U.S. patent application number 14/057149 was filed with the patent office on 2014-06-12 for kitchen appliance and method of using same.
This patent application is currently assigned to Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc.. Invention is credited to Martin Brady, Michael Garman, Patrick T. Mulvaney.
Application Number | 20140157995 14/057149 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49113195 |
Filed Date | 2014-06-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140157995 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mulvaney; Patrick T. ; et
al. |
June 12, 2014 |
Kitchen Appliance and Method of Using Same
Abstract
A kitchen appliance includes a housing defining a cavity. A
heating or cooling element is disposed within the housing. A
container is sized and shaped to fit within the cavity. A lid is
sized and shaped to at least partially cover an opening of the
container. A handle is pivotally mounted to an exterior surface of
the side wall of the housing. A first end of the handle is
pivotally mounted to the side wall of the housing at a first
location. An opposing second end of the handle is pivotally mounted
to side wall of the housing at a second location diametrically
opposed to the first location. The handle is pivotable between an
engaged position which at least a portion of the handle retains the
lid in sealing engagement with the container rim and disengage
position in which the portion of the handle is spaced-apart from
the lid.
Inventors: |
Mulvaney; Patrick T.;
(Richmond, VA) ; Garman; Michael; (Moseley,
VA) ; Brady; Martin; (Manakin Sabot, VA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc. |
Glen Allen |
VA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc.
Glen Allen
VA
|
Family ID: |
49113195 |
Appl. No.: |
14/057149 |
Filed: |
October 18, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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13707640 |
Dec 7, 2012 |
|
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14057149 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
99/337 ;
220/322 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47J 43/085 20130101;
A47J 43/0722 20130101; A47J 36/10 20130101; A47J 43/0772 20130101;
A47J 43/046 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
99/337 ;
220/322 |
International
Class: |
A47J 36/10 20060101
A47J036/10; A47J 45/06 20060101 A47J045/06 |
Claims
1. A kitchen appliance comprising: a housing having a base and a
side wall extending therefrom, the side wall having an exterior
surface and an opposing interior surface, at least portions of the
interior surface of the side wall and base defining a cavity within
the housing, the housing having a housing rim at a first, free edge
of the side wall defining an opening to the cavity; a heating or
cooling element disposed within the housing proximate the cavity to
heat or cool the cavity; a container having a generally hollow
interior and a container rim defining an opening for accessing the
interior thereof, the interior of the container being capable of
retaining contents therein, the container being sized and shaped to
fit within the cavity of the housing; a lid sized and shaped to at
least partially cover the opening of the container when placed on
the container, the lid having an exterior surface and an opposing
interior surface facing the interior of the container when the lid
is placed on the container; and a handle pivotally mounted to the
exterior surface of the side wall of the housing, the handle
including a first half and a second half, the first half being
separable from the second half, a first end of each half being
pivotally mounted to the exterior surface of the side wall of the
housing at a first location and an opposing second end of each half
being pivotally mounted to the exterior surface of the side wall of
the housing at a second location generally opposed to the first
location, each of the first and second halves of the handle being
pivotable between an engaged position in which at least a portion
of each half contacts at least a portion of the lid to retain the
lid in sealing engagement with the container to inhibit leakage of
the contents from the interior of the container and a disengaged
position in which the portion of each half is spaced-apart from the
lid to permit the lid to be removed from the container, wherein at
least one of the first and second halves of the handle includes a
first generally straight portion extending from the first end
thereof, a first arcuate portion extending from the generally first
straight portion, and a second arcuate portion extending from the
first arcuate portion, the first arcuate portion being generally
convex with respect to the housing and the second arcuate portion
being generally concave with respect to the housing.
2. The kitchen appliance according to claim 1, wherein at least a
portion of the first and second halves attach or lock together in
the engaged position.
3. The kitchen appliance according to claim 1, wherein in the
engaged position the first and second halves extend either
generally parallel to a major axis of the housing or generally
perpendicularly to the major axis of the housing.
4. The kitchen appliance according to claim 1, wherein in the
disengaged position each of the first and second halves contact a
housing handle extending outwardly from the exterior surface of the
side wall of the housing.
5. The kitchen appliance according to claim 1, further comprising:
a gasket extending around one of an outer edge of the lid and the
container rim for sealing engagement with the other of the
container rim and the outer edge of the lid, the gasket being at
least partially compressed when the handle is in the engaged
position.
6. A kitchen appliance comprising: a housing having a base and a
side wall extending therefrom, the side wall having an exterior
surface and an opposing interior surface, at least portions of the
interior surface of the side wall and base defining a cavity within
the housing, the housing having a housing rim at a first, free edge
of the side wall defining an opening to the cavity; a heating or
cooling element disposed within the housing proximate the cavity to
heat or cool the cavity; a container having a generally hollow
interior and a container rim defining an opening for accessing the
interior thereof, the interior of the container being capable of
retaining contents therein, the container being sized and shaped to
fit within the cavity of the housing; a lid sized and shaped to at
least partially cover the opening of the container when placed on
the container; a handle pivotally mounted to the exterior surface
of the side wall of the housing, a first end of the handle being
pivotally mounted to the exterior surface of the side wall of the
housing at a first location and an opposing second end of the
handle being pivotally mounted to the exterior surface of the side
wall of the housing at a second location diametrically opposed to
the first location, the handle being pivotable between an engaged
position in which at least a portion of the handle contacts at
least a portion of the lid to retain the lid in sealing engagement
with the container to inhibit leakage of the contents from the
interior of the container and a disengaged position in which the
portion of the handle is spaced-apart from the lid to permit the
lid to be removed from the container; and a biasing member engaged
with a least a portion of the handle for biasing the handle toward
the lid when in the engaged position.
7. The kitchen appliance according to claim 6, further comprising:
a seat on the exterior surface of the lid, at least a portion of
the seat receiving at least a portion of the handle in the engaged
position, wherein the handle includes two spaced-apart biasing
members, each biasing member being located proximate one of the
first and second ends of the handle.
8. The kitchen appliance according to claim 6, further comprising:
a gasket extending around one of an outer edge of the lid and the
container rim for sealing engagement with the other of the
container rim and the outer edge of the lid, the gasket being at
least partially compressed when the handle is in the engaged
position.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a kitchen
appliance and, more particularly, to a slow cooker that can be
easily transported with little or no spillage of any contents
therein.
[0002] Kitchen appliances, and particularly slow cookers, are well
known. Conventional slow cookers are generally sized and shaped to
allow a user to pick-up and move or transport the slow cooker from
one location to another. Often, the user may want to move the slow
cooker after it is loaded with contents, such as foodstuff to be
cooked and/or other contents to be heated.
[0003] However, it can be difficult to move or transport
conventional slow cookers when foodstuff, particularly liquid, has
been placed therein without spilling some of the foodstuff. The
components of conventional slow cookers are not made to close
tolerances, and any lid of a conventional slow cooker is typically
not securely engaged with a container of the slow cooker when in a
closed position. This creates a potential for the lid to
inadvertently slide off the container when the slow cooker is being
carried from one location to another. Also, because the lid is not
usually engaged with a tight fit and because foodstuff cooked in a
slow cooker, such as soup, chili, stew, etc., typically has a
significant liquid content, there exists the potential of
significant spillage if the slow cooker is tilted during
transport.
