FOOD PREPARATION APPLIANCE AND PUSH BUTTON FOR SUCH AN APPLIANCE

Abstract

TITLE OF THE INVENTION: FOOD PREPARATION APPLIANCE AND CONTROL PUSH-BUTTON FOR SUCH AN APPLIANCE. The motorized food preparation appliance comprises: - a housing containing a motor for driving a tool, - a switch equipped with a push button whose position controls the opening or closing of the switch, and - a control panel comprising at least one start push button (10) for the motor and one stop push button (9) for the motor. At least one push button comprises: - an insert (38) ensuring the transmission of a translational movement to a component of the appliance and having a raised motif (31, 33, 35) on its front face, which can be pressed by a user's finger, and - a front face (32, 34, 36) overmolded onto this insert and surrounding this raised motif. Figure for the abstract: Figure 16

Description

Title of the invention: FOOD PREPARATION APPLIANCE AND BUTTON- PUSH BUTTON FOR SUCH A DEVICE Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a food preparation apparatus and a push button for such an apparatus. It applies, in particular, to apparatus for mixing, cutting or chopping food by means of a blade driven by an electric motor. State of the art

[0002] Another technical problem concerns the design of the control pushbuttons for a food preparation appliance. These pushbuttons must bear markings, for example a color and a pattern, allowing the user to immediately identify the function associated with pressing these buttons, typically starting or stopping the motor. These markings are usually applied to the pushbuttons by pad printing, screen printing, or laser marking. However, the pushbuttons are subjected to substances such as grease, acidic liquids from food or condiments, and cleaning products. Furthermore, they are subject to abrasion caused by the user's fingernails, friction, abrasive products, and / or abrasive sponges. These types of pushbuttons therefore present durability problems. Presentation of the invention

[0003] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a food preparation apparatus comprising at least one control push button comprising: - an insert ensuring the transmission of a translational movement to a component of the apparatus and comprising a raised pattern on its front face on which a user's finger can press, and - a front face overmolded on this insert surrounding this raised pattern.

[0004] Preferably, the overmolded front face has a flat face on which the relief pattern is flush.

[0005] Preferably, the overmolded front face only partially covers the front face of the insert, the embossed pattern then remaining visible on this front face.

[0006] In examples, the raised motif comprises at least one arc of a circle and / or at least one straight line segment. This motif can thus represent at least one symbol, a standardized sign and / or a letter, for example.

[0007] Preferably, the insert includes at least one channel for the passage of the molten overmolding material, from a central part of the insert towards its front face, such that after hardening, the overmolded front face is anchored in the insert of the push button.

[0008] Preferably, the push-button insert is made of molded material and the overmolded front face material has a melting temperature lower than the melting temperature of the push-button insert material.

[0009] Preferably, the color of the overmolded front face material has a significant contrast with the color of the push-button insert material.

[0010] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a control push button having the technical characteristics described above.

[0011] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a control panel comprising a plurality of control pushbuttons which is the subject of the invention.

[0012] The advantages, purposes and particular characteristics of this control push button and control panel being similar to those of the food preparation apparatus which is the subject of the invention, they are not recalled here. Brief description of the figures

[0013] Other advantages, purposes and particular features of the invention will become apparent from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the apparatus and the control panel for such an apparatus, which are the subject of the present invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] [Fig. 1] schematically represents a first particular embodiment of a two-push-button control panel for a food preparation appliance, at rest,

[0015] [Fig.2] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in [Fig.1], when a permanent start push button is pressed,

[0016] [Fig.3] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 1 and 2, when a stop push button is pressed,

[0017] [Fig.4] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 1 to 3, when the permanent start push button and the stop push button are pressed simultaneously.

[0018] [Fig.5] schematically represents a second particular embodiment of a three-pushbutton control panel for a food preparation appliance, at rest,

[0019] [Fig.6] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in [Fig.5], when a pulse start push button is pressed,

[0020] [Fig.7] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 and 6, when a permanent start push button is pressed,

[0021] [Fig.8] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 to 7, when the permanent start push-button and the pulse start push-button are pressed simultaneously.

[0022] [Fig.9] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 to 8, when a stop push-button is pressed,

[0023] [Fig. 10] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 to 9, when the stop push-button and the pulse start push-button are pressed simultaneously.

