CORDLESS VACUUM SEALER

Abstract

 A vacuum pump (10) for withdrawal of air from a food container (12) includes a housing (14) defining an axis (16) with an inlet port (18) at an operative end (20) of the housing (14) and a battery-receiving cavity (22) disposed on a second end (23) of the (14) opposite the operative end (20) for releasably retaining a battery pack (24) on the second end (23) of the housing (14). A compressor (26) is disposed in the housing (14) and is operable to create negative pressure at the inlet port (18). The compressor (26) is further selectively electrically connectable with the battery. An annular outer gasket (28) is disposed at the operative end (20) aligned with the axis (16) the housing (14) and defines a withdrawal cavity (30) in fluid communication with the inlet port (18). The annular outer gasket (28) is sized to stably support the vacuum pump (10) on a surface with the axis (16) positioned normal to the surface (S).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a vacuum pump for use in connection with compatible storage articles, and more specifically, to a vacuum pump with a removable and rechargeable battery configured for hands-free operation.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a vacuum pump for withdrawal of air from a food container includes a housing defining an axis with an inlet port at an operative end of the housing and a battery-receiving cavity disposed on a second end of the housing opposite the operative end for releasably retaining a battery pack on the second end of the housing. A compressor is disposed in the housing and is operable to create negative pressure at the inlet port. The compressor is further selectively electrically connectable with the battery when the battery is received within the cavity. An annular outer gasket is disposed at the operative end aligned with the axis of the housing and defines a withdrawal cavity in fluid communication with the inlet port. The annular outer gasket is sized to stably support the vacuum pump on a surface with the axis positioned normal to the surface. A weight of the compressor and battery is directed along the axis and provides a sealing pressure between the annular outer gasket and the surface.

[0003] These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vacuum pump according to an aspect of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the vacuum pump;

FIG. 3 is an assembly view of the vacuum pump with an associated food storage vessel;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the vacuum pump assembled with the food storage vessel;

FIG. 5 is an assembly view of the components of the vacuum pump;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the internal components of the vacuum pump;

FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the internal components of the vacuum pump;

FIG. 8 is an assembly view of the storage container;

FIG. 9 is a cross section view of an interface between the vacuum pump and the storage container showing withdrawal of air from the storage container by way of the vacuum pump;

FIGS. 10A and 10B are perspective views of a bottle stopper useable with the vacuum pump;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the bottle stopper in place on a bottle;

FIG. 12 is an elevation view of the vacuum pump assembled with the bottle stopper;

FIG. 13 is a plan view of a storage bag that is further compatible with the disclosed vacuum pump; and

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the vacuum pump in use with the storage bag.

[0005] The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0006] The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a vacuum pump and related vacuum storage system for storing food. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

[0007] For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in FIG. 1. Unless stated otherwise, the term "front" shall refer to the surface of the element closer to an intended viewer, and the term "rear" shall refer to the surface of the element further from the intended viewer. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0008] The terms "including," "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises a . . . " does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0009] Ordinal modifiers (i.e., "first", "second", etc.) may be used to distinguish between various structures of a disclosed article in various contexts, but such ordinals are not necessarily intended to apply to such elements outside of the particular context in which they are used and that, in various aspects different ones of the same class of elements may be identified with the same, context-specific ordinal. In such instances, other particular designations of the elements are used to clarify the overall relationship between such elements. Ordinals are not used to designate a position of the elements, nor do they exclude additional, or intervening, non-ordered elements or signify an importance or rank of the elements within a particular class.

[0010] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.

[0011] For purposes of this disclosure, the terms "about," "approximately," or "substantially" are intended to mean that a value of a parameter is close to a stated value or position. However, minor differences may prevent the values or positions from being exactly as stated. Thus, unless otherwise noted, differences of up to ten percent (10%) for a given value are reasonable differences from the ideal goal of exactly as described. In many instances, a significant difference can be when the difference is greater than ten percent (10%), except as where would be generally understood otherwise by a person of ordinary skill in the art based on the context in which such term is used.

