HK1182296B - Food based homogenizer - Google Patents

Abstract

A food homogenizer is provided, including a base with a driving motor and a homogenizer assembly removably coupled to the base. The homogenizer assembly includes a homogenizing chamber, an inlet chute, and an exit spout. A shredder is disposed within the homogenizing chamber and is driven by the driving motor to homogenize food ingredients into a soft texture with a similar consistency as ice cream or sherbet.

Description

Food-based homogenizer

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application No. 13/108,112, which claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 61/378,662, filed on 8/31/2010 and U.S. provisional application No. 61/440,939, filed on 2/9/2011, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to a food homogenizer (homogenizer) that enables one to easily manufacture healthy desserts from frozen fruits, nuts, chocolate, unfrozen foods, and other ingredients by a machine that is easy to handle and clean.

Background

Many people prefer ice creams, water ices (sherbet juice milkshakes) and similar ice confections which are frozen, but the opportunity to easily manufacture ice confections from healthy ingredients at home can be a challenge. The present invention relates generally to food-based homogenizers and more particularly to a small countertop kitchen utensil that is simple to use and easy to clean, into which a user places frozen fruit, nuts, chocolate, and other ingredients, and which homogenizes the ingredients into a soft texture having a consistency similar to ice cream or water ice, which is then extruded directly into the user's bowl through an outlet trough for consumption. The invention is not limited to use with frozen fruit but can also be used with a variety of non-frozen foods.

Disclosure of Invention

The following presents a simplified summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some example aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. Moreover, this summary is not intended to identify key elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. The sole purpose of the summary is to present some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a food homogenizer includes a base including a drive motor having a drive shaft. A homogenizer assembly is removably coupled to the base, which includes a homogenization chamber, a rotational support disposed within the homogenization chamber, and a shredder disposed within the homogenization chamber and driven by a drive motor for rotational movement within the homogenization chamber. The shredder is axially supported for rotation within the homogenization chamber between the drive shaft and the rotational support.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a food homogenizer includes a base including a drive motor having a drive shaft. A homogenizer assembly is removably coupled to the base, including a homogenization chamber and a shredder driven by a drive shaft for rotational movement within the homogenization chamber. The morcellator includes a housing mechanically coupled to a drive shaft. An end cap is removably coupled to the homogenization chamber to retain the morcellator within the homogenization chamber. The sealing element is configured to provide a fluid seal between the base and the homogenizer assembly. The sealing element includes a first sealing flange that abuts and circumscribes the housing of the shredder to provide a generally continuous seal between the housing and the homogenization chamber.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a food homogenizer includes a base and a homogenizer assembly removably coupled to the base. The homogenizer assembly includes a homogenizing chamber, an inlet chute in fluid communication with the homogenizing chamber, an outlet chute separate from the inlet chute and in fluid communication with the homogenizing chamber, and a twist-lock (twist-lock) coupler for removably coupling the homogenizer assembly to the base. The homogenization chamber, inlet chute, outlet chute, and twist-lock coupler are together formed as a unitary structure.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a food homogenizer comprises: a base including a drive motor, a homogenization chamber, and a shredder disposed within the homogenization chamber and driven by the drive motor for rotational movement within the homogenization chamber. The shredder includes a conical body extending from a generally cylindrical base toward an apex and including an upper conical surface. The shredder includes a plurality of blades disposed radially outward from the upper conical surface, wherein each of the plurality of blades is disposed at an angle of about 45 degrees relative to the cylindrical base. In one example, the plurality of blades are generally equally spaced about the upper conical surface. In another example, the plurality of blades includes six blades. In another example, a plurality of vanes are removably coupled to the shredder. In another example, the plurality of vanes are serrated. In another example, the upper conical surface includes a recess disposed between adjacent pairs of the plurality of blades. In another example, the recess comprises a generally triangular geometry with gradually sloping sides. In another example, the upper conical surface includes a plurality of linear slots extending at least partially between the generally cylindrical base and the apex, and each of the plurality of linear slots is configured to receive one of the plurality of vanes. In another example, the morcellator further includes a removable top portion defining an apex of the morcellator, and removal of the top portion from the morcellator provides access to an open end of each of the plurality of linear slots. In another example, a plurality of vanes are molded into the shredder. In another example, the plurality of blades are formed as a unitary structure with the upper conical surface.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a food homogenizer includes a base and a homogenizer assembly removably coupled to the base. The homogenizer includes a homogenization chamber having an inner surface and an outlet tank providing fluid communication between the homogenization chamber and an external environment. The outlet slot includes an asymmetric recess formed with the inner surface extending from a first portion having a generally gentle slope with respect to the inner surface of the homogenization chamber and toward a second portion having a generally steep slope defining an end surface disposed at an angle greater than about 60 degrees with respect to the inner surface of the homogenization chamber. In one example, the end face is disposed generally perpendicularly with respect to the inner surface of the homogenization chamber. In another example, the asymmetric recess provides an exit orifice having a gradually increasing cross-sectional area with a maximum adjacent the end face. In another example, the outlet slot further includes a shield plate extending across at least a portion of the outlet aperture.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a food homogenizer includes a base and a homogenizer assembly removably coupled to the base, the homogenizer assembly including a homogenizing chamber and an inlet chute in fluid communication with the homogenizing chamber. The plunger is configured to be received by the inlet chute and has a curved end face that cooperates with the homogenization chamber to provide a generally continuous inner surface to the homogenization chamber. In one example, the plunger further comprises an enlarged handle distal to the curved tip face, the enlarged handle acting as a stop configured to limit insertion of the plunger into the inlet chute to an insertion depth at which the curved tip face cooperates with the homogenization chamber to provide a generally continuous inner surface to the homogenization chamber. In another example, the entrance chute includes an open end having an asymmetric geometry and the enlarged handle includes an asymmetric geometry corresponding to the asymmetric geometry of the open end of the entrance chute. In another example, the enlarged handle is configured to mate with the open end of the entry chute to provide a stop. In another example, the inlet chute defines an interior cross-sectional area, and the plunger includes an elongated body having a cross-sectional area that extends substantially across the interior cross-sectional area of the inlet chute. In another example, the inner surface of the homogenization chamber forms a generally conical geometry, and wherein the end face comprises an asymmetric geometry corresponding to the conical inner surface for the homogenization chamber.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a food homogenizer includes a base having a drive motor and a homogenizer assembly removably coupled to the base. The homogenizer assembly includes a homogenizing chamber having an inner surface and a shredder disposed within the homogenizing chamber and driven by a drive motor for rotational movement within the homogenizing chamber. The shredder includes a plurality of blades disposed radially outward from an upper surface of the shredder, wherein at least one blade includes a terminal blade edge. The maximum gap between the edge of the end blade and the inner surface of the homogenization chamber is about 3 mm. In one example, each of the plurality of blades includes a respective terminal blade edge, and wherein a maximum clearance between any of the terminal blade edges and an inner surface of the homogenization chamber is about 3 millimeters. In another example, the homogenizer assembly further comprises an outlet tank providing fluid communication between the homogenization chamber and the external environment. The outlet slot includes an asymmetric recess that mates with the inner surface, and a gap between the tip vane edge and the asymmetric recess of the outlet slot is greater than 3 millimeters. In another example, the drive motor rotates the shredder at a rotational speed in the range of 300 to 400 revolutions per minute.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present examples and illustrative embodiments of the invention, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the invention as it is claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles and operations of the invention.

