Safety interlock and kitchen device and food processor

Abstract

A safety interlock device and a kitchen appliance and food processor, wherein the safety interlock device comprises: a first component, a second component and a drive shaft; wherein the first component and the second component are arranged to couple and decouple such that when coupled the drive shaft can receive a drive and when decoupled the drive of the drive shaft is inhibited; wherein one or more interference elements are arranged to interfere with rotation of the drive shaft when the first component and the second component are decoupled.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application number CN201780013107.1 and application date of February 24, 2017. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a safety interlock device, and kitchen equipment and food processors incorporating the same. Background Technology

[0003] In the field of food preparation, kitchen equipment is known that has a bowl-shaped container and a rotary drive housed within the bowl, onto which tools can be mounted. The functionality of such equipment is limited to processes requiring several different processing steps, particularly when different tools are needed to perform those steps. This is because any ongoing processing must be stopped to change tools, which may further necessitate emptying the bowl.

[0004] In addition, the available tools may not be suitable for performing certain processing operations, such as slicing or grating. In such cases, users will need to prepare food ingredients by hand, which is time-consuming, or use other kitchen equipment, which requires more space and costs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the invention, a kitchen appliance is provided, comprising: a base unit; a food processor having an outlet for discharging processed food; wherein the food processor is arranged to be mounted on the base unit such that it is rotatable about a fixed axis between two positions, whereby rotation of the food processor can position the outlet in two different positions.

[0006] The device can be indexed to two rotatable positions of the food processor. The ratchet mechanism can be arranged to index both positions. The ratchet mechanism may include a protrusion arranged to engage with an annular cam having corresponding pawls for receiving the protrusion in the first and second positions. Preferably, the protrusion is biased to extend into a brake, wherein the protrusion is retracted against biasing movement to remove itself from the brake. By indexing to the first and second positions, misalignment problems can be avoided.

[0007] The food processor can be arranged to be detachably mounted to the base unit. This can facilitate storage arrangements. Preferably, the food processor can be mounted to the base via a bayonet coupling device provided on the base unit and the food processor. The food processor can be arranged such that it pivots about a fixed axis between two positions. The food processor can be arranged such that rotating to a third position allows it to be detached from the base unit. This arrangement helps prevent the food processor from accidentally detaching during use.

[0008] The food processor may include a rotatable tool mount for food processing tools. Preferably, the food processor is arranged to receive drive from a base unit. A separate power supply and / or motor can increase the size of the food processor and make its use more complicated. Preferably, the food processor is arranged to be mounted to the base unit at a location spaced apart from a platform used to support a bowl-shaped object.

[0009] At least a portion of the base unit may be arranged to provide a platform for supporting the bowl-shaped object. Preferably, the food processor is arranged to output processed food ingredients on the platform when rotated to a first position, and wherein the food processor is arranged to output processed food ingredients at a position removed from the platform, the platform being used to support the bowl-shaped object when rotated to a second position.

[0010] The kitchen equipment may also include a bowl-shaped object arranged to be removably (or detachably) mounted on a base unit. Preferably, the food processor is arranged to output processed food ingredients into the bowl-shaped object when rotated to a first position (ideally, when the bowl-shaped object is mounted on a platform on the base unit). The bowl-shaped object may be provided with a rotatable tool mount for the food processing tool, preferably wherein the rotatable tool mount is arranged to be driven by the base unit. Preferably, the food processor is arranged to process food ingredients outside the bowl-shaped object and output the processed food ingredients from an outlet into the bowl-shaped object during operation of the kitchen equipment without interrupting the drive of the rotatable tool mount.

[0011] According to another aspect of the present invention, a kitchen appliance is provided, comprising: a base unit; a bowl-shaped object mounted on the base unit; a rotatable tool mount disposed within the bowl-shaped object for a food processing tool, the rotatable tool mount being driven by the base unit; and a food processor having an outlet for discharging processed food, the food processor being mounted on the base unit; wherein the food processor is arranged to process food ingredients outside the bowl-shaped object during operation of the kitchen appliance and to discharge the processed food ingredients from the outlet into the bowl-shaped object without interrupting the drive of the rotatable tool mount.

[0012] Preferably, the food processor is arranged to be independently driven by a rotatable tool mount disposed within the bowl-shaped structure. Preferably, the food processor and the rotatable tool mount are driven by two separate drive units, such as two electric motors. Preferably, the food processor is arranged to receive drive from the base unit.

