Nozzle control assembly for micro puree machine

Abstract

A nozzle control assembly for a micropuree machine includes a cup having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending between the first end and the second end, the sidewall defining an interior volume of the cup. The second end includes a nozzle in fluid communication with the interior of the cup. The plug is configured to be disposed in a first position in which the plug covers the nozzle and a second position in which the plug does not cover the nozzle. A carousel may be assembled to the second end of the cup and configured to control extrusion of the ingredient from the interior volume of the cup through the nozzle.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 579,125, filed on August 28, 2023, entitled “INTEGRATED NOZZLE SYSTEM FOR MICRO PUREEER,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a food processing device and, more particularly, to a micro-puree machine having an integrated nozzle for dispensing ingredients from a food processing bowl. Background Art

[0004] Home kitchen appliances designed to make ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, smoothies, and the like are known in the art. Typically, a user adds a series of non-frozen ingredients to a mixing cup that has been previously cooled, such as in a refrigerator. The ingredients are then stirred with one or more paddles (sometimes referred to as stirrers), while a refrigeration mechanism simultaneously freezes the ingredients. These devices have known disadvantages, including, but not limited to, the time and effort required by the user to complete the ice cream making process. Machines of this nature are also impractical for preparing most non-dessert foods.

[0005] Another known type of machine for making frozen foods may be referred to as a micropuree machine. Typically, a machine of this nature turns a blade and inserts the blade into a pre-frozen ingredient or combination of ingredients. In addition to being able to make frozen desserts such as ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, smoothies, etc., a micropuree machine may also prepare non-dessert type foods, such as non-dessert purees and mousses. Summary of the invention

[0006] In various embodiments, the present disclosure describes a nozzle system integrated with a processing cup for a micro-puree machine that can allow for a seamless transition between processing ingredients in the processing cup and extruding the ingredients from the cup. A rotatable dial can be attached to the cup to control extrusion of ingredients from the cup.

[0007] In an embodiment, the nozzle control assembly of the present disclosure is for a cup for use with a micro puree machine. The cup has a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending between the first end and the second end. The sidewall defines an internal volume of the cup. The second end of the cup includes a nozzle in fluid communication with the interior of the cup. The nozzle control assembly includes a stopper configured to be configured in a first position and a second position, the stopper covering the nozzle in the first position and the stopper not covering the nozzle in the second position. The turntable is rotatable relative to the second end of the cup. The turntable is configured to control the extrusion of processed ingredients from the internal volume of the cup through the nozzle.

[0008] In other embodiments, the cup is configured to be oriented relative to the micro-puree machine in a manner such that the nozzle is positioned in a vertical downward direction. In an embodiment, the nozzle is integral with the cup. In an embodiment, the nozzle is positioned near the second end of the cup. In an embodiment, the plug is an articulated plug. In an embodiment, the turntable is configured to move the plug from a first position to a second position. In an embodiment, the plug is forced toward the second position. In an embodiment, the plug includes a tab configured to lock into a cam path on the turntable when the plug is in the first position. In an embodiment, the turntable is forced in a first rotational direction, and rotation of the rotatable turntable in a second rotational direction causes the tab to disengage from the cam path. In an embodiment, manually moving the plug from the second position to the first position causes the rotatable turntable to rotate in the second rotational direction. In an embodiment, an outer surface of the second end of the cup defines at least one cam track, which extends at least partially around the second end of the cup. In an embodiment, an inner surface of the turntable includes at least one pin, which is used to engage with at least one cam track for rotating the turntable between an open position and a closed position. In an embodiment, in the closed position, the seal on the turntable engages with the opening in the cup, preventing extrusion of the processed ingredient from the interior volume of the cup through the nozzle. In an embodiment, in the open position, the seal on the turntable is spaced from the opening, allowing extrusion of the processed ingredient from the interior volume of the cup through the nozzle. In an embodiment, the plug is a cap.

[0009] An embodiment of a cup for use with a micro-puree machine of the present disclosure includes a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending between the first end and the second end. The sidewall defines an internal volume of the cup. The second end of the cup includes a nozzle in fluid communication with the interior of the cup. The plug is configured to be configured in a first position and a second position, the plug covering the nozzle in the first position, and the plug not covering the nozzle in the second position. The turntable is rotatable relative to the second end of the cup. The turntable is configured to control the extrusion of processed ingredients from the internal volume of the cup through the nozzle. In an embodiment, the cup is configured to be oriented relative to the micro-puree machine in a manner such that the nozzle is positioned in a vertical downward direction. In an embodiment, the nozzle is integrated with the cup. In an embodiment, the nozzle is positioned near the second end of the cup. In an embodiment, the plug is one of an articulated plug and a lid.

[0010] Advantages of these and other structures will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and reviewing the associated drawings.The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are intended to be explanatory only and not restrictive of the aspects of the present disclosure as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The present disclosure will be more fully understood with reference to the detailed description taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1AAn isometric view of a micro-puree machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0013] Figure 1B The cup assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown removed from the housing. Figure 1A Micro puree machine.

[0014] Figure 1C to Figure 1G The present invention is illustrated in some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 1A Embodiments of the extrusion assembly, cup assembly and / or nozzle assembly of the micro-puree machine;

[0015] Figure 2A illustrates a portion of another micro-puree machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 2B The diagram shows a device that can be connected to a Figure 2A The reversible cup assembly of the micro puree machine;

[0017] Figure 3A Another reversible cup assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0018] Figure 3B Some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown Figure 3A a blade of a reversible cup assembly;

[0019] Figure 3C According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3A and Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of the reversible cup assembly and the first cover;

[0020] Figure 3D showing a detailed view of an embodiment of a plunger coupled to an underside of a second cover according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The present invention is illustrated in some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D Use of a reversible cup assembly;

[0022] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5F Another micro-puree machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0023] Fig. 6A illustrates a nozzle control assembly of a micro-puree machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 6B to FIG. 6I The present invention is illustrated in some embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 6A Use of nozzle control components;

[0025] 7A to 7F illustrates another nozzle control assembly of a micro-puree machine in an open position according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 7G to Figure 7J Illustrated is a diagram of a closed position according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. 7A to 7F Nozzle control assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] In the following description, regardless of the different illustrated embodiments, like components have the same reference numerals. In order to clearly and concisely illustrate the embodiments, the drawings may not necessarily reflect the proper scale and may have certain structures shown in some schematic form. The present disclosure may describe and / or illustrate structures in one embodiment, in one or more other embodiments in the same or similar manner and / or in combination with or in place of structures of other embodiments.

