blender that can overcome and improve some of these shortcomings. The blender envisioned by the inventors has the ability to operate at variable temperatures to properly and correctly complete food preparation during cold or hot blending. Depending on variable factors such as altitude, ingredient consistency, and desired volume, it is difficult to determine the best settings and precise functions for controlling the blender. By including a heating element in the blender, the heating element not only allows the preparation of heated food, but also allows the user to cook more accurately and easily, reducing the time required for cooking calculations and the opportunity for human error, and eliminating the need to first heat the food product via another appliance and transfer the food product to the blender.

[0007] Likewise, the inventors have proposed the following disclosure, which relates to a variable temperature blender capable of operating under pre-programmed settings or custom settings defined by the user at the time of operation. The inventors' device also allows for a greater number of possible cooking operations in the areas of cold food preparation and hot food preparation. The contemplated blender also allows for instructions to be provided to the user and prompts to add ingredients, thereby increasing flexibility and techniques for cooking complex food preparation items.

[0008] Further features and advantages of the disclosed embodiments, as well as the structure and operation of the various elements of the disclosed embodiments, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate disclosed embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain certain inventive principles.

[0010] Figure 1 A perspective view of a variable temperature mixer as described herein in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0011] Figure 2 A perspective view of a lid assembly of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0012] Figure 3 A perspective view of a container assembly of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0013] Figure 4 A bottom perspective view of a container assembly of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 5Shown is a perspective side view of a blade assembly and plate removed from a container assembly of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 6 A perspective view of a plate removed from a container assembly of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 7 A perspective view of a base assembly of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0017] Figure 8 A perspective view of a user interface of a base assembly of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0018] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram showing the interconnected electrical components of a variable temperature mixer in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0019] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B A flow chart showing a custom mixing operation mode of a variable temperature mixer in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B A flow chart showing a custom heating mode of operation of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B A flow chart showing a grinding mode of operation of a variable temperature mixer in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B A flow chart illustrating a milk replacement mode of operation of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Fig.14A , Fig. 14B and Fig. 14C A flow chart illustrating a cream sauce mode of operation of a variable temperature mixer in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Fig.15A and Fig. 15B A flow chart showing a heating sauce operation mode of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig.16A and Fig. 16B A flow chart showing a jam mode of operation of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Fig.17A and Fig. 17BA flow chart illustrating a soup mode of operation of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Fig.18A and Fig.18B A flow chart showing a heating wash operation mode of a variable temperature mixer in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig.19A and Fig.19B A flow chart illustrating a smoothie mode of operation of a variable temperature blender in an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] See attached figure, Figure 1 A variable temperature blender 100 is shown for preparing hot or cold food ingredients or food / beverage recipes. The food preparation process may include, but is not limited to, preparing hot or cold milk, sauces, spreads, and beverages. Figure 1 As shown, the variable temperature blender 100 may include three main parts: a lid assembly 105 , a container assembly 110 , and a base assembly 115 . Figure 2-Figure 7 Additional details and discussions of each of the major components of variable temperature mixer 100 are provided.

[0030] Figure 2 An embodiment 200 of a lid assembly (105) of a variable temperature blender (100) is shown. The lid assembly 200 may include a lid 205 having an outer lid circumferential portion 210 and an inner raised lid portion 215. The outer lid circumferential portion 210 may extend to a larger diameter than the container assembly (110), on which the lid assembly 200 may rest and be attached. A plurality of lid recesses 220 may be positioned on the edge of the outer lid circumferential portion 210. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of lid recesses 220 may have an L-shaped design and be positioned approximately 180 degrees from each other. Figure 2 The lid assembly 200 disclosed in the embodiment has two lid recesses 220, however other variations and numbers of recesses may also be used. When the lid assembly 200 is placed on top of the container assembly (110), the lid assembly 200 may be rotated to lock the plurality of lid recesses 220 with the container assembly (110).

[0031] The inner raised cover portion 215 may have a smaller diameter than the outer cover circumferential portion 210 and extend in an upward direction of the cover assembly 200. The edge of the inner raised cover portion 215 may have a profile and configuration (e.g., a gripping / recessed portion) that allows a user to easily access to grasp the cover assembly 200 to place and remove the cover assembly 200 on the container assembly. In some embodiments, the inner raised cover portion 215 may have lettering (not shown) and / or other (e.g., directional) markings 225, such as arrows, indicating instructions for attaching and removing the cover assembly 200 from the container assembly (110). Extending from a portion of the circumferential edge of the inner raised cover portion 215 is a cover safety member 230. When the lid assembly 200 is placed on the container assembly (110) and moved to the locked operating position via the plurality of lid recesses 220, the lid safety member 230 may align with a similar portion of the container assembly 110 (e.g., the top portion of the handle of the container assembly) to indicate to the user that the lid assembly 200 is in the proper position for operating the variable temperature blender 100. The lid safety member 230 may have a lid safety protrusion (not shown) that may extend downward and fit into the container assembly (110), as described below.

[0032] A gasket portion (not shown) may also be part of the lid assembly 200. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the gasket portion may extend outwardly from the side of the outer lid circumference portion 210 that extends downwardly. The diameter of the gasket portion may be slightly smaller than the diameter of the container assembly (110) and may fit into the container assembly (110) when the lid assembly 200 is placed on top of the container assembly (110). The shape of the gasket portion allows a seal to be formed between the container assembly (110) and the lid assembly 200, wherein the container assembly (110) contacts the outer surface of the gasket portion and the bottom surface of the outer lid circumference portion 210. A sealing device (not shown), such as but not limited to an O-ring and other silicone members, may surround the gasket portion, thereby allowing a tight seal to be formed to prevent food particles and liquids from escaping.

[0033] In some embodiments, the lid assembly 200 may also have a hole that runs through the middle of both the inner raised lid portion 215 and the outer lid circumference portion 210. The cap 235 may be placed in the hole and fixed to the side of the inner raised lid portion 215 by a locking mechanism. The cap 235 may have a profile and configuration (e.g., a grip / recess) and may exist for inserting ingredients into the container assembly (110) or as an access point for a cooking utensil (such as a pestle) to remove ingredients from the interior of the container assembly (110). For high altitude cooking, the cap 235 may be replaced with a boil-over guard (not shown), which may be fitted in the hole and attached to the lid assembly 200 in a similar manner to the cap 235. During operational use of the variable temperature blender (100), ingredients may be inserted through the hole after the inner raised lid portion 215 and the outer lid circumference portion 210 are placed in a locked position with the container assembly (110). In other embodiments, the cap assembly 200 may be completely removed to insert the ingredients. The entire cap assembly 200 may have a variety of configurations based on the shape and size of the container assembly (110) to which it is attached. The shape of the cap assembly 200 may be circular, rectangular or square, or any other configuration to fully fit and secure to the container assembly (110).

[0034] Now go to Figure 3 , a perspective view of an embodiment 300 of a container assembly (110) of a variable temperature blender (100) is shown. The container assembly 300 may include a mixing container 305 having a hollow interior volume 310. The mixing container 305 provides space to hold food ingredients and liquids for mixing during operation of the variable temperature blender 100. The mixing container 305 may be made of a glass material, but it should be understood that other materials may be sufficient, such as but not limited to stainless steel or plastic polymers. The mixing container 305 may include a groove 315 on the inner wall to help the mixing process by preventing excessive food particles from accumulating on the inner wall when the variable temperature blender 100 is in operation. The top edge 320 of the mixing container 305 may be configured to cooperate with the shape of the lid assembly 200 disclosed above and described / shown in the previous figures. In some embodiments, the top portion of the mixing container 305 may have an outward protrusion 325 that continues until the top edge 320. The outward protrusion 325 can form a spout or any other easy path of travel that allows mixed food ingredients or liquids to be transferred from the mixing container 305 to an external bowl or container (not shown). In some embodiments of the present disclosure, there are also multiple latches 330 extending radially from the top rim 320 of the mixing container. When the lid assembly (200) is placed on top of the container assembly 300 and rotated to the correct operating position, the multiple latches 330 can fit with / fit into the multiple recesses (220) present on the lid assembly (200). For example, in some embodiments, the multiple latches 330 can be positioned approximately 180 degrees from each other. Although Figure 3 Two latches are shown as the plurality of latches 330, but it should be understood that different number combinations of latches may be used with a corresponding number of notches of the lid assembly based on various different shape and size configurations of the container assembly.

