Stirring appliance and method of operation

Abstract

A stirring appliance includes a motor having a rotatable drive shaft coupled to a gearbox having a rotatable output shaft. The gearbox includes a first gear train having a first output speed ratio and a second gear train having a second output speed ratio. The controller module is communicatively coupled to an actuator arranged to selectively trigger the shift member to switch engagement with one of the first gear train and the second gear train to engagement with the other of the first gear train and the second gear train.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electric stirring appliance for processing food. Background Art

[0002] Powered appliances for processing or blending food, such as blending appliances, can take a variety of forms, such as blenders, food processors, mixers, and the like. Such appliances typically include a drive assembly that includes an electric motor and a gearbox located in a housing. The drive assembly is arranged to rotate an output shaft coupled to a workpiece, such as a blade, paddle, or other tool, at a desired speed. The workpiece is selected to perform a specific operation on the food or ingredient, such as mixing, blending, beating, whipping, stirring, kneading, chopping, and the like. Summary of the invention

[0003] According to one aspect, the present disclosure relates to an electric stirring device. The stirring device may include: a housing; a motor located in the housing and having a rotatable drive shaft; a gearbox located in the housing and having an input side and an output side. The gearbox includes a rotatable output shaft, which is axially aligned with the rotatable drive shaft on the input side and rotatably connected to the rotatable drive shaft. The gearbox includes a first gear train having a first output speed ratio and a second gear train having a second output speed ratio. The gearbox also includes: a first gear rotatably connected to the output shaft and surrounding the output shaft, the first gear can slide axially along the output shaft in a first direction toward the output side, and can slide axially along the output shaft in a second direction toward the input side; and an input gear rotatably connected to the rotatable drive shaft and surrounding the rotatable drive shaft, the input gear can move axially along the rotatable drive shaft in the first direction and the second direction, and the input gear can selectively engage with the first gear rotatably. The elastic member is arranged to apply a force to the first gear in the second direction. The secondary shaft is rotatably supported by the housing and defines a third rotation axis. The gearbox further includes: a second gear rotatably coupled to the countershaft and surrounding the countershaft, the second gear being selectively rotatably engaged with the input gear; a third gear rotatably coupled to the countershaft and surrounding the countershaft, the third gear being axially spaced apart from the second gear and selectively rotatably engaged with the first gear. A shift member is movably coupled to the input gear, the shift member being selectively movable between a first shift position and a second shift position. In response to a first movement of the shift member to the first shift position, the input gear is movable in a first direction to disengage from the second gear, and the first gear is movable in the first direction to disengage from the third gear, thereby defining a first gear train of the gearbox. In response to a second movement of the shift member to the second shift position, the input gear is movable in a second direction to rotatably engage with the second gear, and the first gear is movable in the second direction to rotatably engage with the third gear, thereby defining a second gear train of the gearbox.

[0004] In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method of operating an electric stirring appliance, the appliance having a controller module and a motor, the motor being configured to rotate a rotatable drive shaft rotatably coupled to an output shaft via a gearbox, the gearbox comprising a first gear train defining a first output speed ratio and a second gear train defining a second output speed ratio, the gearbox being selectively switchable between engagement of the first gear train and engagement of the second gear train. The method may include: receiving a first input signal at the controller module; and selecting a predefined operation by the controller module based on the first input signal. The method may also include: triggering a shift member of the gearbox to switch from engagement with one of the first gear train and the second gear train to engagement with the other of the first gear train and the second gear train based on the selected predefined operation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] In the attached picture:

[0006] Figure 1A Depicted is a perspective view of an electric stirring appliance according to various aspects as described herein.

[0007] Figure 1B According to various aspects as described herein Figure 1A A perspective view of a portion of a stirring appliance.

[0008] Figure 2 According to the various aspects described herein Figure 1A Schematic diagram of the stirring apparatus.

[0009] Figure 3 is in accordance with the various aspects described herein and Figure 2 A perspective view of a gear box and a rotatable drive shaft for use with a stirring apparatus.

[0010] Figure 4 is engaged with the first gear train according to various aspects as described herein Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a gearbox and a rotatable drive shaft.

[0011] Figure 5 is engaged with a second gear train according to various aspects as described herein Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a gearbox and a rotatable drive shaft.

[0012] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating a stirring appliance according to various aspects as described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] Conventional mixing appliances such as blenders, stirrers, food processors, dough kneading machines, etc., typically use an electric motor to rotate the spindle or shaft of a tool such as a blade, a stirrer, a beater or other mixing tool. One or more ingredients or foods are placed in a container, and a rotating tool is engaged with the ingredients in the container to perform the desired mixing operation. During the operation of the mixing appliance, the food state such as consistency, viscosity, degree of mixing, etc., will typically change, and it may be desirable to continue operating the electric appliance at different output shaft speeds based on the changed state. Therefore, such a mixing appliance typically includes an electronic variable speed controller to adjust the rotation speed of the motor, and thereby adjust the speed of the shaft. In other cases, for example, when the motor is a single-speed type, a gear box can be used to enable the user to adjust the rotation speed of the output shaft according to the desired action.

[0014] It will be appreciated that the viscosity or density of various ingredients can vary greatly, which may require the use of tools with different torques or rotational speeds to complete the desired stirring operation. At least for this reason, the stirring device may operate at more than one speed. In some cases, an electronic speed control can be used to control the speed of the motor. In other arrangements, a gearbox is used to provide an optional output speed and torque for the tool. However, such a traditional gearbox may be complex and require many moving parts, such as multiple gears and clutches. In addition, traditional stirring devices typically rely on users to determine when to change the rotational speed based on the observed food state or the time period of the stirring operation, and manually switch or change between the gears in the gearbox to achieve the desired rotational speed. This may be challenging, especially for inexperienced users. In addition, in some cases, the desired stirring operation may be time-consuming and require the user to pay attention for a long time to determine when to change the rotational speed of the gear.

