System with a retainer and a piercing food thermometer, and the retainer

A dual-position holder system for food thermometers provides secure attachment at different angles and positions, enhancing temperature measurement accuracy by stabilizing the thermometer within the holder.

CN114526826BActive Publication Date: 2025-07-15VORWERK & CO INTERHOLDING GMBH
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202111315903.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2020-11-09
Filing Date
2021-11-08
Publication Date
2025-07-15
Estimated Expiration
2041-11-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing food thermometers are difficult to maintain in desired positions in foods with insufficient consistency and cannot measure the temperature inside the food and the container at the same time.

Method used

A holder consisting of two holding devices is designed to allow the food thermometer to be inserted into the food at different angles and heights and held in different positions through channels and fixtures, ensuring that the thermometer reliably measures the temperature inside the food and the container inside the temperature.

Benefits of technology

The stable maintenance and multi-angle measurement of food thermometers under different food consistencies are achieved, improving the accuracy and flexibility of temperature measurement.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention relates to a general system, the general system comprising a food thermometer (1) and a holder (2) for holding the food thermometer (1). The holder (2) comprises two different holding means (8, 11, 15, 16), and the food thermometer (1) can be held by the holding means in two different holding positions. The present invention also relates to a holder (2) for the system.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system having a holder and a food thermometer, and a holder for a food thermometer. Background Art

[0002] A food thermometer is a thermometer for measuring the temperature of food. A piercing food thermometer is intended and adapted to be pierced into food so as to be able to measure the internal temperature of the food. Therefore, such a thermometer has a tip so as to be able to pierce into, for example, meat. Then, a temperature-sensitive sensor of the food thermometer is located at the tip so as to be able to measure the internal temperature of the meat. Examples of such food thermometers are known from published EP 0687866A1, US 6,568,848 B1 and US 7,075,442 B2.

[0003] If a food thermometer is pierced into meat, the meat can hold the thermometer. However, if the consistency of the food is not firm enough, it is not possible to hold the food thermometer in the food. Therefore, a holder that can hold the food thermometer in a desired position is needed.

[0004] A magnetic holding of a food thermometer is known from US 2017 / 138797 A1 and US 2017 / 138798 A1. EP 2 896 330 A1 and EP 2 896 329 A1 disclose an adapter for fixing a food thermometer to a cooking appliance. Then, the food thermometer does not have to be held by the food in a desired position. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a universal system comprising a holder and a food thermometer. The present invention also relates to a holder for such a food thermometer.

[0006] A system having a food thermometer and a holder for holding the food thermometer is used to solve this task.

[0007] The holder comprises two different holding means by which the food thermometer can be held in two different holding positions. The system is universal because there can be two different holding positions.

[0008] The food thermometer can be inserted into the holding means, for example, to be held by the holding means. If the holder comprises two different holding means, the thermometer can be held in at least two different ways. Therefore, there are at least two different holding positions for the thermometer.

[0009] Two holding devices may hold the thermometer at different angles. This can enable the thermometer to be inserted into food from different directions when the thermometer is held by the holder. Therefore, the position of the holder does not have to be changed. In this way, the thermometer can be held in two different tilting manners by the two holding devices of the holder. Then, the two holding devices can be used to select two different tilting positions for the thermometer.

[0010] For example, the thermometer can be held at different heights by the two holding devices of the holder. Then, the two holding devices can be used to select two different heights. Therefore, when the food thermometer is held by the holder, the food thermometer may be inserted into the food at different heights.

[0011] With the aid of the holder, the thermometer can be held in a desired position so that, for example, the interior of the food can be reliably measured by means of the insertion tip of the food thermometer. The holder can also ensure that the second temperature sensor of the food thermometer is reliably located outside the food so that not only the temperature of the food can be directly measured, but also the temperature in the food preparation container in which the food is located can be measured simultaneously. Then, the first temperature sensor of the thermometer, for example, is located at one end of the thermometer, and the second temperature sensor can be located in the middle of the thermometer or at the other end of the thermometer.

[0012] The holding device can be a channel into which the end of the food thermometer can be inserted for holding. Preferably, only one end of the food thermometer can be inserted through the channel. For example, the diameter of the other end of the food thermometer may be too large to be inserted through the channel. The channel can be realized with little technical effort. Due to its simple geometry, the channel can be easily cleaned, for example, by means of a dishwasher. Since the thermometer can be inserted into the channel to different degrees, the channel also multiplies the number of possible holder positions. Advantageously, this further increases the selection options for positioning the thermometer. Therefore, the appropriate temperature can be measured in a further improved manner.

