Food Processing

Abstract

A food processing assembly (1) is disclosed that includes a lid (200) for a container (100) adapted to receive a drive for driving a tool (400) within the container (100), and a wiper (300) for wiping the interior walls of the container (100).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a food processing assembly, and in particular to an assembly including a wiper for wiping the inside walls of a container. The invention also extends to a lid structure for a food processor. [Background technology]

[0002] Food processing machines, including blenders, choppers, mixers, and other devices, typically include a rotating tool that is driven in rotation to process the food product. To prevent the food product from being processed by the food processing machine rotating with the tool, the container in which the food product is processed is often provided with ribs that run along the inside walls and act to prevent the food product from rotating and redirect the food product back towards the tool. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] In food processing equipment, particularly (but not limited to) where the container has a limited volume and is cylindrical, the rotating food may act on the lid, or the lid may be driven to rotate with the food, or the lid may be driven to rotate. It is therefore desirable to prevent the lid from rotating. It is also desirable to move the food away from the lid, not only to stop the lid from moving, but also to prevent the inside surface of the lid from becoming coated with food, or at least to reduce the coating of the lid. This is particularly important because most common food processing lids contain gear systems and are not dishwasher safe due to, for example, lubricants and corroding metal parts, and require manual cleaning by the user.

[0004] Additionally, it is a common problem with such devices that food products are forced by the rotating tool toward the outer walls of the container and become stuck there. When this occurs, the food products are out of reach of the tool and are not further processed, resulting in uneven results. To achieve uniform results, the user must open the container during processing and manually wipe the food products off the walls so they can be further processed. It is therefore desirable to provide a way for the user to wipe food products downwardly from the inner walls of the container while the device is in use. In particular, it is desirable to provide a way to wipe the walls of the container without having to open the container or stop processing.

[0005] The present invention aims to at least partially remedy the above-mentioned problems of the prior art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a food processing assembly is provided that includes a lid for a container adapted to receive a drive for driving a tool within the container, and a wiper for wiping an interior wall of the container.

[0007] The lid may be adapted to receive a motor unit that drives a tool within the container. The lid may itself be adapted to drive a tool within the container (e.g., the lid may include the motor unit).

[0008] As used herein, the term "tool" preferably includes the meaning of a driven shaft, which is preferably provided with one or more food processing tools (e.g. blades or paddles) for processing food products.

[0009] The wiper preferably includes an opening for receiving the tool and / or drive. The opening preferably extends through the wiper (i.e. is open at both ends).

[0010] The wiper preferably includes a drive extension adapted to transmit a drive force between the lid and the tool. The drive extension is preferably arranged to cover the opening (covering the side of the opening facing the lid). Preferably, the drive extension is removably attachable to the wiper.

[0011] The wiper is preferably rotatable to wipe the interior walls of the container.

[0012] The wiper is preferably rotatable independently of the tool and / or the tool drive. The wiper may be rotatable, for example, manually. The wiper is preferably rotatable together with the lid to wipe the inner wall of the container (i.e. the wiper is rotationally fixed relative to the lid and the lid is rotatable relative to the container). Preferably, the wiper is rotatable by rotating a means for driving the tool received in the lid (e.g. a motor unit received in the lid). In other words, the wiper is preferably rotatable by rotating the drive (i.e. the drive unit itself).

[0013] For example, the wiper may be movable by the user by rotating the motor unit relative to the container. This is advantageous because the user may need to grip the motor unit during processing, for example to control the speed of the tool / tool ​​drive. This therefore allows the assembly to be operated with one hand to operate either or both the wiper and the processing tool, which reduces the complexity of use for the user.

[0014] Additionally, the user's action of holding the motor unit also holds the wipers in place, preventing them from spinning uncontrollably.

[0015] The assembly may further include a container.

[0016] Preferably, the wiper is configured to be limited in rotation relative to the container. Preferably, the container and / or the wiper limit or restrict the rotation of the wiper relative to the container. The container may include one or more members that limit the rotation of the wiper relative to the container, and preferably the limiting members include ribs on the inner wall of the container that are arranged to engage or abut the wiper. For example, the wiper may include at least one arm that wipes the inner wall of the container, and the arm may cooperate with the rib. This prevents the wiper from rotating within the container.

[0017] Preferably, the angle over which the wipers can rotate is limited, for example the or each wiper arm is arranged to be rotatable between adjacent ribs.

[0018] The wiper is preferably selectively configurable between a fixed configuration in which the wiper is rotationally fixed relative to the container, and a rotating configuration in which the wiper is rotatable relative to the container, and preferably has a limited angle of rotation relative to the container in the rotating configuration (i.e., the wiper only rotates between a particular range of angles).

[0019] The assembly further comprises a tool (and / or a tool for processing food in the container adapted to be driven from the lid), and preferably the wiper is adapted to drive the tool when the wiper is in the container. In other words, the tool is preferably operable / driveable while the wiper is in the container. This allows a user to use the wiper to scrape food from the inner wall of the container while the food is being processed (e.g. while the tool is rotating). Preferably, the wiper arms are positioned so as not to interfere with the tool. Preferably, the wiper arms terminate above the tool (e.g. blade or paddle) to prevent contact with the tool.