[0035] In some embodiments, the container assembly 300 may include a handle member 335 that may be attached to the outer wall of the mixing container 305 or formed therein. The handle 335 provides an ergonomic gripping surface for easy manipulation by a user of the variable temperature blender 100. The handle 335 allows the user to remove the container assembly 300 from the base assembly 115 in a lifting motion, and also allows the user to place the container assembly 300 on top of the base assembly 115, thereby allowing the variable temperature blender (100) to be operated. At the top of the handle 335 is a portion 340 (e.g., a spacer) that allows a lid safety member (e.g., a protrusion) (230) to align with and / or enter the interior of the handle 335. When in the interior of the handle 335, the lid safety member (e.g., a protrusion) (230) activates a lid switch 338 within the handle 335. The lid switch 338 is electrically connected to the container electrical interface, as described below. The placement of the lid safety member (e.g., protrusion) (230) within the gap 340 of the handle 335 sends an electrical signal to the container electrical interface indicating that the lid assembly (200) is properly mated with the container assembly 300. If such a true condition is met, the variable temperature blender (100) can be placed in an operational mode.

[0036] Below the mixing container 305 is the collar 345 of the container assembly 300. The collar 345 is formed into a shape and configuration that cooperates with the base assembly (115) of the variable temperature mixer (100). The collar 345 accommodates the mechanical connection and electrical and / or electronic components of the container assembly 300, as described below. These electrical and / or electronic components include a heating element and a container electrical interface that will be discussed in more detail below. The collar 345 may have a protrusion 350 formed as a lip or gripping surface to provide another handling interface to the user, such as for removing / installing the container assembly 300, for example, from the base assembly (115) to the base assembly (115).

[0037] Now go to Figure 4, a bottom perspective view of an embodiment 400 of the bottom of the container assembly (300) is shown, wherein the container electrical interface 405 is visible. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the container electrical interface 405 is a male pin configuration that can be mated with the base assembly (115). The container electrical interface 405 communicates with the lid switch (338), the heating element, and the temperature sensor 408 of the container assembly (300). The container electrical interface 405 transmits power and data signals through these connections to allow the variable temperature blender (100) to operate correctly in the selected operating mode, and also adjusts the temperature of the heating element based on the selected operating mode.

[0038] Also shown is a plate 410 of the container assembly (300). Plate 410 is made of any type of thermally conductive material and provides a barrier between the interior of the stirring container and the interior of the collar. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, plate 410 is made of stainless steel, but can be any thermally conductive material capable of transferring heat from the heating element to the plate. Attached to plate 410 is a temperature sensor 408. In some embodiments, temperature sensor 408 is located within plate 410, while in other embodiments, temperature sensor 408 can be flush with plate 410, but is a separate component. Temperature sensor 408 connects the interior of the stirring container (305) to container electronic interface 405 to transmit a data signal about the temperature of the food inside the stirring container (305). In certain operating modes, food is required to reach and maintain a certain temperature for proper food preparation. Temperature sensor 408 reads the temperature of the food, and then transmits the reading back to the base assembly for appropriate adjustments.

[0039] Surrounding the plate 410 and contained within the collar (345) is a heating element 415 of the variable temperature blender (100). Similar to the temperature sensor 408, the heating element 415 is electrically connected to the container electrical interface 405. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the heating element 415 can have a power output of 600 watts, but other possible power values ​​can be envisioned. During operation, the heating element 415 is controlled by an electrical signal received by the container electrical interface 405 from the base assembly (115). When activated, the heating element 415 provides a heat output of the plate 410 that is transferred to the container assembly (300). Based on the temperature reading obtained by the temperature sensor 408 and the communication with the base assembly (115), the heating element 415 can be turned on or off to increase the temperature of the food, reduce the temperature of the food, or maintain the temperature of the food. The specific operating cycle of the variable temperature blender (100) requires different and specific heating temperatures for the food. The ability of heating element 415 to provide variable heat and temperature maintenance allows variable temperature blender (100) to perform cooking methods and operations not previously possible in conventional blenders.

[0040] Figure 4Also shown is the mating socket 420 of the collar (345). The mating socket 420 may be formed to allow a friction fit between the container assembly (300) and the base assembly (115). A corresponding mounting member (described below) of the base assembly (115) will fit into the mating socket 420 of the container assembly (300) and may be held in place by friction so that the container assembly (300) does not move during operation of the variable temperature blender (100). Of course, other locking mechanisms may be employed between the base assembly (115) and the container assembly (300).

[0041] Located in the center of the container assembly (300) is a nut 425 for connection between the container assembly (300) and the base assembly (115). When the mating socket 420 of the collar (345) is positioned on the base assembly (115), the nut 425 contacts the motor plug (described below) of the base assembly (115) to allow the base assembly (115) to drive the blade assembly (described below) of the variable temperature blender (100). The nut 425 can be made of any structurally reliable material that can withstand the high revolutions per minute (RPM) of the motor running in the base assembly (115). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the nut 425 is a metal nut, but plastic or high density rubber can also be used to achieve similar results.

[0042] Figure 5 A perspective side view of an embodiment 500 of a blade assembly 505 showing a plate 510 (also referred to as 410) removed from a container assembly (300). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plate 510 is circular in nature to conform to fit to the bottom edge of the mixing container (305). The blade assembly 505 has a plurality of blades 515a, 515b, 515c, and 515d, and rotates about the axis of a blade shaft 520. A nut 525 (also referred to as 425) of the container assembly (300) is also shown as traveling through the middle of the plate 510 via the blade shaft 520 and attached to the blade assembly 505 on the other side of the plate 510 (e.g., opposite the blade assembly 505).

[0043] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the blade assembly 505 can be a plurality of blades 515a-515d, wherein the blade shaft 520 is concentric with the plurality of blades 515a-515d. The blade shaft 520 runs through the plate 510 and is connected to the nut 525. When the nut 525 cooperates with the base assembly (115), the power from the motor in the base assembly drives the rotation of the blade shaft 520, and then drives the plurality of blades 515a-515d to rotate. There can be a first blade 515a with a flat center, wherein there is a first blade hole for mounting around the blade shaft 520. The first blade 515a can have a V-shaped protrusion on each side, each protrusion upward at an angle of about 58 to 66 degrees for general cutting purposes. There can also be a second blade 515b with an elongated flat center, wherein there is a second blade hole for mounting around the shaft and having a shortened V-shaped protrusion at an angle of 105 degrees on each side. In addition, there may be a third blade 515c having a first portion with a flat center, wherein there is a third blade hole for mounting around the blade shaft 520. The second portion of the third blade 515c may be bent downward at an angle of 148 degrees. The third portion of the third blade 515c may be flat and have a V-shaped tip. There may be a fourth blade 515d having a first portion with a flat center, wherein there is a fourth blade hole for mounting around the blade shaft 520. The second portion of the fourth blade 515d may be bent downward at an angle of 19 degrees, wherein the front edge on one side and the rear edge on the other side have teeth to enhance cutting performance.

[0044] Figure 6 A perspective view of an embodiment 600 of a first contact 605a and a second contact 605b of a plate 610 (also referred to as 410, 510) of a container assembly (300) is shown. A heating element 615 (also referred to as 415) is shown in a circular configuration and terminates at a first contact 605a and a second contact 605b. Each of the first contact 605a and the second contact 605b is attached to the container electrical interface (405) by wiring. The activation of the heating element 615 can be variable or fixed, depending on the selected operating mode of the variable temperature blender (100). A temperature sensor 608 (408) is also shown as traveling through the plate 610. The plate 610 has a plate hole (not shown) through which the temperature sensor 608 (408) extends. The temperature sensor 608 (408) is then fixed to the plate so that the temperature sensor 608 (408) can contact the food to provide an accurate reading of the contents of the blending container. In other embodiments, the temperature sensor 608 (408) may be embedded within the plate during manufacturing to provide a temperature reading of the food. Similar to the first and second contacts, the temperature sensor 608 (408) is also connected to the container electrical interface via wiring.

[0045] Now go to Figure 7, an embodiment 700 of a base housing 705 and a base electrical interface 710 of a base assembly 715 (also referred to as 115) of a variable temperature blender (100) is shown. The base assembly 715 can have a base housing 705 that completely surrounds the internal components of the base assembly 715. The base housing 705 can be shaped and configured to allow horizontal attachment between the container assembly (300) and the base assembly 715. The base assembly 715 can be made of any structurally strong material. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the base housing 705 can be made of a plastic polymer, but other materials such as metal alloys are also possible. The bottom surface of the base housing 705 is ventilated, thereby allowing heat to be discharged from the base assembly during operation of the variable temperature blender (100).

[0046] On the top surface of the base assembly 715 is the base electrical interface 710. When the container assembly (300) is fixed on the top of the base assembly 715, the base electrical interface 710 communicates with and inserts into the container electrical interface (405). The base electrical interface 710 may have a pin socket configuration and extend from the base assembly 715. The base electrical interface 710 may be a male port to fit securely into a female port of the container electrical interface (405). Wires may connect the corresponding pin configuration to the internal electronics of the base assembly 715.