[0015] Aspects as disclosed herein can provide a multi-speed stirring device having a simple, relatively low-cost gearbox that can be manually or automatically switched between two gear trains having respective rotational output speed ratios without the need for clutch operation. More specifically, aspects as disclosed herein can provide a stirring utensil having a plurality of optional speeds or torques for an output shaft rotatably coupled to a gearbox. For example, a first gear train can be engaged to an output shaft to rotate the output shaft at a first rotational speed for a first time period. Aspects can further determine the need for the output shaft to operate at a second rotational speed, and can automatically trigger the switching of the gearbox to engage a second gear train to rotate the output shaft at a second rotational speed for a second time period. The first rotational speed and the second rotational speed and the first time period and the second time period can be predetermined. In some aspects, the first rotational speed and the second rotational speed and the first time period and the second time period can be based on one or more predefined operations of the stirring utensil. For example, one or more predefined operations can include, but are not limited to, stirring, chopping, whipping, mixing, kneading, etc. Additionally or alternatively, in some aspects, the first rotational speed and the second rotational speed and the first time period and the second time period can be based on other factors, such as a particular food type or ingredient, or a current or desired state of the food or ingredient. Various aspects can provide an operator, such as a chef or cook, with an appliance having a range of selectable output torques and speeds for stirring, mixing, beating, kneading, or otherwise acting on a food or ingredient, while freeing the operator to perform other tasks during the stirring operation.

[0016] It will be understood that the specific devices and processes shown in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary, non-limiting aspects of the disclosure herein. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the aspects disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting unless expressly stated in the appended claims.

[0017] In describing the aspects shown in the accompanying drawings, specific terminology will be employed for the sake of clarity. However, this is not intended to limit the various aspects to the specific terms selected, and it should be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to achieve similar purposes. For example, the words "connect," "attach," "couple," "engage," and "install" and variations thereof are used broadly herein and cover direct and indirect connections, attachments, connections, engagements, and installations. In addition, the terms "connect," "couple," and the like and variations thereof are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, couplings, and the like, as those skilled in the art will recognize that all such types of connections are equivalent.

[0018] As used herein, the term "combination" or "group" of elements may be any non-zero number of elements, including only one. The exemplary drawings are for illustration purposes only, and the dimensions, positions, sequences, and relative sizes reflected in the drawings may vary.

[0019] In addition, as used herein, a "processor" or "controller module" may include a component configured or adapted to provide instructions, control, operation or any form of communication to an operable component to affect its operation. The processor or controller module may include any known processor, microcontroller or logic device, including but not limited to: a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a proportional controller (P), a proportional integral controller (PI), a proportional differential controller (PD), a proportional integral differential controller (PID controller), a hardware accelerated logic controller (e.g., for encoding, decoding, transcoding, etc.), etc. or a combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of controller modules may be configured or adapted to run, operate or otherwise execute program code to achieve an operation or functional result (including performing various methods, functions, processing tasks, calculations, comparisons, sensing or measurement values, etc.) to enable or achieve a single operation or multiple operations of the technology described herein. The operation or functional result may be based on one or more inputs, stored data values, sensed or measured values, true or false indications, etc. Although "program code" is described, non-limiting examples of operable or executable instruction sets may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, algorithms, etc., which have the technical effect of performing a particular task or implementing a particular abstract data type. In another non-limiting example, a processor or controller module may also include a data storage component accessible by the processor, including memory, whether transient, volatile or non-transient or non-volatile memory.

[0020] Other non-limiting examples of memory may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory or one or more different types of portable electronic memory, such as optical disks, DVDs, CD-ROMs, flash drives, universal serial bus (USB) drives, etc., or any suitable combination of these types of memory. In one example, the program code may be stored in a memory in a machine-readable format accessible by a processor. In addition, the memory may store various data, data types, sensed or measured data values, inputs, generated or processed data, etc. accessible by the processor to provide instructions, controls or operations to affect functions or operable results as described herein. In another non-limiting example, the control module may include comparing a first value with a second value, and operating or controlling the operation of other components based on the satisfaction of the comparison. For example, when the sensed, measured or provided value is compared with another value including a stored or predetermined value, the satisfaction of the comparison can achieve an action, function or operation that can be controlled by a controller module. As used herein, the term "satisfaction" of the comparison is used herein to indicate that a first value satisfies a second value, such as being equal to or less than the second value, or within a predetermined value range of the second value. It will be appreciated that such a determination may be easily altered to suffice by a positive / negative comparison or a true / false comparison.Example comparisons may include comparing a sensed or measured value to a threshold or threshold range.

[0021] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An architecture of an electric stirring appliance or stirring appliance 11 with multiple selectable output speeds is shown according to non-limiting aspects. Figure 1B Depicted Figure 1A For the purpose of description herein, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and their derivatives shall be used in conjunction with Figure 1A However, it will be understood that, unless expressly specified otherwise, the device may assume various alternative orientations.

[0022] Also refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B In non-limiting aspects, the stirring device 11 can include a housing 15 containing a drive assembly 48. The drive assembly 48 can include an output shaft 43 that can extend from the housing 15 and can rotate. Figure 1A, a tool 44 (shown as a blade set) is shown as being rotatably coupled to the output shaft 43. The tool 44 can extend into a food preparation area 16 disposed above the housing 15, wherein various foods or ingredients can be arranged for processing according to the user's desires. In non-limiting aspects, the food preparation area 16 can generally be defined by a container 17 having a handle 18 and a lid 19. The blending appliance 11 may include a controller module 30 ( Figure 2 ) of the user interface 20. The stirring device 11 may include a controller module 30 ( Figure 2 ) of a set of sensors 35.

[0023] Continue to refer Figure 1A and Figure 1B , the user interface 20 may be disposed on the housing 15. The user interface 20 may include, for example, a slider or knob 21 to enable a user to selectively trigger the operation of the stirring appliance 11. It will be understood that this is only a non-limiting example, and the user interface 20 may additionally or alternatively include, but is not limited to, buttons, keys, or electronic interfaces such as a touch screen or display 22, and combinations thereof. Although Figure 1A and Figure 1B The user interface 20 is depicted as being disposed on the housing 15, but is not otherwise limited in this regard. For example, in other aspects, the user interface 20 can be disposed at any desired location or combination of locations on or away from the stirring appliance 11, including but not limited to a remote or mobile device (not shown) that can be communicatively coupled to the controller module 30. In non-limiting aspects, a set of sensors 35 can be disposed on or in the housing 15, the drive assembly 48, the container 17, combinations thereof, or at any other desired location without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 2 The simplified schematic diagram depicts Figure 1A and Figure 1B , and additional elements within the housing 15 and an exemplary food 9 arranged in the container 17 are shown. The stirring appliance 11 may also include a controller module 30 having a memory 34. As shown, the controller module 30 is communicatively coupled to the user interface 20. In non-limiting aspects, the controller module 30 is also communicatively coupled to a set of sensors 35. The stirring appliance 11 may also include a drive motor 50 and a gearbox 40 disposed within the housing 15. The drive motor 50 may include a rotatable drive shaft 51 defining a first rotation axis 51a. The gearbox 40 may include a housing 45 having an input side 46 and an output side 47. The output shaft 43 may extend from the output side 47. The output shaft 43 may be coupled to the rotatable drive shaft 51 at a first end to receive torque therefrom. The output shaft 43 may also be coupled to a tool 44 (such as a gearbox) at a second end. Figure 1A) to transfer torque thereto. The output shaft 43 may define a second axis of rotation 43a. The second axis of rotation 43a may be axially aligned with the first axis of rotation 51a; however, this need not be the case. As will be discussed in greater detail herein, the gearbox 40 includes a set of gears (not shown) defining a first gear train and a second gear train, the first gear train and the second gear train being arranged to cooperate to achieve a first output speed ratio and a second output speed ratio, respectively.

