Extrusion assembly for micropuree machine, auto-slip clutch assembly for micropuree machine, and independent auto-slip clutch assembly

Abstract

The utility model discloses an extrusion assembly for a micro fruit puree machine, an automatic sliding clutch assembly for the micro fruit puree machine and an independent automatic sliding clutch assembly. The extrusion assembly includes a plunger drive suppression member configured to limit transmission of an input torque applied to the extrusion assembly to the extrusion driveline and the extrusion plunger. The plunger drive suppressor may be implemented with various mechanisms configured to shut off power to the extrusion driveline when slip of the clutch plate is detected, including a slip clutch assembly (with or without a friction cone brake), a torsion spring, and / or an automatic slip clutch assembly. The present disclosure protects the extrusion driveline from experiencing unsafe levels of force.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application is a partial continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 531,807, filed on December 7, 2023, which claims the priority and benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 578,744, entitled "Extrusion Rod Mechanism for a Micro - Puree Machine", filed on August 25, 2023. The contents of these applications are incorporated herein by reference as fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] The present utility model relates to a food processing device, and more particularly, to a micro - puree machine having an extrusion assembly with a plunger drive inhibitor. Background Art

[0004] Household kitchen appliances are known in the art for making ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, smoothies, etc. Typically, a user adds a series of non - frozen ingredients to a mixing bowl that has been pre - cooled, for example, in a refrigerator. Then the ingredients are agitated with one or more paddles (sometimes called beaters), while a refrigeration mechanism freezes the ingredients simultaneously. These devices have known drawbacks, including but not limited to, the time and effort required by the user to complete the ice - cream - making process. Machines of this nature are not practical for preparing most non - dessert foods.

[0005] Another known type of machine for making frozen foods is the micro - puree machine referred to herein. Typically, a machine of this nature rotates a blade and inserts the blade into a pre - frozen ingredient or combination of ingredients. In addition to being able to make frozen desserts such as ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, smoothies, etc., micro - puree machines can also prepare non - dessert - type foods, such as non - dessert purees and mousses. Summary of the Utility Model

[0006] In some embodiments, the present utility model illustrates an extrusion assembly for a micro - puree machine. The extrusion assembly uses a plunger to extrude ingredients from a bowl. A rod that can be manually rotated by a user can be used to control the movement of the plunger. The torque applied to the rod (with or without the assistance of a motor) is transmitted to an extrusion drive train to move the plunger through the bowl. However, if the contents in the bowl are too hard (e.g., unprocessed ingredients, under - processed ingredients, if there are foreign objects, etc.), damage may occur when extruding or attempting to extrude the contents of the bowl. Types of damage that may occur if too much force is applied to certain components of the extrusion assembly include damage to the drive train (e.g., damage to gears, lead screws, motors, etc.), damage to the bowl, and / or damage to the main housing of the micro - puree machine.

[0007] To protect the drive train and other components of the extrusion assembly, a ram drive inhibitor and / or a separator can be used to selectively limit or eliminate the force input torque (e.g., the manual force applied to the extrusion rod or the input force applied by a motor) from being applied to the extrusion drive train. The ram drive inhibitor can be configured to limit the input torque from reaching the extrusion drive train if the magnitude of the force encountered by the ram is higher than a predetermined safety limit and / or threshold. The ram drive inhibitor can utilize various different mechanical and / or electrical characteristics to limit the input force from being transmitted to the extrusion drive train. Some of these force limiting mechanisms are illustrated below. For example, in some embodiments, the ram drive inhibitor can utilize a slip clutch assembly (which may be referred to herein simply as a "slip clutch"), in which, during normal use, a first clutch plate and a second clutch plate rotate together to transmit rotational force to the extrusion drive train, and when the level of force exceeds the predetermined safety limit and / or threshold, the clutch plates slide relative to each other such that the rotational force is not transmitted to the extrusion drive train. If desired, the slip clutch assembly can be automated, with the input torque being transmitted from a motor to an input shaft and the extrusion drive train being electrically stopped when clutch plate slippage is detected, e.g., via a microswitch or other electrical feature. In some embodiments, a friction cone brake connected to the slip clutch assembly can be used to contact the slip clutch plate when the slip clutch plate axially translates to limit further translation. In an alternative embodiment, if the force required to move the ram is higher than a level considered safe, the ram drive inhibitor and / or separator utilize a torsion spring to limit the input force from reaching the extrusion drive train. If it is determined that the level of the force required to move the ram within the cup is higher than a predetermined force limit and / or threshold, any of the ram drive inhibitors described herein can prevent the input torque from being transmitted to the extrusion drive train. Thereby, the ram drive inhibitor and the separator protect the extrusion drive train from experiencing unsafe levels of force.

[0008] While various embodiments of the present invention related to the rod and ram of a micro puree machine have been illustrated, it should be understood that the present invention is not so limited. For example, embodiments of the slip clutch assembly, the microswitch, and other components can be used with devices other than a micro puree machine (e.g., other types of devices for processing food).

[0009] In certain aspects, an extrusion assembly for a micro puree machine is illustrated. The micro puree machine includes a cup (having an opening and at least one sidewall defining an internal volume), a ram, and a ram drive inhibitor. The ram drive inhibitor can be implemented with a slip clutch or a torsion spring. The ram can engage a driven shaft. The driven shaft is configured to axially move the ram within the internal volume of the cup to extrude ingredients within the internal volume through the opening. The slip clutch is configured to limit the axial movement of the ram within the internal volume of the cup when a predetermined force limit is reached or exceeded.

[0010] The extrusion assembly for a micro puree machine includes: a cup having an opening and at least one sidewall defining an internal volume; a plunger that can engage with a driven shaft configured to axially move the plunger within the internal volume of the cup to extrude the ingredients within the internal volume from the opening; and a slip clutch configured to limit the axial movement of the plunger within the internal volume of the cup when a predetermined force limit is reached or exceeded. The slip clutch may have a first clutch plate and a second clutch plate configured to rotate together when below the predetermined force limit and to rotate relative to each other when above the predetermined force limit. In some such embodiments, the second clutch plate drives the rotation of the driven shaft, and when above the predetermined force limit, the rotational force from the driven shaft is restricted. The extrusion assembly may further include a motor configured to drive the rotation of the first clutch plate. The slip clutch may further include a spring that applies a spring force to the first clutch plate to maintain contact with the second clutch plate and the spring force is parallel to the central axis of the slip clutch. In some embodiments, the first clutch plate includes a first surface, the second clutch plate includes a second surface, the first surface contacts the second surface, and both the first surface and the second surface are angled relative to a plane intersecting the central axis of the slip clutch. When above the predetermined force limit, the first clutch plate or the second clutch plate may translate axially along the central axis of the slip clutch. In some such embodiments, the micro puree machine further includes a microswitch for electrically monitoring the axial translation of the first clutch plate or the second clutch plate. The microswitch may be configured to send an electrical signal to the microcontroller to stop the rotation of the driven shaft if axial movement of the first clutch plate or the second clutch plate is detected. In some embodiments, the micro puree machine may further include a friction cone brake having a conical surface shaped to engage the conical surface of the first clutch plate when the predetermined force limit is exceeded.

[0011] The micro puree machine may further include a rod configured to transmit an input force to a plunger drive inhibitor. In some embodiments, the plunger drive inhibitor includes a torsion spring having a first end and an opposite second end, the first end connected to the rod and the second end connected to an input shaft for the powertrain. The torsion spring may be preloaded with a defined torque related to the predetermined force limit, wherein when below the predetermined force limit, the rotational force applied to the rod is fully transmitted to the input shaft for the powertrain, and when above the predetermined force limit, the rotational force applied to the rod causes the torsion spring to undergo a non-permanent spring deformation.

[0012] In some aspects, an automatic slip clutch assembly for a micro puree machine is disclosed. The automatic slip clutch assembly includes a first clutch plate, a second clutch plate, a spring positioned to urge the first clutch plate into contact with the second clutch plate, an input shaft connected to the first clutch plate, and an output shaft connected to the second clutch plate. The automatic slip clutch assembly can be configured to transmit a rotational force applied to the input shaft to the output shaft when a force level applied to the input shaft is below a predetermined slip threshold, wherein when the force level applied to the input shaft is above the predetermined slip threshold, the force applied to the input shaft is not transmitted to the output shaft.

[0013] In some implementations, the first clutch plate includes a first surface, the second clutch plate includes a second surface, the first surface contacts the second surface, wherein both the first surface and the second surface are angled relative to a plane intersecting the central axis of the automatic slip clutch assembly. In these and other implementations, at a force level above the predetermined slip threshold, the first clutch plate or the second clutch plate translates axially along the central axis of the automatic slip clutch assembly. The automatic slip clutch assembly can also include a microswitch positioned to electrically monitor the axial translation of the first clutch plate or the second clutch plate and to send an electrical signal if axial translation is detected. The input shaft can be configured to rotate in a first rotational direction for extrusion and to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction for retraction. In some such implementations, the automatic slip clutch assembly can have a predetermined slip threshold for extrusion and a predetermined slip threshold for retraction, and the predetermined slip threshold for extrusion is not equal to the predetermined slip threshold for retraction. The predetermined slip threshold for retraction can be greater than the predetermined slip threshold for extrusion.

[0014] In another aspect, an independent automatic slip clutch assembly is disclosed. The independent automatic slip clutch assembly includes a first clutch plate, a second clutch plate, a spring plate, and a spring positioned to apply a spring force to the spring plate and the first clutch plate. The independent automatic slip clutch assembly can be configured to transmit a rotational force applied to the first clutch plate to the second clutch plate when a force level applied to the first clutch plate is below a predetermined slip threshold, and when the force level applied to the first clutch plate is above the predetermined slip threshold, the rotational force applied to the first clutch plate is not transmitted to the second clutch plate.

[0015] In some embodiments, below the slip threshold, the spring rotates with the first and second clutch plates about the central axis of the independent automatic slip clutch assembly. In these and other embodiments, above the slip threshold, the second clutch plate can translate axially along the central axis of the independent automatic slip clutch assembly. The first clutch plate can be configured to rotate in a first rotational direction for extrusion and in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction for retraction. The independent automatic slip clutch assembly has a predetermined slip threshold for extrusion and a predetermined slip threshold for retraction, and the predetermined slip threshold for extrusion is not equal to the predetermined slip threshold for retraction. In these and other embodiments, the predetermined slip threshold for retraction is greater than the predetermined slip threshold for extrusion.