[0047] The base assembly 715 may also have a base mount 720 on the top surface of the base assembly 715. The base mount 720 may be provided in a circular design and configured to mate with the mating socket (420) of the collar (345) of the container assembly (300). Fitting the base mount 720 into the mating socket 420 forms a friction fit. The friction fit holds the container assembly (300) to the base assembly 715. Unlike conventional blender designs, the variable temperature blender (100) does not require or need twisting to lock the motion to secure the container assembly (300) to the base mount 720.

[0048] The base assembly 715 may further include a motor plug 725, which is centered and extends from the top surface of the base housing 705. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the motor plug 725 can be a noise reduction motor plug that allows quieter operation of the variable temperature blender. As a noise reduction motor plug, the motor plug can be made of silicone or plastic material so that when the nut of the container assembly is matched, the motor plug does not generate friction noise during operation. The motor plug is matched with the nut (525) of the container assembly (300) at the top, and the bottom end of the motor plug is connected to the motor shaft (not shown) inside the base housing 705. The motor shaft is further connected to the motor of the variable temperature blender. The motor can be operated with various speed settings based on the operating program selected by the user. For example, the motor of the variable temperature blender can have nine different speed settings based on the number of revolutions per minute performed by the motor shaft. Setting one can have a speed of 100RPM. Setting two can have a speed of 1000RPM. Setting three can have a speed of 3000RPM. Setting four can have a speed of 5000RPM. Setting five may have a speed of 10,000 RPM. Setting six may have a speed of 16,000 RPM. Setting seven may have a speed of 19,000 RPM. Setting eight may have a speed of 21,000 RPM. Setting nine may have a speed of 24,000 RPM.

[0049] The base assembly may also have an on / off switch 730 for powering the blender. The on / off switch may be located on a side wall of the base housing 705 and may be movable between an on position and an off position. When in the on position, power may be supplied to the base assembly via a power cord (not shown) connected to an external power source. In the on position, the user may select any operating mode, and the variable temperature blender will complete the operation as long as the conditions for safe operation are met. When in the off position, the variable temperature blender will not perform any operation requested by the user.

[0050] The user interface 735 may also be present on the base assembly 715. The cover plate 740 may cover a portion of the top surface of the base housing 705 and provide the user interface 735 to the user. A plurality of button positions 736 may be present on the top surface of the base housing and connected to corresponding buttons on the user interface. The plurality of button positions 736 and the user interface 735 are electrically connected to the internal electronics of the base assembly. The user interface may also provide a dial 745 to be placed on the front face of the base housing. The dial may have an embedded LED that will light up when the variable temperature blender is provided with power for operating functions. The dial may also be rotated in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction so that the user can cycle through different operating programs to select the appropriate program desired by the user. When the correct program is selected, the dial may have a dial button 746 component on the front face of the dial that can be pressed to execute the selected special operating program.

[0051] A plurality of pads 750 may be attached to the bottom of the base housing. The plurality of pads allow the variable temperature blender to contact and stabilize on a surface. The plurality of pads may be made of a rubber material or the like so that vibrations caused by operation of the variable temperature blender do not cause the base assembly to move from its resting position on the surface.

[0052] like Figure 8 800, buttons 805 and 810, mode indicators 815, 820 and 825, and display screen 830 of a user interface 835 (also referred to as 735) of a cover plate 840 (also referred to as 740) are shown, and the cover plate has a user interface 835 that can be fixed to the top of the base assembly (715). The user interface 835 has a cancel button 805 and a pulse button 810 at each end of the user interface 835. Each of the cancel button 805 and the pulse button 810 can be pressed to a corresponding button position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 804 ). Figure 7 736 shown). As long as the safe operating conditions are met, the pulse button 810 allows the user to start the variable temperature blender for independent blending without using a pre-programmed operating cycle. The cancel button 805 allows the user to cancel the operation of the selected operating mode after the user makes a selection.

[0053] On the left side of the user interface 835, there are multiple indicators 815 of non-heating operation modes. The multiple non-heating operation modes are grouped together by non-heating mode boundary lines such as blue lines around multiple non-heating operation modes. When any saved operation mode of the variable temperature blender is selected, a light emitting diode (LED) above the description of the non-heating operation mode is lit to inform the user of the operation mode to be performed by the variable temperature blender. One of the multiple non-heating operation modes is the smoothie mode. The smoothie mode operates the variable temperature blender with a predetermined speed program, which can be used to blend smooth frozen smoothies, milkshakes, granatas, margaritas, fruit-based smoothies, shaved ice, etc. for users and guests. Another non-heating operation mode in the multiple non-heating operation modes is the substitute milk mode. The substitute milk mode operates the variable temperature blender with a predetermined speed program to make substitute milk from food products (almond milk, cashew milk, pistachio milk, etc.), oat milk, rice milk, etc. for users and guests. Another non-heating operation mode in the multiple non-heating operation modes is the grinding mode. The grinding mode operates the variable temperature blender at a predetermined speed program to break down and chop food ingredients to make nut butters (cashew, almond, peanut, soy, pistachio, etc.), seed butters (sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, etc.), bean and legume flours (black bean, lentil, etc.), ground spices, coffee, flours (wheat, nut flours, etc.), pasta dough, vegan parmesan cheese, dried fruit (dates, raisins, etc.), etc. for users and guests. There is also an indicator 820 for the heated wash mode on the left side of the user interface. The heated wash mode utilizes the function of the heating element of the container assembly. The heated wash mode heats a set amount of water added to the blending container to a set temperature and rotates the blade assembly via a motor to clean the blade assembly and the inner surface of the blending container.

[0054] On the right side of the user interface 835, there are indicators 825 of multiple heating operation modes. The multiple heating operation modes are grouped together by heating mode boundary lines, such as red lines around the multiple heating operation modes. When any saved operation mode of the variable temperature blender is selected, a light emitting diode (LED) above the description of the heating operation mode is illuminated to inform the user of the operation mode to be performed by the variable temperature blender. One of the multiple heating operation modes is a soup mode. The soup mode operates the variable temperature blender at a predetermined speed and temperature program, which can be used to heat and prepare puree soup, puree with additional food additives, etc. for users and guests. Another heating operation mode in the multiple heating operation modes is a heating sauce mode. The heating sauce mode operates the variable temperature blender at a predetermined speed and temperature program to cook and make warm food sauces, such as baby food, vegetable sauces (parsnips, carrots, squash, etc.), apple sauce, etc., for users and guests. Another heating operation mode in the multiple heating operation modes is a jam mode. The jam mode operates the variable temperature mixer at a predetermined speed and temperature program to cook and make fruit jams, vegetable jams, preserves, purees, extracts, pure syrups, etc. for users and guests. The cream sauce mode also exists as a heating operation mode among the multiple heating operation modes. The cream sauce mode operates the variable temperature mixer at a predetermined speed and temperature program to cook and make custard sauces, puddings, English cream, ice cream bases, roux-based sauces, gravy, Dutch sauce, butter sauce (buttery white sauce), corn starch-based sauces (Asian cooking sauces, barbecue sauces, etc.), etc. for users and guests.

[0055] Although not shown on the user interface, custom blending modes may be programmed into the variable temperature blender and selected by the user. Additionally, there may be available operating modes for making mayonnaise, vegan mayonnaise, neat syrups and dips, pancake batter, crepes, salad dressing, fruit juicing, dough preparation, and puff pastry. It is contemplated that these possible modes may have a similar configuration on the user interface or may be programmed as custom blending modes stored by the internal electronics of the base assembly.

[0056] In the middle of the user interface is a display screen 830 that can communicate the operating characteristics of the variable temperature blender to the user during operation. The custom blending setting is a setting that can be stored in the internal electronics and is the basic operating setting when the variable temperature blender is first turned on. From here, the user can select the pulse button to rotate the blade assembly and blend the food within the container assembly. The custom heating setting can be a setting in which the stored heating and blending programs are saved in the internal electronics of the base assembly and can be accessed by the user. In the custom heating setting, and unlike the custom blending setting, the heating element of the container assembly is also activated during the preparation of food within the blending container. The blending icon will light up any time the blade assembly moves within the blending container. The heating icon will light up when the heating element is activated within the container assembly. The thermometer icon will light up when the food temperature provided by the temperature sensor reaches or exceeds 140℉ (60℃). At or above this temperature, the food of the blending container is hot enough to scald and cause harm to the user. There is also a speed / temperature display. When used with a custom heating setting or one of the multiple heating operating modes, the temperature determined by the temperature sensor of the container assembly will be displayed. When the variable temperature blender is used with a custom blending setting or any of a non-heating operating mode in a plurality of non-heating operating modes, the speed of the motor driving the blade assembly of the container assembly will be displayed. The time display will display the time in the custom blending setting or a non-heating operating mode in a plurality of non-heating operating modes. The time display will only display the time in the custom heating setting or a heating operating mode in a plurality of heating operating modes when the heating element of the container assembly has reached the temperature required to operate these modes and the temperature is confirmed by the temperature sensor. During the waiting and preheating cycles, the time display may enter an animation mode of unlit segments moving in a clockwise direction around the display to indicate that the variable temperature blender is working to obtain and confirm the optimal operating conditions for the selected mode.

