Kitchen appliance

Abstract

A kitchen appliance comprising: a rotatable user interface device for receiving user input to the kitchen appliance through a user torque applied to the user interface device; a controller electrically coupled to the user interface device to receive user input from the user interface device; a motor operably coupled to the user interface device and electrically coupled to the controller such that the controller can electrically control actuation of the motor; wherein the controller is adapted to actuate the motor to generate a counter torque or a complementary torque to the user torque; wherein the counter torque and / or complementary torque is proportional to a deviation between a setpoint parameter of the kitchen appliance and user input during food processing preparation or beverage preparation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a kitchen appliance and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] As kitchen appliances become more advanced, their complexity also increases. However, this complexity comes at the cost of simplicity. This conflict presents a challenge for designers of kitchen appliance user interfaces. There's a need to communicate information about the internal workings of the appliances to users, allowing them greater control over their operation. However, the area available on kitchen appliances for conveying this feedback is limited, leading to the inclusion of undesirable small icons and graphics in the user interface. Furthermore, limited space often results in cluttered user interfaces for kitchen appliances. Utility Model Content

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to fundamentally improve one or more of the above-mentioned problems or provide useful alternatives.

[0004] In a first aspect, a method for controlling a kitchen appliance is provided, the kitchen appliance including a rotatable user interface device electrically controllable by one or more controllers, wherein the method includes: controlling angular displacement of the rotatable user interface device by the one or more controllers based on operating parameter data to be used by the kitchen appliance during the preparation of a consumable; detecting, by the one or more controllers, a deviation of the angular position of the rotatable user interface device caused by user interaction during the preparation of the consumable; and controlling actuation of the rotatable user interface device by the one or more controllers during the preparation of the consumable to generate tactile user feedback based on the deviation of the angular position.

[0005] In one or more embodiments, the method includes controlling the operation of the kitchen appliance based on the deviation of the angular position of the rotatable user interface device.

[0006] In one or more embodiments, the operating parameter data is time-series data, wherein each point in time in the time-series data has associated data indicating a corresponding quantitative value of the operating parameter of the kitchen appliance.

[0007] In one or more embodiments, the method includes controlling the actuation of the rotatable user interface device to rotate in a first rotation direction in response to a positive change in the value of the operating parameter over time, and to rotate in a second direction in response to a negative change in the value of the operating parameter over time.

[0008] In one or more embodiments, after user intervention, the method includes controlling the rotatable user interface device to correct the angular position based on the operating parameter data.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, in response to detecting the deviation in the angular position, the method further includes the one or more controllers modifying at least some of the operating parameter data to at least partially compensate for the deviation.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the preparation of the consumable by the kitchen appliance is defined by the operating parameter data to be performed within a first time period, and wherein the operating parameter data modified in response to the detection of user intervention results in the preparation of the consumable by the kitchen appliance within a second time period, wherein the second time period is different from the first time period.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the deviation of the angular position is detected based on encoder signals received by the one or more controllers.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the encoder is a magnetic encoder configured to sense a magnetic field generated by a magnet associated with the rotatable user interface device.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the detection of the deviation in the angular position is also based on mapping data that indicates the magnetic field strength that can be sensed by the encoder for multiple angular positions.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the method includes determining the magnitude of the haptic user feedback to be generated based at least on the magnitude of the deviation at the angular position.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, determining the magnitude of the tactile user feedback further includes: obtaining real-time data from one or more sensors by the one or more controllers instructing the kitchen appliance to operate to produce the consumable; and determining an error by the one or more controllers based on the operating parameter data and the real-time data, wherein the determination of the magnitude of the tactile user feedback by the one or more controllers is further based on the error.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the rotatable user interface device is a driving device.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the drive device is a brushless DC motor.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, the haptic feedback is a counter-torque generated by the drive device, which is a counter-torque applied to the rotatable user interface device via the user intervention.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, controlling the drive device to generate the counter-torque is further based on cogging torque data, wherein the cogging torque data indicates the magnitude of the cogging torque of the drive device at multiple angular positions, wherein the one or more controllers control the drive device to output the counter-torque to further counteract the cogging torque based on the angular position of the rotating user interface device.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the operating parameter is the time-varying operating flow rate of the beverage.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the operating parameter is the operating temperature at which the beverage is produced over time.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the beverage is espresso, wherein the operating parameter is one of the operating pressure applied to the coffee grounds over time or the flow rate of water flowing over the coffee grounds over time to produce espresso.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the method includes obtaining the operating parameter data, including one of the following: receiving the operating parameter data from a device remote from the kitchen appliance via a communication interface; or retrieving the operating parameter data from the memory of the kitchen appliance.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, the method further includes displaying output information based on the operating parameter data via at least one of: a display associated with the kitchen appliance; or a user device located away from the kitchen appliance.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the output information indicates a user-defined deviation of the magnitude of the operating parameter.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the output information includes at least one of graphical information and textual information.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the rotatable user interface device includes a turntable coupled to a drive device supported by a support member, the support member being coupled to a mounting member for mounting the rotatable user interface device to the kitchen appliance, wherein the rotatable user interface device includes a sensor to sense axial movement of the turntable and a motor relative to the mounting member in response to an axial force applied by a user to the turntable to cause elastic flexing of the support member, wherein the method includes performing the method in response to receiving a sensor signal indicating the axial movement from the sensor by the controller.

[0028] In a second aspect, a method for controlling a kitchen appliance is provided, the kitchen appliance including a rotatable user interface device that can be electrically controlled by one or more controllers, wherein the method includes: detecting angular displacement of the rotatable user interface device caused by user intervention by the one or more controllers; and controlling the rotatable user interface device by the one or more controllers to generate torque feedback indicating the angular displacement of the rotatable user interface device between a plurality of simulated stop positions, to represent one or more incremental changes in the magnitude of the operating parameters of the kitchen appliance.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, controlling the rotatable user interface device to generate the torque feedback includes generating a counter-torque during angular displacement between adjacent simulated stop positions, followed by a supplementary torque relative to the torque feedback.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, the counter torque is generated during a first displacement angle range between adjacent simulated stop positions, and the supplementary torque is generated during a second displacement angle range between adjacent simulated stop positions.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, the counter-torque increases linearly during the angular displacement within the first displacement angle range.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the rate of change of the counter-torque generated during the first angular range is based on the magnitude of the operating parameter associated with the adjacent simulated stop position.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the supplementary torque decreases linearly during the second displacement angle range.

[0034] In one or more embodiments, the rate of change of the supplementary torque is based on the magnitude of the operating parameters associated with adjacent simulated stop positions.

[0035] In one or more embodiments, the counter-torque increases non-linearly during the angular displacement within the first displacement angle range.

[0036] In one or more embodiments, the rate of change of the counter-torque generated during the first angular range is based on the magnitude of the operating parameter associated with the adjacent simulated stop position.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the supplementary torque decreases non-linearly during the angular displacement within the second displacement angle range.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, the rate of change of the supplementary torque generated during the second angle range is based on the magnitude of the operating parameter associated with the adjacent simulated stop position.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the rotational displacement of the rotatable user interface device is detected based on encoder signals received by the one or more controllers.

[0040] In one or more embodiments, the encoder is a magnetic encoder configured to sense a magnetic field generated by a magnet associated with the rotatable user interface device.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, the detection of the angular displacement of the rotatable user interface device is also based on mapping data that indicates the magnetic field strength that can be sensed by the encoder for multiple angular positions.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, the method includes: modifying the magnitude of the operating parameter by the one or more controllers based on the angular displacement between the plurality of simulated stop positions; and using the modified operating parameter by the one or more controllers to control the kitchen appliance to prepare the consumable.

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the method includes receiving an acknowledgment signal from a switch actuated by the user by the one or more controllers, wherein the magnitude value of the operating parameter is modified in response to receiving the acknowledgment signal.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, the method includes receiving an acknowledgment signal from a magnetic encoder by one or more controllers in response to a user displacement of the encoder toward or away from the magnet, wherein the magnitude of an operating parameter is modified in response to receiving the acknowledgment signal.

[0045] In one or more embodiments, the rotatable user interface device includes a turntable coupled to a motor supported by a support member coupled to a mounting member for mounting the rotatable user interface device to the kitchen appliance, wherein the rotatable user interface device includes sensors to sense axial movement of the turntable and motor relative to the mounting member in response to an axial force applied by a user to the turntable to cause elastic flexing of the support member, wherein the method includes controlling the kitchen appliance to prepare beverages or food in response to receiving a sensor signal from the sensor indicating the axial movement by the controller.

[0046] In a third aspect, a method for controlling a kitchen appliance is provided, the kitchen appliance including a rotatable user interface device, the rotatable user interface device being electrically controlled by one or more controllers in electrical communication therewith, wherein the method includes: detecting an angular displacement of the rotatable user interface device over a period of time in response to a torque caused by user intervention by the one or more controllers to provide user input to the kitchen appliance; determining an angular acceleration of the rotatable user interface device based on the angular displacement over the period of time; determining a magnitude of a counter-torque based on the angular acceleration to counteract the torque applied by the user; and controlling the rotatable user interface device by the one or more controllers to generate the counter-torque to provide tactile user feedback.

[0047] In one or more implementations, the counter-torque is inversely proportional to the acceleration.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, the rotational displacement of the rotatable user interface device is detected based on encoder signals received by the one or more controllers.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, the encoder is a magnetic encoder configured to sense a magnetic field generated by a magnet associated with the rotatable user interface device.

[0050] In one or more embodiments, the detection of the angular displacement of the rotatable user interface device is also based on mapping data that indicates the magnetic field strength that can be sensed by the encoder for multiple angular positions.

[0051] In one or more embodiments, the rotatable user interface device includes a turntable coupled to a motor supported by a support member coupled to a mounting member for mounting the rotatable user interface device to the kitchen appliance, wherein the rotatable user interface device includes a sensor to sense axial movement of the turntable and the motor relative to the mounting member in response to an axial force applied by a user to the turntable to cause elastic flexing of the support member, wherein the method includes controlling the kitchen appliance in response to receiving a sensor signal from the sensor indicating the axial movement by the controller.

