Bowl assembly for micropuree machine

Abstract

A bowl assembly for a micropuree machine includes a processing bowl open at both ends. One end of the bowl is capped with a process cap and the other end of the bowl is capped with an extrusion cap. The processing cover includes a blade engageable with a driven shaft of the machine for processing ingredients. The treatment cap can also be coupled to a nozzle for dispensing the finished product during the extrusion process. The extrusion cap includes a plunger that is also engageable with the driven shaft for extruding the treated ingredients through the nozzle as the driven shaft moves through the bowl.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a food processing device, and more particularly to a micro-puree machine capable of processing, aerating and extruding ingredients. Background Art

[0002] Home kitchen appliances intended for making ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, smoothies, etc. are known in the art. Typically, a user adds a series of non-frozen ingredients to a mixing bowl, which has typically been previously cooled, for example, in a freezer. The ingredients are then stirred by one or more stir bars (sometimes referred to as stirrers), while a refrigeration mechanism simultaneously freezes the ingredients. Known disadvantages of these devices include, but are not limited to, the need for a significant amount of time and effort by the user to complete the ice cream making process. Machines of this nature are impractical for preparing most non-dessert foods.

[0003] An alternative type of machine known for making frozen foods is referred to herein as a micro-puree machine. Typically, machines of this nature rotate a blade and insert it into a pre-frozen ingredient or combination of ingredients. Micro-puree machines are capable of making not only frozen desserts such as ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, smoothies, etc., but also non-dessert foods such as non-dessert purees and mousses. Utility Model Content

[0004] In some embodiments, the present disclosure describes an extrusion assembly for a micro-puree machine for pushing processed ingredients out of a nozzle coupled to a processing bowl. The extrusion function can be integrated into a program on a main user interface with a predetermined translation speed / flow rate.

[0005] In some embodiments, the present disclosure also describes a bowl assembly for a micro-puree machine, the bowl assembly comprising a processing bowl. In one embodiment, the position of the bowl can be reversible between the processing step and the extrusion step without requiring removal and replacement of a cover or exposure of ingredients to the environment during operation. In another embodiment, both the processing cover and the extrusion cover can be used to cover the same open end of the processing bowl, while the other end of the bowl comprises an extrusion nozzle.

[0006] An embodiment of a bowl assembly for a micro-puree machine of the present disclosure includes a bowl including at least one sidewall defining an interior volume. The at least one sidewall extends between a first open end of the bowl and a second end opposite the first open end. The bowl is engageable to the micro-puree machine between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein the bowl is configured to process ingredients within the interior volume, wherein the bowl is configured to extrude the processed ingredients from the interior volume.

[0007] In an embodiment, the bowl assembly further comprises a first cover removably coupled to a first open end of the bowl. The first cover comprises a plunger engageable with a driven shaft of a micro-puree machine to allow the plunger to move axially within the internal volume of the bowl. The first cover comprises a blade engageable with a driven shaft to allow the blade to rotate and move axially within the internal volume of the bowl. In an embodiment, the second end of the bowl comprises an end wall, and the bowl comprises an opening located in one of the end wall or at least one side wall near the second end of the bowl. The opening defines a passage for fluid communication between the internal volume of the bowl and the outside of the bowl. The bowl is capable of reversing between a first configuration and a second configuration along its main axis. In an embodiment, the bowl assembly further comprises a nozzle for extruding processed ingredients from the internal volume when the bowl is in the second configuration. The first cover is coupled to the first open end of the bowl. The first cover includes: a blade that can be engaged with a driven shaft of a micro-puree machine to rotate and / or move the blade axially within the internal volume of the bowl; and an opening that defines a passage for fluid communication between the internal volume of the bowl and the nozzle. In an embodiment, the bowl assembly also includes a second cover that is removably connected to the second end of the bowl. The second cover is configured to accommodate a plunger that can be engaged with a driven shaft of a micro-puree machine to move the plunger axially within the internal volume of the bowl. In an embodiment, the bowl assembly also includes a first cover that is removably connected to the first open end of the bowl. The first cover includes a blade that can be engaged with a driven shaft to rotate and move the blade axially within the internal volume of the bowl. The second cover is removably connected to the first open end of the bowl. The second cover includes a plunger that can be engaged with a driven shaft of a micro-puree machine to move the plunger axially within the internal volume of the bowl. In an embodiment, the bowl includes an opening located on at least one sidewall near the second end of the bowl. The opening defines a passage for fluid communication between the interior volume of the bowl and the exterior of the bowl.

[0008] In other embodiments, a bowl assembly for a micro-puree machine of the present disclosure includes a bowl including a sidewall defining an interior volume. The sidewall extends between a first end of the bowl and a second end opposite the first end. The bowl includes an opening in fluid communication with a nozzle. A first cover is configured to be removably coupled to the first end of the bowl. A plunger is engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to axially move the plunger within the interior volume of the bowl from the first end toward the second end. Movement of the plunger toward the second end of the bowl causes the processed ingredients within the interior volume to be extruded from the nozzle.

[0009] In other embodiments, the first cover includes a plunger. The first end of the bowl is configured to be detachably connected to the second cover when the first cover is separated from the first end of the bowl. The second cover includes a blade. In an embodiment, the blade can engage with a driven shaft of a micro-puree machine to allow the blade to move axially from the first end of the bowl toward the second end within the internal volume of the bowl. In an embodiment, the second end of the bowl includes an end wall, an opening is disposed in one of the end wall or at least one side wall near the second end of the bowl, and the opening defines a channel for fluid communication between the internal volume of the bowl and the nozzle. In an embodiment, the bowl is oriented so that the blade can engage with the driven shaft, and the driven shaft is configured to allow the blade to move axially from the second end of the bowl toward the first end within the internal volume of the bowl. In an embodiment, the bowl assembly also includes a cover removably connected to the second end of the bowl. The cover includes a plunger. In an embodiment, the first cover includes a blade that can engage with a driven shaft of a micro-puree machine. In an embodiment, the first cover includes a plunger. In an embodiment, the bowl assembly further comprises one or more retaining elements for retaining the blade during movement of the plunger to extrude the processed ingredient. In an embodiment, the one or more retaining elements are a plurality of ball bearings for selectively engaging one of the blades alone, or engaging both the blade and the plunger. In an embodiment, the central support hub of the blade comprises a first groove and a second groove, the cover comprises a first one or more engagement features to engage the first groove during processing of the ingredient, and the plunger comprises a second one or more features to engage the second groove during extrusion of the processed ingredient. In an embodiment, the bowl assembly further comprises an outer bowl into which the bowl is mounted during processing.

[0010] In some embodiments, the present disclosure describes a bowl assembly for a micro-puree machine, the bowl assembly comprising:

[0011] a bowl including at least one sidewall defining an interior volume, the at least one sidewall extending between a first open end of the bowl and a second end opposite the first open end;

[0012] wherein the bowl is engageable to the micro-puree machine between a first configuration in which the bowl is configured to process ingredients within the interior volume and a second configuration in which the bowl is configured to extrude processed ingredients from the interior volume.