[0057] Now go to Fig. 9 , shows an embodiment 900 of electronic interaction between components of a variable temperature blender (100), which shows the interaction between components such as a container electrical interface 905 (also known as 405), a base electrical interface 910 (also known as 710), and a heating element 915 (also known as 415, 615). The electronic circuit system and interconnection for data communication between the components of the variable temperature blender (100) can be controlled by a controller 920 located inside the interior of the base assembly (715). The controller can be a separate microprocessor chip or a printed circuit board with multiple computer hardware components. The controller can include a processor 925, a memory 930, and a network interface 940. The processor, memory, and network interface can be interconnected to each other in any of a variety of ways (e.g., via a bus, via a network, etc.).

[0058] The network interface 940 can provide an access point to an external network for the variable temperature blender (100). The network interface can take any suitable form for performing the network interface function, examples of which include an Ethernet interface, a serial bus interface (e.g., USB 3.0, etc.), a chipset, and an antenna suitable for facilitating wireless communication, Bluetooth, near field communication, and / or any other interface that provides wired and / or wireless communication. Other configurations are also possible.

[0059] The external network can be any suitable communication network or combination of communication networks, such as the Internet, wired and wireless telecommunication networks, etc. Through the external network, the variable temperature blender can communicate with the user's personal electronic device or external computer system in wired or wireless communication. Through these wired or wireless interconnections, the user can transmit software data packets to the controller. These data packets can include, but are not limited to, firmware updates to the controller hardware, new custom stirring settings, or new custom heating settings that can be operated by the variable temperature blender.

[0060] The processor 925 may include one or more processors, such as a general-purpose processor (e.g., a single-core or multi-core microprocessor), a special-purpose processor (e.g., an application-specific integrated circuit or a digital signal processor), a programmable logic device (e.g., a field programmable gate array), etc., which are suitable for performing the operations of the variable temperature mixer described herein.

[0061] The memory 940 may include one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media, such as volatile storage media (e.g., random access memory, registers, and / or cache memory) and / or non-volatile storage media (e.g., read-only memory, hard disk drive, solid state drive, flash memory, EEPROM, and / or optical storage device). The memory may also be integrated in whole or in part with other components of the controller. In addition, the memory may be local to the processor, and it should be understood that the memory (or portion of the memory) may be remote from the processor, in which case the processor may access such remote memory via a network interface (or some other network interface). The memory may store operating software programs or instructions that are executed by the processor during operation of the variable temperature mixer.

[0062] In the base assembly (715) of the variable temperature blender (100), power 950 from a power source enters through a power cord. This power is sent to each motor 955 and controller 920 for operation of each of these components. The controller communicates data with the motor to adjust the speed and on / off operation of the motor based on the operating mode selected by the user. The controller also communicates data and power with the base electrical interface to provide power and data to the container electrical interface. The controller also communicates data with a user interface 935 (also known as 735, 835) to display the correct operating mode, time and temperature related data to the user after selecting the operating mode. The dial 945 (also known as 745) of the base assembly also communicates with the controller. When the dial is rotated to select the operating mode, the controller updates the user interface accordingly. When the dial button is pressed, the controller approves the operation of the selected mode and commands the motor to operate. In some cases, data commands will also be sent to the base electrical interface for communication with the necessary components of the container assembly. The power switch 970 also communicates with the controller. When the power switch is placed in the on position, the controller allows both the user interface and the dial to function so that the user can select an operating mode for the variable temperature blender.

[0063] The container electrical interface 905 (also known as 405) communicates with the controller 920 via the base electrical interface 910 and other electrical components of the container assembly (300). The container electrical interface transmits both power and data to the appropriate components of the container assembly. The lid switch 960 (also known as 338) of the container assembly (300) transmits a data signal to the controller via the container electrical interface, indicating whether the lid assembly and the container assembly are properly matched together to allow the operation of the variable temperature blender. The temperature sensor 965 (also known as 408, 608) transmits a data signal to the controller, indicating the temperature of the food in the blending container in some operating modes. Based on the operating mode selected by the user, the heating element 915 (also known as 415, 615) is provided with power from the controller 920 and a similar on / off data signal.

[0064] As shown in Figures 10 to 19, flow charts of various operating modes of a variable temperature blender (100) are described. For each of the operating modes, there are certain program requirements. These program requirements include display requirements, process requirements, and user input requirements. The display requirements involve the display of icons and / or messages corresponding to the functions / states of the blender. These icons / messages are displayed via a user interface (e.g., via a dedicated icon / indicator on a display screen). The message can be an error (e.g., "ERR") message. The "heating" icon needs to be illuminated at any time when the heating element is turned on. The "stirring" icon needs to be illuminated at any time when the thermometer / temperature sensor reads a temperature above 140 degrees Fahrenheit. At any time when heating, if the temperature reading reaches above 400 degrees Fahrenheit, all functions are stopped and "ERR3" is displayed. If the thermometer reading is not obtained, all functions are stopped and "ERR2" is displayed. If the thermometer reading is incorrect, all functions are stopped and "ERR1" is displayed. The process requirements include aspects related to how the blender works. When the temperature is above 140 degrees Fahrenheit, the speed starts at a low speed and ramps up to a higher speed to prevent liquid splashing. The soup, jam and heated sauce modes are set to take into account high altitude conditions (e.g., the temperature is stalled for more than 90 seconds at greater than 90 degrees Celsius). The heating element and motor should not be turned on at the same time (e.g., preferably never turned on at the same time). User input requirements involve how the blender reacts to certain user inputs. The user pressing the cancel button at any time will turn off all functions and return to the custom blending mode. At any time after the cycle starts, the user can press the dial (also known as the wheel) button again to pause the cycle, and the display will flash while paused. If the lid is removed while the blender is in operation, the blender is paused until the lid is put back and the user presses the dial button to resume.

[0065] Before the user can select any operating mode, the variable temperature mixer must first be connected to the mains via the power cable. Fig. 10A As shown, once the unit is inserted at step 1000, the lid switch data signal is verified by the controller at step 1005 to determine whether the lid assembly and container assembly are mated in the proper configuration for operation in the blending mode. If the lid switch data signal is not confirmed, the variable temperature blender will not operate (and step 1005 is performed again). Once the lid switch data signal is confirmed, the variable temperature blender defaults to the custom blending mode at step 1010. From here, at step 1015, the user has the additional option of rotating the dial (also known as the rotary wheel) of the base assembly to select an alternate operating mode. These steps 1000, 1005, 1010 and 1015 are performed at the beginning of each use / mode of the blender, regardless of the desired mode, such as Fig. 10A , Fig.11A , Fig. 12A , Fig.13A , Fig.14A , Fig.15A , Fig.16A , Fig.17A , Fig.18A and Fig.19A The functional blocks shown in Figures 10 to 19 have the following Fig. 10A , Fig.11A … Fig.19A The different line types are shown in the legend shown in each of the figures, where long dashed lines represent modes, alternating long / short dashed lines represent user input, short dashed lines represent display requests, and solid lines represent processes.

[0066] Return to Fig. 10A , if a custom blending setting is selected at step 1020, then at step 1025, the custom blending setting LED is illuminated solid to notify the user of the selection. At step 1030, the speed / temperature display displays the speed of the blade assembly when the variable temperature blender is in operation. If the user wishes to change the measurement units for the temperature used for the speed / temperature display, then at step 1035, the user can manually press and hold the pulse button and the cancel button to change the measurement units from Fahrenheit to Celsius. Next, at step 1040, the user can press the dial button to begin operation of the motor, and subsequently, operation of the blade assembly within the blending container. Go to Fig. 10B , at step 1045, a determination is made with respect to temperature and motor speed. For example, if the motor temperature is less than 140 degrees Fahrenheit, the motor will default to a first speed, and if the temperature is greater than or equal to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, the motor will slowly ramp up to a speed that prevents splashing. While the variable temperature blender is in operation, the user can rotate the dial at step 1050 to increase or decrease the speed setting of the motor. During this time, at step 1055, the motor run icon illuminates while the blender is running (e.g., the blade icon of the display will illuminate to notify the user that the blade assembly is in motion). As a safety precaution, the controller is pre-programmed (as shown at step 1060) to automatically shut off and stop the operating mode after a certain time interval (e.g., ninety seconds, three minutes, etc.) of continuous blending. Then, at step 1065, when the motor is not running, the user can select a different operating mode of their choice.

