FOOD PREPARATION APPARATUS AND CONTROL PANEL FOR SUCH AN APPARATUS

Abstract

TITLE OF THE INVENTION: FOOD PREPARATION APPLIANCE AND CONTROL PANEL FOR SUCH AN APPLIANCE The food preparation motor appliance comprises:- a switch (12) provided with a push button (15) whose position controls the closing or opening of the switch; and- a control panel (30) comprising at least one motor start push button (10) and one motor stop push button (9). In this control panel:- the stop push button is connected to a main actuator (4) to which it transmits its translational movement so that this main actuator does not exert pressure on the switch push button and- the start push button is connected to a flexible element (5) itself connected to the main actuator so that, when the start push button is pressed, it drives this main actuator towards the switch push button.Thus, when the start push button and the stop push button are pressed simultaneously, the flexible element deforms under the action of the opposing forces exerted on the main actuator by these two push buttons, the main actuator thus moving by the sole movement caused by pressing the stop push button. Figure for abstract: Figure 4.

Description

Title of the invention: PREPARATION APPARATUS FOOD AND CONTROL PANEL FOR SUCH AN APPLIANCE Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a food preparation appliance and a control panel for such an appliance. It applies, in particular, to appliances for mixing, cutting or chopping food by a blade set in motion by an electric motor. State of the art

[0002] Machines for mixing, cutting or chopping food, in particular purees, fruits, vegetables, meats and delicatessen meats, operate on a principle which consists of driving in rotation with an electric motor at least one preparation tool in a closed container. For example, such a tool is a knife, a disc provided with sharp openings for grating or a whisk for beating food.

[0003] A problem with this type of device concerns the safety of the user, either when opening the container or if he can pass a finger, a hand or a utensil into the container, for example through a food introduction chute.

[0004] A control panel is therefore provided comprising at least one push button for controlling the stopping of the engine and one push button for controlling the operation (start) of the engine. A problem then arises in the event that one or more users simultaneously press the push button for controlling the stopping and the push button for controlling the starting of the engine. If the control panel is electronic, it is possible to provide for priority of the stopping control over the starting control. However, electronic control buttons present reliability problems in an environment of strong vibrations, splashes of food or cleaning liquids, gas emissions from food processing or other appliances present in the kitchen near the appliance in question. Presentation of the invention

[0005] According to a first aspect, the food preparation appliance which is the subject of the invention has as its principle the use of a mechanical control panel controlling at least one switch provided with a push button whose position triggers the opening or closing of this switch, and at least two control push buttons. Pressing a stop push button causes the push button to move until the switch is open. The motor is then not powered. Pressing a start push button causes a flexible element forming a spring to be pressed whose force is antagonistic to the movement caused by pressing the stop push button.

[0006] Thus, if the start push button and the stop push button are pressed simultaneously, the flexible element deforms and the switch push button is in the position controlled by the stop push button. The electric motor is therefore not powered.

[0007] Optionally, a means is provided for holding in position an actuator pressing the push button of the switch or releasing this pressure, so that the user does not have to keep pressing the start push button for the switch to remain closed and the motor of the preparation appliance to operate.

[0008] Optionally, a third impulse operation push button causes, like the start push button, the pressing of a flexible element forming a spring whose force is antagonistic to the movement caused by pressing the stop push button. Preferably, this flexible element forming a spring is common to the impulse operation push button and the start push button. This start push button has, in this case, a lock for holding in the pressed position or in the released position.

[0009] Preferably, for reasons of space requirement, cams are used so that pressing the push buttons causes a translation of a main actuator perpendicular to the movements of the control push buttons.

[0010] Preferably, the start push button drives a secondary actuator actuating the flexible spring-forming element, one end of which is connected to the main actuator.

[0011] Preferably, the impulse operation push button drives another secondary actuator pressing on the flexible spring-forming element, another end of which is connected to the main actuator.

[0012] According to a second aspect, the present invention aims at a control panel having the technical characteristics described above.

[0013] The advantages, aims and particular characteristics of this control panel being similar to those of the food preparation appliance which is the subject of the invention, they are not recalled here. Brief description of the figures

[0014] Other advantages, aims and particular characteristics of the invention will emerge from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the apparatus and of the control panel for such an apparatus, objects of the present invention, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0015] [Fig. 1] schematically represents a first particular embodiment of a two-push button control panel of a food preparation appliance, at rest,

[0016] [Fig.2] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in [Fig.l], when pressing a permanent on push button,

[0017] [Fig.3] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 1 and 2, when a stop push button is pressed,

[0018] [Fig.4] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 1 to 3, when simultaneously pressing the permanent start push button and the stop push button,

[0019] [Fig.5] schematically represents a second particular embodiment of a three-push button control panel of a food preparation appliance, at rest,

[0020] [Fig.6] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in [Fig.5], when pressing a pulse start push button,

[0021] [Fig.7] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 and 6, when pressing a permanent on push button,

[0022] [Fig.8] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 to 7, when simultaneously pressing the permanent start push button and the pulse start push button,