[0013] In further embodiments, further comprising a first cover removably coupleable to the first open end of the bowl;

[0014] wherein the first cover includes a plunger engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to move the plunger axially within the interior volume of the bowl; and

[0015] Wherein the first cover includes a blade engageable with the driven shaft to rotate and axially move the blade within the interior volume of the bowl.

[0016] In further embodiments, the second end of the bowl includes an end wall, and the bowl includes an opening in one of the end wall or the at least one side wall proximate the second end of the bowl; and

[0017] Wherein the opening defines a passage for fluid communication between the interior volume of the bowl and an exterior of the bowl.

[0018] In further embodiments, the bowl is reversible along its major axis between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0019] In other embodiments, it also includes:

[0020] a nozzle for extruding the processed ingredient from the interior volume when the bowl is in the second configuration; and

[0021] a first cover coupled to the first open end of the bowl, the first cover comprising: a blade engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to rotate and / or move axially within the interior volume of the bowl; and an opening defining a passage for fluid communication between the interior volume of the bowl and the nozzle.

[0022] In other embodiments, it also includes:

[0023] a second cover removably coupleable to the second end of the bowl;

[0024] Wherein the second cover is configured to receive a plunger engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to move the plunger axially within the interior volume of the bowl.

[0025] In other embodiments, it also includes:

[0026] a first cover removably coupleable to the first open end of the bowl, wherein the first cover includes a blade engageable with a driven shaft to rotate and axially move the blade within the interior volume of the bowl; and

[0027] A second cover removably coupleable to the first open end of the bowl, wherein the second cover includes a plunger engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to move the plunger axially within the interior volume of the bowl.

[0028] In additional embodiments, the bowl includes an opening on the at least one sidewall proximate the second end of the bowl, and wherein the opening defines a passage for fluid communication between the interior volume of the bowl and an exterior of the bowl.

[0029] In some embodiments, the present disclosure describes a bowl assembly for a micro-puree machine, the bowl assembly comprising:

[0030] a bowl including a sidewall defining an interior volume, the sidewall extending between a first end of the bowl and a second end opposite the first end, the bowl including an opening in fluid communication with a nozzle;

[0031] a first cover configured to be removably coupled to the first end of the bowl;

[0032] a plunger engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to move the plunger axially within the interior volume of the bowl from the first end toward the second end; and

[0033] wherein movement of the plunger toward the second end of the bowl causes the processed ingredient within the interior volume to be expelled from the nozzle.

[0034] In additional embodiments, the first cover includes the plunger, and wherein the first end of the bowl is configured to be removably coupled to a second cover when the first cover is separated from the first end of the bowl, the second cover including a blade.

[0035] In further embodiments, the blade is engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to move the blade axially within the interior volume of the bowl from the first end toward the second end of the bowl.

[0036] In further embodiments, the second end of the bowl comprises an end wall,

[0037] The opening is disposed in one of the end wall or at least one of the side walls proximate the second end of the bowl, and

[0038] The opening defines a passage for fluid communication between the interior volume of the bowl and the nozzle.

[0039] In further embodiments, the bowl is oriented to enable engagement of a blade with the driven shaft, and the driven shaft is configured to axially move the blade within the interior volume of the bowl from the second end toward the first end of the bowl.

[0040] In additional embodiments, further comprising a cap removably coupleable to the second end of the bowl, wherein the cap comprises the plunger.

[0041] In further embodiments, the first cover includes a blade that is engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine.

[0042] In further embodiments, the first cap comprises the plunger.

[0043] In further embodiments, one or more retaining elements are further included for retaining said blade during said movement of said plunger to extrude the processed ingredient.

[0044] In further embodiments, the one or more retaining elements are a plurality of ball bearings for selectively engaging one of the blades alone, or engaging both the blade and the plunger.

[0045] In additional embodiments, the central support hub of the blade includes a first groove and a second groove, the cover includes a first one or more engagement features to engage the first groove during the processing of the ingredient, and the plunger includes a second one or more features to engage the second groove during the extrusion of the processed ingredient.

[0046] In further embodiments, an outer bowl is also included, wherein the bowl is mounted within the outer bowl during processing.

[0047] 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 are not restrictive of the aspects of the disclosure as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] The present disclosure will be more fully understood by reference to the detailed description in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0049] Figure 1A An isometric view of a micro-puree machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0050] Figure 1B A bowl assembly with the bowl assembly removed from the housing is shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1AMicro puree machine.

[0051] Figure 1C to Figure 1G According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1A Embodiments of an extrusion assembly, a bowl assembly and / or a nozzle assembly of a micro-puree machine;

[0052] Figure 2A shows a portion of another micro-puree machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0053] Figure 2B shows that some embodiments of the present disclosure may be coupled to Figure 2A A reversible bowl assembly of a micro puree machine;

[0054] Figure 3A Another reversible bowl assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0055] Figure 3B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3A a blade of a reversible bowl assembly;

[0056] Figure 3C According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3A and Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of the reversible bowl assembly and the first cover;

[0057] Figure 3D shows 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;

[0058] Figure 4A and Figure 4B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D Use of a reversible bowl assembly;

[0059] Figure 5 An inflation system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0060] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6L Another micro-puree machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0061] Figure 6M Another micro-puree machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0062] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D Another extrusion assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0063] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C Another extrusion assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0064] FIG. 8D to FIG. 8J Some embodiments according to the present disclosure are shown FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C Use of extrusion components;

[0065] Fig.9A Another extrusion assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0066] FIG. 9B to FIG. 9H Some embodiments according to the present disclosure are shown Fig.9A The use of extrusion components; and

[0067] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10F The use of another extrusion assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] In the following description, similar components have the same reference numerals regardless of the different illustrated embodiments. In order to clearly and concisely illustrate the embodiments, the drawings may not necessarily reflect proper scale, and certain structures may be shown in slightly schematic form. The present disclosure may describe and / or illustrate structures in one embodiment, and describe and / or illustrate the structures in one or more other embodiments in the same manner or in a similar manner, and / or in combination with or in place of structures of other embodiments.

[0069] In the specification and claims, for the purpose of describing and defining the utility model, the terms "about" and "substantially" represent the inherent degree of uncertainty attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement or other representation. In addition, the terms "about" and "substantially" represent that the quantitative representation may be different from the stated reference without causing the basic function of the subject matter discussed to change. Open terms such as "including", "comprising" and / or the plural form of each term include the listed parts and may include unlisted additional parts, while terms such as "and / or" include one or more of the listed parts and a combination of the listed parts. The use of the terms "top", "bottom", "above", "below" and the like only contributes to the clear description of the present disclosure and does not limit the structure, positioning and / or operation of the present disclosure in any way.

[0070] It is noteworthy that the mechanisms and techniques described herein can be used to configure a machine to process (e.g., micro-puree making and possible aeration) and extrude ice cream and other frozen ingredients. That is, both the processing function and the extrusion function can be performed by a single machine. In such a machine, the same axis can be used to drive a blade to process the frozen ingredients in a bowl (i.e., a container) and to drive a plunger to extrude the processed ingredients from the bowl. In addition, such a machine can include a user interface that enables a user to control the timing of the execution of each function. In some specific implementations of such a machine, a first axis can be used to drive processing and a second axis can be used to drive extrusion, and such a specific implementation can be considered to have a first subsystem or module for processing and a second subsystem or module for extrusion.