[0025] The stirring appliance 11 may include an actuator 25 that is selectively movable between a first actuator position and a second actuator position. The actuator 25 may be communicatively coupled to the user interface 20, the controller module 30, or both. The actuator 25 is movably coupled to the gearbox 40 and is responsive to a first actuation signal 20b (e.g., as a non-limiting example, a first voltage signal) from the user interface 20, a second actuation signal 30b (e.g., as a non-limiting example, a second voltage signal) from the controller module 30, or both.

[0026] The drive motor 50 can be electrically coupled to a power source 52, such as a household AC power source, via a set of power lines 57. In non-limiting aspects, one of the power lines 57 can define a neutral line. In other non-limiting aspects, the power source 52 can be a DC power source, such as a battery. A switching device 58, such as a relay, contactor, or other switch, can be coupled to the power lines so that power from the power source 52 can be selectively or switchably provided to the drive motor 50 via a set of power lines 57. In non-limiting aspects, the switching device 58 can be communicatively coupled to the user interface 20, the controller module 30, or both. Although not shown for clarity, it will be appreciated that the power source 52 can also be electrically coupled to the controller module 30 to provide power thereto.

[0027] In non-limiting aspects, a set of sensors 35 may be disposed at various locations within the stirring appliance 11 and communicatively coupled to the controller module 30. The set of sensors 35 may be configured to detect, measure, or otherwise sense one or more corresponding parameters 36. Each sensor 35 may be arranged to provide a corresponding second input signal 35a indicative of the one or more corresponding parameters 36 to the controller module 30. For example, the one or more corresponding parameters 36 may at least partially indicate, in a direct or indirect manner, one or more of the following, but not limited to: inertia of the drive motor 50, speed of the drive motor 50, torque of the drive motor 50, voltage on the windings of the drive motor 50, rotational speed of the rotatable drive shaft 51, viscosity of the food 9 within the container 17, amount of the food 9 within the container 17, moisture content of the food 9 within the container 17, weight of the food 9, temperature of the food 9, etc. The sensors 35 may include any desired conventional sensor type, including but not limited to voltage sensors, current sensors, temperature sensors, water level sensors, weight sensors, torque sensors, speed sensors, proximity sensors, chemical sensors, humidity sensors, switch sensors, or combinations thereof.

[0028] The user interface 20 may be communicatively coupled to at least one of the controller module 30, the memory 34, the gearbox 40, the switch 58, and combinations thereof. The first input signal 20a may indicate any desired information, including, for example, one or more of the following, but not limited thereto: a selected stirring speed, a stirring operation (e.g., mixing, whipping, chopping, etc.), an ingredient or food type, and combinations thereof (e.g., ice, butter, dough, etc.).

[0029] In non-limiting aspects, the user interface 20 may receive data from the controller module 30 via a display signal 30a indicating information to be displayed on the display 22. The display 22 may include any suitable communication technology, including a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) array, or any suitable display that can convey messages to a user. Other communication paths and methods may also be included in the blending appliance 11, whether or not the user interface 20 is present, to allow the controller module 30 to communicate with the user in a variety of ways. For example, the controller module 30 may be configured to send a text message to the user, send an email to the user, or provide audio information to the user through the blending appliance 11 or using other devices such as a mobile phone.

[0030] In addition, the controller module 30 can be communicatively coupled to the user interface 20 to receive a first input signal 20a therefrom. The first input signal 20a can indicate user input or user-provided data. The controller module 30 can also be communicatively coupled to a set of sensors 35 to receive corresponding second input signals 35a therefrom. The second input signals 35a can indicate the value of a corresponding parameter 36 sensed, measured, or detected by one or more sensors 35. In non-limiting aspects, the controller module 30 can be configured to determine the value of at least one corresponding parameter 36 based on the received second input signal 35a.

[0031] In non-limiting aspects, the controller module 30 can be communicatively coupled to the drive motor 50 to control operation thereof. Control of the drive motor 50 can be based at least in part on one or more corresponding parameters 36, one or more first input signals 20a, or both.

[0032] The controller module 30 may include a plurality of electronic components typically associated with an electronic unit for controlling an electromechanical system. For example, the controller module 30 may include a processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU) 33, a memory 34, and analog interface circuits (not shown).

[0033] The CPU 33 may be any type of device capable of executing software or firmware, such as a microcontroller, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor, etc. For example, it is contemplated that the CPU 33 may be a microprocessor-based controller that implements control software and sends or receives one or more electrical signals to or from each of the various working components to implement the control software.

[0034] The memory 34 may be embodied as one or more non-transient, machine-readable media. In addition, the memory 34 may be configured to store instructions in the form of, for example, a software routine (or multiple routines), which, when executed by the CPU 33, enable the controller module 30 to control the operation of the stirring device 11. The memory 34 may be used to store control software executed by the CPU 33 when performing a selected operation to be performed by the stirring device 11, as well as any additional software. For example, the memory 34 may store a set of executable instructions including at least one user-selectable operation. The memory 34 may also be used to store information such as a database or table and to store data received from one or more components of the stirring device 11 that can be communicatively connected to the controller module 30. The database or table may be used to store various operating parameters of one or more operations, including factory values ​​or default values ​​of the operating parameters and any adjustments to them by the controller module 30 or by the user interface 20.

