kitchen appliance

Abstract

Kitchen appliance (100), comprehensive - a housing (101) with a control element (10), wherein the control element (10) has a rotatable rotary switch (20), the rotary switch (20) comprising a rotationally fixed magnetic ring (22, 22a-22d) with segments of alternating polarity, and - a sensor arrangement (16) for detecting a magnetic field of the magnetic ring (22, 22a-22d).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a kitchen appliance, for example a hand or stick mixer, a stand mixer, a food processor, a coffee or espresso machine, an air fryer or the like. State of the art

[0002] In many kitchen applications, such as hand mixers or other food processing appliances, rotary switches are used to adjust the speed, provide the option to select a program, or make a selection in a menu.

[0003] A structurally simple design for such a rotary switch can be implemented by placing a rotary encoder or potentiometer inside the housing of the kitchen appliance. Turning the switch also rotates the encoder or potentiometer. The control mechanism can then determine the position or rotation of the switch.

[0004] However, such rotary switches with a direct mechanical connection are disadvantageous because a complete seal of the housing against the external environment cannot be guaranteed. This ultimately poses a risk to the operator if, for example, water or steam penetrates through a gap between the switch and the housing.

[0005] While sealing rings are known to achieve a higher sealing effect, this significantly increases the complexity of the kitchen appliance's construction. Consequently, this results in additional manufacturing costs. Furthermore, it is disadvantageous for operation that the frictional forces of the seal must be overcome when such a rotary switch is operated. This negatively impacts the user's tactile experience.

[0006] To avoid the aforementioned disadvantages, some manufacturers have developed magnetic rotary switches, eliminating the need for a slot between the switch and the housing. For example, CN 209 996 059 U is known in this context. According to the device of CN 209 996 059 U, several permanent magnets are arranged around the rotary switch outside the housing. Inside the housing is a circuit board with three Hall effect sensors. When the rotary switch is turned, the Hall effect sensors detect the change in the magnetic field.

[0007] However, this design has the disadvantage that the distance between the sensors, the distance between the permanent magnets, and their relative positions must be precisely defined and measured to reliably determine the rotational speed and, in particular, the direction. Furthermore, a relatively large number of magnets must be installed on the rotary switch and the circuit board, which is correspondingly expensive and comparatively difficult because the magnets attract each other, making handling them during the assembly of the kitchen appliance complicated. In addition, three sensors are required, which further increases the cost of such a kitchen appliance.

[0008] Document EP 3 747 325 A1 shows a similar device. However, in this version, the magnets on the rotary knob have alternating polarity. This allows for the use of two Hall sensors to detect the direction of rotation. However, similar disadvantages exist as described previously. In particular, mounting the permanent magnets is relatively complex. Furthermore, the magnets must be mounted with the correct polarity to ensure proper functioning. Description of the invention

[0009] The present invention aims to provide a cost-effective kitchen appliance that offers a high level of user comfort and increased product safety.

[0010] Claim 1 provides a corresponding kitchen appliance. Further preferred embodiments are listed below and in the dependent claims.

[0011] In particular, a kitchen appliance is provided which comprises a housing with a control element, the control element having a rotatable rotary switch. The rotary switch has a magnetic ring with segments of alternating polarity. Furthermore, the kitchen appliance includes a sensor arrangement for detecting a magnetic field.

[0012] The kitchen appliance according to the invention has the advantage of ensuring simple, safe, and quick handling. In particular, the housing of the kitchen appliance can remain sealed due to the rotary switch incorporating the magnetic ring. The segments of the magnetic ring, which exhibit alternating polarity, can be detected by the sensor arrangement.

[0013] Furthermore, the magnetic ring enables simpler assembly, in particular a lower susceptibility to errors during assembly and also generally a faster production sequence.

[0014] A kitchen appliance could be, for example, a stick blender, a hand mixer, a stand mixer, a food processor, a bread maker, a coffee or espresso machine, an air fryer, or similar.

[0015] In one embodiment, the magnetic ring is made in one piece. This significantly simplifies handling during the assembly of the kitchen appliance and helps to avoid assembly errors.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the magnetic ring can be made of a non-magnetic base material which is provided with magnetizable particles.

[0017] The magnetizable particles can be, in particular, iron, ferrite, or neodymium-iron-boron powders. These magnetizable particles can be mixed with the base material.

