Foaming assembly

Abstract

A foaming assembly comprising: a rotor structure configured to be driven about an axis, wherein the rotor structure comprises a cylindrical member disposed circumferentially about the axis about which it rotates and defining an interior chamber having an axial opening, the cylindrical member being configured with a plurality of perforations in communication with the interior chamber; and, a stator structure disposed at least partially about the rotor structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a foaming assembly. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the foaming assembly can be used in appliances for foaming milk to prepare beverages (such as caffeinated beverages), and in appliances for stirring food. Background Technology

[0002] Devices for foaming food are known. Milk foaming is used to create milk foam, which is used in the preparation of Italian-style coffees such as lattes and cappuccinos. Such milk foaming typically involves heating, for example, by injecting steam into the milk to be foamed.

[0003] A drawback of known milk foaming or frothing devices is that they typically require steam heating to produce the desired level of foam in the milk. Therefore, such devices may not be suitable for providing foamed milk for cold drinks such as tea lattes and milkshakes. The heating method used in these devices may also be less suitable for alternative milks such as oat milk and almond milk. On the other hand, mechanical milk foaming devices (such as milk foaming stirrers) may not introduce enough air or bubbles into the milk, which can result in poorly foamed milk with an undesirable (often flat) texture, thus reducing the milk's mouthfeel and ultimately the flavor of the consumed beverage. Known mechanical milk foaming devices are also prone to producing uneven foaming or excessive foam in the milk, leading to the "cream effect," which, due to poor texture integration, can cause undesirable clumps or droplets of foam during the pouring process of the prepared beverage.

[0004] Foaming processes are also required for foods other than milk, such as processing low-viscosity liquids, mixtures, and suspensions into foams and emulsions. Using heat in such applications can result in poor foaming or undesirable sensory properties, and known mechanical methods can also produce unsatisfactory results.

[0005] Furthermore, cleaning existing foaming equipment can often be tedious, hindering the use of these devices. And, failure to properly clean the equipment after use can pose health hazards and / or lead to food contamination during subsequent use.

[0006] Therefore, improved foaming devices are needed.

[0007] Throughout the instructions, the term "milk liquid" will be understood to include both animal and non-animal milk, such as soy milk, hazelnut milk, coconut milk, goat milk, or other "milk liquids" that can be foamed to produce milk foam. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The objective of at least one embodiment of the present invention is to overcome or at least improve one or more disadvantages of the prior art, such as one or more of the aforementioned disadvantages; or at least provide an alternative to the prior art.

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, a foaming assembly is provided, comprising: a rotor structure configured to be driven about an axis, wherein the rotor structure includes a cylindrical member circumferentially disposed about the axis around which it rotates and defines an internal cavity having an axial opening, the cylindrical member being configured to have a plurality of perforations communicating with the internal cavity; and a stator structure disposed at least partially around the rotor structure.

[0010] According to one aspect of the invention, a foaming apparatus having a motor is provided, wherein the foaming component of the foregoing aspect is releasably attached to the foaming apparatus and adapted to be coupled to the motor to transmit torque to a rotor structure.

[0011] According to one aspect of the invention, a method for foaming food is provided, the method comprising immersing the foaming component of the foregoing aspect into the food to be foamed until a plurality of protrusions are at least partially covered, and subsequently rotating a rotor structure about an axis.

[0012] Also disclosed is a foaming assembly for a milk foaming device, the foaming assembly comprising: a rotor structure configured to be driven about an axis, wherein the rotor structure includes a cylindrical member circumferentially disposed about the axis around which it rotates and defines an internal chamber having an axial opening, the cylindrical member rotating about the axis and the cylindrical member being configured with a plurality of perforations communicating with the internal chamber; and a stator structure including a baffle and a body disposed at least partially around the rotor structure, the body having one or more connecting members for releasably attaching to a steam rod.

[0013] Also disclosed is a foaming assembly for a milk foaming device, the foaming assembly comprising: a rotor structure configured to be driven about an axis, wherein the rotor structure includes a cylindrical member circumferentially disposed about the axis around which it rotates and defines an internal chamber having an axial opening, the cylindrical member being configured to have a plurality of perforations communicating with the internal chamber; and a stator structure including a baffle and a body disposed at least partially around the rotor structure, the body having one or more frame members for positioning the foaming assembly relative to the milk foaming device.

