Micro fruit puree machine

Abstract

The micropuree machine has an automatic cup lock for locking to a cup with at least one protrusion on an outer surface of the cup. The cup is rotatable relative to the micropuree machine to rotate the at least one protrusion into and out of the at least one slot on the micropuree machine. The automatic cup lock includes a locking pin movable between a first position in which the locking pin does not prevent the at least one protrusion from rotating out of the at least one slot and a second position in which the locking pin prevents the at least one protrusion from rotating out of the at least one slot, thereby locking the cup to the micropuree machine. The present disclosure is capable of automatically locking an ingredient processing cup to a micropuree machine during ingredient processing and / or ingredient extrusion from the cup.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 579,599, filed on August 30, 2023, entitled “Automatic Cup Lock for Micro Puree Machine,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a food processing device and, more particularly, to a micro-purée machine having an automatic lock for locking a processing bowl to the machine / sealable processing bowl. Background Art

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

[0005] Another known type of machine for making frozen foods is referred to as a micropuree machine. Typically, a machine of this nature rotates a blade and inserts it 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., micropuree machines can also prepare non-dessert foods such as non-dessert purees and mousses. Utility Model Content

[0006] The present disclosure describes, in various embodiments, illustrative systems, methods, and apparatus for automatically locking an ingredient processing cup to a micro-puree machine during processing of ingredients and / or extrusion of ingredients from the cup.

[0007] In one embodiment, a micro-puree machine of the present disclosure includes an automatic cup lock for locking to a cup, the automatic cup lock comprising at least one protrusion on an outer surface of the cup. The cup is rotatable relative to the micro-puree machine to rotate the at least one protrusion into and out of at least one slot on the micro-puree machine. The automatic cup lock includes a locking pin movable between a first position, in which the locking pin does not prevent the at least one protrusion from rotating out of the at least one slot, and a second position, in which the locking pin prevents the at least one protrusion from rotating out of the at least one slot, thereby locking the cup to the micro-puree machine.

[0008] In other embodiments, the micro-puree machine includes a support member. In an embodiment, a spring is arranged between a portion of the support member and the locking pin. The spring is configured to urge the locking pin to the second position. In an embodiment, the micro-puree machine includes a driven shaft capable of moving relative to the support member. In an embodiment, movement of the driven shaft toward the cup allows the locking pin to move between a first position and a second position. In an embodiment, the driven shaft is configured to move a plunger within the interior of the cup to extrude the ingredient from the interior of the cup through a nozzle when the locking pin is in the second position. In an embodiment, the micro-puree machine also includes a rod operably coupled to the driven shaft. In an embodiment, the driven shaft is threadedly coupled to the rod. In an embodiment, rotation of the rod in a first direction causes the driven shaft to move toward the cup. In an embodiment, rotation of the rod in the first direction is caused by actuation of a position motor of the micro-puree machine. In an embodiment, rotation of the rod in a second direction causes the driven shaft to move away from the cup. In an embodiment, movement of the driven shaft away from the cup causes the locking pin to move to the first position.

[0009] Advantages of these and other structures will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and reviewing the associated drawings.The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are intended to be explanatory only and not restrictive of the aspects of the disclosure as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The present disclosure will be more fully understood by reference to the detailed description taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1A An isometric view of a micro-puree machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0012] Figure 1B Shows the cup assembly removed from the housing according to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1A Micro puree machine.

[0013] Figures 1C to 1G The present invention is described in some embodiments according to Figure 1A Embodiments of the extrusion assembly, cup assembly and / or nozzle assembly of the micro-puree machine;

[0014] Figure 2A illustrates a portion of another micro-puree machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2B Illustrated is a diagram of a device that can be coupled to a Figure 2A The reversible cup assembly of the micro puree machine;

[0016] Figure 3A Another reversible cup assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0017] Figure 3B Some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown Figure 3A a blade of a reversible cup assembly;

[0018] Figure 3C According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3A and Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of the reversible cup assembly and the first cover;

[0019] Figure 3D shows a detailed view of an embodiment of a plunger coupled to the underside of a second cover according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The present invention is described in some embodiments according to Figures 3A to 3D Use of a reversible cup assembly;

[0021] Figures 5A to 5F Another micro-puree machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0022] Figure 6A and Figure 6B A micro puree machine with an automatic cup lock according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0023] Figures 7A to 7J illustrates a plunger retaining assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0024] Figures 8A to 8G A plunger lock assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] In the following description, regardless of the different illustrated embodiments, like components have the same reference numerals. To clearly and concisely illustrate the embodiments, the drawings may not necessarily reflect proper scale and may have certain structures shown in some schematic form. The present disclosure may describe and / or illustrate structures in one embodiment, in one or more other embodiments, in the same or similar manner and / or in combination with or in place of structures from other embodiments.

[0026] In the specification and claims, for the purposes of illustrating and defining the present invention, the terms "approximately" and "substantially" represent the inherent degree of uncertainty attributable to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. The terms "approximately" and "substantially" also represent the degree to which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated benchmark without causing a change in the basic function of the subject matter in question. Open-ended terms such as "includes," "comprising," and / or the plural form of each include the listed parts and may include unlisted additional parts, while terms such as "and / or" include one or more of the listed parts and combinations of the listed parts. The use of the terms "top," "bottom," "above," "below," etc., merely aids in clarifying the present disclosure and does not in any way limit the structure, positioning, and / or operation of the present disclosure.

[0027] Notably, the mechanisms and techniques described herein can be used to construct machines for processing (e.g., micro-pureeing 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 ingredient in a cup (i.e., container) and to drive a plunger to extrude the processed ingredient from the cup. Additionally, such a machine can include a user interface that enables a user to control when each function is executed. In some implementations of such a machine, a first shaft can be used to drive processing and a second shaft can be used to drive 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.