[0012] Referring to FIGS. 1-6, reference numeral 10 generally designates a vacuum pump 10 for withdrawal of air from a food container 12. The vacuum pump 10 includes a housing 14 defining an axis 16 with an inlet port 18 at an operative end 20 of the housing 14 and a battery-receiving cavity 22 disposed on a second end 23 of the housing 14 opposite the operative end 20 for releasably retaining a battery pack 24 on the second end 23 of the housing 14. A compressor 26 (FIGS. 4 and 5) is disposed in the housing 14 and is operable to create negative pressure at the inlet port 18. The compressor 26 is further selectively electrically connectable with the battery pack when the battery pack 24 is received within the cavity 22. An annular outer gasket 28 is disposed at the operative end 20 aligned with the axis 16 of the housing 14 and defines a withdrawal cavity 30 in fluid communication with the inlet port 18. The annular outer gasket 28 is sized to stably support the vacuum pump 10 on a surface S with the axis 16 positioned normal to the surface. A weight of the compressor 26 and battery pack 24 is directed along the axis 16 and provides a sealing pressure between the annular outer gasket 28 and the surface.

[0013] As can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the vacuum pump 10 is generally arranged to be used in a vertical position, including with respect to the axis 16 of the housing. In this arrangement, the outer gasket 28 is disposed at a lowermost position with respect to the vacuum pump 10. The battery pack 24 is positioned in a vertically aligned manner with respect to the outer gasket 28 and the housing 14. As mentioned above, and discussed in greater detail below, this arrangement, along with the size and configuration of the outer gasket 28 allows the vacuum pump 10 to be positioned upright on surface S, while remaining in such a position, including during operative use of the vacuum pump 10. In this respect, the vacuum pump 10 is configured as a component of a vacuum-sealed food storage system to withdraw air from compatible containers within such a system. In particular, the present vacuum pump 10 can be positioned on a surface S of the container 12 that surrounds a valve 32 and is oriented (at least during use) in a planar-horizontal manner. A lower edge 34 of the outer gasket 28 reflects the annular arrangement of the outer gasket 28 and is generally flat so as to uniformly contact the surface S of the container 12. As discussed further below, valve 32 is positioned on the surface S of the container 12 so as to be received in the withdrawal cavity 30 defined by the outer gasket 28 when the lower edge 34 is positioned in contact with the surface S. In this manner, the outer gasket 28 contacts the surface S in a manner that provides a seal between the withdrawal cavity 30 and the ambient environment such that operation of the compressor 26 causes withdrawal of air from the container 12, as facilitated by the seal around the valve 32.

[0014] As can be appreciated, this sealing contact between the outer gasket 28 and the surface S surrounding the valve 32 is partially derived from the materials and configurations of these elements. In particular, the outer gasket 28 can be of an elastomeric material that is rigid enough to support the weight of the vacuum pump 10 without significant deformation (i.e., that which would move a portion of the lower edge away from the surface), yet with a general level of compliance sufficient to adapt to small variations in the surface S surrounding the valve 32 to achieve and maintain the desired seal. As shown in FIG. 2, the outer gasket 28 can include a lower ring 36 of a lower wall thickness less than the remaining portion of the outer gasket 28 (in one example, about 2 mm and 4 mm, respectively). In this arrangement, the lower edge 34 can be defined on the lower ring 36 to provide increased compliance for the lower edge 34, while providing overall structural strength to support the weight of the vacuum pump 10 without buckling. In one aspect, the outer gasket 28 can be of thermoplastic elastomer or silicone and can have a durometer of between about 70 and 90, measured on a Shore A scale. In a similar manner, the container 12 can be configured with a flat surface S surrounding the valve 32 that at least matches the general size and configuration of the outer gasket 28, including the lower edge 34. In addition, the container 12 can be configured with a flat surface S having little or no texture (e.g., a glossy or "polished" surface) to further facilitate the seal surrounding the valve 32. Particular aspects of the construction of compatible containers according to this general description are discussed in the examples below.

