Food waste disposer, combination system, and disposer

Abstract

The present application relates to food waste disposers, combination systems, and waste disposers. Disclosed herein are waste disposers (such as food waste disposers), combination systems including the waste disposers, and related methods. In one example embodiment, a food waste disposer includes a dishwasher inlet having an inner wall defining a passageway, and the inner wall includes a first protrusion extending radially inwardly toward a first central axis. Additionally, the food waste disposer includes a plug including an outer surface having a first barrier wall portion and a second barrier wall portion that together at least partially define a curved recess that extends not only substantially axially but also circumferentially substantially 90 degrees. The inlet and plug are configured such that when the plug is supported within the inlet in a fully installed position with the first protrusion extending into the recess so as to be in contact with or proximate to an end of the recess, the plug is axially retained relative to the inlet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to waste disposers, such as food waste disposers, having auxiliary ports, such as ports through which the food waste disposer can be fluidly connected to external devices and systems (such as dishwashers), and more specifically, to systems and methods for controlling the opening and closing or blocking of these auxiliary ports of the waste disposer. Background Technology

[0002] A food waste disposer is used to grind food scraps into particles small enough to pass through household drain pipes. A food waste disposer typically includes a main inlet along the top, where it receives water and food scraps from the sink, and a main outlet at which food waste and water exit the disposer. Additionally, a dishwasher inlet is usually included, typically along the side of the disposer. Besides the main inlet and outlet, a dishwasher inlet is an auxiliary port through which water from a dishwasher (usually located near the disposer) can be channeled into the disposer. The dishwasher is typically connected to the dishwasher inlet via a hose, pipe, or tube.

[0003] Although food waste disposers typically include a dishwasher inlet, they are not always, and do not need to be, connected to a dishwasher when implemented. In fact, in some homes or other environments where food waste disposers are installed, there is no dishwasher, or any existing dishwasher is too far from the food waste disposer to be practically connected (or, in some cases, the dishwasher may be connected via a different path to drain water, rather than through any food waste disposer). When implemented in such cases, closing or sealing the dishwasher inlet of the food waste disposer is necessary or desirable so that food waste and associated water that may be present within the food waste disposer during operation will exit the food waste disposer only through the main outlet and not through the dishwasher inlet or leak outside the food waste disposer.

[0004] While closing or sealing the dishwasher inlet is necessary or desirable in this situation, existing methods for doing so present challenges. More specifically, although plugs do exist that can be inserted into the dishwasher inlet to close or seal it when appropriate, conventional plugs are often difficult to remove or install relative to the inlet. In some cases, conventional plugs may break when removed from the inlet, making reinstallation or reuse difficult or impossible. Furthermore, in some situations, when installing conventional plugs relative to the inlet, the user / installer may need to apply unsuitable high force for successful installation.

[0005] For at least one or more of these reasons, or for one or more other reasons, it would be advantageous if an improved garbage disposal unit (or an improved system employing a garbage disposal unit) and an improved method of operating such a system could be developed with an improved system or feature for closing, sealing or blocking auxiliary ports (such as the dishwasher inlet of a food waste disposer) to solve any or more of the aforementioned problems or to provide one or more benefits. Utility Model Content

[0006] In at least some example embodiments, this disclosure relates to a food waste disposer. The food waste disposer includes a food conveying section, a motor section, and a grinding section between the food conveying section and the motor section, and a housing, each of the food conveying section, motor section, and grinding section being located within the housing, and the housing further includes a dishwasher inlet. The dishwasher inlet includes an inner wall that is substantially cylindrical and defines a channel extending from a first location along the exterior of the housing and a second location along the interior of the housing, wherein the inner wall includes a first protrusion extending radially inward toward a first central axis of the channel. Additionally, the food waste disposer includes a plug having a first end and a second end, wherein the plug is substantially cylindrical in shape and includes an outer surface having a first barrier wall portion and a second barrier wall portion, the first barrier wall portion and the second barrier wall portion together at least partially defining a first curved notch. The first curved notch extends substantially axially from the second end toward the first end and also extends substantially ninety degrees circumferentially between the second end and a first inner end of the first curved notch. Furthermore, the dishwasher inlet and the plug are configured such that when the plug is supported within the dishwasher inlet in a fully installed position, in which the first protrusion extends into the first curved recess to contact or approach the first inner end, the plug is at least partially held axially relative to the dishwasher inlet along the first central axis through contact between the first protrusion and one or both of the barrier wall portions.