[0052] In a fourth aspect, a kitchen appliance is provided, the kitchen appliance comprising: a rotatable user interface device; and one or more controllers electrically coupled to the rotatable user interface device and configured to perform the method according to the first aspect.

[0053] In a fifth aspect, a kitchen appliance is provided, comprising: a rotatable user interface device; and one or more controllers electrically coupled to the rotatable user interface device and configured to perform the method according to the second aspect.

[0054] In a sixth aspect, a kitchen appliance is provided, the kitchen appliance comprising: a rotatable user interface device; and one or more controllers electrically coupled to the rotatable user interface device and configured to perform the method according to the third aspect.

[0055] In a seventh aspect, a kitchen appliance is provided, the kitchen appliance comprising: a rotatable user interface device; one or more controllers electrically coupled to the rotatable user interface device and configured to selectively operate in multiple modes, wherein the multiple modes include at least two of the following: a first mode, wherein the one or more controllers are configured to perform the method according to the first aspect; a second mode, wherein the one or more controllers are configured to perform the method according to the second aspect; and a third mode, wherein the one or more controllers are configured to perform the method according to the third aspect.

[0056] The detailed descriptions of these examples will help you understand other aspects and implementation schemes. Attached Figure Description

[0057] The present invention has been described by way of non-limiting example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] Figure 1A This is an isometric top view of an example of a haptic feedback component.

[0059] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A An isometric view of the haptic feedback component from below.

[0060] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A A top view of the haptic feedback component.

[0061] Figure 1D yes Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the haptic feedback component along AA.

[0062] Figure 1E yes Figure 1A An isometric view of the haptic feedback component.

[0063] Figure 2A This is a cross-sectional view of another example of a haptic feedback component.

[0064] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A top-down isometric view of the haptic feedback components, with the knobs removed.

[0065] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A An isometric view of the haptic feedback component.

[0066] Figure 3It is a functional block diagram of a kitchen appliance that includes the haptic feedback component shown in Figure 1a or Figure 2a.

[0067] Figure 4A This is a flowchart illustrating a method for using tactile feedback to control kitchen appliances.

[0068] Figure 4B It is a graph showing the torque generated by the drive device of the haptic feedback component during the angular displacement between two simulated stop positions.

[0069] Figure 5A This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling tactile feedback before the preparation of consumables.

[0070] Figure 5B It is a graph showing the values ​​of the operating parameters of the espresso machine used to produce espresso and the angular displacement of the tactile feedback component over time.

[0071] Figure 5C It is a graph showing the magnitude of the operating parameters of an espresso appliance used to produce espresso and the angular displacement of the haptic feedback component over time, as the user interacts with the turntable during the brewing process.

[0072] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling tactile feedback during the preparation of consumables.

[0073] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling tactile feedback during the preparation of consumables.

[0074] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling tactile feedback during the preparation of consumables.

[0075] Figure 9 It includes Figure 1A or Figure 2A An isometric view of a coffee bean grinder with haptic feedback components.

[0076] Figure 10 It includes Figure 1A or Figure 2A An isometric view of an espresso machine with haptic feedback components.

[0077] Figure 11 This is a system diagram for controlling kitchen appliances. Detailed Implementation

[0078] The following patterns, given by way of example only, are described to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of one or more preferred embodiments. In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to identify the same parts throughout the drawings to illustrate the characteristics of the exemplary embodiments.

[0079] refer to Figures 1A to 1E An example of a haptic feedback component 100 for kitchen appliances 900 and 1000 is shown.

[0080] The haptic feedback assembly 100 includes a rotatable user interface device 110 operatively coupled to a drive device 120, which in turn is electrically coupled to a controller 300 (see [link]). Figure 3 The rotatable user interface device 110 and the drive device 120 can be supported on the mounting member 124 for mounting the haptic feedback component 100 to the mounting surface of the kitchen appliances 900, 1000.

[0081] A rotatable user interface device 110 can be provided in the form of a turntable 110. The turntable 110 has a body 111 that defines an outer surface for allowing a user to grip the turntable 110 and apply a rotational force (i.e., torque) to it. The body 111 of the turntable includes a central cavity 111a for receiving a portion 112 of a drive device 120 therein to operably couple the turntable 110 to the drive device 120. The central cavity 111a has a keyed section corresponding to the profile of the shaft 112 of the drive device 120 to prevent rotational slippage between the two portions 112, 110.

[0082] The drive device 120 is preferably provided in the form of a motor 120. In a preferred embodiment, the drive device 120 is provided in the form of a brushless DC motor 120. It has been found that the brushless DC motor 120 is preferred due to providing suitable stall torque for the specific application herein. The motor 120 has a shaft 112 extending from the motor body 120a, which is rotatable relative to the motor. The drive device 120 also includes an electrical interface for electrical communication with the controller 300. Specifically, the motor 120 rotates the shaft 112 in response to one or more electrical signals received via the electrical interface, which indicate angular position, direction of rotation, and the amount of torque to be generated by the motor 120. The drive device 120 includes an axial channel passing through it. Figure 1D As clearly shown, the rod portion of the magnet support structure 154 is received tightly within the lower portion of the channel, wherein the magnet support structure 154 supports the magnet 152. Preferably, the magnet 152 is a radially magnetized magnet. A shaft 112 extends from a shaft bracket mounted on top of the channel of the motor 120. When the motor 120 is electrically actuated, the shaft 112 and the magnet 152 held by the magnet support structure 154 rotate relative to the body of the motor 120.

[0083] refer to Figure 3A controller 300 may be provided in the form of a microcontroller 300. The controller 300 may be a distributed controller 300, in which multiple controllers 300 are interfaced together to form a collective single controller 300. For example, the controller 300 may be a master controller 300 of kitchen appliances 900, 1000, which interfaces with the printed circuit board 140 of the haptic feedback component 100, wherein processing is performed by the master controller 300, which interfaces with the printed circuit board 140 to electrically actuate and transmit one or more electrical signals. However, in some cases, the haptic feedback component 100 may have a dedicated controller 300 mounted thereon. In the examples discussed herein, the reference to “controller” refers to one or more controllers 300 of kitchen appliances 900, 1000. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the examples discussed can be implemented using a single-controller configuration or a multi-controller configuration.

[0084] like Figure 1D and Figure 1E As best shown, the haptic feedback assembly 100 includes a mounting structure 124 comprising a body 124a having a shallow cylindrical profile. The mounting structure 124 includes an end wall structure 125 defining a closed end. A central void 125a is defined in the end wall structure 125 (see [reference]). Figure 1E The mounting structure 124 is designed to accommodate button 156, as will be explained in further detail below. The edge 125b of the sidewall structure 125c of the mounting structure 124 can accommodate a printed circuit board 140. Button 156 can be mounted to the printed circuit board 140 and extends within a central gap 125a defined in the endwall structure 125 of the mounting structure 124. The body 124a of the mounting structure 124 has one or more feet 125d extending radially therefrom. Each foot 125d includes a mounting hole 125e to receive a fastener passing through it, thereby enabling the mounting structure 124 to be mounted to kitchen appliances 900, 1000.

[0085] The haptic feedback assembly 100 also includes a support structure 130. The support structure 130 has a body 130a with a generally shallow cylindrical profile including a substantially closed end-wall structure 131a. In a preferred embodiment, the end-wall structure 131a is elastically deformable. In one embodiment, the end-wall structure 131a is formed by a serpentine structure with gaps therebetween that facilitate deformation. The end-wall structure 131a includes one or more mounting holes. The base 120b of the motor 120 is received within the shallow cavity 130b defined by the body 131a of the support structure 130. When a user applies an axial force to the turntable 110, the turntable 110, motor 120, and support structure 130, fastened together, move axially toward the mounting structure 124 due to the elastic deformation of the support structure 130. To achieve this elastic deformation, the support member 124 is preferably made of an elastically deformable polymer (such as plastic). Those skilled in the art will understand that many other elastically deformable materials can be used. For example, the support structure 130 may be made of a resilient metal, such as a steel spring. The end wall structure 131a includes a central hole to receive a magnet supported by a magnet support structure 154 rotatably mounted to the motor 120, wherein the resilient deformation of the support structure causes the magnet to move toward an encoder housed within a gap in the mounting structure, thereby allowing electronic detection of axial pressure on the turntable 110. At least one mounting foot 131, and preferably multiple mounting feet 131, extend radially outward from the support structure body 130a of the support structure 130, wherein each foot 131 has a hole extending through it to allow the support structure 124 to be fastened to one or more feet of the mounting structure and the top cover of the haptic feedback assembly 100, as discussed later herein, and to allow the haptic feedback assembly 100 to be mounted to the mounting surface of the kitchen appliances 900, 1000.

[0086] A printed circuit board 140 (PCB 140) is fixed to the rear surface of the end wall structure 132 of the support structure. PCB 140 also includes holes 141 through which it is positioned to allow PCB 140 to be fastened to the support structure 130 via corresponding holes 133 provided in the end wall structure of the support structure. PCB 140 electrically interfaces with the controller 300 and the motor 120, and performs certain sensing using sensors. In one embodiment, PCB 140 may generate a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal, which is received by the electrical interface of the motor 120, thereby controlling the torque output to the turntable 110. A magnet supported by a magnet support structure 154 may be clamped between PCB 140 and the rear surface of the end wall structure of the support structure 130. PCB 140 may include holes through which it is positioned to allow PCB 140 to be fastened to fastening components (e.g., motor 120, turntable 110, mounting structure, etc.) by fasteners. As described above, PCB 140 may be used with a dedicated controller 300 (see [link to controller 300]). Figure 3It is provided in the form of a dedicated microcontroller 300 for the haptic feedback component 100, which communicates with the main microcontroller 300 of the kitchen appliances 900 and 1000. However, it should be understood that this is optional.

