Apparatus for manufacturing personal care products, cosmetics, or household products

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus for producing a personal care product, cosmetic, or household product in quantities equivalent to household use from at least two predetermined components. For the efficient, careful, and simple production of small quantities of product, the apparatus comprises a container (1.1) having a container bottom and accessible from one side for containing components; a heating device (1.5, 3.7, 50.5) surrounding the container from the outside, conforming to the external shape of the container, and in contact with the container to heat the components introduced into the container; and an insert (2) that can be positioned inside the container near the bottom of the container. The insert comprises a perforated stirring cage (2.6, 50.6) that can be fixed in place and / or rotatable relative to the container, and a magnetic stirrer (2.5, 50.6) that is rotatable relative to the stirring cage about a rotation axis (3). The stirring cage at least partially surrounds the magnetic stirrer. The magnetic agitator is configured to cooperate with a stirring cage and at least partially with a heating device to homogenize, disperse, emulsify, soften, melt and / or grind the components introduced into the container, and is driveable by a magnetic or electromagnetic field penetrating the walls of the container, and is configured to rotate relative to the bottom of the container, for example, by a magnetic or electromagnetic drive (1.7) that can be driven by a motor (1.8) located adjacent to the bottom of the container, or by a coil arrangement comprising a plurality of electromagnetic coils (50.7) located adjacent to the bottom of the container. Furthermore, a method for manufacturing personal care products, cosmetics or household products using the above apparatus is also disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing personal care products, cosmetics or household products, and more particularly to an apparatus for manufacturing products that are commonly used at home and are immediately available in non-industrial quantities.

Background Art

[0002] When stirring and mixing are performed at home (i.e., for personal use and not for industrial use), in the prior art, a fixed stirrer directly connected to a motor by a drive shaft protruding into a mixing container is usually used. The stirrer used usually includes a plurality of blades for crushing large components or mixing liquids having different densities. This is disclosed, for example, in German Patent Application Publication No. 10053319. However, such a stirrer is not suitable for dispersing a small amount of product of about 50 ml or less. This is because the components of the product to be manufactured often adhere to the fixed stirrer, and due to the high rotational speed, they are finely dispersed in the container and adhere to the wall of the mixing container especially due to the high centrifugal force, resulting in the inability to perform further mixing. This causes a significant loss in the case of a small amount of product, so a significantly larger amount of product has to be manufactured to obtain the desired amount of product.

[0003] Another problem occurs especially when the final product becomes very highly viscous as it cools in the stirring container. In this case, it is necessary to remove the stirring tool at a certain point when the product is still in a liquid state. However, this is impossible with a fixed stirrer. <​​​​​When manufacturing personal care products, cosmetics, or household products, waxes or heat-sensitive substances are frequently used, and these require gentle heating. However, as disclosed in German Patent Application Publication No. 10019126, when a resistive heating element with a conductive track on a dielectric is placed at the bottom of a stirring vessel, causing relatively localized heating, gentle heating is not always sufficiently achieved. Localized heating can cause denaturation of the substance being processed. To avoid such effects, water baths are used in laboratories or homes, but this is costly and cumbersome in a home environment. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus or corresponding method for manufacturing personal care products, cosmetics or household products, thereby solving or at least reducing the above-mentioned problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The above problems are solved by the apparatus having the features of claim 1 and the method having the features of claim 12.

[0008] In particular, the above problem is solved by an apparatus for manufacturing personal care products, cosmetics, or household products from at least two predetermined components. The apparatus comprises a container having a container bottom and accessible from one side for containing the components; a heating device surrounding the container from the outside, conforming to the outer shape of the container, and in contact with the container to heat the components introduced into the container; and an insert that can be positioned inside the container near the bottom of the container. The insert comprises a perforated stirring cage that can be fixed in a predetermined position relative to the container and / or rotatable, and a magnetic stirring body that can rotate relative to the stirring cage about a rotation axis. The stirring cage at least partially surrounds a magnetic stirring body, which is configured to cooperate with the stirring cage and at least partially with a heating device to homogenize, disperse, emulsify, soften, melt and / or grind the components introduced into the container, and the magnetic stirring body is driveable by a magnetic field or electromagnetic field penetrating the walls of the container, which is generated, for example, by a magnetic element driven by a motor located adjacent to the bottom of the container or by a coil arrangement having multiple electromagnetic coils located adjacent to the bottom of the container, and is configured to rotate the magnetic stirring body relative to the bottom of the container.

[0009] The above-described apparatus can be used to manufacture personal care products, cosmetics, or household products for use in the home. For this purpose, the apparatus homogenizes, disperses, emulsifies, softens, melts, and / or grinds at least two predetermined components (substances) within a container. Personal care products, cosmetics, or household products (hereinafter simply referred to as "products") are manufactured from solid components (including gels), powder components, and / or liquid components, and any combination of these components can be used. A further advantage of this apparatus is that, being lightweight and compact, it is easily movable and portable without the need for other auxiliary equipment.

[0010] Furthermore, an advantage of the apparatus according to the present invention is that, due to the drive of the magnetic agitator and its interaction with the stirring cage, which will be described in more detail below, the rotational speed of the magnetic agitator can be lowered compared to stirring devices in conventional apparatuses. This has a positive effect, for example, on the service life of the magnetic agitator. The magnetic agitator can have various shapes and sizes, as described below, which has the advantage that the magnetic agitator can be replaced depending on the amount and properties of the component being processed. For example, a small magnetic agitator can be used for small quantities of product, and a larger magnetic agitator can be used for larger quantities of personal care products, cosmetics, or household products.

[0011] In this specification, personal care products mean, for example, creams, body lotions, shampoos, conditioners and similar products. Cosmetics mean, for example, blushes, nail polishes, lipsticks and similar products. Household products mean, for example, all kinds of cleaning agents, air fresheners and similar products used in the home.

[0012] A container into which ingredients for manufacturing a product can be introduced into its internal space has a rigid solid shape, such as a hollow cylindrical shape, with walls and a bottom that closes the container from below. Since the magnetic agitator inside the container rotates about an axis of rotation relative to the stirring cage to manufacture the product, a container with a rotationally symmetrical internal space (e.g., a cylindrical internal space) is advantageous. The container may have a substantially cylindrical side wall with a vertically extending cylindrical side wall or a substantially cylindrical side wall with further ring-shaped structures (e.g., a recess or projection of a ring-shaped cross-section). In one embodiment, the container has an opening on the opposite side of the bottom through which ingredients can be introduced. This opening makes the container accessible and can be permanently, temporarily or partially closed, for example, by a lid. In one embodiment, the inside of the wall is continuous with the top surface of the bottom, and the inside of the wall and the top surface of the bottom form the interior of the container.

[0013] In one embodiment, the container (stirring vessel) is made of at least one material from the group of materials consisting of glass, aluminum, aluminum alloy, Teflon®, stainless steel, and ceramic. In particular, glass can be advantageously used as a stirring vessel. This material allows for very good evaluation of the product during manufacturing. The use of this material is possible because magnetic drive eliminates the need for direct connection to a drive motor via a shaft.

[0014] The exterior of the container is formed by the exterior walls (outer surfaces) and the underside of the bottom. To ensure good contact with the container and the components to be processed placed inside, the heating device is formed to conform to the external shape of the container. For example, the heating device has at least a partially hollow cylindrical shape and is positioned in close contact with the exterior of the container, particularly in direct contact with the outer surface of the container, thereby achieving good heat transfer to the container material. To achieve a uniform temperature distribution, the heating device surrounds the outside of the container completely or over at least 50% of the outer surface. The heating device may surround only the walls or both the walls and the bottom. In one embodiment, the heating device may be positioned directly on the outer surface of the container walls and / or the underside of the bottom (e.g., as a heating wire (e.g., copper wire) or heating foil, for example, attached). The heating device optionally includes at least one through-opening (e.g., a through-slot) through which a temperature measuring element can measure or monitor the temperature of the container and / or the temperature of the components placed inside the container. For this purpose, and to achieve a predetermined temperature profile well and quickly, the walls of the container are made of or contain a material with high thermal conductivity. This material includes at least one material from the group consisting of glass, aluminum, aluminum alloys, Teflon, stainless steel, and ceramics. A heating device is used to bring the components to a predetermined temperature (i.e., to heat or cool them), thereby enabling optimal homogenization, dispersion, or emulsification of the components. The heating device is configured to achieve at least one predetermined temperature profile, which includes a temperature increase, temperature maintenance, and / or temperature decrease, each over a predetermined period of time. The configuration of the heating device is described in further detail below.