[0028] In some embodiments, a single lid can be provided (e.g., on the open end of the cup) that houses (or is coupled to) a blade for processing the ingredient and also houses (or is coupled to) a plunger for extruding the processed ingredient. In such embodiments, as described in more detail elsewhere herein, a single shaft driven by one or more motors (e.g., one motor for driving the blade in rotation; another motor for driving the driven shaft in linear motion along its axis) can drive both processing using the blade and extrusion using the plunger, and the end of the cup opposite the lid can include an opening for extruding the processed ingredient from the cup.

[0029] In other embodiments, to enable both functions to be performed, the user can flip the processing cup from a first arrangement in which the driven shaft engages a blade at a first end of the processing cup (e.g., a blade housed in or coupled to a first lid at a first open end of the processing cup) to a second arrangement in which the driven shaft engages a plunger at a second end of the processing cup (e.g., a plunger housed in or coupled to a second lid at an open second end of the processing cup), as described in more detail herein. In such embodiments, the first lid can also include an opening for extruding ingredients from the cup during extrusion using the plunger in the second arrangement. Additionally, in such embodiments, a single shaft driven by one or more motors can drive both processing using the blade and extrusion using the plunger, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0030] In other embodiments, to be able to perform both functions, a user can replace a first cover for processing (e.g., housing or coupled to a blade) with a second cover for extrusion (e.g., housing or coupled to a plunger) from the open end of the processing cup, as described in more detail elsewhere herein. In such embodiments, a single shaft driven by one or more motors can drive both processing using the blade and extrusion using the plunger, or alternatively, a separate shaft can be used for extrusion, with such separate shaft driving the plunger, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0031] Figure 1A An isometric view of a micro-puree 10 is shown, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1B The cup assembly 350 is shown removed from the housing 120 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1A Micro Puree Machine 10. Figures 1C to 1G Embodiments of extrusion assemblies, cup assemblies, and / or nozzle assemblies according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are described.

[0032] The micro-puree machine 10 may include a housing 120 that may include a user interface (not shown) for receiving user input to control the micro-puree machine 10 and / or display information. The micro-puree machine 10 may also include a cup assembly 350 and a nozzle assembly 603. The combination of the nozzle assembly 603 and the cup assembly 350, which may include a cap 400 configured for extrusion, may be referred to herein as an extrusion assembly. The nozzle assembly 603 may include a nozzle housing 607 and a nozzle 608.

[0033] The cup assembly 350 may include a cup 352 configured to hold one or more processed ingredients, ingredients to be processed, or ingredients being processed. A 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 such that a central axis A of the cup assembly 350 extends perpendicular to a vertical axis V of the housing 120, as shown. However, the present disclosure contemplates that the cup assembly 350 can 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 to SharkNinja Operating, LLC (the '057 patent), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety), or the cup assembly 350 can 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 to SharkNinja Operating, LLC (the '756 patent), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety). In embodiments, the cup 352 of the cup assembly 350 can be manufactured from a disposable material to enhance the convenience of using the micro-puree maker 10. Additionally, the cup 352 can be sold as a stand-alone item and can also be pre-filled with ingredients to be processed during use of the micro-puree maker 10.

[0034] like Figure 1B As shown, the housing 120 may include a coupling portion 500 disposed within the opening 140 of the housing 120. An inner surface 502 of the coupling portion 500 may include positioning and locking elements for positioning and connecting the cup assembly 350 to the coupling portion 500 in two different configurations, as described elsewhere herein. The micro-puree machine 10 may also include a nozzle 608 that can be coupled to the cup assembly 350 for extruding processed ingredients from the cup assembly 350. The nozzle 608 can be configured to cause the ingredients to be extruded in a vertical downward direction so that a user can place an ice cream cone, cup, mug, or other edible or inedible receptacle below the nozzle to receive the extruded ingredients. The present disclosure also contemplates that multiple nozzle shapes can be provided to allow user customization. For example, multiple nozzles can be included on a rotatable turntable that allows the user to select a desired nozzle shape. In other embodiments, the extrusion function can be integrated into a program on the user interface at a predetermined translation speed / flow rate.

[0035] like Figure 1CAs shown, the first end 352a of the cup 352 can be configured to be coupled to both a first cover 440 and a second cover 450. The first cover 440 can include a blade 300 for processing ingredients, such as, for example, the blade described in the '765 patent. When the cover 440 is coupled to the cup 352 (e.g., via interrelated threads on the cup and cover), the cup assembly 350 can be considered to be in a processing configuration and can be coupled to the housing via the coupling portion 500. The cover 440 can have a positioning and locking element 442 on its outer sidewall that is configured to couple with a positioning and locking element on the inner surface 502 of the coupling portion 500. The second cover 450 can include a plunger 454 for extruding the ingredients. In addition, the plunger 454 can include a flexible seal around its periphery to ensure contact (e.g., maximum contact) with the sidewall of the cup 352, thereby allowing for optimal (e.g., maximum) extrusion output. When the cap 450 is coupled to the cup 352 (e.g., via interrelated threads on the cup and cap), the cup assembly 350 can be considered to be in an extruded configuration and can be coupled to the housing via the coupling portion 500. The cap 450 can have a locating and locking element 452 on its outer sidewall that is configured to couple with a locating and locking element on the inner surface 502 of the coupling portion 500.

[0036] The second end 352b of the cup 352 may include a centrally located opening 604 or a non-centrally located opening having a coupling collar 606. The coupling collar 606 may include threads or other types of coupling features, such as slots or cams for engagement. For example, during processing, the opening 604 may be closed by a cap 605 that may be removed during extrusion. The cap 605 may include internal threads (not shown) or other coupling features that allow it to be coupled to the coupling collar 606. The opening 604 may also be in fluid communication with the nozzle 608. For example, the opening 604 may be in fluid communication with the nozzle via a conduit (e.g., a plastic tube) that extends from the opening 604 to the nozzle 608, for example, within the nozzle assembly 603. In embodiments, such a conduit may 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).