[0014] A foaming assembly for a milk foaming device is also disclosed, the foaming assembly comprising: a rotor structure configured to be driven about an axis, wherein the rotor structure includes a cylindrical member circumferentially disposed about the axis around which it rotates and defines an internal cavity having an axial opening, the cylindrical member being configured to have a plurality of perforations communicating with the internal cavity; and a stator structure including a baffle disposed at least partially around the rotor structure, wherein the foaming assembly is located at one end of an elongated rod. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a milk foaming device utilizing a foaming component according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Optional schematic diagram of milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Optional cross-sectional schematic diagram of milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Optional cross-sectional schematic diagram of milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A partial schematic diagram of optional milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0021] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A partial schematic diagram of optional milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a selectable partial cross-section of the milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0023] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Detailed view;

[0024] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a milk foaming device utilizing a foaming component according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 Optional schematic diagram of milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0026] Figure 11yes Figure 9 Optional schematic diagram of milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0027] Figure 12 yes Figure 9 Optional cross-sectional schematic diagram of milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0028] Figure 13 yes Figure 9 Optional cross-sectional schematic diagram of milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0029] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the stator structure according to the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the stator structure positioned relative to the kettle;

[0031] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a milk foaming device utilizing a foaming component according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 17 yes Figure 14 Optional schematic diagram of milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0033] Figure 18 yes Figure 14 Optional cross-sectional schematic diagram of milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0034] Figure 19 yes Figure 14 Optional cross-sectional schematic diagram of milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0035] Figure 20 yes Figure 14 Optional schematic diagram of milk foaming equipment and foaming components;

[0036] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of a foaming component according to one aspect of this disclosure;

[0037] Figure 22 yes Figure 19 Optional sectional timing view of the foaming component;

[0038] Figure 23 yes Figure 19 Optional schematic diagram of the foaming component;

[0039] Figure 24 yes Figure 19 Optional schematic diagram of the foaming component; and

[0040] Figure 25 yes Figure 19 Optional cross-sectional schematic diagram of the foaming component. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The foaming component 1 is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. Non-limiting embodiments of the foaming component 1 can be used to foam milk. Non-limiting embodiments of the foaming component 1 can be used to foam cold milk. Non-limiting embodiments of the foaming component 1 can be used to mix liquid or solid foods. Other uses of the foaming component 1 based on the principles set forth herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0042] The foaming assembly 1 includes a rotor structure 101 and a stator structure 113 disposed at least partially around the rotor structure 101. The rotor structure 101 is configured to be driven about a rotation axis, referred to herein as axis 20. In a non-limiting embodiment of the figures, the rotor structure 101 includes a cylindrical rotor member 102; however, member 102 may be other shapes, such as, but not limited to, truncated cone, barrel (i.e., convex), or bell-shaped.

[0043] The rotor component 102 has an outer surface 103 and an inner surface 104, and defines an internal chamber 105 with an axial opening 106. This arrangement provides fluid communication, allowing fluid to flow through the axial opening 106 and into the internal chamber 105.

[0044] The component 102 is configured to have a perforation 107 in its outer surface 103 that passes through the inner surface 104, such that fluid communication is provided through the perforation 107 to the inner chamber 105. With this arrangement, fluid can flow into the inner chamber 105 through the axial opening 106 and then exit from the inner chamber 105 through the perforation 107 from the outer surface 103 of the component 102.

[0045] As described above, the rotor structure 101 is typically located at least partially radially within the area of ​​the stator structure 113. In other words, the stator structure 113 is disposed at least partially around the rotor structure 101.

[0046] Typically, a portion of the stator structure 113 is at least partially arranged as a portion of the rotor structure 101 adjacent to the member 102. With this arrangement, when the rotor structure 101 rotates about the axis 20, at least a portion of the stator structure 113 is arranged radially around at least a portion of the rotor structure.

[0047] More specifically, the stator structure 113 may include a baffle 115 located at least partially radially adjacent to at least a portion of the member 102 having the perforation 107. A radial clearance 116 is provided between these radially adjacent portions of the rotor structure 101 and the stator structure 113.

[0048] In use, the rotation of the rotor structure 101 about the axis 20 draws fluid into the internal chamber 105 through the axial opening 106, and the fluid is discharged radially and tangentially from the internal chamber through the perforation 107. A portion of the fluid discharged from the perforation 107 is then drawn into the gap 116, where it is subjected to shearing action.