[0013] A rotatable tool mount for food processing tools can be disposed within a food processor. The rotatable tool mount disposed within the food processor preferably has a rotation axis that is coaxial with the rotation axis of the rotatable tool mount disposed within the bowl-shaped object.

[0014] The base unit can be arranged to provide a raised portion for mounting the food processor. The drive unit or power source for the food processor can be arranged in the base unit below the raised portion.

[0015] The food processor can be mounted to a base unit via a housing containing a transmission assembly arranged to transmit drive from the base unit to the food processor. Preferably, the food processor includes a compartment for processing food, which is preferably detachably mounted to the housing.

[0016] The food processor is capable of rotating about a fixed axis between two positions. Preferably, the rotation of the food processor can position the outlet in two different positions. Preferably, the food processor is arranged to output the processed food ingredients into a bowl when rotated to the first position. The food processor can be arranged to output the processed food ingredients away from the bowl when rotated to the second position.

[0017] Preferably, the kitchen appliance may further include a lid arranged to substantially seal the bowl-shaped object, the lid having an opening aligned to receive processed food ingredients output directly from the food processor from a spaced-apart position above the bowl-shaped object. Preferably, when the food processor is rotated to a first position, the outlet aligns with the opening in the lid so that the processed food ingredients are output directly into the bowl-shaped object through the opening in the lid. It can be rotated to at least two positions. A ratchet mechanism may be provided, arranged to rotate to at least two positions. The food processor may be arranged to be detachable from the base unit when oriented in a third position.

[0018] A rotatable tool mount for one or more (preferably different) food processing tools can be disposed within the bowl and the food processor, optionally providing different food processing functions. The rotatable tool mount disposed in the food processor may have a rotation axis that is offset from the rotation axis of the rotatable tool mount disposed within the bowl.

[0019] The food processor may have an outlet for discharging processed food ingredients at a location spaced apart from the food processor. The outlet may be arranged to extend outward from the food processor beyond the bowl-shaped object.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present invention, a food processor for a kitchen appliance is provided, comprising: a compartment for processing food ingredients; a cover for closing the compartment; and a drive shaft disposed within the compartment for driving a tool; wherein the drive shaft is rotatably mounted on the cover.

[0021] The drive shaft may include one or more engagement elements arranged to engage for transmitting drive to the drive shaft. Preferably, the engagement element includes one or more ridges extending longitudinally along at least half the length (partway) of the drive shaft. Preferably, the engagement element is located at the unconnected end of the drive shaft.

[0022] Preferably, the drive shaft is rotatably mounted to the lid, such that it can be driven, preferably, by a rotatable bearing assembly disposed within the lid. A portion of the drive shaft may be arranged to extend beyond the compartment for engagement with a rotatable drive mechanism external to the food processor.

[0023] The food processor may also include a housing housing a transmission assembly, the housing being arranged to be mounted to a kitchen appliance to transmit a rotatable actuator from it to a drive shaft. Preferably, the compartment may be arranged to be detachably mounted (or mountable) to the housing. Preferably, the housing is configured such that it can pivot between two positions when mounted to the kitchen appliance.

[0024] The transmission assembly included in the housing may include a drive shaft arranged to transmit rotational drive to a drive shaft mounted to the cover, preferably wherein the axis of rotation of the drive shaft in the transmission assembly is offset from the axis of rotation of the drive shaft disposed in the transmission assembly.

[0025] When the compartment is mounted to the housing, and when the compartment is sealed by the cover, the drive shaft can be engaged via a coupling disposed in the transmission assembly. Preferably, when the compartment is mounted to the housing, and when the compartment is closed or sealed by the cover, the drive shaft is engaged via the coupling disposed in the transmission assembly. When the cover is mounted to the transmission assembly, removing the cover from the compartment may cause the drive shaft to disengage from the coupling. Preferably, removing the cover causes the shaft to move from a first position to a second position, in which the shaft is engaged by the coupling, and in the second position, the transmission assembly is arranged to prevent rotation of the drive shaft. This arrangement helps prevent injury to the user.

[0026] The food processor may also include an outlet for discharging processed food, preferably wherein the outlet is a chute through which the processed food ingredients are discharged, preferably wherein at least a portion of the chute is covered along its length. Optionally, the outlet may be arranged such that it can pivot between a first position and a second position. Preferably, the outlet is arranged to deflect the discharged processed food downwards, preferably as it exits the outlet.

[0027] The food processor may further include a food processing tool arranged to be mounted on a drive shaft, preferably wherein the food processing tool is arranged to slice or shred food ingredients.