[0020] The assembly preferably further comprises a drive, preferably located on the lid.

[0021] Preferably, the wiper is associated with the lid. The wiper may be attached to or attachable to the lid. The wiper may be capable of moving with the lid to wipe the interior walls of the container. The wiper may be configurable / positionable between the lid and the container. The wiper may be (or may be) positionable on the lid and / or the container. The wiper may be attachable between the lid and the container. Optionally, the wiper is integral with the lid (e.g., integrally formed with the lid).

[0022] Preferably the wiper is removably attachable to the lid. Preferably the lid is adapted to seal the container.

[0023] Preferably the wiper is removably attachable to the container. Preferably the wiper is adapted to seal the container.

[0024] Preferably, the assembly is configurable into two configurations, in a first configuration the lid is attached to the container and in a second configuration the wiper is positioned between the lid and the container.

[0025] Preferably, the lid and / or wiper pivot relative to the container. Preferably, the rotation of the lid and / or wiper relative to the container is limited, more preferably limited to less than 360 degrees (i.e., the lid and / or wiper cannot rotate freely relative to the container). This is advantageous compared to an arrangement in which the lid and wiper rotate freely (through 360 degrees) upon application of torque. In such an arrangement, when torque is applied to the lid via the wiper scraper (e.g., through the food processed in the container, particularly when processing hard solid foods), the lid may begin to rotate, disorienting the user and potentially injuring the user's hand holding the lid. Furthermore, such free rotation reduces the efficiency of the food processing equipment.

[0026] The wiper is preferably removably attachable to the lid. Preferably, the wiper is adapted to cover the inner surface of the lid away from the container (i.e. to cover the surface of the lid facing the container).

[0027] According to another aspect, a wiper for wiping the interior walls of a container having a lid, the wiper being removably attachable to the lid and adapted to cover the interior surface of the lid from the container, preferably to prevent the interior surface of the lid from coming into contact with food processed within the container.

[0028] The wiper is preferably removably attachable to the container, and more preferably the wiper is adapted to seal the container.

[0029] The wiper preferably includes a base plate, which is preferably adapted to cover the inner surface of the lid from the container, in other words, the wiper (preferably its base plate) functions as an intermediate lid.

[0030] Preferably, the base plate is adapted to seal to the container. Preferably, the base plate is removably attachable to the lid. Preferably, the base plate is removably attachable to the container.

[0031] The wiper preferably includes one or more arms that wipe the interior walls of the container, and preferably the arms extend from the base plate.

[0032] The wiper may comprise two or more arms, preferably three or more, more preferably six arms, preferably the arms are arranged symmetrically around (the centre of) the wiper, preferably the arms have rotational symmetry of the same order as the number of arms (e.g. 6th order rotational symmetry in the case of a wiper with six arms).

[0033] The arms are preferably flexible. Each arm includes a rigid frame and a flexible member that wipes the interior wall of the container.

[0034] The arms are preferably flat, to prevent food residue from accumulating behind the arms and to minimise food waste. Preferably, each arm is adapted to abut an inner wall of the container. Preferably, each arm is arranged parallel to the inner wall of the container, more preferably the entire arm is arranged to abut the inner wall of the container.

[0035] One, and preferably each, arm is adapted to engage an engagement structure on the container to limit movement, preferably rotation, of the wiper relative to the container. Preferably one, and more preferably each, arm includes a recess adapted to engage a protrusion (i.e. engagement structure), such as a rib, on an inner surface of the container.

[0036] Preferably, the arms are further adapted to act as ribs on the container. The inner surface / contours of the arms may be arranged such that during operation of the tool the arms act as ribs to improve processing of food within the container.

[0037] Preferably, each arm includes an axially extending reinforcing member. Preferably, the arms are thin (i.e., do not extend far from the inner wall of the container) so as not to interfere with the tool within the container. Preferably, the arms are wide to improve wiping. Preferably, the arms are adapted to direct food items radially and / or axially away from the arms.

[0038] Preferably, the wipers are made from food-safe and / or dishwasher safe materials.

[0039] According to another aspect there is provided a food processing apparatus including a food processing assembly as described above or below.

[0040] According to another aspect, there is provided a food processing assembly comprising a container and a wiper movable to wipe an inner wall of the container, the wiper being arranged such that movement (preferably rotation) of the wiper relative to the container is limited, in other words the assembly is adapted to limit movement of the wiper relative to the container.

[0041] Preferably the container and / or wiper are adapted to limit movement of the wiper relative to the container.

[0042] Preferably the wiper is rotatable to wipe the inner wall of the container.Preferably the wiper is removably attachable to the container.