[0023] [Fig.9] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 to 8, when a stop push button is pressed,

[0024] [Fig. 10] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 to 9, when simultaneously pressing the stop push button and the pulse start push button,

[0025] [Fig. 11] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 to 10, when simultaneously pressing the stop push button and the permanent start push button,

[0026] [Fig. 12] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 to 11, when simultaneously pressing the stop push button, the pulse start push button and the permanent start push button,

[0027] [Fig. 13] represents, in perspective and in front view, a particular embodiment of a control panel with three push buttons which is the subject of the invention,

[0028] [Fig. 14] represents, in perspective and in rear view, the control panel illustrated in [Fig. 13],

[0029] [Fig. 15] represents, in exploded perspective and in front view, the control panel illustrated in figures 13 and 14,

[0030] [Fig. 16] shows, in exploded perspective and in front view, push buttons of the control panel illustrated in figures 13 to 15,

[0031] [Fig. 17] represents, in perspective and in front view, the push buttons of the control panel illustrated in figures 13 to 16,

[0032] [Fig. 18] schematically represents a third particular embodiment of a three-push-button control panel which is the subject of the invention,

[0033] [Fig. 19] schematically represents a fourth particular embodiment of a three-push-button control panel which is the subject of the invention, and

[0034] [Fig.20] represents, in perspective, a particular embodiment of a device food preparation method which is the subject of the invention. Description of the embodiments

[0035] The present description is given without limitation, each characteristic of an embodiment being able to be combined with any other characteristic of any other embodiment in an advantageous manner.

[0036] It should be noted from now on that figures 1 to 12, 18 and 19 are not to scale, but that figures 13 to 17 and 20 are to scale.

[0037] As understood from the present description, various inventive concepts may be implemented by one or more methods or devices described below, several examples of which are provided herein. The actions or steps performed in carrying out the method or device may be ordered in any suitable manner. Accordingly, it is possible to construct embodiments in which the actions or steps are performed in a different order than illustrated, which may include performing certain acts simultaneously, even if they are presented as sequential acts in the illustrated embodiments.

[0038] The expression "and / or", as used herein, is to be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements which are present conjunctively in some cases and disjunctively in other cases. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" are to be interpreted in the same way, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present, other than the elements specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, whether or not they are related to these specifically identified elements.Thus, by way of non-limiting example, a reference to "A and / or B", when used in conjunction with open language such as "comprising" may refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

[0039] As used herein in the description, "or" is to be understood inclusively.

[0040] As used herein, the term "at least one," with reference to a list of one or more elements, is to be understood to mean at least one element selected from one or more elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each element specifically listed in the list of elements and not excluding any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows for the optional presence of elements other than the specifically identified elements in the list of elements to which the term "at least one" refers, whether or not related to those specifically identified elements.Thus, by way of non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B", or, equivalently, "at least one of A and / or B") may refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, without B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, without A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

[0041] In the description below, all transitional expressions such as "comprising", "including", "carrying", "having", "containing", "involving", "holding", "consisting of", and the like, are to be understood as open, i.e., as meaning including, but not limited to. Only the transitional expressions "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" are to be understood as closed or semi-closed transitional expressions, respectively.

[0042] Throughout the description, "top" or "upper" refers to that which is at the top when the device is operating, and "bottom" or "lower" refers to that which is at the bottom when the device is operating.

[0043] In the schematic figures 1 to 12, 18 and 19, the crosses formed by two diagonal lines signify a mechanical blocking between two elements. For example, in [Fig.l], the numerical references 1, 1A and 13 relate to bodies fixed relative to each other. Two short bars parallel to each other, surrounding a longer bar in the center, all three crossed by a short bar oblique to these three parallel bars represent a sliding connection. For example, in [Fig.l], the numerical references 20 to 24 relate to sliding connections, respectively between the groups of bodies {1; 4], {1; 6], {1; 4], {1; 9} and {1; 10}.

[0044] Two parallel diagonal lines represent a cam. For example, in [Fig.l], the reference numerals 25 and 26 relate to cams, respectively between the groups of bodies {4; 9} and {6; 10}.

[0045] Figures 1 to 4 show the first particular embodiment of a control panel 30 for a switch 12, comprising two push buttons. The push button 9 is used to control the stopping of an appliance, i.e. the opening of a circuit comprising the switch 12. The push button 10 is used to control the operation of an appliance, i.e. the closing of the circuit comprising the switch 12. The appliance in question is, for example, a food preparation appliance, such as the food preparation appliance 80 illustrated in [Fig. 20].

