Corn popper with stirrer

Abstract

An apparatus for popcorn may include a pot, a lid assembly configured to mate with the pot, and an agitator assembly configured to be positioned within an interior volume of the pot and to releasably engage with the lid assembly when the lid assembly is mated with the pot. The stirrer assembly may include at least one piece configured to roll unburst corn grains within the pot as the stirrer assembly rotates within the pot to prevent grain adhesion and scorching. The agitator assembly may also include at least one arm that transmits torque to the blade. The arm may be laterally offset from an axis of rotation of the agitator assembly.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Stovetop popcorn makers are widely used to make popcorn at home and in other settings. Stovetop popcorn makers typically include a pot and a lid. Unpopped corn kernels are loaded into an interior volume of the pot. Other ingredients, such as oil, sugar, and salt may be added with the kernels. The interior volume is covered with a lid, and the pot and its contents are heated with a heat source (e.g., a stovetop burner).

[0002] Heating the kernels will eventually cause them to pop. However, the kernels that touch the bottom inner surface of the pot are heated the most and tend to burn before all the kernels in the pot have popped. In addition, during the popping process, the oil, sugar, and salt in the pot can harden, causing the kernels and popcorn to stick to the inner surface of the pot.

[0003] Mechanisms are incorporated into stove-top popcorn machines to stir the kernels during the heating process. However, these mechanisms typically push the kernels along the bottom surface of the pot and thus may not prevent the kernels at the very bottom from being burned or sticking. In addition, stirring mechanisms attached to the lid often cause some of the popcorn to spill out of the pot as the lid is removed and require at least partial disassembly to facilitate effective cleaning of the lid and stirring mechanism by hand or in a dishwasher. Summary of the invention

[0004] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, a popcorn popping device includes a pot having one or more inner surfaces that define an interior volume of the pot. The device also includes a lid assembly having: a lid configured to mate with the pot; a crank coupled to the lid and configured to rotate relative to the lid; and a connecting rod coupled to the crank and configured to rotate with the crank. The device also includes an agitator assembly configured to be positioned within the interior volume of the pot and to releasably engage the connecting rod when the lid is mated with the pot.

[0005] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the agitator assembly is further configured to disengage from the lid assembly when the lid assembly is removed from the pot.

[0006] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, an agitator assembly includes a rim, a lower portion, and at least one arm. The at least one arm includes a first end connected to the rim and a second end connected to the lower portion.

[0007] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the lower portion includes at least one tab configured to engage unpopped corn kernels residing on at least one of the one or more interior surfaces of the pot.

[0008] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, a linkage includes a rod connected to a handle; a cross member connected to the rod; and at least one arm connected to the cross member and configured to removably engage an edge of an agitator assembly.

[0009] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, at least one arm of the linkage is further configured to disengage from the rim when the lid assembly is removed from the pot.

[0010] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the edge of the agitator assembly includes a plurality of undulations; when the agitator assembly is removably engaged with the linkage, at least one arm of the linkage is configured to removably engage with the edge via one of the undulations.

[0011] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, a cover has an arcuate opening formed therein and extending between an inner surface and an outer surface of the cover.

[0012] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the crank includes a shaft having a first end configured to be connected to a connecting rod. The shaft extends from the cap in a first direction. The crank also includes a first arm connected to a second end of the shaft. The first arm extends from the shaft in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The crank also includes a second arm connected to the second end of the shaft and an end of the first arm. The second arm extends from the first arm and the shaft in a third direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction and substantially opposite to the second direction.

[0013] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the device also includes a post fixed to the pot and located within the interior volume of the pot. The post includes a base, a body adjacent to the base, and a key adjacent to the body. The post is configured to engage with a lower portion of an agitator assembly, and the agitator assembly is configured to rotate around the post. The lower portion of the agitator has a through hole formed in the lower portion and configured to receive the body of the post, the through hole being configured so that the lower portion of the agitator can be separated from the post only when the key hole portion and the key are aligned.

[0014] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the device also includes: a post fixed to the pot and located within the interior volume of the pot; and a knob. The post includes a base, a body adjacent to the base, and a key adjacent to the body. The post is configured to engage with a lower portion of an agitator assembly, and the agitator assembly is configured to rotate around the post. The lower portion of the agitator has a through hole formed in the lower portion and configured to receive the body of the post, and the knob is configured to threadably engage the post and retain the lower portion of the agitator assembly on the post.

[0015] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the first arm and the second arm of the crank are spaced apart from the cover.

[0016] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, an apparatus for making popcorn includes a pot having one or more inner surfaces that define an interior volume of the pot. The apparatus also includes a lid assembly having: a lid configured to mate with the pot; a crank coupled to the lid and configured to rotate relative to the lid; and a connecting rod coupled to the crank and configured to rotate with the crank. The apparatus also includes an agitator assembly configured to be positioned within the interior volume of the pot.

[0017] The agitator assembly includes at least one arm configured to be coupled to a connecting rod so that the agitator assembly rotates with the connecting rod and a lower portion connected to the at least one arm. The at least one arm is laterally offset from an axis of rotation of the agitator assembly.

[0018] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the lower portion includes at least one tab configured to engage unpopped corn kernels residing on at least one of the one or more interior surfaces of the pot.

[0019] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, when the agitator assembly is positioned within the interior volume of the pot, a distance between the at least one arm and the axis of rotation of the agitator assembly is greater than a distance between the at least one arm and a side wall of the pot.

[0020] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, at least one arm is located adjacent a side wall of the pot when the agitator assembly is positioned within the interior volume of the pot.

[0021] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the agitator assembly further comprises a rim. A first end of at least one arm is connected to the rim; and a second end of at least one arm is connected to a lower portion of the agitator assembly.

[0022] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the maximum diameter of the rim is approximately equal to the inner diameter of the pot.

[0023] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the edge is generally rounded.

[0024] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, a linkage includes: a rod connected to a handle; a cross member connected to the rod; and at least one arm connected to an end of the cross member and configured to engage an edge of an agitator assembly.

[0025] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the cross member extends transversely relative to the axis of rotation of the stirrer assembly when the lid is mated with the pot.

[0026] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, a popcorn device includes a pot having: a side wall having an inner surface; and a bottom adjacent to the side wall and having an upper surface. The inner surface of the side wall and the upper surface of the bottom define an inner volume of the pot. The device also includes an agitator assembly having at least one blade. The agitator assembly is configured to be positioned within the inner volume of the pot and rotate relative to the pot.

[0027] The pot is configured to contain unpopped corn kernels in the interior volume of the pot. The at least one sheet is configured to contact the unpopped corn kernels resting on the upper surface of the bottom of the pot and tumble the unpopped corn kernels resting on the upper surface of the bottom of the pot as the agitator assembly rotates relative to the pot.

[0028] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, at least one tab is angled relative to an upper surface of the bottom of the pot.

[0029] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the device further includes a lid assembly. The lid assembly has: a lid configured to mate with the pot; a crank coupled to the lid and configured to rotate relative to the lid; and a connecting rod coupled to the crank and configured to rotate with the crank. The agitator assembly is coupled to the connecting rod and configured to rotate with the connecting rod.

[0030] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, at least one of the sheets has a leading edge; the leading edge is spaced apart from an upper surface of the bottom of the pot.

[0031] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the pot further comprises a post mounted on the upper surface of the pot bottom. The post is configured to suspend at least one blade of the stirrer above the upper surface of the pot bottom.

[0032] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, at least one sheet includes an upper surface, and at least one sheet is configured to lift unpopped corn kernels residing on the upper surface of the bottom of the pot and pass over the upper surface as the agitator assembly rotates relative to the pot.

[0033] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, the angle of at least one tab relative to the upper surface of the pot bottom is approximately 14.5 degrees.