[0016] Reading the following detailed description and reviewing the associated drawings will make the advantages of these and other structures apparent. The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely explanatory and do not limit the aspects of the claimed utility model. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Reference will be made to the detailed description, taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, and in which:

[0018] Figure 1A An isometric view of a micro puree machine according to some embodiments of the present utility model is shown;

[0019] Figure 1B A micro puree machine with the cup assembly removed from the housing, according to some embodiments of the present utility model, is shown; Figure 1A ... of the micro puree machine;

[0020] Figures 1C to 1G Illustrates an embodiment of an extrusion assembly, a cup assembly, and / or a nozzle assembly of a micro puree machine according to some embodiments of the present utility model; Figure 1A ... of the micro puree machine;

[0021] Figure 2A Illustrates a portion of another micro puree machine according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0022] Figure 2B Illustrates a flip-up cup assembly that can be coupled to a micro puree machine according to some embodiments of the present utility model; Figure 2A ... of the micro puree machine;

[0023] Figure 3A Shows another flip-up cup assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0024] Figure 3B Shows a blade of a flip-up cup assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model; Figure 3A ... of the flip-up cup assembly;

[0025] Figure 3C According to some embodiments of the present utility model Figure 3A and Figure 3B a cross-sectional view of a reversible cup assembly and a first lid;

[0026] Figure 3D shows details of an embodiment of a plunger coupled to the underside of a second lid according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0027] Figure 4A and Figure 4B illustrates the use of a reversible cup assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model Figures 3A to 3D ;

[0028] Figure 5 illustrates an inflation system according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0029] Figures 6A to 6L illustrates another micro puree machine according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0030] Figure 6M illustrates another micro puree machine according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0031] Figures 7A to 7D illustrates another extrusion assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0032] Figures 8A to 8C illustrates another extrusion assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0033] Figures 8D to 8J illustrates the use of an extrusion assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model Figures 8A to 8C ;

[0034] Figure 9A illustrates another extrusion assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0035] Figures 9B to 9H illustrates the use of an extrusion assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model Figure 9A ;

[0036] Figures 10A to 10F illustrates the use of another extrusion assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0037] Figure 11A illustrates a plunger drive inhibitor having a sliding clutch assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0038] Figure 11B shows Figure 11ACross-sectional view of the plunger drive inhibitor shown in;

[0039] Figure 11C Shows Figure 11A Exploded view of the plunger drive inhibitor shown in;

[0040] Figure 12 Illustrates Figure 11A Features of the sliding clutch assembly shown;

[0041] Figure 13A Shows Figure 11A Cross-sectional view of the plunger drive inhibitor of, where the sliding clutch assembly does not slide when the rod moves between the initial position and the maximum open position;

[0042] Figure 13B Shows Figure 11A Cross-sectional view of the plunger drive inhibitor of, where the sliding clutch assembly slides when the rod moves between the initial position and the maximum open position;

[0043] Figure 14 Illustrates a plunger drive inhibitor having a sliding clutch assembly and a microswitch for detecting sliding according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0044] Figure 15A Illustrates a cross-sectional view of a plunger drive inhibitor having a sliding clutch assembly and a friction cone brake according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0045] Figure 15B Illustrates when the sliding clutch assembly slides Figure 15A Plunger drive inhibitor of;

[0046] Figure 15C Illustrates the isometric view of the plunger drive inhibitor shown in the absence of a friction cone brake Figure 15A Of;

[0047] Figure 15D Illustrates a friction cone brake according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0048] Figure 16A Illustrates a cross-sectional view of a plunger drive inhibitor having a torsion spring according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0049] Figure 16B Illustrates Figure 16A Isometric view of the torsion spring shown;

[0050] Figure 17Illustrated is a plunger drive inhibitor according to some embodiments of the present utility model, the plunger drive inhibitor having an automatic slip clutch assembly configured to stop an extrusion drive train when slippage between clutch plates is electronically detected;

[0051] Figure 18A Illustrated is an exploded view of a first clutch plate and a second clutch plate of an automatic slip clutch assembly for a plunger drive inhibitor according to some embodiments of the present utility model;

[0052] Figure 18B Illustrated is Figure 18A a cross-sectional side view of the first clutch plate and the second clutch plate illustrated in;

[0053] Figure 19 Illustrated is Figure 18A and Figure 18B a side profile view of the first clutch plate illustrated in;

[0054] Figure 20A Illustrated is a cross-sectional view of a plunger drive inhibitor having an automatic slip clutch assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model; and

[0055] Figure 20B Illustrated is Figure 20A an isometric view of the automatic slip clutch assembly shown in; Detailed Description

[0056] In the following description, regardless of the different illustrated embodiments, the same components have the same reference numerals. For the purpose of clearly and concisely illustrating the embodiments, the drawings may not necessarily reflect proper proportions and may have certain structures shown in a schematic form. The present utility model can illustrate and / or diagram structures in one embodiment, in one or more other embodiments in the same way or in a similar way and / or in combination with the structures of other embodiments or in place of the structures of other embodiments.

[0057] In the specification and claims, for the purpose of describing and defining the present invention, the terms "about" and "substantially" represent the inherent degree of uncertainty attributable to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. The terms "about" and "substantially" also represent the degree to which a quantitative representation may vary from the stated reference without causing a change in the basic function of the subject matter being discussed. Open-ended terms such as "comprising", "including" and / or the plural forms of each include the listed parts and may include additional parts not listed, while terms such as "and / or" include one or more of the listed parts and combinations of the listed parts. The use of terms such as "top", "bottom", "above", "below", etc. is only helpful for clearly describing the present invention and does not limit the structure, orientation, and / or operation of the present invention in any way.

[0058] Notably, the mechanisms and techniques described herein can be used to construct machines for processing (e.g., micro-puréeing and perhaps aerating) and extruding ice cream and other frozen ingredients. That is, both the processing and extrusion functions can be performed by a single machine. In such a machine, the same shaft can be used to drive a blade to process the frozen ingredients in a cup (i.e., a container), and to drive a plunger to extrude the processed ingredients from the cup. Additionally, such a machine can include a user interface that enables a user to control the execution time of each function. In some implementations of such a machine, a first shaft can be used to drive the processing, a second shaft can be used to drive the extrusion, and such an implementation can be considered to have a first subsystem or module for processing and a second subsystem or module for extrusion.

[0059] In some embodiments, a single lid (e.g., on the open end of the cup) can be provided 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 an embodiment, as described in more detail elsewhere herein, a single shaft driven by one or more motors (e.g., one motor for driving the blade to rotate; another motor for driving a driven shaft to move linearly along its axis) can drive the processing using the blade and the extrusion using the plunger, and the end of the cup opposite the lid can include an opening for extruding the processed ingredients from the cup.

[0060] In other embodiments, to enable the performance of two functions, the user may flip the processing cup from a first arrangement to a second arrangement. In the first arrangement, the driven shaft engages a blade at the first end of the processing cup (e.g., a blade housed in or coupled to a first lid at the first open end of the processing cup). In the second arrangement, the driven shaft engages a plunger at the second end of the processing cup (e.g., a plunger housed in or coupled to a second lid at the open second end of the processing cup), as described in more detail herein. In such an embodiment, the first lid may also include an opening for extruding ingredients from the cup during extrusion using the plunger in the second arrangement. Additionally, in such an embodiment, a single shaft driven by one or more motors may drive both processing using the blade and extrusion using the plunger, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0061] In other embodiments, to enable the performance of two functions, the user may replace a first lid for processing (e.g., housing or coupled to a blade) with a second lid for extrusion (e.g., housing or coupled to a plunger) from the open end of the processing cup, as described in more detail elsewhere herein. In such an embodiment, a single shaft driven by one or more motors may drive both processing using the blade and extrusion using the plunger, or alternatively, a separate shaft may be used for extrusion, where such a separate shaft drives the plunger, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0062] Figure 1A An isometric view of the micro puree machine 10 according to some embodiments of the present utility model is shown. Figure 1B The cup assembly 350 removed from the housing 120 of the micro puree machine 10 according to some embodiments of the present utility model is shown. Figure 1A of the micro puree machine 10. Figures 1C to 1G Embodiments of an extrusion assembly, a cup assembly, and / or a nozzle assembly according to some embodiments of the present utility model are illustrated.

[0063] The micro puree machine 10 may include a housing 120, and the housing 120 may include a user interface (not shown) for receiving user input to control the micro puree machine 10 and / or display information. The micro puree machine 10 may also include a cup assembly 350 and a nozzle assembly 603. The combination of the nozzle assembly 603 and the cup assembly 350 that may include a lid 400 configured for extrusion may be referred to herein as an extrusion assembly. The nozzle assembly 603 may include a nozzle housing 607 and a nozzle 608.

[0064] The cup assembly 350 may include a cup and / or container 352 (also referred to as a tumbler), which is configured to hold one or more processed ingredients, ingredients to be processed, or ingredients being processed. The user may couple the cup assembly 350 to the housing 120 by rotating the cup assembly 350 relative to the housing 120 (e.g., using a threaded or bayonet connection), or by other coupling mechanisms and / or techniques. The cup assembly 350 may be assembled to the housing 120 in a manner such that the central axis A of the cup assembly 350 extends perpendicular to the vertical axis V of the housing 120, as shown. However, the present utility model contemplates that the cup assembly 350 may be assembled to the housing 120 in a manner such that the central axis A extends at an angle between 0° and 90° relative to the vertical axis (e.g., as described in U.S. Patent No. 11,759,057 (‘057 patent) of SharkNinja Operating, LLC, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference), or the cup assembly 350 may be assembled to the housing 120 in a manner such that the central axis of the cup assembly 350 extends parallel to the vertical axis V (e.g., as described in U.S. Patent No. 11,871,765 (‘756 patent) of SharkNinja Operating, LLC, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference). In an embodiment, the cup and / or container 352 of the cup assembly 350 may be made of a disposable material to enhance the convenience of using the micro puree machine 10. Additionally, the cup 352 may be sold as a separate item and may also be pre-filled with ingredients to be processed during the use of the micro puree machine 10.

[0065] As Figure 1B shown, the housing 120 may include a coupling portion 500 disposed within the opening 140 of the housing 120. The inner surface 502 of the coupling portion 500 may include positioning and locking elements for positioning and connecting the cup assembly 350 to the coupling portion 500 in two different configurations, as described elsewhere herein. The micro puree machine 10 may further include a nozzle 608 coupled to the cup assembly 350 for extruding processed ingredients from the cup assembly 350. The nozzle 608 may be configured such that the ingredients are extruded in a vertically downward direction, such that the user may place an ice cream cone, cup, tumbler, or other edible or inedible receiver below the nozzle to receive the extruded ingredients. The present utility model also contemplates that multiple nozzle shapes may be provided to allow the user to customize. For example, multiple nozzles may be included on a rotatable turntable that allows the user to select a desired nozzle shape. In other embodiments, the extrusion function may be integrated into a program on the user interface at a predetermined translational speed / flow rate.

[0066] As Figure 1CAs shown, the first end 352a of the cup 352 can be configured to be coupled to both the first lid 440 and the second lid 450. The first lid 440 can include a blade 300 for processing ingredients, e.g., a blade as described in the '765 patent. When the lid 440 is coupled to the cup 352 (e.g., via mating threads on the cup and the lid), the cup assembly 350 can be considered to be in a processing configuration and can be coupled to the housing via the coupling portion 500. The lid 440 can have on its outer sidewall positioning and locking elements 442 configured to be coupled to the positioning and locking elements on the inner surface 502 of the coupling portion 500. The second lid 450 can include a plunger 454 for extruding the ingredients. Additionally, the plunger 454 can include a flexible seal around its perimeter to ensure contact (e.g., maximum contact) with the sidewall of the cup 352, thereby allowing optimal (e.g., maximum) extrusion throughput. When the lid 450 is coupled to the cup 352 (e.g., via mating threads on the cup and the lid), the cup assembly 350 can be considered to be in an extrusion configuration and can be coupled to the housing via the coupling portion 500. The lid 450 can have on its outer sidewall positioning and locking elements 452 configured to be coupled to the positioning and locking elements on the inner surface 502 of the coupling portion 500.