[0046] The control panel 30 comprises a body 1 containing actuating mechanisms linked to the push buttons 9 and 10. The body 13 of the switch 12 is fixed relative to the body 1. For example, an optional intermediate body 1A is fixed on the one hand to the body 1 of the control panel 30 and, on the other hand, to the body 13 of the switch 12. The switch 12 comprises a common contact 16 and a normally open contact 17. Optionally, the switch 12 also comprises a normally closed contact 18. When a push button 15 of the switch 12 is pressed, a contactor 19 makes electrical contact between the common contact 16 and the normally open contact 17. When this pressure is released, a spring 14 internal to the switch 12 returns the push button 15 which drives the contactor 19 which then opens the electrical connection between the common contact 16 and normally open contact 17.In this situation, if the switch 12 also includes a normally closed contact 18, the contactor 19 makes electrical contact between the common contact 16 and this normally closed contact 18.

[0047] The stop push button 9 is held by a sliding connection 23 and is associated with a spring 8A which returns it to a position remote from the body 1 when no pressure is exerted on its front face (at the bottom in figures 1 to 4), as illustrated in [Fig.l]. The start push button 10 is held by a sliding connection 24 and is associated with a spring 8B which returns it to a position remote from the body 1 when no pressure is exerted on its front face, as illustrated in [Fig.l].

[0048] The body 1 also comprises a main actuator 4 mounted on at least one sliding connection, 20 and 22, a secondary operating actuator 6 mounted on a sliding connection 21, a secondary actuator spring 5, two cams 25 and 26 associated respectively with the push buttons 9 and 10, a lock 3 and a spring 2 for holding the lock 3 in position. Their actions and movements are described with reference to figures 2 to 4.

[0049] When an operator presses the single start push button 10, as illustrated by an arrow in [Fig.2], the cam 26 moves the secondary actuator 6 towards the push button 15 of the switch 12, by means of the spring 5. The stiffness and the preload of the spring 5 are, relative to those of the spring 14, sufficient for the movement of the secondary actuator 6 under the action of pressing the push button 10 and the cam 26 causes a movement of the main actuator 4 and the switch pusher of sufficient amplitude to close the switch 12.

[0050] The relationships between the stiffnesses and the prestresses of the different flexible elements are described at the end of the description of the first two embodiments.

[0051] The lock 3 then locks the position of the secondary actuator 6 under the action of the spring 2. We observe, in [Fig.2], that the two parts of the cam 25 associated with the push button 9 then face each other.

[0052] Then, when an operator presses the single stop push button 9, as illustrated by an arrow in [Fig.3], the cam 25 moves the main actuator 4 away from the push button 15 of the switch 12. The spring 14 then reopens the switch 12. The spring 5 then moves the secondary actuator 6 away from the push button 15 of the switch 12. The lock 3 then locks the position of the secondary actuator 6 under the action of the spring 2. The control panel 30 then returns to its rest configuration illustrated in [Fig.l].

[0053] If an operator simultaneously presses the stop push button 9 and the start push button 10, as illustrated by two arrows in [Fig. 4], the cam 26 causes the secondary actuator 6 to move towards the push button 15 of the switch 12. Simultaneously, the cam 25 causes the main actuator 4 to be kept away from the push button 15 or the main actuator 4 to move away from the push button 15, depending on the initial position of this main actuator 4. Due to the respective positions of the main actuator 4 and the secondary actuator 6, the spring 5 is compressed. The switch 12 is then in the open position. The lock 3 then locks the position of the secondary actuator 6 under the action of the spring 2.

[0054] As can be understood from reading the preceding description, for the control panel 30, there are the following four configurations, corresponding respectively to figures 1 to 4, represented in a table in which the states of the push buttons 9 and 10 are represented by "0" when no pressure is exerted on their front face and "1" when such pressure is exerted:

[0055] [Tableauxl] Figure Push button 10 state Push button 9 state Switch 12 state 1 0 0 Stop at rest 2 1 0 On (stable after release of push button 10) 3 0 1 Forced stop (stable after release of push button 9) 4 1 1 Forced stop despite pressing push button 10 (Priority stop).

[0056] Figures 5 to 12 show the second particular embodiment of a control panel 40 for a switch 12, comprising three push buttons. In addition to the push buttons 9 and 10 already described, a push button 11 is used to control the operation of an appliance by impulse, i.e. only when pressure is exerted on its front face. Again, the appliance in question is, for example, a food preparation appliance, such as the food preparation appliance 80 illustrated in [Fig. 20].

[0057] In addition to the elements already presented with regard to figures 1 to 4, which retain their numerical references, the body 1 comprises a sliding connection 27 in which slides a part of the push button 11, a cam 28 associated with the push button 11 and a spring 8C returning the push button 11 to its rest position in the absence of pressure on its front surface. In addition, a secondary impulse actuator 7, mounted on a sliding connection 29, is substantially aligned with the secondary operating actuator 6 and is located in an intermediate position between the spring 5 and the secondary operating actuator 6.

[0058] In the rest configuration illustrated in [Fig.5], the switch 12 is open, the secondary operating actuator 6 is locked in its position remote from the push button 15 of the switch 12, by the lock 3.

