WO2018104743A2

WO2018104743A2 - Communication assembly and component of a kitchen appliance

Info

Publication number: WO2018104743A2
Application number: PCT/GB2017/053689
Authority: WO
Inventors: David FARAM; Nigel Richardson; Andrew Palmer; Kevin Snoad; Mark Seidler; David Sherry
Original assignee: Kenwood Limited
Priority date: 2016-12-07
Filing date: 2017-12-07
Publication date: 2018-06-14
Also published as: WO2018104743A3; GB2557339A; GB2557339B; GB201620832D0

Abstract

Communication Assembly and Component of a Kitchen Appliance A communication assembly (5000) for use with a component (3000), optionally of a kitchen appliance (1000), the communication assembly comprising: an antenna (5040), and an electronic circuit (5050) coupled to the antenna, whereby the communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal to an external reader (1080); and an annular channel (5010) comprising at least one formation (5012) for attachment to the component; wherein the antenna and the electronic circuit are disposed in the annular channel.

Description

COMMUNICATION ASSEMBLY AND COMPONENT OF A KITCHEN APPLIANCE

The present invention relates to a communication assembly, and a component of a kitchen appliance.

Multi-functional kitchen appliances can be arranged to drive a variety of driveable attachments, which may be interchanged by a user in order that different processing tasks can be performed. It is desirable that the kitchen appliance is provided with a processor which is capable of recognising the attachment that is currently in use in order for the kitchen appliance to drive the attachment effectively and safely; to this end identifying information may be wirelessly transmitted from a transmitter provided in the attachment to a receiver provided in the kitchen appliance. According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a communication assembly for use with a component, optionally of a kitchen appliance, the communication assembly comprising: an antenna, and an electronic circuit coupled to the antenna, whereby the communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal to an external reader; and an annular channel or housing comprising at least one formation for attachment to the component; wherein the antenna and the electronic circuit are disposed in the annular channel.

By disposing an antenna and an electronic circuit in an annular channel comprising at least one formation for attachment to a component of a kitchen appliance, a robust communication assembly can be provided, which securely attaches to a component.

The component may be a tool, which may be driven by the kitchen appliance. Preferably, the tool is a rotatable tool for use with a bottom-driven kitchen appliance. More preferably, the tool is a rotatable tool for use in a bowl attachment for a kitchen appliance. For example, the component or tool may be associated with a drive shaft, and the assembly may be mounted so as to be rotatable about the drive shaft or rotation axis of the tool. The antenna may be arranged around the annular channel or housing.

The annular channel comprises a plurality of annular walls, preferably where at least one such annular wall has a height that is at least a quarter and less than quadruple a height of at least one other such annular wall. More preferably, at least one such annular wall has a height that is at least half and less than double a height of at least one other such annular wall. Yet more preferably, at least one such annular wall has a height that is at least three quarters and less than one and a half times height of at least one other such annular wall. Most preferably, the plurality of annular walls has the same height.

Providing a plurality of annular walls having similar or the same heights may provide improved support for the components provided in the annular channel, improving robustness.

Preferably, the plurality of annular walls has a height that is at least quarter and less than quadruple the width of the annular channel. More preferably, the plurality of annular walls has a height that is at least half and less than double a width of the annular channel. Yet more preferably, the plurality of annular walls has a height that is at least three quarters and less than one and a half times the width of the annular channel. Most preferably, the plurality of annular walls has a height that is the same as a width of the annular channel. Preferably, the width of the annular channel refers to the width at the bottom of the annular channel.

Providing a plurality of annular walls having similar or the same heights as the width of the annular channel may provide improved support for the components provided in the annular channel, improving robustness.

At least one formation may be provided on an exterior surface of the annular channel, where said exterior surface may face inwardly. Providing at least one formation on an exterior surface leads to at least one formation being provided away from the antenna and the electronic circuit, which may improve robustness and communication performance. Providing said at least one formation on an inwardly facing exterior surface may reduce the overall volume of any parts of the component being arranged to attach to the communication assembly.

The at least one such formation may be a wall, which may be shaped for a tapered fit with a tool. The wall may be provided with a taper, for example where the taper is formed as an annular shoulder on the wall. Providing the at least one formation as a wall minimises the number of parts of the annular channel, which may improve robustness of the fit between the communication assembly and the component. The use of a tapered fit may provide a more robust attachment between the communication assembly and the component.

The at least one formation may be arranged to obstruct physically a fit between the communication assembly and a tool which is incompatible with the communication assembly, optionally wherein the tool comprises a corresponding formation (or other physical features) which interferes with the at least one formation of the communication assembly. The tool for which the fit with the communication assembly is obstructed may be incompatible with the communication assembly for a particular joining process (i.e. said incomptibly is incompatibility for a particular joining). The at least one formation does not physically obstruct the fit between the communication assembly and a tool which is compatible with the communication assembly. Accordingly, a set of tools and a set of communication assemblies may be provided, wherein only respective subsets of the tools and communication assemblies are compatible. Compatible tools and communication assemblies are provided with co-operable formations such that they can fit together, wherein said formations are arranged such that incompatible tools and communication assemblies cannot be fitted together.

Preferably, the antenna and the electronic circuit are encapsulated in the annular channel, typically by use of a potting compound. Encapsulating the antenna and the electronic circuit may improve robustness, while the use of a potting compound may minimise the effect of encapsulation on transmission quality.

Preferably, the annular channel is formed from a material suitable for welding, such as ultrasonic welding. Providing a weldable material allows for a robust welded join to be formed between the communication assembly and a component. Ultrasonic welding allows for a weld to be formed without connecting components, solder, or adhesive, which may improve ease and reliability of manufacture along with robustness. At least one formation may be a flange, which may extend outwardly from the annular channel. Providing a flange may allow for the communication assembly to be supported at a location away from the annular channel, which may improve the attachment to a component as well as making the communication assembly suitable for use with a wider variety of components.

Optionally, the communication assembly may further comprise a frame arranged in the annular channel for supporting the electronic circuit. Providing a frame may assist in retaining the electronic circuit in the annular channel. Preferably, the electronic circuit is mounted in the annular channel, typically on an annular wall. Optionally, the electronic circuit may be mounted on an outer annular wall, which may provide improved robustness through resistance to out- of-balance forces. Preferably, the antenna is also mounted in the annular channel, typically on a surface of the annular channel that joins the annular walls (i.e. the antenna is preferably mounted at the deepest part of the annular channel). Mounting the antenna and/or the electronic circuit in the annular channel may improve the robustness of the communication assembly.

Preferably, the electronic circuit and the antenna are disposed in the annular channel such that at least a part of the electronic circuit is not attached to the antenna.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a communication assembly for use with a component, optionally of a kitchen appliance, the communication assembly comprising: an antenna, and an electronic circuit coupled to the antenna, whereby the communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal to an external reader; and an annular channel; wherein the antenna and the electronic circuit are disposed in the annular channel such that at least a part of the electronic circuit is not attached to the antenna.

Disposing the electronic circuit and the antenna such that at least a part of the electronic circuit is not attached to the antenna may improve communication performance by reducing interference caused by the position of the electronic circuit relative to the antenna.

Preferably, the electronic circuit is not attached to the antenna. At least a part of the electronic circuit may be attached to another member, preferably where the other member is the annular channel. Providing a detached electronic circuit may further reduce interference.

More preferably, the electronic circuit has a central axis, where the electronic circuit is spaced apart from the antenna in a direction perpendicular to the central axis. Spacing the electronic circuit from the antenna may further reduce interference. The opening of the annular channel preferably faces axially.

The electronic circuit is preferably spaced apart from the antenna by a distance of between 0.2 and 10 mm, more preferably between 0.4 and 2 mm, and yet more preferably between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.

The antenna may be arranged off-centre within the annular channel so as to define a spacing between the antenna and the electronic circuit. Arranging the antenna off-centre to space apart the electronic circuit and the antenna as much as possible within the annular channel may reduce interference as much as is possible given the limited space available in the annular channel.

Preferably, the electronic circuit and antenna are mounted in the annular channel, where the electronic circuit is mounted at an angle of between 45° and 135° relative to the antenna. More preferably, the electronic circuit is mounted perpendicularly relative to the antenna. Mounting the electronic circuit at an angle relative to the antenna may increase the distance between these components, thereby reducing interference. The antenna may be mounted in the annular channel so as to face out of the opening of the annular channel. This arrangement ensures that an opening is provided above the antenna, which reduces the number of components in a transmission path of the antenna, hence improving communication performance. The opening may also improve ease of manufacture by allowing potting to be inserted.

The communication assembly may be adapted to be powered by an external reader, which may negate the need to provide a separate power supply as a component of the communication assembly.

The communication assembly may be arranged to communicate with further communication assemblies. This may allow information to be transmitted between communication assemblies, which may improve the overall range of any communication system incorporating several communication assemblies.

Optionally, the antenna may have a circularly annular shape. Alternatively, the antenna may have an elliptical annular shape. The use of a circularly annular shape may improve communication performance, while the use of an elliptical annular shape may allow a varying signal to be produced as the communication assembly is rotated.

Optionally, the communication assembly may further comprise one or more counterweights arranged in the annular channel for balancing the communication assembly. The one or more counterweights may be formed as part of the annular channel. The counterweights may compensate for out-of-balance forces, improving the robustness and reliability of the communication assembly.

Optionally, the communication assembly is for use with a rotatable tool of a kitchen appliance, for example wherein the communication assembly fits within the rotatable tool.

Optionally, the communication assembly may have a radiotransmissive casing, which may be arranged to seal around the communication assembly so as to be waterproof. This may assist in protecting the communication assembly. Optionally, the housing is the component.

Preferably, the communication assembly has an operating range in air of less than one of: 30 cm, 20 cm, and 10 cm. Providing a relatively short range communication assembly may reduce power requirements and reduce the likelihood of accidental transmission to an external range when the component is not in an operating position. Preferably, the communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal having a frequency of between 30 kHz and 300 kHz, more preferably between 120 kHz and 150 kHz, and yet more preferably 125 kHz. Providing a relatively low frequency communication assembly may reduce the range of the communication assembly to reduce the likelihood of accidental transmission to an external reader, and also may afford improved penetration of non-metal materials.

Preferably, the communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal relating to an identity of a component with which the communication assembly is used to an external reader. The communication assembly may thereby be used as an RFID tag. The communication assembly may also or alternatively transmit other information related to the tool, said information comprising at least one of: tool identity, maximum tool speed, maximum tool torque, an icon representing the tool, and recipe data for use with the tool.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a component, optionally of a kitchen appliance, the component comprising: a communication assembly; and at least one radiopaque part; wherein said communication assembly is spaced apart from said radiopaque part.

Spacing the communication assembly apart from radiopaque parts may mitigate interference and/or detuning effects on the communication assembly.

Preferably, the communication assembly is spaced apart from radiopaque parts by a minimum distance of one of: 1 mm, 3 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, and 30 mm. For smaller and/or less powerful communication assemblies (such as RFID tags), a minimum separation distance of 1 mm, 3 mm, or 5 mm may assist in avoiding significant interference and/or detuning effects. For larger and/or more powerful communication assemblies (such as an RFID reader), a minimum separation distance of 10 mm, 20 mm, or 30 mm may be required to achieve the same effect. The communication assembly may be annular in shape, in which case the spacing of a communication assembly from a radiopaque part provided in a centre of said annular shape is preferably between 5 mm and 20 mm, and more preferably the spacing is 10 mm.

The radiopaque part may extend partially around the communication assembly thereby to reduce induction of current in the radiopaque part. Accordingly, the radiopaque part is generally a part of the component which is circular or substantially circular at least in cross section, having a break or air gap in the circumference. For example, a slot may be formed through the radiopaque component. This may reduce interference due to current being induced in the radiopaque part. The radiopaque part may act as a waveguide for the communication assembly. Such a part may be encased in the component or tool, for example being overmoulded with plastic,

The component may further comprise a radiotransmissive formation that is interposed between the communication assembly and the at least one radiopaque part. Optionally, an air gap may also be provided between the communication assembly and the at least one radiopaque part or between the radiotransmissive formation and the at least one radiopaque part. Providing a radiotransmissive formation may allow the communication assembly to be supported such that it is spaced away from the at least one radiopaque part. The component may comprise a housing for receiving a drive shaft, where the communication assembly is spaced along a central axis of the housing. The housing may be arranged to removably receive a drive shaft, or alternatively may be provided with a drive shaft. The housing may be provided at a base part of the component. The housing may comprise at least one radiopaque part for engaging with the drive shaft. This arrangement may allow the communication assembly to transmit along the central axis while reducing interference and/or detuning caused by the housing and/or drive shaft. The communication assembly may surround the central axis of the housing. Preferably, the communication assembly is spaced apart from the housing. Optionally, the component may comprise a housing for receiving a drive shaft, where the communication assembly is spaced radially apart from a central axis of the housing. Spacing the communication assembly from the housing may allow the communication assembly to transmit in the direction of the drive shaft while reducing interference and/or detuning.

Preferably, the communication assembly is disposed inside the component. According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a component, optionally of a kitchen appliance, the component comprising an internally disposed communication assembly.

Providing an internal communication assembly may prevent damage to the communication assembly and/or improve the robustness of the communication assembly.

The communication assembly is typically mounted in the component, for example with a weld (preferably, an ultrasonic weld) or an adhesive. Mounting the communication assembly in the component may improve the robustness of the communication assembly.

The communication assembly may be disposed within a sealed chamber of the component, which may form a waterproof and/or protective casing for the communication assembly. The sealed chamber may optionally be radiotransmissive. Providing a sealed chamber may allow for a component including a communication assembly to be used safely with food.

The component may include a cap for retaining the communication assembly within the attachment, which may improve ease of manufacture.

Optionally, the component is a cutting disc for a food processor. In such a case, the cutting disc preferably comprises a radiopaque disc body, and the communication assembly is spaced apart from a surface of the disc body by the housing. Spacing the communication assembly from the disc body using the housing may assist in locating the communication assembly in range of an external reader when the cutting disc is located in situ. Where the component is a cutting disc, the component preferably further comprises a further communication assembly which is spaced apart from a further surface of the disc body by the housing, such that the disc body is interposed between the communication assembly and the further communication assembly. This arrangement may allow different communication assemblies to be used on different sides of a reversible cutting disc, which may allow either of the communication assemblies to transmit to an eternal reader with reduced interference. This may in turn allow different blades provided on the different sides to be driven differently. Optionally, the component is one of: a tool for a kitchen appliance (preferably where the tool is rotatable), a bowl for a kitchen appliance, a blender cup for a kitchen appliance, a weighing tray for use with a kitchen appliance, and a citrus juicer for use with a kitchen appliance. Where the component is a citrus juicer, the citrus juicer preferably comprises a removable bin portion for receiving solid waste.

Preferably, the or each communication assembly comprises an antenna and an electronic circuit, wherein the or each communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal. Preferably, the or each communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal to an external reader, and more preferably the or each communication assembly is a communication assembly as previously described herein.

Optionally, the component is a base of a kitchen appliance. In such a case, the communication assembly preferably comprises an antenna and an electronic circuit, and the communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal. More preferably, the communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal to interrogate an external communication assembly, which may a communication assembly as previously described herein.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a component, optionally of a kitchen appliance, said component having a radiotransmissive window.

Providing a radiotransmissive window may allow transmission through a normally radiopaque component.