[0004] It has heretofore not been discovered how to make the
engagement and sealing of the lid to the container of a slow cooker
simpler and more user friendly. The device of the present
disclosure overcomes and/or eliminates at least one of the above or
other shortcomings of conventional appliances.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0005] Briefly stated, a preferred embodiment of the present
disclosure is directed to a kitchen appliance having a housing with
a base and a side wall extending therefrom. The side wall has an
exterior surface and an opposing interior surface. At least
portions of the interior surface of the side wall and base define a
cavity within the housing. The housing has a housing rim at a
first, free edge of the side wall defining an opening to the
cavity. The housing has a major axis and a minor axis extending
generally perpendicularly thereto. A heating or cooling element is
disposed within the housing proximate the cavity to heat or cool
the cavity. A container has a generally hollow interior and a
container rim defining an opening for accessing the interior
thereof. The interior of the container is capable of retaining
contents therein. The container is sized and shaped to fit within
the cavity of the housing. A lid is sized and shaped to at least
partially cover the opening of the container when placed on the
container. The lid has an exterior surface and an opposing interior
surface facing the interior of the container when the lid is placed
on the container. A handle is pivotally mounted to the exterior
surface of the side wall of the housing. A first end of the handle
is pivotally mounted to the exterior surface of the side wall of
the housing at a first location along the major axis of the
housing. An opposing second end of the handle is pivotally mounted
to the exterior surface of the side wall of the housing at a second
location along the major axis opposed to the first location. The
handle is pivotable between an engaged position which at least a
portion of the handle contacts at least a portion of the lid to
retain the lid in sealing engagement with the container rim to
inhibit linkage of the contents from the interior of the container
and disengage position in which the portion of the handle is
spaced-apart from the lid to permit the lid to be removed from the
container rim.
[0006] In another aspect, a preferred embodiment of the present
disclosure is directed to a kitchen appliance having a housing with
a base and a side wall extending therefrom. The side wall has an
exterior surface and an opposing interior surface. At least
portions of the interior surface of the side wall and base define a
cavity within the housing. The housing has a housing rim at a
first, free edge of the side wall defining an opening to the
cavity. A heating or cooling element is disposed within the housing
proximate the cavity to heat or cool the cavity. A container has a
generally hollow interior and a container rim defining an opening
for accessing the interior thereof. The interior of the container
is capable of retaining contents therein. The container is sized
and shaped to fit within the cavity of the housing. A lid is sized
and shaped to at least partially cover the opening of the container
when placed on the container. The lid has an exterior surface and
an opposing interior surface facing the interior of the container
when the lid is placed on the container. A handle is pivotally
mounted to the exterior of the side wall of the housing. The handle
includes a first half and a second half. The first half is
separable from the second half. A first end of each half is
pivotally mounted to the exterior surface of the side wall of the
housing at a first location and an opposing second end of each half
is pivotally mounted to the exterior surface of the side wall of
housing at a second location generally opposite to the first
location. Each of the first and second halves of the handle are
pivotable between an engaged position in which at least a portion
of each half contacts at least a portion of the lid to retain in
sealing engagement with the container rim to inhibit linkage of the
contents from the interior of the container and a disengaged
position in which the portion of each half is spaced-apart from the
lid to prevent the lid to be removed from the container rim.
[0007] In yet another aspect, a preferred embodiment of the present
disclosure is directed to a kitchen appliance having a housing with
a base and a side wall extending therefrom. The side wall has an
exterior surface and an opposing interior surface. At least
portions of the interior surface of the side wall and base define a
cavity within the housing. The housing has a housing rim at a
first, free edge of the side wall defining an opening to the
cavity. A heating or cooling element is disposed within the housing
proximate the cavity to heat or cool the cavity. A container has a
generally hollow interior and a container rim defining an opening
for accessing the interior thereof. The interior of the container
is capable of retaining contents therein. The container is sized
and shaped to fit within the cavity of the housing. A lid is sized
and shaped to at least partially cover the opening of the container
when placed on the container. A handle is pivotally mounted to the
exterior surface of the side wall of the housing. A first end of
the handle is pivotally mounted to the exterior surface of the side
wall of the housing at a first location and an opposing second end
of the handle is pivotally mounted to the exterior surface of the
side wall of the housing at a second location diametrically opposed
to the first location. The handle is pivotable between an engaged
position in which at least a portion of the handle contacts at
least a portion of the lid to retain the lid in sealing engagement
with the container rim to inhibit leakage of the contents from the
interior of the container and a disengaged position in which the
portion of the handle is spaced-apart from the lid to permit the
lid to be removed from the container rim. A biasing member is
engaged with at least a portion of the handle for biasing the
handle toward the lid in the engaged position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed
description of the disclosure, will be better understood when read
in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of
illustrating the disclosure, there are shown in the drawings
embodiments which are presently preferred. It should be understood,
however, that the invention is not limited to the precise
arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:
[0009] FIG. 1 is a top front perspective view of a kitchen
appliance according to a first preferred embodiment of the present
disclosure, wherein a handle is in an engaged position;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a partially exploded top front perspective view
thereof, wherein the handle is in an disengaged position;
[0011] FIG. 3 is a top front perspective view of the kitchen
appliance according to a second preferred embodiment of the present
disclosure, wherein the handle is in the engaged position;
[0012] FIG. 4 is a partially exploded top front perspective view
thereof, wherein the handle is in the disengaged position;
[0013] FIG. 5 is a top front perspective view of the kitchen
appliance according to a third preferred embodiment of the present
disclosure, wherein the handle is in the engaged position;
[0014] FIG. 6A is an enlarged cross-sectional elevational view
taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5 when the handle is in the engaged
position;
[0015] FIG. 6B is an enlarged cross-sectional elevational view
taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5 when the handle is in the disengaged
position;
[0016] FIG. 6C is an enlarged cross-sectional elevational view of a
portion of the kitchen appliance according to a modified version of
the third preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein
the handle is in a first locked position;
[0017] FIG. 6D is an enlarged cross-sectional elevational view of a
portion of the kitchen appliance according to a modified version of
the third preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein
the handle is in a second locked position;
[0018] FIG. 6E is an enlarged cross-sectional elevational view of a
portion of the kitchen appliance according to a modified version of
the third preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein
the handle is in unlocked position;
[0019] FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of the kitchen appliance
according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present
disclosure, wherein the handle is shown in the engaged position in
solid lines and the handle is shown in the disengaged position in
broken lines;
[0020] FIG. 8 is a side elevational view of the kitchen appliance
according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the present
disclosure, wherein the handle is shown in the engaged position in
solid lines and the handle is shown in the disengaged position in
broken lines;
[0021] FIG. 9 is a top front perspective view of the kitchen
appliance according to a sixth preferred embodiment of the present
disclosure, wherein the handle is shown in the engaged
position;
[0022] FIG. 10 is a top front perspective view thereof, wherein the
handle is shown in the disengaged position;
[0023] FIG. 11 is a top front perspective view of the kitchen
appliance according to a seventh preferred embodiment of the
present disclosure, wherein the handle is shown in the engaged
position;
[0024] FIG. 12 is a top front perspective view thereof, wherein the
handle is shown in the disengaged position;
[0025] FIG. 13 is a top front perspective view of the kitchen
appliance according to an eighth preferred embodiment of the
present disclosure, wherein the handle is shown in the engaged and
locked position;
[0026] FIG. 14 is a top front perspective view thereof, wherein the
handle is shown in the engaged position and an unlocked
position;
[0027] FIG. 15 is a top front perspective view thereof, wherein the
handle is shown in the disengaged position and the unlocked
position;
[0028] FIG. 16A is an enlarged cross-sectional elevational view
taken along line 16A-16A of FIG. 13;
[0029] FIG. 16B is an enlarged cross-sectional elevational view
taken along line 16B-16B of FIG. 14;
[0030] FIG. 16C is an enlarged cross-sectional elevational view
taken along line 16C-16C of FIG. 15;
[0031] FIG. 17 is an enlarged partially cross-sectional exploded
top perspective view of a portion of the kitchen appliance of FIGS.