[0015] In one aspect of the disclosure, the weight of the vacuum pump 10 can not only be distributed about the axis 16 for stable resting of the vacuum pump 10 on the surface S, but can also be sufficient to maintain the desired seal on the corresponding surface S of the container 12 during use. In this manner, the vacuum pump 10, when used as a component of the system discussed herein, can be capable of "hands-free" operation. In particular, the stable resting and overall weight of the vacuum pump 10 can allow the user to align the outer gasket 28 with the valve 32 while placing the lower edge 34 of the outer gasket 28 with the surface S surrounding the valve 32. In this configuration, assuming a compatible location of the valve 32 (i.e., with the surrounding surface S oriented in the depicted planar horizontal manner), the vacuum pump 10 will rest in the upright arrangement shown in FIG. 4. In addition, a sufficient seal will be achieved between the outer gasket 28 and the surface S under the compression of the lower edge by the remaining weight of the vacuum pump, as supported by the outer gasket 28. In this arrangement, the compressor 26 can be activated to achieve the desired withdrawal of air from the container 12 without the user having to actively maintain the vacuum pump 10 in contact with the surface S or having to press the vacuum pump 10 toward the container 12 to maintain the seal. Specific operation of the compressor 26, including by user interaction with the vacuum pump 10, is discussed further below.

[0016] As mentioned above, the present vacuum pump 10 is configured for cordless operation by incorporation of the rechargeable battery pack 24. In the example shown in FIGS. 1-5, the vacuum pump 10 is configured to retain the battery pack 24 on an exterior portion of the housing. More specifically, the battery pack 24 releasably attaches to the battery receiving cavity 22 defined on the second end of the housing. In this manner, the vacuum pump 10 can be specifically adapted for use with a specific battery pack 24 (or series of similar battery pack 24s) generally associated with a specific cordless appliance system or suite of products, for example, from a common manufacturer. In one aspect, the present vacuum pump 10 can be configured to operate with the KitchenAid^® Go^™ Cordless 12V MAX Lithium Ion Battery pack available from the Whirlpool Corporation of St. Joseph, Michigan. Such compatibility can be achieved by the specific structure and elements included in the battery receiving cavity 22, as well as the electrical configuration of the vacuum pump, including but not limited to the operational voltage and electrical interfaces included with the battery pack 24. Additionally, the housing 14 can be configured in a similar profile as the battery pack 24, at least in the area adjacent the battery receiving cavity 22 to maintain visual continuity with the battery pack 24, for example.

[0017] With reference to FIG. 5, the battery receiving cavity 22 can include a plurality of terminals 38 exposed therein. The battery pack 24 is adapted for a snap-fit arrangement with the battery receiving cavity 22, wherein the battery pack 24 is moved along axis 16 toward the battery receiving cavity 22 and pressed into engagement therewith. In this arrangement, the terminals 38 of the battery receiving cavity 22 engage with aligned battery terminals 40 for electrical connection with the battery pack 24 when fully received in the battery receiving cavity 22. As shown, the battery pack 24 can include spring-loaded tabs 42 that are urged outwardly such that they can be moved inwardly by initial engagement with corresponding notches 44 in the battery receiving cavity 22 before moving outward behind the notches 44 when the battery pack 24 is fully received in the battery receiving cavity 22 for fixed retention therewith. When the battery pack 24 is to be removed, buttons 46 associated with the tabs 42 can be depressed to move the tabs 42 inward, thereby releasing them from the notches 44.

[0018] The battery pack 24 may include a plurality of modules comprising cells of a known configuration, including Lithium lon, Nickel-Metal Hydride, Nickel-Cadmium and/or other materials that permit recharging. The battery pack 24 is configured such that a battery pack 24 or, potentially, a number of available compatible battery packs 24 can be selected and attached with the vacuum pump 10 for powering the operation thereof by way of the electrical connection facilitated by connection of terminals. In this manner, the battery pack 24 can be removed from the vacuum pump 10 for use with another compatible kitchen appliance (such as a hand mixer, a hand blender, a countertop blender) or be replaced with a charged battery pack 24, such as when the in-use battery pack 24 has become depleted. In this manner, a depleted battery pack 24 can be charged using a compatible charger having features, such as a USB-C connection, fast-charging terminals, components similar to the features of the battery receiving cavity 22 that are configured to charge, and/or the like. Such a battery pack 24, as well as a compatible charger, is further described in U.S. Pat. App. No. 18/115,069 filed on February 28, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. In a specific example, the battery pack 24 can be configured for 12V power delivery and can have a weight of between one-half and one pound. In a more specific example, the battery pack 24 can have a weight of about 0.8 lbs. (+/- 10%, e.g.).