Drawings

The foregoing and other aspects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present invention relates upon reading the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary food homogenizer;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the food homogenizer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the food homogenizer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a side view of an exemplary homogenizer assembly;

FIG. 6 is a top view of an exemplary homogenization chamber;

FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the homogenization chamber of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a partial, exploded view of an exemplary morcellator;

FIG. 9 is a bottom, perspective view of the morcellator of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 shows a detail view 10 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 shows a detail view 11 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 5; and

fig. 13 shows a detail 13 of fig. 3, rotated for clarity.

Detailed Description

Exemplary embodiments incorporating one or more aspects of the present invention are described below and illustrated in the drawings. These illustrated examples are not intended to limit the present invention. For example, one or more aspects of the present invention may be used in other embodiments and even in other types of devices. Also, certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the present invention. Still further, in the drawings, like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements.

Turning to the illustrated example of FIG. 1, a food-based homogenizer 20 capable of comminuting food is shown. The food-based homogenizer 20 is capable of mixing various types of food products, including frozen fruit, nuts, chocolate, and other ingredients. The blended food product may have a soft puree-like texture having a consistency similar to ice cream, sorbet, and the like. While it is understood that the term "homogenization" refers to a homogeneous mixing of the constituent ingredients, as used herein, the term "homogenization" generally means a somewhat homogeneous mixing of the constituent ingredients, and may also include a heterogeneous mixing of the constituent ingredients, depending on the particular food product being used and the degree to which they are pulverized/broken by the food-based homogenizer 20.

The food based homogenizer 20 includes a base 22 and a homogenizer assembly 24. The base 22 and homogenizer assembly 24 are removably attachable and detachable from each other. A receiving container, such as a bowl 26, is shown positioned to receive the mixed food product from the homogenizer assembly 24.

As shown in fig. 1-3, the food-based homogenizer 20 includes a base 22, the base 22 to be supported on a support surface (such as a table, counter, etc.) 28. As shown in fig. 3, the base 22 includes a drive motor 30 having a drive shaft 32. The drive motor 30 is fixedly supported within the base 22 by one or more motor supports 34, 36. Various types of motor supports 34, 36 may be used, such as a motor mount having a flange oriented perpendicularly and vertically with respect to the drive motor 30. The drive shaft 32 may provide rotational motion, either directly or indirectly, to power the operation of the food-based homogenizer 20. For example, as shown in fig. 3, the drive shaft 32 is fed (feed) through a gearbox 38, the gearbox 38 feeding a driven shaft 40. The gearbox 38 can be a reduction gearbox that increases the torque provided by the drive motor 30 while also reducing the speed of the rotational movement. In one example, gearbox 38 may have a reduction ratio in the range of 40-50:1, or even in the range of 45-47: 1. For example, the gearbox 38 may be configured to rotate the driven shaft 40 at a rotational speed of approximately 300 and 400 revolutions per minute, although other speeds are contemplated. Various types of gearboxes 38 may be utilized including various numbers and types of gears, including spur gears, bevel gears, and the like. In the example shown, the gearbox 38 is a planetary gear train.

The drive motor 30 may have a generally cylindrical shape and may be disposed in the base 22 with the drive shaft 32 disposed at an angle α relative to the base 22. The angle α can be measured in various ways, such as relative to the plane of the support surface 28 on which the base 22 rests. In the example shown, the drive shaft 32 is disposed at a 45 ° angle relative to the plane of the base 22 and the support surface 28. As shown, the driven shaft 40 may be generally parallel to the drive shaft 32 such that both are similarly disposed at a 45 ° angle relative to the base 22. Also, it is contemplated that the drive shaft 32 of the drive motor 30 may be disposed at some other angle while the driven shaft 40 is disposed at a 45 angle relative to the base 22 due to the gearbox 38.

The drive shaft 32 and/or driven shaft 40 are described above as extending at a 45 angle from the center of the motor. It will be appreciated that the motor and drive shaft can be oriented at different angles relative to each other and relative to the base 22. For example, the motor may be positioned horizontally, vertically, or at a different angle in the middle, with the drive shaft 32 and/or driven shaft 40 extending at a 45 ° angle from the top of the motor 30 through a hole in the center of the bottom of the lower portion of the base 22. Alternatively, the motor 30 may be oriented at a 45 ° angle, with the drive shaft 32 extending through the centerline of the motor 30, and thus, the drive shaft extending at a 45 ° angle. The gearbox 38 and the driven shaft 40 may be arranged accordingly.

As shown in fig. 3, the driven shaft 40 is attached to the drive coupling 48, and similarly, the drive coupling 48 is oriented at a 45 ° angle relative to the base 22. The drive coupling 48 may be a stub shaft (stub shaft) or the like fixedly secured to the driven shaft 40 for rotation therewith. As shown, the drive coupler 48 extends through an aperture in the base 22 and is the only portion of the motor structure visible from the exterior of the base 22 (see fig. 4). The drive coupling 48 is configured to easily connect with the homogenizer assembly 24 to provide a rotational operation. The drive coupler 48 can have a keyed geometry, such as a hexagonal geometry that provides six drive surfaces, for simplified connection with the homogenizer assembly 24. Other geometries are also contemplated, such as square, rectangular, triangular, polygonal, irregular, notched or otherwise keyed, and the like. The geometry of the drive coupling 48 is configured to be of sufficient strength to transmit the desired torque from the drive motor 30 at the desired rotational speed.