[0071] In some embodiments, a single cover can be provided (e.g., on the open end of the bowl) that houses (or is coupled to) a blade for processing the ingredients and also houses (or is coupled to) a plunger for extruding the processed ingredients. In such embodiments, a single shaft driven by one or more motors (e.g., one motor for driving rotation of the blade; another motor for driving linear movement of the driven shaft along its axis) can drive both processing using the blade and extrusion using the plunger, as described in more detail elsewhere herein, and the end of the bowl opposite the cover can include an opening for extruding the processed ingredients from the bowl.

[0072] In other embodiments, to be able to perform both functions, the user can flip the processing bowl from a first arrangement in which the driven shaft engages a blade located at a first end of the processing bowl (e.g., the blade is contained in or coupled to a first cover at a first open end of the processing bowl) to a second arrangement in which the driven shaft engages a plunger located at a second end of the processing bowl (e.g., the plunger is contained in or coupled to a second cover at an open second end of the processing bowl), as described in more detail herein. In such an embodiment, the first cover may also include an opening for extruding ingredients from the bowl during extrusion using a plunger in the second arrangement. Further, in such an embodiment, a single shaft driven by one or more motors may simultaneously drive processing using a blade and extrusion using a plunger, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0073] In other embodiments, to be able to perform both functions, a user can replace a first cover (e.g., housing or coupled to a blade) for processing from the open end of the processing bowl with a second cover (e.g., housing or coupled to a plunger) for extrusion, as described in more detail elsewhere herein. In such embodiments, a single shaft driven by one or more motors can drive both processing by using the blade and extrusion by using the plunger, or alternatively, a separate shaft can be used for extrusion, wherein such separate shaft drives the plunger, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0074] Figure 1A An isometric view of a micro-puree machine 10 is shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1B 1 shows a bowl assembly 350 having been 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, bowl assemblies, and / or nozzle assemblies are shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0075] 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 bowl assembly 350 and a nozzle assembly 603. The combination of the bowl assembly 350 and the nozzle assembly 605 may be referred to herein as an extrusion assembly, which may include a cap 400 configured for extrusion. The nozzle assembly 603 may include a nozzle housing 607 and a nozzle 608.

[0076] The bowl assembly 350 may include a bowl 352 configured to hold one or more processed ingredients, ingredients to be processed, or ingredients being processed. The user may couple the bowl assembly 350 to the housing 120 by rotating the bowl assembly 350 relative to the housing 120 (e.g., using a threaded or bayonet connection) or by another coupling mechanism and / or technique. The bowl assembly 350 may be assembled to the housing 120 such that the central axis A of the bowl assembly 350 extends perpendicular to the vertical axis V of the housing 120, as shown. However, the present disclosure contemplates that the bowl assembly 350 may be assembled to the housing 120 such that the central axis A extends at an angle between 0 and 90° relative to the vertical axis, for example, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,759,057 to SharkNinja Operating, LLC, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference (the '057 patent), or such that the central axis of the bowl assembly 350 extends parallel to the vertical axis V, for example, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,871,765 to SharkNinja Operating, LLC, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference (the '765 patent). In an embodiment, the bowl 352 of the bowl assembly 350 may be made of a disposable material to enhance the convenience of using the micro-puree machine 10. In addition, the bowl 352 may be sold as a stand-alone item and may also be pre-loaded with ingredients to be processed during use of the micro-puree machine 10.

[0077] like Figure 1B As shown, the housing 120 may include a coupler 500 disposed in the opening 140 of the housing 120. The inner surface 502 of the coupler 500 may include a positioning element and a locking element for positioning and connecting the bowl assembly 350 to the coupler 500 in two different configurations, as described elsewhere herein. The micro-puree machine 10 may also include a nozzle 608, which may be coupled to the bowl assembly 350 for extruding processed ingredients from the bowl assembly 350. The nozzle 608 may be arranged so that the ingredients are extruded in a vertically downward direction, so that the user can place an ice cream cone, cup, bowl or other edible or inedible container below the nozzle to receive the extruded ingredients. The present disclosure also contemplates that a plurality of nozzle shapes may be provided to allow user customization. For example, a plurality of nozzles may be included on a rotatable turntable that allows the user to select a desired nozzle shape. In another embodiment, the extrusion function may be integrated into a program on the user interface, wherein a predetermined translation speed / flow rate is provided.

[0078] like Figure 1CAs shown, the first end 352a of the bowl 352 can be configured to be coupled to the first cover 440 and the second cover 450. The first cover 440 can include a blade 300 for processing ingredients, for example, a blade as described in the '765 patent. When the cover 440 is coupled to the bowl 352 (e.g., via the mutual threads on the bowl and the cover), the bowl assembly 350 can be considered to be in a processing configuration and can be coupled to the housing via the coupling 500. The cover 440 can have a positioning element and a locking element 442 on its outer side wall, which is configured to be coupled to the positioning element and the locking element on the inner surface 502 of the coupling 500. The second cover 450 can include a plunger 454 for extruding the ingredients. The plunger 454 can also include a flexible seal around its periphery to ensure contact (e.g., maximum contact) with the side wall of the bowl 352, thereby allowing optimal (e.g., maximum) extrusion output. When the cap 450 is coupled to the bowl 352 (e.g., via mutual threads on the bowl and the cap), the bowl assembly 350 can be considered to be in an extruded configuration and can be coupled to the housing via the coupler 500. The cap 450 can have a locating element and a locking element 452 on its outer sidewall that is configured to couple to a locating element and a locking element on an inner surface 502 of the coupler 500.

[0079] The second end 352b of the bowl 352 may include a central opening 604 or an opening not centrally located including a coupling collar 606. The coupling collar 606 may include a thread or other type of coupling feature, such as a slot or cam, such as for a bayonet. The opening 604 may be closed, for example, by a cap 605 during processing, which may be removed during extrusion. The cap 605 may include an internal thread (not shown) or other coupling feature that allows 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 by, for example, a conduit (e.g., a plastic tube) extending from the opening 604 to the nozzle 608 in the nozzle assembly 603. In an embodiment, such a conduit may include one or more sections connected by a joint (e.g., an elbow joint) to convert the direction (e.g., horizontal direction) of extrusion from the opening 604 to the direction (e.g., vertically downward) of extrusion from the nozzle 608.

[0080] like Figure 1DAs shown, a user can attach a first cover 440 to the bowl 352 and couple the bowl 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 the driven shaft 250 and disengages the cover 440. 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., lower or move horizontally or at an angle) into ingredients in the bowl 352 to process them (e.g., micro-puree). It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, as described in the '765 patent, the blade 300 can be configured to rotate and move (e.g., lower or move horizontally or at an angle) into ingredients in the bowl 352 to process them (e.g., micro-puree). Figure 1D As shown, even when extrusion is not being performed, such as during processing, the nozzle assembly 603 or one or more components thereof (e.g., the nozzle 608) can be coupled to the second end 352b of the bowl 350 (and possibly to the housing). 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 bowl assembly 350 when coupled to the housing, wherein the opening 604 is uncovered. In actual use, the opening 604 can be closed during processing, for example, by a cap 605, or opened and coupled to the nozzle assembly 603 during extrusion.