[0024] [Fig. 11] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 to 10, when the stop push-button and the permanent start push-button are pressed simultaneously.

[0025] [Fig. 12] schematically represents the control panel illustrated in figures 5 to 11, when the stop push-button, the pulse start push-button and the permanent start push-button are pressed simultaneously.

[0026] [Fig. 13] represents, in perspective and front view, a particular embodiment of a control panel with three pushbuttons, which is the subject of the invention,

[0027] [Fig. 14] represents, in perspective and rear view, the control panel illustrated in [Fig. 13],

[0028] [Fig. 15] represents, in exploded perspective and front view, the control panel illustrated in figures 13 and 14,

[0029] [Fig. 16] represents, in exploded perspective and front view, pushbuttons of the control panel illustrated in figures 13 to 15,

[0030] [Fig. 17] represents, in perspective and front view, the pushbuttons of the control panel illustrated in figures 13 to 16,

[0031] [Fig. 18] schematically represents a third particular embodiment of a three-pushbutton control panel that is the subject of the invention,

[0032] [Fig. 19] schematically represents a fourth particular embodiment of a three-pushbutton control panel that is the subject of the invention, and

[0033] [Fig.20] represents, in perspective, a particular embodiment of a food preparation apparatus which is the subject of the invention. Description of the implementation methods

[0034] The present description is given by way of non-limiting grammar, each feature of an embodiment being able to be advantageously combined with any other feature of any other embodiment.

[0035] It is noted from the outset that figures 1 to 12, 18 and 19 are not to scale, but that figures 13 to 17 and 20 are to scale.

[0036] As will be understood from the present description, various inventive concepts can be implemented by one or more of the methods or devices described below, several examples of which are provided herein. The actions or steps carried out in the implementation of the method or device can be ordered in any appropriate manner. Consequently, it is possible to construct embodiments in which the actions or steps are performed in a different order than that illustrated, which may include the simultaneous execution of certain acts, even if they are presented as sequential acts in the illustrated embodiments.

[0037] The expression "and / or", as used in this document, shall be understood as meaning "either or both" of the elements thus joined, that is, elements that are present conjunctively in some cases and disjunctively in others. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" shall be interpreted in the same way, that is, "one or more" of the elements thus joined. Other elements may also be present, other than those specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, whether or not they are related to those specifically identified elements.Thus, by way of non-limiting example, a reference to "A and / or B", when used in conjunction with an open language such as "including", may refer, in one embodiment, to A only (possibly including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (possibly including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to A and B (possibly including other elements); etc.

[0038] As used herein in the description, "or" should be understood inclusively.

[0039] As used in this description, the expression "at least one," with reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood as meaning at least one element chosen from one or more elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each element specifically enumerated 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 elements specifically identified in the list of elements to which the expression "at least one" refers, whether or not they are 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, possibly including more than one, A, without B present (and possibly including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at. minus one, possibly including more than one, B, without A present (and possibly including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, at least one, possibly including more than one, A, and at least one, possibly including more than one, B (and possibly including other elements); etc.

[0040] In the description below, all transitive expressions such as "comprising", "including", "carrying", "having", "containing", "implying", "holding", "composed of", and others, should be understood as open, that is, as meaning including, but not limited to. Only the transitive expressions "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" should be understood as closed or semi-closed transitive expressions, respectively.

[0041] Throughout the description, "top" or "upper" means what is at the top when the device is operating, and "bottom" or "lower" means what is at the bottom when the device is operating.

[0042] In schematic figures 1 to 12, 18, and 19, the crosses formed by two diagonal lines signify a mechanical locking between two elements. For example, in [Fig. 1], the reference numerals 1, 1A, and 13 refer to bodies fixed relative to each other. Two parallel short bars, enclosing a longer bar in the center, all three crossed by a short bar oblique to these three parallel bars, represent a sliding joint. For example, in [Fig. 1], the reference numerals 20 to 24 refer to sliding joints, respectively between the groups of bodies {1; 4], {1; 6], {1; 4], {1; 9}, and {1; 10}.

[0043] Two parallel diagonal lines represent a cam. For example, in [Fig.1], the numerical references 25 and 26 relate to cams, respectively between the body groups {4; 9} and {6; 10}.