[0034] In another aspect of the disclosed technology, at least one sheet includes a first sheet and a second sheet. The agitator assembly also includes: a rim; a first arm and a second arm, each arm having a second end and a first end connected to the rim. The agitator assembly also includes a lower portion having the first sheet and the second sheet and an intermediate portion adjacent to and positioned between the first sheet and the second sheet. The second end of the first arm of the agitator assembly is connected to the first sheet; the second end of the second arm of the agitator assembly is connected to the second sheet. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, are used to illustrate specific embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. The accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale and are intended to be used in conjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description.

[0036] Figure 1 is a side view of a popcorn popping apparatus with a lid assembly of the apparatus mounted on a pot of the apparatus.

[0037] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Exploded perspective view of the device shown.

[0038] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of the device shown with the lid assembly mounted on the pot assembly of the device.

[0039] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 and Fig.15 Magnified view of the designated area "B" in FIG.

[0040] Figure 5 yes Figures 1 to 4 Bottom view of the base laminate of the pot assembly shown.

[0041] Figure 6 yes Figures 1 to 5 Side view of the pan of the pot assembly shown.

[0042] Figure 7 yes Figures 1 to 6 A top perspective view of the agitator assembly of the apparatus shown.

[0043] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A top perspective view of the fixture of the agitator assembly is shown.

[0044] Fig. 9 is from Figure 4 Rotate 90 degrees Figure 3 Magnified view of the designated area "B" in FIG.

[0045] Fig.10 yes Figures 1 to 9 A cross-sectional view of the cover assembly of the illustrated device.

[0046] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A cross-sectional view of the handle of the cover assembly is shown.

[0047] Fig.12 yes Fig.10 and Fig.11 An exploded perspective view of the cover assembly is shown.

[0048] Fig.13 yes Figures 10 to 12 A top perspective view of the upper rod of the connecting rod of the cover assembly is shown.

[0049] Fig.14 yes Figures 1 to 13 A cross-sectional view of the bushing of the illustrated device.

[0050] Fig.15 yes Figures 1 to 14 A cut-away side view of the device is shown showing a user grasping the handle of the lid assembly to remove the lid assembly from the pot.

[0051] Fig.16 yes Fig.10 Magnified view of the area designated “C” in FIG.

[0052] Fig.17 yes Figures 10 to 16 A top perspective view of the bottom portion of the knob of the cover assembly is shown.

[0053] Fig.18 yes Figures 1 to 17 Bottom view of the gasket of the illustrated device.

[0054] Fig.19 yes Figures 1 to 18 A top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an agitator assembly of the illustrated apparatus.

[0055] Fig. 20 yes Figures 1 to 18 A top perspective view of another alternative embodiment of an agitator assembly of the illustrated apparatus.

[0056] Fig.21 yes Figures 1 to 18 A bottom perspective view of the cover assembly of the device is shown with another alternative embodiment of the agitator assembly engaged with the cover assembly.

[0057] Fig. 22 yes Figures 1 to 18 A top perspective view of the device is shown with another alternative embodiment of the stirrer assembly installed in the pot of the device and the lid of the device removed.

[0058] Fig.23 yes Fig. 22 A top perspective view of the agitator assembly is shown.

[0059] Fig.24 yes Fig. 22 The device shown is passed Fig. 22 A sectional view taken along line XXIV.

[0060] Fig.25 yes Fig. 22 The device shown is passed Fig. 22 A cross-sectional view taken along line XXV of FIG.

[0061] Fig.26 yes Fig.23 A side view of the agitator assembly is shown.

[0062] Fig. 27 yes Figures 1 to 18 A top perspective view of the device is shown with another alternative embodiment of the stirrer assembly installed in the pot of the device and the lid of the device removed.

[0063] Fig.28 yes Fig. 27 The device shown is passed Fig. 27 A sectional view taken along line XXVIII.

[0064] Fig.29 yes Fig.28 Magnified view of the area designated “D” in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] The following discussion omits or only briefly describes conventional features of the disclosed technology, which are obvious to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals represent the same parts and components in each view. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the appended claims. In addition, any examples listed in this specification are non-limiting and only list some of the many possible embodiments of the appended claims. In addition, the specific features described in this specification can be used in combination with other described features in various possible combinations and arrangements.

[0066] Directional terms such as up, down, above, below, top, bottom, etc. refer to Figures 1 to 4 These terms are used for descriptive purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.

[0067] Figures 1 to 29 An apparatus 10 for popping popcorn is depicted. The apparatus 10 is configured to be used on a stove burner or other heating source (not shown). In addition to popping popcorn, the apparatus 10 can also be used for other applications, such as coffee bean roasting, nut roasting and blending, etc.

[0068] refer to Figures 1 to 3, the device 10 includes: a pot assembly 12, a lid assembly 14, and an agitator assembly 16 resting within the pot assembly 12. The lid assembly 14 includes a lid 17, which is configured to cover the pot assembly 12. The lid assembly 14 also includes a connecting rod 18 and a crank or handle 19, which allows a user to rotate or turn the agitator assembly 16 when the lid 17 covers the pot assembly 12. The agitator assembly 16 is configured to agitate unpopped corn kernels resting on the bottom of the pot assembly 12 to prevent the kernels from sticking to the pot assembly 12 and burning. The stirring action is particularly useful when the device 10 is used to make sweet popcorn (kettle corn), where the oil, sugar, and salt added to the pot assembly 12 can make the kernels particularly susceptible to sticking. When the lid assembly 14 is removed from the pot assembly 12, the connecting rod 18 automatically separates from the agitator assembly 16, so that the agitator assembly 16 can remain in the pot assembly 12 while the popcorn is emptied from the pot assembly 12. After the pot assembly 12 is emptied, the user may remove the stirrer assembly 16 from the pot assembly 12 for cleaning or other purposes without spilling any popcorn and without removing any fasteners or otherwise disassembling any components of the device 10 .

[0069] Pot assembly 12

[0070] refer to Figures 1 to 4 , the pot assembly 12 has a pot 20. Figure 3 As shown, the pot 20 includes an upper portion 22, which is substantially flat when viewed in cross section. When viewed from above, the upper portion 22 has a substantially circular profile. The pot 20 also includes a lower portion 24 adjacent to the upper portion 22. Figure 3 As shown, when viewed in cross section, the lower portion 24 has a curved profile. In alternative embodiments, the upper portion 22 and the lower portion 24 may also have other shapes. The upper portion 22 and the lower portion 24 both form the side walls of the pot 20.

[0071] The pot 20 also includes a lip 25 that is adjacent to the upper end of the upper portion 22 and extends upwardly from the upper end. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be seen in the figure, the diameter of the lip 25 is smaller than the diameter of the upper portion 22. The lip 25 is configured to engage the lid 17 and retain the lid 17 on the pot assembly 12 by friction between the contact surfaces of the lip 25 and the lid 17.

[0072] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The pot 20 further comprises a base laminate 23 and a plate 26, which together form the bottom of the pot 20. Figure 7 As shown, the disk 26 is substantially flat when viewed from the side; Figure 5 As shown, the disk is substantially circular when viewed from above. Figure 6 As shown, the outer peripheral surface 102 of the disk 26 is inclined upward and outward. The outer peripheral surface 102 of the disk 26 can be angled relative to the horizontal direction, for example, at about 45 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the outer peripheral surface 102 can also have other orientations. Figure 6 As shown, the disk 26 has an upper surface 29 .

[0073] The base laminate 23 includes a body 104. Figure 5 As shown, the body 104 is substantially flat when viewed from the side and substantially circular when viewed from below. The base laminate 23 also includes a lip 106 extending around the periphery of the body 104. The orientation of the lip 106 substantially coincides with the orientation of the peripheral surface 102 of the disc 26. The base laminate 23 has a lower surface 108, Figure 5 Visible in.