[0007] Furthermore, in at least some exemplary embodiments, this disclosure relates to a garbage disposal unit. The garbage disposal unit includes a housing with an inlet port, an outlet port, and a further port. The further port includes an inner wall that is substantially cylindrical and defines a channel extending from a first location along the exterior of the housing and a second location along the interior of the housing, wherein the inner wall includes a first protrusion extending radially inward toward a first central axis of the channel. The garbage disposal unit includes a plug having a first end and a second end, wherein the plug is substantially cylindrical in shape and includes an outer surface having a first barrier wall portion and a second barrier wall portion, the first barrier wall portion and the second barrier wall portion together at least partially defining a first curved notch. The first curved notch extends substantially axially from the second end toward the first end and also extends circumferentially by substantially 90 degrees between the second end and a first inner end of the first curved notch, and the plug also includes a spring extension including an end portion. The additional port and plug are configured such that when the plug is supported within the additional port in a fully installed position, in which the first protrusion extends into the first curved notch to contact or approach the first inner end, the plug is at least partially held axially relative to the additional port along a first central axis through contact between the first protrusion and one or both of the barrier wall portions. Furthermore, the additional port includes a block portion extending radially inward from the remainder of the inner wall, wherein, when the plug is supported within the additional port in the fully installed position, the end portion engages the block portion, causing resistance to rotation of the plug in the first rotational direction.

[0008] Additionally, in at least some other exemplary embodiments, this disclosure relates to a method of operating a dishwasher inlet of a food waste disposer having a food delivery section, a motor section, and a grinding section between the food delivery section and the motor section, and a housing, each of the food delivery section, motor section, and grinding section being located within the housing. The method includes providing a plug having a first end and a second end, wherein the plug is substantially cylindrical in shape and includes an outer surface having a first barrier wall portion and a second barrier wall portion, the first barrier wall portion and the second barrier wall portion together at least partially defining a first curved notch, wherein the first curved notch extends substantially axially from the second end toward the first end and also extends substantially ninety degrees circumferentially between the second end and a first inner end of the first curved notch. The method further includes inserting the plug into a channel defined by a substantially cylindrical inner wall of the dishwasher inlet, wherein the inner wall includes a first protrusion extending radially inward toward a first central axis of the channel, and wherein the plug is inserted substantially axially along the first central axis of the channel such that a second end of the plug advances from a first position along the exterior of the housing toward a second position along the interior of the housing. Additionally, the method includes rotating the plug substantially 90 degrees in a first rotational direction as it is further inserted into the channel. This rotation occurs at least in part because a first protrusion on the inner wall travels into and through a first curved notch until the first protrusion contacts or becomes close to the first inner end as the plug is further inserted into the channel, thereby achieving a fully installed position relative to the dishwasher inlet in which the plug is axially held relative to the dishwasher inlet along a first central axis at least in part by contact between the first protrusion and one or both of the barrier wall portions. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The accompanying drawings disclose embodiments of garbage disposers (or systems including garbage disposers), systems or apparatuses for blocking, closing, or sealing auxiliary ports (such as dishwasher inlets for such garbage disposers), and / or related methods, and these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only. The systems and methods included herein are not limited in their application to the construction details, component arrangements, or other aspects or features shown in the drawings, but rather include other embodiments or can be practiced or performed in various other ways. Similar reference numerals are used to denote similar components. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a basic front perspective partial schematic view of a combined system including a food waste disposer and a dishwasher (and optionally auxiliary devices) according to a first exemplary embodiment covered herein, wherein a hose for connecting the dishwasher (at least indirectly) to the food waste disposer is disconnected from the dishwasher inlet of the food waste disposer, and wherein the dishwasher inlet is shown to be closed / sealed by a plug; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the food waste disposer shown, specifically illustrating the dishwasher inlet and plug; Figure 3 Provided with Figure 2 The same enlarged cross-sectional view of the food waste disposer shown, where the plug is no longer present; Figure 4 and Figure 5 They are shown respectively Figure 1 and Figure 2 First perspective view and second perspective view of the plug; Figure 6 and Figure 7 They are shown respectively Figure 1 An additional perspective sectional view of a portion of the food waste disposer, which also shows the dishwasher inlet (or a portion thereof) without a plug, and specifically shows the engagement feature of the dishwasher inlet of the food waste disposer, which is configured to interact with additional features of the plug; Figure 8 It is along Figure 2 The line 8-8 shows a cross-sectional view of the plug and dishwasher inlet when the plug is fully installed relative to the dishwasher inlet. Figure 9 It also includes the dotted lines. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The top view of the plug shows how certain engagement features of the dishwasher inlet are positioned relative to the plug when the plug is fully installed in the dishwasher inlet; Figure 10 It is along Figure 8 A sectional view of the dishwasher inlet taken from line 10-10 and relative to the plug on which it is installed; and Figure 11 and Figure 12 These are two outward-facing perspective views of the food waste disposer and the plug extending through the dishwasher inlet, taken from corresponding locations inside the food waste disposer, to reveal the inner surface portion of the food waste disposer near and defining the inner end of the dishwasher inlet, and the inner end of the plug when fully installed in the dishwasher inlet. Detailed Implementation