[0028] The food processor may also include a discharge device that can be mounted to a drive shaft, wherein the discharge device is arranged to rotate via the drive shaft in a compartment such that it collects the processed food by a rotating tool mounted above it, thereby discharging the processed food collected on the discharge device from the food processor by centrifugal force.

[0029] According to another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for a safety interlocking mechanism is provided, comprising: a first component and a second component having a working position in which they are connected together; a drive shaft rotatably mounted in the first component, the drive shaft having a first position and a second position, the first position corresponding to the working position of the apparatus, wherein the drive shaft is arranged to be rotatably driven, the second position inhibiting rotation of the shaft, and the drive shaft being arranged to move to the second position when the component is disengaged.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, a safety interlocking device is provided, comprising: a first component; a second component; and a drive shaft; wherein the first component and the second component are arranged to be engaged and disengaged such that when engaged, the drive shaft can receive drive, and when disengaged, the drive shaft is prohibited from being driven.

[0031] Preferably, the drive shaft is disposed on the first component and is preferably arranged to receive drive from the second component when the first and second components are coupled. Preferably, the drive shaft is rotatably mounted to the first component. The drive of the drive shaft can be suppressed by applying a braking or delaying force to the drive shaft.

[0032] When the first and second components are engaged, the drive shaft may be arranged to extend at least partially into the second component. The drive shaft may include one or more engagement elements arranged to engage in order to transmit drive to the drive shaft. The engagement element may include one or more ridges extending longitudinally along at least half the length of the drive shaft, preferably located at the unengaged end of the drive shaft.

[0033] Preferably, one or more protruding interference elements are arranged to interfere with the drive shaft when the first and second components are disengaged.

[0034] Preferably, when the first component and the second component disengage, the drive shaft moves from a first ("connected") position within the second component to a second ("disengaged") position within the second component, wherein drive to the drive shaft is suppressed in the second position.

[0035] The first component may be a lid, preferably arranged to seal the compartment of the food processor. Preferably, the drive shaft is rotatably mounted to the lid such that it can be driven, preferably via a rotatable bearing assembly disposed within the lid. The second component may be a housing including a drive mechanism arranged to transmit drive to the drive shaft. Preferably, the housing may include an elongated groove arranged to receive the drive shaft when the lid and housing are joined. Preferably, the second component (or housing) is arranged to receive drive from the base unit of the kitchen appliance and transmit the drive to the drive shaft.

[0036] According to another aspect of the invention, a kitchen appliance is provided, comprising a food processor and / or a safety interlock device as described above. The kitchen appliance may be the kitchen appliance described above.

[0037] According to another aspect of the invention, a food processor is provided, which includes the safety interlock device as described above, preferably a food processor as described above.

[0038] The invention extends to methods and / or apparatus that are substantially as described herein and / or shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0039] As used herein, the term "tool" preferably refers to a tool used for processing food ingredients, such as cutting, slicing, chopping, grinding, mixing, or mincing. A "cutting disc" is an example of such a tool.

[0040] This invention extends to any novel aspects or features described and / or illustrated herein. Furthermore, apparatus aspects can be applied to method aspects, and vice versa. Moreover, any, some, and / or all features of one aspect can be applied in any suitable combination to any, some, and / or all features of any other aspect.

[0041] It should also be understood that specific combinations of the various features described and defined in any aspect of the invention may be implemented and / or provided and / or used independently.

[0042] In this specification, unless otherwise stated, the word "or" may be interpreted in the sense of exclusivity or inclusion.

[0043] The invention described herein can be used in any kitchen appliance and / or as a standalone device. This includes any household food processing and / or preparation machine, including top-driven machines (e.g., vertical mixers) and bottom-driven machines (e.g., food processors). It can be implemented in heating and / or cooling machines. The invention can also be implemented in handheld (e.g., manual mixers) and countertop (e.g., blenders) machines. It can be used in machines built into a workbench or countertop, or in standalone devices. The invention can also be provided as a standalone device, whether electrically or manually driven.

[0044] While the invention has been described in the field of household food processing and preparation machinery, it can also be implemented in any application requiring efficient, effective, and convenient production and / or processing of materials, whether on an industrial scale and / or in small quantities. Applications include the production and / or processing of: chemicals; pharmaceuticals; coatings; building materials; clothing materials; agricultural and / or veterinary feed and / or therapeutics, including fertilizers, grains, and other agricultural and / or veterinary products; oils; fuels; dyes; cosmetics; plastics; tar; finishes; waxes; varnishes; beverages; medical and / or biological research materials; solders; alloys; wastewater; and / or other substances, and any reference to “food” herein can be replaced by this working medium. It should be understood that food processing can include the processing and / or mixing of liquid articles, and can also include processing solid foods or frozen articles into liquid form.