[0035] For example, in non-limiting aspects, the memory 34 can store determined values ​​of corresponding parameters 36. In addition, in non-limiting aspects, the memory 34 can also store a set of predetermined optional parameter values ​​63. A set of predetermined optional parameter values ​​63 can be saved to the memory 34 before use (e.g., factory installation), or can be provided to the memory 34 by a user via the user interface 20, or a combination thereof. In some aspects, a set of predetermined optional parameter values ​​63 can include one or more thresholds or target values. In addition, as will be described in more detail herein, the memory 34 can store a set of predefined operating parameter values ​​56. For example, in some aspects, the predefined operating parameter values ​​56 can be one or more of the following items, but not limited to: drive motor speed, output shaft speed, output shaft torque, gearbox speed ratio, and combinations thereof. In non-limiting aspects, the predefined operating parameter values ​​56 can be associated with corresponding values ​​in a set of predetermined optional parameter values ​​63. For example, based on the user's selection of one or more corresponding values ​​in a set of predetermined optional parameter values ​​63 via the user interface, or the determination of the value of the corresponding parameter 36, or both, one or more predefined operating parameter values ​​56 can be determined. In non-limiting aspects, the predefined operating parameter values ​​56 may indicate any desired parameters, such as one or more of drive motor speed, output shaft speed, output shaft torque, gearbox speed ratio, and combinations thereof.

[0036] In some aspects, the memory 34 may also store a set of predefined operations 55 of the mixing appliance 11. For example, the set of predefined operations 55 may include, but are not limited to, mixing operations, chopping operations, whipping operations, stirring operations, kneading operations, etc. Each predefined operation 55 in the set of predefined operations 55 may be defined at least in part by one or more corresponding predefined operation parameter values ​​56. For example, in non-limiting aspects, the predefined operation parameter values ​​56 may include the rotational speed or output torque of the output shaft 43, or both. The predefined operation parameter values ​​56 may also include a corresponding time period 59. In non-limiting aspects, the corresponding time period 59 may be a predetermined time period. In some aspects, the corresponding time period 59 may be based on satisfying a threshold or target value, such as a corresponding value in a set of predetermined optional parameter values ​​63. In non-limiting aspects, a particular predefined operation 55 may be defined at least in part by a sequence of predefined operations 55. For example, in one example, the sequence of a particular predefined operation 55 may include a first predefined operation 55 of a first duration of a corresponding time period 59, followed by a second predefined operation 55 of a second duration of a corresponding time period 59. The first duration and the second duration may be the same or different.Other sequences of predefined operations 55 may include any number of predefined operations 55 in a set of predefined operations 55, executed in any predetermined sequence for any corresponding time periods 59 of any time.

[0037] In operation and with respect to the non-limiting example figures, a user can manually switch (e.g., on / off) the power supply of the stirring appliance 11 using the user interface 20. For example, the user interface 20 can provide a signal to the switching device 58 to switch the switching device between an on or conducting state and an off or non-conducting state. Additionally or alternatively, a user can manually select a speed setting for the output shaft 43 using the user interface 20. For example, a user can provide a first input signal 20a or instruction to the controller module 30 via the user interface 20. In non-limiting aspects, the information indicated by the first input signal 20a can be saved to the memory 34.

[0038] In some aspects, a user may select a desired predefined operation 55 from a set of predefined operations 55 via the user interface 20. For example, a user may provide a first input signal 20a or instruction to the controller module 30 via the user interface 20. The first input signal 20a may indicate the selected predefined operation 55 to be performed by the stirring appliance 11. In some aspects, the controller module 30 may select the selected predefined operation 55 from the set of predefined operations 55 from the memory 34 based on one or more first input signals 20a, or based on one or more second input signals 35a received from a set of sensors 35, or based on a combination thereof.

[0039] Figure 3 Describes the Figure 2 A perspective view of a non-limiting aspect of a gear box and a rotatable drive shaft for use with a stirring apparatus. Figure 3 An exemplary aspect is similar to Figure 2 The aspects depicted in Figure 3 Similar components in the diagrams are used with Figure 2 The same reference numerals are used to identify the components, but with 100 increased. Figure 3 A gearbox 140 coupled to an actuator 125 and a rotatable drive shaft 151 is depicted, wherein portions of a housing 145 are omitted for clarity. As shown, the actuator 125 may be a conventional solenoid actuator. The actuator 125 may include a movable member 126. The gearbox 140 may include a shift member 130 coupled to the actuator 125 at a first end 131. The gearbox 140 includes an input gear 160, a first gear 161, a second gear 162, and a third gear 163. The gearbox 140 may include an output shaft 143 and a layshaft 144. The gearbox 140 may also include an elastic member 150. The gearbox 140 may optionally include a first bearing member 171 surrounding the output shaft 143 and a second bearing member 172 surrounding the layshaft 144. The first bearing member 171 and the second bearing member 172 may be supported by the housing 145.

[0040] The gearbox 140 can define a first gear train 141 and a second gear train 142, the first gear train defining a first gear ratio and the second gear train defining a second gear ratio. In non-limiting aspects, one of the first gear train 141 and the second gear train 142 can be selectively engaged. As will be discussed in more detail herein, the gearbox 140 can selectively switch between engaging with one of the first gear train 141 and the second gear train 142 and engaging with the other of the first gear train 141 and the second gear train 142. When the first gear train 141 is engaged, the gearbox 140 can drive rotation of the output shaft 143 at a first output speed ratio, and when the second gear train 142 is engaged, the gearbox 140 can drive rotation of the output shaft 143 at a second output speed ratio. It is contemplated that, in non-limiting aspects, one of the first output speed ratio and the second output speed ratio can be 1:1. For example, in Figure 3 In the non-limiting aspects shown in , the first gear train 141 includes a rotatable drive shaft 151 rotatably coupled to the output shaft 143 to arrange a first output speed ratio of 1:1, and the second gear train 142 includes a rotatable drive shaft 151, an input gear 160, a first gear 161, a second gear 162, a countershaft 144, a third gear 163 and an output shaft 143 to arrange a second output speed ratio as desired. However, in other non-limiting aspects, the first gear train 141 can be configured with any desired number of gears to arrange any desired first gear ratio, first output speed ratio, or both without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, in other non-limiting aspects, the second gear train 142 can be configured with any desired number of gears to arrange any desired second gear ratio, second output speed ratio, or both without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0041] The movable member 126 can be selectively movable between the first actuator position and the second actuator position. For example, the movable member 126 can be arranged to rotate about the first pivot axis 135. The movable member 126 can be operatively coupled to the shift member 130. In non-limiting aspects, the shift member 130 can be a shift fork having a first end 131 coupled to the movable member 126 and an opposite second end 132 movably coupled to the input gear 160. The shift member 130 can include an intermediate section 133 disposed between the first end 131 and the second end 132 and coupled to the first end and the second end. The intermediate section 133 can define a second pivot axis 134 and can be pivotally coupled to the fulcrum 116. For example, in non-limiting aspects, the intermediate section 133 can define a hole 133a passing therethrough and concentric with the second pivot axis 134. The aperture 133a may be sized to receive the fulcrum 116 in the form of a fixed shaft 117 therethrough, and the shift member 130 is arranged to pivot about the fixed shaft 117. In non-limiting aspects, the first pivot axis 135 may be arranged orthogonal to the second pivot axis 134.

