Thermal cutoff detection circuits, systems incorporating the same, and methods of operating the same

Abstract

A blender includes a processor; a motor; a thermal cutoff device; a detection circuit; a processor, and a non-transitory, processor readable storage medium communicatively coupled to the processor, the non-transitory, processor readable storage medium including one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor to: receive, from the detection circuit, one or more signals indicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of the motor of the blender via the thermal cutoff device that is configured to operate to an open position or a closed position in response to a detected temperature value relative to a temperature threshold value; generate, in response to the one or more signals, a notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor of the blender; and output the notification indicative of the trigger event based on the detected temperature value relative to the temperature threshold value.

Description

THERMAL CUTOFF DETECTION CIRCUITS, SYSTEMS INCORPORATING THE SAME, AND METHODS OF OPERATING THE SAMECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 678,808, filed August 2, 2024, entitled, “THERMAL CUTOFF DETECTION CIRCUITS, SYSTEMS INCORPORATING THE SAME, AND METHODS OF OPERATING THE SAME,” the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to blender systems, and more particularly, to thermal cutoff devices within blender systems.BACKGROUND

[0003] Thermal cutoff devices can be used to interrupt the supply of electric current when the thermal cutoff device reaches a particular temperature. Upon such an interruption of the supplied current, a motor can stop functioning. However, in certain devices, it may be desirable to inform a user why the motor has stopped functioning. For example, users can have the information for tasks such as troubleshooting, designing, optimizing the speed of the motor, or knowing whether it is necessary to conduct repair operations or contact entities for support, and / or the like. Conventional systems for providing an error message regarding the stopped operation of the motor fail to include an indication of the particular problem associated with the stopped operation of the motor and only provide a binary output without any further usable information.SUMMARY

[0004] In one aspect, a blender may include a motor; a thermal cutoff device; a detection circuit; a processor; and a non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium communicatively coupled to the processor. The non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor to receive, from the detection circuit, one or more signals indicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of the motor of the blender via the thermal cutoff device that is configured to operate to an open position or a closed position in response to a detected temperature value relative to a temperature threshold value. The non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor to generate, in response to the one or more signals, a notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor of the blender. The non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor to output the notification indicative of the trigger event based on the detected temperature value relative to the temperature threshold value.

[0005] In another aspect, a method to be performed by a processor of a blender thermal detection system is provided. The method may include receiving, from a detection circuit of a blender, one or more signals indicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of a motor of the blender via a thermal cutoff device that is configured to operate to an open position or a closed position in response to a detected temperature value relative to a temperature threshold value. The method may include generating, in response to the one or more signals, a notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor of the blender. The method may include outputting the notification indicative of the trigger event based on the detected temperature value relative to the temperature threshold value.

[0006] In yet another aspect, a non-transitory, computer-readable medium may include instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform one or more operations including receiving, from a detection circuit of a blender, one or more signals indicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of a motor of the blender via a thermal cutoff device that is configured to operate to an open position or a closed position in response to a detected temperature value relative to a temperature threshold value. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium may include instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform one or more operations including generating, in response to the one or more signals, a notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor of the blender. The non- transitory, computer-readable medium may include instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform one or more operations including outputting the notification indicative of the trigger event based on the detected temperature value relative to the temperature threshold value.

[0007] These and other features, and characteristics of the present technology, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to theaccompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the disclosure. As used in the specification and in the claims, the singular form of 'a', 'an', and 'the' include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments can be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like structure is indicated with like reference numerals and in which:

[0009] FIG. 1 schematically depicts a block diagram of illustrative internal components of a blender according to one or more aspects shown and described herein;

[0010] FIG. 2 depicts a block diagram of illustrative components of a blender thermal detection system including the blender of FIG. 1 according to one or more aspects shown and described herein;

[0011] FIG. 3 schematically depicts an illustrative detection circuit according to one or more aspects shown and described herein;

[0012] FIG. 4 depicts a flow diagram of an example method to be performed by the blender thermal detection system according to one or more aspects shown and described herein; and

[0013] FIG. 5 depicts an illustrative blending system that is configured to be used with a mixing apparatus according to one or more aspects shown and described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] The present disclosure relates to thermal cutoff detection circuits, systems that incorporate these circuits, and methods for operating the same. In particular, the systems and methods disclosed herein are directed to blenders incorporating the detection circuit, a motor, and a thermal cutoff device. However, it should be understood that any other type of apparatus incorporating or using a motor may be used, including, but not limited to, lawn and agricultural equipment, various machinery, home appliances, vacuum cleaners, and the like. The thermal cutoff device, which may be coupled to the motor, may include a device that is configured todetermine an excess temperature relative to a temperature threshold value, or an excess current relative to a current threshold value. However, when the thermal cutoff device opens, such as due to overheating of the blender, conventional devices do not provide an indication to a user of a reason for the stoppage of the motor. Still further, conventional devices do not provide an indication to the user when the thermal cutoff device is sufficiently cool (relative to a cooling temperature value) to begin using the blender again. The detection circuit disclosed herein is configured to address these deficiencies. In particular, the detection circuit is configured detect an open thermal cutoff device and provide a notification of the reason(s) associated with the stoppage of the motor. Further, the detection circuit may check for electrical continuity through the motor circuit while minimizing power draw.