[0045] Certain aspects of the invention disclosed herein can also be applied to the automotive and industrial sectors, the tool sector including hand tools, the piping sector, and the hydraulic sector, for example.

[0046] As used herein, the device plus functional features can be replaced by their corresponding structural expressions, such as appropriately programmed processors and associated memories.

[0047] The appended claims set forth aspects and embodiments of the invention. These and other aspects and embodiments of the invention are also described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0048] At least one embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0049] Figure 1 a shows a kitchen appliance with a food processor in the first position;

[0050] Figure 1 b shows a kitchen appliance with a food processor in the second position;

[0051] Figure 2 An exploded view of the food processor is shown;

[0052] Figure 3 An exploded view of the lid of the food processor is shown;

[0053] Figure 4 A partial sectional view of the kitchen equipment is shown;

[0054] Figure 5 A partial anatomical view of the kitchen equipment is shown;

[0055] Figure 6a shows a perspective view from below the food processor;

[0056] Figure 6 b shows the perspective transmission components of a food processor;

[0057] Figure 7 A top view of the transmission assembly is shown;

[0058] Figure 8a The safety interlock assembly is shown, with the drive shaft in the first position;

[0059] Figure 8b The safety interlock assembly is shown, with the drive shaft in the second position; and

[0060] Figure 9 An arrangement for attaching the transmission components to the base unit of the kitchen equipment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Figure 1 A shows a kitchen appliance 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The kitchen appliance 1 includes a base unit 100, a bowl-shaped component 200, and a food processor 500, wherein the food processor 500 includes a housing accommodating a transmission assembly 300 and a processor compartment 400. All these components are arranged to be detachable from the appliance 1. The base unit 100 includes a first drive outlet 102 and a second drive outlet 104 (respectively in…) Figure 5 (As shown in Figure 8), it is preferably arranged to provide rotary drive on substantially parallel axes. The second drive outlet is preferably located on the protrusion / portion 111 of the base unit 100 relative to the first drive outlet. Through the first drive outlet 102 and the second drive outlet 104, the base unit 100 provides power and / or drive to the bowl 200 and the food processor 500, respectively, particularly for driving the food processing tool. Thus, the first drive outlet 102 can be referred to as the "bowl tool mount" and the second drive outlet can be referred to as the "processor tool mount".

[0062] The bowl-shaped object 200 houses the rotatable drive shaft 202. Figure 4 and 5 As shown in the diagram, it is typically housed in the base of the bowl 200 and is powered by the first drive outlet 102 when the bowl 200 is assembled to the first drive outlet 102. The bowl 200 is also provided with a removable lid 210, which has a hole 212 preferably centrally located. The lid 210 may optionally be made of a transparent material. For example, when not in use, the hole 212 of the lid may be covered by a cap. A means for heating the contents of the bowl 200 may be provided in the base unit 100 or in the bowl 200 for cooking purposes. The bowl 200 preferably has a circular cross-section to facilitate uniform processing of food.

[0063] The transmission assembly 300 can be connected to the second drive outlet. The transmission assembly 300 is substantially cylindrical. A platform 310 is disposed on top of the transmission assembly 300, and the processor compartment 400 can be mounted on the platform 310. The platform 310 is arranged to be suspended on the bowl-shaped object 200.

[0064] The machining attachment 400 includes a body 402, which has a distribution chute 412, a cover 404, a feed chute 406, and a cutting disc 430 powered by a second drive outlet. Figures 2 to 5 (As shown in the diagram). The cutting disc 430 is interchangeable with different cutting discs 430, each performing various processing functions (e.g., shredding, crushing, and slicing). Torque is transmitted from the second drive outlet 104 to the cutting disc 430 via the transmission assembly 300. The cover 404 and the body 402 can be assembled together to form a processing chamber 410, for example, via a bayonet fit, snap fit, helical fit, or any other suitable fit. The cutting disc 430 is held within the chamber 410. The feed chute 406 of the processor compartment 400 is positioned eccentrically on the cover 404, such that food ingredients placed in the feed chute 404 can fall onto the cutting disc 430 for processing. The feed chute 406 may be provided with a removable plunger 414 (shown in the diagram). Figure 1 (within feed chute 406 in a).