[0042] The secondary shaft 144 may be arranged to rotate about a third rotation axis 144a. The third rotation axis 144a may be parallel to the second rotation axis 143a. The output shaft 143 may extend between an input side 146 and an output side 147. The output shaft 143 may be axially aligned with the first rotation axis 151a and rotatably coupled to the rotatable drive shaft 151.

[0043] The first gear 161 is rotatably coupled to the output shaft 143 and circumferentially surrounds the output shaft 143. The first gear 161 can slide axially along the output shaft 143 in a first direction D1 toward the output side 147, and slide axially in a second direction D2 toward the input side 146. In non-limiting aspects, the first gear 161 can have a first axial face 161a facing the second direction D2 and an opposite second axial face 161b facing the first direction D1. The first axial face 161a can define a first engagement surface.

[0044] The input gear 160 is rotatably coupled to the output shaft 143 and circumferentially surrounds the output shaft. The input gear 160 can slide axially in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 along the output shaft 143. The input gear 160 can have a third axial surface 160a (eg, Figure 4 ) and an opposite fourth axial face 160b (as shown in Figure 4). The third axial face 160a can face the first axial face 161a oppositely and can define a second engagement surface. The second engagement surface can selectively engage with the first engagement surface to rotatably couple the input gear 160 to the first gear 161. For example, in non-limiting aspects, the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface can define respective face splines.

[0045] In non-limiting aspects, the elastic member 150 can be arranged to apply a force to the first gear 161 in the second direction D2. For example, the elastic member 150 can be a spring, such as a coil spring or a leaf spring. The elastic member 150 can be disposed between the first gear 161 and the housing 145 or the first bearing member 171. In a specific non-limiting aspect, the elastic member 150 can be a coil spring arranged to circumferentially surround the output shaft 143.

[0046] The second gear 162 is rotatably coupled to the countershaft 144 and circumferentially surrounds the countershaft 144. When the second gear train 142 is engaged, the second gear 162 can be rotatably engaged with the input gear 160. The third gear 163 is rotatably coupled to the countershaft 144 and circumferentially surrounds the countershaft. The third gear 163 is axially spaced from the second gear 162 and can be selectively rotatably engaged with the first gear 161 when the second gear train 142 is engaged.

[0047] In operation, the actuator 125 can drive the movable member 126 to move between the first actuator position and the second actuator position. For example, the actuator 125 can be configured to trigger the movable member 126 to move between one of the first actuator position and the second actuator position and the other of the first actuator position and the second actuator position. In non-limiting aspects, the movement of the movable member 126 to the first actuator position can cause the engagement of the first gear train 141.

[0048] Figure 4 Depicted is a cut along line IV-IV Figure 3 140, wherein the first gear train 141 is engaged (indicated by the solid arrows) and the actuator 125 is omitted for clarity. As shown, in non-limiting aspects, when the input gear 160 is disengaged from the second gear 162 and the first gear 161 is disengaged from the third gear 163, the first gear train 141 (e.g., including the rotatable drive shaft 151 rotatably coupled to the output shaft 143) is engaged. For example, the movable member 126 (e.g., Figure 3) to the first actuator position can cause the shift member 130 to pivot about the fulcrum 116 to cause the second end 132 to move in the first direction D1 to the first shift position, thereby causing the input gear 160 to move correspondingly in the first direction D1 along the output shaft 143. In non-limiting aspects, as shown, the movement of the input gear 160 in the first direction D1 can cause the input gear 160 to disengage from the second gear 162. In non-limiting aspects, the movement of the input gear 160 in the first direction D1 can also cause the third axial face 160a of the input gear 160 to engage with the first axial face 161a and apply a force to the first gear 161 in the first direction D1. As such, the movement of the input gear 160 in the first direction D1 can achieve or cause the corresponding movement of the first gear 161 in the first direction D1 along the output shaft 143. In non-limiting aspects, as shown, the movement of the first gear 161 in the first direction D1 can also cause the first gear 161 to disengage from the third gear 163. In some aspects, engagement of the first gear train 141 can cause the output shaft 143 to rotate as a direct drive output at a rotational speed equal to the rotational speed of the rotatable drive shaft 151. Conversely, in non-limiting aspects, the actuator 125 (e.g., Figure 3 ) moving to a second actuator position can engage the second gear train 142 (indicated by a solid arrow).

[0049] Figure 5 Depicted is a cut along line IV-IV Figure 3 1 and 151, wherein the second gear train 142 is engaged and the actuator 125 is omitted for clarity. When the input gear 160 is drivably engaged with the second gear 162 and the first gear 161 is drivably engaged with the third gear 163, the second gear train 142 is engaged. For example, in non-limiting aspects, movement of the actuator 125 to the second actuator position can cause the shift member 130 to pivot about the fulcrum 116 to move the second end 132 in the second direction D2 to the second shift position, thereby causing the input gear 160 to move along the output shaft 143 in the second direction D2. Movement of the input gear 160 along the output shaft 143 in the second direction D2 can cause the input gear 160 to drivably engage with the second gear 162. In non-limiting aspects, movement of the input gear 160 along the output shaft 143 in the second direction D2 can also cause the second engagement surface of the input gear 160 to disengage from the first engagement surface of the first gear 161.

[0050] In non-limiting aspects, the elastic member 150 can apply a force to the first gear 161 in the second direction D2, thereby causing the input gear 160 to move in the second direction D2 along the output shaft 143. As such, the movement of the input gear 160 in the second direction D2 can achieve or cause the first gear 161 to move correspondingly in the second direction D2 along the output shaft 143. The movement of the first gear 161 in the second direction D2 along the output shaft 143 can cause the first gear 161 to be drivably engaged with the third gear 163. In some aspects, as shown, the engagement of the second gear train 142 of the gearbox 140 can cause the output shaft 143 to rotate at a different rotational speed than the rotatable drive shaft 151.