[0028] In the specification and claims, for the purpose of illustrating and defining the present invention, the terms "approximately" and "substantially" represent the inherent degree of uncertainty attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement or other representation. The terms "approximately" and "substantially" also represent the degree to which a quantitative representation may vary from the described benchmark without causing the basic function of the subject matter in question to change. Open-ended terms such as "include", "comprises" and / or the plural form of each include listed parts and may include unlisted additional parts, while terms such as "and / or" include one or more of the listed parts and combinations of the listed parts. The use of the terms "top", "bottom", "above", "below" and the like only helps to clearly illustrate the present disclosure and does not limit the structure, positioning and / or operation of the present disclosure in any way.

[0029] It is worth noting that the mechanisms and techniques described herein can be used to construct machines for processing (e.g., micro-pureeing and perhaps aeration) and extruding ice cream and other frozen ingredients. That is, both processing and extrusion functions can be performed by a single machine. In such a machine, the same shaft can be used to drive the blade to process the frozen ingredients in the cup (i.e., container), and drive the plunger to extrude the processed ingredients from the cup. In addition, such a machine can include a user interface that enables the user to control the execution time of each function. In some implementations of such a machine, a first shaft can be used to drive processing, a second shaft can be used to drive extrusion, and it can be considered that such an implementation has a first subsystem or module for processing and a second subsystem or module for extrusion.

[0030] In some embodiments, a single cover can be provided (e.g., on the open end of the cup) that houses (or is coupled to) a blade for processing the ingredient and also houses (or is coupled to) a plunger for extruding the processed ingredient. In such embodiments, as described in more detail elsewhere herein, a single shaft driven by one or more motors (e.g., one motor for driving the blade to rotate; another motor for driving the driven shaft to move linearly along its axis) can drive both processing using the blade and extrusion using the plunger, and the end of the cup opposite the cover can include an opening for extruding the processed ingredient from the cup.

[0031] In other embodiments, to be able to perform both functions, the user can flip the processing cup from a first arrangement in which the driven shaft engages a blade at a first end of the processing cup (e.g., a blade housed in or coupled to a first cover at a first open end of the processing cup) to a second arrangement in which the driven shaft engages a plunger at a second end of the processing cup (e.g., a plunger housed in or coupled to a second cover at an open second end of the processing cup), as described in more detail herein. In such embodiments, the first cover can also include an opening for extruding ingredients from the cup during extrusion using the plunger in the second arrangement. Additionally, in such embodiments, a single shaft driven by one or more motors can drive both processing using the blade and extrusion using the plunger, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0032] In other embodiments, to be able to perform both functions, a user may replace a first cover for processing (e.g., housing or coupled to a blade) with a second cover for extrusion (e.g., housing or coupled to a plunger) from the open end of the processing cup, as described in more detail elsewhere herein. In such embodiments, a single shaft driven by one or more motors may drive both processing using the blade and extrusion using the plunger, or alternatively, a separate shaft may be used for extrusion, with such separate shaft driving the plunger, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0033] Figure 1A An isometric view of a micro-puree 10 is shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1B The cup assembly 350 is shown removed from the housing 120 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1A Micro Puree Machine 10. Figure 1C to Figure 1G Embodiments of extrusion assemblies, cup assemblies, and / or nozzle assemblies according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are described.

[0034] The micro-puree machine 10 may include a housing 120, which may include a user interface (not shown) for receiving user input to control the micro-puree machine 10 and / or display information. The micro-puree machine 10 may also include a cup assembly 350 and a nozzle assembly 603. The combination of the nozzle assembly 603 and the cup assembly 350, which may include a cap 400 configured for extrusion, may be referred to herein as an extrusion assembly. The nozzle assembly 603 may include a nozzle housing 607 and a nozzle 608.

[0035] The cup assembly 350 may include a cup 352 configured to hold one or more processed ingredients, ingredients to be processed, or ingredients being processed. The user may couple the cup assembly 350 to the housing 120 by rotating the cup assembly 350 relative to the housing 120 (e.g., using a threaded or bayonet connection), or by other coupling mechanisms and / or techniques. The cup assembly 350 may be assembled to the housing 120 in a manner such that a central axis A of the cup assembly 350 extends perpendicular to a vertical axis V of the housing 120, as shown. However, the present disclosure contemplates that the cup assembly 350 may be assembled to the housing 120 in a manner such that the central axis A extends at an angle between 0° and 90° relative to the vertical axis (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,759,057 (the '057 patent) to SharkNinja Operating, LLC, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety), or the cup assembly 350 may be assembled to the housing 120 in a manner such that the central axis of the cup assembly 350 extends parallel to the vertical axis V (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,871,765 (the '756 patent) to SharkNinja Operating, LLC, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety). In embodiments, the cup 352 of the cup assembly 350 may be manufactured from a disposable material to enhance the convenience of using the micro-puree 10. Additionally, the cup 352 may be sold as a stand-alone item and may also be pre-filled with ingredients to be processed during use of the micro-puree 10.