[0015] FIG. 1 schematically depicts a block diagram of illustrative internal components of a blender 101 according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. The blender 101 includes a processor 102; a non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103; a detection circuit 104; a motor 105; a thermal cutoff device 106, and one or more interface components 112. Although FIG. 1 illustrates single instances of the constituent components of the blender 101, the blender 101 may include any number of constituent components.

[0016] The processor 102, such as a central processing unit (CPU), may be the central processing unit that is configured to perform calculations and logic operations to execute one or more programs. The processor 102, alone or in conjunction with the other components, may be an illustrative processing device, computing device, processor, or combinations thereof, including, for example, a multi-core processor, a microcontroller, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The processor 102 may include any processing component configured to receive and execute instructions (such as from the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103). In some embodiments, the processor 102 may include a plurality of processing devices.

[0017] The non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may contain one or more data repositories for storing data that is received and / or generated. The non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may be any physical storage medium, including, but not limited to, a hard disk drive (HDD), memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), random access memory (RAM), double data rate (DDR) RAM, flash memory, and / or the like), removable storage, a configuration file (e.g., text) and / or the like. While the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 is depicted as a local device, it should be understood that the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may be a remote storage device, such as, for example, a server computing device,cloud-based storage device, or the like. The non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may be communicatively coupled to the processor 102.

[0018] The detection circuit 104 is generally a grouping of components or a single device that is electrically and / or communicatively coupled to the various other components of the blender 101 to send and receive signals and / or data. The detection circuit 104 may be configured to detect a state of the open thermal cutoff device 106 and provide information associated with the stoppage of the motor 105, such as, for example, to the processor 102, via the one or more interface components 112, and / or the like. Details regarding the constituent components and operation of the detection circuit 104 will be described with respect to FIG. 3.

[0019] The motor 105 is generally any machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. As used in the context of the blender 101 described herein, the motor is generally a universal motor, an induction motor, or the like. However, other motors are generally understood and included within the scope of the present disclosure. The motor 105 includes a motor circuit 107. The motor circuit 107 may include a motor line conductor 108, motor windings 109, motor brushes 110, and a motor neutral conductor 111. The motor windings 109 are conductors used to generate a magnetic field to drive a rotor in the motor 105. The motor brushes 110 conducts the current between a stator and a rotor of the motor 105. The motor line conductor 108 supplies the current from the power supply to the motor 105. The motor neutral conductor 111 supplies a return path for the current.

[0020] The one or more interface components 112 are generally hardware components that provide an interface with a user or an external device. For example, the one or more interface components 112 may include user interface components, communications hardware, and / or the like. Illustrative examples of the one or more interface components 112 include, but are not limited to, hardware components that receive inputs from a user and transmit signals corresponding to the inputs, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a touch screen, a remote control, a pointing device, a video input device, an audio input device, a haptic feedback device, a touchscreen and / or the like. Other illustrative examples of the one or more interface components 112 include, but are not limited to, network interface hardware (e.g., wired or wireless networking hardware), such as a modem, FAN port, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) card, WiMax card, mobile communications hardware, and / or other hardware for communicating with other networks and / or devices. Other devices that may be used for the one or more interface components 112 not specifically described herein are contemplated and included in the scope of this disclosure.

[0021] The thermal cutoff device 106 is generally hardware that is configured to determine an excess temperature relative to a temperature threshold value, or an excess current relative to a current threshold value. Specific examples of hardware that may be utilized for the thermal cutoff device 106 is generally understood and not described herein. With reference also to FIG. 3, in certain embodiments, the thermal cutoff device 106 may include a switch SW and a resistor RTCO. The switch SW may be connected in parallel with the resistor RTCO. The thermal cutoff device 106 is generally located adjacent to the motor 105 to detect heat dissipated therefrom, and in some embodiments, may be coupled to the motor 105. That is, heat generated by and / or emanating from the motor 105 is detected by the thermal cutoff device 106 because of the close proximity of the motor 105 and the thermal cutoff device 106. The switch SW is configured to open in response to one or more stimuli. That is, for example, upon determining that a current exceeds the current threshold value and / or a temperature exceeds a temperature threshold based on bimetallic contacts of the switch SW. In particular, the contacts of the switch SW may include bimetallic material, such as metal strips, that can be adhered together at one or more locations along a length thereof and are displaced in response to a temperature change due to, for example, different thermal expansion coefficients of each of the metals. That is, when the temperature of the switch SW is below the temperature threshold, the contacts contact each other to complete a circuit, such as a load circuit or the motor circuit 107 of the blender 101. Conversely, when the temperature of the switch SW exceeds the temperature threshold, the contacts separate from one another to disconnect the circuit. In this manner, the switch SW may be configured to operate as a thermally responsive switch including an open state or a closed state. For example, when the amount of current passing through a metal strip is so excessive that it exceeds the current threshold value, the strip thereby heats up causing it to expand. Due to this overcurrent, the expansion action by the strip causes the contacts of the switch SW to open, thereby interrupting the current supplied to the motor 105 (whereas the contacts of the switch SW may be otherwise closed to allow current to pass through them). The threshold values for temperature and current are preset for the thermal cutoff device 106, and may be selected according to known or anticipated temperatures or currents in which the motor 105 can operate (e.g., a particular temperature range and / or current range in which the motor 105 operates without incurring damage). In certain embodiments, this control aspect may refer to a “self-hold” which may require removal of AC voltage supplied to the thermal cutoff device 106 so as to reset the thermal cutoff device 106 to a closed state. The resistor RTCO in the thermal cutoff device 106 is part of the self-hold function of the thermal cutoff device 106, such that the resistor RTCO is configured to limit the amount of currentsupplied when the load circuit is in operation due to the contacting of the bimetallic contacts. The opening of the thermal cutoff device 106 breaks electrical continuity, thereby stopping the motor 105. The processor 102 may, in certain embodiments, be configured to automatically restart the motor 105 when a temperature is below a predetermined threshold.