[0018] The magnetic ring is preferably housed in a rotary switch casing to protect it from external influences.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the magnetic ring is provided with a fastening element or feature for connecting it to the rotary switch housing. Such a fastening element can be, for example, a snap hook or claw, recesses for receiving a snap hook or claw, one or more bores, and / or threads. In particular, it is possible to provide the fastening element as a means for tool-free connection.

[0020] It is preferred that the magnetic ring has at least four segments, more preferably at least six segments, and more preferably at least eight segments. The segments of the magnetic ring that exhibit alternating polarity can be detected by the sensor arrangement. A higher number of segments results in a higher resolution of the system. An embodiment with sixteen segments has proven particularly preferred for determining absolute position values ​​with exceptional advantage.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the control element comprises a display, in particular a screen or an arrangement of light elements such as LEDs. This allows the user of the kitchen appliance to read information from the appliance itself. This information may include status information about the appliance or a menu for selecting its functions.

[0022] According to a further embodiment, the control element can have a cover, which is preferably made of a transparent material, and which is attached to the housing. The cover thus provides a suitable seal. The cover can extend between the magnetic ring and the sensor assembly.

[0023] It is further preferred that the magnetic ring be arranged in a ring shape around the display, thus providing an extremely compact design.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the sensor arrangement is provided to have several Hall sensors or one XYZ Hall sensor.

[0025] Multiple Hall sensors can detect a magnetic field in different positions or directions. An XYZ Hall sensor can detect the magnetic field in three axes. With such an XYZ Hall sensor, each component of the magnetic field can be detected and individually evaluated.

[0026] For example, when the magnetic field moves across the XYZ Hall sensor, each component of the magnetic field behaves differently during rotation. The rotational speed can then be determined from this.

[0027] It is preferred that the rotary switch be translationally movable, particularly in a z-direction. In combination with an XYZ Hall sensor, the third sensor (Z-value) can be used to detect an up-down movement. Thus, according to this modification, the control element can also be used as a push-button switch, further expanding its operating possibilities.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the rotary switch is continuously adjustable. In particular, the rotary switch can be moved continuously through 360° in both directions. This allows for comprehensive setting and selection options.

[0029] According to another embodiment, the rotary switch has electronic increments, or haptic or kinematic detent positions.

[0030] The rotary switch can be designed to provide haptic feedback when moved. This increases ease of use and conveys a high-quality impression of the kitchen appliance.

[0031] The magnetic field can be used to counteract the rotational movement of the rotary switch by means of one of the segments of the magnetic ring. For example, the rotary switch can be locked in this way.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the kitchen appliance may include one or more permanent magnets, wherein the permanent magnet(s) provide a magnetic field which provides an attractive force with the magnetic field generated by the segment of the magnetic ring.

[0033] According to a further embodiment, the at least one permanent magnet is translationally movable or rotatable about an axis arranged between the poles of the permanent magnet. This allows for a number of detent positions corresponding to the number of segments of the magnetic ring.

[0034] According to one embodiment, a ferromagnetic, non-magnetized element is provided adjacent to the magnetic ring. The ferromagnetic element can be attracted to the poles of the magnetic ring segments, thereby generating haptically perceptible feedback for the operator and / or a detent torque for the rotary switch.

[0035] Furthermore, the sensor assembly can be mounted on a circuit board, to which the rotary switch is movably attached. This arrangement results in a compact design.

[0036] The kitchen appliance may have a control knob and / or one or more switches for operating the kitchen appliance, so that the functionality of the kitchen appliance can be extended accordingly.

[0037] According to another approach, the invention relates to the use of the kitchen appliance according to one of the preceding aspects. Brief description of the drawings

[0038] Further features and advantages will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a kitchen appliance according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 2 is another perspective view of a section of the kitchen appliance according to Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 3 shows a sectional view of an upper section of the kitchen appliance according to the embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 4 is a view of a rotary switch with a magnetic ring installed therein according to the embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 5 shows a circuit board with a display of the kitchen appliance according to the embodiment of the invention. Fig. 6 is a side view of the in Fig. 5 shown arrangement. Fig. Figure 7 is another side view of a section of the kitchen appliance according to the embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the arrangement according to Fig. 7. Fig. Figure 9 shows the arrangement according to Fig. 8, the rotary switch being equipped with a splash guard. Fig. Figure 10a shows a first variant to illustrate an operating option with haptic feedback when turning the rotary switch. Fig. Figure 10b shows a second variant to illustrate an operating option with haptic feedback when turning the rotary switch. Fig. Figure 10c shows a third variant to illustrate an operating option with haptic feedback when turning the rotary switch. Fig. Figure 10d shows a fourth variant to illustrate an operating option with haptic feedback when turning the rotary switch. Description of embodiments

