FOOD PREPARATION APPLIANCE

Abstract

Food Preparation Apparatus The invention relates to a food preparation apparatus (10) comprising a base (12), a tool, a lid (20), and a lid locking system including an actuating device, a lever (34) rotated relative to the base by the actuating device, and a hook (36) moved by the lever. The hook has a lower end (36A) attached to the first lever, an upper end (36B), and an elongated central portion (36C) extending through an opening in the base. The opening in the base guides the central portion, so that the first hook is able to slide relative to the base along its central portion and, concurrently, pivot relative to the base.The device can thus be operated, by rotating the lever, between a locked configuration, in which the upper end of the hook prevents the cover from being removed, and an unlocked configuration in which the cover can be removed. Figure for the abbreviation: 3.

Description

Title of the invention: FOOD PREPARATION APPLIANCE

[0001] The present invention relates to a food preparation device, in particular a centrifuge.

[0002] A food preparation appliance prepares foodstuffs that are suitable for it, notably by pressing, cutting, grating, or slicing. It is applicable to all types of food, whether fruits or vegetables, fish, or meat. Such a food preparation appliance is commonly used in the hotel and catering industry, as well as in private homes. Examples include, but are not limited to, a fruit and vegetable juicer, a blender, a citrus press, a cheese grater, a vegetable slicer, or a multi-function food processor.

[0003] In the case of a centrifuge, it comprises a fixed base, onto which is removably attached a rotating tool, generally a rotating basket, which is driven by an electric motor. This rotating tool comprises a base, forming a grater, and side walls extending from this base, which constitute a sieve.

[0004] A removable lid is also provided, in which an opening is formed for inserting food, particularly fruits and vegetables. The lid covers the rotating basket and, in particular, the grater, thus protecting the user from any contact with the grater. During operation, the food is kept in contact with the rapidly rotating grater by means of a pusher operated by the user and passing through the opening.

[0005] Under these conditions, the food is shredded near the grater. The sieve then allows the juice to flow through, while retaining the solid parts of the food. This food is then expelled, under the effect of centrifugal force, towards the upper part of the basket, and collected in a reservoir or a bin. Meanwhile, the liquid juice that has passed through the walls of the sieve is collected in a juice container.

[0006] Such a food preparation appliance includes a locking system to ensure reliable braking and stopping of the rotating tool when the user attempts to remove the removable cover. This prevents access to the rotating tool while it is in motion, thus ensuring user safety.

[0007] FR-A-2 830 423 is known, describing a food preparation appliance of this type, in which the locking system comprises a clamping handle that locks into a recess in the removable lid and is mounted on two clamping rods. The removable lid is unlocked by The user operates the tool in two consecutive movements: first, by pivoting the handle upwards, and then by tilting the handle and rods towards the front of the device. As soon as the handle is pivoted upwards, a braking system is activated, providing mechanical braking of the rotary tool, and the power supply to the electric motor is interrupted.

[0008] This locking system is generally satisfactory, being reliable and safe to use. However, the ergonomics of this locking system could be improved, as its operation requires two successive movements and the handle occupies a significant amount of space at the front of the appliance when the removable lid is unlocked, hindering access to the removable lid and the juice container and cluttering the space at the front of the appliance.

[0009] The aim of the invention is therefore to offer a food preparation device with improved ergonomics.

[0010] To this end, the invention relates to a food preparation apparatus, in particular a centrifuge, comprising at least: - a base, - a tool, mounted on the base, - a removable cover, designed to be mounted on the rest of the device to cover the tool, - an electric motor, mounted on the base, rotating around a main axis and configured to power the tool, and - a locking system for the removable lid on the base.

[0011] According to the invention, the locking system comprises: - an actuation device, - a first lever, disposed in the base, movable in rotation relative to the base around a first lever axis, the first lever being configured to be driven in rotation around the first lever axis by the actuation device, - a first hook, configured to be set in motion by the first lever, and comprising: • a lower end, attached to the first lever so as to be free to rotate relative to the first lever around a second lever axis parallel to the first lever axis, • a high end, and • an elongated central portion, connecting the lower end to the upper end high.

[0012] Furthermore, the central portion of the first hook extends through a first opening in the base, being guided by the first opening in the base, so that the first hook is able to: - slide, relative to the base, along its central portion, between a locking position and an unlocking position, and jointly - pivot, relative to the base, around a first pivot axis parallel to the first lever axis and passing through the first opening of the base, between a locking orientation and an unlocking orientation.

[0013] Thus, the device is operable, by the actuation device causing the first lever to rotate around the first lever axis, between: - a locked configuration, in which the first hook is in its locking position and in its locking orientation, and in which the upper end of the first hook is in contact with the removable cover, preventing removal of the removable cover, and - an unlocked configuration, in which the first hook is in its unlocking position and in its unlocking orientation and in which the upper end of the first hook is away from the removable cover, allowing removal of the removable cover.

[0014] Thanks to the invention, the ergonomics of the food preparation appliance are improved. In particular, a single rotation of the first lever, triggered by acting on the actuating device, is sufficient to unlock the food preparation appliance and allow the removal of the removable lid.

[0015] In particular, the first hook is guided on the one hand by its lower end, attached to the first lever, and on the other hand by the first opening in the base, which allows the first hook to slide and pivot simultaneously through the opening. Consequently, the rotation of the first lever causes an elliptical movement of the upper end of the first hook, which makes it possible to engage or disengage the upper end of the first hook with the removable cover efficiently and reliably.This elliptical movement is particularly advantageous because it simultaneously allows the upper end of the first hook of the removable lid to be moved away from the main axis, thus unlocking the food preparation appliance, and the upper end of the first hook of the removable lid to be moved away perpendicularly from the main axis, thus allowing the removable lid to be removed along the vertical axis, without increasing the appliance's footprint or requiring free space at the front of the appliance.

[0016] In other words, unlocking the device requires only a single movement acting on the actuation device and, once the device is unlocked, the cover The removable lid can be easily detached with a simple sliding motion. Furthermore, the first hook does not obstruct the removal of the lid and juice container from the front of the appliance. In addition, the elliptical movement of the upper end of the first hook provides a clearly visible and aesthetically pleasing indication of whether the appliance is locked or unlocked. This allows for easy one-handed operation.

[0017] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the food preparation appliance comprises one or more of the following features, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations:

[0018] - The actuation device comprises a rod, movable in rotation relative to to the base around a rod axis, between a locking orientation and an unlocking orientation, and a first connecting rod. The first connecting rod has a first end, attached to the rod so as to be movable in rotation relative to the rod around a first connecting rod axis parallel to the rod axis, and a second end, attached to the first lever so as to be movable in rotation relative to the first lever around a second connecting rod axis parallel to the first lever axis and a third connecting rod axis parallel to the first connecting rod axis.The actuation device is configured so that a rotation of the rod around the rod axis between its locking and unlocking orientations causes the first lever to rotate around the first lever axis via the first connecting rod and thus operates the device between its locked and unlocked configurations respectively, the device being in the locked configuration when the rod is in the locking orientation and the device being in the unlocked configuration when the rod is in the unlocking orientation.

[0019] - The actuation device includes a handle, attached to the rod and movable rotating relative to the base around the rod axis, the handle being configured to drive the rod in rotation around the rod axis between its locking and unlocking orientations.

[0020] - The rod axis, the first connecting rod axis and the third connecting rod axis are orthogonal to a height axis. In the locked configuration of the device, the rod is located between the first end of the first connecting rod and the second end of the first connecting rod, along the height axis, and in the unlocked configuration of the device, the first end of the first connecting rod is located between the rod and the second end of the first connecting rod, along the height axis. The first end of the first connecting rod is moved downwards and the rod is moved upwards, along the height axis, when the device is operated from its unlocked configuration to its locked configuration, and the first end of the first connecting rod is moved upwards and the rod is moved downwards, along the axis height, when the device is operated from its locked configuration to its unlocked configuration.

[0021] - In the locked configuration of the device, the first connecting rod axis is located at a first side of a plane passing through the rod axis and the third connecting rod axis, in the unlocked configuration of the device, the first connecting rod axis is located on a second side of the plane passing through the rod axis and the third connecting rod axis, the second side being opposite to the first side, and the device passes through an alignment configuration when the device is operated between its unlocked configuration and its locked configuration, in which the first connecting rod axis passes through the plane passing through the rod axis and the third connecting rod axis.

[0022] - The rod is movable in translation relative to the base along the main axis, between a release position and a braking position, and the release position of the rod is reached when the removable cover is mounted on the rest of the device and when the rod is in its locking orientation. The device further includes a braking system, capable of braking the rotation of the electric motor around the main axis, the braking system comprising a braking device, rotationally fixed with the electric motor, and a braking member, attached to the rod so as to be rotationally movable relative to the rod around the rod axis and fixed in translation relative to the rod along the main axis.A translation of the rod between its release position and its braking position operates the braking element between a release position, reached when the rod is in the release position and in which the braking element does not cooperate with the braking device so that the braking system does not oppose a rotation of the electric motor around the main axis, and a braking position, reached when the rod is in the braking position and in which the braking element cooperates with the braking device so that the braking system opposes a rotation of the electric motor around the main axis.