13-15;
[0032] FIG. 17A is an enlarged partially cross-sectional top
perspective view of a portion of the kitchen appliance shown in the
configuration of FIGS. 13 and 16A;
[0033] FIG. 17B is an enlarged partially cross-sectional top
perspective view of a portion of the kitchen appliance shown in the
configuration of FIGS. 14 and 16B; and
[0034] FIG. 17C is an enlarged partially cross-sectional top
perspective view of a portion of the kitchen appliance shown in the
configuration of FIGS. 15 and 16C.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0035] Certain terminology is used in the following description for
convenience only and is not limiting. The words "lower," "bottom,"
"upper" and "top" designate directions in the drawings to which
reference is made. The words "inwardly" and "outwardly" refer to
directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center
of the kitchen appliance, and designated parts thereof, in
accordance with the present disclosure. Unless specifically set
forth herein, the terms "a," "an" and "the" are not limited to one
element, but instead should be read as meaning "at least one." The
terminology includes the words noted above, derivatives thereof and
words of similar import.
[0036] Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals
indicate like elements throughout, FIGS. 1 and 2 show a kitchen
appliance, generally designated 10, according to a first preferred
embodiment of the present disclosure. The kitchen appliance 10 is
illustrated as a slow cooker for warming and/or cooking
(collectively referred to as heating) contents (none shown), such
as foodstuff or another object, therein. However, the present
disclosure is not limited to such a device or functionality. For
example, the kitchen appliance 10 may be any of a variety of
devices typically used in a kitchen, such as a deep fryer, roaster
oven, or the like. In fact, the kitchen appliance 10 could be any
type of device having a lid and a container, as described in detail
below. The term "foodstuff," as used herein, is sufficiently broad
to cover any substance that is capable of being consumed by a user,
such as a pork roast, vegetables, water, milk or the like, or any
combination thereof. The kitchen appliance 10 is also capable of
heating or cooling one or more objects (not shown) other than
foodstuff, such as a baby's bottle, one or more stones or towels
for a massage, or the like.
[0037] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the kitchen appliance 10
includes a housing 12 having a base 12a and a side wall 12b
extending therefrom. The side wall 12b preferably extends at least
generally perpendicularly to the base 12a. The side wall 12b
includes an exterior surface 13 that faces and/or is exposed to the
external environment and an opposing interior surface (not shown).
At least portions of the interior surface of the side wall 12b and
an interior or upper surface of the base 12a surround and/or define
a cavity of the housing 12. As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 12 also
includes a housing rim 12c at an upper free edge of the side wall
12b. The housing rim 12c surrounds and/or defines an opening to the
cavity of the housing 12.
[0038] Preferably, the base 12a, the side wall 12b and the housing
rim 12c are generally ovular or elliptical in shape when viewed
from above or below. Thus, the housing 12 preferably has a major
axis A.sub.1 and a minor axis A.sub.2 extending generally, but
preferably exactly, perpendicularly thereto. While the ovular or
elliptical shape is preferred, the base 12a may have a different
shape, such as, but not limited to, circular or rectangular in plan
view. The base 12a may include several generally spaced-apart,
rounded protrusions or feet (not shown) extending downwardly from a
bottom surface thereof for supporting the kitchen appliance 10 on a
support surface (not shown), such as a countertop, and spacing the
bottom surface of the base 12a at least slightly above the support
surface. Alternatively, the kitchen appliance 10 may include no
feet, such that the kitchen appliance 10 is supported by the bottom
surface of the base 12a directly on the support surface. The side
wall 12b may include two equidistantly spaced-apart housing handles
20 (only one shown in the present embodiment, but two are shown and
described in the seventh preferred embodiment of FIGS. 11 and 12)
that extend outwardly from the exterior surface 13. Each handle 20
preferably extends outwardly from the side wall 12b of the housing
12 below the housing rim 12c. Each handle 20 may be vertically
aligned with the control knob 24. However, the handles 20 are not
limited to such a size, shape, configuration or location, as the
handles 20 may be positioned anywhere on the housing 12 that
provides the intended functionality allowing the kitchen appliance
10 to be quickly and easily lifted and/or transported.
[0039] Referring specifically to FIG. 1, a heating or cooling
element 14 (shown in phantom) is preferably disposed within the
housing 12 proximate the cavity to heat and/or cool the cavity. The
heating or cooling element 14 may be located within or on the
interior surface of the side wall 12b of the housing 12, or may be
disposed within the base 12a of the housing 12 in addition to or
instead of the side wall 12b. The heating or cooling element 14 may
be electrically powered and is preferably a resistance-type heating
element, such as a calrod or mica board heating element. However, a
different type of heating or cooling element may be used, provided
the heating or cooling element functions to heat and/or cool the
cavity of the housing 12.
[0040] A control knob 24 preferably extends outwardly from the side
wall 12b of the housing 12 to enable a user to control the heating
or cooling element 14. Thus, the control knob 24 is preferably
operatively connected to the heating or cooling element 14. It is
preferred that rotation of the knob 24 by a user toggles the
heating or cooling element 14 between at least one "on" setting and
an "off" setting. It is further preferred that the heating or
cooling element 14 have at least two "on" settings, specifically a
"high" heat setting and a "low" heat setting. Although two heat
settings are preferred, it is further contemplated that alternate
configurations may be used, such as, but not limited to, rotation
of the knob 24 actuating a thermostat (not shown) to cause the
heating or cooling element 14 to heat and/or cool the cavity of the
housing 12 to a specific user selected temperature. The kitchen
appliance 10 is not limited to the size, shape, configuration
and/or functionality of the control knob 24 shown and described
herein. Instead, the kitchen appliance 10 may have a control
interface (not shown), with one or more buttons, switches or the
like, in addition to or in place of the control knob 24.
[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the kitchen appliance 10
preferably includes a container 30 sized and/or shaped to fit
within the cavity of the housing 12 for heating and/or cooling
thereof by the heating or cooling element 14. More specifically, an
exterior of the container 30 is preferably at least slightly
smaller than the interior of the cavity of the housing 12, such
that at least a majority of the container 30 fits within the cavity
of the housing 12. The container 30 is preferably made of stoneware
or ceramic. However, the container 30 may be made of a different
material, such as cast iron with a porcelain enamel coating, for
instance, provided the container 30 is capable of functioning as
described herein. Additionally, it is preferable that the container
30 be easily removable from the housing 12 to facilitate cleaning
thereof without exposing the housing 12, and specifically the
heating or cooling element 14 and other electrical components
thereof, to water and/or cleaning detergents or solvents.
[0042] The container 30 preferably includes a generally hollow
interior 30a (see FIG. 2) and a container rim 30b defining an
opening for accessing the interior 30a. The interior 30a of the
container 30 is capable of retaining the contents therein. The
phrase "container rim," as used herein, may simply be a top or
upper-most horizontal edge of a side wall of the container 30.
Additionally and/or alternatively, the phrase "container rim" may
be at least a portion of a ledge 30b' (see FIG. 2) spaced inwardly
and at least slightly downwardly from the upper-most horizontal
edge of the side wall of the container 30.
[0043] Referring to again FIGS. 1 and 2, the kitchen appliance 10
preferably includes a lid 40 sized and shaped to at least partially
and preferably completely cover the opening of the container 30
when the lid 40 is placed on or adjacent to the container rim 30b.
The lid 40 includes a top or exterior surface 40a and an opposing
bottom or interior surface (not shown) that faces the interior 30a
of the container 30 when the lid 40 is placed on or adjacent to the
container rim 30b. A lid handle 42 preferably extends outwardly or
upwardly from the exterior surface 40a of the lid 40. Preferably,
the lid 40 has at least a slightly arcuate shape, such that the
exterior surface 40a is generally convex and the interior surface
is generally concave. Alternatively, at least one or both of the
exterior surface 40a and the interior surface of the lid 40 may be
at least partially or entirely flat. The lid 40 is preferably
predominantly made of glass, although the lid 40 may be made of a
different, preferably transparent or translucent material, such as
a polymeric material, for instance, provided the lid 40 functions
as described herein.