The radiotransmissive window may comprise a radiotransmissive material. Forming the window from a radiotransmissive material (rather than, for example, an air gap) may allow transmission through a solid component.

The component may comprise an exterior casing, where the radiotransmissive window extends through the casing. The casing may be metallic.

For robustness, the radiotransmissive window is preferably attached to the casing by being formed around the casing.

Preferably, the radiotransmissive window comprises a housing for receiving a drive shaft. The housing may be wholly radiotransmissive, or may comprise radiopaque parts (such as teeth for engaging with the drive shaft). The housing is arranged to seal with the drive shaft in such a way as to leave the drive shaft free to rotate. Providing a housing in the radiotransmissive window may allow the radiotransmissive window to align with a corresponding radiotransmissive window on a further component, where the corresponding radiotransmissive window is provided around a drive shaft and/or a housing for receiving a drive shaft.

The radiotransmissive window may be circular. In this case, the radiotransmissive window preferably has a diameter of between 10 mm and 200 mm, more preferably between 100 mm and 150 mm, and yet more preferably between 130 mm and 140 mm. Providing a circular radiotransmissive window may maximise the area of the component through which a communication assembly provided on one side of the radiotransmissive window can transmit for a given size of radiotransmissive window.

For food safety, the radiotransmissive window may comprise a plastics material.

Optionally, the plastics material may be a high temperature plastics material. In such a case, the high temperature plastics material preferably has a glass transition temperature of at least 100 °C, more preferably a glass transition temperature of at least 150 °C, and yet more preferably a glass transition temperature of at least 170 °C. Using a high temperature plastics material may allow the component containing the radiotransmissive window to be used in cooking applications.

Optionally, the radiotransmissive window may comprise a transparent material, which may allow a user to view food as it is being processed or otherwise worked by the component and/or kitchen appliance.

Optionally, the component is a bowl for a kitchen appliance. In such a case, the radiotransmissive window may be provided in a base part of the bowl. The radiotransmissive window may comprise a raised section protruding into the bowl, and the housing is provided through the raised section. Providing the radiotransmissive window in a base part of the bowl may reduce the likelihood of the radiotransmissive window being damaged by impacts, which are more likely to occur to the side of the bowl. Alternatively the bowl may comprise a lid, and the radiotransmissive window may be provided in the lid.

The component may further comprise a rim extending away from the bowl, wherein the rim surrounds the radiotransmissive window. The rim may assist in providing further protection for the radiotransmissive window.

For additional functionality, the component may further comprise a formation for enabling the component to cooperate with further components of a kitchen appliance.

The component may optionally further comprise a communication assembly being arranged to communicate through the radiotransmissive window. Preferably, the radiotransmissive window is radiotransmissive at least to those RF signals falling within a frequency range used by the communication assembly. Preferably, the radiotransmissive window is also radiotransmissive to RF signals falling outside of the frequency range used by the communication assembly. Providing a communication assembly may allow the component to communicate with other components.

The communication assembly may be arranged internally to the component. Providing an internal communication assembly may reduce the likelihood of the communication assembly being damaged in use. Preferably, the communication assembly comprises an antenna and an electronic circuit, and the communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal.

Optionally, the component is a base of a kitchen appliance. The base may be the base of a food processor, stand mixer, or hand blender, for example. In such a case, the antenna is preferably mounted on the radiotransmissive window, which may improve communication performance. The antenna may be configurable for use as a component of the communication assembly or as an induction heater, allowing an induction heater to be incorporated into the component. Preferably, the communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal to interrogate an external communication assembly, where the external communication assembly may be a communication assembly as previously described herein.

The component may further comprise a motor for driving a further component, which may be driven in accordance with information obtained via interrogation of an external communication assembly. The obtained information preferably relates to an identity of the further component. The component may be arranged to identify the further component. The component may be arranged to identify a single further component at a time, or alternatively may be arranged to identify multiple components at a time. The component may be driven in accordance with one or more parameters, which may relate to maximum tool speed and/or torque.

For safety, the component is preferably provided with an interlock system for the motor, the interlock system comprising a mechanical interlock and an electrical interlock. The mechanical interlock may comprise a mechanical switch which is depressed when a further component is engaged with the component. The electrical interlock may be activated based on information obtained via interrogation of an external communication assembly.

To avoid interference, the communication assembly may be adapted so as to not operate when the motor is operated.

Optionally, the component is a tool for a food processor. Preferably, the tool is a rotatable tool.

Preferably, the communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal to an external reader. Preferably, the communication assembly is a communication assembly as previously described herein.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a component, optionally of a kitchen appliance, the component comprising a plurality of communication assemblies. Providing a component comprising a plurality of communication assemblies may allow each of the communication assemblies to transmit information relating to different aspects of the component and/or the component's surroundings.

The communication assemblies may be arranged to communicate with each other. This may allow communication assemblies located out of range of an external reader to communicate information back to the external reader.

At least one of the communication assemblies may be arranged to be powered by at least one other communication assembly. This may reduce or eliminate the need to provide separate power supplies for each communication assembly.

The component may comprise a plurality of detachable parts, and each part may be provided with a communication assembly. The component may comprise a shaft, and the parts may be arranged along a length of the shaft. Providing each detachable part with a communication assembly may allow each part to be identified by a base, allowing the component to be driven according to the different requirements for each part. At least one of the communication assemblies may be arranged to be in communication with at least one sensor. This may allow information from different sensors to be transmitted back to a base. At least one of the at least one sensors may be integral to the component. Where a plurality of sensors is provided, each sensor may be spaced along the component so as to receive information related to different locations. The sensors may be arranged to detect one or more of: temperature, liquid level, light, and orientation.

Optionally, at least one of the communication assemblies may be arranged to transmit power to one or more of the sensors, and/or to a light. Powering sensors and/or lights using a communication assembly may eliminate the need to provide a separate power supply for the sensors and/or lights.

Optionally, the component is a rotatable tool for a food processor. Preferably, the communication assembly comprises an antenna and an electronic circuit, and the communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal. Preferably, the communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal to an external reader. Preferably, the communication assembly is a communication assembly as previously described herein. According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a tool for a bowl of a kitchen appliance, comprising one, some, or all of the following features:

• a shaft

• the shaft is arranged to extend over at least a major portion of the height of a bowl for a kitchen appliance • one or more formations arranged to provide a food processing function

• the formations extend longitudinally along at least a major portion of the shaft

• alternatively or additionally the formations extend between two or more junctions on the tool, or alternatively each formation extend from respective junctions towards the tool, so as to define a gap between the tool and the formations

• the formations may be formed as ridges, ribs, vanes (optionally having a pointed profile), or hoops

• the formations may be removable

• the formations may be provided symmetrically about the tool and/or about the axis of the shaft, if provided

• the formations may be attached to a flank of the shaft, if provided, and/or a base portion of the tool

• a metal chassis about which plastic parts are overmoulded

• the metal chassis may include a slot or gap to reduce induced current

• the tool may be provided with a radiotransmissive window, as previously described

• the radiotransmissive window may extend through a radiopaque chassis

• the one or more formations may be arranged to provide a kneading, beating, or mixing function upon rotation of the tool.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a kitchen appliance comprising a base comprising processing components; a bowl being engageable with the base, at least a base of the bowl being radiopaque; a tool comprising a communication assembly, for example as defined above (i.e. an RFID tag), the tool being engageable with the base (via the bowl); an at least partially radiotransmissive lid comprising a further communication assembly (i.e. an RFID reader); wherein the further communication assembly in the lid is arranged to communicate with the processing components thereby to communicate information from the communication assembly in the tool to the processing components.

Alternatively, the further communication assembly may be provided in a different removable part which is attachable to the bowl, preferably at or adjacent the rim of the bowl, the part being at least partially radiotransmissive, or may be provided in a radiotransmissive part of the bowl at or adjacent the rim. According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for enabling wireless RF communication; comprising a plurality of cooperable components, optionally of a kitchen appliance, wherein each of the plurality of components has a radiotransmissive window; wherein the radiotransmissive windows are arranged to overlap when the plurality of components are cooperating with each other. Preferably, the radiotransmissive windows are arranged to align when the plurality of components are engaged with each other.

Providing such a system allows wireless RF communication between internal communication assemblies, which are protected against impacts by being provided internally.

The plurality of components may comprise a base component and a tool component, wherein the base component is arranged to drive the tool component when the tool component is engaged with the base component. The base component may be a component as previously described herein with reference to a base, and the tool component may be a component as previously described herein with reference to a tool.

The plurality of components may further comprise a bowl component, and the bowl component may be arranged to engage with the base component and the tool component so as to interpose between the base component and the tool component. The bowl component may be a component as previously described herein with reference to a bowl.

Preferably, the kitchen appliance is a food processor.

Aspects of the invention may provide one, some or all of the above, in any appropriate combination. The invention extends to a communication assembly, a component of a kitchen appliance, and a system substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The invention also provides a computer program and a computer program product for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the apparatus features described herein, and a computer readable medium having stored thereon a program for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the apparatus features described herein. The invention also provides a signal embodying a computer program for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the apparatus features described herein, a method of transmitting such a signal, and a computer product having an operating system which supports a computer program for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the apparatus features described herein.

Any apparatus feature as described herein may also be provided as a method feature, and vice versa. As used herein, means plus function features may be expressed alternatively in terms of their corresponding structure, such as a suitably programmed processor and associated memory.

Any feature in one aspect of the invention may be applied to other aspects of the invention, in any appropriate combination. In particular, method aspects may be applied to apparatus aspects, and vice versa. Furthermore, any, some and/or all features in one aspect can be applied to any, some and/or all features in any other aspect, in any appropriate combination.

It should also be appreciated that particular combinations of the various features described and defined in any aspects of the invention can be implemented and/or supplied and/or used independently.

In this specification the word Or' can be interpreted in the exclusive or inclusive sense unless stated otherwise. Furthermore, features implemented in hardware may generally be implemented in software, and vice versa. Any reference to software and hardware features herein should be construed accordingly.

As used herein, the term 'radio frequency' or 'RF' preferably refers to an electromagnetic wave frequency of between 3 Hz and 3000 GHz (i.e. a wavelength of between 10⁵ km and 0.1 mm), more preferably refers to an electromagnetic wave frequency of between 1 kHz and 1000 GHz (i.e. a wavelength of between 300 km and 0.3 mm), yet more preferably refers to an electromagnetic wave frequency of between 30 kHz and 300 GHz (i.e. a wavelength of between 10 km and 1 mm), and most preferably refers to an electromagnetic wave frequency of between 1 GHz and 4 GHz (i.e. a wavelength of between 300 mm and 75 mm) or an electromagnetic wave frequency of between 30 kHz and 300 kHz (i.e. a wavelength of between 10 km and 1 km).

As used herein, the term 'radiopaque' preferably refers to a component with a relatively low transmissivity to radio frequency (RF) radiation, such that RF signals passing through or near such components are attenuated, distorted, absorbed, reflected, or blocked to the extent that communications are significantly impaired.

As used herein, the term 'radiotransmissive' preferably refers to a component with a relatively high transmissivity to radio frequency (RF) radiation, such that RF signals passing through or near such components are not significantly attenuated, distorted, absorbed, reflected, or blocked.

As used herein, the term 'antenna' preferably refers to a device or formation for transmitting and/or receiving RF signals.

As used herein, the term 'housing' preferably refers to a formation for receiving a structure, in particular a shaft, wherein the shaft is allowed to freely rotate within the housing. As used herein, the term 'component' preferably refers to a detachable part of a larger whole.

As used herein, the term 'cooperable' preferably refers to an item being capable of moving into a predetermined position relative to another item so as to allow an effect to occur and/or so as to come into operation.

As used herein, the term 'base' preferably refers to a component capable of supporting and/or driving and/or controlling one or more further components.

Whilst the invention has been described in the field of domestic food processing and preparation machines, it can also be implemented in any field of use, where efficient, effective and convenient preparation and/or processing of material is desired, either on an industrial scale and/or in small amounts. The field of use includes the preparation and/or processing of: chemicals; pharmaceuticals; paints; building materials; clothing materials; agricultural and/or veterinary feeds and/or treatments, including fertilisers, grain and other agricultural and/or veterinary products; oils; fuels; dyes; cosmetics; plastics; tars; finishes; waxes; varnishes; beverages; medical and/or biological research materials; solders; alloys; effluent; and/or other substances. The invention can also be implemented in any field where attachments for devices are provided and where metallic elements may disrupt wireless communications.

In particular, the communication assembly may be used in a situation or field of use in which data is to be transmitted from a rotating or rotatable object to something to which it attaches or is mounted. For example, the communication assembly may be used in the tyre or wheel of a car or other automotive vehicle to transmit to a reader located on or about the axle to which it is mounted. In another example, the communication assembly may be mounted about the bit of a drill or another tool where an external reader is positioned on the motor-housing to which the drill-bit is mounted to be driven for carrying out drilling.

Similarly, the communication assembly may be used with rotatable parts of motors, turbines, carousels, lathes, centrifuges, turrets, fans, propellers, gears, or indeed any other kind of rotating machine. The described configuration of the communication assembly allows transmission to take place regardless of the rotary position, where the communication assembly would otherwise be mounted to the side of a rotating or rotatable object, the material of which might interfere with transmission through it. Any other aspect of the invention may also be used in combination with or independently from a communication assembly in the described fields. In particular, where a communication assembly is used with a rotating machine, relevant components of the rotating machine may be provided with radiotransmissive windows, which may be arranged to overlap, as described.

The invention described here may be used in any kitchen appliance and/or as a stand-alone device. This includes any domestic food-processing and/or preparation machine, including both top-driven machines (e.g. stand-mixers) and bottom-driven machines (e.g. blenders). It may be implemented in heated and/or cooled machines. It may be used in a machine that is built-in to a work-top or work surface, or in a stand-alone device. The invention can also be provided as a stand-alone device, whether motor-driven or manually powered.