[0067] The second end 352b of the cup 352 can include a central opening 604 or a non - central opening having a coupling collar 606. The coupling collar 606 can include threads or other types of coupling features, e.g., slots or cams for snap - fitting. For example, during processing, the opening 604 can be closed by a cap 605 which can be removed during extrusion. The cap 605 can include internal threads (not shown) or other coupling features that allow it to be coupled to the coupling collar 606. The opening 604 can also be in fluid communication with a nozzle 608. For example, the opening 604 can be in fluid communication with the nozzle via a conduit (e.g., a plastic tube) that extends from the opening 604 to the nozzle 608, e.g., within a nozzle assembly 603. In an embodiment, such a conduit can include one or more segments connected by joints (e.g., elbow joints) to convert the extrusion direction from the opening 604 (e.g., horizontal) to the extrusion direction from the nozzle 608 (e.g., vertically downward).

[0068] As Figure 1DAs shown, the user can attach the first lid 440 to the cup 352 and use the coupling features described herein to couple the cup assembly 350 to the micro - puree machine 10. The lid 440 can be configured (e.g., as described in the '765 patent) such that when the lid 440 is coupled to the outer housing 120, the blade 300 engages the driven shaft 250 and disengages from the lid 440. By using the user interface (e.g., as described in the '057 patent), the user can activate a program that controls the rotation and movement (e.g., lowering or horizontal movement or movement at an angle) of the blade 300 into the ingredients in the cup 352 to process (e.g., micro - puree) the ingredients. It should be understood that in some embodiments, as Figure 1D shown, even if, for example, extrusion is not performed during processing, the nozzle assembly 603 or one or more of its components (e.g., the nozzle 608) can be coupled to the second end 352b of the cup 350 (and possibly to the outer housing). In such embodiments, the opening 604 can be closed, for example, using the cap 605 or by other means. Figure 1E is a bottom view of the cup assembly 350 coupled to the outer housing, where the opening 604 is not covered. In actual use, during processing, the opening 604 can be closed, for example, by the cap 605, or opened and coupled to the nozzle assembly 603 during extrusion.

[0069] After processing the ingredients in the cup 352, the user can then remove the cup assembly 350 from the micro - puree machine 10, remove the first lid 440 from the first end 352a, replace it with the lid 450 at the first end 352a, couple the nozzle assembly to the second end 352b of the cup assembly 350 (if not already attached), couple the cup assembly 350 to the outer 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 cup 352 to the second end 352b of the cup, forcing the processed ingredients through the opening 604 and extruding the processed ingredients through the nozzle 608.

[0070] Figure 1F illustrates another embodiment of a nozzle assembly 603' including a nozzle 608' that can be used to extrude the processed ingredients, for example, using the mechanisms and techniques described herein.

[0071] Figure 1G shows another cup assembly 350' including an extrusion assembly 600 according to some embodiments of the present invention. As Figure 1GAs shown, the cup assembly 350’ may include a nozzle 608’ that is integrated with a bottom edge of the cup 352’ on, for example, a sidewall of the cup 352’ near or extending past the second end 352b’. In an embodiment, the cup assembly 350’ may be configured to be mounted to the coupling 500 in such a manner that the nozzle 608’ is vertically downward when the cup 352’ is properly installed. During extrusion, movement of the plunger (e.g., plunger 454) will force the processed ingredients through the nozzle 608’. The nozzle 608’ may be selectively located on the cup 352’ to optimize the amount of processed ingredients that can be extruded, thereby minimizing post-extrusion yield loss. For example, as Figure 1G shown, the nozzle 608’ may be located near the bottom edge of the cup 352’. However, the present invention contemplates that the nozzle 608’ may alternatively be located at different longitudinal and / or radial positions on the cup 352’. The cup assembly 350’ and / or the cup 352’ may be the same as or different from the cup assembly 350 and / or the cup 352, respectively.

[0072] Advantageously, the micro puree machine 10 may include a sensor (not shown) that identifies a lid installed in the machine 10 to restrict certain programs based on lid functionality, which can prevent a user from making mistakes when operating the machine 10. For example, the micro puree machine may activate only the blade 300 when the sensor detects that the cup 352 is installed in a first configuration with the lid 440 coupled to the cup 350, and may activate only the plunger 454 when the sensor detects that the cup 352 is installed in a second configuration with the lid 450 coupled to the cup 350. For example, the lids 440 and 450 may each include unique physical and / or electromagnetic features, such as portions of positioning and locking elements 442 and 452, respectively, for which the coupling 500 or other elements of the micro puree machine 10 may be configured to detect and distinguish between the lids 440 and 450.

[0073] The housing 120 can accommodate one or more motors and a transmission system (e.g., including gears), and the motors and the transmission system drive a driven shaft (e.g., the driven shaft 250) for engaging the blade 300 and / or the plunger 454 for processing or extrusion, respectively, when the cup assembly 350 (coupled to the lid 440 or 450, respectively) is coupled to the housing, for example, as described in U.S. Patent No. 11,882,965 (‘965 patent) or the ‘765 patent of SharkNinja Operating, LLC, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. For example, one or more motors can include a first motor for driving the rotation of the driven shaft 250 via a transmission, which can be used to drive the rotation of the blade 300 during processing, and, if desired (but not necessary), to rotate the plunger 454 during extrusion. A second motor can be configured to move the position of the driven shaft 250 along the axis of the driven shaft 250 (e.g., back and forth or up and down) via a transmission, which can be used to drive the blade 300 in and out of the cup 350 back and forth during processing, and to move the plunger 454 in and out of the cup 350 during extrusion. In an embodiment, the micro puree machine 10 can include a gearbox (e.g., a high-ratio gearbox) and reinforced internal components (not shown) to allow the extrusion assembly described herein to withstand high forces and extrude a thick output from the nozzle 608.

[0074] In some embodiments of the present utility model, a reversible cup assembly can be used, and the reversible cup assembly does not require the removal of the lid between processing and extrusion. For example, the reversible cup assembly can include: a first lid coupled at one end and including a blade for processing and an opening for extrusion; and a second lid at the other end and including a plunger for extrusion. An example of such an embodiment will now be described.

[0075] Figure 2A An embodiment of a micro puree machine according to some embodiments of the present utility model is illustrated, including a portion of a coupling portion 500’ for coupling to a cup assembly (e.g., a reversible cup assembly). Figure 2B An embodiment of a reversible cup 352” that can be coupled to the coupling portion 500’ is illustrated. The cup 352” can include any of a variety of outer surfaces. For example, embodiments of the cup can have a ribbed or corrugated surface (e.g., like the cup 352 or 352’), or a smooth surface (e.g., the cup 352”). Similarly, the cups 352 and 352” can have any of a variety of surfaces, including a smooth surface.

[0076] As 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 portion 500', and optionally all the way through the interior of the coupling portion 500'. The inner surface 502' of the coupling portion 500' may include one or more slots 504, the size and shape of the slots 504 being formed to receive at least one protrusion 354 on the outer surface of the first open end 352a" of the cup 352". In an embodiment, both the first end 352a" and the second end 352b" of the cup 352" may be open - i.e., neither the first end 352a" nor the second end 352b" may have a top wall or a bottom wall and / or a lid. However, the present utility model is not limited thereto, and one or both ends 352a", 352b" of the cup 352" may be closed with a wall or a lid. In an embodiment, at least one protrusion 354 on the cup 352" may be four protrusions 354 spaced 90 degrees apart around the outer surface of the first end 352a" of the cup 352". However, the present utility model contemplates more or fewer than four protrusions 354. In the first configuration of the reversible cup assembly 350", the user can rotate the cup 352" relative to the coupling portion 500' such that the protrusions 354 rotate into the slots 504, coupling (e.g., locking) the cup 352" and the coupling portion 500' together.

[0077] The size and shape of the slots 504 may also be formed to receive at least one protrusion 356 on the outer surface of the second open end 352b" of the cup 352". In an embodiment, the at least one protrusion 356 may be four protrusions 356 spaced 90 degrees apart around the outer surface of the second end 352b" of the cup 352". However, the present utility model contemplates more or fewer than four protrusions 356. In the second configuration of the reversible cup assembly 350", the user can rotate the cup 352" relative to the coupling portion 500' such that the protrusions 356 rotate into the slots 504, coupling (e.g., locking) the cup 352" and the coupling portion 500' together. As further described elsewhere herein, the first end 352a" of the cup 352" may also include threads 366 for coupling to a first lid, while the second end 352b" of the cup 352" may include threads 368 for coupling to a second lid.

[0078] Figure 3A An embodiment of the assembled reversible cup assembly 350" according to some embodiments of the present utility model is shown. As Figure 3AAs shown, the cup 352” can be oval and include a cylindrical sidewall 358 that defines an internal volume 360 of the cup 352”. The sidewall 358 can extend between a first open end 352a” of the cup 352” and a second open end 352b” opposite the first open end 352a”. Embodiments of the sidewall 358 can have various configurations. For example, the cross-section of the sidewall can be circular or polygonal. Additionally, the diameter of the sidewall can vary between the first open end 352a” and the second open end 352b” (e.g., can be tapered). The first open end 352a” and the second open end 352b” can communicate with the internal volume 360 of the cup 352”. The assembly 350” can also include a first lid 400’ removably coupled to the first open end 352a” of the cup 352”. The first lid 400’ can define an opening 401( Figure 3C ), and the opening 401 is configured to be coupled to a blade 300 for mixing ingredients within the cup 352”. When the cup 352” is installed in the coupling portion 500’ in a first configuration, the blade 300 can engage with the driven shaft 250’ to rotate the blade 300 and insert the blade 300 into the ingredients. Figure 3B An embodiment of the blade 300 coupled to the underside of the first lid 400’ is shown. Some non-limiting examples of the blade 300 are shown in the ‘765 patent.

[0079] Figure 3C is a cross-sectional view of a reversible cup assembly 350” and a first lid 400’ according to some embodiments of the present utility model, while the blade 300 and the second lid 450’ are not shown in a cross-sectional form. As Figure 3C shown, the blade 300 can include a central support hub 305, and the central support hub 305 includes a central opening 306 for engaging with the driven shaft 250. In an embodiment, the second lid 450’ can be removably coupled to the second open end 352b” of the cup 352”. The second lid 450’ can include or be coupled to a plunger 602 for pushing the ingredients in the cup 352” towards the opening 604’ of the first lid 400’. The plunger 602 can constitute an extrusion assembly 600 for extruding the processed ingredients from the cup 352” alone or in combination with other components (e.g., the second lid 450’, the cup 352”, or the nozzle 608). The opening 604’ of the first lid 400’ can also be in fluid communication with a nozzle (e.g., the nozzle 608). For example, the opening 604’ can be in fluid communication with the nozzle through a conduit (e.g., a plastic tube) extending from the opening 604’ to the nozzle. In an embodiment, such a conduit can include one or more segments connected by joints (e.g., elbow joints) to convert the extrusion direction (e.g., horizontal) starting from the opening 604’ to the extrusion direction (e.g., vertically downward) starting from the nozzle.

