Patent Publication Number: US-2020281410-A1

Title: Vacuum food processing system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/815,998, filed Mar. 8, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a blender, and more particularly to a container of a blender configured to receive one or more food items therein. 
     Blenders are commonly used to process a plurality of different food products, including liquids, solids, semi-solids, gels and the like. It is well-known that blenders are useful devices for blending, cutting, and dicing food products in a wide variety of commercial settings, including home kitchen use, professional restaurant or food services use, and large-scale industrial use. They offer a convenient alternative to chopping or dicing by hand, and often come with a range of operational settings and modes adapted to provide specific types or amounts of food processing, e.g., as catered to particular food products. 
     Several benefits can be achieved by forming a vacuum within a blender container or attachment either prior to or after a blending operation. For example, by forming a vacuum prior to a blending operation, the overall degradation of the nutritional properties of the ingredients being processes may be reduced. Accordingly, a blender container or attachment may include a seal that is movable to selectively form a vacuum within the blender container. However, when the blender container is used in high vibration environments, such as in a vehicle or when the container is being carried in a bag for example, it is possible that liquid or other ingredients from the interior of the blender container may leak through the seal. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to an embodiment, an attachment for use with a food processing system includes a sealable body including a wall and a processing chamber, a chamber opening formed in said sealable body, and a vacuum passage arranged in fluid communication with said chamber opening. The vacuum passage is associated with at least one of said wall and said processing chamber of said sealable body. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a portion of said vacuum passage is at least partially defined by said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a portion of said vacuum passage is integrally formed with said wall of said sealable body. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum passage is arranged at a side of said sealable body, external to said wall and said processing chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a secondary structure connected to said wall, wherein said secondary structure and said wall cooperate to define at least a portion of said vacuum passage. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said secondary structure is overmolded to said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said secondary structure is a molded channel. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said secondary structure is an extruded channel. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said secondary structure is affixed to said wall via an induction weld. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said secondary structure forms a seamless interface with said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least a portion of said secondary structure is flush with an adjacent surface of said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a portion of said vacuum passage extends through said processing chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said portion of said vacuum passage is mounted to an interior surface of said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum passage is at least partially defined by a rigid tube. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a vacuum chamber connected to said vacuum passage and said chamber opening. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a cover mounted to said sealable body, wherein said cover and said sealable body cooperate to define said vacuum chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a lid, wherein said vacuum chamber is defined within said lid. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a vacuum sealing assembly arranged within said chamber opening. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a release mechanism associated with said processing chamber, wherein said release mechanism is movable to fluidly couple said processing chamber to an ambient atmosphere external to said sealable body. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said sealable body has a first orientation when separated from said food processing base and a second orientation when connected to said food processing base. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said sealable body has a first orientation when separated from said food processing base and when connected to said food processing base. 
     According to yet another embodiment, a food processing system includes a food processor base including a vacuum system and an attachment configured for removable association with the food processor base. The attachment includes a sealable body including a wall and a processing chamber. A chamber opening is formed in the sealable body and a vacuum passage is arranged in fluid communication with the chamber opening. The vacuum passage is associated with at least one of said wall and said processing chamber of the sealable body. When the attachment is installed about said food processor base, the vacuum passage is fluidly connected to said vacuum system. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum system is arranged adjacent a first side of said food processing base, and said vacuum passage is aligned with said first side of said food processing base when installed to said food processing base. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a portion of said vacuum passage is at least partially defined by said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a portion of said vacuum passage is integrally formed with said wall of said sealable body. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum passage is arranged at a side of said sealable body, external to said wall and said processing chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said sealable body includes a secondary structure connected to said wall, wherein said secondary structure and said wall cooperate to define at least a portion of said vacuum passage. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said secondary structure is overmolded to said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said secondary structure is a molded channel. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said secondary structure is an extruded channel. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said secondary structure affixed to said wall via an induction weld. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said secondary structure forms a seamless interface with said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least a portion of said secondary structure is flush with an adjacent surface of said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a portion of said vacuum passage extends through said processing chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said portion of said vacuum passage is mounted to an interior surface of said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum passage is at least partially defined by a rigid tube. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a vacuum chamber connected to said vacuum passage and said chamber opening. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a cover mounted to said sealable body, wherein said cover and said sealable body cooperate to define said vacuum chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a lid, wherein said vacuum chamber is defined within said lid. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a vacuum sealing assembly arranged within said chamber opening. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a release mechanism associated with said processing chamber, wherein said release mechanism is movable to fluidly couple said processing chamber to an ambient atmosphere external to said sealable body. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said sealable body has a first orientation when separated from said food processing base and a second orientation when connected to said food processing base. 