[0043] The wiper may be configurable between a first fixed / locked position where it cannot rotate relative to the container, and a second rotational position where it can rotate / pivot relative to the container. In the rotational position, the wiper (and lid) preferably can only rotate to a certain extent. This increases the safety of the arrangement, since even if a user installs the lid in the wrong position, the lid cannot start rotating uncontrollably (because the rotation angle is limited). The ability to lock the wiper (e.g., via engagement of the wiper arm with the container rib) also makes this device particularly suitable for top-driven devices.

[0044] The wiper may include one or more arms for wiping the interior walls of the container. The container may be adapted to limit the angle through which the arms can rotate. The container may be adapted to lock the arms in place.

[0045] Preferably, the container includes an inner surface provided with one or more ribs for limiting the rotation of the wiper relative to the container. Preferably, the wiper includes one or more arms for wiping the inner wall of the container, which are adapted to rotate between the ribs (i.e., the arms can rotate between the ribs but not over the ribs, thereby defining the rotation angle of the arms). In other words, the maximum rotation angle of the arms is provided by the ribs of the container. Preferably, the arms may be lockable on the ribs to prevent the wiper from rotating relative to the container. This allows the assembly to be used statically when the arms are positioned above the ribs of the container, and dynamically when the arms are positioned between the ribs.

[0046] According to another aspect, there is provided a wiper for wiping an interior wall of a container. The wiper is preferably rotatable to wipe the interior wall of the container.

[0047] Preferably, the wiper includes a base plate and one or more (more preferably two or more) arms extending from the base plate for wiping the interior wall of the container.

[0048] Preferably, the wiper (preferably its base plate) is adapted to cover the container (i.e. the wiper optionally functions as an intermediate lid). Preferably, the wiper is adapted to seal the container.

[0049] Preferably, the container includes a lid. The wiper is preferably removably attachable to the lid. Preferably, the base plate is adapted to substantially cover a surface of the lid that faces the container, preferably preventing said surface of the lid from contacting food processed in the container.

[0050] Preferably, the wiper is attachable between the container and the lid. Preferably, the wiper is removably attachable to the lid and / or the container. Preferably, the wiper is removable from the lid and container, for example for cleaning.

[0051] According to another aspect, a wiper is provided for wiping an interior wall of the container, the wiper including an opening for actuating a tool within the container.

[0052] The opening may be adapted to receive a drive for driving a tool within the container.

[0053] According to another aspect, a food processing container assembly is provided that includes a container, a lid removably attachable to the container to substantially seal the container, and a wiper assembly rotatable to wipe an interior wall of the container, where in a first configuration, the lid is attached directly to the container and in a second configuration, the wiper assembly is disposed between the lid and the container, and the wiper assembly is operable to rotate through the lid.

[0054] Preferably, the wiper assembly includes two or more axially extending arms. Preferably, the container includes ribs extending axially along its inner surface, and the arms extend between and wipe between the ribs in the second configuration, more preferably the number of arms is equal to the number of ribs. Preferably, the arms include recesses configured to receive and lock the ribs.

[0055] Preferably, the arms include resilient wipers attached to the rigid frame member. Preferably, the arms are shaped and configured such that food material contacting the arms is directed radially and / or axially away from the arms.

[0056] Preferably the number of arms is at least 3, more preferably 6. Preferably the arms are arranged / disposed symmetrically around the lid.

[0057] Preferably, the arm is mounted on a carriage of the wiper assembly, the carriage being removably mountable to the lid.

[0058] Preferably, the wiper assembly is operable to rotate relative to the lid from an opposite side of the lid to the wiper assembly.

[0059] Preferably, the lid further includes a motor unit mounting portion and a shaft and / or gearing configured to transmit drive thrust from the motor unit mounted on the motor unit mounting portion to a tool disposed on an opposite side of the lid from the motor unit mounting portion. Preferably, the wiper assembly is operable to rotate via the motor unit mounting portion. Preferably, the motor unit mounting portion includes releasably mounting means for releasably mounting the motor unit thereto.

[0060] Preferably, the assembly further comprises a rotation tool that is removably attachable to the container and / or the lid.

[0061] According to another aspect, there is provided a food processing apparatus including a food processing container assembly as described herein.

[0062] Any apparatus features described herein may also be provided as method features, and vice versa. Means-plus-function features used herein may alternatively be expressed in terms of corresponding structure, such as a suitably programmed processor and associated memory.

[0063] Any feature of one aspect of the invention may be applied to other aspects of the invention in any suitable combination. In particular, method aspects may be applied to apparatus aspects and vice versa. Furthermore, any, some, and / or all features of one aspect may be applied to any, some, and / or all features of other aspects in any suitable combination.

[0064] It is also to be understood that particular combinations of the various features described and defined in any embodiment of the present invention can be implemented and / or provided and / or used independently.

[0065] The present invention extends to methods, systems and apparatus substantially as herein described and / or illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0066] The invention extends to any novel aspect or feature described and / or illustrated herein.

[0067] As used herein, unless otherwise stated, the word "or" can be interpreted in its exclusive or inclusive sense.

