Field of the Invention
[0001] The present invention generally relates to connector assemblies in order to connect
a domestic implement to a handle, and more particularly to connector assemblies used
to secure barbequing and other cooking tools.
Background of the Invention
[0002] EP0057916 describes a connector assembly for connecting a domestic implement to a handle, respectively
depicted as elements 86 and 10 on Figure 1. The connector assembly comprises a hollow
connecting sleeve, depicted as element 16 on Figure 1, in which a plug-in pin from
the domestic implement is inserted, depicted as element 18 on Figure 1. A leaf spring
is secured inside the hollow connecting sleeve. The plug-in pin presents a locking
hole, depicted as element 61 on Figure 1. The locking of the plug-in pin in the coupling
sleeve occurs when a bent portion of a leaf spring drops into this locking hole of
the plug-in pin, as depicted in Figure 1. The locking can be released by a push button
located at the end of the leaf spring, depicted as element 48 on Figure 1. When pushed,
the button releases the bent portion of the leaf spring and the plug-in pin can be
removed from the connecting sleeve.
[0003] According to the connector assembly described in
EP0057916, the domestic implement must be completely inserted, i.e. until the bent portion
of a leaf spring drops into the locking hole of the plug-in pin, in order to be securely
fixed to the handle. If the leaf spring does not drop into the locking hole of the
plug-in, the domestic implement falls off the handle. Also, if the locking of the
leaf spring in the hole of the plug-in is not associated with a clear clicking sound,
the user is not aware if the connection between the domestic implement and the handle
is secure. The domestic implement can then fall off the handle which is a potential
safety risk and renders the use of the connector assembly unreliable for the user.
[0004] An alternative realization of a connector assembly is described in
US1753441. The domestic implement presents notches, as depicted as element 27 on Figure 9.
The notches are arranged upon one side and disposed at spaced intervals throughout
the length of the domestic implement. The notches are adapted to selectively accommodate
a locking pin of the handle, depicted as element 28 on Figure 1. When the locking
pin 28 fits in one notch of the domestic implement, the domestic implement is rigidly
retained against sliding movement and inward movement within the handle. The length
of the inserted portion of the domestic implement in the handle can be adjusted by
lifting the locking pin of the handle, and by securely fixing it in another notch
of the domestic implement.
[0005] The locking pin of the handle must be lifted to change the position of the fixation
of the handle to the domestic implement described in
US1753441. The user is not aware in which notch the locking pin is inserted, and therefore
if the domestic implement is fully inserted in the handle. Also, the user does not
get a clear confirmation when the locking pin fits inside one notch of the domestic
implement. There exists a risk that the locking pin is not fully inserted inside a
notch and that the domestic implement makes an unintended sliding movement. This makes
the use of the connector assembly unreliable for the user.
[0006] Another alternative realization of a connector assembly is described in
US3306639. A domestic implement presents a series of transverse grooves, depicted as element
14 on Figure 2, spaced along one flat surface of the domestic implement. The domestic
implement is inserted in a handle. The handle connector itself is made out of two
pieces. The handle presents an aperture, depicted as element 40 on Figure 2. The second
piece of the handle connector is a ring with a diameter larger than the one of the
handle and that overlaps with the handle. The ring comprises a roller, depicted as
element 38 on Figure 3, slightly shorter in length than the transverse width of an
opening, depicted as element 28 on Figure 2. In locking position, the opening 28 of
the ring is positioned above the aperture 40 of the handle, and the roller 38 fits
through both the opening 28 and the aperture 40 to engage in a selected transverse
groove of the domestic implement.
[0007] The handle of the connector assembly described in
US3306639 is made of two separate pieces. This makes the manufacturing and assembly of the
handle more expensive and more time consuming. Also, the aperture 40 of the handle
and the opening 28 of the ring must be accurately aligned in order for the roller
to fit in a groove of the domestic implement. This makes the connection between the
two elements complicated and sensitive to manufacturing tolerances.
[0008] For the connector assembly described in
US3306639, the user is not aware in which groove the roller is inserted, and therefore experiences
difficulties in determining whether the domestic implement is fully inserted in the
handle. Also, the user does not get a clear confirmation when the roller fits inside
one groove of the domestic implement. There exists a risk that the roller is not inserted
inside a groove and that the domestic implement makes an unintended sliding movement.
This makes the use of the connector assembly unreliable for the user.
[0009] The fixation described in
US3306639 between the domestic implement and the handle relies on a holding force, that locks
the connector in a particular position along the longitudinal direction, which is
determined by the force pushing the roller in a groove of the domestic implement.
It is clear that the holding force of such a connection is limited in order to allow
for a release of the connection by means of a force along the longitudinal direction
of the domestic implement. There thus exists the risk that, for example, the weight
carried by the domestic implement might create a force along the longitudinal direction
that exceeds the holding force of the roller causing the domestic implement to be
released inadvertently. This makes the use of this connector assembly unreliable for
the user.
[0010] It is an objective of the present invention to disclose a connector assembly and
the related method that overcomes the above identified shortcomings of existing tools.
More particularly, it is an objective to disclose a simple and reliable implementation
of such connector assembly and method for securely fastening a domestic implement
to a handle, where the user gets a confirmation that the domestic implement is securely
and correctly fastened to the handle in a desired position, and where the risk posed
by the domestic implement falling off the handle when not completely connected in
that position is reduced. It is a further objective to provide a connector assembly
that is strong enough to prevent the domestic implement from falling off the handle
even if the domestic implement is carrying a heavy weight. This is especially relevant
if the domestic implement is for example a cooking utensil, such as for example a
barbeque cooking utensil, which is required to securely hold food items of potentially
considerable weight in a heated environment.
