A food preparation apparatus, the apparatus having a push button switch and a control panel

Abstract

A food preparation device comprising a housing, inside which a motor for driving a tool is provided; a switch, which is provided with a push button, the position of which controls the closure or opening of the switch, and a control panel, which comprises at least one motor start push button switch (10) and a motor stop push button switch (9); at least one push button switch comprises a spigot (38), which transmits a translational movement to a component of the device, the front surface of which has a relief pattern (31, 33, 35), which can be pressed by a user's finger, and a front end face (32, 34, 36), which is overmoulded on the spigot and surrounds the relief pattern.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a food preparation apparatus, including a push-button switch and a control panel. In particular, this utility model is applicable to apparatuses that use motor-driven blades to stir, cut, or chop food. Background Technology

[0002] Another technical issue concerns the design of control push-button switches for a food preparation apparatus. These switches must be labeled, such as with colors and patterns, so that users can immediately identify the function corresponding to pressing these buttons, typically involving starting or stopping a motor. Such markings are usually formed on the push-button switches using methods such as gravure printing, screen printing, or laser marking. However, push-button switches are affected by various substances, such as grease, acidic liquids from food or condiments, and cleaning products. Furthermore, they are subject to wear and tear from users' fingernails, various abrasive and friction-prone products, and / or abrasive sponges. Therefore, these types of push-button switches present durability issues. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention aims to correct all or part of the defects of the prior art.

[0004] Therefore, the first aspect of this utility model relates to an electric motor driven food preparation device, comprising: - A housing, within which a motor for driving the tool is housed. - A switch, the switch being equipped with a button, the position of which controls the closing or opening of the switch, and - Control panel, which includes at least one motor start button switch and one motor stop button switch.

[0005] At least one push-button switch includes: - A latch, which transmits translational movement to a component of the device, the front surface of which has a raised pattern that a user's finger can press. - Front end face, which is overlaid on the pin and surrounds the raised pattern.

[0006] Because of these arrangements, the front surface of the push-button switch pin and the pattern on the front surface can withstand wear and the effects of frequently used products or chemicals.

[0007] Preferably, the overmolded front end mask has a flat surface, and the raised pattern is flush with the flat surface.

[0008] Preferably, the overmolded front end face only partially covers the front surface of the pin, so the raised pattern is still visible on the front end face.

[0009] Preferably, the color of the material covering the front end face contrasts sharply with the color of the pin material.

[0010] Thanks to each of the above settings, users can directly see the raised pattern.

[0011] Preferably, the raised pattern includes at least one arc and / or at least one line segment.

[0012] Therefore, such a pattern can represent, for example, at least one symbol, standardized sign, and / or letter.

[0013] Preferably, the pin includes at least one channel for molten overlay material to flow from the center portion of the pin to the front surface of the pin, such that after the material has solidified, the overlaid front end face is fixed in the pin of the push-button switch.

[0014] Preferably, the pin of the push-button switch is made of a molding material, and the melting point temperature of the material of the front end face of the overmolded part is lower than the melting point temperature of the push-button switch pin material.

[0015] The second aspect of this utility model relates to a control push-button switch having the above-mentioned technical features, and a food preparation apparatus comprising: - A housing, within which a motor for driving the tool is housed. - A switch, the switch being equipped with a button, the position of which controls the closing or opening of the switch, and - Control panel, which includes at least one motor start button switch and one motor stop button switch. The push-button switch includes: - A latch, which transmits translational movement to a component of the device, the front surface of which has a raised pattern that a user's finger can press. - Front end face, which is overlaid on the pin and surrounds the raised pattern.

[0016] A third aspect of this utility model relates to a control panel, which includes the plurality of control button switches described in this utility model.