[0087] The sensor on PCB 140 can be provided in the form of an encoder 150, such as a magnetic encoder 150. The Hall sensor of the encoder 150 is located near the magnet 152 (e.g., at an interval of approximately 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm) to sense changes in the magnetic field generated by the magnet 152 in response to the rotational actuation of the motor 120. In response to detecting rotational motion of the magnet, the encoder 150 generates an electrical signal indicating the angular position of the magnet 152 relative to the Hall sensor of the encoder 150. The encoder 150 can generate a multi-bit signal indicating the angular position. The encoder 150 signal is transmitted to the controller 300 for processing.

[0088] PCB 140 also supports a button 156 provided in the form of a push button. Button 156 extends downward from PCB 140. As will be explained in further detail below, when an axial force is applied against turntable 110 causing motor 120 to be pushed downward, support structure 130 elastically flexes near the periphery of the body, causing axial displacement of PCB 140, which in turn causes axial displacement of button 156. Button 156 can then contact a surface to allow its actuation.

[0089] Top cover 122 and bottom cover 124 may surround a large portion of motor 120 (i.e., the shaft 112 extending outward through top cover 122 is uncovered). Shaft 112 supports bushings (such as bearings) to minimize friction between shaft 112 and top cover 122, while reducing deflection of shaft 112. A large portion of support structure 130 (i.e., legs 131 are uncovered), magnet, magnet support structure 154, and PCB 140 are also surrounded by top cover 122 and bottom cover 124. Top cover 122 includes a dome profile having legs 131 extending radially from its periphery, each leg having a hole extending through it. The dome portion of cover 122 primarily houses motor 120. Bottom cover 124 includes a base structure having legs 131 extending radially from it, each leg having a hole extending through it. Bottom cover 124 includes a cavity for receiving button 156. The holes of the feet 131 of the top cover 122 and the bottom cover 124 are aligned with the holes of the support structure 130, wherein fasteners can extend through the aligned holes to secure the components together, while also securing the haptic feedback structure to the mounting surface of the kitchen appliances 900 and 1000.

[0090] As previously mentioned, the support structure 130 is elastically deformable to allow the turntable 110 and motor 120 to move axially in response to a thrust applied to the turntable 110 by the user. When the support structure flexes, the PCB 140 coupled below the support structure 130 moves axially toward and contacts the inner surface of the lower cover 124, thereby actuating the button 156. Therefore, a button signal is transmitted to the controller 300, indicating that the user has pressed the turntable 110.

[0091] refer to Figures 2A to 2C An alternative example of a haptic feedback component 100 for kitchen appliances 900 and 1000 is shown. Similar to the description of... Figure 1A In the discussed implementation, the haptic feedback assembly 100 includes motors 120 operatively coupled to a rotatable user interface device 110 (such as a turntable 110), and these motors are supported by a mounting member 124. The motors 120 are electrically connected to a controller 300, such that the controller 300 can electrically control the actuation of the motors 120 via an electrical interface.

[0092] A shaft 112 of motor 120 extends from its top surface. The shaft 112 is received through a central hole in mounting member 124, which is secured to a bracket, which is fastened to the top surface of motor 120 by fasteners. A bushing is operatively coupled to the shaft 112 to limit shaft 112 deviation.

[0093] Such as about Figure 1A As discussed, the mounting member 124 is elastically deformable to allow axial push actuation of the detection button 156, as discussed in further detail below.

[0094] The haptic feedback assembly 100 also includes a frame body 220 and a frame cover 240. The frame body 220 includes a cavity for receiving a motor 120 therein. The motor 120 is effectively suspended within the frame cavity and does not contact the inner surface of the frame body 220. The frame cover 240 is fastened to a support structure 130, which in turn is fastened to the motor 120. The bolt head of a bolt 126 presses against the top surface of the cover 240, and the body of the bolt 126 passes through holes in the cover 240 and the support structure 130 and rests in a channel in the inner surface of the frame. The end of the bolt 126 can be secured to the underside of a PCB 140 via a mating nut (not shown), thereby securing the cover 240, the support structure 130, the motor 120, the frame, and the PCB 140 together. Since the cover 240 is secured to the support structure 130, which in turn supports the motor 120, the motor 120 is effectively suspended within the frame body. The shaft 112 of the motor 120 passes through a central hole in the support structure 130 and the cover 240, with the end of the shaft 112 receiving tightly in a corresponding cavity within the turntable 110. When the user applies an axial force to the turntable 110, the axial force is transmitted to the frame cover 240, which in turn transmits the axial force to the support structure 130. Since the support structure 130 is elastically deformable, it flexes inward within the cavity of the frame, causing the motor 120 to move toward the PCB 140 located at the opposite end of the frame. The underside of the motor 120 has a magnet fixed thereto. The PCB 140 has a magnetic encoder 150 device positioned thereon. Thus, when the motor 120 moves toward the PCB 140 within the frame in response to the axial force, the encoder is positioned closer to the PCB (e.g., an interval of approximately 0.5 mm), causing the encoder 150 to detect the change in magnetic force and generate an encoder 150 signal indicating that the user has applied an axial force to the button 156. Note that the mechanical stop 210 is confined within the frame to prevent physical contact between the magnet and the encoder.

[0095] The frame also includes one or more cooling vents 230 for cooling the motor 120. Additionally, the one or more cooling vents 230 can serve as one or more ports for electrical wires.

[0096] refer to Figure 3 The text appears to be a mix of seemingly unrelated fragments and incomplete sentences, making it impossible to translate accurately. It seems to be a collection of snippets from various sources, possibly related to a document or online platform. Figure 1A or Figure 2A Functional block diagram of kitchen appliances 900 and 1000 with haptic feedback component 100.

[0097] Kitchen appliances 900 and 1000 include a controller 300, which includes a processor 305, a memory 310, and an input / output (I / O) interface coupled together via a bus 316. The I / O interface 314 of the controller 300 has a plurality of peripheral devices electrically connected thereto. Specifically, the peripheral devices include a drive device 120 and an encoder 150 electrically coupled to the controller 300 via the I / O interface 314. Figure 1A and Figure 2A The PCB 140 of the haptic feedback component 100 can be coupled to the I / O interface 314 of the controller 300, which in turn is coupled to the electrical interface of the drive device 120. The electrical interface of the drive device 120 can be its own dedicated motor controller. Kitchen appliances 900 and 1000 may also include output user interface devices, such as a display 330. (See also: Regarding...) Figure 1A As discussed in the embodiments of the haptic feedback component 100, the haptic feedback component 100 of the kitchen appliances 900, 1000 may additionally include a switch 156, such as a button 156, which is electrically communicated with the controller 300 via an I / O interface 314. In some embodiments, the kitchen appliances 900, 1000 may also include a communication interface 340 to allow a separate device, such as a mobile communication device, to communicate with and transmit data to and receive data from the kitchen appliances 900, 1000. In one form, the communication interface 340 is a wireless communication interface 340, such as Bluetooth. TM .

[0098] In some, but not all, embodiments, the haptic feedback component 100 may include additional feedback devices 350. Specifically, in some embodiments, the actuator 320 may be used to provide haptic feedback to a user. However, in other embodiments, the actuator 120 may not be used to provide haptic feedback to a user. Thus, in this configuration, one or more controllers 300 are configured to control one or more additional haptic feedback devices 350 to provide user feedback, such as haptic user feedback. Examples of additional feedback devices include one or more electroacoustic transducers (e.g., loudspeakers), one or more vibration actuators (i.e., eccentric rotating mass actuators), one or more thermal feedback devices (e.g., heating elements), and one or more electrostatic devices (e.g., conductive and passivating coatings applied to the turntable—see U.S. Patent 10,585,482, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference), which can provide various types of haptic feedback to a user when interacting with the turntable of kitchen appliances 900, 1000.

[0099] It should be understood that Figure 3The functional block diagram shown does not depict all components of the kitchen appliances 900 and 1000 used in the production of consumables. For example, regarding the grinder appliance, the functional block diagram does not show the motor 120 of the grinder mechanism. Furthermore, regarding the espresso appliance, the functional block diagram does not show the pump device. The purpose of the functional block diagram is to show... Figure 1A and Figure 2A The interface between the controller 300 and the haptic feedback component 100. However, it will be combined with Figure 9 and Figure 10 A detailed discussion of kitchen appliances.

[0100] The haptic feedback component can be used to provide haptic feedback to the user regarding operating parameters used by the kitchen appliance in preparing consumables (i.e., beverages or food). These operating parameters can be variables used to operate the kitchen appliance 900, 1000, which can be determined by the user before operating the appliance (see Figures 4, 5, and 6). Figure 8 ) or during the operation of kitchen appliances (see Figure 6 and Figure 7 The operation can be changed. In some cases, kitchen appliances 900 and 1000, especially the haptic feedback component 100, can selectively operate in multiple modes. In the first mode (e.g., Figures 4 and 5), the user can selectively adjust the operating parameters before the kitchen appliance performs an operating cycle. In the second mode (e.g., Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the third mode, users can selectively adjust operating parameters during the operation cycle performed by the kitchen appliance. Figure 8 In this system, users can interact with haptic feedback devices to define various settings for kitchen appliances. These different operating modes will be discussed in more detail below.

[0101] In some implementations, kitchen appliances 900 and 1000 may have multiple operable operating parameters. In one example, these operating parameters can be modified in different modes. In one example, a first variable representing a first operating parameter can be changed before kitchen appliances 900 and 1000 operate in a first mode, and a second variable representing a second operating parameter can be changed during operation of kitchen appliances 900 and 1000 in a second mode. For example, an integrated espresso and grinder appliance (in...) Figure 10(Discussed in further detail below) A first operating parameter representing the grinding size of the grinder mechanism can be provided, which can be adjusted by the user interacting with the rotatable user interface device 110 before the grinding operation is performed to produce ground coffee beans. Continuing this example, the integrated espresso and grinder appliance can have a second operating parameter related to the flow rate or pressure rate, which is associated with the espresso pull. This second operating parameter can be adjusted by the user interacting with the rotatable user interface device 110 during device operation, allowing for on-the-fly adjustment of the operating parameter during the operation cycle. In particular, the operating parameter can be adjusted by the user interacting with the turntable 110.