[0010] refer to Figure 1This diagram shows a basic front perspective, partial schematic diagram of a combined system 100 including a food waste disposer 102 and a dishwasher 104. The food waste disposer 102 includes a top housing portion (or outer shell) 106 and a bottom housing portion 108. Furthermore, the food waste disposer 102 can be understood to include a food delivery section 110, a motor section 112, and a grinding section 114. The food delivery section 110 is generally located within the housing 106 at or near the top of the food waste disposer 102, and the motor section 112 is generally located at a position corresponding to and within the bottom housing portion 108. The grinding section 114 is disposed within the housing (e.g., within the housing 106 as shown), between the food delivery section 110 and the motor section 112. It should be understood that the motor section 112 includes a motor (not shown), such as an induction motor or a permanent magnet motor, which operates to impart rotational motion to the motor shaft, thereby operating the grinding section 114.

[0011] As further shown in the figures, the food waste disposer 102 includes a main input port or inlet 116 and a main output port or outlet 118. The main inlet 116 is positioned along or near the top 120 of the food waste disposer 102 and is configured to receive water and food scraps from a sink (not shown) to which the food waste disposer is mounted during operation. The main outlet 118 is formed along a first sidewall portion 122 of the housing 106, near the junction 124 between the housing 106 and the bottom housing portion 108, and is configured to allow food waste and water to flow out of the food waste disposer 102 from the grinding section 114 during operation. Additionally, as shown, the food waste disposer 102 also includes a dishwasher inlet 126, which is an auxiliary port of the food waste disposer and is also formed along and as part of the first sidewall portion 122. In this exemplary embodiment, the dishwasher inlet 126 is located approximately halfway between the top end 120 and the main outlet 118, roughly above the grinding section 114, and is angularly / circumferentially aligned with the main outlet (in terms of circumferential positioning around the vertical central axis of the food waste disposer 102). In alternative embodiments, the precise positioning of the dishwasher inlet 126 relative to other parts of the food waste disposer may differ from that shown.

[0012] For the purposes of this discussion, dishwasher inlet 126 can be understood as referring to the defined channel 300 (see [link to discussion]). Figure 3 The structure of the channel 300 includes an external region 128 and an internal region 130 within the food waste disposer (e.g., through...). Figure 1The main outlet 118 shown is visible between the guides. In this example, the dishwasher inlet 126 includes a cylindrical structure 132 extending radially outward from a first sidewall portion 122, and a portion of the first sidewall portion itself from which the cylindrical structure extends.