[0036] like Figure 1BAs shown, the housing 120 may include a coupling portion 500 disposed within the opening 140 of the housing 120. The inner surface 502 of the coupling portion 500 may include positioning and locking elements for positioning and connecting the cup assembly 350 to the coupling portion 500 in two different configurations, as described elsewhere herein. The micro-puree machine 10 may also include a nozzle 608 that can be connected to the cup assembly 350 for extruding processed ingredients from the cup assembly 350. The nozzle 608 may be configured so that the ingredients are extruded in a vertical downward direction so that a user can place an ice cream cone, cup, cup or other edible or inedible receiver under the nozzle to receive the extruded ingredients. The present disclosure also contemplates that multiple nozzle shapes can be set to allow user customization. For example, multiple nozzles may be included on a rotatable turntable that allows the user to select a desired nozzle shape. In other embodiments, the extrusion function can be integrated into a program on the user interface at a predetermined translation speed / flow rate.

[0037] like Figure 1C As shown, the first end 352a of the cup 352 can be configured to be coupled to both the first cover 440 and the second cover 450. The first cover 440 can include a blade 300 for processing ingredients, for example, as described in the '765 patent. When the cover 440 is coupled to the cup 352 (e.g., via the interrelated threads on the cup and the cover), the cup assembly 350 can be considered to be in a processing configuration and can be coupled to the housing via the coupling portion 500. The cover 440 can have a positioning and locking element 442 on its outer side wall that is configured to be coupled to the positioning and locking element on the inner surface 502 of the coupling portion 500. The second cover 450 can include a plunger 454 for extruding the ingredients. In addition, the plunger 454 can include a flexible seal around its periphery to ensure contact (e.g., maximum contact) with the side wall of the cup 352, thereby allowing optimal (e.g., maximum) extrusion output. When the cap 450 is coupled to the cup 352 (e.g., via interrelated threads on the cup and cap), the cup assembly 350 can be considered to be in an extruded configuration and can be coupled to the housing via the coupling portion 500. The cap 450 can have a locating and locking element 452 on its outer sidewall that is configured to couple to a locating and locking element on the inner surface 502 of the coupling portion 500.

[0038] The second end 352b of the cup 352 may include a centrally located opening 604 or a non-centrally located opening with a coupling collar 606. The coupling collar 606 may include threads or other types of coupling features, such as, for example, slots or cams for snapping. For example, during processing, the opening 604 may be closed by a cap 605, which may be removed during extrusion. The cap 605 may include internal threads (not shown) or other coupling features that allow it to be coupled to the coupling collar 606. The opening 604 may also be in fluid communication with the nozzle 608. For example, the opening 604 may be in fluid communication with the nozzle through a conduit (e.g., a plastic tube) extending from the opening 604 to the nozzle 608, for example, within the nozzle assembly 603. In an embodiment, such a conduit may include one or more segments connected by a joint (e.g., an elbow joint) to convert an extrusion direction (e.g., horizontal) from the opening 604 to an extrusion direction (e.g., vertically downward) from the nozzle 608.

[0039] like Figure 1D As shown, a user can attach the first cover 440 to the cup 352 and couple the cup assembly 350 to the micro-puree machine 10 using the coupling features described herein. The cover 440 can be configured (e.g., as described in the '765 patent) such that, when the cover 440 is coupled to the housing 120, the blade 300 engages with the driven shaft 250 and disengages from the cover 440. By using a user interface (e.g., as described in the '057 patent), a user can activate a program that controls the blade 300 to rotate and move (e.g., descend or move horizontally or at an angle) into ingredients in the cup 352 to process (e.g., micro-puree) the ingredients. It should be understood that in some embodiments, as described in the '765 patent, the blade 300 can be configured (e.g., as described in the '765 patent) to engage the driven shaft 250 and disengage from the cover 440. Figure 1D As shown, the nozzle assembly 603 or one or more components thereof (e.g., nozzle 608) can be coupled to the second end 352b of the cup 350 (and possibly to the housing), even if, for example, extrusion is not performed during processing. In such an embodiment, the opening 604 can be closed, for example, using a cap 605 or by other means. Figure 1E 604 is a bottom view of the cup assembly 350 coupled to the housing, wherein the opening 604 is uncovered. In actual use, during processing, the opening 604 can be closed, for example, by a cap 605, or opened and coupled to the nozzle assembly 603 during extrusion.

[0040] After processing the ingredients in the cup 352, the user can then remove the cup assembly 350 from the micro-puree 10, remove the first cap 440 from the first end 352a, replace it with the cap 450 on the first end 352a, couple the nozzle assembly to the second end 352b of the cup assembly 350 (if not already attached), couple the cup assembly 350 to the housing 120, and initiate extrusion via the user interface. During extrusion, the driven shaft drives the plunger 454 from the first end 352a of the cup 352 to the second end 352b of the cup, forcing the processed ingredients through the opening 604 and extruding the processed ingredients through the nozzle 608.

[0041] Figure 1F Another embodiment of a nozzle assembly 603' is illustrated including a nozzle 608' that can be used to extrude processed ingredients, for example, using the mechanisms and techniques described herein.

[0042] Figure 1G Another cup assembly 350' including an extrusion assembly 600 is illustrated according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1G As shown, the cup assembly 350' can include a nozzle 608' that is integral with the bottom edge of the cup 352', for example, on the side wall of the cup 352' near the second end 352b' or extending beyond the second end 352b'. In an embodiment, the cup assembly 350' can be configured to be mounted to the coupling portion 500 in a manner such that the nozzle 608' is vertically downward when the cup 352' is properly installed. During extrusion, movement of the plunger (e.g., plunger 454) will force the processed ingredient through the nozzle 608'. The nozzle 608' can be selectively positioned on the cup 352' to optimize the amount of processed ingredient that can be extruded, thereby minimizing yield losses after extrusion. For example, as Figure 1G As shown, nozzle 608' can be located near the bottom edge of cup 352'. However, the present disclosure contemplates that nozzle 608' can alternatively be located at a different longitudinal and / or radial position on cup 352'. Cup assembly 350' and / or cup 352' can be the same as or different from cup assembly 350 and / or cup 352, respectively.