[0037] like Figure 1DAs shown, a user can attach the first cover 440 to the cup 352 and couple the cup assembly 350 to the micro-puree maker 10 using the coupling features described herein. The cover 440 can be configured (e.g., as described in the '765 patent) such that, when the cover 440 is coupled to the housing 120, the blade 300 engages with the driven shaft 250 and disengages from the cover 440. By using a user interface (e.g., as described in the '057 patent), a user can activate a program that controls the rotation and movement (e.g., downward 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 described in the '765 patent, the blade 300 can be configured (e.g., as described in the '765 patent) such that, when the cover 440 is coupled to the housing 120, the blade 300 engages with the driven shaft 250 and disengages from the cover 440. Figure 1D As shown, the nozzle assembly 603 or one or more components thereof (e.g., nozzle 608) can be coupled to the second end 352b of the cup 350 (and possibly to the housing) even if, for example, extrusion is not performed during processing. In such an embodiment, the opening 604 can be closed, for example, using a cap 605 or by other means. Figure 1E 604 is a bottom view of the cup assembly 350 coupled to the housing, wherein the opening 604 is uncovered. In actual use, during processing, the opening 604 can be closed, for example, by a cap 605, or opened and coupled to the nozzle assembly 603 during extrusion.

[0038] After processing the ingredients in the cup 352, the user can then remove the cup assembly 350 from the micro-puree 10, remove the first cap 440 from the first end 352a, replace it with the cap 450 on the first end 352a, couple the nozzle assembly to the second end 352b of the cup assembly 350 (if not already attached), couple the cup assembly 350 to the housing 120, and initiate extrusion via the user interface. During extrusion, the driven shaft drives the plunger 454 from the first end 352a of the cup 352 to the second end 352b of the cup, forcing the processed ingredients through the opening 604 and extruding the processed ingredients through the nozzle 608.

[0039] Figure 1F Another embodiment of a nozzle assembly 603' is illustrated, including a nozzle 608', which may be used to extrude processed ingredients, for example, using the mechanisms and techniques described herein.

[0040] Figure 1G Another cup assembly 350' is illustrated that includes an extrusion assembly 600 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1GAs shown, the cup assembly 350' can include a nozzle 608' that is integral with the bottom edge of the cup 352', for example, on the side wall of the cup 352' near the second end 352b' or extending beyond the second end 352b'. In an embodiment, the cup assembly 350' can be constructed to be mounted to the coupling portion 500 in a manner such that the nozzle 608' is vertically downward when the cup 352' is properly mounted. During extrusion, movement of the plunger (e.g., plunger 454) will force the processed ingredient through the nozzle 608'. The nozzle 608' can be selectively positioned on the cup 352' to optimize the amount of processed ingredient that can be extruded, thereby minimizing yield losses after extrusion. For example, as Figure 1G As shown, nozzle 608' can be located near the bottom edge of cup 352'. However, the present disclosure contemplates that nozzle 608' can alternatively be located at a different longitudinal and / or radial position on cup 352'. Cup assembly 350' and / or cup 352' can be the same as or different from cup assembly 350 and / or cup 352, respectively.

[0041] Advantageously, the micro-puree machine 10 can include a sensor (not shown) that recognizes a lid installed in the machine 10 to limit certain programs based on the lid's functionality, which can prevent user errors when operating the machine 10. For example, the micro-puree machine can only activate 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 can only activate 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 can include unique physical and / or electromagnetic features, such as as part of the positioning and locking elements 442 and 452, respectively, and for this purpose, the coupling portion 500 or other components of the micro-puree machine 10 can be configured to detect and distinguish between the lids 440 and 450.

[0042] The housing 120 can house one or more motors and a transmission system (e.g., including gears) that drive a driven shaft (e.g., driven shaft 250) for engaging the blade 300 and / or the plunger 454 for processing or extrusion, respectively, when the cup assembly 350 (coupled to the cap 440 or 450, respectively) is coupled to the housing, for example, as described in U.S. Patent No. 11,882,965 (the '965 patent) or the '765 patent to SharkNinja Operating, LLC, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference. For example, the one or more motors can include a first motor for driving rotation of the driven shaft 250 via a transmission, which can be used to drive rotation of the blade 300 during processing and, if desired (but not required), to rotate the plunger 454 during extrusion. The second motor can be configured to move the position of the driven shaft 250 along its axis (e.g., back and forth or up and down) via a transmission, which can be used to drive the back and forth movement of the blade 300 in and out of the cup 350 during processing, and to move the plunger 454 in and out of the cup 350 during extrusion. In embodiments, the micro-puree machine 10 can include a gearbox (e.g., a high ratio gearbox) and reinforced internals (not shown) to allow the extrusion assembly described herein to withstand high forces and extrude a pureed output from the nozzle 608.

[0043] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a reversible cup assembly can be used that does not require removal of the cap between processing and extrusion. For example, the reversible cup assembly may include a first cap coupled at one end, including a blade for processing and an opening for extrusion; and a second cap coupled at the other end, including a plunger for extrusion. An example of such an embodiment will now be described.

[0044] Figure 2A An embodiment of a micro-puree maker including a portion of a coupling portion 500 ′ for coupling to a cup assembly (eg, a reversible cup assembly) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2B An embodiment of a reversible cup 352" is illustrated that can be coupled to coupling portion 500'. Cup 352" can include any of a variety of exterior surfaces. For example, an embodiment of the cup can have a ribbed or corrugated surface (e.g., like cup 352 or 352'), or a smooth surface (e.g., cup 352"). Likewise, cups 352 and 352" can have any of a variety of surfaces, including a smooth surface.