[0074] The base laminate 23 and the tray 26 are configured such that the tray 26 rests on the base laminate 23 in a space defined by the upper surface of the body 104 and the inner surface of the lip 106 ; and wherein the outer peripheral surface 102 of the tray 26 contacts the inner surface of the lip 106 .

[0075] The base laminate 23, the pan 26, and the lower portion 24 of the pot 20 can be joined in the following manner. First, the pan 26 can be spot welded to the lower portion 24. The base laminate 23 is then spot welded to the pan 26. The resulting assembly can be heated until the pan 26 begins to melt, and then the assembly is pressed together at high temperature. In alternative embodiments, the base laminate 23, the pan 26, and the lower portion 24 can be joined using other techniques.

[0076] Once the base laminate 23 and pan 26 are attached to the pot 20, the lower surface 108 of the base laminate 23 forms the bottom surface of the pot 20. The device 10 rests on the lower surface 108 and can be heated by a stove burner or other heating source acting on the lower surface 108. The base laminate 23 and pan 26 form the bottom of the pot 12. An alternative embodiment of the pot 12 replaces the two-piece laminate 23 and pan 26 with a one-piece bottom base.

[0077] Once the base laminate 23 and the pan 26 are mated with the lower portion 24, the upper surface 29 of the pan 26 and the inner surface 28 of the pan 20 together define an interior volume 34 of the pan assembly 12. The interior volume 34 contains corn kernels 36 to be heated and popped, wherein the kernels rest on the upper surface 29. The kernels 36 are Fig. 9 The internal volume 34 is as shown. Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown.

[0078] The pot 20 is made of one or more hard materials suitable for use at the temperatures generated by conventional stove burners and suitable for contact with food for human consumption. For example, the upper portion 22, the lower portion 24, the lip 25 and the base laminate 23 can be made of stainless steel, and the pan 26 can be made of aluminum. In an alternative, the upper portion 22, the lower portion 24, the lip 25 and the base laminate 23 can also be made of materials other than stainless steel, such as aluminum or cast iron. In an alternative, likewise, the pan 26 can also be made of materials other than aluminum, such as stainless steel or cast iron.

[0079] The upper surface 29 of the pan 26 and the inner surface 28 of the pot 20 can be coated with a non-stick coating such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In the alternative, other types of non-stick coatings can also be used. Other alternative embodiments can be configured without a non-stick coating. The capacity of the internal volume 34 is approximately six quarts. Alternative embodiments of the pot assembly 12 can be configured so that the capacity of the internal volume 34 is less than or greater than six quarts.

[0080] The pot assembly 12 also includes a handle 27. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a handle 27 is fixed to the outer surface of the upper portion 22 of the pot 20. The handle 27 can be convenient for lifting the device 10 when the device 10 is placed on and removed from the heating source. The handle 27 can be fixed to the pot 20 by rivets or other suitable means.

[0081] The pot assembly 12 also includes a column 30, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown. Post 30 includes a base 110 and a raised portion 111 that is adjacent to and extends upward from base 110. Base 110 is fixed to upper surface 29 of pan 26 by a suitable means such as spin welding and is positioned at the approximate geometric center of upper surface 29 so that raised portion 111 is substantially centered about the vertical centerline of pot assembly 12. Figure 4 In the embodiment, the vertical center line of the pot assembly 12 is denoted by "C L ” line. As described below, the agitator assembly 16 is supported by and rotates on a column 30. The column 30 can be made of a hard material such as stainless steel that is suitable for use at the temperatures generated by conventional stove burners.

[0082] Agitator assembly 16

[0083] from Figure 3 and Figure 43, the agitator assembly 16 is located in the interior volume 34 and rests on the post 30. The agitator assembly 16 is configured to rotate within the pot assembly 12 via the connecting rod 18 of the cover assembly 14. As described below, the agitator assembly 16 is configured so that the rotation of the agitator assembly 16 lifts the unpopped corn kernels 36 from the upper surface 29 of the disk 26 and tumbles the kernels 36, thereby helping to prevent the kernels 36 from sticking to the upper surface 29 and burning. The user can install the agitator assembly 16 in the pot assembly 12 and remove the agitator assembly from the pot assembly without installing or removing any fasteners or otherwise assembling or disassembling any components of the device 10.

[0084] refer to Figure 7 , the agitator assembly 16 includes a rim or ring 42. The ring 42 is wavy, that is, the ring 42 is composed of a series of continuous undulations 44 along its entire length. Figure 3 As shown, the maximum diameter of the ring 42 is slightly smaller than the diameter of the adjacent portion of the inner surface 28 of the pot 20 , such that the ring 42 is proximate to the inner surface 28 .

[0085] The agitator assembly 16 also includes four clamps 120, Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Each clamp 120 has an upper portion 122 and a lower portion 123. The upper portion 122 has an inwardly curved profile and is sized and shaped to fit within one of the undulations 44 in the ring 42. The lower portion 123 curves outwardly so that when the agitator assembly 16 is positioned with the pot assembly 12, the lower portion 123 contacts the inner surface 28 of the pot 20, as can be seen in FIG. Figure 3 12. The lower portion 123 is located below and engages the step 74 formed in the pot assembly 12. The engagement of both the lower portion 123 and the step 74 retains the agitator assembly 16 and helps retain the agitator assembly 16 in the pot assembly 12 when the pot assembly 12 is tilted or inverted, such as when the popped grains 36 are being emptied from the pot assembly 12. The agitator is centrally located and is held out of contact with the inner surface of the pot rim by the arms 82. The upper portion 122 of each clamp 120 is secured to the ring 42 by suitable means (e.g., rivets). The clamps 120 may be equally spaced around the circumference of the ring 42. Alternative embodiments of the agitator assembly 16 may include more or less than four clamps 120. Other alternative embodiments may not be configured with any clamps 120.

[0086] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 7, the agitator assembly 16 also includes two arms 45. Each arm 45 extends generally in the vertical direction. The upper end of each arm 45 abuts the ring 42 and extends downward from the ring. The arms 45 are fixed to the ring 42 at radially opposite positions along the circumference of the ring 42 by an appropriate method such as resistance welding. Each arm 45 is angularly spaced, for example, about 45 degrees from two adjacent clamps 120. In an alternative embodiment, the clamp 120 may be located on the arm or near an associated arm 45, that is, there is no angular spacing between the clamp 120 and the arm 45 associated with the clamp. In an alternative embodiment, the arm 45 may abut the ring 42 at a non-radially opposite position along the circumference of the ring 42. Other alternative embodiments of the agitator assembly 16 may include only one arm 45, or may include more than two arms 45.

[0087] Refer to Figure 2 and Figure 7 , the agitator assembly 16 also includes a lower portion 46. The lower portion 46 includes two pieces 48 and an intermediate member 50. The first end of each piece 48 abuts the lower end of a corresponding one of the arms 45. The second end of each piece 48 abuts the corresponding end of the intermediate member 50. The lower portion 46 and the arm 45 are integrally formed. The lower portion 46 and the arm 45 can be formed separately, and in alternative embodiments can be connected by suitable means such as adhesives, ultrasonic welding, etc.

[0088] from Fig. 9 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , each blade 48 is configured so that when the agitator assembly 16 is positioned with the pot assembly 12, the leading surface 49 of the blade 48 is oriented at an angle to the upper surface 29 of the pan 26 of the pot assembly 12. This angle is Fig. 9 The optimum value of the angle α is application dependent and may vary, for example, depending on the average size of the grains 36 to be popped in the device 10. Fig. 9As shown, the angle α is selected so that the grains 36 are lifted and tumbled by their interaction with the blades 48. The lifting and tumbling action promotes uniform heating of the grains 36 without burning due to heating of one side of the grains 36. In contrast, at a steeper angle or a higher value of α, such as 90 degrees, the grains 36 are pushed rather than lifted, which causes the grains 36 to slide in circles on or near the upper surface 29 of the disk 26 rather than tumbling. At a shallower angle or a lower value of α, the lowest grains 36 can slide upward and over the upper surface of the blades 48, and then slide downward onto the upper surface 29 without tumbling. The tumbling provided by the blades 48 helps prevent the grains 46 from sliding along the upper surface 29, in which case the same surface of the grains 46, such as the bottom surface of the grains 46, always remains in contact with the hot upper surface 29, which in turn causes the grains 46 to burn. The tumbling action provided by the sheets 48 may thus facilitate more even heat distribution across the kernels 46, causing the kernels 46 to pop before charring.