[0081] After processing the ingredients in the bowl 352, the user can then remove the bowl assembly 350 from the micro-puree machine 10, remove the first cover 440 from the first end 352a, replace the first cover with the cover 450 on the first end 352a, couple the nozzle assembly to the second end 352b of the bowl assembly 350 (if not already attached), couple the bowl assembly 350 to the housing 120, and initiate extrusion via the user interface. During extrusion, the driven shaft drives the plunger 602 from the first end 352a of the bowl 352 to the second end 352b of the bowl, thereby forcing the processed ingredients through the opening 604 and extruding the processed ingredients through the nozzle 608.

[0082] Figure 1F Another embodiment of a nozzle assembly 603' is shown including a nozzle 608' that can be used to extrude a processed ingredient, for example, using the mechanisms and techniques described herein.

[0083] Figure 1G Another bowl assembly 350' is shown including an extrusion assembly 600 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1GAs shown, the bowl assembly 350' can include a nozzle 608' that is integral to the bottom edge of the bowl 352', such as on a side wall of the bowl 352' near the second end 352b' or extending beyond the second end 352b'. In an embodiment, the bowl assembly 350' can be configured to be mounted to the coupler 500 so that the nozzle 608' points vertically downward when the bowl 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 located on the bowl 352' to optimize the amount of processed ingredient that can be extruded, thereby minimizing the amount of yield loss after extrusion. For example, the nozzle 608' can be located near the bottom edge of the bowl 352', such as Figure 1G However, the present disclosure contemplates that nozzle 608' may alternatively be located at a different longitudinal and / or radial position on bowl 352'. Bowl assembly 350' and / or bowl 352' may be the same as or different from bowl assembly 350 and / or bowl 352, respectively.

[0084] Advantageously, the micro-puree machine 10 may include a sensor (not shown) that identifies which cover is installed into the machine 10 to limit certain programs based on the cover function, which may prevent a user from making mistakes when operating the machine 10. For example, the micro-puree machine may activate the blade 300 only when the sensor detects that the bowl 352 is installed in a first configuration in which the cover 440 is coupled to the bowl 350, and the micro-puree machine may activate the plunger 602 only when the sensor detects that the bowl 352 is installed in a second configuration in which the cover 440 is coupled to the bowl 350. For example, each of the covers 440 and 450 may include different physical and / or electromagnetic features, for example, as part of the positioning element 442 and the locking element 452, respectively, for which purpose the coupler 500 or other element of the micro-puree machine 10 may be configured to detect and distinguish between the covers 440 and 450.

[0085] The housing 120 can house one or more motors and drive systems (e.g., including a transmission) that drive a driven shaft (e.g., driven shaft 250) for engaging a blade 300 and / or a plunger 454 when a bowl assembly 350 (coupled to a cover 440 or 450, respectively) is coupled to the housing for processing or extrusion, respectively, as described, for example, in the '765 patent or U.S. Pat. No. 11,882,965 (the '965 patent) issued to SharkNinja Operating, LLC, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated herein 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 required), rotate the plunger 454 during extrusion. The second motor can be configured to move the position of the driven shaft 250 along its axis via a transmission (e.g., back and forth or up and down), which can be used to drive the back and forth motion of the blade 300 in and out of the bowl 350 during processing, and to move the plunger 454 in and out of the bowl 350 during extrusion. In an embodiment, the micro-puree machine 10 can include a gear box (e.g., a high-ratio gear box) and reinforced internal components (not shown) to allow the extrusion assembly as described herein to withstand large forces and extrude a thick finished product from the nozzle 608.

[0086] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a reversible bowl assembly can be used that does not require removal of the cover between processing and extrusion. For example, the reversible bowl assembly can include: a first cover coupled at one end, the first cover including a blade for processing and an opening for extrusion; and a second cover at the other end, the second cover including a plunger for extrusion. Examples of these embodiments will now be described.

[0087] Figure 2A An embodiment of a portion of a micro-puree machine including a coupler 500 ′ for coupling to a bowl assembly (eg, a reversible bowl assembly) is shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2B An embodiment of a reversible bowl assembly 352" is shown that can be coupled to a coupler 500'. The bowl 352" can include any of a variety of exterior surfaces. For example, a bowl embodiment can have a ribbed or corrugated surface (e.g., like bowl 352 or 352') or a smooth surface (e.g., bowl 352"). Similarly, bowls 352 and 352" can have any type of surface, including a smooth surface.

[0088] like Figure 2AAs shown, the driven shaft 250 of the micro-puree machine 10 can extend from the housing 120 into the interior of the coupling 500', and optionally 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, which are sized and shaped to receive at least one protrusion 354 on the outer surface of the first open end 352a" of the bowl 352". In an embodiment, both the first end 352a" and the second end 352b" of the bowl 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 limited to this, and one or both ends 352a", 352b" of the bowl 352" may be closed with a wall or a cover. In an embodiment, at least one protrusion 354" on the bowl 352" may be four protrusions 354 spaced 90 degrees apart around the outer surface of the first end 352a" of the bowl 352". However, the present disclosure contemplates more or less than four protrusions 354. In the first configuration of the reversible bowl assembly 350", a user can rotate the bowl 352" relative to the connector 500' such that the protrusions 354 rotate into the slots 504, coupling (e.g., locking) the bowl 352" and the connector 500 together.

[0089] The slot 504 may also be sized and shaped to receive at least one protrusion 356 on the outer surface of the second open end 352b" of the bowl 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 bowl 352". However, the present disclosure contemplates more or less than four protrusions 356. In the second configuration of the reversible bowl assembly 350", the user may rotate the bowl 352" relative to the coupler 500' such that the protrusion 356 rotates into the slot 504, coupling (e.g., locking) the bowl 352" and the coupler 500 together. The first end 352a" of the bowl 352" may also include threads 366 for coupling to a first cover, and the second end 352b" of the bowl 352" may include threads 368 for coupling to a second cover, as further described elsewhere herein.

[0090] Figure 3A An embodiment of a reversible bowl assembly 350" is shown assembled according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3AAs shown, the bowl 352" can have a rectangular shape and include a cylindrical sidewall 358 that defines an internal volume 360 ​​of the bowl 352". The sidewall 358 can extend between a first open end 352a" of the bowl 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, it can be conical). The first open end 352a" and the second open end 352b" can be in communication with the internal volume 360 ​​of the bowl 352". The assembly 350" can also include a first cover 400' that is removably attached to the first open end 352a" of the bowl 352". The first cover 400' can define an opening 401 ( Figure 3C ), the opening being configured to couple to a blade 300 for mixing ingredients within the bowl 352". When the bowl 352" is mounted to the coupler 500' in the first configuration, the blade 300 can engage with the driven shaft 250' to rotate the blade 300 and insert it into the ingredients. Figure 3B An embodiment of the blade 300 is shown coupled to the underside of the first cover 400'.Some non-limiting examples of the blade 300 are shown in the '765 patent.

