Efficient mixing containers

Abstract

A mixing system is disclosed, comprising a base, a mixing vessel detachably connected to the base, and a blade assembly connected to the body. The mixing vessel includes a body with a first end defining an opening, a second end defining a bottom surface, and an inner wall extending between the first and second ends. The body further features a rib projecting from the inner wall toward the center of the mixing vessel, a channel defined in the inner wall adjacent to the rib, and a ramp extending between the bottom surface and the channel defined in the inner wall. The blade assembly is coupled to the body at a blade height from the bottom surface.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED REGISTRATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the priority and benefits of preliminary US application No. 63 / 458,297 entitled "RIBBED MIXING CONTAINER", filed on April 10, 2023, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. The present application further claims the priority and benefits of preliminary US application No. 63 / 583,548 entitled "EFFICIENT MIXING CONTAINER", filed on September 18, 2023, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. TECHNICAL AREA

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to mixing systems and in particular to mixing systems with optimized mixing containers for more efficient and / or effective mixing of foodstuffs. BACKGROUND

[0003] Mixing systems are used for blending and processing a wide variety of foods. Mixers known from the prior art generally comprise a base and a mixing vessel containing a blade assembly. The characteristics of a mixing vessel can significantly influence both the quality of food processing and the speed at which a mixer can effectively process food. Inefficient mixing system designs can lead to dead zones within the mixing vessel, which can hinder efficient, uniform mixing of the materials.

[0004] Given the diverse applications of mixers and the different environments in which they can be used, long mixing times can be impractical and hinder the efficient use of mixing systems. Therefore, there is a need for improved systems and methods to reduce the mixing time while maintaining the same quality and consistency of the mixing result. SUMMARY

[0005] The following is a summary of this disclosure to provide a basic understanding of its aspects. This summary is not intended to identify important or critical elements, nor to define limitations on embodiments or claims. Rather, it provides a simplified overview of some aspects that may be described in greater detail in other sections of this disclosure. Furthermore, each of the described aspects can be considered in isolation or in combination with other described aspects without any limitation as to its effect, as if they had been expressly described separately and in every possible combination.

[0006] A mixing vessel is disclosed, comprising a body and a blade assembly connected to the body. The body includes a first end defining an opening, a second end defining a base, and an inner wall extending between the first and second ends. The body further includes a rib projecting toward a center of the mixing vessel, the rib extending along a first length of the inner wall from the base to the first end, a channel defined in the inner wall adjacent to the first rib, and a ramp extending between the base and the channel defined by the inner wall. The blade assembly is positioned at one blade height from the base of the body, and the ramp is shaped to minimize the distance between the body and a surface of the blade assembly facing the base.

[0007] A mixing system is disclosed comprising a base, a mixing vessel detachably connected to the base, and a blade assembly connected to the body. The mixing vessel comprises a body with a first end defining an opening, a second end defining a bottom surface, and an inner wall extending between the first and second ends. The body further comprises a rib projecting from the inner wall toward a center of the mixing vessel, a channel defined in the inner wall adjacent to the rib, and a ramp extending between the bottom surface and the channel defined in the inner wall. The blade assembly is coupled to the body at a blade height from the bottom surface.

[0008] The following description and drawings reveal various illustrative aspects. Some improvements and novel features can be explicitly identified, while others are evident from the description and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The embodiments shown in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments can be understood in conjunction with the following drawings, in which identical structures are identified by the same reference numerals and in which: Fig. 1 shows an illustrated top view of a mixing vessel and mixing ribs according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. Fig. 2 An illustrated top view of the mixing vessel, showing a distance between the mixing rib and a blade arrangement, and a flat surface of the mixing rib according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view from inside the mixing container, showing a distance between a blade tip and a mixing rib according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. Fig. 4 represents a cross-sectional view from inside the mixing vessel, showing a distance between a blade tip and the base of a ramp according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. Fig. Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional representation illustrating the flow of mixing media along one of the ramps during the operation of the mixer system according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. Fig. 6 shows an illustrated representation of a base of the mixing vessel according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. Fig. Figure 7 shows an illustrated top view of a mixing container and a blade according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. Fig. Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a mixing container and a blade according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. Fig. Figure 9 shows an illustrated top view of a mixing container and a blade according to one or more aspects shown and described herein.