[0013] The diameter of the channel can be selected such that there is a clearance fit between the thermometer and the channel when the thermometer is held by the channel. Then, one end of the thermometer can be very easily inserted through the channel.

[0014] The diameter of the channel can be selected such that there is an interference fit between the thermometer and the channel when the thermometer is held by the channel. In this case, particularly reliable holding can be achieved. However, generally, a slightly greater force is required to insert one end of the thermometer through the channel.

[0015] The diameter of the channel is generally not greater than 20 mm, preferably not greater than 10 mm. The diameter of the channel is generally at least 3 mm, preferably at least 5 mm.

[0016] The surface of the channel can be made of a non-slip material such as an elastomer so that the thermometer can be held particularly reliably.

[0017] In one embodiment, the holder includes feet for placing the holder on the base. The feet can have a flat surface on their lower side for placing them on the base. For example, the feet can have knobs on their lower side so that they can be placed on the base. The feet allow the holder to be firmly placed on a horizontal base.

[0018] In one embodiment, when the holder is placed on the horizontal base by the feet, the holding device can hold the food thermometer vertically or at least substantially vertically. Thus, the thermometer can be made readily available in a space-saving manner by means of the holder.

[0019] In one embodiment, when the feet are placed on the horizontal base, the holding device can hold the food thermometer horizontally or at least substantially horizontally. This position is mainly for the purpose of being able to insert the thermometer laterally into the food. At the same time, the holder can hold the food thermometer. Thus, the position of the thermometer does not have to be held by the food. This also applies if the holding device is formed by a channel.

[0020] In one embodiment, when the food thermometer is held substantially horizontally by the holding device, the food thermometer can form an angle of less than 20°, preferably less than 15°, and particularly preferably less than 10° with the horizontal line. Substantially horizontal means that the food thermometer is slightly inclined, i.e., forms an angle greater than zero with the horizontal line.

[0021] In one embodiment, the length and / or width of the feet is greater than the height of the holder. This results in a lower center of gravity of the holder. Thus, the holder can be placed particularly stably on its feet. In addition, the holder can be stored in a space-saving manner.

[0022] The length and / or width of the feet generally does not exceed 100 mm, preferably does not exceed 80 mm. The height of the holder is generally less than 100 mm, preferably less than 80 mm. The length and / or width of the feet is preferably at least 20 mm, particularly preferably at least 30 mm.

[0023] In one embodiment, the feet include sides that extend straight laterally. The straight-extending sides can include straight-extending edges. The straight-extending sides can be circular in the lateral direction. The straight-extending sides enable the feet to be placed on a plane with a straight line. This can allow the thermometer to be inserted into the food and supported on the base by means of the straight-extending sides. Thus, the position of the thermometer can be stabilized by the straight-extending sides.

[0024] In one embodiment, the feet include a support surface on the side, such as a flat support surface, and then also include straight - extending sides. The support surface then allows the feet to be placed completely on a plane. This permits the thermometer to be inserted into the food and supported on the base by means of the support surface. Thus, the position of the thermometer can be stabilized by the support surface.

[0025] However, the support surface does not have to be straight and / or flat. Importantly, the support surface can rest on the base in at least two different positions such that the holder is fixed to prevent tilting. This can be achieved, for example, by a concave curve of the support surface. Thus, the two different positions are spaced apart. The distance should be at least 1 cm. If the support surface cannot prevent tilting, there is no support surface in the sense of the present invention.

[0026] In one embodiment, the holder includes additional holding means by which the holder can be fixed to the wall of the food container. The holder can then be attached to the container wall. In this embodiment, the holder can hold the thermometer such that the thermometer extends into the relevant container in order to be able to measure at least the internal temperature of the container.

[0027] The additional holding means can include a slot with an open end. The edge of the container wall can be inserted into the slot such that the holder is fixed to the container in this way. For example, when the slot can be elastically pushed apart, the fixing can be achieved by a clamping effect. This is the case, for example, if the additional holding means is made of an elastomeric material. Preferably, the holder is made entirely of an elastomeric material. In this way, a low manufacturing effort can be maintained.

[0028] The slot is preferably widened at the end opposite the open end. This facilitates bending the slot apart such that the slot can be fixed to the container wall by a clamping effect. In addition, by bending the slot apart in an improved way, damage to the additional holding means can be avoided. The widening can be circular.

[0029] The slot and the widening can be L - shaped such that the leg adjacent to the slot in the region of the widening tapers. Thereby, it is possible to achieve bending the slot apart by essentially only bending one leg. If essentially only one leg is bent for fixing due to the L - shape, the other leg can rest on the inner wall of the container in a position - stable manner. This allows the thermometer to extend into the interior of the container in a particularly reproducible way.