[0013] The dishwasher inlet 126 serves as an auxiliary port for the food waste disposer 102. If the dishwasher is connected to the dishwasher inlet, water output from the dishwasher 104 can be directed into the food waste disposer through this auxiliary port. Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the dishwasher 104 includes a flexible hose 134 (or other conduit, connector, or fitting) extending outward from the side wall 136 of the dishwasher to a distal end 138. The distal end 138 may be coupled to the dishwasher inlet 126 in various ways depending on the embodiment. For example, in this embodiment, the cylindrical structure 132 of the dishwasher inlet 126 includes barbs through which the distal end 138 of the flexible hose 134 may be coupled to the dishwasher inlet. Similarly, for example, in an alternative embodiment, the cylindrical structure 132 may include external threads, and the distal end 138 may include complementary internal threads, such that the distal end can be coupled to the cylindrical structure by screwing the distal end onto and associating it with the cylindrical structure.

[0014] Although dishwasher 104 can be connected to dishwasher inlet 126 via hose 134, it should be understood that Figure 1 A combined system 100 is shown in a disconnected (not connected) state, wherein the distal end 138 of the hose 134, and therefore the dishwasher 104 as a whole, is not connected to the dishwasher inlet 126. Furthermore, in Figure 1 In the illustrated case, not only is the dishwasher 104 separated from the dishwasher inlet 126, but the dishwasher inlet is also shown to be sealed or closed by a plug 200 inserted into the channel 300. Furthermore, in this respect, Figure 2 Provided Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion 202 of the food waste disposer 102 shown, which specifically shows the dishwasher inlet 126 and the plug 200 fully installed inside the dishwasher inlet.

[0015] Figure 2 It also includes arrow 204, which shows the direction and approximate range of rotation followed by the plug 200 when it is inserted and engaged relative to the dishwasher inlet 126 to reach the fully installed position shown relative to the dishwasher inlet. Furthermore, when the plug is in... Figure 2 When fully installed, the plug 200 is removed from the dishwasher inlet 126 by rotating it in the opposite direction to that indicated by arrow 204 to the range indicated by arrow 204.

[0016] exist Figure 2 In this example, arrow 204 is shown pointing clockwise, and thus installation is achieved by rotation in the clockwise direction, and removal (disassembly) is achieved by rotation in the counterclockwise direction. However, in other embodiments, these rotational directions of the plug 200 for installation and removal relative to the dishwasher inlet 126 may be different. Figure 2 The directions shown are opposite. Furthermore, in Figure 2 In this example, the range (or size) of rotation performed in the direction of arrow 204 to achieve full installation or in the opposite direction of arrow to achieve removal is ninety (90) degrees, or substantially or approximately ninety degrees. That is, to achieve full installation or removal of plug 200 relative to dishwasher inlet 126, the operator rotates plug 200 relative to dishwasher inlet by a quarter turn, or substantially or approximately a quarter turn, in the direction of arrow 204 or in the opposite direction of arrow 204, respectively. However, in alternative embodiments, full installation or removal can be achieved by rotating the plug relative to dishwasher inlet by a larger or smaller amount.

[0017] and Figure 2 (and Figure 1 )compared to, Figure 3 Provided Figure 1 An additional enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion 302 of the food waste disposer 102 shown, which is consistent with... Figure 2 Part of 202 is the same, except Figure 3 The dishwasher inlet 126 is shown, wherein the plug 200 is removed or absent, so that the passage 300 within the dishwasher inlet is not blocked, obstructed, closed, or sealed. Assuming this unblocked or open state of the dishwasher inlet 126, the passage 300... Figure 3 As can be seen below, although the channel 300 is substantially cylindrical and has a diameter 304 that is substantially uniform along its length, there are several features provided along the inner wall 306 of the dishwasher inlet 126 forming the channel 300 such that the channel is not perfectly cylindrical and does not have a uniform diameter 304 along its length along the central axis 308 or in all angular directions around (perpendicular to) the central axis.

[0018] It should be understood that when the stopper is 200... Figure 2 When fully installed within the dishwasher inlet 126, the dishwasher inlet is in a blocked or closed (or sealed) state, causing fluid / material to flow out of or into the food waste disposer 102 via the channel 300 of the dishwasher inlet 126, which is blocked by the plug. However, when the dishwasher inlet 126 has such... Figure 3In the unblocked or open state shown, fluid / material can flow out of or into the food waste disposer 102 through the dishwasher inlet and, in particular, through the channel 300 therein. When the dishwasher inlet 126 is in this open state (not blocked, obstructed, closed, or sealed by the plug 200), the dishwasher inlet 126 can be connected to the dishwasher 104 via the hose 134. Additionally, when connected in this way, the dishwasher inlet 126 can receive water discharged from the dishwasher 104 via the hose 134 and transfer this water to the internal area 130 of the food waste disposer 102.