[0044] The lid 40 is preferably generally ovular or elliptical when
viewed from above or below to correspond to or at least generally
match the shape of the opening of the container 30. Preferably,
when placed on the container rim 30b, the lid 40 covers the entire
opening of the container 30 such that an entire outer periphery of
the lid 40 engages and/or is placed adjacent to the container rim
30b. The lid 40 is shown herein to have an outer periphery and a
diameter that is at least slightly smaller than an outer periphery
and a diameter of the container rim 30b, because at least a portion
of the outer periphery of the lid 40 rests on the ledge 30b' (see
FIG. 2) at least slightly inwardly from the outer periphery of the
container 30. However, in an alternative embodiment, such as that
shown in FIG. 5 of the third preferred embodiment described in
detail below, the outer periphery of the lid 40 may match or be
about the same size as or slightly smaller than the outer periphery
of the container 30.
[0045] Referring to FIG. 2, a gasket 41 preferably extends around
and/or below one of the outer periphery or edge of the lid 40 and
the container rim 30b for sealing the lid 40 to the container 30.
More specifically, when the lid 40 is removed from the container
30, the gasket 41 may extend around and/or be attached to the outer
edge or periphery of the lid 40 or the interior surface of the lid
40 proximate the outer edge thereof. Alternatively, the gasket 41
may be extend around and/or be attached to the container rim 30b.
The gasket 41 is preferably formed of a resiliently flexible
material, such as an elastomeric or rubber material. The gasket 41
may be identical to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,947,928,
which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. However,
instead of a circular or ovular cross-sectional shape, the gasket
41 may has a Z or zig-zag shape. Regardless or the cross-sectional
shape of the gasket 41, the gasket 41 is preferably at least
slightly compressible to create at least a liquid-tight seal
between the lid 40 and the container rim 30b when the lid 40 is
properly placed on the container 30.
[0046] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the kitchen appliance 10
includes at least one handle 16 pivotally mounted to the outermost
portion of the exterior surface 13 of the side wall 12b of the
housing 12. Thus, the handle 16, including an inner surface
thereof, preferably extends radially outwardly beyond the exterior
surface 13 of the side wall 12b of the housing 12. The handle 16,
which may be referred to as a bail handle, includes a first end 16a
and an opposing second end 16b. A gripping member 32 may be
positioned equidistantly between the first and second ends 16a, 16b
of the handle 16. The first end 16a of the handle 16 is preferably
pivotally mounted to the exterior surface 13 of the side wall 12b
of the housing 12 at a first location L.sub.1 along the major axis
A.sub.1 of the housing 12. The second end 16b of the handle 16 is
preferably pivotally mounted to the exterior surface 13 of the side
wall 12b of the housing at a second location L.sub.2 (not shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2, but shown in the figures of other embodiments) along
the major axis A.sub.1 of the housing 12 diametrically opposed to
the first location L.sub.1. However, the handle 16 is not limited
to extending along or parallel to the major axis A.sub.1 of the
housing 12, as the handle 16 may extend along or parallel to the
minor axis A.sub.2 of the housing 12, or at a location
therebetween. The handle 16 may be one, continuous element that
extends uninterrupted or continuously from the first end 16a to the
second end 16b. Alternatively, the handle 16 may be formed of two
separate and spaced-apart elements, one of which is located
proximate to the first end 16a and the other of which is located
proximate to the second end 16b.
[0047] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the handle 16 is preferably at
least slightly or partially arcuate in shape. More specifically,
the handle 16 preferably includes a first generally straight
portion 18 extending from the first end 16a thereof. A first
arcuate portion 22 of the handle 16 preferably extends directly
from the first generally straight portion 18 opposite the first end
16a. A second generally straight portion 28 of the handle 16
preferably extends directly from the first arcuate portion 22
opposite the first generally straight portion 18. A second arcuate
portion 26 of the handle 16 preferably extends indirectly from the
first arcuate portion 22 thereof and directly from the second
generally straight portion 28. The first arcuate portion 22 is
preferably generally convex with respect to the housing 12 and has
a first radius of curvature. The second arcuate portion 26 is
preferably generally concave with respect to the housing 12 and has
a second radius of curvature.
[0048] The first and second radii of curvature may be generally or
exactly equal, or the second radius of curvature of the second
arcuate portion 26 may be greater than the first radius of
curvature of the first arcuate portion 22. The shape of the handle
16 proximate the first end 16a is preferably duplicated or mirrored
proximate the second end 16b, such that the handle 16 includes the
above-described generally straight and arcuate portions 18, 28, 22,
26 in the same configuration proximate the second end 16b of the
handle 16.
[0049] The handle 16 is preferably pivotable from a position in
which the handle 16 is out of the way or does not inhibit removal
of the lid 40 and/or the container 30 from the housing 12 (FIG. 2)
to a position in which the handle 16 permits a user to easily and
quickly transport the entire kitchen appliance 10 (FIG. 1). More
specifically, the handle 16 is preferably pivotable between an
engaged or raised position (FIG. 1) and a disengaged or lowered
position (FIG. 2). In the engaged position, at least a portion of
the handle 16 preferably directly contacts (i.e., interference) at
least a portion of the lid 40 to retain the lid 40 (specifically
the gasket 41) in sealing engagement with the container rim 30b to
inhibit leakage of the contents from the interior 30a of the
container 30. It is preferred that the gripping member 32 and/or a
midportion of the handle 16 is preferably spaced a predetermined
distance above the lid handle 42 when the handle 16 is in the fully
engaged position (see FIG. 1). In the disengaged position, the
portion of the handle 16 that contacts the lid 40 in the engaged
position is spaced-apart from the lid 40 to permit the lid 40 to be
removed from the container rim 30b. In use, it is preferred that
the handle 16 is pivotable from one side of the housing 12, up and
over the top of the housing 12 to the opposing side of the housing
12. More specifically, the entire handle 16 is pivotable from a
first position (FIG. 2) in which at least a portion of the handle
16 contacts the exterior surface 13 of the side wall 12b of the
housing 12 on one side thereof, up and over the lid 40 to a second
position in which at least a portion of the handle 16 contacts the
exterior surface 13 of the side wall 12b of the housing 12 at
another or opposite side thereof. The first position and second
positions of the handle 16 described herein are each a specific
example of the disengaged position of the handle 16.
[0050] The portion of the handle 16 that preferably directly
engages or contacts the exterior surface 40a of the lid 40 in the
engaged position is preferably at least a portion of one of the
first second portion 22, the second arcuate portion 26 and the
second generally straight portion 28. More specifically, it is
preferred that a portion of each of the first second portion 22,
the second arcuate portion 26 and the second generally straight
portion 28 directly contacts the exterior surface 40a of the lid 40
in the engaged position of the handle 16. In a preferred
embodiment, at least a portion of each of the two second arcuate
portions 26 of the handle 16 directly engages the exterior surface
40a of the lid 40 when the handle 16 is in the engaged position.
When the handle 16 is in the engaged position (FIG. 1), at least a
portion of the lid 40 and the container rim 30b cooperate and/or
combine to at least partially compress the gasket 41 therebetween,
which forms a tight seal between the lid 40 and the container 30.
Unless and until the handle 16 is moved out of the engaged
position, the handle 16 provides the force necessary to at least
partially compress the gasket 41. As a result of the handle 16, the
lid 40 may be latched or unlatched (i.e., sealed or unsealed) to
the container 30 in one motion.