[0015] Furthermore, the device includes an insert that can be positioned inside the container near the bottom. The insert is positioned near the bottom of the container. For example, the distance between the lower end of the insert and the bottom of the container is a maximum of 1 cm, preferably a maximum of 5 mm, and the insert can also be positioned directly at the bottom of the container without any distance. The insert can be inserted through the opening of the container and then removed again. Furthermore, the insert can be attached (fixed) to the container so that it can occupy a predetermined position relative to the container, at least temporarily. The insert can extend from the near-bottom position to the upper edge region of the container by a coupling and / or chassis and / or at least two coupling posts (e.g., three coupling posts) as described below, thereby making the magnetic agitator and stirring cage accessible from above or outside the container. The coupling, chassis, or coupling posts are, for example, connected to the stirring cage or formed integrally with the stirring cage. In one embodiment, a handle may be provided at the upper end of the chassis, coupling and / or coupling posts protruding from the container, and a retaining element may be positioned on this handle. This allows the magnetic agitator and stirring cage to be removed without reaching into the inside of the container or device. Because the entire stirring system is accessible from the outside, contamination of personal care products, cosmetics, or household products by the user's skin flora is avoided. Alternatively or intermittently, the insert can rotate relative to the container, in which case the magnetic agitator and stirring cage can rotate individually or simultaneously relative to the container and / or rotate in the same direction or in opposite directions. The insert may be permanently or detachably attached to the container, for example, by a locking element (locking slide). This locking element is movable from an open position (unlocked position) to a locked position within a handle placed on the container or a handle connected to the stirring cage. In the locked position, the locking element can be connected by shape engagement with the container. In the open position, the insert can rotate within the container, which improves stirring performance when the mixing container is full.In one embodiment, the stirring cage and / or chassis fixedly connected to the stirring cage and / or connecting portion fixedly connected to the stirring cage and / or at least two connecting posts fixedly connected to the stirring cage are formed to be rotatable relative to the container. In another embodiment, for example, a ring-shaped retaining element is provided, which is located at the insert end opposite the stirring cage in the axial direction of the insert and includes a collar portion that rests, for example, on the edge of the container. The retaining element rotates relative to the container together with the stirring cage and chassis and / or connecting portion and / or at least two connecting posts by being fixedly connected, for example, to the chassis and / or connecting portion and / or at least two connecting posts. In contrast, the insert, in particular the stirring cage, together with the chassis, connecting portion and at least two connecting posts and, if necessary, the retaining element attached thereto, is fixed in the container in the locked position and therefore immovable relative to the container, but the magnetic stirring body can rotate relative to the stirring cage (and container). In one embodiment, the chassis and / or connecting portion and / or at least two connecting posts may be formed to be rigid against torsion. The chassis and / or connecting section and / or at least two connecting columns are connected to a retaining element, for example, at the upper end opposite the insert, and are connected, for example, by a rubber adapter. The rubber adapter is inserted into the container and forms a clamp connection with, for example, the upper end of the container opening. The retaining element includes, for example, a stop surface or collar, which rests on the upper edge of the container opening when the insert is fully inserted into the container. In this position, the rubber adapter abuts against the upper end of the inner wall of the container by press-fit, thereby securing the insert. In one embodiment, the rubber adapter may include a bellows seal, which can absorb the force transmitted from the magnetic agitator to the retaining element through the chassis. Furthermore, the retaining element may be closed from above by a lid.

[0016] According to the present invention, the insert comprises a stirring cage and a magnetic stirring body, the magnetic stirring body being rotatable about an axis of rotation defined with respect to the stirring cage. For this purpose, the stirring cage may be equipped with, for example, a protruding mandrel or a similar bearing. The mandrel is positioned (and possibly fixed) within a corresponding opening in the magnetic stirring body, allowing the magnetic stirring body to rotate about a constant axis of rotation formed by the mandrel. Alternatively, the magnetic stirring body may rotate without being attached to a mandrel, i.e., it may rotate freely and with respect to the stirring cage, performing rotational motion with a constant axis of rotation or rotational motion with a changing axis of rotation (wobbling motion). The magnetic stirring body is driven non-contact by a magnetic or electromagnetic field that penetrates the container wall and rotates accordingly. The magnetic or electromagnetic field can be generated, for example, below the container by an electric motor and a magnetic or electromagnetic drive connected to the electric motor. The magnetic or electromagnetic drive is positioned outside the container and generates a rotating (electric) magnetic field, which drives the magnetic stirring body located inside the container. Alternatively, a coil arrangement can be provided adjacent to the bottom of the container. The coil arrangement comprises multiple electromagnetic coils. The coil arrangement can be rotatable or fixed to the device. In the latter case, the rotating (electro)magnetic field for driving the magnetic agitator is generated by the appropriate excitation of the electromagnetic coils, in which case the coils can be arranged, for example, in the form of a circular ring. In either case, relative motion with respect to the stirring cage is generated. Therefore, a drive shaft penetrating the bottom of the container is not required, as in the case of the static drive device described above. The rotation axis of the magnetic agitator can extend vertically, for example, if the container is installed in a predetermined manner. The magnetic agitator comprises at least one permanent magnet (e.g., rod-shaped), which can be integrally formed with the magnetic agitator or inserted into a corresponding closable recess within the magnetic agitator. This permanent magnet is driven by an externally applied electromagnetic or magnetic field penetrating the bottom of the container. The stirring cage has a perforated structure and at least partially surrounds the magnetic agitator. For example, the stirring cage has a circular disc-shaped bottom with a through-opening.This bottom portion is positioned between the magnetic agitator and the bottom of the container. Furthermore, the stirring cage may have at least one edge, which is formed to be positioned in a region surrounding the magnetic agitator with respect to the axis of rotation. This edge can be formed, for example, on a projection that protrudes from the stirring cage parallel to the axis of rotation of the magnetic agitator, or on a projection that protrudes upward (parallel to the axis of rotation) from the circular edge of the bottom. These projections can be formed, for example, by corresponding collar portions.

[0017] By using an easily movable magnetic agitator, the use of a rigid agitator with blades directly connected to a motor can be eliminated. This reduces material loss from the product. Another advantage is that, for example, while the product is in a liquid state, the insert, and therefore the magnetic agitator, can be removed from the container at an appropriate time to conserve product material. Since such a magnetic agitator is usually completely covered with product material (components), splashing is reduced, and as a result, product loss is also reduced. Furthermore, since the agitation cage provides guidance and certain constraints on the movement of the magnetic agitator, the rotation of the magnetic agitator can be advantageously performed in a defined state and therefore controlled in a defined state. In this way, medium-sized product quantities and especially small and very small product quantities (e.g., around 30 ml to 200 ml) can be produced.