[0010] The invention can be implemented in various embodiments without deviating from its basic concept or essential features. The scope of protection of the invention is defined in the appended claims and not in the specific description preceding them. Therefore, all embodiments that fall within the meaning and scope of the claims are intended to be encompassed by the claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] Reference is now made to exemplary embodiments, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. It is understood that other embodiments may also be used and that structural and functional modifications may be made. Features of the various embodiments may be combined or modified. Therefore, the following description serves only for illustration and is not intended to limit in any way the various alternatives and modifications that may be made to the embodiments shown. In this disclosure, numerous specific details provide a comprehensive understanding of the present disclosure. It is understood that aspects of this disclosure may be implemented with other embodiments that do not necessarily include all aspects described herein.

[0012] When used here, the words "example" and "exemplary" mean a case or illustration. The words "example" or "exemplary" do not indicate an essential or preferred aspect or embodiment. The word "or" is meant to be inclusive and non-exclusive unless the context suggests otherwise. For example, the phrase "A uses B or C" includes every inclusive permutation (for example, A uses B; A uses C; or A uses both B and C). Furthermore, the articles "a" and "an" generally mean "one or more" unless the context suggests otherwise.

[0013] It is noted that the various embodiments described herein may include other components and / or functions. It is further noted that while various embodiments refer to a mixer or mixing system, various other systems may also be used, taking into account the embodiments described herein. For example, embodiments may be used in food processors, mixing systems, hand mixers, various other food preparation systems, and the like. Therefore, it is noted that references to a mixer, a mixing system, and the like also include food processors and other mixing systems.

[0014] Such systems generally comprise a base that may contain a motor, a controller, a display, memory, and / or a processor. In addition, such systems may include a mixing vessel and a blade assembly. The blade assembly, the mixing vessel, and the base may be attached either permanently or with detachable mountings. The mixing vessel may be driven by any suitable means, such as a motor. More specifically, mixing systems may have a power source positioned at any suitable location within the system. As a non-limiting example, the power source may be located in the body of the mixing vessel, in a handle of the mixing vessel, or in the base of the mixing system. The power source serves to supply power to one or more components of the mixing system, such as the controller and / or the motor.The power source can be any suitable type, including, for example, an energy storage device such as a battery. In such cases, the battery can be a rechargeable battery, a regenerative battery, and / or a non-rechargeable battery. If the battery is rechargeable, it can be charged via the base unit or an external charging station.

[0015] Mixers and mixing systems are frequently used for blending and processing food. Frozen, cold, or icy drinks are becoming increasingly popular. These drinks include traditional shakes and the more recently popular smoothies. Shakes or milkshakes typically consist of ice cream and / or milk and are flavored with or without additives such as candy, chocolate, peanut butter, fruit, etc. Milkshakes are generally available at most fast-food restaurants, such as burger chains, and can be prepared using specialized machines or by hand with a mixer.

[0016] Smoothies are generally healthier and can be made from ice, frozen yogurt, and / or sorbet. They can contain additives such as fruits, fruit juices, vegetables, vitamins, supplements, and so on. Smoothies are typically available at specialty chains or juice bars and can be made with commercial or restaurant-grade blenders. Such drinks can also be made at home with a personal blender. Other types of food can be processed with commercial or personal blenders and systems, including soups, purees, nut butters, dips, and the like.

[0017] Foodstuffs can be placed in the mixing container. Furthermore, while various embodiments describe the mixing of "ingredients," "contents," or "foodstuffs," it should be noted that the disclosed mixing systems can also be used to mix or blend non-foodstuffs, such as paints, epoxies, building materials (e.g., mortar, cement, etc.), and the like. Additionally and / or alternatively, the various mixing containers described herein can be used to mix non-foodstuffs in non-food preparation scenarios, for example, in medical and / or laboratory environments. Moreover, the mixing systems can include any household mixer and / or any type of commercial mixing system, including those with covers that can completely or at least partially enclose the mixing container.Furthermore, commercial mixing systems may include a complete mixing system, such as a modular mixing system, which may include the mixer along with other components, such as a cleaner, a food storage device (including a refrigerator), an ice maker and / or dispenser, a food storage device (a liquid or powder flavor dispenser), or any other combination thereof.

[0018] When used herein, the terms “mixing process,” “mixing program,” and the like are used synonymously unless the context suggests otherwise or requires a specific distinction between these terms. A mixing process may comprise a series or sequence of mixer settings and / or operations to be performed by the mixing device. In one embodiment, a mixing process may comprise at least one motor speed and at least one time interval for that given motor speed. For example, a mixing operation may comprise a series of mixer motor speeds to operate the mixer blade at the predetermined speed, a series of time intervals corresponding to the predetermined motor speeds, and other mixer parameters and timing settings. The mixing operation may further comprise a ramp that defines the time required for the motor to reach its predetermined motor speed.The mixing process can be stored in a memory and retrieved by or transmitted to the mixing device.