     In yet another embodiment, an attachment for use with a food processing system includes a sealable body including a processing chamber, a vacuum path extending from the processing chamber through at least a portion of said sealable body, and a release path extending from the processing chamber to an exterior of said sealable body. The vacuum path is separate from the release path. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum path further comprises a vacuum chamber and a vacuum passage, said vacuum passage being integral with said sealable body. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a cover mounted to said sealable body, wherein said cover and said sealable body cooperate to define said vacuum chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a lid connectable to an open end of said sealable body to seal said processing chamber, wherein said vacuum chamber is defined within said lid. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a chamber opening connecting said processing chamber to said vacuum chamber and a vacuum sealing assembly arranged within said chamber opening. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said release path includes a release opening formed in a wall defining an end of said processing chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a release mechanism associated with said release opening, said release opening being movable to couple said processing chamber to an ambient atmosphere external to said sealable body. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum sealing assembly and said release mechanism are independently operable. 
     According to another embodiment, a food processing system includes a food processor base including a vacuum system and an attachment configured for removable association with said food processor base. The attachment includes a sealable body including a processing chamber and a vacuum path extending from said processing chamber through at least a portion of said sealable body. The vacuum path of said attachment is arranged in fluid communication with said vacuum system when said attachment is connected to said food processing base. A release path extends from said processing chamber to an exterior of said sealable body. The vacuum path is separate from the release path. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum path further comprises a vacuum chamber and a vacuum passage, said vacuum passage being integral with said sealable body. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a cover mounted to said sealable body, wherein said cover and said sealable body cooperate to define said vacuum chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a lid connectable to an open end of said sealable body to seal said processing chamber, wherein said vacuum chamber is defined within said lid. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum path further comprises a chamber opening connecting said processing chamber to said vacuum chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a vacuum sealing assembly arranged within said chamber opening. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said release path further comprising a release opening formed in a wall defining an end of said processing chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a release mechanism associated with said release opening, said release opening being movable to couple said processing chamber to an ambient atmosphere external to said sealable body. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum path includes a movable vacuum sealing assembly and said release path includes a movable release mechanism, said vacuum sealing assembly and said release mechanism being independently operable. 
     According to yet another embodiment, an attachment assembly for use with a food processing system includes a container having a processing chamber including an open end, an accessory connectable to the open end of said container to seal said processing chamber, and a vacuum passage having an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is arranged in fluid communication with the processing chamber, and the outlet is located at an area of said container separate from said accessory. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said outlet is vertically offset from said open end of said container. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum passage is associated with at least one of a wall of said container and said processing chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a portion of said vacuum passage is integrally formed with said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum passage is arranged at a side of said container, external to said wall and said processing chamber. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a secondary structure connected to said wall, wherein said secondary structure and said wall cooperate to define at least a portion of said vacuum passage. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said secondary structure forms a seamless interface with said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least a portion of said secondary structure is flush with an adjacent surface of said wall. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said vacuum passage is at least partially defined by a rigid tube. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said sealable body has a first orientation when separated from said food processing base and when connected to said food processing base. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said accessory is a lid. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said container has a first orientation when separated from said food processing base and a second orientation when connected to said food processing base. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said accessory is a rotatable blade assembly. 
     According to yet another embodiment, a method of forming a vacuum in a processing chamber of an attachment of a food processing system includes operating a vacuum mechanism arranged in fluid communication with vacuum chamber formed in the attachment, sensing a pressure of said vacuum chamber, detecting that said pressure within said vacuum chamber is equal to a target pressure, and operating said vacuum mechanism after said pressure within said vacuum chamber is equal to said target pressure. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments operating said vacuum mechanism after said pressure within said vacuum chamber is equal to said target pressure includes operating said vacuum mechanism continuously. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments operating said vacuum mechanism after said pressure within said vacuum chamber is equal to said target pressure includes operating said vacuum mechanism intermittently. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments operating said vacuum mechanism after said pressure within said vacuum chamber is equal to said target pressure includes operating said vacuum mechanism for a fixed period of time after said pressure within said vacuum chamber is equal to said target pressure. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments operating said vacuum mechanism after said pressure within said vacuum chamber is equal to said target pressure includes operating said vacuum mechanism until said pressure within said vacuum chamber is equal to another target pressure, different from said target pressure. 