[0030] Preferably, the feet provided for placing the holder include a slot. This is particularly advantageous if the size of the feet is relatively large compared to the height of the holder. The feet provide sufficient space to allow a sufficiently large slot to be provided.

[0031] In one embodiment, when the holder is fixed to the wall of the food container by additional holding means and the thermometer is held by the holding means, the food thermometer encloses an angle of 20° to 70°, preferably 30° to 60°, with the wall of the food container. By means of such an angle, the food thermometer can reach an appropriate extent into the food container and can then also have a sufficient distance from the wall of the food container. This ensures that the internal temperature of the food container can be measured, rather than the temperature at, for example, a possibly colder wall area.

[0032] The invention also relates to a holder for a system. The holder can be as described above. The holder can include feet for placing the holder. The holder can include two channels as holding means for holding the food thermometer. The holder can include a slot as additional holding means. The slot can include an open end to allow the container wall to be pushed into the slot, thereby fixing the holder to the wall of the food container.

[0033] The holder is preferably manufactured as a one-piece. This first ensures that the cleaning effort can be kept to a minimum. The holder can be made of a plastic that is heat-resistant up to at least 100 °C, preferably up to at least 180 °C. The material constituting the holder is preferably heat-resistant up to at least 250 °C.

[0034] The food thermometer and the holder are generally separate components. In order to provide a universal system, two different holding positions are not required. For example, only a combination of one holding means and the feet of the holder allows for universality. Thus, the object of the invention can also be solved by a holder that includes only one holding means for the thermometer.

[0035] In one embodiment, the holder can include more than two different holding means for the thermometer. For example, the holder can include three holding means for the thermometer. For example, the food thermometer can be held in at least three different holding positions. For example, three different channels can be present to form the three holding means. Then, at least one end of the thermometer can be inserted through each of the three channels.

[0036] However, the holder can also include four different holding means for the thermometer. For example, four different channels can be present for the thermometer.

[0037] If there are at least two holding means for the thermometer, it is useful if the first holding means is realized by a channel and the second holding means is realized by a clamp in order to achieve a particularly universal system. The clamp can be arranged so as to be able to hold the thermometer firmly even in an inclined position. Then, holes can be provided for holding the thermometer at least approximately horizontally.

[0038] Typically, a thermometer can be inserted into the two inlet openings of a channel and then passed through the channel. This means that there may already be two different holding positions for each channel. Since the end of the thermometer can usually be pushed through each channel to different extents, the number of possible holding positions is further increased. That is to say, the holder can have only one channel as the holding device, thus forming a universal system of the holder and the thermometer. A clamp as the holding device also allows many different holding positions and is therefore a universal system.

[0039] In one embodiment, the thermometer can be held by the channel by press - fit or friction. This can be achieved by a thermometer having a widened portion such that when the widened portion has moved at least partially into the channel, the widened portion can be held by press - fit or friction. The widened portion can be one end of the thermometer. For example, the widened portion can be conical.

[0040] Other combinations of the above - mentioned features are also possible to achieve the desired universality. The above - mentioned holding devices can also be implemented in other ways. The holding device may be provided in the form of a magnet. The holding device can include a magnet. The holding device provided for holding the thermometer can be a clamp. The holding device can be composed of two shells hinged to each other. These shells can be folded closed to hold the thermometer. In the closed state, the shells can be locked, for example, in order to be able to hold the thermometer in a particularly stable manner. Description of the Drawings

[0041] Figure 1 : Cross - section of a system with a food thermometer and a holder;

[0042] Figure 2 : Compared with Figure 1 View of the system rotated 90°;

[0043] Figure 3 : System with a thermometer inserted into food from above;

[0044] Figure 4 : Compared with Figure 1 View of the system rotated approximately 70°;

[0045] Figure 5 : System with a thermometer inserted into food from the side;

[0046] Figure 6 : Top view of the holder;

[0047] Figure 7 : Top view of the holder with a thermometer and fixed to the container wall;

[0048] Figure 8 : Three - dimensional view of the second configuration;

[0049] Figure 9 : Schematic side view of the third configuration;

[0050] Figure 10 : Figure 9 The holder of [], where the thermometer is in an upright position;

[0051] Figure 11 : A system having a holder serving as a handle;

[0052] Figure 12 : A system having a holder fixed to the container wall;

[0053] Figure 13 : A system having a thermometer inserted into food from the side;

[0054] Figure 14 : Figure 13 Top view of the holder of [];

[0055] Figure 15 : A system having a thermometer inserted into food from the side;

[0056] Figure 16 : A system having a cylindrical container. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] Figure 1 Shows a cross-section of a system having a food thermometer 1 and a holder 2 for holding the food thermometer 1. The holder 2 is made of, for example, an elastomer and may include legs 3 and a neck 4. If the legs 3 stand on a horizontal base 5, the neck 4 projects upward from the legs 3.