[0019] Mixing foods or ingredients results in a mixed product. Such mixed products can include beverages, frozen drinks, smoothies, shakes, soups, purées, sorbets, nut butters, dips, or the like. It should be noted that mixing ingredients can create various other mixed products. Accordingly, terms such as "mixed product" or "beverage" can be used interchangeably unless the context suggests otherwise or requires a specific distinction between these terms. These terms are not intended to limit possible mixed products and should be understood as examples of such products.

[0020] This document describes systems and methods for reducing mixing time to obtain a blended product. It describes mixing vessels with one or more ribs. The described systems and methods can reduce mixing time while simultaneously delivering the same, consistent end product.

[0021] Mixing containers are described that can reduce mixing time by approximately 50%. A blade and a blade assembly are described. In one example, a typical mixture might require a mixing time of 12 seconds, and the described mixing containers, blades, blade assemblies, and / or mixing systems could potentially achieve the same mixture in approximately 6 seconds—a reduction of 50%.

[0022] Embodiments of the present mixing systems comprise a mixer base and a mixing vessel that can be functionally attached to the mixer base, containing a blade assembly. The mixing vessel includes walls that define an internal cavity containing the blade assembly. The walls of the mixing vessel include one or more mixing ribs and / or one or more ramps that direct the flow of the mixing medium and optimize mixing performance. The specific shapes and sizes of the components, in particular the walls of the mixing vessel, the mixing ribs, the ramps, and the blades, are designed to meet the need for improved mixing vessel designs to enhance mixing performance and efficiency.This means that the special designs described here lead to improved mixing of the mixing media and achieve efficiency gains in the mixing process compared to designs known from the state of the art.

[0023] Furthermore, the mixing systems described herein include a lid that can be functionally and / or detachably attached to the container to enclose the interior space defined by the walls. The mixing container may also include a handle. The mixing medium is to be contained within the interior of the container for mixing. The mixing container may be made of one or more materials, such as, but not limited to, plastics, glass, metals, or the like. In another embodiment, the blade assembly within the mixing container may be driven in any suitable manner, for example, by components within the mixer base, as described herein.

[0024] In some embodiments, the blade assembly is attached to a plate insert located within the mixing vessel. More specifically, a mixing vessel may have a reinforced bottom or base to enable improved performance, the use of additional motor parameters, the use of different blade assemblies, and / or the like. For example, the mixing vessel may have a longer service life and be able to handle higher motor speeds or torques. In some embodiments, the bottom may be reinforced by a plate insert, such as an overmolded plate insert or the like. The plate insert may comprise metal or another material different from that of the mixing vessel, such as rubber, foams, or plastics that exhibit greater creep resistance than the material used for the mixing vessel.In various cases, at least a section of the plate insert is exposed. The exposed section may have an opening that accommodates a blade assembly. The blade assembly is to be secured in place and / or pressed against or with the exposed section of the plate insert. The blade assembly may be secured by a lock nut or the like. The plate insert can improve or increase the strength of the mixing vessel compared to mixing vessels without a plate insert. In one embodiment, the exposed section of the plate insert may be the sole component, or one of the components, of the mixing vessel subjected to a compressive force due to the attachment of the blade assembly. In another embodiment, the plate insert may come into contact with the blade assembly to absorb stresses or vibrations.This can prevent or reduce stress on other sections (for example, plastic sections) of the container. Reduced vibrations can decrease or prevent container breakage and / or bearing failures.

[0025] The base comprises a motor housed within a casing. The motor selectively drives the blade assembly when the blade assembly is connected to the base. As a result, the blade assembly can stir, heat, or otherwise interact with the contents inside the mixing vessel. The blade assembly can be a fixed system or a variable blade assembly that can be removed between uses.