     In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said another target pressure is a greater negative pressure than said target pressure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
       The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification embodies several aspects of the present invention and, together with the description, serves to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an example of a food processing system; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a base of a food processing system; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a food processing system having a first attachment; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of an example of an attachment suitable for use with a food processing system; 
         FIG. 5  is a cross-sectional view of a food processing system according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a vacuum attachment suitable for use with a food processing system according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional view of a vacuum attachment of  FIG. 6  according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective cross-sectional view of a lid of a vacuum attachment according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional view of a lid of a vacuum attachment according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional view of a lid of a vacuum attachment according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a vacuum attachment suitable for use with a food processing system according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional view of the vacuum attachment of  FIG. 11  according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 13  is a cross-sectional view of another vacuum attachment suitable for use with a food processing system according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 14A  is a perspective view of another vacuum attachment suitable for use with a food processing system according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 14B  is a perspective schematic view of the vacuum attachment of  FIG. 14A  according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of another vacuum attachment suitable for use with a food processing system according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 16  is a cross-sectional view of an end of a vacuum attachment according to an embodiment; and 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of an end of a vacuum attachment according to an embodiment; and 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional view of another vacuum attachment suitable for use with a food processing system according to an embodiment. 
     
    
    
     The detailed description explains embodiments of the invention, together with advantages and features, by way of example with reference to the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , an example of a multi-functional food processing system  20  is illustrated. In general, the food processing system  20  can be adapted to perform any food processing or blending operation including as non-limiting examples, dicing, chopping, cutting, slicing, mixing, blending, stirring, crushing, or the like. Although the food processing system illustrated and described herein is a personal blender system, other food processing systems are within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     The food processing system  20  includes a base  22  having a body or housing  24  within which a motorized unit (not shown) and at least one controller (not shown) are located. The base  22  includes at least one rotary component, such as a drive coupler  26  (see  FIG. 2 ) for example, driven by the motorized unit located within the housing  24 . The base  22  additionally includes a control panel or user interface  28  having one or more inputs  29  for turning the motorized unit on and off and for selecting various modes of operation, such as pulsing, blending, or continuous food processing. The at least one drive coupler  26  is configured to engage a portion of an attachment  30  coupled to the base  22  for the processing of food products located within an interior of the attachment  30 . This will become more apparent in subsequent FIGS. and discussion. 
     One or more attachments  30  varying in size and/or functionality may be configured for use with the base  22 . A first attachment  30  shown in  FIG. 3  includes a jar or container  32  having a rotatable blade assembly  34 . In some embodiments, the container  32  may be sized to hold approximately 72 fluid ounces. However, embodiments where the container  32  has a larger or smaller capacity are also within the scope of the disclosure. As shown, the container  32  typically includes a first open end  36 , a second closed end  38 , and one or more sidewalls  40  extending between the first end  36  and the second end  38  to define a hollow processing chamber  42  of the container  32 . A rotatable blade assembly  34  may be integrally formed with the second end  38  of the container  32 , or alternatively, may be removably coupled thereto. The attachment  30  may additionally include an accessory, such as a lid  43  configured to couple to the first open end  36  of the container  32  to seal the container  32 . The second sealed end  38  of the attachment of  FIG. 3  is configured to mount to the base  22  to perform a food processing operation. Accordingly, the orientation of the container  32  when the attachment  30  is connected to the base  22  and separated from the base  22  remains generally constant. 
     Another example of an attachment  30  suitable for use with the food processing system is shown in  FIG. 4 . In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the second attachment  30 ′ is an inverted jar or container  32  having a rotatable blade assembly  34  coupled thereto. Similar to the attachment of  FIG. 3 , the container  32  typically includes a first open end  36 , a second closed end  38 , and one or more sidewalls  40  extending between the first end  36  and the second end  40 . The sidewalls  40  in combination with one or more of the ends  36 ,  38  of the container  32  define a hollow interior processing chamber  42  of the container  32 . In embodiments where the attachment  30  is a personal blending container that has a first configuration when separated from the base  22  and a second inverted configuration when coupled to the base  22 , an accessory, such as a rotatable blade assembly  34  for example, is configured to removably couple to the first open end  36  of the container  32  to seal the processing chamber  42 . The container  32  and blade assembly  34  may be threadably coupled together; however, it should be understood that other mechanisms for removably connecting the container  32  and the blade assembly  34  are also contemplated herein. 
     In each of the various attachment configurations, the rotatable blade assembly  34  is configured to couple to the base  22  of the food processing system  20 . A driven coupler (not shown) associated with the at least one blade  37  is positioned a surface of the rotatable blade assembly  34  that is not received within the processing chamber  42 . The at least one drive coupler  26  is configured to engage the driven coupler to rotate the at least one blade  37  about an axis X to process the food products located within the processing chamber  42  of the attachment  30 . It should be understood that the attachments  30  including a container  32  and a rotatable blade assembly  34  illustrated and described herein are intended as an example only, and that other attachments, are also contemplated herein. 