[0051] It will be appreciated that the rotational speed of the output shaft 143 may be inversely proportional to the torque (e.g., t=1 / v, where "t" is the torque and "v" is the rotational speed or velocity). Figure 4 In the illustrated aspect, the first gear train 141 is depicted as being configured for relatively high speed, low torque, e.g., equal to the speed and torque of the rotatable drive shaft 151. For example, in one specific non-limiting aspect, the first gear train 141 can provide an output speed range of 600-1350 revolutions per minute (rpm) to thoroughly mix, stir, whip, agitate food or ingredients, etc. In contrast, as Figure 5 In the illustrated aspect, the second gear train 142 is shown as having a relatively low gear ratio to provide a high torque and low speed output for a blending appliance. For example, in one specific non-limiting aspect, the second gear train 142 can provide an output speed range of 200-450 rpm for preparing thick or delicate foods or ingredients. It should be understood that other aspects can have a first gear train 141 and a second gear train 142 with other output speed ratios as desired.

[0052] The rotations of the first gear train 141 and the second gear train 142 may be fully synchronized via the input gear 160. As such, aspects disclosed herein may selectively switch between a first operation using the first gear train 141 and a second operation using the second gear train 142, for example, via the actuator 125, without a clutch.

[0053] In operation, refer to Figures 1A to 5, the user can place any desired food 9 or ingredients into the food preparation area 16 defined by the container 17. The container 17 can be disposed on the stirring utensil 11 so that the tool 44 engages with the food or ingredient during operation. Power can be provided to the drive motor 50 from the power source 52 via a set of power lines 57. For example, power can be selectively provided to the drive motor 50 via a set of power lines 57 based on input 58a from the user via the user interface 20 to the switching device 58. Alternatively, power can be switchably provided via the switching device 58 based on input 58b from the controller.

[0054] The user may select a desired predefined operation 55 from a set of predefined operations 55 to be performed by the stirring utensil 11, or a desired rotational speed or torque of the output shaft 143, or both. For example, the user may provide a first input signal 20a or instruction to the controller module 30 via the user interface 20. The first input signal 20a may indicate a desired predefined operation 55 or a predefined sequence of operations 55 from a set of predefined operations 55 to be performed by the stirring utensil 11. In non-limiting aspects, the controller module 30 may select the predefined operation 55 or the predefined sequence of operations 55 from the memory 34. The controller module 30 may select the predefined operation 55 from the memory 34 based on the first input signal 20a from the user, or one or more second input signals 35a received from a set of sensors 35, or both. Additionally or alternatively, the controller module 30 may determine a desired rotational speed or torque of the output shaft 143. The desired rotational speed or torque of the output shaft 143 may be associated with one of the first gear train 141 and the second gear train 142. The determination of the desired rotational speed or torque of the output shaft 143 may be based on the first input signal 20a, the selected predefined operation 55, or both.

[0055] The controller module 30 can be configured to selectively activate or energize components of the stirring appliance 11, such as the drive motor 50, the actuator 125, the gearbox 140, the user interface 20, and combinations thereof. The selective activation or energization can be based on the first input signal 20a, the second input signal 35a received from the one or more sensors 35, the predefined operation 55 or predefined operation sequence 55 of a set of predefined operations 55, the determined desired rotational speed or torque, or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto. For example, the controller module 30 can automatically provide the second actuation signal 30b to the actuator 125 to trigger the gearbox 140 to engage with one of the first gear train 141 or the second gear train 142 associated with the predefined operation 55 or the desired rotational speed or torque of the output shaft 143. The controller module 30 can be configured to provide the second actuation signal 30b to the actuator 125 based on a specific selected operation sequence 55 of the set of predefined operations 55. The actuator 125 may be configured to move from one of the first actuator position and the second actuator position to the other of the first actuator position and the second actuator position in response to the second actuation signal 30 b .

[0056] The selected predefined operation 55 in the set of predefined operations 55 may include, but is not limited to, a stirring operation, a chopping operation, a mixing operation, a stirring operation, a kneading operation, etc. and combinations thereof. The selected predefined operation 55 may include a first predefined operation 55 and a second predefined operation 55 that are performed sequentially. For example, in one exemplary non-limiting aspect, the first predefined operation 55 may include rotating the output shaft 43 at a predetermined first output speed for a first time period 59, and then rotating the output shaft 43 at a predetermined second output speed for a second time period 59. In another exemplary non-limiting aspect, the first predefined operation 55 may include rotating the output shaft 43 to provide a predetermined first output torque within a first time period 59, and then rotating the output shaft 43 to provide a predetermined second output torque within a second time period 59 of a second time period. In addition, in some aspects, the selection of the first predefined operation 55 and the second predefined operation 55 (e.g., the first output torque and the second output torque and the first time period and the second time period) by the controller module 30 may be based on the measured values ​​of one or more sensed parameters 36. The sensed parameters 36 may include, but are not limited to, the type, quantity, weight, temperature, viscosity, and combinations thereof of the food or ingredient to be blended. In non-limiting aspects, the value of each sensed parameter 36 may be provided to the controller module 30 by a user via the user interface 20. In other non-limiting aspects, one or more values ​​of the sensed parameters 36 may be provided to the controller module 30 via a set of sensors 35.

[0057] Figure 6A flow chart depicts non-limiting aspects of a method 400 for controlling a blending appliance 11. Although described with respect to a blending appliance 11, it will be appreciated that the method 400 may be applied to any suitable food processing device configured to rotatably drive a tool 44 at a first output speed ratio and a second output speed ratio. Figures 1A to 5 The method 400 is described with respect to the stirring implement 11 of the present invention, but is not otherwise limited thereto and may be implemented with any desired stirring implement without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0058] In non-limiting aspects, the method 400 may include step 410, at which a first input signal 20a is received at the controller module 30. For example, the controller module 30 may be communicatively coupled to the user interface 20 to receive the first input signal 20a therefrom. The first input signal 20a may indicate user input or user-provided data. The first input signal 20a may include any desired information, including, for example, but not limited to, a selected stirring speed, a stirring operation (e.g., mixing, whipping, chopping, etc.), an ingredient or food type (e.g., ice, butter, dough, etc.), and combinations thereof. The first input signal 20a may additionally or alternatively indicate a selected predefined operation 55 from a set of predefined operations 55 performed by the stirring appliance 11.