[0044] Figures 1 to 4 show the first particular embodiment of a control panel 30 for a switch 12, comprising two pushbuttons. Pushbutton 9 is used to control the stopping of a device, i.e., the opening of a circuit including the switch 12. Pushbutton 10 is used to control the operation of a device, i.e., the closing of the circuit including the switch 12. The device in question is, for example, a food preparation device, such as the food preparation device 80 illustrated in [Fig. 20].

[0045] The control panel 30 comprises a body 1 containing actuation mechanisms linked to the pushbuttons 9 and 10. The body 13 of the switch 12 is fixed relative to the body 1. For example, an optional intermediate body IA is fixed on one side to the body 1 of the control panel 30 and, on the other side, 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 pushbutton 15 of the switch is pressed 12, a contactor 19 makes an electrical contact between the common contact 16 and the normally open contact 17. When this press is released, a spring 14 internal to the switch 12 returns the push button 15 which drives the contactor 19, thus opening the electrical connection between the common contact 16 and the normally open contact 17. In this situation, if the switch 12 also includes a normally closed contact 18, the contactor 19 makes an electrical contact between the common contact 16 and this normally closed contact 18.

[0046] The stop push button 9 is held by a sliding linkage 23 and is associated with a spring 8A which returns it to a position away 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. 1]. The start push button 10 is held by a sliding linkage 24 and is associated with a spring 8B which returns it to a position away from the body 1 when no pressure is exerted on its front face, as illustrated in [Fig. 1].

[0047] The body 1 also includes a main actuator 4 mounted on at least one sliding link, 20 and 22, a secondary running actuator 6 mounted on a sliding link 21, a secondary actuator spring 5, two cams 25 and 26 associated respectively with pushbuttons 9 and 10, a lock 3 and a spring 2 for holding the lock 3 in position. Their actions and displacements are described with reference to figures 2 to 4.

[0048] 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, via the spring 5. The stiffness and preload of the spring 5 are, relative to those of the spring 14, sufficient so that 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 push button of the switch of sufficient amplitude to close the switch 12.

[0049] The relationships between the stiffnesses and prestresses of the different flexible elements are described at the end of the description of the first two embodiments.

[0050] 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.

[0051] Next, 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 latch 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.1].

[0052] 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 held away from the push-button 15 or moved 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 latch 3 then locks the position of the secondary actuator 6 under the action of the spring 2.

[0053] 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 pushbuttons 9 and 10 are represented by "0" when no pressure is exerted on their front face and "1" when such pressure is exerted:

[0054] [Tables 1] Figure Push-button state evening 10 Push-button state evening 9 Switch state 12 1 0 0 Off 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).

[0055] Figures 5 to 12 show the second particular embodiment of a control panel 40 for a switch 12, comprising three pushbuttons. In addition to the pushbuttons 9 and 10 already described, a pushbutton 11 is used to control the operation of a device by pulse, that is, only when its front face is pressed. Again, the device in question is, for example, a food preparation device, such as the food preparation device 80 illustrated in [Fig. 20].

[0056] In addition to the elements already shown opposite Figures 1 to 4, which retain their numerical references, the body 1 comprises a sliding joint 27 in which a portion of the push button 11 slides, a cam 28 associated with the push button 11, and a spring 8C returning the push button 11 to its rest position when no pressure is applied to its front surface. Furthermore, a secondary actuator The impulse 7, mounted on a sliding link 29, is substantially aligned with the secondary walking actuator 6 and is in an intermediate position between the spring 5 and the secondary walking actuator 6.

[0057] In the rest configuration illustrated in [Fig.5], the switch 12 is open, the secondary running actuator 6 is locked in its position away from the pusher 15 of the switch 12, by the lock 3.

[0058] When an operator presses the single pulse start pushbutton 11, as illustrated by an arrow in [Fig. 6], the cam 28 moves the secondary pulse actuator 7 towards the spring 5. This causes the pushbutton 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 their pressure on the front face of the pushbutton 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 pulse actuator 7 back into a position away from the switch 12.

[0059] When an operator presses the single start pushbutton 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 pushbutton 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 their pressure on the front face of the start pushbutton 10. The switch 12 therefore remains in the closed position.