[0068] Furthermore, features implemented in hardware may generally be implemented in software and vice versa, and references herein to software and hardware features should be construed accordingly.

[0069] Although the invention has been described in the field of domestic food processing and cooking equipment, it may also be practiced in any application where efficient, effective and convenient preparation and / or processing of materials on an industrial scale and / or in small quantities is desired. Applications include preparation and / or processing of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, paints, building materials, clothing, agricultural and / or animal supplies and / or treatments including fertilizers, grains, other agricultural products and / or veterinary drugs, oils, fuels, dyes, cosmetics, plastics, tars, finishes, waxes, varnishes, beverages, medical and / or biological research materials, solders, alloys, wastewater, and / or other substances. References herein to "food", "beverages" (or similar words) may be substituted with such working media.

[0070] The invention described herein may be used in any appliance, such as a kitchen appliance, and / or as a stand-alone device. This includes any household food processing and / or cooking appliance, including both top-driven appliances (e.g., stand mixers) and bottom-driven appliances (e.g., food processors). It may be implemented in heated and / or cooled appliances. The invention may also be implemented in both handheld appliances (e.g., hand blenders) and countertop appliances (e.g., blenders). It may be used in appliances integrated into a workbench or work surface, or in a stand-alone device. The invention may also be provided as a stand-alone device, whether motorized or manually driven.

[0071] "Food processing" as described herein should be interpreted to include cutting, whipping, stirring, kneading, chopping, grinding, molding, shredding, grating, cooking, freezing, ice cream production, squeezing (by centrifugal force or scroll), or other food processing operations that involve physical and / or chemical changes in food and / or beverage ingredients by mechanical, chemical, and / or thermal means. "Food processing attachment" includes any attachable part configured to perform any of the aforementioned food processing tasks, for example by rotating and / or applying electricity.

[0072] One or more embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to the same figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0073] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of a food processing attachment according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded side view of the food processing attachment of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a container of the attachment of FIG. 1. [Figure 4a] 2 shows a side cross-sectional view of the attachment in a first orientation, taken along section AA of FIG. 1; [Figure 4b]1 shows a side cross-sectional view of the attachment in a second orientation, taken along a section different from section AA. [Diagram 5] 4b shows the attachment of FIG. 4b with a food processing tool attached. [Figure 6] 4 shows a food processing attachment according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 7 shows a side cross-sectional view of the food processing attachment of FIG. 6 taken along the line BB. [Figure 8] 7 shows an exploded side view of the food processing attachment of FIG. 6. [Figure 9] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a wiper assembly of the food processing assembly of FIG. [Figure 10] 10 shows a side cross-sectional view of the wiper assembly of FIG. 9 taken along section CC. [Figure 11] FIG. 7 shows a side view of the food processing attachment of FIG. 6 with the motor unit attached. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows a side view of the food processing attachment and motor unit of FIG. 11 , excluding the container. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0074] 1, 2, and 3 show an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. A food processing attachment / assembly 1 is shown including a container 100, a lid 200, and a wiper assembly / module (or "wiper") 300.

[0075] The container 100 has a base 110, which may be substantially circular in plan view. A substantially cylindrical sidewall 120 extends upwardly from the base 110 to partially enclose a substantially cylindrical space. Ribs 121 extend axially / vertically along the longitudinal axis of the container along the inner surface of the sidewall 120. The ribs 121 may be integrally formed with the container 100 or may be separate components attached by adhesive or clips.

[0076] The sidewall 120 of the container 100 is closed at the end opposite the base 110 by a lid 200 that can be removably attached to the container 100. The lid 200 has a flange 210 that extends across an opening formed by the sidewall 120. The lid 200 receives a driving force (e.g., from a motor unit) for driving a tool in the container 100. A motor unit mounting portion 220 is provided on the exterior surface of the lid 200 for mounting a motor unit on the lid to drive a tool in the container 100 to process the food product. To prevent the lid 200 from being fully inserted into the container 100, the lid 200 has a rim 230 with a diameter larger than the opening of the container 100, such that the rim 230 rests on the sidewall 120 when the lid 200 is inserted into the container 100. The lid 200 also has a skirt 240 that may include a seal (e.g., a rubber gasket) that seals a gap between the lid 200 and the container 100. In addition to or instead of using a rim 230, a skirt 240 may be placed over the tops of the ribs 121 or over a rim extending inside the container 100 to prevent the lid 200 from being fully inserted into the container 100.

[0077] The wiper assembly 300 is provided attached (removably or fixedly) to the lid 200. The wiper assembly 300 has a wiper / arm 310 that extends axially from the lid 200 towards the base 110 along the inner surface of the sidewall 120. The wiper 310 is provided extending from a circular carriage 320 (i.e., base plate) that is preferably rigid. The circular carriage 320 may be attached to the lid periphery, for example via snap members, or centrally via a central member 330. The central member 330 may be pressed against the lid 200, for example against a suitable protrusion or recess, to radially and / or axially secure the wiper assembly 300 during rotation.