[0023] - The braking system further comprises a return element, exerting a force on the braking element and on the rod along the main axis tending to return the rod to its braking position. When the removable cover is mounted on the rest of the device, a rotation of the rod from its unlocked orientation to its locked orientation causes a translation of the rod from its braking position to its release position, against the force exerted by the return element on the braking element and on the rod, and, when the removable cover is not mounted on the rest of the device, a rotation of the rod from its unlocked orientation to its locking orientation does not cause a translation of the rod from its braking position to its release position and causes the first hook to slide beyond its locking position, under the effect of the force exerted by the return element on the braking element and on the rod.

[0024] - The braking device is a brake disc, fixed in rotation with the electric motor, the braking element is a braking plate, extending parallel to the brake disc, and, in braking position, the braking plate is pressed against the brake disc to oppose a rotation of the electric motor around the main axis.

[0025] - The base has an oblong hole, extending along the main axis, and the rod extends through the oblong hole in the base so that the base does not prevent the rod from moving along the main axis.

[0026] - The device includes a guiding device, which guides the translational element of braking and the rod relative to the base along the main axis.

[0027] - A ratio between a first distance, measured between the first lever axis and the first pivot axis, and a length of the first lever, measured between the first lever axis and the second lever axis, is between 1.5 and 4.5, preferably equal to 2.6.

[0028] - An angular deflection of the first hook around the first pivot axis, between its locking orientation and its unlocking orientation, is greater than or equal to 5°, preferably greater than or equal to 10°.

[0029] - An angle between the central portion of the first hook and a height axis, measured in a plane perpendicular to the first pivot axis in the unlocking orientation of the first hook, is greater than or equal to 5°, preferably greater than or equal to 15°.

[0030] - A linear movement of the first hook along its central part, between its the locking position and its unlocking position, is greater than or equal to 10 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 15 mm.

[0031] - The device further comprises a switching device, operable between a a power supply configuration, in which the electric motor is electrically powered so as to be able to actuate the tool, and a cut-off configuration, in which the electric motor is not electrically powered so as not to be able to actuate the tool. The cut-off device is in the power supply configuration when the device is in the locked configuration, the cut-off device is in the cut-off configuration when the device is in the unlocked configuration, and the device is also operable, by the actuating device rotating the first lever around the first lever axis, in an intermediate configuration, reached between the locked and unlocked configurations, in which the upper end of the first hook is in contact with the removable cover, preventing removal of the removable cover and in which the cutting device is in cutting configuration.

[0032] - The locking system further comprises a second lever, arranged in the base, movable in rotation relative to the base around a third lever axis, the second lever being configured to be driven in rotation around the third lever axis by the actuation device, a second hook, configured to be set in motion by the second lever, and having a lower end, attached to the second lever and movable in rotation relative to the second lever around a fourth lever axis parallel to the third lever axis, an upper end, and an elongated central portion, connecting the lower end to the upper end.The central portion of the second hook extends through a second opening in the base, guided by this second opening. This allows the second hook to slide along its central portion relative to the base, between a locked and an unlocked position. Simultaneously, it pivots about a second pivot axis parallel to the fourth lever axis and passing through the second opening in the base, between a locked and an unlocked orientation. The device is operated between its locked and unlocked configurations by the actuating mechanism, which rotates not only the first lever around its first axis but also the second lever around its third axis.In the locked configuration of the device, the second hook is in its locking position and in its locking orientation, and the upper end of the second hook is in contact with the removable cover, preventing removal of the removable cover; and, in the unlocked configuration of the device, the second hook is in its unlocking position and in its unlocking orientation, and the upper end of the second hook is away from the removable cover, allowing removal of the removable cover.

[0033] The invention will become clearer upon reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings in which:

[0034] [Fig. 1] The [Fig. 1] is an exploded perspective view of a food preparation device according to a first embodiment of the invention, in which a base of the device, on the one hand, and a removable cover of the device, on the other hand, are shown away from the rest of the device.

[0035] [Fig.2] Fig.2 is a perspective view of the apparatus of Fig.1, in which The base is shown in transparency.

[0036] [Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is a front view of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2, the base being represented in transparency, the device being in an unlocked configuration.

[0037] [Fig. 4] Fig. 4 is a front view of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 to 3, the base being represented in transparency, the device being in an intermediate configuration.

[0038] [Fig. 5] Fig. 5 is a front view of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 to 4, the base being represented in transparency, the device being in a locked configuration.

[0039] [Fig. 6] Fig. 6 is a side view of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 to 5, the base being represented in transparency, the device being in its unlocked configuration.

[0040] [Fig.7] Fig.7 is a side view of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 to 6, the base being represented in transparency, the device being in its intermediate configuration.

[0041] [Fig. 8] Fig. 8 is a side view of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 to 7, the base being represented in transparency, the device being in its locked configuration.

[0042] [Fig.9] Fig.9 is a perspective view of a food preparation device according to a second embodiment of the invention, which includes a base of which only a part is shown, the device being in an unlocked configuration.

[0043] [Fig. 10] The [Fig. 10] is a perspective view analogous to that of the [Fig.9], the device being in a locked configuration.

[0044] [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] is a schematic representation of part of the device of Figures 9 and 10, illustrating the positions of a first lever and a first hook of the device in the unlocked and locked configurations of the device.

[0045] In the following description, two axes are orthogonal if they are each parallel to axes intersecting at right angles. In space, two orthogonal axes may be intersecting or non-intersecting. Two perpendicular axes are orthogonal and intersecting.

[0046] A food preparation device 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention is schematically represented in figures 1 to 8. In the example, the device 10 is a centrifuge.

[0047] As particularly visible in Figures 1 and 2, the apparatus 10 comprises a base 12, a juice container 14 mounted on the base 12 and provided with a spout 16, a tool 18, a lid 20 in which a food inlet 22 is provided, and a reservoir, or bin, not shown and generally located opposite the spout 16. The tool 18 is mounted on the base 12. More precisely, the rotary tool 18 is mounted on the juice container 14, which is itself mounted on the base 12. In the example, the tool 18 is a rotary tool that is free to rotate about a principal axis ZI relative to the base 12, which is also a height axis, this height axis being preferably vertical in the normal operating configuration of the apparatus 10. Here, the tool rotary 18 comprises a base 18A forming a grater and lateral walls 18B extending from this base, which constitute a sieve.The cover 20 is intended to be mounted on the rest of the device 10 to cover the tool. rotating 18. In practice, the lid 20 is mounted on the juice container 14. In other words, the lid 20 is mounted on the base 12 via the juice container.

[0048] When food is introduced into the device through the opening 22 of the lid 20 and the rotating tool 18 is rotating, the contact of the food against the grater 18A separates the juice from the food from its solid parts, such as pulp, the juice passing through the sieve 18B to flow into the juice container 14 and the solid parts being guided by the sieve 18B to the reservoir under the effect of centrifugal force.

[0049] To operate the tool 18, the device 10 includes an electric motor 24, mounted on the base 12. Here, the electric motor 24 operates the tool 18 by driving it in rotation. For this purpose, the electric motor 24 includes a drive shaft 26 extending along the main axis Z1. The drive shaft 26 is attached to the rotary tool 18, so that the drive shaft is able to drive the rotary tool in rotation around the main axis ZL. In practice, the electric motor 24 and its drive shaft 26 are arranged inside the base 12, so as not to be visible from outside the device 10, and the drive shaft 26 extends through the juice tank 14 so as to be able to be attached to the rotary tool 18. Preferably, the electric motor 24 is supplied via a power cable, not shown.

[0050] The device 10 includes a cut-off device 28, which is operable between a power-on configuration, in which the electric motor 24 is electrically powered so as to be able to drive the rotary tool 18, and a cut-off configuration, in which the electric motor 24 is not electrically powered so as not to be able to drive the rotary tool 18. In other words, the cut-off device 28 allows the operation of the electric motor 24 to be authorized or prohibited. In particular, the cut-off device 28 prevents the electric motor 24 from starting when its operation would present a danger to a user, for example, when the cover 20 does not cover the rotary tool 18, as explained below. Thus, the cut-off device 28 has a safety function for the device 10.

[0051] In the example, the switching device 28 is an electrical contact comprising a body 28A and a probe 28B capable of sliding relative to the body 28A, the switching between the supply and switching configurations of the switching device taking place according to the position of the probe relative to the body.

[0052] The device 10 includes a braking system 30, capable of braking a rotation of the drive shaft 26 around the main axis Zl, which is also a height axis. In practice, the braking system 30 comprises a braking device 30A, which is fixed to the drive shaft 26, and a braking member 30B, which is movable in translation relative to the base 12 and thus relative to the braking device 30A, along the main axis Zl

[0053] The braking element 30B is translationally movable along the main axis ZI between a release position, in which the braking element 30B does not cooperate with the braking device 30A, so that the braking system 30 does not oppose a rotation of the motor shaft 26 around the main axis ZI, and a braking position, in which the braking element 30B cooperates with the braking device 30A so that the braking system 30 opposes a rotation of the motor shaft 26 around the main axis ZI. In other words, when the electric motor 24 is running and the braking element 30B is moved into the braking position, the braking system 30 then brakes, and subsequently stops, the rotation of the motor shaft 26.