[0058] The food thermometer 1 can be needle-shaped. The food thermometer 1 can have a tip 6 at one end. The food thermometer 1 can have a handle 7 at the other end. The handle 7 can be conical and widen towards the end. Except for the handle 7, the housing of the food thermometer 1 can be made of metal. However, the housing of the food thermometer 1 can also be made entirely of metal. The handle 7 is preferably made of heat-resistant plastic. The food thermometer 1 can have a tip that can be inserted into food. The temperature sensor can be located at the tip 6 of the food thermometer. The battery can be located at the tip of the food thermometer. When the tip of the food thermometer is inserted into food, since the interior of the food is usually cooler than the interior of the associated food preparation container, the battery is well protected from heat. However, the battery can also be protected from heat by the handle 7 and is thus located within the handle 7. The battery can be rechargeable. Another temperature sensor can be located approximately in the middle of the food thermometer 1 or at the handle 7 such that a second temperature can be measured outside the food. The food thermometer can have electronics to evaluate the signal from the temperature sensor. The food thermometer can include a transmission means for wirelessly sending the temperature signal to a receiving device.

[0059] The tip 6 can be the end that is inserted into the channel 8 of the holder 2. The tip 6 can stand on the base 5. In Figure 1 the shown placement state of the holder 2, the thermometer 1 stands vertically perpendicular to the horizontal base 5. Thus, the thermometer and the holder can be kept ready in a space-saving manner. The channel 8 is a holding means of the holder 2 to hold the food thermometer 1 in a desired position. Thus, the tip 6 can also be inserted through the channel 8.

[0060] Figure 1 It is shown that in the shown view, the width of the leg 3 can be greater than the height of the holder 2. Seen from the neck 4, the legs 3 can protrude equally far to the left and to the right. Thus, in this view, the channel 8 passes through the center of the leg 3. The diameter of the channel 8 can be such that the handle 7 cannot be pushed through the channel 8 or cannot be pushed completely through the channel. In particular, in this embodiment, the holder can also be used to allow the thermometer to be easily pulled out of the food. Thus, the holder is preferably made of a material that is a poor conductor of heat compared to metal, such as an elastomer or other plastic.

[0061] Figure 2 It is shown a view of the system rotated 90° around the vertical axis compared to Figure 1 In this view, the channel 8 no longer passes through the center of the leg 3. Instead, the leg 3 protrudes significantly further laterally to the left from the neck 4 compared to the right side of the leg 3. The laterally protruding further side of the leg 3 can include an inclined flat support surface 9. Thus, the leg 3 can protrude further laterally on one side than on the opposite side.

[0062] InFigure 3 The function of the support surface 9 is shown. As compared with Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the tip 6 is inserted through the channel 8 in the opposite direction, i.e., into the bread dough 10. Now, the support surface 9 stands on the base 5, thus stabilizing the position of the thermometer 1. The support surface can be inclined in such a way that the thermometer 1 encloses an angle α with the base 5, and this angle can be from 30° to 60°. Then, the entire area of the support surface 9 can be in contact with the base 5. Since, when viewed from the neck 4, the feet 3 project relatively far in the direction of the support surface 9, the thermometer 1 can be inserted into the food, such as the bread dough 10, from an upper position. Initially, the bread dough 10 is not firm enough to reliably hold the thermometer 1. As Figure 3 shown, even in a food such as the bread dough 10, the holder 2 can use the support surface 9 to sufficiently stabilize the position of the thermometer 1.

[0063] Figure 4 A view of the holder 2 rotated about 70° around the above-mentioned vertical axis as compared with Figure 1 is shown. In this view, the channel 8 does not pass through the center of the feet 3. However, as compared with the case of Figure 2 , the feet 3 project less laterally towards the left. In addition, the inclined flat support surface 9 is no longer visible. Instead, now the channel 11 is visible, and this channel only extends through the neck 4, through which the thermometer 1 can be inserted.