[0067] exist Fig.11A and Fig. 11B, if a custom heat setting is selected at step 1070, the custom heat setting LED is illuminated to be solid to notify the user of the selection. At step 1080, the speed / temperature display displays the desired operating temperature, which flashes on the display and waits for user input. The time display can display a default time period of five minutes and will be illuminated without interruption. At step 1085, the user can then rotate the dial to adjust the desired temperature in five degree increments. The temperature of the variable temperature blender can be adjusted between a range of 100°F to 212°F. Once the desired temperature is selected, the user can press the dial button to confirm the selection. Next, at step 1090, when the desired temperature is selected, the speed / temperature display will be illuminated without interruption. From there, the time display will flash, waiting for user input. At step 1095, the user can rotate the dial to adjust the desired time in thirty second increments. The default time can be five minutes, and the maximum selectable time can be sixty minutes. Once the user selects the time, the user can press the dial button a second time to confirm the selection. Then, the variable temperature blender enters the preheating mode, wherein at step 1100, the speed / temperature display shows the current temperature read by the temperature sensor, and the thermostat icon is lit as the flashing state of the user interface. The time display performs the previously described "chasing" animation to indicate the preheating of the variable temperature blender. When the desired temperature is reached, the time display counts down from the selected time. Once the user has selected the desired time at step 1105, the heating element is connected via the controller. At step 1110, every thirty seconds, the motor will operate at a low speed (such as speed one) for five seconds to stir the contents of the mixing container. At step 1115, when the desired temperature is reached, the heating icon will stop flashing and be lit without interruption to indicate that the temperature is reached, and as the timer countdown continues, the variable temperature blender maintains the temperature. At step 1120, when the temperature is reached, the heater element will maintain the temperature until the timer is completed. At step 1125, when the timer ends, the variable temperature blender can audibly send multiple beeps. The variable temperature blender may then emit two additional beeps in rapid succession per minute until the user presses the cancel button or removes the container assembly from the base assembly.

[0068] exist Fig. 12A and Fig. 12BIn the embodiment of the present invention, if the grinding mode is selected at step 1130, the grinding mode LED is illuminated to be solid to notify the user of the selection. At step 1135, the time display shows the time (e.g., 2:20) (but can show speed / temperature, such as speed (e.g., 24000RPM, speed nine)). At step 1140, the user can then press the dial button to start the grinding mode cycle. The variable temperature blender can then slowly beep for three seconds, indicating the beginning of the grinding mode cycle. At step 1145, to complete the grinding mode, the blade assembly first runs at a first speed (e.g., speed 5 for 60 seconds, or speed three (3000RPM) for a certain amount of time (e.g., two seconds, thirty seconds, etc.)). At step 1150, the blade assembly then runs at another speed for another amount of time (e.g., speed six for sixty seconds, or speed three for thirty seconds, or speed nine (24000RPM) for twenty seconds). Then, at step 1155, the blade assembly operates at yet another speed for yet another amount of time (e.g., speed seven for twenty seconds, or speed nine for forty seconds, or speed five (10,000 RPM) for twenty seconds, followed by speed three (3,000 RPM) for twenty seconds). The blade assembly may then optionally cease operation for ten seconds to allow the food to settle again within the blending container for a period of time. Next, the blade assembly may operate at speed three (3,000 RPM) for two seconds, followed by speed nine (24,000 RPM) for twenty seconds. Finally, the blade assembly may operate at speed five (10,000 RPM) for twenty seconds, followed by speed three (3,000 RPM) for twenty seconds. At step 1160, when the timer expires, the variable temperature blender may audibly emit a plurality of beeps. The variable temperature blender may then emit two additional beeps in rapid succession per minute until the user presses the cancel button or removes the container assembly from the base assembly.

[0069] exist Fig.13A and Fig. 13BIn step 1165, if the alternative ("substitute") milk mode is selected, the alternative milk mode LED is illuminated to be permanently on to notify the user of the selection. At step 1170, the speed / temperature display shows speed five (10,000 RPM), and the time display shows a five-minute run time. At step 1175, the user can then press the dial button to start the alternative milk mode cycle. Then, the variable temperature blender can slowly beep for three seconds, indicating the start of the alternative milk mode cycle. At step 1180, the timer begins to count down. First, at step 1185, the blade assembly is at speed 5 (10,000 RPM) for twenty seconds. Then, at step 1195, the blade assembly pauses for two seconds to allow the food to settle in the blending container for a certain time. At step 1200, the process is repeated a certain number of times (e.g., fourteen times) to complete the alternative milk mode cycle. At step 1205, when the timer ends, the variable temperature blender can audibly beep multiple times. The variable temperature blender may then emit two additional beeps in rapid succession per minute until the user presses the cancel button or removes the container assembly from the base assembly.

[0070] exist FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C, if the cream sauce mode or the heated sauce mode is selected at step 1210, the cream sauce mode LED is illuminated to be solid to notify the user of the selection. At step 1215, the speed / temperature display displays "176" and the time display displays "-". This is because the temperature, speed, and time required to complete the cooking process of the cream sauce vary significantly during the operation of the mode. At step 1220, the user can then press the dial button to start the cream sauce mode cycle. The variable temperature blender can then beep slowly for three seconds, indicating the beginning of the cream sauce mode cycle. After the cream sauce mode is initialized, at step 1225, the speed / temperature display displays the current temperature of the food in a flashing manner. The time display transmits the above-mentioned "wait" animation until the food reaches a temperature of 176℉. Next, at step 1230, the blade assembly is run at speed three for eight seconds, and additional time may be included (e.g., after a one-second pause, for three seconds), and the time / bottom display may show a "wait" animation (or the blade assembly may alternatively gradually run through the speed settings (e.g., one to seven (100RPM-19000RPM, or one to five for eight seconds)) to initially stir / mix all the food. At step 1235, the heating element is turned on and off at certain intervals (e.g., every four seconds, three heat adjustments are made so the food does not burn). For example, the heating assembly continues to heat the food until a temperature of 176°F is reached. Heat (e.g., at 140°F) may be applied for at least fifteen seconds to enable food (such as eggs, which are a common ingredient in cream sauces) to thicken. Next, at step 1240, the blade assembly is run at speed one (100RPM) for a certain number of seconds (e.g., four to five seconds), stirring to prevent burning until a temperature (e.g., 176°F) is reached at which the display may remain at "-". At step 1245, the heating element and the motor are turned off for a certain duration (e.g., six seconds) to thicken the food. At step 1250, while the blender is in the paused state, the display indicates "add", and a beep sounds to alert the user. At step 1255, the user adds additional ingredients (if necessary) and operates the dial button to resume the mode. At step 1260, the blade assembly operates (e.g., at speed three for six seconds). At step 1265, the heating element and the motor are turned off (e.g., for six seconds). This gentle heating and stirring prevents scorching. At step 1270, the heating element is turned on (e.g., for four seconds), and these steps 1260, 1265, and 1270 are repeated until the temperature reaches 205°F. At step 1275, a determination is made based on whether the temperature is less than or greater than 205°F. If less than 205°F, heating can be performed for an additional time (e.g., four seconds), then stirring can be resumed (e.g., at speed one for four seconds), and then stopped for a certain duration (e.g., four seconds).These processes can be grouped together in a time period such as thirty seconds. If greater than 205°F, blending can resume (e.g., at speed one for four seconds) and then stop for a certain duration (e.g., four seconds). These processes can be grouped together in a time period such as thirty seconds. At step 1280, when the timer expires, the variable temperature blender can audibly emit a plurality of beeps. The variable temperature blender can then emit two additional beeps in rapid succession per minute until the user presses the cancel button or removes the container assembly from the base assembly.

[0071] exist FIG. 15A to FIG. 15B In the embodiment of the present invention, if the heated sauce mode is selected at step 1290, the heated sauce mode LED is illuminated to be solid to notify the user of the selection. At step 1295, the speed / temperature display displays "212", and the time display displays "--:--". This is because the temperature, speed, and time required to complete the cooking process of the heated sauce vary significantly during the operation of the mode. In step 1300, the user can then press the dial button to start the heated sauce mode cycle. The variable temperature blender can then beep slowly for three seconds, indicating the beginning of the heated sauce mode cycle. After the heated sauce mode is initialized, at step 1305, the speed / temperature display displays the current temperature of the food in a flashing manner. The time display conveys the above-mentioned "wait" animation until the food reaches a temperature of 212°F. At step 1310, blending can be performed at a certain speed for a certain amount of time (e.g., speed five for six seconds) to chop any food. Next, at step 1315, the blade assembly runs at speed nine (24000RPM) for approximately eight seconds. This begins the food cooking process. After the blade operation is completed, in step 1320, the heating element is activated for about five seconds, followed by a brief pause, and then restarted for three seconds. This heating cycle is repeated twice. This cycle of steps 1315 and 1320 is repeated until the temperature sensor reports that the food has reached 212°F or boiling. The heating element cooks the food while the blade assembly is operated to chop the food to make a sauce. At step 1325, once boiling or 212°F is reached, the blade assembly is operated at speed nine (24000RPM) for about thirty seconds to complete the sauce making of the food. At step 1330, when the timer ends, the variable temperature blender can audibly emit multiple beeps. Then, the variable temperature blender can emit two additional beeps in rapid succession per minute until the user presses the cancel button or removes the container assembly from the base assembly.