[0051] At least one and preferably two spaced-apart or
diametrically opposed channels 43 are formed in at least a portion
of the housing rim 12c and/or the container rim 30b. Each channel
42 is preferably concave with respect to the exterior surface 13 of
the side wall 12b of the housing 12 and is preferably at least
slightly arcuate in shape. Each channel 42 is preferably sized,
shaped and/or configured to generally match the path of motion of
the handle 16 between the engaged or raised position (FIG. 1) and
the disengaged or lowered position (FIG. 2). In essence, it is
preferred that the channels 42 allow for the desired movement of
the handle 16. More particularly, at least a portion of the second
arcuate portion 26 and/or the second generally straight portion 28
pass through and/or extend into at least a portion of the
channel(s) 42 when the handle 16 is pivoted. Alternatively or
addition, the handle 16 may be formed of a material having a
certain degree of flexibility and/or resiliency. In such an
embodiment, the channel(s) 42 may not be necessary, because the
handle 16 could adjust to and compensate for any interference
caused by the housing rim 12c and/or the container rim 30b when the
handle 16 is moved between the engaged or raised position (FIG. 1)
and a disengaged or lowered position (FIG. 2). In other words, at
least a portion of the handle 16 could at least slightly flex or
bend (i.e., upwardly and/or outwardly) around the housing rim 12c
and/or the container rim 30b when the handle 16 is pivoted.
[0052] FIGS. 3 and 4 show a second preferred embodiment of the
kitchen appliance 110. The reference numerals of the second
preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the first
preferred embodiment by a factor of one-hundred (100), but
otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the first
preferred embodiment, except as otherwise specified. The kitchen
appliance 110 of the second preferred embodiment is substantially
similar to that of the first preferred embodiment. The description
of certain similarities between the embodiments may be omitted
herein for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is
not limiting.
[0053] The handle 116 of the second preferred embodiment has a
simpler, more consistently arcuate shape than the handle 16 of the
first preferred embodiment. Further, the handle 116 includes at
least one and preferably two-spaced apart projections 150. Each
projection 150 preferably extends inwardly from an inner surface of
the handle 116 toward the cavity of the housing 112. Each
projection 150 is preferably fixed with respect to the handle 116.
The projections 150 are shown herein as being in the shape of a
cylindrical member or lug, but the projections 150 may have any
sized and/or shape that permits the functionality described herein.
It is preferred that at least a lower surface or periphery of each
projection 150 extends radially inwardly so as to be at least
generally, if not exactly, parallel to a top surface of the rim
130b of the container 130. However, at least a portion of each
projection 150 may extend at an angle with respect to the top
surface of the rim 130b of the container 130.
[0054] As shown in FIG. 3, when the handle 116 is in the engaged or
raised position, at least a portion of at least one of the
projections 150, and preferably portions of both projections 150,
directly contacts at least a portion of the exterior surface 140a
of the lid 140. Such direct contact preferably creates a sealing
engagement between the lid 140 and the container 130 by at least
partially compressing the gasket (not shown) therebetween. In order
to directly contact the exterior surface 140a of the lid 140, each
projection 150 is preferably positioned entirely above the housing
rim 112c in the engaged position of the handle 116 (see FIG. 3).
However, in the disengaged or lower position of the handle 116,
each projection 150 is preferably positioned entirely below the
housing rim 112c (see FIG. 4). In a preferred embodiment in which
an outer periphery of the lid 140 is at least slightly smaller than
an outer periphery of the container 130 such that the lid 140 rests
on the ledge 130b' spaced at least slightly laterally inwardly from
the outer periphery of the container 130 (see FIGS. 3 and 4), each
projection 150 has a length that is preferably at least slightly
greater than a thickness of the container 130. The greater length
of each projection 150, as compared to the thickness of the
container 130, allows each projection 150 to extend from the inner
surface of the handle 116 to a portion of the lid 140 inwardly of
the outer periphery thereof.
[0055] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, at least a portion of the
container 130 includes at least one and preferably two spaced-apart
grooves 152 in an upper portion thereof. More specifically, each
groove 152 preferably corresponds to each projection 150 of the
handle 116, and each groove 152 is preferably sized, shaped and/or
position on the container 130 such that at least a portion of one
of the projections 150 can pass therethrough when the handle 116 is
moved between the engaged or raised position (FIG. 3) and the
disengaged or lowered position (FIG. 4). Each groove 152 is
preferably positioned within the container 130 proximate the
container rim 130b, and each groove 152 preferably extends at least
slightly inwardly toward the interior 130a of the container 130.
Each groove 152 is also preferably at least slightly arcuate or
curved to allow for the arcuate or curved range of motion of each
projection 150 as the handle 116 is moved or pivoted between the
engaged and disengaged positions. It is preferred that each groove
152 is on the same side of the major axis A1 of the housing
112.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 3, as least one and preferably two
spaced-apart stops 154 are positioned on the exterior surface 113
of the side wall 112b of the housing 112. In the preferred
embodiment, each stop 154 preferably extends at least slightly
outwardly from the exterior surface 113 of the side wall 112b of
the housing 112 at least slightly below the housing rim 112c. The
at least one stop 154 is preferably sized and/or shaped to engaged
and/or directly contact at least a portion of one of the
projections 150 of the handle 116 when the handle 116 is in the
disengaged position. The at least one stop 154 preferably limits
the rotation of the handle 116 with respect to the housing 112 and
the container 130.
[0057] As an alternative to the above described configuration, the
projection(s) 150 and groove(s) 152 may be reversed. For example,
the inner surface of the handle 116 may include the at least one
and more preferably two-spaced-apart grooves 152 extending
outwardly, away from the cavity of the housing 112 and into an
interior of the handle 116. In such an alternative embodiment, the
lid 140 preferably includes the at least one and more preferably
two-spaced apart projections 150, which would outwardly beyond the
outer edge of the lid 140. At least a portion of each projection
150 would preferably be positioned at least partially within one of
the grooves 152 when the handle 116 is in the engaged position.
[0058] FIGS. 5-6B show a third preferred embodiment of the kitchen
appliance 210. The reference numerals of the third preferred
embodiment are distinguishable from those of the first preferred
embodiment by a factor of two-hundred (200), but otherwise indicate
the same elements as indicated in the first preferred embodiment,
except as otherwise specified. The kitchen appliance 210 of the
third preferred embodiment is substantially similar to the first
and second preferred embodiments described above. The description
of certain similarities between the embodiments may be omitted
herein for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is
not limiting.
[0059] A distinguishing feature of the third preferred embodiment
is at least one and preferably two-equidistantly spaced-apart tabs
256 extend outwardly beyond the outer periphery of the lid 240. In
the third preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the outer periphery
of the lid 240 matches or is identical in size and shape to the
outer periphery of the container rim 230b, such that at least a
portion of the outer periphery of the lid 240 can rest directly on
a top surface of the container rim 230b. As shown in FIGS. 6A and
6B, a top surface of each tab 256 is preferably at least slightly
arcuate, curved and/or convex in shape. However, the top surface of
each tab 256 is not limited to such a configuration, as the top
surface of each tab 256 may be generally flat or planar, or even at
least slightly concave. At least a portion of the top surface of
each tab 256 is preferably generally coplanar with the exterior
surface 240a of the lid 240. When the handle 216 is in the engaged
position, a bottom surface of each projection 250 preferably
directly engages and/or contacts at least a portion of the top
surface of one of the tabs 256. Engagement of the bottom surface of
at least one of the projections 250 with at least a portion of the
top surface of one of the tabs 256 creates a sealing engagement
between the lid 240 and the container 230 by at least partially
compressing the gasket (not shown) therebetween. Such an engagement
preferably prevents removal of the lid 240 from the container 230
and preferably prevents leakage of the contents from within the
interior of the container 230.
[0060] In contrast to the second preferred embodiment described
above, the handle 216 of the third preferred embodiment is
preferably rotatable between the engaged position (FIGS. 5 and 6A)
and the disengaged position (FIG. 6B) in either a first rotational
direction (i.e., clockwise) or an opposing second rotational
direction (i.e., counterclockwise). In other words, in the third
preferred embodiment, when the handle 216 is in the engaged
position shown in FIG. 6A, the handle 216 may be rotated either
clockwise or counterclockwise to place the handle 216 in the
disengaged position to allow the lid 240 to be removed from the
container 230.