The base 22 may further provide various other features. For example, the base 22 can provide an operator control, such as an on-off switch 42 (FIG. 1), to selectively power the drive motor 30. It is contemplated that a speed selector or even a pulse-operated controller may also be provided. The base 22 may also provide a coupling means for removably receiving the homogenizer assembly 24. In the example shown, the base 22 is provided with a twist-lock arrangement 44 for securely receiving the homogenizer assembly 24. The homogenizer assembly 24 includes one or more twist-lock couplings 45 (see fig. 6-7) to be received by and connected to the twist-lock arrangements 44 of the base 22. In one example, the twist-lock device 44 may be provided with a plurality of mounting holes adapted to receive and engage twist-lock couplers 45 to couple the homogenizer assembly 24 to the base 22. As shown, three twist-lock couplers 45 are aligned with the mounting holes of the twist-lock device 44 to be inserted therein. Further, the twist direction in the twist-lock arrangement 44 for securing the homogenizer assembly 24 to the base 22 can be the same as the direction of rotation of the driven shaft 40 in order to reduce loosening of the homogenizer assembly 24 during operation of the food-based homogenizer 20. One or more of the twist-lock couplers 45 can include positive retention features (such as tabs or the like) that can engage corresponding recesses in the mounting holes of the twist-lock devices 44. Engagement of the projections with the corresponding recesses can provide positive installation against disengagement and/or provide tactile feedback of positive connection.

In addition, the base 22 can include a safety switch 46, which safety switch 46 will interrupt the operation of the drive motor 30 unless the homogenizer assembly 24 is secured to the base 22. The safety switch 46 can cut off power to the drive motor 30 or otherwise stop operation of the food-based homogenizer 20. In one example, a safety switch 46 (which may or may not provide a visible indicator) can be disposed within or near the mounting hole of the twist-lock device 44. Thus, the safety switch 46 may be actuated (physically, optically, etc.) by the twist-lock coupler 45, thereby allowing operation of the drive motor 30 when the twist-lock coupler 45 is received by the twist-lock arrangement 44. Conversely, operation of the drive motor 30 is not permitted unless the twist-lock coupler 45 engages the mounting hole of the twist-lock arrangement 44. In addition, the base 22 and/or the drive motor 30 may include a fuse to prevent thermal or electrical overload conditions.

Turning now to fig. 4-7, the food-based homogenizer 20 includes a homogenizer assembly 24 in which the comminution and mixing of various types of food products is performed. The homogenizer assembly 24 includes a homogenizing chamber 50, a shredder 52, a sealing member 54 and an end cap 56. An inlet chute 58 is provided in fluid communication with the homogenization chamber 50, and an outlet chute 60, separate from the inlet chute 58, is also in fluid communication with the homogenization chamber 50. The plunger 62 is configured to be at least partially received by the entry chute 58. As shown in FIG. 4, the homogenizer assembly 24 is configured to be removable to allow for easy cleaning and maintenance.

An end cap 56 is removably coupled to the homogenization chamber 50 to retain the shredder 52 and sealing element 54 within the homogenization chamber 50. In one example, the end cap 56 is removably coupled to the homogenization chamber 50 by a threaded coupling (either having male/female threads). As shown, the homogenization chamber 50 can be removably attached to the end cap 56 by inserting the bottom edge of the homogenization chamber 50 into the top opening of the end cap 56. Thus, the threads may be aligned and the end cap 56 rotated until the rotation guided by the threads is complete. Alternative or additional securing means may be provided to secure the homogenization chamber 50 to the end cap 56. For example, latches, twist locks, hooks, holes, mechanical fasteners, etc. may be provided on either or both to allow attachment therebetween. Instead, after the end cap 56 has been removed from the homogenization chamber 50, the shredder 52 and the sealing element 54 may be removed.

The attachment of the end cap 56 to the homogenization chamber 50 defines a hollow interior 66 of the homogenization chamber 50 (see FIG. 7). The hollow interior 66 is at least partially defined by an interior surface 67. The shredder 52 is disposed within the hollow interior 66 of the homogenizing chamber 50 for rotation therein and adjacent the inner surface 67. The shredder 52 is driven by the drive motor 30 through engagement with the drive coupling 48 for rotational movement within the hollow interior 66 of the homogenization chamber 50. Accordingly, the sealing element 54 and the end cap 56 each include a circular hole 64, 65 at their respective centers through which the drive coupler 48 passes. Similarly, shredder 52 includes a housing 71 (see fig. 9), which housing 71 is mechanically coupled (such as by driven shaft 40 and drive coupling 48) to drive shaft 32 of drive motor 30. The bores 64, 65 and the seat 71 are arranged coaxially with the drive coupling 48.

The homogenizer assembly 24 may include various features. In one example, the homogenization chamber 50, inlet chute 58, outlet chute 60, and twist-lock coupler 45 may all be formed together as a unitary structure. For example, the homogenization chamber 50, the inlet chute 58, the outlet chute 60, and the twist-lock coupler 45 can all be molded together as a single component. Forming these components together as a single unit may be beneficial to reduce manufacturing costs and simplify operation. Also, any or all of these components may be provided separately and coupled together to form a unitary structure.

As shown in FIGS. 5-6, portions of the homogenizer assembly 24 may be arranged in a variety of ways. In one example, the homogenization chamber 50 may include an exterior surface 69, and the inlet chute 58 may be disposed generally perpendicular relative to the exterior surface 69. Such an arrangement can allow the entrance chute 58 to extend generally linearly and vertically upward from the base 22 (see, e.g., fig. 3), and/or can also be arranged such that the entrance chute 58 is generally perpendicular to the shredder 52. In another example, the inlet chute 58 and the outlet chute 60 may be disposed approximately 180 degrees apart, although other angular arrangements are contemplated.