[0072] exist FIG. 16A to FIG. 16BIn the embodiment of the present invention, if the jam mode is selected at step 1335, the jam mode LED is illuminated to be solid to notify the user of the selection. At step 1340, the speed / temperature display shows "220", and the time display shows "--:--". This is because the temperature, speed and time required to complete the cooking process of the jam vary significantly during the operation of the mode. At step 1345, the user can then press the dial button to start the jam mode cycle. The variable temperature blender can then beep slowly for three seconds, indicating the beginning of the jam mode cycle. After the jam mode is initialized, at step 1350, the speed / temperature display shows the current temperature of the food in a flashing manner. The time display transmits the above-mentioned "wait" animation. Next, in step 1355, the blade assembly runs at a certain speed for a certain duration (e.g., speed five (10000 RPM) for four seconds) to start chopping the food when the heating element is activated. Thereafter, in step 1360, the heating element is turned off and the motor is turned off (e.g., for four seconds) so that the blade assembly is not in operation. Then, in step 1365, the heating element is turned on to heat the food for approximately five seconds. The cycle of steps 1355, 1360, and 1365 is repeated until a temperature of 210°F is reached. This cycle gently heats and stirs the food to prevent burning. It is important to keep the temperature below the boiling point of 212°F during this stage of the jam mode cycle. Once the temperature sensor reaches 210°F, a pause, an audible beep sound occurs at step 1370, and an "add" option is displayed to remind the user to add sugar. At step 1375, the user adds sugar and presses the dial button to resume the program. At step 1380, the blade rotates at a certain speed for a certain amount of time (e.g., speed five for three seconds) to prevent burning (e.g., burning of sugar). Thereafter, in step 1385, the heating element is turned off and the motor is turned off so that the blade assembly is not in operation for approximately six seconds. Then, in step 1390, the heating element is turned on to heat the food for about four seconds. The cycle of steps 1380, 1385 and 1390 is repeated until the temperature sensor records a temperature of about 219 to 220°F of the food. This allows gentle stirring and heating of the food to prevent burning. The temperature of 220°F is a specific pectin temperature setting that allows the formation of the jam requested in this operating mode (e.g., gelling). The operation of the blade assembly during this heating process helps prevent the sugar in the jam from burning. Repeat the above cycle until the temperature reaches 220°F, as a safety measure, for up to forty minutes. Then, at step 1395, when it is finished, the variable temperature blender can audibly emit multiple beeps. Then, the variable temperature blender can emit two additional beeps in rapid succession every minute until the user presses the cancel button or removes the container assembly from the base assembly.

[0073] exist Fig.17A and Fig. 17B, if the soup mode is selected at step 1400, the soup mode LED is illuminated to be solid to notify the user of the selection. At step 1405, the speed / temperature display displays "212", and the time display displays "-". This is because the temperature, speed, and time required to complete the cooking process of soup vary significantly during the operation of the mode. At step 1410, the user can then press the dial button to start the soup mode cycle. The variable temperature blender can then beep slowly for three seconds, indicating the beginning of the soup mode cycle. After the soup mode is initialized, at step 1415, the speed / temperature display displays the current temperature of the food in a flashing manner. The time display transmits the above-mentioned "wait" animation. Next, at step 1420, the blade assembly runs at a certain speed for a certain amount of time (e.g., speed five for five seconds, or speed one (100RPM) for two seconds) to chop the food. Thereafter, at step 1425, the heating element is turned on and continues to heat and cook the food until a temperature of 212°F is reached and recorded by the temperature sensor. This includes stirring at speed four for four seconds, then heating for twenty-five seconds, turning off the heat while stirring. Once boiling or 212°F is reached, the speed / temperature display displays the current temperature in the form of continuous lighting without interruption at step 1430. The time display then displays a timer that begins to count down (e.g., 15:36 running time). Additional cycles continue to cook the soup. At step 1435, the blade assembly runs at a certain speed for a certain amount of time (e.g., speed four for four seconds, or speed one (100 RPM) for two seconds). Then, at step 1440, the heating element is activated or deactivated during a certain time period (e.g., 26 seconds, or a two-minute period) to maintain the temperature of the food at 212°F. This (e.g., the first cycle) is repeated (e.g., ten to thirty times) to complete the cooking of the food before continuing with the steps including the sauce step. At step 1445, a sauce (e.g., second) cycle begins, wherein the blade assembly runs at speed one to speed nine for ten seconds (alternatively, from one speed to another (e.g., speed one to speed nine (100 RPM-24000 RPM) may be gradually increased for ten seconds)). At step 1450, this is followed by a two second pause to allow the food to settle to the bottom of the blending container. This second cycle sauces the food and repeats (e.g., fourteen) times until the timer expires (making the soup very smooth). At step 1455, when it expires, the variable temperature blender may audibly emit a number of beeps. The variable temperature blender may then emit two additional beeps in rapid succession per minute until the user presses the cancel button or removes the container assembly from the base assembly.

[0074] exist Fig.18A and Fig.18B, if the heated wash mode is selected at step 1460, the heated wash mode LED is illuminated to be solid to notify the user of the selection. At step 1465, the speed / temperature display displays "140" and the time display displays "-". This is because the temperature, speed, and time required to complete a heated wash vary significantly during the operation of the mode. At step 1470, the user can then press the dial button to begin the heated wash mode cycle. The variable temperature blender can then beep slowly for three seconds, indicating the beginning of the heated wash mode cycle. After the heated wash mode is initialized, at step 1475, the speed / temperature display flashes to display the current temperature of the food, or in this case, the current temperature of the water and soap. The time display transmits the above-mentioned "wait" animation until a temperature of 140℉ (or up to 165℉) is reached. At step 1490, the blade runs at a certain speed for a certain amount of time (e.g., speed one for three seconds) for stirring the soapy water, and at step 1485, the heating element is turned on and the water and soap mixture is heated to 140°F (or up to 165°F). Next, at step 1490, the display can display the current temperature, and the timer displays the time and starts a countdown. For example, the time display displays a two-minute timer (e.g., 2:18) and starts a countdown. At step 1495, the blade assembly runs at a certain speed for a certain amount of time (e.g., speed five (10000 RPM) for thirty seconds) to clean the blade assembly and the mixing container. At step 1500, the blade assembly then pauses for two seconds. Repeat this process four times until the countdown is complete. When it ends, at step 1505, the variable temperature blender can audibly emit multiple beeps. Then, the variable temperature blender can emit two additional beeps in rapid succession every minute until the user presses the cancel button or removes the container assembly from the base assembly.

[0075] exist Fig.19A and Fig.19BIn the embodiment of the present invention, if the smoothie mode is selected at step 1510, the smoothie mode LED is lit to be always on to notify the user of the selection. At step 1515, the speed / temperature display shows "_", and the time display shows a one-minute timer. At step 1520, the user can then press the dial button to start the smoothie mode cycle. Then, the variable temperature blender can slowly emit a beep for three seconds, indicating the beginning of the smoothie mode cycle. After the smoothie mode is initialized, the time display starts counting down at step 1525. At step 1530, the motor speed starts at speed seven for a duration such as twenty-nine seconds. At step 1535, the motor speed is then reduced to speed five for thirty-one seconds. When it is over, at step 1540, the variable temperature blender can audibly emit multiple beeps. Then, the variable temperature blender can emit two additional beeps in rapid succession per minute until the user presses the cancel button or removes the container assembly from the base assembly.