One or more aspects will now be described, by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings having like-reference numerals, in which:

Figure 1 is an exploded view of various components of a kitchen appliance;

Figure 2 is a perspective view of a base of the kitchen appliance;

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the base;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of a bowl of the kitchen appliance from underneath; Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the bowl;

Figure 6 shows a detail of Figure 5;

Figure 7 is a perspective view of a rotatable dough kneading tool of the kitchen appliance;

Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the dough kneading tool;

Figure 9a is a cross-sectional view of a communication assembly of the kitchen appliance;

Figure 9b is an alternative embodiment of an annular channel of the communication assembly;

Figure 9c is a further alternative embodiment of an annular channel of the communication assembly;

Figure 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the assembled kitchen appliance; Figure 1 1 is a further partial cross-sectional view of the assembled kitchen appliance;

Figure 12a is a first alternative dough kneading tool;

Figure 12b is a second alternative dough kneading tool;

Figure 12c is a third alternative dough kneading tool;

Figure 12d is a fourth alternative dough kneading tool;

Figure 12e is a fifth alternative dough kneading tool;

Figure 12f is a further alternative dough kneading tool;

Figure 12g is a cross-sectional view of the further alternative dough kneading tool;

Figure 13a is a cross-sectional view of a beater tool of the kitchen appliance; Figure 13b is a cross-sectional view of a whisking tool of the kitchen appliance; Figure 13c is a further beater tool;

Figure 13d is a cross-sectional view of the further beater tool;

Figure 14a is a detailed view of the metal chassis of the further alternative dough kneading tool;

Figure 14b is a detailed view of the further alternative dough kneading tool;

Figure 14c is a detailed view of the further beater tool;

Figure 14d is an alternative version of the dough kneading tool;

Figure 15 is an exploded view of various components of the kitchen appliance, including alternative components;

Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of a further bowl of the kitchen appliance;

Figure 17 is a cut-out perspective view of a cutting tool of the kitchen appliance;

Figure 18 is a partial exploded view of the kitchen appliance, showing a range of alternative tools for use with the further bowl;

Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of a cutting disc of the kitchen appliance;

Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of a further cutting disc of the kitchen appliance;

Figure 21 is an exploded view of various components of the kitchen appliance, including a blender attachment; Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of the blender attachment;

Figure 23 is an exploded view of various components of the kitchen appliance, including a weighing tray attachment

Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view of the weighing tray attachment;

Figure 25 is a schematic representation of a further cutting tool;

Figure 26 is an alternative kitchen appliance; and

Figure 27 is schematic cross-sectional view of the alternative kitchen appliance. Specific Description

In overview, and with reference to Figure 1 , a kitchen appliance 1000 comprises a plurality of preferably co-operable components formed as a base 1000, a bowl 2000, a tool 3000, and a lid 4000. The tool is provided with an internal communication assembly 5000 (shown in dashed lines). The bowl 2000 is mountable to the base 1000, and the tool 3000 is mountable to the interior of the bowl 2000. The lid 4000 is mountable to a lip 2002 of the bowl, such that the tool 3000 may be enclosed within the bowl 2000. The tool 3000 is arranged to engage with, and receive drive from, a housing comprising a drive coupling 1060 provided in the base 1000. Drive is transferred from the base 1000 to the tool 3000 via the bowl 2000. The communication assembly 5000 is provided inside the tool 3000, and is arranged to be detected by the base 1000, as will be explained. As will be further explained, the tool 3000 is one of a variety of different tools which may be used with the base 1000. Base

Referring to Figure 2, the component formed as the base 1000 comprises a casing 1010 having a squat, substantially rectangular shape. The base 1000 further comprises a control knob 1006 provided on a side wall 1014 of the casing. A screen and user controls (not shown) may also be provided on a wall of the casing. As mentioned, the base 1000 is arranged to transfer drive to components such as the tool 3000 via the drive coupling 1060.

The casing 1010 is provided with a circular radiotransmissive window 1050 on its upper surface 1012, where the radiotransmissive window 1050 is supported on a rim (not shown) of the casing. The radiotransmissive window 1050 is provided on a raised portion 1016 of the upper surface 1012, where the upper surface 1012 defines an upwardly sweeping shape to form the raised portion 1016. The radiotransmissive window 1050 extends over a major portion of the upper surface 1012. The radiotransmissive window 1050 has a diameter of between 80 mm and 200 mm, preferably 135 mm.

The drive coupling 1060 is provided substantially centrally in the radiotransmissive window 1050. The drive coupling 1060 is free to rotate in the radiotransmissive window 1050, and is provided with teeth 1062 disposed about its interior for engaging with corresponding teeth on a shaft of an attachment.

The radiotransmissive window 1050 further comprises a generally cylindrical central upstanding portion 1052 being arranged to be received into a corresponding cavity in an attachment. The drive coupling 1060 is provided centrally on the upstanding portion 1052. The upstanding portion 1052 is provided with four members 1054 extending radially outwardly from the upstanding portion 1052. The members 1054 are provided with slots 1056 extending from a side face of each member and terminating generally halfway through the radially outermost surface of each member. The grooves 1056 extend from the front surface of each member 1054 to meet the cylindrical outer surface of the upstanding portion 1052. The grooves 1056 are arranged to engage with cooperating features on an attachment when the attachment is placed over the upstanding portion 1052 and rotated, so as to form a bayonet fit between the attachment and the base 1000. The grooves 1056 also each hold a lever (not shown) providing part of an interlock system, as will be described later on. Each member 1054 further comprises a tongue 1058, which extends away from the base part of the member 1054 in a radial direction. The tongue 1058 is arranged to support an attachment as the attachment is being engaged with the base 1000, and to guide bayonet features of the attachment into the grooves 1056.

The raised portion 1014 comprises a protrusion 1018, which extends away from the raised portion 1014 over the upper surface 1012 towards a side of the upper surface 1012. The protrusion 1018 may optionally comprise a groove holding a member, where the member forms part of a mechanical switch providing a further part of the previously mentioned interlock system.

The casing 1010 (apart from the radiotransmissive window 1050) is radiopaque, as a result of a combination of the material that the casing 1010 is made from and the thickness of the walls of the casing 1010, such that RF signals cannot pass through the casing 1010 without significant attenuation. The casing 1010 is made of a metal such as stainless steel, which is often used in food processing applications due to its durability, resilience, attractiveness, and easy-to-clean surface. Metals such as stainless steel are known to distort, absorb, or otherwise affect RF signals when positioned close to a transmitter or receiver of RF signals. RF signals can however pass through the radiotransmissive window 1050 without being significantly affected. The radiotransmissive window 1050 is made of a different material (such as ABS plastic) and has a different structure to the remainder of the casing 1010, such that the transmissivity of the radiotransmissive window 1050 is higher than the remainder of the casing 1010. The radiotransmissive window 1050 is made of a non-metal, such as a heat- resistant polymer (such as polyoxymethylene or polyamide). Optionally, the entire upper surface 1012 may be formed from a radiotransmissive material. In such a case, the radiotransmissive window 1050 is formed from the entire upper surface 1012.

Referring to Figure 3, a major part of the interior of the base 1000 is taken up by a cavity 1070 arranged underneath the radiotransmissive window 1052. The cavity 1070 is arranged to hold a motor (not shown, for clarity). The motor is arranged to receive an input from a motor control processor of the base 1000, and drive the drive coupling 1060 accordingly. The motor is a digital switched reluctance motor being capable of driving the drive coupling 1060 in both directions. The use of such a motor allows for accurate control of the rotational speed of the implement using the motor control processor. The motor is capable of operating over a speed range up to 20000 rpm, more preferably from 20 rpm to 15000 rpm, and most preferably from 50 rpm to 13000 rpm. The drive coupling 1060 is provided with a sleeve 1064 provided on its interior side for receiving a motor shaft. The base 1000 further comprises a communication assembly formed as an antenna. The antenna is formed as an RF coil 1080 formed from copper windings, which is held directly on the interior side of the upstanding portion 1052 of the radiotransmissive window 1050 by outer and inner circularly annular support members 1090, 1092, where the inner annular support member 1092 acts as a spacer to hold the RF coil 1080 in place in the inner annular support member 1090. As such, the RF coil 1080 is spaced beneath, and is coaxial with, the drive coupling 1060. The RF coil 1080 has a generally circularly annular shape, and is provided circularly symmetrically about the axis of the drive coupling 1060. The radiotransmissive window 1050 is at least as wide as the RF coil 1080 so as to avoid interference, and preferably the RF coil 1080 is spaced apart from the casing 1010 by a distance of at least 10 mm, and more preferably between 20 mm and 30 mm. This may assist in mitigating the effects of interference caused by radiopaque parts of the base, such as the metallic casing 1010. The RF coil 1080 is sized such that the radial position of the coil 1080 in relation to the axis of the drive coupling 1060 is approximately halfway between the edge of the drive coupling 1060 and the edge of the upstanding portion 1052.

The RF coil 1080 is provided in communication with an electronic control circuit (not shown), which is provided away from the coil. The electronic control circuit is provided in communication with the motor control processor. Together, the RF coil 1080 and the electronic control circuit are arranged for use as a radio- frequency identification (RFID) reader device.

The RFID reader device is arranged to receive signals from different RFID tags provided in various different cooperable components for the base 1000, and communicate information provided in the received signals to the motor control processor. The motor control processor may then cause the attachment to be driven in dependence on the information. Received information may also be communicated to the screen, which may display data in dependence on the received information.

The RFID reader and the RFID tags are arranged to form part of a RFID system. The information provided by the RFID tag relates to the identity of the attachment with which the RFID tag is associated. Transmitting only an identity from the RFID tag may assist in limiting the volume of data that is stored on the RFID tag and transmitted. The electronic control circuit may query a database comprising pre-stored information for a given attachment, based on the received identity. The pre-stored information may, for example, relate to preferred or allowable drive settings, such as a maximum rotation speed and/or torque for a given attachment for a particular direction of rotation.

The range of motor speeds available for use with the detected attachment may then be limited by the motor control processor. In this way, a variety of different components (each having different preferred or allowable drive settings) may be used safely and without causing damage to the attachment or working material. More generally, the use of the described RFID system can allow a user to drive various different components with the base 1000, where the base automatically adapts to the requirements for each component.

The RFID reader is arranged to power the RFID tag using the energy of a transmitted interrogation signal; as such, the RFID tags are passive RFID tags. The RFID reader is arranged to receive information from only one RFID tag at a time. The RFID system is configured such that RFID tags are only detected by the RFID reader when the attachment having the RFID tag is engaged with the base 1000, or when the attachment is located close to the radiotransmissive window 1050 (and consequently the RF coil 1080). This may allow the RFID reader to receive information from only one RFID tag at a time (as two components having communication assemblies cannot be held in range at the same time). Detecting RFID tags when the RFID tag is not engaged with the base 1000 may allow a user to identify a particular attachment (for example, via the screen) without the need to engage the attachment with the base 1000. The RFID reader is deactivated by the electronic control circuit when the motor is running (as indicated by an indication sent from the motor control circuit to the electronic control circuit), so as to avoid the effects of interference caused by the running motor.

The RFID system used is consequently a low power system, to limit the range at which an RFID tag can be read by the RFID reader. Using a low power system also improves the efficiency of power use and reduces the possibility of interference occurring. The returned signal from the RFID tag in such a system is often relatively weak, and so direct line-of-sight communication with a minimum of components interposed along the transmission path is required for the system to work reliably, as will be described in more detail later on. The RFID system described is a short range RF system (having an operating range of less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm, and most preferably less than approximately 10 cm in air) and is a low frequency RF system (i.e. having an operating frequency of 30 - 300 kHz, preferably 120-150 kHz, and more preferably 125 kHz).

The RFID system also forms part of the aforementioned interlock system. The motor control processor is configured such that the motor is not operable until the mechanical interlock is engaged, and also until an RFID tag conforming to a recognised standard (so relating to a particular attachment), is detected. The levers provided in the grooves 1056 are arranged to extend into corresponding detents (not shown) provided in an attachment, so as to hold the attachment in place against reversal of the motor. The protrusion 1018 may also comprise an electronic component for communicating with a corresponding electronic component provided in an attachment, where the electronic component in the attachment may be arranged to provide an indication of identity of the attachment to the motor control processor.

Further details of the base 1000, especially in relation to the motor and the interlock system, may be found in GB2519978, whose disclosure (especially pp. 7-12, II. 24-12) is incorporated herein by reference.

Bowl

Referring to Figure 4 (in which certain components have been removed for clarity), the component formed as the bowl 2000 comprises a radiotransmissive window 2010 provided in a wall 2004, where the shape of the bowl 2000 is defined by the curvature of the wall 2004. The wall 2004 (apart from the radiotransmissive window 2010) is radiopaque (and as such may be described as a radiopaque part), while the radiotransmissive window 2010 has a higher transmissivity than the wall 2004. The wall 2004 and radiotransmissive window 2010 may be made of the same, previously described, materials as those respectively used for the casing 1010 and radiotransmissive window 1050 of the base 1000.

The wall 2004 forms a bowl shape, where an upper part of the wall 2004 terminates at a lip 2002 where the lid 3000 may be attached, as previously mentioned. The radiotransmissive window 2010 is provided at the base of the bowl 2000, although it may also be positioned in other parts of the bowl 2000. Providing the radiotransmissive window 2010 at the base of the bowl 2000 is preferred as the base of the bowl may be less likely to receive impacts in use than other parts of the bowl 2000.

The radiotransmissive window 2010 defines an upwardly sweeping section 2012 in its middle, where the middle of the radiotransmissive window 2010 is provided along a central axis of the bowl 2000. A shaft housing formed as an aperture 2014 is provided through the upwardly swept middle section 2012 of the radiotransmissive window 2010, in which a drive shaft for a tool may be supported.

The radiotransmissive window 2010 further comprises a rim 2016 provided at the perimeter of the radiotransmissive window 2010 and extending away from the bowl 2000. The rim 2016 is arranged to protect the drive shaft (when present in the aperture 2012) from impacts and to allow the bowl 1000 to stand on the rim 2016 when it is disconnected from the base 1000. The rim 2016 is provided with engagement formations formed as bayonet features 2018 on an inner surface for engaging the bowl 2000 with the base 1000. The rim 2016 is arranged so as to fit around the upstanding portion 1052 and the bayonet features 2018 are arranged to cooperate with the grooves 1056 to allow the bowl 2000 to engage with the base 1000. It will be appreciated that in this arrangement the radiotransmissive window 2010 of the bowl 2000 is held directly above the upstanding portion 1052 of the radiotransmissive window 1050 of the base 1000. The rim 2016 is further provided with four generally cylindrical lugs 2020 on an outer surface, which extend axially from the edge of the wall 2004 to approximately halfway up the height of the rim 2016. The lugs 2020 are provided symmetrically about the rim 2016, and are provided with apertures 2022 to allow components to be connected to the lugs 2020.

The radiotransmissive window 2010 further comprises a collar 2024 surrounding the aperture 2014 and extending away from the upwardly swept middle section 2012 of the radiotransmissive window 2010. The collar 2024 extends to just below the level of the bottom surface of the part of the radiotransmissive window 2010 that is not swept upwardly. The collar 2024 comprises splines 2026 extending axially along an interior surface of the collar 2024 to provide strength and to engage with a support 2040 for a drive shaft 2028.

Referring to Figure 5, the bowl 2000 further comprises a drive shaft 2028 disposed in the aperture 2014, and a support 2040 to support the drive shaft 2028 and to allow it to freely rotate. The drive shaft 2028 extends from beneath the radiotransmissive window 2010 through the aperture 2014 into the bowl 2000.

The drive shaft 2028 is arranged such that the drive shaft 2028 engages with the drive coupling 1060 when the bowl 2000 is engaged with the base 1000. An end of the drive shaft 2028 beneath the radiotransmissive window 2010 is provided with radially extending teeth 2032 for engaging with the teeth 1062 of the drive coupling 1060. The opposing end of the drive shaft 2028 (which is provided inside the bowl 2000) is provided with a tool engagement feature 2030 for engaging a tool with the drive shaft 2028. Due to its good mechanical properties, the drive shaft 2028 (along with its teeth 2032 and the tool engagement feature 2030) is formed from a metal material, such as stainless steel.

The support 2040 comprises a sleeve 2042 located within the aperture 2014 and surrounding the drive shaft 2028 and a flange 2044, which is sealed to an edge of the aperture 2014 within the bowl 2000.

Referring to Figure 6 (which shows the part of Figure 5 marked with dashed lines in more detail), the lower part of the wall 2004 terminates in a downwardly depending flange 2006, which extends around the radiotransmissive window 2010. The radiotransmissive window 2010 is attached to the wall 2004 by being overmoulded around the flange 2006. The flange 2006 is provided with apertures (not shown) which are filled with overmoulded material, so as to prevent the radiotransmissive window 2010 coming loose from the wall 2004.