[0080] When the cup assembly 350” is in the second configuration and the cup 352” is attached to the coupling portion 500’, the plunger 602 can be coupled to the driven shaft 250’ of the micro puree machine. The surface of the plunger 602 facing the internal volume 360 can include one or more (e.g., a plurality of) recesses 606. During processing by the blade 300, the recesses 606 can prevent the frozen ingredients from rotating within the cup 352”. Additionally, the plunger 602 can include a flexible seal 610 around its perimeter to ensure contact (e.g., maximum contact) with the sidewall 358 of the cup 352”, thereby allowing for optimal (e.g., maximum) extrusion output.

[0081] With Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figures 3A to 3D 、 Figure 4A And Figure 4B The micro puree machines of the embodiments described in relation thereto can include one or more motor and transmission systems (e.g., including gears) that drive the driven shaft (e.g., driven shaft 250’) for engaging the blade assembly 300 and / or the plunger 602 for processing or extrusion when the cup assembly 350” (coupled to the lid 400’ or 450’ respectively) is coupled to the housing, e.g., as described in the ‘765 patent or the ‘965 patent; and can include a gearbox (e.g., a high ratio gearbox) and reinforced internal parts (not shown) to allow the extrusion assembly 600 to withstand high forces and extrude a thick output from the nozzle.

[0082] Figure 3D A detailed view of an embodiment of the plunger 602 coupled to the underside of the second lid 450’ is shown. In an embodiment, the cup assembly 350” can be configured such that only the first lid 400’ can be coupled to the first open end 352a” of the cup 352”, and only the second lid 450’ can be coupled to the second open end 352b” of the cup 352”. For example, the configuration of the threads 366 can be different from the configuration of the threads 368 ( Figure 3B ), to prevent the user from attaching the wrong lid to the wrong side of the cup 352”. The cup 352” can also include clear indicators (color, icon, etc.) that signal to the user which lid is on which side of the cup 352”.

[0083] Figure 4A And Figure 4B Illustrates the use of the reversible cup assembly 350” according to some embodiments of the present invention. As Figure 4AAs shown, the user can first install the cup assembly 350” in a first configuration onto the micro puree machine 10 such that the first end 352a” of the cup 352” is fixed to the coupling portion 500’. Then, the user can select a program on the user interface according to the desired output (e.g., soft ice cream, light ice cream, sorbet, gelato, etc.) to cause the blade 300 to rotate and insert into the ingredients in the cup 352”. For example, the blade 300 can be lowered into the ingredients and then rise from the ingredients at one or more predetermined rates while rotating at one or more predetermined rates. As Figure 4B shown, the user can then remove the cup assembly 350” from the coupling portion 500’, reverse the orientation of the cup assembly 350” (i.e., flip the cup assembly 350”) and reinstall the second end 352b” of the cup 352” to the coupling portion 500’ in a second configuration. Then, the user can select a desired program on the user interface to cause the plunger 602 to descend and extrude the ingredients through the opening 604’ of the first lid 400’. For example, the plunger 602 can be lowered into the ingredients to extrude the ingredients through the opening 604’ and then rise from the opening 604’ after the extrusion is completed.

[0084] Figure 5 The figure illustrates an aeration system 700 for use with the micro puree machine 10 according to some embodiments of the present invention. As Figure 5 shown, the aeration system 700 can include an opening 506 in the coupling portion 500. When the cup 352 is in the first configuration, the internal volume 360 can be substantially sealed from ambient air. The opening 506 can include a filter 508 for filtering dust particles and debris from entering the internal volume 360. The first end 702a of the tube 702 can be operatively attached to the opening 506 via a soft plug 510 (e.g., a silicone plug post) such that the tube 702 is in fluid communication with the internal volume 360. The second end 702b of the tube 702 can be operatively coupled to a pump 704 or other mechanism for forcing fluid (e.g., pushing air) into fluid communication with the tube 702. The pump 704 is operable to change the pressure of the internal volume 360 of the cup 352 by selectively pumping gas (e.g., air) into or out of the internal volume 360 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 at a high pressure (e.g., 8 psi) results in a thinner and more aerated output. In an embodiment, the aeration system 700 can be integrated into the processing program of the user interface 142 with a predetermined processing time and aeration percentage. The present invention also contemplates that the user interface 142 will have a separate aeration input to allow for further user control.

[0085] Although embodiments of the present invention include performing processing and extrusion using the same driven shaft, in some embodiments, as will now be described, processing and extrusion are performed on different shafts.

[0086] Figures 6A to 6L Another micro puree machine 800 according to some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. Figure 6A and Figure 6B An embodiment of the micro puree machine 800 in a first configuration for processing (e.g., micro pureeing), which may be referred to herein as a processing configuration, is illustrated. Figure 6C and Figure 6D An embodiment of the micro puree machine 800 in a second configuration for extrusion, which may be referred to herein as an extrusion configuration, is shown. For illustrative purposes only, Figures 6E to 6L An embodiment of the micro puree machine 800 in both the processing configuration and the extrusion configuration is illustrated, as in some embodiments, the micro puree machine is not configured to perform processing and extrusion simultaneously.

[0087] 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 sub-module 821 and an extrusion sub-module 823. The processing sub-module 821 includes one or more components configured to process ingredients in a cup 852 (e.g., cup 352 or a variant thereof). The extrusion sub-module 823 includes one or more components configured to extrude the processed ingredients from the cup 852. In a processing configuration, the cup 852 may be coupled to the interior of an outer cup 807, and the outer cup 807 is mounted on a processing platform 809 that is mounted to the base 805. The cup 852 may be coupled to a lid 811 (e.g., lid 440 or a variant thereof), and the lid 811 houses a blade assembly 813 (e.g., blade 300 or a variant thereof). The cup 852 may include a nozzle control assembly 851 (e.g., a turntable) that enables a user to control the opening and closing of a nozzle 860, the nozzle 860, and a hinged plug or stopper 856. The user may selectively cover the nozzle 860 or the control assembly 851 using the hinged plug or stopper 856. In some embodiments, the nozzle control assembly 851, the nozzle 860, and the stopper 856 may be removably attached to the cup 852. For example, as described in the '765 application, using a handle 825, the user may rotate and lift the processing cup assembly 817 to a processing position where the blade assembly 813 engages a driven shaft 854, the lid 811 is coupled to the micro puree machine, and the blade 300 is released from the lid 811 so that the driven shaft 854 can drive the blade 300. By engaging the user interface (or via a remote interface wirelessly connected to a wireless interface within the housing 820), the user may initiate the processing of the ingredients in the cup 852. In a processing configuration, the extrusion sub-module 823 may remain idle, and a cap or plug 819 may be coupled to a coupling portion 827 to cover an interface 829 with the driven shaft 858.

[0088] After processing the ingredients, the processing cup assembly 817 may be decoupled from the micro puree machine 800 (e.g., from the processing sub-module 821) and removed from the platform 809. The lid 811 may be removed from the outer cup 807, and the cup 852 may be removed from the outer cup 807. Then, a lid 853 may be installed on the cup 852, and then the cup 852 may be coupled to the micro puree machine 800 in an extrusion configuration (e.g., coupled to the extrusion sub-module 823).

[0089] In an extrusion configuration, cup 852 may be coupled to a lid 853 that includes a plunger (e.g., lid 450 or a variant thereof). The combination of cup 852 and lid 853 may be referred to herein as cup extrusion assembly 850. In an embodiment, cup extrusion assembly 850 may be configured to be mounted to micro puree machine 800 in such a manner that nozzle 860 is vertically downward when cup extrusion assembly 850 is properly installed. As shown, cup extrusion assembly 850 may be assembled to housing 820 (e.g., extrusion sub-module 823) in such a manner that a central axis A of cup extrusion assembly 850 extends perpendicular to a vertical axis V of housing 820. Cup extrusion assembly 850 may include an outlet 860 for extruding processed ingredients from cup extrusion assembly 850. Micro puree machine 800 may also include a rod 830 for manually activating a plunger 802 to extrude the processed ingredients within cup extrusion assembly 850 through outlet 860.

[0090] Although rod 830 is illustrated on the right side of machine 800 (from Figure 6B the front view shown), the present invention is not so limited. Rod 830 may be on the left side of machine 800, or at another location on machine 800, and other components of the machine may be reconfigured to accommodate the different location of rod 830. Housing 820 may include electrical, electromagnetic, mechanical, and / or electromechanical components to convert a downward pull or an upward push of rod 830 into movement of a plunger (e.g., plunger 802) within cup 852.

[0091] Embodiments of the housing 820 of the micro puree machine 800 can house a transmission system that includes 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 positions and / or drive motors for rotationally and / or axially moving the driven shaft 854 and the other shaft 858 to process ingredients in the cup assembly 850. For example, a drive motor can drive the rotation of the driven shaft 854 and a blade (e.g., blade 300) coupled to the driven shaft 854, and a positioning motor can drive the vertical (e.g., downward and upward) movement of the driven shaft 854 and the blade. Another motor can drive the second shaft 858 and a plunger (e.g., plunger 454 or 602) attached to the second shaft 858. In an embodiment, the blade 813 can be programmably controlled via a computing system on the user interface 810 to operate at different rotational speeds, move up and down in different modes and speeds, and be controlled to make different foods over different time periods. In an embodiment, the plunger in the lid 853 can be programmably controlled via a computing system on the user interface 810 to operate at different rotational speeds, move up and down in different modes and speeds, and be controlled to make different foods over different time periods. Some non-limiting examples of the transmission system and the computing system are shown in the descriptions of U.S. Patent No. 11,882,965 (‘965 patent) and the ‘765 patent of SharkNinja Operating, LLC, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference.

[0092] Figure 6M An isometric view of a micro puree machine 5010 according to another embodiment of the present utility model is shown. The micro puree machine 5010 can be used to process ingredients on one axis and extrude the processed ingredients on another axis. As Figure 6M shown, the micro puree machine 5010 can include a base 5100, a housing 5120, and an extrusion module 5130. The housing 5120 can 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 can also include a cup 5352. As shown, the cup 5352 can be assembled to the housing 5120 in such a way that the central axis A of the cup 5352 extends parallel to the vertical axis V of the housing 5120. However, the present utility model contemplates that the cup 5352 can be assembled to the housing 5120 in such a way that the central axis A extends at an angle between 0° and 90° relative to the vertical axis V or in such a way that the central axis A extends perpendicular to the vertical axis V.