[0061] FIGS. 6C-6E show a modified version of the third preferred
embodiment. The reference numerals of the modified version of the
third preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the
third preferred embodiment by a prime symbol ('), but otherwise
indicate the same elements as indicated in the third preferred
embodiment, except as otherwise specified. The kitchen appliance of
the modified version of the third preferred embodiment is
substantially similar to the preferred embodiments described above.
The description of certain similarities between the embodiments may
be omitted herein for the sake of brevity and convenience, and,
therefore, is not limiting.
[0062] A distinguishing feature of the modified version of the
third preferred embodiment is that the handle 216' includes at
least one and possibly two spaced-apart projections 250' extending
inwardly therefrom. Although two projections 250' may be included
on the handle 216', FIGS. 6C-6E show only a single projection 250'
for simplicity and brevity, and, therefore, is not limiting. The
handle 216' preferably includes at least a first locked position
(FIG. 6C), an opposing second locked position (FIG. 6D)
rotationally spaced-apart from the first locked position, and an
unlocked position (FIG. 6E) rotationally spaced-apart from each of
the first and second locked positions. In both the first and second
locked positions, at least a portion of the projection 250'
preferably directly engages or contacts at least a portion of the
top surface of one of the tabs 256' of the lid 240'. The lid 240'
may be sealed and/or locked onto the container (not shown, but see
container 30 in FIG. 2 of the first preferred embodiment) when the
handle 216' is at any rotational position between those shown in
FIGS. 6C and 6D. In the unlocked position, the projection 250' is
preferably spaced-apart from and does not contact or engage either
of the tabs 256' of the lid 240'. The handle 216' may include more
than the one unlocked position shown in FIG. 6E. For example, the
handle 216' may have an unlocked position by continuing to rotate
the handle 216' in a clockwise direction in FIG. 6D until the
projection 250' completely passes over and is spaced-apart from the
tab 256' of the lid 240'.
[0063] As shown in FIGS. 6C-6E, the projection 250' is preferably
arcuate or curved in shape and is positioned at or within an
enlarged, lower portion of the handle 216'. An inner or lower
surface of the projection 250', which preferably contacts at least
a portion of a top surface one of the tabs 256' of the lid 240', is
preferably sized and/or shaped to complement the size and/or shape
of the top surface of one of the tabs 256'. In either the first or
second locked positions (see FIGS. 6C and 6D), the tab 256' of the
lid 240' is preferably positioned between at least a portion of the
projection 250' and the first location L.sub.1 of the housing (not
shown). Although at least a portion of the top surface of the tab
256' is shown as being level or coplanar with the top surface 240a'
of the lid 240', the tab 256' is not limited to such a
configuration, as the tab 256' may be positioned at least slightly
above or below the top surface 240a' of the lid 240'.
[0064] FIG. 7 shows a fourth preferred embodiment of the kitchen
appliance 310. The reference numerals of the fourth preferred
embodiment are distinguishable from those of the first preferred
embodiment by a factor of three-hundred (300), but otherwise
indicate the same elements as indicated in the first preferred
embodiment, except as otherwise specified. At least certain
portions of the kitchen appliance 310 of the fourth preferred
embodiment, such as the housing 312 and the container 330, are
substantially similar to that of the first through third preferred
embodiments described above. The description of certain
similarities between the embodiments may be omitted herein for the
sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not
limiting.
[0065] A distinguishing feature of the kitchen appliance 310 of the
fourth preferred embodiment is that the handle 316 preferably
includes a cam 358. The cam 358 is preferably rotatable with
respect to or about with the handle 316 in a first rotational
direction (i.e., clockwise) and/or a second rotational direction
(i.e., counterclockwise). The cam 358 is preferably positioned at
an approximate midpoint of the handle 316 between the first end
(not shown) at the first location (not shown) and the second end
316b at the second location L.sub.2. The cam 358 preferably
includes at least a partially cylindrical or circular outer surface
358a, and may include a handle 358b extending outwardly therefrom
that allows a user to selectively manipulate the position and/or
orientation of the cam 358 with respect to the handle 316. At least
a portion of the outer surface 358a may be at least slightly
eccentrically shaped, or the entire outer surface 358a of the cam
358 may be circularly or cylindrically shaped.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 7, the kitchen appliance 310 preferably
includes a seat 360 on the exterior surface 340a of the lid 340.
The seat 360 is preferably positioned at a center of the exterior
surface 340a of the lid 340, and preferably extends at least
slightly upwardly and/or outwardly from the exterior surface 340a
of the lid 340. Alternatively, the seat 360 may be a depression or
groove that extends at least slightly inwardly into the exterior
surface 340a of the lid 340. An exterior surface of the seat 360,
which preferably opposes the exterior surface 340a of the lid 340,
is preferably slightly curved, arcuate and/or concave, so as to
receive at least a portion of the handle 316 in the engaged
position. The seat 360 may be directly attached to and/or
integrally formed with the exterior surface 340a of the lid 340, or
the seat 360 may be a portion of a lid handle (not shown), such as
the lid handle 42 described above and shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 with
respect to the first preferred embodiment.
[0067] More particularly, when the handle 316 is in the engaged
position (shown in solid lines in FIG. 7), at least a portion of
the cam 358 preferably directly contacts at least a portion of the
lid 340 and/or the seat 360. When the handle 316 is in the engaged
position, the cam 358 preferably applies a downward force to the
exterior surface 340a of the lid 340 and/or the exterior surface of
the seat 360 to retain the lid 340 in sealing engagement with the
container rim 330b to inhibit leakage of the contents from the
interior of the container 330. When the handle 316 is in the
disengaged position (shown in broken lines in FIG. 7), the cam 358
is separated from the exterior surface 340a of the lid 340 and the
exterior surface of the seat 360, such that the downward force is
removed, which permits the lid 340 to be removed from the container
rim 330b. When the handle 316 is in the disengaged position, at
least a portion of the cam 358 may or may not directly contact a
portion of the exterior surface 313 of the housing 312.
[0068] FIG. 8 shows a fifth preferred embodiment of the kitchen
appliance 410. The reference numerals of the fifth preferred
embodiment are distinguishable from those of the first preferred
embodiment by a factor of four-hundred (400), but otherwise
indicate the same elements as indicated in the first preferred
embodiment, except as otherwise specified. At least portions of the
kitchen appliance 410 of the fifth preferred embodiment, such as
the housing 412 and the container 430, are substantially similar to
those of the fourth preferred embodiment described above. While the
cam 458 and the seat 460 are shown in FIG. 8 and described as part
of the fifth preferred embodiment below, either or both of the
features may be omitted without disrupting the functionality
described below. The description of certain similarities between
the embodiments may be omitted herein for the sake of brevity and
convenience, and, therefore, is not limiting.
[0069] A distinguishing feature of the fifth preferred embodiment
is that the kitchen appliance 410 preferably includes at least one
biasing member 462 engaged with and/or attached to a least a
portion of the handle 416 for biasing the handle 416 toward the lid
440 and/or toward the housing 412 when the in the handle 416 is in
the engaged position. More preferably, the kitchen appliance 410
and/or the handle 416 includes two spaced-apart biasing members 462
(only one shown in FIG. 8). Each biasing member 462 is preferably
located proximate and/or attached to one of the first and second
ends 416b (first end not shown in FIG. 8) of the handle 416. Each
biasing member 462 is shown herein as a tension coil spring, but
the biasing member 462 is not limited to such a size, shape and/or
configuration. For example, the biasing member 462 may simply be an
elastic material, such as a rubber or elastomeric band, while the
surrounding or attached portion of the handle 416 is formed a light
weight, high strength material, such as a polymeric or metallic
material.