[0045] like Figure 2AAs shown, the driven shaft 250 of the micro-puree machine 10 can extend from the housing 120 to the interior of the coupling portion 500', and optionally extend 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 narrow grooves 504, and the narrow grooves 504 are sized and shaped to receive at least one protrusion 354 on the outer surface of the first open end 352a" of the cup 352". In an embodiment, both the first end 352a" and the second end 352b" of the cup 352" may be open - that is, both the first end 352a" and the second end 352b" may not have a top wall or bottom wall and / or a cover. However, the present disclosure is not so limited, and one or both ends 352a", 352b" of the cup 352" may be closed with a wall or a cover. In an embodiment, the at least one protrusion 354 on the cup 352" may be four protrusions 354 spaced 90 degrees apart around the outer surface of the first end 352a" of the cup 352". However, the present disclosure contemplates more or less than four protrusions 354. In the first configuration of the reversible cup assembly 350", the user can rotate the cup 352" relative to the coupling portion 500' such that the protrusion 354 rotates into the slot 504, coupling (e.g., locking) the cup 352" and the coupling portion 500' together.

[0046] The slot 504 may also be sized and shaped to receive at least one protrusion 356 on the outer surface of the second open end 352b" of the cup 352". In an embodiment, the at least one protrusion 356 may be four protrusions 356 spaced 90 degrees apart around the outer surface of the second end 352b" of the cup 352". However, the present disclosure contemplates more or less than four protrusions 356. In the second configuration of the reversible cup assembly 350", the user may rotate the cup 352" relative to the coupling 500' such that the protrusion 356 rotates into the slot 504, coupling (e.g., locking) the cup 352"' and the coupling 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 cap, while the second end 352b" of the cup 352" may include threads 368 for coupling to a second cap.

[0047] Figure 3A 1 shows an embodiment of an assembled reversible cup assembly 350" according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3AAs shown, the cup 352" can have an oval shape and include a cylindrical sidewall 358 that defines an interior 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". Implementations of the sidewall 358 can have various configurations. For example, the cross-section of the sidewall can be circular or polygonal. In addition, the diameter of the sidewall can vary between the first open end 352a" and the second open end 352b" (for example, can be gradually tapered). The first open end 352a" and the second open end 352b" can be in communication with the interior volume 360 ​​of the cup 352". The assembly 350" can also include a first cover 400' that is removably coupled to the first open end 352a" of the cup 352". The first cover 400' can define an opening 401 ( Figure 3C ), the opening 401 is configured to couple to a blade 300 for mixing ingredients within the cup 352". When the cup 352" is mounted to the coupling portion 500' in the first configuration, the blade 300 can engage with the driven shaft 250' to rotate the blade 300 and insert the blade 300 into the ingredients. Figure 3B An embodiment of the blade 300 is shown coupled to the underside of the first cover 400'. Some non-limiting examples of blades 300 are shown in the '765 patent.

[0048] Figure 3C FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a reversible cup assembly 350 ″ and a first cover 400 ′ according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, while the blade 300 and the second cover 450 ′ are not shown in cross-sectional form. Figure 3C As shown, the blade 300 may include a central support hub 305 including a central opening 306 for engaging the driven shaft 250. In an embodiment, the second cover 450' may be removably coupled to the second open end 352b" of the cup 352". The second cover 450' may include or be coupled to a plunger 602 for pushing the ingredient in the cup 352" toward the opening 604' of the first cover 400'. The plunger 602 may, alone or in combination with other components (e.g., the second cover 450', the cup 352", or the nozzle 608), constitute an extrusion assembly 600 for extruding the processed ingredient from the cup 352". The opening 604' of the first cover 400' may also be in fluid communication with a nozzle (e.g., the nozzle 608). For example, the opening 604' may be in fluid communication with the nozzle via a conduit (e.g., a plastic tube) extending from the opening 604' to the nozzle. In an embodiment, such a conduit may include one or more segments connected by joints (e.g., elbow joints) to convert an extrusion direction from the opening 604' (e.g., horizontally) to an extrusion direction from the nozzle (e.g., vertically downward).

[0049] When the cup assembly 350" is in the second configuration and the cup 352" is mounted to the coupling 500', the plunger 602 can be coupled to the driven shaft 250' of the micro-puree machine. The surface of the plunger 602 facing the interior volume 360 ​​can include one or more (e.g., multiple) recesses 606. The recesses 606 can prevent the frozen ingredient from rotationally moving within the cup 352" during processing by the blade 300. In addition, the plunger 602 can include a flexible seal 610 around its periphery to ensure contact (e.g., maximum contact) with the side wall 358 of the cup 352", thereby allowing for optimal (e.g., maximum) extrusion output.

[0050] and Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figures 3A to 3D 、 Figure 4A and Figure 4B The micro-puree machine of the related illustrated embodiments may include one or more motor and transmission systems (e.g., including gears) that drive a driven shaft (e.g., driven shaft 250') for engaging the blade 300 and / or plunger 602 for processing or extrusion when the cup assembly 350" (coupled to the lid 400' or 450', respectively) is coupled to the housing, e.g., as described in the '765 patent or the '965 patent; and may include a gearbox (e.g., a high ratio gearbox) and reinforced internals (not shown) to allow the extrusion assembly 600 to withstand high forces and extrude a pureed output from the nozzle.

[0051] Figure 3D A detailed view of an embodiment of a plunger 602 coupled to the underside of the second cap 450' is shown. In an embodiment, the cup assembly 350" can be configured such that only the first cap 400' can be coupled to the first open end 352a" of the cup 352", and only the second cap 450' can be coupled to the second open end 352b" of the cup 352". For example, the configuration of the threads 366 can be different from the configuration of the threads 368 ( Figure 3B ) to prevent the user from attaching the wrong lid to the wrong side of the cup 352". The cup 352" may also include a clear indicator (color, icon, etc.) that signals to the user which lid is placed on which side of the cup 352".