[0089] As discussed below, the agitator assembly 16 is configured such that rotation of the agitator assembly 16 lifts the unpopped kernels 36 from the upper surface 29 of the pan 26 and tumbles the kernels 36, thereby helping to prevent the kernels 36 from sticking to the upper surface 29 and burning.

[0090] As a non-limiting example, the value of α may be approximately 14.5 degrees. As described above, the optimal value of α is application dependent and may vary with factors such as the size of the grains to be popped. Therefore, alternative embodiments of the lower portion 46 may be configured such that α is greater or less than approximately 14.5 degrees.

[0091] If you can Figure 7 and Fig. 9 As can be seen in the figure, the intermediate member 50 rests on the column 30 of the pot assembly 12 and is supported by the column of the pot assembly at the approximate midpoint of the intermediate member 50. In particular, the intermediate member 50 is provided with a through hole 142 at its approximate midpoint. The through hole 142 is sized to receive the protrusion 111 of the column 30 with minimal clearance so that the lower portion 46 of the agitator assembly 16 can rotate smoothly around the column 30. The through hole 142 is Figure 7 As can be seen in Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the portion of the intermediate member 50 adjacent to the through hole 142 abuts against the base 110 of the post 30 and rotates. In alternative embodiments, the intermediate member 50 may be configured with a conical or cylindrical centering feature, such as a protrusion 111 of the post 30, in place of the through hole 142.

[0092] The connecting rod 18 (including the arm 82) and the post 30 radially constrain the agitator assembly 16 so that when the user rotates the agitator assembly 16 via the handle 19 and the connecting rod 18, the agitator assembly 16 rotates about the vertical centerline C of the pot assembly 12.L The blades 48 are symmetrically arranged about the center of rotation of the agitator assembly 16, but the blades 48 are angularly directed in opposite directions so that the blades 48 approach the unpopped grains 36 on the upper surface 29 of the pot assembly 12 in substantially the same orientation relative to the upper surface 29, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 shown.

[0093] from Figure 4 and Fig. 9 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the height or vertical position of the leading edge 54 of each piece 48 is approximately equal to the height of the intermediate member 50. Therefore, since the intermediate member 50 rests on the base 110 of the column 30, the spacing between the intermediate member 50 and the leading edge 54 and the upper surface 29 of the pot assembly 12 is approximately equal to the height of the base 110 on the upper surface 29. This distance is Figure 4 and Fig. 9 The distance is indicated by the letter "d" in the figure, and as the intermediate member 50 rotates on the base 110, this distance remains substantially constant. The centering effect of the column 30 and the connecting rod 18 (including the arm 82) helps to maintain the rotation axis of the agitator assembly 16 and the centerline C of the pot assembly 12. L Roughly overlap.

[0094] The posts 30 may be configured such that the distance "d" is large enough to prevent the lower portion 46 of the agitator assembly 16 from contacting the upper surface 29 of the pot assembly 12, but small enough to allow the blades 48 to contact the unpopped grains 36 located on the upper surface 29 and lift or scoop the grains 36 from the surface 29 as the agitator assembly 16 rotates. As described above, the tilted orientation of the blades 48 relative to the upper surface 29 facilitates the lifting action of the blades 48, as may be seen in FIG. Fig. 9 Once the kernels 36 have been lifted by the blades 48, the continued rotation of the blades 48 causes the kernels 36 to fall back onto the upper surface 29. The movement of the kernels 36 by the agitator assembly 16 helps prevent the kernels 36 from sticking to the surface 29 and burning. The agitator assembly 16 can also move popcorn pieces that are resting on the upper surface 29 to help prevent the popcorn from sticking and burning. As described above, this feature is particularly useful when the device 10 is used to make sweet popcorn because the addition of oil, sugar, and salt in the pot assembly 12 can make the kernels 36 and popcorn particularly susceptible to sticking. In addition, the movement of the blades 48 close to the upper surface 29 of the pot assembly 12 can help prevent the oil, sugar, and salt from accumulating on the upper surface 29.

[0095] The post 30 may be configured such that the distance "d" is greater than zero but less than the diameter of a typical unpopped grain 36. In certain embodiments, "d" may be less than one-half the diameter of a typical grain 36 to help ensure that substantially all of the grain 36 located on the upper surface 29 of the disk 26 is lifted by the rotating blades 48 of the agitator assembly 16. For example, the base 110 of the post 30 may have a thickness or vertical dimension of approximately 2.0 mm, such that the distance d is approximately 2.0 mm. In alternative embodiments, the base 110 may be configured such that the distance d is less than or greater than 2.0 mm.

[0096] In alternative embodiments, other means other than posts 30 may be used to support and elevate agitator assembly 16. For example, a pin or block may be mounted or otherwise formed on upper surface 29 in place of posts 30 to support and elevate agitator assembly 16. In other alternative embodiments, an upwardly curved dimple may be formed in the center of disk 26 in place of posts 30. In other alternative embodiments, a post, pin, block, dimple, or other means of support and elevating may be incorporated into intermediate member 50 instead of disk 26. Other alternative embodiments may not be configured with any means of elevating agitator assembly 16, such that leading edge 54 of sheet 48 rests on and slides along upper surface 29.

[0097] The agitator assembly 16 can be made of stainless steel. In the alternative, the agitator assembly 16 can also be made of other materials, such as stainless steel covered or coated with silicone or high temperature plastic.

[0098] Fig.19 An alternative embodiment of the agitator assembly 16 is depicted in the form of the agitator assembly 16a. The agitator assembly 16a is substantially identical to the agitator assembly 16, except that the agitator assembly 16a has a substantially flat blade 60 in place of the blade 48 and the intermediate member 50 of the agitator assembly 16. The blade 60 is oriented substantially parallel to the upper surface 29 of the pan 26 of the pot assembly 12. The substantially flat configuration of the blade 60 allows the agitator assembly 16a to operate effectively regardless of the direction of rotation. In contrast, due to the angle of the blade 48, the agitator assembly 16 can only operate effectively when rotating in one direction.

[0099] In other alternative embodiments (not shown), the blades may have an A-shaped or tent-shaped cross-section, wherein each side of the blade is angled in a manner similar to blade 48. This configuration, like blade 60, facilitates bi-directional operation of the agitator assembly.

[0100] Fig. 20Another alternative embodiment of the agitator assembly 16 is depicted in the form of the agitator assembly 16b. The agitator assembly 16b is substantially identical to the agitator assembly 16, except that the agitator assembly 16b includes a substantially flat sheet 61 and two tabs 62 adjacent to the sheet 61, in place of the sheet 48 and the intermediate member 50 of the agitator assembly 16. The sheet 61 is oriented generally parallel to the upper surface 29 of the pan 26 of the pot assembly 12, while the tabs 62 are oriented generally perpendicular to the upper surface 29. The configuration of the sheet 61 and the tabs 62 allows the agitator assembly 16b to operate effectively regardless of the direction of rotation. The alternative embodiment of the agitator assembly 16b may include only one tab 62, or may include more than two tabs 62.