[0019] In the present example, the battery pack 24 is removably connectable with the housing 14 on the second end 23 thereof with the battery pack 24 balanced on, or aligned with, the axis 16 of the housing. In this respect, the center of gravity of the battery pack 24 can be disposed at or near the geometric center thereof, at least along the horizontal plane when oriented as depicted in FIG. 3. In this arrangement, the housing 14 can be configured to connect with the battery pack 24 in a manner such that the center of gravity of the battery pack 24 is disposed on the axis 16, including by configuration of the battery receiving cavity 22. In the present example, this arrangement corresponds with the geometric alignment of the center of the battery pack 24 with the axis 16 of the housing, but adaptations can be made for variations in the weight distribution of the compatible battery pack 24. As discussed above, this arrangement helps facilitate the ability of the vacuum pump 10 to stand upright on a surface, without user stabilization.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 7 the compressor 26, which is another component with a noticeable influence on the weight distribution of the vacuum pump 10, is mounted internally within the housing 14 in a position that is generally balanced with respect to the axis 16. In this respect, the "balancing" may be made with respect to the other internal components packaged adjacent to the compressor 26 within the housing 14. Accordingly, as depicted, the compressor, which includes a generally cylindrical motor 54 as a component thereof, may not be aligned with the axis 16 (with respect to the geometric center or the center of gravity to account for the positioning of, for example, control board 56 and pressure switch 58 adjacent the compressor 26. In this manner, the vacuum pump 10 remains generally balanced such that the overall center of gravity is aligned with the axis 16 of the housing 14. As discussed above, the weight of the compressor 26 and battery pack 24, along with the additional internal components, is directed along the axis 16 and facilitates the above-described sealing pressure on the lower edge 34 of the outer gasket 28. In this manner, it is noted that the described weight of the vacuum pump 10 on the lower edge 34 of the outer gasket 28 facilitates the sealing pressure in that such pressure is understood to create the desired seal when the lower edge 34 is positioned against a compatible surface, as discussed above.

[0021] As further shown in FIG. 3, the vacuum pump 10 can further include a liquid trap 60 that is removably affixable on the operative end 20 of the housing 14. As shown, the annular outer gasket 28 is coupled with the liquid trap 60. In this manner, reference to the outer gasket 28 as being "disposed" at the operative end 20 of the housing 14 is achieved by affixing the liquid trap 60 on the operative end 20 of the housing 14. As can be seen in FIG. 9, which is discussed further below, the liquid trap 60 includes an inner retention ring 62 that is integrally formed therewith and fits over an engagement surface 64 disposed on the housing 14 adjacent the operative end 20 thereof. The engagement surface 64 includes a sealing ring 66 such that assembly of the liquid trap 60 onto the operative end 20 of the housing 14 is achieved by receipt of the engagement surface 64 within the retention ring 62, with a friction fit and mutual sealing therebetween being facilitated by the sealing ring 66. The liquid trap 60 further includes an outer flange 68 that is disposed to extend upward along an intermediate segment 70 of the housing 14 that is disposed radially outside and axially above the engagement surface 64. As can be seen in FIG. 9, the outer flange 68 extends along the intermediate segment but is spaced therefrom to define a vent opening 72 therebetween and extending around the housing. Additionally, as further shown in FIGS. 3 and 9, the inlet port 18 extends through the liquid trap 60 but remains out of contact with the operative end 20 of the housing 14. In this manner, the housing 14 defines a compressor inlet 74 that is disposed radially between the inlet port 18 and the sealing ring 66 to achieve fluid communication with the inlet port 18 by way of an intermediate cavity 78 defined between the operative end 20 of the housing 14 and the liquid trap 60. An outlet port 75 is defined in the operative end of the housing 14 between the sealing ring 66 and the outer flange.