[0026] The mixing vessel 100 of a mixing system 10 receives the mixing ingredients and facilitates contact between the mixing medium and the rotating blade assembly. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the interior of the mixing vessel 100 comprises a plurality of mixing ribs 110 positioned along a circumference of the mixing vessel. In some embodiments, the mixing ribs 110 extend inward by a distance d, for example about 1.15 inches, from an inner wall 105 of the mixing vessel 100 and have a wedge geometry, as shown in Figure 1. Fig. Figure 1 shows that the surfaces 115 of the mixing ribs 110 project from the inner wall 105 of the mixing vessel 100 and converge at an angle α of approximately 100 degrees. The wedge geometry of each mixing rib can be widest along its horizontal axis closest to the inner wall 105 or at a point on the mixing vessel 100 furthest from its center. The geometry of each mixing rib can be thinnest at its point closest to the blade assembly 120. In other words, the width of the mixing ribs tapers or otherwise decreases as the projection approaches the center of the mixing vessel. Each of the multiple ribs comprises one or more surfaces 115. In some cases, the surfaces 115 are planar, while in others they are curved. The surfaces 115 may, for example, comprise a combination of planar and curved surfaces.Each surface 115 creates an area that maximizes the interaction between the mixing medium and the blade assembly 120 and improves mixing efficiency by creating areas along the mixing ribs 110 that collect mixed medium discarded by the blade assembly 120. The geometry of the surfaces 115 serves to guide the mixed medium back to the blade assembly 120 to initiate subsequent mixing. As shown in . Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the mixing ribs 110 can in some cases be positioned such that the distance d1 between a tip 125 of the blade assembly 120 and each mixing rib 110 is optimized. When the blade assembly 120 rotates, the tip 125 of each wing in the blade assembly has an optimized distance d1 to each of the mixing ribs 110, as shown in Figure 2. Fig. Figure 2 shows that the distance d1 between the blade assembly 120 and the mixing ribs 110 can be optimized such that, during operation of the mixing system, it prevents, minimizes, or otherwise prevents the mixing medium from flowing between a mixing rib 110 and the blade assembly 120 without interacting with the blade assembly, thereby further maximizing the mixing efficiency by ensuring the interaction between the mixing medium and the blade assembly 120. In at least one embodiment, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the distance d1 between the tips 125 of the blade assembly 120 and each of the mixing ribs 110 is approximately 0.07 inches to optimize mixing performance.

[0027] The mixing ribs 110 are not limited to a specific geometry and should be understood to vary in size and shape according to the dimensions of both the mixing vessel and the blade arrangement 120 located within the mixing vessel 100. All dimensions specified herein apply only to a non-limiting embodiment, and other dimensions are provided for and included within the scope of the disclosure.

[0028] The plurality of mixing ribs 110 extend along a length of the wall 105 of the mixing vessel 100, which extends between a first end and a second end. The first end of the mixing vessel defines an opening for receiving mixing media. In some cases, one mixing rib 110 from the plurality of mixing ribs 110 extends over a length corresponding to the length of the inner wall 105 of the mixing vessel 100. In other words, the mixing rib 110 extends over the entire length of the inner wall 105. The inner wall 105, the first end, and the second end define a body 102 of the mixing vessel 100. In other cases, the mixing rib 110 extends over a length from a bottom surface 107 of the mixing vessel 100 toward the first end of the mixing vessel, but not completely to the first end.In such cases, the mixing rib 110 does not extend over the entire length of the inner wall 105, but rather along a section of the length of the inner wall 105. In some cases, the multiple mixing ribs 110 extend along the same lengths of the mixing vessel, while in other cases, the multiple mixing ribs 110 extend along different lengths of the mixing vessel 100.