[0039] The invention is illustrated by the following description of an embodiment of a kitchen appliance 100. Further modifications of certain aspects of the embodiment and variants of the embodiment mentioned in this context can each be combined to form further embodiments.

[0040] At the in Fig. The kitchen appliance 100 shown in Figure 1 is a hand blender with a housing 101, which contains, among other things, a drive unit (not shown). The drive unit can be activated using a switch 102. The switch 102 can also be used, or alternatively, to adjust the speed of the drive unit, for example, to change the speed depending on the depth to which the switch 102 is pressed.

[0041] Furthermore, the kitchen appliance 100 includes a control element 10 and additional switches 103, 104, the additional switches 103, 104 being used, for example, in combination with the control element 10 to guide the operator through a specific operating menu.

[0042] The control element 10 includes a rotary switch 20. When the rotary switch 20 is operated, the drive speed of the drive unit can be set, a timer can be activated, a program can be selected, or another function provided in the operating menu of the kitchen appliance can be executed. The rotary switch 20 can be moved continuously through 360° in both directions.

[0043] Fig. Figure 3 shows a cross-section of the control element 10. The control element 10 comprises a cover 11 made of a transparent material, a display 12 protected by the cover 11, and a printed circuit board 15 located below the display 12. The display 12 is mounted on the printed circuit board 15. Because the cover 11 is made of a transparent material, the operator can read the display 12 and perceive the information shown on it. The display 12 is configured, for example, as a pixel display, an LCD display, a segment display, an arrangement of LEDs, or a combination thereof.

[0044] The cover 11 has projections 11b for attaching the control element 10 to the housing 101 of the kitchen appliance 100. The projections 11b are designed as snap-in elements, so that the cover 11 can be mounted on the housing 101 without tools.

[0045] The rotary switch 20, which has a rotary switch housing 21 and a magnetic ring 22, is arranged around the cover 11 of the control element 10. The rotary switch housing 21 has several mounting projections 23 by which the rotary switch housing 21 is connected to a groove 11a of the cover 11. The mounting projections 23 allow the rotary switch housing 21 to be mounted to the cover 11 without tools.

[0046] The mounting projections 23 are designed such that a rotational movement between the rotary switch housing 21 and the cover 11 is permitted. Thus, an operator can actuate the rotary switch housing 21, which is arranged around the cover 11, with one finger while holding the housing 101 of the kitchen appliance 100.

[0047] The magnetic ring 22 is circular and has a plurality of segments of alternating polarity. Although a specific number of segments is indicated in the illustrated embodiment (see Fig. 5 or Fig. 6) The number of segments can be selected depending on the use case. The more segments used, the higher the resolution of the system.

[0048] The magnetic ring 22 preferably comprises a non-magnetic base material, preferably a component made of a thermoplastic material or another plastic material, wherein this base material is provided with magnetizable particles, for example, iron, ferrite, or neodymium-iron-boron powder. According to further modifications, other magnetizable materials can also be used. Likewise, the magnetic ring can consist entirely of magnetizable material.

[0049] According to this embodiment, the magnetic ring 22 is a one-piece component that is magnetized with segments of alternating polarity during its manufacture. Since the magnetic ring 22 can thus be pre-equipped with alternating polarities during its production, this simplifies its use during the assembly of the magnetic ring 22 on the rotary switch housing 21 of the kitchen appliance 100, as no assembly and alignment of individual magnets is necessary.

[0050] The magnetic ring 22 is rotationally fixed to the rotary switch housing 21 and can therefore rotate with it. Since the magnetic ring is preferably made, at least in part, of a plastic material, it can be manufactured in any desired shape and size. Fastening elements can also be integrated, allowing the magnetic ring 22 to be connected to the rotary switch housing 21 or for the attachment of other components. These fastening elements can be, for example, snap hooks, recesses for interaction with snap hooks attached to other components, bores, or threads. This significantly simplifies assembly.

