Food waste disposal system and air switch assembly

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a food waste disposal system and an air switch assembly. Specifically, the food waste disposal system (10) includes a housing, a power control module (202), a motor, an actuator (122), an air duct connecting the actuator to the module at least indirectly, and a power link. The module is configured to switch between having a first state and having a second state in response to pressure changes transmitted through the duct due to actuation of the actuator. Furthermore, when the module has the first state, power received at the power link is transmitted from the power link to the motor at least indirectly via the module, but when the module has the second state, the power is not transmitted to the motor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to waste processors, such as food waste processors, and more specifically, to control systems used in or in conjunction with such waste processors or associated devices, to waste processors including such control systems, and to methods of assembling and / or operating the control system relative to the waste processor or associated device. Background Technology

[0002] Food waste disposers are used to pulverize food scraps into particles small enough to pass through household drain pipes. Depending on the implementation or environment, such food waste disposers can be powered in several ways. Most older homes (built before the 1970s) have Romex / BX cables running from the walls of the home, which can be hardwired directly to the disposer. However, most newer homes have a standard power outlet (e.g., a wall outlet) near the disposer, to which the disposer can be coupled via a power cord and associated plug to receive power. It is estimated that of all homes with disposers, 60% have hardwired connections and the remaining 40% use power outlets located in sink cabinets.

[0003] In many food waste disposer installations, the supply of power to the disposer (or whether to turn the disposer on or off) can be determined via a built-in wall switch. Such installations may include those where the disposer is hardwired via Romex / BX cable, and those where the disposer is coupled to a power outlet via a power cord and associated plug. In these installations, the status of the wall switch determines whether, depending on the specific circumstances, power can be made available to the food waste disposer via the Romex / BX cable or via a power outlet and power cord and plug.

[0004] However, in other installations, unlike built-in wall switches (or other than built-in wall switches), an additional operator-controlled switching mechanism determines whether power is supplied to the processor (or whether the processor is turned on or off). In some such embodiments, the food waste processor is implemented in conjunction with an aftermarket air switch power supply control unit, which the operator can control the supply of power to the processor (or whether the processor is turned on or off) via the aftermarket air switch power supply control unit. The air switch power supply control unit includes a power control module linked via an air duct to an operator-actuable button. The power control module has a power socket into which the processor's power cord plug can be inserted. Furthermore, the air switch power supply control unit also includes a power cord extending between the power control module and an associated plug, which can be inserted into another power outlet, such as a wall socket.

[0005] This air-operated power supply control device is configured to have two operating states. In the first operating state, power received via the power cord of the air-operated power supply control device coupled to the wall socket is then supplied to the power socket of the power control module itself. In this first operating state, any food waste disposer coupled to the power socket of the power control module (e.g., coupled via the processor's own power cord) can receive power and is turned on. Furthermore, in the second operating state, the power socket of the power control module is electrolytically decoupled from the power cord of the air-operated power supply control device. In this second operating state, no power is supplied from the wall socket at the power socket of the power control module, and therefore any food waste disposer coupled to the power socket of the power control module cannot receive power and is turned off.

[0006] Whether the air switch power supply control device is in a first operating state or a second operating state depends on the operator actuation of the operator-actuable button. More specifically, when pressed by the operator, the operator-actuable button causes air to be forced out of the button through an air duct into a diaphragm in the power control module, which moves in response to changes in air pressure (or the received airflow). The position of the diaphragm, in turn, controls the state of the electrical switch, which controls whether the power received from the wall socket at the power control module is supplied to the power socket of the power control module and thus to supply power to any processor coupled to the power socket. For example, if the button is pressed and causes airflow to continue toward the diaphragm, then the diaphragm can move again, causing the electrical switch to close and causing power to be delivered to the processor. Furthermore, if the button is released, causing airflow to move toward the button, then the diaphragm can move accordingly, causing the electrical switch to open and causing the processor to no longer receive power.

[0007] While this air-operated power supply control unit allows the operator to control the power supplied from the wall outlet to the food waste disposer coupled to the unit without the need for a wall switch, several disadvantages exist associated with the installation of this unit. Specifically, given the number of connections / links involved, implementations of this air-operated power supply control unit can be bulky or inconvenient, including not only the power cord for the food waste disposer itself but also the power cord for the air-operated power supply control unit, in addition to the air duct. Furthermore, it can be difficult to find a suitable location / support for the power control module to accommodate these connections / links (e.g., under a kitchen sink).