[0078] The number of wipers 310 may be one or more, but preferably three or more for balance. Multiple wipers 310 may be symmetrically arranged around the wiper assembly 300 to improve balance. Each wiper arm 310 rotates between two adjacent ribs 121. Thus, the ribs 121 function as a "limiting member" that limits the rotation of the wiper arm 310. Preferably, at least one wiper 310 extends into each gap between the ribs 121 so that each gap can be wiped simultaneously. The number of wipers 310 may be the same as the number of ribs 121, such that each wiper 310 coincides with a rib 121. The number of wipers 310 may be six.

[0079] The wiper 310 may be rotatable relative to the lid 200 or may be non-rotatable relative to the lid 200 (i.e., rotationally fixed to the lid 200). For example, the wiper assembly 300 may be rotatably actuatable using a rotatable member on the lid 200, such as a rotatable knob attached to a gear that meshes with teeth on the wiper assembly 300. Alternatively, the central member 330 may extend partially outside the lid 200 to be actuatable (e.g., a portion of the surface of the central member 330 may be accessible through a hole in the lid 200). In yet another alternative, the wiper assembly 300 is rotationally fixed relative to the lid 200, and the wiper assembly 300 may be rotated by rotating the lid 200 or by rotating a mounted motor unit that is itself rotationally fixed relative to the lid at the mounting portion 220. Rotating the wiper assembly 300 via the motor unit is particularly advantageous as it does not require an additional control member and can be intuitively performed by a user using the same hand that operates the motor unit in a one-handed operation. However, as the wiper assembly 300 rotates within the container 100, the wipers 310 wipe the interior surface of the sidewall 120, moving the food material downwardly back towards the base 110 for processing.

[0080] In this example, the arm 310 is attached to and rotates with the base plate 320. Alternatively, the arm 310 may be rotatable relative to the base plate 320, which in turn may be rotationally fixed to the container 100 and / or lid 200.

[0081] The wiper 310 may be hollow (e.g., the wiper may be formed with an axial groove facing the inner surface of the sidewall 120) to receive the rib 121 therein, such that the wiper assembly 300 is unable to rotate relative to the container 100 when the wiper 310 is positioned on the rib 121. Thus, the wiper 310 may be rotationally fixed relative to the container 100 by sliding the wiper 310 axially over the rib 121 when the combined lid 200 and wiper assembly 300 is inserted into the container 100 to seal the open end of the container 100. Making the wiper 310 hollow also has the advantage of making the wiper assembly 300 lighter.

[0082] The wipers 310 are preferably shaped to direct food material flowing along the inner surface of the sidewall 120 axially back toward the base 110 and / or radially back toward the center of the container 100. For example, they may be angled inward and extend further radially toward the center of the lid 200, and may additionally or alternatively taper toward the clockwise and / or counterclockwise edges. The wipers 310 preferably taper within the sidewall 120 toward the base 110. The ribs 121 may be similarly shaped to direct material flowing along the sidewall 120 toward the center of the container 100.

[0083] The wipers 310 may be made of a flexible material. For example, they may be made of a flexible plastic, or artificial or synthetic rubber. Alternatively, they may be made of a rigid material, such as a hard molded plastic or metal, and the rigid wipers 310 may have a flexible sealing edge that contacts the container 100 when the wiper assembly 300 is inserted into the container 100. Using a flexible material improves wiping and allows the wipers 310 to conform to the ribs 121 and even wipe against the ribs 121 as the wipers 310 are pressed against the ribs 121 to wipe adjacent to or even across the ribs 121. The wipers 310 may be comprised of a rigid frame member, for example made of a hard plastic, and a flexible, resilient wiper member, for example made of a synthetic rubber, attached along the length of the frame member, such as by gluing or overmolding. Alternatively, they may be made entirely of a flexible material. If the wiper 310 has a two-piece construction, the wiper 310 can have the advantages of both a rigid frame member that holds the wiper 310 firmly along the inside of the sidewall 120, and flexibility of the wiper member for better wiping. The unitary construction simplifies manufacturing. If the wiper 310 has a partially rigid construction, the aforementioned grooves in which the ribs 121 are received are preferably provided in the rigid portion to ensure a secure attachment.

[0084] Figures 4a and 4b show two different configurations of the tool / food processing attachment 1. In the first configuration, shown in Figure 4a, the wiper 310 is positioned over and rotationally fixed relative to the rib 121 (shown as an increased thickness of the sidewall 120). In this configuration, the wiper 310 acts to direct food material flowing on the inner surface of the sidewall 120 inwards and downwards.