[0017] The advantages, purposes, and special features of the control button switch and the control panel are similar to those of the food preparation device described in this utility model, therefore, they will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To make other advantages, objectives, and special features of this utility model clearer, they are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description is only one embodiment of the device and its control panel described in this utility model, and is not intended to limit the scope of this utility model, wherein: [ Figure 1 This schematically illustrates a first specific embodiment of a food preparation apparatus with a control panel equipped with two push-button switches in standby mode. [ Figure 2 This schematically illustrates what happens when the continuous start button switch is pressed. Figure 1 The control panel shown is shown. [ Figure 3 This schematically illustrates what happens when the stop button switch is pressed. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The control panel shown is shown. [ Figure 4 This schematically illustrates the effect of simultaneously pressing the continuous start button switch and the stop button switch. Figures 1 to 3 The control panel shown is shown. [ Figure 5 This schematically illustrates a second embodiment of a food preparation apparatus with a control panel equipped with three push-button switches in standby mode. [ Figure 6 This schematically illustrates what happens when the pulse start button switch is pressed. Figure 5 The control panel shown is shown. [ Figure 7 This schematically illustrates what happens when the continuous start button switch is pressed. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The control panel shown is shown. [ Figure 8 This schematically illustrates the effect of simultaneously pressing the pulse start button switch and the stop button switch. Figures 5 to 7 The control panel shown is shown. [ Figure 9 This schematically illustrates what happens when the stop button switch is pressed. Figures 5 to 8 The control panel shown is shown. [ Figure 10 This schematically illustrates the effect of simultaneously pressing the stop button switch and the pulse start button switch. Figures 5 to 9 The control panel shown is shown. [ Figure 11 This schematically illustrates the effect of simultaneously pressing the stop button and the continuous start button. Figures 5 to 10 The control panel shown is shown. [ Figure 12 This schematically illustrates the effect of simultaneously pressing the stop button switch, the pulse start button switch, and the continuous start button switch. Figures 5 to 11 The control panel shown is shown. [ Figure 13 The image shows a perspective view and a front view of a specific embodiment of the control panel with three push-button switches according to the present invention. [ Figure 14 It shows Figure 13 The control panel perspective and rear view are shown. [ Figure 15 It shows Figure 13 and Figure 14 The exploded perspective view and front view of the control panel are shown. [ Figure 16 It shows Figures 13 to 15 The exploded perspective view and front view of the control panel's button switches are shown. [ Figure 17 It shows Figures 13 to 16 The diagram shows the perspective and front view of the control panel's buttons and switches. [ Figure 18 This schematically illustrates a third specific embodiment of the control panel with three push-button switches according to the present invention. [ Figure 19 This schematically illustrates a fourth specific embodiment of the control panel with three push-button switches according to the present invention. [ Figure 20 The image shows a perspective view of a specific embodiment of the food preparation apparatus described in this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0019] This specification is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be limiting. Features of each embodiment can be combined advantageously with any features of other embodiments.

[0020] It should be noted that Figures 1 to 12 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 Not drawn to scale, Figures 13 to 17 and Figure 20 Then draw it to scale.

[0021] As described in this specification, various inventive concepts can be implemented by one or more methods or apparatuses described below, several of which are provided herein. The operations or steps performed when implementing the methods or apparatus can be ordered in any suitable manner. Therefore, embodiments can be constructed in which the order of execution of operations or steps differs from the order shown, which may include performing certain operations simultaneously, even if these operations are performed sequentially in the illustrated embodiments.

[0022] The term “and / or” as used in this document should be understood as “one or both of them,” that is, elements that exist in combination in some cases and in substitution in others. Multiple elements listed using “and / or” should be interpreted in the same way, that is, “one or more” elements combined in this manner. In addition to the elements specifically indicated by the “and / or” clause, there may be other elements, whether or not they relate to these specifically indicated elements. Thus, by non-limiting example, when “A and / or B” is used with open-ended language such as “including,” in one embodiment it may refer only to A (which may include elements other than B); in another embodiment it may refer only to B (which may include elements other than A); in yet another embodiment it may refer to A and B (which may include other elements); and so on.

[0023] As used in this description, "or" should be understood as included.

[0024] The term "at least" as used in this description, when referring to one or more lists of elements, should be understood as selecting at least one element from one or more elements in the list of elements, but does not necessarily include at least one of each element specifically listed in the list of elements, nor exclude any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows for the selection of other elements in the list of elements referred to by the phrase "at least," in addition to those specifically specified, regardless of whether they are related to these specifically specified elements. Therefore, by non-limiting example, "at least of A and B" (or equivalently, "at least of A or B," or equivalently, "at least of A and / or B") in an embodiment may mean at least, possibly including the above A, but excluding B (and may also include elements other than B); in another embodiment, it means at least, optionally including the above B, without A present (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, it means at least, optionally including the above A, and at least, optionally including the above B (optionally including other elements); and so on.