[0093] The extrusion module 5130 can be configured to be coupled to a cup assembly as described herein, e.g., a cup having a lid that houses a plunger. The extrusion module 5130 can also include a motor and a transmission to drive a driven shaft such that, during extrusion, the plunger and the cup move together, e.g., as described elsewhere herein. The micro puree machine 5010 can also include a rod 5730 for activating the plunger to extrude processed ingredients from the cup 5352 through an integrated nozzle (not shown) in the cup 5352. The housing 5120 can include electrical, electromagnetic, and / or mechanical components that translate a downward or upward pull of the rod into movement of the plunger within the cup.

[0094] The nozzle can be integrated with the bottom surface of the cup 5352 in such a way that the nozzle is vertically downward when the cup 5352 is properly installed. In Figure 6J an embodiment, the plunger can be configured to extrude processed ingredients from the cup 5352 using a shaft (not shown) that is separate from the driven shaft (e.g., 250) of the rotary blade (e.g., 300). In other embodiments, the separate shaft can be manually driven by a user by cranking the rod 5730.

[0095] Figures 7A to 7D Another extrusion assembly 1600 is illustrated in which a plunger 1602 and a blade 1300 according to some embodiments of the present invention can be mounted to the same lid 1400. As Figure 7A shown, the plunger 1602 can alone or in combination with other components (e.g., the lid 1400, the cup 1352, and the nozzle) constitute an extrusion assembly 1600 for extruding processed ingredients from the cup 1352. In some embodiments, the cup 1352 can be the cup 352 ([[]] Figure 1E ) that includes a central opening 604 that can be aligned with the nozzle 608. In other embodiments, the cup 1352 can be the cup 352’ ([[]] Figure 1G ) that includes a nozzle 608’ integrated with the bottom edge of the cup 352’. The lid 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 Figure 7B shown, the plunger 1602 can be coupled to the underside of the lid 1400. For example, the plunger 1602 can be magnetically coupled to a metal ring 1402 on the underside of the lid 1400. However, other coupling mechanisms for the plunger 1602 and the lid 1400 are contemplated by the present invention. Both the plunger 1602 and the metal ring 1402 can define an opening 1404 that can be aligned with the opening 1401 of the lid 1400. As further described elsewhere herein, the plunger 1602 can also include at least one retaining element 1604. As Figure 7CAs shown, once the plunger 1602 has been installed on the lid 1400, the user can couple the blade 1300 to the underside of the plunger 1602 in such a way that the central support hub 1305 extends through the opening 1404 and the blade 1300 is not blocked by the retaining element 1604. Figure 7D ) In use, to process the ingredients within the cup 1352, the driven shaft 250 can be operated to lower the blade 1300 through the retaining element 1604 and away from the plunger 1602 before the blade 1300 begins to rotate to process the ingredients within the cup 1352. After processing, the blade 1300 can return to its initial position against the plunger 1602. Then, to extrude the ingredients from the cup 1352, the driven shaft 250 can be operated to slightly rotate the blade 1300 such that the blade 1300 is held against the plunger 1602 by the retaining element 1604. Then, the driven shaft 250 can apply sufficient force to overcome the magnetic coupling between the lid 1400 and the plunger 1602 to lower both the blade 1300 and the plunger 1602 through the cup 1352, thereby extruding the processed ingredients through the nozzle 608.

[0096] Figures 8A to 8C Another extrusion assembly 2600 is shown in which a plunger 2602 and a blade 2300 according to some embodiments of the present invention can be mounted to the same lid 2400. As Figure 8A shown, the plunger 2602 can form, alone or in combination with other components (e.g., the lid 2400, the cup 2352, and the nozzle), an extrusion assembly 2600 for extruding processed ingredients from the cup 2352. In some embodiments, the cup 2352 can be a cup 352 that includes a centrally located opening 604 that can be aligned with the nozzle 608. Figure 1E ) In other embodiments, the cup 2352 can be a cup 352' that includes a nozzle 608' integrated with the bottom edge of the cup 352'. Figure 1G ) The user can assemble the extrusion assembly 2600 in a manner similar to that of the Figures 7A to 7D extrusion assembly 1600. For example, the plunger 2602 can be magnetically or otherwise coupled to the underside of the lid 2400. Once the plunger 2602 has been installed on the lid 2400, the user can couple the blade 2300 to the underside of the plunger 2602 in such a way that the blade 2300 is received within the circumferential wall 2606 of the plunger 2602. As Figure 8B shown, the central support hub 2305 of the blade 2300 can include an upper groove 2308 and a lower groove 2310. As Figure 8CAs shown, the lid 2400 may include a first set of engagement features, such as a main clamp 2408 that biases (e.g., spring biases) toward the central support hub 2305. When the user installs the blade 2300 onto the lid 2400, the main clamp 2408 may engage the upper slot 2308 of the central support hub 2305. In this configuration, a second set of engagement features on the plunger 2602, such as the secondary clamp 2610, disengages from the lower slot 2310 so that the blade 2300 can be axially and rotationally driven by the driven shaft 250 independently of the plunger 2602.

[0097] Figures 8D to 8I Illustrated is the configuration and movement of the secondary clamp 2610 according to some embodiments of the present utility model. As Figure 8D shown, the upper surface of the plunger 2602 may include a set of movable rods 2612 disposed within a housing 2622 configured to allow the central support hub 2305 to pass through. As Figure 8E shown, the rods 2612 are operatively coupled to the secondary clamp 2610 such that when the secondary clamp 2610 engages the lower slot 2310, the rods 2612 are positioned apart. As Figure 8F shown, the secondary clamp 2610 may move through opposing bridge members 2614 on the upper surface of the plunger 2602, as Figure 8G shown in more detail in. The inner surface of the bridge member 2614 may define opposing slots 2616. The bridge member 2614 may also define a passage 2618 for blocking member 2620 to pass through. When the blade 2300 processes the ingredients within the cup 2352, the blocking member 2020 may block the slot 2616 such that the secondary clamp 2610 is prevented from moving through the bridge member 2614 and engaging the lower slot 2310, thereby preventing the plunger 2602 from engaging the driven shaft 2250. As Figure 8H shown, to engage the plunger 2602 with the central support hub 2305 during the extrusion phase, the blade 2300 may be moved slightly upward such that the platform 2302 on the blade 2300 causes the blocking member 2020 to move upward through the passage 2618, thereby clearing the slot 2616. As Figure 8I and Figure 8J shown, once the blocking member 2620 no longer blocks the slot 2616, the secondary clamp 2610 may move through the bridge member 2614 to engage the lower slot 2310. In this configuration, both the blade 2300 and the plunger 2602 are operatively engaged with the driven shaft 250 such that both the blade 2300 and the plunger 2602 can be lowered through the cup 2352 to extrude the processed ingredients from the cup 2352.

[0098] Figure 9A Illustrated is another extrusion assembly 3600 in which a plunger 3602 and a blade 3300 according to some embodiments of the present utility model may be installed onto the same lid. As Figure 9AAs shown, the plunger 3602 can form, either alone or in combination with other components (such as a lid, cup, and nozzle not shown), an extrusion assembly 3600 for extruding the processed ingredients from the cup. In some embodiments, the cup can be a cup 352 that includes a central opening 604 that can be aligned with the nozzle 608 ( Figure 1E ). In other embodiments, the cup can be a cup 352' that includes a nozzle 608' integrated with the bottom edge of the cup 352' ( Figure 1G ). The extrusion assembly 3600 can 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 in such a way that the inner shaft 3252 and the outer shaft 3254 can translate independently of each other. The outer shaft 3254 can define opposing holes 3256 for the ball bearings 3258 to pass through. The outer surface of the inner shaft 3252 can define opposing cavities 3260 for receiving the ball bearings 3258. The inner surface of the plunger 3602 can also define opposing recesses 3262 for receiving the ball bearings 3258. The blade 3300 can be attached to the outer shaft 3254, for example, by a bayonet connection. However, other suitable methods for attaching the blade 3300 to the outer shaft 3254 are contemplated by the present utility model.

[0099] Figures 9B to 9H Schematically illustrates the use of the extrusion assembly 3600 according to some embodiments of the present utility model. As Figure 9B shown, the user can first install the plunger 3206 to a lid (not shown), for example, via a magnetic connection. In this configuration, the plunger 3206 can not be attached to the outer shaft 3254, while the ball bearings 3258 can remain in the upper portion of the cavity 3260 of the inner shaft 3252. Then, the user can attach the blade 3300 to the outer shaft 3254. As Figure 9C shown, to start the processing step, the outer shaft 3254 can be translated relative to the inner shaft 3252 together with the ball bearings 3258 to lower the blade 3300 into the cup and then rotated together with the inner shaft 3252 to process the ingredients inside the cup. 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, the ball bearings 3258 can move away from the central axis A and thus protrude from the holes 3256 of the outer shaft 3254. As Figure 9D shown, once the processing step is completed, the components can return to the Figure 9B shown initial position. As Figure 9EAs shown, to initiate the extrusion step, the solenoid 3604 can retract, causing the inner shaft 3252 to move upward relative to the outer shaft 3254. When the ball bearing 3258 reaches the end of the lower portion of the cavity 3260, the ball bearing can again move away from the central axis A and project from the hole 3256 of the outer shaft 3254, thereby engaging the recess 3262 in the plunger 3602. In this configuration, the plunger 3602 can be locked to the outer shaft 3254. As Figure 9F shown, both the inner shaft 3252 and the outer shaft 3254 can again descend with both the plunger 3602 and the blade 3300 attached to extrude the processed ingredients from the nozzle. As Figure 9G shown, once the extrusion step is completed, the components can return to the Figure 9E pre-extrusion position shown with the plunger 3602 still attached to the outer shaft 3254. Finally, as Figure 9H shown, the solenoid 3604 can extend, causing the inner shaft 3252 to move downward relative to the outer shaft 3254. When the ball bearing 3258 reaches the upper portion of the cavity 3260, the ball bearing 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.