[0018] In the embodiments already described above, the stirring cage and, if necessary, the chassis and / or connecting parts and / or at least two connecting columns and, if necessary, the retaining elements can be rotated relative to the container, at least in the corresponding mode (e.g., the open or unlocked position of the handle). Rotation of the stirring cage and the elements attached thereto is advantageous for homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, softening, melting and / or grinding, and is particularly advantageous when the components introduced into the container have a higher viscosity from the outset or during the manufacturing process. The rotation can be, for example, at a maximum rotational speed of 1000 min⁻¹. -1 , or 500 min -1 , or 400 min -1, or 300 min -1 , or 250 min -1 This can be carried out. The use of such a maximum rotational speed has proven useful for good homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, softening, melting and / or grinding of such components introduced into the container. The rotational speed of the stirring cage and the elements attached thereto can be determined, for example, by a proximity sensor, which is located above or in the area of ​​the upper edge of the container and monitors, for example, markings on the chassis and / or connecting parts and / or one of the at least two connecting pillars or holding elements (optionally on their handles). In one embodiment, the magnetic stirrer and stirring cage and the elements connected to the stirring cage can rotate in the same direction or in opposite directions.

[0019] Furthermore, according to the present invention, particularly good homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, softening, melting, and / or grinding of a small amount of component introduced into the container is achieved at a relatively low rotational speed of the magnetic stirrer through the interaction between the magnetic stirrer and the stirring cage surrounding it. This is because the rotation of the magnetic stirrer causes centrifugal motion of the component outward or towards the bottom of the container. As a result, the component is driven in the direction of the stirring cage, and the structure of the stirring cage forms an obstacle to the motion, thereby particularly promoting the homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, and / or grinding of the component. Melting and / or softening of the component is also facilitated by the homogenizing action of the stirring cage.

[0020] In one embodiment of the apparatus, the stirring cage includes, as already described above, at least one edge portion positioned in a region surrounding the magnetic stirring body radially with respect to the axis of rotation of the magnetic stirring body. The at least one edge portion may be blunt or blade-shaped, and may extend circumferentially around the magnetic stirring body at a predetermined radial distance from the magnetic stirring body, either partially or completely. The edge portion may have a profile on its upper surface to assist in grinding the components. For example, the edge portion may have a wavy profile. In one embodiment of the apparatus, the edge portion is formed on a projection that protrudes in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation. For example, it may be formed on a collar portion extending upward (towards the container opening) from the outer edge of the annular base disk of the stirring cage.

[0021] In one embodiment of the apparatus, the stirring cage has at least two through-openings. These openings are located, for example, at the bottom of the stirring cage between the magnetic agitator and the bottom of the container. The openings are located, for example, between spoke-like elements of the stirring cage and may have a triangular shape in cross-section. In the bottom region of the stirring cage, the spoke-like elements can be connected, for example, to a mandrel for the rotation axis of the magnetic agitator to ring-shaped elements forming the edge. This further promotes the homogenization, dispersion, emulsification and / or grinding of the components.

[0022] In one embodiment of the apparatus, the stirring cage is provided with a surface structure, such as a corrugated or protruding surface, on the surface facing the magnetic stirring body, thereby allowing the magnetic stirring body to interact better with this surface and rotate the stirring cage. This interaction can be provided particularly when the magnetic stirring body is positioned without being connected to the stirring cage, i.e., when the stirring cage is not provided with bearings.

[0023] In one embodiment, the stirring cage and / or the chassis and / or the connecting part and / or at least two connecting columns, which are connected to the stirring cage as required, are provided with a structure at the lower end of the surface facing the bottom of the container. This structure enables smoother sliding of the stirring cage and / or the chassis and / or the connecting part and / or at least two connecting columns, which are connected to the stirring cage as required. Such a structure can be, for example, a circular disk-shaped protrusion with a flat end face.

[0024] In one embodiment, the drive for the rotation of the stirring cage and / or the chassis and / or the connecting part and / or at least two connecting columns, which are connected to the stirring cage as required, and the optionally connected holding element is provided by an electromagnetic coil arranged outside the container, for example, at its upper end. Correspondingly, the stirring cage and / or the chassis and / or the connecting part and / or at least two connecting columns and / or the optionally connected holding element are provided with at least one magnetic element (for example, a permanent magnet), whereby the stirring cage and / or the elements connected to the stirring cage rotate in a manner similar to the rotor of a synchronous motor. Alternatively, the rotational movement of the stirring cage and / or the chassis and / or the connecting part and / or at least two connecting columns, which are connected to the stirring cage as required, and the optionally connected holding element can be generated by a magnetic stirrer. This magnetic stirrer forms a force-engagement connection (frictional action) with the surface of the stirring cage (for example, the surface of the central disk element facing the magnetic stirrer or the spoke-shaped columns of the stirring cage), whereby it is at least partially dragged in the rotational movement.

[0025] In one embodiment of the apparatus, the magnetic agitator comprises at least one stirring blade and / or at least one rod-shaped element extending parallel to the axis of rotation and / or at an angle with respect to the axis of rotation. The stirring blade can be formed as a straight, slightly curved, or arc-shaped element, and at least one side edge can be formed in a blade shape. For example, at least two side edges of the stirring blade can be formed in a blade shape. In another example, the stirring blade can project from the magnetic agitator in the direction of rotation and / or radially with respect to the axis of rotation, and this projection is dimensioned so that the magnetic agitator rotates within the stirring cage. The shape of the stirring blade can promote the movement of the components toward the stirring cage, for example, to produce a flow toward the bottom of the stirring cage. The stirring blade can also be formed so that larger pieces contained in the components are crushed between the stirring blade and the collar as the magnetic agitator rotates. Additional structures of the stirring blade, by their shape and edges, further improve the homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, softening, melting, and / or grinding of the components introduced into the container. Furthermore, the shape of the stirring blades can be formed to exert a force toward the bottom of the container, thereby pressing the magnetic agitator toward the bottom of the container when it performs magnetically driven rotational motion for homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, softening, melting, and / or grinding of the components introduced into the container. This may eliminate the need for separate mounting of the magnetic agitator within the stirring cage and allows for easier removal of the magnetic agitator after the product has been manufactured. In particular, the force toward the bottom of the container is generated by a surface on the magnetic agitator that extends circumferentially and obliquely downward with respect to the direction of rotation, i.e., the surface toward the bottom of the container. Thus, the magnetic agitator can be easily inserted and replaced by loosely inserting it into the stirring cage without using a "locking mechanism". No release / locking is required, and the magnetic agitator self-stabilizes downward by the hydrodynamically designed stirring blades. The rod-shaped elements can protrude from the magnetic agitator from the side opposite the bottom of the container in the installed state and extend basically parallel to the axis of rotation. The rod-shaped elements ensure good homogenization of components in larger quantities.

[0026] In one embodiment of the apparatus, the container has a basically cylindrical shell surface on the outside. Furthermore, the heating device is composed of multiple layers, at least partially hollow cylindrical, and a dielectric heating element is placed in one of its inner layers. This dielectric heating element is covered on the outside by at least one insulating layer. This insulating layer is at least partially composed of silicone foam and / or ceramic wool, and the insulating layer has a thickness of at least 1 cm, for example, at least 2 cm. The layer comprising silicone foam is also called a silicone mat. Another layer of the heating device may comprise a molded layer made of ceramic wool, Teflon, glass fiber cloth, carbon fiber, and plastic material or metal. The insulating layer ensures good thermal insulation from the outside of the heating device, while the dielectric heating element ensures target temperature control of the components placed inside the container. The dielectric heating element may take the form of a meandering or meandering heating wire attached to a plastic film, for example. A thin Teflon film may be provided inside the plastic film. The Teflon film prevents the heating device from directly adhering to the outside of the container. Accordingly, in this invention, the “inner layer” means another layer located inside, which is the innermost layer or a layer located further inside than the outer layer. Due to the high flexibility of the material, such a heating element ensures that more than 50% of the surface of the container is tightly enclosed and surrounded over a wide area, thereby ensuring that the components placed inside the container are heated over a wide area, thus avoiding localized heating. The inner diameter of the heating device corresponds to the outer diameter of the container in this region, thereby ensuring that the heating device is tightly attached to the container. Alternatively, the heating device can be placed directly on the outer surface of the container wall and / or the underside of the bottom of the container (e.g., bonded). In this case, the heating device can be configured as a dielectric heating element in the form of a meandering or meandering heating wire attached to a plastic film, for example.