[0051] The circuit board 15 accommodates the display 12 along with other electronic components. A permanently installed Hall sensor assembly 16 is arranged on the circuit board 15 at a certain distance from the magnetic ring 22. The Hall sensor assembly 16 is held in place by the magnetic ring 22 by the (in Fig. 5 (not shown) Cover 11 separate.

[0052] To illustrate the functionality of the embodiment, we will now refer to Fig. 5 as well Fig. Reference is made to section 6. When the rotary switch 20, and thus the magnetic ring 22, is rotated, the magnetic field, which is detected by the Hall sensor arrangement 16, changes. To detect the direction of rotation (clockwise or counterclockwise), an integrated circuit with two separate integrated Hall sensors is used, arranged at a specific distance from each other within the integrated circuit. The two Hall sensors of the Hall sensor arrangement 16 detect the magnetic field at two different locations, where the polarity and / or the field strength of the magnetic field is, or may be, different. This difference in field strength and polarity is used to detect a direction of movement within the integrated circuit. The two Hall sensors are preferably bipolar Hall sensors, which, in addition to the absolute field strength, can also detect the polarity of the magnetic field.

[0053] For example, when the rotary switch 20 is turned, one of the sensors of the Hall sensor array 16 detects an increasing field strength as the maximum of the magnetic field moves closer to this sensor. Simultaneously, the second sensor also detects an increase in field strength, but at a higher level, since the maximum of the magnetic field is already closer to the second sensor. At a certain point, the maximum moves past the second sensor. At this point, the first sensor continues to detect an increase in field strength, whereas the second sensor of the Hall sensor array 16 detects a decrease in field strength as the maximum of the magnetic field moves away from the second sensor. If the rotary switch 20 is turned further, the measurement result of the second sensor reaches a minimum at a certain point before the polarity reverses and the field strength increases again.

[0054] The two Hall sensors of the Hall sensor assembly 16 detect differences and changes in the magnetic field strength of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic ring 22 at two closely spaced locations. The distance between them is limited by the sensitivity of the Hall sensors. The distance between the two Hall sensors of the Hall sensor assembly 16 can be small, for example, 1 mm or less. This allows the Hall sensors to be installed in a common integrated circuit of the Hall sensor assembly 16. This arrangement results in a component that is easy to integrate.

[0055] While the change in polarity and the change in field strength indicate the direction of rotation, the rate of change in field strength indicates the rotational speed of the rotary switch 20. This embodiment thus enables stepless detection.

[0056] Furthermore, it is also possible to use reference values ​​or specific thresholds to detect the direction and position of rotation. For example, the electronics could provide the microcontroller with a modified input signal only when predefined thresholds are exceeded. According to one modification, the microcontroller can receive continuous analog signals from the Hall sensors, compare them with predefined thresholds, and only execute further actions when the thresholds are reached.

[0057] This makes it possible to provide an incremental rotary switch, which can be advantageous for some applications, such as navigating operating menus. For example, each change in the polarity of the magnetic field can be treated as an increment of the rotary switch, so that the number of segments of the magnetic ring corresponds to the number of increments of the rotary switch. Alternatively, certain absolute values ​​of the field strength can be used as thresholds, allowing for increments that are multiples of the number of segments of the magnetic ring. However, other increments or increment sequences, such as irregular ones, can also be implemented.

[0058] Although, according to the present embodiment, two Hall sensors are described in the Hall sensor arrangement 16, which are arranged at different but adjacent positions in the Hall sensor arrangement 16, an XYZ Hall sensor can also be used as a modification.

[0059] The XYZ Hall sensor comprises three individual Hall sensors, each pointing in the corresponding axis directions and measuring the magnetic field in that direction. With such an XYZ Hall sensor, each component of the magnetic field can be detected and individually evaluated.

[0060] When the magnetic field moves across the XYZ Hall sensor, each component of the magnetic field behaves differently during rotation. The rotational speed can be determined from this. With an XYZ Hall sensor, the third sensor (Z-value) can be used to detect an up-down movement. Thus, with this modification, the control element can also be used as a push button, further expanding its operating possibilities.