[0052] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The use of a reversible cup assembly 350" according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 4AAs shown, the user can first install the cup assembly 350" to the micro-puree machine 10 in a first configuration such that the first end 352a" of the cup 352" is fixed to the coupling portion 500'. The user can then select a program on the user interface according to the desired output (e.g., soft serve ice cream, light ice cream, sorbet, gelato, etc.) to rotate the blade 300 and insert it into the ingredients in the cup 352". For example, the blade 300 can be lowered into the ingredients and then raised from the ingredients at one or more predetermined rates while rotating at one or more predetermined rates. Figure 4B As shown, the user can then remove the cup assembly 350" from the coupling 500', reverse the orientation of the cup assembly 350" (i.e., flip the cup assembly 350" over) and reinstall the second end 352b" of the cup 352" to the coupling 500' in the second configuration. The user can then select a desired program on the user interface to lower the plunger 602 to extrude the ingredient through the opening 604' of the first cover 400'. For example, the plunger 602 can be lowered into the ingredient to extrude the ingredient through the opening 604' and then raised from the opening 604' after extrusion is complete.

[0053] While embodiments of the present disclosure include performing processing and extrusion using the same driven shaft, in some embodiments, as will now be explained, processing and extrusion are performed on different shafts.

[0054] Figures 5A to 5F Another micro-puree 700 is illustrated according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 5A and Figure 5B An embodiment of the micro-puree 700 is illustrated in a first configuration (which may be referred to herein as a processing configuration) for processing (eg, micro-pureeing). Figures 5C to 5E An embodiment of the micro-puree machine 700 is illustrated in a second configuration for extrusion (which may be referred to herein as an extrusion configuration). For illustrative purposes only, Figure 5F The embodiment of the micro-puree 700 is illustrated in both a processing configuration and an extrusion configuration, as in some embodiments, the micro-puree 700 is not configured to perform processing and extrusion simultaneously.

[0055] like Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown, the micro-puree machine 700 may include a base 705 and a housing 720. The housing 720 may include a user interface (not shown) for receiving user input to control the micro-puree machine 700 and / or display information. In some embodiments, the micro-puree machine includes a processing submodule 721, which includes one or more components configured to process ingredients in a cup 752 (e.g., cup 352 or variations thereof), and an extrusion submodule 723, which includes one or more components configured to extrude the processed ingredients from the cup 752. In the processing configuration, the cup 752 may be coupled to the interior of an outer cup 707, which is mounted on a processing platform 709 mounted to the base 705. The cup 752 may be coupled to a lid 711 (e.g., lid 440 or variations thereof), which houses a blade 713 (e.g., blade 300 or variations thereof). The cup 752 may include a nozzle control assembly 751 (e.g., a turntable) that enables a user to control the opening and closing of the nozzle 760, the nozzle 760, and an articulated plug or plug 756 that the user can use to selectively cover the nozzle 760 or the nozzle control assembly 751. In some embodiments, the nozzle control assembly 751, the nozzle 760, and the plug 756 may be removably attached to the cup 752. For example, as described in the '765 patent, using the handle 725, the user may rotate and lift the processing cup assembly 717 to a processing position in which the blade 713 engages the driven shaft 754, the cover 711 is coupled to the micro-puree 700, and the blade 713 is released from the cover 711 so that the driven shaft 754 can drive the blade 713. By engaging the user interface (or a remote interface via a wireless connection to a wireless interface within the housing 720), the user may initiate processing of the ingredients in the cup 752. In the processing configuration, the extrusion submodule 723 can remain idle, and the cap or plug 719 can be coupled to the coupling 727, covering the interface 729 with the driven shaft 758. The coupling 727 (e.g., the coupling 500) can also serve as a coupling between the cup assembly 750 (e.g., the cover 753 of the cup assembly 750) and the micro-puree maker 700. After processing the ingredients, the processing cup assembly 717 can be decoupled from the micro-puree maker 700 (e.g., from the processing submodule 721) and removed from the platform 709. The cover 711 can be removed from the outer cup 707, and the cup 752 can be removed from the outer cup 707.

[0056] like Figures 5C to 5EAs shown, the cover 753 can then be mounted to the cup 752, and the cup 752 can then be coupled to the micro-puree 700 in an extrusion configuration (e.g., coupled to the extrusion sub-module 723). In the extrusion configuration, the cup 752 can be coupled to the cover 753 (e.g., the cover 450 or a variation thereof) that includes the plunger 702. The combination of the cup 752 and the cover 753 may be referred to herein as the cup extrusion assembly 750. In an embodiment, the cup extrusion assembly 750 may be configured to be mounted to the micro-puree 700 in such a manner that the nozzle 760 points vertically downward when the cup extrusion assembly 750 is properly mounted. As shown, the cup extrusion assembly 750 can be assembled to the housing 720 (e.g., the extrusion sub-module 723) in such a manner that the central axis A of the cup extrusion assembly 750 extends perpendicular to the vertical axis V of the housing 720. The cup extrusion assembly 750 may include an outlet 760 for extruding the processed ingredients from the cup extrusion assembly 750. The micro-puree machine 700 may also include a lever 730 for manually activating the plunger 702 to extrude the processed ingredients within the cup extrusion assembly 750 through the outlet 760. Although the lever 730 is shown on the right side of the machine 700 (from the left), the lever 730 is used to manually activate the plunger 702 to extrude the processed ingredients within the cup extrusion assembly 750 through the outlet 760. Figure 5C 730 can be on the left side of the machine 700, or in another location on the machine 700, and the other components of the machine can be reconfigured to accommodate the different locations of the rod 730. The housing 720 can include electrical, electromagnetic, mechanical, and / or electromechanical components to convert the downward or upward movement of the rod 730 into movement of the plunger 702 within the cup 752.