[0019] Turn to Figure 4 and Figure 5 A first perspective view 400 and a second perspective view 500 of the stopper 200 are provided to show the shape and several features of the stopper in more detail. The first perspective view 400 is a substantially front (and right) perspective view, and the second perspective view 500 is a substantially top perspective view. As shown, the stopper 200 has a body 402 that is along a central axis 404 (see Figure 1). Figure 4 The plug 200 is a generally cylindrical structure extending from the front end 406 to the rear end 408, and the plug 200 also includes an O-ring 410 supported on and extending around the body, the O-ring 410 being positioned between the front end and the rear end at a location adjacent to the front end.

[0020] Typically, at many locations along its length, the body 402 of the plug 200 has a shape equal to or substantially equal to Figure 4 The diameter of the front end diameter 412 shown is shown. However, the body 402 of the plug 200 does not have a constant diameter at all locations, but varies depending on its position along the length of the central axis 404 and the angle around the central axis when the diameter is measured. For example, although it has a front end diameter 412 when viewed at most angles around the central axis 404 at the front end 406, the body 402 at the front end does include an outwardly extending tab 414 that projects radially outward from a first circumferential position 416 on the front end. Additionally, as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, when traveling along the length of the plug 200 from the front end 406 to the rear end 408 (e.g., along / parallel to the central axis 404), the plug also includes an O-ring 410, which has an outer diameter slightly larger than the front end diameter 412 when it is not compressed (as shown).

[0021] Furthermore, as the travel along the length of the plug 200 extends beyond the O-ring 410, an intermediate annular region 418 is provided. This intermediate annular region 418 has the same or substantially the same diameter as the front diameter 412, and is approximately twice the axial width of the O-ring. Subsequently, as the travel passes through the intermediate annular region 418, a first gap 420 is present, followed by a locking spring extension 422, and then a second gap 424. The locking spring extension 422 (regarding...) Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 (In further detail) When not under compression, it typically has a radially inward outer circumference compared to the outer circumference of the intermediate annular region 418 and the front end 406 (excluding the outwardly extending tab 414). The locking spring extension 422 also includes an end portion 440 that projects substantially radially outward away from the central axis 404, so as to extend further radially outward from the central axis than the rest of the locking spring extension.

[0022] Furthermore, as the body 402 travels further along the length of the stopper 200 beyond the second gap 424, it includes a first curved notch 426 and a second curved notch 428. The first curved notch 426 extends from the rear end 408 toward the front end 406 to a first barrier wall 430 that separates the first curved notch from the second gap 424. Additionally, as the first curved notch 426 extends from the rear end 408 toward the front end 406, it also typically extends circumferentially about 90 degrees around the central axis 404 in a spiral manner. The second curved notch 428 also extends from the rear end 408 toward the front end 406 to a second barrier wall 432 that separates the first curved notch 426 from the second curved notch. Similarly, as the second curved notch 428 extends from the rear end 408 toward the front end 406, it also typically extends circumferentially about 90 degrees around the central axis 404 in a spiral manner. As the second curved notch extends circumferentially as it travels away from the rear end 408, it eventually separates from the rear end 408 via the third barrier wall 434.

[0023] It should be understood that the first barrier wall 430, the second barrier wall 432, and the third barrier wall 434 have surfaces that define or substantially define the contours and curved shapes of the first curved notch 426 and the second curved notch 428. Furthermore, the first barrier wall 430 and the second barrier wall 432 are connected to each other to form a first end wall portion 436 defining the inner end of the first curved notch 426, and the second barrier wall 432 and the third barrier wall 434 are connected to each other to form a second end wall portion 438 defining the inner end of the second curved notch, wherein those first and second end wall portions of the first and second curved notches are circumferentially aligned and substantially radially opposed to the radial direction in which the outwardly extending tab 414 extends from the front end 406.