[0022] However, in conventional arrangements, when the thermal cutoff device 106 opens, such as due to overheating of the motor 105, there is no indication to a user of a reason for the stoppage of the motor 105. Still further, there is no indication to the user of when the thermal cutoff device 106 is sufficiently cool (relative to a cooling temperature value) to begin using the blender 101 again (e.g., when the temperature falls below the preset threshold that allows the switch SW to remain closed). The detection circuit 104 described herein is configured to address these deficiencies. More specifically, the detection circuit 104 is configured detect the open thermal cutoff device 106 and provide a signal or notification indicative of a trigger event (e.g., the open thermal cutoff device 106 and / or associated information). The detection circuit 104 is further configured to sense electrical continuity through the motor circuit 107 and the resistor RTCO. In certain embodiments, any electrically - open or an impedance greater than predetermined impedance of the motor 105 within the motor circuit 107 may be used by the detection circuit 104 to determine certain characteristics that cause such an impedance (e.g., a broken motor lead or a worn motor brush).

[0023] The non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to perform any number of operations. For example, the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to receive, from the detection circuit 104, one or more signals indicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of the motor of the blender via the thermal cutoff device. Without limitation, the trigger event includes a trip, an open circuit, a reset, or any combination thereof.

[0024] The non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to generate, in response to the one or more signals, a notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor 105 of the blender 101. By way of example, the notification may include an audible alert, a display alert, or any combination thereof. The non- transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to output the notification indicative of the trigger event. For example, the processor 102 may output the notification via the one or more interface components 112. More specifically, in embodiments where the one or moreinterface components 112 are user interface components, the processor 102 may cause the one or more interface components 112 to display an indicator, emit a sound, provide a haptic vibration, and / or the like. In embodiments where the one or more interface components 112 are network interface hardware or the like, the processor 102 may cause the one or more interface components 112 to transmit the notification to one or more devices communicatively coupled to the interface components 112 (e.g., a mobile device, a remote server, and / or the like).

[0025] The detection circuit 104 is configured to determine whether a detected impedance is greater than a maximum impedance that can be used to operate the motor 105 of the blender 101. For example, the detection circuit 104 is configured to sense electrical continuity through the motor circuit 107. In certain embodiments, any electrically-open or an impedance sensed greater than predetermined impedance of the motor 105 and the resistor RTCO may be used by the detection circuit 104 to determine certain characteristics that cause such an impedance (e.g., a broken motor lead or a worn motor brush). The non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to output, upon receipt of the detected impedance, a second notification indicative of a fault associated with the detected impedance. The second notification indicative of the fault associated with the detected impedance may include an audible alert, a display alert, or any combination thereof. For example, the processor 102 may output the notification via the one or more interface components 112. More specifically, in embodiments where the one or more interface components 112 are user interface components, the processor 102 may cause the one or more interface components 112 to display an indicator, emit a sound, provide a haptic vibration, and / or the like. In embodiments where the one or more interface components 112 are network interface hardware or the like, the processor 102 may cause the one or more interface components 112 to transmit the notification to one or more devices communicatively coupled to the interface components 112 (e.g., a mobile device, a remote server, and / or the like).

[0026] In certain embodiments, the second notification may be the same type or a different type of alert as the notification indicative of the trigger event. By way of example, the fault may include or be indicative of a broken motor component associated with the motor 105 of the blender 101. In another example, fault may additionally or alternatively include a worn motor component associated with the motor 105 of the blender 101. The processor 102 may remove voltage supplied to the thermal cutoff device 106 to reset the thermal cutoff device 106to a closed state, and in certain embodiments may be configured to automatically restart the motor 105 when a temperature is below a predetermined threshold.

[0027] FIG. 2 depicts a block diagram of illustrative components of a blender TCO OPEN detection system 200 including the blender 101 of FIG. 1 according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. The blender TCO OPEN detection system 200 may include the blender 101, a network 115, and a computing device 120. Although FIG. 2 illustrates single instances of the constituent components of the blender TCO OPEN detection system 200, the blender TCO OPEN detection system 200 may include any number of constituent components. Further, FIG. 2 may reference and incorporate any of the above constituent components and operations of the blender 101 of FIG. 1.

[0028] The network 115 may be one or more of a wireless network, a wired network or any combination of wireless network and wired network and may be configured to connect any of the components of the blender TCO OPEN detection system 200. For example, the network 115 may include one or more of a fiber optics network, a passive optical network, a cable network, an Internet network, a satellite network, a wireless local area network (LAN), a Global System for Mobile Communication, a Personal Communication Service, a Personal Area Network, Wireless Application Protocol, Multimedia Messaging Service, Enhanced Messaging Service, Short Message Service, Time Division Multiplexing based systems, Code Division Multiple Access based systems, D-AMPS, Wi-Fi, Fixed Wireless Data, IEEE 802.1 lb, 802.15.1, 802.1 In and 802.11g, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Wi-Fi, and / or the like.