Summary of the Invention
[0011] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a connector assembly
configured to releasably connect a domestic implement to a handle extending along
a longitudinal axis, the connector assembly comprising:
- at the end of the handle, a handle connector portion comprising:
- a cavity extending from a cavity entrance into the handle along the longitudinal axis;
- a resilient pawl which comprises a free end comprising a locking catch which extends
in the cavity; and a fixed end which is connected to the handle;
- a release button movably connected to the handle and configured to cooperate with
the resilient pawl such that the transversal position of the locking catch is changed
against the bias force of the resilient pawl when pressing the release button; and
- at the end of the implement, an implement connector portion comprising an implement
insertion part extending from an implement insertion end towards the implement along
the longitudinal axis, and configured such that at least a part matingly corresponds
with its outer circumference to the inner circumference of the cavity when in a connected
state, the implement insertion part comprising;
- a locking recess extending transversely to the longitudinal axis;
- a front insertion section arranged along the longitudinal axis in between the implement
insertion end and the locking recess; and
wherein the handle connector portion and the implement connector portion are configured
to cooperate such that in the connected state the locking catch is not releasable
from the locking recess by means of a force along the longitudinal axis; and is releasable
from the locking recess by pressing the release button,
CHARACTERISED IN THAT
said front insertion section extends over a distance along the longitudinal axis and
comprises one or more transversal elements, each extending over a distance along the
longitudinal axis which is smaller than the distance of the insertion section and
each configured such that it causes a reciprocating movement of the locking catch
transverse to the longitudinal axis when passing said locking catch before reaching
the connected state.
[0012] This connector assembly improves the reliability of the connection as when establishing
a connection the transverse reciprocating movement of the locking catch of the resilient
pawl in cooperation with the front insertion section will cause click sounds that
warn the user that the domestic implement is approaching its final position for enabling
a correctly secured locking. In this way the alerted user will be more vigilant for
the final clicking sound generated when the locking catch of the resilient pawl engages
with the locking recess, which will clearly be different from the clicking sounds
generated by the reciprocating movement as now the locking catch of the resilient
pawl cooperates with the locking recess instead of the transversal elements. This
will enable the user to verify with greater certainty that a reliable connection has
been established before use of the tool. Additionally, even when the user does not
succeed in establishing a reliable connection in which the locking catch of the resilient
pawl is sufficiently inserted into the locking recess, this will not result in the
implement completely falling out of the handle, which could result in safety hazards
for the user. In such a situation, the locking catch of the resilient pawl will be
held by the transverse elements on the front insertion section, and the user can safely
check the reliability of the connection by exerting a predetermined force on the handle
along the longitudinal direction in a direction away from the implement which exceeds
the holding force generated by the transverse elements. If the connection is not fully
secured the user will be able to release the connection without pressing the release
button, Additionally the reliability is further improved as the reciprocating movement
of the locking catch of the resilient pawl prior to its engagement with the locking
recess enables a higher certainty the locking catch is fully introduced into the locking
recess as the preliminary exposure of the resilient pawl to this vibrating movement
will enable a higher chance of a reliable connection, even when different forces along
the longitudinal direction are exerted by different types of users. Still further
the transverse elements on the insertion section create a predetermined resistance
during the insertion state, which ascertains that the users will be exerting a predetermined
minimum force when the locking catch approaches the locking recess thereby still further
enhancing the reliability of the connection in the locked state.
[0013] According to an advantageous embodiment, the connector assembly is further characterised
in that the locking catch and the locking recess are configured such that the transversal
locking movement of said locking catch transverse to the longitudinal axis when proceeding
to the locked state is larger than the reciprocating movement.
[0014] In this way the user is warned during the insertion state by lighter clicking sounds
which form a suitable reference sound level for the harder clicking sound when the
locked state is reached, which forms a particular intuitive and user friendly confirmation
that a reliable connection has been established.
[0015] According to a further embodiment, the connector assembly is further characterised
in that the locking catch is positioned at a longitudinal locking distance along the
longitudinal axis from the cavity entrance and biased into a transversal position
along a transversal direction transverse to the longitudinal axis, and
wherein the handle connector portion and the implement connector portion are configured
to cooperate such that:
- in order to establish a connection, the implement insertion part is introduced by
its implement insertion end into the cavity by means of forces applied along the longitudinal
axis thereby proceeding from:
- a disconnected state in which the longitudinal distance between the implement insertion
end and the cavity entrance is smaller than the longitudinal locking distance; and
in which of the locking catch is biased into a transversal resting position;
- to an insertion state in which the longitudinal distance between the implement insertion
end and the cavity entrance is larger than the longitudinal locking distance, and
the longitudinal distance between the locking recess and the cavity entrance is smaller
than the longitudinal locking distance; and in which the transversal position of the
locking catch is changed from the transversal resting position in a direction against
the bias force of the resilient pawl by the front insertion section;
- to a connected state in which the longitudinal distance between the locking recess
and the cavity entrance is equal to the longitudinal locking distance; and in which
the locking catch is biased into a transversal locking position, in which the locking
catch cannot be released from the locking recess by means of a force along the longitudinal
axis; and
- in order to release the connection the implement insertion part is extracted from
the cavity by means of forces applied along the longitudinal axis after proceeding
from.
- the connected state;
- to a released state in which the locking catch is released from the locking recess
by changing the transversal position of the locking catch from the transversal locking
position in a direction against the bias force of the resilient pawl by pressing the
release button.
[0016] In this way the user can safely check the reliability of the connection by exerting
a predetermined force on the handle along the longitudinal direction in a direction
away from the implement which exceeds the holding force generated by the transverse
elements. If the connection is not fully secured the user will be able to release
the connection without pressing the release button,
[0017] According to a further embodiment, the connector assembly is further characterised
in that the locking catch and the transversal elements are configured such that the
locking catch is movable along the one or more transversal elements by means of a
force along the longitudinal direction exceeding a predetermined threshold force when
in the insertion state, without pressing the release button.
[0018] This ascertains that the users will be exerting a predetermined minimum force when
the locking catch approaches the locking recess thereby still further enhancing the
reliability of the connection in the locked state. Additionally, even when the user
does not succeed in establishing a reliable connection in which the locking catch
of the resilient pawl is sufficiently inserted into the locking recess, this will
not result in the implement completely falling out of the handle, which could result
in safety hazards for the user as the implement will only be extracted from the handle
when a user exerts a force exceeding the predetermined holding force.