[0060] 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 latch 3, even if the operator releases their 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.

[0061] Starting from one of the configurations described opposite 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, through it, the secondary actuator 6 to move them away from switch 12. The lock 3 then locks the position of the secondary actuator 6 under the action of spring 2. The control panel 30 then returns to its rest configuration illustrated in [Fig.5].

[0062] 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 held away from the push-button 15 or moved 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 latch 3 then locks the position of the secondary actuator 6 under the action of the spring 2.

[0063] If an operator simultaneously presses the stop push-button 9 and the start push-button 10, as illustrated by two arrows in [Fig. 11], the cam 26 causes the secondary actuator 6 and the secondary impulse actuator 7 to move towards the push-button 15 of the switch 12. Simultaneously, the cam 25 causes the main actuator 4 to be held away from the push-button 15 or moved 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.

[0064] If an operator simultaneously presses the stop push-button 9, the start push-button 10, and the pulse start push-button 11, as illustrated by three arrows in [Fig. 12], the cam 26 and cam 28 cause the secondary actuator 6 and the secondary pulse actuator 7 to move toward the push-button 15 of the switch 12. Simultaneously, the cam 25 causes the main actuator 4 to be held away from the push-button 15 or moved 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.

[0065] As can be understood from 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 pushbuttons 9, 10 and 11 are represented by "0" when no pressure is exerted on their front face and "1" when such pressure is exerted:

[0066] [Tables2] Figure Pushbutton 11 State Pushbutton 10 State Pushbutton 9 State Switch 12 State 5 0 0 0 Off at rest 6 1 0 0 Pulse (stop after release of pushbutton 11) 7 0 1 0 On (stable after release of pushbutton 10) 8 1 1 0 On (stable after release of pushbutton 11 and / or pushbutton 10) 9 0 0 1 Forced stop (stable after release of pushbutton 9) 10 1 0 1 Forced stop despite pressing pushbutton 11 (Priority stop). 11 0 1 1 Forced stop despite pressing pushbutton 10 (Priority stop). 12 1 1 1 Forced stop despite pressing pushbuttons 10 and 11 (Priority stop).

[0067] 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 pushbuttons 15 of said switches 12.

[0068] 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 to the control of a switch 12 having a common contact associated only with a normally open contact.

[0069] Although the switch 12 is shown in the figures with a common contact associated with a normally open contact, and optionally also with a normally closed contact, the present invention applies equally to the control of a switch 12 having 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 it exists, by as many movable contactors, all moved simultaneously by the movement of a common push button.

[0070] Relationships between the forces exerted by the springs

[0071] a) Springs 8A, 8B and where applicable 8C, of ​​pushbuttons 9, 10 and 11.

[0072] Preferably, the pushbuttons 9, 10, and 11 have identical geometry except for their embossed identification motif 31, 33, and 35 on the insert (see Figures 16 and 17). Preferably, the springs 8A, 8B, and optionally 8C, used for the pushbuttons are identical. They are then referred to interchangeably as the pushbutton spring 8. Preferably, the pushbutton spring 8 is made of stainless spring steel to withstand the environmental stresses of the food preparation appliance, particularly humidity. The stiffness of this spring 8 and its preload at rest are chosen to provide a suitable return force for the corresponding pushbutton and to give the user a tactile feedback appropriate to the appliance's intended use. The force produced by the spring 8 on the push button at rest and that produced on the push button when pressed are preferably fixed between 2 and 10 newtons.However, values ​​outside these limits, particularly higher ones, are perfectly acceptable. The essential characteristic is that the push button returns completely to its rest position when the user releases pressure on its front face, taking into account the effects of friction from the contacting materials, their aging, and any potential soiling. Apart from this single characteristic, the system's operation is independent of the stiffness, preload, and action of this spring 8.

[0073] b) Spring 14 of switch 12.

[0074] The characteristics of the spring 14 of the switch 12 are defined by the manufacturer of the switch 12, or switches as the case may be. Commonly, the manufacturers concerned offer several levels of force 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 starting the motor of the food preparation appliance such as the food preparation appliance 80 illustrated in [Fig. 20].

[0075] Significantly 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.