[0022] In the above arrangement, the compressor 26 is configured to draw air in through the compressor inlet 74 by way of a first tube 76 connected therebetween, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The negative pressure created within the compressor 26 draws air through the inlet port 18, through the intermediate cavity 78 and into the compressor inlet 74 within the housing 14. In this manner, if any liquid is drawn in through the inlet port 18 (such as from a container 12 from which air is intended to be drawn), some liquid will be retained within the intermediate cavity 78 by way of the open air flow therebetween, including over inner ring 80 that surrounds the inlet port 18. If some liquid is further drawn into compressor 26 through inlet port 18, the compressor 26 is configured to exhaust such liquid through the air exhaust line 82 to the outlet port 75 such that the additional liquid is retained within a reservoir cavity 81 between the sealing ring 66 and the outer flange. When such liquid accumulates within the liquid trap 60, the liquid trap 60 can be removed, emptied, and reassembled with housing 14 for further use.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 8, the container 12 discussed generally above and shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 includes a vessel 84 and a lid 86 with a seal member 88 that provides a seal for the lid 86 with the vessel 84. The shape and size of the vessel 84 and lid 86 may vary to provide different storage options. As shown, the lid 86 includes the above-referenced valve 32, which is defined by a compliant valve body 90 (which may be of thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, or the like). The valve body 90 fits within an opening 91 in the lid 86 and is moveable with respect to the opening 91 to selectively seal the opening 91 or to allow airflow therethrough. As further shown, the valve body 90 is positioned within a recess 92 to allow clearance between the valve body 90 and the withdrawal cavity 30 and to protect against inadvertent manipulation of the valve, which may release a vacuum within the interior of the container 12. In the present example, the recess 92 is generally circular in profile and defines a circular inner step 94. As shown in FIG. 9, this inner step 94 defines the surface S with which the lower edge 34 of the outer gasket 28 engages and, accordingly, can be sized to generally match the size of the outer gasket 28. Additionally, the inner step 94 can be recessed to provide for guided alignment of the lower edge 34 of the gasket 28 with the inner step 94 of the lid 86. In one aspect, the inner step 94, recess 92, opening 91, and valve body 90 can be considered a sealing feature 96 of the lid.

[0024] In the illustrated arrangement, the vacuum pump 10 is operable to withdraw air from the food container 12 through the valve 32 when the outer gasket 28 is sealingly disposed on the surface S of the inner step 94. In use, the user can place the items to be stored within the vessel 84 before sliding the lid 86 into engagement therewith. The vacuum pump 10 is then placed on the lid 86 with the outer gasket 28 aligned and in contact with the inner step 94. As noted above, the positioning of the sealing feature 96 on the horizontally-disposed lid 86 is such that the outer gasket 28 stably supports the vacuum pump 10 on the surface S with the axis 16 positioned normal to the surface S. When the vacuum pump 10 is activated, the negative pressure created within housing 14 (specifically, within the lower chamber 55 of the compressor 26) draws air A_in through the opening 91, including by upward movement or deformation of the valve body 90, and into the withdrawal cavity 30. That air A_in is then drawn through the intermediate cavity 78 (where a portion of any liquid may be retained) before being drawn in through the compressor inlet 74. As discussed above, this air A_in moves through inlet tube 76 and into the chamber 55 of the compressor 26. This air A_e is then exhausted through exhaust line 82 and outlet port 75 into the reservoir cavity 81, where the air A_e exits through the vent opening 72. Because the lid 86 is sealed on the vessel 84, the withdrawal of air creates a vacuum within the container 12. When the desired vacuum is achieved, the compressor 26 can be deactivated, at which point the valve body 90 closes against the lid 86 to maintain the seal within the container 12, and the vacuum pump 10 can be removed from the sealing feature 96. As can be appreciated, the pressure differential between the exterior and interior of the container 12 can serve to retain the lid 86 on the vessel 84. In one example, a pressure differential of at least 20 kPa can be achieved between the exterior and interior, with the pressure differential in one example reaching 40 kPa. When the user wishes to remove the lid 86, the valve body 90 can be manipulated with a generally lateral force to lift at least one edge up from against the underlying lid 86, which allows air to reenter the container 12 through opening 91, equalizing the external and internal pressure such that the lid 86 may be removed.