[0008] Therefore, it would be advantageous if, for at least one or more of these reasons, or for one or more other reasons, an improved control mechanism or system could be developed for use in or in conjunction with food waste processors or other processors and / or related devices, and / or if an improved food waste processor or other processor having or operating such an improved control mechanism or system, and / or if an improved method for assembling and / or operating such a mechanism, system or processor could be developed to solve one or more of the problems discussed above or to solve one or more other problems or to provide one or more advantages. Utility Model Content

[0009] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the present invention relates to a food waste disposal system. The food waste disposal system includes a housing comprising a bottom housing portion and a top housing portion, and a power control module at least partially supported within the housing. Furthermore, the food waste disposal system includes an electric motor supported within the housing and at least indirectly electrically coupled to the power control module. Additionally, the food waste disposal system includes an actuator positioned outside the housing and an air duct connecting the actuator to the power control module at least indirectly. Furthermore, the food waste disposal system includes a power link extending outward from the power control module and the housing, such that the power control module is at least indirectly electrically coupled to a power source. The power control module is configured to switch between a first operating state and a second operating state in response to pressure changes transmitted via the air duct due to actuation of the actuator. Furthermore, when the power control module is in the first operating state, the power received from the power source at the power link is transmitted to the motor at least indirectly via the power control module from the power link; however, when the power control module is in the second operating state, the power is not transmitted to the motor.

[0010] Additionally, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the present invention relates to a method. The method includes providing a waste disposal system comprising: a housing including a bottom housing portion and a top housing portion; a power control module at least partially supported within the housing; a motor supported within the housing and at least indirectly electrically coupled to the power control module; an actuator positioned outside the housing; an air duct connecting the actuator to the power control module at least indirectly; and a power link extending outward from the power control module and the housing, such that the power control module can be at least indirectly electrically coupled to a power source. Furthermore, the method includes receiving power at the power control module at least indirectly via the power link, and transmitting a pressure change to the power control module via the air duct in response to actuation of the actuator. Additionally, the method includes switching from a first operating state of the power control module to a second operating state of the power control module in response to the pressure change, and, when the power control module is in the first operating state, transmitting the power received via the power link from the power link to the motor at least indirectly via the power control module. Furthermore, the method includes switching from the second operating state to the first operating state in response to an additional pressure change, and stopping the transmission of power to the motor when the power control module has the second operating state.

[0011] Furthermore, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the present invention relates to an air switch assembly for integrated implementation with a waste processor to provide air switch control for operation of the waste processor. The air switch assembly includes a power control module comprising a base plate and further comprising switching mechanisms and terminal assemblies each supported on the base plate, wherein the base plate includes at least one feature that at least partially enables the base plate to be secured to the waste processor. Additionally, the air switch assembly includes a power link extending outward from the power control module, wherein the power link includes a plug at an end of the power control module configured for coupling to a wall socket. Furthermore, the air switch assembly includes an air switch mechanism comprising an actuator and an air conduit linking the actuator to the power control module, wherein the switching mechanism includes a diaphragm structure at least indirectly in communication with an electrical switch. Furthermore, the diaphragm structure is configured to move in response to pressure changes transmitted via the air conduit in response to actuation of the actuator, and the switching mechanism is configured such that the electrical switch changes its switching state in response to the movement of the diaphragm structure. Furthermore, the terminal assembly includes a plurality of first electrical contacts configured to engage a plurality of second electrical contacts formed along the interior of the waste processor, thereby allowing a direct physical connection and a direct electrical connection to be formed between the power control module and the plurality of second electrical contacts. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The accompanying drawings disclose embodiments of waste disposal systems (e.g., food waste disposal systems), waste processors (e.g., food waste processors), control systems for integration or implementation with such disposal systems or processor combinations, combined systems including associated or auxiliary devices in addition to such disposal systems or processors, and / or related methods, and these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only. The systems and methods covered herein are not limited in their application to the details of the construction, component configuration, or other aspects or features illustrated in the drawings, but rather, such systems and methods covered herein include other embodiments or can be practiced or implemented in various other ways. The same reference numerals are used to indicate the same components. In the drawings:

[0013] Figure 1 It features a first exemplary food waste disposer and an integrated air switch configuration, and is shown as a top-down, generally forward-view perspective view relative to the first exemplary food waste disposer system installed in a sink.

[0014] Figure 2 This is an explanation Figure 1A schematic diagram of the electrical and pneumatic components of a food waste processing system, and how the components are coupled to each other in the food waste processing system;

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A bottom-view perspective sectional view of the food waste processor in the first exemplary food waste disposal system, shown independently of the sink and without... Figure 1 Integrated air switch configuration;

[0016] Figure 4 and 5 yes Figure 1 First and second top perspective views of a portion of the air switch assembly of a food waste disposal system; and

[0017] Figure 6 and 7 yes Figure 1 Part of the food waste processing system (including) Figure 1 A bottom perspective sectional view of a portion of the air switch assembly, illustrating how the air switch assembly can be implemented relative to the food waste processor. Detailed Implementation

[0018] This utility model relates to waste disposal systems, such as food waste disposal systems, and more particularly to such waste disposal systems having a control system included therein or integrated or utilized in conjunction with such waste disposal systems, and to such control systems used in conjunction with or as part of such waste disposal systems, and also to methods of operating and implementing such waste disposal systems and waste disposal systems and their control systems.