Turning now to fig. 8-9, the shredder 52 includes a generally conical body extending from a generally cylindrical base 70 toward an apex 72 and defining an upper conical surface 74. While it is understood that the term "apex" refers to the point furthest from the base, as used herein, the term "apex" is intended to generally refer to the end region of the conical geometry of the shredder 52. Thus, while the apex 72 of the shredder 52 shown does include the point furthest from the cylindrical base 70, it is also intended to include the entire area around the furthest point. The shredder 52 may have a cross-section with a larger diameter around the cylindrical base 70 that tapers to a smaller diameter around the apex 72. The upper conical surface 74 is disposed at an angle, such as at an angle of about 45, with respect to the generally cylindrical base 70. The shredder 52 may be formed from a variety of food safe materials such as thermoplastics, aluminum, or stainless steel.

Shredder 52 includes a seat 71 as described hereinabove for receiving drive coupling 48. The internal geometry of seat 71 corresponds to the keyed geometry of drive coupler 48. For example, as shown, where drive coupler 48 has an outer hexagonal geometry, seat 71 has a corresponding inner hexagonal geometry. Additionally or alternatively, body 71 may also include other geometries, such as having rounded notches in some or all of the walls of a hexagonal geometry, or the like. Seat 71 can be supported within the underside of shredder 52 by a plurality of flanges 84 oriented perpendicular to seat 71. In the example shown, there are six flanges 84 with generally equal spacing between the six flanges 84. It will be appreciated that the flange 84 may take any shape, such as flat, square, or may include one or more protrusions, etc. The flange 84 may also provide structural support to the rest of the shredder 52.

The shredder 52 also includes a plurality of vanes 76 that are disposed radially outward from the upper conical surface 74 and extend from an upper portion toward a lower portion of the shredder 52. Although shown as extending along only a portion of shredder 52, it is understood that the vanes may extend completely from near apex 72 to generally cylindrical base 70. In one example, the plurality of vanes 76 are disposed generally parallel to the upper conical surface 74 and thus disposed at a similar 45 ° angle relative to the cylindrical base 70. The vanes 76 may be oriented perpendicular to the upper conical surface 74 of the shredder 52.

The plurality of vanes 76 can be disposed about the shredder 52 in a variety of ways. For example, the plurality of vanes 76 can be generally equally spaced about the upper conical surface 74. It is also contemplated that the plurality of vanes 76 can be arranged in different groupings, patterns, randomly, etc. Also, various numbers of vanes 76 may be used. In the example shown, the plurality of vanes 76 may include six vanes. All of the vanes may be identical, although any one may also be different.

The vanes 76 may also have different geometries and/or cutting features. In the example shown, the plurality of blades 76 may be serrated to provide greater cutting or shredding action. For example, each of the plurality of blades 76 may have a plurality of teeth that form repeating, triangular peak-to-valley serrations, although other serration forms are also contemplated. In one example, the sawtooth form may be formed by casting or punching a solid piece of metal or other rigid material into the desired blade pattern. Additionally or alternatively, the edges of the desired sawtooth form described above may be even further serrated. For example, some or all of the numerous edges of the teeth forming the triangular peak and valley serrations shown may themselves be further serrated to provide greater cutting or pulverizing action. Additionally or alternatively, the teeth of the plurality of vanes 76 may have various tooth configurations, such as straight teeth, skewed teeth, staggered skewed teeth, and so forth. Additionally or alternatively, different portions of the vanes 76 may have different features, geometries, etc. to perform different functions.

The plurality of vanes 76 can be manufactured in various ways. In one example, the shredder 52 may be formed from a thermoplastic material. Some or all of the plurality of vanes 76 can be molded with the shredder 52. For example, a plurality of blades can be formed as a unitary structure with the upper conical surface 74. Serrations or other design features may be similarly molded.

Alternatively, as shown, the shredder 52 may be formed of a thermoplastic material but the plurality of blades 76 may be formed of a metal or other rigid material. Each of the plurality of vanes 76 may be manufactured separately (i.e., stamped, cast, etc.) and assembled with the thermoplastic morcellator 52. As may be appreciated, the plurality of vanes 76 may be removably or non-removably coupled to the shredder 52.

For example, as shown in fig. 8, the upper conical surface 74 of the morcellator 52 may include a plurality of linear slots 80 that extend at least partially between the apex 72 and the generally cylindrical base 70. Each linear slot 80 is configured to receive one of the plurality of vanes 76. Further, the shredder 52 can include a removable top 78 that defines the apex 72. The removable top 78 may be retained by various mechanical fasteners 79, such as screws, clips, threads, and the like. The removable top 78 may also include anti-rotation pins 81 or the like that are retained by corresponding holes 83 or the like in the top of the shredder 52 to prevent the removable top 78 from rotating or moving relative to the rest of the shredder 52. Removal of the cap 78 from the shredder 52 provides access to an open end 82 of each of a plurality of linear slots 80. Thus, each vane 76 may be slidingly received by one of the linear slots 80 through its respective open end 82 and toward the closed end 85. The vanes 76 may be removably or non-removably received by the linear slots 80. For example, the vanes 76 can be removably received in the linear slots 80 so as to be removable for repair or replacement at a later time. Alternatively, the vanes 76 may be non-removably received in the linear slots 80 by mechanical fasteners, adhesives, welding, or the like. Once all of the blades are inserted into the linear slot 80, the removable top 78 may be secured to the shredder 52 to prevent removal of the blades 76. It is further contemplated that some of the vanes may be molded with the shredder 52, while other vanes may be later attached to the shredder 52.

Shredder 52 may include various other features. For example, the shredder 52 may be provided with structure for promoting shredding and homogenization to be performed on the food ingredients to form a soft texture having a consistency similar to ice cream or water ice. In one example, the upper conical surface 74 of the shredder 52 may include structure for promoting the flow of shredded/homogenized food around and through the plurality of vanes 76. As shown in fig. 8, the upper conical surface 74 may include at least one recess 86 disposed between adjacent pairs of the plurality of vanes 76. A different number of recesses 86 may be provided. As shown, a total of six recesses 86 may be provided between adjacent pairs of six vanes 76. The recesses 86 may all have the same, similar, or different geometries. In one example, each depression 86 may include a generally triangular geometry that follows the generally conical geometry of the shredder 52. In addition, the recesses 86 may have gradually sloped sides 88 to facilitate the flow of pulverized/homogenized food into and out of the recesses 86 and through adjacent vanes 76. The interaction of the recess 86 with the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50 can even produce a pumping type action to promote the movement and/or homogenization of the food. Also, the sides of the recess 86 may have various geometries, such as sharp steep walls or a heavily sloped ramp. Further, as shown in fig. 8, at least a portion of the recess 86 may be formed by the removable top 78.