[0100] Figures 10A to 10F Schematically illustrates the use of another extrusion assembly 4600 according to some embodiments of the present invention. As Figure 10A shown, the plunger 4602 can alone or in combination with other components (e.g., the lid 4400, the cup, and the nozzle) constitute an extrusion assembly 4600 for extruding the processed ingredients from the cup. In some embodiments, the cup can be a cup 352 that includes a central opening 604 that can be aligned with the nozzle 608 ( Figure 1E ). In other embodiments, the cup can be a cup 352' that includes a nozzle 608' integrated with the bottom edge of the cup 352' ( Figure 1G ). As Figure 10A shown, the extrusion assembly 4600 can further include an outer shaft 4254 that extends through the plunger 4602. The inner surface of the outer shaft 4254 can be configured to receive the 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 initiate the processing step, the user can first install the plunger 4602 onto the lid 4400. Then, the user can attach the blade 4300 to the lid 4400 such that a pair of main clamps 4408 act under the force of a second spring 4410 to engage the slot 4310 on the central support hub 4305. As Figure 10BAs shown, the user can then attach the lid 4400 to a cup (not shown) and couple the cup 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 cup to the micro - puree machine 10, 800 causes the main clamp 4408 to disengage from the central support hub 4305 to allow the blade 4300 to move away from the lid 4400. As Figure 10C shown, to initiate the processing step, an electromagnet such as solenoid 4604 can press down on the collar 4644, causing the collar 4644 to move against the force of spring 4646 such that the ball bearing 4258 extends through an opening in the outer shaft 4254 to engage a recess 4262 on the inner surface of the collar 4644. In this configuration, the plunger 4602 can be locked to the outer shaft 4254 such that the blade 4300 can move independently of the plunger 4602. As Figure 10D shown, the driven shaft 4250 and the blade 4300 can be lowered into the cup and rotated to process the ingredients within the cup. As Figure 10E shown, after processing, the driven shaft 4250 and the blade 4300 can then return to the initial position. To initiate the extrusion step, the solenoid 4604 can stop pressing down on the collar 4644, allowing the collar 4644 to move upward to release the engagement of the ball bearing 4258 with the collar 4644 such that the plunger 4602 is no longer locked to the outer shaft 4254. Finally, as Figure 10F shown, the driven shaft 4250 can lower both the plunger 4602 and the blade 4300 into the cup to extrude the processed ingredients from the cup.

[0101] The disclosed micro - puree machine can include a plunger drive inhibitor and / or a separator to reduce the value of the forces that can be applied to various components of the extrusion assembly. As previously mentioned, the extrusion assembly can include a rod (e.g., 5730, 830, or any other rod described herein), which can be manipulated by a user to extrude the contents within the cup 852 using a plunger 802 (or any other plunger described herein, such as plungers 602, 1602, 2602, 3602, and / or 4602). The movement of the plunger is controlled by a drive train. If the contents within the cup 852 are too hard, damage may occur during extrusion or an attempt to extrude the contents of the cup. To protect the drive train and other components of the extrusion assembly, if a force level above a predetermined force limit and / or threshold is detected, a plunger drive inhibitor and / or a separator can be used to selectively limit or eliminate the transfer of the input force applied to the rod to the extrusion drive train (and activate the plunger 802). The disclosed plunger drive inhibitor can be used in combination with any extrusion assembly including extrusion assemblies 600, 1600, 2600, 3600, and / or 4600 described herein. Limiting the value of the force that can be applied to the drive train can advantageously prevent damage and extend the life of the drive train and other components of the extrusion assembly.

[0102] The plunger drive inhibitor and / or separator can be implemented using various mechanical and / or electrical mechanisms. For example, the plunger drive inhibitor can be configured to mechanically divert the force applied to the rod from the extrusion drivetrain if a force limit and / or threshold is exceeded. In an alternative implementation, an electrical mechanism can be used to cut off the power to the extrusion assembly motor if a force limit and / or threshold is exceeded. Various different implementations of the disclosed plunger drive inhibitor and / or separator are possible and will be discussed in detail below. Specifically, Figures 11A to 14 FIG. shows a plunger drive inhibitor 6000 including a slip clutch assembly, Figures 15A to 15C FIG. shows a plunger drive inhibitor 7000 having a slip clutch assembly and a friction cone brake, Figures 16A to 16B FIG. shows a plunger drive inhibitor 8000 implemented with a torsion spring, Figures 17 to 19 FIG. shows a plunger drive inhibitor 9000 having an automatic slip clutch assembly with a sensor, the automatic slip clutch assembly being configured to turn off the extrusion assembly when slippage of the clutch disc is electrically detected, Figures 20A to 20B FIG. shows a plunger drive inhibitor 10000 having an automatic and independent slip clutch assembly. Details of each of these plunger drive inhibitors are described in detail below.

[0103] Figures 11A to 11C FIG. shows a plunger drive inhibitor and / or separator 6000. The plunger drive inhibitor 6000 is connected to the rod 5730 and the extrusion assembly 5600. The extrusion assembly 5600 has an input shaft 5250 that drives a plunger of an extruder (not shown). The plunger drive inhibitor 6000 includes a slip clutch assembly 6010 having two clutch discs, namely a first clutch disc 6012 (i.e., the “drive” clutch disc) and a second clutch disc 6014 (i.e., the “driven” clutch disc). The characteristics of the first clutch disc 6012 and the second clutch disc 6014 are further illustrated in Figure 12 . The first clutch disc 6012 is configured to rotate when the rod 5730 rotates, and the second clutch disc 6014 is configured to drive the rotation of the extrusion machine input shaft 5250. A spring 6016 within the slip clutch assembly 6010 applies a spring force (Fs) to the first clutch disc 6012 to maintain contact with the second clutch disc 6014. The spring force (Fs) is parallel to the central axis (A) of the slip clutch assembly 6010. During use, the first clutch disc 6012 rotates with the second clutch disc 6014 until a force level above a predetermined force limit and / or threshold is reached or exceeded.

[0104] The first clutch plate 6012 includes a first surface 6020 positioned to contact a second surface 6022 of the second clutch plate 6014. Both the first surface 6020 and the second surface 6022 are angled relative to a plane intersecting the central axis (A) of the slip clutch assembly 6010. The first surface 6020 and the second surface 6022 are pressed together by a spring force (Fs) applied by a spring 6016, causing friction to be generated at the boundary between the first surface 6020 and the second surface 6022. When contact is maintained between the first surface 6020 and the second surface 6022, the second clutch plate 6014 rotates with the first clutch plate 6012 (i.e., the rotational force applied from the lever 5730 is fully transmitted from the first clutch plate 6012 to the second clutch plate 6014).

[0105] The slip clutch assembly 6010 is configured such that the first surface 6020 and the second surface 6022 have sufficient engagement with each other to allow the lever 5730 to move through its full range of motion (from an initial position to a fully open position) without being fully disengaged from each other. When slipping, the first clutch plate 6012 rotates relative to the second clutch plate 6014, causing no input to be transmitted to the extruder input shaft 5250. Conversely, when not slipping, the first clutch plate 6012 does not rotate relative to the second clutch plate 6014, and rotation is transmitted to the extruder input shaft 5250. The slip clutch assembly 6010 is constructed to slip if the force level of the moving plunger exceeds a predetermined safety limit and / or threshold. In embodiments where the input torque applied to the lever 5730 is directly transmitted to the extruder input shaft 5250, the value of the force of the moving plunger can be approximately equal to the value of the force applied to the lever 5730. Thus, in some such embodiments, the slip clutch assembly 6010 can be constructed to slip if the force level applied to the lever 5730 is higher than a predetermined limit and / or threshold.

[0106] If the force required to rotate the second clutch plate 6014 is higher than the torque to overcome the friction between the two clutch plates, the first clutch plate 6012 is allowed to rotate relative to the second clutch plate 6014. Once the friction is overcome, this rotation causes the first surface 6020 and the second surface 6022 to slide along each other, translating the first clutch plate 6012 along the central axis (A). This relative movement between the first surface 6020 and the second surface 6022 prevents the rotation of the first clutch plate 6012 from being transmitted to the second clutch plate 6014.

[0107] The first surface 6020 and the second surface 6022 can be formed to have any desired mesh configuration. For example, in some implementations, the first surface 6020 and the second surface 6022 can be helical around the central axis (A) of the slip clutch assembly 6010. In some implementations, as Figure 12As shown, the first clutch disc 6012 and the second clutch disc 6014 can each include three helical surfaces positioned equidistantly about a central axis (A). However, the first clutch disc 6012 and the second clutch disc 6014 can each include any desired number of angled surfaces. For example, the first clutch disc 6012 and the second clutch disc 6014 can each include one, two, three, four, five, or more angled surfaces. If the first clutch disc 6012 and the second clutch disc 6014 each include more than one angled surface, the first angled surface need not have the same angle as the second angled surface. To increase the torque at the slip location, steeper angled surfaces can be used, the coefficient of friction of the clutch disc can be increased, and / or a spring 6016 applying a higher spring force (Fs) can be used.

[0108] The slip clutch assembly 6010 can be configured such that even if the clutch slips or engages, the first surface 6020 and the second surface 6022 do not fully disengage. In some such implementations, the rod 5730 remains aligned with the plunger driven by the slip clutch assembly 6010. Thus, even if the slip clutch assembly 6010 slips and then re - engages, the rod 5730 will still be positioned in the correct location (i.e., relative to the initial position and the fully open position) to drive the plunger 602 at a desired level.

[0109] The slip clutch assembly 6010 limits the torque that can be applied to the extruder input shaft 5250 (i.e., the manual extrusion input shaft) to prevent damage to the mechanism, the rod 5730, and the extrusion opening / nozzle. In the absence of the plunger drive inhibitor 6000, an infinite torque value could be transferred from the rod 5730 to the extruder input shaft 5250 until the components fail.

[0110] Figures 13A to 13B Shows a cross - sectional view of the plunger drive inhibitor and / or separator 6000 when the rod 5730 moves between an initial position (θ h ) and a fully open position (θ o ). In some implementations, the initial position (θ h ) of the rod 5730 is vertical, and the fully open position (θ o ) of the rod 5730 is horizontal. The movement of the rod 5730 between the initial position (θ h ) and the fully open position (θ o ) can be 90°, or in some cases 180°. Figure 13A Shows a situation where the slip clutch assembly 6010 is not slipping, Figure 13BShows a situation where the slip clutch assembly 6010 slips and / or the rod 5730 disengages from the extrusion assembly 5600. If the torque required to rotate the rod 5730 is less than the slip threshold of the slip clutch assembly 6010, both the first clutch plate 6012 and the second clutch plate 6014 will rotate together, as Figure 13A shown. Under normal operating conditions, the slip clutch assembly 6010 transfers 100% of the torque applied to the rod 5730 to the extruder input shaft 5250. When the slip clutch assembly 6010 does not slip, the rod 5730 can move from its initial position (θ h ) to the fully open position (θ o ).

[0111] If the torque required to rotate the rod 5730 exceeds the slip torque threshold of the slip clutch assembly 6010, the first surface 6020 (of the first clutch plate 6012) rotates relative to the

[0112] second surface 6022 (of the second clutch plate 6014), causing the first clutch plate 6012 to translate along the central axis (A) and move away from and / or disengage from the second clutch plate 6014. The translation of the first clutch plate 6012 prevents rotation from being transferred from the rod 5730 to the manual extrusion input shaft 5250. Figure 13B Illustrates the movement of the slip clutch assembly 6010 during slipping. During slipping of the slip clutch assembly 6010, the rod 5730 can move from the initial position (θ h ) to its maximum open position (θ o ). Even during slipping, at all rod positions (between θ h and θ o ), the first surface 6020 maintains contact with the second surface 6022. Other known slip clutch assemblies are constructed to allow the clutch plates to fully disengage during slipping. However, in some embodiments, the presently disclosed slip clutch assembly 6010 is constructed to maintain the engagement between the first clutch plate 6012 and the second clutch plate 6014 even during slipping, thus maintaining system alignment. If the slip clutch assembly 6010 experiences slipping, the user can simply return the rod 5730 to the initial position (θ h ), which allows the first clutch plate 6012 to return to increase contact with the second clutch plate 6014, and then the user can attempt to move the rod 5730 to the desired position.