[0019] According to a further embodiment, the connector assembly is further characterised
in that the front insertion section comprises a plurality of transversal elements
at different positions along the longitudinal direction.
[0020] This enforces the beneficial effect of the reciprocating motion locking catch of
the resilient pawl.
[0021] According to an optional embodiment, the connector assembly is further characterised
in that the locking catch of the resilient pawl comprises an abutment surface configured
to contact the locking recess when in the connected state.
[0022] This allows for a simple and reliable construction of the resilient pawl.
[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment, the connector assembly is further characterised
in that the resilient pawl comprises a further abutment surface configured to contact
the implement insertion end when in the connected state.
[0024] This further enhances reliability of the connection when in the connected state.
[0025] According to an optional embodiment, the connector assembly is further characterised
in that the resilient pawl comprises at least one still further abutment surface configured
to contact the transversal elements at their side towards the implement insertion
end and / or their opposing side when in the connected state.
[0026] This still further enhances reliability of the connection when in the connected state.
[0027] According to an advantageous embodiment, the connector assembly is further characterised
in that the implement connector portion is symmetrical with respect to a plane along
the longitudinal axis for a reversible connection to the handle connector portion.
[0028] This increases flexibility for the user regarding the orientation of the implement
with respect to the handle.
[0029] According to an optional embodiment, the connector assembly according to a first
aspect of the present invention is further characterised in that the resilient pawl
is one or more of the following:
- a spring biased pawl;
- a pawl at least partly formed from resilient material or a leaf spring.
[0030] In this way a simple and reliable construction of the resilient pawl can be realized.
[0031] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a domestic implement
assembly comprising a connector assembly according to the first aspect of the invention,
characterised in that the domestic implement assembly further comprises:
- a handle connected to the handle connector portion of the connector assembly; and
- an implement connected to the implement connector portion of the connector assembly.
[0032] Such a connector assembly is especially advantageous when used in such a domestic
implement assembly, such as for example cooking implement which could have sharp or
pointy elements that could form a safety hazard for the user when they inadvertently
would fall out of the handle if the inserted implement into the handle did not realize
a sufficiently reliable connection.
[0033] According to a further embodiment, the domestic implement assembly is further characterised
in that the domestic implement further comprises:
- a further handle, pivotably connected to the handle, and connected to the handle connector
portion of the further connector assembly according to a first aspect of the invention;
and
- a further implement connected to the implement connector portion of the further connector
assembly.
[0034] Such a connector assembly is especially advantageous when used in this type of domestic
implement assemblies as it needs to be ascertained that both the implement and further
implement are reliably secured to the handle.
[0035] According to an optional embodiment, the domestic implement is further characterised
in that the domestic implement is a cooking utensil, for example a barbeque cooking
utensil.
[0036] Especially for barbeque cooking utensils a reliable connection is important as in
general the forces exerted on these type of cooking utensils are larger than on cooking
utensils for household cooking. Additionally such barbeque cooking utensils are relatively
large and the fact that the implement can be releasably connected to the handle has
still a further advantage as this for example facilitates cleaning of these implements
by means of a dishwasher because the size of the individual elements is reduced.
[0037] According to still further embodiments, the domestic implement according to a second
aspect of the present invention could comprises any of the embodiments of the connector
assembly according to the first aspect of the present invention.
[0038] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a domestic implement
assembly comprising a:
- a connector assembly configured to releasably connect an implement to a handle extending
along a longitudinal axis, said connector assembly comprising:
- at the end of the handle, a handle connector portion comprising:
- a cavity extending from a cavity entrance into the handle along the longitudinal axis;
- a resilient pawl which comprises a free end comprising a locking catch which extends
in the cavity; and a fixed end which is connected to the handle;
- a release button movably connected to the handle and configured to cooperate with
the resilient pawl such that the transversal position of the locking catch is changed
against the bias force of the resilient pawl when pressing the release button; and
- at the end of the implement, an implement connector portion comprising an implement
insertion part extending from an implement insertion end towards the implement along
the longitudinal axis, and configured such that at least a part matingly corresponds
with its outer circumference to the inner circumference of the cavity when in a connected
state, the implement insertion part comprising;
- a locking recess extending transversely to the longitudinal axis;
- a front insertion section arranged along the longitudinal axis in between the implement
insertion end and the locking recess; and
wherein the handle connector portion and the implement connector portion are configured
to cooperate such that in the connected state the locking catch is not releasable
from the locking recess by means of a force along the longitudinal axis; and is releasable
from the locking recess by pressing the release button;
- a handle connected to the handle connector portion of the connector assembly; and
- an implement connected to the implement connector portion of the connector assembly;
CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the implement connector portion is symmetrical with respect
to a plane along the longitudinal axis for a reversible connection to the handle connector
portion, such that different types of domestic implements and/or different orientations
of the domestic implements can be used as the implement and such that the orientation
of the button of the handle relative to the implement can be changed.
[0039] This increases flexibility for the user regarding the orientation of the implement
with respect to the handle. In this way the user can for example choose the preferred
position of the release button with respect to the implement.
[0040] According to an advantageous embodiment, the domestic implement assembly further
comprises:
- a further handle, pivotably connected to the handle, and connected to the handle connector
portion of a further connector assembly; and
- a further implement connected to the implement connector portion of the further connector
assembly; and
such that different types of said implements and / or different orientations of said
implements can be used as the said implement and as said further implement.
[0041] This embodiment allows for new and advantageous combinations of different implements
in such an implement assembly.
[0042] According to still further embodiments, the domestic implement according to a third
aspect of the present invention could comprises any of the embodiments of the connector
assembly according to the first aspect of the present invention.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0043]
Fig. 1 schematically illustrates an embodiment of an implement connector portion of
an embodiment of the connector assembly according to the present invention comprising
Fig. 2 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a handle connector portion of the
embodiment of the connector assembly of Figure 1.
Fig. 3 schematically illustrates the embodiment of the connector assembly of Figures
1 and 2 in a disconnected state.