[0049] Without being bound by theory, it is assumed that the rotation of the rotor structure 101 about axis 20 facilitates the entry of some air into the fluid flowing through the axial opening 106 to the inner chamber 105. This air, manifested as bubbles in the fluid, is thought to undergo size reduction as it flows through the perforation 107 and is subsequently sheared as it flows through the gap 116 between the outer surface 103 of member 101 and the baffle 115, thus producing a dense foam. It has been surprisingly found that cold milk can be properly foamed in this way to prepare the type of milk foam used for coffee making without the addition of heat or steam.

[0050] Various parameters of the foaming component 1 contribute to the foaming performance and can be altered, thereby affecting the resulting foam texture. It has been found that a large rotor structure 101, providing a large-diameter cylindrical member 102 (or equivalent dimensions for other shaped members 102), high rotational speed, and small perforations 107, enables the foamed milk to possess high "foaming performance," i.e., producing dense and abundant milk foam typically desired in the preparation of espresso-style coffees such as lattes and cappuccinos. Similarly, the number of baffles 115 and minimizing the gap 116 between the baffles 116 and the outer surface 103 also contribute to the efficient generation of this desired type of milk foam.

[0051] Stator structure 113 typically includes baffles 115 arranged radially around columnar member 102. Typically, baffles 115 are planar and radially aligned with axis 10; however, other arrangements, such as parallel offset and helical twist, may be used as non-limiting examples. In addition to serving for foaming, baffles 115 also serve to prevent eddy formation, which can promote flow patterns favorable to foaming and prevent overflow.

[0052] Perforations 107 are typically arranged in a 2D array on the cylindrical member 102. Typically, the perforations 107 completely span the circumference of the cylindrical member 102. It has been found that perforations 107 with a size of approximately 1 mm or less are suitable for effective foaming of milk, including cold milk. Typically, the perforations 107 are circular with a diameter of 1 mm or less; however, other non-limiting shapes of the perforations 107 include slots, arcs, and any straight or curved shape, in accordance with the general principles of the applications described herein. For example, the perforations 107 can be provided by a mesh plate incorporated into the member 102.

[0053] Typically, the radial gap 116 between the outer surface 103 of component 102 and baffle 115 is minimized to promote fluid shear and thus foaming. Ideally, a gap 116 of 1 mm or less provides good foaming; however, preferably, the gap 116 is not minimized to the extent that component 101 rubs against baffle 115, which could reduce foaming performance.

[0054] It is advantageous if the foamed component 1 is formed of a material suitable for use in a dishwasher for ease of cleaning. One suitable, non-limiting method for constructing the foamed component 1, which includes a stator structure 113 and a rotor structure 101, is to use a food- and dishwasher-safe polymer for plastic molding.

[0055] Various non-limiting devices using the foaming component 1 are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. See details... Figures 1 to 7 The image shows a type of milk foaming device 2 for preparing milk foam, which is used to prepare beverages such as lattes and cappuccinos.

[0056] For clarity, Figures 1 to 7 The milk frothing device 2 is shown as separate from the main unit used with the device. Typically, such a milk frothing device 2 is integrated with a coffee maker; however, this milk frothing device 2 can be supplied separately from the coffee maker and includes other necessary components typically found in a coffee maker, such as steam-generating devices, such as a boiler.

[0057] The milk foaming device 2 includes a main body 201 having a base 202 and a support 203, to which a steam rod 204 is pivotally mounted via a mounting member 205. The base 202 is adapted to support a pitcher 20 for holding milk to be foamed. In use, the steam rod 204 pivots upward to position itself within the pitcher 20 by moving the pitcher 20. Then, with the steam rod 204 positioned within the pitcher 20, it pivots downward together with the pitcher 20, so that the pitcher 200 rests on the base 202, and the steam rod 204 within the pitcher 20 is ready for foaming.

[0058] The described steam rod 204 is bent, with a generally horizontal portion 206 provided between the pivot mount 205 and the generally vertical discharge end 207 of the steam rod 204.

[0059] Figures 1-7 The foaming component 1 shown is adapted to be removably attached to the steam rod 204, such that the foaming component is located within the pot 20 together with the steam rod 204 during use. In this way, the relevant parts of the foaming component 1 (including the axial opening 106, the member 102 with perforations 107, and the baffle) are adapted to be immersed in milk located within the pot 20, which is supported on the base 202.