[0085] In a second configuration of Figure 4b, the wiper 310 is positioned between the ribs 121. In this configuration, the wiper 310 can rotate relative to the vessel 100 to wipe the inner surface of the sidewall 120, moving material towards the base 110 where it can be processed by the tool. However, the rotational arc of the wiper 310 is limited by the ribs 121 such that the wiper 310 cannot rotate past the ribs 121, meaning that the wiper 310 cannot be driven to rotate past the ribs 121 by the action of a rotating tool within the vessel 100. Undesirable continued rotation of the wiper 310 is therefore avoided.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 5, the motor unit mounting portion 220 has a gear 250 therein to which a motor can be attached to drive the tool 400 to perform processing in the vessel 100 using two (or more) radially extending blades / paddles 410 and 420. The blades / paddles 410 and 420 can be located at different heights above the base 110 to perform processing at different heights. The tool 400 can be arranged such that its lower end is located in the bearing 111 of the base 110 of the vessel 100 and its upper end is attached to the drive output 260 of the lid 200 to receive a rotational drive. The tool 400 extends through an opening 340 in the wiper assembly 300. The blades / paddles 410 and 420 preferably extend below the wiper 310 so as not to interfere with the wiper 310. In particular, food material moved inward / downward by wipers 310 and ribs 121 is moved towards blades / paddles 410 and 420 for processing.

[0087] The motor unit may be removably mounted within mounting portion 220, for example, using inwardly extending spring-loaded tabs that can be actuated to release using an external button or buttons. Holes 221 are also provided in mounting portion 220 to allow water to drain therefrom, for example, during cleaning.

[0088] 1 is described as having an attachable motor unit that is attached to the lid 200 with mounting portion 220, it may alternatively or additionally be attached to a base unit that drives the tool 400 through the base 110. As a further alternative, the attachment 1 may include an integral motor, for example in the base 110 or in the lid 200, to drive the tool 400.

[0089] Figures 6-8 and 11-12 show a food processing attachment / assembly 500 according to another embodiment of the invention, which is identical to the attachment of Figure 1 except as noted in the following description.

[0090] Food processing attachment 500 includes a lid 600, a container 800, and a wiper assembly 700 positioned between the lid 600 and the container 800. The lid 600 is identical to lid 200, except that the lid 600 includes a positioning tab 601 and a polygonal portion 603 that can be inserted into a corresponding recess in either the wiper assembly 700 or the container 800 to rotationally secure the lid relative to the wiper assembly 700 or the container 800. The container 800 is also identical to the container 100 and includes a base 810 and a sidewall 820 having an inwardly projecting rib 821 extending along a surface thereof.

[0091] In this example, during use, wiper 700 is attached to the top of container 800 (and preferably seals container 800) and lid 600 is attached over wiper 700. Lid 600 is rotationally fixed relative to wiper 700 (configured to rotate with wiper 700), and wiper 700 and lid 600 are rotatable on container 800 by a particular angle determined by the number of ribs 821 in bowl 800.

[0092] The wiper assembly 700 is removably positionable within the container 800 and rotatable relative to the container 800 to wipe an inner surface of a sidewall 820 of the container 800. The wiper 700 has an arm 710 extending axially from a circular carriage (i.e., base plate) 720 such that when the wiper assembly 700 is positioned within the container 800, the arm 710 extends along the sidewall 820 and the inner surface of the sidewall 820 is wiped by the arm 710 as the wiper assembly 700 rotates.

[0093] Arm 710 may be rigid so that it can wipe only between ribs 821, or it may be flexible so that it can wipe over ribs 821. Arm 710 may be shaped to conform to sidewall 820 of container 800, and may be curved, for example by having an arched cross-section, to conform to a cylindrical sidewall.

[0094] The wiper assembly 700 is prevented from being fully inserted into the container 800 by a lip 721 extending radially outward from the circular carriage 720 to cover an open end of a cylindrical top wall 820 of the container 800. In this manner, the container 800 can also be sealed by the wiper assembly 700. The arm 710 may also be configured such that as it rotates about its main axis, it pushes food material on the side wall 820 axially towards the base 810 where the food material accumulates for further processing by the tool 900. The circular carriage 720 may define a side wall against which the radially extending lip 602 of the lid 600 rests, thereby positioning the lid 600 relative to the wiper assembly 700.

[0095] The lid 600 may be fixed to the wiper assembly 700 by the tabs 601 or the polygonal portion 603, and the rotation of the lid 600 can directly actuate the wiper assembly 700 to rotate and wipe. This can be done by inserting a handle-shaped motor unit 1000 into a motor unit mounting portion 620 attached to a radially extending flange-like portion 610 of the lid 600 and rotating the motor unit 1000. Thus, food sprayed on the sidewall 820 by the tool 900 rotating in the container 800 can be wiped downwards for further processing by the tool 900 without the need to open the container 800 or stop processing the food.