Fig. 4 schematically illustrates the embodiment of the connector assembly of Figure
3 in an insertion state.
Fig. 5 schematically illustrates the embodiment of the connector assembly of Figure
3 in a connected state.
Fig. 6 schematically illustrates the embodiment of the connector assembly of Figure
3 in a release state.
Fig. 7 schematically illustrates the transversal position of the locking catch of
the embodiment of the connector assembly of Figure 3 when proceeding from the disconnected
to the locked state.
Fig. 8 schematically illustrates an alternative embodiment of a handle connector portion
capable of cooperating with the implement connector portion of Figure 1.
Fig. 9 - 11 schematically illustrates alternative embodiments of a domestic implement
comprises a further handle and a further implement releasably connected by a connector
assembly.
Fig. 12 schematically illustrates a further embodiment of a domestic implement comprising
a connector assembly according to Figure 3, in the form of a cooking utensil.
Detailed Description of Embodiment(s)
[0044] According to an embodiment shown in Fig. 1, a domestic implement 12 comprises at
its end an implement connector portion 16. It should be clear that the implement connector
portion 16 is shown as a partial cross section in a plane along the longitudinal axis
L. The domestic implement 12, as for example shown in Figure 12, could for example
be a cooking utensil such as a barbeque cooking utensil manufactured from any suitable
material such as for example metal or a suitable heat resistant suitable plastic or
coating. As shown the implement connector portion 16 is distinct element that is fixed
to the domestic implement for example by gluing or any other suitable means. This
is beneficial when for example the implement is made of a first material such as metal
and the implement connector portion is made of another material such as for example
a suitable plastic which can be more easily and efficiently manufactured into the
desired shape. This also allows to manufacture the implement connector portion in
larger quantities as the same implement connector portion 16 can be fitted to a range
of different cooking implements 12. However, it is clear that according to alternative
embodiments, it is for example also possible to manufacture the domestic implement
12 and the implement connector portion 16 in one piece.
[0045] The implement connector portion 16 comprises an implement insertion part 50 extending
from an implement insertion end 52 towards the domestic implement 12 along a longitudinal
axis L. The implement insertion part 50 is configured such that at least a part matingly
corresponds with its outer circumference to the inner circumference of a cavity 20
of a handle 10 as will be explained in further detail below with reference to Fig.
2. The implement insertion part 50 comprises a locking recess 60 extending transversely
to the longitudinal axis L. Although the locking recess 60, as shown is embodied as
a hole 60 extending completely through the body of the implement insertion part 50
transversely to the longitudinal axis L along a transversal direction T, according
to alternative embodiments alternative recesses, which for example do not create a
hole but suitably extend transversely in the body of the implement insertion part
50. The implement insertion part 50 further comprises a front insertion section 70
arranged along the longitudinal axis L in between the implement insertion end 52 and
the locking recess 60. As shown, the front insertion section 70 extends over a distance
72 along the longitudinal axis L and comprises a plurality of transversal elements
74, each extending over a respective distance 76 along the longitudinal direction
L which is smaller than the distance 72 of the insertion section 70. Although the
embodiment of Figure 1, shows five such transversal elements 74, it is clear that
according to alternative embodiments a different number is possible, such as for example
2, 3, 4, 6, 7 or more. As shown the transversal elements 74 are formed as parallel
ribs that extend transvers to the plane formed by the longitudinal direction L and
the transversal direction T, however alternative embodiments are possible, as long
as each of the transversal elements 74 is configured such that it causes a reciprocating
movement 110 of a locking catch 32 of a handle connector portion 14 of a handle 10
transverse to the longitudinal axis L when passing the locking catch 32 before reaching
a connected state as will be explained in further detail below. As shown, the implement
connector portion 16 is symmetrical with respect to a plane along the longitudinal
axis L and transverse to the transversal direction T, and in this way allows for a
reversible connection to a handle connector portion 14 of a handle 10 as will be explained
in further detail below. However it is clear that alternative embodiments are possible,
for example in which only one side of the front insertion section 70 is suitable for
cooperating with a locking catch 32 of a handle connector portion and comprises transversal
elements 74.
[0046] Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of a handle connector portion 14 suitable for cooperating
with the embodiment of the implement connector portion of Fig. 1. As shown the handle
10 comprises at its end facing the domestic implement 12 a handle connector portion
14. The handle connector portion 14 comprises a cavity 20 extending from a cavity
entrance 22 into the handle 10 along the longitudinal axis L. The handle connector
portion 14 further comprises a resilient pawl 30 which comprises a free end 32. As
shown the resilient pawl 30 is formed by a means of a pawl at least partly made of
resilient material, such as for example a suitable plastic or metal or for example
a leaf spring, however according to alternative embodiments the resilient pawl 30
itself could made of rigid material and be suitably pivotally connected to the handle
10 and be made resilient by means of a suitable spring bias.
[0047] As shown the free end 32 comprises a locking catch 32 which extends in the cavity
20. At its opposing end the resilient pawl 30 comprises a fixed end 34 which is connected
to the handle 10. As shown the fixed end 34 is suitably connected by means of a screw,
however alternative connection means such as for example gluing, bolts, etc. are possible.
The handle connector portion 14 further comprises a release button 40 movably connected
to the handle 10 and configured to cooperate with the resilient pawl 30 such that
a transversal position 38 along the transversal direction T of the locking catch 32
is changed against a bias force of the resilient pawl 30 when pressing the release
button 40.
[0048] As shown, the locking catch 32 of the resilient pawl 30 comprises an abutment surface
320 configured to contact a locking recess 60 of the domestic implement connector
14 when connected as shown in Fig. 5. The resilient pawl 30 comprises a further abutment
surface 310 configured to contact the implement insertion end 52 of a domestic implement
12 when connected to the domestic implement 12. Although this further abutment surface
310 advantageously improves the connection, it is clear that alternative embodiments
of the resilient pawl 30 are possible without such a further abutment surface 310.