     In some embodiments, the attachment  30  may include one or more contact members  46 , such as tabs for example, positioned about the periphery of the attachment  30 . Although four contact members  46  are generally illustrated in  FIG. 4 , any number of contact members  46  is within the scope of the disclosure. In embodiments where the attachment  30  includes a container  32  and a blade assembly  34 , the contact members  46  may extend outwardly from the container  32 , the blade assembly  34 , or both. 
     The contact members  46  of the attachment  30  are configured to cooperate with a mounting area  48  of the base  22  to couple the attachment  30  to the base  22 . As shown, the mounting area  48  includes one or more receiving slots  50  within which each of the plurality of contact members  46  of the attachment  30  is receivable. The attachment  30  may be configured to slidably connect to the base  22  of the food processing system  20 . Alternatively or in addition, the attachment  30  may be configured to rotatably connect to the base  22  such that the attachment  30  is locked relative to the base  22 . However, it should be understood that any suitable mechanism for coupling the attachment to the base  22  is within the scope of the disclosure. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 5 and 10 , in an embodiment, the food processing system  20  is operable to perform a vacuum operation. Accordingly, the base  22  of the food processing system  20  may additionally include a vacuum system  52  having a mechanism  54  capable of drawing a vacuum, such as a vacuum pump for example. However, any mechanism capable of drawing a vacuum is contemplated herein. At least one attachment  30  configured for use with the base  22  is operably coupled to the vacuum pump  54  when the attachment  30  is connected with the base  22 . In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the vacuum pump  54  is arranged at a side  56  of the base  22 , such as at the rear thereof, to allow one or more attachments  30  having varying configurations to easily couple to the vacuum pump  54 . The vacuum pump  54  may be operably coupled to a controller, illustrated schematically at C, such that the vacuum pump  54  is operated by the controller C in response to actuation of one or more inputs  29  of the user interface  28 . 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 5 and 10 , and further reference now to  FIGS. 6-9 and 11-16  various attachments suitable for a vacuum operation are illustrated. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of  FIGS. 6-9  an example of a vacuum attachment  130  suitable for use to perform a vacuum operation is shown. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIGS., the attachment  130  is similar to the attachment of  FIG. 3 , and includes a vacuum container  132  sized to hold approximately 72 fluid ounces. As previously described, the container  132  typically includes a first open end  136 , a second closed end  138 , and one or more sidewalls  140  extending between the first end  136  and the second end  138  to define a hollow interior processing chamber  142  of the container  132 . 
     The vacuum attachment  130  additionally includes a lid  143  configured to selectively couple to the first open end  136  of the container  132  to seal the chamber  142  of the container  132 . In an embodiment, the lid  143  has at least one internal chamber formed therein, partially defined by a wall  145 . As shown, the lid  143  may include a first chamber  150  located at a first side  152  thereof and a second chamber  154  arranged adjacent a second side  156  thereof. Although the first chamber  150  and the second chamber  154  are shown as being disposed at opposite sides of the lid  143 , or adjacent sides of the lid  143 , embodiments where the chambers  150 ,  154  are formed at the same side of the lid  143  are also within the scope of the disclosure. 
     In an embodiment, the lid  143  includes at least one component, such as a flap  158  for example, movable between a first closed position and a second open position, relative to the lid  143 . When the flap  158  is in the first closed position, an interior facing surface  160  of the flap  158  defines an upper extent of first chamber  150 . When the lid  143  is affixed to the first open end  136  of the container  132 , the first chamber  150  is arranged in fluid communication with a vacuum passage  162 , to be described in more detail below. Accordingly, the first chamber  150  may also be considered a vacuum chamber. Alternatively, or in addition, a second flap  164  pivotal between a first closed position and a second open position, may be operable to operate a release mechanism, to be described in more detail later, disposed within the second chamber  154 . 
     The container  132  additionally includes a vacuum passage or conduit  162  configured to fluidly connect the vacuum pump  54  and the vacuum chamber  150  when the attachment  130  is coupled to the base  22 . In an embodiment, an end  166  of the vacuum passage  162  may extend into or directly couple with the vacuum chamber  150 . However, because the vacuum chamber  150  is disposed in the lid  143 , in other embodiments, the vacuum passage  162  does not extend beyond the end  138  of the container  132 . As a result, a portion of the vacuum passage  162  may be at least partially defined by the lid  143 . 