[0096] FIG. 11 shows the food processing assembly 500 of FIGS. 6-8 with a motor unit 1000 attached to the motor unit mounting portion 620 via inwardly extending spring-loaded tabs (not shown) that can be actuated to release using a release button 1040. FIG. 12 shows the same assembly 500, but with the container 800 removed. The motor unit 1000 includes a body 1030 that houses a drive (not shown) for the attachment 500, a handle portion 1010 shaped to receive a user's hand, a power cord 1050, a release button 1040, and a speed button 1020 for actuating a drive of the motor unit 1000 that can be actuated by one of the user's fingers. The motor unit 1000 is received by the motor unit mounting portion 620 in a rotationally fixed manner. Rotating the motor unit 1000 thereby rotates the lid 600 and wiper 700 relative to the container 800. Thus, a user can conveniently and intuitively wipe the inner walls of the container 800 with one-handed operation using the same hand that grasps and operates the motor unit 1000 (i.e., the hand that grasps the handle portion 1010 and / or the main body 1030 of the motor unit) without requiring an additional hand or actuation mechanism to control the rotation of the wiper 700.

[0097] 9 and 10 show further details of the wiper assembly 700. As shown in FIG. 10, the arm 710 may include an axially extending reinforcement 711 to provide greater axial strength so that the arm 710 is held in contact with the sidewall 820. Additionally, a drive extension 730 is provided for the motor unit of the mounting portion 620 to drive the tool 900. The drive extension 730 has an upper end shaped to fit into a drive output of the lid 622, which receives drive from the motor unit 1000 via a shaft 621 shaped to engage with the drive output of the motor unit 1000. The drive extension 730 in turn has its own drive output 731 shaped to receive the tool 900 therein for receiving drive (i.e., the drive extension 730 of the wiper 700 includes an opening 740 shaped to receive the tool 900). For example, the drive output 731 may include a hexagonal recess 740 that receives a hexagonal shaft of the tool 900 .

[0098] The wiper assembly 700 with the drive extension 730 also functions as an intermediate lid that separates the lid 600 from the processed food. This prevents the lid 600 from becoming coated with food particles, eliminating or greatly reducing the need to wash the lid 600. Instead, only the dishwasher-safe wiper assembly 700 needs to be washed. The wiper 700 is mounted on the container 800 (before the lid 600 is attached to the wiper 700), completely preventing the food processed in the container 800 from contacting the lid 600, and the base plate 720 and drive extension 730 separate the container 800 from the lid 600. This simplifies cleaning of the attachment 500, since it eliminates the need to clean the lid 600 (especially when driven, which is generally not dishwasher-safe) and only the wiper 700 (which is generally dishwasher-safe). The arm 710 of the wiper 700 does not have a recess / cavity to lock the arm 710 onto the rib 821, instead the arm 710 is flat. This prevents food debris from building up inside / behind the arm 710, minimizing food waste.

[0099] The wiper 700 can be fixed to the container 800 by rotating the arm 710 so that the arm 710 contacts (ie, touches) the rib 821 at the limit of the rotation angle of the arm 710 defined by the rib 821 .

[0100] As used herein, the term "removably attached" (and similar terms such as "removably attachable") is used in reference to the attachment of a first object to a second object and preferably includes the meaning that the first object can be attached to and detached from the second object (preferably repeatedly reattached, redetached, etc.) and / or that the first object can be removed from the second object without damaging the first or second object. More preferably, the term includes the meaning that the first object can be reattached to the second object without damaging the first or second object and / or that the first object can be removed from (and optionally reattached to) the second object manually and / or without the use of tools (such as a screwdriver or spanner). In this regard, mechanisms such as snap fits, bayonet attachments, hand-rotatable locking nuts, etc. may be used.

[0101] As used herein, the term "processing" preferably means any action relating to or contributing to the transformation of a product into a food product or a food product into a different form of food product, including, by way of example, subjecting a product to mechanical operations (e.g., cutting, stirring, mixing, whipping, dicing, spiraling, grinding, extruding, molding, kneading, etc.) or subjecting the product to heating or cooling. As used herein, "food" and "food product" may include beverages and frozen ingredients and ingredients used in making them (e.g., coffee beans).

[0102] "Food safe" in this context means any material that does not emit clinically significant amounts of substances harmful to human health when ingested, e.g., it is BPA-free.

[0103] "Dishwasher safe" means physically and chemically stable during extended exposure to conditions typical in a dishwasher, i.e., capable of withstanding exposure to a mixture of water and typical dishwashing chemicals (e.g., extended wash times of up to 8 hours at 82 degrees Celsius using Fairy™ or Finish™ dishwasher tablets and water without visible deterioration (e.g., cracking)).

[0104] The invention has been described purely by way of example, and it will be understood that modifications of detail can be made within the scope of the invention.

[0105] Each of the features disclosed in this specification and (where appropriate) the claims and drawings may be provided independently or in any appropriate combination.

[0106] Any reference numerals appearing in the claims are by way of illustration only and shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0107] A number of embodiments are listed below.

[0108] 1. A food processing container assembly includes a container, a lid removably attachable to the container to substantially seal the container, and a wiper assembly rotatable to wipe an interior wall of the container, where in a first configuration, the lid is attached directly to the container and in a second configuration, the wiper assembly is disposed between the lid and the container, and the wiper assembly is operable to rotate through the lid.