[0113] If desired, the plunger drive inhibitor 6000 can include features that signal the user when the slip clutch assembly 6010 slips or disengages the rod 5730 from the extrusion assembly 5600. For example, the plunger drive inhibitor 6000 can include haptic feedback, audible feedback, and / or visual feedback for the user. For example, the slip clutch assembly 6010 can include a passive rod haptic for notifying the user of the slip. The rod haptic can be achieved by using a spring-loaded plunger against a rough surface 6040 to create vibrations through the rod 5730 only during slipping (with or without audible vibrations), as Figure 14 shown. The passive haptic feature in the slip clutch assembly 6010 can provide a cost-effective way to signal the slipping of the plunger drive inhibitor 6000 without electrical components. Figure 14 Illustrated is a plunger drive inhibitor 6000 having a microswitch 6030 (or other type of electromechanical switch) positioned to deactivate after slipping 5 to 10 degrees between clutch plates. Specifically, the microswitch 6030 is positioned to be deactivated during slipping by translation and rotation of the first clutch plate 6012 along the central axis (A). It should be understood that in an alternative implementation, translation or rotation of the first clutch plate 6012 along the central axis (A) can be used to detect slipping. Detecting clutch slipping can provide many advantages. For example, once clutch slipping is detected, the user can be prompted to perform an action (e.g., re-rotate the cup).

[0114] Figures 15A to 15C Illustrated is a plunger drive inhibitor and / or separator 7000 having a slip clutch assembly 7010 that includes a friction cone brake 7020. The slip clutch assembly 7010 can include any of the features described herein with respect to the slip clutch assembly 6010. For example, the slip clutch assembly can include a first clutch plate 7012 and a second clutch plate 7014. If the slip clutch assembly 7010 slips, the first clutch plate 7012 will translate due to the contact surface of the clutch plates. This translation causes the first clutch plate 7012 to engage the friction cone brake 7020. Figure 15A Illustrated is the slip clutch assembly 7010 without slipping, Figure 15B Illustrated is the slip clutch assembly 7010 during slipping.

[0115] The friction cone brake 7020 includes a cone surface 7030 shaped to engage the cone surface 7032 of the first clutch disc 7012. The friction cone brake 7020 is positioned to prevent rotation of the first clutch disc 7012 after slippage. During slippage, the friction cone brake 7020 contacts only the first clutch disc 7012. In an alternative implementation, splines or other keyed geometries may be used to restrict translational movement of the first clutch disc 7012.

[0116] The friction cone brake 7020 also prevents the rod 5730 from traveling through the full range of its motion during clutch slippage. When clutch slippage occurs due to exceeding a rod torque threshold, the angular range of the rod 5730 may be limited. An advantage of using the friction cone brake 7020 connected to the slip clutch assembly 7010 is that once the first clutch disc 7012 engages the friction cone brake 7020, the rod 5730 cannot move from the position where slippage is detected toward the fully open position (θ o ). At the position where slippage is detected, the rod 5730 transmits a vibration to the user. The vibration occurs because the torque required to interrupt friction is higher than the torque required to maintain motion.

[0117] Figure 16A A cross-sectional view of a plunger-actuated inhibitor and / or separator 8000 implemented with a torsion spring 8010 is illustrated. Figure 16B A detailed view of the torsion spring 8010 is illustrated. The torsion spring 8010 includes a first end 8012 connected to the rod 5730 and an opposite second end 8014 connected to the input shaft 5250 of the extrusion drive train. The torsion spring 8010 is preloaded with a defined torque (Tp) that will determine the torque threshold at which the force applied to the first end 8012 of the torsion spring 8010 is not transmitted to the extrusion input shaft 5250 at the second end 8014 of the torsion spring 8010. If the torque applied to the rod 5730 is greater than the preload torque (Tp) of the torsion spring 8010, the rod 5730 will cause the torsion spring 8010 to coil (i.e., undergo non-permanent spring deformation), and rotation will not be transmitted from the rod 5730 to the extrusion input shaft 5250. The spring deformation that results in a lack of force being transmitted to the extrusion input shaft 5250 may be referred to as "slippage". If desired, the rod 5730 may even be allowed to rotate through the full range of its motion during slippage (between θ h and θ o ). However, in other implementations, the movement of the rod 5730 may be restricted during slippage. Various slip detection features, such as tactile and / or electrical detection mechanisms, may be incorporated into the plunger-actuated inhibitor 8000 having the torsion spring 8010. Among other possible advantages, using the torsion spring 8010 allows for easy definition of the threshold torque level at the start of slippage based on the preload torque (Tp) of the torsion spring 8010.

[0118] Figure 17 Illustrated is a plunger drive inhibitor and / or separator 9000 having an automatic slip clutch assembly 9010. In the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010, a sensor is configured to turn off the extrusion assembly when a force limit and / or threshold has been reached or exceeded. The automatic slip clutch assembly can have any of the features discussed herein with respect to the slip clutch assembly 6010 or any other slip clutch assembly described herein. The automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 can be positioned in an automatic gear train as desired between an input and an output (e.g., between a planetary gear set and a spur gear). The automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 includes a first clutch plate 9012, a second clutch plate 9014, an input shaft 9030 attached to the first clutch plate 9012, and an output shaft 9032 attached to the second clutch plate 9014. As Figure 17 shown, the output shaft 9032 can be positioned to transfer rotational force to the extruder input shaft 5250 (or to a dead shaft on which a gear rotates freely and outputs available torque). When there is no slip, the slip clutch assembly 9010 receives input rotation via the input shaft 9030 and outputs rotation via the output shaft 9032. Rotation is transferred from the lever 5730 to the input shaft 9030 of the slip clutch assembly 9010. The output shaft 9032 of the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 outputs rotation to the input shaft 5250 of the extrusion plunger. The output shaft 9032 will rotate only if the input torque on the input shaft 9030 is below a specified level (i.e., below a specified slip threshold).

[0119] The automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 includes a first clutch plate 9012 and a second clutch plate 9014 that are spring-loaded and in contact with each other. The first clutch plate 9012 includes a first surface that contacts a second surface of the second clutch plate 9014. Both the first surface and the second surface are angled relative to a plane that intersects the central axis of the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010. The first surface and the second surface may be toothed or otherwise patterned to maintain a desired level of frictional contact between the first clutch plate 9012 and the second clutch plate 9014. When contact is maintained between the first surface and the second surface, the second clutch plate 9014 rotates with the first clutch plate 9012 (i.e., the rotational force applied from the lever 5730 is fully transmitted from the first clutch plate 9012 to the second clutch plate 9014, and the second clutch plate 9014 in turn transmits the rotational force to the input shaft 5250 of the extrusion drivetrain). Many variables such as friction at the boundaries of the first surface and the second surface, the surface angles, and the spring force determine the slip threshold of the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 (i.e., the value of the force required to rotate the first clutch plate 9012 relative to the second clutch plate 9014). If the applied force is below the slip threshold, the first clutch plate 9012 and the second clutch plate 9014 will rotate together without slipping. If the applied force is above the slip threshold, the first clutch plate 9012 will slip relative to the second clutch plate 9014, preventing the second clutch plate 9014 from rotating and, in turn, preventing the output shaft 9032 from rotating. When the clutch plates slip, the second clutch plate 9014 translates along the central axis of the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010. (However, in an alternative implementation, the first clutch plate 9012 may be configured to translate, and in other implementations, both the first clutch plate 9012 and the second clutch plate 9014 may be configured to translate along the central axis).

[0120] If slip is detected, the translation of the second clutch plate 9014 can be used to initiate contact with a microswitch or other electrical sensor to cut power to the extrusion motor. In some implementations, during normal operation, the plunger applies a force of approximately 300 pounds on the food or ingredient when extending into the container 352 to facilitate extrusion and / or dispensing of the food or ingredient from the container 352. If the plunger experiences resistance during extrusion, the force applied by the plunger may exceed 1000 pounds of force in approximately 0.7 seconds, causing the container 352 or the container coupling to fail. The slipping and / or separation or partial separation of the clutch plate 9012 relative to the clutch plate 9014 can nearly immediately relieve and / or reduce the pressure to prevent excessive force or pressure within the container 352 that could cause the container 352 to fail or be damaged.

[0121] If desired, the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 can be activated by a lever 5730, a motor, or an electric lever. If the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 is activated using a motor or an electric lever, the shapes of the first clutch disc 9012 and the second clutch disc 9014 can be formed to allow continuous slipping because the motor has an infinite acceptable position relative to the driveline (as opposed to a manual operating lever that is limited to a 90° movement or other limited range of motion). In an implementation where the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 is activated using a motor, the lever 5730 can be used to control the extrusion speed (i.e., rotation of the lever 5730 during extrusion can increase or decrease the extrusion speed).

[0122] Figure 18A and Figure 18B Illustrated are possible geometries for the first clutch disc 9012 and the second clutch disc 9014 of an automatic slip clutch assembly (e.g., the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 or an alternative automatic slip clutch assembly). The first clutch disc 9012 can have any of the features described herein with respect to the first clutch disc 6012 and / or 7012. Similarly, the second clutch disc 9014 can have any of the features described herein with respect to the second clutch disc 6014 and / or 7014.

[0123] As Figure 18A shown, the first clutch disc 9012 includes a first surface 9020 that is angled relative to a plane that intersects the central axis (A) of the automatic slip clutch assembly. The second clutch disc 9014 includes a second surface 9022 that is angled relative to a plane that intersects the central axis (A) of the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010. The first surface 9020 and the second surface 9022 can be formed to have any desired grid configuration.

[0124] The drive system of the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 can be omnidirectional, where the extruder input shaft 5250 that controls the movement of the plunger can rotate in both a first direction and an opposite second direction. Omnidirectional rotation can allow the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 to extrude in the first direction (i.e., so the plunger forces the contents within the cup through the extrusion point) and retract the plunger when operating in the opposite (second) direction. As will be appreciated when considering the present invention, it may be necessary to limit the value of the torque applied to the assembly 9010 only during extrusion because the force required to extrude certain ingredients can vary greatly. In contrast, the force required to retract the plunger is more predictable because there are fewer variables affecting the retraction of the plunger.

[0125] The automatic sliding clutch assembly 9010 can be configured to rotate in a first rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) and an opposite second rotational direction (e.g., clockwise). When rotating in the first rotational direction, the automatic sliding clutch assembly 9010 moves the plunger in a first axis direction to extrude the ingredients (i.e., force the ingredients in the cup through the nozzle). When rotating in the second rotational direction, the automatic sliding clutch assembly 9010 moves the plunger in a second axis direction to retract the plunger into the cup. Features on the user interface of the micro puree device can be used to select whether the automatic sliding clutch assembly 9010 rotates in the first rotational direction to extrude or in the second rotational direction to retract.