[0070] When the handle 416 is in the engaged position (shown in
solid lines in FIG. 8), the biasing member(s) 462 preferably urges
at least the midportion of the handle 416, such as the cam 458,
toward a geometric center of the housing 412 and/or the container
430. When a user desires to move the handle 416 to the disengaged
position (shown in broken lines in FIG. 8) to remove the lid 420
from the container rim 430b, the user preferably lifts the handle
416 at least partially upwardly from the exterior surface 440a of
the lid 440 and/or the exterior surface of the seat 460 to separate
the handle 416 and/or the cam 458 therefrom. At this point, the
user preferably rotates the handle 416 with respect to the lid 440,
the container 430 and the housing 412 in either a first rotational
direction (i.e., clockwise) or a second rotational direction (i.e.,
counterclockwise) until the lid 440 can be removed from the
container 430. The biasing force created by the biasing member 462
preferably pulls and/or urges the handle 416 inwardly in both the
engaged and disengaged positions. Such biasing force may "snap" the
handle 416 toward and/or against one of the lid 440, the container
430 and the housing 412 when the user releases the handles 416
and/or the cam 458.
[0071] FIGS. 9 and 10 show a sixth preferred embodiment of the
kitchen appliance 510. The reference numerals of the sixth
preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the first
preferred embodiment by a factor of five hundred (500), but
otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the first
preferred embodiment, except as otherwise specified. At least
portions of the kitchen appliance 510 of the sixth preferred
embodiment, such as the housing 512, the container 530 and the lid
540 are substantially similar to those of the first preferred
embodiment described above. The channel(s) 543 may or may not be
included in the sixth preferred embodiment. The description of
certain similarities between the embodiments may be omitted herein
for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not
limiting.
[0072] A distinguishing feature of the sixth preferred embodiment
is that the handle 516 includes a first half or portion 564 and a
second half or portion 566. The first half 564 is preferably
separable from the second half 566, such that in the disengaged
position (FIG. 10) the first half 564 is positionable on one side
of the housing 512 and the second half 566 is positionable on an
opposing side of the housing 512. The first end (not shown) of each
half 564, 566 is preferably pivotally mounted to the exterior
surface 513 of the side wall 512b of the housing 512 at a first
location (not shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, but see L.sub.1 of FIGS. 1
and 2) and the opposing second end 516b of each half 564, 566 is
preferably pivotally mounted to the exterior surface 513 of the
side wall 516b of the housing 516 at the second location L.sub.2
generally opposed to the first location.
[0073] Each of the first and second halves 564, 566 of the handle
516 are preferably pivotable between the engaged position and the
disengaged position. In the engaged position of the handle 516, at
least a portion of each half 564, 566 preferably directly contacts
at least a portion of the lid 540 to retain the lid 540 in sealing
engagement with the container rim 530b to inhibit leakage of the
contents from the interior of the container 530. In the disengaged
position, the portion of each half 564, 566 is preferably
spaced-apart from the lid 540 to permit the lid 540 to be removed
from the container rim 530b. In the engaged position, the first and
second halves 564, 566 preferably extend generally, if not exactly,
parallel to the major axis A.sub.1 of the housing 516.
[0074] As shown in FIG. 9, the first and second halves 564, 566 are
preferably directly attachable and/or lock together in the engaged
position of the handle 516. More specifically, the gripping member
532 of the handle 516 preferably includes a segment or half 532a,
532b on each half 564, 566 of the handle 516. Each half 532a, 532b
of the gripping member 532 may include a magnet (not shown) at
least partially embedded therein, or an interior surface 568 (see
FIG. 10) of one or both of the halves 532a, 532b of the gripping
member 532 is magnetized. As a result, the halves 564, 566 of the
handle 516 are preferably urged and/or biased together when the
halves 564, 566 are within a sufficiently close proximity above the
lid 540 and/or the housing 512. However, the halves 532a, 532b of
the gripping member 532 are not limited to such a configuration,
but may include alternative attachment features, such as a tongue
and groove connection, or no attachment feature.
[0075] FIGS. 11 and 12 show a seventh preferred embodiment of the
kitchen appliance 610. The reference numerals of the seventh
preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the first
preferred embodiment by a factor of six hundred (600), but
otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the first
preferred embodiment, except as otherwise specified. The kitchen
appliance 610 of the seventh preferred embodiment is substantially
similar to that of the sixth preferred embodiment described above.
The channel(s) 643 may or may not be included in the sixth
preferred embodiment. The description of certain similarities
between the embodiments may be omitted herein for the sake of
brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not limiting.
[0076] A distinguishing feature of the seventh preferred embodiment
is that in the engaged position of the handle 616, the first and
second halves 664, 665 extend generally, if not exactly,
perpendicularly to the major axis A.sub.1 of the housing 612. Thus,
in the engaged position of the handle 616, the first and second
halves 664, 665 extend generally, if not exactly, parallel to the
minor axis A.sub.2 of the housing 612. However, the handle 616 is
not limited to such a configuration and/or orientation, as the
first and second halves 664, 665 may extend in a plane at some
angle between the major and minor axes A.sub.1, A.sub.2 of the
housing 612.
[0077] It is preferred that at least one housing handle 620 extends
outwardly from the exterior surface 613 of the side wall 612b of
the housing 612. In the preferred embodiment, the housing handle
620 is preferably U or C-shaped, and includes an opening 620a
between opposing ends of the handle 620 to permit the passage of a
user's hand or fingers(s) at least partially therethrough. More
preferably, two housing handles 620 (only one shown in each of
FIGS. 11 and 12) preferably extend outwardly from opposing portions
of the exterior surface 613 of the side wall 612b of the housing
612 to enable a user to grasp and lift the kitchen appliance 610
for movement thereof. Preferably, the housing handles 620 are in
diametrically opposed relation to one another and are disposed
along the major axis A.sub.1 of the housing 612. Although the
housing handle(s) 620 are shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 as being
entirely stationary or fixedly attached to the housing 612, at
least a portion of each handle 620 may be pivotally attached to the
side wall 612b of the housing 612, so that the handles 620 can at
least partially fold or collapse to reduce the outer width of the
kitchen appliance 610 for storage purposes.
[0078] In the disengaged position of the handle 616, each of the
first and second halves 664, 665 preferably contact at least a
portion of one of the housing handles 620. For example, at least a
portion of each half 664, 665 directly engages and/or contacts a
top surface of one of the housing handles 620. Therefore, the
housing handles 620 preferably define an outer limit of rotation of
the halves 664, 665. Additionally or alternatively, each housing
handle 620 may include a groove 670 extending downwardly from a top
surface of the housing handle 620. Each groove 670 is preferably
sized and/or shaped to receive at least a portion of one of the
halves 664, 665 therein. As shown in FIG. 11, the groove 670 of
each housing handle 620 is preferably at least slightly curved or
arcuate in shape to match the shape of the halves 664, 665 of the
handle 616.
[0079] FIGS. 13-17C show an eighth preferred embodiment of the
kitchen appliance 710. The reference numerals of the eighth
preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the first
preferred embodiment by a factor of seven hundred (700), but
otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the first
preferred embodiment, except as otherwise specified. At least
portions of the kitchen appliance 710 of the eighth preferred
embodiment, such as the housing 712, the container 730 and the lid
740, are substantially similar to those of the first through third
preferred embodiments described above. For example, similar to the
third preferred embodiment (see FIGS. 5-6B) described in detail
above, the lid 740 preferably includes two spaced-apart tabs 756
extending outwardly beyond the outer edge thereof from
diametrically opposing points on the lid 740. The description of
certain similarities between the embodiments may be omitted herein
for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not
limiting.
[0080] The handle 716 is primarily the distinguishing feature of
the eight preferred embodiment. The handle 716 is preferably
rotationally pivotable between the engaged position (FIGS. 13, 14,
16A, 16B, 17A and 17B) and the disengaged position (FIGS. 15, 16C
and 17C), as are each of the preferred embodiments described above.