[0025] In the following description, all transition expressions, such as “including,” “contains,” “carries,” “has,” “includes,” “means,” “holds,” “composes of,” etc., should be understood as open-ended expressions, i.e., indicating including but not limited to. Only the transition expressions “composes of” and “mainly composed of” should be understood as closed or semi-closed transition expressions, respectively.

[0026] Throughout the description, the device operating at the top is referred to as "high" or "upper," and the device operating at the bottom is referred to as "low" or "lower."

[0027] exist Figures 1 to 12 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 In the diagram, the intersection of two diagonals indicates a mechanical obstruction between two components. For example, in... Figure 1 In the accompanying drawings, reference numerals 1, 1A, and 13 indicate relatively fixed mechanisms. Two parallel short rods surround a central long rod, and the intersection of the three short rods is oblique to the intersection of the three parallel rods, illustrating a sliding connection. For example, in... Figure 1 In the figures, reference numerals 20 to 24 represent the sliding connections between body groups {1; 4}, {1; 6}, {1; 4}, {1; 9}, and {1; 10}, respectively.

[0028] Two parallel diagonal lines represent a cam. For example, in Figure 1 In the figures, reference numerals 25 and 26 relate to the cams between the main body groups {4;9} and {6;10}, respectively.

[0029] Figures 1 to 4 A specific embodiment of a control panel 30 for switch 12 is shown, which consists of two push-button switches. Push-button switch 9 is used to turn off the device, i.e., to turn on the circuit including switch 12. Push-button switch 10 is used to operate an electrical appliance, i.e., to turn off the circuit including switch 12. For example, the device in question is a food preparation apparatus, for example, Figure 20 The food preparation apparatus 80 shown is shown.

[0030] The control panel 30 includes a main body 1, within which a drive mechanism connected to push-button switches 9 and 10 is provided. The main body 13 of switch 12 is fixed relative to the main body 1. For example, an optional intermediate main body 1A may be fixed on one side to the main body 1 of the control panel 30 and on the other side to the main body 13 of switch 12. Switch 12 includes a common contact 16 and a normally open contact 17. Switch 12 also includes a normally closed contact 18. When button 15 on switch 12 is pressed, contactor 19 establishes electrical contact between the common contact 16 and the normally open contact 17. When button 15 is released, spring 14 inside switch 12 returns button 15 to its original position, the button drives contactor 19, and then the contactor opens the electrical connection between the common contact 16 and the normally open contact 17. In this case, if switch 12 also includes a normally closed contact 18, contactor 19 establishes an electrical connection between the common contact 16 and the normally closed contact 18.

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, the stop button switch 9 is fixed by the sliding link 23 and connected to the spring 8A. When its front end face is aligned with the spring 8A, the stop button switch 9 is stopped. Figures 1 to 4 When no pressure is applied to the bottom (of the body), the spring returns it to a position away from the main body 1. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the start button switch 10 is fixed by the sliding link 24 and connected to the spring 8B. When no pressure is applied to its front end, the spring returns it to a position away from the main body 1.

[0032] In addition, the main body 1 also includes a main push rod 4 mounted on at least one sliding link 20, 22, a secondary start push rod 6 mounted on the sliding link 21, a secondary push rod spring 5, two cams 25, 26 respectively associated with push button switches 9, 10, a locking pin 3, and a spring 2 for holding the locking pin 3 in position. Figures 2 to 4 Its movements and motions were described.

[0033] When the operator presses a single start button switch 10, such as Figure 2 As indicated by the middle arrow, cam 26 pushes the auxiliary push rod 6 toward button 15 of switch 12 via spring 5. Compared to the stiffness and pretension of spring 14, the stiffness and pretension of spring 5 are sufficient to cause the auxiliary push rod 6 to displace under the action of button switch 10 and cam 26, thereby causing the main push rod 4 and the switch button to displace to a sufficient extent to close switch 12.

[0034] The relationship between the stiffness and preload of various flexible elements will be explained in the description of the first two embodiments.

[0035] Then, the locking pin 3 locks the position of the auxiliary push rod 6 under the action of the spring 2. Figure 2 As shown, the two parts of the cam 25 associated with the push-button switch 9 are now facing each other.