[0024] In this embodiment, as each of the first curved notch 426 and the second curved notch 428 advances from the rear end 408 toward the front end 406, these notches are circumferentially curved in a counterclockwise manner, assuming the plug 200 is viewed from the front end (e.g., each notch is aligned with...). Figure 2 The arrow 204 shown bends in the opposite direction. However, in other embodiments (e.g., where the dishwasher inlet 126 has a direction related to...), Figure 7 (In embodiments with different features described), the first and second curved notches can be circumferentially curved in a clockwise manner. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the plug has more (or fewer) curved notches. Additionally, in this embodiment, the plug 200 includes a hexagonal keyhole 442 formed in the center of the front end 406, through which the plug can be rotated relative to the dishwasher inlet 126 using a hexagonal wrench when the plug is inserted into the dishwasher inlet 126.

[0025] Go to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The dishwasher inlet 126 includes several features for engaging with some of the aforementioned features of the plug 200 during installation, and thereby controlling how the plug 200 can be installed within and secured to the dishwasher inlet to form a tight seal. Specifically, Figure 6 A basic side (right) perspective sectional view of a portion 602 of a food waste disposer 102 is provided, which includes a portion of a dishwasher inlet 126, specifically including the outer end edge 600 of the dishwasher inlet. As shown, the outer end edge 600 is generally annular but slightly spiral, resulting in a discontinuity along the outer end edge in the form of a rib 604. The rib 604 forms a stop that, when the plug 200 is fully inserted into the dishwasher inlet 126, ... Figure 2 As shown, the outwardly extending tab 414 is positioned against the stop.

[0026] also, Figure 7 A further substantially front-perspective sectional view is provided of a portion 702 of the food waste disposer 102, which includes part of the dishwasher inlet 126, and this specifically allows certain portions of the inner wall 306 defining the passage 300 to be visible. Similarly, Figure 7 Rib 604 formed along the outer end edge 600 is shown. Additionally, Figure 7An internal protrusion 700 formed along the inner wall 306 within the dishwasher inlet 126 is shown. More specifically, as it advances from the outer end edge 600 along the channel 300 toward the first sidewall portion 122 and the inner region 130 of the food waste disposer 102, the inner wall 306 includes a locking block 704, followed by a first internal involute mounting lug 706, and then a second internal involute mounting lug 708, all substantially radially opposite the position of the rib 604. Each of the first internal involute mounting lug 706 and the second internal involute mounting lug 708 is a corresponding protrusion extending radially inward toward the central axis 308 (e.g., from other surrounding portions of the inner wall 306). Although in this exemplary embodiment, the first internal involute mounting lug 706 and the second internal involute mounting lug 708 each have Figure 7 (And also the following discussion) Figure 9 and Figure 10 The lugs are the corresponding sizes and shapes shown in the diagram, but in other embodiments covered herein, these lugs may have different sizes and / or different shapes.

[0027] Go to Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 Several views are provided to further illustrate how the features of the plug 200 and the dishwasher inlet 126 engage with each other during the installation of the plug relative to the dishwasher inlet in order to attach the plug to the dishwasher inlet and form a tight seal. Figure 8 Specifically shown along Figure 2 The section 800 is a cut-out view of the plug 200 and the dishwasher inlet 126 when the plug is fully installed relative to the dishwasher inlet, taken from line 8-8. Figure 9 Further, a top plan view of the plug 200 is provided, and dashed line 900 illustrates how certain engagement features of the dishwasher inlet 126 are positioned relative to the plug when the plug is fully installed in the dishwasher inlet. More specifically, from Figure 8 It can be clearly seen that when the plug 200 is fully installed relative to the dishwasher inlet 126, the first internal involute mounting lug 706 of the dishwasher inlet 126 extends into the first curved recess 426, and the second internal involute mounting lug 708 of the dishwasher inlet extends into the second curved recess 428. Figure 9 Also shown are the first involute mounting lug 706 and the second involute mounting lug 708 respectively positioned within the first curved notch 426 and the second curved notch 428 when the plug 200 is fully installed relative to the dishwasher inlet 126.