[0065] Dispensing chute 412 extends from the sidewall of the processor compartment 400 away from the body 402 to the feed chute 406. Dispensing chute 412 may be tapered and downwardly inclined, and at least one sidewall 412 of the dispensing chute may extend substantially tangentially away from the sidewall of the body 402. The distal end of dispensing chute 412 may be angled downward relative to chamber 410 to deflect food ingredients downward. The end of dispensing chute 412 defines an outlet 416. Figure 1 (Not visible in section a), processed food ingredients can exit the processor compartment 400 through the outlet 416. The length of the dispensing chute 412 is configured to align with the outlet 416 of the dispensing chute, and when the processor compartment 400 is properly aligned, the hole 212 provided in the lid 210 of the bowl 200 allows food ingredients processed by the processor compartment 400 to be dispensed directly into the bowl 200. The dispensing chute 412 may include a vent 413 arranged to allow steam rising from the bowl 200 to escape from the dispensing chute 412 when the dispensing chute 412 is positioned above the hole 212 during any cooking process.

[0066] Figure 1 b is shown in different configurations Figure 1A kitchen appliance 1, wherein a food processor 500 is arranged to dispense food ingredients in a second position. A dispensing chute 412 of the food processor 500 is arranged to be movable relative to a base unit 100. Preferably, a drive assembly 300 is rotatable about a second drive outlet 104 between multiple indexable positions, details of which will be described below. In a first position, the dispensing chute 412 is arranged to dispense the processed food ingredients into a bowl 200, as described. In a second position, the dispensing chute 412 is positioned to dispense the processed food ingredients away from the kitchen appliance 1. This allows food ingredients processed by the processor compartment 400 to be dispensed into separate containers, thereby enabling the kitchen appliance 1 to perform multiple processing operations simultaneously. For example, this can be used to prepare two separate dishes. It should be understood that the drive assembly 300 and the processor compartment 400 can move relative to the base unit 100 in a manner different from (or other than) rotation, for example by sliding, pivoting as a whole about a suitable axis (vertical, horizontal, or otherwise), by articulated arm movement, or other translational movements. The processor compartment 400 may alternatively rotate relative to the transmission assembly 300, where the transmission assembly 300 is fixed, or, in another alternative, only the distributing chute 412 may rotate relative to the body 402. The distributing chute 412 or the processor compartment 400 may be arranged such that it can be raised and lowered to distribute at different heights via the hinge of the distributing chute 412, or via a telescopic device or other suitable means.

[0067] Figure 2 An exploded view of the food processor 500 is shown. The processor compartment 400 also includes a rotatable drive shaft 418 and a pusher (“discharge” disc 420, both contained within a chamber 410 of the processor compartment 400. The drive shaft 418 is supported by a bearing 442 disposed at the center of a cover 404. The free end of the drive shaft 418 is arranged to protrude from a hole 408 in the bottom of the body of the processor compartment and enter a hole 312 in the top of a transmission assembly 300 for connection with a coupling 320. Figure 2 (Not visible in the middle) engagement. Hole 312 can be eccentrically positioned relative to the second drive outlet 104. Cutting disc 430 and pusher disc 420 are mounted on drive shaft 418, with cutting disc 430 positioned above pusher disc 420 on drive shaft 418. Drive shaft 418 may include a faceted profile near a first end of drive shaft 418 to mate with corresponding faceted faces located at the center of cutting disc 430 and pusher disc 420.

[0068] Figure 3An exploded view of the lid 404 of the food processor 500 is shown. The cutting disc 430 includes at least one blade 432 for processing food ingredients and at least one aperture 434 through which the processed food ingredients can pass. The pusher disc 420 includes: a raised central portion 422 arranged to conform to a corresponding shaped surface provided on the body 402; at least one wall 424; and a plurality of ridges 426. The pusher disc 420 is preferably arranged to extend across the body of the processor compartment 400 to prevent any food ingredients from falling beneath it. One or more walls 424 and a plurality of ridges 426 are provided on the top surface of the pusher disc 420 and are preferably arranged to extend generally radially along the pusher disc 420. Optionally, one or more walls 424 may define a curved shape relative to the radius of the pusher disc 420.