[0019] More specifically, in this respect, the inventors have recognized that at least some embodiments of the improved food waste disposer system will include an air-switch power control device or configuration (or simply air switch assembly) integrated with the food waste disposer of the food waste disposer system, wherein this integration specifically involves positioning the power control module of the air switch configuration within (or as part of) the food waste disposer of the food waste disposer system. Given this configuration, the actuation control of the air switch actuator (e.g., a button) of the power control module coupled to the food waste disposer via an air duct can control whether power is supplied to the food waste disposer, or whether the food waste disposer is actuated. By employing this configuration, control of the food waste disposer actuated by the air switch actuator can be achieved without employing any additional power link or wiring outside the food waste disposer to couple the power control module to the food waste disposer.

[0020] refer to Figure 1 This image shows a top, generally front perspective view of a food waste disposer system or assembly 10 according to a first exemplary embodiment covered herein. As illustrated, the food waste disposer system 10 includes a food waste disposer 100 having a top housing portion (or housing) 102 and a bottom housing portion 104. The bottom housing portion 104 includes a cylindrical stator belt 105 and a lower end frame (LEF) 306 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 3 The LEF serves as the disc-shaped bottom surface of the food waste processor. Generally, the food waste processor 100 can be understood as comprising a food conveying section, a motor section, and a grinding section. The food conveying section is typically located at a position corresponding to the housing 102, at or near the top of the food waste processor 100. The motor section is typically located corresponding to and within the stator belt 105, at or near the bottom of the food waste processor 100. The grinding section is disposed between the food conveying section and the motor section.

[0021] The motor section includes motor 204 (see...) Figure 2 The motor 204 imparts rotational movement to the motor shaft to operate the grinding section. In this exemplary embodiment, the motor may be an electric motor, such as an induction motor, but this invention aims to cover embodiments of food waste processors employing other types of motors (e.g., permanent magnet motors). In this embodiment, power for operating the motor within the motor section is transmitted from an external power source to the food waste processor 100 via a pluggable power cord or power link 106 comprising a NEMA 5-15 plug (or wall plug) 206 that can be inserted into a wall socket (not shown), as further discussed below.

[0022] like Figure 1Further illustrating that, in addition to the food waste disposer 100, the food waste disposer system 10 also includes an air switch mechanism or configuration 120. In this embodiment, the air switch mechanism 120 is integrated with a power link (pluggable power cord) 106, and the air switch mechanism 120 combined with the power link 106 can be simply referred to as an air switch assembly (or alternatively, an air switch power control device or configuration, or an integrated plug assembly) 121. As described in further detail below, the air switch assembly 121 is coupled to the food waste disposer 100 such that the food waste disposer system 10 can be considered as an integrated or combined system comprising the food waste disposer 100 and the air switch assembly (or integrated plug assembly) 121 (comprising both the air switch mechanism 120 and the power link 106). In fact, the food waste disposer system 10 can be considered as a food waste disposer system in which the air switch assembly (or integrated plug assembly) 121 is integrated with the food waste disposer 100.

[0023] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, the food waste disposer system 10, and specifically the food waste disposer 100 and air switch mechanism 120 of the food waste disposer system 10, are mounted or supported relative to a sink 170 having a faucet or tap 178. More specifically, the food waste disposer 100 is coupled to a drain pipe at the bottom of the basin 172 of the sink 170. It should be understood that the food delivery section of the food waste disposer 100 specifically includes an inlet 110 coupled to the drain pipe for receiving food waste and fluids (e.g., water) and for conveying food waste to the grinding section of the food waste disposer. Furthermore, the air switch mechanism 120 also includes: an air switch actuator 122 supported on the upper surface 174 of the sink 170; and an air duct (or air hose) 124 linking the actuator 122 to LEF 306 along the food waste disposer 100 (see [link to LEF 306]). Figure 3 Supported power control module 202 (see) Figure 2 (A portion of the air duct positioned below the water tank 170 is shown in dashed lines). Although the actuator 122 may take various forms depending on the embodiment, in this embodiment, the actuator may include a pneumatic cylinder configuration comprising an air bladder with a diaphragm, such that when the actuator is pressed, this causes airflow from the actuator through the air duct 124 to or towards the power control module 202.