[0029] The mixing vessel 100 further comprises a plurality of ramps 130 arranged along the bottom surface 107 and the inner wall 105 of the mixing vessel, minimizing the distance between the edges or perimeter of the vessel and the blade assembly. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the vertical distance d2 between a surface of the tips 125, for example, the surface of a blade facing the bottom surface 107 of the mixing vessel 100, the blade assembly 120, and the base of each of the ramps 130 can be optimized to achieve a minimum distance d2. This prevents, minimizes, or otherwise prevents mixing media from passing between the base of one of the ramps 130 and the blade assembly 120 during operation of the mixing system without interacting with the blade assembly 120, thereby further maximizing the mixing efficiency by ensuring interaction between the mixing media and the blade assembly 120. In at least one embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the vertical distance d2 between the base of the ramps 130 and the blade assembly 120 is optimized to achieve a minimum distance d2. Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the distance d2 between a surface of the tips 125 of the blade assembly 120 and each of the ramps 130 is approximately 0.095 inches to optimize mixing performance. As shown in the Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, each of the ramps 130 is positioned between two of the mixing ribs 110. The ramps 130 have a concave shape with a vertical slope at their highest point on the inner wall 105 of the container, which gradually decreases as the ramp approaches the bottom surface 107 of the container 100. In other words, the vertical slope of the ramp is greatest at a first position 132. The first position 132 of the ramp 130 is located at the greatest vertical distance of the ramp from the bottom surface 107 of the mixing container 100. The vertical slope of the ramp decreases or tapers as the vertical distance to the bottom surface 107 of the container 100 decreases. For example, the vertical slope of the ramp 140 at a first position 132 is greater or steeper than the vertical slope of the ramp 140 at a second position 134.The geometry of the ramp 130 is designed to direct the flow of the mixing medium through the mixing vessel during the mixing process by minimizing the distance between the inner circumference of the vessel and the blade assembly and eliminating dead zones that would prevent uniform mixing. In some embodiments, the ramps 130 are angled such that the mixing medium is directed to the blade assembly 120 and to the flat surfaces 115 of the mixing ribs 110 to promote efficient mixing by guiding the mixing medium along a path p extending along the ramps 130, as shown in [reference]. Fig. Figure 5 shows the direction of the flat surfaces 115 of the mixing ribs 110, where the mixing medium is collected and then directed to the rotating blade assembly 120 for processing. Furthermore, the geometry of the ramps 130 is optimized to minimize dead zones throughout the mixing vessel 100 and to ensure uniform mixing of the mixing medium despite variations in the volume of the ingredient or variations in the relative composition of the mixing medium. The dimensions described herein apply only to a non-limiting embodiment, and other dimensions are provided for and fall within the scope of disclosure.

[0030] The Fig. Figures 7-9 show mixing vessels 200, 300, 400. The mixing vessels 200, 300, 400 comprise one or more channels 220, 320, 420, which are defined in the inner wall next to one or more ribs or projections 210, 310, 410 and / or between two or more ribs 210, 310, 410. The channels 220, 320, 420 are recessed relative to the surrounding ribs 210, 310, 410. In some cases, the mixing vessels 200, 300, 400 may have ribs 210, 310, 410 that extend closer to a center c of the vessel 200, 300, 400 at their lower sections. In other words, the mixing vessels 200, 300, 400 can have ribs 210, 310, 410, which are tapered projections. In such cases, one or more ribs 210, 310, 410 project from an inner wall 205, 305, 405 at varying intervals towards the center of the mixing vessel 200, 300, 400.In some cases, the ribs 210, 310, 410 extend closer to the center of the mixing vessel 200, 300, 400, near a bottom surface of the mixing vessel than near an upper opening of the vessel. As in the . Fig. As shown in Figures 7-9, the mixing vessels 200, 300, 400 can have four ribs 210, 310, 410, which are equally spaced around an inner wall 205, 305, 405 of the mixing vessels 200, 300, 400 and form four channels 220, 320, 420 between the four ribs 210, 310, 410. It is noted that other suitable numbers of ribs and channels, as well as different and / or varying distances around the inner wall of the mixing vessels, are also possible.

[0031] In one embodiment, the in the Fig. The mixing containers 200, 300, and 400 shown in Figures 7-9 have the following dimensions. It should be noted that each of the dimensions can vary within a range of + / - 0.5 inches. When a blade is aligned with a rib 210, the distance between a flat, 0° angled blade tip 235 and a rib 210 can be 0.15 inches. When a blade is aligned with a channel 220, the distance between the flat, 0° angled blade tip 235 and the deepest point of the channel 220 between the ribs 210 can be 1.1 inches. The channel 220 has varying widths. In other words, a first section of the channel 220, positioned near the blade 230, is wider than a second section of the channel 220, positioned farther from the blade 230. In such cases, the width of the first section can be w c,1 2.56 inches, while the width of the second section w c,2The inner dimension of the ribs 210 at blade height can be 3.28 inches, while the inner dimension of the ribs at one end of the rib closest to an open end of the container can be 3.45 inches.