[0064] As Figure 5 shown, the end 6 of the thermometer 1 can be inserted through the channel 11. Thus, the channel 11 is a holding device for the thermometer 1. Then, the thermometer 1 is moved almost horizontally as shown, for example, and encloses an angle α of, for example, not more than 15° with the horizontal base 5. Then, the thermometer 1 can be located relatively close to the base 5 from the start. Then, the thermometer 1 can be laterally stabbed into the food 10. The thermometer 1 now does not require additional support to be able to maintain the shown position, since the thermometer is substantially horizontal. The thermometer 1 is in a position suitable for directly measuring the temperature of a relatively thin food 10, regardless of its consistency.

[0065] Figure 6 A top view of the holder 2 is shown. The feet 3 project from the neck 4 to such an extent that fingers can be placed on the feet 3 on the left and right sides of the neck 4 respectively. Thus, the holder 2 can be easily grasped, for example, in order to be able to easily pull the thermometer out of the food 10. The feet 3 can be provided with slots 12, and this slot has an open end at the support surface 9. The other end of the slot 12 can have a widened portion 13. The slot 12 and the widened portion 13 can be L-shaped as shown. When the holder 2 is made of an elastically bendable material, this allows Figure 6The right leg adjacent to the slot 12 as shown is more elastically bendable than the leg shown on the left side. Then, Figure 7 The shown container wall 14 can be inserted into the slot such that the retainer is fixed to the container by a clamping effect. The clamping effect is assisted by the widening 13 as this facilitates the spreading of the legs. The retainer 2 can be connected to the container wall 14 in a non-slip manner by the clamping effect. Then, the thermometer 1 can be inserted through the channel 11 such that the thermometer 1 extends into the container including the container wall 14. Figure 7 It is shown that the thermometer 1 can then enclose an angle of approximately 40° to 50° with the inner wall 14. Now the temperature in the upper region of the container including the container wall 14 can be measured.

[0066] Figure 8 A three-dimensionally shown second configuration of the retainer 2 and the thermometer 1 held by the retainer is shown. Figure 8 The shown situation corresponds to Figure 3 the shown situation. Figure 8 In comparison with Figure 3 it is clearly shown that the thermometer 1 can also be inserted almost horizontally, for example into a piece of meat 10. However, the end of the leg 3 with the slot 12 can be placed on a base for stability. Thus, a flat support surface is not required. As Figure 8 shown, it may be sufficient to place the ends of the two legs separated by the slot 12. Since the two ends are spaced apart, they can well stabilize the position of the thermometer 1.

[0067] Figure 9 A side view of a third configuration of the retainer 2 for holding the food thermometer 1 is schematically shown. The retainer 2 can again include legs 3 and a neck 4 and is made of, for example, an elastomer. If the legs 3 stand on a horizontal base 5, the neck 4 projects upward from the legs 3, preferably vertically. When viewed from above, the legs 3 can be circular. When viewed from above, the legs 3 can be polygonal. For example, when viewed from above, the legs 3 can be square.

[0068] In the third configuration, the width or diameter of the legs 3 can also be greater than the height of the retainer 2. In this third configuration, when viewed from the neck 4, the legs 3 can also project equally far to the left and to the right. Thus, the neck 4 can be arranged centrally on the legs 3. There can be a channel 8 indicated by a dashed line which can pass through Figure 9 the center of the legs 3 in the shown view. The diameter of the channel 8 can be such that the handle 7 of the thermometer 1 cannot be pushed through the channel 8 or cannot be fully pushed through the channel. The pointed end 6 of the thermometer 1 can, for example, be inserted into the channel 8 and can also pass through the channel. Then, the handle 7 can serve as a stop to prevent the thermometer 1 from being fully pushed through the channel 8.

[0069] As Figure 9 shown, the channel 11 can pass through the neck 4. The tip end 6 of the thermometer 1, for example, can be inserted through the channel 11. Subsequently, when the holder 2 is placed as Figure 9 shown, the thermometer 1 can be held horizontally or at least substantially horizontally by the holder 2. Then, the handle 7 of the thermometer 1 can in turn be used as a stop, which can prevent the thermometer 1 from being fully pushed through the channel 11.

[0070] The channel 15 can pass through the foot 3, and this channel also serves as a holding device for the thermometer 1. This holding device 15 is designed to hold the thermometer 1, especially when the slot 12 is connected to the container wall. The tip end 6 of the thermometer 1, for example, can be inserted through the channel 15. Then, the handle 7 can be used as a stop to prevent the thermometer 1 from being fully pushed through the channel 15.

[0071] The third configuration of the holder 2 can include a slot 12. The slot 12 is also used to fix the holder 2 to the container wall. As Figure 9 shown, the slot 12 can extend from above into the neck 4. The slot 12 includes an open end at the upper side of the neck 4.