[0109] 2. The food processing container assembly of embodiment 1, wherein the wiper assembly includes two or more axially extending arms.

[0110] 3. The food processing container assembly of embodiment 2, wherein the container includes ribs extending axially along its inner surface, and the arms, in the second configuration, extend between and wipe between the ribs, and preferably the number of arms is equal to the number of ribs.

[0111] 4. The food processing container assembly of any one of aspects 2-3, wherein the arm includes a resilient wiper attached to the rigid frame member.

[0112] 5. The food processing container assembly of any one of aspects 2-4, wherein the arm includes a recess configured to receive and lock the rib.

[0113] 6. The food processing container assembly of any one of aspects 2 to 5, wherein the arms are shaped and configured such that food material contacting the arms is directed radially and / or axially away from the arms.

[0114] 7. The food processing container assembly of any one of aspects 2 to 6, wherein the number of arms is at least three, and more preferably six.

[0115] 8. The food processing container assembly of any one of aspects 2 to 7, wherein the arms are arranged / disposed symmetrically around the lid.

[0116] 9. A food processing container assembly of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the arm is provided on a carriage of the wiper assembly, and the carriage is removably attachable to the lid.

[0117] 10. The food processing container assembly of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the wiper assembly is operable to rotate relative to the lid from an opposite side of the lid to the wiper assembly.

[0118] 11. The food processing container assembly of any of the previous aspects, wherein the lid further includes a motor unit mounting portion and a shaft and / or gearing configured to transmit drive thrust from the motor unit mounted to the motor unit mounting portion to a tool positioned on the opposite side of the lid from the motor unit mounting portion.

[0119] 12. The food processing container assembly of embodiment 11, wherein the wiper assembly is actuable to rotate via the motor unit mounting portion.

[0120] 13. The food processing container assembly of embodiment 11, wherein the motor unit mounting portion includes releasably mounting means for releasably mounting the motor unit thereto.

[0121] 14. The food processing container assembly of any preceding aspect, further comprising a rotating tool removably attachable to the container and / or the lid.

[0122] 15. A food processing apparatus including a food processing container assembly according to any of the preceding aspects.

Claims

1. A food processing assembly including a lid for a container adapted to receive a drive for driving a tool within the container, and a wiper for wiping an interior wall of the container.

2. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the wiper includes an opening for receiving the tool and / or the driver.

3. The assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the wiper includes a drive extension adapted to transmit a drive force between the lid and the tool.

4. 4. The assembly of claim 3 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the drive extension is positioned to cover the opening.

5. 5. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the wiper is rotatable to wipe an interior wall of the container.

6. 6. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the wiper is rotatable with the lid to wipe the inner wall of the container, preferably by rotating the drive portion which is a means for driving the tool received by the lid.

7. The assembly of claim 1 , further comprising the container.

8. The assembly of claim 7 , configured to limit rotation of the wiper relative to the container.

9. 9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein the container includes one or more members for limiting rotation of the wiper relative to the container, preferably the limiting members including ribs on an inner wall of the container arranged to engage the wiper.

10. 10. An assembly as claimed in claim 8 or 9, configured so that the angle through which the wiper can be rotated is limited.

11. 11. An assembly according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the wiper is configurable into a fixed configuration in which the wiper is rotationally fixed relative to the container, and a rotatable configuration in which the wiper is rotatable relative to the container.

12. 12. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the assembly further comprises the tool, preferably the wiper being operable to drive the tool when the wiper is in the container.

13. Assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the assembly further comprises the drive, preferably the drive being arranged in the lid.

14. 14. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the wiper is removably attachable to the lid, the wiper adapted to cover an inner surface of the lid from the container.

15. 15. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the wiper is removably attachable to the container, preferably the wiper being adapted to seal against the container.

16. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the wiper comprises a base plate.

17. 17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the base plate is adapted to cover an inner surface of the lid from the container.

18. 18. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the wiper includes one or more arms for wiping an interior wall of the container, preferably the arms extending from a base plate.

19. 19. An assembly according to claim 18, wherein the wiper comprises two or more arms, preferably three or more, more preferably six arms, preferably the arms being arranged symmetrically around the wiper.

20. 20. The assembly of claim 18 or 19, wherein the arms are flexible, each of the arms optionally including a rigid frame and a flexible member that wipes an interior wall of the container.

21. 21. An assembly according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the arm is flat.

22. 22. An assembly according to any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein one arm, preferably each of said arms, is adapted to engage with an engagement structure on the container so as to limit movement, preferably rotation, of the wiper relative to the container.

23. 23. An assembly according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the arms are further adapted to function as ribs on the container.

24. A wiper for wiping the inner wall of a container having a lid, the wiper being removably attachable to the lid and adapted to cover the inner surface of the lid from the container, preferably the wiper being a wiper as defined in any one of claims 15 to 23.

25. A food processing apparatus comprising a food processing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 23.

Images