[0059] When an operator presses the single impulse start push button 11, as illustrated by an arrow in [Fig. 6], the cam 28 moves the secondary impulse actuator 7 towards the spring 5. This causes the push button 15 to be pressed, via the spring 5 and the main actuator 4. The secondary start actuator 6 then remains in the position away from the switch 12, under the effect of the latch 3. As soon as the operator releases his pressure on the front face of the push button 11, the spring 14 causes the switch 12 to open and the main actuator 4 to move away from the switch 12. Simultaneously, the spring 5 pushes the secondary impulse actuator 7 into a position away from the switch 12.

[0060] When an operator presses the single start push button 10, as illustrated by an arrow in [Fig.7], the cam 26 moves the secondary start actuator 6 and the secondary impulse actuator 7 towards the spring 5. This causes the push button 15 to be pressed, via the spring 5 and the main actuator 4. The secondary start actuator 6 then remains in the position close to the switch 12, under the effect of the lock 3, even if the operator releases his pressure on the front face of the start push button 10. The switch 12 therefore remains in the closed position.

[0061] Similarly, when an operator simultaneously presses the start push button 10 and the pulse start push button 11, as illustrated by two arrows in [Fig.8], the cam 26 moves the secondary start actuator 6 and the cam 28 moves the secondary pulse actuator 7 towards the spring 5. This causes the push button 15 to be pressed, via the spring 5 and the main actuator 4. The secondary start actuator 6 then remains in the position close to the switch 12, under the effect of the lock 3, even if the operator releases his pressure on the front face of the start push button 10 and / or the pulse start push button 11. The switch 12 therefore remains in the closed position.

[0062] Starting from one of the configurations described with reference to Figures 7 and 8, when an operator presses the single stop push button 9, as illustrated by an arrow in [Fig.9], the cam 25 moves the main actuator 4 away from the push button 15 of the switch 12. The spring 14 then reopens the switch 12. The spring 5 then moves the secondary actuator 7 and, via it, the secondary actuator 6 away from the switch 12. The lock 3 then locks the position of the secondary actuator 6 under the action of the spring 2. The control panel 30 then returns to its rest configuration illustrated in [Fig.5].

[0063] If an operator simultaneously presses the stop push button 9 and the pulse start push button 11, as illustrated by two arrows in [Fig. 10], the cam 28 causes the secondary pulse actuator 7 to move towards the push button 15 of the switch 12. Simultaneously, the cam 25 causes the main actuator 4 to be kept away from the push button 15 or the main actuator 4 to move away from the push button 15, depending on the initial position of this main actuator 4. Due to the respective positions of the main actuator 4 and the secondary actuator 7, the spring 5 is compressed. The switch 12 is then in the open position. The lock 3 then locks the position of the secondary actuator 6 under the action of the spring 2.

[0064] If an operator simultaneously presses the stop pushbutton 9 and the start pushbutton 10, as illustrated by two arrows in [Fig.l 1], the cam 26 causes the secondary actuator 6 and the secondary impulse actuator 7 to move towards the pusher 15 of the switch 12. Simultaneously, the cam 25 causes the main actuator 4 to be kept away from the pusher 15 or the main actuator 4 to move away from the pusher 15, depending on the initial position of this main actuator 4. Due to the respective positions of the main actuator 4 and the secondary actuator 6, the spring 5 is compressed. The switch 12 is then in the open position.

[0065] If an operator simultaneously presses the stop pushbutton 9, the start pushbutton 10 and the pulse start pushbutton 11, as illustrated by three arrows in [Fig. 12], the cam 26 and the cam 28 cause the secondary actuator 6 and the secondary pulse actuator 7 to move towards the pushbutton 15 of the switch 12. Simultaneously, the cam 25 causes the main actuator 4 to be kept away from the pushbutton 15 or the main actuator 4 to be moved away from the pushbutton 15, depending on the initial position of this main actuator 4. Due to the respective positions of the main actuator 4 and the secondary actuator 7, the spring 5 is compressed. The switch 12 is then in the open position.

[0066] As understood from reading the preceding description, for the control panel 40, there are the following eight configurations, corresponding respectively to figures 5 to 12, represented in the following table, in which the states of the push buttons 9, 10 and 11 are represented by "0" when no pressure is exerted on their front face and "1" when such pressure is exerted:

[0067] [Tables2] Figure Push button status 11 Push button status 10 Push button status 9 Switch status 12 5 0 0 0 Stop at rest 6 1 0 0 Pulse (stop after releasing push button 11) 7 0 1 0 On (stable after releasing push button 10) 8 1 1 0 On (stable after releasing push button 11 and / or push button 10) 9 0 0 1 Forced stop (stable after releasing push button 9) 10 1 0 1 Forced stop despite pressing push button 11 (Priority stop). 11 0 1 1 Forced stop despite pressing push button 10 (Priority stop). 12 1 1 1 Forced stop despite pressing push buttons 10 and 11 (Priority stop).

[0068] Although only one switch 12 is shown in the figures, the present invention also applies to the control of several switches 12 linked to the body 1 so that the main actuator 4 acts simultaneously on each of the pushers 15 of said switches 12.