[0076] In all cases, once switch 12 has been selected, the characteristics of the spring of switch 14: - determine the force that the main actuator 4 must exert on the push button 15 of the switch 12 to change the 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 off state to the running state, respectively; - must produce sufficient effort 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 pushbuttons, taking into account the effects of friction related to the materials in contact, their aging and their possible fouling; - condition the dimensions, shapes and relative characteristics of the locking spring 2, the locking 3 and the secondary running actuator 6, so that the action of the locking 3 on the secondary running actuator 6, resulting from that of the locking spring 2 on the locking 3, guarantees a stable running state after the running push button 10 has been pressed and then released.

[0077] 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 holding force in this direction that the lock 3 under the effect of the lock spring 2 produces on the secondary operating actuator 6.

[0078] c) Secondary actuator spring 5.

[0079] 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 larger value may be chosen to take into account the evolution of friction between the main actuator 4 and the body 1, due, for example, to the aging of the materials and / or fouling of the system.

[0080] In all cases, the preload 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 the start push button 10 is pressed or, where applicable, when the pulse push button 11 is pressed, 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 stroke produced on the main actuator 4 is sufficient to change the state of the contact of the switch 12 from rest to work.

[0081] d) Locking spring 2.

[0082] The stiffness of this spring 2 and its preload are chosen mainly so that the lock 3 keeps the secondary actuator 6 in a stable position when the system is in operation and the start push button 10 has been released, while the spring 14 of the switch 12 opposes this state.

[0083] The action of the locking spring 2 is exerted essentially in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the slide of the secondary actuator 6 and is converted in an effort parallel to this direction, by a cam effect between the lock 3 and the secondary actuator 6, which thus directly opposes the effort produced by the spring 14 of the switch 12, to maintain the stable operating state.

[0084] The relative dimensions of the cam between the lock 3 and the secondary actuator 6, combined with the characteristics of the lock 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 friction between the moving parts, their aging, and any potential fouling. Preferably, the ratio between these two forces is greater than 2.

[0085] Secondarily and optionally, the locking spring 2 acts on the lock 3 which maintains the secondary actuator 6 in a stable position by means of a cam effect when the system is in a stopped state at rest.

[0086] Preferably, the two cams of the secondary actuator 6 are identical, but the cam of the secondary actuator 6 that maintains the stability of the system in the stopped, resting state, may simply not exist. Stability is then less robust, but it is sufficiently ensured by the action of the spring 14 of the switch 2 combined with the action of friction between the moving parts.

[0087] Angles of the cams 25, 26 and 28 between the pushbuttons 9, 10 and 11 and the actuators.

[0088] When the user presses a push button 9, 10 or 11, it 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 as the case may be, by the cam link 25, 26 or 28 which exists between the push button 9, 10 or 11 and the actuator in question.

[0089] 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.

[0090] Preferably, the stroke of the pushbuttons is fixed between 2 and 8 millimeters. Commonly, switches 12 adapted for starting the motor of a food preparation appliance have a stroke of approximately 2 to 4 millimeters measured according to the displacement of the pushbutton 15 of the switch 12.

[0091] Thus, for a push-button stroke fixed, for example, at 5 mm and with a switch 12 whose stroke 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 strokes considered, while taking into account the coefficients of friction between moving parts and in particular between cams, to avoid any risk of jamming or slamming.

[0092] Figures 13 to 15 show the elements described opposite Figures 5 to 12, in the form of a particular implementation of the second embodiment of the control panel that is the subject of the invention.

[0093] Figures 16 and 17 show that the pushbuttons 9, 10, and 11 preferably include an insert 38, which transmits a translational movement to a component of the control panel. Each insert 38 has a raised motif 31, 33, and 35 on its front face, which a user's finger can press. The pushbuttons 9, 10, and 11 also have a front face 32, 34, and 36, respectively, overmolded onto these inserts 38 and surrounding these raised motifs 31, 33, and 35, as illustrated in [Fig. 17].

[0094] Preferably, and as is the case in figures 16 and 17, the overmolded front face, 32, 34 and 36, has a flat face on which the relief pattern 31, 33 and 35 is flush.