     The vacuum passage  162  may have a generally linear configuration as shown in  FIG. 7 , or alternatively, may have one or more bends or angles formed therein. Because the vacuum pump  54  is located at a side  56  of the base  22 , a distal end  168  of the vacuum passage  162  configured to abut with a surface of the base  22  to fluidly couple to the vacuum pump  54  is similarly located adjacent a corresponding side of the container  132 . In an embodiment, a portion of the vacuum system  52  is arranged adjacent an upper surface  58  of the base  22 . As a result, the distal end  168  of the vacuum passage  162  may be vertically offset from the first end  136  of the container  132 . However, embodiments where the distal end  168  of the vacuum passage  162  is aligned with the first end  136  of the container  132  are also considered herein. 
     Another example of a vacuum attachment  230  is shown in  FIGS. 10-15 . A vacuum attachment  230  having a configuration similar to the inverted jar or container of  FIG. 4  is shown. The attachment  230  includes an inverted jar or container  232  including a first open end  236 , a second closed end  238 , and one or more sidewalls  240  extending between the first end  236  and the second end  238  to define a hollow processing chamber  242  of the container  232 . An accessory, such as a rotatable blade assembly as previously described for example, is connectable to the first open end  236  of the container  232  and is configured to couple to a drive unit of the base  22 , when the container  232  is installed about the base  22 . The attachment  230  generally has a first configuration when separated from the base  22  and a second inverted configuration when coupled to the base  22 . 
     In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the container  232  includes an interior wall  245  disposed at a position between the first end  236  and the second end  238 . In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the interior wall  245  seals the processing chamber  242  but is offset from the second end  238  of the container  232 . A cover  258  is vertically offset from the interior wall  245 , at a position between the interior wall  245  and the second end  238  of the container  232 . The cover  258  may be permanently affixed to the container  232 , or alternatively, may be able to move, for example pivot, relative to the interior wall  245  between a closed position and an open position. In an embodiment, the cover  258  extends from a protrusion  259  located at a central portion of the interior wall  245  to an interior surface  261  of the sidewall  240 . A gasket or seal  263  may be mounted to the cover  258  and configured to contact the interior surface  261  of the sidewall  240  and the interior wall  245  to form an air-tight seal there between. Together the interior wall  245 , adjacent sidewall  240 , and cover  258  cooperate to define a vacuum chamber  250  sealed from the ambient atmosphere and separate from the processing chamber  242 . 
     The container  132  additionally includes a vacuum passage or conduit  262  configured to fluidly connect the vacuum pump  54  and the vacuum chamber  250  when the attachment  230  is coupled to the base  22 . The vacuum passage  262  may have a generally linear configuration as shown in  FIG. 12 , or alternatively, may have one or more bends or angles formed therein (see  FIG. 15 ). Because the vacuum pump  54  is located at a side  56  of the base  22 , the distal end  168  of the vacuum passage  162  configured to abut with a surface of the base  22  to fluidly couple to the vacuum pump  54  is similarly located adjacent a corresponding side of the container  232 . Similar to the attachment  130 , as a result of the positioning of the vacuum system  52  relative to the base  22 , the distal end  268  of the vacuum passage  262  may be vertically offset from the first end  236  of the container  232 . However, embodiments where the first end  164  of the vacuum passage  162  is aligned with the first end  136  of the container  132  are also considered herein. 
     With reference now to both vacuum attachments  130 ,  230 , in an embodiment, the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  is integrally formed with the body, such as the sidewall  140 ,  240  for example, of the container  132 ,  232 . As best shown in  FIG. 11 , the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  is embedded within a sidewall  140 ,  240  of the container  132 ,  232 . However, in other embodiments, the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  may be arranged at an exterior of the container  32 . In such embodiments, the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  may be at least partially defined by the sidewall  140 ,  240  of the container  132 ,  232 , or alternatively, may be completely separate from the sidewall  140 ,  240 . In such embodiments the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  may be formed with the container  132 ,  232  such as via an additive manufacturing, overmoulding, insert molding, or injection molding process for example. 