[0069] Although the switch 12 is shown in the figures with a common contact associated with a normally open contact and a normally closed contact, the present invention applies equally well to the control of a switch 12 comprising a common contact associated only with a normally open contact.

[0070] Although the switch 12 is shown in the figures with a common contact associated with a normally open contact, and where appropriate also with a normally closed contact, the present invention applies equally well to the control of a switch 12 comprising several common contacts each associated with its own normally open contact and, optionally, each associated or not with its own normally closed contact, each of the common contacts being able to be electrically connected alternately to its normally open contact and to its normally closed contact when there are, by as many movable contactors, all moved simultaneously by the movement of a common pusher.

[0071] Relationships between the forces provided by the springs

[0072] a) Springs 8A, 8B and where appropriate 8C, of ​​push buttons 9, 10 and 11.

[0073] Preferably, the push buttons 9, 10 and 11 are of identical geometry except for their raised identification pattern 31, 33, and 35 on the insert (see figures 16 and 17). Preferably, the springs 8A, 8B and where appropriate 8C, used for the push buttons are identical. We then speak indifferently of the push button spring 8. Preferably, the push button spring 8 is made of stainless spring steel to withstand the environmental constraints of the food preparation appliance, in particular humidity. The stiffness of this spring 8 and its preload at rest are chosen to provide a suitable return force for the corresponding push button and to give the user a sensory effect appropriate to the field of use of the appliance. The force produced by the spring 8 on the push button at rest and that produced on the pressed push button are preferably set between 2 and 10 newtons.However, values ​​outside these limits, particularly the upper limits, are suitable without any problem. The imperative characteristic is that the push button returns completely to its rest position when the user no longer presses on its front face, taking into account the effects of friction linked to the materials in contact, their aging and possible fouling. Apart from this single characteristic, the operation of the system is independent of the stiffness, the preload and the action of this spring 8. .

[0074] b) Spring 14 of switch 12.

[0075] The characteristics of the spring 14 of the switch 12 are defined by the manufacturer of the switch 12, or of the switches where applicable. Commonly, the manufacturers concerned offer several levels of forces provided by this spring 14 allowing a choice depending on the application. Preferably this force is one newton or three newtons for a switch electrically adapted to the starting of the motor of the food preparation appliance such as the food preparation appliance 80 illustrated in [Fig.20].

[0076] Notoriously different values, lower or higher, can be chosen depending on the electrical power to be switched by the switch 12 and / or the need to guarantee perfectly stable states in the presence of vibrations, for example.

[0077] In all cases, once switch 12 has been chosen, the characteristics of the spring of switch 14: - determine the force that the main actuator 4 must provide on the push button 15 of the switch 12 to change state of its contact, from rest (common contact 16 electrically isolated from the normally open contact 17) to work (common contact 16 electrically connected to the normally open contact 17) and thus switch the motor from the stop state to the run state, respectively; - must produce sufficient force to return the main actuator 4 and, where applicable, the secondary Impulse actuator 7, from an active position to their rest position, when the user releases any action on the push buttons, taking into account the effects of friction linked to the materials in contact, their aging and their possible fouling; - condition the relative dimensions, shapes and characteristics of the latch spring 2, the latch 3 and the secondary operating actuator 6, so that the action of the latch 3 on the secondary operating actuator 6, resulting from that of the latch spring 2 on the latch 3, guarantees a stable operating state after the operating push button 10 has been pressed and then released.

[0078] In other words, the force produced by the spring 14 of the switch 12 must not be greater in the direction of movement of the main actuator 4 than the retaining force in this direction that the lock 3 under the effect of the lock spring 2 produces on the secondary operating actuator 6.

[0079] c) Secondary actuator spring 5.

[0080] The stiffness of this spring 5 and its preload at rest are chosen to provide an initial force several times greater than the nominal force of the spring 14 of the switch 12. Preferably, the ratio is 2 to 5 times greater. A higher value may be chosen to take into account the evolution of the friction between the main actuator 4 and the body 1, due for example to the aging of the materials and / or the fouling of the system.

[0081] In all cases, the pre-stressing force produced by the secondary actuator spring 5 must be sufficiently high so that, under the effect of the movement of the secondary actuator 6 or 7, when pressing the on push button 10 or where appropriate when pressing the impulse push button 11, in opposition to the resistance created by the spring 14 of the switch 12, the secondary actuator spring 5 does not undergo additional crushing so that the travel produced on the main actuator 4 is sufficient to change the state of the contact of the switch 12, from rest to work.

[0082] d) Lock spring 2.

[0083] The stiffness of this spring 2 and its prestress are chosen mainly so that the lock 3 maintains the secondary actuator 6 in a stable position when the system is in operating condition and the operating push button 10 has been released, while the spring 14 of the switch 12 opposes this state.

[0084] The action of the latch spring 2 is exerted essentially in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the slide of the secondary actuator 6 and is converted into a force parallel to this direction, by a cam effect between the lock 3 and the secondary actuator 6, which thus directly opposes the force produced by the spring 14 of the switch 12, to maintain the stable operating state.