[0032] The Fig. Figures 7-9 show mixing containers 200, 300, 400. In one example, they show Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 a size or dimension of the rib 310, 410 at a point that corresponds to a height of the blade 330, 430. In other words, the illustrate Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. A dimension where the rib 310, 410 projects towards a center and / or midpoint of the mixing vessel at a blade height. This thickness is measured from the inner point of the rib to the point where the rib connects to the wall inside the channel and is 0.95 inches in at least one example. The same measurement for the mixing vessel 200 in Fig. 7 can be 0.3 inches. In other words, the ones that protrude into the Fig. 8 and Fig. The ribs 310, 410 shown in Figure 9 extend deeper into the mixing container 300, 400 and / or project closer to the center of the mixing container 300, 400 than those shown in Figure 9. Fig. 7 ribs shown 210. The thicker ribs 310, 410 in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, unlike the thinner ribs 210, which are in Fig. Figure 7 shows correspondingly deeper channels 320, 420 between ribs 310, 410, which are defined by these. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the ribs 310 can be formed within and / or extend from a generally circular and / or oval mixing vessel 300, for example, a mixing vessel with a generally cylindrical, circular and / or oval outer profile and side walls. As shown in Fig.As shown in Figure 9, the ribs 410 can be formed as part of a recess in the mixing container 400, for example, a mixing container with an outer profile and an inner wall 405 having recesses corresponding to the inner ribs 410. In such cases, the thickness of the inner wall 405 is uniform. In one embodiment, the mixing containers 300, 400 can generally have the same or a similar internal geometry, and the inner ribs 310, 410 can generally appear the same or similar in both mixing containers 300, 400, but the inner wall of the mixing containers 300, 400 can differ from an external perspective. In other words, while the interior of both mixing containers 300, 400 can appear essentially identical, the outer profiles of both mixing containers 300, 400 can differ, at least in part, due to the way the inner ribs 310, 410 are formed.In some cases, for example for cost reasons, it may be desirable to minimize the amount of material required to manufacture the mixing container. In other cases, for example for reasons of durability, it may be desirable to maximize the thickness of the mixing container's side walls.

[0033] When using mixing containers and systems known from the prior art, for example, when mixing ingredients at high speeds to create a smooth, uniform end product, the ingredients can be thrown by the blade to a location where they remain out of reach of the blade for a significant portion of the mixing time. Since the mixing device can only cut the ingredients if they fall back or otherwise come into contact with the blades from the top of the mixing container, mixing containers and systems known from the prior art do not offer efficient and / or effective solutions.

[0034] The described mixing containers can prevent or minimize ingredients from being flung out of reach of the blade during the mixing process.

[0035] In one example, impact surfaces / ribs can be used generally to push ingredients from an upper section of the mixing vessel back into and / or towards a base or bottom surface of the mixing vessel. In other words, the ingredients from the upper section of the mixing vessel are pushed back into interaction with a blade assembly positioned near a base of the mixing vessel. Impact surfaces / ribs known from the prior art may be less pronounced at the bottom of the vessel and become more pronounced towards the upper section of the mixing vessel. The presence of more pronounced impact surfaces / ribs in the upper section of the mixing vessel may cause the mixed contents in the upper section of the mixing vessel to become trapped out of reach of the blade assembly.Prior art mixing vessels and systems may also include ribbed mixing vessels or those with sharp or blunt shapes, such as a triangular forward design or a square mixing vessel. While the blunt 90-degree wall in these designs may push the ingredients back toward the center of the mixing vessel, such designs may force a mixing system to initially use a lower speed and then several different speeds to achieve the desired end product, for example, to make efficient use of the time required to process the recipe.

[0036] The described mixing vessels, featuring a design of alternating ribs and deep channels, particularly pronounced in the bottom section, can enable the immediate use of high speeds and reduce product penetration into the upper section of the mixing vessel. In one embodiment, the blade begins to crush the food as it is being mixed, for example, when the ice and liquids are struck by the blades. The force of the blade assembly directs the food into the deep chambers or channels of the mixing vessel. The channels of the mixing vessel can prevent the food from being moved vertically out of contact with and / or reach of the blade assembly and instead guide the food back into the blade assembly for further processing.

[0037] In one example, a blade known from the prior art might initially strike the food to begin mixing. The impact of the blade can cause the food to strike, for example, the 90-degree wall of the mixing container, which can then generate back pressure on the blade. This back pressure, in turn, creates a noticeable, undesirable load on the motor. In one example, the load occurring in a prior art mixing container can slow down the motor, as it draws more current from the power supply to regain the desired speed.

[0038] The described mixing containers can enable efficient energy use. Compared to prior art mixing containers, the described containers consume less or a very similar amount of electricity, instead of requiring more electricity to process and / or mix food faster. The described mixing containers can achieve higher speeds, which can facilitate processing and mixing because the blades do not process the entire recipe simultaneously in the mixing zone (the immediate area of ​​the blades). In other words, the channels serve to rotate sections of the recipe into and out of the mixing zone during the mixing process. Therefore, the deep channels of the mixing container may not place as much stress on the blades, which would otherwise result in increased strain on the motor.Reducing the load on the motor in the described containers can allow the motor to maintain its speed better and thus consume less power.