[0043] Advantageously, the micro-puree machine 10 may include a sensor (not shown) that identifies a cover installed into the machine 10 to limit certain programs based on the cover functionality, which may prevent a user from making mistakes while operating the machine 10. For example, the micro-puree machine may only activate the blade 300 when the sensor detects that the cup 352 is installed in a first configuration in which the cover 440 is coupled to the cup 350, and may only activate the plunger 454 when the sensor detects that the cup 352 is installed in a second configuration in which the cover 450 is coupled to the cup 350. For example, the covers 440 and 450 may include unique physical and / or electromagnetic features, such as part of the positioning and locking elements 442 and 452, respectively, for which purpose the coupling portion 500 or other elements of the micro-puree machine 10 may be configured to detect and distinguish between the covers 440 and 450.

[0044] The housing 120 can house one or more motors and a transmission system (e.g., including gears) that drive a driven shaft (e.g., driven shaft 250) for engaging a blade 300 and / or a plunger 454 for processing or extrusion, respectively, when the cup assembly 350 (coupled to the cap 440 or 450, respectively) is coupled to the housing, for example, as described in U.S. Patent No. 11,882,965 (the '965 patent) or the '765 patent to SharkNinja Operating, LLC, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference. For example, the one or more motors can include a first motor for driving rotation of the driven shaft 250 via a transmission, which can be used to drive rotation of the blade 300 during processing and, if desired (but not necessary), to rotate the plunger 454 during extrusion. The second motor can be configured to move the position of the driven shaft 250 along its axis (e.g., back and forth or up and down) via a transmission, which can be used to drive the back and forth movement of the blade 300 in and out of the cup 350 during processing, and to move the plunger 454 in and out of the cup 350 during extrusion. In an embodiment, the micro-puree machine 10 can include a gearbox (e.g., a high ratio gearbox) and reinforced internals (not shown) to allow the extrusion assembly described herein to withstand high forces and extrude a puree output from the nozzle 608.

[0045] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a reversible cup assembly can be used that does not require removal of the cover between processing and extrusion. For example, the reversible cup assembly can include: a first cover coupled at one end including a blade for processing and an opening for extrusion; and a second cover at the other end including a plunger for extrusion. An example of such an embodiment will now be described.

[0046] Figure 2A An embodiment of a micro-puree maker including a portion of a coupling portion 500 ′ for coupling to a cup assembly (eg, a reversible cup assembly) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2BAn embodiment of a reversible cup 352" is illustrated that can be coupled to coupling portion 500'. Cup 352" can include any of a variety of exterior surfaces. For example, an embodiment of the cup can have a ribbed or corrugated surface (e.g., like cup 352 or 352'), or a smooth surface (e.g., cup 352"). Similarly, cups 352 and 352" can have any of a variety of surfaces, including a smooth surface.

[0047] like Figure 2A As shown, the driven shaft 250 of the micro-puree machine 10 may extend from the housing 120 to the interior of the coupling 500', and optionally extend all the way through the interior of the coupling 500'. The inner surface 502' of the coupling 500' may include one or more slots 504, the size and shape of which are formed to receive at least one protrusion 354 on the outer surface of the first open end 352a" of the cup 352". In an embodiment, both the first end 352a" and the second end 352b" of the cup 352" may be open - that is, both the first end 352a" and the second end 352b" may not have a top wall or a bottom wall and / or a cover. However, the present disclosure is not so limited, and one or both ends 352a", 352b" of the cup 352" may be closed with a wall or a cover. In an embodiment, at least one protrusion 354 on the cup 352" may be four protrusions 354 spaced 90 degrees apart around the outer surface of the first end 352a" of the cup 352". However, the present disclosure contemplates more or less than four protrusions 354. In the first configuration of the reversible cup assembly 350", the user may rotate the cup 352" relative to the coupling portion 500' so that the protrusion 354 rotates into the slot 504, coupling (e.g., locking) the cup 352" and the coupling portion 500' together.

[0048] The slot 504 may also be sized and shaped to receive at least one protrusion 356 on an outer surface of the second open end 352b" of the cup 352". In an embodiment, the at least one protrusion 356 may be four protrusions 356 spaced 90 degrees apart around the outer surface of the second end 352b" of the cup 352". However, the present disclosure contemplates more or less than four protrusions 356. In the second configuration of the reversible cup assembly 350", a user may rotate the cup 352" relative to the coupling portion 500' so that the protrusion 356 rotates into the slot 504, coupling (e.g., locking) the cup 352"' and the coupling portion 500' together. As further described elsewhere herein, the first end 352a" of the cup 352" may also include threads 366 for coupling to a first cover, while the second end 352b" of the cup 352" may include threads 368 for coupling to a second cover.

[0049] Figure 3A2 shows an embodiment of an assembled reversible cup assembly 350" according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3A As shown, the cup 352" can have an oval shape and include a cylindrical sidewall 358 that defines an internal volume 360 ​​of the cup 352". The sidewall 358 can extend between a first open end 352a" of the cup 352" and a second open end 352b" opposite the first open end 352a". Embodiments of the sidewall 358 can have various configurations. For example, the cross-section of the sidewall can be circular or polygonal. In addition, the diameter of the sidewall can vary between the first open end 352a" and the second open end 352b" (for example, can be gradually tapered). The first open end 352a" and the second open end 352b" can be in communication with the internal volume 360 ​​of the cup 352". The assembly 350" can also include a first cover 400' that is removably coupled to the first open end 352a" of the cup 352". The first cover 400' can define an opening 401( Figure 3C ), the opening 401 is configured to be coupled to a blade 300 for mixing ingredients within the cup 352". When the cup 352" is mounted to the coupling portion 500' in the first configuration, the blade 300 can engage with the driven shaft 250' to rotate the blade 300 and insert the blade 300 into the ingredients. Figure 3B An embodiment of a blade 300 is shown coupled to the underside of a first cover 400'. Some non-limiting examples of blades 300 are shown in the '765 patent.