[0027] In one embodiment of the device, the device comprises an (optical) infrared temperature measurement element (pyrometer). The infrared temperature measurement element is disposed within a through-opening of the heating device and is configured to measure the temperature of a component located within the container. Since the temperature measurement element can measure the temperature of the component disposed within the container in a non-contact manner, it is advantageous in that the influence on the component is minimized. Further, such a temperature measurement element requires only a small installation space, which can be realized by a through-opening within the heating device that substantially corresponds to the outer dimensions of the temperature measurement element. For example, the temperature measurement element can be arranged to detect the temperature of the component in the region of the stirring cage and / or the magnetic stirrer. As will be described in detail below, the heating device can be controlled continuously or at predetermined time intervals based on the temperature detected by the temperature measurement element.

[0028] Alternatively or additionally, a resistance temperature measurement element and / or a diode temperature measurement element can be provided to measure the temperature of the component disposed within the container. The diode temperature measurement element utilizes the temperature dependence of the bandgap for measurement. This resistance temperature measurement element and / or diode temperature measurement element can be disposed within a through-opening of the heating device or embedded within the material of the insert element. For example, it can be embedded within the stirring cage and / or the chassis and / or the connection part and / or within one of at least two connecting struts connected to the stirring cage. Alternatively or additionally, a pH measurement element for measuring the pH value of the component located within the container can be provided. The pH measurement element is disposed within a through-opening of the heating device or embedded within the material of the insert element. For example, it can be embedded within the stirring cage and / or the chassis and / or the connection part and / or within one of at least two connecting struts connected to the stirring cage.

[0029] Measurement data from infrared temperature measuring elements and / or resistance temperature measuring elements and / or diode temperature measuring elements and / or pH measuring elements may be transmitted to an internal and / or external computing unit, for example, via Bluetooth® connection or other wireless connection. In this case, the corresponding electronic components (e.g., transmitters and receivers) connected to the temperature measuring element or pH measuring element may be embedded within the respective element and within elements directly connected to the respective element.

[0030] In one embodiment, the temperature measuring element is not affected by radiant heat from the heat storage material. This is because the silicone mat described above has only low heat storage properties, and therefore the proportion of radiant heat is very low. The silicone mat may be provided with through-slits extending parallel to the axis of rotation. These slits allow for the placement of the temperature measuring element. By providing slits in the silicone mat to have spacer gaps, the space required for the temperature measuring element can be easily formed. With this configuration, the temperature of components processed throughout the entire manufacturing process can be determined online in real time using a non-contact infrared temperature measuring element.

[0031] In one embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus includes a scale. This scale is configured to allow a movable unit, comprising a container, a heating device, an insert, and a motor, to be placed on it. This scale is configured to determine the weight of the unit. In this embodiment, the apparatus may comprise, for example, two elements: a movable unit and a scale unit. This scale unit comprises a scale and, in one embodiment, a base for safely and upright positioning the scale on a surface (e.g., a tabletop). The movable unit may be positioned in a predetermined location on the scale. The scale is used to measure the weight of ingredients placed in a container in order to simplify the supply of ingredients according to a recipe. In one embodiment, a multi-head weighing scale (e.g., a four-head weighing scale) is used, which achieves accurate results within the weight range of the above ingredients.

[0032] In one embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus includes an internal arithmetic unit. The internal arithmetic unit is configured to control a motor and / or heating element and to receive temperature measured by a temperature measuring element and / or pH value measured by a pH measuring element. The arithmetic unit may be located, for example, in the motor area below the container. In one embodiment, the arithmetic unit is connected to the motor and / or heating element and / or temperature measuring element for the transmission of data and / or control signals. Furthermore, the internal arithmetic unit may be connected to a scale. Thus, the motor (e.g., its rotational speed) and / or heating element (i.e., applied temperature) can be adjusted or controlled based on temperature data and / or weight data determined and transmitted in the internal arithmetic unit. As mentioned above, for example, heating profiles and / or temperature profiles can be realized.

[0033] In one embodiment of the apparatus, the internal computing unit includes a receiver and / or transmitter for corresponding data exchange with an external computing unit. This allows the apparatus and its elements and / or units to be controlled and / or adjusted by the external computing unit (i.e., remotely). Such an external computing unit may be a server or a smartphone. For example, a recipe or data for manufacturing a product may be transmitted from the server and then implemented in the apparatus. The recipe may include, for example, information on the quantities of ingredients used and / or information on when each ingredient should be added. Manufacturing may include, for example, information on the temperature profile and the rotational speed of the motor (and thus the magnetic stirrer). This rotational speed may also be represented as a profile. Such a rotational speed profile may determine over what period the motor continuously increases, decreases, or maintains a constant rotational speed, and what rotational speed is achieved in each case.

[0034] In one embodiment, all elements of the apparatus may be protected by a hollow cylindrical cover having a window through which indicator lamps can be observed. The indicator lamps can, for example, indicate the operating status of the apparatus.

[0035] The above objective can also be achieved by a method for manufacturing cosmetics or detergents from at least two predetermined components using the aforementioned apparatus. In this method, an internal computing device is provided, which automatically adjusts and / or controls a predetermined rotational speed or predetermined rotational speed profile of a motor driving a magnetic stirrer, or a predetermined energization of a coil arrangement adjacent to the bottom of the container and comprising multiple electromagnetic coils, and a predetermined temperature or predetermined temperature profile of a heating device for homogenizing, dispersing, emulsifying, softening, melting and / or grinding the components introduced into the container. To perform this process, the computing device includes a memory containing data on rotational speed and temperature, which can be specified as setting values ​​for adjusting or controlling the motor or heating device. The memory may further include recipe data. This recipe data can be displayed, for example, on a display device on the apparatus to inform the user which components to add to the container, when and in what quantities.

[0036] In one embodiment, for example, temperatures measured by an infrared temperature measuring element and / or a resistance temperature measuring element and / or a diode temperature measuring element, and / or weight values ​​measured by a scale, and / or pH values ​​measured by a pH measuring element may be considered for adjusting the temperature or temperature profile of the heating device and / or the rotational speed or rotational speed profile. The temperature and / or weight values ​​may be measured continuously or at predetermined time intervals and may be considered in adjusting the temperature and / or rotational speed.

[0037] In one embodiment, the total pH value of the product (i.e., the pH value present in the final product) is determined from the pH values ​​of the individual n components and the amounts of components added to manufacture the product, and can optionally be compared with a pH value measured by a pH measuring element. The calculation unit may perform a method to calculate the total pH value of the produced product based on the pH values ​​of the individual n components and the weight of each added component. The following formula is used for this calculation.

[0038] pH=(w1·p1+w2·p2+w3·p3+…+wn·pn) / (w1+w2+w3+…+wn) Here, p1, p2, p3, ..., pn are the pH values ​​of each of the n components, and w1, w2, w3, ..., wn are the weights of each of the n components. The pH values ​​of the components (e.g., average pH values) can be stored in memory or entered by the user. The total pH value can then be displayed to the user on the display device described above, along with any optionally measured pH values. Furthermore, this method can specify the type and amount of components that can be added to the product to achieve a predetermined total pH value (e.g., pH=5.5). The added components may be, for example, citric acid to shift the total pH value to a more acidic range, or Na2CO3 to shift the total pH value to a more basic range.