[0054] Advantageously, the braking element 30B is guided in translation along the main axis Zl, relative to the base 12, by a guiding device (not shown). Preferably, the guiding device also prevents rotation of the braking element 30B about the main axis Zl. The guiding device thus facilitates the translation of the braking element 30B and prevents other movements of the braking element 30B. Furthermore, by guiding the braking element 30B, the guiding device also guides the rod 44 in its translational movement along the main axis Zl.

[0055] In the example, the braking device 30A is a brake disc, rotationally fixed to the drive shaft 26, and the braking element 30B is a brake plate, preferably metallic, which bears against the brake disc 30A when the brake plate 30B is in the braking position. The brake disc 30A and the brake plate 30B extend parallel to each other, preferably perpendicular to the main axis ZL. Advantageously, the brake disc 30A is equipped with a brake lining 30C, which extends from the brake disc 30A towards the brake plate 30B, ensuring better braking between the brake disc and the brake plate.

[0056] Advantageously, the braking system 30 includes a return element 30D, which exerts a force on the braking element 30B along the main axis Zl, tending to bring the braking element closer to the braking device 30A. In other words, the return element 30D tends to return the braking element 30B to the braking position. In the example, the return element 30D comprises two compression springs extending along the main axis Zl between the braking element 30B and the base 12.

[0057] The device 10 is operable between a locked configuration, illustrated in Figures 5 and 8, and an unlocked configuration, illustrated in Figures 2, 3 and 6.

[0058] In the locked configuration, the cover 20 is held onto the rest of the device 10; in other words, removal of the cover is prevented, so that the device is safe to operate without risk of accidental activation by a user. access the rotary tool 18 while the rotary tool is rotating around the main axis Zl. In addition, in the locked configuration, the braking element 30B is in the release position so that the braking system 30 does not brake the rotation of the motor shaft 26 around the main axis Zl and the cutting device 28 is in the power supply configuration, so that the electric motor 24 is electrically powered.

[0059] In the unlocked configuration, the cover 20 can be removed from the rest of the device 10, allowing access to the rotating tool 18. Furthermore, in the locked configuration, the braking element 30B is in the braking position, so that the braking system 30 prevents the motor shaft 26 from rotating around the main axis Z1, and the cut-off device 28 is in the cut-off position, so that the electric motor 24 is not electrically powered. Thanks to the cut-off device 28 and the braking system 30, the device 10 is secured by two separate means when unlocked.

[0060] The device 10 includes a locking system 32 designed to securely hold the removable cover 20 onto the rest of the device 10 when the device is in the locked position, without preventing the cover from being removed when the device is in the unlocked position. The locking system 32 includes a first lever 34 and a first hook 36.

[0061] The operation of the locking system 32 is particularly visible in figures 3, 4 and 5.

[0062] The first lever 34 is disposed in the base 12 and is rotatable relative to the base about a first lever axis XI, which is not parallel to the main axis Zl, between a locking orientation and an unlocking orientation. In other words, the first lever 34 is pivotally mounted relative to the base 12 about the first lever axis XL. Here, the first lever axis XI is orthogonal to the main axis Zl. Furthermore, the first lever axis XI is fixed relative to the base 12.

[0063] The first hook 36 has a lower end 36A, an upper end 36B and an elongated central portion 36C connecting the lower end 36A to the upper end 36B.

[0064] The lower end 36A is attached to the first lever 34 so as to be rotationally mobile relative to the first lever 34 about a second lever axis X2 parallel to the first lever axis XL. In other words, the first hook 36 is able to pivot relative to the first lever 34, about the second lever axis X2. The lower end 36A is advantageously arranged inside the base 12. Thus, the first hook 36 is set in motion by the first lever 34. More precisely, the lower end 36A is attached to the first lever at the second axis of Lever X2 is moved by the first lever 34 in a rotational movement around the first axis of lever XI: when the first lever is moved between its locking and unlocking orientations, the lower end 36A follows an arc of a circle around the first axis of lever XI. Note that the second axis of lever X2 is movable relative to the base 12.

[0065] In the example, the first lever 34 is formed by two identical and parallel plates, connected by two shafts extending respectively along the first lever axis XI and along the second lever axis X2. Other designs are conceivable for the first lever, such as a monobloc design.

[0066] The upper end 36B is designed to cooperate with the cover 20 in order to retain the cover mounted on the rest of the device 10 when the device is in its locked configuration. More specifically, the upper end 36B is designed to cooperate mechanically with the cover 20, particularly through complementary shapes, in order to retain the cover mounted on the rest of the device 10.

[0067] In the example, for this purpose, the upper end 36B has a hook shape which cooperates with a first lug 20A of the cover 20 when the device 10 is in the locked configuration. The upper end 36B is located outside the base 12.

[0068] The central portion 36C connects the lower end 36A to the upper end 36B and extends through a first opening 12A of the base 12. Advantageously, a seal is provided in the opening 12A, through which the central portion 36C extends, in order to ensure the sealing of the base 12. The seal is, for example, an elastomer seal.

[0069] In the example, the elongated central portion 36C is cylindrical, so that it is straight and extends along a first axis of hook Z2. In a non-shown variant of the invention, the central portion 36C has a different shape and / or is not straight. For example, the central portion 36C is curved or arched.

[0070] Since the central portion 36C extends through the first opening 12A of the base 12, the first opening of the base guides the central portion when the first hook 36 is set in motion by the first lever 34. More precisely, the guiding of the central portion 36C by the first opening 12A of the base 12 enables the first hook 36 to slide, relative to the base 12, along its central portion 36C, between a locked position and an unlocked position, and simultaneously, to pivot, relative to the base, about a first pivot axis X3 parallel to the first lever axis XI and the second lever axis X2 and passing through the first opening 12A of the base 12, between a locked orientation and an unlocked orientation. It is understood that, in the example, the sliding of the first hook 36 is performed along the first hook axis Z2. Note that the first pivot axis X3 is fixed relative to the base 12.

[0071] It should be noted that the guidance of the central portion 36C by the first opening 12A forms a mechanical link between the first hook 36 and the base 12 of the sphere / cylinder type, also commonly referred to as an annular linear link. This guidance is facilitated by the presence of the seal in the opening 12A.

[0072] In practice, the first opening 12A has dimensions slightly larger than the dimensions of the central portion 36C, so as to allow the first hook 36 to pivot around the pivot axis X3. In other words, an operating clearance is provided between the central portion 36C and the first opening 12A, allowing the central portion 36C to move freely and pivot around the pivot axis X3.

[0073] In practice, the guidance of the central portion 36C by the first opening 12A does not, by itself, prevent the pivoting of the first hook 36 around an axis perpendicular to the first pivot axis X3, nor the rotation of the first hook on itself, in the example, around the first hook axis Z2, but these movements are prevented because the lower end 36A of the first hook 36 is attached to the first lever 34 and is mobile relative to the first lever 34 only in rotation around the second lever axis X2.

[0074] The locking position and locking orientation of the first hook 36 are jointly reached when the first lever 34 is in the locking orientation and the unlocking position and unlocking orientation of the first hook 36 are jointly reached when the first lever 34 is in the unlocking orientation.

[0075] In the locked configuration of the device 10, the first lever 34 is in the locked orientation and the first hook 36 is in the locked position and in the locked orientation. In the unlocked configuration of the device 10, the first lever 34 is in the unlocked orientation and the first hook 36 is in the unlocked position and in the unlocked orientation.

[0076] When the first lever 34 is operated between its locking and unlocking orientations, the rotational movement of the lower end 36A of the first hook 36 around the first lever axis XI, in association with the guidance of the central portion 36C by the first opening 12A of the base 12, causes the upper end 36B of the first hook 36 to move in an elliptical motion, which makes it possible to engage or disengage the upper end of the first hook with the first lug 20A of the cover 20 efficiently and reliably.

[0077] Advantageously, but optionally, the locking system 32 also includes a second lever 38 and a second hook 40, which function respectively like the first lever 34 and like the second lever 36, in a symmetrical manner.

[0078] Thus, the second lever 38 is rotationally movable relative to the base 12 around a third lever axis X4 and the second hook 40 has a lower end 40A attached to the second lever 38 is rotationally movable relative to the second lever around a fourth lever axis X5 parallel to the third lever axis X4, an upper end 40B provided to cooperate with the cover 20, presenting in the example a hook shape which cooperates with a second lug 20B of the cover 20, and an elongated central portion 40C which connects the lower end 40A to the upper end 40B and which extends through a second opening 12B of the base 12 along a second hook axis Z3.The second hook 40 is guided by the second opening 12B of the base 12 so that it can slide along its central portion 40C between a locked and an unlocked position, and pivot about a second pivot axis X6 parallel to the fourth lever axis X5 and the first pivot axis X3, and passing through the second opening of the base, similarly to the first hook 36. Like that of the first hook 36, the upper end 40C of the second hook 40 moves in an elliptical motion. In the example, the third lever axis X4 is parallel to the first lever axis XL. In other words, in the example, the first lever 34 is parallel to the second lever 38. Advantageously, in the example, the first lever 34 and the second lever 38 extend in the same plane, which is parallel to the main axis ZI and preferably passes through the main axis ZI.Note that the third lever axis X4 is movable relative to the base 12.