[0036] Then, when the operator presses a single stop button switch 9, as... Figure 3 As indicated by the middle arrow, cam 25 moves the main push rod 4 away from button 15 on switch 12. Then, spring 14 reopens switch 12. Then, spring 5 pushes the auxiliary push rod 6 away from button 15 on switch 12. Then, locking pin 3 locks the position of auxiliary push rod 6 under the action of spring 2. Then, control panel 30 returns to its original position. Figure 1 The standby state is shown.

[0037] If the operator presses both the stop button switch 9 and the start button switch 10 simultaneously (e.g.) Figure 4 (As indicated by the two arrows in the image), cam 26 moves the secondary push rod 6 toward button 15 of switch 12. Simultaneously, cam 25 either keeps the main push rod 4 away from button 15 or moves it away from button 15, depending on the initial position of the main push rod 4. Due to the respective positions of the main push rod 4 and the secondary push rod 6, spring 5 is compressed. At this point, switch 12 is in the open position. Then, locking pin 3, under the action of spring 2, locks the position of the secondary push rod 6.

[0038] As can be seen from the above description, the control panel 30 has the following four structures, which correspond to... Figures 1 to 4 The states of push-button switches 9 and 10 are shown in a table, where "0" indicates no pressure on the front face and "1" indicates pressure. [Table 1]

[0039] Figures 5 to 12 A second specific embodiment of the control panel 40 with switch 12 is shown, including three push-button switches. In addition to the push-button switches 9 and 10 described above, there is also a push-button switch 11 for operation via pulse control, meaning it only functions when its front face is pressed. Similarly, the device in question is, for example, a food preparation apparatus, such as… Figure 20 The food preparation apparatus 80 shown.

[0040] Apart from Figures 1 to 4 In addition to the components shown (with their reference numerals retained), the main body 1 also includes a sliding link 27 (in which a portion of the push-button switch 11 can slide), a cam 28 associated with the push-button switch 11, and a spring 8C, which allows the push-button switch to return to the standby position when there is no pressure on the front face of the push-button switch 11. Furthermore, the secondary pulse push rod 7 mounted on the sliding link 29 is substantially aligned with the secondary stroke push rod 6 and is located in the middle position between the spring 5 and the secondary stroke push rod 6.

[0041] exist Figure 5 In the standby state shown, switch 12 is in the open state, and the secondary stroke actuator 6 is locked by the locking pin 3 at a position away from the button 15 of switch 12.

[0042] When the operator presses the single-pulse start button switch 11, such as Figure 6 As indicated by the middle arrow, cam 28 pushes the secondary stroke push rod 7 towards spring 5. This causes button 15 to be pressed via spring 5 and main push rod 4. Then, under the action of latch 3, the secondary stroke push rod 6 remains in a position away from switch 12. Once the operator releases the pressure in front of button switch 11, spring 14 causes switch 12 to open, and main push rod 4 moves away from switch 12. At the same time, spring 5 pushes the secondary pulse push rod 7 away from switch 12.

[0043] When the operator presses a single start button switch 10, such as Figure 7 As indicated by the middle arrow, cam 26 pushes the secondary travel push rod 6 and the secondary pulse push rod 7 towards spring 5. This causes button 15 to be pressed via spring 5 and main push rod 4. Under the action of locking pin 3, even if the operator releases the pressure in front of the travel button switch 10, the secondary travel push rod 6 will remain in the position close to switch 12. Therefore, switch 12 remains in the closed position.

[0044] Similarly, when the operator presses both the start button switch 10 and the pulse start button switch 11 simultaneously (e.g.) Figure 8(As indicated by the two arrows in the middle), cam 26 drives the auxiliary travel push rod 6 to move, and cam 28 drives the auxiliary pulse push rod 7 to move towards spring 5. This causes button 15 to be pressed through spring 5 and main push rod 4. Under the action of locking pin 3, even if the operator releases the pressure on the front face of travel button switch 10 and / or pulse travel button switch 11, the auxiliary travel push rod 6 will remain in the position close to switch 12. Therefore, switch 12 remains in the closed position.

[0045] from Figure 7 and Figure 8 One of the configurations described begins when the operator presses only a single stop button switch 9, such as Figure 9 As indicated by the middle arrow, cam 25 pushes the main push rod 4 away from button 15 of switch 12. Then, spring 14 reopens switch 12. Next, spring 5 moves the secondary push rod 7, and through the secondary push rod, moves the secondary push rod 6 away from switch 12. Then, locking pin 3 locks the position of secondary push rod 6 under the action of spring 2. Finally, control panel 30 returns to its original position. Figure 5 The standby state is shown.