[0069] Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional view of kitchen equipment 1 is shown, in which the outlet 416 of food processor 500 is positioned above bowl 200. The cover 404 is not shown for clarity. Solid arrows are shown to indicate the direction of travel of processed food ingredients through processor compartment 400. Dashed arrows indicate the direction of rotation of drive shaft 418. When processor compartment 400 is in operation, food ingredients entering feed chute 414 fall onto rotating cutting disc 430 and are sliced, shredded, grated, or otherwise processed by blade 432. The processed food ingredients fall through orifice 434 onto rotating pusher disc 420. The processed food ingredients are then pushed towards the edge of pusher disc 420 by forces generated in the rotating system and then enter dispensing chute 412. The process is aided by one or more walls 424 and multiple ridges 426 provided on pusher disc 420 to collect the processed food ingredients.

[0070] During rotation, one or more walls 424 and ridges 426 encounter the processed food ingredients and sweep them into the dispensing chute 412, and out of the processor chamber 400 via outlet 416, as indicated by the arrow. One or more walls 424 and ridges 426 can also be used to collect food ingredients adhering to the inner wall of chamber 410 and prevent them from lying flat on the pusher tray 420. In use, the drive speed of drive shaft 418 is preferably controlled sufficiently so that food ingredients entering the dispensing chute 412 advance to outlet 416, rather than stopping in the dispensing chute 412 due to friction. Food ingredients exceeding outlet 416 impact the curved walls of the dispensing chute 412, causing them to deviate downwards from outlet 416.

[0071] Figure 5A partial anatomical view of the kitchen appliance 1 is shown. A protrusion 444 on the bottom of the body 402 of the processor compartment 400 can be arranged to mate with a protrusion 314 on the top of the transmission assembly 300, with a hole 312 located on the protrusion 314 to facilitate positioning the drive shaft 418 within the hole 312. The connector 320 can be driven by a first gear 322 connected to a second gear 324 disposed on a first end of the transmission drive shaft 326, which, as described above, is in turn driven by a second drive outlet disposed in the base unit 100.

[0072] Figure 6 a shows a perspective view of the area below the processor compartment 400. Figure 6 b shows a perspective view of the transmission assembly 300 of the food processor 500. The processor compartment 400 is arranged to be attached to the transmission assembly 300 via a bayonet engagement and is provided by a plurality of tabs 448 extending outward from an annular wall 446 located on the bottom of the body 402, wherein the tabs 448 are arranged to engage with a plurality of tabs 330 located in a circular recess 328 located on the top of the transmission assembly 300. A drive shaft 418 and a hole 312 configured to receive the drive shaft 418 may be respectively located at the center of the annular wall 446 and the recess 328. It should be understood that other mating elements, such as threaded mating elements, may also be used between the processor compartment 400 and the transmission assembly 300.

[0073] At least one ridge 450 is provided on the free end side of the drive shaft 418 and extends longitudinally along the drive shaft 418. Preferably, multiple ridges 450 are provided. Apart from the ridges 450, most of the portion of the drive shaft 418 extending out of the processor compartment 400 has a straight diameter.

[0074] Figure 7 A top view of the transmission assembly 300 is shown. A bore 312 holds a connector 320, which is provided with teeth 332 arranged to engage with a ridge 450 disposed on a drive shaft 418, providing means for transmitting torque to the drive shaft 418. The teeth 332 preferably have a sloping top to facilitate engagement of the drive shaft 418. The bore 312 is also provided with one or more protruding features 334 extending inward toward the center of the bore 312. Preferably, the protruding features 334 are disposed within the bore 312 but at a different location from the teeth 332 of the connector 320. Preferably, the protruding features 334 are disposed at or near the top of the bore 312. Using multiple, preferably symmetrically arranged, protruding features 334 can be advantageous because impacts can be evenly distributed across the multiple protruding features 334. The protruding features 334 and the carrying ring can be integrally formed with the machine or can be fixed, separate, replaceable components so as not to rotate.

[0075] Optionally, the protruding feature 334 may be disposed on a replaceable annular plate located within the bore 312 and secured to prevent rotation, thereby allowing replacement of the protruding feature 334 in case of excessive wear. The top plate of the transmission assembly may be arranged to be removable to allow the plate carrying the protruding feature 334 to be removed (and replaced if necessary). Alternatively, the protruding feature 334 may be integrally formed within the bore 312. The bore 312 is arranged to be wider than the drive shaft 418 such that a protruding ridge 450 disposed on the drive shaft 418 engages in the bore 312. The length of the protruding feature 334 is arranged such that portions of the drive shaft 418 having a flat diameter engage between the protruding features 334, but if one or more protruding features 334 are aligned with one or more ridges 450, the ridges 450 disposed on the drive shaft 418 may contact the protruding feature 334. The ridges 450 may be provided with sloping tops and bottoms to help guide them through the protruding features during assembly or removal of the drive shaft 418.