The interface between the homogenizing chamber 50 and the shredder 52 is controlled to cause the food ingredients to be shredded/homogenized into a soft texture having a consistency similar to ice cream or water ice. As described hereinabove, the hollow interior 66 of the homogenization chamber 50 is at least partially bounded by the inner surface 67, and the shredder 52 is driven by the drive motor 30 to rotate within the hollow interior 66 and adjacent to the inner surface 67 (see fig. 3). Turning now to fig. 10, which shows a detail view 10 of fig. 3, the gap distance D between the plurality of vanes 76 of the shredder 52 and the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50 is controlled. In one example, at least one vane 76 includes a tip vane edge 77. For example, the terminal blade edge 77 may be the outermost extending portion of each blade 76. Here, the distance D is measured between the tip vane edge 77 and the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50. In one example, the maximum gap D between the terminal blade edge 77 and the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50 is in the range of about 2 millimeters to about 4 millimeters. In other examples, the maximum gap D is about 3mm, 2.5mm, or even 2mm, although other smaller or larger distances are contemplated. Further, each of the plurality of vanes 76 may include a respective tip vane edge 77 that will each define a respective gap with the inner surface 67. In one example, the maximum clearance D between any of the end blade edges 77 and the inner surface of the homogenization chamber 50 is about 3 millimeters.

Additionally or alternatively, the rotation of the shredder 52 within the homogenization chamber 50 is controlled such that the shredder 52 is rotatably supported. For example, the rotational support of the shredder 52 during its rotation may help maintain the maximum gap D described above, and/or prevent unwanted vibration, binding, wear, and the like. Turning to fig. 11, which shows a detail 11 of fig. 3, a rotating support 90 is provided within the homogenization chamber 50 such that the shredder 52 is axially supported for rotation within the homogenization chamber 50 between the drive shaft 32 and the rotating support 90. Thus, at one end, shredder 52 may be rotationally supported by the interface between seat 71 and drive coupling 48. The drive coupling 48 may be axially supported by a bearing 49 of the follower shaft 40. At the other end, the apex 72 of the shredder 52 is rotationally supported by a rotational support 90.

Various types of rotary supports 90 may be provided. In one example, the rotary support 90 may comprise a female housing and the shredder 52 may comprise a male structure configured to be rotatably supported by the housing (or vice versa). As shown in fig. 8 and 11, the apex 72 of the morcellator 52 may include a convex, spherical support 92 joined by a gloss layer to a concave, rotating support 90. Thus, during rotation of the shredder 52, the spherical support 92 is able to rotate within the concave rotating support 90. It will be appreciated that the illustration of fig. 11 is shown for clarity, and that the interface of the rotational support 90 and the spherical support 92 is intended to provide a good fit. It is also contemplated that the socket body of the rotational support 90 can accommodate a substantial portion of the spherical support 92 to inhibit (e.g., prevent) the apex 72 of the morcellator 52 from tipping or significantly changing angles, thereby maintaining the apex 72 in axial alignment with the drive coupler 48 during rotation of the morcellator 52.

The rotational support 90 may be disposed within the homogenization chamber 50 in various ways. In one example, the rotational support 90 is formed with the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50. For example, as shown in fig. 7 and 11, rotational support 90 may be molded with inner surface 67. In other examples, rotational support 90 may be provided separately from inner surface 67 and coupled to inner surface 67, such as by mechanical fasteners, adhesives, welding, and the like. In still other examples, the rotational support 90 may include at least one of a bushing and a bearing. For example, a bushing or bearing may be coupled to the inner surface 67, and the apex 72 of the shredder 52 may be removably engaged with and rotationally supported by the bushing or bearing.

As described herein, follower shaft 40 and drive coupling 48 are disposed at a 45 ° angle relative to base 22, and seat 71 of shredder 52 is retained on drive coupling 48. Similarly, the upper conical surface 74 of the shredder 52 is disposed at an angle of about 45 ° relative to the generally cylindrical base 70. Thus, as shown in fig. 3 and 10, the combined angle of the drive coupling 48 and the upper conical surface 74 may orient the plurality of vanes 76 such that they pass generally parallel to the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50 as the shredder 52 rotates. Moreover, because the inlet chute 58 is generally vertically oriented relative to the inner and/or outer surfaces 67, 69 relative to the shredder 52, food traveling along the inlet chute 58 and entering the homogenizing chamber 50 will engage the shredder plurality of vanes 76 at a generally 90 degree or vertical orientation. Thus, as the shredder 52 rotates, the food will be continuously shredded/homogenized by the plurality of blades 76 within the homogenizing chamber 50 until eventually discharged through the outlet chute 60. However, it will be appreciated that the shredder 52 axis can be oriented at various angles depending on the embodiment. For example, the shredder 52 axis may be oriented at an angle greater or less than 45 ° and the food may contact the vanes 76 at other angles.

After the food is sufficiently comminuted and/or homogenized, it is discharged from the homogenization chamber 50 through the outlet trough 60 and into a waiting bowl 26, cup, jar, or the like. Thus, the outlet slot 60 provides fluid communication between the hollow interior 66 of the homogenization chamber 50 and the external environment. The outlet trough 60 is generally vertically oriented and positioned above the bowl 26 to allow centrifugal and gravitational forces to assist the food to be discharged into the bowl 26.

Turning now to fig. 12, which is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of fig. 5, the outlet trough 60 includes various features to assist in the discharge of food therefrom. For example, the outlet slot 60 includes an asymmetric recess 100 formed by the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50 having an outlet aperture 101 (see FIGS. 3 and 7). The recess extends from a first portion having a generally gentle slope 102 relative to the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50 and toward a second portion having a generally steep slope 104 defining an end surface 106, wherein the end surface 106 is disposed at an angle greater than about 60 degrees relative to the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50. In one example, the end face 106 is disposed generally perpendicular (i.e., 90 degrees) relative to the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50, although different angles are contemplated.