[0039] In one embodiment, the arithmetic unit determines the total price of the products produced based on the prices of the ingredients stored in memory and the amounts of ingredients used to manufacture each product, and optionally displays this to the user on a display device. Alternatively or additionally, the arithmetic unit may monitor for the user whether the purchased ingredients have been used up and optionally need to be replaced (i.e., repurchased). For this purpose, the arithmetic unit detects the purchased ingredients and their corresponding quantities (e.g., by a barcode reader). When ingredients are used by the device to manufacture products, this use is also recorded, and based on this, it is determined how much of each ingredient has been consumed or how much of that ingredient remains. If it is determined that the inventory quantity for each ingredient has fallen below a predetermined threshold, the user is notified, for example, via a display device, that the ingredient needs to be repurchased. In an extended form of this method, in this case, data for reordering the ingredients may be automatically transmitted to the vendors of those ingredients (e.g., via a server and the internet accessible through the server).

[0040] The arithmetic unit, also called a controller, control unit, or control unit, includes a processing unit and memory (also called a storage unit). This memory may store computer-executable instructions for performing the methods described herein. The processing unit or other described unit includes any suitable device configured to cause the execution of a set of steps for implementing the method, thereby causing the execution of functions and / or operations and / or steps specified in the methods described herein when instructions are executed by the arithmetic unit or other programmable device. The processing unit or other unit may include, for example, any kind of general-purpose microprocessor or microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a central processing unit (CPU), an integrated circuit, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a reconfigurable processor, other appropriately programmed or programmable logic circuits, or any combination thereof. The memory may be any suitable known or other machine-readable storage medium. The memory (data carrier) is a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, and may be, for example, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, or any suitable combination thereof. Memory includes a suitable combination of any type of computer memory located inside or outside the device or arithmetic unit, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), compact disk read-only memory (CDROM), electro-optical memory, magneto-optical memory, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), ferroelectric RAM (FRAM®), etc. Memory may include any storage means (e.g., devices) suitable for retrievingly storing computer programs executable by the processing unit. The methods described herein may be implemented in a high-level procedural language, an object-oriented language, or a scripting language, or a combination thereof, for communication with or support for the operation of the control device or processing unit. Alternatively, the procedures described herein may be implemented in assembly language or machine code. The language may be a compiled language or an interpreted language.Program code for implementing the methods described herein may be stored on a storage medium or in a device, for example, on a ROM, magnetic disk, optical disk, flash drive, or other suitable storage medium. The program code may be read by a general or specific programmable arithmetic unit, which may configure and operate the computer when the storage medium or device is read by the computer, and may perform the procedures described herein. Computer executable instructions (computer programs) can take many forms, including program modules executed by one or more computers or other devices. Program modules generally include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., which perform a specific task or implement a specific abstract data type. Typically, the functions of program modules may be combined or distributed as desired in different embodiments.

[0041] Therefore, the above objective can also be achieved by a computer program comprising program code. This computer program is stored on a machine-readable data carrier, and when the computer program is read by an arithmetic unit (computer) and executed on the arithmetic unit (computer), it performs the steps according to the above method.

[0042] Further advantages, features, and possible applications of the present invention are described below with reference to embodiments and drawings of the apparatus according to the present invention. All features described and / or illustrated constitute the subject matter of the present invention, independently of the abstract and references in the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0043] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a side perspective view of the cover of the embodiment shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a side perspective view showing the elements and units of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 arranged inside the cover. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the elements and units from Figure 3 from the side. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a side perspective view of the insert comprising the chassis and retaining elements according to the embodiment shown in Figure 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view showing the chassis and insert with retaining elements from the embodiment shown in Figure 1, viewed from the side. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a side perspective view of the heating device according to the embodiment shown in Figure 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an exploded view of the heating device according to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, showing each element from the side. [Figure 8a] Figure 8a shows the layer structure of the first layer element. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a side view of another embodiment of the heating device. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the heating device, showing each element from the side in perspective. [Figure 10a] Figure 10a shows the layer structure of the inner layer elements. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is an exploded view of an insert comprising a chassis and retaining elements of a second embodiment of the apparatus according to the present invention, and is a perspective view showing each element from the side. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a side perspective view of the magnetic stirring body according to the embodiment shown in Figure 11. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a side perspective view of a further embodiment of the magnetic stirrer usable in the embodiment shown in Figure 11. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a side perspective view of a further embodiment of the magnetic stirrer usable in the embodiment shown in Figure 11. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is an exploded view of an insert comprising a chassis and retaining elements of a third embodiment of the apparatus according to the present invention, and is a perspective view showing each element from the side. [Figure 16]Figure 16 shows the embodiment shown in Figure 15 placed inside a container, with the locking element in the locked position. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows the embodiment according to Figure 15 placed inside a container, with the locking element in the open position. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a side view showing the drive components of a fourth embodiment of the device according to the present invention with the housing removed. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a side view showing the lower part of the drive component of the embodiment shown in Figure 18. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a side view of the insert without the magnetic stirrer, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 18. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a side view of the insert according to Figure 20. [Figure 22] Figure 22 shows the lower part of the insert according to Figure 20. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0044] Figures 1 to 8 illustrate in detail a first embodiment of a portable apparatus for manufacturing personal care products, cosmetics, or cleaning agents (products). This product is manufactured from at least two components, which include, for example, water, oil, detergent, and active ingredients.

[0045] The apparatus comprises a container 1.1. Within the container 1.1, products are manufactured by homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, softening, melting, and / or grinding. The entire apparatus is protected by a hollow cylindrical cover 1.3. The cover 1.3 comprises an upper section 1.2. Indicator lamps 1.4.a are located in the lower section opposite the upper section 1.2, along with an observation window 1.4, to indicate the operating status of the apparatus (e.g., green: ready to operate, red: error). The cover 1.3 gives the apparatus an attractive appearance, provides an additional layer of thermal insulation, and its vertical corrugated structure allows for a good grip when the user removes the cover 1.3 or moves the entire apparatus.

[0046] As can be seen particularly from Figures 3 and 4, a hollow cylindrical heating device 1.5 is arranged inside the cover 1.3. The heating device 1.5 includes an infrared temperature measuring element 1.6. A container 1.1 is placed inside the heating device 1.5. A magnetic drive unit 1.7 (equipped with a permanent magnet) is provided below the container 1.1. The magnetic drive unit 1.7 is connected to a drive shaft 1.7.a. The drive shaft 1.7.a is driven by an electric motor 1.8 located below it. The device further includes fans 1.9 located on both sides of the electric motor 1.8. The fans 1.9 cool the electric motor 1.8 during operation.

[0047] All elements of the apparatus are placed on a four-point scale. This scale allows the weights of these elements to be determined in area 1.11, as described above. The disk and the corresponding four force transducers are not shown. Since the components are placed in container 1.1, the weights of these components can be measured by the four-point scale. The apparatus further comprises a circular plate-shaped base 1.12.a. The base 1.12.a ensures that the apparatus is securely and uprightly mounted on a support (e.g., a table or workbench) and that the apparatus is sealed at the bottom. An indicator lamp 1.4.a is mounted on the base 1.12.a. Furthermore, a retaining plate 1.12 is provided on the base 1.12.a. The retaining plate 1.12 is provided for mounting electronic elements and extends upward parallel to the rotation axis 3. For example, an internal computing unit (not shown) with the aforementioned components is placed on the retaining plate 1.12. The internal computing unit is connected to the heating element, temperature measuring element, four-point scale and electric motor 1.8 of the heating device 1.5. The computing unit controls the heating element and the electric motor 1.8 based on the measurements of the temperature measuring element and the four-point scale. Furthermore, an energy supply device (e.g., battery, transformer, or power supply) is provided on the holding plate 1.12. The energy supply device is connected to the four-point scale, the electric motor 1.8, the temperature measuring element, and the heating element of the heating device 1.5, and supplies the energy necessary to operate these elements. Furthermore, a transceiver connected to the internal computing unit is provided on the holding plate 1.12. The transceiver exchanges adjustment and / or control data and measurement values ​​with an external computing unit (e.g., via a server or smartphone, e.g., Bluetooth®).