[0091] Figure 3C 3 is a cross-sectional view of a reversible bowl 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 view. 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, a second cover 450' may be removably coupled to the second open end 352b" of the bowl 352". The second cover 450' may include or be coupled to a plunger 602 for pushing the ingredient in the bowl 352" toward the opening 604 in the first cover 400'. The plunger 602 may constitute an extrusion assembly 600 for extruding the processed ingredient from the bowl 352" alone or in combination with other components (e.g., the second cover 450', the bowl 352", or the nozzle 608). The opening 604' in the first cover 400' may be further 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 sections connected by a joint (e.g., an elbow joint) to convert the direction of extrusion from the opening 604 (e.g., horizontally) to the direction of extrusion from the nozzle (e.g., vertically downward).

[0092] When the bowl assembly 350" is in the second configuration and the bowl 352" is mounted to the connector 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 interior volume 360 ​​can include one or more (e.g., multiple) notches 606. The notches 606 can prevent the frozen ingredients from rotationally moving within the bowl 352" during processing by the blade 300. The plunger 602 can also include a flexible seal 610 around its periphery to ensure contact (e.g., maximum contact) with the side wall 358 of the bowl 352", thereby allowing optimal (e.g., maximum) extrusion yield.

[0093] about Figure 2A , Figure 2B , FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D , Figure 4B and Figure 4B The micro-puree machine of the described embodiments may include one or more motors and drive systems (e.g., including a transmission) that drive a driven shaft (e.g., driven shaft 250') for engaging a blade assembly 300 and / or a plunger 602 when a bowl assembly 350" (coupled to a cover 400' or 450', respectively) is coupled to a housing for processing or extrusion, e.g., as described in the '765 patent or the '965 patent; and may include a gearbox (e.g., a high ratio gearbox) and reinforced internal components (not shown) to allow the extrusion assembly 600 to withstand large forces and extrude a thick finished product from a nozzle.

[0094] 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 bowl assembly 350" can be configured such that only the first cap 400' can be coupled to the first open end 352a" of the bowl 352", and only the second cap 450' can be coupled to the second open end 352b" of the bowl 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 bowl 352". The bowl 352" may also include clear indicators (colors, icons, etc.) that will signal to the user which cover is on which side of the bowl 352".

[0095] Figure 4A and Figure 4B 2 shows the use of a reversible bowl assembly 350" according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4AAs shown, the user can first install the bowl assembly 350" in a first configuration to the micro-puree machine 10 so that the first end 352a" of the bowl 352" is fixed to the coupling 500'. The user can then select a program at the user interface to rotate the blade 300 and insert it into the ingredients in the bowl 352" according to the desired finished product (e.g., soft serve ice cream, light ice cream, sorbet, gelato, etc.). 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 bowl assembly 350" from the coupling 500', reverse the direction of the bowl assembly 350" (i.e., flip the bowl assembly 350"), and reinstall the second end 352b" of the bowl assembly 352" to the coupling 500' in the second configuration. The user can then select a desired program at the user interface to lower the plunger 602 to extrude the ingredient through the opening 604' in 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.

[0096] Figure 5 An aeration system 700 for use with a micro-puree machine 10 is shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 5 As shown, the aeration system 700 may include an opening 506 in the coupling 500. When the bowl 352 is in the first configuration, the internal volume 360 ​​may be substantially sealed from ambient air. The opening 506 may include a filter 508 for filtering dust particles and debris to prevent them from entering the internal volume 360. The first end 702a of the tube 702 may be operably attached to the opening 506 via a flexible stopper 510 (e.g., a silicone plug) so that the tube 702 is in fluid communication with the internal volume 360. The second end 702b of the tube 702 may be operably coupled to a pump 704 or other mechanism for forcing a fluid (e.g., pushing air) to be in fluid communication with the tube 702. The pump 704 is operable to change the pressure of the internal volume 360 ​​of the bowl 352 by selectively pumping a gas (e.g., air) into the internal volume 360 ​​or extracting the gas out of the internal volume during processing. Adding air or gas to the ingredients during processing can allow the user to change the density and texture of the final product. For example, processing the ingredients under high pressure (e.g., 8 psi) will result in a lighter, fluffier finished product. In an embodiment, the inflation system 700 can be integrated into the processing program on the user interface 142 and have a predetermined processing time and inflation percentage. The present disclosure also contemplates that the user interface 142 will have a separate inflation input to allow further user control.

[0097] While embodiments of the present disclosure include performing processing and extrusion using the same driven shaft, in some embodiments, processing and extrusion are performed on different shafts, as will now be described.

[0098] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6L Another micro-puree machine 800 is shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B An embodiment of a micro-puree machine 800 is shown in a first configuration for processing (eg, micro-pureeing), which may be referred to herein as a processing configuration. Figure 6C and 6D An embodiment of a micro-puree machine 800 is shown in a first configuration for extrusion, which may be referred to herein as an extruding or extrusion configuration. FIG. 6E to FIG. 6L The embodiment of the micro-puree machine 800 is shown in both the processing configuration and the extrusion configuration for illustrative purposes only, as in some embodiments, the micro-puree is not configured to perform processing and extrusion simultaneously.

[0099] The micro-puree machine 800 may include a base 805 and a housing 820. The housing 820 may include a user interface 810 for receiving user input to control the micro-puree machine 800 and / or display information. In some embodiments, the micro-puree machine includes a processing submodule 821 and an extrusion submodule 823, wherein the processing submodule includes one or more components configured to process ingredients in a bowl 852 (e.g., bowl 352 or a variation thereof), and the extrusion submodule includes one or more components configured to extrude the processed ingredients from the bowl 852. In the processing configuration, the bowl 852 can be coupled to the interior of an outer bowl 807, which is mounted on a processing platform 809 mounted to the base 805. The bowl 852 can be coupled to a cover 811 (e.g., cover 442 or a variation thereof) that houses a blade assembly 813 (e.g., blade 300 or a variation thereof). The bowl 852 can include a nozzle control assembly 851 (e.g., a turntable) that enables a user to control the opening or closing of a nozzle 860, the nozzle 860, and a hinged stopper or plug 856 that can be used by the user to selectively cover the nozzle 860 or the control assembly 851. In some embodiments, the nozzle control assembly 851, the nozzle 860, and the stopper 856 can be removably attached to the bowl 852. Using the handle 825, the user can rotate the processing bowl assembly 817 and lift it to a processing position in which the blade assembly 813 engages the driven shaft 854, the cover 811 is attached to the micro-puree machine, and the blade 300 is released from the cover 811 so that the driven shaft 854 can drive the shaft 854, for example, as described in the '765 patent. By engaging the user interface (or a remote interface via a wireless connection to a wireless interface within the housing 820), the user can initiate processing of the ingredients in the bowl 852. In the processing configuration, the extrusion submodule 823 may remain idle and the cap or plug 819 may be coupled to the connector 827, thereby covering the interface 829 with the driven shaft 858.

[0100] After processing the ingredients, the processing bowl assembly 817 can be separated from the micro-puree machine 810 (e.g., from the processing submodule 821) and removed from the platform 809. The cover 811 can be removed from the outer bowl 807, and the bowl 852 can be removed from the outer bowl 807. The cover 853 can then be installed to the bowl 852, and the bowl 852 can then be coupled to the micro-processing machine 810 (e.g., coupled to the extrusion submodule 823 in an extrusion configuration).