[0061] The based on the Fig. The embodiment described in Figures 1-9 can be equipped with an arrangement according to one of the variants described below to enable step-by-step operation via the rotary switch. In particular, an attractive or repulsive force is provided by the magnetic field of a respective segment of the magnetic ring, which partially holds the rotary switch. This results in a force that opposes the rotational movement of the rotary switch and may lock the rotary switch or that must be overcome during operation. This provides haptic feedback for the operator and achieves defined detent positions for the rotary switch. This is particularly advantageous when electronic incremental adjustment of the rotary switch is also used.

[0062] According to Fig. In diagram 10a, a permanently mounted permanent magnet 25a is arranged at a specific distance adjacent to the magnetic ring 22a and attracts the opposite poles of the magnetic ring 22a, whereas segments with the same pole generate an opposite force. The rotary switch containing the magnetic ring 22a will therefore remain in a position where a segment of the magnetic ring 22a with a pole opposite to the permanent magnet 25a is located. When the rotary switch is moved by an operator so that like poles of the magnetic ring 22a and the permanent magnet 25a are opposite each other, a perceptible resistance is felt. Turning the rotary switch initially results in a slight increase in the torque required to move the magnetic ring 22a within the same segment with the same polarity before it is moved beyond the opposite poles. In the example according to... Fig. 10a Due to the four segments of the magnetic ring 22a, two specific "steps" are thus enabled when the rotary switch is actuated. After the operator has finished actuating the rotary switch, it will move into one of the two segments of the magnetic ring 22a that provide an opposite polarity to the permanent magnet 25a. In general terms, this arrangement provides a number of detent positions corresponding to half the number of segments on the magnetic ring 22a.

[0063] According to the in Fig. In the second variant shown in Figure 10b, two permanent magnets 25-1b, 25-2b are provided, which serve as "locking magnets". The permanent magnets 25-1b, 25-2b are fixed in the direction of rotation, but linear movement towards the center of the magnet ring 22b, i.e. radially to the magnet ring 22b, is permitted. The poles of both permanent magnets 25-1b, 25-2b point in the same direction. In the Fig. In the arrangement shown in Figure 10b, the N-poles are directed towards the magnetic ring 22b. The permanent magnets 25-1b, 25-2b are guided such that they can perform a linear movement between two end stops, one end stop being closer to the magnetic ring 22b, the other end stop being further away from the magnetic ring 22b.

[0064] In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 10b, the permanent magnets 25-1b and 25-2b are arranged at an angle of 90° to each other. If a magnetic ring with eight segments is used, the permanent magnets are arranged at an angle of 45° to each other. This ensures that the permanent magnets 25-1b and 25-2b point towards opposite poles of the magnetic ring. In general terms, the permanent magnets are arranged so that they face opposite poles of the magnetic ring 22b.

[0065] In the example according to Fig. In 10b, the upper permanent magnet 25-1b points to an N-pole segment of the magnet ring 22b, whereas the right permanent magnet 25-2b points to an S-pole segment of the magnet ring 22b. In a stationary (= "locked") state, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 10b, the upper magnet is repelled by the magnetic ring. It is therefore in its far end position. The right permanent magnet 25-2b is attracted by the magnetic ring 22b and is in its near end position. The attractive force between the magnetic ring 22b and the right permanent magnet 25-2b acts as a detent torque and holds the magnetic ring 22b, and thus the rotary switch, in the position shown. The repulsive force of the upper permanent magnet 25-1b opposes the detent torque; however, since the upper magnet is located further away from the magnetic ring 22b and the force decreases exponentially with increasing distance, the attractive force of the right permanent magnet 25-2b predominates, so that the rotary switch is reliably held in position.

[0066] When the rotary switch is turned one segment, the one in Fig. 10b upper permanent magnet 25-1b attracts one of the S-pole segments of the magnet ring 22b and moves into its near end position, whereas the in Fig. 10b right-hand permanent magnet 25-2b generates a repulsive force and moves to its distant end position.

[0067] This allows a number of locking positions to be provided, corresponding to the number of segments of the magnetic ring 22b.