The bowl 2000 further comprises an integral skirt portion 2050 extending around the base of the bowl 2000. The skirt portion comprises a skirt wall 2052 having an inwardly protruding portion (not shown) around which a radiotransmissive portion 2060 is overmoulded. The skirt wall 2052 is shaped so as to define a kinked cylinder on its exterior surface, where the skirt wall 2052 narrows towards one end. The skirt wall 2052 extends downwardly from an edge provided in contact with the wall 2004 to a curved portion defining a rim 2054. The skirt wall 2052 further extends from the rim 2054 towards the centre of the radiotransmissive window 2010, terminating some distance before meeting the rim 2016.

The radiotransmissive portion 2060 is provided between the skirt wall 2052, the lug 2020, and the wall 2004. A gap 2056 is provided between the wall 2003 and the skirt wall 2052 underneath where the wall 2003 and the skirt wall 2052 meet, in which the radiotransmissive portion 2060 is not provided. The radiotransmissive portion 2060 comprises a flange 2062 extending over each of the lugs 2020. The flange 2062 is provided with apertures 2064 which are aligned with the apertures 2022 provided in the lugs 2020. The radiotransmissive portion 2060 is fastened to the radiotransmissive window 2010 by fastenings 2066 extending between the apertures 2022, 2060.

Tool

Referring to Figure 7, a component formed as a rotatable dough kneading tool 3000 is provided for performing kneading operations on dough. The tool 3000 is formed from a radiotransmissive non-metal (such as a food-safe plastic) moulded over a metal chassis (not shown). The tool 3000 comprises a housing formed generally as a shaft 3002. The shaft 3002 is generally circular, but comprises two ridges 3050 which extend longitudinally along the length of the shaft 3002.

The shaft 3002 further comprises a base portion 3052 extending outwardly from a first end of the shaft 3002. The base portion 3052 is provided with two outwardly extending base members 3054, which are arranged symmetrically about the shaft 3002, away from the ridges 3050. The base members 3054 extend perpendicularly away from the shaft 3002. The base members 3054 are arranged to sweep along the base of the bowl 2000 as the tool 3000 is rotated, so as such are provided with upwardly sweeping tips 3056 which follow the curvature of the bowl 2000. The base members 3054 are provided with sloped sides 3058 so as to lift food items from the base of the bowl as the tool 3000 is rotated.

The shaft 3002 further comprises two hoop members 3060, each of which extends perpendicularly outwardly from a flank of the shaft 3002 to a base member 3054. The hoop members 3060 define a curved shape such that the hoop members 3060 are generally perpendicular to the base members 2054 at the point where the hoop members 3060 join the base members 2054. As such, a generally quarter-circular gap 3062 is provided between the shaft 3002 and each of the base members 3054 and hoop members 3060.

The combination of the ridges 3050 and the hoop members 3060 act to knead dough when the tool 3000 is rotated within a bowl having upwardly curving side walls (such as the previously described bowl 2000). When the tool 3000 initially acts on dough and/or ingredients placed into the bowl, the dough and/or ingredients may pass through the gap 3062, which may assist in mixing the dough and/or ingredients, and/or assist in agglomeration of the dough. As the dough mixes and/or agglomerates into balls of dough, the dough may roll over the top of the hoop members 3060 as the tool 3000 rotates, which may impart a kneading and/or spinning action to the dough. The ridges 3050 may impart a further kneading action on the dough by urging the dough away from the tool 3000 along the sides of the bowl. The dough may then return to the tool 3000 under gravity, where it may be urged away again by the ridges 3050. The length of the shaft 3002 may stop the tool from coming to rest in the centre of the bowl or on top of the shaft, and furthermore may provide a large working surface. As such, the tool 3000 may provide an improved kneading method for use with bowls with curved sides. The shaft 3002 further comprises a cap 3014 provided at a second end of the shaft. The cap 3014 is provided with a rotatable spindle 3016 provided on a raised portion 3066, which extends away from the shaft 3002 out of a recess provided in the cap 3014. The spindle 3016 is arranged to engage with a recess provided on the lid 4000, in which the spindle 136 is arranged to freely rotate. The cap 3014 further comprises two pins 3065 extending above the ridges 3050, which may assist in preventing dough from wrapping around the spindle 3016.

Referring to Figure 8, the base section 3052 is open at the first end thereby to define an outer cavity 3020 for receiving a drive shaft. The base section 3052 further comprises a flange 3064 provided on its underside, and extending from the base members 3054 to extend around the outer cavity 3020. The flange 3064 is arranged to prevent the ingress of dough around the drive shaft.

The shaft 3002 comprises an inner cavity formed as a housing 3006 for receiving a drive shaft, the housing 3006 being provided in an end wall 3004 of the shaft 3002 at the first end, where the housing 3006 takes up a major portion of the end wall 3004. The aforementioned metal chassis of the tool 3000 does not extend to the first end of the shaft 3002, so no metal materials are provided in the end wall 3004. As such, the end wall 3004 may be referred to as a radiotransmissive window.

The housing 3006 is generally cylindrical in shape, and is provided centrally in the end wall 3004. The housing 3006 comprises features (not shown) for engaging with the tool engagement feature 2030 provided on the drive shaft 2028 through the bowl 2000, so as to allow the tool 3000 to be driven by the base 1000. The housing 3006 is defined by a housing side wall 3008 and a housing top wall 3010.

The interior of the shaft 3002 is hollow so as to define a chamber 3012, which is sealed at the first end by the end wall 3004, housing side wall 3008, and housing top wall 3010, and at the second end by the cap 3014. The housing top wall 3010 comprises a circularly annular wall 3018 extending into the chamber 3012. The annular wall 3018 tapers inwardly as it extends away from the housing top wall 3010. The annular wall 3018 has a smaller circumference than the circular housing top wall 3010 so as to define a shoulder 3020 on the edge of the housing top wall 3010.

A communication assembly 5000 (which will be described in detail later) is mounted on the shoulder 3020 and the annular wall 3018 within the chamber 3012. The chamber 3012 houses the communication assembly 5000 so as to waterproof and protect it. Ultrasonic welding is used to attach the communication assembly 5000 to the shoulder 3020 and the annular wall 3018. The communication assembly 5000 is substantially circularly annular in shape, such that it is arranged coaxially with the circular housing 3006, which the communication assembly is spaced above. The communication assembly 5000 is mounted such that at least part of the communication assembly 5000 extends out over the edge of the housing top wall 3010 towards the interior surface of the shaft 3002, so as to extend above the end wall 3004. It will be appreciated that this arrangement serves to space the communication assembly 5000 apart from radiopaque parts of the tool, such as the metal chassis.

The communication assembly 5000 acts as an internally-arranged RFID tag for transmitting signals to, and receiving signals from, the RFID reader provided in the base 1000. As mentioned, the RFID system used is a relatively low power system having relatively low return transmission strength, so as to minimise the power required to operate the communication assembly 5000, to keep the range of the RFID system relatively low, and to avoid causing electromagnetic interference. As such, the communication assembly 5000 may be incapable of transmitting or receiving communications through radiopaque materials, such as the metal chassis of the tool 3000. However, since the end wall 3004 does not include any radiopaque materials, the communication assembly 5000 may be capable of communicating through the end wall 3004. Providing the communication assembly 5000 on the shoulder 3020 minimises the number of components between the communication assembly 5000 and the end wall 3004, which may improve transmission reliability.

The described arrangement acts to space the communication assembly 5000 apart from metal components of the tool 3000 by an air gap and by a formation formed from radiotransmissive material. The spacing of the communication assembly 5000 from metal components is between 0.5 cm and 2 cm to avoid detuning of the RFID tag provided by the communication assembly 5000. It will be appreciated that the communication assembly 5000 is sealed in the chamber 3012, such that the tool 3000 is safe for use with food and in a dishwasher.

Communication Assembly

Referring to Figure 9, the component formed as the communication assembly 5000 comprises a channel-shaped housing formed as a circular annulus, referred to herein as annular channel 5010. The annular channel 5010 is formed about a central axis 5002. The annular channel 5010 comprises an inner and an outer annular wall 5012, 5014 which are provided coaxially about each other. The annular channel 5010 further comprises a linking wall 5016, which the inner and outer annular walls 5012, 5014 extend away from in a perpendicular direction. The ends of the inner and outer annular walls 5012, 5014 away from the linking wall 5016 are not connected, so as to define an open face 5018. As such, the annular channel 5010 defines an open box shape in cross-section. The annular channel 5010 is formed from a material which is suitable for ultrasonic welding and which is radiotransmissive.

The inner annular wall 5012 has a height that is at least half and less than double a height of the outer annular wall 5014, preferably where the inner and outer annular walls 5012, 5014 have the same height. The inner and outer annular walls 5012, 5014 extend away from the linking wall 5016 to a distance that is greater than half of the distance of the part of the linking wall 5016 extending between the inner and outer annular walls 5012, 5014, and less than double the distance of the part of the linking wall 5016 extending between the inner and outer annular walls 5012, 5014. Preferably, the height of the inner and outer annular walls 5012, 5014 is approximately equal to distance of the part of the linking wall 5016 extending between the inner and outer annular walls 5012, 5014. The annular channel 5010 is therefore generally shaped as a square (having a missing side) in cross-section. The annular channel 5010 is provided with at least one formation to allow the communication assembly 5000 to be fitted to various tools and components. The inner annular wall 5012 is formed as such a formation, in that the inner annular wall 5012 is tapered. The taper is formed as an annular tapered shoulder 5020 on a face of the inner annular wall 5012 on the exterior of the annular channel 5010 (that is, facing inwardly, towards the axis 5002 and the interior of the annulus defined by the annular channel). The shoulder 5020 is located approximately halfway along the height of the inner annular wall 5012. The inner annular wall 5012 tapers outwardly at the shoulder 5020 such that the width of the inner annular wall 5012 is roughly doubled in a part 5022 of the wall 5012 provided after the tapered shoulder. The thicker part 5022 of the inner annular wall 5012 is provided towards the linking wall 5016. The shoulder 5020 thereby allows the annular channel 5010 to attach to an appropriately sized annular wall or shaft in a taper fit. The annular channel 5010 further comprises a flange 5024 extending outwardly from the linking wall 5016 (that is, away from the axis 5002 and the centre of the annulus defined by the annular channel 5010), to allow the communication assembly 5000 to be supported about the circumference of the annular channel 5010.

The communication assembly 5000 further comprises an electronic circuit formed as an integrated circuit 5050, and an antenna formed as an RF coil 5040 formed from copper windings. Both the integrated circuit 5050 and the RF coil 5040 are disposed in the annular channel 5010. The integrated circuit 5050 and the RF coil 5040 are provided in electrical communication, and together form an RFID tag for use with the RFID reader of the base 1000, where the RF coil 5040 acts as an antenna for the RFID tag. The RFID tag is adapted to be powered by the reader, such that no separate power supply is required. As mentioned, the RFID tag is arranged to provide information relating to the identity of an attachment with which the communication assembly 5000 is associated. The communication assembly 5000 may be provided on or in the attachment with which it is associated. The base 1000 may control drive and/or limit the range of drive settings available based on the information from the RFID tag, as previously described. The RFID tag is arranged to operate at low frequency (i.e. 120-150 kHz, preferably 125 kHz).

The RF coil 5040 is arranged away from the integrated circuit 5050, such that at least a part of the integrated circuit is not attached to the RF coil 5040 (i.e. such that at least a part of the integrated circuit 5050 does not interpose between the RF coil 5040 and the open face 5018). The integrated circuit 5050 is not attached to the RF coil 5040, and is instead attached to the annular channel. The integrated circuit 5050 is spaced apart from the RF coil so as to define a gap between the integrated circuit 5050 and the RF coil 5040. The RF coil 5040 is arranged slightly off-centre within the annular channel 5010, which may assist in providing such a gap. The gap is between 0.5 mm and 1 mm, varying from the centre of the integrated circuit to its edges.

The integrated circuit 5050 is arranged as a generally rectangular 'chip', having a small thickness relative to its other dimensions. The integrated circuit 5050 is mounted in the annular channel 5010, in a tangential position on the inner annular wall 5012. The integrated circuit 5050 is mounted in an upright position (i.e. at an angle of between 45° and 135° relative to the RF coil 5040, preferably perpendicularly to the RF coil 5040, such that the shortest dimension of the integrated circuit is generally parallel to the linking wall 5016), so as to minimise the extent to which the integrated circuit 5050 extends towards the outer annular wall 2014. This arrangement may minimise interference between the integrated circuit 5050 and the RF coil 5040. Adhesive is used to attach the integrated circuit 5050 to the wall 5012. The integrated circuit 5050 extends towards or into contact with the linking wall 5016 at one end, and extends to just below the end of the interior annular wall 5012 at the other end. In an alternative, the integrated circuit 5050 may be mounted on the outer annular wall 5014 and in the annular channel 5010. Such a mounting may be particularly useful for applications involving an attachment for high speed rotation, as the rotational forces involved may cause an integrated circuit mounted on the inner annular wall 5012 to detach.

The RF coil 5040 is formed as a circular annulus being comparatively flat and wide in cross-section. For example, the RF coil 5040 may be between 2 and 10 mm wide, preferably between 3 mm and 7 mm wide, and most preferably 5 mm wide. The RF coil 5040 may then be between 0.5 and 3 mm high in cross-section, preferably between 0.5 mm and 2 mm high in cross-section, and most preferably 1 mm high in cross-section. The RF coil 5040 is mounted in the annular channel 5010, on the linking wall 5016, for example by the use of adhesive. The RF coil 5040 thereby faces towards the open face 5018.

The integrated circuit 5050 and the RF coil 5040 are electrically connected by connector 5060, which is mounted on the linking wall 5016 adjacent the RF coil 5040. The connector 5060 is annular in shape, and extends around the annular channel 5010. The connector 5060 may be formed from electrical solder, or alternatively may take the form of a wire extending directly from the integrated circuit 5050 to the RF coil 5040. It will be appreciated that the aforementioned arrangement ensures that the integrated circuit 5050 is spaced apart from the RF coil 5040, which may provide improved communication performance.

The annular channel 5010 is filled with potting compound 5026, which covers the integrated circuit 5050, the RF coil 5040, and the connector 5060 to encapsulate each component, which may thereby ensure that the communication assembly 5000 is robustly constructed. The potting compound 5026 is resin poured into the annular channel 5010, and is cured by heat or by the use of chemicals. Examples of suitable potting compounds include polyurethane, silicone, and epoxy resin potting.

Referring to Figure 9b, an alternative embodiment of the annular channel 5010 of the communication assembly is shown. In the alternative embodiment, the annular channel 5010 further comprises a plurality of formations in the form of spurs 5026, which are arranged on the outer annular wall 5014 so as to protrude away from the centre of the annular channel 5010. The spurs have a particular arrangement on the outer annular wall, in which two spurs are located near to each other in a pair, where a plurality of pairs of spurs are arranged symmetrically about the outer annular wall.

Referring to Figure 9c, a further alternative embodiment of the annular channel 5010 of the communication assembly is shown. The annular channel again includes spurs 5026 which have a different particular arrangement, where ten adjacent spurs are provided in addition to the plurality of pairs of spurs.