[0079] The locking position and locking orientation of the second hook 40 are jointly reached when the second lever 38 is in the locking orientation and the unlocking position and unlocking orientation of the second hook are jointly reached when the second lever is in the unlocking orientation.

[0080] In the locked configuration of the device 10, the second lever 38 is in the locked orientation and the second hook 40 is in the locked position and in the locked orientation. In the unlocked configuration of the device 10, the second lever 38 is in the unlocked orientation and the second hook 40 is in the unlocked position and in the unlocked orientation.

[0081] Thus, the removable cover 20 is held on the rest of the device 10 by the two hooks 36, 40, which cooperate respectively with the two lugs 20A, 20B.

[0082] To rotate the first lever 34 and the second lever 38, respectively around the first lever axis XI and the third lever axis X4, between their locking and unlocking orientations, the locking system 32 includes an actuation device 42.

[0083] The operation of the actuation device 42 is particularly visible in figures 6, 7 and 8.

[0084] In the example, the actuation device 42 includes a rod 44, which is rotationally movable relative to the base 12 about a rod axis Y1, between a locking orientation and an unlocking orientation. In the example, the rod axis Y1 is orthogonal to the main axis Z1, which improves the operation of the actuation device 42 but is not mandatory: the rod axis Y1 can also be oblique to the main axis Z1, i.e., not parallel to the main axis Z1. Furthermore, in the example, the rod axis Y1 is also orthogonal to the first lever axis XI and the third lever axis X4, which improves the operation of the actuation device 42 but is not mandatory. In addition, in the example, the Y1 rod axis is perpendicular to the main axis Zl, which improves the operation of the actuation device 42 but is not mandatory.

[0085] Here, the actuating device 42 comprises a handle 46, attached to the rod 44 and rotatable relative to the base 12 around the rod axis Y1. The handle 46 is designed to be operated by a user, so as to allow the user to rotate the rod 44 around the rod axis Y1 between its locking and unlocking orientations. Advantageously, one hand is sufficient to operate the handle 46. Furthermore, the handle 46 provides the user with sufficient leverage to effectively act on the rod 44, against the force exerted by the return member 30D.

[0086] The actuation device 42 also includes a first connecting rod 48, intended to drive the first lever 34 in rotation from the rotation of the rod 44. The first connecting rod 48 has a first end 48A, attached to the rod 44 so as to be movable in rotation relative to the rod around a first connecting rod axis Y2 parallel to the rod axis YL. It is noted that the first connecting rod axis Y2 is movable relative to the base 12.

[0087] The rod 44 and the first connecting rod 48 are arranged such that a rotation of the rod 44 about the rod axis Y1 causes a displacement of the first end 48A of the first connecting rod 48, in an arc-like motion about the rod axis YL. In other words, the first end 48A of the first connecting rod 48 rotates about the rod 44 when the rod is rotating about the rod axis YL.

[0088] In the example, to obtain this circular arc displacement, the first end 48A of the first connecting rod 48 is attached to a first connecting rod 50 of the actuation device 42, which extends from the rod 44 perpendicularly to the axis of The connecting rod Y1 is shown here as a single unit with the connecting rod. The first end 48A of the first connecting rod 48 is able to pivot relative to the first connecting rod 50 around the first connecting rod axis Y2. The first connecting rod 48 is thus attached to the first connecting rod 50 at the level of the first connecting rod axis Y2.

[0089] The first connecting rod 48 also has a second end 48B, attached to the first lever 34 so as to be rotationally movable relative to the first lever about a second connecting rod axis X7 parallel to the first lever axis XI and a third connecting rod axis Y3 parallel to the first connecting rod axis Y2. It should be noted that the third connecting rod axis Y3 is movable relative to the base 12.

[0090] Since the first connecting rod 48 is attached to the first lever 34 and to the rod 44, a rotational movement of the rod 44 causes a pivoting of the first connecting rod, in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the rod Yl, and a translation of the first connecting rod, caused by the circular arc movement of its first end 48A.

[0091] In other words, when the first connecting rod 48 is moved by the rod 44, the first connecting rod causes the first lever 34 to rotate around the first lever axis XI, imposing a displacement of the first lever 34 at the level of the second connecting rod axis X7.

[0092] Furthermore, the fact that the second end 48B of the first connecting rod 48 is rotationally mobile about the third connecting rod axis Y3 relative to the first lever 34 allows the first connecting rod to pivot in a plane perpendicular to the rod axis Y1 without causing any movement of the first lever 34 in that plane. In practice, the mobility of the second end 48B of the first connecting rod 48 about the third connecting rod axis Y3 is achieved thanks to the operating clearance between the second end 48B of the first connecting rod 48 and the first lever 34.

[0093] Advantageously, the actuating device 42 also includes a second connecting rod 52, designed to rotate the second lever 38 by means of the rotation of the rod 44, and which functions like the first connecting rod 48. Thus, the second connecting rod 52 has a first end 52A attached to the rod 44 via a second connecting rod 54, and is rotatable relative to the second connecting rod 54 and relative to the rod 44 around the first connecting rod axis Y2. The second connecting rod 52 also has a second end 52B, attached to the second lever 38 so as to be rotatable relative to the second lever around a fourth connecting rod axis X8 parallel to the third lever axis X4 and the third connecting rod axis Y3 parallel to the first connecting rod axis Y2.

[0094] The actuation device 42 is configured so that a rotation of the rod 44 around the rod axis Y1 between its locking and unlocking orientations causes the first lever 34 to rotate around the first lever axis XI, via the first connecting rod 48, and causes the second lever to rotate 38 around the third lever axis X4, via the second connecting rod 52, and thus operates the device 10 between its locked and unlocked configurations respectively, the device being in the locked configuration when the rod 44 is in the locking orientation and the device being in the unlocked configuration when the rod is in the unlocking orientation.

[0095] Thus, the actuation of the handle 46 causes the first hook 36 and the second hook 40 to move and therefore operates the device 10 between its locked and unlocked configurations.

[0096] The actuating device 42 is therefore particularly advantageous for efficiently converting a rotation of the handle 46 into a rotation of the two levers 34, 48 and thus into a movement of the two hooks 36, 40. Thanks to the locking system 32 and the actuating device 42, a rotation of the handle 46 is sufficient to actuate the two hooks 36, 40 and thus operate the device 10 between its locked and unlocked configurations. The device 10 is therefore particularly easy for a user to lock and unlock, even with one hand.

[0097] In a particularly advantageous manner, the braking system 30 is operated by the locking system 32, in particular by the actuation device 42. More specifically, the braking member 30B is moved in translation relative to the base 12, along the main axis Zl, between its release and braking positions, by the actuation device 42.

[0098] For this purpose, the braking member 30B is attached to the rod 44 so as to be mobile in rotation relative to the rod around the rod axis Y1 and fixed in translation relative to the rod along the main axis ZL In other words, the braking member 30B is operated between its release and braking positions by the rod 44.

[0099] Furthermore, the rod 44 is movable in translation relative to the base 12 along the main axis Z1, between a release position and a braking position. The release position of the braking element 30B is reached when the rod 44 is in the release position, and the braking position of the braking element 30B is reached when the rod is in the braking position. Thus, the rod axis Y1 is movable relative to the base 12.

[0100] In practice, the release position of the rod 44 is reached when the cover 12 is mounted on the rest of the device 10 and when the rod 44 is in its locking orientation. When the cover 12 is not mounted on the rest of the device 10 and / or when the rod 44 is in its unlocking orientation, then the rod is in its braking position.

[0101] Advantageously, the rod 44 extends through an oblong hole 12C in the base 12, the oblong hole 12C extending along the main axis Zl, so that the rod 44 is able to pass through the base 12 without the base 12 preventing the translation of the rod 44 along the main axis Zl.

[0102] Since the rod 44 is fixed in translation relative to the braking member 30B, the force exerted by the return member 30D on the braking member 30B tends to return the rod to its braking position. In other words, the braking position of the rod 44 is a rest position, or a position occupied by the rod in the absence of any other forces exerted on the rod or the braking member 30B.

[0103] Thus, when the cover 12 is not mounted on the rest of the device 10, a rotation of the rod 44 from its unlocking orientation to its locking orientation does not cause the rod to translate from its braking position to its release position, but rather causes the first hook 36 and the second hook 40 to slide beyond their locking position, under the effect of the force exerted by the return member 30D on the braking member 30B and on the rod 44. Indeed, in the absence of the cover 12, nothing prevents the first and second hooks 36, 40 from sliding beyond their locking position and the force exerted by the return member 30D prevents the rod 44 from moving from its braking position to its release position.Therefore, the rotation of the rod causes the first ends 48A, 52A of the first and second connecting rods 48, 52 to move in an arc around the rod axis Yl, moving the first and second connecting rods 48, 52 away from the first and second openings 12A, 12B of the base 12, which causes the first and second levers 34, 38 to rotate around the first and third lever axes XI, X4 beyond their locking orientation and thus the first and second hooks 36, 40 to slide beyond their locking position.