[0050] Figure 3C 3 is a cross-sectional view of a reversible cup assembly 350" and a first cover 400' according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, while the blade 300 and the second cover 450' are not shown in cross-sectional form. Figure 3C As shown, the blade 300 may include a central support hub 305 including a central opening 306 for engaging the driven shaft 250. In an embodiment, the second cover 450' may be removably coupled to the second open end 352b" of the cup 352". The second cover 450' may include or be coupled to a plunger 602 for pushing the ingredient in the cup 352" toward the opening 604' of the first cover 400'. The plunger 602 may constitute an extrusion assembly 600 for extruding the processed ingredient from the cup 352" alone or in combination with other components (e.g., the second cover 450', the cup 352", or the nozzle 608). The opening 604' of the first cover 400' may also be fluidically connected to a nozzle (e.g., the nozzle 608). For example, the opening 604' may be fluidically connected to the nozzle via a conduit (e.g., a plastic tube) extending from the opening 604' to the nozzle. In an embodiment, such a conduit may include one or more segments connected by a joint (e.g., an elbow joint) to convert an extrusion direction from the opening 604' (e.g., horizontally) to an extrusion direction from the nozzle (e.g., vertically downward).

[0051] When the cup assembly 350" is in the second configuration and the cup 352" is mounted to the coupling 500', the plunger 602 can be coupled to the driven shaft 250' of the micro-puree machine. The surface of the plunger 602 facing the internal volume 360 ​​can include one or more (e.g., multiple) recesses 606. During processing by the blade 300, the recesses 606 can prevent the frozen ingredients from rotationally moving within the cup 352". In addition, the plunger 602 can include a flexible seal 610 around its periphery to ensure contact (e.g., maximum contact) with the side wall 358 of the cup 352", thereby allowing for optimal (e.g., maximum) extrusion yield.

[0052] and Figure 2A , Figure 2B , FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D , Figure 4A and Figure 4B The micro-puree machine of the relatedly described embodiments may include one or more motor and transmission systems (e.g., including gears) that drive a driven shaft (e.g., driven shaft 250') for engaging the blade 300 and / or plunger 602 for processing or extrusion when the cup assembly 350" (coupled to the lid 400' or 450', respectively) is coupled to the housing, for example, as described in the '765 patent or the '965 patent; and may include a gearbox (e.g., a high ratio gearbox) and reinforced internals (not shown) to allow the extrusion assembly 600 to withstand high forces and extrude a pureed output from the nozzle.

[0053] Figure 3D A detailed view of an embodiment of a plunger 602 coupled to the underside of the second cap 450' is shown. In an embodiment, the cup assembly 350" can be configured so that only the first cap 400' can be coupled to the first open end 352a' of the cup 352", and only the second cap 450' can be coupled to the second open end 352b' of the cup 352". For example, the configuration of the threads 366 can be different from the configuration of the threads 368 ( Figure 3B ) to prevent the user from attaching the wrong cover to the wrong side of the cup 352". The cup 352" may also include a clear indicator (color, icon, etc.) that signals to the user which cover is placed on which side of the cup 352".

[0054] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The use of a reversible cup assembly 350" according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 4AAs shown, the user can first install the cup assembly 350" to the micro-puree machine 10 in a first configuration so that the first end 352a" of the cup 352" is fixed to the coupling portion 500'. The user can then select a program on the user interface according to the desired output (e.g., soft serve ice cream, light ice cream, sorbet, gelato, etc.) to rotate the blade 300 and insert it into the ingredients in the cup 352". For example, the blade 300 can be lowered into the ingredients and then raised from the ingredients at one or more predetermined rates while rotating at one or more predetermined rates. Figure 4B As shown, the user can then remove the cup assembly 350' from the coupling portion 500', reverse the orientation of the cup assembly 350' (i.e., flip the cup assembly 350') and reinstall the second end 352b' of the cup 352' to the coupling portion 500' in the second configuration. The user can then select a desired program on the user interface to lower the plunger 602 to extrude the ingredient through the opening 604' of the first cover 400'. For example, the plunger 602 can be lowered into the ingredient to extrude the ingredient through the opening 604' and then rise from the opening 604' after the extrusion is completed.

[0055] While embodiments of the present disclosure include performing processing and extrusion using the same driven axis, in some embodiments, as will now be described, processing and extrusion are performed on different axes.

[0056] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5F Another micro-puree 700 is illustrated according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 5A and Figure 5B An embodiment of the micro-puree 700 is illustrated in a first configuration (which may be referred to herein as a processing configuration) for processing (eg, micro-pureeing). FIG. 5C to FIG. 5E An embodiment of the micro-puree machine 700 is illustrated in a second configuration for extrusion (which may be referred to herein as an extrusion configuration). For illustration purposes only, Fig. 5F The embodiment of the micro-puree 700 is illustrated in both a processing configuration and an extrusion configuration, as in some embodiments, the micro-puree 700 will not be configured to perform processing and extrusion simultaneously.