[0029] In addition, the network 115 may include, without limitation, telephone lines, fiber optics, IEEE Ethernet 802.3, a wide area network, a wireless personal area network, a LAN, or a global network such as the Internet. In addition, the network 115 may support an Internet network, a wireless communication network, a cellular network, or the like, or any combination thereof. The network 115 may further include one network, or any number of the exemplary types of networks mentioned above, operating as a stand-alone network or in cooperation with each other. The network 115 may utilize one or more protocols of one or more network elements to which they are communicatively coupled. The network 115 may translate to or from other protocols to one or more protocols of network devices. Although the network 115 is depicted as a single network, it should be appreciated that according to one or more examples, the network 115 may include a plurality of interconnected networks, such as, for example, the Internet, a service provider's network, a cable television network, corporate networks, such as credit card association networks, and home network.

[0030] The computing device 120 may include one or more processing devices. By way of example, the processing device may be a network-enabled computer. As referred to herein, a network-enabled computer may include, but is not limited to a computer device, or communications device including, e.g., a server, a network appliance, a personal computer, a workstation, a phone, a handheld PC, a personal digital assistant, a thin client, a fat client, an Internet browser, or other device. The processing device also may be a mobile device; for example, a mobile device may include an iPhone, iPod, iPad from Apple® or any other mobile device running Apple's iOS® operating system, any device running Microsoft's Windows® Mobile operating system, any device running Google's Android® operating system, and / or any other smartphone, tablet, or like wearable mobile device.

[0031] With reference to FIG. 2, the one or more notifications generated by the processor 102 of the blender 101 may be outputted (e.g., using the interface components 112) to the computing device 120 via network 115. In certain embodiments, the computing device 120 may be configured to receive and output the one or more notifications from the processor 102. For example, the computing device 120 may be configured to display a first notification via a display alert, and output a second notification via an audible alert. The first notification may be indicative of the trigger event, and the second notification may be indicative of the fault associated with the detected impedance. It is understood that the computing device 120 may be configured to display additional or alternative notifications in similar or different manners as the first notification and the second notification. In other embodiments, the display alert and / or the audible alert of any corresponding notification may be outputted via the blender 101 instead of the computing device 120.

[0032] FIG. 3 schematically depicts an illustrative detection circuit 104 according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. The detection circuit 104 may be connected to the motor 105 and the thermal cutoff device 106 as described herein. The detection circuit 104 may include a plurality of resistors, a plurality of diodes, an optocoupler 01, and a capacitor Cl 8. In certain embodiments, the plurality of resistors may include resistor R42, a resistor R40, a resistor R24, a resistor R10, and a resistor R37. The plurality of diodes may include a diode D2, a diode D3, a Zener diode Zl, a diode D7, and a diode D8. The optocoupler 01 may include diodes connected in inverse parallel for AC operation. As used herein, the term “connected” means that two components are electrically coupled, either directly or indirectly (e.g., via intermediate devices / components), unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0033] The plurality of resistors may include a first current limiting resistor R24 and a second current limiting resistor R10. The first current limiting resistor R24 and the secondcurrent limiting resistor RIO may be connected in parallel. One end of the resistor R37 may be connected to the diode D3 via diode D2, and another end of the resistor R37 may be connected to one end of the optocoupler 01. One end of the Zener diode Z1 may be connected to the diode D8, and one end of the Zener diode Z1 may be connected to the diode D7. One end of the resistor may be connected to a power supply, and one end of the resistor R42 may be connected to the optocoupler 01 via a node. One end of the resistor R40 may be connected to one end of the diode D2.

[0034] One end of the diode D3 may be connected to the resistor R24 and the resistor RIO via a node, and one end of the diode D3 may be connected to the resistor R37 via the diode D2. The capacitor Cl 8 may include a first end and a second end. The first end of the capacitor Cl 8 may be connected to a first motor line, such as the motor line conductor 108, via the diode D8. The second end of the capacitor Cl 8 may be connected to a second motor line, such as the motor neutral conductor 111, via the diode D7. The second end of the capacitor C18 may be connected to one end of the optocoupler 01.

[0035] The first motor line may include the motor line conductor 108 that is connected to the motor 105 via the thermal cutoff device 106. The second motor line may include the motor neutral conductor 111 that is connected to the motor 105. The first motor line may be connected to the diode D8, one end of the Zener diode Zl, one end of the capacitor C18, and one end of the resistor R37. The second motor line may be connected to a second end of the diode D7, a second end of the Zener diode Zl, and a second end of the capacitor Cl 8.

[0036] The detection circuit 104 may be configured to detect whether the thermal cutoff device 106 is open based on whether or not the capacitor Cl 8 is charging or charged. If the thermal cutoff device 106 is not open, it appears as a short, and the capacitor Cl 8 will not charge, thereby dissipating energy. If the thermal cutoff device 106 is open or overheated, then the capacitor Cl 8 will charge. The resistor R24 and the resistor R10 may be configured to trickle current to charge the capacitor Cl 8 via diode D3, or else dissipate it through the motor 105.