[0101] Fig.21 Another alternative embodiment of agitator assembly 16 is described in the form of agitator assembly 16c. Agitator assembly 16c is substantially identical to agitator assembly 16a, except that agitator assembly 16c has a ring 42a that includes a substantially flat, circumferentially extending ring 90 and four tabs 92. Tabs 92 abut against ring 90 and extend radially inwardly therefrom; each tab 92 is radially opposed to another of tabs 92. The diameter of ring 90 is selected so that arm 82 of connecting rod 18 fits within ring 90 with minimal or no clearance. As may be seen in FIG. Fig.21 As seen in FIG. 1 , as linkage 18 rotates, each arm 82 engages a corresponding one of tabs 92, thereby transmitting torque to agitator assembly 16c via tabs 92. Variations of agitator assembly 16c may include fewer than four tabs 92 or more than four tabs 92.

[0102] The agitator assembly 16c also differs from the agitator assembly 16a in the following aspects. The agitator assembly 16c includes a lower portion 60a having a recess formed in the bottom thereof at an approximate midpoint of the lower portion 60a. The recess is formed at a position substantially parallel to the bottom of the agitator assembly 16c. Fig.21 The rest is configured to receive the upper end of a column 30 or other support structure. Agitator assembly 16, agitator assembly 16a, and a variant of agitator assembly 16b may all be configured with such a rest.

[0103] Figure 22 to Figure 24 Another alternative embodiment of agitator assembly 16 is depicted in the form of agitator assembly 16d. Agitator assembly 16d is substantially identical to agitator assembly 16a, except that agitator assembly 16d includes arms 45a having an angled orientation and agitator assembly 16d is coupled to the bottom of a pot.

[0104] Figure 22 to Figure 26Another alternative embodiment of agitator assembly 16 is depicted in the form of agitator assembly 16d. Agitator assembly 16d is substantially identical to agitator assembly 16a, except that agitator assembly 16d includes an arm 190 having an angled orientation and a post 160 coupling agitator assembly 16d to the bottom of pot assembly 12.

[0105] refer to Fig.24 and Fig.25 , the post 160 has a base 162 and a body 164 adjacent to the base 162 and extending upward from the base. The post 160 also includes a key 166 extending from the upper portion of the body 164. The cross-section of the portion of the body 164 below the key 166 is substantially circular. The base 162 is fixed to the upper surface 29 of the tray 26 by suitable means such as an adhesive. Fig. 22 As shown, base 162 is positioned at the approximate geometric center of upper surface 29 .

[0106] like Fig.23 As shown, the lower portion 180 of the agitator assembly 16d includes two pieces 182 and an intermediate member 184 adjacent to and positioned between the pieces 182. The first end of each piece 182 abuts the lower end of a corresponding one of the arms 190. The second end of each piece 182 abuts the corresponding end of the intermediate member 184.

[0107] As discussed above with respect to the sheet 48, each sheet 182 is configured such that when the agitator assembly 16d is positioned within the pot assembly 12, the front surface 183 of the sheet 182 is oriented at an angle to the upper surface 29 of the disk 26 of the pot assembly 12 such that the grains 36 on the upper surface 29 are lifted and tumbled by their interaction with the sheet 182.

[0108] like Figure 23 to Figure 25 As shown, the intermediate member 184 rests on the base 162 of the column 160 and is supported by the base of the column at the approximate midpoint of the intermediate member 184. The intermediate member 184 is provided with a through hole 186 at its approximate midpoint. The through hole 186 receives the body 164 of the column 160. Except for the key hole portion 188 of the through hole 186, the diameter of the through hole 186 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the lower portion of the body 164 (i.e., the portion of the body 164 located below the key 166), so that the agitator assembly 16d can rotate smoothly around the column 160.

[0109] Through hole 186 is configured so that intermediate member 184 of agitator assembly 16d can be placed on or removed from post 160 only when key hole portion 188 is aligned with key 166 of post 160, as shown in FIG. Fig. 22In particular, the through hole 186 is sized so that the key 166 contacts the intermediate member 184 when the intermediate member 184 is raised or lowered relative to the post 160, while the key hole portion 188 is not aligned with the key 166, that is, the key 166 interferes with the up and down movement of the intermediate member 184 relative to the post 160 on the body 164 when the key hole portion 188 is not aligned with the key 166. This in turn allows the agitator assembly 16d to remain coupled to the pot assembly 12 via the post 160 when the lid 17 is removed, and to remain in place in the pot assembly 12 when the user tilts or inverts the pot assembly 12 to empty the popped grains 36 from the pot assembly 12.

[0110] When the user wishes to remove the agitator 16d for cleaning or other purposes, the user can manually rotate the agitator assembly 16d after the cover 17 has been removed until the key hole portion 188 is aligned with the key 166, such as Fig. 22 The agitator assembly 16d can then be raised, with the key 166 passing through the key hole portion 188 when the intermediate member 184 is disengaged from the post 160 .

[0111] The agitator assembly 16 d may be reinstalled in the pot assembly 12 by aligning the keyhole portion 188 with the key 166 and lowering the agitator assembly 16 d so that the key 166 passes through the keyhole portion 188 as the intermediate member 184 reengages the post 160 .

[0112] refer to Fig.23 and Fig.26 Each arm 190 includes: a lower portion 192 ; a middle portion 194 adjacent to the lower portion 192 ; and an upper portion 196 adjacent to the middle portion 194 and the ring 42 .

[0113] The lower portion 192 of each arm 190 abuts a corresponding one of the blades 182. The lower portion 192 is curved and extends through an arc of approximately 90 degrees. The middle portion 194 is substantially straight and has an angle relative to the vertical that is approximately equal to the angle between the front surface 183 of the blade 182 and the upper surface 29 of the tray 26.

[0114] The upper portions 196 of the respective arms 190 are secured to the ring 42 by suitable means, such as resistance welding, at diametrically opposed locations along the circumference of the ring 42. Each of the upper portions 196 has a generally curved profile that causes the upper portions 196 to transition from the inclined orientation of the middle portion 194 to a generally vertical orientation suitable for engagement with the scalloped ring 42.

[0115] If you can Fig. 22 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the pot assembly 12 includes a second handle 191 , which is fixed to the pot 20 at a position radially opposite to the handle 27 .

[0116] Figure 27 to Figure 29 Another alternative embodiment of the agitator assembly 16 is depicted in the form of the agitator assembly 16e. The agitator assembly 16e is substantially identical to the agitator assembly 16d, except that the agitator assembly 16d includes a post 200 in place of the post 160 and a knob 202 that threadably engages the post 200 to retain the agitator assembly 16e on the post 200 while allowing the agitator assembly 16e to rotate relative to the post 200.

[0117] refer to Fig.28 and Fig.29 , post 200 has a base 204, a body 206 adjacent to and extending upward from the base 204, and a threaded upper portion 208 adjacent to the body 206. The base 204 is secured to the upper surface 29 of the disc 26 by suitable means such as an adhesive. The base 204 is positioned at the approximate geometric center of the upper surface 29.

[0118] A circular through hole 186a is provided in the intermediate member 184a of the lower portion 180a of the agitator assembly 16e. The through hole 186a is sized to receive the body 206 of the column 200 with minimal clearance so that the agitator assembly 16e can rotate smoothly around the column 200 when the intermediate member 184a rests on the base 204.

[0119] The knob 202 has internal threads that are configured to engage threads on the upper portion 208 of the post 200. When the knob 202 is engaged with the post 200, the knob holds the agitator assembly 16e on the pot assembly 12 by preventing the intermediate member 184a from disengaging from the post 200. Thus, when a user tilts or inverts the pot assembly 12 to empty the popped kernels 36 from the pot assembly 12, the agitator assembly 16e will remain in place in the pot assembly 12.

[0120] The user can unscrew and remove the knob 202 and then lift the agitator assembly 16 e so that the intermediate member 184 a is disengaged from the post 200 , thereby removing the agitator assembly 16 e from the pot assembly 12 .