[0095] Preferably, and as is the case for the pushbuttons 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 embossed pattern 31, 33 and 35 then remaining visible on this front face.

[0096] 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 embossed pattern 31, 33 and 35 in order to increase the legibility of said pattern.

[0097] Preferably the colour of the material of the overmolded front face 32, 34 and 36 is conventionally chosen in accordance respectively with the Stop, On and Pulse function of the push button 9; 10 and 11, for example red for stop, green for on and black for pulse.

[0098] In the examples in Figures 16 and 17, the raised motif 31, 33 or 35 forms an arc of a circle (pushbuttons 9 and 11) and / or at least one straight line segment (pushbuttons 10 and 11). This motif can thus represent at least one symbol, a standardized sign and / or a letter, for example.

[0099] In the case where, on the front face of the insert 38, the raised pattern 31, 33, or 35 does not surround any part of the front face of the push button, as is the case with the raised 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 raised 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 face The front parts are isolated by the raised pattern 35. Each of these parts corresponds to at least one channel 37 between the front face and a more central part of the insert 38. Thus, after hardening of the material, which is molten during overmolding, all parts of the overmolded front face 36 are anchored in the insert 38 of the push button 11.

[0100] 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.

[0101] Figure 18 schematically represents a third particular embodiment of a control panel 60 with three pushbuttons, which is the subject of the invention. The mechanical components that functionally correspond to mechanical components of the second embodiment 40 have a numerical reference increased by forty.

[0102] The operation of this third embodiment is similar to that of the second embodiment, except that no cam is used. However, in this third embodiment, the translational movements of the pushbuttons 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 about a pivot joint 59 and not a translational movement, as in the second embodiment 40. The rest position of the main actuator 44 is shown as a solid line. The position of the main actuator 44 when at least one of the pushbuttons 50 and 51 is pressed, in the absence of pressure on the pushbutton 49, is shown as a dashed line.

[0103] It is easy to understand, from the view of [Fig. 18], that pressing the stop push-button 49 takes 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.

[0104] Figure 19 schematically represents a fourth particular embodiment of a control panel 70 with three pushbuttons, which is the subject of the invention. The mechanical components that correspond functionally to mechanical components of the third embodiment 60 retain the same numerical references.

[0105] The operation of this fourth embodiment is similar to that of the third embodiment, except that two pivot joints 61 and 63, as well as a bidirectional cam joint 62, are implemented and the stop pushbutton 49 is interposed between the pushbuttons 50 and 51. In addition, in this fourth embodiment, there is a spring 45 for each of the pushbuttons 50 and 51.

[0106] The main actuator 64 consists of two rods connected by the bidirectional cam linkage 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 as a solid line. The position of the main actuator 64 when at least one of the pushbuttons 50 and 51 is pressed, in the absence of a press on the pushbutton 49, is shown as a dashed line.

[0107] It is easy to understand, from the view of [Fig. 19], that pressing the stop push-button 49 takes priority over pressing one of the push-buttons 50 and 51, thanks to the presence of the springs 45 which deform when the push-button 49 and at least one of the push-buttons 50 and 51 are pressed simultaneously.

[0108] Figure 20 shows a food preparation apparatus 80 comprising a control panel 40 as described above. As is known and shown in Figure 20, the apparatus 80 comprises a housing 71 containing a motor 72 that drives a shaft rotating about an axis of rotation. Mounted on this shaft, within an internal bowl 76, is at least one food preparation tool 77, for example, a rotating disc, a knife, or whisks. The apparatus 80 has a cover 73 providing access to the bowl 76.

[0109] As shown opposite Figures 5 to 17, in the control panel 40, the start pushbutton 10 activates the motor 72 continuously after it is pressed. The stop pushbutton 9 stops the motor 72. The pulse-operate pushbutton 11 activates the motor 72 for the duration that it is pressed. As explained above, pressing the stop pushbutton 9 takes priority over pressing either or both of the pushbuttons 10 and 11. Summary of the invention

[0110] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of the drawbacks of the prior art.

[0111] To this end, according to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a motorized food preparation apparatus comprising: - a housing containing a motor for driving a tool, - a switch equipped with a push button whose position controls the opening or closing of the switch, and - a control panel including at least one motor start push button and one motor stop push button.