Different particular arrangements of spurs 5026 are arranged to either interfere or not interfere with corresponding formations provided on the inside of the tool to which the communication assembly 5000 is attached, so as allow only certain annular channels 5010 to fit to certain tools correctly. More specifically, annular channels are arranged (by use of a compatible arrangement of spurs) to fit only those tools made of a compatible material, in particular a compatible material for a joining process. For example, where the communication assembly is formed of plastic and is joined to the tool by ultrasonic welding, only certain plastics (or, often, only the same plastic) may be compatible. In one example there may be two different designs of communication assembly, each being compatible with the material of a respective one of two different tools or accessories or categories thereof to which they are to be joined, for example by (ultrasonic) welding. One category of annular channels and tool interiors (i.e. the part of the tool to which the annular channel is fitted) may be formed from polyoxymethylene (POM), and another category may be formed from polypropylene (PP). The use of spurs in different arrangements may reduce the likelihood of errors in manufacturing caused by incompatible plastics being joined. It will of course be appreciated that a variety of other arrangements of spurs other than those described could be used, or that alternative formations or structures could be used to cause tools and communication assemblies to fit together when compatible and interfere when incompatible. Assembled Kitchen Appliance

Referring to Figure 10, the bowl 2000 is shown engaged with the base 1000, where the tool 3000 is engaged with the bowl 2000 and the lid 4000.

The bowl 2000 is provided with an integral spine 2100 (not visible in the previous cross-sectional views), which extends from the lip 2002 to the rim 2054 along the outside of the bowl 2000. The spine 2100 is arranged to allow the lid 4000 to be attached to the bowl, and to engage interlock features in the base 1000. Optionally, the spine 2100 may further comprise an electronic component being arranged to communication with a corresponding electronic component provided in the base 1000, as mentioned. As previously mentioned, the lid 4000 is arranged to fit over the lip 2002 to attach to the bowl. The lid 4000 comprises a rim 4002 arranged to seal against the interior of the wall 2004 of the base 2000. The lid 4000 further comprises a locking member 4004 arranged to cooperate with a slot provided in an upper surface of the spine 2100 so as to fixedly attach the lid 4000 to the bowl 2000. A button 4006 for depressing the locking member is provided on a top surface of a lid 4000, allowing a user to lock and unlock the lid 4000 from the bowl 2000. A boss 4008 is provided in a centre of the lid 4000 for engagement with the spindle 3016 of the tool. The lid 4000 is also provided with a feed tube (not shown in Figure 9).

As will be appreciated, the arrangement of the communication assembly 5000 within the tool 3000 acts to hold the RF coil 5040 clear of the radiopaque wall 2004 of the bowl 2000. Furthermore, communication assembly 5000 has an annular shape and is arranged coaxially with the aperture 2014, the drive shaft 2028, and the drive coupling 1060. The RF coil 5040 is thereby spaced apart from the drive shaft 2028 and tool engagement feature 2030, which are both radiopaque parts, preferably by a distance of between 0.5 cm and 2 cm, and most preferably 1 cm. The arrangement also serves to space the communication assembly 5000 apart from metal components of the tool 3000. Since at least end wall 3004 of the tool 3000 is made of a radiotransmissive non- metal, and the radiotransmissive window 2010 in the bowl 2000 is provided beneath the end wall 3004, a transmission path is formed from the communication assembly 5000 through the bowl 2000. This may allow the communication assembly 5000 to communicate from within the (largely radiopaque) bowl 2000. When the bowl 2000 is engaged with the base 1000 (as shown in Figure 10), the transmission path is arranged to extend through the radiotransmissive window 1050 in the base 1000 to the RF coil 1080.

Referring to Figure 1 1 , a transmission path 5500 from the communication assembly 5000 is shown. The adjacent arrangement of the radiotransmissive windows 1050, 2010 provides direct line-of-sight transmission between the communication assembly 5000 and RF coil 1080.

The radiotransmissive window 1050 is substantially circular within the bowl 1000, and is provided with a radiopaque central portion as a result of the presence of the metal drive shaft 2028. The communication assembly 5000 is arranged between 30 mm and 150 mm away from the base of the bowl, more preferably between 60 mm and 80 mm away from the base of the bowl, and most preferably between 65 mm and 75 mm. The radiotransmissive window 1050 has a radius of between 50 mm and 200 mm, preferably between 70 mm and 140 mm, and most preferably 130 mm. The radiotransmissive window 1050 in the base 1000 is provided similarly circularly and having a radiopaque central portion as a result of the presence of the drive coupling 1060. The transmission path 5500 from the communication assembly 5500 into the base 1000 (and vice versa) subsequently has a generally annular shape when viewed along the axis of the drive shaft 2028. Since the RF coil 1080 is arranged in the transmission path 5500 from the communication assembly 5000 (and vice versa), reliable communication between the two components is possible, which may allow the RFID system to operate reliably. It will be appreciated that the annular shape of the communication assembly 5000 means that the communication assembly 5000 avoids transmitting directly towards the drive shaft 2028 (and associated components), which is made of radiopaque metal. The communication assembly 5000 is arranged symmetrically about the axis of the drive shaft 2028. As the tool 3000 is rotated, the communication assembly 5000 is maintained at a constant distance from the base 1000, so the rotary position of the tool 3000 does not affect transmissions to and from the communication assembly 5000. The optimal size of the radiotransmissive window 1050 in the bowl depends on a variety of factors, including but not limited to:

• The shape, size and number of turns of the RF coil 5040 in the communication assembly

· The shape, size and number of turns of the RF coil 1080 in the base 1000

• The height of the communication assembly 5000 above the base of the bowl 1000

• The distance of the RF coil 1080 in the base 1000 below the drive coupling 1060 and/or the radiotransmissive window 1050

· The amount and proximity of metal parts in the base 1000 to the RF coil 1080 in the base 1000

• The overall shape and size of the bowl 1000.

Other Dough Kneading Tools

It will be appreciated that the form of the dough kneading tool 3000 may be varied while maintaining the described advantages of the tool.

Referring to Figure 12a, a first alternative dough kneading tool 3100 is provided, where like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts on the previously described dough kneading tool 3000. The tool 3100 is shown without a cap. The previously described lens-shaped shaft 3002 may be replaced with a conventional cylindrical shaft 3102, where the ridges 3050 are replaced with rib members 3150 extending longitudinally above the hoop members 3060. The rib members 3150 may be large relative to the ridges 3050, and four such members may be provided symmetrically about the shaft. Optionally, the rib members 3150 may be removable to allow for cleaning and/or to allow the kneading effect of the tool to be varied.

Referring to Figure 12b, a second alternative dough kneading tool 3200 is provided, where like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts on the previously described dough kneading tool 3000. The tool 3200 is shown without a cap. The tool 3200 is provided without ridges or rib members. The tool 3200 consequently comprises a bare cylindrical shaft 3202, having a base portion 3252 and base members 3254. The tool 3200 is arranged for use in a flat-bottomed bowl, and so the base members 3254 define a generally flat shape without any shaped tips. Referring to Figure 12c, a third alternative dough kneading tool 3300 is provided, where like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts on the previously described dough kneading tool 3000. The tool 3300 is shown without a cap. The tool 3300 comprises four relatively thin rib members 3350 provided symmetrically about a shaft 3302. Two of the rib members 3350 extend longitudinally along the shaft from hoop members 3360. The hoop members 3360 extend continuously from the shaft 3302 and a base portion 3352 such that no gap is provided, and the hoop members 3360 define a solid blade-like member.

Referring to Figure 12d, a fourth alternative dough kneading tool 3400 is provided, where like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts on the previously described dough kneading tool 3000. The tool 3400 is shown without a cap. The tool 3400 comprises a shaft 3402 having a reduced length in relation to the previously described dough kneading tools 3000, 3100, 3200, 3300. Hoop members 3460 extending from base members 3454 to a flank of the shaft 3402 are provided. Rather than providing spate ridges or ribs along the shaft 3402, kneading members 3466 are provided. The kneading members 3466 extend away from a point on the hoop members 3460 near a junction with the flank of the shaft 3402 in a generally upwardly curving direction. The kneading members 3466 effectively replace the ridges, and act to knead dough in the bowl as the tool 3400 is rotated in a similar manner to a dough hook.

Referring to Figure 12e, a fifth alternative dough kneading tool 3500 is provided, where like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts on the previously described dough kneading tool 3000. The tool 3500 is shown without a cap. The tool 3500 is identical to the previously described tool 3400, other than in that kneading members 3566 also replace the hoop members. The kneading members 3566 each extend generally perpendicularly away from a base member 3554 and curve so as to come near to a shaft 3502 at one side, before curving upwardly and away from the shaft. Collars 3568 may be provided on the flank of the shaft 3502 for attaching the kneading members 3566 to the shaft 3502 at the location where the kneading members 3566 pass closest to the shaft 3502. The kneading members 3566 thereby create a gap between themselves, the shaft 3502, and the base members 3554 in a similar way as the previously described hoop members, and also extend upwardly to act as a dough hook.

In general, various combinations of kneading features, such as ridges, ribs, or hoop members, can be provided on a tool in various combinations and in various sizes, depending on the intended dough kneading application and/or the load of dough. In particular, for small loads of dough, the ridges used may extend further outwardly from a shaft, so as to ensure that the dough travelling up and down the bowl side walls comes into contact with the ridges. Furthermore, for wetter doughs, the number of ridges provided may be increased, so as to increase the amount of work performed on the dough for every revolution of the tool.

Referring to Figure 12f and 12g, a further alternative dough kneading tool 3800 is provided, where like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts on the previously described dough kneading tool 3000. The tool 3800 comprises a generally cylindrical shaft 3802 including a wider shaft base 3803 (which, as will be explained, includes a metal support), a base portion 3852, and base members 3854. The base portion 3852 and base members 3854 are arranged as previously described with reference to the previously described dough kneading tool 3000. The tool 3800 differs from the previously described dough tool 3000 in that the hoop members 3860 do not extend all the way from the base members 3854 to the shaft 3802, and instead terminate a short distance away from the shaft. This arrangement may improve the previously described kneading method. The further alternative dough kneading tool 3800 also includes a different form of housing 3806 for a receiving a drive shaft than that of the previously described dough tool 3000 shown in Figure 8. The further alternative dough kneading tool 3800 further comprises a plastic linking portion 3826 on the base portion 3852, as will be described in more detail later on.

Other Tools

It will be appreciated that a variety of different cooperable components may be used with the bowl 1000, each allowing the base 1000 to be used to perform different processing operations. Referring to Figures 13a and 13b, a beater tool 3600 and whisking tool 3700 are provided for use with the bowl 2000. In each of these figures, like reference numerals indicate features of the tools 3600, 3700 corresponding to those previously described with reference to the dough kneading tool 3000. The beater tool 3600 and whisking tool 3700 each comprises a generally circular shaft 3602, 3702 having a base section 3604, 3704 defining an outer cavity 3620, 3760 for receiving a drive shaft at a first end. A cap 3614, 3714 is provided at a second end of the shaft 3602, 3702, where the cap 3614, 3714 is provided with a rotatable spindle 3616, 3716 provided on a raised portion 3662, 3762. The shaft 3602, 3702 further comprises a generally cylindrical inner cavity 3606, 3706 for receiving a drive shaft, the inner cavity 3606, 3706 being provided in an end wall 3604, 3704 of the shaft 3602, 3702 at the first end, where the inner cavity 3606, 3706 takes up a major portion of the end wall 3604, 3704. The inner cavity 3606, 3706 is defined by a cavity side wall 3608, 3708 and a cavity top wall 3610, 3710, and comprises features (not shown) for engaging with the tool engagement feature 2030 provided on the drive shaft 2028 through the bowl 2000, so as to allow the tool 2000 to be driven by the base 1000. As such, the beater tool 3600 and the whisking tool 3700 are interchangeable with the dough kneading tool 3000. As with the dough kneading tool 3000, the beater tool 3600 and the whisking tool 3700 both comprise a metal chassis which does not extend to the first end of the shaft 3602, 3702 so no metal materials are provided in the end wall 3604, 3704.

In each tool 3600, 3700, the interior of the shaft 3602, 3702 defines a chamber 3612, 3712 in which a communication assembly 5000 is mounted, in substantially the same position as in the previously described dough tool 3000. As such, the position of the communication assembly 5000 relative to the RF coil 1080 in the base 1000 is substantially the same whether the dough tool 3000, the beater tool 3600, or the whisking tool 3600 is used with the bowl 2000 and base 1000. Furthermore, the communication assembly is spaced apart from metal components of the tools 3600, 3700 in the same way as previously described. The communication assembly 5000 is ultrasonically welded into each tool 3600, 3700.

The beater tool 3600 further comprises two beater members 3670 extending away from the central shaft 3602. The beater members 3670 are provided symmetrically about the shaft 3602, and are attached to the shaft 3602 at two locations. Each beater member 3670 extends along the shaft between a first location on a flank of the shaft 3602 and a second location on the base portion 3652, so as to define a gap between the shaft 3602 and the beater member 3652. At least part of the beater members 3652, including the part of the beater members 3652 extending from the base portion 3652, is shaped to conform to the shape of the bowl 2000, so as to allow the beater members 3652 to scrape along the bowl 2000 when the tool 3600 is rotated. A part of the beater members away from the shaft 3602 and away from the side of the bowl 2000 is formed as an arrangement of intersecting members, an example of which is shown in Figure 13. The beater members 3652 may be formed from a metal such as stainless steel. In such a case, the beater members 3652 may be received into one or more bosses provided on the shaft 3602, which provide a junction for the metal components to attach to the non-metal shaft 3602.

The whisking tool 3700 further comprises two whisking members 3770 extending away from the central shaft 3702. The whisking members 3770 are provided symmetrically about the shaft 3702, and are shaped to conform roughly to the shape of the bowl 2000, so as to allow the whisking members 3770 to scrape along the bowl 2000 when the tool 3700 is rotated. The whisking members 3770 comprise a plurality of (such as four) circular apertures 3772 extending through each of whisking members 3770. The circular apertures 3772 each take up a major portion of the height of the whisking members 3770, and decrease in circumference with distance from the shaft 3702, such that the whisking members 3770 reduce in size away from the shaft 3702.

Referring to Figure 13c and 13d, a further beater tool 3900 is provided, where like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts on the previously described beater tool 3600 and the previously described dough kneading tool 3000. The further beater tool comprises two base members 3954 extending away from a base portion 3952, which supports a shaft 3902 having a wider shaft base 3903. The base members are shaped so as to generally conform to the shape of the bowl 2000, so as to allow the base members to scrape along the bowl when the further beater tool is rotated. The base members include sloped sections 3958 on their side edges which, in use, assist in lifting foodstuff from the bottom of the bowl.

The base members terminate at end vanes 3974, which extend generally upwardly (while conforming to the shape of the bowl) to the proximate height of the communication assembly 5000 within the further beater tool. The base members also each comprise two upright vanes 3972, which are spaced generally evenly along each base member and extend upwardly to the same height as the end vanes. As can be seen in Figure 13c, the upright vanes 3972 have an irregularly-shaped pointed profile which is generally similar to an aerofoil. The profile of the upright vanes is slightly curved or angled towards the shaft 3902 so as to direct foodstuff towards the centre of the bowl in use. The end vanes also a have a curved profile, where the end vanes are more curved than the upright vanes.