Additionally the matingly connected transverse surface 330 of the handle connector
portion 14 and transverse surface 340 of the implement connector portion 16 when in
the connected state, cooperate with the abutment surface 320 to further enhance the
reliability of the connection. An insertion direction I of a domestic implement 12
in the handle 10 is indicated by the direction I parallel to the longitudinal axis
L and oriented from the cavity entrance 22 of the handle 10 to the opposite side of
the cavity 20 of the handle 10. As shown, the locking catch 32 is positioned at a
longitudinal locking distance 36 along the longitudinal axis L from the cavity entrance
22 and is biased into a transversal position 38 along the transversal direction T
transverse to the longitudinal axis L.
[0049] Fig. 3 shows a connector assembly 1 comprising the implement connector portion 16
of Fig. 1 and the handle connector portion 14 of Fig. 2. As shown the connector assembly
1 is part of respectively a domestic implement 12 and a handle 10 and is configured
to releasably connect this domestic implement 12 to a handle 10 extending along a
longitudinal axis L. An insertion direction I of a domestic implement 12 in the handle
10 is indicated by the direction I parallel to the longitudinal axis L and oriented
from the cavity entrance 22 of the handle 10 to the opposite side of the cavity 20
of the handle 10. The handle connector portion 14 and the implement connector portion
16 are configured to cooperate such that in order to establish a connection, the implement
insertion part 50 is introduced by its implement insertion end 52 into the cavity
20 by means of forces applied along the longitudinal axis L thereby proceeding from
a disconnected state as shown in Fig. 3 to the connected state shown in Fig. 5. The
implement insertion part 50 extending from an implement insertion end 52 towards the
domestic implement 12 along the longitudinal axis L is configured such that at least
a part of its outer circumference matingly corresponds with to the inner circumference
of the cavity 20 of the handle 10 as shown. Fig. 3 depicts a disconnected state 100
in which the longitudinal distance 56 between the implement insertion end 52 and the
cavity entrance 22 is smaller than the longitudinal locking distance 36. The distances
56 and 36 are defined along the longitudinal axis L and oriented according to the
insertion direction 1. The origin O of the insertion direction I is defined at the
vertical of the cavity entrance 22 as clearly shown in Fig. 2. This means that the
value of the distance 36 is a positive value. In Fig. 3, the distance 56 is also a
positive. However, it should be clear that the value of the distance 56 are to be
considered a negative value when the domestic implement 12 is not yet inserted into
the cavity 20 of the handle 10 and thus positioned in at the side of the negative
values with respect to the origin of the insertion direction I in front of the cavity
entrance 22.
[0050] Fig. 4, shows the connector assembly 1 of Fig. 3 when the implement connector portion
16 was moved by means of a force along the longitudinal direction L further into the
cavity 20 along the insertion direction I thus arriving in an insertion state 102.
It is clear that in this insertion state 102, as will be explained in further detail
with respect to Fig. 7, the transversal elements 74 of the front insertion section
70 comprises 3 transversal elements 74 cause a reciprocating movement 110 of the locking
catch 32 transverse to the longitudinal axis L when this locking catch 32 is moved
past them along while proceeding along the insertion direction I before reaching the
connected state 104 as shown in Fig. 5. As shown, in the insertion state 102, the
longitudinal distance 56 between the implement insertion end 52 and the cavity entrance
22 is larger than the longitudinal locking distance 36, and the longitudinal distance
66 between the locking recess 60 and the cavity entrance 22 is smaller than the longitudinal
locking distance 36. The distances 66, 56 and 36 are defined along the longitudinal
axis L and oriented according to the insertion direction I, and as explained above,
the origin O of the insertion direction I is defined at the vertical of the cavity
entrance 22. It is clear that the locking catch 32 is movable along one or more of
the transversal elements 74 by means of a force along the longitudinal axis L exceeding
a predetermined threshold force when in the insertion state 102, without pressing
the release button 40. It is thus clear that when the user moves the locking catch
32 along the transversal elements 74 this generates a transversal reciprocating movement
of the locking catch 32 which generates a repetitive light clicking sound every time
the locking catch 32 proceeds from one transversal element 74 to the next. Additionally
it is clear that this insertion phase makes sure that the user exerts during establishment
of a connection a force along the longitudinal direction which is higher than the
predetermined threshold force, thereby guaranteeing a sufficiently high force along
this longitudinal direction when proceeding to the connected state for securely positioning
the locking catch 32 in the locking recess 60 in the subsequent connected state shown
in Fig. 5.
[0051] As shown in Fig. 5, when the user has pushed the implement connector portion 14 further
into the cavity 20 after the insertion state, the connected state 104 is reached,
in which the handle connector portion 14 and the implement connector portion 16 are
configured to cooperate such that the locking catch 32 is not releasable from the
locking recess 60 by means of a force along the longitudinal axis L, this means a
force exceeding the forces that are to be expected when manipulated by a user and
certainly exceeding the abovementioned threshold force. As shown, in this connected
state 104, the longitudinal distance 66 between a locking recess 60 and the cavity
entrance 22 is equal to the longitudinal locking distance 36. The distances 66, 56
and 36 are defined along the longitudinal axis L and oriented according to the insertion
direction I. As the connector assembly 1 ensures that it proceeds from the insertion
state to the connected state by means of a force exceeding a predetermined threshold
force irrespective of the establishing the connection, it is ascertained that the
locking catch 32 is securely inserted into the locking recess in a consistent way,
Additionally, as will be shown in Fig. 7 the movement along the transversal direction
of the locking catch 32 when proceeding from the insertion state to the locked state
will be larger than the reciprocating motion during the insertion state, thereby causing
a larger and different clicking sound then the light clicking sound during the insertion
state. The user is thus alerted and presented with a suitable reference clicking sound
during the insertion state for verifying the secure connection when presented with
the larger clicking sound when proceeding to the connected state.