[0059] In non-limiting aspects, the controller module 30 may include a memory 34 storing a set of predefined operations 55. Each predefined operation 55 in the set of predefined operations 55 may be defined by a corresponding engagement of the first gear train 141 for a corresponding time period 59 of a first duration or by a corresponding engagement of the second gear train 142 for a corresponding time period 59 of a second duration. The method 400 may also include a step 420 at which a predefined operation 55 in the set of predefined operations 55 is selected by the controller module 30 based on the first input signal 20a. The controller module 30 may also be configured to provide a second actuation signal 30b to the actuator 125 based on the selected predefined operation 55. In certain aspects, the predefined operations 55 in the set of predefined operations 55 may include an operation sequence 55. The operation sequence 55 may be defined by at least one engagement of the first gear train 141 for a corresponding time period 59 of a first duration and at least one engagement of the second gear train 142 for a corresponding time period 59 of a second duration. The controller module 30 may also be configured to select the operation sequence 55 based on the first input signal 20a.

[0060] The method 400 may include a step 430 at which a shift member 130 of the gearbox 140 is triggered to switch engagement with one of the first gear train 141 and the second gear train 142 to engagement with the other of the first gear train 141 and the second gear train 142. Triggering the shift member 130 may be based on the first input signal 20a, based on a selected predefined operation 55 in a set of predefined operations 55, or based on both. For example, the blending appliance 11 may also include an actuator 125 coupled to the shift member 130, and triggering the shift member 130 may include selectively moving the actuator 125 to a first actuator position to drive the shift member 130 to the first shift position, or moving the actuator 125 to a second actuator position to drive the shift member 130 to the second shift position. In non-limiting aspects, the controller module 30 may be communicatively coupled to the actuator 125. The controller module 30 may be configured to provide a second actuation signal 30b to the actuator 125 based on the selected sequence of operations 55. The actuator 125 may be configured to move from one of the first actuator position and the second actuator position to the other of the first actuator position and the second actuator position in response to the second actuation signal 30 b .

[0061] To the extent not yet described, different features and structures of various aspects may be used in combination with each other as needed. The fact that a feature cannot be shown in all aspects does not mean that it cannot be done, but is for the sake of brevity of description. Therefore, whether or not a new aspect is explicitly described, various features of different aspects may be mixed and matched to form a new aspect as needed. The present disclosure covers combinations or arrangements of the features described herein.

[0062] To the extent not yet described, the different features and structures of the various embodiments may be used in combination with each other as needed. The fact that a feature may not be shown in all embodiments does not mean that it cannot be done, but is for the sake of brevity of description. Therefore, whether or not a new embodiment is explicitly described, the various features of different embodiments may be mixed and matched as needed to form a new embodiment. The present disclosure covers all combinations or arrangements of the features described herein. In addition, although the present invention has been specifically described in conjunction with certain specific embodiments of the present invention, it will be understood that this is in an illustrative manner, not a restrictive manner. In addition to the concepts covered by the appended claims, the following concepts may also provide a basis for the claims in any possible combination:

[0063] 14. The invention relates to a stirring device, comprising: a housing; a motor located in the housing and having a rotatable drive shaft; a gear box located in the housing and having an input side and an output side, the gear box comprising a rotatable output shaft, the rotatable output shaft being axially aligned with the rotatable drive shaft at the input side and rotatably connected to the rotatable drive shaft, wherein the gear box comprises a first gear train having a first output speed ratio and a second gear train having a second output speed ratio, wherein in response to a first movement of the shift member to a first shift position, the input gear is movable in a first direction to disengage from the second gear, and the first gear is movable in the first direction to disengage from the third gear to define a first gear train of the gear box; wherein, in response to a second movement of the shift member to the second shift position, the input gear is movable in a second direction to rotatably engage with the second gear, and the first gear is movable in the second direction to rotatably engage with the third gear to define a second gear train of the gear box.

[0064] A stirring appliance according to the preceding clause, wherein the gearbox further comprises:

[0065] A first gear is rotatably connected to the rotatable output shaft and surrounds the rotatable output shaft, the first gear can slide axially along the output shaft toward the output side in a first direction, and can slide axially toward the input side in a second direction; an input gear is rotatably connected to the rotatable drive shaft and surrounds the rotatable drive shaft, the input gear can move axially in the first direction and the second direction along the rotatable drive shaft, and the input gear can selectively rotatably engage with the first gear; an elastic member is arranged to apply a force to the first gear in the second direction; a countershaft is rotatably supported by the housing and defines a third rotation axis; a second gear is rotatably connected to the countershaft and surrounds the countershaft, the second gear can selectively rotatably engage with the input gear; a third gear is rotatably connected to the countershaft and surrounds the countershaft, the third gear is axially spaced from the second gear, and can selectively rotatably engage with the first gear; a shift member is movably connected to the input gear, and the shift member can selectively move between a first shift position and a second shift position.

[0066] A blending appliance according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising an actuator coupled to the shift member, the actuator being selectively movable between a first actuator position driving the shift member to the first shift position and a second actuator position driving the shift member to the second shift position.

[0067] The stirring appliance according to any of the preceding clauses further includes a user interface communicatively connected to the actuator, wherein, in response to a first actuation signal from the user interface, the actuator is configured to move from one of a first actuator position and a second actuator position to the other of the first actuator position and the second actuator position.

[0068] The stirring appliance according to any of the preceding clauses further includes a controller module communicatively connected to the actuator, wherein, in response to a second actuation signal from the controller module, the actuator is also configured to move from one of the first actuator position and the second actuator position to the other of the first actuator position and the second actuator position.

[0069] The blending appliance according to any of the preceding clauses further comprises a user interface, wherein the controller module is communicatively coupled to the user interface and configured to receive a first input signal from the user interface, wherein the controller module is configured to provide a second actuation signal to the actuator based on the first input signal.

[0070] The stirring appliance according to any of the preceding clauses further includes a set of sensors communicatively connected to the controller module, each sensor being configured to provide a corresponding second input signal indicative of the value of a sensed parameter to the controller module, and wherein the controller module is configured to provide a second actuation signal to the actuator based on at least one of the first input signal and the second input signal.

[0071] A blending appliance according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a memory storing a set of predefined operations, each predefined operation in the set of predefined operations being defined by at least one of engagement of the first gear train for a first period of time and engagement of the second gear train for a second period of time.

[0072] A blending appliance as claimed in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the controller module is further configured to select a predefined operation from a set of predefined operations in the memory based on at least one of the first input signal and the second input signal.

[0073] A stirring appliance according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the controller module is further configured to provide a second actuation signal to the actuator based on a selected predefined operation from a set of predefined operations.