[0024] It should be understood that even when coupled to the food waste disposer system 10, the sink 170 is different from and not part of the food waste disposer system of this embodiment. Furthermore, although in this description, the air switch assembly 121, which includes the air switch mechanism 120 and the power link 106, is considered different from the food waste disposer 100, in other embodiments or background contexts, one or more of the air switch assembly 121, the air switch mechanism 120, and the power link 106 may be considered as part of the food waste disposer 100 itself.

[0025] Turning Figure 2 Schematic diagram 200 is provided for further illustration. Figure 1 The electrical and pneumatic components within the food waste disposal system 10, and the connections between said components, include both the food waste disposal unit 100 and an air switch assembly 121 having an air switch mechanism 120 and a power link 106. Schematic diagram 200 shows the food waste disposal system 10 including a power control module 202 coupled to each of the actuator 122, the motor 204, and the power terminal 208. The power control module 202, together with the actuator 122 and the air duct 124, forms part of the air switch mechanism 120 of the air switch assembly 121. The power control module 202 is specifically located along the housing of the food waste disposal unit (which... Figure 2 The LEF 306 (represented by rectangle 203) and specifically along the bottom housing portion 104 (represented by the bottom edge 205 of rectangle 203) is mounted relative to the food waste processor 100. The following section discusses... Figure 4 , 5 Sections 6 and 7 further describe the manner in which the power control module 202 is installed relative to the food waste processor 100.

[0026] Further as explained, the power control module 202 specifically includes a diaphragm structure (or simply diaphragm) 210, which serves as an air pressure (or vacuum, or airflow) sensor and is coupled to the actuator 122 via an air duct 124. Additionally, the power control module 202 includes a switch actuator 212 and a single-throw switch 214. As shown, the diaphragm structure 210 is connected or coupled to the single-throw switch 214 within the power control module 202, symbolically represented by the switch actuator 212. The input terminal 216 of the single-throw switch 214 is coupled to the power terminal 208 via a first electrical connector 218. In this embodiment, the first electrical connector 218 includes three wires or connections: a neutral wire 230, a ground wire 232, and a live (or hot) wire 234. Each of the power terminal 208 and the first electrical connector 218 can be considered part of the power control module.

[0027] Additionally, the first output terminal 220 of the single-throw switch 214 is coupled to the motor 204 via the second electrical connector 222. For the purposes of this description, the motor 204 and the second electrical connector 222 may be considered as part of the food waste processor 100, rather than part of the power control module 202, the air switch mechanism 120, or the air switch assembly 121. Like the first electrical connector 218, the second electrical connector 222 also includes three wires or connections: a neutral wire 240, a ground wire 242, and a live (or hot) wire 244. The single-throw switch 214 is coupled between the first electrical connector 218 and the second electrical connector 222 such that the neutral wire 230 is directly coupled to the neutral wire 240, the ground wire 232 is directly coupled to the ground wire 242, and the live wire 234 may be directly coupled to or decoupled from the live wire 244 based on the open or closed state of the single-throw switch 214, as controlled by the switch actuator 212 in response to the movement of the diaphragm structure 210.

[0028] In this embodiment, the power terminal 208 is an internal node associated with the power control module 202 (correspondingly, the first electrical connector 218 can also be considered part of the power control module). As per [reference to...] Figure 1 As mentioned, in this embodiment, the power link 106 is a pluggable power cord (e.g., an AC pluggable power cord), which is considered part of the air switch assembly 121 of the food waste disposer system 10 and specifically includes a plug 206 through which the power cord can be inserted into a wall socket in a residence or other installation environment where the food waste disposer system 10 is implemented. Additionally, in this embodiment, the power link 106 includes three wires or connections: a neutral wire 250, a ground wire 252, and a live (or hot) wire 254, which are coupled at (or within) the power terminal 208 to the neutral wire 230, ground wire 232, and live wire 234 of the first electrical connector 218, respectively. Depending on the embodiment, power terminal 208 may be (but is not required to be) an additional physical junction comprising one or more electrical contacts (e.g., formed by a socket) configured to couple to and be electrically connected to one or more other electrical contacts located at the end of power link 106 opposite to the end where plug 206 is located.