     In other embodiments, a secondary structure  170 ,  270  is affixed to the sidewall  140 ,  240  of the container  132 ,  232  to define a portion of the vacuum passage  162 . The secondary structure  170 ,  270  may is formed from the same material, or alternatively, a different material than the material of the container  132 ,  232 . In an embodiment, best shown in  FIG. 12 , the secondary structure  270  is integrally formed with the container  232  via an over-molding or insert molding process. In another embodiment, shown in  FIGS. 13-14 , the secondary structure  270  is a molded or extruded silicone channel and the edges of the channel are sealed to the sidewall  240  of the container  232  such that food cannot become lodged or stuck at the interface between the sidewall  240  and the channel  270 . The channel  270  may further include a rigid tube  272  (see  FIG. 13 ) that forms at least a portion of the vacuum passage  262 . However, embodiments, where the silicone channel  270  is contoured to define a vacuum passage  262  between the channel  270  and the sidewall  240  of the container  232  are also contemplated herein. In addition, although the secondary structure  270  is described as a silicone channel, it should be understood that any suitable material is within the scope of the disclosure. In the non-limiting embodiment of  FIG. 15 , the secondary structure  270  is affixed to the container  232  via an induction weld. 
     It should be understood that any secondary structure  170 ,  270  having any configuration may be affixed to or integrally formed with the container  132 ,  232  using any of the connection processes described herein, or any other suitable processes. Regardless of the material of the second structure  170 ,  270  and/or the manufacturing process used to connect the secondary structure  170 ,  270  with the container  132 ,  232  at least a portion of the secondary structure  170 ,  270  encasing a portion of the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  is flush with and typically forms a smooth transition with the adjacent sidewall  140 ,  240  of the container  132 ,  232 . 
     With reference now to  FIG. 18 , in an embodiment, at least a portion of the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  is located at an interior of the container  132 ,  232 . As shown, the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  extends through the processing chamber  142 ,  242  such that the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  remains isolated from the processing chamber  142 ,  242  over the height of the processing chamber  142 ,  242 . As a result, an exterior surface of the container  132 ,  232  is generally smooth and unaltered by the presence of a vacuum passage  162 ,  262 . In addition, in some embodiments the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  may extend beyond an end of container  132 ,  232  configured to connect to the food processing base  22 . Although the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  is shown as arranged at an inner surface  241  of the sidewall  140 ,  240 , it should be understood that the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  may be arranged at any position within the processing chamber  142 ,  242 . Further, the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  may be integrally formed with the interior  241  of the sidewall  140 ,  240  of the container  132 ,  232 , or alternatively, may be encased by a secondary structure (not shown) connected to a surface  241  of the sidewall  140 ,  240 . It should further be understood that embodiments where only a portion of the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  is arranged within the processing chamber  142 ,  242 , and embodiments where only a portion of the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  is located external to the processing chamber  142 ,  242  are also within the scope of the disclosure. 
     In addition, depending on a position of the end of the vacuum passage  162 , 262  relative to adjacent the end of the container  132 ,  232 , connectable to the food processing base  22 , in embodiments where the container  232  is a personal blending container, a fluid channel may be formed in one or more accessories configured to couple to the end  236  of the  232 . The fluid channel formed in the accessory, such as the rotatable blade assembly  34  for example, will couple the vacuum passage  262  of the container  232  to a vacuum system  52  within the food processing base  22 . However, embodiments where the end of the vacuum passage is offset from the open end of the processing chamber  242  are also contemplated herein. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 18 , in embodiments where the container  32  is a personal blender container  232 , the accessory  34 , such as the rotatable blade assembly for example, is configured to couple to the open end  236  of the container  232 . The fluid channel  78  within the accessory  34  is configured to form a seal with the vacuum passage  262  in the container  232  every time that the accessory  34  is coupled to the container  232 . To ensure this alignment and sealing, the accessory  34  may have a multi-part construction. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the accessory  34  includes a static inner portion  280  that defines the fluid channel  78  and a rotatable outer portion  282 , that is rotatable relative to the inner portion  280  and the container  232  to selectively couple the accessory  34  to the open end  236  of the container  232 . Although the outer portion  282  of the accessory  34  is illustrated and described herein as being configured to couple to the container  232  via a threaded engagement, other connection mechanisms are also within the scope of the disclosure. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 9-10 and 16-17 , each vacuum attachments, such as the inverted vacuum jar  230  and the vacuum pitcher  130 , includes a vacuum sealing assembly  300  located within the vacuum chamber  150 ,  250 , respectively, at an interface between the processing chamber  142 ,  242  and the vacuum chamber  150 ,  250 , respectively. With reference now to  FIG. 16-17 , an example of a vacuum sealing assembly  300  is illustrated in more detail. More specifically, the vacuum sealing assembly  300  may be formed in the wall that separates the processing chamber  142 ,  242  from the vacuum chamber  150 ,  250 . Accordingly, with respect to the inverted vacuum jar  230 , the vacuum sealing assembly  300  may be located at the interior wall  145 , and in an embodiment of the vacuum pitcher  130 , the vacuum sealing assembly  300  is arranged at a wall  145  of the lid  143 . By arranging the vacuum sealing assembly  300  at this position of each attachment, the vacuum sealing assembly  300  is easily accessible by a user when the vacuum attachment  130 ,  230  is coupled to the base  22  of the food processing system  20 . However, in other embodiments, the vacuum sealing assembly  300  may be located at another location about the vacuum attachment  130 ,  230 . 