[0101] In the extrusion configuration, the bowl 852 can be connected to a cover 853 (e.g., cover 452 or its variant) including a plunger. The combination of the bowl 852 and the cover 853 can be referred to as a bowl extrusion assembly 850 in this article. In an embodiment, the bowl extrusion assembly 850 can be configured to be installed to the micro-fruit puree machine 800 so that when the bowl extrusion assembly 850 is properly installed, the nozzle 860 is vertically downward. The bowl extrusion assembly 850 can be assembled to the housing 820 (e.g., the extrusion submodule 823) so that the central axis A of the bowl extrusion assembly 850 extends perpendicular to the vertical axis V of the housing 820, as shown. The bowl extrusion assembly 850 can include an outlet 860 for extruding processed ingredients from the bowl extrusion assembly 850. The micro-fruit puree machine 800 can also include a lever 830 for manually activating the plunger 802 to extrude the processed ingredients in the bowl extrusion assembly 850 through the outlet 860.

[0102] Although lever 830 is shown on the right side of machine 800 (from Figure 6B The lever 830 may be located on the left side of the machine 800 or in another location, and other components of the machine may be rearranged to accommodate a different location of the lever 830. The housing 820 may include electrical, electromagnetic, mechanical, and / or electromechanical components to convert the pull-down or push-up of the lever 830 into movement of the plunger (e.g., plunger 802) within the bowl 852.

[0103] The embodiment of the housing 820 of the micro-puree machine 800 can accommodate a transmission system including a driven shaft 854 for engaging the blade 300, a separate driven shaft 858 for engaging the plunger 802, one or more gear systems, and one or more position motors and / or drive motors for rotating and / or axially moving the driven shaft 854 and another shaft 858 to process the ingredients in the bowl assembly 850. For example, the drive motor can drive the rotation of the driven shaft 854 and the blade (e.g., blade 300) coupled thereto, and the position motor can drive the vertical (e.g., up and down) movement of the driven shaft 254 and the blade. Another motor can drive the second shaft 858 and the plunger (e.g., plunger 454 or 602) attached thereto. In an embodiment, the blade 813 can be programmably controlled by the computing system at the user interface 810 to operate at different rotational speeds and move up and down for different time periods in different modes and speeds to make different food items. In an embodiment, the plunger in the cover 853 can be programmably controlled by the computing system at the user interface 810 to operate at different rotational speeds and move up and down for different time periods in different patterns and speeds to make different food items. Some non-limiting examples of transmission systems and computing systems are described in the '765 patent and in U.S. Patent No. 11,882,965 (the '965 patent) issued to SharkNinja Operating, LLC, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0104] Figure 6M An isometric view of a micro-puree machine 5010 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The micro-puree machine 5010 can be used to process ingredients on one axis and extrude the processed ingredients on another axis. Figure 6M As shown, the micro-puree machine 5010 may include a base 5100, a housing 5120, and an extrusion module 5130. The housing 5120 may include a user interface (not shown) for receiving user input to control the micro-puree machine 5010 and / or display information. The micro-puree machine 5010 may also include a bowl 5352. The bowl 5352 may be assembled to the housing 5120 so that the central axis A of the bowl 5352 extends parallel to the vertical axis V of the housing 5120, as shown. However, the present disclosure contemplates that the bowl 5352 may be assembled to the housing 5120 so that the central axis A extends at an angle between 0 and 90° relative to the vertical axis V, or so that the central axis A extends perpendicular to the vertical axis V.

[0105] The extrusion module 5130 can be configured to be coupled to a bowl assembly as described herein, for example, a bowl with a cover in which a plunger is housed. The extrusion module 5130 can also include a motor and a transmission to drive a driven shaft so that the plunger and bowl are moved during extrusion, for example, as described elsewhere herein. The micro-puree machine 5010 can also include a lever 5730 for activating the plunger to extrude the processed ingredients from the bowl 5352 through an integrated nozzle (not shown) in the bowl 5352. The housing 5120 can include electrical, electromagnetic, and / or mechanical components to convert the pull-down or push-up of the lever into movement of the plunger in the bowl.

[0106] The nozzle can be integral with the bottom surface of the bowl 5352 so that when the bowl 5352 is properly installed, the nozzle points vertically downward. Figure 6J In the embodiment of the present invention, the plunger can be configured to extrude the processed ingredients from the bowl 5352 using a shaft (not shown) separate from the driven shaft (e.g., 250) that rotates the blade (e.g., 300). In other embodiments, a separate shaft can be manually driven by a user by turning a lever 5730.

[0107] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D Another extrusion assembly 1600 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the plunger 1602 and the blade 1300 may be mounted to the same cap 1400. Fig. 7A As shown, the plunger 1602 can constitute an extrusion assembly 1600 for extruding the processed ingredients from the bowl 1352 alone or in combination with other components (e.g., the cover 1400, the bowl 1352, and the nozzle). In some embodiments, the bowl 1352 can be the bowl 352. The cover 1400 can define a central opening 1401 that is configured to allow the driven shaft 250 to pass through. The blade 1300 can include a central support hub 1305 for engaging the driven shaft 250 to rotate and translate the blade 1300. As shown in FIG. Figure 7B As shown, the plunger 1602 can be coupled to the underside of the cover 1400. For example, the plunger 1602 can be magnetically coupled to the metal ring 1402 on the underside of the cover 1400. However, the present disclosure contemplates other coupling mechanisms for the plunger 1602 and the cover 1400. Both the plunger 1602 and the metal ring 1402 can define an opening 1404 that can be aligned with the opening 1401 in the cover 1400. The plunger 1602 can also include at least one retaining element 1604, as further described elsewhere herein. Figure 7C As shown, once the plunger 1602 has been installed on the cover 1400, the user can couple the blade 1300 to the underside of the plunger 1602 so that the central support hub 1305 extends through the opening 1404 and the blade 1300 is not blocked by the retaining element 1604 ( Fig.7D). In use, to process ingredients within the bowl 1352, the driven shaft 250 can be operated to lower the blade 1300 through the retainer element 1604 and away from the plunger 1602 before the blade 1300 begins to rotate to process the ingredients within the bowl 1352. After processing, the blade 1300 can return to its initial position against the plunger 1602. Then, to extrude the ingredients from the bowl 1352, the driven shaft 250 can be operated to slightly rotate the blade 1300 so that the blade 1300 is held against the plunger 1602 by the retaining element 1604. The driven shaft 250 can then apply sufficient force to overcome the magnetic coupling between the cap 1400 and the plunger 1602 to lower both the blade 1300 and the plunger 1602 through the bowl 1352, thereby extruding the processed ingredients through the nozzle 608.

[0108] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C Another extrusion assembly 2600 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the plunger 2602 and the blade 2300 may be mounted to the same cap 2400. Fig. 8A As shown, the plunger 2602 can constitute an extrusion assembly 2600 for extruding the processed ingredients from the bowl 2352 alone or in combination with other components (e.g., the cap 2400, the bowl 2352, and the nozzle). In some embodiments, the bowl 2352 can be a bowl 352 ( Figure 1E ). In other embodiments, bowl 2352 may be bowl 352, 352' or 852.