[0052] Fig. 6 depicts how the connector assembly 1 forming the connection between the domestic
implement 12 and the handle 10 can be released from the connected state of Fig. 5
thereby proceeding to a released state 106. As shown the extraction proceeds from
a connected state 104 to a released state 106 in which the locking catch 32 is released
from the locking recess 60 by pressing the release button 40 and applying a force
in a direction against the bias force of the resilient pawl 30. Subsequently the implement
insertion part 50 can be extracted from the cavity 20 by means of forces applied along
the longitudinal axis L.
[0053] Fig. 7 schematically illustrates the transversal position 38 of the locking catch
32 of the embodiment of Fig. 3 during the different states illustrated in Figures
3-5. As shown and already explained above, the front insertion section 70 extends
over a distance 72 along the longitudinal axis L and comprises a plurality of transversal
elements 74, each extending over a respective distance 76 along the longitudinal axis
L which is smaller than the distance 72 of the insertion section 70. The top x-axis
of the graph represents the longitudinal distance 56 along the insertion direction
I between the implement insertion end 52 and the cavity entrance 22, with its origin
at the cavity entrance 22 as explained above. The bottom x-axis of the graph represents
the longitudinal distance 66 between the locking recess 60 and the cavity entrance
22 along the insertion direction I. The locking catch 32 is positioned at a longitudinal
locking distance 36 along the longitudinal axis L from the cavity entrance 22 and
is biased into a transversal resting position 38R along the transversal direction
T transverse to the longitudinal axis L. This transversal position 38 of the locking
catch 32 is plotted as y-axis of the graph. The origin of the graph is the origin
O of the insertion direction I defined at the vertical of the cavity entrance 22 of
the handle 10. In the disconnected state 100 around to the origin O, the locking catch
range 32 is biased into a transversal resting position 38R. In the insertion state
102, the transversal position 38 of the locking catch 32 is changed from the transversal
resting position 38R in a direction against the bias force of the resilient pawl 30
by the front insertion section 70. The beginning of the insertion state is characterized
by the fact that the longitudinal distance 56 is equal to the longitudinal locking
distance 36. The bias of the locking catch 32 reaches the bias 382 when a transversal
element 74 causes a reciprocating movement 110 of the locking catch 32 transverse
to the longitudinal axis L when passing the locking catch 32. The locking catch 32
and the locking recess 60 are configured such that the transversal locking movement
112 of the locking catch 32 transverse to the longitudinal axis L during the insertion
state 102 is larger than the reciprocating movement 110. In this case, the bias of
the locking catch 32 reaches the bias 381. In the insertion state 102, the longitudinal
distance 66 between the locking recess 60 and the cavity entrance 22 is smaller than
the longitudinal locking distance 36. In the connected state 104, the locking catch
is biased into a transversal locking position 38L, in which the locking catch 32 cannot
be released from the locking recess 60 by means of a force along the longitudinal
axis L. In the connected state 104, the longitudinal distance 56 is larger than the
longitudinal locking distance 36, and the longitudinal distance 66 is equal to the
longitudinal locking distance 36. By pressing the release button 40, the transversal
position of the locking catch 32 can be changed from a locking position 38L in a direction
against the bias force of the resilient pawl 30 after which the implement connector
portion 16 can be extracted in a released state and the locking catch again proceeds
to its biased transversal resting position 38R.
[0054] According to an alternative embodiment shown in Fig. 8, the handle connector portion
14 comprises a resilient pawl 30 with a plurality of abutment surfaces 374 configured
to contact transversal elements 74 of the front insertion section 70 of the embodiment
of Fig. 1 at their side towards the implement insertion end 52 and/or their opposing
side when in the connected state 104, thereby enabling a further increase in locking
force when in the connected state.
[0055] Figs. 9 - 11 show a further embodiment of a domestic implement which next to a handle
10, implement 12 and connector assembly 1 as explained above, comprises a further
handle 210 pivotably connected to the handle 10, and connected to the handle connector
portion 214 of the further connecter assembly 1. The distance between the handle 10
and the further handle 210 can be adapted when the two handles pivot around the pivot
290. The pivot 290 is the rotation centre of the pivot movement and the handle 10
and the further handle 210 pivot around the axis P, perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis L. The domestic implement 12 further comprises a further implement 12 connected
to the implement connector portion 216 of the further connector assembly 1. The implement
connector portion 16 of the domestic implement 212 is further symmetrical with respect
to a plane along the longitudinal axis L for a reversible connection to the handle
connector portions 14 and 214. The domestic implement 12 can be connected to the handle
connector portion 14 of the handle 10, or can be connected to the handle connector
portion 214 of the handle 210. The domestic implement 212 can be connected to the
handle connector portion 14 of the handle 10, or can be connected to the handle connector
portion 214 of the handle 210. An insertion direction I of a domestic implement 12
in the handle 10 is indicated by the direction I parallel to the longitudinal axis
L and oriented from the cavity entrance 22 of the handle 10 to the opposite side of
the cavity 20 of the handle 10. The origin O of the insertion direction I is defined
at the vertical of the cavity entrance 22. As shown in Figures 10 and 11 this enables
to use new and advantageous combinations of implements, especially when these can
be connected in different orientations to the handle. The domestic implements 12 and
212 can be identical, or can be different as depicted in Fig. 10 and 11. As shown
this is especially useful for a cooking utensil, for example a tool for barbeque or
for cooking.
[0056] Fig 12 schematically shows an embodiment of a domestic implement 12 comprising a
connector assembly 1 according to the embodiment of Figure 3.
[0057] It is clear, that according to alternative embodiments, a releasable connection of
a domestic implement 12 to a handle 10 as depicted in Figs 9-12 might be realized
by a connector assembly 1 according to the embodiment of Figure 3, wherein the front
insertion section 70 of the implement insertion part 50 of the domestic implement
12 extends over a distance 72 along the longitudinal axis L and which does not comprise
a plurality of transversal elements 74. When, as shown in Figs 9-12, the implement
connector portion 16 is symmetrical with respect to a plane along the longitudinal
axis L and transverse to the transversal direction T, and in this way allows for a
reversible connection to a handle connector portion 14 of a handle 10, still a new
and advantageous domestic implement assembly is realised. This allows a user of the
domestic implement 12 comprising such a connector assembly 1 to secure the domestic
implement 12 to a handle 10 at his convenience in one position, or to rotate the domestic
implement 12, for example by 180° around the longitudinal axis, before securing it
to the handle 10. This makes the use of the domestic implement 12 user friendly as
the user can choose the preferred position of the release button relative to the orientation
of the domestic implement 12. When connected a position, such as for example shown
in Fig. 12 the release button 40 is above a horizontal plane along the longitudinal
axis L. Thus making the release button more easily accessible for the thumb of a user.