[0025] Returning to FIGS. 6 and 8, the vacuum pump 10 can further include a controller implemented by way of control board 56 and a pressure sensor 100 retained within the housing. The controller 98 is arranged in electrical communication with the pressure sensor and with the compressor 26 and is connectible with the battery pack 24 for facilitating the selective electrical connection between the battery pack 24 and the compressor 26. In this manner, the controller can operate the compressor 26 to create the negative pressure within the portion of the cavity 24 (i.e., within the portion of the housing 14 containing the chamber 55. In one aspect, the controller 98 can be configured to operate the compressor 26 to achieve a specific pressure differential, as measured by the pressure sensor 100. In one respect, the pressure sensor can be a pressure transducer 100 mounted on the control board 56. As shown, a pressure tube 102 is connected between the pressure transducer 100 and a secondary opening 103 within the intermediate cavity 78. This arrangement allows the pressure differential within the container 12, which is generally equal to the pressure differential between ambient and the intermediate cavity 78 to be reflected within the pressure tube 102 for measurement by the pressure transducer 100. In one operation mode, the vacuum pump 10 includes a button 52, which can be depressed by the user to cause activation of the vacuum pump 10. When the controller detects a button 52 press, the compressor 26 is activated and is continuously operated until the measured pressure reaches a preset level. As discussed above, in one example the pressure preset can be -40 kPa. At this point, the operation of the compressor 26 is ended.

[0026] The vacuum pump 10 can further include an indicator light 50 mounted with the housing 14 and positioned adjacent the button. The indicator light 50 can be connected with the controller board 56 and operated to indicate various states of operation of the vacuum pump 10. In one example, the light 50 can be operated to flash in a first color (e.g., white) during operation of the compressor 26 to indicate that the vacuum pump 10 is working and should not be removed. When the desired pressure differential is achieved and the motor 54 is stopped, the light 50 can be illuminated constantly (including in the same color) for a predetermined time interval (e.g., between 2 and 5 seconds, and in one implementation about 3 seconds). The controller can also continuously monitor the pressure transducer 100 to determine an error condition. For example, if the pressure transducer indicates a steady (or decreasing) pressure below the preset during operation of the compressor 26, the controller can interpret the condition as an error due to an incomplete seal somewhere in the system. In such a condition, the light 50 can be, for example, flashed red to indicate the error condition. In the described operating mode, it is noted that the system can allow for a hands-free operation, due to the stable positioning of the vacuum pump 10 on the storage container 12, as well as the operation of the compressor 26 in the above-described automated manner, which requires only momentary pressing of the button 52 to result in a completed withdrawal operation.

[0027] As further shown, the vacuum pump 10 can also include the pressure switch 58 that is also in communication with the pressure tube 102. In one implementation, the pressure switch 58 can be directly connected with the motor 54 and can provide for backup deactivation of the motor 54 upon the pressure differential reaching a secondary threshold above the preset, which can be, for example, about 45 kPa.

[0028] As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, a bottle stopper 104 can also be provided in the above-referenced system and can be configured for operation with the vacuum pump. In this manner, the stopper 104 can be fitted in the opening of, for example, a wine bottle B as an alternative implementation of the storage vessel, as shown in FIG. 12. The stopper 104 has a flanged sealing element 105 configured to conform for a sealing fit within an acceptable range of bottlenecks and openings. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the stopper 104 can include an upper crown 106 that can be received in the outer gasket 28 such that a seal is achieved therebetween. The stopper 104 also includes a valve 32 of a generally similar structure to the above valve, including a valve body 90 within an opening. In this manner, the vacuum pump 10 can be used to withdraw air from the wine bottle B to preserve freshness of the contents. The stopper 104 can be removed by manipulation of the valve body 90 in any lateral direction to equalize pressure.