[0109] Users can FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D Extrusion assembly 2600 may be assembled in a similar manner to extrusion assembly 1600 of the prior art. For example, plunger 2602 may be magnetically or otherwise coupled to the underside of cover 2400. Once plunger 2602 has been installed on cover 2400, a user may couple blade 2300 to the underside of plunger 2602 such that blade 2300 is received within circumferential wall 2606 of plunger 2602. Figure 8B As shown, the central support hub 2305 of the blade 2300 may include an upper groove 2308 and a lower groove 2310. Figure 8C As shown, the cover 2400 can include a first set of engagement features, such as primary clips 2408, which are biased (e.g., spring biased) toward the central support hub 2305. When a user installs the blade 2300 to the cover 2400, the primary clips 2408 can engage the upper grooves 2308 of the central support hub 2305. In this configuration, the second set of engagement features (such as the auxiliary clips 2610) on the plunger 2602 are disengaged from the lower grooves 2310, so that the knife 2300 can be driven axially and rotationally by the driven shaft 250 independently of the plunger 2602.

[0110] FIG. 8D to FIG. 8I 26 shows the configuration and movement of the auxiliary clip 2610 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig.8D As shown, the upper surface of the plunger 2602 may include a set of movable levers 2612 disposed within a housing 2622 that is configured to allow the central support hub 2305 to pass through. Fig. 8E As shown, the lever 2612 can be operably coupled to the auxiliary clip 2610 such that when the auxiliary clip 2610 is engaged with the lower groove 2310, the lever 2612 is positioned separately. Fig.8F As shown, the auxiliary clamp 2610 can move through the opposing bridging members 2614 on the upper surface of the plunger 2602, as shown in FIG. Figure 8G . The inner surface of the bridge member 2614 can define opposing slots 2616. The bridge member 2614 can further define a passage 2618 for the blocking member 2620 to pass through. When the blade 2300 processes the ingredients in the bowl 2352, the blocking member 2020 can block the slot 2616, thereby preventing the auxiliary clip 2610 from moving through the bridge member 2614 and engaging the lower groove 2310, thereby preventing the plunger 2602 from engaging the driven shaft 2250. Figure 8H As shown, in order to engage the plunger 2602 to the central support hub 2305 during the extrusion stage, the blade 2300 can be moved slightly upward so that the platform 2302 on the blade 2300 moves the blocking member 2020 upward through the passage 2618, thereby unblocking the narrow slot 2616. Figure 8I and Figure 8J As shown, once the blocking member 2620 no longer blocks the slot 2616, the auxiliary clamp 2610 can be moved through the bridging member 2614 to engage the lower groove 2310. In this configuration, both the blade 2300 and the plunger 2602 are operably engaged with the driven shaft 250 so that both the blade 2300 and the plunger 2602 can be lowered through the bowl 2352 to extrude the processed ingredients from the bowl 2352.

[0111] Fig.9A Another extrusion assembly 3600 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the plunger 3602 and the blade 3300 may be mounted to the same cover. Fig.9AAs shown, the plunger 3602 can constitute an extrusion assembly 3600 for extruding the processed ingredients from the bowl alone or in combination with other components (e.g., a cover, a bowl, and a nozzle, not shown). In some embodiments, the bowl can be a bowl 352, 352' or 852. The extrusion assembly 3600 may include an electromagnet (such as a solenoid 3604) that can operate with a piston configured to move the inner shaft 3252. The inner shaft 3252 can extend through the outer shaft 3254 so that the inner shaft 3252 and the outer shaft 3254 can be translated independently of each other. The outer shaft 3254 can define relative holes 3256 for ball bearings 3258 to pass through. The outer surface of the inner shaft 3252 can define relative cavities 3260 for accommodating ball bearings 3258. The inner surface of the plunger 3602 can also define relative recesses 3262 for receiving ball bearings 3258. The blade 3300 can be attached to the outer shaft 3254, for example, by a bayonet coupling. However, the present disclosure contemplates other suitable methods for coupling the blade 3300 to the outer shaft 3254.

[0112] FIG. 9B to FIG. 9H The use of the extrusion assembly 3600 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. Fig. 9B As shown, the user may first install the plunger 3260 to the cover (not shown), for example, via a magnetic coupling. In this configuration, the plunger 3206 may not be attached to the outer shaft 3254, and the ball bearing 3258 may reside in the upper portion of the cavity 3260 of the inner shaft 3252. Then, the user may attach the blade 3300 to the outer shaft 3254. Fig. 9C As shown, to begin the processing step, the outer shaft 3254 together with the ball bearings 3258 can be translated relative to the inner shaft 3252 to lower the blade 3300 into the bowl and then rotate with the inner shaft 3252 to process the ingredients in the bowl. When the ball bearings 3258 travel along the inner surface of the cavity 3260 to the end of the lower portion of the cavity 3260, these ball bearings can move away from the central axis A to protrude from the holes 3256 in the outer shaft 3254. Fig.9D As shown, once the processing step is completed, the part can be returned to Fig. 9B The original position shown. Fig.9E As shown, to begin the extrusion step, the solenoid 3604 can be retracted, thereby moving the inner shaft 3252 upward relative to the outer shaft 3254. When the ball bearings 3258 reach the end of the lower portion of the cavity 3260, they can move away from the central axis A again to protrude from the holes 3256 in the outer shaft 3254 and thus engage the recesses 3262 in the plunger 3602. In this configuration, the plunger 3602 can be locked to the outer shaft 3254. Fig.9FAs shown, both the inner shaft 3252 and the outer shaft 3254 can be lowered again, with both the plunger 3602 and the blade 3300 attached to extrude the processed ingredient from the nozzle. Figure 9G As shown, once the extrusion step is completed, the part can be returned to Fig.9E The pre-extrusion position is shown, with the plunger 3602 still attached to the outer shaft 3254. Finally, as Figure 9H As shown, the solenoid 3604 can be extended, thereby moving the inner shaft 3252 downward relative to the outer shaft 3254. When the ball bearings 3258 reach the upper portion of the cavity 3260, the ball bearings can move toward the central axis A to disengage from the recess 3262 in the plunger 3602. In this configuration, the plunger 3602 can be disconnected from the outer shaft 3254.