     The vacuum sealing assembly  300  includes an umbrella valve  302  having a valve stem  304  extending through a primary chamber opening  306  formed in the wall  145 ,  245 , and a flange  308  extending generally perpendicular to the valve stem  304 . As shown, one or more dimensions of the distal end  310  of the valve stem  304  are greater than the primary chamber opening  306  to restrict movement of the umbrella valve  302  relative to the container or lid, respectively. Via the engagement between the valve stem  304  and the primary chamber opening  306 , a flow of fluid or food particles from the interior processing chamber  142 ,  242  of the container  132 , 232  through the primary chamber opening  306  is restricted. The flange  308  of the umbrella valve  302  may be sized such that a portion of the flange  308 , such as near the periphery of the flange  308  for example, is in overlapping arrangement with the at least one secondary chamber opening  312  formed in the wall  145 ,  245 . Alternatively, or in addition, the sidewalls of the valve stem  304  may be contoured to similarly overlap with at least one secondary opening chamber  312 . In an embodiment, under normal conditions, the valve stem  304  seals both the primary chamber opening  306  and the at least one secondary chamber opening  312  to prevent a flow of fluid and/or food particles there through. However, embodiments where the flange  308  is operable to seal the at least one secondary chamber opening  312  are also contemplated herein. The configuration of the umbrella valve  302  used in the inverted vacuum jar  230 , may be identical to, or alternatively, different than the configuration of the umbrella valve  302  used in the vacuum pitcher  130 . 
     During a vacuum operation, when either attachment  130 , 230  is mounted to the base  22  and the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  is operably coupled to the vacuum system  52 , the vacuum mechanism  54  generates a negative pressure which is applied to the exposed surface of the umbrella valve  302 . The negative pressure generated will cause the peripheral portion of the flange  308  to separate from the secondary chamber opening  312  just enough to allow air within the processing chamber  142 ,  242  to be drawn there through. As soon as operation of the vacuum mechanism  54  ceases and the negative pressure is removed, the peripheral portion of the flange  308  will bias back into its original position to seal the secondary chamber opening  312 . This bias may be the result of the resilient material, such as silicone for example, from which the umbrella valve  302  is formed. Alternatively, a biasing mechanism (not shown) may be used to facilitate movement of the flange  308  back into a sealing position. A vacuum operation may be performed after food has been disposed within the chamber  142 ,  242  but prior to performing a food processing operation. In another embodiment, a vacuum operation is initiated to draw a vacuum within the chamber  142 ,  242  after performance of a food processing operation has been performed. Forming a vacuum after a blending operation may be used to increase the shelf life or storage of the food products within the attachment  130 ,  230 . 
     In an embodiment, the food processing system  20  may include a sensor S operable to detect a pressure within the attachment  130 ,  230 . In an embodiment, the sensor S is located within the vacuum passage  162 ,  262  or the vacuum chamber  150 ,  250 . However, in other embodiments, the sensor S may be located within the processing chamber  142 ,  242 . The controller C is configured to operate the vacuum mechanism  54  in response to the pressure measured by the sensor S. In an embodiment, a target negative pressure is associated with a vacuum operation performed by the food processing system  20 . The target pressure may vary based on one or more parameters including, but not limited to, the type of attachment  30  connected to the food processing base  22  and the volume of material within the processing chamber  142 ,  242 . In an embodiment, once the pressure measured by the sensor S and communicated to the controller C is equal to the target pressure, the controller C may stop operation of the vacuum mechanism  54 . 
     Alternatively, the controller C may be configured to operate the vacuum mechanism  54 , either continuously or intermittently, after the target pressure is detected. In an embodiment, the controller C may be configured to operate the vacuum mechanism  54  for a fixed amount of time after the pressure within the vacuum chamber  150 ,  250  and/or vacuum passage  162 ,  262  is equal to the target pressure. For example, the controller C may operate the vacuum mechanism  54  for an additional ten seconds after the target pressure has been detected within the attachment  130 ,  230 . In other embodiments, the controller C may operate the vacuum mechanism  54  until a second target negative pressure, greater than the first target pressure is achieved. Because a given amount of pressure is required to move the vacuum sealing assembly  300  to fluidly couple the vacuum chamber  150 ,  250  and the processing chamber  142 ,  242 , the pressure within the vacuum chamber  150 ,  250  may be different, for example a greater negative pressure, than the pressure within the processing chamber  142 ,  242 . When the sensor S detects that the pressure has reached the first target pressure, such as −80 kPa for example, the pressure within the processing chamber  142 ,  242  may in fact be less, such as −60 kPa for example, than the first target pressure. Accordingly, operation of the vacuum mechanism  54  for an additional period of time or until a second target pressure has been reached may compensate for the pressure required to operate the vacuum sealing assembly  300 , to achieve the first target pressure within the processing chamber  142 / 242 . Although continued operation of the vacuum mechanism  54  is described herein as being determined based on time or a second threshold, any suitable control of the vacuum mechanism to achieve the desired pressure within the processing chamber  142 ,  242  is within the scope of the disclosure. 