[0046] If the operator simultaneously presses the stop button switch 9 and the pulse start button switch 11 (e.g.) Figure 10 (As indicated by the two arrows in the image), cam 28 will move the pulse auxiliary push rod 7 toward button 15 of switch 12. Simultaneously, cam 25 will either keep the main push rod 4 away from button 15 or move it away from button 15, depending on the initial position of the main push rod 4. Due to the respective positions of the main push rod 4 and the auxiliary push rod 7, spring 5 is compressed. At this point, switch 12 is in the open position. Then, locking pin 3, under the action of spring 2, locks the position of the auxiliary push rod 6.

[0047] If the operator presses both the stop button switch 9 and the start button switch 10 simultaneously (e.g.) Figure 11 (As indicated by the two arrows in the image), cam 26 will move the secondary push rod 6 and the pulse secondary push rod 7 toward the button 15 of switch 12. Simultaneously, cam 25 will either keep the main push rod 4 away from button 15 or move it away from button 15, depending on the initial position of the main push rod 4. Due to the respective positions of the main push rod 4 and the secondary push rod 6, spring 5 is compressed. At this time, switch 12 is in the open position.

[0048] If the operator simultaneously presses the stop button switch 9, the start button switch 10, and the pulse start button switch 11, as follows: Figure 12 As indicated by the three arrows, cams 26 and 28 will move the secondary push rod 6 and the secondary pulse push rod 7 toward the button 15 of switch 12. Simultaneously, cam 25 will either keep the main push rod 4 away from button 15 or move it away from button 15, depending on the initial position of the main push rod 4. Due to the respective positions of the main push rod 4 and the secondary push rod 7, spring 5 is compressed. At this time, switch 12 is in the open position.

[0049] As can be seen from the above description, the control panel 40 has the following eight structures, which correspond to... Figures 5 to 12 As shown in the table below, the states of push-button switches 9, 10, and 11 are indicated by "0" when there is no pressure on the front face and by "1" when there is pressure: [Table 2]

[0050] Although a single switch 12 is shown in the figure, this invention is also applicable to controlling multiple switches 12 connected to the body 1, so that the main actuator 4 simultaneously acts on each button 15 of the aforementioned switch 12.

[0051] Although the switch 12 shown in the figure has a common contact associated with normally open and normally closed contacts, the present invention is also applicable to controlling a switch 12 having a common contact associated only with normally open contacts.

[0052] Although the switch 12 shown in the figure has a common contact associated with a normally open contact, and in appropriate cases, also a normally closed contact, this invention is also applicable to controlling a switch 12 having multiple common contacts, each of which is associated with its own normally open contact, and in appropriate cases, each of which is not associated with its own normally closed contact. Each common contact can be alternately electrically connected to its normally open and normally closed contacts by the same number of movable contactors, all of which move simultaneously by the movement of the common push-button switch.

[0053] Relationship between the forces provided by the spring a) Springs 8A and 8B of push-button switches 9, 10, and 11, and 8C in appropriate cases.

[0054] The geometry of push-button switches 9, 10, and 11 should ideally be identical, except for the embossed markings 31, 33, and 35 on the latches (see...). Figure 16 , 17The springs 8A, 8B, and 8C (if applicable) used for push-button switches are preferably identical. These springs may be interchangeably referred to as push-button switch spring 8. Push-button switch spring 8 is preferably made of stainless steel to withstand the environmental pressures, especially humidity, of the food preparation apparatus. The stiffness of spring 8 and its preload in standby mode are selected to provide a suitable rebound force for the corresponding push-button switch and to provide the user with a sensory experience appropriate to the area where the apparatus is used. The force exerted by spring 8 on the push-button switch in standby mode and on the push-button switch when pressed is preferably set between 2 and 10 Newtons. However, values ​​exceeding these limits, especially the upper limit, are perfectly acceptable. Considering the frictional effects related to the contact materials, material aging, and possible contamination, a fundamental characteristic of the push-button switch is that it returns completely to the standby position when the user no longer presses its front surface. Apart from this characteristic, the operation of the system is independent of the stiffness, preload, and applied force of spring 8.

[0055] b) Spring 14 of switch 12.