[0048] To manufacture the product, an insert 2, comprising a magnetic agitator 2.5 and a stirring cage 2.6 (see Figure 5), is placed inside a container 1.1. The insert 2 is positioned at a distance of only a few millimeters (e.g., 2 mm to 8 mm) from the bottom of the container 1.1. The insert 2 is detachably secured inside the container by a retaining element 2.1, which includes a rubber adapter 2.2 whose outer diameter corresponds to the inner diameter of the container 1.1. The rubber adapter 2.2 is press-fitted into the inside of the upper end of the container 1.1. The rubber adapter 2.2 has a bellows seal shape and absorbs the force transmitted from the insert 2 to the chassis 2.2.a when manufacturing the product inside the container. The retaining element 2.1 further includes a stop surface 2.1.a. The stop surface 2.1.a is located on the upper edge of the container 1.1 when the insert 2, comprising the chassis 2.2.a and the retaining element 2.1, is positioned in place inside the container. The chassis includes three rods 2.2.a. The stirring cage 2.6 is attached to the lower ends of the rods 2.2.a. The upper end of rod 2.2.a is connected to retaining element 2.1. As shown in Figure 6, each rod is detachably connected by a screw.

[0049] As can be seen in Figure 6, the magnetic agitator 2.5 has a basically thick rod shape. Two stirring blades 2.3 protrude inclined from the magnetic agitator 2.5. Furthermore, the magnetic agitator 2.5 is provided with two openings 2.4. The openings 2.4 are formed transversely to the rotation axis 3 and extend parallel to each other. The two openings 2.4 are used to hold bar magnets (not shown) respectively. The openings 2.4 are closed after the bar magnets are inserted and then opened again. The stirring cage 2.6 is provided with a central projection 2.6.b that protrudes in the direction of the rotation axis 3. The magnetic agitator 2.5 is rotatably mounted on the central projection 2.6.b. This allows the magnetic agitator 2.5 to rotate around the rotation axis 3 in a predetermined position relative to the stirring cage 2.6. The components present in this region of container 1.1 are moved outward toward the edge 2.6.a of the stirring cage 2.6 or the bottom of container 1.1 by centrifugal force and other forces generated by the stirring blades 2.3 as the magnetic stirring body 2.5 rotates. The bottom of the stirring cage 2.6 is provided with spoke-shaped supports 2.6.c and through-openings 2.6.d between the supports. This facilitates the homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, softening, melting, and / or grinding of the components introduced into the container as the components are moved outward by the magnetic stirring body 2.5. The corrugated edge 2.6.a also assists in the homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, softening, melting, and / or grinding of the components introduced into the container.

[0050] Figures 7, 8, and 8a show a heating device 1.5 of the apparatus. The heating device 1.5 includes a plastic film (not shown in detail). The plastic film supports a dielectric heating wire (e.g., copper wire) embedded inside it. The heating wire extends in a meandering manner throughout the film. The plastic film is provided within a first layer element 3.2. The first layer element 3.2 is heat-dissipating, has a hollow cylindrical shape, and has a bottom 3.3. The plastic film extends substantially along the entire length of the first layer element 3.2. The first layer element 3.2 has a thickness of at least 0.5 cm. Furthermore, a second layer element 3.4 is provided surrounding the outside of the first layer element 3.2. The second layer element 3.4 is made of a plastic material, aluminum, carbon fiber, or other composite material, and has a hollow cylindrical shape. Optionally, a ceramic wool layer may be placed between the first layer element 3.2 and the second layer element 3.4. The container 1.1 is placed inside the first layer element 3.2. The first layer element 3.2 is sealed in a planar manner with at least one heating element, surrounding the container 1.1 and in direct contact with the outside of the container 1.1. The first layer element 3.2 has a through slit 3.1 extending parallel to the axis of rotation 3. An infrared temperature measuring element can protrude through the slit 3.1. The second layer element 3.4 is provided with a through opening 3.5 for the infrared temperature measuring element. The infrared temperature measuring element determines the temperature of the components present in the container 1.1 and transmits this temperature to an internal calculation unit.

[0051] Figure 8a is a cross-sectional view of an example of the layer structure of the first layer element 3.2. This layer structure is modifiable (for example, the aluminum foil layer may be omitted). The first layer element 3.2 comprises, from outside to inside, an aluminum layer 3.2.a, aluminum foil 3.2.b, a rubber layer 3.2.c, a silicone foam layer 3.2.d, an electrically insulating plastic layer 3.2.e in which a dielectric heating wire is embedded, another rubber layer 3.2.f, another aluminum foil 3.2.g, and a Teflon layer 3.2.h. The outer aluminum layer 3.2.a forms a shell and surrounds the other layers of the first layer element 3.2, thus providing a housing function. A layer is provided surrounding the silicone foam layer 3.2.d to hermetically seal it. The heating wire in layer 3.2.e generates heat. For this purpose, the heating wire is connected to a power supply, and the power supply is controlled by a computing unit. The inner Teflon layer 3.2.h is positioned inside the heating device 1.5 when the apparatus is used to manufacture personal care products, cosmetics, or household products, preventing the heating device 1.5 from coming into contact with the container 1.1 that is heated by the heating device 1.5. The bottom 3.3 has the same layer structure as the first layer element 3.2. In the bottom 3.3, the aluminum layer 3.2.a is positioned at the bottom and the Teflon layer 3.2.h is positioned at the top, with each layer having the same function and operation as in the first layer element 3.2. Thus, the Teflon layer 3.2.h forms the lining of the assembly including the first layer element 3.2 and the bottom 3.3.

[0052] Alternatively, the heating device 3.7 shown in Figures 9, 10, and 10a may be used instead of heating device 1.5. This heating device has the advantage of being easier to manufacture than heating device 1.5 because the processing of silicone foam is relatively difficult. Heating device 3.7 consists of three elements and includes an inner layer element 3.8. The inner layer element 3.8 is formed as a metal sheath dielectric heating element and has an axial slit 3.8.1 that penetrates and extends parallel to the axis, and two sections 3.8.2 that are bent at an angle on each side of the axial slit 3.8.1, forming a hollow cylindrical sheath. Furthermore, heating device 3.7 includes a circular disc-shaped heating element as a bottom 3.10. The bottom 3.10 has the structure and material corresponding to the inner layer 3.8. Furthermore, a central insulation layer 3.9 is provided. The central insulation layer 3.9 is formed, for example, from ceramic wool and has axial slots 3.10.1 that penetrate and extend parallel to the axis, forming a hollow cylindrical shell. On the outside, the heating device 3.7 is surrounded by a cover layer 3.11, which contacts the central insulation layer 3.9 from the outside and surrounds the central insulation layer 3.9.

[0053] The inner layer element 3.8 has a layer structure shown in cross-section in Figure 10a. This layer structure is modifiable (for example, the aluminum layer may be omitted). A first aluminum layer 3.8.a is placed on the outside. Then, a ceramic wool layer 3.8.b, a second aluminum layer 3.8.c, an electrically insulating plastic layer 3.8.d with an embedded dielectric heating wire, and a third aluminum layer 3.8.e are placed inward in this order. The second aluminum layer 3.8.c and the third aluminum layer 3.8.e form an aluminum enclosure of the layer containing the dielectric heating wire 3.8.d. The heating wire in layer 3.8.d generates heat. For this reason, the heating wire is connected to a power supply, and the power supply is controlled by a computing unit. The inner aluminum layer 3.8.e prevents the heating device 3.7 from coming into contact with the container 1.1 when the container 1.1 is placed inside the heating device 3.7 and heated by the heating device 3.7 when the device is used for the manufacture of personal care products, cosmetics, or household products. The bottom section 3.10 has the same layer structure as the inner layer element 3.8. In the bottom section 3.10, the first aluminum layer 3.8.a is located at the bottom, and the third aluminum layer 3.8.e is located at the top, with each layer having the same function and operation as the inner layer element 3.8.