[0076] During use, the user may need to remove the cover 404 to inspect the interior of the chamber 410, or to perform maintenance and / or cleaning. For safety reasons, the user should not approach the cutting disc 430 while it is rotating. The arrangement of the drive shaft 418 and the bore 312 is configured to provide a safety interlock assembly to prevent rotation of the drive shaft 418 when the cover 404 is removed.

[0077] Figure 8a A safety interlock assembly is shown with drive shaft 418 in a first position. This can also be referred to as the "coupled" position, for example, by two complementary components being coupled. Other components of the processor compartment 400 are not shown. In the first position, drive shaft 418 is inserted through bore 312, and ridges 450 arranged on drive shaft 418 engage with teeth 332 of coupling 320, allowing drive shaft 418 to be driven by transmission assembly 300.

[0078] Figure 8bThe safety interlock assembly is shown with drive shaft 418 in a second position. This can be referred to as the "disengaged" position, for example, created by the disengagement of two connected components. Drive shaft 418 disengages from connector 320 when the user lifts cover 404 from the body 402 of processor compartment 400. This occurs when drive shaft 418 rotates, as the second end of drive shaft 418 is lifted past protrusion 334, which interferes with ridge 450 located on the end of drive shaft 418, as shown in Figure 8. This interference inhibits rotation of drive shaft 418, thereby stopping it and providing a simple safety interlock to prevent the user from approaching the rotating cutting disc 430. The safety interlock also operates throughout the processor compartment 400 where it is lifted from transmission assembly 300 (after the snap-fit ​​engagement between components disengages). In continuous operation, the speed at which the drive shaft 418 is driven is sufficient for the protrusion 334 to interfere with the rotating ridge 450 on the drive shaft 418 before the entire drive shaft 418 passes the protrusion 334, at which point the cover 404 or the processor compartment 400 is removed at a reasonable speed. The protrusion 334 also helps to center the drive shaft 418 when it is inserted into the hole 312. The ridge 450 and / or the protrusion 334 preferably comprise a tough and durable material, such as stainless steel, to withstand repeated impacts. The same material can be used for the tooth 332.

[0079] Figure 9 An arrangement for attaching a transmission assembly 300 to a base unit 100 of a kitchen appliance 1 is shown. The transmission assembly 300 is arranged to be attached to the base unit 100 via a snap-fit ​​mechanism located between a plurality of tabs 340 disposed on an inner sidewall 338 of the transmission assembly 300 and a recessed wall 110 disposed on an annular housing 108 for a second drive outlet 104. A drive shaft 326 may be arranged to protrude through a hole disposed in a base plate 336 of the transmission assembly 300 so as to be detachably connected to the second drive outlet 104 via a gear coupling 342 disposed on the free end of the drive shaft 326. The housing 108 for the second drive outlet 104 preferably has a wall 114 with a groove 116, wherein the wall extends upward from the top surface of the housing. The wall 114 is configured to function as an annular cam, wherein the groove 116 functions as a pawl, having a protrusion (e.g., a "bolt") 350 disposed in the transmission assembly 300 and protruding through a hole disposed in the plate 336. A spring located inside the transmission assembly 300 pushes the bolt 350 downward. The groove 166 is tilted on one side to allow the transmission assembly 300 to rotate in one direction, but stops rotation in the other direction by the abutment of the bolt 350 and the wall 114.

[0080] When the transmission assembly 300 is attached to the second drive outlet 104, the described ratchet mechanism allows the transmission assembly 300 to rotate between a plurality of fixed positions. The plurality of fixed positions includes the first and second positions described previously, and preferably also includes a position where the bayonet tab 340 is aligned to allow the transmission assembly 300 to be fitted to or removed from the base unit 100. Preferably, when the ratchet mechanism is not in this position, the ratchet mechanism is arranged such that the transmission assembly 300 cannot be removed from the bayonet engagement.

[0081] It should be understood that alternative mechanisms can be used to fix the position of the transmission assembly 300 relative to the base unit 100, such as a resilient bolt 350 that can be pressed by a user. Optionally, the resilient bolt 350 may be located in the base unit 100, wherein the recessed wall 114 is located on the underside of the transmission assembly 300.