[0039] In one example, increased motor load can also generate heat. Heat generation can be undesirable for the motor's lifespan, increasing power consumption and / or negatively impacting the lifespan of the brushes, the motor itself, and the mixing device. For instance, higher power consumption translates to a shortened brush lifespan. Brush wear is generally the most common cause of AC motor failure. A motor's brushes can be considered a consumable part, and once worn, the motor may no longer be operational.

[0040] The described mixing vessels can improve the motor's service life and are less prone to overheating because the channels and / or ribs on the inner wall of the mixing vessel create an efficient flow path. This efficient flow path reduces the load on the motor, as the blades do not process the entire mixture at once. Furthermore, this internal geometry with one or more ribs and channels reduces the back pressure on the blade compared to prior art mixing vessels.

[0041] The descriptions herein include examples of the present specification. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methods for the purpose of describing the present specification, but a person skilled in the art will recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the present specification are possible. Each of the components described above can be combined or added in any permutation to define the mixture system. Accordingly, the present specification is intended to include all such changes, modifications, and variations that are within the meaning and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, the term "comprises" in the detailed description or in the claims is to be used in a similar way to the term "consisting of" as "consisting of" is interpreted when used as a transitional phrase in a claim.

[0042] Although certain aspects have been illustrated and described here, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications can be made without deviating from the basic concept and scope of the claimed subject matter. Although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described here, these aspects need not be used in combination. It is therefore intended that the attached claims cover all such changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the claimed subject matter. EXAMPLES

[0043] A mixing vessel is disclosed comprising a body and a blade assembly connected to the body. The body comprises a first end defining an opening, a second end defining a base, and an inner wall extending between the first and second ends. The body further comprises a rib projecting toward a center of the mixing vessel, the rib extending along a first length of the inner wall from the base to the first end, a channel defined in the inner wall adjacent to the first rib, and a ramp extending between the base and the channel defined by the inner wall. The blade assembly is positioned at one blade height from the base of the body, and the ramp is shaped to minimize the distance between the body and a surface of the blade assembly facing the base.

[0044] The mixing container according to one of the previous examples, wherein the blade assembly is detachably connected to the body.

[0045] The mixing container according to one of the previous examples, wherein the ramp has a concave shape.

[0046] The mixing vessel according to one of the previous examples, wherein the ramp has a first slope at a first point next to the inner wall and a second slope at a second point next to the base, wherein the first slope is greater than the second slope.

[0047] The mixing container according to one of the previous examples, wherein the distance by which the rib projects towards the center of the mixing container tapers along a vertical length.

[0048] The mixing vessel according to one of the previous examples, wherein the distance by which the rib projects towards the center of the mixing vessel is greatest at a point on the rib which corresponds to the blade height.

[0049] The mixing vessel according to one of the previous examples, wherein the rib extends over a length along the inner wall of the body, wherein the inner wall extends over an inner wall length from the first end to the second end, and wherein the inner wall length is greater than the length.

[0050] The mixing container according to one of the previous examples, wherein the rib is defined along the inner wall from the base to the first end of the body.

[0051] The mixing container according to one of the previous examples, wherein the inner wall of the body has a uniform thickness.

[0052] The mixing container according to one of the previous examples, wherein an outer profile of the body corresponds to the rib and the channel.

[0053] The mixing vessel according to one of the previous examples, which further comprises a plurality of ribs arranged at equal intervals around the inner wall of the body.

[0054] A mixing system is disclosed comprising a base, a mixing vessel detachably connected to the base, and a blade assembly connected to the body. The mixing vessel comprises a body with a first end defining an opening, a second end defining a bottom surface, and an inner wall extending between the first and second ends. The body further comprises a rib projecting from the inner wall toward the center of the mixing vessel, a channel defined in the inner wall adjacent to the rib, and a ramp extending between the bottom surface and the channel defined in the inner wall. The blade assembly is coupled to the body at a blade height from the bottom surface.

[0055] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, where the base includes a motor.

[0056] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, wherein the blade arrangement is rotatably driven by the motor.

[0057] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, wherein the blade arrangement is detachably connected to the body.

[0058] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, where the ramp has a concave shape.

[0059] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, wherein the ramp has a first slope at a first point next to the inner wall and a second slope at a second point next to the floor surface, wherein the first slope is greater than the second slope.