[0102] Operating parameter data can be stored in the memory of kitchen appliances 900 and 1000. The operating parameter data can indicate one or more quantitative values ​​of the operating parameters of kitchen appliances 900 and 1000. Typically, one or more quantitative values ​​are stored in the memory 310 of the kitchen appliance in a non-volatile manner. The operating parameter data can be pre-loaded into the memory of the kitchen appliance. However, in some forms, the operating parameter data can be received from an external device, such as a mobile communication device (e.g., a smartphone scanning a QR code on a coffee bean package to download first operating parameter data customized for grinding coffee beans and second operating parameter data customized for brewing ground coffee beans from a remote processing system such as a cloud server), where the operating parameter data is then stored in the memory 310 of kitchen appliances 900 and 1000. In a simplified form, the operating parameter data represents a single quantitative value of the operating parameters of kitchen appliances 900 and 1000. For example, this simple example applies to appliances including coffee grinders, where a single quantitative value is used for the grinding size operating parameter, which can be stored in memory 310 and typically remains unchanged during the operating cycle (i.e., the grinding process). In this example, the operating parameters can be adjusted before the operation cycle is executed. However, in more complex configurations, the operating parameter data can represent operating parameters with values ​​that change over time during the operation cycle of preparing the consumable (i.e., time-series data). For example, the value of the flow rate or pressure rate used to pull an espresso machine typically changes over time. The value of the operating parameter changing over time can be referred to as an operating parameter profile. In some cases, the values ​​of the operating parameters can be updated in memory 310 for future operation cycles of the appliance. Continuing with the previous example, if a user interacts with the rotatable user interface device 110 to adjust the grinding size of the grinder appliance, the value data of the operating parameters is updated in memory 310 in a non-volatile manner. However, in other examples, the adjustment of the value of the operating parameters can be temporarily stored in memory 310 in a volatile manner and therefore no longer used for future operation cycles. Continuing with the integrated espresso machine, adjustments to pressure rate or flow rate during the espresso-pulling operation cycle are temporarily stored in memory 310 of kitchen appliances 900 and 1000, but stored in a volatile manner so that the adjustments to flow rate or pressure rate are not retrieved from memory 310 in subsequent operation cycles of the espresso machine. In other embodiments, when operating parameters are modified during operation, the operating parameter data stored in memory can be modified or adjusted in response to user modifications to the operating parameters. For example, one or more controllers can be configured to learn from user modifications to operating parameters during operation cycles, thereby adjusting the operating parameter data so that the modified operating parameter data can be used to operate the kitchen appliances in future operation cycles performed by the user.The modified operating parameter data is a combination of the original operating parameter data and user-defined modifications to the operating parameters made during one or more previous operating cycles. The modified operating parameter data can be user-specific, such that the modified operating parameter data is stored in memory associated with a specific user profile. In one form, the controller 300 can be configured to receive recipes or user instructions, wherein the recipes or user instructions include one or more operating parameters.

[0103] To detect user-rotatable actuation of the rotatable user interface device 110 about axis 199, controller 300 uses an encoder signal received from magnetic encoder 150. The encoder signal can indicate the angular position of the magnet associated with drive device 120 relative to the encoder 150 signal. A Hall sensor of the encoder is used to generate the encoder signal. In one form, the encoder signal is a multi-bit signal indicating the angular position. Controller 300 can then process the angular position indicated by the encoder signal to determine the real-time angular position of turntable 110, which can then be used to determine the magnitude of the tactile feedback to be output to the user. This processing will be discussed in more detail below. Controller 300 can be configured to adjust the angular position indicated by the encoder signal using calibration data stored in memory 310 of controller 300. The calibration data can indicate the angular displacement between the magnet associated with drive device 120 and magnetic encoder 150 when drive device 120 is positioned at zero position.

[0104] Now refer to Figure 4 to Figure 8 Various examples are described relating to methods performed by one or more controllers of a kitchen appliance including a haptic feedback component. The memory 310 of the controller 300 stores information for performing methods as shown in Figures 4 to 5. Figure 8 The executable code for the method is discussed in more detail in 312.

[0105] refer to Figure 4A The flowchart shows a method 400 for providing tactile feedback to control a kitchen appliance 900.

[0106] At step 410, method 400 includes detecting, by one or more controllers 300, the angular displacement of the rotatable user interface device caused by a torque applied by the user. Specifically, the user applies torque to the turntable to rotate the rotatable user interface device 100 about axis 199.

[0107] At step 420, method 400 includes controlling drive device 120 by one or more controllers 300 to generate torque feedback indicating angular displacement of rotatable user interface device between a plurality of simulated stop positions, to represent one or more incremental changes in the magnitude of operating parameters for operating kitchen appliances.

[0108] Advantageously, torque feedback provides the user with an intuitive understanding of any deviations made. Additionally or alternatively, feedback regarding the operation of kitchen appliances 900 and 1000 is provided to the user, even if this feedback may not be visible to the user in some cases. For appliances that already include a turntable 110, this unique form of tactile feedback does not diminish the limited interface space available for providing user feedback. Furthermore, for existing user interface designs incorporating the turntable 110, the turntable 110's versatility allows the user to adjust operating parameters while also providing user feedback through the torque applied to the rotatable user interface device 110, avoiding excessive clutter in the user interface.

[0109] refer to Figure 4B A graph 450 is shown, illustrating examples of torques 470, 480 generated by the drive device 120 of the haptic feedback assembly 100 during angular displacement between multiple simulated stop positions 460a-d. For example, the turntable may be located at an initial stop position 460a with 0-degree angular displacement. The user can then apply torque to the turntable 110, causing it to rotate toward the next adjacent stop position 460b. Figure 4B As shown, as the angular displacement increases near the midpoint 455a, the controller 300 controls the motor 120 to increase the counter-torque 470a. Figure 4B In the example shown, as the turntable's angular displacement approaches the midpoint of angular displacement 455a, the counter-torque 470a increases linearly. It should be understood that the counter-torque can be non-linear, and the linear increase is merely an example. When the angular displacement has reached the midpoint 455a, the controller 300 controls the motor 120 and switches its rotation direction, thereby generating a supplementary torque 480a to supplement the user torque applied to the turntable, thus causing the angular displacement to move towards the adjacent stop position 460b. Figure 4B As can be seen, the supplementary torque decreases as the angular displacement increases towards the adjacent stop position 460b. Similarly, in this example, the supplementary torque decreases linearly with the angular displacement of turntable 110. The abrupt change in the counter-torque of the supplementary torque at midpoint 455a (as shown by the dashed line), along with the variable counter-torque and supplementary torque, simulates the rotation of the turntable between mechanical stops. As shown at the adjacent stop position 460b, no torque is applied to the turntable to cause it to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise, therefore the turntable is fixed at the adjacent stop position 460b. It should be understood that the user can rotate the turntable again to the next adjacent stop position 460c and repeat the same process. Specifically, the user can apply torque to turntable 110, causing it to rotate toward the next adjacent stop position 460c. Figure 4BAs shown, as the angular displacement increases near the midpoint 455b, the controller 300 controls the motor 120 to increase the counter-torque 470b. When the angular displacement has reached the midpoint 455b, the controller 300 controls the motor 120 and switches its rotation direction, thereby generating a supplementary torque 480b to supplement the user torque applied to the turntable, thus causing the angular displacement to move towards the adjacent stop position 460c. Figure 4B As can be seen, the supplementary torque decreases as the angular displacement increases toward the adjacent stop position 460c. It should also be understood that turntable 110 can rotate from stop position 460b back to 460a, but the reverse process applies.

[0110] refer to Figure 5A It shows the expression about Figure 4A A flowchart provides a more detailed example of a method for controlling haptic feedback in kitchen appliances. Method 500 will be discussed with respect to a kitchen appliance 900 in the form of a coffee bean grinder, where the user can rotate a turntable 110 to adjust grinding size operating parameters before performing a grinding cycle.

[0111] At step 510, method 500 includes the user initiating external actuation to the rotatable user interface device 110. It should be understood that the detection of rotation of the turntable occurs shortly after the rotation begins. Typically, an operating parameter table may be displayed near the turntable or on an electronic screen to indicate available positions for the user to rotate the turntable. One or more controllers may control an empty front display (using a backlit user interface) to dynamically present the turntable scale. The scale may be presented dynamically such that the initial values ​​of the operating parameters, as indicated by the operating parameter data, are aligned with turntable markings on the turntable. This configuration avoids the need to actuate the turntable to a starting position; instead, the turntable is already in the starting position due to the dynamic presentation of the turntable scale on the empty front display of the kitchen appliance. In this embodiment, the turntable can move between a defined number of simulated stop positions. In one example, the empty front display may present a turntable with multiple markings, each marking highlighting the angular position of a simulated stop position. Each marking may have a number or graphic adjacent to it indicating the value of an operating parameter. Therefore, in the coffee grinder example, there may be ten grinding sizes for the user to select, with a scale indicating ten different marks on the empty front display. These ten different marks represent ten simulated stop positions, and the user can rotate the dial to modify the magnitude of the grinding size operation parameter.

[0112] At step 520, method 500 includes encoder 150 detecting the real-time angular position of rotatable user interface device 110. (See also: Regarding...) Figure 1A and Figure 2AAs discussed, encoder 150 can detect the angular position of the magnet associated with motor 120 relative to encoder 150. An encoder signal indicating the angular position is generated and transmitted to controller 300 for processing to determine the angular position of turntable 110, and thus the degree of angular displacement and deviation. In one form, detecting the angular displacement of the rotatable user interface device is also based on mapping data indicating the strength of the magnetic field that can be sensed by the encoder for multiple angular positions. The mapping data can be stored in a memory accessible by one or more controllers 300. The magnetic field sensed by the encoder can be used as a key in the mapping data, provided in the form of a lookup table, to determine the angular position of the turntable.