[0121] Cover 17

[0122] refer to Figures 1 to 3 and Fig.12 The cover 17 has a curved lower portion 70 and a substantially flat upper portion 72 adjacent to the lower portion 70. The handle 19 is mounted on the upper portion 72 and connected to the connecting rod 18 so that the user can actuate the connecting rod 18 by rotating the handle 19. Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the lid 17 is configured to mate with the pot 20 so that the lid 17 covers and encloses the interior volume 34 of the pot assembly 12. Figure 3As seen in the figure, the lower portion 70 of the cover 17 is located outside the lip 25 of the pot 20; the lower portion 70 rests on and is supported by a step 74 formed in the pot assembly 12 at the intersection of the pot 20 and the lip 25. The lower portion 70 is sized to fit closely with the lip 25 to help keep the cover 17 on the pot assembly 12 and to inhibit relative torque between the cover 17 and the pot assembly 12 when the user turns the handle 19.

[0123] The cover 17 has an elongated opening 76 formed therein. The opening 76 is Figure 3 and Fig.10 As shown. An opening 76 extends between the outer surface and the inner surface of the cover 17. The opening 76 functions as a vent to allow steam and heated air to escape from the interior volume 34 of the pot assembly 12 to prevent excessive pressure from forming within the pot assembly 12 when the kernels 36 are heated and popped. The opening 76 is in the shape of an upwardly curved arc. In alternative embodiments, the opening 76 can also be other shapes. In addition, in alternative embodiments, more than one opening 76 can be formed in the cover 17.

[0124] The cover 17 is made of a hard material suitable for use at the temperatures produced by conventional stove burners and suitable for contact with food for human consumption. For example, the cover 17 can be made of aluminum. In an alternative, the cover 17 can also be made of other materials such as stainless steel or cast iron.

[0125] Connecting rod 18

[0126] The connecting rod 18 is configured to transfer torque generated by the user from the handle 19 to the agitator assembly 16, thereby imparting rotation to the agitator assembly 16. Figure 3 and Figures 10 to 12 , the connecting rod 18 includes a lower rod 79. The lower rod 79 includes an elongated cross member 80 and two arms 82, which are adjacent to opposite ends of the cross member 80 and extend downwardly from the opposite ends of the cross member, so that the arms 82 are substantially perpendicular to the cross member 80. The arms 82 and the cross member 80 are integrally formed. In an alternative embodiment, the arms 82 and the cross member 80 can be separately formed and can be fixedly connected by a suitable means such as welding.

[0127] The connecting rod 18 is also included in Fig.1380. The first portion or lower portion 124 of the upper rod 84 is configured to engage with the cross member 80 so that torque is transmitted between the upper rod 84 and the lower rod 79 through the end of the lower portion 124. In particular, the lower portion 124 has an elongated shape. A through hole is provided at the geometric entrance of the cross member 80. The shape of the through hole roughly matches the shape of the lower portion 124, and the through hole is sized to receive the lower portion 124 with minimal clearance so that the lower rod 79 can rotate smoothly with the upper rod. The lower portion 124 is fixed to the cross member 80 by an appropriate means such as welding. In other alternative embodiments, the upper rod 84 can be integrally formed with the cross member 80.

[0128] refer to Fig.12 , the upper rod 84 extends upward from the cross member 80, so that the upper rod 84 is substantially perpendicular to the cross member 80. The cross member 80 and the two arms 82 are symmetrically arranged around the upper rod 84. In an alternative embodiment, the cross member 80 and the arms 82 can be arranged asymmetrically around the upper rod 84.

[0129] The upper rod 84 and the lower portion of the shaft 100 of the handle 19 extend into a through hole 88 formed in the upper portion 72 of the cover 17, which is located at an approximately central position of the cover 17. Fig.12 As shown. Fig.10 and Fig.12 As can be seen in FIG. 8 , between the upper rod 84 and the periphery of the through hole 88, the bushing 85 is disposed in the through hole 88. Fig.14 , the bushing 85 includes a circular base 150 and a cylindrical sleeve 152 adjacent to the base 150. The base 150 is fixed to the bottom side of the upper portion 72 of the cover 17 by a suitable means such as resistance welding. The sleeve 152 is configured to pass through the through hole 88 with a minimum gap between the sleeve 152 and the outer periphery of the through hole 88. As can be seen in Fig.12 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , a portion of the sleeve 152 protrudes from the upper surface of the upper portion 72. The sleeve 152 is configured to receive the middle portion of the upper rod 84 with minimal clearance so that the upper rod 84 can rotate relative to the sleeve and the cover 17. As can be seen in FIG. Fig.13 As can be seen in FIG. 8 , the middle portion 125 of the upper rod 84 is adjacent to the lower portion 124 .

[0130] like Fig.13 As shown, the upper rod 84 also includes an upper portion 126 adjacent to the middle portion 125. The upper portion 126 extends above the upper surface of the upper portion 72 of the cover 17. The upper portion 126 is fixed to the handle 19. In particular, the upper portion 126 has an external thread 127 that mates with an internal thread 128 in the handle 19. Fig.11Threads 128 can be seen in the upper rod 84. The secure coupling of the handle 19 to the upper rod 84 allows torque to be transferred from the handle 19 to the cross member 80 and the adjacent arm 82 through the upper rod 84, and ultimately to the agitator assembly 16. In alternative embodiments, the upper rod 84 can be fixed to the handle 19 by means other than threads.

[0131] In addition, from Figure 3 and Fig.10 As can be seen in the drawings, the shaft 100 of the handle 19 rests on and is supported by the upper surface of the base 150 of the bushing 85. Thus, the upper rod 84 and the lower rod 79 are suspended from the cover 17 by the bushing 84 and the coupling of the upper rod 84 to the handle 19. The upper rod 84 and the attached lower rod 79 and handle 19 are limited in upward movement relative to the cover 17 by the snap ring 128 positioned in the groove 130 formed in the intermediate portion 125 of the upper rod 84.

[0132] The lower rod 79, the upper rod 84, and the bushing 85 can be made of a hard, durable material suitable for contact with food for human consumption. For example, in an alternative embodiment, the cross member 80, the arm 82, the upper rod 84, and the bushing 85 can be made of stainless steel; other types of materials can also be used. The cross member 80, the arm 82, and the upper rod 84 have a substantially circular cross-section. In alternative embodiments, the cross member 80, the arm 82, and the upper rod 84 can have other types of cross-sections.

[0133] like Figure 3 As shown, the downwardly extending arms 82 are configured to engage the ring 42 of the agitator assembly 16. More specifically, the length of the cross member 80 is selected so that when the lid 17 is fully engaged with the pot assembly 12, each arm 82 engages the inward surface of a corresponding one of the undulations 44 in the ring 42. In alternative embodiments, the arms 82 may also be configured to engage the inward surface of the undulations 44. Figure 3 As can be seen in the drawings, the particular reliefs 44 that the arms 82 engage are located at diametrically opposed locations on the circumference of the ring 42. Each arm 82 has an edge member 83 that engages the upper edge of the ring 42 when the lid 17 and pot assembly 12 are fully engaged. Fig.12 The edge piece 83 can be seen in FIG.

[0134] The length of the cross member 80 is selected so that each arm 82 fits closely with the associated undulation 44; when the arms 82 engage the ring 42, the arms 82 combine to cause the ring 42 to resiliently deflect. The engagement of the arms 82 with the associated undulation 44 causes the arms 82 to transmit torque to the agitator assembly 16 through the ring 42. In addition, since the arms 82 are symmetrically arranged around the upper rod 84 and the upper rod 84 is aligned with the centerline C of the pot assembly 12, the arms 82 are symmetrically arranged around the upper rod 84 and the upper rod 84 is aligned with the centerline C of the pot assembly 12. L The linkage 18 is substantially aligned so as to help position the agitator assembly 16 in the center of the interior volume 34 of the pot assembly 12 .