[0057] Embodiments of the housing 720 of the micro-puree machine 700 can house a transmission system comprising a driven shaft 754 for engaging the blade 713, a separate driven shaft 758 for engaging the plunger 702, one or more gear systems, and one or more position and / or drive motors for rotationally and / or axially moving the driven shaft 754 and the other shafts 758 to process ingredients in the cup assembly 750. For example, a drive motor can drive rotation of the driven shaft 754 and a blade (e.g., blade 300) coupled thereto, while a position motor can drive vertical (e.g., downward and upward) movement of the driven shaft 754 and the blade. Another motor can drive a second shaft 758 and a plunger (e.g., plunger 454 or 602) attached thereto. In embodiments, the blade 713 can be programmably controlled via a user interface of a computing system to operate at different rotational speeds, move up and down in different patterns and speeds, and for different time periods to produce different food products. In an embodiment, the plunger 702 in the lid 753 can be programmably controlled to operate at different rotational speeds, move up and down in different patterns and speeds, and be controlled to produce different food products within different time periods through a user interface of a computing system. Some non-limiting examples of transmission systems and computing systems are shown in U.S. Patent No. 11,882,965 (the '965 patent) and the description of the '765 patent to SharkNinja Operating, LLC, which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0058] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, mechanisms are provided and techniques employed to automatically lock the ingredient processing cup into the micro-puree during processing and / or extrusion of ingredients from the cup, as will now be described.

[0059] Figure 6A and Figure 6B An automatic cup lock 800 is illustrated for locking a cup 852 (e.g., cup 752) to a coupling 827 (e.g., coupling 727) during an extrusion process, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 6AAs shown, a driven shaft 858 can be movable relative to a support member 868 within an extrusion submodule 823 (e.g., extrusion submodule 723). The driven shaft 858 can be threadedly coupled or otherwise movably coupled to a rod 878 extending through the driven shaft 858, such that rotation of the rod 878 (e.g., by operation of a position motor) moves the driven shaft 858 toward and away from the cup 852. A spring 804 can be disposed between a portion of the support member 868 and the locking pin 806 to urge the locking pin 806 toward the cup 852. The locking pin 806 can be movable within a set range of travel relative to the support member 868 between a first position and a second position. For example, in the first position of the locking pin 806, a first end 806a of the locking pin 806 can press against the spring 804, while a second end 806b of the locking pin 806 can be positioned away from a protrusion 854 on the cup 852. In this position, when a user installs the cup 852 into the coupling 827 , the locking pin 806 does not prevent rotation of the cup 852 .

[0060] Actuation of the position motor by the user (e.g., by selecting an extrusion process on a user interface) can cause the rod 878 to rotate in a first direction, which in turn causes the driven shaft 858 to translate toward the cup 852. This movement of the driven shaft 858 toward the cup 852 can also cause the plunger 802 (e.g., plunger 602) to move relative to the processed ingredient within the cup 852 to extrude the ingredient through the nozzle 860. Simultaneously, the first end 806a of the locking pin 806 can be moved by the spring 804 to a second position such that the second end 806b of the locking pin 806 prevents the cup 852 from rotating out of the coupling 827—e.g., by blocking rotation of the protrusion 854 on the cup 852, as shown. Figure 6B As shown. This blocking of the rotation of the protrusion 854 automatically creates a locked state for the cup 852. Once the extrusion process is completed, the position motor can rotate the screw 878 in the second direction, thereby retracting the driven shaft 858 from the cup 852 and pushing the locking pin 806 back to the first position. Once the second end 806b of the locking pin 806 no longer blocks the protrusion 854 on the cup 852, the user can freely rotate the cup 852 out of the coupling 827 and remove the cup 852 from the coupling 827. The present disclosure also contemplates other suitable mechanisms for translating the driven shaft 858 toward and away from the cup 852 (e.g., a hydraulic mechanism).

[0061] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, mechanisms are provided and techniques employed to couple the plunger to the driven shaft of the micro-puree machine and / or to retain the plunger in the lid of the cup of processed ingredients to be squeezed out, as will now be described.

[0062] Figures 7A to 7JVarious aspects of a plunger retaining assembly 900 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated. The plunger retaining assembly 900 and its components can be components of or coupled to the extrusion submodule 723 of the micro-puree maker 700.

[0063] like Figure 7A As shown, the plunger retaining assembly 900 can generally include a cover 950 (e.g., cover 450 or 753), a plunger 902 (e.g., plunger 454), and a plunger coupling 904. The cover 950 can be coupled to a cup 952 (e.g., cup 752). The combination of the cover 950 and the cup 952 can form a cup assembly, such as cup assembly 750, for example. The cover 950 can define a central passage 906 through the interior of the cover 950. The plunger coupling 904 can extend through the central passage 906 of the cover 950 and can be integral with or coupled to the driven shaft 901 (e.g., driven shaft 250) such that the plunger coupling 904 moves axially with the driven shaft 901.

[0064] Figure 7B and Figure 7C Detailed views of a cover 950 are shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7B As shown, the cover 950 may include at least one retaining member 908 movable within the interior of the cover 950. The at least one retaining member 908 may include four retaining members 908. However, the present disclosure contemplates more or less than four retaining members 908. The retaining member 908 may be urged toward the central channel 906 of the cover 950 (e.g., with one or more springs). The cover 950 may include a release lever 912 operably coupled to the retaining member 908 to move the retaining member 908 away from the central channel 906 against the force of the springs. Figure 7C As shown, the release lever 912 can be retained on the cover 950 in a manner such that the release lever 912 can be rotationally moved within a predetermined range of motion relative to the central channel 906 of the cover 950. When the release lever 912 is in a fully rotated position, the retaining member 908 can be positioned at a point of maximum travel away from the central channel 906, allowing the plunger 902 to be installed into or disengaged from the cover 950.

[0065] Figure 7D and Figure 7E The diagram illustrates the engagement between the plunger 902 and the cap 950 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7DAs shown, the upper surface 902a of the plunger 902 can include a central attachment portion 914 extending upwardly from the upper surface 902a. The attachment portion 914 can define an internal passage 918 for removably attaching to the plunger coupling portion 904. The outer surface of the attachment portion 914 can include one or more features, such as barbs 915, for engaging with the retainer 908. As shown, in embodiments where the cross-sectional shape of the attachment portion 914 is rectangular (e.g., generally square), the number of barbs 915 can be four barbs 915. However, the present disclosure contemplates more or fewer than four barbs 915, depending on other shapes of the attachment portion, such as triangular or hexagonal.