[0085] The relative dimensions of the cam between the latch 3 and the secondary actuator 6, combined with the characteristics of the latch spring 2, are chosen so that the force produced by the secondary actuator 6 in opposition to the force of the spring 14 of the switch 12, is significantly greater than the latter, after taking into account the friction between the moving parts, their aging and their possible fouling. Preferably, the ratio between these two forces is greater than 2.

[0086] Secondarily and optionally, the lock spring 2 acts on the lock 3 which maintains by a cam effect the secondary actuator 6 in a stable position when the system is in the stopped state at rest.

[0087] Preferably, the two cams of the secondary actuator 6 are identical, but the cam of the secondary actuator 6 which maintains the stability of the system in the stopped state at rest, may simply not exist. The stability is then less strong, but it is sufficiently ensured by the action of the spring 14 of the switch 2 combined with the action of the friction between the moving parts.

[0088] Angles of cams 25, 26 and 28 between push buttons 9, 10 and 11 and the actuators.

[0089] When the user presses a push button 9, 10 or 11, the latter moves in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the slide between the main actuator 4 and the body 1 and this movement imposes a movement parallel to this direction, of the main actuator 4 or of the secondary actuator 6 or 7 depending on the case, by the cam connection 25, 26 or 28 which exists between the push button 9, 10 or 11 and the actuator in question.

[0090] The angle between the direction of movement of the push button and the direction of movement of the actuators is chosen in order to convert the desired stroke for the push button into the necessary stroke of the main actuator 4 in order to control the change of state of the contact of the switch 12 from rest to work.

[0091] Preferably the travel of the push buttons is set between 2 and 8 millimeters. Commonly, the switches 12 adapted to start the motor of a food preparation appliance have a travel of approximately 2 to 4 millimeters measured according to the movement of the push button 15 of the switch 12.

[0092] Thus, for a push button travel set, for example, at 5 mm and with a switch 12 whose travel is 3 mm, the angle described above is 31 degrees. More generally, this angle can be chosen between 25 and 50 degrees to adapt the ratio between the two travels considered, while taking into account the coefficients of friction between the moving parts and in particular between the cams, to avoid any risk of jamming or buckling.

[0093] Figures 13 to 15 show the elements described with reference to Figures 5 to 12, in the form of a particular implementation of the second embodiment of the control panel which is the subject of the invention.

[0094] It can be seen in Figures 16 and 17 that the push buttons 9, 10 and 11 preferably comprise an insert 38, ensuring the transmission of a translational movement to a member of the control panel. Each insert 38 carries a raised pattern, 31, 33 and 35, on its front face on which a user's finger can press. The push buttons 9, 10 and 11 also comprise a front face, respectively 32, 34 and 36, overmolded on these inserts 38 and surrounding these raised patterns 31, 33 and 35, as illustrated in [Fig. 17].

[0095] Preferably, and as is the case in figures 16 and 17, the overmolded front face, 32, 34 and 36, comprises a flat face on which the relief pattern 31, 33 and 35 is flush.

[0096] Preferably, and as is the case for the push buttons shown in figures 16 and 17, the overmolded front face 32, 34 and 36 only partially covers the front face of the insert 38, the relief pattern 31, 33 and 35 then remaining visible on this front face.

[0097] Preferably the color of the material of the overmolded front face 32, 34 and 36 contrasts with the color of the material of the insert 38 and therefore of the relief pattern 31, 33 and 35 to increase the readability of said pattern.

[0098] Preferably the color of the material of the overmolded front face 32, 34 and 36 is conventionally chosen in accordance respectively with the Stop, Start and Pulse function, respectively of the push button 9; 10 and 11, for example red for stop, green for start and black for pulse.

[0099] In the examples of figures 16 and 17, the relief pattern 31, 33 or 35 forms an arc of a circle (push buttons 9 and 11) and / or at least one straight line segment (push buttons 10 and 11). This pattern can thus represent at least one symbol, standardized signage and / or a letter, for example.

[0100] In the case where, on the front face of the insert 38, the relief pattern 31, 33 or 35 does not surround any part of the front face of the push button, as is the case with the relief pattern 33 formed by the push button 10, it is not necessary to provide a channel for the overmolding to fill such an isolated part. On the other hand, when an isolated part, such as the central part of the front face of the insert 38 of the push button 9, is surrounded by a relief pattern 31 of this insert 38, at least one channel 37 for the passage of molten overmolding material is provided through the insert 38 to reach this isolated part. In the case of the insert 38 of the push button 11, three parts of the front face are isolated by the relief pattern 35. Each of these parts corresponds to at least at least one channel 37 between the front face and a more central part of the insert 38. Thus, after hardening of the material, molten during overmolding, all parts of the overmolded front face 36 are anchored in the insert 38 of the push button 11.

[0101] Preferably, the insert 38 of each push button is made of molded material and the material of the overmolded front face has a melting temperature lower than the melting temperature of the material of the insert 38.