[0135] Alternative embodiments of the connecting rod 18 may be configured with only one arm 82, wherein the cross member 80 extends radially outward from the upper rod 84 in only one direction, such that the cross member 80 is asymmetrically disposed about the upper rod 84. Other alternative embodiments of the connecting rod 18 may include more than one cross member 80 and more than two arms 82. In other alternative embodiments of the device 10, the connecting rod 18 or the handle 19 may be directly connected to the arm 45. In these embodiments, the agitator assembly 16 may not be equipped with the ring 42.

[0136] Handle 19

[0137] refer to Figures 1 to 3 and Figures 10 to 12 , the handle 19 includes a first arm 96 and a second arm 98 adjacent to the first arm 96. The handle 19 also includes a shaft 100, which is adjacent to the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 and extends downward from the first arm 96 and the second arm 98, so that the shaft 100 is generally vertically oriented relative to the first arm 96 and the second arm 98. The first arm 96, the second arm 98 and the shaft 100 are integrally formed. In an alternative embodiment, the first arm 96, the second arm 98 and the shaft 100 can be formed separately and can be connected by a suitable means such as welding. The first arm 96 and the second arm 98 have a generally flat profile, so that the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 have a relatively large surface area. The large surface area helps to dissipate the heat conducted to the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 during the popping process of the popcorn. In addition, the configuration of the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 also allows the user to lift the lid assembly 14 relatively easily and comfortably by the handle 19. The handle 19 can be made of a hard and durable material such as stainless steel; in an alternative, the handle 19 can also be made of other types of materials.

[0138] refer to Fig.11 , shaft 100 has an internal passage 152 that receives the upper portion 126 and the middle portion 125 of the upper rod 84. In particular, the internal passage 152 is provided with an upper portion 154, the boundary of which is the thread 128, which couples the handle 19 to the upper rod 84. The internal passage 152 also includes a relatively radially larger lower portion 156 that receives the bushing 85 and the portion of the middle portion 125 that protrudes above the cover 17. Figure 3 and Fig.10 As can be seen in the figure, the lowermost surface of the shaft 100 is slightly raised relative to the upper portion 72 of the cover 17 and is adjacent to the through hole 88. The lowermost surface of the shaft 100 of the handle 19 rests on the upper surface of the base 150 of the bushing 85.

[0139] The spacing between the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 and the outer surface of the upper portion 72 of the cover 17 is approximately equal to the length or vertical dimension of the shaft 100. This distance is Figure 1 and Fig.15 The length of the shaft 100 can be selected so that the distance d1 is sufficient to prevent the handle 19 from overheating due to the heat dissipated by the cover 17 during the popcorn operation. For example, the distance "d1" can be about 23.5 mm.

[0140] The handle 19 is also included in Figures 1 to 3 , Fig.16 and Fig.17 The knob 112 is visible in FIG. The knob 112 is mounted on a separate end of the first arm 96 of the handle 19. The knob 112 includes an upper portion 113 and a lower portion 114, the lower portion being configured to mate with the upper portion 113. Fig.17 The lower portion 114 includes a body 130 having a cylindrical passage 132 formed in the center. The passage 132 is configured to receive an upwardly extending post 134 secured to the first arm 96 near the free end of the first arm. Fig.11 The channel 132 is sized to receive the post 134 with minimal clearance so that the lower portion 114 and the attached upper portion 113 can rotate smoothly relative to the post 134. Fig.16 , the lower portion 114 is retained on the post 134 by a threaded fastener 135 that engages internal threads within the post 134 and a washer 133 that is located between the head of the fastener 135 and the body 130 . Fig.18 The gasket 134 is depicted separately in FIG.

[0141] like Fig.17 As shown, the lower portion 114 of the knob 112 also includes a plurality of clips 136 that are adjacent to and extend from the body 130. When the upper portion 113 and the lower portion 114 are mated, the clips 136 are configured to extend into the interior volume of the upper portion 113. Each clip 136 has a depending edge 138 near its upper end. Fig.16 As shown, when the upper portion 113 and the lower portion 114 are fully mated, the edge 138 engages with an inclined boss or step 140 within the interior volume of the upper portion 113. The step Fig.16 140. The clamp 136 is configured to resiliently deflect when the upper end of the clamp 136 passes over the step 140. Once the upper end of the clamp 136 passes over the step 140, the resiliency of the clamp 136 generates a friction force between the contact surface of the edge 138 and the step 140. This force helps to hold the upper portion 113 on the lower portion 114.

[0142] like Fig.17As shown, the lower portion 114 of the knob 112 further includes a plurality of arms 144 connected to the body 130 and extending upward. Fig.16 As shown, the arms 144 are configured to extend into the interior volume of the upper portion 113 and engage with ribs 145 formed on the inner surface of the upper portion 113 . Fig.16 The rib 145 can be seen in the figure. The engagement of the arm 144 and the rib 145 limits the rotation of the upper part 113 relative to the lower part 114.

[0143] refer to Fig.17 The main body 130 is formed with a lip 146 extending in a circumferential direction. Fig.16 As shown, when the upper portion 113 and the lower portion 114 are mated, the lip 146 is configured to extend into a downward groove (not shown) formed in the upper portion 113. The contact between the lip 146 and the contact surface of the upper portion 113 helps to limit the lateral movement of the upper portion 113 relative to the lower portion 114.

[0144] The upper portion 113 and the lower portion 114 of the knob 112 and the washer 133 may be made of materials such as nylon. In an alternative solution, the upper portion 113, the lower portion 114 and the washer 133 may also be made of other materials.

[0145] In alternative embodiments, the knob assembly 112 or the linkage 18 may be directly connected to the lower portion 46 of the agitator assembly 16. In these embodiments, the agitator assembly 16 may not be equipped with the ring 42 and / or the arm 45.

[0146] Another alternative embodiment may not include the connecting rod 18, nor the ring 42 and arm 45 of the agitator assembly 16. The lower portion 46 of the agitator assembly 16 may be connected to the handle 19 by a multi-piece post or shaft. The shaft may be configured so that when the lid assembly 14 is lifted from the pot assembly 12, the upper portion of the shaft separates from the lower portion of the shaft, while the lower portion of the shaft remains in the pot assembly 12 with the agitator assembly.

[0147] operate

[0148] The user can rotate the agitator assembly 16 by rotating the handle 19. The user can rotate the handle 19 by applying a force on the upper portion 113 of the knob 112, the force being directed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first arm 96. The force generated by the user is transmitted to the lower portion 114 of the knob 112, which in turn transmits the force to the post 134 fixed to the first arm 96 of the handle 19. The post 134 transmits the force to the end of the first arm 96.

[0149] The first arm 96 generates torque on the shaft 100 when the force is applied. The shaft 100 transmits the torque to the connecting rod 18 through the upper rod 84, so that the cross member 80 and the adjacent arm 82 are moved around the center line C of the pot assembly 12. L The arms 82 in turn impart rotation via the ring 42 to the agitator assembly 16, with which the arms 82 are securely engaged via their associated undulations 44. Figures 1 to 3 As can be seen in the figure, first arm 96 is relatively long so that a user can easily generate torque on shaft 100 sufficient to rotate agitator assembly 16. As described above, blade 48 of agitator assembly 16 scoops and lifts unpopped kernels 36 and popcorn from upper surface 29 of pan 26 of pot assembly 12 as blade 48 rotates adjacent upper surface 29.

[0150] As kernels 36 are popped within device 10, the user may periodically rotate agitator assembly 16 in the manner described above to prevent kernels 36 and popcorn from sticking to surface 29 and burning. Additionally, arms 45 of agitator assembly 16 located adjacent interior surface 28 of pot 20 agitate the popcorn within interior volume 34 and help prevent the popcorn from sticking to interior surface 28 and burning.