In use, the further beater tool 3900 is rotated such that the upright vanes move point-first. The pointed profiles of the upright vanes assist in breaking up solid masses of foodstuff, which is also directed away from the sides of the bowl by the upright vanes. The curvature of the upright vanes also assists in directing foodstuff away from the centre of the bowl.

As previously mentioned, all of the described tools include a metal chassis, around which radiotransmissive plastic components may be formed. Referring to Figure 14a, the metal chassis of the further alternative dough kneading tool 3800 described with reference to Figures 12f and 12g is shown. The chassis comprises the previously described base portion 3852 and base members 3854, which are formed from metal. The chassis further comprises a generally annular support 3820, which extends upwardly from the base portion. The plastic shaft base 3803 is formed around the support during manufacturing - accordingly, the support comprises a plurality of apertures 3822 arranged about its circumference for plastic to flow through during manufacturing (for example during an injection moulding process), which may improve the strength of the connection between the support 3820 and the shaft base 3803.

A slot 3824 is formed through the base portion 3852 and support 3820 such that an air gap is present in the metal chassis, and such that neither the base portion nor the support forms a complete annulus. This prevents current being induced in the metal components of the tool 3800 during communication between the communication assembly 5000 and the RF coil 1080 in the base 1000, which may thereby reduce the likelihood and/or degree of interference during such communication. The width of the slot 3824 is selected so as to be sufficient to prevent (or drastically reduce) electrical flow around the support 3820, without reducing the mechanical strength of the tool 3800 any more than is necessary.

Referring to Figure 14b, when plastic has been formed around the metal components during manufacturing so as to create the shaft base 3803 and shaft 3802, the slot 3824 is fills with plastic. A plastic linking section 3826 is thereby formed in the part of the slot 3824 in the base portion 3826 so as to fill the air gap and form a continuous surface. In an optional alternative, plastic covers all or part of the base portion 3852 and/or the base members 3854 so as to improve the mechanical strength of the tool.

Although the metal chassis and associated 'slot' have principally been described with reference to the further alternative dough kneading tool 3800, it will be understood that they can form part of all or any of the described tools. In this regard, referring to Figure 14c, a slot 3924 and linking section 3926 on the further beater tool 3900 are shown.

Referring to Figure 14d, an alternative version of the dough kneading tool 3000 is shown. In an alternative construction of the tool 3000, a major part of the tool 3000, including in particular a shaft base 3003 and a major part of a shaft 3002, are formed from metal. For example, only an upper part 3002a of the shaft may be formed from plastic, while the lower part 3002b of the shaft (and most of the rest of the tool) is formed from metal. In this case, a slot 3024 extends all the way from the base portion 3052 to the top of the lower part 3002b of the shaft in order to prevent current being induced in the metal parts of the shaft 3002. The plastic parts of the tool 3000 are overmoulded over the metal parts, such that a plastic linking portion 3026 is formed within the slot. A plastic retaining part (not shown) is also formed within the metal lower portion 3002b of the shaft, which may assist in supporting the communication assembly 5000. The upper part 3002a of the shaft comprises a cap 3014 for closing the shaft, as previously described. Constructing the tool 3000 mostly from metal may improve the mechanical properties of the tool, and may also allow the lower part 3002b of the shaft to act as a waveguide for the communication assembly 5000, thereby increasing the height at which the communication assembly can be located above the bottom of the bowl 2000.

Alternative Components Referring to Figure 15, the base 1000 is arranged for use with a variety of different cooperable components, where at least one part of an attachment includes a component that is detectable by the RFID reader. In Figure 15, the kitchen appliance 1 comprises the base 1000, a further bowl 6000, a cutting tool 7000, and a further lid 8000. The various components are arranged to fit together in the same way as for the bowl 2000, tool 3000, and lid 4000, with the cutting tool 3000 being enclosed in the further bowl 6000 by the further lid 8000 such that the base 1000 can drive the cutting tool 7000. The further lid 8000 comprises a bowl canopy 8100, a lid body 8200, a large pusher 8300, and a small pusher 8400. The lid body 8200 comprises bayonet features 8204 for allowing the lid 8000 to be engaged with the bowl 6000. The bowl canopy 8100 is arranged to removably engage with an upper interior part of the further bowl 6000 so as to provide a physical barrier for foodstuff being processed in the further bowl 6000. As such, the bowl canopy 8100 may alter the functionality of the bowl 6000 so as to arrange the bowl for blending, rather than chopping. The large pusher 8300 is arranged to engage with a chute 8202 leading to an aperture (not shown) provided in the lid body 8200. The large pusher 8300 comprises an aperture 8302 extending throughout its length, in which the small pusher 8400 is arranged to engage. This arrangement may allow a user to select the size of aperture for inserting food into the bowl.

Referring to Figure 16, a further bowl 6000 is arranged for use with cutting tools, and is formed from a single radiotransmissive material, such as a plastics material. The further bowl 6000 comprises a wall 6002 and a base 6004 defining the shape of the bowl 6000. The base 6004 is generally flat, such that the further bowl 6000 is generally cylindrical in shape. The use of the flat base 6004 may serve to make the further bowl 6000 suitable for use with conventional cutting tools having straight blades. The transparent material used may allow a user to monitor processing and control the cutting tool accordingly. As such, the further bowl 6000 is generally arranged for operations that would be performed by a typical food processor, while the bowl 3000 is generally arranged for operations that would be performed by a typical stand mixer. The base 6004 comprises a raised central portion 6008. The raised central portion 6008 is provided with a shaft housing formed as an aperture in which a drive shaft 6006 is provided. The drive shaft 6006 is supported in the aperture by a support 6026, which seals the aperture and allows the drive shaft 6006 to rotate freely. The drive shaft 6006 is provided with radially extending teeth 6010 at a first end outside of the bowl 6000 for engaging with the teeth 1062 of the drive coupling 1060. At a second end of the bowl, the drive shaft 6006 is provided with a tool engagement feature 6012 for engaging a tool with the drive shaft 6006. The tool engagement feature 6012 is shaped differently to the tool engagement feature 2030 provided in the bowl 2000, to ensure that only certain tools can be used with certain bowls, for safety. The drive shaft 6006 and the tool engagement feature 6012 are radiopaque parts being formed from a mechanically strong radiopaque material, such as stainless steel. The further bowl 6000 further comprises a spine 6014 on which a handle 6016 is mounted, and an outer and inner rim 6018, 6020 extending from the base of the bowl and arranged to engage with the base 1000. Accordingly, engagement features 6022 are provided on an interior surface of the inner rim 6020. The bowl 6000 further comprises bayonet features 6024 provided on an upper interior surface of the wall 6002 to allow the bowl 6000 to be engaged with the lid 8000.

Referring to Figure 17, the cutting tool 7000 comprises a housing formed as a generally cylindrical shaft 7002 being provided with a cylindrical cavity 7004 at a first end. The cavity 7004 is wider than the tool engagement feature 6012 and drive shaft 6006. The second end of the shaft 7002 is provided with a cap 7016 having a spindle 7020 mounted on a raised central portion 7018. The spindle 7020 is arranged to engage with a boss provided in the further lid 8000 to allow the cutting tool 7000 to rotate freely. The cavity 7004 comprises a cylindrical interior housing 7006 provided at an end of the cavity 7004. The housing 7006 is provided with engagement features 7008 for engaging with the tool engagement feature 6012, allowing the cutting tool 7000 to be driven. A communication assembly 5000 is mounted above the housing 7006 on ribs 7010 extending upwardly form the housing 7006, such that the communication assembly 5000 is coaxial with the housing 7006 and extends around the tool engagement feature 6012 and drive shaft 6006 when both are engaged with the cavity 7004. The communication assembly 5000 is ultrasonically welded onto the ribs 7010. The cutting tool 7000 further comprises a metal chassis 7010 extending around the interior walls of the shaft 7002 at the first end. The chassis 7012 comprises cutting blades 7014, which extend outwardly from the shaft 7002. It will be appreciated that a generally annular transmission path is provided from the communication assembly 5000 out of the first end of the shaft 7002, extending between the metal chassis 7010 and the metal drive shaft 6006. Furthermore, the communication assembly 5000 is spaced above the radiopaque metal chassis. It will be appreciated that when assembled, the communication assembly 5000 is spaced away from radiopaque parts and is provided with a transmission path so as to allow reliable transmission to and from the base 1000, as previously described with reference to Figures 10 and 1 1 .

Referring to Figure 18, the bowl 7000 may also be used with a miniaturised cutting tool 7100 provided with a bowl adaptor 7150, a citrus juicer 7200 provided with a bin portion 7250, or a cutting disc 7300 provided with a transmission shaft 7350 to transmit drive from the drive shaft 6006 in the base of the bowl to the location of the cutting disc 7300 in an upper part of the bowl 6000. The miniaturised cutting tool 7100 and the cutting disc 7300 are arranged to be used with the lid 8000, which is not shown for clarity.

All of the alternative tools 7100, 7200, 7300 are arranged to receive drive from the base 1000 and are provided with a communication assembly 5000, which can be recognised by the RFID reader provided in the base 1000. The communication assembly 5000 is provided internally in the case of the miniaturised cutting tool 7100 and the citrus juicer 7200, wherein each of these tools are provided with a radiotransmissive window as previously described to allow transmission out of the tool. As previously described, the base 1000 may then be controlled accordingly, such as by limiting available drive settings. Referring to Figure 19, the cutting disc 7300 comprises a central housing 7302 and a disc body 7304, which extends radially outwardly from the housing 7302. The disc body is made of metal, for its mechanical properties, while the housing 7302 is formed from a radiotransmissive material such as plastic. The disc body 7304 is provided with an aperture (not shown) and a cutting blade 7306, being arranged to slice foodstuff falling onto the disc body. The sliced foodstuff then passes through the aperture. The housing 7302 comprises an aperture 7308 having internal teeth 7310. The aperture 7308 is arranged to receive a toothed end of the transmission shaft 7350, where the teeth 7310 engage with corresponding teeth on the transmission shaft 7350 to allow the cutting disc 7300 to be driven by the base 1000 when the transmission shaft 7350 is engaged with the drive shaft 6006 in the bowl.

The housing 7302 further comprises a flange 7312 provided at an end of the housing that is arranged to receive the transmission shaft 7350. A further strengthening flange 7314 is provided at an opposite end of the housing 7302. The flange 7312 is arranged to support a communication assembly 5000, where the flange 5024 of the communication assembly 5000 abuts a wall of the flange 7312 of the housing 7302 and is ultrasonically welded in place. The communication assembly 5000 is thereby arranged to surround the transmission shaft 7350 when the transmission shaft 7350 is engaged with the cutting disc 7300. The housing 7302 also acts to space the communication assembly 5000 apart from radiopaque parts of the cutting disc 7300, such as the metal disc body 7304, so as to prevent interference or distortion.

Referring to Figure 20, the further cutting disc 7400 comprises a central housing 7402 and a disc body 7404, which extends radially outwardly from the housing 7402. The further cutting disc 7400 is double-sided and reversible, having different cutting blades 7406 provided on different sides of the disc body 7404. The cutting blades 7406 may be arranged to perform different cutting operations. The housing 7402 is identical to the housing 7302 of the previously described cutting disc 7300, but has a further flange 7414 provided on an opposite end of the housing to the flange 7412. An aperture 7408 extends longitudinally throughout the housing 7402, where internal teeth 7410 are provided throughout the aperture 7408. As such, the further cutting disc 7400 may receive a toothed end of the transmission shaft 7350 as previously described at either end of the housing 7402. A first and second communication assembly 5000a, 5000b are supported by the flange 7412 and the further flange 7414 respectively as previously described. The arrangement of the first and second communication assembly 5000a, 5000b on either side of the disc body 7404 allows each of the communication assemblies 5000a, 5000b to provide information relating to the identity of each of the cutting blades 7406. When the further cutting disc 7400 is engaged with the bowl 6000 and the base 1000, whichever of the communication assemblies 5000a, 5000b that faces towards the base may transmit information to the base 1000, while the radiopaque disc body 7304 may act to block the transmissions of whichever of the communication assemblies 5000a, 5000b that faces away from the base 1000, so the two communication assemblies 5000a, 5000b can be used without interfering with each other. This may allow for the different cutting blades 7406 to be driven differently by the base 1000, according to their different requirements for safe use. Referring to Figure 21 , the blender attachment 9000 comprises a body 9100, a lid 9200, and a cap 9300.

Referring to Figure 22, the blender body 9100 comprises a working chamber 9102, which is sealed at a first end by a base portion 9104 (which is detachable for cleaning) and at a second end by the lid 9200. The cap 9300 engages with an aperture provided in the lid 9200, in order to seal the blender attachment.

The base portion 9104 comprises a rim 9120, which extends downwardly from the edge of the blender attachment 9000. The rim 9120 is provided with bayonet features 9122 on an internal surface to allow the blender attachment 9000 to be engaged with the base 1000. The base portion 9104 comprises a central housing 9106 holding a drive shaft 9108, which is supported by bearings 91 10. The drive shaft 9108 is provided with a cutting tool 91 12 at a first end (within the working chamber 9102) and radially extending teeth 91 14 at a second end (external to the working chamber 9102) for engaging with the teeth 1062 of the drive coupling 1060. The drive shaft 9108 and teeth 91 14 are radiopaque parts being formed from a metal material, for its mechanical properties.

The base portion 9104 further comprises a flange 91 16 extending downwardly and outwardly of the housing 9106. The flange 91 16 supports a communication assembly 5000, which is ultrasonically welded in place and is held coaxially to the housing 9106, such that the communication assembly 5000 is held outwardly of the drive shaft 9108 and above and outwardly of the teeth 91 14. As such, the communication assembly 5000 is spaced apart from radiopaque parts, so is able to communicate with the base 1000 with interference and/or distortion being reduced.

Referring to Figures 23 and 24, the base 1000 comprises means for weighing items placed on the radiotransmissive window 1050, which may be activated upon detection of a communication assembly 5000 associated with the weighing tray attachment 10000. The weighing tray attachment 10000 comprises a tray having an outer and an inner rim 10002, 10004 for attachment onto the radiotransmissive window 1050. The weighing tray attachment 10000 further comprises an annular housing 10006 on the underside of the tray (within the inner rim 10004) for supporting a communication assembly 5000.

Referring to Figure 25, the further cutting tool 1 1000 is arranged as a multi-part or modular tool having a first and second part 1 1002, 1 1004, where each part is provided with an internal communication assembly 5000a, 5000b. The first and second part 1 1002, 1 1004 are provided with external radiopaque parts, such as cutting tools 1 1010, 1 1012, where the communication assemblies 5000a, 5000b are spaced from the radiopaque parts as previously described. The further cutting tool 1 1000 further comprises a spindle 1 1014 for engaging with a lid, as previously described.

The first communication assembly 5000a is capable of communicating with second communication assembly 5000b, and vice versa. The first communication assembly 5000a is energised by the RFID reader in the base 1000, where a second communication assembly 5000b is excited by the first communication assembly 5000. In a further example, the second communication assembly 5000 may then excite a third communication assembly, and so on. The first and second part 1 1002, 1 1004 are arranged along the length of a shaft 1 1006, where the shaft 1 1006 comprises a housing 1 1008 at a first end for receiving a shaft. The communication assemblies 5000a, 5000b are arranged to provide information related to the part with which each of the communication assemblies 5000 is associated. The second communication assembly 5000b furthest from the base 1000 may be out of range of the RFID reader provided in the base 1000. The base 1000 may then be capable of receiving information from both communication assemblies 5000 to determine appropriate drive settings, where at least the first communication assembly 5000a is provided in range of the RFID reader in the base and is arranged to transmit information from the second communication assembly 5000b to the base 1000. Optionally, at least one of the communication assemblies 5000 out of range of the RFID reader may be provided with its own power source (i.e. it acts as an active RFID tag) to improve the operation of the described arrangement.