     The vacuum attachment  130 ,  230  additionally includes a release mechanism  320  operable to vent the processing chamber  142 ,  242  of the container  132 ,  232  to ambient via a release path, thereby breaking the vacuum formed therein. The release mechanism  320  is similarly mounted at a location of the attachment  130 ,  230  that is easily accessible by a user. As shown, the release mechanism  320  is located remotely from and is not connected to the vacuum sealing assembly  300 . However, it should be understood that embodiments where the release mechanism  320  is directly or indirectly coupled to the vacuum sealing assembly  300  are also within the scope of the disclosure. With respect to the inverted vacuum jar  230 , the release mechanism  320  is mounted at the exposed second end  238  of the container  232 . With respect to the vacuum pitcher  130 , the release mechanism  320  may be mounted within the second chamber  154  formed in the lid  143 . 
     An example of a release mechanism  320  is shown in more detail in  FIGS. 16-17 . In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the release mechanism  320  includes a connector  322  having a sealing member  324  mounted to an end thereof. The release mechanism  320  additionally includes an actuator  326  pivotally coupled to the connector  322  via a pin  328  defining a pivot axis of the actuator  326 . In an embodiment, a camming lever  330  extends from the connector  322  toward the actuator  326 . When the release mechanism  320  is in an unactuated state, the sealing member  324  is engaged with an adjacent opening  332  fluidly connected to the processing chamber  142 ,  242 . A biasing member  334 , such as a coil spring for example, may be coupled to the connector  322  to bias the sealing member  324  into engagement with the opening  332  to form an air tight and liquid tight seal. 
     To actuate the release mechanism  320 , the actuator  326  is pivoted about the axis of pin  328 . This movement overcomes the bias of the biasing member  334  and also applies a force to the camming lever  330  of the connector  322 , and the cammed movement about the pin  328  causes the connector  322  and sealing member  324  to move vertically, and out of engagement with the opening  332 . This movement out the connector  322  out of engagement with the opening  332 , allows ambient air to flow through the release path, i.e. between an exterior of the container  132 ,  232  through the exposed opening  332  and into the processing chamber  142 ,  242 . With respect to the vacuum pitcher  130 , in an embodiment, the flap  158  formed in the lid  143  functions as the actuator  326  to selectively operate the release mechanism  320  and break the vacuum within the processing chamber  142  of the container  132 . Upon removal of the force from the actuator  326 , the biasing member  334  will bias the mechanism  320  back into its original position, thereby sealing the opening  332 . Although a pivotally operated release mechanism  320  is illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that a release mechanism operable via a pull motion, twisting motion or other suitable motion to separate the sealing member  324  from the opening  332  are also within the scope of the disclosure. Further, it should be understood that other mechanisms, such as an umbrella valve or a duckbill valve, or any suitable movement may also be used to selectively break the vacuum in the chamber  142 ,  242 . 
     After a vacuum has been generated within the processing chamber  142 ,  242  of the container  132 , 232  it is difficult, if not impossible to remove an accessory, such as the blade assembly or the lid  143  for example, and access the food product within the processing chamber  142 ,  242  as a result of the forces acting thereon. Accordingly, a user should first break the vacuum within the container  132 ,  232  by operating the release mechanism  320  prior to accessing the contents within the interior processing chamber  142 ,  242  of the container  132 ,  232 . 
     A vacuum container  132 ,  232  as illustrated and described herein when used in conjunction with a vacuum mechanism  54  prior to a food processing operation may provide a food product having increased vitamin retention, specifically vitamin C. Exposure to oxygen during the blending process may cause the ingredients within the container  132 ,  232  to degrade. By removing the oxygen from the container  132 ,  232 , the overall degradation of the nutritional properties of the ingredients being processes is reduced. 
     All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein. 
     The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) is to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention. 
     Exemplary embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Variations of those embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.