[0029] In this embodiment, the state of the single-throw switch 214 is controlled by the diaphragm structure 210 due to at least indirect physical contact between the diaphragm structure and the single-throw switch represented by the switch actuator 212. Movement of the diaphragm structure 210, via the switch actuator 212, causes switching of the single-throw switch 214 (therefore, the switch actuator 212 can also be considered as an actuation link between the diaphragm structure 210 and the single-throw switch 214). The configuration of the diaphragm structure 210 and the single-throw switch 214 may take the form of, for example, a pneumatically activated switch as described in U.S. Patent No. 6,418,870, issued June 25, 2002, entitled “Pneumatically Activated Switch,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0030] This can occur when the diaphragm structure 210 experiences a sufficient increase in air pressure (or vacuum pressure, or in an airflow), as air flows through the air duct 124 toward the diaphragm structure due to the actuation (e.g., depressurization) of the actuator 122. The diaphragm structure then influences the single-throw switch 214 via the switch actuator 212 in such a way that the switch changes from a first operating state (or operation in a first operating mode) to a second operating state (or operation in a second operating mode). This can also be considered a first operating state of the power control module 202. Alternatively, this can occur when the diaphragm structure 210 experiences a sufficient decrease in air pressure (or vacuum pressure, or in an airflow), as air flows through the air duct 124 away from the diaphragm structure due to the release of the actuator 122. The diaphragm structure then influences the single-throw switch 214 in such a way that the switch changes from a second operating state (or operation in a second operating mode) to a first operating state (or operation in a first operating mode). This can also be considered a second operating state of the power control module 202.

[0031] Additionally, in this exemplary embodiment, the first operating state of the single-throw switch 214 can be a closed state. Therefore, when the single-throw switch 214 is in the first operating state, the input power received at the input terminal 216 from the power terminal 208 (assuming the power terminal 208 is coupled to an external power source) is transmitted through the single-throw switch to the first output terminal 220 and further to the motor 204 via the second electrical connector 222. Thus, in this embodiment, the first operating state of the single-throw switch 214 (and the first operating state of the power control module 202) results in or corresponds to the actuation of the motor 204. Alternatively, the second operating state of the single-throw switch 214 can be an open state. Therefore, when the single-throw switch 214 is in the second operating state, the input power received at the input terminal 216 from the power terminal 208 (assuming the power terminal 208 is coupled to an external power source) is prevented from being transmitted through the single-throw switch to the first output terminal 220 or the motor 204. Therefore, in this embodiment, the second operating state of the single-throw switch 214 (and the second operating state of the power control module 202) causes or corresponds to the deactivation of the motor 204.

[0032] In at least one embodiment, the single-throw switch 214 may be a normally open switch (e.g., spring-biased) to be in a second operating state. However, in other embodiments, the single-throw switch 214 may be a normally closed switch (e.g., spring-biased to be in a first operating state) or may not need to be biased in any way. Furthermore, although the power control module 202 may operate in response to an actuation signal transmitted from the actuator 122 via the air conduit 124 has been described above, in other embodiments, the power control module 202 may be configured to operate in other ways. For example, in an additional embodiment, a toggle switch may be used instead of the single-throw switch 214.

[0033] For further reference Figure 3 Furthermore, a bottom perspective sectional view of the bottom section 300 of the food waste processor 100 of the food waste processor system 10 is provided. Figure 3The bottom section 300 shown specifically includes a bottom housing portion 104, comprising a portion of a cylindrical stator belt 105 and a LEF 306, which is independent of the sink 170 and also independent of the air switch assembly 121, which includes the air switch mechanism 120 and its power link 106. Given the absence of the air switch assembly 121, an aperture 308 is particularly visible along the bottom outer surface 307 of the LEF 306. Furthermore, three electrical contacts 310, located within the food waste disposer 100 (i.e., above the LEF 306 when normally positioned at the bottom of the food waste disposer), are also visible through the aperture 308. It should be understood that the three electrical contacts 310 are (at least indirectly) coupled to a motor 204 within the food waste disposer 100 and can be considered to constitute at least a portion of the second electrical connector 222. Therefore, the following will discuss… Figure 4 , 5 As further described in sections 6 and 7, when the air switch assembly 121 is assembled relative to the food waste processor 100, the air switch assembly is specifically electrically coupled to three electrical contacts 310 to allow power to be supplied to the motor 204.

[0034] Then turn Figure 4 and 5 First and second top perspective sectional views of the air switch assembly 121 are provided. As shown, in this embodiment, the air switch assembly 121 includes a power link 106 and an air switch mechanism 120 including a power control module 202, the power control module 202 including a switching mechanism 400 and a terminal assembly 402. (As described above regarding...) Figure 2 As discussed, the power control module 202 further includes a diaphragm structure 210 and a single-throw switch 214 coupled to each other via a switch actuator (or actuator link) 212, and a power terminal 208 coupled to the single-throw switch via a first electrical connector 218. (See reference) Figure 4 and 5 The switching mechanism 400 of the power control module 202 can be specifically understood to include a single-throw switch 214 and a switch actuator 212, as well as a power terminal 208 and a first electrical connector 218.