[0082] The components of the processing attachment are preferably designed for dishwasher cleaning and should be made of food-safe materials. The cutting disc 430 is preferably made of metal, such as stainless steel. The pusher disc 420 is preferably made of a flexible material such as rubber or silicone, but it must be rigid enough to withstand operational stresses. The use of this material allows the pusher disc 420 to vibrate and / or deflect during use, which helps prevent material from adhering to the disc. One or more walls 424 may optionally be made of different, less rigid materials. The use of a flexible material for the one or more walls 424 mitigates any damage to soft food ingredients caused by the walls of the chamber 410, a particular concern at the corner between the second sidewall of the dispensing chute 412 and the sidewall of the chamber.

[0083] The dispensing chute 412 and / or the lid 210 may be provided with an accessory (not shown) arranged to connect the outlet 416 to the hole 212 by locking it with a corresponding element provided on the dispensing chute 412 and / or the lid 210 to prevent the food ingredients from flowing out. Alternatively, an extension for connecting the dispensing chute 412 and the lid 210 may be integrally formed with the chute 412 and / or the lid 210. The hole 212 provided in the lid 210 may alternatively be located in a non-central position on the lid 210.

[0084] like Figure 10As shown, a funnel-shaped attachment with an internally inclined surface 510 can be attached to the edge of the hole 212 of the lid 210 of the bowl 200 using a tab 520. The internally inclined surface 510 of the funnel 500 helps guide the material dispensed from the outlet 416 of the dispensing chute 412 of the processor attachment 400 through the hole 212 and prevents it from collecting around the edge of the hole 212. Although the tab 520 is shown here as an attachment device, other releasable attachment devices can also be used, including clips, straps, snap fasteners, screws, bolts, and similar attachment devices. Alternatively, the funnel 500 can be integrally formed with the lid 210. The dimensions of the funnel 500 should preferably be configured not to extend above the bottom of the dispensing chute 412 so as not to impede its movement, or it can partially surround the outlet 416 to further prevent the material dispensed from the outlet 416 from flowing out onto the top of the lid 210, while still allowing the dispensing chute to rotate away from the hole 212 in at least one direction. Optionally, the funnel 500 may form a seal (e.g., a rubber seal) with the lid 210 and / or may extend into the hole 212 to prevent material from leaking between the lid 210 and the funnel 500.

[0085] It should be understood that the invention has been described above by way of example only, and modifications to the details are possible within the scope of the invention.

[0086] Each feature disclosed in the specification, (where appropriate) claims, and drawings may be provided independently or in any suitable combination.

[0087] The reference numerals appearing in the claims are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A safety interlocking device, comprising: The first component is a cover; The second component is the housing; and A drive shaft, which is disposed on the first component; A connector, wherein the connector is disposed on the second component; The first component and the second component are characterized in that they are arranged to be connected and disconnected, such that when connected, the drive shaft can receive drive from the connector of the second component, and when disconnected, the drive of the drive shaft is disabled; and One or more interference elements are disposed on the second component, the interference elements being arranged to interfere with the rotation of the drive shaft when the first component and the second component are disengaged, the drive shaft including one or more engagement elements, the engagement elements being arranged to transmit drive to the drive shaft by engaging with the connector when connected, and the engagement elements being arranged to stop the rotation of the drive shaft by engaging with the interference elements when disengaged.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The interference element is a protruding element.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive shaft is rotatably mounted to the first component.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the first component and the second component are coupled, the drive shaft is arranged to extend at least partially into the second component.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive shaft is suppressed by applying a braking or delaying force.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The engagement element includes one or more ridges extending longitudinally along at least half the length of the drive shaft, the ridges being disposed at the unconnected end of the drive shaft.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, When the first component and the second component are connected to the second position within the second component, the drive shaft moves from the first position within the second component. When the first component and the second component are disengaged, the drive to the drive shaft is disabled in the second position.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The lid is arranged to seal the compartment of the food processor.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The drive shaft is rotatably mounted on the cover, such that the drive shaft can be driven by a rotatable bearing assembly disposed in the cover.

10. The apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The housing includes a driver that transmits drive to the drive shaft.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The housing includes an elongated groove arranged to receive the drive shaft when the cover and the housing are joined.

12. The apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second component is arranged to receive drive from the base unit of the kitchen equipment and transmit the drive to the drive shaft.

13. A kitchen appliance, characterized in that, Includes the safety interlocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The kitchen equipment according to claim 13, characterized in that, include: Base unit; A food processor having an outlet for discharging processed food; wherein the food processor is arranged to be mounted on the base unit for operation, such that it can move between two operating positions on the base unit, thereby positioning the outlet in two different locations.

15. A food processor, characterized in that, Includes the safety interlocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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