[0104] On the contrary, when the cover 12 is mounted on the rest of the device 10, a rotation of the rod 44 from its unlocking orientation to its locking orientation causes a translation of the rod 44 from its braking position to its release position, against the force exerted by the return member 30D on the braking member 30B and on the rod 44. Indeed, when the cover 12 is mounted on the rest of the device 10, the first and second hooks 36, 40 are in contact with the first and second lugs 20A, 20B, so that the first and second hooks 36, 40 cannot slide beyond their locking position.Therefore, the rotation of the rod causes the first ends 48A, 52A of the first and second connecting rods 48, 52 to move in an arc around the axis of the rod Yl, but since the first and second connecting rods 48, 52 cannot be moved away from the first and second openings 12A, 12B of the base 12 due to the support of the first and second hooks 36, 40 against the first and second lugs 20A, 20B, this movement of the first ends 48A, 52A of the . The first and second connecting rods 48, 52 cause the rod 44 to move from its braking position to its release position, against the force exerted by the return member 30D. In other words, the support of the first and second hooks 36, 40 against the first and second lugs 20A, 20B makes it possible to overcome the force exerted by the return member 30D on the braking member 30B and on the rod 44.

[0105] Thus, the linked operation of the braking system 30 and the locking system 32, achieved because the actuating device 42 operates the braking system 30, ensures that the braking element 30B can only reach its release position when the cover 20 is mounted on the rest of the device 10 and when the first and second hooks 36, 40 are in their locking position and orientation. In other words, the braking system 30 allows the electric motor 24 to operate only when the cover 20 is mounted on the rest of the device 10 and locked by the locking system 32, preventing the electric motor 24 from starting when the rotary tool 18 is accessible to a user.

[0106] It is noted, moreover, that in the locked configuration of the device 10, the rod 44 is located between the first end 48A of the first connecting rod 48 and the second end 48B of the first connecting rod 48, along the main axis Zl, and that the rod 44 is located between the first end 52A of the second connecting rod 52 and the second end 52B of the second connecting rod 52, along the main axis Zl. Conversely, in the unlocked configuration of the device 10, the first end 48A of the first connecting rod 48 is located between the rod 44 and the second end 48B of the first connecting rod 48, along the main axis Zl, and the first end 52A of the second connecting rod 52 is located between the rod 44 and the second end 52B of the second connecting rod 52, along the main axis Zl.These positions are obtained by means of the arc movement centered on the axis of the rod Y1 which follows the first end 48A of the first connecting rod 48 and the first end 52A of the second connecting rod 52. Thus, the first end 48A of the first connecting rod 48 and the first end 52A of the second connecting rod 52 are moved downwards and the rod 44 is moved upwards, along the main axis Zl, i.e. along a vertical axis, when the device 10 is operated from its unlocked configuration to its locked configuration. Conversely, the first end 48A of the first connecting rod 48 and the first end 52A of the second connecting rod 52 are moved upwards and the rod 44 is moved downwards, along the main axis Zl, i.e. along a vertical axis, when the device 10 is operated from its locked configuration to its unlocked configuration.

[0107] These movements, obtained in particular thanks to the support of the first and second hooks 36, 40 against the first and second lugs 20A, 20B of the cover 20 and thanks to the effort exerted by the return member 30D on the braking member 30B, allow the first and second levers 34, 38 to be operated simultaneously to lock and unlock the first and second hooks 36, 40, and the braking system 30 to be operated to engage or release the braking member 30B from the braking device 30A.

[0108] In a particularly advantageous manner, the locking and unlocking orientations of the rod 44 are chosen such that, in the locked configuration of the device 10, the first connecting rod axis Y2 is located on one side of a plane P passing through the rod axis Y1 and the third connecting rod axis Y3, whereas in the unlocked configuration of the device 10, the first connecting rod axis Y2 is located on a second side of the plane P, the second side being opposite the first side. Thus, the device 10 passes through an alignment configuration when the device is operated between its unlocked and locked configurations, in which the first connecting rod axis Y2 passes through the plane P, that is to say, in which the first connecting rod axis Y2, the rod axis Y1, and the third connecting rod axis Y3 are aligned.

[0109] Furthermore, in the device alignment configuration, the first connecting rod axis Y2, the rod axis Y1, and the third connecting rod axis Y3 are aligned along the main axis Z1, that is, they are aligned parallel to the direction in which the return member 30D exerts a force on the braking member 30B, tending to bring the braking member closer to the braking device 30A. Moreover, it is in the device alignment configuration that the force exerted by the return member 30D on the braking member 30B is at its maximum. Thus, in the example, it is in the device alignment configuration that the compression of the two compression springs is at its maximum. Therefore, the fact that the first connecting rod axis Y2, the rod axis Y1 and the third connecting rod axis Y3 are not aligned in the locked configuration of device 10 is particularly advantageous, as this makes the locked configuration of device 10 stable.Indeed, it is necessary to exert an effort against the return force of the return element 30D to move from the locked configuration of the device 10 to the aligned configuration of the device, preventing accidental unlocking of the device. The actuation device 42 thus acts as a mechanical device of the knee joint type.

[0110] Advantageously, the switching device 28 is mounted so as to be operated between its supply configuration and its switching configuration by the rod 44, such that the switching device is in the supply configuration when the rod 44 is in the release position and such that the switching device is in the switching configuration when the rod 44 is in the braking position. Thus, the configuration of the cutting device 28 depends on the position of the rod 44 along the main axis Zl.

[0111] In the example, the body 28A is mounted on the braking member 30B so as to be fixed in translation relative to the braking member and movable in translation relative to the base 12, along the main axis Z1, and the probe 28B is mounted on the base 12 so as to be fixed relative to the base. Thus, when the braking member 30B is moved by the rod 44 between its release position and its braking position, the probe 28B is moved relative to the body 28A, switching the switching device 28 between its supply and switching configurations.

[0112] Advantageously, the device 10 is also operable in an intermediate configuration illustrated in Figures 4 and 7, reached between the locked and unlocked configurations, in which the upper end 36B of the first hook 36 and the upper end 40B of the second hook 40 are in contact with the cover 20, preventing removal of the cover, and in which the disconnecting device 28 is in the disconnected position. Furthermore, in the intermediate configuration, the braking system 30 does not oppose the rotation of the electric motor 24, i.e., the braking element 30B is in the release position.

[0113] Thus, when the device 10 transitions from its locked configuration to its unlocked configuration, it passes through its intermediate configuration. In the locked configuration, the braking element 30B is in the release position and the cut-off device 28 is in the power-on configuration, so that the electric motor 24 can operate and the drive shaft 26 and the rotary tool 18 can be driven to rotate around the main axis Zl. In the intermediate configuration of the device 10, the braking element 30B is still in the release position, but the cut-off device 28 is in the cut-off configuration, so that the electric motor 24 is not powered, but the drive shaft 26 and the rotary tool 18 can still rotate around the main axis Zl, since their rotation is not braked by the braking system 30.In the unlocked configuration of device 10, the braking element 30B is in the braking position and the cut-off device 28 is in the cut-off configuration, so that the electric motor 24 is not powered and so that the rotation of the motor shaft 26 and the rotary tool 18 around the main axis Zl is prevented by the braking system 30.

[0114] This opening sequence is particularly advantageous for increasing the service life of the device 10, because it prevents the motor shaft 26 from being braked by the braking system 30 when the cut-off device 30 is in the power-up configuration, i.e., when the electric motor 24 is likely to operate. In other words, the rotation of the motor shaft 26 can only be braked when the electric motor 24 is stopped, thus avoiding applying braking to the electric motor when it is in operation, which could potentially damage the electric motor.

[0115] Furthermore, as can be seen from Figures 4 and 5 and Figures 7 and 8, the first and second levers 34, 38 reach their locking orientation in the intermediate configuration of the device 10. This is due, in particular, to the arrangement of the rod 44, the first and second connecting rods 48, 52, and the first and second levers 34, 38. Thus, in the intermediate configuration, the first and second hooks 36, 40 are in their locking position and in their locking orientation. In other words, the movement of the first and second hooks 36, 40 takes place between the unlocked and intermediate configurations of the device 10, and the first and second hooks 36, 40 remain in their locking position and in their locking orientation between the intermediate and locked configurations of the device 10.Furthermore, it can be seen, particularly in figures 3 to 5, that the compression of the return member 30D, here of the two springs 30D, essentially takes place between the intermediate configuration and the locked configuration of the device 10, in particular thanks to the arrangement of the connecting rod 44, the braking member 30B, the first and second connecting rods 48, 52 and the first and second connecting rods 50, 54. . However, it is during the compression of the springs 30D that the force exerted by the user on the handle 46 is at its maximum. Thus, when the forces exerted on the handle are at their maximum, the first and second hooks 36, 40 are not moving, so the forces exerted on the first and second levers 36, 38 are minimal, reducing wear on the first and second levers and thus increasing the lifespan of the device 10. Even when the first and second hooks 36, 40 are not moving, the compression of the return mechanism 30D between the intermediate and locking positions of the device 10 nevertheless causes the first and second hooks 36, 40 to be compressed against the removable cover 20, in a clamping force ensuring secure closure of the device 10.