[0113] At step 530, method 500 includes one or more controllers 300 determining a deviation. For example, one or more controllers 300 may retrieve from memory 310 the angular position of turntable 110 associated with the current magnitude of an operating parameter indicated by operating parameter data. The one or more controllers 300 may then determine the displacement between the real-time angular positions indicated by the operating parameter data to determine a deviation of the angular position (i.e., angular displacement). For example, the operating parameter indicated by the operating parameter data for grinding dimensions may be a fifth stop position, which may have an angular position of 90 degrees relative to a reference position. The user may initially rotate the turntable clockwise, resulting in an angular position of 95 degrees relative to the reference position. Therefore, the angular displacement may be the difference between the angular positions, i.e., an angular displacement of 5 degrees.

[0114] At step 540, method 500 includes one or more controllers 300 determining the magnitude of a counter-torque or supplementary torque generated in response to a detected deviation caused by user-actuated turntable 110.

[0115] In one form, the magnitude of the counter-torque or supplementary torque can be determined based on a lookup table. The magnitude of the current turntable stop position (e.g., fifth stop position) can be used as the key to look up the lookup table. In one form, the lookup table includes a magnitude function (linear or nonlinear) that depends on the angular displacement, because the magnitude of the counter-torque or supplementary torque can vary based on the user's angular displacement. The magnitude function can be weighted according to the stop magnitude (e.g., the magnitude determined for movement between the eighth and ninth stop positions can be substantially greater than the movement between the first and second stop positions). One or more controllers can then use the current angular position and the function obtained from the lookup table to determine the magnitude of the counter-torque or supplementary torque to be generated by the drive device.

[0116] At step 550, method 500 includes one or more controllers 300 controlling drive device 120 to generate counter torque or supplemental torque.

[0117] In a preferred embodiment, one or more controllers 300 control the actuation of the drive device 120 to output counter-torque or supplementary feedback to simulate the movement of the turntable between adjacent stop positions. In one form, the magnitude of the counter-torque continues to increase during clockwise or counterclockwise displacement within a first angular range from the first stop position toward the midpoint position. As the user continues to rotate the turntable slightly beyond the midpoint of the angle and beyond the first angular range, the controller controls the drive device to apply supplementary (additional torque) in the direction relative to the torque applied by the user, to push the user toward a second stop position during a second angular range. This change between counteracting the torque applied by the user and then supplementing the torque applied by the user helps to simulate the movement of the turntable stop position. It should be understood that at each simulated stop position, one or more controllers effectively hold the turntable in the stop position to provide the user with a sense of the turntable's resting position. To simulate this resting position with a brushless DC motor, one or more controllers may generate anti-cogging torque to counteract the cogging force experienced by the drive device 120, such that the drive device 120 remains in the corresponding stop position. Mapped cogging torques at multiple angular positions can be stored in memory accessible by one or more controllers. The angular position indicated by the encoder signal can be used to query the mapped cogging data to determine the cogging torque (clockwise or counterclockwise) to generate the anti-cogging torque.

[0118] In one embodiment, the counter-torque can increase linearly during angular displacement within a first displacement angle range. The rate of change of the linear increase in counter-torque can be based on the magnitude of operating parameters associated with adjacent simulated stop positions. For example, the rate of change of the counter-torque magnitude between the fifth and sixth stop positions can be greater than the rate of change of the counter-torque magnitude for movement between the second and third stop positions. In an alternative embodiment, the counter-torque can increase non-linearly during angular displacement within the first displacement angle range. For example, the rate of change can be sinusoidal.

[0119] Furthermore, the supplementary torque can decrease linearly during the second displacement angle range. The rate of change of the supplementary torque is based on the magnitude of the operating parameters associated with adjacent simulated stop positions. For example, the rate of change of the magnitude of the supplementary torque during the angular displacement between positions 5 and 6 will be greater than the rate of change of the magnitude of the supplementary torque during the angular displacement between positions 2 and 3. In an alternative embodiment, the supplementary torque can decrease non-linearly during the angular displacement within the first displacement angle range. For example, the rate of change can be sinusoidal.

[0120] While the above example describes rotating the turntable clockwise (e.g., an angular displacement from the fifth stop position to the sixth stop position can be considered a clockwise rotation of the turntable), a similar approach can be applied when the turntable rotates counterclockwise. When the user rotates the turntable counterclockwise, one or more controllers generate a counter-torque in the clockwise direction until the angular position of the turntable reaches or exceeds the midpoint between the previous stop position and the adjacent stop position, whereby one or more controllers generate a supplementary torque in the counterclockwise direction to induce the user to rotate the turntable toward the adjacent stop position. Those skilled in the art will understand that once the turntable has been displaced to the adjacent stop position, this process can be repeated. For example, the user can again apply torque to rotate the turntable from the sixth stop to the seventh stop, where the above process is again executed by the controllers. Similarly, those skilled in the art will understand that the same process will occur if the turntable rotates back to the original stop position (i.e., rotating the turntable from the sixth stop back to the fifth stop).

[0121] While the example above indicates that the counter-torque and supplementary torque switch at the midpoint between adjacent stop positions, it should be understood that the midpoint is merely an example of a crossover point, and other positions can be used. For example, a crossover point may occur once 30% of the angular displacement between the stop positions has been traveled. Or, a crossover point may occur once 60% of the angular displacement between the stop positions has been traveled. The advantage of the midpoint (i.e., 50%) is that the crossover point is located in the same position regardless of whether the user rotates the dial clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0122] At step 560, method 500 includes one or more controllers 300 determining whether a user acknowledgment signal has been received. This step is optional. If one or more controllers 300 do not receive a user acknowledgment signal within a specific time frame (e.g., 20 seconds after the last detected turntable angular displacement), method 500 returns to step 510. Otherwise, the method proceeds to step 570. In one form, the acknowledgment signal may be received by one or more controllers from a switch actuated by a user in response to axially pressing a haptic feedback component. In other embodiments, as previously described, the acknowledgment signal may be received from a magnetic encoder in response to user displacement via pressing the haptic feedback component along axis 199.

[0123] At step 570, method 500 includes one or more controllers 300 updating the magnitude of operating parameters in memory 310. This update typically occurs in a non-volatile manner. In one example, the operating parameters stored in memory may indicate a fifth stop position before an acknowledgment signal is received.

[0124] At 580, method 500 includes one or more controllers 300 operating kitchen appliances 900 according to updated operating parameters.

[0125] refer to Figure 5B Figure 590 shows the magnitudes of the operating parameters of the espresso appliance that produces espresso using method 500 and the angular displacement of the tactile feedback component over time. Figure 590 also shows a turntable indicator 110 including a starting position and a turntable mark, clearly showing the amount of rotation of the turntable 110 during the espresso preparation process. When the brewing process begins, the turntable mark is aligned with the starting mark. Over the next 3 seconds, the pump pressure increases to approximately 3 bar, as shown at 591. During this 3-second interval, the controller controls the turntable 110 to rotate approximately 108 degrees relative to the starting angular position, while also controlling the pump operation. From the 3-second time point to the 8-second time point, the pump pressure is maintained, so the turntable 100 remains stationary and therefore does not rotate. From the 8-second to the 14-second mark, the pump pressure again linearly increases from point 592 to approximately 9 bar, as shown at point 593, where the turntable 110, under the control of the controller 300, is rotated by the motor 120 to approximately 324 degrees relative to the starting angular position. Then, as shown at point 594, the pressure generated by the pump remains at approximately 9 bar between the 8-second and 22-second marks. The pump pressure then decreases to 3 bar from the 22-second mark to the 27-second mark, as shown at point 595, during which time the turntable 110 rotates counterclockwise back to a 108-degree angular position relative to the starting position. Then, between the 27-second and 29-second marks, the pump pressure linearly decreases to 0 bar. Advantageously, the rotation of the turntable 110 during the operation of the espresso appliance provides the user with tactile and / or visual feedback to understand the adjustment of operating parameters (in this case, pump pressure) over time during the brewing process.

[0126] refer to Figure 5C This shows that based on Figure 5B Another curve in graph 590' shows that the user applies torque to the turntable 110 midway through the brewing process, causing the operating parameters during the brewing process to be modified based on the user's interaction with the turntable 110, thereby customizing the beverage preparation according to the user's taste. Specifically, in response to the user's interaction with the turntable 110, the parameters from... Figure 5B The standard operation configuration file is in Figure 5CThe settings are shown in solid lines, and the modified operation configuration file is shown in dashed lines. At the 20-second mark of the brewing process, the user interacts with turntable 110 to apply torque counterclockwise, moving the turntable approximately 270 degrees relative to the initial position shown at point 597. This causes controller 300 to control the pump to reduce the applied pump pressure to 7.5 bar. During this period of torque application, controller 300 controls motor 120 to generate a counter-torque against the user's interaction with turntable 110, but in this case, the user holds the turntable fixed at the 270-degree angular position, thus maintaining the reduced brewing pressure for approximately 3 seconds. At approximately 23 seconds into the brewing process, the user stops applying torque to turntable 110 to allow controller 300 to control the pump pressure according to... Figure 5C The solid line in the diagram shows the operation curve, where turntable 110 will operate according to the information provided. Figure 5B The previous example discussed continues to rotate counterclockwise.

[0127] For clarity, a practical example of the application of methods 400 and 500 will now be described. A first simulated stop position may be defined at 20 degrees relative to the original position of the coffee grinder's turntable 110 (the original position may be conceptually defined as the zero position of the motor 120 as defined in the calibration data). A second simulated stop position may be defined at 40 degrees relative to the original position. An initial rotation of the turntable 110 from the first stop position toward the second stop position initially causes one or more controllers to control the drive device 120 to generate an increased counter-torque against the torque applied by the user, until the turntable 110 reaches a 30-degree position (i.e., the midpoint between the first and second stop positions). As the turntable moves past the 30-degree position, one or more controllers 300 control the drive device 120 to generate a supplementary torque to compensate for the torque applied by the user, thereby causing the turntable to rotate toward the 40-degree stop position. As the turntable approaches the second stop position, the supplementary torque decreases such that when the turntable reaches the 40-degree angle position (i.e., the second stop position), the drive device no longer generates a supplementary force, thus simulating the stop position. However, as described above, due to the cogging torque of the motor 120, the controller 300 can be configured to control the generation of torque feedback (reverse or complementary) to counteract the cogging torque, so that the user experiences no torque being applied at the stop position.