[0126] The shapes of the first clutch plate 9012 and the second clutch plate 9014 can be formed to facilitate omnidirectional rotational movement. In particular, the shapes of the first clutch plate 9012 and the second clutch plate 9014 can be formed such that when rotating in the first direction and in the opposite second direction, the clutch plates can slide relative to each other. Since it may be advantageous to set threshold forces (i.e., sliding thresholds) at different levels for each rotational direction, the first clutch plate 9012 and the second clutch plate 9014 can be configured to provide different threshold force levels at which the clutch plates will slide relative to each other. Figure 18A and Figure 18B Illustrated is a sample geometry of the first surface 9020 of the first clutch plate 9012 and the second surface 9022 of the second clutch plate 9014. As Figure 18A and Figure 18B shown, the first surface 9020 includes a plurality of tooth-shaped portions 9040a, 9040b, 9040c, and each tooth-shaped portion 9040 is separated by a recessed area 9041. Each tooth-shaped portion 9040 is formed by two angled surfaces (i.e., a first helix and a second helix). It should be understood that although Figures 18A to 18B illustrated is the first clutch plate 9012 having three tooth-shaped portions (9040a, 9040b, 9040c), any desired number of tooth-shaped portions 9040 can be present. For example, one, two, three, four, five, six, or more tooth-shaped portions 9040 can be included on the first surface 9020.

[0127] Figure 19 Illustrated is a sample tooth-shaped portion 9040 for the first clutch plate 9012. As Figure 19 shown, the first surface 9020 of the first clutch plate 9012 includes a tooth-shaped portion 9040 having a first angled portion 9042 and a second angled portion 9044. The first angled portion 9042 forms an angle (θ d1 ) with a plane intersecting the central axis (A), and the second angled portion 9044 forms an angle (θ d2)。θ d1 may be equal to or different from θ d2 。The steeper the angle, the greater the torque required to overcome the engagement friction of the clutch plate. The angled portion engaged during extrusion may be shallower than the angled portion engaged during retraction, allowing the torque limit for extrusion to be set lower than the torque limit for retraction. Thus, in some implementations where θ d1 is less than θ d2 , the first angled surface 9042 of the tooth profile portion 9040 may be used for extrusion, and the second angled surface 9044 may be used for retraction. The shape of the second surface 9022 of the second clutch plate 9014 may be formed to engage the first surface 9020 of the first clutch plate 9012 around its entire circumference.

[0128] Wherein, the clutch plates rotate relative to each other, and the automatic slip clutch assembly 9010 is considered to be "slipping". During slipping, due to the continuous rotation of the input shaft 9030, the tooth profile portion 9040 of the first clutch plate 9012 is constantly disengaged from and re-engaged with the second surface 9022 of the second clutch plate 9014. The slipping of the clutch plates can produce significant audible noise. Increasing the amount of space between the tooth profile portions 9040 on the first surface 9020 of the first clutch plate 9012 can advantageously reduce the audible noise by reducing the frequency at which the clutch plates can re-engage, resulting in fewer audible clicks within the closing time range. Additionally, if desired, a cushioning member 9050 formed of an elastomer or other rubber-like material can be used to suppress the impact forces and sounds generated by the impact characteristics of the first clutch plate 9012 and the second clutch plate 9014 during slipping. Figure 18B Illustrated is a cushioning member 9050 attached to the first clutch plate 9012 and positioned to interface with the second surface 9022 of the second clutch plate 9014 during slipping.

[0129] Figures 20A to 20B Illustrated is a plunger-driven damper 10000 having a separate automatic slip clutch assembly 10010. The slip clutch assembly 10010 includes a first clutch plate 10012, a second clutch plate 10014, a leaf spring 10018, and a spring 10016. One side of the spring 10016 acts on the leaf spring 10018, and the opposite side of the spring 10016 acts on the first clutch plate 10012. The first clutch plate 10012 may have any of the features described herein with respect to the first clutch plates 6012, 7012, and / or 9012. The second clutch plate may have any of the features described herein with respect to the second clutch plates 6014, 7014, and / or 9014. Assembled as Figures 20A to 20BThe sliding clutch assembly 10010 shown can offer advantages over other configurations. For example, the spring 10016 acts on two plates rather than on the clutch plate and the housing working shell as in other implementations. Thus, the sliding clutch assembly 10010 can experience reduced wear because during normal operation, the spring 10016 rotates with the two clutch plates. Additionally, by fully encapsulating the spring 10016, the spring force is not transmitted to any components external to the separate sliding clutch assembly 10010, thereby reducing wear on other components throughout the life of the product and improving the predictability of the clutch slip torque.

[0130] As Figure 20B shown, the second clutch plate 10014 can be connected to the spring plate 10018 in such a way that the first clutch plate 10012 and the spring 10016 are enclosed within the separate automatic sliding clutch assembly 10010. Assembling the sliding clutch components as a separate assembly can offer many advantages compared to other methods. For example, the separate automatic sliding clutch assembly 10010 can be independently tested and calibrated separately from other components on the production line, which should significantly reduce the scrap rate. Additionally, the sliding clutch components can be assembled in a controlled environment, apart from lubricants and other substances that may affect the slip torque.

[0131] The sliding clutch assembly 10010 can be configured to receive input torque from the motor 10030 or from a manual activation lever (not shown). During normal use conditions, the first clutch plate 10012 rotates with the second clutch plate 10014 and the spring 10016. During a slip, the second clutch plate 10014 translates along the central axis (A) of the sliding clutch assembly 10010 and contacts the microswitch 10050. The microswitch 10050 can provide a UL-certified path to turn off the extrusion motor for overload protection. When a slip is detected, the microswitch 10050 can send an electronic signal to the extrusion microcontroller that regulates the power to the extrusion motor, causing the extrusion to automatically stop when a slip is detected. Although Figure 20A the microswitch 10050 is illustrated as being positioned to be activated when the clutch plate slips, in other implementations, the microswitch 10050 can be positioned to constantly monitor the position of the second clutch plate 10014 and send an electronic signal to the extrusion microcontroller when any change in the normal position of the second clutch plate 10014 is detected.

[0132] While the present utility model has been particularly shown and described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the application as defined by the appended claims. The scope of the application is intended to cover such variations. Thus, the foregoing description of the embodiments of the application is not intended to limit the full scope expressed by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An extrusion component for a micro puree machine, characterized in that, The extrusion assembly includes: a cup having an opening and at least one sidewall defining an interior volume; a plunger engageable with a driven shaft configured to axially move the plunger within the interior volume of the cup to extrude ingredients within the interior volume through the opening; and a slip clutch configured to limit axial movement of the plunger within the interior volume of the cup when a predetermined force limit is reached or exceeded.

2. The extrusion assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The slip clutch has a first clutch plate and a second clutch plate configured to rotate together when below the predetermined force limit and to rotate relative to each other when above the predetermined force limit.

3. The extrusion assembly according to claim 2, wherein The second clutch plate drives rotation of the driven shaft and limits rotational force from the driven shaft when above the predetermined force limit.

4. The extrusion assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The extrusion assembly further includes a motor configured to drive rotation of the first clutch plate.

5. The extrusion assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The slip clutch further includes a spring that applies a spring force to the first clutch plate to maintain contact with the second clutch plate, and the spring force is parallel to the central axis of the slip clutch.

6. The extrusion assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first clutch plate includes a first surface and the second clutch plate includes a second surface, the first surface contacting the second surface, and both the first surface and the second surface are angled relative to a plane intersecting the central axis of the slip clutch.

7. The extrusion assembly according to claim 2, wherein When above the predetermined force limit, the first clutch plate or the second clutch plate axially translates along the central axis of the slip clutch.

8. The extrusion assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The extrusion assembly further includes a microswitch for electrically monitoring axial translation of the first clutch plate or the second clutch plate.

9. The extrusion assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The microswitch is configured to send an electrical signal to a microcontroller to stop rotation of the driven shaft if axial movement of the first clutch plate or the second clutch plate is detected.

10. The extrusion assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The extrusion assembly further includes a friction cone brake having a conical surface shaped to engage a conical surface of the first clutch plate when the predetermined force limit is exceeded.

11. An automatic sliding clutch assembly for a micro puree machine, characterized in that, The automatic slip clutch assembly includes: a first clutch plate; a second clutch plate; a spring positioned to force the first clutch plate into contact with the second clutch plate; an input shaft connected to the first clutch plate; and an output shaft connected to the second clutch plate, wherein the automatic slip clutch assembly is configured to transmit a rotational force applied to the input shaft to the output shaft when a force level applied to the input shaft is below a predetermined slip threshold, and wherein when the force level applied to the input shaft is above the predetermined slip threshold, the force applied to the input shaft is not transmitted to the output shaft.

12. The automatic sliding clutch assembly according to claim 11, wherein, The first clutch plate includes a first surface and the second clutch plate includes a second surface, the first surface contacting the second surface, and wherein both the first surface and the second surface are angled relative to a plane intersecting the central axis of the automatic slip clutch assembly.

13. The automatic sliding clutch assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, When above the predetermined sliding threshold, the first clutch plate or the second clutch plate translates axially along the central axis of the automatic slip clutch assembly.

14. The automatic sliding clutch assembly according to claim 13, wherein, The automatic slip clutch assembly further includes a microswitch positioned to electrically monitor axial translation of the first clutch plate or the second clutch plate and to send an electrical signal if axial translation is detected.

15. The automatic slip clutch assembly according to claim 14, wherein: The input shaft is configured to rotate in a first rotational direction for extrusion and in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction for retraction, and The automatic slip clutch assembly has a predetermined sliding threshold for extrusion and a predetermined sliding threshold for retraction, and the predetermined sliding threshold for retraction is greater than the predetermined sliding threshold for extrusion.

16. An independent automatic sliding clutch assembly, characterized in that, The separate automatic slip clutch assembly includes: A first clutch plate; A second clutch plate; A leaf spring; and A spring positioned to apply a spring force on the leaf spring and the first clutch plate, wherein the separate automatic slip clutch assembly is configured to transfer a rotational force applied to the first clutch plate to the second clutch plate when the force level applied to the first clutch plate is below a predetermined sliding threshold, and wherein when the force level applied to the first clutch plate is above the predetermined sliding threshold, the rotational force applied to the first clutch plate is not transferred to the second clutch plate.

17. The independent automatic sliding clutch assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that, When below the predetermined sliding threshold, the spring rotates with the first clutch plate and the second clutch plate about the central axis of the separate automatic slip clutch assembly.

18. The independent automatic sliding clutch assembly according to claim 16, wherein When above the predetermined sliding threshold, the second clutch plate translates axially along the central axis of the separate automatic slip clutch assembly.

19. The independent automatic sliding clutch assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that, The first clutch plate is configured to rotate in a first rotational direction for extrusion and in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction for retraction, the separate automatic slip clutch assembly has a predetermined sliding threshold for extrusion and a predetermined sliding threshold for retraction, and the predetermined sliding threshold for extrusion is not equal to the predetermined sliding threshold for retraction.

20. The independent automatic sliding clutch assembly according to claim 19, wherein, The predetermined sliding threshold for retraction is greater than the predetermined sliding threshold for extrusion.

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