[0112] At least one push button comprises: - an insert ensuring the transmission of a translational movement to a component of the device and having a raised pattern on its front face against which a user's finger can press, and - a front face overmolded onto this insert and surrounding this embossed pattern.

[0113] Thanks to these arrangements, the front face and the pattern carried by the front face of the push-button insert are resistant to wear and the effects of recurring products or chemicals.

[0114] In embodiments, the overmolded front face has a flat face on which the relief pattern is flush.

[0115] In some embodiments, the overmolded front face only partially covers the front face of the insert, the embossed pattern then remaining visible on this front face.

[0116] In embodiments, the color of the overmolded front face material contrasts with the color of the insert material.

[0117] Thanks to each of these arrangements, the embossed pattern is directly visible to the user.

[0118] In some embodiments, the relief pattern includes at least one arc of a circle and / or at least one straight segment.

[0119] This motif can therefore represent at least one symbol, a standardized sign and / or a letter, for example.

[0120] In embodiments, the insert includes at least one channel for the passage of the molten overmolding material, from a central part of the insert towards its front face, such that after hardening, the overmolded front face is anchored in the insert of the push button.

[0121] In embodiments, the push-button insert is made of molded material and the overmolded front face material has a melting temperature lower than the melting temperature of the push-button insert material.

[0122] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a push-button control for a food preparation appliance comprising: - a housing containing a drive motor for a tool, - 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 motor start push button and one motor stop push button, the push button being characterized in that it comprises: - an insert ensuring the transmission of a translational movement to a component of the device and having a raised pattern on its front face against which a user's finger can press, and - a front face overmolded onto this insert and surrounding this embossed pattern.

[0123] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a control panel for a food preparation device, which includes a plurality of pushbuttons which are the subject of the present invention.

[0124] The advantages, purposes and special characteristics of this push button and control panel being similar to those of the food preparation apparatus which is the subject of the invention, they are not recalled here.

Claims

Demands

1. A motorized food preparation appliance (80) comprising: - a housing (71) containing a motor (72) for driving a tool, - a switch (12) equipped with a push button (15) whose position controls the closing or opening of the switch, and - a control panel (30, 40) comprising at least one start push button (10) for the motor and one stop push button (9) for the motor, characterized in that at least one push button comprises: - an insert (38) ensuring the transmission of a translational movement to a component of the appliance and comprising a raised pattern (31, 33, 35) on its front face on which a user's finger can press, and - a front face (32, 34, 36) overmolded onto this insert and surrounding this raised pattern.

2. Apparatus (80) according to claim 1, wherein the overmolded front face (32, 34, 36) has a flat face on which the relief pattern (31, 33, 35) is flush.

3. Apparatus (80) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the overmolded front face (32, 34, 36) only partially covers the front face of the insert (38), the embossed pattern (31, 33, 35) then remaining visible on this front face.

4. Device (80) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the color of the overmolded front face material (32, 34, 36) contrasts with the color of the insert material (38).

5. Apparatus (80) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the relief pattern (31, 33, 35) comprises at least one arc of a circle and / or at least one straight segment.

6. Apparatus (80) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the insert (38) has at least one channel (37) for the passage of the molten overmolding material from a central part of the insert to its front face, such that after hardening, the overmolded front face is anchored in the insert of the push button.

7. Device (80) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the insert (38) of the push button (9, 10, 11) is made of molded material and the material of the overmolded front face (32, 34, 36) has a melting temperature lower than the melting temperature of the push-button insert material.

8. A push button (9, 10, 11) for controlling a food preparation appliance (80) comprising: - a housing (71) containing a motor (72) for driving a tool, - a switch (12) equipped with a push button (15) whose position controls the closing or opening of the switch, and - a control panel (30, 40) comprising at least one start push button (10) for the motor and one stop push button (9) for the motor, the push button being characterized in that it comprises: - an insert (38) ensuring the transmission of a translational movement to a component of the appliance and having a raised motif (31, 33, 35) on its front face on which a user's finger can press, and - a front face (32, 34, 36) overmolded onto this insert and surrounding this raised motif.

9. Control panel (30, 40) of a food preparation device (80), comprising a plurality of pushbuttons (9, 10, 11) according to claim 8.

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