[0151] After substantially all of the kernels 36 have been popped, the user can remove the device 10 from the heat source using the handle 27, and the user can lift the lid assembly 14 from the pot assembly 12 to facilitate removal of the popcorn. The grip 19 is configured such that the grip 19 can serve as a handle by which the user can remove the lid assembly 14 from the pot assembly 12. More specifically, as shown in FIG. Fig.15 As shown, the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 of the handle 19 are positioned on opposite sides of the shaft 100; and the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 extend outwardly from the shaft 100 a sufficient distance to allow a user to grasp the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 simultaneously with one hand, wherein the user's hand straddles the shaft 100. For example, from Fig.15 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 can be configured so that a user can grasp the second portion 98 with his or her thumb and index finger while grasping the first portion 96 with the remaining three fingers of the same hand.

[0152] In addition, due to the relatively large surface area of ​​the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 and the spacing between the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 and the upper portion 72 of the cover 17, the first arm 96 and the second arm 98 can still remain cool enough for the user to grasp when the popcorn popping process is completed.

[0153] As the lid assembly 14 is lifted from the pot assembly 12, the arms 82 of the linkage 18 automatically disengage the agitator assembly 16. In particular, the weight of the agitator assembly 16, combined with the weight of the popcorn acting on the lower portion 46 of the agitator assembly 16, will be sufficient to overcome the friction between each arm 82 and the undulations 44 associated with each arm on the ring 42 and the additional friction between the clamp 120 and the adjacent surface 28 of the pot 20. As a result, the agitator assembly 16 can remain within the pot assembly 12 and will not be substantially affected when the popped corn is emptied from the pot assembly 12. This feature helps prevent the popped corn from spilling out, as the agitator components of conventional popcorn poppers do not separate from the lid when the lid is lifted from the pot. In addition, because the various components of the agitator assembly 16 are located adjacent the inner surfaces 28, 29 of the pot assembly 12, the agitator assembly 16 will not interfere with the emptying of the popcorn from the pot assembly 12.

[0154] Once the popcorn has been emptied from the pot assembly 12 , the agitator assembly 16 may be removed for cleaning or other purposes by lifting the agitator assembly 16 from the pot assembly 12 without removing fasteners or otherwise disassembling any components of the device 10 .

Claims

1. A popcorn device, comprising: a pot, the pot comprising one or more inner surfaces defining an interior volume of the pot; A cover assembly, the cover assembly comprising: a cover configured to mate with a pot; a crank coupled to the cover and configured to rotate relative to the cover; and a connecting rod coupled to the crank and configured to rotate together with the crank; and An agitator assembly is configured to be located within the interior volume of the pot and to releasably engage the linkage when the lid is mated to the pot.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The agitator assembly is further configured to disengage from the lid assembly when the lid assembly is removed from the pot.

3. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The agitator assembly includes a rim, a lower portion, and at least one arm; the lower portion comprising at least one tab configured to engage unpopped corn kernels residing on at least one of the one or more interior surfaces of the pot; as well as The at least one arm includes a first end connected to the edge and a second end connected to the lower portion.

4. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that The linkage includes a rod connected to a handle, a cross member connected to the rod, and at least one arm connected to the cross member and configured to removably engage the edge of the agitator assembly.

5. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that At least one arm of the linkage is further configured to disengage from the rim when the lid assembly is removed from the pot.

6. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The edge of the agitator assembly includes a plurality of undulations; and When the agitator assembly is removably engaged with the linkage, at least one arm of the linkage is configured to removably engage the edge via one of the undulations.

7. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The cover has an arcuate opening formed therein and extending between an inner surface and an outer surface of the cover.

8. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The crank comprises: a shaft having a first end configured to be connected to the connecting rod, the shaft extending from the cover in a first direction; a first arm connected to a second end of the shaft, the first arm extending from the shaft in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction; and A second arm connected to the second end of the shaft and an end of the first arm, the second arm extending from the first arm and the shaft in a third direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction and substantially opposite to the second direction.

9. The device of claim 3, further comprising a column secured to the pot and located within the interior volume of the pot, characterized in that: The post includes a base, a body adjacent to the base, and a key adjacent to the body; the post being configured to engage the lower portion of the agitator assembly; The agitator assembly is configured to rotate about the column; a lower portion of the agitator having a through hole formed therein and configured to receive the body of the column; as well as The through hole is configured such that the lower portion of the agitator can be separated from the column only when the key hole portion and the key are aligned.

10. The device of claim 3, further comprising a post secured to the pot and located within the interior volume of the pot; and a knob, characterized in that: The post includes a base, a body adjacent to the base, and a key adjacent to the body; the post being configured to engage the lower portion of the agitator assembly; The agitator assembly is configured to rotate about the column; the lower portion of the agitator having a through hole formed therein and configured to receive the body of the column; and The knob is configured to threadably engage the post and retain the lower portion of the agitator assembly on the post.

11. An apparatus for making popcorn, the apparatus comprising: a pot, the pot comprising one or more inner surfaces, the one or more inner surfaces defining an interior volume of the pot; a lid assembly comprising: a lid configured to mate with the pot; a crank coupled to the lid and configured to rotate relative to the lid; and a connecting rod coupled to the crank and configured to rotate with the crank; and an agitator assembly configured to be positioned within the interior volume of the pot, wherein: The agitator assembly includes: at least one arm configured to be coupled to the connecting rod so that the agitator assembly rotates with the connecting rod; and a lower portion connected to the at least one arm; and The at least one arm is laterally offset from the axis of rotation of the agitator assembly.

12. The device according to claim 11, characterized in that The lower portion includes at least one tab configured to engage unpopped corn kernels residing on at least one of the one or more interior surfaces of the pot.

13. The device according to claim 11, characterized in that When the agitator assembly is positioned within the interior volume of the pot, a distance between the at least one arm and an axis of rotation of the agitator assembly is greater than a distance between the at least one arm and a side wall of the pot.

14. The device according to claim 11, characterized in that The agitator assembly further includes a rim; a first end of the at least one arm is connected to the rim; and a second end of the at least one arm is connected to the lower portion of the agitator assembly.

15. The device according to claim 14, characterized in that The connecting rod includes: a rod connected to the crank; a cross member connected to the rod; and at least one arm connected to an end of the cross member and configured to engage the edge of the agitator assembly.

16. An apparatus for making popcorn, the apparatus comprising: a pot, the pot comprising a side wall having an inner surface and a bottom adjacent to the side wall and having an upper surface, the inner surface of the side wall and the upper surface of the bottom defining an inner volume of the pot; as well as an agitator assembly comprising at least one blade, the agitator assembly being configured to be positioned within the interior volume of the pot and to rotate relative to the pot, wherein: The pot is configured to contain unpopped corn kernels within the interior volume of the pot; and The at least one sheet is configured to contact the unpopped corn kernels resting on the upper surface of the bottom of the pot and tumble the unpopped corn kernels resting on the upper surface of the bottom of the pot as the agitator assembly rotates relative to the pot.

17. The device according to claim 16, characterized in that The at least one tab is angled relative to the upper surface of the bottom of the pot.

18. The device according to claim 16, characterized in that: The at least one sheet has a leading edge; and the leading edge is spaced apart from the upper surface of the bottom of the pot.

19. The device according to claim 16, characterized in that The at least one blade includes an upper surface, and the at least one blade is configured such that as the agitator assembly rotates relative to the pot, unpopped corn kernels resting on the upper surface of the bottom of the pot are lifted and passed over the upper surface.

20. The device according to claim 16, characterized in that: The at least one sheet includes a first sheet and a second sheet; The agitator assembly further comprises: edge; a first arm and a second arm, each having a first end connected to the edge and a second end; and A lower portion including the first piece and the second piece, and a middle portion adjacent to the first piece and the second piece and located between the first piece and the second piece; The second end of the first arm of the agitator assembly is connected to the first piece; and The second end of the second arm of the agitator assembly is connected to the second piece.

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