[0054] An angled, bent section 3.11.1 and a U-shaped profile 3.11.2 (e.g., an aluminum profile) are provided so as to be located in the region of the overlapping axial slits 3.8.1 and 3.9.1 of the inner layer 3.8 and the central insulation layer 3.9. Section 3.11.1 and the U-shaped profile 3.11.2 extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical, shell-shaped cover layer 3.11. Through the recess of the profile 3.11.2 and the axial slits 3.8.1 and 3.9.1, an infrared temperature measuring element measures the temperature of the product placed in the container, similar to the description of the heating device 1.5 above.

[0055] For product manufacturing, container 1.1 is placed inside heating device 1.5. Then, the components used for each product are inserted simultaneously or sequentially through the container opening located at the top. For this purpose, a display device provided on the device can be used. This display device shows the weight of each component measured by a four-point scale. Once at least some of the components have been inserted into container 1.1, insert 2, along with chassis 2.2.a and retaining element 2.1, is inserted into the container opening until the stop surface (collar) 2.1.a contacts the upper edge of container 1.1. This positions insert 2 correctly and secures it to container 1.1. Subsequently, the heating element of heating device 1.5 and the rotational speed of the electric motor 1.8 are adjusted by a calculation device so that predetermined temperature and rotational speed profiles are executed. The temperature inside the container is continuously detected by a temperature measuring element, and the total weight of the components is measured by a four-point scale, evaluated by the calculation device, and optionally included in the adjustment. After both profiles have been executed, product manufacturing is complete, and insert 2 can be removed from container 1.1 without losing a large amount of components. The finished product (cosmetic or cleansing agent) may then be removed from container 1.1.

[0056] In another embodiment, a display device may be provided on the device, or a display device may be connected to the device. On this display device, the user of the device can see data regarding the formulation selected by the user for personal care products, cosmetics, or household products. This data is determined by a calculation unit and transmitted to the display device. For example, the user can know when and in what amount each ingredient needs to be added. This information can be associated with the temperature profile and rotation speed profile described above. Furthermore, as described in more detail above, the pH value of the produced product and the amount of acid or base component required to achieve the desired pH value can be calculated and displayed. This greatly facilitates the production of products with the desired pH value. Furthermore, the calculation unit may be configured to determine the price of the product (the product manufactured according to the corresponding recipe) and display this price on the display device, as previously stated. Furthermore, based on the corresponding calculations by the calculation unit, the user may be notified if the stock of ingredients is low and the possibility of ordering these ingredients is indicated, or a corresponding delivery order for these ingredients is sent. This is described in more detail above.

[0057] The magnetic agitator 22.5 shown in Figure 13 comprises two rod-shaped elements 22.7 protruding from the sides of a rectangular central section 22.5.a. The central section 22.5.a is oriented away from the bottom of the container when in operation within the agitation cage or container. The rod-shaped elements 22.7 extend substantially parallel to the axis of rotation 22.6.e, which is indicated by a dashed line. When the amount of product being manufactured is relatively large and therefore fills the container to a large extent, the rod-shaped elements 22.7 enable good mixing of the components. Furthermore, the protruding rod-shaped elements 22.7 also induce mixing of the product area within the container located significantly above the bottom.

[0058] The magnetic agitator 32.5 shown in Figure 14 is equipped with an integrated stirring blade 32.3 formed at the radial end of the central part. The magnetic agitator 32.5 is characterized by its extremely compact structure, making it particularly suitable for small product volumes and minimizing product adhesion. In the rotation direction R, each stirring blade 32.3 has a rounded portion 32.3.a on the front side and a sloping, tapered portion 32.3.b on the rear side. The upper surface of this portion extends toward the bottom of the container in the opposite direction to the rotation direction R when installed, acting as a force toward the bottom of the container. The axis 32.6.e is shown as a dotted line in Figure 14.

[0059] The apparatus of the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 15 to 17. Figure 15 shows the insert inserted into the container 41.1 in Figures 16 and 17. Except for some differences described below, this apparatus corresponds in terms of its structure and operation to the second embodiment shown in Figures 11 and 12. Accordingly, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements, and the number 30 is added to these reference numerals. For example, the retaining element 12.1 of the second embodiment corresponds to the retaining element 42.1 of the third embodiment.

[0060] The embodiments of the apparatus according to the present invention shown in Figures 15 to 17 enable the production of particularly high-viscosity products. The retaining element is fixed in the container 41.1 by a locking element 41.1.c via an arc-shaped recess 42.1.b provided in the plastic or metal adapter 42.1, as shown in Figures 16 and 17. This embodiment generates an eddy flow effect in very high-viscosity products. The use of a small magnetic stirrer generates an eddy flow effect only for small quantities of product, but larger quantities require the use of a larger stirrer (see, for example, the embodiment in Figure 13). However, even with a larger magnetic stirrer, it may not be possible to generate an eddy flow for a certain quantity of product, and especially when the product is highly viscous. For stirring, including a guide rod in the rotation is suitable for generating an eddy flow effect even at higher viscosities. In this case, the frictional resistance of the magnetic stirring element within the stirring cage causes the stirring cage 42.6, which includes the rod 42.2.a and the retaining element 42.1, to be dragged and rotated, thereby causing the stirring cage 42.6 to rotate in the high-viscosity product placed in the container 41.1. However, if this is undesirable, an arc-shaped recess 42.1.b can be used to suppress the rotation of the stirring cage 42.6, including the rod 42.2.a (see Figure 16, showing the locked position of the locking element 41.1.c). This is achieved by shaping and connecting the locking element 41.1.c to the recess 42.1.b, thereby preventing the insert from moving. The user can perform this function particularly easily by pushing the locking element 41.1.c back and forth within the handle 41.1.b. The handle 41.1.b is located on top of the container 41.1. In contrast, Figure 17 shows the open position where the locking element 41.1.c does not engage with the recess 42.1.b. In the open position, the insert can rotate within the container 41.1.

[0061] A fourth embodiment of the apparatus for manufacturing personal care products, cosmetics, or household products, shown in Figures 18 to 20, is shown without a housing and differs from the above embodiments, particularly in the configuration of the drive mechanism. As can be seen from Figures 18 and 19, this embodiment includes a hollow cylindrical heating device 50.5. A container for ingredients (not shown) is placed inside a cavity 50.5a that opens upward inside the heating device 50.5. An insert equipped with a rotatable magnetic stirrer and a stirring cage 52.6 is provided inside the container. The stirring cage 52.6 and other elements of the insert are shown in Figures 20 to 22. Below the heating device 50.5 and the four-point scale 50.11, eight electromagnetic coils 50.7 are arranged in an annular pattern (see Figure 19). These electromagnetic coils 50.7, by corresponding switching or excitation, cause the rotation of a magnetic stirrer equipped with a permanent magnet located inside the container, instead of a rotating permanent magnet driven by an electric motor. Furthermore, a rectangular housing space 53 for the device's voltage source (e.g., two batteries) and an LED indicator lamp 50.4 are provided. A rib-shaped cooling element 55 is provided at the upper end of the heating device 50.5. The cooling element 55 ensures that the heat generated by the heating device 50.5 is not transferred to the housing of a personal care product, cosmetic, or household product device (not shown).