[0057] like Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown, the micro-puree machine 700 may include a base 705 and a housing 720. The housing 720 may include a user interface (not shown) for receiving user input to control the micro-puree machine 700 and / or display information. In some embodiments, the micro-puree machine includes a processing submodule 721 and an extrusion submodule 723, wherein the processing submodule 721 includes one or more components configured to process ingredients in a cup 752 (e.g., cup 352 or a variation thereof), and the extrusion submodule 723 includes one or more components configured to extrude processed ingredients from the cup 752. In the processing configuration, the cup 752 can be coupled to the interior of an outer cup 707, which is mounted on a processing platform 709 mounted to the base 705. The cup 752 can be coupled to a cover 711 (e.g., cover 440 or a variation thereof), which houses a blade 713 (e.g., blade 300 or a variation thereof). The cup 752 may include a nozzle control assembly 751 (e.g., a turntable) that enables a user to control the opening and closing of the nozzle 760, the nozzle 760, and an articulated plug or plug 756 that the user may use to selectively cover the nozzle 760 or the nozzle control assembly 751. In some embodiments, the nozzle control assembly 751, the nozzle 760, and the plug 756 may be removably attached to the cup 752. For example, as described in the '765 patent, using the handle 725, the user may rotate and lift the processing cup assembly 717 to a processing position in which the blade 713 engages the driven shaft 754, the cover 711 is coupled to the micro-puree 700, and the blade 713 is released from the cover 711 so that the driven shaft 754 can drive the blade 713. By engaging the user interface (or a remote interface via a wireless connection to a wireless interface within the housing 720), the user may initiate processing of the ingredients in the cup 752. In the processing configuration, the extrusion submodule 723 can remain idle and the cap or plug 719 can be coupled to the coupling 727, covering the interface 729 with the driven shaft 758. The coupling 727 (e.g., coupling 500) can also serve as a coupling between the cup assembly 750 (e.g., the cover 753 of the cup assembly 750) and the micro-puree machine 700. After processing the ingredients, the processing cup assembly 717 can be decoupled from the micro-puree machine 700 (e.g., from the processing submodule 721) and removed from the platform 709. The cover 711 can be removed from the outer cup 707, and the cup 752 can be removed from the outer cup 707.

[0058] like FIG. 5C to FIG. 5EAs shown, the cover 753 can then be mounted to the cup 752, and the cup 752 can then be connected to the micro-puree machine 700 in an extrusion configuration (e.g., connected to the extrusion submodule 723). In the extrusion configuration, the cup 752 can be connected to the cover 753 (e.g., the cover 450 or a variation thereof) including the plunger 702. The combination of the cup 752 and the cover 753 may be referred to herein as the cup extrusion assembly 750. In an embodiment, the cup extrusion assembly 750 may be configured to be mounted to the micro-puree machine 700 in a manner such that the nozzle 760 is vertically downward when the cup extrusion assembly 750 is properly installed. As shown, the cup extrusion assembly 750 can be assembled to the housing 720 (e.g., the extrusion submodule 723) in a manner such that the central axis A of the cup extrusion assembly 750 extends perpendicular to the vertical axis V of the housing 720. The cup extrusion assembly 750 may include an outlet 760 for extruding processed ingredients from the cup extrusion assembly 750. The micro-puree machine 700 may also include a lever 730 for manually activating the plunger 702 to extrude the processed ingredients within the cup extrusion assembly 750 through the outlet 760. Although the lever 730 is shown on the right side of the machine 700 (from the left), the lever 730 is not shown on the right side of the machine 700. Figure 5C The rod 730 may be on the left side of the machine 700, or in another location of the machine 700, and the other components of the machine may be reconfigured to accommodate the different locations of the rod 730. The housing 720 may include electrical, electromagnetic, mechanical, and / or electromechanical components to convert the pull-down or push-up of the rod 730 into movement of the plunger 702 within the cup 752.

[0059] Embodiments of the housing 720 of the micro-puree machine 700 can house a transmission system including a driven shaft 754 for engaging the blade 713, a separate driven shaft 758 for engaging the plunger 702, one or more gear systems, and one or more positions and / or drive motors for rotating and / or axially moving the driven shaft 754 and other shafts 758 to process the ingredients in the cup assembly 750. For example, the drive motor can drive the rotation of the driven shaft 754 and the blade (e.g., blade 300) coupled to the driven shaft 754, and the position motor can drive the vertical (e.g., downward and upward) movement of the driven shaft 754 and the blade. Another motor can drive the second shaft 758 and the plunger (e.g., plunger 454 or 602) attached to the second shaft 758. In an embodiment, the blade 713 can be programmably controlled to operate at different speeds, move up and down in different modes and speeds, and be controlled to make different foods in different time periods through a computing system on a user interface. In an embodiment, the plunger 702 in the cap 753 can be programmably controlled by the computing system on a user interface to operate at different rotation speeds (although rotation is not necessary for extrusion), and to move up and down at different patterns and speeds and for different time periods. Some non-limiting examples of transmission systems and computing systems are shown in the description of U.S. Patent No. 11,882,965 (the '965 patent) and the '765 patent to SharkNinja Operating, LLC, which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0060] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, as will now be described, a nozzle control assembly for a micro-puree maker (or other device for processing and / or extruding food) is configured to control a nozzle through which processed ingredients may be extruded from a cup.

[0061] Fig. 6AAnother micro-puree machine 800 that uses the same driven shaft to perform processing and extrusion according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. When describing the embodiment of the nozzle control assembly about a micro-puree machine (e.g., machine 800) that uses the same driven shaft to perform processing and extrusion, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not so limited. The nozzle control assembly as described herein can be implemented on a micro-puree machine that performs processing on a first driven shaft and performs extrusion on a second driven shaft, or on other types of devices for processing food. The micro-puree machine 800 may include a base 805 and a housing 820. The housing 820 may include a user interface (not shown) for receiving user input to control the micro-puree machine 800 and / or display information. The micro-puree machine 800 may also include a cup 852. As shown, the cup 852 can be assembled to the housing 820 in a manner that the central axis A of the cup 852 extends perpendicular to the vertical axis V of the housing 820. However, the present disclosure contemplates that the cup 852 may be assembled to the housing 820 in a manner such that the central axis A extends at an angle between 0° and 90° relative to the vertical axis V or in a manner such that the central axis A extends parallel to the vertical axis V. The micro-puree machine 800 may also include a rod 830 for activating a plunger (e.g., plunger 602) to extrude the processed ingredients within the cup 852 through a nozzle 860. The nozzle 860 may be integral with the bottom edge of the cup 852 and may be covered with an articulated plug or plug 856. In an embodiment, the cup 852 may be configured to be mounted to a coupling (e.g., coupling 500) in a manner such that the nozzle 860 is vertically downward when the cup 852 is properly mounted. The nozzle 860 may be selectively positioned on the cup 852 to optimize the amount of processed ingredients that can be extruded, thereby minimizing the amount of output loss after extrusion. For example, the nozzle 860 may be located near the bottom edge of the cup 852, such as Fig. 6A However, the present disclosure also contemplates that the nozzle 860 may alternatively be located at a different longitudinal and / or radial position on the cup 852 .