[0035] Terminal assembly 402 corresponds to Figure 2 The first output terminal 220 shown in the figure, and especially as Figure 5The diagram typically includes three electrical outlets 502. Each of the three outlets 502 has electrical contacts and is configured to receive three electrical contacts 310 respectively when the air switch assembly 121 is coupled to the food waste processor 100 (relative to its installation), thereby allowing electrical coupling between the electrical contacts 310 and the electrical contacts within the outlets 502. Therefore, utilizing this electrical coupling between the electrical contacts 310 and the electrical contacts within the outlets 502, the power control module 202 can be coupled to the motor 204 within the food waste processor (in this respect, the electrical contacts 310 can be considered as or at least partially corresponding to...). Figure 2 The second electrical connector 222).

[0036] Figure 4 and 5 As further illustrated, in this embodiment, the power control module 202 also includes a base plate 404 having a first side 406, with each of the switching mechanism 400 and the terminal assembly 402 supported on the first side 406. Furthermore, Figure 4 It does indeed show a portion of the power link 106, and Figure 4 and 5 Indeed, each of them shows a portion of the air duct 124. As illustrated, each of the power link 106 and the air duct 124 is located on the second side 407 of the base plate 404 opposite the first side 406 (see [link]). Figure 6 and 7 The power control module 202 is located near the power supply link 106. It should be understood that the power link 106 can travel along the first side 406 from the second side 407 to the switching mechanism 400 (e.g., to its power terminal 208) via a corresponding port or hole (not shown) within the base plate 404. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a connector 408 is provided along the second side 407 of the base plate 404, which receives and secures the air conduit 124 to the base plate 404. In this embodiment, the diaphragm structure 210 of the power control module 202 is located within the connector 408. Given this configuration, the switching mechanism 400 and the diaphragm structure 210 are located on opposite sides of the base plate 404 and communicate with each other via at least one additional port or hole (not shown) within the base plate 404, such that the diaphragm structure is at least indirectly communicated with the single-throw switch 214 via the switch actuator 212.

[0037] Figure 4 and 5This is a cross-sectional view, particularly without showing most of the power link 106 of the air switch assembly 121, and also without showing the actuator 122 of the air switch mechanism 120 and most of the air conduit 124. In addition to the diaphragm structure 210, which securely connects the air conduit 124 to the power control module 202 via a pipe joint 408 (in which a diaphragm structure 210, as discussed above), the air conduit is also protected by a protective surrounding structure 410 (in this example, at least partially hexagonal) at or near the location where the air conduit couples to the power control module 202. (As per...) Figure 6 and 7 To elaborate further, in this embodiment, the base plate 404 specifically includes an end extension 412, in which a fixing screw hole 414 is formed.

[0038] Further reference Figure 6 and 7 Additional first and second bottom perspective sectional views of portions of the food waste disposer system 10 are provided to illustrate how the air switch assembly 121 is implemented relative to the food waste disposer 100 in this embodiment. As shown, when the air switch assembly 121 is fully installed relative to the food waste disposer 100, the base plate 404 is positioned abutting against the bottom outer surface 307 of the LEF 306, wherein a first side 406 of the base plate faces inward toward the interior of the food waste disposer 100 through an aperture 308 and a second side 407 of the base plate faces away from the LEF and away from the food waste disposer. Given this configuration, the switching mechanism 400 and terminal assembly 402 (not shown) are positioned to extend through the aperture 308 into the interior of the food waste disposer 100. Furthermore, the power link 106 extends away from the switching mechanism 400 of the power control module 202, through the base plate 404, and away from each of the second side 407 of the base plate 404, the LEF 306, and the food waste disposer 100. In addition, the air duct 124 extends away from the diaphragm structure 210 of the power control module 202, away from each of the pipe joint 408, the second side 407 of the base plate 404, the LEF 306, and the food waste processor 100 located within the diaphragm structure.

[0039] In this embodiment, during installation, the power control module 202 is aligned with the orifice 308. Then, the power control module is moved toward and at least partially into the orifice, such that the switching mechanism 400 and terminal assembly 402 are inserted through the orifice and at least partially into the interior of the food waste processor, and the base plate 404 contacts the LEF 306. Next, the base plate 404 of the air switch assembly 121 is aligned with the LEF 306 in a corresponding position. Figure 6Sliding in the direction of arrow 608 as shown in the diagram allows the three electrical contacts 310 to be fitted into the three electrical sockets 502 of the terminal assembly 402 (as shown in the diagram). Figure 3 , 4 (as shown in Figure 5). When this occurs, the first end edge portion 600 of the base plate 404 slides into the retaining lip 602 of the LEF 306. Then, additionally, at the end extension 412 of the base plate 404, near the second end edge portion 606 of the base plate at the opposite end of the base plate relative to the first end edge portion 600, a retaining screw 604 is inserted through a retaining screw hole 414. The retaining screw 604 is further fitted into an additional screw hole 312 within the LEF (see Figure 5). Figure 3 Inside. By means of insertion / screwing through the fixing screw 414 and the additional screw 312, the fixing screw 604 couples the base plate 404 to the LEF 306.