[0102] [Fig. 18] schematically represents a third particular embodiment of a control panel 60 with three push buttons which is the subject of the invention. The mechanical components functionally corresponding to mechanical components of the second embodiment 40 have a numerical reference increased by forty.

[0103] The operation of this third embodiment is similar to that of the second embodiment, except that no cam is implemented. However, in this third embodiment, the translational movements of the push buttons 50 and 51 transmitted to the spring 45 are parallel and not aligned as in the second embodiment 40. The main actuator 44 performs a rotational movement around a pivot connection 59 and not a translational movement, as in the second embodiment 40. The rest position of the main actuator 44 is shown in a solid line. The position of the main actuator 44 when at least one of the push buttons 50 and 51 is pressed, in the absence of pressure on the push button 49, is shown in a broken line.

[0104] It is easily understood, in view of [Fig. 18], that pressing the stop push button 49 has priority over pressing one of the push buttons 50 and 51, thanks to the presence of the spring 45 which deforms when the push button 49 and at least one of the push buttons 50 and 51 are pressed simultaneously.

[0105] [Fig. 19] schematically represents a fourth particular embodiment of a control panel 70 with three push buttons which is the subject of the invention. The mechanical components functionally corresponding to mechanical components of the third embodiment 60 retain the same numerical references.

[0106] The operation of this fourth embodiment is similar to that of the third embodiment, except that two pivot links 61 and 63, as well as a bidirectional cam link 62, are implemented and that the stop push button 49 is interposed between the push buttons 50 and 51. Furthermore, in this fourth embodiment, there is a spring 45 for each of the push buttons 50 and 51.

[0107] The main actuator 64 consists of two rods connected by the bidirectional cam link 62, each of the rods being mounted on one of the pivot links 61 and 63. The rest position of the main actuator 64 is shown in a solid line. position of the main actuator 64 when at least one of the push buttons 50 and 51 is pressed, in the absence of pressing the push button 49, is shown in broken lines.

[0108] It is easily understood, in view of [Fig. 19], that pressing the stop push button 49 has priority over pressing one of the push buttons 50 and 51, thanks to the presence of the springs 45 which deform when pressing the push button 49 and at least one of the push buttons 50 and 51 simultaneously.

[0109] In [Fig.20], we observe a food preparation appliance 80 comprising a control panel 40 as described above. In a known manner and as shown in [Fig.20], the appliance 80 comprises a casing 71 containing a motor 72 for driving a shaft rotating around an axis of rotation. On this shaft is mounted, in an internal tank 76, at least one food preparation tool 77, for example a rotating disk, a knife or mixer whisks. The appliance 80 comprises a cover 73 giving access to the tank 76.

[0110] As explained with reference to Figures 5 to 17, in the control panel 40, the start push button 10 allows the motor 72 to be activated continuously after pressing this push button. The stop push button 9 allows this motor 72 to be stopped. The pulse operation push button 11 allows the motor 72 to be activated for the duration of pressing this push button 11. As explained above, pressing the stop push button 9 has priority over pressing one and / or the other of the push buttons 10 and 11. Summary of the invention

[0111] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of the drawbacks of the prior art.

[0112] To this end, according to a first aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus

[0113] with a food preparation motor comprising: - a housing containing a tool drive motor, - a switch equipped with a push button whose position controls the closing or opening of the switch, and - a control panel comprising at least one engine start push button and one engine stop push button, control panel in which: - the stop push button is connected to a main actuator to which it transmits its translational movement so that this main actuator does not exert pressure on the switch push button and - the start push button is connected to a flexible element itself connected to the main actuator so that, when the start push button is pressed, it causes this main actuator to the switch pusher;

[0114] in such a way that in the event of simultaneous pressing of the start push button and the stop push button, the flexible element deforms under the action of the opposing forces exerted on the main actuator by these two push buttons, the main actuator thus moving by the sole movement caused by pressing the stop push button.

[0115] Thanks to these provisions, pressing the stop push button takes priority over pressing the start push button, i.e. if these two push buttons are pressed simultaneously, the motor of the device stops.

[0116] In embodiments, the main actuator is mounted on at least one slide connection, the stop push button is connected to the main actuator by a cam and the start push button is connected to a secondary actuator parallel to the main actuator and mounted on at least one slide connection, the secondary actuator being connected to the flexible element.

[0117] Thanks to these arrangements, the size of the control panel is reduced, in particular in the direction perpendicular to the bearing faces on the push buttons.

[0118] In embodiments, the flexible element is a helical spring resting on a lateral arm of the main actuator. The compression of this helical spring is thus linear.

[0119] In embodiments, the control panel includes a lock configured to hold the main actuator in position after pressing the single start push button.

[0120] Thanks to these arrangements, the user does not need to keep the start push button pressed for the motor to operate continuously.

[0121] In embodiments, the control panel further comprises a so-called "impulse" push button for controlling the starting of the motor only while this push button is pressed, this impulse push button being connected to the flexible element itself connected to the main actuator so that, when the impulse push button is pressed, it drives this main actuator towards the switch push button.