As shown in fig. 12, it will be appreciated that the shredder 52 rotates in the direction shown by arrow R (i.e., counterclockwise as shown). Accordingly, when the shredder 52 rotates within the homogenizing chamber 50 to shred/homogenize the food, the homogenized food product contained within the homogenizing chamber 50 correspondingly moves in the direction of arrow R. As the food product approaches the outlet trough 60, it will gradually enter the area of the outlet trough 60 along the generally gentle slope 102 of the first section. As additional food product enters and continues to fill the recess 100 of the outlet trough 60, some of the food product may next encounter the steep incline 104 and strike the end face 106. Due to the generally steep slope 104 of the second portion, and due to the relatively small distance D between the vanes 76 and the inner surface 67, relatively little food product may re-enter the homogenizing chamber 50. Instead, the food will impinge on the end surface 106, forcing the food out through the outlet aperture 101.

To further facilitate the discharge of the mixed/homogenized food product, the asymmetric depression provides an outlet aperture 101 with an increased cross-sectional area having a maximum adjacent end face 106. For example, as shown in fig. 7 and 12, the cross-sectional area of the outlet aperture 101 gradually increases from a first portion near the gentle slope 102 towards a second portion near the steep slope 104 to allow an increasing amount of mixed/homogenized food product to accumulate against the end face 106.

Further, because the asymmetric depressions may be formed adjacent to and/or with inner surface 67, it should be appreciated that distance D measured between tip blade edge 77 and the depression may be greater than the aforementioned 3 millimeters. Finally, the outlet slot may further include a shield plate 108 extending through at least a portion of the outlet aperture 101. As shown in fig. 7, the shield 108 may be a thin barrier wall that extends through the length of the exit aperture 101 and may extend a distance upward into the exit slot 60, although various geometries are contemplated. The shield plate 108 is configured to inhibit (e.g., prevent) foreign matter from entering the homogenization chamber 50.

Turning now to fig. 13, which illustrates the detail 13 of fig. 3, the food homogenizer 20 further includes a sealing element 54 configured to provide a fluid seal between the base 22 and the homogenizer assembly 24. More specifically, the sealing element 54 is configured to retain the mixed/homogenized food within the homogenizing chamber 50 against the internal pressure that is constantly generated during operation, while still allowing the food to be discharged through the outlet slot 60. As shown in fig. 4 and 13, a sealing element 54 is disposed between the shredder 52 and an end cap 56. Further, the sealing member 54 is made of a flexible, food-impermeable material, such as rubber, silicone, or the like. It will be appreciated that the sealing element 54 has a very complex shape. Although the sealing element 54 is described herein as a single integral seal providing multiple sealing points, multiple sealing devices may be used. Moreover, while the sealing element 54 may have a uniform geometry when rotated about its central axis, it may also have a non-uniform geometry.

The sealing member 54 includes a first sealing flange 110, the first sealing flange 110 abutting and circumscribing the housing body 71 of the shredder 52 to provide a generally continuous seal between the housing body 71 and the homogenization chamber 50. As shown in fig. 4, the first seal flange 110 circumscribes the annular aperture 64 extending through the seal element 54. The retainer body 71 is at least partially insertable through the annular aperture such that the first sealing flange 110 acts as a lip seal against the retainer body 71. Thus, the geometry of the bore 64 corresponds to the outer geometry of the seat 71 of the shredder 52. To provide a lip seal with a tight fit, the cross-sectional area (i.e., diameter, as shown) of the bore is slightly smaller than the outer peripheral cross-sectional area (i.e., diameter, as shown) of the seat body 71. Also, during operation, the shredder 52 rotates relative to the stationary sealing element 54, and the lip seal provided by the first sealing flange 110 is sufficiently resilient to accommodate this movement. Further, the first sealing flange 110 may include a raised lip 112 extending along its entire perimeter. The raised lip 112 may define the entire periphery of the annular aperture such that when the seat body 71 is at least partially inserted through the annular aperture 64, the raised lip 112 abuts the seat body 71 of the shredder 52 to provide a fluid seal with reduced friction. Thus, as the shredder 52 rotates during operation, the outer periphery of the seat 71 will rotate against the raised lip 112 to provide at least one fluid seal between the base 22 and the homogenizer assembly 24.

Further, the sealing element 54 may include a geometry that mates with the end cap 56, or even with other portions of the homogenizer assembly 24, to facilitate registration of the sealing element 54. In one example, the sealing element 54 may include an annular ring seal 114, the annular ring seal 114 projecting upwardly from an inner surface inserted into a corresponding annular groove 116 of the end cap 56. When the end cap 56 is coupled to the homogenization chamber 50, the annular ring seal 114 may be received in the annular groove 116 and sealingly engage the annular groove 116 with a relatively tight fit. Thus, seating the annular ring seal 114 within the annular groove 116 provides accurate registration and seating of the first sealing flange 110 relative to the seat 71 of the shredder 52. Additionally or alternatively, the raised side edges 118 of the end cap 56 can provide a fulcrum or the like to support and/or control the elastic deformation of the first sealing flange 110 relative to the seat 71. The annular ring seal 114, annular groove 116 and raised side edge 118 can further cooperate to provide a labyrinth seal. Additionally or alternatively, the sealing element 54 may include a sloped region 117, the sloped region 117 closely following the contour of a sloped wall 119 of the end cap 56.

The sealing element 54 may provide additional sealing points. In one example, the sealing element 54 may include a second sealing flange 120 that provides a generally continuous seal around the interface between the generally cylindrical base 70 of the shredder 52 and the end cap 56. The second sealing flange 120 can extend outwardly from the sloped region 117 in a cantilevered manner and can resiliently deflect and/or deform. As shown in fig. 13, the second sealing flange 120 is configured to contact and seal against the entire perimeter of the bottom edge 122 of the generally cylindrical base 70. In the example shown, the location where the second sealing flange 120 couples with the sloped region 117 is disposed vertically above the location of the bottom edge 122 when the shredder 52 is disposed within the homogenization chamber 50. Thus, engagement of bottom edge 122 with second sealing flange 120 will result in resilient deflection/deformation of second sealing flange 120 to provide a continuous seal around the entire perimeter of bottom edge 122. Also, during operation, the shredder 52 rotates relative to the second sealing flange 120, and the seal provided thereby is sufficiently resilient to accommodate this movement. Thus, as the shredder 52 rotates during operation, the periphery of the bottom edge 122 will rotate against the resiliently deflected/deformed second sealing flange 120 to provide at least one other fluid seal between the base 22 and the homogenizer assembly 24.