[0128] While the rate of change of torque or supplementary feedback can vary depending on the magnitude associated with the stop position in memory, the rate of change can increase inversely with the magnitude of the operating parameter. For example, suppose for a coffee grinder appliance, where an increase in the grind size results in a coarser grind (i.e., grind size 10 has a coarser grind size compared to grind size 5), a decrease in the grind size (i.e., movement of turntable 110 toward the first stop position on a scale of one to ten stops) can result in an increase in the magnitude of the torque feedback to simulate the tightening of the tap due to the limitation of the flow rate through the ground coffee beans. This relationship can be defined in a lookup table stored in the memory of the kitchen appliance 900.

[0129] As described above, the controller 300 can be electrically coupled to an output device, such as the electronic display 330 of the kitchen appliance 900, to display output information. Alternatively, the controller can wirelessly communicate with user devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, where output information can be transmitted via a communication interface and displayed via the user device's output device (e.g., a screen). The controller 300 can be configured to display output information based on operating parameter data via the display 330 associated with the kitchen appliance 900, or to wirelessly transmit the output information to the user device for output via the user device's output device. For example, the output information indicates a determined deviation of the operating parameters. If the grinding size parameter of the grinder appliance is currently set to five (for a grinding size range between one and ten), the user can rotate the turntable 110 by a specific angular distance so that the controller 300 simulates movement from the fifth stop to the fourth stop to indicate that the deviation of the grinding size has been reduced by a single unit to a grinding size of four, meaning a finer grinding size. Graphical and / or textual information can be presented via display 330 or user equipment under the control of controller 300 to indicate such deviations in grinding dimensional parameters.

[0130] In one variation, after receiving user input or instructions, the controller 300 can control the rotational actuation of the turntable 110 throughout the grinding cycle, wherein the rotational actuation is controlled according to the magnitude of another operating parameter that changes during the grinding cycle. For example, the grinder electrical components can store a cycle length operating parameter indicating the time range of the grinding cycle in memory 310. In one example, the grinding cycle can be set to 15 seconds. Before starting the grinding operation, the controller 300 can control the drive device 120 to move an angular position representing a 15-second time range. When the grinding operation begins, the controller 300 controls the drive device 120 to rotate the turntable 110 at a sufficient angular velocity so that the turntable 110 returns to its original angular position representing 0 seconds. Thus, the automatic rotation of the turntable 110 by the controller 300 provides alternative visual feedback on the remaining time of the grinding cycle. This type of feedback can be advantageous for visually impaired users who may be able to feel the rotation of the turntable 110 to understand the remaining time in the grinding cycle.

[0131] refer to Figure 6 The flowchart shows another method 600 for representing tactile feedback to control kitchen appliance 1000.

[0132] At step 610, method 600 includes controlling the actuation of drive device 120 by one or more controllers 300 based on operation parameter data indicating the magnitude of operation parameters to be used by the kitchen appliance during the preparation of the consumable, so as to angularly displace the rotatable user interface device.

[0133] At step 620, method 600 includes detecting, by one or more controllers 300, a deviation in the angular position of the rotatable user interface device 100 caused by a torque applied by the user during the preparation of the consumable. The deviation in angular position represents a user-defined deviation in the magnitude of the operating parameters used to prepare the consumable.

[0134] At step 630, method 600 includes controlling the actuation of drive device 120 of kitchen appliance 1000 or haptic feedback device 350 by one or more controllers 300 during the preparation of consumable, thereby generating haptic user feedback based on the deviation of the angular position of the rotatable user interface device.

[0135] Advantageously, the rotation of the rotatable user interface device provides the user with tactile and / or visual feedback regarding the operation of the kitchen appliance based on operating parameters during the operation cycle. Furthermore, generating tactile feedback in response to the torque applied by the user to the rotating user interface device provides the user with a novel and intuitive feedback system related to adjustments made to the operating parameters.

[0136] Regarding the operating cycle of kitchen appliance 1000, the operating cycle may vary depending on the type of kitchen appliance 1000. Figure 10 Examples, such as espresso machines, are discussed. One or more controllers 300 attempt to rotate turntable 110 during an operating cycle. These controllers 300 control drive device 120 to attempt to rotate the rotatable user interface device 110 according to a determined value (or a value over time) of the operating parameters of the kitchen appliance 1000. It should be understood that while controllers 300 generate electrical signals to rotate turntable 110, rotation can be prevented by user actuation. For example, a user may sufficiently hold turntable 110 to maintain a specific flow rate while pulling espresso, while drive device 120 attempts to rotate turntable 110 towards a lower flow rate based on operating parameter data.

[0137] Regarding espresso makers, operating parameters can be flow rate or pressure rate. Operating parameter data can be stored in memory 310, indicating one or more magnitudes of the operating parameters (such as a digital array, where each number represents the magnitude of the operating parameter at a specific point in time; it should be understood that more complex data structures can be used). Regarding espresso makers, the operating parameter data can be an operating parameter profile, where the magnitudes of the operating parameters can vary over time. Therefore, the operating parameter profile can define the varying magnitudes of the operating parameters, such as flow rate or pressure rate changing over time. In a preferred form, the operating parameter data is time-series data, where each point in time in the time-series data has associated data indicating the corresponding magnitude of the operating parameter. The varying magnitudes of the operating parameters can be considered as setpoint parameters within an operating cycle.

[0138] If the operating parameter data includes data indicating one or more magnitudes of the operating parameter, each magnitude can be converted into a discrete angular position by the controller 300. For example, if the operating parameter is a pressure operating parameter, the magnitude range can indicate a pressure from 0 bar to 10 bar over time. This magnitude range can then be converted into angular displacement by one or more controllers to rotate the turntable 110. Thus, if full rotation of the turntable 110 is possible, each pressure bar can be represented by an angular displacement of 36 degrees. During the operating cycle, the turntable can rotate 36 degrees for each pressure unit. For example, if at the start of a pressure curve the pressure changes from 0 bar to 9 bar, the controller 300 generates an electrical signal transmitted to the electrical interface of the motor 120, indicating that the motor 120 has rotated to an angular position of 324 degrees relative to a reference position. It should be understood that in some other cases, the magnitudes of the parameter data can be stored in the form of angular positions, thus meaning that it is not necessary to convert the magnitudes of the operating parameter into angular positions. It should be understood that while integer ranges of magnitudes have been discussed, decimal ranges (e.g., 1.4 bar) can also be implemented.

[0139] Once a user interacts with the turntable to apply torque, one or more controllers control the operation of the kitchen appliance based on user-defined deviations from the magnitude of the operating parameters and the operating parameter data. In a preferred configuration, controller 300 can be configured to change the magnitude of the torque feedback output by the rotatable user interface device 110 according to the magnitude of the deviation. For example, with respect to a coffee bean grinder appliance, a higher magnitude of torque feedback can be applied to the turntable 110 when the grind size decreases compared to the torque feedback applied when the grind size increases. This configuration is used to provide the user with feedback on the ease or difficulty of water passing through the grind coffee during espresso production. In another example related to an espresso appliance, if the user rotates the turntable 110 to increase the pressure rate, a higher magnitude of torque feedback is applied to the turntable 110 compared to the user decreasing the pressure rate, which results in a lower magnitude of torque feedback being applied to the turntable 110 by the drive device 120.

[0140] In a preferred embodiment, one or more controllers control the actuation of the drive device to rotate the rotatable user interface device along a first rotation direction in response to a positive change in the value of the operating parameter defined by the operating parameter data over time. Furthermore, one or more controllers control the actuation of the drive device to rotate the rotatable user interface device along a second direction in response to a negative change in the value of the operating parameter defined by the operating parameter data over time.

[0141] In one embodiment, after the user stops applying the torque, one or more controllers are configured to control the drive device to shift the rotatable user interface device at an angle to correct the angular position of the rotatable user interface device based on operating parameter data.

[0142] In one variation, in response to detecting a deviation in the angular position of the rotatable user interface device caused by a torque applied by the user, the method further includes one or more controllers modifying at least some of the operating parameter data to at least partially compensate for user-defined deviations in the magnitude of the operating parameters, wherein the operation of the kitchen appliance is performed based on the modified operating parameter data. In one form, the preparation of a consumable by the kitchen appliance is defined by operating parameter data to be performed within a first time period, and wherein the modified operating parameter data in response to detecting a torque applied by the user results in the preparation of the consumable by the kitchen appliance within a second time period, wherein the second time period differs from the first time period. For example, if a flow rate operating parameter is increased during an operating cycle for espresso extraction, the operating parameter data can be modified such that the total volume of the espresso is equal to the original operating parameter data.

[0143] In one form, the magnitude of the tactile user feedback to be generated is determined at least based on a magnitude of a user-defined deviation. This may include real-time data obtained by one or more controllers from one or more sensors, indicating that the kitchen appliance operates in response to a magnitude of an operating parameter. Furthermore, the process may include determining an error by one or more controllers and based on the operating parameter data and the real-time data, with the determination of the magnitude of the tactile user feedback further based on the error.

[0144] In one form, haptic feedback is a counter-torque generated by a drive device to counteract the torque applied by the user to the rotatable user interface device. This counter-torque can be generated by the drive device, which may be provided in the form of a brushless DC motor. In another form, the drive device also controls the generation of the counter-torque based on cogging torque data, where the cogging torque data indicates the magnitude of the cogging torque of the drive device at multiple angular positions. One or more controllers control the drive device to output counter-torque based on the angular position of the rotated user interface device to further counteract the cogging torque.

[0145] In one form, the consumable is a beverage. In one example, the operating parameter is the operating flow rate that produces the beverage over time. In another example, the operating parameter is the operating temperature that produces the beverage over time. In a particular form, the consumable is espresso, where the operating parameter is the operating pressure applied over time to the coffee grinder to produce espresso.

[0146] refer to Figure 7 The flowchart shows a more detailed example of providing tactile feedback to users of kitchen appliances.