[0062] Figure 6BThe nozzle control assembly including a rotatable turntable 851 for use with a micro-puree machine 800 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. In this embodiment, a plug 856 can be forced to an open position (e.g., spring loaded). By engaging the L-shaped protrusion 816 on the plug 856 with the inner cam path 814 on the turntable 851, the plug 856 can be maintained and locked to a closed position. It is also possible to apply force (e.g., spring loaded) to the turntable 851 along a first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise). In order to open the plug 856, the user can rotate the turntable 851 along a rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise), causing the plug 856 to be released from the cam path 814 and spring into the open position, as further described elsewhere herein. When the plug 856 is in the open position, the user can extrude the processed rear ingredients through the nozzle 860.

[0063] FIG. 6C to FIG. 6I The opening and closing of the plug 856 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated. Figure 6C As shown, when the plug 856 is in the closed position, the protrusion 816 can be held within the cam path 814 by the ramp 818. Fig.6D As shown, to open the plug 856, the user can rotate the dial 851 in the second rotational direction, causing the protrusion 816 to slide down the ramp 818 and disengage from the cam path 814. Fig. 6E As shown, when the protrusion 816 is disengaged from the cam path 814, the plug 856 may automatically spring into the open position, exposing the nozzle 860 ( Fig. 6F ). The user can then release the turntable 851, causing it to automatically bounce back to its initial position clockwise. Figure 6G As shown, to close the plug 856 after squeezing the ingredients from the cup 852, the user can manually push the plug 856 back into engagement with the nozzle 860. Figure 6H As shown, when the plug 856 is pushed back to engage with the nozzle 860, the protrusion 816 on the plug 856 can engage with the ramp 818 again, causing the turntable 851 to move slightly counterclockwise. Fig.6I As shown, once the protrusion 816 moves over the ramp 818 , the dial 851 is free to rotate clockwise again, locking the plug 856 into the cam path 814 .

[0064] The present disclosure also contemplates that, in order to prevent a user from inserting a finger through the nozzle 860 into the cup 852 during extrusion, a cross rib (not shown) may be placed on the nozzle 860. Additionally, when the plug 856 is in the open position, a magnet (not shown) in the articulated plug 856 may interact with a reed switch in the housing 820 to allow the machine 800 to detect whether the plug 856 is open or closed. The machine 800 may also be configured to prevent a processing program from running when it is determined that the plug 856 is open.

[0065] 7A to 7J Another nozzle control assembly including a rotatable dial 951 for use with a micro-puree maker (eg, micro-puree 700 ) is illustrated in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. 7A to 7F Various aspects of the turntable 951 are shown in the open position, while Figure 7G to Figure 7J The turntable 951 is shown in a closed position.

[0066] like Fig. 7A As shown, the cup assembly 950 may include a cup 952 having a second end 952b and a first end 952a for coupling to a lid (e.g., lid 753). A sidewall 954 may extend between the first end 952a and the second end 952b and define an interior volume of the cup 952. The second end 952b of the cup may include a nozzle 960. The outer surface of the second end 952b may define at least one cam track 958, which extends at least partially around the second end 952b, as described elsewhere herein. The turntable 951 may be configured to rotate around the second end 952b of the cup 952. The turntable 951 may be permanently attached to the second end 952b of the cup 952, or the turntable 951 may be completely removed from the cup 952.

[0067] The turntable 951 may include a bottom wall 962 and a side wall 964 extending from the bottom wall 962. The side wall 964 may be configured to cover the second end 952b of the cup 952 when the turntable 951 is assembled to the cup 952. Figure 7B As shown, the second end 952b of the cup 952 can have at least one opening 959 that communicates with the interior volume of the cup 952 and the channel 961 of the nozzle 960. The inner surface of the bottom wall 962 can also include a seal 967 for sealing the channel 961 when the turntable 951 is in the closed position. The nozzle 960 can also include a plug or cap 956, which a user can use to selectively cover the nozzle 960 when not in use. The cap 956 can include internal threads (not shown) or other coupling features that allow it to be coupled to the nozzle 960. As shown in FIG. Figure 7C As shown, when the turntable 951 is in the open position, the space between the seal 967 and the opening 959 can be wide enough to allow the frozen ingredients to be easily squeezed out through the nozzle 960, while also being narrow enough to prevent a user from inserting a finger into the nozzle 960.

[0068] like Fig.7DAs shown, the inner surface of the side wall 964 can have at least one engagement feature (e.g., a pin 966) for engaging and sliding along the cam track 958. The number of pins 966 can be selected to be the same as the number of cam tracks 958 on the cup 952. For example, as shown, the number of pins 966 can be four pins 966 corresponding to four cam tracks 958. However, the present disclosure contemplates that the number of pins 966 can be different from the number of cam tracks 958. Fig. 7E As shown, the outer surface of the side wall 964 may include a first rib 968 configured to align with a second rib 970 on the second end 952b of the cup 952 when the turntable 951 is in the closed position.