[0116] Furthermore, when the device 10 is operated from its locked to its unlocked configuration, the electric motor 24 is cut off by the cut-off device 28 before the first and second hooks 36, 38 begin to move from their locked orientation and position to their unlocked orientation and position. This ensures that the electric motor stops before the removable cover 20 can be removed. Consequently, even if the handle 46 is manipulated rapidly by a user, the rotary tool 18 cannot be reached before it has been stopped. The device 10 according to the invention is therefore particularly safe to use, while also being easy to lock and unlock thanks to the locking system 32.

[0117] A food preparation appliance 10 according to a second embodiment of the invention is shown in Figures 9 and 10. In the second embodiment, the elements analogous to those of the first embodiment bear the same reference numerals and function in the same way. The following mainly describes the differences between the first and second embodiments.

[0118] Furthermore, if a component is mentioned in the description of the second embodiment but is not shown in Figures 9 and 10, it corresponds to the same element shown in Figures 1 to 8 for the first embodiment. The device 10 of the second embodiment is shown in the unlocked configuration in [Fig. 9] and in the locked configuration in [Fig. 10].

[0119] In practice, the food preparation device 10 of the second embodiment has an identical function to that of the first embodiment but is less expensive to manufacture than that of the first embodiment.

[0120] In particular, the locking system 32 of the food preparation device 10 of the second embodiment is particularly inexpensive to manufacture, while being reliable and robust.

[0121] In particular, the first lever 34 comprises a first plate 34A and a second plate 34B, which extend parallel to each other and parallel to the first lever axis XL. Furthermore, the first lever 34 is rotatable relative to the base 12 at the first lever axis XI by means of a pivot plate 34C, which is mounted between the first plate 34A and the second plate 34B and extends through openings 34D in the first and second plates, the openings 34D being traversed by the first lever axis XL. The pivot plate 34C is fixed to the base 12 by means of screws 34E, which hold the pivot plate 34C stationary relative to the base. This design provides a reliable and robust connection of the first lever 34A to the base 12.

[0122] In addition, the lower end 36A of the first hook 36 is attached to the first lever 34 by means of a screw 36D extending along the second lever axis X2, which makes it possible to articulate effectively the first hook 36 relative to the first lever 34 at the level of the second lever axis X2.

[0123] Furthermore, the first plate 34A and the second plate 34B have openings 34F, through which the second connecting rod axis X7 passes. The second end 48B of the first connecting rod 48 is disposed between the first plate 34A and the second plate 34B of the first lever 34 and has a "T" shape, with two arms 48C extending along the second connecting rod axis X7 so as to extend through the openings 34F of the first and second plates. The interaction of the two arms 48C with the openings 34F allows the first connecting rod 48 to pivot by relative to the first lever 34 around the second connecting rod axis X7 preventing other movements of the first connecting rod relative to the first lever.

[0124] The design of the second lever 38, the second hook 40, and the second connecting rod 52 are advantageously identical to those of the first lever 34 and the first connecting rod 48. Thus, the second lever 38 comprises a first plate 38A and a second plate 38B having openings 38D and 38F, and a pivot plate 38C held fixed to the base 12 by a screw 38E. The lower end 40A of the second hook 40 is attached to the second lever 48 by means of a screw 40D extending along the fourth lever axis X5. The second end 52B of the second connecting rod 52 has a "T" shape with two arms 52C extending along the fourth connecting rod axis X8.

[0125] Advantageously, the first plates 34A and 38A, the second plates 34B and 48B, the pivot plates 34C and 38C, the first and second connecting rods 48, 52 are manufactured by laser cutting, making it possible to obtain particularly inexpensive parts.

[0126] Advantageously, and as can be seen in Figures 9 and 10, the openings 34D, 34F, 38D and 38F are not circular but are in the shape of two fans, or two circular sectors of a disk, joined at their vertices. Thus, the openings 34D, 34F, 38D and 38F make it possible to limit the angular deflection of the pivot plate 34C, the two arms 48C of the first connecting rod 48, the pivot plate 48C and the two arms 52C of the second connecting rod 52, respectively.

[0127] In the second embodiment, the braking element 30B comprises a braking plate 31A, which extends parallel to the braking device 30A and perpendicular to the main axis Zl, two lateral walls 31B, which extend from the braking plate 31A perpendicularly to the braking plate 31A and provide rigidity to the braking element 30B, and two flanges 31C, which extend from the braking plate 31A perpendicularly to the axis of the rod XI, through which the rod 44 passes. Thus, the two flanges 31C ensure the fixing between the braking element 30B and the rod 44, preventing a translation of the braking element relative to the rod but allowing a rotation of the braking element relative to the rod, around the axis of the rod Yl.The braking element 30B is advantageously manufactured from a flat sheet of metal which is cut and then bent, making it possible to obtain a particularly inexpensive part, while ensuring a reliable connection between the braking element 30B and the rod 44.

[0128] In the second embodiment, the first connecting rod 50 attaching the first end 48A of the first connecting rod 48 to the rod 44 is not integral with the rod 44, but is fixed to the rod by means of a fastener 50A, preferably a screw. Furthermore, the first connecting rod 50 is connected to the first end 48A of the first connecting rod 48 is secured by means of a fastening element 50B, here a shouldered screw, which allows the first end 48A to be fixed to the connecting rod 50 without preventing rotation of the first end 48A relative to the connecting rod 50 around the first axis of the connecting rod Y2. The design of the second connecting rod 54 is identical, the latter being fixed to the rod 44 by means of a fastening element 54A and to the second connecting rod by means of a fastening element 54B. This design makes the actuation device 42 particularly inexpensive to manufacture, as the cost of producing the connecting rods 50, 54 and their attachment to the connecting rods 48, 52 and to the rod 44 is low.

[0129] In the second embodiment, the return member 30D comprises four compression springs extending along the main axis ZI between the braking member 30B and the base 12, of which only two are visible in Figures 9 and 10. The use of four compression springs improves the guidance of the braking member 30B in translation along the main axis ZI, compared with the two compression springs used in the first embodiment. Advantageously, the braking plate 31A is substantially rectangular and the four compression springs are arranged at the four corners of the braking plate 31A.

[0130] Advantageously, in the second embodiment, the braking element 30B is guided in translation along the main axis Zl, relative to the base 12, by a guide device 60. Preferably, the guide device 60 also opposes rotation of the braking element 30B about the main axis Zl. The guide device 60 thus facilitates the translation of the braking element 30B and prevents other movements of the braking element 30B. Furthermore, by guiding the braking element 30B, the guide device also guides the rod 44 in its translational movement along the main axis Zl.

[0131] In the example of the second embodiment, the guide device 60 comprises two guide axes 60, which are fixed to the base 12 and which each extend parallel to the main axis Zl through the braking element 30B, more precisely through two openings of the braking element 30B.Thus, the two guide axes 60 do not oppose a translation of the braking element 30B along the main axis Zl, but prevent a translation of the braking element 30B perpendicular to the main axis Zl. Furthermore, the two guide axes 60 are arranged on either side of the drive shaft 26, in a plane perpendicular to the main axis Zl, thus effectively preventing a rotation of the braking element 30B around the main axis Zl. Thus, when the braking element 30B is in the braking position, the rotation of the braking device 30A is not likely to cause the braking element 30B to rotate around the main axis Zl, and the braking of the braking device 30A, and thus of the drive shaft 26, is then effective.

[0132] We now describe, with reference to [Fig. 11], certain geometric and kinematic characteristics of the apparatus 10 of the second embodiment of Figures 9 and 10. In practice, the geometric and kinematic characteristics described in relation to [Fig. 11] are also applicable to the apparatus 10 of the first embodiment of Figures 1 to 8.

[0133] In what follows, reference is made only to the geometric and kinematic characteristics of the first lever 34 and the first hook 36 of the device 10 of the second embodiment, but what is described is also applicable to the second lever 38 and the second hook 40.

[0134] In particular, in [Fig. 11], the base 12, the juice container 14 and the removable lid 20 are schematically represented by their outer casing. The first lug 20A of the lid 20 and the first opening 12A of the base 12, as well as the first pivot axis X3, are specifically shown.

[0135] In addition, the first lever 34 and the first hook 36 are shown schematically.

[0136] More specifically, the first lever 34 is illustrated solely by means of its profile between the first lever axis XI and the second lever axis X2. The profile of the first lever 34 is illustrated simultaneously in its locking and unlocking orientations, by a solid line in its locking orientation and by a dashed line in its unlocking orientation, the second lever axis X2 being referenced X2A in the locking orientation of the first lever 34 and being referenced X2B in the unlocking orientation of the first lever 34.

[0137] Similarly, the first hook 36 is illustrated only by means of its profile, represented by a solid line in its orientation and locking position and by a dotted line in its orientation and unlocking position.

[0138] It is thus noted that, as previously stated, the upper end 36B of the first hook 36 follows an elliptical trajectory between the unlocked and locked configurations of the device 10, that is to say an arc of ellipse, this arc of ellipse being highlighted on the [Fig. 11].

[0139] The first pivot axis X3, fixed with respect to the base 12, is also shown in [Fig. 11].

[0140] Preferably, the first lever axis XI is disposed at a distance DI from the main axis Zl, i.e. from the drive shaft 26, measured perpendicular to the main axis Zl, of between 60 mm and 90 mm, for example equal to 75 mm.