[0040] Furthermore, the fixing screw 604 is removed from the fixing lip 602 by the first end edge portion 600 (e.g., in conjunction with the screw 604). Figure 6 The base plate 404 is prevented from sliding relative to the LEF 306 by extending in the opposite direction to that indicated by arrow 608. Therefore, except for the retaining lip 602, the base plate 404 and thus the air switch assembly 121 are integrally coupled to the LEF 306 and the food waste processor 100 by means of the retaining screw 604. It will also be understood that by removing the retaining screw 604 and then sliding the base plate 404 along the LEF 306, the first end edge portion 600 extends from the retaining lip 602 (again, in the direction opposite to that indicated by arrow 608) to prevent the base plate 404 from sliding relative to the LEF 306. Figure 6 Extending in the opposite direction to that indicated by arrow 608, the air switch assembly 121 can be removed from the food waste processor 100 when the air switch assembly is coupled to the food waste processor. When this occurs, the three electrical contacts 310 disengage from the three electrical sockets 502 of the terminal assembly 402, and then the air switch assembly 121 can be completely detached and removed from the food waste processor 100.

[0041] In addition to the embodiments specifically described above, this invention also aims to cover further embodiments and modifications of the above embodiments. In particular, although the above description relates to food waste disposers, this invention also aims to cover embodiments relating to other types of waste disposers. Furthermore, despite the above description, this invention aims to cover any of a variety of other types of configurations in which a food waste disposer system (or another type of waste disposer system) is coupled to an external power source to receive electricity. Moreover, this invention aims to cover any of a variety of different types of food waste disposers or other waste disposers employing any of a variety of types of electric motors (for example, permanent magnet motors in addition to induction motors).

[0042] Furthermore, this invention aims to cover any of a variety of types of terminals, sockets, plugs, connectors, fasteners, and other features that allow various components, structures, and devices to be electrically or pneumatically coupled or connected to each other. For example, depending on the embodiment, any of a variety of connectors, standard wire nuts, or other connectors may be used to combine various conductors or structures. In at least some embodiments, any or more of such components may be considered as forming a terminal or a portion of a power terminal, such as power terminal 208. Furthermore, this invention aims to cover fasteners other than those described herein, such as fixing screws 604. Additionally, for example, although the orifice 308 in which the air switch assembly 121 is positioned is shown as positioned in… Figure 3 On LEF 306, but in other embodiments, this aperture (and nearby additional structures, such as electrical contact 310) may be along any of a variety of other housing surfaces of the food waste processor (e.g., along the stator strip, e.g., along...). Figure 1 The stator belt in the middle is positioned.

[0043] Furthermore, while this invention contemplates embodiments in which the food waste disposer assembly is coupled to a wall outlet via a power cord with a plug (e.g., a NEMA 5-15 plug), it also aims to cover other embodiments incorporating other types of connectors, plugs, and joints (including, for example, C-13 or C14 sockets or plugs) or in combination thereof. Additionally, this invention includes a variety of different operating and control modes determined by a power control module (e.g., but not limited to, power control module 202) (at least partially determined by an air switch mechanism (e.g., air switch mechanism 120)).

[0044] Furthermore, this invention aims to cover other types of air switch mechanisms that involve components and / or operating methods different from those of an air switch mechanism (such as the air switch mechanism 120 described above). For example, in some embodiments, the power control module may have a normal state and an actuated state, and a signal transmitted by the air switch mechanism in response to user actuation of the actuator can cause the power control module to switch from the normal state to the actuated state and / or switch back to the normal state. In addition, this invention aims to cover numerous different types of air switch mechanisms having any of a variety of actuators or actuation mechanisms.

[0045] To be clear, this utility model is intended to be limited to the embodiments and descriptions contained herein, but includes modified forms of the embodiments, portions of the embodiments as defined in the appended claims, and combinations of elements from different embodiments.

Claims

1. A food waste processing system, comprising: The housing comprises a bottom housing portion and a top housing portion; A power control module, which is at least partially supported within the housing; An electric motor, which is supported within the housing and is at least indirectly electrically coupled to the power control module; An actuator, which is located outside the housing; An air duct that at least indirectly connects the actuator to the power control module; and A power link extends outward from the power control module and the housing, such that the power control module can be electrically coupled to the power source at least indirectly. The power control module is configured to switch between a first operating state and a second operating state in response to pressure changes transmitted through the air duct due to actuation of the actuator. When the power control module is in the first operating state, the power received from the power source at the power link is transmitted to the motor at least indirectly via the power control module from the power link. However, when the power control module is in the second operating state, the power is not transmitted to the motor.