[0029] Turning to FIGS. 13 and 14, a storage bag 108 can also be configured for use with the vacuum pump 10 described herein. As shown the bag 108 has a flexible body 110 of a resilient polymeric material, such as various plastics, silicone, or the like. The bag 108 includes a snap-lock seal 112 such that food can be placed into the bag 108 before the bag 108 is sealed in an air-tight manner. A flat valve 32 is included along a surface S of the bag 108 and is selectively openable between the interior and exterior of the bag. In one respect, the flat valve 114 can be arranged with an outer surface S that is operable with the lower edge 34 of the outer gasket 28, as discussed above. A valve housing 116 is disposed inward of the outer surface S and includes the operable structure of the valve 114, which may include a polymeric flap loosely received in the housing 116 and configured to move away from an opening in the housing 116 to allow air to flow out of the bag 108, with the vacuum generated within the bag 108 maintaining the flap over the opening upon deactivation of the compressor 26. As shown in FIG. 14, in certain use cases, the storage bag 108 can be used in a hands-free manner similar to the storage container 12 and the wine stopper 104.

[0030] As can be appreciated, the removal of air from the various storage vessels described herein by way of a vacuum pump, and the maintenance of such vacuum seals by the various structures of the vessels described herein can help preserve the freshness of, for example, food or beverage products stored in the vessels. In general, the removal of air from the storage vessels can slow oxidation of the food products, as well as bacteria or mold growth in or on the food products. This can extend the time that the stored products can be stored for later consumption.

[0031] The invention disclosed herein is further summarized in the following paragraphs and is further characterized by combinations of any and all of the various aspects described therein.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a vacuum pump for withdrawal of air from a food container includes a housing defining an axis with an inlet port at an operative end of the housing and a battery-receiving cavity disposed on a second end of the housing opposite the operative end for releasably retaining a battery pack on the second end of the housing. A compressor is disposed in the housing and is operable to create negative pressure at the inlet port. The compressor is further selectively electrically connectable with the compressor when the battery is received within the cavity. An annular outer gasket is disposed at the operative end aligned with the axis of the housing and defines a withdrawal cavity in fluid communication with the inlet port. The annular outer gasket is sized to stably support the vacuum pump on a surface with the axis positioned normal to the surface. A weight of the compressor and battery is directed along the axis and provides a sealing pressure between the annular outer gasket and the surface.

[0033] The vacuum pump of ¶ [0034] can further include a liquid trap removably affixable on the operative end of the housing, the annular outer gasket being coupled with the liquid trap and disposed at the operative end of the housing by affixing of the liquid trap on the operative end of the housing.

[0034] The vacuum pump of ¶¶ [0034] or [0035] can further include a controller and a pressure sensor retained within the housing, the controller being in electrical communication with the pressure sensor and with the compressor and connectible with the battery for facilitating the selective electrical connection between the battery and the compressor to create the negative pressure within the portion of the cavity, the pressure sensor can be configured to measure the negative pressure within the portion of the housing, and the controller can be configured to operate in a first mode including causing operation of the compressor until a temperature preset is detected by the pressure sensor.

[0035] The vacuum pump of ¶ [0036], can further include a button and a light, each being exposed at a surface of the housing and in communication with the controller, the controller can be configured begin operating in the first mode upon the button being depressed, operating in the first mode can further include causing the light to periodically activate and deactivate at a first interval, and upon the temperature present being detected by the pressure sensor, the controller can cause the light to remain activated for a second interval longer than the first interval.

[0036] In the vacuum pump of ¶¶ [0034] to [0037], the surface can be disposed on a sealing feature of a valve operably mounted on a food storage vessel, the pump being operable to withdraw air from the food storage vessel through the valve when sealingly disposed on the surface.

[0037] It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.