[0141] Preferably, a length L1 of the first lever 34, measured between the first lever axis XI and the second lever axis X2 in a plane perpendicular to the first lever axis XI, is between 18 mm and 29 mm, for example equal to 23.5 mm.

[0142] Preferably, an angular displacement 01 of the first lever 34 around the first lever axis XI, between its locking orientation and its unlocking orientation, is greater than 30°, preferably still between 30° and 60°, preferably still between 40° and 50°, for example equal to 45.5°.

[0143] Preferably, a distance D2, measured between the first lever axis XI and the first pivot axis X3 in a plane perpendicular to the first lever axis XI, is between 45 mm and 78 mm, preferably still between 56 mm and 67 mm, for example equal to 61.4 mm.

[0144] Advantageously, a ratio between the distance D2 and the length L1 is between 1.5 and 4.5, preferably between 2 and 3, for example equal to 2.6. Such a ratio allows, from the rotation of the first lever 34 around the first lever axis XI, to obtain a sliding and pivoting of the first hook 36 allowing both an effective holding of the cover 20 in the locked configuration of the device 10 and a sufficient distance between the first hook and the cover in the unlocked configuration of the device, allowing simple removal of the cover.

[0145] In addition, a distance D3, measured between the first lever axis XI and the first pivot axis X3 along the main axis Zl, is between 38.5 mm and 66.7 mm, preferably still between 45 mm and 59 mm, for example equal to 52.5 mm.

[0146] In addition, a distance D4, measured between the first pivot axis X3 and the main axis Zl, measured perpendicular to the main axis Zl, is between 80 mm and 130 mm, preferably still between 95 mm and 117 mm, for example equal to 106.5 mm.

[0147] Preferably, when the first lever 34 is in its locking orientation, an angle 02 formed between the lower end 36A of the first hook 36 and the first lever 34, more precisely between the lower end 36A of the first hook 36 and an axis connecting the first lever axis XI to the second lever axis X2, is between 75° and 115°, preferably between 85° and 95°, for example equal to 90°.

[0148] Preferably, a length L3 of the first hook 36, measured between its lower end 36A and its upper end 36B in a plane perpendicular to the first pivot axis X3, more precisely measured parallel to the central portion 36C of the first hook 36, is between 150 mm and 215 mm, preferably between 175 mm and 190 mm, for example equal to 182.8 mm.

[0149] Preferably, when the first lever 34 is in its locking orientation and when the first hook 36 is in its locking orientation and in its locked position, an internal length L2 of the first hook 36, measured between its lower end 36A and the first pivot axis X3 in a plane perpendicular to the first pivot axis X3, more precisely measured parallel to the central portion 36C of the first hook 36, is between 50 mm and 65 mm, preferably between 55 mm and 60 mm, for example equal to 56.7 mm.

[0150] Preferably, when the first lever 34 is in its locking orientation and when the first hook 36 is in its locking orientation and in its locked position, an angle 03 between the central portion 36C of the first hook 36 and the main axis Z1, measured in a plane perpendicular to the first pivot axis X3, is less than 13°, preferably between 5° and 13°, preferably between 7° and 11°, for example equal to 9°.

[0151] Preferably, when the first lever 34 is in its unlocking orientation and when the first hook 36 is in its unlocking orientation and in its unlocking position, an internal length L4 of the first hook 36, measured between its lower end 36A and the first pivot axis X3 in a plane perpendicular to the first pivot axis X3, more precisely measured parallel to the central portion 36C of the first hook 36, is between 34 mm and 47 mm, preferably between 38 mm and 43 mm, for example equal to 40.5 mm.

[0152] Thus, a linear travel of the first hook 36 along its central part 36C, between its locking position and its unlocking position, is greater than or equal to 10 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 15 mm, in the example equal to 16.2 mm. In other words, the first hook 36 slides in the first opening 12A over a length preferably greater than or equal to 10 mm, preferably even greater than or equal to 15 mm, in the example equal to 16.2 mm.

[0153] Preferably, when the first lever 34 is in its unlocking orientation and when the first hook 36 is in its unlocking orientation and in its unlocking position, an angle 04 between the central portion 36C of the first hook 36 and the main axis Zl, measured in a plane perpendicular to the first pivot axis X3, is greater than or equal to 5°, preferably also between 5° and 25°, preferably also greater than or equal to 10°, preferably also between 10° and 23°, for example equal to 19°.

[0154] Thus, an angular displacement of the first hook 36 around the first pivot axis X3, between its locking orientation and its unlocking orientation, i.e. a difference between the locking orientation and the unlocking orientation of the first hook, is greater than or equal to 5°, preferably greater than or equal to 10°, in the example equal to 10°.

[0155] Thanks to the angular travel of the first hook 36 between its locking and unlocking orientations, and to a lesser extent thanks to the linear travel of the first hook between its locking and unlocking positions, the first hook 36 is sufficiently far from the cover removable 20 to allow a user to easily remove the cover from the rest of the device 10 when the device is in unlocked configuration.

[0156] In particular, a distance D5 measured between the upper end 36B of the first hook 36 in its unlocked orientation and unlocked position and the upper end 36B of the first hook 36 in its locked orientation and locked position, measured perpendicular to the main axis Zl, is advantageously between 10 mm and 40 mm, preferably between 20 mm and 30 mm, in the example equal to 26.4 mm. Thus, the upper end 36B of the first hook 36 is sufficiently far from the rest of the device 10, perpendicular to the main axis Zl, so as not to hinder the removal of the cover 20 from the rest of the device, in a translational movement about the main axis Zl.

[0157] The specific dimensions specified above allow for efficient movement of the first hook 36 to maintain the cover 20 in the locking configuration of the device 10 and to not hinder the removal of the cover in the unlocked configuration of the device 10.

[0158] In a non-shown embodiment of the invention, the upper ends 36B, 40B of the first and second hooks 36, 40 cooperate with the cover 20 by means different from the first and second lugs 20A, 20B. For example, the cover 20 has two recesses, or notches, into which lugs of the upper ends 36B, 40B are received when the device is in the locked configuration. The invention is not limited to these examples.

[0159] In a non-shown variant of the invention, the lid 20 does not include a second lug, the locking system 32 does not include a second lever or a second hook, and the actuating device 42 does not include the second connecting rod. In such a variant, the lid 20 is held locked solely by the first hook 36, or is held locked by another locking device, such as, for example, a hook holding the lid 20 fixed relative to the juice container 14.

[0160] In a non-shown embodiment of the invention, the rod 44 extends along a rod axis parallel to the first lever axis XL. In such an embodiment, the second connecting rod axis X7 and the third connecting rod axis Y3 coincide. Such an embodiment is particularly advantageous for simplifying the design of the device 10 when the latter comprises only one lever and one hook.

[0161] In a non-shown variant of the invention, the locking system includes a different actuation device for operating the first and second levers 34, 38. For example, the first and second levers 34, 38 are actuated directly by a handle that does not operate the braking system 30. In such a variant, the braking system 30 can be operated separately from the locking system 32.

[0162] In a non-represented variant of the invention, the food preparation appliance 10 is an appliance of a different type than a centrifuge, such as, for example, a citrus press, a blender, a chopper, an ice crusher, a cheese grater, a vegetable cutter or a multi-function food processor.

[0163] In a non-shown embodiment of the invention, the tool 18 is not a rotating tool, but, for example, a tool that moves in translation relative to the base 12, or that moves relative to the base in a movement combining one or more translations and / or one or more rotations relative to the base. For example, the tool moves in translation about the principal axis Z1, like a press, such as a citrus juicer. In such an embodiment, the electric motor 24 drives the tool 18 via a suitable transmission to transform the rotational movement of the electric motor 24 into a suitable movement of the tool 18.

[0164] In a non-shown variant of the invention, the electric motor 24 does not extend along a vertical axis. In other words, the main axis Zl, which corresponds to the axis of rotation of the electric motor 24, is not necessarily vertical, although this orientation is preferred when the tool 18 is a rotating tool that rotates about the vertical axis to simplify the design of the device 10. It should be noted that, in the description of the embodiments in Figures 1 to 11, reference is made indiscriminately to the main axis Zl corresponding to the axis of rotation of the electric motor 24 and to a height axis, because the main axis Zl is vertical, that is to say, it corresponds to a height axis, in these embodiments.It is thus understood that, in variants where the main axis Zl is not vertical, certain characteristics described above in relation to the main axis Zl are then understood in relation to a height axis, in this case a vertical axis. For example, for the operation of the actuation device 42, the orthogonality of the rod axis Yl, the first connecting rod axis Y2, and the third connecting rod axis Y3 with a height axis is advantageous, but the orthogonality of these axes with the main axis Zl when the main axis Zl is not a height axis does not provide any particular advantages. Conversely, it is advantageous that the braking element 30B is movable in translation relative to the base 12 along the main axis Zl corresponding to the axis of rotation of the electric motor 24, but the fact that the braking element 30B is movable in translation relative to a height axis does not provide any particular advantage.However, it is particularly advantageous for the axis of rotation of the electric motor 24 to be a height axis, in particular vertical, as this facilitates the design of the device 10, in particular by simplifying and optimizing the interactions between the braking system 30 and the actuation device 42.