It will be appreciated that in all of the described components having a communication assembly 5000, the communication assembly 5000 is spaced apart from metal components in the same way as described with reference to the dough kneading tool 3000, which may assist in avoiding detuning of the RFID tag provided by the communication assembly 5000. Alternative Kitchen Appliance Construction

Referring to Figure 26, an alternative kitchen appliance 12000 is shown. The kitchen appliance comprises a base 12100, a metal (i.e. radiopaque) bowl 12200 which is mountable to an annular support 121 10 provided on the base, a tool 12300 which is engageable with a drive coupling 12120 provided centrally in the annular support on the base via an aperture in the bowl 12200 (in the same way as previously described), an outer lid 12400, and an inner lid 12500. Both the outer and inner lids are formed from a radiotransmissive material. The inner and outer lids are arranged to be co-operable with each other and with a rim 12220 of the bowl 12200 so as to seal the bowl and its contents. In more detail, the outer lid 12400 is removably attachable to the rim via sealing elements made out of rubber (or another suitable flexible sealing material). When the outer lid has been attached to the rim, the inner lid 12500 can then engage with an aperture provided in the outer lid (for example via similar sealing elements) in order to seal the bowl. Providing a removable outer lid may make the kitchen appliance easier to clean. The outer lid 12400 comprises an RF coil 12410 which extends in a concentric manner around the outer lid proximate the rim 12220 of the bowl 12200, where the circumference of the RF coil is approximately the same as that of the bowl. The RF coil is arranged to communicate with the processor 12140 in the base via an electrical connection 12230 provided in a cable run 12210, which may in itself be integrated into a spine, handle, or chimney of the bowl. The RF coil 12410 connects with the electrical connection 12230 when the outer lid 12400 is mounted to the bowl 12200, and similarly the electrical connection 12230 connects with the processor 12140 when the bowl 12200 is mounted to the base 12100. The outer lid 12400 is arranged to enclose and protect the RF coil 12410 - as such, the outer lid is formed so as to be waterproof.

Referring to Figure 27, a schematic cutaway view of the alternative kitchen appliance 12000 is shown. The inner lid 12500 is not shown. The base 12100 further comprises a motor 12130, which engages with the drive coupling 12120 to drive the tool 12300, and a processor 12140 (optionally including associated electronics). Optionally, the base also comprises a heating element (not shown) for heating the contents of the bowl.

The tool 12300 comprises an RFID tag 12320 (which may optionally be the previously described communication assembly 5000), which is located towards a distal end of the tool from operating members 12310 of the tool (i.e. the RFID tag 12320 is located towards the rim 12220 of the bowl 12200 when engaged with the bowl 12200 and base 12100). The RFID tag 12320 stores data identifying the tool, as previously described with reference to other embodiments described herein. The RF coil 12410 and processor 12140 in combination are configurable to operate as an RFID reader to read the data on the RFID tag. The outer lid 12400 (and optionally also the inner lid 12500) thereby act as a radiotransmissive window (as previously described) within the radiopaque bowl 12200. As previously described, this arrangement allows the processor to adapt the operation of the motor 12130 and/or operations accessible by the user in dependence on the properties of the particular tool that is engaged with the base and bowl. The tool extends so as to support the RFID tag proximate or parallel to the RF coil 12410 in the outer lid so as to improve communication performance.

The described arrangement thereby allows the processor in the base to read data from (or otherwise communicate with) the RFID tag 12320 in the tool in the bowl, where the bowl is entirely made of metal (and so is radiopaque). The use of a metal bowl 12200, in particular a stainless steel, may allow for a wider range of processing functions to be performed by the kitchen appliance 12000, such as high temperature cooking (for which a bowl having a non-metal window would not be suitable). In addition, by virtue of the RFID tag being supported away from the bottom of the bowl, the RFID tag is moved relatively close to the RF coil, and is less likely to be affected by the heat source in the bowl and/or any foodstuff or other items forming a physical barrier to transmission.

Optionally, an interlock mechanism is provided to detect the presence of both the outer and inner lids, and to limit the operation of the kitchen appliance when one or both of the lids are detected as not being present. For example, where the inner lid is not present, the motor 12130 may be controlled to be capable of operating only at a slow maximum speed, and where both lids are not present the motor may be controlled so as to not be capable of operating at all, Examples of suitable interlock systems include a reed-switch actuated by a magnet mounted on the inner lid or an RFID or NFC sensor sensing a corresponding tag in the inner lid. Providing separate outer and inner lids may thereby allow the RFID tag 12320 to be read while allowing part of the lid to be open, which may be advantageous or required for certain cooking operations.

In an alternative, the RF coil 12410 is mounted to a lid formed as a single piece (such as the lid 8200 described with reference to Figure 15), which may allow an RF coil of a smaller circumference to be used (which may be located closer to RFID tag 12320, which may thereby improve communication performance). In a further alternative, the outer lid 12400 may be integrally formed with the bowl (either within or around the rim 12210), in which case the RF coil 12410 is a part of the bowl. The inner lid 12500 may optionally be formed from a transparent material, such as glass or clear plastic, to allow users to monitor processing. Optionally, the bowl includes a separate heating element in place of the heating element provided in the base, where the heating element in the bowl is either powered by the base (for example, via electrical contacts) or by a mains power supply. Optionally, a plurality of RFID tags (or communication assemblies 5000) which communicate with each other are used to transfer the signal from the RF coil 12410 to the processor 12140, rather than the electrical connection 12230.

Alternatives and Modifications The RFID tag provided with each of the components may provide additional or alternative information to the previously described information related to identity. For example, the RFID tag may be arranged to additionally or alternatively transmit information previously described as 'pre-stored information', which, for example, may relate to preferred or allowable drive settings, such as a maximum rotation speed and/or torque for a given attachment for a particular direction of rotation. In such a case, there may be no need for a database to be associated with the electronic control circuit.

Whether provided in a database accessed by reference to a supplied identity or provided directly by the RFID tag, the 'pre-stored information' may optionally relate to additional or alternative parameters. For example, the information may relate to maximum rotation speeds and/or torque for a given condition, such as tool use time or temperature. Such conditions may be informed by sensors, as will be described later on. The information may also relate to an icon representing the attachment (which may be displayed on the screen, for example), and/or recipe data for use with the attachment.

The RFID reader provided in the base 1000 may alternatively be capable of recognising more than one RFID tag at once. In such a case, the parts of the attachment which have been described as not having a communication assembly (such as the bowls 2000, 6000 and the lids 4000, 8000) may be provided with communication assemblies. In particular, the bowl 2000 having the radiotransmissive window 2010 may be provided with a further communication assembly 5000 located in the skirt portion 2050. A further RF coil may optionally be provided in the base 1000 (external to the described RF coil 1080, but still beneath the radiotransmissive window 1050) and arranged to align with the further communication assembly 5000 when the bowl 2000 is engaged with the base 1000. Alternatively, the described RF coil 1080 may be arranged to detect the further communication assembly 5000.

Although the above has principally been described with reference to a passive RFID tag being provided with the attachment, it will be appreciated that active RFID tags may also be used. In this case, an internal battery may be provided inside the attachment to power the active RFID tag. Alternatively, other communication means may be used, such as Bluetooth (RTM).

The RFID tag provided by the communication assembly 5000 has principally been described as being formed from the integrated circuit 5050 and the RF coil 5040; however, the processing component of the RFID tag may alternatively be formed from a component other than an integrated circuit. For example, a conductive polymer, a series of magnetic fibres, and/or a printed structure may be used in place of the RFID tag. In certain cases where the aforementioned structures are used, the RF coil 5040 may not be necessary and so may be omitted from the communication assembly.

Optionally, the RF coil 1080 in the base 1000 may be arranged for alternative uses as well as use in an RFID reader. For example, the RF coil 1080 may be arranged to form part of an induction heater for heating attachments. In such a case, the RF coil 1080 may be reversibly configurable for use as part of an RFID reader or as part of an induction heater, for example by the use of an electrical relay being provided in electrical communication with the coil and arranged to change the electrical characteristics of signal used to excite the RF coil 1080 from an RFID mode to an induction heating mode, and vice versa. This may, for example, simply consist of a low power mode for RFID and a high power mode for induction heating. Alternatively, the RF coil 5040 in the communication assembly 5000 may be similarly arranged for use as a component of an RFID tag or as a component of an induction heating system.

Although the above has principally been described with reference to the communication assembly 5000 being ultrasonically welded to the various components, it will be appreciated that there are of course a wide variety of ways in which the communication assembly can be mounted to an attachment. For example, the communication assembly could be held by adhesive, clipped in place, or held in place by another component, for example by prongs extending downwardly from a cap of a tool (where provided).

The integrated circuit 5050 may optionally be provided with additional means for supporting it in an upright position. For example, the communication assembly 5000 may further comprise an annular frame formed from a radiotransmissive material and arranged to fit within the annular channel 5010, for example where the frame overlies the annular connector 5060. The frame may then comprise an extended portion for supporting the integrated circuit 5050. Alternatively, the frame may hold the integrated circuit 5050, rather than the integrated circuit 5050 being provided on a wall of the annular channel 5010.

In a further alternative, one or more of the integrated circuit 5050 (or other processing component of the RFID tag, where provided) and/or the RF coil 5040 may be printed directly onto one or more of the inner annular wall 5012, the outer annular wall 5014, and/or the linking wall 5016.

Optionally, a counterweight may be provided within the annular channel 5010, provided on the inner annular wall 5012 on an opposite side of the annular channel 5010 to the integrated circuit 5050. The counterweight may be arranged to balance the weight of the integrated circuit 5050 and/or the RF coil 5040, so as to reduce or eliminate any out-of-balance forces caused by the off-centre arrangement of the integrated circuit 5050 and RF coil 5040. The counterweight may be optionally formed from an integral part of one or more of the inner annular wall 5012, the outer annular wall 5014, and/or the linking wall 5016.

Optionally, the communication assembly 5000 may be arranged to allow for tool position and/or speed to be determined. This can be provided by arranging the communication assembly 5000 so as to produce a 'pulse', for example by arranging the RF coil 5040 to have an elliptical annular shape (as an alternative to the described circular annular shape) and/or providing a metal object towards one side of the communication assembly 5000. Alternatively or additionally, the RF coil 1080 may be provided in an off-centre position within the radiotransmissive window 1050 to allow the 'pulse' to be detected.

Optionally, the communication assembly 5000 may be provided in communication with one or more sensors provided within an attachment. The one or more sensors may be arranged to detect one or more of the following parameters: tool position, tool orientation, temperature, the presence and/or concentration of a particular chemical, weight, light, tool speed, sound, torque, food location, pressure, and/or visual data. Optionally, the sensors may be powered by the excitation of the RF coil 1080. The sensors may be provided within or along the length of a tool shaft so as to provide sensing information at various locations along a shaft. Providing a communication assembly 5000 in communication with one or more sensors is particularly useful where a plurality of communication assemblies are provided (in which case each communication assembly may be provided in communication with a sensor), but may also be applied in relation to other described aspects.

Optionally, the radiotransmissive window 1050 in the base 1000 may be disposed in an offset position relative to the centre of the upper surface 1012, towards one of the smaller sides of the upper surface 1012. This may make space to allow further features to be provided on the upper surface 1012.

Optionally, the protrusion 1018 may comprise a groove holding a member, where the groove extends partially concentrically about the radiotransmissive window. A member may extend outwardly from the groove, above the raised portion 1014, to form part of a mechanical switch providing a further part of the previously mentioned interlock system.

Optionally, either or both of the radiotransmissive windows 1050, 2010 provided in the base 1000 or bowl 2000 may be formed from an optically transparent or translucent material (such as a transparent polymer such as Triton (RTM) or a suitable glass), rather than the previously described optically opaque materials, to permit the user to view the contents of the bowl when the bowl is disengaged from the base. The bowl may optionally be provided with a light source located proximate the radiotransmissive portion, to allow the bowl to be illuminated. Alternatively, a high temperature plastic (such as VICTREX (RTM) PEEK) may be used to allow the base 1000 and/or bowl 2000 to be used with cooking or heating applications. Optionally, the parts of the components described as 'plastic' or 'radiotransmissive' may also be formed from the same materials. Optionally, either or both of the radiotransmissive windows 1050, 2010 may be painted to resemble a metal, so as to blend in visually with the surrounding metal components. Alternatively, either or both of the radiotransmissive windows 1050, 2010 may be plated or coated with a thin layer of metal so as blend with the outer wall. Alternatively, either or both of the radiotransmissive windows 1050, 2010 may be covered with a metal mesh so as to reduce the visual discontinuity. It will be appreciated that any such plating, coating, or mesh will be sufficiently thin such that either or both of the radiotransmissive windows 1050, 2010 and the plating, coating, or mesh together form a wall which is more radiotransmissive than the radiopaque casing 1010 and/or bowl wall 2004. Alternatively, the entire casing 1010 and/or bowl 2004 may be formed from a plastics material which is plated with metal, where certain areas are left unplated to define the radiotransmissive windows 1050, 2010.

Optionally, the casing 1010 and the radiotransmissive window 1050 and/or the bowl wall 2004 and the radiotransmissive window 2010 may be formed from a plastics material loaded with metal particles, where the density of the metal particles is lowered in a region thereby to form a radiotransmissive window.

Optionally, the radiotransmissive windows 1050, 2010 may not be arranged adjacently to provide line-of-sight transmission when the bowl 2000 is engaged with the base 1000. In such a case, a waveguide, tube, and/or RF reflector may be provided to guide transmission between the radiotransmissive windows 1050, 2010 and/or directly between the RF coils 1080, 5040. Such a waveguide or tube may extend from a location proximate the radiotransmissive window in an attachment to connect with a similar waveguide or tube provided in the base. Alternatively, the waveguide or tube may extend from within an attachment or housing to an aperture provided in an outer wall, for example, the bowl wall 2004. In such a case the waveguide or tube may extend into the attachment or appliance in probe-like fashion.

Optionally, components surrounding the communication assembly 5000 (such as the metal chassis of the dough kneading tool 3000) may be arranged in such a way as to enhance the performance of the communication assembly 5000, for example to act as an antenna and/or to focus RF signals on the communication assembly 5000. In particular, a dish-shaped metal member may be provided above the communication assembly 5000 (for example, within the chamber 3012 in the dough kneading tool 3000). Alternatively, the RFID reader may be arranged to operate when the motor is running, for example to monitor information provided from one or more sensors provided in communication with the communication assembly 5000. Optionally, compensation may be applied to received signals to correct for any distortion, for example based on a detected speed of the motor.

Optionally, the communication assembly 5000 may further comprise one or more electronic memories and/or processors being associated with the attachment in which the communication assembly 5000 is provided. The RFID reader in the base 1000 may be capable of programming and/or interrogating these electronic memories and/or processors using RF communications to and from the communication assembly 5000. This functionality may be used, for example, to alter the information provided by the communication assembly 5000.

Optionally, the attachment may further comprise a permanent magnet or an electromagnet being arranged to induce current in a coil of the communication assembly 5000 provided with the attachment, for example by using the rotation of the drive shaft and/or tool to create changes in the magnetic field, so as to charge a battery or capacitor within the attachment. This power may be used to power sensors, motors, lights, or other suitable transducers within the attachment.

Although the above has principally been described with reference to a kitchen appliance comprising a bottom-driven food processor base, it will be understood that the invention may equally be applied to various other kitchen appliances. As will be appreciated, an attachment according to the present invention may be provided in various forms, where the radiotransmissive windows or transmission path is provided in various different locations. In particular, the invention may be applied to a stand mixer and attachment, or a hand blender base and hand blender attachment.

It will be appreciated that for different components and/or kitchen appliances, the size and/or shape of the radiotransmissive window provided in each attachment and/or kitchen appliance will vary accordingly. The size and shape of the radiotransmissive window in each case depends on the frequency, modulation method, and required operating range of the RFID system used in each case. The distance between the communication assembly provided in the attachment and/or kitchen appliance and the radiotransmissive window may vary depending on application, although it will be appreciated that the radius and/or width of the radiotransmissive window must be larger if the distance of the communication assembly from the radiotransmissive window is greater to avoid a deleterious effect on RF communications. Where the attachment is a bowl or container for use with a pressure cooker, the radiotransmissive window is preferably pressure- resistant to at least 2-3 atm. It will be understood that the present invention has been described above purely by way of example, and modifications of detail can be made within the scope of the invention. Each feature disclosed in the description, and (where appropriate) the claims and drawings may be provided independently or in any appropriate combination. Reference numerals appearing in the claims are by way of illustration only and shall have no limiting effect on the scope of the claims.

Claims

1 . A communication assembly for use with a component, optionally of a kitchen appliance, the communication assembly comprising:

an antenna, and an electronic circuit coupled to the antenna, whereby the communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal to an external reader; and an annular channel comprising at least one formation for attachment to the component;

wherein the antenna and the electronic circuit are disposed in the annular channel.

2. A communication assembly according to Claim 1 , wherein the annular channel comprises a plurality of annular walls, wherein at least one such annular wall has a height that is at least half and less than double a height of at least one other such annular wall.

3. A communication assembly according to Claim 2, wherein the plurality of annular walls has the same height.

4. A communication assembly according to Claim 2 or 3, wherein the plurality of annular walls has a height that is at least half and less than double a width of the annular channel.

5. A communication assembly according to Claim 4, wherein the plurality of annular walls has a height that is the same as a width of the annular channel.

6. A communication assembly according to any of Claims 2 to 5, wherein at least one such formation is provided on an exterior surface of the annular channel.

7. A communication assembly according to Claim 6, wherein said exterior surface faces inwardly.

8. A communication assembly according to Claim 7, wherein the at least one such formation is a wall. 9. A communication assembly according to Claim 8, wherein the wall is shaped for a tapered fit with a tool.

10. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one formation is arranged to obstruct physically a fit between the communication assembly and a tool which is incompatible with the communication assembly.

1 1 . A communication assembly according to Claim 10, wherein the tool for which the fit with the communication assembly is obstructed is incompatible with the communication assembly for a particular joining process.

12. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the antenna and the electronic circuit are encapsulated in the annular channel.

13. A communication assembly according to Claim 12, wherein the antenna and the electronic circuit are encapsulated in the annular channel by use of a potting compound.

14. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the annular channel is formed from a material suitable for welding.

15. A communication assembly according to Claim 14, wherein the annular channel is formed from a material suitable for ultrasonic welding.

16. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one such formation is a flange.

17. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising a frame arranged in the annular channel for supporting the electronic circuit. 18. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the electronic circuit is mounted in the annular channel.

19. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the antenna is mounted in the annular channel.

20. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the electronic circuit and the antenna are disposed in the annular channel such that at least a part of the electronic circuit is not attached to the antenna.

21 . A communication assembly for use with a component, optionally of a kitchen appliance, the communication assembly comprising:

an antenna, and an electronic circuit coupled to the antenna, whereby the communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal to an external reader; and

an annular channel;

wherein the antenna and the electronic circuit are disposed in the annular channel such that at least a part of the electronic circuit is not attached to the antenna.

22. A communication assembly according to Claim 20 or 21 , wherein the electronic circuit is not attached to the antenna.

23. A communication assembly according to Claim 22, wherein at least a part of the electronic circuit is attached to another member,

24. A communication assembly according to Claim 23, wherein the other member is the annular channel.

25. A communication assembly according to any of Claims 22 to 24, wherein the annular channel has a central axis, and the electronic circuit is spaced apart from the antenna in a direction perpendicular to the central axis of the annular channel.

26. A communication assembly according to Claim 25, wherein the electronic circuit is spaced apart from the antenna by a distance of between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.

27. A communication assembly according to Claim 25 or 26, wherein the antenna is arranged off-centre within the annular channel so as to define a spacing between the antenna and the electronic circuit.

28. A communication assembly according to any of Claims 20 to 27, wherein the electronic circuit and antenna are mounted in the annular channel, wherein the electronic circuit is mounted at an angle of between 45° and 135° relative to the antenna.

29. A communication assembly according to Claim 28, wherein the electronic circuit is mounted perpendicularly relative to the antenna.

30. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the antenna is mounted in the annular channel so as to face out of the opening of the channel.

31 . A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the or each communication assembly is adapted to be powered by an external reader.

32. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the communication assembly is arranged to communicate with further communication assemblies.

33. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the antenna has a circularly annular shape.

34. A communication assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 32, wherein the antenna has an elliptical annular shape.

35. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising one or more counterweights arranged in the annular channel for balancing the communication assembly. 36. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the communication assembly is for use with a rotatable tool of a kitchen appliance.

37. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, having an operating range in air of less than one of: 30 cm, 20 cm, and 10 cm.

38. A communication symbol according to any preceding claim, wherein the communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal having a frequency of between 30 kHz and 300 kHz, preferably between 120 and 150 kHz, and more preferably 125 kHz.

39. A communication assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal relating to an identity of a component with which the communication assembly is used to an external reader.

40. A component, optionally of a kitchen appliance, the component comprising:

a communication assembly; and

at least one radiopaque part;

wherein said communication assembly is spaced apart from said radiopaque part. component according to Claim 40, wherein the communication assembly is spaced apart from radiopaque parts by a minimum distance of one of: 1 mm, 3 mm, 5 mm, 10 cm, 20 cm, and 30 mm.

42. A component according to Claim 40 or 41 , wherein the radiopaque part extends partially around the communication assembly thereby to reduce induction of current in the radiopaque part.

43. A component according to any of Claims 40 to 42, wherein the radiopaque part acts as a waveguide for the communication assembly.

44. A component according to any of Claims 40 to 43, wherein the component further comprises a radiotransmissive formation that is interposed between the communication assembly and the at least one radiopaque part.

45. A component according to any of Claims 40 to 44, wherein the component comprises a housing for receiving a drive shaft, wherein the communication assembly is spaced along a central axis of the housing.

. A component according to Claim 45, wherein the communication assembly surrounds the central axis of the housing.

47. A component according to Claim 45 or 46, wherein the communication assembly is spaced apart from the housing.

48. A component according to any of Claims 40 to 44, wherein the component comprises a housing for receiving a drive shaft, wherein the communication assembly is spaced radially apart from a central axis of the housing.

49. A component according to any of Claims 40 to 48, wherein the communication assembly is disposed inside the component.

50. A component, optionally of a kitchen appliance, the component comprising an internally disposed communication assembly.

51 . A component according to Claim 49 or 50, wherein the communication assembly is mounted in the component.

52. A component according to any of Claims 49 to 51 , wherein the communication assembly is disposed within a sealed chamber of the component. 53. A component according to any of Claims 49 to 52, wherein the component includes a cap for retaining the communication assembly within the attachment.

54. A component according to Claim 45 or 47, wherein the component is a cutting disc for a food processor.

55. A component according to Claim 54, wherein the cutting disc comprises a radiopaque disc body, and the communication assembly is spaced apart from a surface of the disc body by the housing.

56. A component according to Claim 55, further comprising a further communication assembly which is spaced apart from a further surface of the disc body by the housing, such that the disc body is interposed between the communication assembly and the further communication assembly.

57. A component according to any of Claims 40 to 53, wherein the component is one of: a tool for a kitchen appliance, a bowl for a kitchen appliance, a blender cup for a kitchen appliance, a weighing tray for use with a kitchen appliance, and a citrus juicer for use with a kitchen appliance.

58. A component according to any of Claims 40 to 57, wherein the or each communication assembly comprises an antenna and an electronic circuit, wherein the or each communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal.

59. A component according to Claim 58, wherein the or each communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal to an external reader.

60. A component according to Claim 59, wherein the or each communication assembly is a communication assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 39. 61 . A component according to any of Claims 40 to 53, wherein the component is a base of a kitchen appliance.

62. A component according to Claim 61 , wherein the communication assembly comprises an antenna and an electronic circuit, wherein the communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal.

63. A component according to Claim 62, wherein the communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal to interrogate an external communication assembly.

64. A component according to Claim 63, wherein the external communication assembly is a communication assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 39.

65. A component of a kitchen appliance, said component having a radiotransmissive window; wherein the component is any one of: a bowl; a base; and a tool. 66. A component according to Claim 65, wherein the radiotransmissive window comprises a radiotransmissive material.

67. A component according to Claim 65 or 66, wherein the component comprises an exterior casing, and the radiotransmissive window extends through the casing.

68. A component according to Claim 67, wherein the radiotransmissive window is attached to the casing by being formed around the casing.

69. A component according to any of Claims 65 to 68, wherein the radiotransmissive window comprises a housing for receiving a drive shaft.

70. A component according to any of Claims 65 to 69, wherein the radiotransmissive window is circular.

71 . A component according to Claim 70, wherein the radiotransmissive window has a diameter of between 10 mm and 200 mm, preferably between 100 mm and 150 mm, and more preferably between 130 mm and 140 mm.

72. A component according to any of Claims 65 to 71 , wherein the radiotransmissive window comprises a plastics material. 73. A component according to Claim 72, wherein the plastics material is a high temperature plastics material.

74. A component according to any of Claims 65 to 73, wherein the radiotransmissive window comprises a transparent material.

75. A component according to any of Claims 65 to 74, wherein the component is substantially radiopoaque.

76. A component according to any of Claims 65 to 75, wherein the component is a bowl for a kitchen appliance.

77. A component according to Claim 76, wherein the radiotransmissive window is provided in a base part of the bowl.

78. A component according to Claim 76, wherein the bowl comprises a lid; and the radiotransmissive window is provided in the lid.

79. A component according to any of Claims 76 to 78, further comprising a rim extending away from the bowl, wherein the rim surrounds the radiotransmissive window.

80. A component according to any of Claims 76 to 79, further comprising a formation for enabling the component to cooperate with further components.

81 . A component according to any of Claims 65 to 80, further comprising a communication assembly being arranged to communicate through the radiotransmissive window.

82. A component according to Claim 81 , wherein the communication assembly is arranged internally to the component.

83. A component according to Claim 81 or 82, wherein the communication assembly comprises an antenna and an electronic circuit, wherein the communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio-frequency (RF) signal.

84. A component according to any of Claims 81 to 83, wherein the component is a base of a kitchen appliance.

85. A component according to Claim 84, wherein the antenna is mounted on the radiotransmissive window.

86. A component according to Claim 84 or 85, wherein the antenna is configurable for use as a component of the communication assembly or as an induction heater.

87. A component according to any of Claims 84 to 86, wherein the communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal to interrogate an external communication assembly.

88. A component according to Claim 87, wherein the external communication assembly is a communication assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 39

89. A component according to any of Claims 84 to 88, wherein the component further comprises a motor for driving a further component, and the further component is driven in accordance with information obtained via interrogation of an external communication assembly.

90. A component according to Claim 89, wherein the component is provided with an interlock system for the motor, the interlock system comprising a mechanical interlock and an electrical interlock.

91 . A component according to Claim 89 or 90, wherein the communication assembly is adapted so as to not operate when the motor is operated.

92. A component according to any of Claims 81 to 83, wherein the component is a tool for a food processor.

93. A component according to Claim 92, wherein the communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal to an external reader. 94. A component according to Claim 93, wherein the communication assembly is a communication assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 39.

95. A component, optionally of a kitchen appliance, wherein the component is a modular processing tool comprising a plurality of modular parts and a plurality of communication assemblies, wherein each modular part is provided with a communication assembly. component according to Claim 95, wherein the communication assemblies are arranged to communicate with each other.

97. A component according to Claim 95 or 96, wherein at least one of the communication assemblies is arranged to be powered by at least one other communication assembly.

98. A component according to any of Claims 95 to 97, wherein at least one of the communication assemblies is arranged to be in communication with at least one sensor.

99. A component according to Claim 98, wherein at least one of the communication assemblies is arranged to transmit power to one or more of the sensors.

100. A component according to any of Claims 95 to 99, wherein at least one of the communication assemblies is arranged to transmit power to a light.

101 . A component according to any of Claims 95 to 100, wherein the component is a rotatable tool for a food processor.

102. A component according to Claim 101 , wherein each communication assembly comprises an antenna and an electronic circuit, and each communication assembly is adapted to transmit a radio- frequency (RF) signal.

103. A component according to Claim 102, wherein each communication assembly is adapted to transmit an RF signal to an external reader.

104. A component according to Claim 103, wherein each communication assembly is a communication assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 39.

105. A system for enabling wireless RF communication; comprising

a plurality of cooperable components, optionally of a kitchen appliance, wherein each of the plurality of components have a radiotransmissive window;

wherein the radiotransmissive windows are arranged to overlap when the plurality of components are cooperating with each other.

106. A system according to Claim 105, wherein the plurality of components comprise a base component and a tool component, wherein the base component is arranged to drive the tool component when the tool component is engaged with the base component.

107. A system according to Claim 106, wherein the base component is a component according to any of Claims 61 to 64 or any of Claims 84 to 91 .

108. A system according to Claim 106 or 107, wherein the tool component is a component according to any of Claims 54 to 60, any of Claims 92 to 94, or any of Claims 101 to 104.

109. A system according to any of Claims 106 to 108, wherein the plurality of components further comprise a bowl component, wherein the bowl component is arranged to engage with the base component and the tool component so as to interpose between the base component and the tool component.

1 10. A system according to Claim 109, wherein the bowl component is a component according to any of Claims 76 to 80. 1 1 1 . A component according to any of Claims 40 to 1 10, wherein the kitchen appliance is a food processor.

1 12. A kitchen appliance comprising a base comprising processing components; a bowl being engageable with the base, at least a base of the bowl being radiopaque; a tool comprising a communication assembly, for example a communication assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 39 (i.e. an RFID tag), the tool being engageable with the base (via the bowl); an at least partially radiotransmissive part provided at or adjacent a rim of the bowl and comprising a further communication assembly (i.e. an RFID reader); wherein the further communication assembly is arranged to communicate with the processing components thereby to communicate information from the communication assembly in the tool to the processing components.

1 13. A kitchen appliance as claimed in claim 1 12, in which the further communication assembly is provided in a removable part which is attachable to the bowl, for example a lid. 1 14. A kitchen appliance as claimed in claim 1 12 or 1 13, in which the further communication assembly is arranged to communicate with the processing components by means of an electrical connection.