In another example, the sealing element may further include a third sealing flange 130, the third sealing flange 130 providing a generally continuous seal around an interface 132 between the end cap 56 and the homogenization chamber 50. As shown, the third sealing flange 130 may be relatively flat and received with a relatively tight fit into a corresponding base annular groove 134 of the end cap 56. Thus, when the end cap 56 is threaded onto the bottom of the homogenization chamber 50, the third sealing flange 130 is sandwiched between the inner surface of the base annular groove 134 of the end cap 56 and the lower end wall 136 of the homogenization chamber 50 to provide at least one further fluid seal between the base 22 and the homogenizer assembly 24.

Further, when the end cap 56 is coupled to the homogenization chamber 50, the end cap 56 is able to exert a compressive force on the third sealing flange 130. For example, the third sealing flange 130 may be compressed between the annular groove 134 and the lower end wall 136 of the homogenization chamber 50. Similarly, assembling the end cap on the homogenization chamber 50 can also apply a compressive force between the cantilevered second sealing flange 120 and the bottom edge 122 of the shredder 52.

The food-based homogenizer 20 may include various other features. Turning back to fig. 3-4, the plunger 62 is configured to be at least partially received by the inlet chute 58. During operation, food to be mixed/homogenized is inserted into the open end 140 of the inlet chute 58, and then the body 142 of the plunger 62 is inserted into the open end 140 to press the food below the inlet chute 58 and into contact with the rotating shredder 52 via the inlet opening 145 into the homogenization chamber 50. The plunger 62 has a continuous surface and a relatively blunt distal end face 144 at one end of the body 142 for pressing down on the food item. Due to the relatively tight tolerances within the homogenizing chamber 50, the food is generally resistant to entering the homogenizing chamber. Therefore, having a relatively tight tolerance between the plunger 62 and the inlet chute 58 is beneficial in preventing food from returning upwardly. For example, as shown in fig. 3, the inlet chute 58 defines an internal cross-sectional area, and the plunger 62 includes an elongated body having a cross-sectional area that extends substantially through the internal cross-sectional area of the inlet chute 58. Various mating cross-sectional geometries may be used. In one example, the inlet chute 58 has a generally circular cross-sectional area with a diameter, while the body of the plunger 62 has a similar generally circular cross-sectional area with a slightly larger diameter. Similarly, the cross-sectional geometry of the tip face 144 can extend substantially through the inlet 145 of the homogenization chamber 50.

Further, as previously discussed, the interface between the homogenizing chamber 50 and the shredder 52 is controlled to provide a desired food consistency. For this purpose, it is beneficial to maintain a consistent interface on the end face 144 of the plunger 62 when the plunger 62 is fully inserted into the inlet chute 58. As described and at least as shown in fig. 7, the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50 has a curved geometry (i.e., generally corresponding to the conical geometry of the shredder 52). The end face 144 of the plunger 62 also has a similar curved geometry that cooperates with the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50 to provide the noted generally uniform interface when the plunger 62 is fully inserted into the inlet chute 58. That is, the end face 144 of the plunger 62 may have a curved geometry that closes the inlet opening 145 and generally matches the conical geometry of the inner surface 67. Due to the relatively complex geometry of the conical surface, the tip face 144 may include an asymmetric geometry along multiple axes so as to correspond to the conical inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50. Also, because the plunger 62 is movable relative to the homogenization chamber, it should be appreciated that the distance D measured between the tip vane edge 77 and the tip face 144 may be less than or greater than the aforementioned 3 millimeters (i.e., see FIG. 10).

Additionally or alternatively, the plunger 62 may further include an enlarged handle 146 located distal to the curved end face 144, the handle 146 configured to cooperate with the open end 140 of the inlet chute 58 to provide a stop. For example, the stop may limit insertion of the plunger 62 into the entry chute 58. The enlarged handle 146 may be configured to abut an enlarged flange 148 disposed at an upper end of the entrance chute 58. In one example, the enlarged handle 146 may limit insertion of the plunger 62 to a depth at which the curved end face 144 cooperates with the homogenization chamber 50 to provide a generally continuous inner surface 67 for the homogenization chamber 50. Also, the enlarged handle 146 can limit the plunger 62 to different desired insertion depths.

Additionally or alternatively, the open end 140 of the inlet chute 58 may include an asymmetric geometry, and the enlarged handle 146 may also include an asymmetric geometry corresponding to the asymmetric geometry of the open end 140 of the inlet chute 58. For example, the corresponding asymmetric geometry may include a curved, angled, stepped, etc. geometry that may be used to properly align the plunger 62 with the inlet chute 58 such that the plunger 62 is disposed at a desired insertion depth. In another example, a corresponding asymmetric geometry may be used to properly align the plunger 62 with the inlet chute 58 such that the end face 144 mates with the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50 to provide the generally uniform interface when the plunger 62 is fully inserted into the inlet chute 58.

The food-based homogenizer 20 may also be provided to include various other additional features. In one example, turning back to fig. 2, the homogenizer assembly 24 may have a secondary inlet chute 150 (shown schematically) for feeding berries or other materials while a primary food product is being fed into the primary inlet chute 58. For example, the primary entry chute 58 may be used for bananas while the secondary entry chute 150 is used to add other fruit, mixes, and/or flavors (e.g., simultaneously, sequentially, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the secondary inlet chute 150 may be provided with a liquid supply reservoir 156 for providing a generally non-solid flavoring or additive (e.g., liquid, gel, slurry, etc.) to the homogenization chamber 50.

Auxiliary entry chute 150 may be similar to entry chute 58, although may be relatively larger or smaller. As shown, the secondary inlet chute 150 is separate from the primary inlet chute 58 and can feed material into the homogenization chamber 50 through a secondary inlet opening (not shown). The secondary inlet chute 150 may be provided with its own secondary plunger 152, and the secondary plunger 152 may similarly have an enlarged handle 154, the enlarged handle 154 being configured to cooperate with the open end of the secondary inlet chute 150 to provide a stop. Relative to the homogenization chamber 50, the secondary inlet chute 150 may have a similar geometry, orientation, etc. as the primary inlet chute 58 to similarly feed material generally perpendicular to the vanes 76, although it may also be disposed at various other angles. The auxiliary inlet chute 150 may also have an end face (not shown) with a similar curved geometry that cooperates with the inner surface 67 of the homogenization chamber 50 to provide the generally uniform interface when the auxiliary plunger 152 is fully inserted into the inlet chute 150. The auxiliary inlet chute 150 may also be positioned at different locations around the homogenization chamber 50. Although illustrated as a separate element, it is also contemplated that the secondary inlet chute 150 may be coupled to the primary inlet chute 58 or formed with the primary inlet chute 58 to feed material into the homogenization chamber through the same inlet opening 145.