[0028] Assuming the first internal involute mounting lug 706 and the second internal involute mounting lug 708 are positioned relative to each other within the first curved recess 426 and the second curved recess 428, the first internal involute mounting lug 706 is interlocked between the first barrier wall 430 and the second barrier wall 432, and the second internal involute mounting lug 708 is interlocked between the second barrier wall 432 and the third barrier wall 434. Furthermore, due to the interlocking of lugs 706 and 708 and barrier walls 430, 432, and 434, the plug 200 is prevented from axially moving relative to the dishwasher inlet 126. Therefore, when in this position, the plug 200 is prevented from being removed from the dishwasher inlet 126.

[0029] For further reference Figure 8 The O-ring 410 is shown supported on the body 402 of the plug 200, and more specifically, supported within an annular groove 802 formed within the body of the plug 200, the annular groove 802 serving to retain the O-ring 410 relative to the body. Furthermore, the O-ring 410 is further shown in contact with and radially inwardly compressed by the inner wall 306 of the dishwasher inlet. This positioning of the O-ring 410 and its contact with each of the body 402 and the inner wall 306 create a seal between the plug 200 and the dishwasher inlet 126. The seal achieved by the O-ring 410, together with the additional seal provided by the contact (or close proximity) between other portions of the surface of the body 402 and adjacent (or near) other portions of the inner wall 306, ensures that when the plug 200 is in a position such as… Figure 8 and Figure 9 (as well as Figure 2 and Figure 1 When fully installed as shown, the plug 200 can completely block, seal, or close the dishwasher inlet 126, so that the dishwasher inlet is in a blocked or closed (or sealed) state.

[0030] Further reference Figure 10 ,along Figure 8 The additional sectional view 1000, taken from line 10-10, specifically shows when the plug 200 is in the position as shown in the figure. Figure 8 and Figure 9 (as well as Figure 2 and Figure 1 In the fully installed position shown, the locking spring extension 422 is positioned relative to the dishwasher inlet 126. As shown, the locking spring extension 422 takes the form of a curved flap that extends from the body 402 (in the shown view) over the approximately semi-cylindrical cutout 1002. Furthermore, as... Figure 10 and Figure 9 As shown, when the plug 200 is in the fully installed position, the end portion 440 is positioned clockwise on the locking block 704 (when...). Figure 10As shown in the observation, it corresponds to the viewing direction from the front end 406 toward the rear end 408. The positioning of the end portion 440 of the locking spring extension against the locking block 704 tends to resist any rotational movement of the plug 200 in the counterclockwise direction (as shown by arrow 1004).

[0031] For further reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 The figures show outward-facing perspective views 1100 and 1200, respectively, of the food waste disposer 102 and the plug 200 extending through the dishwasher inlet 126, taken from corresponding positions within the internal region 130 of the food waste disposer. Views 1100 and 1200 reveal the inner surface portion 1102 of the food waste disposer 102 (particularly the housing 106) near and defining the inner end of the dishwasher inlet 126, and show the situation when the plug is fully installed in the dishwasher inlet (i.e., having a...). Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The position shown in each figure corresponds to the position of the rear end 408 of the plug 200. In addition, views 1100 and 1200 also show portions of the first curved notch 426 and the second curved notch 428, which create a gap between the body 402 of the plug 200 and the inner wall 306 of the dishwasher inlet 126. Also as shown, when fully installed, the rear end 408 of the plug 200 is slightly recessed into a raised (inwardly projecting) portion or region 1202 of the inner surface portion 1102 of the food waste disposer 102. In this exemplary embodiment, the angle matching is set just below flush, such that the plug 200 integrates with the block and works with the component delivery system.