[0037] To determine that the thermal cutoff device 106 is open, the detection circuit 104 may be configured to supply current to the capacitor Cl 8 at a predetermined value. For example, if the capacitor Cl 8 has been charged, a TCO detect pin can detect a value that the capacitor Cl 8 has been charged to determine if the thermal cutoff device 106 has opened. At a TCO check pin, an amount of power supplied through resistor R40 and diode D2 may be limited. If the thermal cutoff device 106 is closed, then the capacitor Cl 8 will not charge, indicating that the thermal cutoff device 106 has not tripped due to thermal over-temperatureor over current condition. The amount of energy used to charge the capacitor Cl 8 may be limited by selecting the current limiting resistors (such as R24 and RIO) and by determining how often the processor 102 looks for an open thermal cutoff device 106. In certain embodiments, the detection circuit 104 may be configured to re-supply the current to the capacitor Cl 8 at the predetermined value to determine that the motor 105 has cooled down sufficiently to close the switch SW, in response to which the motor 105 may be restarted, and the processor 102 may be configured to output a notification corresponding to the motor 105 having reached a predetermined temperature and the and switch SW closed.

[0038] In certain aspects, it is understood that the values of the constituent components of the detection circuit 104, including but not limited to the plurality of resistors, the plurality of diodes, the optocoupler 01, and the capacitor Cl 8 of the detection circuit 104, and the resistor RTCO, are not fixed or limited. For example, these values may be adjustable based on the type of the motor 105.

[0039] FIG. 4 depicts a flow diagram of an example method 400 to be performed by the blender TCO OPEN detection system 200 according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. FIG. 4 may reference and incorporate any of the above constituent components and operations of the blender 101 of FIG. 1, the blender TCO OPEN detection system 200 of FIG. 2, and the detection circuit 104 of FIG. 3. For purposes of brevity, the below blocks for the method 400 may be carried out with reference to the constituent components and operations of the blender TCO OPEN detection system 200 previously explained above with respect to FIG. 2.

[0040] At block 405, the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to receive, from the detection circuit 104, one or more signals indicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of the motor 105 of the blender 101 via the thermal cutoff device 106. The trigger event may include a trip, an open circuit, a reset, or any combination thereof.

[0041] At block 410, the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to generate a first notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor 105 of the blender 101.

[0042] At block 415, the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to determine whether a detected impedance is greater than a maximum impedance of the motor 105 of the blender 101. In certain embodiments, any electrically-open or an impedance greaterthan the impedance of the motor 105 within the motor circuit, such as a broken motor lead or a worn motor brush, may be detected by the detection circuit 104.

[0043] At block 420, the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to generate a second notification indicative of the comparison between the detected and motor105 impedances. The non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to output, upon receipt of the detected impedance, a second notification indicative of a fault associated with the detected impedance. By way of example, the fault may include or be indicative of a broken motor component associated with the motor 105 of the blender 101. In another example, fault may additionally or alternatively include a worn motor component associated with the motor 105 of the blender 101.

[0044] At block 425, the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to detect whether the thermal cutoff device 106 is open. The detection circuit 104 may be configured to detect whether the thermal cutoff device 106 is open. If the thermal cutoff device106 is not open, it appears as a short, and the capacitor Cl 8 will not charge, thereby dissipating energy. If the thermal cutoff device 106 is open or overheated, then the capacitor Cl 8 will charge.

[0045] At block 430, the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to charge a capacitor Cl 8 at a predetermined value. The resistor R24 and the resistor R10 may be configured to trickle current to charge the capacitor Cl 8 via diode D3, or else dissipate it through the motor 105. Upon determining that the thermal cutoff device 106 is open, the detection circuit 104 may be configured to supply current to the capacitor Cl 8 at a predetermined value.

[0046] At block 435, the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium 103 may include one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor 102 to output the first notification and the second notification. The first notification and / or the second notification may include an audible alert, a display alert, or any combination thereof. In certain embodiments, when at least one notification corresponds to the motor 105 being overheated and the thermal cutoff device 106 open.

[0047] FIG. 5 depicts an illustrative blending system that is configured to be used with a mixing apparatus according to one or more aspects shown and described herein. In particular,FIG. 5 illustrates an illustrative mixing apparatus 500 in accordance with various disclosed aspects. The mixing apparatus 500 may utilize various disclosed aspects. For instance, the mixing apparatus 500 may include some or all portions of aspects described with reference to FIGS. 1-4. By way of example and without limitation, the mixing apparatus 500 may include a portion of (or all of) the constituent components of the blender 101.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 5, the mixing apparatus 500 includes a base 505, a mixing container 510 attachable to the base 505, a mixer assembly 515, and a lid 520 attachable to the mixing container 510. The mixing container 510 includes one or more sidewalls 525 and a handle 530. Contents (e.g., foodstuff, etc.) may be added to the mixing container 510 for mixing. It is noted that the mixing container 510 may be formed of various materials such as plastics, glass, metals, or the like. In another aspect, the mixing container 510 may be powered in any appropriate manner.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 5, the mixer assembly 515, the mixing container 510, and the base 505 may removably or irremovably attach. The mixing container 510 may be powered in any appropriate manner. For example, a power source may be configured to power the mixing container 510. The power source may be positioned in the mixing container 510 and / or the base 505. The power source may be wireless. In examples, the power source may be an energy storage device, such as a rechargeable or nonrechargeable battery, a regenerative power supply, and / or the like. While shown as a large-format system, the mixing apparatus 500 may include a single serving style system, where the mixing container 510 is filled, a blender base is attached to the mixing container 510, and then the mixing container 510 is inverted and placed on a second base.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 5, the base 505 includes a motor 535 disposed within a housing. In certain aspects, the motor 535 may correspond to the motor 105 as previously described above, and in other aspects the motor 535 may correspond to a different motor. The motor 535 selectively drives the blade assembly 540. The blade assembly 540 may agitate, impart heat, or otherwise interact with contents within the mixing container 510. Operation of the mixing apparatus 500 may impart heat into the contents within mixing container 510.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 5, in at least one aspect, the mixing apparatus 500 may identify or detect whether the mixing apparatus 500 is interlocked through mechanical detection (e.g., push rods), user input, image recognition, magnetic detection (e.g., reed switches), electronic detection (e.g., inductive coils, a near field communication (NFC) component), or the like.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 5, the mixing apparatus 500 and processes described herein generally relate to mixing or food-processing systems include a food-processing disc including one or more inductive coils. In another aspect, one or more of the disc and / or lid 520 may include an NFC component that may interact with an NFC component of a blender base. The NFC component of the blender base may receive information regarding the type of the disc to determine a mixing process to be utilized by the blender TCO OPEN detection system 200.