[0147] Specifically, at step 710, the method includes initiating operation of the kitchen appliance. When the kitchen appliance initiates operation in response to user input, one or more controllers rotate a turntable based on operating parameter data. Additionally, one or more controllers operate the kitchen appliance at least based on the operating parameter data. As explained in the further steps of the method, one or more controllers operate the kitchen appliance according to setpoint operating parameters. When the user has not yet applied a user-applied torque to the turntable, the setpoint parameters are set to the operating parameters as defined in the operating parameter data. However, in a subsequent loop of method 700, if the user has applied a user-applied torque to the turntable, the setpoint parameters are adjusted in memory based on the operating parameter data and based on the deviation of the angular position caused by the user-applied torque. For example, the user may provide input to prepare espresso. One or more controllers rotate the turntable according to operating parameter data representing an espresso recipe. The operating parameter data may indicate one or more operating parameters (flow rate, pressure, etc.) that represent one or more setpoint operating parameters.

[0148] At any time after step 710, the user can interact with the haptic feedback component 100 by rotating the turntable 110 to adjust associated operating parameters for preparing consumables throughout the entire operating cycle of the kitchen appliance 1000. For clarity, Figure 7 The illustration shows user interaction with turntable 110 at step 715, occurring between steps 710 and 720. However, those skilled in the art will understand that user actuation can occur at any time after step 710 and before step 770. For example, the cycle defined by steps 720 to 770 can be performed normally for the entire half-cycle, wherein turntable 110 rotates according to the magnitude of the operating parameters defined by the operating parameter data. However, the user can then intervene midway through the cycle, where the deviation between the expected angle and the real-time angle will be more significant, necessitating haptic feedback provided via haptic feedback component 100. Figure 7 The dashed line in step 715 indicates the timing of the user interaction.

[0149] Continuing the discussion of method 700, at step 720, the method includes one or more controllers 300 determining the real-time angular position of the rotatable user interface device 110. As explained with respect to the previous example, encoder 150 uses a Hall sensor to sense changes in the magnetic field of a magnet associated with motor 120, wherein the encoder signal indicates the real-time angular position of the rotatable user interface device 110.

[0150] At step 730, method 700 includes one or more controllers 300 determining the deviation between a real-time angular position and a setpoint angular position defined by operating parameter data. The operating parameter data indicates the magnitude of the operating parameters over time (i.e., time-series data). The time-defined operating parameters operate as setpoint parameters. Controller 300 determines the setpoint angular position based on the magnitude of the operating parameters at the current time point and then converts it to the setpoint angular position based on the available displacement angular range of the turntable 110 (e.g., 360 degrees or less). However, it should be understood that the reverse is also applicable. In particular, the operating parameter data may indicate the angular position of the turntable changing over time within the operating cycle of the kitchen appliance. One or more controllers then convert the angular position of the turntable into the magnitude of the operating parameters, which can then be used to electrically control one or more operating components of the kitchen appliance.

[0151] At step 740, method 700 includes one or more controllers 300 modifying setpoint parameters (if necessary) based on the deviation.

[0152] At step 750, method 700 includes one or more controllers 300 determining the magnitude of torque feedback to be generated in response to a detected deviation. In one form, controller 300 may multiply a torque magnitude factor by the angle deviation to determine the magnitude of the torque feedback. For example, the torque feedback may be calculated by one or more controllers 300 according to Equation 1 outlined below:

[0153] T 触觉 =(P EXP- P RT Formula 1

[0154] in:

[0155] T 触觉 It is the magnitude of torque;

[0156] P EXP It is the expected angle position of the turntable;

[0157] P RT It is the real-time angular position of the turntable; and

[0158] k is the torque magnitude factor.

[0159] At step 760, method 700 includes one or more controllers 300 controlling drive device 120 based on the determined magnitude of torque feedback. The one or more controllers 300 may generate an electrical signal indicating the magnitude of the torque feedback, which is received via an electrical interface of drive device 120, thereby applying torque feedback via turntable 110.

[0160] At step 770, method 600 includes one or more controllers 300 determining whether the kitchen appliance 1000 has completed an operating cycle. If the operating cycle has been completed, method 700 ends. If the operating cycle has not yet ended, the method returns to step 710. Otherwise, method 700 ends.

[0161] During an operation cycle, the controller 300 can display output information related to the magnitude of the operating parameters and / or the operating parameter profile via an output device (such as an electronic display 330 for kitchen applications) or a user device (such as a smartphone). For example, a graphical representation of the operating parameters changing over time can be presented on the display 330 or the user device. A marker can then advance on the display 330 to indicate the current magnitude of the operating parameters throughout the operation cycle. For example, for the first half of the operation cycle, the controller 300 can operate the kitchen appliance 1000 as indicated in the operating parameter profile. The marker will follow the graph of the operating curve 330 displayed on the display 330. However, midway through the operation cycle, the user can rotatably actuate the turntable 110, thereby increasing or decreasing the magnitude of the setpoint operating parameter relative to the operating parameter profile data. The marker 330 is then displayed as an offset relative to the graph to indicate to the user the modification of the operating parameters caused by the user's interaction with the turntable 110. If the user stops interacting with the turntable 110 while the kitchen appliance 1000 is still performing an operation cycle, the turntable 110 is rotated, if necessary, to represent the original setpoint operation parameters of the operation parameter profile, and the display 330 mark is realigned with the original graphical graph of the operation parameter profile displayed on the monitor 330. Therefore, at the end of the operation cycle, two graphs are presented on the monitor 330: the first graph is the operation parameter profile, and the second graph is the operation parameters used over time during the operation cycle.

[0162] In some configurations, controller 300 can be configured to control the magnitude of torque feedback applied by drive device 120 based on the magnitude of the deviation. For example, the magnitude of the torque feedback can be a function of the magnitude of the angular displacement between the real-time angular position of turntable 110 and the expected angular position based on setpoint operating parameters in an operating parameter profile. For instance, if the pressure at a given time is intended to be 6 bar, and the user rotates turntable 110 to a position equal to 10 bar, the magnitude of the torque feedback at 10 bar will be greater than when turntable 110 is rotated to an angular position equal to 6.6 bar.

[0163] In a preferred configuration, method 600 includes one or more controllers 300 controlling actuation of drive device 120 to rotate rotatable user interface device 110 in a first rotational direction in response to a positive change in setpoint parameters over time, and to rotate rotatable user interface device in a second direction in response to a negative change in setpoint parameters over time. For example, the first direction is counterclockwise and the second direction is clockwise. However, it should be understood that alternative configurations are possible, such as the first direction being clockwise and the second direction being counterclockwise.

[0164] Haptic feedback can additionally provide the user with an indication of the difference between the adjusted setpoint operating parameters defined by the user-actuated turntable 110 and the sensed operating parameters of the operating cycle. For example, while a user can indicate a significant increase in pressure by significantly rotating the turntable 110, such an instantaneous increase in pressure is practically impossible to achieve. Therefore, the controller 300 can adjust the torque feedback to indicate the difference between the measured operating parameters and the adjusted setpoint parameters.

[0165] refer to Figure 8 This shows the representation of including Figure 1A or Figure 2A A flowchart illustrating a method for providing tactile feedback to users of kitchen appliances using a rotating user interface device.

[0166] At step 810, method 800 includes detecting the angular displacement of a rotatable user interface device over a period of time by one or more controllers in response to a torque applied by a user, to provide user input to the kitchen appliance.

[0167] At step 820, method 800 includes determining the angular acceleration of the rotatable user interface device based on the angular displacement over that time period.

[0168] At step 830, the method includes determining the magnitude of the counter-torque that counteracts the torque applied by the user based on angular acceleration.

[0169] At step 840, the method includes controlling a drive device by one or more controllers to generate counter-torque to provide tactile user feedback.

[0170] Advantageously, method 800 provides haptic feedback when interacting with the turntable. Specifically, the initial rotation of the user interface device results in a considerable counter-torque. As acceleration increases, the counter-torque decreases, thus requiring less torque applied by the user to continue rotating the turntable. Therefore, method 800 can have useful applications such as scrolling through lists of items, where users may wish to scroll through a large number of items without continuously applying significant torque to the turntable, such as in screen carousels.

[0171] In a preferred embodiment, the counter-torque is inversely proportional to the acceleration. For example, when the turntable initially moves from a fixed position to begin rotation, the acceleration is low, so the drive device 120 applies a high counter-torque. As the acceleration increases, one or more controllers reduce the counter-torque.

[0172] Similar to other examples, the detection of rotational displacement of a rotatable user interface device is based on encoder signals received by one or more controllers. The encoder may be a magnetic encoder configured to sense a magnetic field generated by a magnet associated with a drive device. In some embodiments, the detection of angular displacement of the rotatable user interface device is also based on mapped data indicating the strength of the magnetic field that can be sensed by the encoder for multiple angular positions.

[0173] refer to Figure 9 This image shows an isometric view of an example of a kitchen appliance 900 provided in the form of a coffee bean grinder 900. Details relating to the coffee bean grinder 900 are disclosed in PCT / AU2011 / 000274, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The coffee bean grinder 900 is an electric, motorized coffee grinder comprising a housing 30 provided in the form of a base housing the grinder mechanism. The base is releasably coupled to a hopper 20 via a collar 5. The base 30 has a recess or discharge area 912 into which ground coffee is dispensed. The discharge area 912 may receive a container, such as a filter cup with a handle, a filter, or a storage container. The base 30 has a head 913 located above the recess 912. The front panel or surface 914 of the head 913 is characterized by various user controls, including (as will be explained further) a discharge volume adjustment knob 915, a button for selecting a careful preset discharge volume or one or more other user controls 916, a start / cancel button 917, and a grinding size selector dial 990.

[0174] The grinding size selector turntable 990 is implemented as described above regarding Figure 1A or Figure 1B The discussed haptic feedback component 100 performs the methods of Figures 4 and 5. A user can interact with a grinding size selector turntable 990, wherein a controller 300 is configured to electromechanically control the vertical movement of the upper grinding disc of the grinding machine mechanism based on the user's interaction with the turntable 990. The distance between the upper and lower grinding discs determines the grinding size. In response to user actuation of the turntable 990, the controller 300 is configured to simulate one or more mechanical stops via haptic feedback output from the turntable 990 to indicate to the user that the grinding size has incrementally increased or decreased.

