Lever-Action Seal for Detaching a Frozen Drink Maker's Mixing Cup

This patent describes a frozen drink maker that uses a lever and a flexible seal to easily attach and detach the mixing cup from the main machine.

What it covers

This patent describes a frozen drink maker designed for easy attachment and detachment of its mixing vessel. The machine includes a main housing, which has an upper section, and a mixing vessel where the drink ingredients are blended. A flexible seal sits between the upper housing section and the mixing vessel. The key feature is a lever on the housing that moves. When the lever is in a "coupled position," it securely connects the mixing vessel to the upper housing, with the flexible seal ensuring a leak-proof connection. Moving the lever to an "uncoupled position" releases the mixing vessel. For example, to make a smoothie, you would fill the mixing vessel, place it on the drink maker, push the lever to lock and seal it, blend your drink, then pull the lever to quickly remove the vessel.

What it doesn't cover

• —Does not cover drink makers where the mixing vessel is permanently attached to the housing.
• —Does not cover attachment mechanisms that do not involve a movable lever to couple and uncouple the vessel.
• —Does not cover systems where a flexible seal is not present between the upper housing section and the mixing vessel.
• —Does not cover drink makers that use a twist-lock or magnetic attachment system without a distinct lever action.
• —Does not cover appliances where the seal is located elsewhere, not specifically between the upper housing and the mixing vessel.

The clever bit

The clever aspect is the specific combination of a simple, user-friendly lever mechanism with a flexible seal to create a secure, leak-proof, and easily detachable connection for a mixing vessel. This design simplifies the process of attaching and removing the blending cup, improving convenience for the user.

Why it matters

This patent addresses a common user frustration with kitchen appliances: securely attaching and detaching parts for use and cleaning. By providing a simple lever mechanism for coupling and uncoupling the mixing vessel, it aims to make frozen drink makers more user-friendly and efficient. The flexible seal ensures mess-free operation, which is important for consumer satisfaction in home appliance design. This design could influence future developments in small kitchen appliances, prioritizing convenience and ease of maintenance.

Real-world examples

• 1.Home blenders
• 2.Smoothie makers
• 3.Frozen cocktail machines
• 4.Food processors with detachable cups