[0053] It should now be understood that the systems and methods described herein can be used for a blender including a motor and a thermal cutoff device, however any other type of apparatus with a motor may be used. Thermal cutoff devices can be used to interrupt the supply of electric current when heated to a desired temperature. Upon such an interruption of the supplied current, a motor can stop functioning. Knowing why the motor has stopped functioning has numerous advantages, such as troubleshooting, designing, or optimizing the speed of the motor. Unlike conventional techniques that provide an error message regarding the stopped operation of the motor, the systems and methods disclosed herein provide an indication of the particular problem(s) associated with the stopped operation of the motor. In particular, the detection circuit is configured to detect the open thermal cutoff device by checking for electrical continuity through a motor circuit of the motor while minimizing power draw, and notify a user of the reason(s) associated with the stoppage of the motor via output of one or more notifications. By determining there is no electrical continuity, the systems and methods disclosed herein can infer and notify that there may be damage to the motor, and by determining there is electrical continuity, the systems and methods disclosed here can infer and notify resulting overheating of the motor and also that the motor may be utilized again after it is cooled down relative to a cooling temperature value.

[0054] Further aspects of the disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses.

[0055] A blender comprising: a motor; a thermal cutoff device; a detection circuit; a processor; and a non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium communicatively coupled to the processor, the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium comprising one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor to: receive, from the detection circuit, one or more signals indicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of the motor of the blender via the thermal cutoff device that is configured to operate to an open position or a closed position in response to a detected temperature value relative to a temperature threshold value; generate, in response to the one or more signals, a notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor of theblender; and output the notification indicative of the trigger event based on the detected temperature value relative to the temperature threshold value.

[0056] The blender of any preceding clause, wherein the trigger event comprises a trip, an open circuit, a reset, or any combination thereof.

[0057] The blender of any preceding clause, wherein the detection circuit is configured to determine whether a detected impedance is greater than a maximum impedance of the motor, and the one or more instructions further cause the processor to output, upon receipt of the detected impedance, a second notification indicative of a fault associated with the detected impedance.

[0058] The blender of any preceding clause, wherein the fault is indicative of a broken motor component or a worn motor component.

[0059] The blender of any preceding clause, wherein the one or more instructions further cause the processor to remove voltage supplied to the thermal cutoff device to reset the thermal cutoff device to a closed state.

[0060] The blender of any preceding clause, wherein the thermal cutoff device comprises a bimetallic switch that is configured to open based a current exceeding a current threshold value.

[0061] The blender of any preceding clause, wherein the thermal cutoff device comprises a bimetallic switch that is configured to open based on the detected temperature value exceeding the temperature threshold value.

[0062] The blender of any preceding clause, wherein the thermal cutoff device comprises a bimetallic switch that is configured to open based on a current exceeding a current threshold value and the detected temperature value exceeding the temperature threshold value.

[0063] The blender of any preceding clause, wherein the notification comprises an audible alert, a display alert, or any combination thereof.

[0064] The blender of any preceding clause, wherein the detection circuit comprises a capacitor and a plurality of resistors, and the detection circuit is configured to limit an amount of current supplied to the capacitor via the plurality of resistors.

[0065] The blender of any preceding clause, wherein the detection circuit comprises a capacitor, and the detection circuit is configured to detect whether the thermal cutoff device is open; and the detection circuit is configured to, upon determining that the thermal cutoff device is open, supply current to the capacitor at a predetermined value.

[0066] A method, comprising: receiving, from a detection circuit of a blender, one or more signals indicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of a motor of the blendervia a thermal cutoff device that is configured to operate to an open position or a closed position in response to a detected temperature value relative to a temperature threshold value; generating, in response to the one or more signals, a notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor of the blender; and outputting the notification indicative of the trigger event based on the detected temperature value relative to the temperature threshold value.

[0067] The method of any preceding clause, wherein the trigger event comprises a trip, an open circuit, a reset, or any combination thereof.

[0068] The method of any preceding clause, further comprising: determining whether a detected impedance is greater than a maximum impedance of the motor, and outputting, upon receipt of the detected impedance, a second notification indicative of a fault associated with the detected impedance.

[0069] The method of any preceding clause, wherein the fault is indicative of a broken motor component or a worn motor component.

[0070] The method of any preceding clause, further comprising removing voltage supplied to the thermal cutoff device to reset the thermal cutoff device to a closed state.

[0071] The method of any preceding clause, further comprising opening a bimetallic switch of the thermal cutoff device based on a current exceeding a current threshold value.

[0072] The method of any preceding clause, further comprising opening a bimetallic switch of the thermal cutoff device based on the detected temperature value exceeding the temperature threshold value.

[0073] The method of any preceding clause, further comprising opening a bimetallic switch of the thermal cutoff device based on a current exceeding a current threshold value and the detected temperature value exceeding the temperature threshold value.

[0074] The method of any preceding clause, wherein the notification comprises an audible alert, a display alert, or any combination thereof.

[0075] The method of any preceding clause, further comprising limiting an amount of current supplied to a capacitor of the detection circuit via a plurality of resistors.

[0076] The method of any preceding clause, further comprising: detecting whether the thermal cutoff device is open; and supplying, upon determining that the thermal cutoff device is open, current to a capacitor of the detection circuit at a predetermined value.

[0077] A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform one or more operations comprising: receiving, from a detection circuit of a blender, one or more signalsindicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of a motor of the blender via a thermal cutoff device that is configured to operate to an open position or a closed position in response to a detected temperature value relative to a temperature threshold value; generating, in response to the one or more signals, a notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor of the blender; and outputting the notification indicative of the trigger event based on the detected temperature value relative to the temperature threshold value.

[0078] The non-transitory computer-readable medium of any preceding clause, wherein the trigger event comprises a trip, an open circuit, a reset, or any combination thereof.

[0079] The non-transitory computer-readable medium of any preceding clause, the one or more operations further comprising: determining whether a detected impedance is greater than a maximum impedance of the motor, and outputting, upon receipt of the detected impedance, a second notification indicative of a fault associated with the detected impedance.

[0080] The non-transitory computer-readable medium of any preceding clause, wherein the fault is indicative of a broken motor component or a worn motor component.

[0081] The non-transitory computer-readable medium of any preceding clause, the one or more operations further comprising removing voltage supplied to the thermal cutoff device to reset the thermal cutoff device to a closed state.

[0082] The non-transitory computer-readable medium of any preceding clause, wherein the notification comprises an audible alert, a display alert, or any combination thereof.

[0083] The non-transitory computer-readable medium of any preceding clause, the one or more operations further comprising: detecting whether the thermal cutoff device is open; and supplying, upon determining that the thermal cutoff device is open, current to a capacitor of the detection circuit at a predetermined value.

[0084] An apparatus comprising: a detection circuit that includes: a plurality of resistors; a plurality of diodes including a first diode, a second diode, and a third diode, wherein the first diode is connected to the plurality of the resistors via a node; and a capacitor including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the capacitor is connected to a first motor line via the second diode and the second end of the capacitor is connected to a second motor line via the third diode.

[0085] The apparatus of any preceding clause, wherein the first motor line comprises a motor line connected to a motor via a thermal cutoff device, and the second motor line comprises a neural motor line connected to the motor.

[0086] The apparatus of any preceding clause, wherein the plurality of resistors includes a first current limiting resistor and a second current limiting resistor, the first current limiting resistor and the second current limiting resistor connected in parallel.

[0087] The preceding description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments described herein. The examples discussed herein are not limiting of the scope, applicability, or embodiments set forth in the claims. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments. For example, changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements discussed without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Various examples may omit, substitute, or add various procedures or components as appropriate. For instance, the methods described may be performed in an order different from that described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Also, features described with respect to some examples may be combined in some other examples. For example, an apparatus may be implemented or a method may be practiced using any number of the aspects set forth herein. In addition, the scope of the disclosure is intended to cover such an apparatus or method that is practiced using other structure, functionality, or structure and functionality in addition to, or other than, the various aspects of the disclosure set forth herein. It should be understood that any aspect of the disclosure disclosed herein may be embodied by one or more elements of a claim.

[0088] As used herein, the word “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any aspect described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects.

[0089] As used herein, a phrase referring to “at least one of’ a list of items refers to any combination of those items, including single members. As an example, “at least one of: a, b, or c” is intended to cover a, b, c, a-b, a-c, b-c, and a-b-c, as well as any combination with multiples of the same element (e.g., a-a, a-a-a, a-a-b, a-a-c, a-b-b, a-c-c, b-b, b-b-b, b-b-c, c-c, and c-c-c or any other ordering of a, b, and c). Reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean only one unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.” For example, reference to an element (e.g., “a processor,” “a memory,” etc.), unless otherwise specifically stated, should be understood to refer to one or more elements (e.g., “one or more processors,” “one or more memories,” etc.). The terms “set” and “group” are intended to include one or more elements, and may be used interchangeably with “one or more.” Where reference is made to one or more elements performing functions (e.g., steps of a method), one element may perform all functions, or more than one element may collectively perform the functions. When morethan one element collectively performs the functions, each function need not be performed by each of those elements (e.g., different functions may be performed by different elements) and / or each function need not be performed in whole by only one element (e.g., different elements may perform different sub- functions of a function). Similarly, where reference is made to one or more elements configured to cause another element (e.g., an apparatus) to perform functions, one element may be configured to cause the other element to perform all functions, or more than one element may collectively be configured to cause the other element to perform the functions. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more.

[0090] As used herein, the term “determining” encompasses a wide variety of actions. For example, “determining” may include calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, looking up (e.g., looking up in a table, a database or another data structure), ascertaining and the like. Also, “determining” may include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in a memory) and the like. Also, “determining” may include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing and the like.

[0091] The methods disclosed herein include one or more steps or actions for achieving the methods. The method steps and / or actions may be interchanged with one another without departing from the scope of the claims. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is specified, the order and / or use of specific steps and / or actions may be modified without departing from the scope of the claims. Further, the various operations of methods described above may be performed by any suitable means capable of performing the corresponding functions. The means may include various hardware and / or software component(s) and / or module(s), including, but not limited to a circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or processor. Generally, where there are operations illustrated in figures, those operations may have corresponding counterpart means-plus-function components with similar numbering.

[0092] The following claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims. Within a claim, reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.” Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase “step for.” All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout thisdisclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims.

Claims

1. CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A blender, comprising: a motor; a thermal cutoff device; a detection circuit; a processor; and a non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium communicatively coupled to the processor, the non-transitory, processor-readable storage medium comprising one or more instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor to: receive, from the detection circuit, one or more signals indicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of the motor of the blender via the thermal cutoff device that is configured to operate to an open position or a closed position in response to a detected temperature value relative to a temperature threshold value; generate, in response to the one or more signals, a notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor of the blender based on the detected temperature value relative to the temperature threshold value; and output the notification indicative of the trigger event.

2. The blender of claim 1, wherein the trigger event comprises a trip, an open circuit, a reset, or any combination thereof.

3. The blender of any of the preceding claims, wherein: the detection circuit is configured to determine whether a detected impedance is greater than a maximum impedance of the motor, and the one or more instructions further cause the processor to output, upon receipt of the detected impedance, a second notification indicative of a fault associated with the detected impedance.

4. The blender of the preceding claim, wherein the fault is indicative of a broken motor component or a worn motor component.

5. The blender of any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more instructions further cause the processor to remove voltage supplied to the thermal cutoff device to reset the thermal cutoff device to a closed state.

6. The blender of any of the preceding claims, wherein the thermal cutoff device comprises a bimetallic switch that is configured to open based on a current exceeding a current threshold value.

7. The blender of any of the preceding claims, wherein the thermal cutoff device comprises a bimetallic switch that is configured to open based on the detected temperature value exceeding the temperature threshold value.

8. The blender of any of the preceding claims, wherein the thermal cutoff device comprises a bimetallic switch that is configured to open based on a current exceeding a current threshold value and the detected temperature value exceeding the temperature threshold value.

9. The blender of any of the preceding claims, wherein the notification comprises an audible alert, a display alert, or any combination thereof.

10. The blender of any of the preceding claims, wherein the detection circuit comprises a capacitor and a plurality of resistors, and the detection circuit is configured to limit an amount of current that is supplied to the capacitor via the plurality of resistors.

11. The blender of any of the preceding claims, wherein the detection circuit comprises a capacitor, and the detection circuit is configured to detect whether the thermal cutoff device is open; and the detection circuit is configured to, upon determining that the thermal cutoff device is open, supply current to the capacitor at a predetermined value.

12. A method, comprising: receiving, from a detection circuit of a blender, one or more signals indicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of a motor of the blender via a thermal cutoffdevice that is configured to operate to an open position or a closed position in response to a detected temperature value relative to a temperature threshold value; generating, in response to the one or more signals, a notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor of the blender based on the detected temperature value relative to the temperature threshold value; and outputting the notification indicative of the trigger event.

13. The method of the preceding claim, wherein the trigger event comprises a trip, an open circuit, a reset, or any combination thereof.

14. The method of any of the preceding claims, further comprising: determining whether a detected impedance is greater than a maximum impedance of the motor, and outputting, upon receipt of the detected impedance, a second notification indicative of a fault associated with the detected impedance.

15. The method of the preceding claim, wherein the fault is indicative of a broken motor component or a worn motor component.

16. The method of any of the preceding claims, further comprising removing voltage supplied to the thermal cutoff device to reset the thermal cutoff device to a closed state.

17. The method of any of the preceding claims, further comprising opening a bimetallic switch of the thermal cutoff device based on a current exceeding a current threshold value.

18. The method of any of the preceding claims, further comprising opening a bimetallic switch of the thermal cutoff device based on the detected temperature value exceeding the temperature threshold value.

19. The method of any of the preceding claims, further comprising opening a bimetallic switch of the thermal cutoff device based on a current exceeding a current threshold value and the detected temperature value exceeding the temperature threshold value.

20. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the notification comprises an audible alert, a display alert, or any combination thereof.

21. The method of any of the preceding claims, further comprising limiting an amount of current supplied to a capacitor of the detection circuit via a plurality of resistors.

22. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the detection circuit comprises a capacitor, and further comprising: detecting whether the thermal cutoff device is open; and supplying, upon determining that the thermal cutoff device is open, current to the capacitor at a predetermined value.

23. A non-transitory, computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform one or more operations comprising: receiving, from a detection circuit of a blender, one or more signals indicative of a trigger event associated with overheating of a motor of the blender via a thermal cutoff device that is configured to operate to an open position or a closed position in response to a detected temperature value relative to a temperature threshold value; generating, in response to the one or more signals, a notification upon occurrence of the trigger event associated with the overheating of the motor of the blender based on the detected temperature value relative to the temperature threshold value; and outputting the notification indicative of the trigger event.

24. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of the preceding claim, wherein the trigger event comprises a trip, an open circuit, a reset, or any combination thereof.

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