[0074] A stirring appliance according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the selected predefined operation of the set of predefined operations comprises a sequence of operations, each sequence of operations being defined by at least one engagement of the first gear train for a first time period and at least one engagement of the second gear train for a second time period.

[0075] A blending appliance as claimed in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the controller module is further configured to select an operation sequence from the memory based on at least one of the first input signal and the second input signal.

[0076] A stirring appliance according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the controller module is further configured to provide a second actuation signal to the actuator based on the selected sequence of operations.

[0077] A method for operating a blending appliance, the blending appliance having a controller module and a motor, the motor being configured to rotate a rotatable drive shaft rotatably connected to an output shaft via a gearbox, the gearbox comprising a first gear train having a first output speed ratio and a second gear train having a second output speed ratio, the gearbox being selectively switchable between engagement of the first gear train and engagement of the second gear train, the method comprising: receiving a first input signal at the controller module; selecting a predefined operation through the controller module based on the first input signal; and triggering a shifting member of the gearbox to switch from engagement with one of the first gear train and the second gear train to engagement with the other of the first gear train and the second gear train based on the selected predefined operation.

[0078] A method according to the preceding clause, wherein the blending appliance further comprises an actuator coupled to a shift member, wherein triggering the shift member comprises selectively moving the actuator to a first actuator position to drive the shift member to a first shift position, or selectively moving the actuator to a second actuator position to drive the shift member to a second shift position.

[0079] A method as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the actuator is further configured to move from one of a first actuator position and a second actuator position to the other of the first actuator position and the second actuator position in response to an actuation signal, and wherein selectively moving the actuator includes providing the actuation signal from the controller module to the brake.

[0080] A method according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the controller module is configured to receive a first input signal from a user interface, and wherein the actuation signal is provided to the actuator in response to the first input signal.

[0081] The method according to any of the preceding clauses further includes selecting a predefined operation from a memory via a controller module based on a first input signal, wherein each predefined operation is defined by at least one of engagement of a first gear train for a first time period and engagement of a second gear train for a second time period.

[0082] A method according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein providing the actuation signal to the actuator is also based on a selected predefined operation; and wherein the selected predefined operation includes an operation sequence, the operation sequence being defined by at least one engagement of the first gear train for a first time period and at least one engagement of the second gear train for a second time period.

[0083] A method according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein selecting, by the controller module, a predefined operation comprises selecting a sequence of operations, and wherein providing the actuation signal to the actuator is based on the selected sequence of operations.

[0084] Although the present invention has been specifically described in conjunction with certain specific embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that this is in an illustrative manner rather than a restrictive manner. Reasonable variations and modifications may be made within the scope of the above disclosure and the accompanying drawings without departing from the spirit of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A stirring device, comprising: case; a motor located in the housing and having a rotatable drive shaft; as well as a gearbox located in the housing and having an input side and an output side, the gearbox including a rotatable output shaft axially aligned with and rotatably coupled to the rotatable drive shaft at the input side, wherein the gearbox includes a first gear train having a first output speed ratio and a second gear train having a second output speed ratio, a shift member movably coupled to the input gear, the shift member being selectively movable between a first shift position and a second shift position, wherein, in response to a first movement of the shift member to the first shift position, the input gear is movable in a first direction to disengage from the second gear, and the first gear is movable in the first direction to disengage from the third gear, thereby defining the first gear train of the gearbox; wherein, in response to a second movement of the shift member to the second shift position, the input gear is movable in a second direction to rotatably engage with the second gear, and the first gear is movable in the second direction to rotatably engage with the third gear, thereby defining the second gear train of the gearbox.

2. The stirring device according to claim 1, wherein: The first gear is rotatably coupled to and surrounds the rotatable output shaft, the first gear being axially slidable along the output shaft in the first direction toward the output side, and being axially slidable along the output shaft in the second direction toward the input side; the input gear being rotatably coupled to and surrounding the rotatable drive shaft, the input gear being axially movable along the rotatable drive shaft in the first direction and the second direction, the input gear being selectively rotatably engageable with the first gear; The second gear is selectively rotatably engageable with the input gear; The third gear is axially spaced from the second gear and is selectively rotatably engageable with the first gear.

3. The blending appliance of claim 2 further comprising an actuator coupled to the shift member, the actuator being selectively movable between a first actuator position in which the shift member is driven to the first shift position and a second actuator position in which the shift member is driven to the second shift position.

4. The stirring appliance of claim 3, further comprising a user interface communicatively coupled to the actuator, wherein: In response to a first actuation signal from the user interface, the actuator is configured to move from one of the first actuator position and the second actuator position to the other of the first actuator position and the second actuator position.

5. The stirring appliance according to claim 3 or 4, further comprising a controller module communicatively coupled to the actuator, wherein: The actuator is further configured to move from one of the first actuator position and the second actuator position to the other of the first actuator position and the second actuator position in response to a second actuation signal from the controller module.

6. The stirring device according to claim 5, wherein: The controller module is communicatively coupled to the user interface and configured to receive a first input signal from the user interface, wherein the controller module is configured to provide the second actuation signal to the actuator based on the first input signal.

7. The blending appliance of claim 6, further comprising a set of sensors communicatively coupled to the controller module, each sensor configured to provide a respective second input signal indicative of a value of a sensed parameter to the controller module, and wherein: The controller module is configured to provide the second actuation signal to the actuator based on at least one of the first input signal and the second input signal.

8. The blending appliance of claim 6, further comprising a memory storing a set of predefined operations, each predefined operation in the set of predefined operations being defined by at least one of engagement of the first gear train for a first period of time and engagement of the second gear train for a second period of time.

9. The stirring device according to claim 8, wherein: The controller module is further configured to select a predefined operation from the set of predefined operations of the memory based on at least one of the first input signal and the second input signal.

10. The stirring device according to claim 9, wherein: The controller module is further configured to provide the second actuation signal to the actuator based on a selected predefined operation from the set of predefined operations.

11. The stirring device according to claim 9, wherein: The selected predefined operations of the set of predefined operations include sequences of operations, each sequence of operations being defined by at least one engagement of the first gear train for a first period of time and at least one engagement of the second gear train for a second period of time.

12. The stirring device according to claim 11, wherein: The controller module is further configured to select the sequence of operations from the memory based on at least one of the first input signal and the second input signal.

13. The stirring device according to claim 12, wherein: The controller module is further configured to provide the second actuation signal to the actuator based on the selected operating sequence.

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