[0113] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10F Schematically illustrates the use of another extrusion assembly 4600 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 10A As shown, the plunger 4602 can constitute an extrusion assembly 4600 for extruding the processed ingredients from the bowl alone or in combination with other components (e.g., the cap 4400, the bowl, and the nozzle). In some embodiments, the bowl can be the bowl 352, 352' or 852. Fig. 10A As shown, the extrusion assembly 4600 can also include an outer shaft 4254 extending through the plunger 4602. The inner surface of the outer shaft 4254 can be configured to accommodate a ball bearing 4258. A movable collar 4644 can be disposed around the outer shaft 4254 and can be biased upward, for example, by a first spring 4646. To begin the processing steps, the user can first install the plunger 4602 to the cover 4400. The user can then attach the blade 4300 to the cover 4400 so that a pair of main clips 4408 act under the force of the second spring 4410 to engage the groove 4310 on the central support hub 4305. As shown in FIG. Fig. 10B As shown, the user can then attach the cover 4400 to the bowl (not shown) and couple the bowl to the micro-puree machine 10 such that the driven shaft 4250 extends through the outer shaft 4254 to engage the central support hub 4305. The micro-puree machine 10 can be configured such that coupling the bowl to the micro-puree machine 10, 800 disengages the primary clamp 4408 from the central support hub 4305 to allow the blade 4300 to move away from the cover 4400. Fig. 10CAs shown, to begin a processing step, an electromagnet (such as solenoid 4604) can press downward on collar 4644 to move collar 4644 against the force of spring 4646 so that ball bearing 4258 extends through an opening in outer shaft 4254 to engage recess 4262 on the inner surface of collar 4644. In this configuration, plunger 4602 can be locked to outer shaft 4254 so that blade 4300 can move independently of plunger 4602. Fig. 10D As shown, the driven shaft 4250 and the blade 4300 can be lowered into the bowl and rotated to process the ingredients in the bowl. Fig.10E As shown, after processing, the driven shaft 4250 and the blade 4300 can then be returned to the original position. To begin the extrusion step, the solenoid 4604 can no longer press down on the collar 4644, thereby allowing the collar 4644 to move upward to release the ball bearing 4258 from engagement with the collar 4644 so that the plunger 4602 is no longer locked to the outer shaft 4254. Finally, as shown in FIG. Fig.10F As shown, the driven shaft 4250 can lower both the plunger 4602 and the blade 4300 into the bowl to extrude the processed ingredient from the bowl.

[0114] The present disclosure contemplates that in some embodiments (not shown), the bowl 352 may be coupled vertically in an inverted orientation (i.e., downward) on a top or upward facing surface of the housing 120, whereby the blade 300 moves upward and then downward to emulsify, process and / or mix ingredients in the bowl 352. The upward facing surface may be facing vertically upward or angled in an upward direction.

[0115] In some embodiments, the micro-puree machine 10 may be configured to automatically detect the size of the bowl 352 and, in response to the detection, extend the blade 300 to a depth and / or travel distance into the bowl 352 based on the detected size of the bowl 352. Such bowl size detection will advantageously enable the micro-puree machine 10 to process ingredients in containers of different sizes, such as single-serving containers or larger containers.

[0116] Although the present disclosure specifically shows and describes preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be present 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. Therefore, the foregoing description of the embodiments of the present application is not intended to limit the full scope conveyed by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A bowl assembly for a micro puree machine, characterized in that: The bowl assembly comprises: a bowl including at least one sidewall defining an interior volume, the at least one sidewall extending between a first open end of the bowl and a second end opposite the first open end; wherein the bowl is engageable to the micro-puree machine between a first configuration in which the bowl is configured to process ingredients within the interior volume and a second configuration in which the bowl is configured to extrude processed ingredients from the interior volume.

2. The bowl assembly according to claim 1, wherein: Also included is a first cover removably coupleable to the first open end of the bowl; wherein said first cover comprises a plunger engageable with a driven shaft of said micro-puree machine to move said plunger axially within said interior volume of said bowl; and Wherein the first cover includes a blade engageable with the driven shaft to rotate and axially move the blade within the interior volume of the bowl.

3. The bowl assembly of claim 2, wherein: The second end of the bowl includes an end wall, and the bowl includes an opening in one of the end wall or the at least one side wall proximate the second end of the bowl; and Wherein the opening defines a passage for fluid communication between the interior volume of the bowl and an exterior of the bowl.

4. The bowl assembly of claim 1, wherein: The bowl is reversible along its major axis between the first configuration and the second configuration.

5. The bowl assembly of claim 4, wherein: Also includes: a nozzle for extruding processed ingredients from the interior volume when the bowl is in the second configuration; as well as a first cover coupled to the first open end of the bowl, the first cover comprising: a blade engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to rotate and / or axially move the blade within the interior volume of the bowl; and an opening defining a passage for fluid communication between the interior volume of the bowl and the nozzle.

6. The bowl assembly of claim 4, wherein: Also includes: a second cover removably coupleable to the second end of the bowl; Wherein the second cover is configured to receive a plunger engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to move the plunger axially within the interior volume of the bowl.

7. The bowl assembly of claim 1, wherein: Also includes: a first cover removably coupleable to the first open end of the bowl, wherein the first cover includes a blade engageable with a driven shaft to rotate and axially move the blade within the interior volume of the bowl; as well as A second cover removably coupleable to the first open end of the bowl, wherein the second cover includes a plunger engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to move the plunger axially within the interior volume of the bowl.

8. The bowl assembly of claim 1, wherein: The bowl includes an opening on the at least one sidewall proximate the second end of the bowl, and wherein the opening defines a passage for fluid communication between the interior volume of the bowl and an exterior of the bowl.

9. A bowl assembly for a micro puree machine, characterized in that: The bowl assembly comprises: a bowl including a sidewall defining an interior volume, the sidewall extending between a first end of the bowl and a second end opposite the first end, the bowl including an opening in fluid communication with a nozzle; a first cover configured to be removably coupled to the first end of the bowl; a plunger engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to move the plunger axially within the interior volume of the bowl from the first end toward the second end; and wherein movement of the plunger toward the second end of the bowl causes the processed ingredient within the interior volume to be expelled from the nozzle.

10. The bowl assembly of claim 9, wherein: The first cover includes the plunger, and wherein the first end of the bowl is configured to be removably coupled to a second cover when the first cover is separated from the first end of the bowl, the second cover including a blade.

11. The bowl assembly of claim 10, wherein: The blade is engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine to move the blade axially within the interior volume of the bowl from the first end toward the second end of the bowl.

12. The bowl assembly of claim 9, wherein: The second end of the bowl includes an end wall, The opening is disposed in one of the end wall or at least one of the side walls proximate the second end of the bowl, and The opening defines a passage for fluid communication between the interior volume of the bowl and the nozzle.

13. The bowl assembly of claim 12, wherein: The bowl is oriented to enable engagement of a blade with the driven shaft, and the driven shaft is configured to axially move the blade within the interior volume of the bowl from the second end toward the first end of the bowl.

14. The bowl assembly of claim 9, wherein: Also included is a cover removably coupleable to the second end of the bowl, wherein the cover includes the plunger.

15. The bowl assembly of claim 9, wherein: The first cover includes a blade that is engageable with a driven shaft of the micro-puree machine.

16. The bowl assembly of claim 15, wherein: The first cover includes the plunger.

17. The bowl assembly of claim 16, wherein: Also included is one or more retaining elements for retaining said blade during said movement of said plunger to extrude a processed ingredient.

18. The bowl assembly of claim 17, wherein: The one or more retaining elements are a plurality of ball bearings for selectively engaging one of the blades alone, or engaging both the blade and the plunger.

19. The bowl assembly of claim 18, wherein: The central support hub of the blade includes a first groove and a second groove, the cap includes a first one or more engagement features to engage the first groove during processing of the ingredient, and the plunger includes a second one or more features to engage the second groove during extrusion of the processed ingredient.

20. The bowl assembly of claim 14, wherein: Also included is an outer bowl into which the bowl is mounted during processing.

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