In addition, the handle 716 is preferably linearly movable or
slidable between a locked position (FIGS. 13, 16A and 17A) and an
unlocked position (FIGS. 14, 16B and 17B). In FIG. 17A, the locked
position is when the pivot member(s) 778 (described in detail
below) is in position "Y" with respect to the handle 716 (as shown
in FIG. 17A) and when the pivot member(s) 778 is in position "Z"
with respect to the handle 716. In the locked position, at least a
portion of the handle 716 is preferably vertically raised and the
entire handle 716 is preferably prevented from pivoting until at
least a portion of the handle 716 is moved downwardly to the
unlocked position. The locked position of the handle 716 is
intended to be used during carrying or transport of the kitchen
appliance 710, and prevents the lid 740 from being inadvertently
removed from the container 730. In the unlocked position, at least
a portion of the handle 716 is preferably vertically lowered and
the entire handle 716 is preferably permitted to rotate or pivot,
as described in the preferred embodiments described in detail
above. The unlocked position of the handle 716 is intended to be
used when the kitchen appliance 10 is placed on a table top or
counter top, such as shortly prior to consumption of the
foodstuff.
[0081] To permit and/or provide for the functionality described
above, the handle 716 includes several unique or distinctive
features. More specifically, the handle 716 preferably includes an
arcuate connection portion 776 and a channel 772 on an interior
surface thereof. The connection portion 776 and the channel 772
preferably extend from the first end 716a of the handle 716 to the
second end 716b thereof. The connection portion 776 is preferably
gripped or grasped by the user when moving the handle 716 between
the engaged and disengaged positions, and between the locked and
unlocked positions. The channel 772 is preferably defined by and/or
between two spaced-apart and opposing side walls 774 of the handle
716. Each side wall 774 includes at least one and preferably
two-spaced apart notches or cut-outs 780 therein. Thus, it is
preferred that each side wall 774 includes two notches 780
proximate the first end 716a of the handle 716 and two separate
notches 780 proximate the second end 716b of the handle 716. As
shown in FIG. 17, each notch 780 is preferably spaced-apart a
predetermined distance from the first or second end 716a, 716b of
the handle 716.
[0082] The handle 716 of the eight preferred embodiment also
includes at least one and preferably two spaced-apart pivot members
778 mounted to diametrically opposing points on the exterior
surface 713 of the side wall 716b of the housing 716. At least a
portion of the connection portion 776 of the handle 716 surrounds
at least a portion of each pivot member 778. In other words, each
pivot member 778 is at least partially positioned within the
channel 772 formed on the connection portion 776 of the handle 716.
The connection portion 776 is preferably movable with respect to
each pivot member 778 between a raised position (i.e., the locked
position) in which the handle 716 is pivotable between the engaged
and disengaged positions and a lowered position (i.e., the unlocked
position) in which the connection portion 776 of the handle 716
prevents the pivot members 778 from pivoting with respect to the
housing 712.
[0083] As shown in FIG. 17, each pivot member 778 preferably
includes a lower end 778a, which directly engages to and/or
surrounds a pivot pin 782 (see FIGS. 16A-16C) attached to the side
wall 712b of the housing 712, and an upper end 778b, which extends
inwardly toward the housing 712, the container 730 and/or the lid
740. A length of each pivot member 778, as measured from a top of
the upper end 778b to a bottom of the lower end 778a, is preferably
at least slightly less than the distance between a lower end of
each notch 780 and the adjacent end 716a, 716b of the handle 716. A
recessed portion 778c is preferably formed between the lower and
upper ends 778b of each pivot member 778. The recessed portion 778c
is preferably sized and/or shaped to receive at least a portion of
one of the tabs 756 and/or allow at least a portion of one of the
tabs 756 to pass therethrough.
[0084] As shown in FIGS. 16A-16C and 17A-17C, each pivot member 778
is preferably rotationally pivotable between an engaged position
(FIGS. 16A, 16B, 17A and 17B) and a disengaged position (FIGS. 16C
and 17C). The pivot members 778 preferably move between the engaged
and disengaged positions when the connection portion 776 of the
handle 716 moves between the engaged and disengaged positions. In
other words, when the handle 716 is in the unlocked position (FIGS.
14, 16B and 17B), it is preferred that rotation of the handle 716
between the engaged and disengaged positions automatically rotates
each pivot member 778 between the engaged and disengaged positions.
However, when the handle 716 is in the locked position, such that
at least a portion of one of the tabs 756 of the lid 740 is
positioned at least partially below or above a respective notch 780
in the side wall 774 of the handle 716, the handle 716 is prevented
from pivoting. In such a position, an inner surface of the portion
of the side walls 774 of the handles 716 below or above the notches
780 directly engage a lateral side of at least one or both of the
tabs 756 of the lid 740, thereby preventing the pivot members 778
and the remainder of the handle 716 from pivoting. When the
connection portion 776 of the handle 716 is lowered or raised a
sufficient distance such that the notches 780 align with the tabs
756 of the lid 740, the side walls 774 of the connection portion
776 no longer directly engage or block movement of the handle 716,
such that the tabs 756 may pass through the respective notches
780.
[0085] In the engaged position of the pivot member(s) 778, at least
a portion of each pivot member 778, such as a lower surface of the
upper end 778b, preferably directly contacts at least a portion of
one of the tabs 756 to retain the lid 740 in sealing engagement
with the container 730 to inhibit leakage of the contents from the
interior of the container 730. The upper end 778b of each pivot
member 778 preferably imparts a downwardly force onto one of the
tabs 756 to a least partially compress the gasket 741 to prevent
leakage of the contents of the container 730. In the disengaged
position of the pivot member(s) 778, each pivot member 778 is
preferably spaced-apart from and/or below the housing rim 712c to
permit the lid 740 to be removed from the container 730.
[0086] FIGS. 13, 16A and 17A show the handle 716 in the engaged and
locked positions. In such a configuration, it is preferably not
possible to remove the lid 740 from the container 730, as the upper
end 778b of each pivot member 778 preferably holds and/or seals the
lid 740 onto the container 730. In addition, in such a
configuration, it is preferably not possible to pivot the handle
716 to the disengaged position, as the combination of the side
walls 774 of the handle 716 below the notches 780 and the tabs 756
of the lid 740 engaged to prevent rotation of the handle 716.
[0087] FIGS. 14, 16B and 17B show the handle 716 in the engaged and
unlocked positions. In such a configuration, it is preferably not
possible to remove the lid 740 from the container 730, as the upper
end 778b of each pivot member 778 preferably holds and/or seals the
lid 740 onto the container 730. However, in such a configuration,
it is preferably possible to pivot the handle 716 to the disengaged
position, thereby allowing the lid 740 to be removed from the
container 730. In such a configuration, the notches 780 of the
handle 716 are preferably vertically aligned with the tabs 756 of
the lid 740, which permits the tabs 756 to pass through the
respective notches 780 when the handle 716 is rotated or pivoted,
thereby permitting rotation or pivoting of the handle 716.
[0088] FIGS. 15, 16C and 17C show the handle 716 in the disengaged
and unlocked positions. In such a configuration, it is preferably
possible to remove the lid 740 from the container 730, as the upper
end 778b of each pivot member 778 is laterally spaced-apart from
one of the tabs 756 of the lid 740, thereby permitting the lid 740
to be removed from the container 730. Although not shown in the
drawings, the handle 716 may be rotated in the disengaged and
unlocked positions until at least a portion of the handle 716, such
as the connection portions 776, contacts or engages the exterior
surface 713 of the side wall 712b of the housing 712. The handle
716 is not a required element of the present embodiment, as the lid
740 may be sealingly secured to the container 730 if the handle 716
is not included or removed from the present invention. For example,
one or each pivot member 778 could be directly grasped by the user
and rotated into or out of the engaged position.
[0089] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
changes could be made to the embodiments described above without
departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is
understood, therefore, that this disclosure is not limited to the
particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover
modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure
as defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *