Patent Publication Number: US-2021177211-A1

Title: Locking mechanism

Description:
FIELD 
     This invention relates to a locking mechanism. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Recently, kitchen devices performing a variety of stirring, processing, blending and/or heating of ingredients have become popular in the consumer and commercial markets. These devices may be referred to as multicookers. A problem that has emanated from the increasing popularity of such multicookers is that stirring and/or blending heated substances such that they have large amounts of kinetic as well as thermal energy can present a substantial risk to users operating the device. Therefore, safety systems have been integrated into devices performing kinetic operations such as stirring or blending on heated ingredients to decrease the risk of users being exposed to and/or injured by the heated ingredients. 
     However, presently known safety systems, such as the one disclosed in US 2013/0206771 A1, provide insufficient feedback to users that the safety system has completed its locking process. Such simple systems may be sufficient for blenders, however food processors capable of heating and cooking cannot rely on this type of arrangement alone, as manual and automatic systems alone cannot provide definitive feedback to the device, as well as the user, about the state of the safety system. Manual locking arms are generally only suitable for devices that operate at lower kinetic energies such as food processors. In kitchen device with high kinetic energies electronic and/or motorised safety systems are desirable. The kitchen device is then able to control and time the safety system to ensure that the ingredients have dissipated adequate kinetic energy to ensure the kitchen device can be opened safely. Traditionally, high kinetic energy blenders do not have this requirement as the ingredients are cold and would not cause serious injury if they are opened prematurely. However, heated kitchen devices with blending capability require electronically controlled safety systems to avoid this hazard. 
     Further, presently known safety systems can provide impediments, due to their physical location, against locating a lid on top of the vessel, both of which are parts of the kitchen device. Presently known safety systems can also be hazardous to users, and the system itself, due to exposed moving parts. Some solutions have implemented purely automatic safety systems, however the lack of manual feedback may be undesirable for a positive user experience. 
     SUMMARY OF INVENTION 
     It is an object of the present invention to substantially overcome the above problems or at least provide a useful alternative to the above described arrangements. 
     In a first aspect, the present invention provides a locking mechanism for a kitchen device having a vessel, the vessel providing an interior space and having a rim surrounding an opening of the space, and a lid to engage the rim to close the space, the locking mechanism comprising: 
     a retaining arm, the retaining arm being attachable to the device and movable between a free position, wherein the lid is movable with respect to the vessel, and a retaining position, wherein the retaining arm is engageable with the lid to retain the lid against the vessel to at least partly close the opening; 
     a securing assembly, the securing assembly being attachable to the device to engage the retaining arm and movable between a free position, wherein the retaining arm may be moved between the free position and the retaining position, and a securing position, wherein the securing assembly engages the retaining arm to prevent movement of the retaining arm from the retaining position; 
     a processor; and 
     an electric motor operated by the processor to move the securing assembly between the free position and the securing position. 
     Preferably, when the retaining arm is in the retaining position, the retaining arm is urged towards the vessel such that the lid is urged towards the vessel. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a locking spring, wherein the retaining arm is urged towards the vessel by the locking spring, wherein the locking spring is in a predetermined state when the retaining arm is in the free position, and the locking spring is in a tensioning state relative to the predetermined state when the retaining arm is in the retaining position, wherein the movement of the retaining arm from the free position to the retaining position moves the locking spring from the predetermined state to the tensioning state. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a securing sensor that communicates with the processor to indicate whether the securing assembly is in the securing position. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a retaining sensor that communicates with the processor to indicate whether the retaining arm is in the retaining position. 
     Preferably, the retaining arm further includes a lid sensor that communicates with the processor to indicate whether the lid is located on the vessel. 
     Preferably, the securing assembly is, in use, located inside the kitchen device. 
     Preferably, the retaining arm includes a protrusion adapted to engage a recess in the lid when the retaining arm is moved in an arm direction from the free position to the retaining position. 
     Preferably, the securing assembly comprises a securing member that pivots about a first axis between a free position and a securing position when the securing assembly moves between the free position and the securing position, 
     wherein the securing member comprises a restraint that, when the securing assembly is in the securing position, engages the retaining arm to secure the retaining arm in a secured retaining position. 
     Preferably, the restraint includes a blocking extrusion that extends in a plane normal to the first axis. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a first and/or second securing member sensor that is adapted to communicate with a processor, wherein: 
     the first securing member sensor is adapted to indicate that the securing member is in the securing position, and 
     the second securing member sensor is adapted to indicate that the securing member is in the free position. 
     Preferably, the restraint includes a latch that pivots about a second axis between a free and a securing position, the latch, when in the securing position, engages a slot in the retaining arm to secure the retaining arm in the secured retaining position. 
     Preferably, the latch is biased towards the free position. 
     Preferably, the second axis is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. 
     Preferably, the securing member has a protrusion that, when the securing member pivots from the free position to the securing position, urges the latch to move from the free position to the securing position. 
     Preferably, the securing assembly includes a solenoid that is adapted to move the latch from the free position to the securing position. 
     Preferably, the restraint comprises a restraining spring, 
     wherein the restraining spring is connected to the securing member and the retaining arm, such that when the securing member pivots to the securing position the restraining spring is moved from a predetermined state to a tensioning state relative to the predetermined state to secure the retaining arm in the secured retaining position. 
     Preferably, in the tensioning position, the restraining spring is tensioned to a force of between 100 N to 400N. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a drive mechanism, wherein the electric motor moves the securing assembly between the free position and the securing position using the drive mechanism. 
     Preferably, the drive mechanism is a belt or cable drive. 
     Preferably, the drive mechanism comprises a bevel gear. 
     Preferably, the drive mechanism comprises a worm and gear set. 
     Preferably, the worm and gear set comprises a pinion gear pivotable about a pinion gear axis and the drive mechanism further comprises: 
     a driving pin located on the pinion gear, radially spaced from the pinion gear axis; 
     a driving tab connected to the driving pin and the securing assembly, such that when the pinion gear pivots about the pinion gear axis the driving tab moves the securing assembly between the free and the securing position. 
     Preferably, the securing assembly includes a bridge member connected to the securing member, and the driving tab is connected to the bridge member to move the bridge member between a free and a securing position. 
     Preferably, the bridge member includes a central yoke pivotably received in a central portion of the bridge member such that the central yoke is pivotable relative to the bridge member about a first yoke axis, and wherein the driving tab is connected to a yoke pin, such that the driving tab is pivotable relative to the central yoke about a second yoke axis. 
     Preferably, the first yoke axis is generally perpendicular to the second yoke axis. 
     Preferably, the drive mechanism comprises a bridge member converting a rotary motion of the electric motor to a linear motion of the bridge member. 
     Preferably, the first securing member sensor is arranged to indicate whether the bridge member is in a position indicating that the securing assembly is in the free position. 
     Preferably, the drive mechanism is a common drive mechanism; 
     the securing assembly has two or more securing members pivoted by the common drive mechanism; and 
     the securing assembly is moved between the free position and the securing position using a single electric motor. 
     Preferably, the restraint includes a hook adapted to engage a pin on the retaining arm to secure the retaining arm in the secured retaining position. 
     Preferably, the securing assembly includes a toggle linkage. 
     Preferably, movement of the toggle linkage from the free position to the securing position in a lever direction moves the retaining arm from the free position to the retaining position. 
     Preferably, the securing position of the toggle linkage is a further distance in the lever direction than a corresponding distance in the lever direction causing movement of the retaining arm to the retaining position, and further movement of the toggle linkage in the lever direction urges the retaining arm towards the vessel. 
     In a second aspect, the present invention provides a kitchen device having: 
     a vessel, the vessel providing an interior space and having a rim surrounding an opening of the space; 
     a lid to engage the rim to close the space; and 
     the locking mechanism of the first aspect. 
     Preferably, the lid has a recess located in a ramp that extends upwardly from the lid, the ramp sloping downwardly and towards the free position of the retaining arm, such that when the retaining arm is moved from the free position to the retaining position, the retaining arm engages the ramp and urges the lid against the vessel. 
     Preferably, the lid has a seal adapted to engage the vessel when the retaining arm is in the retaining position and thereby assisting to retain the lid against the vessel. 
     Preferably, the seal includes a sealing lip that engages a side wall of the vessel to seal the vessel, and wherein the sealing lip extends substantially parallel with a side wall of the vessel such that a normal force between the sealing lip and the side wall causes frictional resistance to removal of the lid from the vessel. 
     Preferably, the kitchen device has a body and further includes: 
     a retaining arm seal located between the body and the retaining arm, the retaining arm seal having a concave portion with a lowest point located between the body and the retaining arm. 
     Preferably, the kitchen device further includes: 
     a body snap piece to fasten the retaining arm seal to the body and to resist rotational movement of the retaining arm seal relative to the body; and 
     an arm snap piece to fasten the retaining arm seal to the retaining arm and reduce contact between the retaining arm and the retaining arm seal. 
     In a third aspect, the present invention provides a method for operating a kitchen device having a vessel and a lid, the method comprising the steps of: 
     moving a retaining arm from a free position to a retaining position such that the retaining arm retains the lid against the vessel; 
     determining that the retaining arm is in the retaining position; 
     determining that the lid is present on the vessel; 
     moving a securing assembly from a free position to a securing position thereby securing the retaining arm from moving from the retaining position; and 
     determining that the securing assembly is in the securing position. 
     In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a locking mechanism for a kitchen device having a vessel, the vessel providing an interior space and having a rim surrounding an opening of the space, and a lid to engage the rim to close the space, the locking mechanism comprising: 
     a securing pin, the securing pin being attachable to the device and movable between a free position, wherein the lid is movable with respect to the vessel, and a securing position, wherein the securing pin is engageable with the lid to retain the lid on the vessel to at least partly close the opening; and 
     a secondary securing mechanism, the secondary securing mechanism being attachable to the device to engage the vessel and movable between a free position, wherein the vessel is movable relative to the kitchen device, and a vessel securing position, wherein the secondary securing mechanism engages the vessel to prevent movement of the vessel relative to the kitchen device. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises: 
     a moving member attached to the securing pin; 
     a securing motor to drive the moving member, and thereby move the securing pin between the free position and the securing position; and 
     a processor adapted to actuate the securing motor to drive the moving member. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a secondary securing motor to drive the secondary securing mechanism between the free position and the vessel securing position, and wherein the processor is adapted to actuate the secondary securing motor to drive the secondary securing assembly. 
     Preferably, the secondary securing mechanism includes one or more securing members that, when the secondary securing mechanism is in the securing position, engage a respective securing hold located in a lower portion of the vessel. 
     Preferably, the moving member comprises a drive assembly to move the securing pin between the free position and the securing position, the drive assembly having a shaft. 
     Preferably, the drive mechanism includes a rack located on the moving member and a pinion gear located on the shaft. 
     Preferably, the drive mechanism includes a screw-drive. 
     Preferably, the screw-drive includes a thread formed on an inner surface of the securing pin that engages a thread formed on an outer surface of the shaft. 
     In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a locking mechanism for a kitchen device having a vessel and a lid, the locking mechanism comprising: 
     a retaining arm movable between a free position and a retaining position; 
     a securing assembly to engage the retaining arm and movable between a free position and a securing position; and 
     an electric motor to move the securing assembly between the free position and the securing position. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a processor adapted to control the electric motor using a motor controller. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a first sensor that communicates with the processor to indicate whether the retaining arm is in the retaining position. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a drive mechanism, wherein the electric motor moves the securing assembly using the drive mechanism, and wherein the drive mechanism comprises a bridge member converting a rotary motion of the electric motor to a linear motion of the bridge member. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a second sensor that communicates with the processor to indicate whether the bridge member is in a position indicating that the securing assembly is in the free position. 
     Preferably, the securing assembly includes a pivoting member, wherein the bridge member acts on the pivoting member to move the securing assembly between the free and the securing position. 
     Preferably, the pivoting member is a hook adapted to engage a pin on the retaining arm to secure the retaining arm in a secured retaining position. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a third sensor that communicates with the processor to indicate whether the hook is in a position indicating that the retaining arm is in the secured retaining position. 
     Preferably, the securing assembly is moved by the bridge member on at least two points of contact, and the bridge member is moved by a single electric motor. 
     Preferably, the drive mechanism comprises a bevel gear. 
     Preferably, the drive mechanism comprises a worm and gear set. 
     Preferably, when the retaining arm is in the free position the lid may be removed from the vessel, and when the retaining arm is in the retaining position, the lid is not able to be removed from the vessel. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism further comprises a fourth sensor that communicates with the processor to indicate whether the retaining arm is in the retaining position. 
     Preferably, the retaining arm includes a lid sensor that communicates with the processor to indicate whether the lid is located on the vessel. 
     Preferably, when the securing assembly is in the securing position, the retaining arm is not movable from the secured retaining position. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
       Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein similar parts and features are indicated by having equal one and ten values, while the hundred values indicate the embodiment number: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective cut-away view of a kitchen device having a locking mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention with a retaining arm in a free position. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 1  with the retaining arm in a retaining position. 
         FIG. 3  is a front section view of the retaining arm of the kitchen device of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a detailed front section view of the retaining arm of the kitchen device of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a right side cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 1  with the retaining arm in the free position. 
         FIG. 6  is a section view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 1  along axis A-A shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a right side cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 1  with the retaining arm in the retaining position, and a securing hook in a free position. 
         FIG. 8  is a right side cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 1  with the retaining arm in the retaining position, and a securing hook in a securing position. 
         FIG. 9  is a section view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 1  along axis A-A shown in  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic flowchart describing functionality of the kitchen device of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective cut-away view of a kitchen device having a locking mechanism according to a second embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a detailed perspective cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 13  is a detailed perspective cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 14  is a detailed exploded perspective view of the retaining arm of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 17  is a detailed perspective cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 18  is a detailed perspective cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 20  is a detailed perspective cut-away view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 21  is a detailed cut-away rear view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 22  is a detailed cut-away front view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 23  is a detailed cut-away rear view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 24  is a detailed cut-away front view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 25  is a detailed cut-away rear view of an alternate construction of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 26  is a detailed cut-away rear view of an alternate construction of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  between the configurations shown in  FIGS. 17 and 19 . 
         FIG. 27  is a detailed cut-away rear view of an alternate construction of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 28  is a detailed cut-away right side section view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  between the configurations shown in  FIGS. 16 and 18 . 
         FIG. 29  is a detailed cut-away right side section view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  between the configurations shown in  FIGS. 16 and 18 . 
         FIG. 30  is a detailed cut-away right side section view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  between the configurations shown in  FIGS. 16 and 18 . 
         FIG. 31  is a detailed cut-away right side section view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configurations shown in  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 32  is a detailed cut-away section view along the major axis of the retaining member of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 33  is a detailed cut-away section view along the major axis of the retaining member of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  between the configurations shown in  FIGS. 16 and 18 . 
         FIG. 34  is a detailed cut-away section view along the major axis of the retaining member of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 34A  is a detailed cut-away section view along the major axis of the retaining seal of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 34B  is a detailed exploded view of the retaining seal of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 35  is a detailed section view of a lid, seal and vessel of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 36  is a detailed section view of a lid, seal and vessel of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 37  is a detailed section view of a lid, seal and vessel of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 38  is a detailed section view of a lid, seal and vessel of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 39  is a detailed section view of a lid, seal and vessel of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 40  is a detailed section view of a lid, seal and vessel of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 41  is a detailed cut-away front view of a kitchen device having a locking mechanism according to a third embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 42  is a detailed cut-away top section view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 41 . 
         FIG. 43  is a detailed cut-away front view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 41  in a second configuration. 
         FIG. 44  is a detailed cut-away top section view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 41  in the configuration of  FIG. 43 . 
         FIG. 45  is a detailed cut-away perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 41  in the configuration of  FIG. 41 . 
         FIG. 46  is a detailed cut-away perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 41  in the configuration of  FIG. 43 . 
         FIG. 47  is a cut-away perspective view of a kitchen device having a locking mechanism according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 48  is a cut-away perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 47  in a second configuration. 
         FIG. 49  is a cut-away perspective view of a kitchen device having a locking mechanism according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 50  is a detailed cut-away perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 49 . 
         FIG. 51  is a further detailed cut-away perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 49 . 
         FIG. 52  is a cut-away perspective view of a kitchen device having a locking mechanism according to a sixth embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 53  is a cut-away perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 52  in a second configuration. 
         FIG. 54  is a cut-away perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 52  in a third configuration. 
         FIG. 55A  is a cut-away right side view of a kitchen device having a locking mechanism according to a seventh embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 55B  is a detailed cut-away right side view of a toggle mechanism of the kitchen device of  FIG. 55A . 
         FIG. 56A  is a cut-away right side view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 55A  in a second configuration. 
         FIG. 56B  is a detailed cut-away right side view of the toggle mechanism of the kitchen device of  FIG. 55A  in the configuration of  FIG. 56A . 
         FIG. 57A  is a cut-away right side view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 55A  in a third configuration. 
         FIG. 57B  is a detailed cut-away right side view of the toggle mechanism of the kitchen device of  FIG. 55A  in the configuration of  FIG. 57A . 
         FIGS. 58 to 60  are detailed views of a toggle mechanism. 
         FIG. 61  is a detailed cutaway perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 55A . 
         FIG. 62  is a detailed cutaway perspective view of a kitchen device having a locking mechanism according to an eighth embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 63  is a further detailed cutaway perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 62 . 
         FIG. 64  is a detailed cutaway perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 62  in a second configuration. 
         FIG. 65  is a detailed cutaway right side view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 62  in the configuration of  FIG. 62 . 
         FIG. 66  is a detailed cutaway right side view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 62  in the configuration of  FIG. 64 . 
         FIG. 67  is a detailed cutaway right side view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 62  in the configuration of  FIG. 62 . 
         FIG. 68  is a detailed cutaway right side view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 62  in the configuration of  FIG. 64 . 
         FIG. 69  is a detailed cutaway rear view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 62 . 
         FIG. 70  is a detailed cutaway rear view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 62  in the configuration of  FIG. 64 . 
         FIG. 71  is a detailed perspective view of a kitchen device having a locking mechanism according to a ninth embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 72  is a further detailed perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 71 . 
         FIG. 73  is a detailed perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 71  in a second configuration. 
         FIG. 74  is a detailed cutaway perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 71  in the configuration of  FIG. 73 . 
         FIG. 75  is a detailed cutaway perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 71  in a third configuration. 
         FIG. 76  is a detailed perspective view of a securing pin, moving member, and securing motor of the kitchen device of  FIG. 71 . 
         FIG. 77  is a detailed cutaway perspective view of an alternative construction of the kitchen device of  FIG. 71 . 
         FIG. 78  is a detailed cutaway perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 77  in the configuration of  FIG. 75 . 
         FIG. 79  is a detailed cutaway perspective view of a further alternative construction of the kitchen device of  FIG. 71 . 
         FIG. 80  is a detailed cutaway perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 79  in the configuration of  FIG. 75 . 
         FIG. 81  is a detailed bottom section view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 71 . 
         FIG. 82  is a detailed bottom section view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 72  in a fourth configuration. 
         FIG. 83  is a detailed perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 72 . 
         FIG. 84  is a schematic cut-away perspective view of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 85  is a schematic flowchart describing functionality of the kitchen device of  FIG. 11 . 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     A kitchen device  1 , such as the kitchen device  1  shown in  FIG. 1 , may include a locking mechanism  4  according to a preferred form of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 1 , the kitchen device  1  typically has a body  3  and a vessel  5 , having a vessel rim  6 , mounted thereon. The kitchen device  1  also has a power switch (not shown). A lid  21  is also provided and, in use, placed atop the vessel  5 . The lid  21  has a lid rim  23  extending beyond the vessel rim  6  of the vessel  5 , and an upper surface  25 . On the upper surface  25  there are located two projections  27  on opposite sides of the lid  21 . The projections  27  have a rounded leading edge, or ramp,  29  and an upright stop edge  31 . Extending from the upright stop edge is a contact edge  33 . A guiding edge  35  extends between the leading edge  29  and the stop edge  31 . The guiding edge  35  has a notch  36 . 
     The locking mechanism  4  includes a retaining arm  7  and a pair of securing hooks  9 . The retaining arm  7  has a pair of longitudinally extending members  37 . The longitudinally extending members  37  are, at a first end  37   a , attached to the body  3  using a hinge  39 . At a second end  37   b , the members  37  are joined by a perpendicularly extending rounded member  38 . The retaining arm  7  also has a channel  41  located at each second end  37   b  of the members  37 . A lid detection switch  43  is located in each channel  41 . The channels  41  are adapted to receive the contact edges  33  when the locking arm  7  is in the locking position, thereby securing the lid  21  against the vessel  5 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the retaining arm  7  has a rotating projection  8  located at each first end  37   a  of the longitudinally extending members  37 . The rotating projections  8  engage with the hinge  39  to allow pivoting of the retaining arm  7  with respect to the body  3  about a generally horizontal hinge axis  45  through an acute angle. Also, as shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the channels  41  are substantially vertical slots with a rounded end point. 
     The retaining arm  7  pivots between a free position, as shown in  FIG. 1 , and a retaining position, as shown in  FIG. 2 . As best seen in  FIG. 5 , a retaining arm position switch  40  is located adjacent the longitudinally extending member  37  of the retaining arm  7 , such that the retaining arm  7  actuates the retaining arm position switch  40  when the retaining arm  7  is in the retaining position. 
     Each longitudinally extending member  37  of the retaining arm  7  is attached to a side of the hinge  39  facing away from the body  3 . As best seen in  FIG. 5 , on another side of the hinge  39  facing towards the body there is an extension arm  47 . The extension arm  47  extends from the hinge  39  in a direction opposite the retaining arm  7 . The extension arm  47  is linked to the pivoting of the retaining arm  7  and also pivots about the hinge axis  45 , albeit at a phase angle of 180°. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , a retaining arm pin  49  extends away from each extension arm  47  in a normal direction from the body  3 . Each securing hook  9  has a recess  51  at a first end  9   a . Each securing hook  9  pivots about a second hinge  53  between a free position, as shown in  FIG. 7 , and a securing position, as shown in  FIG. 8 . In the securing position, the securing hook  9  substantially prevents the retaining arm  7  from moving out of the retaining position. The retaining arm  7  is, therefore, in a secured retaining position. A second end  9   b  of each securing hook  9  extends beyond the second hinge  53 . Each second end  9   b  is connected to a drive mechanism  55  driven by a securing motor  57 , as shown in  FIG. 6 . As best seen in  FIG. 8 , a hook position switch  59  is located adjacent each first end  9   a  of the securing hook  9  such that the first end  9   a  of the securing hook  9  actuates the hook position switches  59  when in the securing position. 
     As best seen in  FIGS. 6 and 9 , the drive mechanism  55  includes a reduction gear train  61  connected to the securing motor  57 . A shaft  60  connects the reduction gear train  61  to a first bevel gear  62 . The first bevel gear  62  is operatively connected to a second bevel gear  63 . The second bevel gear  63  is connected to a linear screw  65 . The bevel gears  62 ,  63  are operatively connected at an angle such that the rotation axes of the shaft  60  and the linear screw  65  are perpendicular. The linear screw  65  is axially constrained by a pair of retainers  66   a ,  66   b . The linear screw  65  is also received in a threaded opening  67  of a bridge member  69 . The bridge member  69  has two sloping arms  71  connected by a central portion  73 . The threaded opening  67  is located in the central portion  73 . The bridge member  69  is vertically movable between a low position shown in  FIG. 6  and a high position shown in  FIG. 9 . The locking mechanism  4  further includes a bridge member position switch  70  located adjacent the bridge member  69 , such that the bridge member  69  actuates the bridge member position switch  70  when in the low position, as seen in  FIG. 9 . 
     The two sloping arms  71  have respective end portions  75  that are connected to the second end  9   b  of each securing hook  9 . The connection between the end portions  75  and the second ends  9   b  is a pivot joint  77 . 
     The locking mechanism  4  also has a processor (not shown) that operates a securing motor controller (not shown) for driving the securing motor  57 . The securing motor controller also sends a current signal to the processor, indicating a drawn motor current by the securing motor  57 . The processor also communicates with the retaining arm position switch  40 , the lid detection switch  43 , and the hook position switch  59  to determine whether the switches  40 ,  43 ,  59  have been actuated. 
     A second embodiment of the kitchen device  101  is shown in  FIGS. 11-40 . As shown in  FIG. 11  the device  101  has a locking mechanism  104 , the locking mechanism  104  comprising a retaining arm  107  attached to a body  103  of the kitchen device  101  and movable between a free position shown in  FIG. 16  and a retaining position shown in  FIG. 18 . As shown in  FIG. 12 , the kitchen device  101  has a vessel  105  providing an interior space and having a vessel rim  106  surrounding an opening  105   a  of the space. The kitchen device  101  has a main motor  115  and an agitator  115   a  coupled to the main motor  115  to process ingredients in the vessel  105 . In this embodiment, the kitchen device  101  also has a heating element  115   b  in thermal communication with the vessel  105  to heat ingredients in the vessel  105 . The kitchen device  101  also has a lid  121  to engage the vessel rim  106  to close the opening  105   a.    
     As seen in  FIG. 11 , the locking mechanism  104  also includes a securing assembly  108  comprising a securing member, preferably a crank  187 . As shown in  FIG. 21 , the crank  187  is mounted in a crank case  189 , the crank case  189  being attached to the body  103  of the kitchen device  101 . The crank  187  is pivotable about a first axis  199  between a free position, shown in  FIG. 18 , and a securing position, shown in  FIG. 20 . 
     The locking mechanism  104  also includes a processor (not shown) and a securing motor  157 . The securing motor  157  is attached to the body  103  and is operatively coupled to the crank  187  by a drive mechanism  155  to pivot the crank  187  about the first axis  199 . The crank  187  has a crank stop  190 , shown in  FIG. 21 , extending parallel to the first axis  199 . Preferably, the first axis  199  is generally horizontal when the kitchen device  101  is resting on a horizontal surface. As shown in  FIG. 11 , the locking mechanism includes a power switch  102  that may be operated to provide, or deny, electric mains power to the locking mechanism  104 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 13 to 17 , the retaining arm  107  includes two longitudinally extending members  137  that are connected at a first end  137   a  to the kitchen device by a retaining arm pin  149 . The longitudinally extending members  137  are generally parallel. The retaining arm  107  is mounted on a retaining arm pin  149  and pivots about a retaining arm axis  149 A between the free position and the retaining position. Preferably, the retaining arm axis  149 A extends in the same direction as a major direction of the retaining arm pin  149  and is generally horizontal. More preferably, the retaining arm axis  149 A is generally perpendicular to the first axis  199 . The longitudinally extending members  137  are joined at a second end  137   b  by a rounded member  138 . The rounded member  138  of the retaining arm  107  is shaped to engage the lid  121 . The rounded member  138  includes a protrusion  136 , as seen in  FIG. 28 , to engage the lid  121 . The longitudinally extending member  137  is fixedly attached to an extension arm  147 . As shown in more detail in  FIG. 14 , the connection of the longitudinally extending member  137  to the extension arm  147  includes keys  142  that cooperate with recesses  144  to transmit moment from the longitudinally extending member  137  to the extension arm  147  and vice versa. The connection also includes a ring-shaped boss  146   a  to locate the extension arm  147  within a corresponding hole  146   b  in the longitudinally extending member  137 . Thus, the retaining arm  107  and the extension arm  147  are not pivotally movable in relation to each other but rotate, together, about the retaining arm axis  149 A. 
     Briefly referring to  FIG. 84 , the locking mechanism  104  also includes a retaining arm sensor, preferably a retaining arm position switch  140 , adapted to communicate with the processor to indicate that the retaining arm  107  is in the retaining position. The retaining arm position switch  140  is located such that it is activated by the extension arm  147  when the retaining arm  107  is in the retaining position. 
     Returning to  FIG. 13 , the retaining arm  107  is pivotally mounted on the retaining arm pin  149 . The retaining arm pin  149  is attached to a bias plate  179 . The bias plate  179 , in turn, is pivotally mounted on a bias plate pin  185  that is connected to the body  103 . The pivotal motion of the bias plate  179  about the bias plate axis  185 A is guided and restricted by the bias plate guide pin  178 , as seen in  FIG. 15 , which is mounted through a bias plate guide recess  180  in the body  103 . Preferably, the bias plate axis  185 A is generally horizontal when the kitchen device  101  is resting on a horizontal surface. More preferably, the bias plate axis  185 A is parallel to the retaining arm axis  149 A. 
     As seen in  FIG. 15 , a first elastic member is mounted to the body  103  and the bias plate  179 . Preferably, the first elastic member is a locking spring  181 . The bias plate  179  is thereby biased to pivot about the bias plate pin  185  in a first bias plate direction (not shown). The locking spring  181  is in a predetermined state of a low-tension position, or free position, when the retaining arm  107  is in the free position. The locking spring  181  is in a tensioning state (or tensioning position), relative to the predetermined state, when the retaining arm  107  is in the retaining position. 
     As also shown in  FIG. 17 , the securing assembly  108  includes a second elastic member mounted to a restraining spring pin  191  on the crank  187  and the bias plate  179 . Preferably, the second elastic member is a restraining spring  183 . More preferably, the second elastic member has a higher spring constant than the first elastic member. Yet more preferably, the restraining spring  183  extends substantially perpendicularly to the first axis  199 . As seen in  FIG. 21 , the restraining spring pin  191  is located at a distance from the first axis  199  on the crank  187 . Thus, pivoting of the crank  187  causes elongation and contraction of restraining spring  183 . In the position shown in  FIG. 13  the restraining spring  183  is in a low-tension predetermined state, or a relaxed position, as also shown in  FIG. 21 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 13 , the crank  187  also includes a restraint, preferably a blocking extrusion  109 , generally extending in a plane normal to the first axis  199 . The blocking extrusion  109  extends away from the first axis  199  in a direction generally opposite to the location of the restraining spring pin  191 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 19 , wherein the securing motor  157  has been driven in a first motor direction  158  such that the crank  187  has pivoted about the first axis  199  to a securing position. In the securing position, the restraining spring  183  is in a tensioning state relative to the predetermined state, as also shown in  FIG. 23 . The tension of the restraining spring  183  imparts a strong pivotal bias in the first bias plate direction on the bias plate  179 . When the crank  187  is in the securing position, the crank stop  190  is engaged with the crank case  189 , as best seen in  FIGS. 21 and 22 , to prevent further pivoting of the crank  187  beyond the secured position. The tension of the restraining spring  185  causes a moment in the crank  187  about the first axis  199  that causes the crank stop  190  to bear against the crank case  189 . As shown in  FIGS. 21 to 24 , the crank  187  is pivoted between the free position and the securing position such that the restraining spring pin  191  travels through a moment arm centre  183 A, connecting the first axis  199  and a connection point of the restraining spring  183  with the bias plate  183 . This motion from the free position to the securing position, shown as pivoting direction  187 A in  FIG. 24 , allows the restraining spring  183  to cause the moment in the crank  187  that causes the crank stop  190  to bear against the crank case  189 , thereby securely retaining the crank  187  and the restraining spring  183  in the securing position. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the tension on the restraining spring  183  is between 100 N to 400 N in the tensioning state. The bias plate  179  thus causes a tension force in the retaining arm  107 , substantially parallel to the longitudinally extending members  137 . The retaining arm  107  thus bears against the lid  121 , and thereby compresses the lid  121  against the vessel  105 , and thereby the vessel  105  against the body  103 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 25 to 27 , in a contemplated alteration to the second embodiment, the restraining string pin  191  may be mounted in a pin slot  196  such that the restraining string in  191  floats in the pin slot  196 . This allows the restraining spring pin  191  to float in response to tension applied by the restraining spring  183 , which, in the free position of the crank  187 , ensures that the predetermined state of the restraining spring  183  has no substantial tension. The lack of tension on the restraining spring  183  ensures that movement of the retaining arm  107  may be performed by a user without resistance imparted by the restraining spring  183 . Additionally, an upper end  196   a  of the pin slot  196  defines a known position that the restraining spring pin  191  will be moved to when the crank  187  is moved from the free position to the securing position, thus tensioning the restraining spring  183  to the tensioning state. A distance between the upper end  196   a  and the restraining spring  183 , together with a spring coefficient of the restraining spring  183 , may be used to predetermine a desired tension on the restraining spring  183  in the tensioning state. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 22 and 24 , the locking mechanism  104  also comprises a first and second securing member sensors, preferably first and second blocking extrusion sensors  159   a ,  159   b , adapted to communicate with the processor to indicate a position of the blocking extrusion  109 . The first blocking extrusion sensor  159   a  is located such that it is activated when the blocking extrusion  109  is in a securing position shown in  FIG. 24 . When the blocking extrusion  109  is in the securing position, the blocking extrusion  109  blocks movement of the extension arm  147  when the retaining arm  107  is in the retaining position, thereby securing the retaining arm  107  in a secured retaining position, as shown in  FIG. 20 . 
     The second blocking extrusion sensor  159   b  is located such that it is activated when the blocking extrusion  109  is in a free position shown in  FIG. 22 . When the blocking extrusion  109  is in the free position, the blocking extrusion  109  does not block movement of the extension arm  147 , as shown in  FIG. 18 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 28 and 29 , the retaining arm  107  includes a protrusion  136  on each respective side of the rounded member  138  adjoining the second end  137   b  of the longitudinally extending member  137 . The protrusion  136  is adapted to engage a notch  135  in the lid  121  when the retaining arm  107  is moved in an arm direction  197  from the free position to the retaining position. The recess  125  is formed in a projection  127  on two sides of the lid  121 , corresponding to the sides of the rounded member  138  on which the protrusions  136  are located. Preferably, the protrusions  136  and projections  127  are symmetrically located. The projection  127  also includes a contact edge  133  that cooperates with a lid sensor (not shown) in a channel  141 , best seen in  FIG. 37 . The projection  127  also has a leading edge, or ramp,  129  that slopes downwardly and opposite the arm direction  197 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 30 and 31 , the notch  135  is engaged by the protrusion  136  when the retaining arm  107  is in the retaining position. The engagement of the notch  135  with the protrusion  136  resists movement of the retaining arm  107  against the arm direction  197 . As shown in  FIGS. 32 to 34 , the locking mechanism  104  further comprises a retaining arm seal  134 , or grommet seal  134 , seated between the first end  137   a  of the longitudinally extending member  137  and the body  103 . The retaining arm seal  134  is compliant such that upwards movement of the retaining arm  109  when the protrusion  136  engages the ramp  129  (both shown in  FIG. 30 ) is subtly resisted. Thereby movement of the retaining arm  107  has haptic feedback, but the retaining arm  107  remains easily movable by the user. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 34A , wherein the retaining arm seal  134  is shown in more detail, and in section. As shown in  FIG. 34A , the retaining arm seal  134  includes a concave portion  134   a  with a lowest point  134   b  located between the body  103  and the retaining arm  107 . Preferably the radius of curvature of the concave portion  134   a  is between 5 mm and 50 mm, in the preferred embodiment of  FIG. 34A , the radius of curvature is 5 mm. 
     As shown in  FIG. 34A , the retaining arm seal  134  is fastened to the body  103  by a body snap piece  139   a  to resist rotational movement of the retaining arm seal  134  relative to the body  103 . As shown in  FIG. 34B , the retaining arm seal  134  has a flat portion  134   c  that abuts the body snap piece  139   a  to allow for rotational movement of the retaining arm seal  134  relative to the body  103  to be resisted. The retaining arm seal  134  is able to deform vertically, as the body snap piece  139   a  has a gap at an upper end allowing deformation of the retaining arm seal  134 , thereby providing the subtle resistance that provides haptic feedback. 
     Similarly, the retaining arm seal  134  is fastened to the retaining arm  107  by an arm snap piece  139   b  to resist rotational movement of the retaining arm seal  134  relative to the retaining arm  107 , and to, at least, reduce contact between the retaining arm  107  and the retaining arm seal  134 . Preferably, one or both of the body snap piece  139   a  and the arm snap piece  139   b  are made of plastic material. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 35 to 37 , the lid  121  has a seal  193  adapted to engage the vessel  105  when the retaining arm  107  is in the retaining position. The engagement of the seal  193  with the vessel  105  assists in retaining the lid  121  against the vessel  105 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 35 , the seal  193  is held in its position relative to the lid  121  by a seal retaining member  194 . As can also be seen in  FIG. 35 , the lid has a rim  123  that, when the lid  121  is placed on the vessel  105 , extends below a rim  106  of the vessel  105 . The term rim  106  refers to the portions of the vessel  105  proximate to the opening  105   a , as indicated in  FIG. 35 . The seal  193  has a sealing lip  195  that engages with a portion of the rim  106 . 
       FIGS. 38 to 40  show an alternative embodiment of the seal  193 . In this embodiment, the rim  123  of the lid  121  retains the seal  193 , and thus no seal retaining member is necessary. The seal  193  also has a sealing lip  195  that is substantially linear, compared to the curved design of the sealing lip  195  of  FIGS. 35 to 37 . 
     A third embodiment of the kitchen device  201  is shown in  FIGS. 41-46 . The kitchen device  201  is similar to the kitchen device  101 . However, the locking mechanism  204  of the kitchen device  201  includes a securing member, preferably a latch  209 , mounted on a latch pin  210 . The latch pin  210  defines a second axis  210 A, as shown in  FIG. 46 . The latch  209  is pivotable about the second axis  210 A between a securing position, shown in  FIGS. 42 and 45 , and a free position, shown in  FIGS. 44 and 46 . When the latch  209  is in the securing position a key  216  of the latch  209  engages a slot  214  in an extension arm  247  of a retaining arm (not shown). The engagement of the key  216  with the slot  214  prevents movement of the retaining arm thereby securing the retaining arm in a secured retaining position. 
     The latch  209  is biased towards the free position by a latch spring  211 . In other contemplated embodiments, the latch spring  211  may be a leaf spring or a torsion spring, which may provide space savings. The latch spring  211  is compressed between the latch  209  and a crank case  289 , within which a crank  287  is mounted. The crank  287  is pivotable about a first axis  299  between a securing position, shown in  FIG. 41 , and a free position, shown in  FIG. 43 . Preferably, the first axis  299  is generally perpendicular to the second axis  210   a . The locking mechanism  204  further includes a securing motor  257  which moves the crank  287  between the free position and the securing position. 
     The crank  287  further includes a restraining spring pin  291  to which a second elastic member is mounted. Preferably, the second elastic member is a restraining spring  283 . As seen in  FIGS. 41 and 43 , the restraining spring  283  is in a predetermined state, or a free position, when the crank  287  is in the free position, and the restraining spring  283  is in a tensioning state relative to the predetermined state, when the crank  287  is in the securing position. The restraining spring  283 , when in the tensioning state, applies tension to the extension arm  247 , the tension applied to the extension arm  247  prevents movement of the retaining arm  207 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 45 , the crank  287  also includes a ledge  212 . When the crank  287  is moved from the free position to the securing position, the ledge  212  engages the latch  209  and moves the latch  209  from the free position to the securing position. When the crank  287  is moved from the securing position to the free position, the ledge  212  disengages the latch  209  and the latch  209  moves from the securing position to the free position due to the bias applied by the latch spring  211 . 
     A fourth embodiment of the kitchen device  301  is shown in  FIGS. 47 and 48 . The kitchen device  301  is similar to the kitchen device  201 . However, the locking mechanism  304  of the kitchen device  301  includes a solenoid  312 . The solenoid  312  is adapted to apply force and move a pin  309  from a free position, shown in  FIG. 47 , to a securing position, shown in  FIG. 48 . In the securing position the pin  309  engages a slot  314  in an extension arm  347  of a retaining arm  307 , when the retaining arm  307  is in a retaining position as shown in  FIGS. 47 and 48 . Preferably, the movement of the pin  309 , and the direction of the slot  314 , is parallel to an axis about which the retaining arm  307  pivots. The engagement of the pin  309  with the slot  314  prevents movement of the retaining arm  307  from the retaining position. 
     A fifth embodiment of the kitchen device  401  is shown in  FIGS. 49 to 51 . The kitchen device  401  is similar to the kitchen device  101 . However, the locking mechanism  404  of the kitchen device  401  includes a drive mechanism, preferably a cable or belt drive  456 , to move a securing assembly  408  between a free position (not shown) and a securing position, shown in  FIG. 50 . The term belt is intended non-limitedly and also refers to cable drives and associated components. In relevant other contemplated embodiments the drive mechanism may be a chain drive and/or a cable drive. As best shown in  FIGS. 50 and 51 , the belt drive  456  includes a primary roller  460  having a primary roller axis  460 A, and a distribution roller  463  having a distribution roller axis  463 A, and a securing member, preferably a securing roller  409  having a securing roller axis  409 A, on each side of the primary roller  460 . The rollers  460 ,  463 ,  409  are connected by a belt  465 . The belt drive  456  further includes a guide roller  466  having a guide roller axis  466 A, best shown in  FIG. 51 . Preferably the guide roller axis  466 A is generally parallel with the primary roller axis  460 A. Preferably, the distribution roller axis  463 A is generally perpendicular to one of, or both, the primary roller axis  460 A and the guide roller axis  466 A. Preferably, the securing roller axis  409 A is generally perpendicular to both the primary roller axis  460 A and the distribution roller axis  463 A. 
     The guide roller  466  displaces a first portion of the belt  456  between the primary roller  460  and a level of the distribution rollers  463 , thus allowing the first portion of the belt  456  to contact the primary roller  460  on an opposite side of the primary roller  460  compared to a second portion of the belt  456  between the primary roller  460  and a second distribution roller  463 . This arrangement enables the primary roller  460  to retract or release the belt  456  to both distribution rollers  463  simultaneously when rotating in a first or second direction about the primary roller axis  460 A, respectively. The securing roller  409  is movable between a free position (not shown) and a securing position as shown in  FIG. 50 . The movement of the securing roller  409  is caused by movement of the belt  465 . 
     The distribution roller  463  is located to guide the belt  465  through a generally perpendicular angle from the primary roller  460  to the securing rollers  409 . 
     The primary roller  460  is attached to a pinion gear  462   a  that is engaged by a worm gear  462   b . The worm gear  462   b  is driven by a securing motor  457  about a worm gear axis  462 B through a reduction drive mechanism  455 . Preferably, the worm gear axis  462 B is generally parallel with the securing roller axis  409 A. The belt drive  456  may be referred to as a common drive mechanism, as two or more securing rollers  409  are driven by a single securing motor  457 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 50 , the locking mechanism  404  further includes a restraint, preferably a second elastic member, connected to each end of the belt  456 . Preferably, the second elastic member is a restraining spring  483 . The restraining spring  483  is in a predetermined state, or a free position, when the securing roller  409  is in the free position, similarly the restraining spring  483  is in a tensioning state relative to the predetermined state when the securing roller  409  is in the securing position. When in the tensioning state, the restraining spring  483  imparts a tension of between 100 N to 400 N to a bias plate  479 . The bias plate  479  is attached to a body  403  of the kitchen device  401  by a bias plate pin  485 , allowing the bias plate  479  to pivot relative to the body  403  about a bias plate axis  479 A passing through the bias plate pin  485 . The locking mechanism  404  further includes a retaining arm  407  that is attached to the bias plate  479  by a retaining arm pin  449 , allowing the retaining arm  407  to pivot about a retaining arm axis  449 A passing through the retaining pin  449 . Preferably, the retaining arm axis  449 A is generally perpendicular to the restraining spring  183 . Preferably, the retaining arm axis  449 A is generally parallel to the bias plate axis  479 A. Preferably the retaining arm axis  449 A is generally perpendicular to the primary roller axis  460 A. 
     The tension applied to the bias plate  479  by the restraining spring  483  in the tensioning state thus urges the retaining arm  407  towards a vessel  405 , thereby securing a lid  421  between the retaining arm  407  and the vessel  405  and at least partly closing an opening (not shown) of the vessel  405 , and further securing the lid  421 , and vessel  405 , between the retaining arm  407  and the body  403 . The restraining spring  483  thus secures the retaining arm  407  in a secured retaining position. 
     As shown in  FIG. 50 , the locking mechanism  404  further includes a first securing roller sensor  459   a  and a second securing roller sensor  459   b  associated with each securing roller  409 . The first securing roller sensor  459   a  is located such that it is activated when the respective securing roller  409  is in a securing position, as shown in  FIG. 50 . The second securing roller sensor  459   b  is located such that it is activated when the respective securing roller  409  is in the free position. When the securing roller  409  is in the free position, the securing roller  409  does not secure the retaining arm  407  in the secured retaining position and a main motor  115  of the kitchen device  401  is prevented from operating. 
     The securing roller  409  has a securing roller pin  467  that extends parallel to the securing roller axis  409 A. The securing roller pin  467  is placed a radial distance away from the securing roller axis  409 A. The securing roller pin  467  is adapted to actuate the first and second securing roller sensors  459   a ,  459   b  when the securing roller is in the securing position and the free position, respectively. 
     A sixth embodiment of the kitchen device  501  is shown in  FIGS. 52 to 54 . The kitchen device  501  is similar to the kitchen device  1 . For example, a locking mechanism  504  includes a retaining arm  507  movable between a free position, shown in  FIG. 52 , and a retaining position, shown in  FIG. 53 . However, the locking mechanism  504  of the kitchen device  501  includes a drive mechanism, preferably a worm gear  562   b  coupled to a reduction drive mechanism  555 , the reduction drive mechanism  555  being operated by a securing motor  557 . The worm gear  562   b  pivots about a worm gear axis  562 B and engages a pinion gear  562   a  to pivot a securing hook  509  about a securing hook axis  509 A between a free position, shown in  FIG. 53 , and a securing position, shown in  FIG. 54 . Preferably, the securing hook axis  509 A is generally perpendicular to the worm gear axis  562 B. 
     When the securing hook  509  is in the securing position, a recess  551  in the securing hook  509  engages a retaining arm pin  549  located on an extension arm  547  that is connected to the retaining arm  507 . In this way, the securing hook  509  secures the retaining arm  507  in a secured retaining position, as shown in  FIG. 54 . Conversely, when the securing hook  509  is in the free position the retaining arm  507  is movable about a retaining arm axis  549 A between the free position and the retaining position. 
     In addition to the securing hook  509 , the locking mechanism  504  of the kitchen device  501  also includes a locking spring  581  that functions substantially identically to the locking spring  181  of the locking mechanism  104  of the kitchen device  101 . 
     A seventh embodiment of the kitchen device  601  is shown in  FIGS. 55A to 61 . The kitchen device  601  is similar to the kitchen device  1 . For example, a locking mechanism  604  includes a retaining arm  607  movable between a free position, shown in  FIG. 55A , and a retaining position, shown in  FIG. 56A . However, the locking mechanism  604  also includes a toggle linkage, preferably a toggle mechanism  609 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 55B , the toggle mechanism  609  includes a first rigid member  610   a  and a second rigid member  610   b  pivotally connected to each other at first ends thereof. The second end of the first rigid member  610   a  is connected to a toggle handle  611 . The second end of the first rigid member  610   a  is also connected to the body (not shown) of the kitchen device  601  by a bracket  615 . The bracket  615  also provides a pivot pin  615   a  for the toggle handle  611 . The second end of the second rigid member  610   b  is also connected to the toggle handle  611 , above the second end of the first rigid member  610   a . As shown in  FIG. 55A , the first ends of the first and second rigid members  610   a ,  610   b  are both connected to a first transverse member  612 . The first transverse member  612  has an impact absorbing member  613  at one end, the impact absorbing member  613  being adapted to abut against an extrusion  615  extending from an extension arm  647  of the retaining arm  607 , and at another end is hingedly connected to the body  603  of the kitchen device  601 . The first ends of the first and second rigid members  610   a ,  610   b  are connected to the transverse member  612  at a point within an arc the toggle handle  611  travels between the free position and the retaining position about a toggle axis  611 A that is coaxial with the pivot pin  615 . 
     As best seen in  FIG. 55A , the toggle handle  611  is connected, at a lower end, to a second transverse member  614 . The second transverse member  614  is connected to the extension arm  647  such that a moment applied to the toggle handle  611  to move the handle between the free position and the retaining position applies a moment to the extension member  647  such that the retaining arm  607  is urged to move between the free position and the retaining position. 
     The toggle mechanism  609  is movable between a free position, shown in  FIG. 55A , a retaining position, shown in  FIG. 56A , and a secured retaining position, shown in  FIG. 57A . The movement of the toggle mechanism  609  between the free position and the retaining position substantially follows the movement of the retaining arm  607  between the free position and the retaining position until the first and second rigid members  610   a ,  610   b  are co-linear, as shown in  FIG. 56B , indicating that the toggle mechanism  609  is in the retaining position. When the toggle handle  611  is in the retaining position, movement of the transverse member  612  is resisted by the impact absorbing member  613  abutting the extrusion  615 , as shown in  FIG. 56A . To move the toggle mechanism to the secured retaining position, further moment is applied to the toggle handle  611 , as shown in  FIG. 57A . As a result, the second ends of the first and second rigid members  610   a ,  610   b  have travelled a further angular distance than the first ends of the first and second rigid members  610   a ,  610   b.    
     When the toggle mechanism  609  is moved to the secured retaining position, the retaining arm  607  remains in the retaining position, however the toggle mechanism  609  urges the retaining arm  607  downwards. 
     When the toggle mechanism  609  is in the secured retaining position, movement of the retaining arm  607  from the retaining position would require movement of the first transverse member  612  with the extension arm  647 . This movement is blocked by the impact absorbing member  615 , which is connected to the first transverse member  612  and thereby to the body  603 . Thus, the retaining arm  607  is secured in the secured retaining position. Movement of the retaining arm  607  from the secured retaining position to the retaining position, and subsequently to the free position, is only possible once the transverse member  612  is able to pivot relative to the body  603 . This is enabled by movement of the toggle handle  611  from the secured retaining position shown in  FIG. 57A , to the retaining position shown in  FIG. 56A . Preferably, the movement of the retaining arm  607  is entirely controlled by the toggle handle  611 . 
       FIG. 61  shows a perspective view of the locking mechanism  604 . Showing the bracket  615  and the toggle handle axis  611 A. As can be seen in  FIG. 61 , the toggle handle axis  611 A is preferably parallel to a retaining arm axis  649 A, both being preferably horizontal when the kitchen device  601  is resting on a horizontal surface. 
     An eighth embodiment of the kitchen device  701  is shown in  FIGS. 62 to 70 . The kitchen device  701  is similar to the kitchen device  1 . For example, a locking mechanism  704  includes a retaining arm  707  movable about a retaining arm axis  749 A between a free position and a retaining position, shown in  FIG. 69 . The locking mechanism  704  also has a bridge member  769  controlling the movement of a securing hook  709  between a securing position, shown in  FIG. 65 , and a free position, shown in  FIG. 66 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 63 , the locking mechanism  704  has a securing motor  757  with a shaft  760 . The securing motor  757  rotates the shaft  760  about a shaft axis  760 A. Attached to the shaft  760  is a worm gear  762   b , such that the worm gear  762   b  rotates with the shaft about the shaft axis  760 A. Rotation of the worm gear  762   b  about the shaft axis  760 A pivots a pinion gear  762   a  about a pinion gear axis  762 A, the pinion gear axis  762 A being generally perpendicular to the shaft axis  760 A. 
     As seen in  FIG. 62 , the pinion gear  762   a  has a pin  765  at a position radially outward from the center of the pinion gear  762   a , such that pivoting of the pinion gear  762   a  results in circumferential, and thereby horizontal and/or vertical, displacement of the pin  765 . The pin  765  is attached to a tab  766  at a first end  766   a  of the tab  766 . A second end  766   b  of the tab  766  is attached to a central yoke  767 . The central yoke  767  has two rounded projections  768  that are received by rounded recesses  772  in the bridge ember  769 , allowing the central yoke  767  to pivot relative to the bridge member  769  about a first yoke axis  768 A. The tab  766  is attached to the central yoke  767  at a yoke pin  774  allowing the tab  766  to pivot relative to the central yoke  767  about a second yoke axis  774 A. In this embodiment, the first and second yoke axes  768 A,  774 A are perpendicular. 
     In a contemplated alteration to this embodiment, shown in  FIG. 70A , the central yoke  767  may be driven by a screw  765  received in a threaded opening  766  of the central yoke  767  instead of being moved by the tab  766  attached to the pin  765 . 
     The bridge member  769  has a sloping arm  771  on either side of a central portion  773 , the central yoke  767  being received in the central portion  773 . Opposite the central portion  773 , each sloping arm  771  has an end portion  775  that is received in a pivot joint  777  such that movement of the bridge member  769  between the free and the retaining position causes movement of the securing hook  709  between the free and the retaining position. 
     A ninth embodiment of the kitchen device  801  is shown in  FIGS. 71 to 83 . The kitchen device  801  is similar to the kitchen device  1 . For example, a locking mechanism  804  includes a securing member, the securing member preferably being a retaining pin  809 , movable between a free position shown in  FIG. 74 , and a securing position, shown in  FIG. 75  to secure a lid  821  on a vessel  805  of the kitchen device  801 . 
     However, as shown in  FIG. 71 , the locking mechanism  804  includes the lid  821  that is placed on the vessel  805 . The lid  821  has four lid recesses  835  located on the lid rim  823  that are each adapted to receive a protrusion  836  located on a vessel rim  806  of the vessel  805 . The lid  821  is movable between a free position, as shown in  FIG. 73 , and a locked position by pivoting the lid  821  about a lid axis  821 A in a first lid direction  822 . The lid rim  823  has an aperture  810 . The aperture  810  is located such that, when the lid  821  is in the locked position, the aperture  810  is co-axial with the securing pin  809 . 
     The securing pin  809  is generally vertical and generally perpendicular relative to the lid  821 . The securing pin  809  is mounted on a moving member  860 . As best seen in  FIG. 76 , the moving member  860  has a rack feature  862 . The rack feature  862  is engaged by a pinion gear  863 . The pinion gear  863  is driven by a securing motor  857  between a free position and a securing position, thus moving the moving member  860  between a free position shown in  FIG. 74  and a securing position shown in  FIG. 75  in the moving member direction  861 . The moving member  860  also has a projection  869  adapted to actuate a first moving member position switch  870  when the moving member  860  is in the securing position. Further the projection  869  is adapted to actuate a second moving member position switch  871  when the moving member  860  is in the free position. 
     The first moving member position switch  870  is oriented parallel to the moving member direction  861  such that the moving member  860  can continue movement in the moving member direction  861  once the moving member position switch  870  has been actuated. The second moving member position switch  871  is oriented parallel to the moving member direction  861  such that the moving member  860  is prevented from moving once the second moving member position switch  871  has been actuated. 
       FIGS. 77 and 78  show an alternative contemplated configuration of the securing pin  809 , 
     wherein the securing pin  809  is hollow. An internal surface  880  of the securing pin  809  is profiled in the form of a thread. The securing motor  857  drives a worm gear  864  that engages a pinion gear  865  located on a shaft  866 . The shaft  866  has an external surface  867  profiled in the form of a thread to match the profile of the internal surface  880 . As the shaft  866  rotates, the securing pin  809  is moved between a free position, as shown in  FIG. 77 , and a securing position, as shown in  FIG. 78 , driven by the engagement between the internal surface  880  and the external surface  867 . 
       FIGS. 79 and 80  show an alternative configuration of the securing pin  809 , substantially similar to the securing pin  809  of  FIGS. 77 and 78 . However, in this configuration the shaft  866  is directly driven by a synchronous securing motor  857 . 
       FIGS. 81 to 83  show a secondary securing mechanism  890  to retain the vessel  805  against the body  803 . The secondary securing mechanism  890  includes a secondary securing motor  891  driving a pinion gear  892 . The pinion gear  892  engages a first and second pinion rack  893   a ,  893   b . The first and second pinion racks  893   a ,  893   b  engage the pinion gear  892  diametrically opposite each other such that rotation of the pinion gear  892  causes opposite and mirrored linear movement of the pinion racks  893   a ,  893   b.    
     The pinion racks  893   a ,  893   b  are attached to respective driving arms  894   a ,  894   b . Each driving arm  894   a ,  894   b  is connected to a retaining linkage  895   a ,  895   b . The retaining linkages  895   a ,  895   b  each includes a first and second linkage member  896 ,  897  and a pivot joint  898  hingedly connecting the first and second linkage members  896 ,  897 . A secondary securing member  899  is located at an end of the second linkage member  897 . The secondary securing member  899  is movable between a free position, as shown in  FIG. 81 , and a securing position, as shown in  FIG. 82 . The movement of the secondary securing member  899  between the free position and the securing position is caused by operation of the secondary securing motor  891 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 83 , when the secondary securing member  899  is in the securing position, each secondary securing member  899  engages a securing hold  899   b  located in a lower portion of the vessel  805 , best seen in  FIG. 71 . The vessel  805  is thus securely retained against the body  803  of the kitchen device  801 . When the secondary securing member  899  is in the free position, the vessel  805  may be removed from the body  803 . 
     Use of the kitchen device  1  will now be discussed. 
     To use the kitchen device  1 , the vessel  5  is connected to the body  3  of the kitchen device  1 , as shown in  FIGS. 1 to 9 . Ingredients to be processed are placed inside the vessel  5  and the lid  21  is placed atop the vessel  5 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , the retaining arm  7  is moved manually by the user from the free position to the retaining position. The channels  41  of the retaining arm  7  engage the contact edges  33 , guiding edges  35  stop edges  31  of the lid  21 , thereby retaining the lid  21  in place atop the vessel  5 . The notch  36  provides tactile feedback to the user that the retaining arm  7  is in the retaining position. The lid detection switches  43  are actuated by the contact edges  33  and communicate with the processor to indicate that the lid  21  is present on the vessel  5 . The processor now checks whether the retaining arm position switch  40  is also actuated, indicating that the retaining arm  7  is in the retaining position. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , the actuation of the lid detection switches  43  and retaining arm position switch  40 , at step S 101 , starts a lid securing process. The processor determines, at step S 103 , whether the bridge member position switch  70  is actuated, indicating that the bridge member  69  is in the lower position. The processor also determines, at step S 105 , whether both hook position switches  59  are actuated, which would indicate that at least one, or in at least one embodiment both, of the securing hooks  9  is in the securing position. If the bridge member  69  is not indicated to be in the lower position, the processor, at step S 109 , operates the securing motor  57  using the securing motor controller to move the bridge member  69  to the lower position. If the bridge member  69  is indicated to be in the lower position and one of the securing hooks  9  is indicated to be in the securing position, the processor, at steps S 107  outputs a warning signal via a user interface (not shown) and ceases further activity. 
     If the bridge member  69  is indicated to be in the lower position and the securing hooks  9  are not indicated to be in the securing position, the processor, at step S 111 , operates the securing motor  57  using the securing motor controller. 
     The securing motor  57  operates the reduction gear train  61  such that the shaft  60  rotates in a first motor direction  58 , as shown in  FIG. 8 . The rotation of the shaft  60  is transmitted via the bevel gears  62 ,  63 , which are attached to the reduction gear train  61 , to the linear screw  65 . As the linear screw  65  is axially constrained by the retainers  66   a ,  66   b , rotation of the linear screw  65  moves the bridge member  69  from the lower position to the higher position. As the bridge member  69  moves to the higher position, the end portions  75  of the bridge member  69  are also moved upwards, as shown in  FIG. 9 . Because the end portions  75  are connected to a respective second end portion  9   b  by the pivot joint  77 , the securing hook  9  pivots about the second hinge  53  from the free position to the securing position, engaging the pin  49 , as shown in  FIG. 8 . 
     The securing motor  57  continues to be operated by the processor. At step S 113 , the processor determines whether the hook position switches  59  are actuated within 4 seconds of the securing motor  57  having started operation. If the hook position switches  59  are not actuated within 4 seconds, the processor, at step S 109  reverses the rotation direction of the securing motor  57  to move the bridge member  69  towards the lower position and reset the kitchen device. 
     If the hook position switches  59  are actuated within 4 seconds of the securing motor  57  having started operation, the processor, at step S 115 , monitors the current signal to determine whether the motor current drawn by the securing motor  57  exceeds a predetermined threshold. When the motor current exceeds the predetermined threshold, the processor, at step S 117 , ceases operation of the securing motor  57 . The processor, at step S 119 , determines whether the bridge member  69  is not in the lower position, by polling the bridge member position switch  70 . If the bridge member  69  is determined to not be in the lower position, the processor has determined, at step S 121 , that the lid securing process of the locking mechanism  4  has been completed. If the bridge member position switch  70  is actuated, the processor determines an error has occurred and outputs an error message via the user interface. 
     After completion of the locking process, the kitchen device  1  may be used. 
     The use of the kitchen device  101  will now be discussed. 
     To use the kitchen device  101 , the power switch  102  is activated, step S 201 . As shown in  FIG. 85 , the processor determines, at step S 203  whether the first blocking extrusion sensor  159   a  is activated, indicating that the blocking extrusion  109  is in the securing position. This may be the case if the retaining arm  107  is in the secured retaining position, or if the blocking extrusion  109  was erroneously moved to the securing position. Such a scenario may arise if the kitchen device  101  was deactivated while operating. If the first blocking extrusion sensor  159   a  is not activated, the processor proceeds to step S 213 : waiting for an operation to be selected. 
     If the first blocking extrusion sensor  159   a  is activated, the processor, at step S 205 , operates the securing motor  157  to pivot the crank  187 , and thereby the blocking extrusion  109 , from the securing position to the free position. The processor is adapted to determine, at step S 207 , whether the first blocking extrusion sensor  159   b  has been activated in a predetermined period of time, preferably 2 seconds, indicating that the crank  187  is in the free position. If the first blocking extrusion sensor  159   b  has not been activated within the predetermined period of time, the processor at step S 209  stops operation of the securing motor  157  and displays an error message. 
     If the processor determines, at step S 207 , that it has received an indication from the first blocking extrusion sensor  159   b  that the blocking extrusion  109  is in the free position, the processor at step S 211  ceases operation of the securing motor  157 . 
     The vessel  105  is now connected to the body  103  of the kitchen device  101 , as shown in  FIG. 15 . Ingredients to be processed are placed inside the vessel  105  and the lid  121  is placed atop the vessel  105  as shown in  FIGS. 35 and 36 . As shown in  FIG. 36 , the lid  121  rests on the rim  106  of the vessel  105  by the sealing lip  195  engaging the rim  106  of the vessel  105 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 16 and 18 , the retaining arm  107  is moved manually by the user from the free position to the retaining position. The channels  141  of the retaining arm  107  engage the contact edges  133  and guiding edges  35  of the lid  121 , thereby retaining the lid  121  in place atop the vessel  105 . The engagement of the notch  135  with the protrusion  136  provides tactile feedback to the user that the retaining arm  107  is in the retaining position. As the retaining arm  107  is moved to the retaining position, it is urged upwards by the projections  127 , which, in turn, moves the locking spring  181  from the predetermined state to the tensioning state. The locking spring  181  thus urges the bias plate  179  to pivot about the bias plate pin  178  such that the retaining arm  107  is urged into engagement with the lid  121  such that the lid  121  is urged towards the vessel  105 . The bias plate  179  is prevented from buckling, and/or guided in its movement, by the bias plate guide pin  178 . Thus, the lid  121  and vessel  105  are now under compression between the retaining arm  107  and the body  103 . 
     As the lid  121  has been compressed against the vessel  105 , the sealing lip  195  has moved along the rim  106  such that the seal  193  has two points of contact: a tip of the sealing lip  195 , and a main body of the seal  193  compressed between the seal retaining member  194  and the rim  106  of the vessel  105 . 
     An operation of the kitchen device  101  may now be selected at step S 213 . The processor then determines at step S 214  whether the lid detection switches (not shown) in the channels  141  of the retaining arm  107  are actuated, indicating that the lid  121  is in position under the retaining arm  107 . If the lid detection switches are not activated, the processor outputs a prompt to place the lid  121  on the vessel  105 . The processor subsequently determines at step S 215  whether the retaining arm position switch  140  is actuated, indicating that the retaining arm  107  is in the retaining position. In the case that the retaining arm position switch  140  is not actuated, the processor outputs a prompt, at step S 217 , to do move the retaining arm  107  to the retaining position. 
     If the processor determines that the retaining arm position switch  140  has been actuated, the processor, at step S 219 , operates the securing motor  157  to pivot the crank  187 , and thereby the blocking extrusion  109 , from the free position to the securing position. 
     The processor now determines at step S 220  whether the first blocking extrusion sensor  159   b  has been de-activated in a predetermined period of time, indicating that the crank  187  is moving away from the free position. If this is not the case, the processor outputs an error message. 
     At step S 221  the processor determines whether the current drawn by the securing motor is within a predetermined range, preferably under 2 Amperes. If the current is not within the predetermined range, the processor, at step S 223 , reverses operation of the securing motor  157  to pivot the crank  187  towards the free position. At step S 225  the processor determines whether it has received an indication from the first blocking extrusion sensor  159   b  that the blocking extrusion  109  is in the free position within a predetermined period of time, preferable 2 seconds. If the indication has been received, the processor at step S 229  ceases operation of the securing motor  157  and outputs an error message prompting the user to re-attempt the process from step S 201 . If the processor does not receive an indication that the blocking extrusion  109  is in the free position within the predetermined period of time, the processor ceases operation of the securing motor  157  and outputs an error message prompting the user to contact a service agent. 
     In a contemplated alternative, the processor may also, at step S 225 , determine a motor current drawn by the securing motor  157  to determine whether the securing motor  157 , or drive mechanism  155 , has a fault. 
     If, however, the processor determines that the current drawn by the securing motor  157  at step S 221  remains within the predetermined range, the processor determines, at step S 231  whether it has received an indication from the second blocking extrusion sensor  159   a  that the blocking extrusion  109  is in the securing position. Once the processor has determined that the blocking extrusion  109  is in the securing position the processor at step S 232   a  decreases the power supply to the securing motor  157  to 70% of that previously supplied. The processor then, at step S 232   b , determines whether the current drawn by the securing motor  157  is within a second predetermined range, preferably lower than 1 Ampere. If the current drawn is within the second predetermined range the processor reverts to step S 221  to determine whether the second blocking extrusion sensor  159   a  has been activated. This loop repeats until the processor determines, at step  232   b , a securing motor current above the second predetermined range, indicating that the blocking extrusion  109  is firmly in the free position. The processor then, at step S 233 , stops operation of the securing motor  157  and, at step S 235 , commences the operation of the kitchen device  101  selected at step S 213 . The operation of the kitchen device  101  may be cancelled at step S 237 , which reverts the processor to step S 205 , thereby operating the locking mechanism  104  to move the blocking extrusion  109  to the free position, allowing the retaining arm  107  to be moved. 
     When the operation of the kitchen device  101  has finished, the user may desire to remove the lid  121  from the vessel  105 . To allow the lid  121  to be removed from the vessel  105 , the securing motor  157  is operated to pivot the crank  187  from the securing position to the free position. Thereby the restraining spring  183  is moved from the tensioning state to the predetermined state and the blocking extrusion  109  is moved from the securing position to the free position. The retaining arm  107  may now be moved against the resistance provided by the locking spring  181  from the retaining position against the free position. When the retaining arm  107  is in the free position, the lid  121  may be removed from the vessel  105 , and/or the vessel  105  may be removed from the body  103 . 
     Use of the kitchen device  201  will now be discussed, insofar as the use diverges from the use of the kitchen device  101 . 
     When the processor, at step S 219 , operates the securing motor  257  to pivot the crank  287  from the free position to the securing position, the ledge  212  on the crank  287  pivots with the crank  287  and engages the latch  209  to move the latch  209  from the free position to the securing position. 
     When the processor, at steps S 205  or S 223 , operates the securing motor  257  to pivot the crank  287  from the securing position to the free position, the ledge  212  on the crank  287  pivots with the crank  287  and disengages the latch  209 . The latch  209  is then urged by the latch spring  211  to move from the securing position to the free position. 
     Use of the kitchen device  301  will now be discussed, insofar as the use diverges from the use of the kitchen device  101 . 
     At step S 219 , instead of operating a securing motor, the processor operates the solenoid  312  to exert force on the pin  309  to move the pin  309  from the free position to the securing position. 
     At step S 205  or S 223 , instead of operating a securing motor, the processor operates the solenoid  312  to cease exerting a force on the pin  309 . The pin  309  is then urged by a solenoid spring (not shown) to move from the securing position to the free position. 
     Alternatively, the solenoid spring may force the solenoid  312  to the securing position. In this case, at step S 219 , the processor operates the solenoid  312  to cease exerting force on the pin  309 . The pin  309  is then urged by a solenoid spring (not shown) to move from the free position to the securing position. At step S 219 , the processor operates the solenoid  312  to exert force on the pin  309  to move the pin  309  from the securing position to the free position. 
     Use of the kitchen device  401  will now be discussed, insofar as the use diverges from the use of the kitchen device  101 . 
     At steps S 205  or S 223 , the processor operates the securing motor  457 , which operates the reduction drive mechanism  455  causing a rotation of the worm gear  462   b . The rotation of the worm gear  462   b  causes a rotation of the pinion gear  462   a . As the pinion gear  462   a  is attached to the primary roller  460 , the primary roller  460  rotates to decrease tension in the belt  465 . The movement of the belt  465  is transmitted by the distribution rollers  463  to the tension rollers  466 . The decreased tension in the belt  465 , and the movement of the belt  465 , moves the restraining springs  483  from the tensioning position to the free position. 
     At steps S 203 , S 209 , S 229 , and S 231 , instead of determining whether first or second blocking extrusion sensors have been activated, the processor determines whether, respectively, the first or second securing roller sensors  459   a ,  459   b  have been activated. 
     At step S 219 , the processor operates the securing motor  457 , which operates the reduction drive mechanism causing a rotation of the worm gear  462   b . The rotation of the worm gear  462   b  causes a rotation of the pinion gear  462   a . As the pinion gear  462   a  is attached to the primary roller  460 , the primary roller  460  rotates to increase tension in the belt  465 . The movement of the belt  465  is transmitted by the distribution rollers  463  to the tension rollers  466 . The increased tension in the belt  465 , and the movement of the belt  465 , moves the restraining springs  483  from the predetermined state to the tensioning state. 
     Use of the kitchen device  501  will now be discussed, insofar as the use diverges from the use of the kitchen device  101 . 
     At steps S 205  and S 223 , the processor operates the securing motor  557 , which operates the reduction drive mechanism  555  causing rotation of the worm gear  562   b . The rotation of the worm gear  562   b  causes a rotation of the pinion gear  562   a . As the pinion gear  562   a  is attached to the securing hook  509 , operation of the securing motor  557  causes the securing hook  509  to move from the securing position to the free position. 
     At step S 219 , the processor operates the securing motor  557 , which operates the reduction drive mechanism  555  causing rotation of the worm gear  562   b . The rotation of the worm gear  562   b  causes a rotation of the pinion gear  562   a . As the pinion gear  562   a  is attached to the securing hook  509 , operation of the securing motor  557  causes the securing hook  509  to move from the free position to the securing position. 
     The operation of the securing hook  509  to secure the retaining arm  507  in a secured retaining position is substantially identical to the operation of the securing hook  9  of the kitchen device  1 . 
     Use of the locking mechanism  604  of the kitchen device  601  will now be discussed. 
     To use the kitchen device  601 , the vessel  605  is connected to the body  603  of the kitchen device  601 , as shown in  FIG. 55A . Ingredients to be processed are placed inside the vessel  605  and the lid  621  is placed atop the vessel  605 . As shown in  FIG. 55A , the retaining arm  607  is moved manually by the user from the free position to the retaining position by actuating the toggle handle  611  in a toggle direction  616 . 
     As the toggle handle  611  is moved in the toggle direction the first and second transverse member  614  creates a moment causing pivoting of the retaining arm  607  from the free position to the retaining position. Movement of the toggle handle  611  in the toggle direction  616  also moves the toggle mechanism from the free position shown in  FIG. 55A  towards the securing position shown in  FIG. 56A . 
     Once the retaining arm  607  is in the retaining position, the toggle handle  611  is continued to be operated in the toggle direction  616  until the toggle mechanism  609  is in the securing position shown in  FIG. 57A . This continued movement of the toggle handle  611  tensions the retaining arm  607  and compresses the lid  621  and vessel  605  between the retaining arm  607  and the body  603 . When the toggle mechanism  609  is in the securing position, the toggle handle  611  is no longer operated. 
     Movement of the retaining arm  607  from the retaining position is prevented by the toggle mechanism  609  blocking movement of the extension arm  647 . Thus, the retaining arm  607  is in the secured retaining position. 
     The kitchen device  601  may now be used. 
     Use of the kitchen device  701  will now be discussed, insofar as the use diverges from the use of the kitchen device  701 . 
     At steps S 205  and S 223 , the processor operates the securing motor  757 , which causes rotation of the worm gear  762   b . The rotation of the worm gear  562   b  causes a rotation of the pinion gear  762   a . As the pinion gear  762   a  pivots it moves the tab  766  downwards, thereby urging the central yoke  767  downwards. As the central yoke  767  is retained in the rounded recesses  772  of the bridge member  769 , the bridge member  769  is similarly urged downwards, and accordingly moves from the securing position to the free position. As the bridge member  769  is attached to the securing hook  709  by the pivot joints  777 , the securing hook  709  similarly moves from the securing position to the free position. Additionally, as the bridge member  769  moves from the securing position to the free position, the central yoke  767  is allowed to rotate within the rounded recesses  772  about the first yoke axis  768 A such that the tab  766  is not required to rotate about the first yoke axis  768 A but remains substantially perpendicular to the first yoke axis  768 A. 
     At step S 219 , the processor operates the securing motor  757 , which causes rotation of the worm gear  762   b . The rotation of the worm gear  762   b  causes a rotation of the pinion gear  762   a . As the pinion gear  762   a  pivots it moves the tab  766  upwards, thereby urging the central yoke  767  upwards. As the central yoke  767  is retained in the rounded recesses  772  of the bridge member  769 , the bridge member  769  is similarly urged upwards, and accordingly moves from the free position to the securing position. As the bridge member  769  is attached to the securing hook  709  by the pivot joints  777 , the securing hook  709  similarly moves from the free position to the securing position. Additionally, as the bridge member  769  moves from the free position to the securing position, the central yoke  767  is allowed to rotate within the rounded recesses  772  about the first yoke axis  768 A such that the tab  766  is not required to rotate about the first yoke axis  768 A but remains substantially perpendicular to the first yoke axis  768 A. 
     In the contemplated alteration shown in  FIG. 70A , the rotation of the bevel gear  762   b  causes rotation of the bevel gear  762   a  which causes rotation of the screw  765 . The rotation of the screw  765  in the threaded opening  766  causes axial translation of the yoke  767 . The translation of the axial movement of the yoke  767  to the arcing movement of the securing hook  709  remains the same. 
     The operation of the securing hook  709  to secure the retaining arm  707  in a secured retaining position is substantially identical to the operation of the securing hook  9  of the kitchen device  1 . 
     Use of the kitchen device  801  will now be discussed, insofar as the use diverges from the use of the kitchen device  101 . 
     The vessel  805  is placed in the body  803  of the kitchen device  801 . Ingredients to be processed are placed in the vessel  805  and the lid  821  is placed atop the vessel  805 . The recesses of the lid  821  are located to receive the protrusions  836 . The lid  821  is subsequently pivoted about the lid axis  821 A to lock the lid  821  against the vessel  805 . The processor (not shown) then actuates the securing motor  857  to move the securing pin  809  from the free position to the securing position. Before, during, or after the actuation of the securing motor  857  by the processor, the processor also actuates the secondary securing motor  891  to move the secondary securing members  899  from the free position to the securing position, whereby the securing members  899  engage the securing holds  899   b  in the vessel  805 . The locking mechanism  804  is now in a secured retaining position and the kitchen device  1  may be used to process the ingredients. 
     To remove the lid  821  and access the processed ingredients, the processor actuates the securing motor  857  and the secondary securing motor  891 , simultaneously or sequentially, allowing the lid  821  to be pivoted about the lid axis  821 A and thereafter removed from the vessel  805 . 
     Advantages of the kitchen devices  1 ,  101 ,  201 ,  301 ,  401 ,  501 ,  601  will now be discussed. 
     The position switches and sensors allow the processor to precisely, and deterministically, check whether the appropriate safety features, such as the retaining arm the securing feature, the lid, the locking mechanism are in their respective positions for safe operation. 
     The automatic locking process provided by the locking mechanism described above uses the detailed information regarding the positions of the components above to provide detailed feedback to the user of the kitchen device relating to error sources and operational status of the kitchen device, and the locking mechanism. Further, the ability to move the retaining arm to a free position well away from the lid allows clear, unrestricted access to the lid by the user, facilitating placement and removal of the lid. 
     The use of the securing motor that is separate from the main motor allows for electronic isolation for improved safety of the kitchen device. For example, the main motor is not allowed to operate unless the locking mechanism is in the secured retaining position. 
     The securing feature ensures, in the securing position, that the retaining arm is not accidentally moved from the locked position, which ensures that the lid remains on the vessel preventing an interruption to the cooking process, or a safety hazard. 
     The retaining arm contacts the on at least two contact areas, being channels. The retaining arm thereby retains the lid safely against the vessel in multiple degrees of freedom. 
     Further, the motor-drive moving parts of the locking mechanism, are all located inside the body of the kitchen device. This prevents potential injury to users as well as damage to the kitchen device that may arise by objects, or the user, being caught in the moving parts. Yet further, the connection between the recess and the retaining arm pin is also contained within the body preventing potential pinch injuries during the locking process. 
     Yet further, the belt drive allows versatility as to where the primary roller, distribution rollers, and tension rollers are located in the kitchen device. As the number of gears is also reduced, this leads to a reduction in operating noise emitted by the kitchen device. 
     Yet further, the use of a single securing motor entails significant cost savings. 
     Yet further, the use of a worm and pinion gear has the advantage that a reading of the current drawn by the securing motor allows the processor to determine when a particular securing load has been reached by the securing hook. As the control by the processor is determined on a load basis, the dimensional tolerances of the body. vessel, and lid are less important. 
     Yet further, the use of a central yoke allowing the bridge member to rotate when moving between the free position and the securing position allows a simpler and more space efficient design of the pivot joints and the second hinges, also due to the use of three pivot points (i.e. the yoke, the bridge, and the securing hook). 
     Yet further, the use of a secondary securing mechanism located towards a bottom of the vessel, allows portions of the locking mechanism to be hidden within the food processing device, decreasing the potential for pinching of the hands of a user, or the locking mechanism being contaminated with processed ingredients. Further, the separation of lid-locking mechanism and vessel retention mechanism allow the locking mechanism to operate invisibly to the user, which is aesthetically preferable. 
     The use of the retaining arm seal  134  with a concave portion  134   a  allows liquid to flow along the retaining arm seal  134 , tending towards the lowest point  134   b  under the action of gravity, thereby being guided away from an interior of the body  103  and spilling along the outside of the device kitchen  101 . 
     The use of the arm snap piece  139   b  results in decreased wear of the retaining arm seal  134 , as the retaining arm  107  abuts the arm snap piece  139   b , rather than the retaining arm seal  134 . Yet further, if the arm snap piece  139   b  is made of plastic, movement that may be transmitted from the retaining arm  107  to the retaining arm seal  134  is transmitted by a plastic component, which results in decreased wear compared to the retaining arm  107 , which may be made of metal, abutting directly against the retaining arm seal  134 . 
     Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms. 
     For example, instead, or in addition to, the bevel gears the drive mechanism could include a worm and gear set (not shown) such that the axes of rotations of the shaft and the linear screw are perpendicular.