[0076] Since various modifications may be made to the constructions and methods described and illustrated herein without departing from the scope of the present invention, it is intended that all content contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the options described and available for electronic content items to be sent or received in a user's inbox or outbox can be adjusted and customized to include more options not explicitly discussed in this application. Therefore, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited to any of the above exemplary embodiments, but should be limited only in accordance with the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A variable temperature mixer, comprising: Cover assembly; A container component, the container component comprising: Mixing container; a collar having a collar interior with a mating socket, the collar being attached to a bottom portion of the mixing vessel; a plate, the plate being located within the collar and separating the mixing vessel from the interior of the collar; a heating element located within the collar interior and in thermal communication with the plate; a temperature sensor located within the collar interior and in thermal communication with the plate to monitor a temperature measurement of at least one food product contained within the mixing container; a container assembly electrical interface located within the collar interior and adjacent to the mating receptacle, the container assembly electrical interface being electrically connected to each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor to (1) transmit operational commands to be executed by each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor, and (2) receive operational data of each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor; a base assembly having a user interface, a motor, a controller, a top surface, and a base assembly electrical interface electrically connected to the controller and extending outwardly from the top surface of the base assembly; a base mount extending outwardly from a top surface of the base assembly and adjacent the base assembly electrical interface, the container assembly being removably attached to the base assembly by mechanical connection of the base mount with the mating receptacle of the collar of the container assembly, and the container assembly being removably attached to the base assembly by electrical communication of the container assembly electrical interface with the base assembly electrical interface; wherein the controller stores a plurality of operating modes, the user interface allows the controller to operate a selected operating mode, and the controller is configured to control (1) heating of the heating element via an electronic heating element control signal transmitted from the controller to the base assembly electrical interface, the electronic heating element control signal activating or deactivating heating operation performed by the heating element when the plate contacts the at least one food product, and (2) the electronic heating element control signal is based on operating steps stored in the controller for the selected operating mode; and Wherein, the selected operating mode defines multiple predetermined temperatures, a first operating cycle of the selected operating mode is based on a first predetermined temperature among the multiple predetermined temperatures corresponding to a first temperature measurement value determined by the temperature sensor, and a second operating cycle of the selected operating mode is based on a second predetermined temperature among the multiple predetermined temperatures corresponding to a second temperature measurement value determined by the temperature sensor.

2. The variable temperature blender of claim 1 , wherein the container component electrical interface is one of a pin electrical interface or a socket electrical interface, the base component electrical interface is the other of the pin electrical interface or the socket electrical interface, and connection between the pin electrical interface and the socket electrical interface places the container component electrical interface and the base component electrical interface in electrical communication with each other.

3. The variable temperature blender of claim 1, wherein the container assembly has a lid switch, and the lid switch is in electrical communication with the electrical interface of the container assembly.

4. The variable temperature mixer according to claim 3, wherein: The cover assembly has a cover having a protrusion extending from a portion of the cover; The mixing container has a handle, the handle has a top portion, the top portion has an interior portion, the lid switch is located in the interior portion; and The protrusion engages the lid switch when the lid is attached to the top of the mixing container in a locked position.

5. The variable temperature blender of claim 1, wherein the temperature sensor extends through a plate hole of the plate, the temperature sensor being fixed to the plate such that the temperature sensor contacts the at least one food contained in the blending container.

6. The variable temperature mixer according to claim 1, wherein the controller has a memory configured to store the plurality of operation modes.

7. The variable temperature blender of claim 6, wherein the plurality of operating modes comprises a custom blending mode, a custom heating mode, a grinding mode, an alternative milk mode, a cream sauce mode, a heated sauce mode, a jam mode, a soup mode, a heated wash mode, and a smoothie mode.

8. The variable temperature blender of claim 1, wherein a blade assembly is located within the blending container of the container assembly and fixed to the plate, the blade assembly having a plurality of blades, at least two blades of the plurality of blades having blade profiles different from each other.

9. The variable temperature blender of claim 1, wherein the user interface of the base assembly has a control dial operable by a user to control the operation of the variable temperature blender.

10. The variable temperature blender of claim 1, wherein the user interface has a plurality of buttons to allow a user to control the operation of the variable temperature blender.

11. The variable temperature blender of claim 1, wherein the user interface has a plurality of indicators to allow a user to view the activation status of the selected operating mode.

12. The variable temperature blender of claim 11, wherein the user interface has a display screen to allow a user to view the operating status of the selected operating mode.

13. A method of blending a food product using a variable temperature blender, wherein the variable temperature blender has (i) a lid assembly having a lid, the lid having a protrusion extending therefrom, (ii) a container assembly having a blending container, the blending container having a handle, the handle having a lid switch therein; a collar attached to a bottom portion of the blending container; a heating element positioned within the collar; a temperature sensor positioned within the collar, the temperature sensor being in thermal communication with the blending container to monitor a temperature measurement of at least one food product contained within the blending container; a container assembly electrical interface electrically connected to each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor to (1) transmit operational commands executed by each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor, and (2) receive operational data from each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor, and (iii) a base assembly having a base housing having a user interface, a base assembly electrical interface, a motor, and a controller, the container assembly being movably attached to the base assembly, and wherein the attachment of the container assembly to the base assembly allows electrical communication between the container assembly electrical interface and the base assembly electrical interface, the controller storing a plurality of operational modes, the controller being configured to control (a) heating of the heating element via an electronic heating element control signal transmitted from the controller through electrical communication between the base assembly electrical interface and the container assembly electrical interface, the electronic heating element control signal activating or deactivating heating operation by the heating element when the at least one food is contained in the blending container, (b) the electronic heating element control signal being based on operational steps stored in the controller, and (c) activating a safety indicator of the user interface when a temperature measurement of the at least one food received by the controller exceeds a stored safety temperature threshold during operation, the method comprising: placing the container assembly onto the base assembly to connect the electrical interface of the container assembly to the electrical interface of the base assembly; placing the at least one food product into the interior of the mixing container; selecting an operating mode from among the plurality of operating modes via the user interface; and initiating the selected operating mode via the user interface, placing the controller, the user interface, the heating element, the temperature sensor, and the motor in an operational state for the selected operating mode, the selected operating mode defining a plurality of predetermined temperatures, a first operating cycle of the selected operating mode being based on a first predetermined temperature of the plurality of predetermined temperatures corresponding to a first temperature measurement determined by the temperature sensor, and a second operating cycle of the selected operating mode being based on a second predetermined temperature of the plurality of predetermined temperatures corresponding to a second temperature measurement determined by the temperature sensor; determining, by the controller, whether the selected operating mode is a heating operating mode requiring use of the heating element, the controller monitoring a temperature measurement of the at least one food product obtained by the temperature sensor and transmitted to the controller; if the selected operating mode is a heating operating mode, comparing temperature measurements received by the controller to a stored safety temperature threshold during operation in the selected operating mode; and If the selected operating mode is a heating operating mode, during operation in the selected operating mode, when a temperature measurement of the at least one food received by the controller exceeds a stored safety temperature threshold, activating a safety indicator of the user interface, and continuing to activate the safety indicator until a temperature measurement of the at least one food received by the controller falls below the stored safety temperature threshold during operation in the heating operating mode; wherein the lid switch is in electrical communication with the container assembly electrical interface of the variable temperature blender, and activation of the selected operating mode can only be initiated after confirmation via the controller of the base assembly that the lid is in a locked position with the blending container such that the protrusion engages the lid switch, the confirmation being via the controller detecting the presence of an electronic signal transmitted by the lid switch through the container assembly electrical interface to the base assembly electrical interface and the controller indicating that the lid switch is in the locked position.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: actuating a blade assembly of the container assembly of the variable temperature blender to blend the at least one food product; initiating heating by the heating element of the variable temperature blender to heat the at least one food product; receiving a reading of the first temperature measurement from the temperature sensor of the variable temperature mixer; determining whether the received reading of the first temperature measurement is equal to or lower than the reading of the first predetermined temperature for the selected operating mode; initiating heating by the heating element if the received first temperature sensor reading is lower than the first predetermined temperature reading for the selected operating mode; receiving a reading of the second temperature measurement from the temperature sensor of the variable temperature mixer; as well as If the received reading of the second temperature measurement is equal to or higher than the reading of the first predetermined temperature for the selected operating mode, the heating element is deactivated.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the user interface comprises a display screen, a selected operating mode indicator, and a control dial, and selecting the operating mode from the plurality of operating modes comprises: The user (i) views the display screen or the selected operating mode indicator to determine the current state of the variable temperature blender, (ii) operates the control dial to scroll through the plurality of operating modes until the selected operating mode is indicated on the display screen or the selected operating mode indicator, and (iii) operates the control dial to select the operating mode.

16. A variable temperature mixer, comprising: Cover assembly; A container component, the container component comprising: Mixing container; a collar attached to a bottom portion of the mixing vessel; a heating element positioned within the collar and in thermal communication with the container assembly; a temperature sensor positioned within the collar and in thermal communication with the container assembly to monitor a temperature measurement of at least one food product contained within the blending container; a container assembly electrical interface electrically connected to each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor to (1) transmit operation commands executed by each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor, and (2) receive operation data of each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor; a base assembly having a base assembly electrical interface, a user interface, a motor, and a controller, The container assembly is removably attached to the base assembly, and when the container assembly is attached to the base assembly, electrical communication is achieved between the container assembly electrical interface and the base assembly electrical interface, wherein the controller stores a plurality of operating modes, the user interface allows the controller to operate a selected operating mode, and the controller is configured to control (1) heating of the heating element via an electronic heating element control signal transmitted from the controller to the base assembly electrical interface, the electronic heating element control signal activating or deactivating heating operation of the heating element when the mixing container contains the at least one food, and (2) the electronic heating element control signal is based on a temperature measurement of the at least one food received by the controller and referenced to stored operating steps of the selected operating mode in the controller; and Wherein, the selected operating mode defines multiple predetermined temperatures, a first operating cycle of the selected operating mode is based on a first predetermined temperature among the multiple predetermined temperatures corresponding to a first temperature measurement value determined by the temperature sensor, and a second operating cycle of the selected operating mode is based on a second predetermined temperature among the multiple predetermined temperatures corresponding to a second temperature measurement value determined by the temperature sensor.