It is clear that alternatively the implement 12, can be reconnected to the handle
10 after a 180° rotation around the longitudinal axis L, in which the release button
40 will be positioned under this horizontal plane along the longitudinal axis L, Thus
making the release button more easily accessible for the fingers of a user when holding
the handle 10.
[0058] It is clear that further alternative embodiments are possible as long as the implement
connector portion 16 is symmetrical with respect to a plane along the longitudinal
axis L for a reversible connection to the handle connector portion 14, such that different
types of domestic implements and/or different orientations of the domestic implements
can be used as the implement 2 and such that the orientation of the button 40 of the
handle 10 relative to the implement 12 can be changed.
[0059] This is especially advantageous for embodiments of the domestic implement assembly
such as for example shown in Figs 10 and 11 in which the domestic implement assembly
further comprises a further handle 210, pivotably connected to the handle 10, and
connected to the handle connector portion 214 of a further connector assembly 1; and
a further implement 212 connected to the implement connector portion 216 of the further
connector assembly 1. As shown the implement 12 in Fig. 10 is embodied as a fork 12
of a cooking implement and combined with another fork 212 as further implement 212.
As shown, the pivotably connected handles 10, 210 can be releasably connected to the
same fork 12 as implement 12, but in a different orientation, combined with a different
further implement 212 in the form of a spatula 212 thus advantageously increasing
flexibility and user friendliness. It is clear that alternative embodiments are possible,
specifically with respect to the types of implements and different combinations of
implements 12, 212, as long as the pivotably connected handle 10 and further handle
210 in general allow the use of different types of said implements and/or different
orientations of said implements.
[0060] Although the present invention has been illustrated by reference to specific embodiments,
it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited
to the details of the foregoing illustrative embodiments, and that the present invention
may be embodied with various changes and modifications without departing from the
scope thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects
as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by
the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes which
come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended
to be embraced therein. In other words, it is contemplated to cover any and all modifications,
variations or equivalents that fall within the scope of the basic underlying principles
and whose essential attributes are claimed in this patent application. It will furthermore
be understood by the reader of this patent application that the words "comprising"
or "comprise" do not exclude other elements or steps, that the words "a" or "an" do
not exclude a plurality, and that a single element, such as a computer system, a processor,
or another integrated unit may fulfil the functions of several means recited in the
claims. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the respective
claims concerned. The terms "first", "second", third", "a", "b", "c", and the like,
when used in the description or in the claims are introduced to distinguish between
similar elements or steps and are not necessarily describing a sequential or chronological
order. Similarly, the terms "top", "bottom", "over", "under", and the like are introduced
for descriptive purposes and not necessarily to denote relative positions. It is to
be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances
and embodiments of the invention are capable of operating according to the present
invention in other sequences, or in orientations different from the one(s) described
or illustrated above.
1. A connector assembly (1) configured to releasably connect a domestic implement (12)
to a handle (10) extending along a longitudinal axis (L), said connector assembly
(1) comprising:
- at the end of the handle (10), a handle connector portion (14) comprising:
- a cavity (20) extending from a cavity entrance (22) into the handle (10) along the
longitudinal axis (L);
- a resilient pawl (30) which comprises a free end comprising a locking catch (32)
which extends in the cavity (20); and a fixed end (34) which is connected to the handle
(10);
- a release button (40) movably connected to the handle (10) and configured to cooperate
with the resilient pawl (30) such that the transversal position (38) of the locking
catch (32) is changed against the bias force of the resilient pawl (30) when pressing
the release button (40); and
- at the end of the implement (12), an implement connector portion (16) comprising
an implement insertion part (50) extending from an implement insertion end (52) towards
the implement (12) along the longitudinal axis (L), and configured such that at least
a part matingly corresponds with its outer circumference to the inner circumference
of the cavity (20) when in a connected state (104), the implement insertion part (50)
comprising;
- a locking recess (60) extending transversely to the longitudinal axis (L);
- a front insertion section (70) arranged along the longitudinal axis (L) in between
the implement insertion end (52) and the locking recess (60); and
wherein the handle connector portion (14) and the implement connector portion (16)
are configured to cooperate such that in the connected state (104) the locking catch
(32) is not releasable from the locking recess (60) by means of a force along the
longitudinal axis (L); and is releasable from the locking recess (60) by pressing
the release button (40),
CHARACTERISED IN THAT
said front insertion section (70) extends over a distance (72) along the longitudinal
axis (L) and comprises one or more transversal elements (74), each extending over
a distance (76) along the longitudinal axis (L) which is smaller than the distance
(72) of the insertion section (70) and each configured such that it causes a reciprocating
movement (110) of the locking catch (32) transverse to the longitudinal axis (L) when
passing said locking catch (32) before reaching the connected state (104).
2. A connector assembly according to claim 1, characterised in that the locking catch (32) and the locking recess (60) are configured such that the transversal
locking movement (112) of said locking catch (32) transverse to the longitudinal axis
(L) when proceeding to the locked state (104) is larger than said reciprocating movement
(110).