[0072] The slot 12 can have a channel 16 near its inlet opening 17. The diameter of the channel 16 can be smaller than the diameters of the other three channels 8, 11, and 15. When the tip or tip end 6 of the thermometer 1 is pushed into the channel 16, the two legs of the slot 12 are bent apart. Then the thermometer 1 is held in a clamping manner. Then, the channel 16 acts together with the legs of the slot 12 like a clip. Alternatively, the thermometer 1 can be pushed through the inlet opening 17 from above until the thermometer 1 is held in the clip-like area of the channel 16.

[0073] The channel 11 and / or 16 can be inclined such that the thermometer 1 is not held horizontally by the corresponding channels 11, 16, but extends inclinedly towards the base. This applies to the case where the holder 2 is placed as Figure 9 shown. If the holder 2 is placed on a horizontal base, the channel 11 and / or 16 can extend horizontally. Thus, the channel 11 and / or 16 can extend parallel to the base.

[0074] The slot 12 can include an inlet opening 17 that widens outwards to facilitate, for example, sliding the container wall into the slot 12.

[0075] If the channel 11 serves as the circular widening 13 of the slot 12, this channel can be used for a dual purpose, as Figure 9 shown. Then, the channel 11 forms the widened bottom of the slot 12.

[0076] Figure 10 is shown Figure 9The holder 2 therein. The legs 3 of the holder 2 are placed on the horizontal base 5. The tip 6 of the thermometer 1, i.e., its pointed end, is inserted into the channel 8. The base 5 prevents the tip 6 from being inserted through the channel 8. The thermometer 1 extends vertically upward. The thermometer 1 is in the parked position. The thermometer can be stored together with the holder 2 in the parked position to save cabinet space. The thermometer 1 can be placed close to the cooktop together with the holder 2 to save space, and thus the thermometer is within reach together with the holder 2 during the cooking process.

[0077] Figure 11 shows Figure 9 and Figure 10 the holder 2 therein. Compared with Figure 10 the tip 6 of the thermometer 1 is first inserted into the channel 8 in the opposite direction. Then, the tip 6 and the thermometer 1 are further inserted through the channel 8 and reach the handle 7. Since the handle 7 widens conically towards the end, this handle serves as a stop and can be frictionally held in the channel 8. If the holder 2 is made of a heat-insulating material such as plastic, the holder 2 now additionally serves as a heat-insulating handle for the thermometer 1. The plastic is preferably elastic so that the handle 7 can be partially pushed into the channel 8 such that the handle 7 is frictionally held in the channel 8. Alternatively or additionally, the handle 7 can be made of an elastic material such that a frictional connection with the channel can be established. In particular, the legs 3 of the holder 2 can be grasped by the fingers of one hand and thus used to allow the easy removal of the thermometer 1 from the food.

[0078] Figure 12 shows Figures 9 to 11 the holder 2 therein, which is fixed to the container wall 14 shown in cross-section. For this purpose, the container wall 14 is pushed into the slot 12 of the holder 2. The tip 6 of the thermometer 1 has been inserted through the channel 15 in the leg 3 of the holder 2. The widened handle 7 of the thermometer 1 prevents the thermometer 1 from sliding through the channel 15. The tip 6 now extends into the container having the container wall 14. Thus, the thermometer 1 can measure the internal temperature in a cooking container or a food preparation container having the container wall 14. The thermometer 1 can also extend into the food located in a cooking container or a food preparation container having the container wall 14.

[0079] Figure 13 shows the temperature measurement of the food 10 by means of the thermometer 1 and the holder 2. Compared with Figures 9 to 12 the holder 2 shown in Figure 13The holder 2 shown in [figure] has a straight - extending support surface 9 on the side. When the tip 6 of the thermometer 1 is inserted through the channel 8 and into the food 10, the holder 2 can be placed on the support surface 9. Placing the holder 2 on the support surface 9 stabilizes the position of the thermometer 1 during temperature measurement because the straight line of the support surface 9 can rest against a straight line on the base. However, the support surface 9 can also be concave - curved. Then, the two ends of the concave - curve can rest against the base, thereby stabilizing the position of the thermometer 1.

[0080] Figure 14 is schematically shown Figure 13 of the holder 2. Figure 14 As shown when viewed from above, the foot 3 is not circular because it has a straight - extending support surface 9 on the side. The support surface 9 causes a deviation from the circular shape. The support surface 9 does not have to be flat to have a stabilizing effect. For stability, the only important thing is that, as Figure 14 shown, the support surface 9 extends in a straight line when viewed from above. Additionally, the support surface 9 can extend along a uniform arc, for example, as in the case of a cylinder.