[0060] The stator structure 113 of the foaming assembly 1 includes a body 114 having a connecting member 117 for removable attachment to the steam rod 204. In the described embodiment, although any suitable connecting member 117 can be used, the connecting member 117 is of the type referred to as a C-clamp and sleeve. Since the steam rod 204 is bent, the body 114 is provided with a sleeve-type connecting member 117 that slides onto the vertical portion 207 and a C-clamp-type connecting member 117 that clamps onto the horizontal portion 206. This arrangement can facilitate restricting the connection between the foaming assembly 1 and the steam rod 204 to a desired location; however, it can also provide other types of detachable connections.

[0061] The stator component 113 also includes a hub 118 for rotatably receiving a shaft 108 of the rotor structure 101. Both the shaft 108 and the hub 118 are aligned with axis 20 and at least partially provide rotatable mounting of the rotor structure 101 to the stator structure 113. The shaft 108 is located at an axial end of the cylindrical component 102 opposite an axial opening 106, which, in use, is closer to the bottom of the vessel 20. The rotatable mounting of the rotor structure 101 to the stator structure 113 is configured to suspend the rotor structure 101 above the bottom of the vessel 20 in use, thereby preventing the axial opening 106 from being blocked or unduly restricting flow through it. In the described exemplary embodiment, the shaft 108 is configured with an enlarged end 109 to limit downward movement of the shaft 108 through the hub in the direction of axis 10, thereby defining the position of the rotor structure 101 relative to the stator structure 113 in that direction.

[0062] The rotor structure 101 also includes a rotary coupling 110 to drive the rotation of the rotor structure 101 relative to the stator structure 113. The described embodiment uses a magnetic coupling 110 instead of a physical mechanical connection, allowing the motor 208 to be located within the base 202 to transmit torque to the rotor structure 101 through the bottom of the pot 202, and also facilitating easy separation of the milk foaming assembly 1 from the milk foaming device 2. Furthermore, the magnetic coupling 110 can be used to reduce vibration, which in turn allows for, for example, tighter tolerances in the gap 116 to configure the assembly 1 to the desired foaming performance, and also reduces wear.

[0063] The magnetic connector 110 includes a flange portion 111 of a cylindrical member 102 adjacent to an axial opening 106, the flange portion 111 being embedded with an angled array of alternating magnetic poles (multipole) magnets 112 arranged in an even number. A corresponding rotary connector 209 with an annular multipole magnet array is disposed in a base 202 and positioned to magnetically couple with the magnetic connector 110 of the rotor structure 101 in use. Typically, the offset between the two magnetic connectors 110, 209 is between approximately 5 and 10 mm; however, this offset is determined by variables including the number and strength of the magnets, and therefore other arrangements can be selected. The rotary connector 209 within the base 202 is rotatably driven by a motor 208 similarly located within the base 202, thereby providing torque to the magnetic connector 110 and thus to the rotor structure 101 when the motor 208 is energized. The flange portion 111 also increases the contact surface with the liquid, which in turn can accelerate the foaming process.

[0064] The described milk foaming assembly 1 is advantageously adapted to be connected to the steam wand 204 at the desired location for the foaming operation, and is also easily disassembled for easy cleaning. For example, once the foaming operation is complete, the milk foaming assembly 1 can be simply placed in a dishwasher for cleaning.

[0065] Now for reference Figures 8-15 An alternative milk frothing device 2 utilizing an alternative embodiment of the frothing component 1 is shown. This milk frothing device 2 does not include the steam wand 204, and is therefore particularly suitable as a stand-alone unit separate from a wider range of coffee makers.

[0066] Instead of using connecting members 117 to latch onto components such as the steam rod 204 to properly position the foaming assembly 1 within the kettle 2 for foaming operations, the body 114 of the stator structure 113 is configured as a frame that interacts with the kettle 20 to achieve correct positioning relative to it. Figures 8-13 In one embodiment, the body 114 is configured to frictionally engage with 2 to resist angular movement during use. Figure 14 and Figure 15In one embodiment, the stator structure 113 is configured with a stator connecting member 117 to interact with the kettle 2, thereby preventing movement of the kettle 2 during use. As described, the stator structure 113 may be configured to have two protrusions 128 extending downward from the upper portion of the body 114, with a portion of the handle of the kettle 2 configured to insert into the gap between the protrusions 128, thereby resisting angular movement of the stator structure 113. Also as shown, a plurality of lugs 129 may extend from the upper portion of the body 114, the lugs 129 being configured to hook onto the edge of the kettle 2. The lugs 129 may, for example, elastically deform by providing a narrowed area, such that they flare outward upon contact with the kettle 2, thereby providing an inward bias to increase their contact with the kettle 2. In different embodiments, the body may have one or more of the friction fit, protrusions, and lugs individually or in any combination.