17. A variable temperature blender as claimed in claim 16, wherein a temperature detection signal representing a temperature measurement value of the at least one food inside the blending container is transmitted from the container component electrical interface to the base component electrical interface and to the controller, and the activation or deactivation of the heating operation is based on the temperature detection signal.

18. The variable temperature blender according to claim 16, wherein the predetermined temperature of the selected operation mode can be maintained by the activation or deactivation of the heating operation.

19. The variable temperature blender of claim 16, wherein the second predetermined temperature is higher than the first predetermined temperature, and the initiation of the heating operation causes the heating element to increase the temperature of the at least one food in the blending container from the first predetermined temperature to the second predetermined temperature.

20. A variable temperature mixer, comprising: Cover assembly; A container assembly, the container assembly comprising: Mixing container; a collar attached to a bottom portion of the mixing vessel; a heating element positioned within the collar and in thermal communication with the stirring vessel; a temperature sensor located within the collar and in thermal communication with the mixing container to monitor a temperature measurement of at least one food product contained within the mixing container; a container assembly electrical interface electrically connected to each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor to (1) transmit operation commands executed by each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor, and (2) receive operation data of each of the heating elements and the temperature sensor; a base assembly having a base assembly electrical interface, a user interface, a motor, and a controller, the container assembly being removably attachable to the base assembly, and enabling electrical communication between the container assembly electrical interface and the base assembly electrical interface when the container assembly is attached to the base assembly; wherein the controller stores a plurality of operating modes, the user interface allows the controller to operate a selected operating mode, and the controller is configured to control (i) heating of the heating element via an electronic heating element control signal transmitted from the controller to the base assembly electrical interface, the electronic heating element control signal activating or deactivating heating operation by the heating element when the blending container contains the at least one food product, (ii) operating steps of the electronic heating element control signal based on the selected operating mode stored in the controller, and (iii) activating a safety indicator of the user interface when a temperature measurement of the at least one food product received by the controller during the selected operating mode exceeds a stored safety temperature threshold; and Wherein, the selected operating mode defines multiple predetermined temperatures, a first operating cycle of the selected operating mode is based on a first predetermined temperature among the multiple predetermined temperatures corresponding to a first temperature measurement value determined by the temperature sensor, and a second operating cycle of the selected operating mode is based on a second predetermined temperature among the multiple predetermined temperatures corresponding to a second temperature measurement value determined by the temperature sensor.

21. The variable temperature blender of claim 20, wherein the container component electrical interface is one of a pin electrical interface or a socket electrical interface, the base component electrical interface is the other of the pin electrical interface or the socket electrical interface, and attachment of the container component to the base component establishes a pin electrical interface and a socket electrical interface connection.

22. The variable temperature blender of claim 20, wherein the container assembly has a lid switch, the lid switch being in electrical communication with the container assembly electrical interface.

23. The variable temperature mixer of claim 20, wherein the selected operating mode is one of a plurality of operating modes stored in a memory of the controller.

24. The variable temperature blender of claim 23, wherein the selected operating mode is a mode for preparing heated sauces.

25. The variable temperature blender of claim 24, further comprising a blade assembly, wherein the at least one food product comprises ingredients for a heated sauce, and the controller is further configured to: controlling rotation of the blade assembly via the motor via transmission of electronic motor control signals from the controller; initiating heating by the heating element to reach the first predetermined temperature for the selected operating mode, the selected operating mode being a mode for preparing the heated sauce; rotating the blade assembly at a first predetermined rotational rate of the blade assembly to mix the ingredients for a first predetermined amount of time; receiving a reading of the first temperature measurement from the temperature sensor, the reading of the first temperature measurement comprising first data representing a first detected temperature of the ingredient; making a first determination as to whether the first detected temperature is lower than the first predetermined temperature, and initiating heating by the heating element if a result of the first determination is that the first detected temperature is lower than the first predetermined temperature; deactivating the blade assembly and deactivating heating by the heating element for a first predetermined amount of off time when a result of the first determination is that the first detected temperature is equal to the first predetermined temperature; prompting, via the user interface, instructions to add a second ingredient to the mixing container with the ingredient, and prompting for interaction with the user interface to resume operation in a mode for preparing the heated sauce after adding the second ingredient; rotating the blade assembly at a second predetermined rotation rate of the blade assembly to mix the ingredients including the second ingredient for a second predetermined amount of time; deactivating the blade assembly and the heating element for a second predetermined amount of time; initiating heating by the heating element to reach the second predetermined temperature for the mode of preparing the heated sauce; receiving a reading of the second temperature measurement from the temperature sensor, the reading of the second temperature measurement comprising second data representing a second detected temperature of the ingredients including the second ingredient; making a second determination whether the second detected temperature is less than the second predetermined temperature, and if a result of the second determination is that the second detected temperature is less than the second predetermined temperature, initiating rotation of the blade assembly at a first predetermined rotation rate of the blade assembly, followed by deactivation of both the blade assembly and the heating element for the first predetermined amount of time, and then initiating heating by the heating element; when a result of the second determination is that the second detected temperature is greater than or equal to the second predetermined temperature, deactivating heating by the heating element and initiating rotation of the blade assembly for a first predetermined amount of time at a first predetermined rotation rate of the blade assembly; and An indication is provided via the user interface that the mode of preparing the heated sauce is complete.

26. The variable temperature blender of claim 23, wherein the selected operating mode is a mode for preparing a jam sauce.

27. The variable temperature blender of claim 26, further comprising a blade assembly, wherein the at least one food product comprises ingredients for the jam sauce, and the controller is further configured to: controlling rotation of the blade assembly via the motor via transmission of electronic motor control signals from the controller; initiating heating by the heating element to reach the first predetermined temperature for the selected operating mode, the selected operating mode being a mode for preparing the jam sauce; rotating the blade assembly at a first predetermined rotational rate of the blade assembly to mix the ingredients for a first predetermined amount of time; receiving a reading of the first temperature measurement from the temperature sensor, the reading of the first temperature measurement comprising first data representing a first detected temperature of the ingredient; making a first determination as to whether the first detected temperature is lower than the first predetermined temperature, and initiating heating by the heating element if a result of the first determination is that the first detected temperature is lower than the first predetermined temperature; deactivating the blade assembly and deactivating heating by the heating element when a result of the first determination is that the first detected temperature is equal to the first predetermined temperature; prompting instructions via the user interface to add sugar to the mixing container with the ingredients, and prompting interaction with the user interface to resume operation in a mode for preparing the jam sauce after adding the sugar; rotating the blade assembly at a second predetermined rotation rate of the blade assembly to mix the ingredient and the sugar for a second predetermined amount of time; receiving a reading of the second temperature measurement from the temperature sensor, the reading of the second temperature measurement comprising second data representing a second detected temperature of the ingredient and the sugar; making a second determination as to whether the second detected temperature is lower than the second predetermined temperature, and if a result of the second determination is that the second detected temperature is lower than the second predetermined temperature, initiating heating by the heating element; When a result of the second determination is that the second detected temperature is equal to the second predetermined temperature, turning off the blade assembly and deactivating heating by the heating element; and An indication is provided via the user interface that the mode of preparing the jam sauce is complete.

28. The variable temperature blender of claim 22, wherein the lid assembly has a lid, the lid includes a protrusion extending from the lid, the blending container has a handle, and the lid switch is located within the handle.

29. The variable temperature blender of claim 28, wherein the controller is configured to (i) detect a state of the lid switch, and (ii) enable or disable the execution of the selected operating mode based on the detected state of the lid switch.

30. The variable temperature blender of claim 29, wherein when the lid is attached to the blending container in a locked position, the protrusion engages the lid switch, and the state of the lid switch is an engaged state, which when detected by the controller allows the controller to execute the selected operating mode.

31. The variable temperature blender of claim 29, wherein when the lid is not attached to the blending container and is not in a locked position, the protrusion does not engage the lid switch, and the state of the lid switch is a disengaged state that, when detected by the controller, does not allow the controller to execute the selected operating mode.

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