[0081] Figure 15 is schematically shown Figure 13 and Figure 14 the holder 2 and the thermometer 1. The tip 6 of the thermometer 1 is inserted through the channel 11 and into the food 10.

[0082] Figure 16 The system shown in [figure] includes a container 18. The container 18 can be cylindrical. The container 18 can be closed at one end, as Figure 16 shown on the upper side in [figure]. The holder 2 can be adapted to the container opening such that the holder 2 can be a lid (sealing lid) for the container 18. Then, the thermometer 1 can be inside the container 18. Thus, the container 18 can protect the thermometer 1 contained in the container 18 from external influences. The system with the container 18 can be stored in a space - saving and protected manner.

[0083] All holders 2 shown in the figure can be used as lids. However, Figures 9 to 15 the configuration of the holder 2 shown in [figure] is particularly suitable.

[0084] In one embodiment, the container 18 can inductively recharge the battery of the thermometer. In this case, the container 18 includes charging electronics configured for inductive charging. In one embodiment, the container 18 can include a battery, for example, to recharge the battery of the thermometer 1. The battery of the container 18 can alternatively or additionally be used to power its own electronics. In one embodiment, the container 18 can be connected to an external power source to be able to charge the battery of the thermometer 1 and / or the battery of the container 18 (if applicable). In one embodiment, the battery can be removed from the container 18, for example, to allow the battery to be charged thereafter.

[0085] In one embodiment, the container 18 can include a wireless transmission and / or reception unit to be able to wirelessly send data to the thermometer 1 and / or be able to wirelessly receive data from the thermometer 1. In one embodiment, the container 18 can include a display on which the measured temperature of the thermometer 1 can be displayed. The wireless transmission and / or reception unit of the container 18 can be configured to be able to receive data from the thermometer 1 only within a short distance and be able to send data to an external control device such as a food processor over a longer distance. In this way, the container 18 can exchange data with the thermometer 1 via Bluetooth, for example, or at least receive data from the thermometer. Then, the container 18 can exchange data with the food processor via Wi-Fi, for example. Thus, the container 18 can be used as an interface to minimize the energy consumption of the thermometer 1 during operation. Then, the food processor can be configured such that the food preparation device in which the thermometer 1 measures the temperature is controlled via the food processor. However, the container 18 can also receive and send data, for example, only via Bluetooth or only via Wi-Fi to be able to act as an interface. The container 18 can have a computing device to perform computing tasks, thus freeing the thermometer from computing tasks. It is advantageous to use the container 18 instead of the thermometer to perform computing tasks to minimize the power consumption of the thermometer. In fact, the container 18 can, for example, unproblematically have a relatively large battery on its own and / or can, for example, unproblematically be connected to an external power source.

[0086] Other configurations of the holder 2 are also possible. For example, an additional configuration can differ from the third configuration shown in Figure 9 due to the absence of the channel 16 passing through the neck 4.

[0087] In addition to the channel 15 and the channel 8, a third channel passing through the leg 3 can also be present. Then, advantageously, for space reasons, the channel 15 and the third channel are arranged such that Figure 14 the channel 8 shown in is located between the other two channels. Thus, the three channels can be arranged in a straight line.

[0088] In the case where the three channels pass through the leg 3, for space reasons, it is advantageous that the channel 15 does not extend asFigure 14 shown are arranged at the outer circumference relative to the support surface 9. Conversely, it is then advantageous for the three channels to be arranged along an imaginary straight line extending parallel to the Figure 14 support surface 9 shown. Then, the channel 15 is located, for example, Figure 14 to the left of the channel 8 shown, and the third channel is located Figure 14 to the right of the channel 8 shown.

[0089] There may also be more than three channels passing through the leg 3, for example four channels. There may be only two channels at the outer circumference of the leg. Between the two outer channels, there may be a blind hole into which a food thermometer can be inserted. The blind hole can terminate at the base of the leg, and when the placement surface of the leg 3 is placed on a flat surface, the blind hole is used to allow the food thermometer 1 to be placed vertically as Figure 1 , 2 and 10 shown. Since the blind hole is closed at the leg 3, the food thermometer cannot be pushed through the leg 3.

[0090] Figure 14 shown, the slot 12 does not need to extend from right to left and thus does not need to be parallel to the support surface 9. Conversely, it may be advantageous for Figure 14 the slot 12 shown to extend from top to bottom and thus be perpendicular to the Figure 14 support surface 9 shown. For example, if there are three channels arranged along the imaginary straight line as described above, this orientation of the slot 12 is preferred. There may be two channels and a blind hole arranged along a line instead of three channels.