2. The food waste processing system according to claim 1, The food waste disposal system described herein includes a food waste disposal unit and an air switch assembly. The food waste processor includes the housing and the motor. The air switch assembly includes the power link and the air switch mechanism, and The air switch mechanism includes the power control module, the air duct, and the actuator.

3. The food waste processing system according to claim 2, The power control module further includes a base plate, a switching mechanism, and a terminal assembly. The switching mechanism and the terminal assembly are supported on the base plate. The power link and air duct are coupled to the switching mechanism and extend outward from the base plate away from the switching mechanism and outward from the base plate.

4. The food waste processing system according to claim 3, The housing of the food waste processor described herein includes openings. The base plate is positioned along the outer surface of the housing to substantially cover the opening, and When the base plate is positioned along the outer surface, the switching mechanism and the terminal assembly are substantially positioned within the orifice or inside the food waste processor, such that the air switch assembly is fully coupled relative to the food waste processor.

5. The food waste disposal system of claim 4, wherein the base plate is fixed relative to the outer surface of the housing via at least two fixing features, wherein each of the at least two fixing features is selected from the group consisting of a lip and fasteners.

6. The food waste disposal system of claim 5, wherein the base plate is fixed along the bottom surface portion of the outer surface of the housing.

7. The food waste disposer system of claim 4, wherein when the air switch assembly is fully coupled relative to the food waste disposer, the power control module is directly physically coupled to at least one internal component of the food waste disposer, the at least one internal component being electrically coupled at least indirectly to the motor within the food waste disposer.

8. The food waste processing system according to claim 7, The at least one internal component of the food waste processor includes a plurality of electrical contacts positioned proximate to the orifice and at least indirectly coupled to the motor. The terminal assembly includes multiple electrical sockets, and The power control module is configured such that, when the air switch assembly is fully installed relative to the food waste processor, the electrical contacts are positioned within the electrical socket to complete the electrical connection between the power control module and the motor.

9. The food waste disposal system of claim 2, wherein the actuator is configured to be coupled to or mounted on the water tank.

10. The food waste processing system of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises at least one of a pneumatic cylinder, an air bladder, and a diaphragm structure.

11. The food waste disposal system of claim 1, wherein the power link is a power cord comprising a plug adapted to be coupled to a wall socket.

12. The food waste disposal system of claim 11, wherein the plug is a NEMA type plug.

13. The food waste processing system according to claim 1, The power control module includes a diaphragm structure and a switching mechanism comprising an electric switch and a switch actuator. The diaphragm structure and the electric switch are at least indirectly connected through the switch actuator. The diaphragm structure is in fluid communication with the actuator via the air duct and is configured to undergo movement in response to pressure changes. The movement of the diaphragm structure can cause the electrical switch to switch between a first state and a second state, respectively corresponding to the first and second operating states of the power control module.

14. The food waste disposal system of claim 13, wherein the electrical switch comprises a single-throw switch.

15. The food waste processing system according to claim 1, The electric motor mentioned therein is selected from the group consisting of induction motors and permanent magnet motors.

16. An air switch assembly for integrated implementation with a waste processor to provide air switch control for operation of the waste processor, the air switch assembly comprising: The power control module includes a base plate and switching mechanisms and terminal assemblies, each supported on the base plate. The base plate includes at least one feature that at least partially enables the base plate to be secured to the waste processor; The power supply link extends outward from the power control module. The power link includes a plug at the end remote from the power control module, configured to couple to a wall socket; and An air switch mechanism includes an actuator and an air duct connecting the actuator to the power control module. The switching mechanism includes a diaphragm structure that is at least indirectly in communication with an electrical switch, wherein the diaphragm structure is configured to move in response to a pressure change transmitted via the air duct in response to an actuation of the actuator, and wherein the switching mechanism is configured such that the electrical switch changes its switching state in response to the movement of the diaphragm structure. The terminal assembly includes a plurality of first electrical contacts configured to engage a plurality of second electrical contacts formed along the interior of the waste processor, thereby allowing a direct physical connection and a direct electrical connection to be formed between the power control module and the plurality of second electrical contacts.

17. The air switch assembly according to claim 16, The first electrical contact is formed within an electrical socket of the terminal assembly configured to receive the second electrical contact, wherein the plug is a NEMA type plug, and wherein the electrical switch is a single-throw switch. The power control module is configured to have each of a first and a second operating state, wherein the first operating state occurs when the electrical switch is in a closed state, and the second operating state occurs when the electrical switch is in an open state.

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