[0056] The characteristics of the spring 14 of switch 12 are determined by the manufacturer of switch 12 or the switch (if applicable). The relevant manufacturer typically provides several levels of force that spring 14 can provide for selection based on the application. For electrically operated food preparation devices (such as...) Figure 20 Regarding the switch of the food preparation apparatus 80 shown, the force is preferably one Newton or three Newtons.

[0057] Depending on the power of switch 12 and / or the need to ensure complete stability under conditions such as vibration, significantly different values ​​can be selected, either low or high.

[0058] In any case, once switch 12 is selected, the characteristics of switch spring 14 are as follows: - Determine how much force the main push rod 4 must apply to the button 15 of the switch 12 to change its contact state from standby (shared contact 16 electrically isolated from normally open contact 17) to working (shared contact 16 electrically connected to normally open contact 17), thereby changing the motor from the off state to the on state. - When the user releases any operation on the push-button switch, sufficient force must be generated to return the main push rod 4 and (if applicable) the auxiliary push rod 7 from the working position to the standby position, taking into account the friction, aging and possible contamination of the contact materials; - Adjust the size, shape and relative characteristics of the locking spring 2, locking pin 3 and auxiliary operating push rod 6 so that the action of locking pin 3 on auxiliary operating push rod 6 (generated by the action of locking spring 2 on locking pin 3) can ensure a stable operating state after pressing and releasing the start button switch 10.

[0059] In other words, the force generated by the spring 14 of switch 12 in the direction of movement of the main push rod 4 cannot be greater than the holding force generated by the locking pin 3 on the auxiliary push rod 6 in the same direction under the action of the locking pin spring 2.

[0060] c) Secondary push rod spring 5.

[0061] The stiffness and preload of spring 5 are several times greater than the rated force of spring 14 of switch 12. Preferably, the ratio is 2-5 times. A higher value can be selected to account for variations in friction between the main push rod 4 and the body 1, such as due to material aging and / or system contamination.

[0062] Under any circumstances, the preload generated by the auxiliary push rod spring 5 must be large enough so that when the auxiliary push rod 6 or 7 moves, and the start button switch 10 is pressed or the pulse button switch 11 is pressed in the appropriate case, the auxiliary push rod spring 5 will not be subjected to additional compression opposite to the resistance generated by the spring 14 of switch 12, so that the stroke generated on the main push rod 4 is sufficient to change the contact state of switch 12 from the standby state to the open state.

[0063] d) Locking spring 2.

[0064] The selection of the stiffness and preload of spring 2 is mainly to ensure that when the system is in the open state and the open button switch 10 is released, the locking pin 3 can fix the auxiliary push rod 6 in a stable position, while the spring 14 of switch 12 is in the opposite state.

[0065] The force of the locking pin spring 2 is basically applied in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction of the auxiliary push rod 6, and is converted into a force parallel to the said direction through the cam effect between the locking pin 3 and the auxiliary push rod 6, thereby directly offsetting the force generated by the spring 14 of the switch 12 to maintain a stable operating state.

[0066] Considering friction, aging, and any blockages between moving parts, the relative dimensions of the cams between bolt 3 and auxiliary push rod 6, and the characteristics of bolt spring 2, should ensure that the force generated by auxiliary push rod 6 corresponds to and is significantly greater than the force of spring 14 of switch 12. Preferably, the ratio of these two forces is greater than 2.

[0067] Alternatively, the locking pin spring 2 acts on the locking pin 3, and when the system is in standby mode, the locking pin holds the auxiliary push rod 6 in a stable position through the cam effect.

[0068] Preferably, the two cams of the auxiliary push rod 6 are identical, but the cam of the auxiliary push rod 6 may not exist at all. The cam maintains the stability of the system in the stopped state in the standby state. Therefore, the stability is poor, but the stability can be fully guaranteed by the action of the spring 14 of the switch 2 and the friction between the moving parts.

[0069] The cam angles between the push-button switches 9, 10, and 11 and the push rod are 25°, 26°, and 28°, respectively.

[0070] When the user presses button switch 9, 10 or 11, the latter moves in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the sliding direction between the main push rod 4 and the body 1. This movement is achieved by cam linkage 25, 26 or 28, which exists between button switch 9, 10 or 11 and the associated push rod, causing the main push rod 4 or the auxiliary push rod 6 or 7 to move in a direction parallel to the stated direction.