[0091] If, in addition to the Figure 14 channel 8 shown or in addition to the blind hole replacing the channel 8, there are two other channels, namely the channel 15 and the third channel, it is advantageous that these three channels can hold the food thermometer 1 in three different ways. If the food thermometer 1 is held by the middle channel 8, the food thermometer 1 extends, for example, parallel to the extension direction of the neck 4 as Figure 13 shown and is thus perpendicular to the placement surface of the leg 3. If the food thermometer 1 is held by the second channel 15, the food thermometer 1 encloses a first acute angle with the extension direction of the neck 4, thus deviating from Figure 12 shown. Thus, the food thermometer 1 is not parallel to the extension direction of the neck 4 as Figure 12 shown. If the food thermometer 1 is held by the third channel, the food thermometer 1 encloses a second acute angle with the extension direction of the neck 4. Then the second acute angle is, for example, greater than the first acute angle.

[0092] There may also be only one channel passing through the base (or pedestal). Additionally, there are blind holes for vertical placement. Preferably, the channels are aligned such that the thermometer does not pass through the channels perpendicular to the placement surface of the support leg 3.

[0093] In Figure 14 a channel with a circular cross-section is shown. However, one or more channels can also have an angular cross-section. For example, all three channels mentioned can have a square cross-section. This is particularly preferred if the handle 7 also has a square cross-section, such that the handle can be held non-rotatably, preferably in a clamping manner, by each channel. The food thermometer 1 can also have a different cross-section, such as a circular cross-section.

[0094] The cross-section of the handle 7 preferably continuously increases towards the adjacent end of the food thermometer 1, such that the handle can only be partially inserted into the channel. The channel 15 and / or the third channel can be such that the food thermometer 1 inserted into one of the two channels can pivot by more than 5°, preferably more than 10°, and this pivoting movement is no longer possible when the handle 7 has been inserted into the channel as much as possible. To achieve this, the channel can have, for example, a square or circular cross-section on one side, while the cross-section gradually becomes elongated towards the other side. For example, the cross-section of the channel on the other side can then be a rectangle or an oval hole of a different shape. This further increases the possible applications.

[0095] The holder 2 and / or the handle 7 can be made of heat-resistant plastic. Preferably, the plastic is selected such that it can be exposed to a maximum oven temperature of typically at least 200 °C or up to at least 220 °C.

Claims

1. An apparatus, the apparatus comprising a food thermometer (1) and a holder (2) for holding the food thermometer (1), wherein, The holder (2) includes two different holding means, and the food thermometer (1) can be held by the holding means in two different holding positions. It is characterized in that the holder (2) includes feet (3) for placing the holder (2) on a base (5) and a neck (4) protruding from the feet (3), and the feet and the neck are firmly connected.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, One holding means is a passage through which an end of the food thermometer (1) can be inserted for holding.

3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the holder (2) is placed on a horizontal base (5) by the feet (3), the holding means can hold the food thermometer (1) vertically or at least substantially vertically.

4. The device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, When the feet (3) are placed on a horizontal base, the holding means can hold the food thermometer (1) horizontally or at least substantially horizontally.

5. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the food thermometer (1) is held substantially horizontally by the holding means, the food thermometer (1) forms an angle of less than 20° with the horizontal line.

6. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The length and / or width of the feet (3) is greater than the height of the holder (2).

7. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The feet (3) include a support surface (9) on the side.

8. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The holder (2) includes an additional holding means (12) by which the holder (2) can be fixed to the wall (14) of a food container.

9. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The additional holding means includes a slot (12) having an open end.

10. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The slot (12) widens at an end opposite the open end.

11. The device according to claim 8, wherein When the holder (2) is fixed to the wall (14) of a food container by the additional holding means and the food thermometer (1) is held by the holding means, the food thermometer (1) forms an angle of 30° to 60° with the wall of the food container.

12. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The device includes a container (18), and when the thermometer (1) is located in the container (18), the holder (2) is a lid of the container (18).

13. A holder (2) for a device according to any one of claims 1 - 12, the holder having: feet (3) for placing the holder (2); a neck (4) protruding from the feet (3); two passages for holding the food thermometer (1); and a slot (12) including an open end for fixing the holder (2) to the wall (14) of a food container; wherein two passages are present at the outer circumference of the feet (3) and there are blind holes between the outermost passages.

14. The retainer (2) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The holder (2) is manufactured as a one-piece and is made of plastic.

Citation Information

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