[0062] Figures 20-22 show a stirring cage 52.6 of a fourth embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing personal care products, cosmetics, or household products. The stirring cage 52.6 is integrally formed with connecting posts 52.2.d projecting upward from the stirring cage 52.6 and an annular retaining element 52.1 connecting the connecting posts 52.2.d at the top. The retaining element 52.1 is provided with a handle 52.1.b. The stirring cage 52.6 includes spoke-shaped posts 52.6.c and through-openings 52.6.d positioned between them. Furthermore, the stirring cage 52.6 is provided with an edge 52.6.a. The edge 52.6.a facilitates homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, softening, melting, and / or grinding of ingredients introduced into the container. The stirring cage 52.6 does not have a protruding mandrel in the central portion connecting the spoke-shaped posts 52.6.c. The protruding mandrel can function as a bearing element for the rotational motion of the magnetic stirrer within the stirring cage 52.6. In embodiments of the stirring cage 52.6, the magnetic stirrer is driven by a coil 50.7 (see Figure 19) and rotates freely on a fixed or changing axis of rotation, i.e., without pivot bearings. The surface of the stirring cage 52.6 facing the magnetic stirrer is provided with at least partially corrugated or protruding surface structures 52.6.e. The surface structures 52.6.e cause the magnetic stirrer to adhere to or force-engage with the surface of the stirring cage 52.6, resulting in rotation of the stirring cage 52.6. The surface structures 52.6.e are located, for example, on spoke-shaped supports 52.6.c and central portions connecting the supports (see Figure 20). The retaining element 52.1 includes a collar 52.1.a. The collar 52.1.a abuts against the upper surface of the container. The handle 52.1.b includes a recess. This recess cooperates with the locking element, similar to the fourth embodiment, to fix the integrated structure shown in Figures 20-22 (for example, a structure comprising a stirring cage 52.6, connecting support 52.2.d, and holding element 52.1) on the container or to allow it to rotate freely. The rotation of the integrated structure is caused by a surface structure 52.6.e positioned on the surface of the stirring cage 52.6 facing the magnetic stirring body.As already mentioned above, this rotational speed is determined by the proximity sensor 57 (see Figure 18) and corresponding markings on the underside of the handle 52.1.b, and is controlled or adjusted by an internal or external computing device (not shown). In one embodiment, the control or adjustment is performed when the rotational speed is, for example, 250 min. -1 The rotation is performed to reach the maximum value. The rotation of the integral structure is also facilitated by the fact that the stirring cage 52.6 is provided with a circular disc-shaped projection 52.6.f (see Figures 21 and 22) on its underside (i.e., the side facing the bottom of the container). The end face of the projection 52.6.f is flat. The flat structure of the end face facing the bottom of the container reduces friction between the bottom of the container and the stirring cage 52.6, and thus assists the rotational motion of the integral structure within the container.

[0063] Furthermore, each connecting column 52.2.d is provided with a curved rib or web 52.7 (see Figure 21 in particular) that protrudes from the inside of the connecting column 52.2.d. The rib 52.7 has a concave shape in the direction of rotation (counterclockwise in this case). This shape presses the components present in the container toward the magnetic agitator and stirring cage 52.6 (i.e., downward), thereby enabling better processing of the components.

[0064] The apparatus and method described above can be advantageously used or implemented for the preparation of small quantities of personal care products, cosmetics, or household products because the structure, which includes an insert equipped with a stirring cage and a magnetic stirrer, results in minimal loss of component ratio. Furthermore, the apparatus and method of this application are easy to operate.

Claims

1. Apparatus for manufacturing personal care products, cosmetics, or household products from at least two predetermined ingredients, A container (1.1) having a bottom and accessible from one side for containing the components, A heating device (1.5, 3.7, 50.5) surrounds the container from the outside, conforms to the outer shape of the container, and comes into contact with the container to heat the components introduced into the container, An insert (2) that can be placed inside the container near the bottom of the container, Equipped with, The insert comprises a perforated stirring cage (2.6, 50.6) that can be fixed in a predetermined position relative to the container and / or rotatable, and a magnetic stirring element (2.5, 50.6) that can rotate relative to the stirring cage about a rotation axis (3). The stirring cage surrounds the magnetic stirring body at least partially, The magnetic agitator is configured to cooperate with the agitation cage and at least partially with the heating device to homogenize, disperse, emulsify, soften, melt and / or pulverize the components introduced into the container, and is driveable by a magnetic or electromagnetic field penetrating the wall of the container, and is configured to rotate relative to the bottom of the container, and is driven, for example, by a magnetic or electromagnetic drive (1.7) that can be driven by a motor (1.8) located adjacent to the bottom of the container, or by a coil arrangement comprising a plurality of electromagnetic coils (50.7) located adjacent to the bottom of the container.

2. The stirring cage comprises at least one edge portion (2.6.a, 50.6.a) located in the region surrounding the magnetic stirring body in the radial direction with respect to the axis of rotation of the magnetic stirring body, Preferably, the apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one edge is formed on a projection that protrudes in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation.

3. The insert comprises a chassis (2.2.a) and / or a linkage and / or at least two connecting posts (50.2.d) connected to the stirring cage, The apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the chassis, the linkage and / or the at least two connecting supports extend to the region of the upper edge of the container.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the stirring cage (2.6, 50.6), the chassis (2.2.a) connected to the stirring cage, and / or the linkage connected to the stirring cage, and / or the at least two connecting columns (50.2.d) connected to the stirring cage are rotatable relative to the container.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the stirring cage comprises at least two through-openings (2.6.d, 50.6.d) positioned between the magnetic stirring body (2.5) and the bottom of the container.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the magnetic agitator comprises at least one agitating blade (2.3) that is inclined and / or extends parallel to the axis of rotation and / or at least one rod-shaped element (22.7) that extends parallel to the axis of rotation.

7. The container has a substantially cylindrical outer shell surface on the outside, The heating device is formed from multiple layers and has at least a partially hollow cylindrical shape, with a dielectric heating element disposed in one of the inner layers of the multiple layers, and the dielectric heating element is covered outward by at least one insulating layer (3.2, 3.4, 3.3), The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the insulating layer is formed at least partially from silicone foam.

8. The apparatus comprises an infrared temperature measuring element and / or a resistance temperature measuring element and / or a diode temperature measuring element and / or a pH measuring element. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the element is positioned within the through-opening (3.5) of the heating device or embedded in the material of the element of the insert, and is configured to measure the temperature and pH value of each of the components located in the container.

9. The apparatus includes a scale configured to allow a movable unit comprising the container, the heating device, the insert, and the motor to be placed on it. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the scale is configured to determine the weight of the unit.

10. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the insert comprises a torsion-resistant chassis (2.2.a) and / or linkage and / or at least two torsion-resistant rigid connecting columns connected to the stirring cage.

11. The device includes an internal computing unit, The internal calculation unit is configured to control the motor and the heating element, and to receive the temperature measured by the temperature measuring element and / or the pH value measured by the pH measuring element. The apparatus according to claims 1 to 10, wherein the internal computing device preferably includes a receiver and / or transmitter for exchanging corresponding data with an external computing device.

12. A method for producing a personal care product, cosmetic or household product from at least two predetermined components using the apparatus described in any one of claims 1 to 11, A method comprising an internal computing device which automatically adjusts and / or controls a predetermined speed or predetermined speed profile of the motor (1.8) that drives the magnetic stirring body (2.5), or a predetermined excitation of a coil arrangement provided adjacent to the bottom of the container and comprising a plurality of electromagnetic coils (50.7), and a predetermined temperature or predetermined temperature profile of the heating device for homogenizing, dispersing, emulsifying, softening, melting and / or grinding the components introduced into the container.

13. The method according to 12, characterized in that the temperature measured by the infrared temperature measuring element and / or the resistance temperature measuring element and / or the diode temperature measuring element, and / or the weight value measured by the scale, and / or the pH value measured by the pH measuring element are taken into consideration for adjusting the temperature or temperature profile of the heating device.

14. The method according to 12 or 13, characterized in that the total pH value of the product is determined from the pH value of each component and the amount of each component added in the manufacture of the product, and is compared with the pH value measured by the pH measuring element as necessary, and / or the total price of the product is determined from the price of each component and the amount of each component added in the manufacture of the product.

15. A computer program comprising program code stored on a machine-readable data medium for performing a step of the method according to claim 12 or 13, A computer program that executes the above step when the computer program is executed on the arithmetic unit.

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