[0165] Any feature described for an embodiment or variant in the foregoing may be implemented for the other embodiments and variants described above, provided that it is technically feasible.

Claims

Demands

1. Food preparation apparatus (10), in particular a centrifuge, comprising at least: - a base (12), - a tool (18), mounted on the base (12), - a removable cover (20), intended to be mounted on the rest of the device (10) to cover the tool (18), - an electric motor (24), mounted on the base (12), which rotates about a main axis (Zl) and is configured to actuate the tool (18), and - a locking system (32) for the removable cover (20) on the base (12), characterized in that the locking system (32) comprises: - an actuation device (42), - a first lever (34), disposed in the base (12), movable in rotation relative to the base (12) around a first lever axis (XI), the first lever (34) being configured to be driven in rotation around the first lever axis (XI) by the actuation device (42), - a first hook (36), configured to be set in motion by the first lever (34), and comprising: • a lower end (36A), attached to the first lever (34) so ​​as to be movable in rotation relative to the first lever (34) around a second lever axis (X2) parallel to the first lever axis (XI), • a high end (36B), and • an elongated central portion (36C), connecting from the lower end (36A) to the upper end (36B), in that the central portion (36C) of the first hook (36) extends through a first opening (12A) of the base (12), being guided by the first opening (12A) of the base (12), so that the first hook (36) is able to:

2. - slide, relative to the base (12), along its central portion (36C), between a locked position and an unlocked position, and jointly - pivot, relative to the base (12), around a first pivot axis (X3) parallel to the first lever axis (XI) and passing through the first opening (12A) of the base, between a locking orientation and an unlocking orientation, and in that the apparatus (10) is operable, by the actuation device (42) causing the first lever (34) to rotate around the first lever axis (XI), between: - a locked configuration, wherein the first hook (36) is in its locking position and in its locking orientation, and wherein the upper end (36B) of the first hook (36) is in contact with the removable cover (20), preventing removal of the removable cover (20), and - an unlocked configuration, in which the first hook (36) is in its unlocking position and in its unlocking orientation and in which the upper end (36B) of the first hook (36) is away from the removable cover (20), allowing removal of the removable cover (20). Apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the actuation device (42) comprises:

3. - a rod (44), movable in rotation relative to the base (12) around a rod axis (Yl), between a locking orientation and an unlocking orientation, and - a first connecting rod (48), comprising: • a first end (48A), attached to the rod (44) so ​​as to be free to rotate relative to the rod (44) around a first connecting rod axis (Y2) parallel to the rod axis (Y1), and • a second end (48B), attached to the first lever (34) so ​​as to be mobile in rotation relative to the first lever (34) around a second connecting rod axis (X8) parallel to the first lever axis (XI) and a third connecting rod axis (Y3) parallel to the first connecting rod axis (Y2), and in which the actuation device (42) is configured so that a rotation of the rod (44) around the rod axis (Yl) between its locking and unlocking orientations causes the first lever (34) to rotate around the first lever axis (XI) via the first connecting rod (48) and thus operates the device (10) between its locked and unlocked configurations respectively, the device (10) being in the locked configuration when the rod (44) is in the locking orientation and the device (10) being in the unlocked configuration when the rod (44) is in the unlocking orientation. Apparatus (10) according to claim 2, wherein the rod axis (Y1), the first connecting rod axis (Y2) and the third connecting rod axis (Y3) are orthogonal to a height axis (Z1), wherein: - in the locked configuration of the device (10), the rod (44) is located between the first end (48A) of the first connecting rod (48) and the second end (48B) of the first connecting rod (48), along the height axis (Zl), and - in the unlocked configuration of the device (10), the first end (48A) of the first connecting rod (48) is located between the rod (44) and the second end (48B) of the first connecting rod (48), along the height axis (Zl),

4. the first end (48A) of the first connecting rod (48) being moved downwards and the rod (44) being moved upwards, along the height axis (Zl), when the device (10) is operated from its unlocked configuration to its locked configuration, and the first end (48A) of the first connecting rod (48) being moved upwards and the rod (44) being moved downwards, along the height axis (Zl), when the device (10) is operated from its locked configuration to its unlocked configuration. Apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the rod (44) is movable in translation relative to the base (12) along the main axis (Zl), between a release position and a braking position, wherein the release position of the rod (44) is reached when the removable cover (20) is mounted on the rest of the apparatus (10) and when the rod (44) is in its locking orientation, wherein the apparatus (10) further comprises a braking system (30) capable of braking a rotation of the electric motor (24) about the main axis (Zl), the braking system (30) comprising: - a braking device (30A), fixed in rotation with the electric motor (24), and - a braking element (30B), attached to the rod (44) so ​​as to be movable in rotation relative to the rod (44) around the rod axis (Yl) and fixed in translation relative to the rod (44) along the main axis (Zl), in which a translation of the rod (44) between its release position and its braking position operates the braking element (30B) between: - a release position, reached when the rod (44) is in the release position and in which the braking member (30B) does not cooperate with the braking device (30A) so that the braking system (30) does not oppose a rotation of the electric motor (24) around the main axis (Zl), and - a braking position, reached when the rod (44) is in the braking position and in which the braking member (30B) cooperates with the braking device (30A) so that the braking system (30) opposes a rotation of the electric motor (24) around the main axis (Zl).

5. Apparatus (10) according to claim 4, wherein the braking system (30) further comprises a return member (30D), exerting a force on the braking member (30B) and on the rod (44) along the main axis (Zl) tending to return the rod (44) to its braking position, wherein, when the removable cover (20) is mounted on the rest of the apparatus (10), a rotation of the rod (44) from its unlocked orientation to its locked orientation causes a translation of the rod (44) from its braking position to its release position, against the force exerted by the return member (30D) on the braking member (30B) and on the rod (44), and wherein, when the removable cover (20) is not mounted on the rest of the apparatus (10),A rotation of the rod (44) from its unlocked orientation to its locked orientation does not result in a translation of the rod (44) from its braking position to its release position and causes the first hook (36) to slide beyond its locked position, under the effect of the force exerted by the return member (30D) on the braking member (30B) and on the rod (44).

6. Apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a ratio between a first distance (D2), measured between the first lever axis (XI) and the first pivot axis (X3), and a length (L1) of the first lever (34), measured between the first axis of lever (XI) and the second lever axis (X2), is between 1.5 and 4.5, preferably equal to 2.

6.

7. Device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein an angular deflection of the first hook (36) around the first pivot axis (X3), between its locking orientation and its unlocking orientation, is greater than or equal to 5°, preferably greater than or equal to 10°.

8. Device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a linear travel of the first hook (36) along its central part, between its locking position and its unlocking position, is greater than or equal to 10 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 15 mm.

9. Device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a switching device (28), operable between: - a power-up configuration, in which the electric motor (24) is electrically powered so as to be able to actuate the tool (18), and - a switching configuration, in which the electric motor (24) is not electrically powered so as not to be able to actuate the tool (18), in which the switching device (28) is in the power-up configuration when the device (10) is in the locked configuration, in which the switching device (28) is in the switching configuration when the device (10) is in the unlocked configuration, and in which the device (10) is also operable, by the actuating device (42) rotating the first lever (34) about the first lever axis (XI), in an intermediate configuration,a point of contact between the locked and unlocked configurations, wherein the upper end of the first hook (36) is in contact with the removable cover (20), preventing removal of the removable cover (20), and wherein the disconnecting device (28) is in the disconnecting configuration.

10. Device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the locking system (32) further comprises: a second lever (38), disposed in the base (12), movable in rotation relative to the base (12) around a third lever axis (X4), the second lever (38) being configured to be driven in rotation around the third lever axis (X4) by the actuation device (42), a second hook (40), configured to be set in motion by the second lever (38), and comprising: • a lower end (40A), attached to the second lever (38) and movable in rotation relative to the second lever (38) around a fourth lever axis (X5) parallel to the third lever axis (X4), • a high end (40B), and • an elongated central portion (40C), connecting from the lower end (40A) to the upper end (40B), in which the central portion (40C) of the second hook (40) extends through a second opening (12B) in the base (12) while being guided by the second opening (12B) in the base (12), such that the second hook (40) is able to: - slide, relative to the base (12), along its central portion (40C), between a locking position and an unlocking position of the second hook (40) relative to the base (12), and jointly - pivot, relative to the base (12), around a second pivot axis (X6) parallel to the fourth lever axis (X5) and passing through the second opening (12B) of the base (12), between a locking orientation and an unlocking orientation, in which the device (10) is operated between its locked configuration and its unlocked configuration by the actuation device (42) causing rotation, in addition to the first lever (34) around the first lever axis (XI), the second lever (38) around the third lever axis (X4), in which, in the locked configuration of the device (10), the second hook (40) is in its locking position and in its locking orientation and the upper end of the second hook (40) is in contact with the removable cover (20), preventing removal of the removable cover (20), and in which, in the unlocked configuration of the device (10), the second hook (40) is in its unlocking position and in its unlocking orientation and the upper end of the second hook (40) is away from the removable cover (20), permitting removal of the removable cover (20).

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