[0066] like Figure 7E As shown, the bottom surface 950b of the cover 950 can define an opening 916 that communicates with the central channel 906 for receiving the attachment portion 914. As shown, the shape of the opening 916 can be selected to correspond to the shape of the attachment portion 914, and the shape of the opening 916 can be configured to accommodate the passage of the barb 915. The corresponding shapes of the attachment portion 914 and the opening 916 can allow the plunger 902 to be installed in the cover 950 in any number of orientations. In addition, the corresponding shapes of the attachment portion 914 and the opening 916 can ensure that when the cup assembly (including the cup 952 and the cover 950) is rotated into and out of the coupling 905 (e.g., the coupling 500), the plunger 902 rotates with the cup 952 and the cover 950. The coupling 905 can be as shown. Figure 7F Bayonet coupling shown.

[0067] Figure 7G 914 is a detailed view of the engagement between a retainer 908 and the attachment portion 914 of the plunger 902, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Each barb 915 may include an upper angled ledge 920 and a lower undercut 922. Each retainer 908 may further include an upper retaining surface 924 and a lower angled surface 926. When a user inserts the attachment portion 914 of the plunger 902 into the cap 950, the lower angled surface 926 of the retainer 908 may engage with the upper angled ledge 920 of the attachment portion 914 to move the retainer 908 away from the central channel 906. The outward movement of the retainer 908 may allow the barb 915 to pass through the retainer 908. The retainer 908 may then be forced toward an engaged position with the attachment portion 914. The undercut 922 may have a generally flat surface extending radially outward at a substantially 90-degree angle relative to the central channel 906. The upper retaining surface 924 can be similarly configured so that it engages the undercut 922 to retain the plunger 902 in the cap 950 even when a significant disengagement force is applied to the plunger 902. Thus, the cap 950 and plunger 902 can be held together before the attachment portion 914 engages the plunger coupling portion 904.

[0068] Still refer to Figure 7G To engage the plunger coupling portion 904, the internal passageway 918 of the attachment portion 914 can define at least one vertically extending protrusion 917. As shown, the at least one protrusion 917 can be four protrusions 917 spaced apart around the circumference of the internal passageway 918. However, the present disclosure contemplates more or less than four protrusions 917. A first end 917a of the protrusion 917 can be aligned with an upper end 918a of the internal passageway 918, while a second end 917b of the protrusion 917 can be spaced apart from a lower end 918b of the passageway 918.

[0069] Figure 7H and Figure 7I FIG. 1 illustrates the engagement between the attachment portion 914 of the plunger 902 and the plunger coupling portion 904 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7H As shown, the plunger coupling portion 904 can include a plurality of vertical slots 928 defined on an outer surface of the plunger coupling portion 904. As shown, the plurality of slots 928 can be four slots 928. However, the present disclosure contemplates more or less than four slots 928. The upper portion 928a of the slot 928 can have a diameter selected to be wider than the lower portion 928b of the slot 928 such that a shelf 930 is defined between the upper portion 928a and the lower portion 928b. As further described elsewhere herein, the plunger coupling portion 904 can optionally include a plurality of tactile ridges 932. As shown, the plurality of slots 928 can be four slots 928. However, the present disclosure contemplates more or less than four slots 928. The upper portion 928a of the slot 928 can have a diameter selected to be wider than the lower portion 928b of the slot 928 such that a shelf 930 is defined between the upper portion 928a and the lower portion 928b. Figure 7I As shown, when a user rotates the cup assembly (including the cup 952 and the lid 950) into the coupling 905, the protrusion 917 on the inner surface of the attachment portion 914 rotates into the upper portion 928a of the slot 928, causing the shelf 930 to prevent the plunger 902 from disengaging from the plunger coupling 904. Rotating the cup assembly into the coupling 905 can also force the retainer 908 apart, allowing the plunger 902 to disengage from the lid 950. Disengaging from the lid 950 allows the plunger 902, along with the driven shaft 901, to descend through the cup 952 to extrude the ingredient from the cup 952. When the plunger coupling 904 retracts to its initial state after extrusion, the user can rotate the cup assembly out of the coupling 905. This rotation also rotates the attachment portion 914 of the plunger 902 out of the slot 928 of the plunger coupling 904 and reengages the retainer 908 with the barb 915. As such, the plunger 902 may now be secured to the cap 950 and may be removed when the user removes the cup assembly from the plunger coupling 904 .

[0070] Figure 7J A spring-loaded tactile plunger 934 is illustrated in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The tactile plunger 934 can optionally be disposed within the plunger 902 and can be configured to engage a tactile ridge 932 ( Figure 7H) engagement. The engagement between the tactile plunger 934 and the tactile ridge 932 can provide a user with tactile feedback that the plunger 902 is properly mounted on the plunger coupling 904. The engagement can also provide resistance to the plunger 902 rotating relative to the plunger coupling 904 during extrusion. Notably, preventing such rotation can be crucial to ensuring that the plunger 902 is realigned with the cap 950 when the plunger 902 is retracted into the cap 950 after extrusion.

[0071] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, mechanisms are provided and techniques employed to prevent a user from coupling a processing cup assembly to a micro-puree machine when the extrusion plunger is not properly installed in the lid of the cup assembly, as will now be described.

[0072] Figures 8A to 8G Components of a plunger lock assembly for use with a micro-purée (e.g., micro-purée 700) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated. The plunger lock assembly can prevent a user from installing a cup assembly (e.g., lid 1950 and cup 1952) to the micro-purée 700 when the plunger 1902 (e.g., plunger 902) is not installed or is improperly installed to the lid 1950. The plunger lock assembly can also alert the user when the lid 1950 is not assembled to the cup 1952.