[0122] Thanks to these provisions, while maintaining the priority of pressing the stop push button, the user is allowed to operate the motor of the device intermittently, when pressing the pulse push button, without pressing one of the other two push buttons.

[0123] In embodiments, the impulse push button is connected, via a cam, to a secondary impulse actuator parallel to the main actuator and mounted on at least one slide connection, the actuator secondary impulse actuator being positioned between the secondary walking actuator and the flexible element and being set in motion both by a movement of the secondary walking actuator following a press on the walking push button and by the movement of the cam of the impulse push button.

[0124] Thanks to these arrangements, the two secondary actuators are substantially aligned and the construction of the control panel is simplified.

[0125] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a control panel for a predetermined food preparation motor appliance comprising: - a housing containing a tool drive motor, and - a switch equipped with a push button whose position controls the closing or opening of the switch, the control panel comprising at least one engine start push button and one engine stop push button.

[0126] In this control panel: - the stop push button is connected to a main actuator to which it transmits its translational movement so that this main actuator does not exert pressure on the switch push button and - the start push button is connected to a flexible element itself connected to the main actuator so that, when the start push button is pressed, this main actuator is driven towards the switch push button;

[0127] in such a way that in the event of simultaneous pressing of the start push button and the stop push button, the flexible element deforms under the action of the opposing forces exerted on the main actuator by these two push buttons, the main actuator thus moving by the sole movement caused by pressing the stop push button.

[0128] The advantages, aims and particular characteristics of this control panel being similar to those of the food preparation appliance as succinctly described above, they are not recalled here.

[0129] The advantages, aims and particular characteristics of this control panel being similar to those of the food preparation appliance as succinctly described above, they are not recalled here.

Claims

Claims

1. Motor-driven appliance (80) for preparing food comprising: - a casing (71) containing a motor (72) for driving a tool, and - a switch (12) provided with a push button (15) whose position controls the closing or opening of the switch; characterized in that it further comprises a control panel (30, 40, 60, 70) comprising at least one engine start push button (10, 50) and one engine stop push button (9, 49), control panel in which: - the stop push button is connected to a main actuator (4, 44) to which it transmits its translational movement so that this main actuator does not exert pressure on the switch push button and - the start push button is connected to a flexible element (5, 45) itself connected to the main actuator so that, when the start push button is pressed, it drives this main actuator towards the switch push button;in such a way that in the event of simultaneous pressing of the start push button and the stop push button, the flexible element deforms under the action of the opposing forces exerted on the main actuator by these two push buttons, the main actuator thus moving solely by the movement caused by pressing the stop push button.;

2. Apparatus (80) according to claim 1, wherein the main actuator (4) is mounted on at least one slide connection (20, 22), the stop push button (9) is connected to the main actuator by a cam (25) and the start push button (10) is connected to a secondary actuator (6) parallel to the main actuator and mounted on at least one slide connection (21), the secondary actuator being connected to the flexible element (5).

3. Apparatus (80) according to one of claims 1 or 2, in which the flexible element (5) is a helical spring bearing on a lateral arm of the main actuator (4).

4. Apparatus (80) according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the control panel (30, 40) comprises a lock (3) configured to hold the main actuator (4) in position after pressing the single start push button (10).

5. Apparatus (80) according to one of claims 1 to 4, in which the control panel (40) further comprises a push button (11) called a “pulse” button for controlling the starting of the motor (72).

6.

7. only during a press on this push button, this impulse push button being connected to the flexible element (5, 53) itself connected to the main actuator (4) to, when the impulse push button is pressed, drive this main actuator towards the push button (15) of the switch (12). Apparatus (80) according to claims 2 and 5, wherein the impulse push button (11) is connected, via a cam (28) to a secondary impulse actuator (7) parallel to the main actuator (4) and mounted on at least one sliding connection (29), the secondary impulse actuator (7) being positioned between the secondary operating actuator (6) and the flexible element (5) and being set in motion both by a movement of the secondary operating actuator (6) following a press on the operating push button and by the movement of the cam of the impulse push button (11). Control panel (30, 40, 60, 70) of a predetermined food preparation motor appliance (80) comprising: - a casing (71) containing a motor (72) for driving a tool, and - a switch (12) provided with a push button (15) whose position controls the closing or opening of the switch, the control panel comprising at least one start push button (10, 50) for the motor and one stop push button (9, 49) for the motor, the control panel being characterized in that: - the stop push button is connected to a main actuator (4, 44) to which it transmits its translational movement so that this main actuator does not exert pressure on the switch push button and - the start push button is connected to a flexible element (5, 45) itself connected to the main actuator so that, when the start push button is pressed, it drives this main actuator towards the switch push button; such that when the start push button and the stop push button are pressed simultaneously, the flexible element deforms under the action of the opposing forces exerted on the main actuator by these two push buttons, the main actuator thus moving solely by the movement caused by pressing the stop push button.

Images