[0068] According to the in Fig. In the third variant shown in Figure 10c, a permanent magnet 25c is provided which is fixed in all translational directions, but rotatably mounted about an axis arranged between the poles of the permanent magnet 25c. In the first illustration according to Fig. At position 10c, the S-pole of the permanent magnet 25c is opposite the N-pole of a segment of the magnetic ring, so that the permanent magnet 25c and the magnetic ring 22c attract each other. This generates a detent torque, which fixes the rotary switch in this position. If the magnetic ring 22c is now rotated by the operator, as shown in the second and third illustrations of Fig. As shown in Figure 10c, the permanent magnet 25c also rotates around its axis of rotation until the corresponding opposite poles are opposite each other upon a further rotation of the magnetic ring 22c. This results in detent positions corresponding to the number of segments of the magnetic ring 22c.

[0069] In Fig.Figure 10d shows a fourth variant. Instead of a permanent magnet, a ferromagnetic, non-magnetized element 25d is positioned near the magnetic ring 22d. In this case, the ferromagnetic element 25d is attracted to the poles of the segments of the magnetic ring 22d, thus generating haptic feedback for the operator and a detent torque for the rotary switch. This results in detent positions corresponding to the number of segments of the magnetic ring 22d and a relatively cost-effective design. However, the detent force is lower than when using a permanent magnet.

[0070] According to further modifications, detent stages, detent torque and tactile feedback can also be implemented mechanically in known ways, e.g. by spring elements, ball detents or similar. 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] CN 209 996 059 U

[0006] EP 3 747 325 A1

[0008]

Claims

[1] Kitchen appliance (100), comprising - a housing (101) with a control element (10), wherein the control element (10) has a rotatable rotary switch (20), the rotary switch (20) comprising a rotationally fixed magnetic ring (22, 22a-22d) with segments of alternating polarity, and - a sensor arrangement (16) for detecting a magnetic field of the magnetic ring (22, 22a-22d). [2] Kitchen appliance (100) according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic ring (22) is made in one piece. [3] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic ring (22, 22a-22d) is formed from a non-magnetic base material, wherein the base material is provided with magnetizable particles, in particular iron, ferrite or neodymium-iron-boron powder. [4] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic ring (22, 22a-22d) is accommodated in a rotary switch housing (21). [5] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic ring (22, 22a-22d) has a fastening element for connecting to the rotary switch housing, in particular a snap hook or claw, a recess for receiving a snap hook or claw, one or more bores and / or threads. [6] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic ring (22, 22a-22d) has at least four segments, preferably at least six segments, more preferably at least eight segments, and particularly preferably sixteen segments. [7] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control element (10) comprises a display (12), in particular a screen or an arrangement of light elements, such as LEDs. [8] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control element (10) has a cover (11) which is preferably made of a transparent material, wherein the cover (11) is attached to the housing (101), wherein it is preferred that the cover (11) extends between the magnetic ring (22) and the sensor arrangement (16). [9] Kitchen appliance (100) according to claims 7 and 8, wherein the magnetic ring (22) is arranged in a ring shape around the display (12). [10] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor arrangement (16) comprises multiple Hall sensors or an XYZ Hall sensor, preferably that the multiple Hall sensors are bipolar Hall sensors. [11] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotary switch (20) is translationally movable. [12] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotary switch (10) is infinitely adjustable. [13] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotary switch (10) has electronic increments or haptic or kinematic detent positions. [14] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotary switch (10) provides haptic feedback when moved. [15] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of claims 1-11, wherein the magnetic field of one of the segments of the magnetic ring (22, 22a-22d) counteracts a rotational movement of the rotary switch. [16] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising one or more permanent magnets (25a, 25-1b, 25-2b, 25c), wherein the permanent magnet(s) (25a, 25-1b, 25-2b, 25c) provide a magnetic field which provides an attractive force with the magnetic field generated by the segment of the magnetic ring (22, 22a-22c). [17] Kitchen appliance (100) according to claim 16, wherein the at least one permanent magnet (25-1b, 25-2b, 25c) is translationally movable or rotatable about an axis arranged between poles of the permanent magnet. [18] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of claims 1-15, comprising a ferromagnetic, non-magnetized element (25d) adjacent to the magnetic ring (22d). [19] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor arrangement (16) is mounted on a circuit board (15) on which circuit board (15) the rotary switch (20) is movably attached. [20] Kitchen appliance (100) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control knob (102) and / or one or more switches (103, 104) for operating the kitchen appliance (100). [21] Use of the kitchen appliance (100) according to any of the preceding claims for the processing of food.

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