[0071] The angle between the movement direction of the push-button switch and the movement direction of the actuator is selected in order to convert the expected stroke of the push-button switch into the necessary stroke of the main actuator 4, so as to control the change of the contact state of the switch 12 from closed to open.

[0072] The travel of the push-button switch is preferably set between 2 and 8 millimeters. Typically, the travel of the switch 12, which is suitable for starting the motor of a food preparation device, is about 2 to 4 millimeters, measured according to the displacement of the button 15 of the switch 12.

[0073] Therefore, for a push-button switch with a stroke set to 5 mm and switch 12 with a stroke set to 3 mm, the aforementioned angle is 31 degrees. More generally, this angle can be selected between 25 and 50 degrees to accommodate the ratio between the two strokes, while taking into account the coefficient of friction between moving parts, especially the coefficient of friction between cams, to avoid any risk of jamming or seizing.

[0074] Figures 13 to 15 It shows the relationship with Figures 5 to 12 The relevant components are in the form of a specific implementation of the second embodiment of the control panel described in this utility model.

[0075] Figure 16 and 17 As shown, push-button switches 9, 10, and 11 preferably include pins 38 for transmitting translational movement to components of the control panel. The front surface of each pin 38 has raised patterns 31, 33, and 35 on which the user's finger can press. Figure 17 As shown, push button switches 9, 10, and 11 also have front faces 32, 34, and 36 respectively, which are overmolded on these pins 38 and surround these raised patterns 31, 33, and 35.

[0076] Preferably, with Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the front end faces 32, 34, and 36 of the overmolded structure have a plane, and the raised patterns 31, 33, and 35 are flush with the plane.

[0077] Preferably, with Figure 16 and Figure 17The button switches shown are identical, and the front surfaces 32, 34, and 36, which are overmolded, only partially cover the front surface of the pin 38, so the raised patterns 31, 33, and 35 are still visible on the front surfaces.

[0078] The colors of the materials on the overmolded front faces 32, 34, and 36 should ideally contrast sharply with the color of the material on the pin 38, thereby contrasting sharply with the colors of the raised patterns 31, 33, and 35 to improve the recognizability of the patterns.

[0079] The colors of the materials used for overmolding the front face 32, 34, and 36 should ideally be selected based on the off, on, and pulse functions of the push-button switches 9, 10, and 11. For example, red represents off, green represents on, and black represents pulse.

[0080] exist Figure 16 and 17 In the example shown, the raised patterns 31, 33, or 35 form arcs (button switches 9, 11) and / or at least one straight line segment (button switches 10, 11). Therefore, such patterns can represent, for example, at least one symbol, standardized identifier, and / or letter.

[0081] If the raised patterns 31, 33, or 35 on the front surface of the pin 38 do not surround any part of the front surface of the push-button switch (such as the raised pattern 33 on the push-button switch 10), then it is not necessary to provide a channel for overmolding to fill such isolated parts. On the other hand, when the insulating part, such as the central part of the front surface of the pin 38 of the push-button switch 9, is surrounded by the raised pattern 31 of the pin 38, at least a channel 37 is provided for the molten overmolding material to reach the insulating part through the pin 38. In the pin 38 of the push-button switch 11, three parts of the front surface are isolated by raised patterns 35. Each part corresponds to at least one channel 37 between the front surface and the more central part of the pin 38. In this way, once the material hardens and melts during the overmolding process, all parts of the overmolded front end face 36 are fixed in the pin 38 of the push-button switch 11.

[0082] Preferably, the pin 38 of each push-button switch is made of a molding material, and the melting point temperature of the material of the overmolded front end face is lower than the melting point temperature of the pin 38 material.

[0083] [ Figure 18 The diagram schematically illustrates a third specific embodiment of the control panel 60 with three push-button switches according to the present invention, wherein the reference numeral "40" is added to the mechanical component that functionally corresponds to the mechanical component of the second embodiment 40.

[0084] The operation of the third embodiment is similar to that of the second embodiment, except that it does not use a cam. However, in the third embodiment, the translational movements of the push-button switches 50 and 51 transmitted to the spring 45 are parallel, rather than aligned as in the second embodiment 40. The main push rod 44 rotates about the pivot link 59, rather than translating as in the second embodiment 40. The standby position of the main push rod 44 is indicated by a solid line. The position of the main push rod 44 is indicated by a dashed line when at least one push-button switch 50 or 51 is pressed (but push-button switch 49 is not pressed).