[0067] The main body 114 can be partially considered as a radial extension of the baffle 115 relative to the axis 10, thereby forming a frame member 119. Some portions of the frame member 119 are configured to engage with portions of the inner wall of the pot 20, such that the foaming assembly 1 is self-centered and properly positioned within the pot 20 for the foaming operation. The uppermost portion of the main body 114 can be considered as a flange-type frame member 119 adapted to rest on the edge of the pot 20.

[0068] The base 202 contains a motor 208 with a magnetic rotary connector 209, for reference previously. Figures 1-7 The described method transmits torque to the magnetic coupling 110 of the rotor structure 101. The attraction between the motor rotary coupling 209 and the rotary coupling 110 of the rotor structure 101 also helps to facilitate the proper positioning of the foaming assembly 1 within the pot 20 of the foaming device 2 for foaming operation.

[0069] The described milk foaming assembly 1 is advantageously suited for proper placement within the pitcher 20 of the milk foaming device 2 for foaming operations and is easily removable for convenient cleaning. In embodiments, some portions of the foaming assembly 1 may be configured with handles (not shown), such as portions of the stator structure body, to simplify the placement and removal of the foaming assembly 1 relative to the milk foaming device 2.

[0070] Now for reference Figures 16 to 20 An alternative milk foaming device 2 utilizing an alternative embodiment of the foaming component 1 is shown. Here, the foaming component 1 is located at one end of an elongated rod 120. The other end of the rod 120 is removably attached to a motor 208, which is pivotally mounted to a bracket 203 of the milk foaming device 2 via a mounting member 211. This arrangement of the rod 120 attached to the motor 208 allows the rod 120 to pivot about a pivotable mounting member 211 of the motor 208, to which the rod is detachably connected.

[0071] A pivotable mounting member 211 between the motor 208 and the bracket 203 suspends the motor 208 above a base 202 for supporting the milk foaming assembly 2. The base 202 has a pot positioning feature 210 in the form of a raised ring on its surface, the size of which corresponds to the diameter of the bottom of the pot 20, such that the bottom of the pot 20 is tightly accommodated within the raised ring pot positioning feature 210. With this arrangement, the pot 20 is properly positioned relative to the rod 120 and the foaming assembly 1 for the foaming operation.

[0072] A shaft 121 is disposed within a rod 120 for rotatably connecting a motor 208 and a rotor structure 101. As shown, one end of the shaft 121 is rotatably connected to a shaft 108 of the rotor structure 101, which is received by a hub 118 of a stator structure 113. The other end of the shaft 121 is rotatably connected to the motor 208, such that torque is transmitted from the motor 208 to the rotor structure 101 via the shaft 121. A rotary coupling 110 between the shaft 121 and the motor 208 may be a mechanical coupling 210. Bearings 122 and seals 123 within the rod 120 may be positioned around the shaft 121 as needed.

[0073] Advantageously, the foaming assembly 1 is removably attached to the milk foaming device 2. In the described embodiment, the rotor structure 101, stator structure 113, and rod 120 are provided as a single component that can be detached from the motor 208 for easy cleaning. Any suitable method can be used for the releasable connection 124 between the rod 120 and the motor 208, including but not limited to magnetic fasteners, clips, and / or bayonet / hook fasteners.

[0074] Now refer to Figures 21 to 25 An embodiment of a foaming component 1 suitable for food processing equipment 2 (such as a stick mixer) is shown for processing low-viscosity liquids, mixtures and suspensions into milk foam and emulsions.

[0075] Similar to Figures 16 to 20 In the embodiment shown, the foaming assembly 1 is located at one end of an elongated rod 120, the other end of which is adapted to be releasably connected to a motor 208 to transmit torque to the rotor structure 101 via a shaft 121 inside the rod 120.