[0073] like Figure 8A As shown, the extrusion submodule 1723 (e.g., extrusion submodule 723) can include a coupling portion 1727 (e.g., coupling portion 727) having an interface 1729 (e.g., interface 729) with a driven shaft (e.g., driven shaft 758). The coupling portion 1727 can serve as a coupling between the cup assembly including the lid 1950 and the cup 1952 and the micro-puree machine 700. The inner surface of the coupling portion 1727 can include at least one rib 1730 and a pin 1740. The pin 1740 can be operably coupled to a micro switch, as further described herein. The at least one rib 1730 can be four ribs 1730 equally spaced around the inner surface of the coupling portion 1727, allowing the cup assembly to be mounted to the coupling portion 1727 in any of four rotational positions. However, the present disclosure contemplates more or less than four ribs 1730, as well as different spacing between the ribs 1730. As used herein, the plunger lock assembly may generally include a cap 1950 and a coupling 1727 .

[0074] like Figure 8BAs shown, the cover 1950 can include a release lever 1912 (e.g., release lever 912) operably coupled to one or more retainers (e.g., retainer 908) to move the retainers 908 away from the central channel 1906 of the cover 1950. The release lever 1912 can be retained on the cover 1950 in a manner such that it can be rotationally moved relative to the central channel 1906 of the cover 1950 within a predetermined range of motion. When the release lever 1912 is in a fully rotated position, the retainers 908 can be positioned at their furthest point of travel away from the central channel 1906, allowing the plunger 1902 to be installed into or disengaged from the cover 1950. However, when the plunger 1902 is not installed or improperly installed in the cover 1950, the release lever 1912 can be positioned away from the fully rotated position such that the lever 1912 is prevented from being installed into the coupling portion 1727 by the rib 1730.

[0075] For example, Figure 8C and Figure 8D As shown, when plunger 1902 is not mounted to cap 1950, if a user attempts to rotate the cup assembly into coupling 1727, the position of rod 1912 causes rib 1730 to prevent the cup assembly from rotating into coupling 1727 by interfering with the movement of rod 1912 into coupling 1727. Figure 8E and Figure 8F As shown, when the attachment portion of the plunger 1902 (e.g., the attachment portion 914) is fully installed into the channel 1906 of the cover 1950, the position of the rod 1912 can be such that the rib 1730 does not block the rod 1912 and the cup assembly can be rotated into the coupling portion 1727. Figure 8G As shown, when lid 1950 is assembled to cup 1952 and the cup assembly is rotated into coupling 1727, lid 1950 can press against pin 1740 to activate microswitch 1980. Thus, if a user inadvertently installs only cup 1952 into the coupling, microswitch 1980 may not be activated. Activation of microswitch 1980 can allow an extrusion program to be run via software-controlled or non-software-controlled circuitry. Furthermore, when plunger 1902 is installed in cup 1952 and the user rotates cup 1952 within its permitted rotational range to release it from coupling 1727, rib 1730 can prevent some rotation of rod 1912 and cup 1952. This can cause retainers 908 to move to their furthest travel position away from central channel 1906, allowing plunger 1902 to be released from lid 1950.

[0076] In some embodiments, the present disclosure contemplates that a cup (e.g., cup 352, 352', 352", 752, 852, 952) from which an ingredient is processed and / or squeezed can be vertically coupled to a top or upward-facing face of a housing (e.g., housing 120, 720) of a micro-puree machine (e.g., micro-puree machine 10, 700) in a reverse orientation (i.e., downward) so that a blade (e.g., blade 300, 713) moves upward and then downward to emulsify, process, and / or mix the ingredients in the cup. The upward-facing face can face vertically upward or be tilted in an upward direction. In some embodiments, the micro-puree machine can be configured to automatically detect the size of the cup and, in response to that detection, extend the blade a certain depth and / or travel distance into the cup based on the detected cup size. Such cup size detection would advantageously enable the micro-puree machine to process ingredients in containers of different sizes, such as single-serving containers or larger containers.

[0077] Although the present disclosure particularly shows and describes preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application as defined by the appended claims. The scope of the present application is intended to encompass such changes. Thus, the foregoing description of the embodiments of the present application is not intended to limit the full scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A micro-fruit puree machine, characterized in that: The micro-fruit puree machine comprises: an automatic cup lock for locking to a cup, the cup having at least one protrusion on an outer surface thereof, the cup being rotatable relative to the micro-purée to rotate the at least one protrusion into and out of at least one slot on the micro-purée, the automatic cup lock comprising: a locking pin movable between a first position in which the locking pin does not prevent the at least one protrusion from rotating out of the at least one slot and a second position in which the locking pin prevents the at least one protrusion from rotating out of the at least one slot, thereby locking the cup to the micro-purée.

2. The micro-fruit puree machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The micro-puree machine further includes a support member, wherein a spring is disposed between a portion of the support member and the locking pin, the spring being configured to urge the locking pin to the second position.

3. The micro-fruit puree machine according to claim 2, characterized in that: The micro-puree machine further includes a driven shaft movable relative to the support member, wherein movement of the driven shaft toward the cup allows the locking pin to move between the first position and the second position.

4. The micro-fruit puree machine according to claim 3, characterized in that: The driven shaft is configured to move a plunger within the interior of the cup to extrude an ingredient from the interior of the cup through a nozzle when the locking pin is in the second position.

5. The micro-fruit puree machine according to claim 3, characterized in that: The micro-puree machine also includes a rod operably coupled to the driven shaft.

6. The micro-fruit puree machine according to claim 5, characterized in that: The driven shaft is threadably coupled to the rod.

7. The micro-fruit puree machine according to claim 6, characterized in that: Rotation of the lever in a first direction causes movement of the driven shaft toward the cup.

8. The micro-fruit puree machine according to claim 7, characterized in that: The rotation of the rod in the first direction is caused by actuation of a position motor of the micro-puree machine.

9. The micro-fruit puree machine according to claim 7, characterized in that: Rotation of the lever in a second direction causes movement of the driven shaft away from the cup.

10. The micro-fruit puree machine according to claim 9, characterized in that: Movement of the driven shaft away from the cup moves the locking pin to the first position.

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