[0085] from Figure 18 It is not difficult to see that since the spring 45 will deform when the button switch 49 and at least one button switch 50, 51 are pressed at the same time, pressing the stop button switch 49 takes priority over pressing the button switches 50, 51.

[0086] [ Figure 19 The diagram schematically illustrates a fourth embodiment of the control panel 70 with three push-button switches according to the present invention. The mechanical components that functionally correspond to the mechanical components of the third embodiment 60 retain the same reference numerals.

[0087] The operation of the fourth embodiment is similar to that of the third embodiment, except that it uses two pivot links 61, 63 and a bidirectional cam link 62 and a stop button switch 49 located between button switches 50, 51. Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, each button switch 50, 51 has a spring 45.

[0088] The main push rod 64 consists of two rods connected by a double-sided cam link 62, each rod being mounted on pivot links 61 and 63. The standby position of the main push rod 64 is indicated by a solid line. When at least one push button switch 50 or 51 is pressed (but push button switch 49 is not pressed), the position of the main push rod 64 is indicated by a dashed line.

[0089] from Figure 19 It is not difficult to see that since the spring 45 deforms when the button switch 49 and at least one button switch 50, 51 are pressed at the same time, pressing the stop button switch 49 takes priority over pressing the button switches 50, 51.

[0090] Figure 20 A food preparation apparatus 80 is shown, which includes a control panel 40 as described above. Figure 20 As shown, the device 80 includes a housing 71 containing a motor 72 for driving a shaft to rotate about a rotation axis. At least one food preparation tool 77, such as a spinner, knife, or whisk, is mounted on the shaft of an inner bowl 76. The device 80 has a lid 73 providing access to the bowl 76.

[0091] like Figures 5 to 17As shown, in the control panel 40, the start button switch 10, when pressed, can continuously start the motor 72. The stop button switch 9 stops the motor 72. The pulse start button switch 11 starts the motor 72 for the duration of pressing the button switch 11. As mentioned above, pressing the stop button switch 9 has priority over pressing any or both of the button switches 10 and 11.

Claims

1. A food preparation apparatus (80), comprising: The housing (71) contains a motor (72) for driving the tool. Switch (12), the switch being equipped with a button (15), the position of the button controlling the closing or opening of the switch, and Control panel (30, 40), the control panel includes at least one motor start button switch (10) and a motor stop button switch (9). The feature is that at least one push-button switch includes: A latch (38) that transmits translational motion to a component of the device, the front surface of which has raised patterns (31, 33, 35) that a user's finger can press. Front facets (32, 34, 36) are formed on the pin and around the raised pattern.

2. The device (80) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The overmolded front end faces (32, 34, 36) have a flat surface, and the raised patterns (31, 33, 35) are flush with the flat surface.

3. The apparatus (80) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The overmolded front faces (32, 34, 36) only partially cover the front surface of the pin (38), so the raised patterns (31, 33, 35) are still visible on the front faces.

4. The apparatus (80) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The material color of the overmolded front face (32, 34, 36) contrasts with the material color of the pin (38).

5. The apparatus (80) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The raised patterns (31, 33, 35) include at least one arc and / or at least one line segment.

6. The apparatus (80) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The pin (38) includes at least one channel (37) for molten overlay material to flow from the center portion of the pin to the front surface of the pin, so that after the material solidifies, the overlay-shaped front end face is fixed in the pin of the push-button switch.

7. The apparatus (80) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The pin (38) of the push button switch (9, 10) is made of molded material, and the melting point temperature of the material of the overmolded front end face (32, 34, 36) is lower than that of the material of the push button switch pin.

8. A push-button switch (9, 10) for a food preparation apparatus (80), the food preparation apparatus (80) comprising: The housing (71) contains a motor (72) for driving the tool. Switch (12), the switch being equipped with a button (15), the position of the button controlling the closing or opening of the switch, and Control panel (30, 40), the control panel includes at least one motor start button switch (10) and a motor stop button switch (9). The push-button switch is characterized in that it includes: A latch (38) that transmits translational motion to a component of the device, the front surface of which has raised patterns (31, 33, 35) that a user's finger can press. Front facets (32, 34, 36) are formed on the pin and around the raised pattern.

9. A control panel (30, 40) of a food preparation apparatus (80), characterized in that, The control panel includes the plurality of push-button switches (9, 10) as described in claim 8.

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