In yet another example additional feature, turning now to fig. 3, the food-based homogenizer 20 can include a lever handle 160 (schematically illustrated) mechanically attached to the plunger 62, which lever handle 160 can increase the force and/or pressure with which the plunger 62 depresses the inlet chute 58 so that the operator does not have to use significant effort of their own to push it downward. Lever handle 160 may be useful in commercial, high speed and/or high volume environments. Thus, the lever handle 160 can provide increased mechanical advantage in the plunger 62. The lever handle 160 may include a handle support 162 coupled to the base 22 at various locations. The lever handle 160 may be movably coupled to the handle support 162 in various ways (e.g., rotationally, pivotally, slidingly, etc.) to provide desired motion and/or mechanical advantage.

The lever handle 160 can be mechanically coupled to the plunger 62 (e.g., around the enlarged handle 146) by a drive element 164. The drive element 164 may be directly coupled to the plunger 62 such that upward or downward movement of the lever handle 160 also results in similar upward or downward movement of the plunger 62. Alternatively, the drive element 164 of the lever handle 160 can be coupled to the plunger 62 only indirectly through a abutment-type interface, such that only downward movement of the lever handle 160 results in movement of the plunger 62 (i.e., also downward). In either case, the lever handle 160 can be detached from the plunger 62 for cleaning and/or maintenance. Additionally or alternatively, the lever handle 160 (or even an auxiliary handle, not shown) may even be adapted to operate with (e.g., simultaneously, independently, etc.) the auxiliary entry chute 150. In yet another example, the lever handle 160 can be coupled to a force generator, such as a powered motor (e.g., electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) for driving the plunger 62 upward and/or downward.

It will be understood that each of the elements described above, or two or more together, may also find a useful application in other types of constructions differing from the types described above.

While the invention has been illustrated and described as applied to a frozen fruit-based dessert homogenizer, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown, since various modifications and structural changes may be made without departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention.

The invention has been described with reference to the exemplary embodiments described above. Modifications and alterations will occur to others upon reading and understanding the preceding detailed description. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments including one or more aspects of the invention are intended to embrace all such modifications and variations as fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (17)

1. A food homogenizer, comprising:

a base; and

a homogenizer assembly removably coupled to the base, the homogenizer assembly comprising:

a homogenization chamber;

an inlet chute in fluid communication with the homogenization chamber;

an outlet tank separate from the inlet chute and in fluid communication with the homogenization chamber; and

a twist-lock coupler removably coupling the homogenizer assembly to the base,

wherein the homogenization chamber, inlet chute, outlet chute and twist-lock coupler together are formed as a unitary structure and the base further comprises a drive motor having a drive shaft, the homogenizer assembly further comprising a shredder driven by the drive shaft for rotational movement within the homogenization chamber, the shredder comprising: a conical geometry having a conical apex and a conical base; a plurality of vanes extending at least partially between the conical apex and the conical base; and at least one recess disposed between the plurality of vanes,

wherein the morcellator includes a seat body mechanically coupled to the drive shaft and a sealing element configured to provide a fluid seal between the base and the homogenizer assembly, the sealing element including a first sealing flange abutting and circumscribing the seat body of the morcellator to provide a continuous seal between the seat body and the homogenization chamber.

2. The food homogenizer of claim 1, wherein the inlet chute and the outlet chute are disposed 180 degrees apart.

3. The food homogenizer of claim 1, further comprising an end cap removably coupled to the homogenizer assembly by a threaded coupling.

4. The food homogenizer of claim 1, wherein the homogenization chamber includes an exterior surface, and the inlet chute is disposed perpendicularly with respect to the exterior surface.

5. The food homogenizer of claim 1, further comprising a plunger configured to be received by the inlet chute and having a curved end face that cooperates with the homogenization chamber to provide a continuous interior surface for the homogenization chamber.

6. The food homogenizer of claim 1, wherein the base includes a mounting hole adapted to engage the twist-lock coupler to couple the homogenizer assembly to the base.

7. The food homogenizer of claim 6, wherein the base includes a drive motor and a safety switch adapted to interrupt operation of the drive motor, the safety switch being disposed within the mounting hole such that operation of the drive motor is permitted only if the twist-lock coupler is engaged with the mounting hole.

8. The food homogenizer of claim 1, wherein the homogenization chamber is at least partially defined by an inner surface that forms a conical geometry.

9. The food homogenizer of claim 8, wherein the inlet chute has an inlet opening at the inner surface forming the conical geometry such that the inlet chute opens directly into the conical geometry.

10. The food homogenizer of claim 1, wherein the outlet tank includes an outlet aperture, and the homogenizer assembly includes a thin wall extending through the outlet aperture.

11. The food homogenizer of claim 1, wherein the homogenizer assembly further comprises a rotational support disposed within the homogenization chamber opposite the drive shaft.

12. The food homogenizer of claim 11, wherein the rotary support comprises a seat and the shredder comprises a spherical support configured to be rotationally supported by the seat.

13. The food homogenizer of claim 12, wherein the shredder includes a conical geometry having an apex, and the spherical support defines the apex.

14. The food homogenizer of claim 1, wherein the base includes a mounting hole for receiving the twist-lock coupler.

15. The food homogenizer of claim 14, wherein the homogenizer assembly includes a plurality of twist-lock couplers and the base includes a plurality of mounting holes for receiving the twist-lock couplers.

16. The food homogenizer of claim 1, wherein the homogenizer assembly further comprises a plunger for movement in the inlet chute and the shredder is conical, the homogenization chamber being at least partially defined by an inner surface forming a conical geometry, the plunger including a tip face having an asymmetric geometry corresponding to the conical geometry of the inner surface.

17. The food homogenizer of claim 16, wherein the shredder with the plurality of blades rotates relative to the inner surface and the tip face of the plunger when the plunger is fully inserted into the inlet chute.