[0076] The main body 114 of the stator structure 113 includes an annular sheath 125 applied around the baffle 115. The main body 114 further includes a port 126 above the sheath 125 for providing flow from the foaming assembly 1. The bottom of the sheath 125 has a slot 127 that provides space for flow when the sheath 125 contacts the container 2 containing the food to be processed.

[0077] The following are exemplary provisions regarding non-limiting embodiments of this disclosure:

[0078] Exemplary item A1: A foaming assembly for a milk foaming device, the foaming assembly comprising: a rotor structure configured to be driven about an axis, wherein the rotor structure includes a cylindrical member circumferentially disposed about the axis around which it rotates and defines an internal chamber having an axial opening, the cylindrical member being configured to have a plurality of through-holes communicating with the internal chamber; and,

[0079] A stator structure comprising a baffle and a body arranged at least partially around a rotor structure, the body having one or more connecting members for releasable attachment to steam rods.

[0080] Exemplary clause A2: The foaming assembly according to clause A1, wherein the rotor structure further includes a magnetic connector.

[0081] Exemplary clause A3: The foamed assembly according to clause A2, wherein the magnetic connector includes a flange at or near the end of the cylindrical member, the flange carrying an even number of magnets of alternating polarities for interaction with a corresponding magnetic connector of the motor.

[0082] Exemplary clause A4: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses A1-A3, wherein the rotor structure is rotatably mounted to the stator structure.

[0083] Exemplary clause A5: The foaming assembly according to clause A4, wherein the rotor structure includes a shaft coaxial with an axis, the shaft being housed within a hub of the stator structure body.

[0084] Exemplary Clause A6: The foaming assembly according to Clause A5, when subordinate to Clause A2, may optionally be combined with any other preceding Clauses A1-A4, wherein the shaft is located at the end of the cylindrical member opposite the magnetic connector.

[0085] Exemplary clause A7: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses A1-A6, wherein the stator structure includes baffles arranged radially around the cylindrical member.

[0086] Exemplary item A8: The foaming assembly according to item A7, wherein the baffle is planar and radially aligned with the axis.

[0087] Exemplary clause A9: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses A1-A8, wherein the perforations are arranged in a 2D array on the cylindrical member.

[0088] Exemplary clause A10: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses A1-A9, wherein the perforation completely spans the circumference of the cylindrical member.

[0089] Exemplary clause A11: A foamed assembly according to any one of clauses A1-A10, wherein the perforations have a size of 1 mm or less.

[0090] Exemplary clause A12: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses A1-A11, wherein the perforations are circular, straight, slotted, arc-shaped, and / or curved.

[0091] Exemplary clause A13: The foaming assembly according to clause A12, wherein the perforation is a circle with a diameter of 1 mm or less.

[0092] Exemplary clause A14: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses A1-A13, wherein the perforation is formed by drilling, molding, stamping, laser processing and / or grooving.

[0093] Exemplary clause A15: A foamed assembly according to any one of clauses A1-A14, wherein a gap of 1 mm or less is provided between the outer surface of the cylindrical member and the stator structure.

[0094] Exemplary item A16: A method of foaming food, comprising immersing a foaming component, as described in any one of items A1-A14, into the food to be foamed until a plurality of protrusions are at least partially covered, and subsequently rotating the rotor structure about the axis.

[0095] Example item A17: The method according to item A16, wherein the food is cold milk liquid.

[0096] Exemplary item B1: A foaming assembly for a milk foaming device, the foaming assembly comprising: a rotor structure configured to be driven about an axis, wherein the rotor structure includes a cylindrical member circumferentially disposed about the axis around which it rotates and defines an internal chamber having an axial opening, the cylindrical member being configured to have a plurality of perforations communicating with the internal chamber; and,

[0097] A stator structure comprising at least partially surrounding the rotor structure a baffle and a body having one or more frame members for positioning the foaming assembly relative to the milk foaming device.

[0098] Exemplary clause B2: The foaming assembly according to clause B1, wherein the rotor structure further includes a magnetic connector.

[0099] Exemplary clause B3: The foaming assembly according to clause B2, wherein the magnetic connector includes a flange at or near the end of the cylindrical member, the flange carrying an even number of magnets of alternating polarities for interaction with a corresponding magnetic connector of the motor.

[0100] Exemplary clause B4: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses B1-B3, wherein the rotor structure is rotatably mounted to the stator structure.