[0069] Figure 7F and Figure 7G The pin 966 is illustrated rotated into the cam track 958 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7F and Figure 7G , for ease of illustration, the turntable 951 is shown in a perspective view. The cam track 958 may include a first portion 958a extending substantially parallel to the bottom edge 952c of the cup 952, a second portion 958b extending at an angle relative to the bottom edge 952c, and a third portion 958c also extending substantially parallel to the bottom edge 952c. In the open position of the turntable 951, the pin 966 may be positioned within the first portion 958a of the cam track 958. As the user rotates the turntable 951 (e.g., counterclockwise), the pin 966 may slide within the second portion 958b of the cam track 958 into the third portion 958c. The width of the third portion 958c may be selected so that an interference fit is formed between the pin 966 and the third portion 958. In this way, during freezing and processing of the ingredients in the cup 952, the turntable 951 is prevented from opening until a force applied to the turntable 951 is sufficient to move the pin 966 out of the third portion 958c.

[0070] FIG. 7H to FIG. 7J The turntable 951 is shown in a closed position according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7H and Fig.7I As shown, when the turntable 951 is in the closed position, the first rib 968 on the side wall 964 of the turntable 951 can be aligned with the second rib 970 on the second end 952b of the cup 952. In this way, the user can visually verify that the turntable 951 is in the fully closed position and the cup 952 is fully sealed before freezing the ingredients in the cup or starting the extrusion process. Figure 7JAs shown, when the turntable 951 is in the fully closed position, the seal 967 can close the opening 959 in the cup 952, thereby also sealing the channel 961 of the nozzle 960. The sealing of the channel 961 can prevent the ingredients from being accidentally squeezed out of the cup 952 during freezing and handling. Advantageously, the diameter of the seal 967 can be selected to be large enough so that the ice wall formed in the ingredients during freezing can be broken by unsealing the seal 967 from the opening 959.

[0071] In some embodiments, the present disclosure contemplates that a cup (e.g., cup 352, 352', 352", 752, 852, 952) from which an ingredient is processed and / or extruded can be vertically coupled to a top or upward facing surface of a housing (e.g., housing 120, 720) of a micro-puree machine (e.g., micro-puree machine 10, 700) in a reverse orientation (i.e., downward) so that a blade (e.g., blade 300, 713) moves upward and then downward to emulsify, process and / or mix the ingredients in the cup. The upward facing surface can face vertically upward or be inclined in an upward direction. In some embodiments, the micro-puree machine can be configured to automatically detect the size of the cup and, in response to the detection, extend the blade a certain depth and / or travel distance into the cup based on the detected size of the cup. Such cup size detection will advantageously enable the micro-puree machine to process ingredients in containers of different sizes, such as single-serving containers or larger containers.

[0072] Although the present disclosure particularly shows and describes preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may exist without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application as defined by the appended claims. The scope of the present application is intended to encompass such changes. Thus, the foregoing description of the embodiments of the present application is not intended to limit the full scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A nozzle control assembly for use with a cup for use with a micro-puree machine, the cup having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending between the first end and the second end, the sidewall defining an interior volume of the cup, the second end of the cup including a nozzle in fluid communication with the interior of the cup, the nozzle control assembly comprising: a plug configured to be arranged in a first position and a second position, wherein the plug covers the nozzle in the first position and does not cover the nozzle in the second position; and A turntable is rotatable relative to the second end of the cup, the turntable being configured to control extrusion of the processed ingredient from the interior volume of the cup through the nozzle.

2. The nozzle control assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The cup is configured to be oriented relative to the micro-puree machine in a manner such that the nozzle is positioned in a vertical downward direction.

3. The nozzle control assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The nozzle is integral with the cup.

4. The nozzle control assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The nozzle is positioned adjacent the second end of the cup.

5. The nozzle control assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The plug is a hinged plug.

6. The nozzle control assembly according to claim 5, wherein: The dial is configured to move the plug from the first position to the second position.

7. The nozzle control assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The plug is urged toward the second position.

8. The nozzle control assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The plug includes a projection configured to lock into a cam path on the dial when the plug is in the first position.

9. The nozzle control assembly of claim 8, wherein: The disk is forced in a first rotational direction, and wherein rotation of the rotatable disk in a second rotational direction causes the projection to disengage from the cam path.

10. The nozzle control assembly of claim 9, wherein: Manually moving the plug from the second position to the first position causes the rotatable dial to rotate in the second rotational direction.

11. The nozzle control assembly of claim 1, wherein: The outer surface of the second end of the cup defines at least one cam track extending at least partially around the second end of the cup.

12. The nozzle control assembly of claim 11, wherein: The inner surface of the turntable includes at least one pin for engaging the at least one cam track to rotate the turntable between an open position and a closed position.

13. The nozzle control assembly of claim 12, wherein: In the closed position, the seal on the turntable engages the opening of the cup, preventing extrusion of processed ingredients from the interior volume of the cup through the nozzle.

14. The nozzle control assembly of claim 13, wherein: In the open position, the seal on the turntable is spaced apart from the opening, allowing extrusion of processed ingredients from the interior volume of the cup through the nozzle.

15. The nozzle control assembly of claim 11, wherein: The plug is a cap.

16. A cup for use with a micro-puree machine, the cup comprising: a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending between the first end and the second end, the sidewall defining an interior volume of the cup, the second end of the cup including a nozzle in fluid communication with the interior of the cup; a plug configured to be arranged in a first position and a second position, wherein the plug covers the nozzle in the first position and does not cover the nozzle in the second position; and A turntable is rotatable relative to the second end of the cup, the turntable being configured to control extrusion of the processed ingredient from the interior volume of the cup through the nozzle.

17. The cup according to claim 13, wherein: The cup is configured to be oriented relative to the micro-puree machine in a manner such that the nozzle is positioned in a vertical downward direction.

18. The cup according to claim 13, wherein: The nozzle is integral with the cup.

19. The cup according to claim 13, wherein: The nozzle is positioned adjacent the second end of the cup.

20. The cup according to claim 13, wherein: The plug is one of a hinged plug and a cap.

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