[0060] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, wherein the distance by which the rib projects towards the center of the mixing vessel tapers along a vertical length.

[0061] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, wherein the distance by which the rib projects towards the center of the mixing container is greatest at a point on the rib which corresponds to the blade height.

[0062] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, wherein the rib extends over a length along the inner wall of the body, wherein the inner wall extends over an inner wall length from the first end to the second end, and wherein the inner wall length is greater than the length.

[0063] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, wherein the rib is defined along the inner wall from the bottom surface to the first end of the body.

[0064] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, wherein the inner wall of the body has a uniform thickness.

[0065] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, where an outer profile of the body corresponds to the rib and the channel.

[0066] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, which further comprises a plurality of ribs arranged at equal intervals around the inner wall of the body.

[0067] The mixing system according to one of the previous examples, wherein the mixing container includes the blade arrangement. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 63 / 458,297

[0001] US 63 / 583,548

[0001]

Claims

[1] Mixing container which has: a body which exhibits: a first end that defines an opening; a second end that defines a floor area; an interior wall extending between the first end and the second end; a rib projecting towards the center of the mixing vessel, the rib extending along the length of the inner wall from the bottom surface towards the first end; a channel defined in the inner wall next to the rib; and a ramp extending between the ground surface and the channel defined by the inner wall; and a blade arrangement connected to the body and positioned at a blade height from the base surface of the body, wherein the ramp is shaped such that it minimizes the distance between the body and a surface of the blade arrangement facing the base surface. [2] Mixing container according to claim 1, wherein the blade arrangement is detachably connected to the body. [3] Mixing container according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the ramp has a concave shape. [4] Mixing container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ramp has a first incline at a first point next to the inner wall and a second incline at a second point next to the bottom surface, wherein the first incline is greater than the second incline. [5] Mixing container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the distance by which the rib projects towards the center of the mixing container tapers along a vertical length. [6] Mixing container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the distance by which the rib projects towards the center of the mixing container is greatest at a point on the rib which corresponds to the blade height. [7] Mixing container according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the rib extends over a length along the inner wall of the body, wherein the inner wall extends over an inner wall length from the first end to the second end and wherein the inner wall length is greater than the length. [8] Mixing container according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the rib is defined along the inner wall from the base to the first end of the body. [9] Mixing container according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the inner wall of the body has a uniform thickness. [10] Mixing container according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein an outer profile of the body corresponds to the rib and the channel. [11] Mixing container according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a plurality of ribs arranged equidistant around the inner wall of the body. [12] Mixing system comprising: a base; a mixing container that is detachably connected to the base, the mixing container comprising: a body which includes: a first end that defines an opening; a second end that defines a floor area; an interior wall extending between the first end and the second end; a rib that protrudes from the inner wall towards the center of the mixing container; a channel defined in the inner wall next to the rib; and a ramp extending between the ground surface and the channel defined in the inner wall; and a blade arrangement that is coupled to the body at a blade height from the base of the body. [13] Mixing system according to claim 12, wherein the base comprises a motor. [14] Mixing system according to claim 13, wherein the blade arrangement is rotatably driven by the motor. [15] Mixing system according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the blade arrangement is detachably connected to the body. [16] Mixing system according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the ramp has a concave shape. [17] Mixing system according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the ramp has a first slope at a first point next to the inner wall and a second slope at a second point next to the floor surface, wherein the first slope is greater than the second slope. [18] Mixing system according to any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein the distance by which the rib projects towards the center of the mixing container tapers along a vertical length. [19] Mixing system according to any one of claims 12 to 18, wherein the distance by which the rib projects towards the center of the mixing container is greatest at a point on the rib which corresponds to the blade height. [20] Mixing system according to any one of claims 12 to 19, wherein the rib extends over a length along the inner wall of the body, wherein the inner wall extends over an inner wall length from the first end to the second end and wherein the inner wall length is greater than the length. [21] Mixing system according to any one of claims 12 to 20, wherein the rib is defined along the inner wall from the bottom surface to the first end of the body. [22] Mixing system according to any one of claims 12 to 21, wherein the inner wall of the body has a uniform thickness. [23] Mixing system according to one of claims 12 to 22, wherein an outer profile of the body corresponds to the rib and the channel. [24] Mixing system according to any one of claims 12 to 23, further comprising a plurality of ribs arranged at equal intervals around the inner wall of the body. [25] Mixing system according to any one of claims 12 to 24, wherein the mixing container comprises the blade arrangement.

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