[0101] Exemplary clause B5: The foaming assembly according to clause B4, wherein the rotor structure includes a shaft coaxial with an axis, the shaft being housed within a hub of the stator structure body.

[0102] Exemplary Clause B6: The foaming assembly according to Clause B5, when subordinate to Clause B2, may optionally be combined with any other preceding Clauses B1-B4, wherein the shaft is located at the end of the cylindrical member opposite the magnetic connector.

[0103] Exemplary clause B7: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses B1-B6, wherein the stator structure includes baffles arranged radially around the cylindrical member.

[0104] Exemplary clause B8: The foaming assembly according to clause B7, wherein the baffle is planar and radially aligned with the axis.

[0105] Exemplary clause B9: The foaming assembly according to clause B7 or B8, wherein the frame member is at least partially formed by the radial extension of the baffle.

[0106] Exemplary clause B10: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses B1-B9, wherein the frame member includes an annular flange adapted to abut against the edge of the container.

[0107] Exemplary clause B11: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses B1-B10, wherein the perforations are arranged in a 2D array on the cylindrical member.

[0108] Exemplary clause B12: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses B1-B11, wherein the perforation completely spans the circumference of the cylindrical member.

[0109] Exemplary clause B13: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses B1-B12, wherein the perforations have a size of 1 mm or less.

[0110] Exemplary clause B14: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses B1-B13, wherein the perforations are circular, straight, slotted, arc-shaped, and / or curved.

[0111] Exemplary clause B15: The foaming assembly according to clause B14, wherein the perforation is a circle with a diameter of 1 mm or less.

[0112] Exemplary clause B16: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses B1-B15, wherein the perforation is formed by drilling, molding, stamping, laser processing and / or grooving.

[0113] Exemplary clause B17: A foamed assembly according to any one of clauses B1-B16, wherein a gap of 1 mm or less is provided between the outer surface of the cylindrical member and the stator structure.

[0114] Exemplary item B18: A method of foaming food, the method comprising placing a foaming assembly in a container such that a frame member at least partially contacts the container; and the food in the container at least partially covers a plurality of protrusions, and subsequently rotating a rotor structure about an axis.

[0115] Example item B19: The method according to item B18, wherein the food is cold milk liquid.

[0116] Exemplary item C1: A foaming assembly for a milk foaming device, the foaming assembly comprising: a rotor structure configured to be driven about an axis, wherein the rotor structure includes a cylindrical member circumferentially disposed about the axis around which it rotates and defines an internal chamber having an axial opening, the cylindrical member being configured to have a plurality of through-holes communicating with the internal chamber; and,

[0117] The stator structure includes baffles that are at least partially disposed around the rotor structure.

[0118] The foaming component is located at one end of the slender rod.

[0119] Exemplary clause C2: The foaming assembly according to clause C1, wherein the opposite ends of the rod are adapted to be releasably connected to a milk foaming device.

[0120] Exemplary clause C3: The foaming assembly according to clause C1, wherein the opposite ends of the rod are adapted to be releasably connected to a rod-shaped mixer.

[0121] Exemplary clause C4: The foaming assembly according to clauses C1-C3, wherein the stator structure includes a body having an annular shroud surrounding the baffle, the body having a port at an upper portion, and the shroud having a slot at a lower portion.

[0122] Exemplary clause C5: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses C1-C4, wherein the rotor structure is rotatably mounted to the stator structure.

[0123] Exemplary clause C6: The foaming assembly according to clause C5, wherein the rotor structure includes a shaft coaxial with an axis, the shaft being housed within a hub of the stator structure body.

[0124] Exemplary clause C7: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses C1-C6, wherein the stator structure includes baffles arranged radially around the cylindrical member.

[0125] Exemplary clause C8: The foaming assembly according to clause C7, wherein the baffle is planar and radially aligned with the axis.

[0126] Exemplary clause C9: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses C1-C8, wherein the perforations are arranged in a 2D array on the cylindrical member.

[0127] Exemplary clause C10: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses C1-C9, wherein the perforation completely spans the circumference of the cylindrical member.

[0128] Exemplary clause C11: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses C1-C10, wherein the perforations have a size of 1 mm or less.

[0129] Exemplary clause C12: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses C1-C11, wherein the perforations are circular, straight, slotted, arc-shaped, and / or curved.