[0038] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0039] It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A vacuum pump (10) for withdrawal of air from a food container (12), comprising:

a housing (14) defining an axis (16) with an inlet port (18) at an operative end (20) of the housing (14) and a battery-receiving cavity (22) disposed on a second end (23) of the housing (14) opposite the operative end (20) for releasably retaining a battery pack (24) on the second end (23) of the housing (14);

a compressor (26) disposed in the housing (14) and operable to create negative pressure at the inlet port (18), the compressor (26) being selectively electrically connectable with the battery pack (24) when the battery pack (24) is received within the battery-receiving cavity (22); and

an annular outer gasket (28) disposed at the operative end (20) and aligned with the axis (16) of the housing (14) and defining a withdrawal cavity (30) in fluid communication with the inlet port (18).

2. The vacuum pump (10) of claim 1, wherein the annular outer gasket (28) is sized to stably support the vacuum pump (10) on a surface (S) with the axis (16) positioned normal to the surface (S), a weight of the compressor (26) and battery pack (24) being directed along the axis (16) and providing a sealing pressure between the annular outer gasket (28) and the surface (S).

3. The vacuum pump (10) of claim 1 or 2, further including a liquid trap (60) removably affixable on the operative end (20) of the housing (14), the annular outer gasket (28) being coupled with the liquid trap (60) and disposed at the operative end (20) of the housing (14) by affixing of the liquid trap (60) on the operative end (20) of the housing (14).

4. The vacuum pump (10) of claim 3, wherein the liquid trap (60) defines an intermediate cavity (78) between the operative end (20) of the housing (14) and the liquid trap (60), the inlet port (18) extending through the liquid trap (60) and being in fluid communication with the intermediate cavity (78), the intermediate cavity (78) being configured to retain liquid drawn through the inlet port (18).

5. The vacuum pump (10) of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the compressor (26) includes a motor (54) of water-resistant construction.

6. The vacuum pump (10) of claim 5, wherein the motor (54) incorporates stainless steel and plastic materials with sealing between components thereof.

7. The vacuum pump (10) of claim 5 or 6, wherein components of the compressor (26) are coated with a waterproofing compound, the waterproofing compound including at least one of a conformal coating, an epoxy-based sealant, or a silicone-based coating.

8. The vacuum pump (10) of any one of claims 1 to 7, further including a sealing member (83) positioned at an interface of the housing (14) and configured to provide a water-resistant barrier to prevent water ingress into the housing (14).

9. The vacuum pump (10) of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the annular outer gasket (28) includes a lower ring (36) of a wall thickness less than a remaining portion of the annular outer gasket (28), the lower ring (36) defining a lower edge (34) of the annular outer gasket (28).

10. The vacuum pump (10) of claim 9, wherein the annular outer gasket (28) is of thermoplastic elastomer or silicone and has a durometer of between about 70 and 90 measured on a Shore A scale.

11. The vacuum pump (10) of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the battery pack (24) is removably connectable with the housing (14) with a center of gravity of the battery pack (24) disposed on the axis (16) of the housing (14).

12. The vacuum pump (10) of any one of claims 1 to 11, further including a controller (98) and a pressure sensor (100) retained within the housing (14), the controller (98) being in electrical communication with the pressure sensor (100) and with the compressor (26) and connectible with the battery pack (24) for facilitating the selective electrical connection between the battery pack (24) and the compressor (26), wherein the controller (98) is configured to operate in a first mode including causing operation of the compressor (26) until a pressure preset is detected by the pressure sensor (100).

13. The vacuum pump (10) of claim 12, further including a button (52) and a light (50), each being exposed at a surface of the housing (14) and in communication with the controller (98), the controller (98) being configured to begin operating in the first mode upon the button (52) being depressed, operating in the first mode further including causing the light (50) to periodically activate and deactivate at a first interval, and upon the pressure preset being detected by the pressure sensor (100), the controller (98) causing the light (50) to remain activated for a second interval longer than the first interval.

14. The vacuum pump (10) of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the compressor (26) is mounted within the housing (14) using stainless steel fasteners.

15. The vacuum pump (10) of any one of claims 2 to 14, wherein the surface (S) is disposed on a sealing feature (96) of a valve (32) operably mounted on a food storage vessel (84), the pump (10) being operable to withdraw air from the food storage vessel (84) through the valve (32) when sealingly disposed on the surface (S).

Drawing