3. A connector assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2,
characterised in that the locking catch (32) is positioned at a longitudinal locking distance (36) along
the longitudinal axis (L) from the cavity entrance (22) and biased into a transversal
position (38) along a transversal direction (T) transverse to the longitudinal axis
(L), and
wherein the handle connector portion (14) and the implement connector portion (16)
are configured to cooperate such that:
- in order to establish a connection, the implement insertion part (50) is introduced
by its implement insertion end (52) into the cavity (20) by means of forces applied
along the longitudinal axis (L) thereby proceeding from:
- a disconnected state (100) in which the longitudinal distance (56) between the implement
insertion end (52) and the cavity entrance (22) is smaller than the longitudinal locking
distance (36); and in which of the locking catch (32) is biased into a transversal
resting position (38R);
- to an insertion state (102) in which the longitudinal distance (56) between the
implement insertion end (52) and the cavity entrance (22) is larger than the longitudinal
locking distance (36), and the longitudinal distance (66) between the locking recess
(60) and the cavity entrance (22) is smaller than the longitudinal locking distance
(36); and in which the transversal position (38) of the locking catch (32) is changed
from the transversal resting position (38R) in a direction against the bias force
of the resilient pawl (30) by the front insertion section (70);
- to a connected state (104) in which the longitudinal distance (66) between the locking
recess (60) and the cavity entrance (22) is equal to the longitudinal locking distance
(36); and in which the locking catch (32) is biased into a transversal locking position
(38L), in which the locking catch (32) cannot be released from the locking recess
(60) by means of a force along the longitudinal axis (L); and
- in order to release the connection the implement insertion part (50) is extracted
from the cavity (20) by means of forces applied along the longitudinal axis (L) after
proceeding from.
- the connected state (104);
- to a released state (106) in which the locking catch (32) is released from the locking
recess (60) by changing the transversal position (38) of the locking catch (32) from
the transversal locking position (38L) in a direction against the bias force of the
resilient pawl (30) by pressing the release button (40).
4. A connector assembly according to claim 3, characterised in that the locking catch (32) and the transversal elements (74) are configured such that
the locking catch (32) is movable along the one or more transversal elements (74)
by means of a force along the longitudinal direction (L) exceeding a predetermined
threshold force when in the insertion state (102), without pressing the release button
(40).
5. A connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the front insertion section (70) comprises a plurality of transversal elements (74)
at different positions along the longitudinal direction (L).
6. A connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the locking catch (32) of the resilient pawl (30) comprises an abutment surface (320)
configured to contact the locking recess (60) when in the connected state (104).
7. A connector assembly according to claim 6, characterised in that the resilient pawl (30) comprises a further abutment surface (310) configured to
contact the implement insertion end (52) when in the connected state (104).
8. A connector assembly according to claim 5 or 6, characterised in that the resilient pawl (30) comprises at least one still further abutment surface (374)
configured to contact the transversal elements (74) at their side towards the implement
insertion end (52) and / or their opposing side when in the connected state (104).
9. A connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the implement connector portion (16) is symmetrical with respect to a plane along
the longitudinal axis (L) for a reversible connection to the handle connector portion
(14).
10. A connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims,
characterised in that the resilient pawl (30) is one or more of the following:
- a spring biased pawl;
- a pawl at least partly formed from resilient material or a leaf spring.
11. A domestic implement assembly comprising a connector assembly according to any of
the preceding claims,
characterised in that the domestic implement assembly further comprises:
- a handle (10) connected to the handle connector portion (14) of the connector assembly
(1); and
- an implement (12) connected to the implement connector portion (16) of the connector
assembly (1).
12. A domestic implement assembly according to claim 11,
characterised in that the domestic implement further comprises:
- a further handle (210), pivotably connected to the handle (10), and connected to
the handle connector portion (214) of the further connector assembly (1) according
to any of the claims 1 to 10; and
- a further implement (212) connected to the implement connector portion (216) of
the further connector assembly (1).
13. A domestic implement assembly according to claim 11 or 12, characterised in that the domestic implement is a cooking utensil, for example a barbeque cooking utensil.
14. A domestic implement assembly comprising:
- a connector assembly (1) configured to releasably connect an implement (12) to a
handle (10) extending along a longitudinal axis (L), said connector assembly (1) comprising:
- at the end of the handle (10), a handle connector portion (14) comprising:
- a cavity (20) extending from a cavity entrance (22) into the handle (10) along the
longitudinal axis (L);
- a resilient pawl (30) which comprises a free end comprising a locking catch (32)
which extends in the cavity (20); and a fixed end (34) which is connected to the handle
(10);
- a release button (40) movably connected to the handle (10) and configured to cooperate
with the resilient pawl (30) such that the transversal position (38) of the locking
catch (32) is changed against the bias force of the resilient pawl (30) when pressing
the release button (40); and
- at the end of the implement (12), an implement connector portion (16) comprising
an implement insertion part (50) extending from an implement insertion end (52) towards
the implement (12) along the longitudinal axis (L), and configured such that at least
a part matingly corresponds with its outer circumference to the inner circumference
of the cavity (20) when in a connected state (104), the implement insertion part (50)
comprising;
- a locking recess (60) extending transversely to the longitudinal axis (L);
- a front insertion section (70) arranged along the longitudinal axis (L) in between
the implement insertion end (52) and the locking recess (60); and
wherein the handle connector portion (14) and the implement connector portion (16)
are configured to cooperate such that in the connected state (104) the locking catch
(32) is not releasable from the locking recess (60) by means of a force along the
longitudinal axis (L); and is releasable from the locking recess (60) by pressing
the release button (40),
- a handle (10) connected to the handle connector portion (14) of the connector assembly
(1); and
- an implement (12) connected to the implement connector portion (16) of the connector
assembly (1)
CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the implement connector portion (16) is symmetrical with respect to a plane along
the longitudinal axis (L) for a reversible connection to the handle connector portion
(14), such that different types of domestic implements and/or different orientations
of the domestic implements can be used as the implement (12) and such that the orientation
of the button (40) of the handle (10) relative to the implement (12) can be changed.
15. A domestic implement assembly according to claim 14,
characterized in that the domestic implement assembly further comprises:
- a further handle (210), pivotably connected to the handle (10), and connected to
the handle connector portion (214) of a further connector assembly (1); and
- a further implement (212) connected to the implement connector portion (216) of
the further connector assembly (1); and
such that different types of said implements and/or different orientations of said
implements can be used as said implement (12) and as said further implement (212).