[0175] If the user experiences the turntable advancing through multiple simulated stop positions in response to a gradually decreasing grind size, the magnitudes of the counter-torque feedback that counteracts the user's torque and the supplementary torque feedback that complements the torque applied by the user gradually increase as the turntable advances to each simulated stop position. This increase in counter-torque and supplementary torque feedback is analogous to tightening a faucet that restricts fluid flow, which is appropriately related to reducing the grind size, thus reducing the flow of water through the ground coffee beans.

[0176] On the other hand, if the user experiences the turntable advancing through multiple simulated stop positions in response to a gradually increasing grind size, the magnitude of the counter-torque and supplemental torque feedback decreases as it advances to each simulated stop position. This counter-torque feedback is analogous to opening a tap to increase fluid flow, which is appropriately related to increasing the grind size, which increases the flow of water through the ground coffee beans.

[0177] In response to user actuation of the turntable 990, a graphical user interface can be displayed on the display 330, showing the current grinding size and deviation from the grinding size parameters indicated by the rotation of the turntable 110. Once the user has fully actuated the turntable 990 to adjust the grinding size, the user can press the turntable 990 inward relative to the base 30 to confirm the user's selection of the grinding size. The controller 300 can store updated operating parameters in the memory 310.

[0178] The preset amount button 916 allows the user to select the amount of coffee grounds to be expelled. However, this can alternatively be achieved by pressing the dial 110 of the haptic feedback assembly 100. Pressing the preset amount button 916 or the dial 110 causes a portion of the digital display 330 to change in discrete increments. Each displayed value represents the grinding time for each grind type. Parameters such as grinding time and grind type are related to the expulsion volume according to a lookup table stored in the memory 310 and associated with the controller 300 of the appliance 700. The rear surface of the recess 912 also has an external button 919, which is coupled to an electrical switch activated in the presence of the filter cup with a handle.

[0179] like Figure 10 As shown, an espresso machine 1000 can be incorporated into an integral coffee grinder 900 having a hopper 20 and a tamping auger 1002 for filling a handled filter cup 1004 that engages with a filling head 1006. The filling head 1006 receives ground coffee from the grinder 900 and discharges it into the handled filter cup 1004. The filling head 1006 also includes and orients the tamping auger 1006. The operation of the grinder 900 and the auger 1002 can be controlled by manipulating the handled filter cup 1004 that engages with the filling head 1006. Figure 10 As shown, one or more dials are provided on the user interface to allow the user to rotatably actuate them to adjust one or more operating parameters of the espresso machine. For example, a first dial 1020 may be provided to allow adjustment of the grind size of the grinding mechanism, and a second dial may be provided to allow adjustment of the flow rate or pressure during the espresso-making process. Further details regarding espresso makers are disclosed in PCT / AU2014 / 000378 and PCT / AU2014 / 000378, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0180] More specifically, when a user interacts with the input device of the espresso maker 1000 to prepare espresso, the controller 300 controls the pump device to pump heated water through the handle-equipped filter cup. More specifically, the controller 300 controls the pump device based on operating parameter data indicating pressure profiles and / or flow rate profiles. Regarding the pressure profile, the pressure rate profile includes a pressure setpoint parameter indicating the pressure applied to the coffee grounds in the handle-equipped filter cup over time. Regarding the flow rate pressure profile, the flow rate profile includes a flow rate setpoint parameter indicating the water flow through the coffee grounds in the handle-equipped filter cup over time. During espresso preparation, the controller 300 controls the rotatable actuation of the rotatable user interface device 1020 (i.e., turntable) of the kitchen appliance 1000 to indicate the current setpoint (e.g., pressure or flow rate). It should be understood that the setpoint parameter can change over time, therefore the controller 300 controls the actuation of the drive device 120 operably coupled to the rotatable user interface device 1020 to adjust its angular position over time. If a user wishes to adjust operating parameters during consumable preparation, the user can rotatably actuate the rotatable user interface device 110 to indicate deviations in consumable preparation by adjusting the operating parameters. When the user attempts to rotate the rotatable user interface device 110 further from an angular position representing a setpoint parameter, the controller 300 adds torque feedback generated by the drive device 120. The controller 300 adjusts the operation of the kitchen appliance 1000 (e.g., adjusts the flow rate or pressure rate) in response to this deviation. If the user withdraws external actuation of the rotatable user interface device 110 while the consumable is still being prepared, the controller 300 controls the drive device 120 to rotatably actuate the rotatable user interface device 1020 to an angular position corresponding to the setpoint parameter of the respective profile. Pressure profiles and / or flow rate profiles can be displayed via a display of the espresso maker 1000. It should be understood that different profiles can be obtained, presented, and utilized depending on the recipe or process selected by the user. (The system is illustrated below.) Figure 11 As shown, in one form, the profile being used can be obtained from a remote processing system 1110 (such as a cloud server) or from a remote device (such as user equipment 1130) that scans machine-readable markings, such as QR codes 1150 provided on packaging 1140 for ingredients (bags of coffee beans) used for consumables. Kitchen appliances 900, 1000 receive profile data from user equipment and / or remote processing system 1110 via a network 1120 such as the Internet and / or a local wireless network.

[0181] As described above, the described methods and components have applications in a wide variety of kitchen appliances where there are limitations on the available space for a user interface. In one form, the technology can be used in the coffee tamper of an espresso machine. In another form, the technology can be used in food processors or stick mixers, where changes in the revolutions per minute (rpm) or resistance of these appliances can also be converted back into angular displacement of the turntable 110. Similarly, for food processors, the user can rotate the turntable 110 and actuate a similar rotation on the blade side via the main motor 120, giving the user complete control over the chopping cycle. The turntable 110 for kitchen appliances that scroll menus in a carousel mode can also benefit from this technology, as the turntable 110 can rotate automatically. The technology is also applied to ovens, microwave ovens, and other appliances with timers, where the turntable 110 moves according to time operating parameters and is adjusted by the user via external user interaction. Furthermore, the technology can be used in kettles, where the turntable 110 moves as water is heated, and in this appliance, the rotation speed can be determined by incremental dimensions. In appliances with integrated scales, such as food processors and bread makers, the turntable 110 can move along with the recorded values ​​in a manner similar to that of an analog scale.

[0182] While examples of providing user feedback using a drive device or another haptic feedback device have been described, in alternative embodiments, another unused component of the kitchen appliance can be used to provide physical feedback. For example, the pump or steam wand of an espresso machine (currently unused during the operating cycle) can be actuated by one or more controllers to provide physical feedback to the user. For instance, the pump can be actuated to cause water to flow from the outlet of the kitchen appliance to provide user feedback. Additionally, one or more controllers can be configured to control the steam wand to emit steam to provide user feedback in response to user interaction with turntable 100.

[0183] The above description of various embodiments of the present invention is intended to describe those skilled in the art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to a single disclosed embodiment. As stated above, many alternative forms and variations of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the above teachings. Therefore, although some alternative embodiments have been specifically discussed, others will be readily apparent or relatively easy to develop by those skilled in the art. The present invention is intended to cover all alternative forms, modifications, and variations of the invention discussed herein, as well as other embodiments falling within the spirit and scope of the above-described invention.

[0184] In this specification, the terms “comprising,” “including,” or similar terms are intended to indicate a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a method, system, or apparatus that includes a list of elements may include not only those elements but also other elements not listed.

[0185] It should be noted that when used in the claims, the term "connection" should not be construed as limited to a direct connection. The terms "coupled" and "connected," as well as their derivatives, may be used. It should be understood that these terms are not intended to be synonyms with each other. Therefore, the scope of the statement "device A is connected to device B" should not be limited to devices or systems where the output of device A is directly connected to the input of device B. This implies the existence of a path between the output of A and the input of B, which may include other devices or means. "Connection" may mean two or more elements in direct physical contact, or two or more elements not in direct contact but still cooperating or interacting with each other, unless otherwise specified.

[0186] References to any known things or existing publications in this specification are not, and should not be construed as, an admission, endorsement, or implication that the known things or existing publications constitute part of the common general knowledge in the field covered by this specification.

[0187] While specific examples of the present invention have been described, it should be understood that the present invention extends to alternative combinations of features disclosed or obvious from the disclosure provided herein.

[0188] Many and various modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, or will be apparent from the disclosure provided herein, without departing from the scope of the disclosed invention.

Claims

1. A kitchen appliance, characterized in that, include: A rotatable user interface device for receiving user input to the kitchen appliance via a user torque applied to the user interface device; The controller is electrically coupled to the user interface device to receive user input from the user interface device; The motor is operatively coupled to the user interface device and electrically coupled to the controller, enabling the controller to electrically control the actuation of the motor. The controller is adapted to actuate the motor to generate an anti-torque or supplementary torque to the user torque; The counter-torque and / or supplementary torque are proportional to the deviation between the setpoint parameters of the kitchen appliance and the user input during the food processing or beverage preparation process.

2. The kitchen appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance includes one or more sensors configured to acquire real-time data indicating operation of the kitchen appliance, wherein the controller is configured to determine a deviation based on the real-time data and operating parameter data, and wherein the controller actuates the motor based on the deviation.

3. The kitchen appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The setpoint parameters include one or more of temperature, pressure, and flow rate.

4. The kitchen appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is configured to receive angular displacement from the motor and actuate the motor based on the angular displacement between a plurality of simulated stop positions to represent one or more incremental changes in the magnitude of the operating parameters of the kitchen appliance.

5. The kitchen appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The motor is a brushless DC motor.

6. The kitchen appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance also includes an output user interface device operatively connected to the controller for displaying the setpoint parameters and / or the deviations.

7. The kitchen appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is configured to determine modified operating parameters based on original operating parameters used to determine the setpoint parameters and user-defined modifications to the operating parameters, wherein the controller is configured to determine the setpoint parameters from the modified operating parameters.

8. The kitchen appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The counter-torque and / or supplementary torque generated by the motor simulates the torque resistance of the rotatable user interface device.

Images