[0130] Exemplary clause C13: The foaming assembly according to clause C12, wherein the perforation is a circle with a diameter of 1 mm or less.

[0131] Exemplary clause C14: A foaming assembly according to any one of clauses C1-C13, wherein the perforation is formed by drilling, molding, stamping, laser processing and / or grooving.

[0132] Exemplary clause C15: A foamed assembly according to any one of clauses C1-C14, wherein a gap of 1 mm or less is provided between the outer surface of the cylindrical member and the stator structure.

[0133] Exemplary item C16: A method of foaming food, comprising immersing a foaming component, as described in any one of items C1-C14, into the food to be foamed until a plurality of protrusions are at least partially covered, and subsequently rotating the rotor structure about the axis.

[0134] Example item C17: The method according to item C16, wherein the food is cold milk liquid.

[0135] The various embodiments of the invention described above are given by way of example only and not by way of limitation. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The invention should not be limited to any of the exemplary embodiments described above.

[0136] Parts list

[0137] 1. Foaming Component

[0138] 10 axis lines

[0139] 101 Rotor Structure

[0140] 102 Rotor Components

[0141] 103 Component outer surface

[0142] 104 Inner surface of component

[0143] 105 Internal chambers of component

[0144] 106 Axial opening of component

[0145] 107 Main body perforation

[0146] 108 Rotor structural shaft

[0147] 109 Enlarged end of shaft

[0148] 110 Rotor Structure Rotary Coupler

[0149] 111 Rotor structure flange portion

[0150] 112 Rotor structure flange magnet

[0151] 113 Stator Structure

[0152] 114 Stator Structure Main Body

[0153] 115 baffle

[0154] 116 gap

[0155] 117 Stator structural connection components

[0156] 118 Stator Structure Hub

[0157] 119 Stator main frame components

[0158] 120 strokes

[0159] 121 shaft

[0160] 122 bearing

[0161] 123 Seals

[0162] 124 Releaseable Connection

[0163] 125 protective sleeve

[0164] Port 126

[0165] 127 slot

[0166] 128 protrusions

[0167] 129 Protruding Ears

[0168] 2. Milk foaming / food processing equipment

[0169] 20 pots

[0170] 201 Main body of milk foaming equipment

[0171] 202 Base of milk foaming equipment

[0172] 203 Support frame for milk foaming equipment

[0173] 204 Steamer Milk

[0174] 205 Steam rod pivot mounting component

[0175] 206. Roughly horizontal section of the steam rod.

[0176] 207 The roughly vertical part of the steam rod

[0177] 208 motor

[0178] 209 Motor Rotary Connector

[0179] 209211 Motor pivot mount

[0180] 210 / 212 Kettle positioning feature

Claims

1. A foaming component, comprising: A rotor structure configured to be driven about an axis, wherein the rotor structure includes a cylindrical member circumferentially disposed about the axis around which it rotates and defines an internal cavity having an axial opening, the cylindrical member being configured to have a plurality of through-holes communicating with the internal cavity; and, A stator structure, which is arranged at least partially around the rotor structure.

2. The foaming component according to claim 1, wherein, The stator structure includes baffles arranged radially around the cylindrical member.

3. The foaming component according to claim 2, wherein, The baffle is planar and radially aligned with the axis.

4. The foaming component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The perforations are arranged in a 2D array on the cylindrical member.

5. The foaming component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The perforation completely spans the circumference of the cylindrical member.

6. The foaming component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The perforation has a size of 1 mm or smaller.

7. The foaming component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The perforations can be circular, straight, slotted, arc-shaped, and / or curved.

8. The foaming component according to claim 7, wherein, The perforation is a circle with a diameter of 1 mm or less.

9. The foaming component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The perforation is formed by drilling, molding, stamping, laser processing and / or slit widening.

10. The foaming component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A gap of 1 mm or less is provided between the outer surface of the cylindrical member and the stator structure.

11. A foaming device with a motor, wherein, The foaming component of any one of claims 1 to 10 is releasably attached to the foaming device and is adapted to be coupled to the motor to transmit torque to the rotor structure.

12. A method for foaming food, the method comprising immersing a foaming component according to any one of claims 1-10 into the food to be foamed until a plurality of protrusions are at least partially covered, and subsequently rotating the rotor structure about the axis.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The food item is cold milk liquid.

Images