[0032] From the description above Figures 1 to 12 And especially from Figures 2 to 10 It should be apparent that, in this embodiment, the dishwasher inlet 126 and the plug 200 are configured such that the plug can be coupled to the dishwasher inlet 126 so that by inserting the plug into the dishwasher inlet 126 and then along... Figure 2 The process of rotating the plug 90 degrees (e.g., a "quarter turn") in the direction of arrow 204 fully installs and engages it with the dishwasher inlet 126, thereby completely closing / sealing the dishwasher inlet. To begin this installation process, insert the plug 200 as far as possible into the channel 300, rotating the plug about the central axis 308 such that the outwardly extending tab 414 is positioned from... Figure 2 The position of the outwardly extending tab 414 shown is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise (e.g., at the position relative to...). Figure 2(At the position corresponding to the starting position of arrow 204 shown). Then, the plug 200 is rotated 90 degrees clockwise in the direction of arrow 204 to achieve... Figure 2 The position shown is used to ensure complete installation of the plug in the dishwasher inlet 126. Furthermore, if the plug 200 is in the position shown... Figure 2 , Figure 8 and Figure 10 In the fully installed position shown, the stopper 200 can be removed (or disassembled) by reversing the process, in which the stopper is moved away from the wall. Figure 2 Rotate the position shown 90 degrees counterclockwise (e.g., "quarter turn") in the opposite direction of arrow 204, and then pull the plug 200 out of channel 300.

[0033] Furthermore, during the installation process, it should be apparent how the specific movement of the plug 200 relative to the dishwasher inlet 126 is controlled by the contact / interaction between the first internal involute mounting lug 706 and the second internal involute mounting lug 708 and the first barrier wall 430, the second barrier wall 432, and the third barrier wall 434. More specifically, when the plug 200 is initially inserted into the channel 300 of the dishwasher inlet 126 and the outwardly extending tab 414 is in contact with... Figure 2 When the position shown is 90 degrees counterclockwise, it should be understood that the first internal involute mounting lug 706 and the second internal involute mounting lug 708 are located in the axial portion 504 of the first bending recess 426 and the second bending recess 428 (see...). Figure 4 and Figure 5 ) passes through the plug 200 inside, until the forward-facing surface 710 of the first inner involute mounting lug 706 (see Figure 7 ) and the rearward-facing surface 510 of the first barrier wall 430 (see Figure 4 and Figure 5 ) contact. Then, when the stopper 200 is in such Figure 2 When the arrow 204 shown rotates clockwise around the central axis 308 (and around the central axis 404), the rearward-facing surface 720 of the first inner involute mounting lug 706 (see...) Figure 8 and Figure 9 ) and the forward-facing ramp (or inclined) surface 520 of the second barrier wall 432 (see Figure 5 and Figure 9 ) contact. Furthermore (at least in some cases or embodiments), at this time (or at some point during plug rotation), the rearward-facing surface 730 of the second inner involute mounting lug 708 (see also...) Figure 8 and Figure 9 ) and the forward-facing ramp (or inclined) surface 530 of the third barrier wall 434 (see Figure 5 and Figure 9)touch.

[0034] Due to this contact between the first internal involute mounting lug 706 and the second barrier wall 432, and (in some cases or embodiments) between the second internal involute mounting lug 708 and the third barrier wall 434, the clockwise rotation of the plug 200 relative to the dishwasher inlet 126 is accompanied by an axial movement of the plug 200 further into and through the channel 300 from the outer end edge 600, so that the plug 200 is generally effectively screwed into the dishwasher inlet 126. This rotation and axial movement of the plug 200 can continue until the outwardly extending tab 414 encounters and abuts the rib 604, which occurs simultaneously with the first internal involute mounting lug 706 encountering the first end wall portion 436 of the first curved notch 426 and the second internal involute mounting lug 708 encountering the second end wall portion 438 of the second curved notch 428. At this point, the first internal involute mounting lug 706 becomes wedged or substantially wedged into the rearward-facing surface 740 of the first barrier wall 430 (the rearward-facing surface 740 is...). Figure 5 (Extension of the rearward-facing surface 510 shown) and the forward-facing surface 750 of the second barrier wall 432 (the forward-facing surface 750 is an extension of the forward-facing surface 520, see...) Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 Between them. Also at this time, the second inner involute mounting lug 708 becomes wedged (or substantially wedged) into the rearward-facing surface 760 of the second barrier wall 432 and the forward-facing surface 770 of the third barrier wall 434 (the forward-facing surface 770 is an extension of the forward-facing inclined surface 530, see...). Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 Therefore, the first internal involute mounting lug 706 and the second internal involute mounting lug 708 are respectively interlocked between the first barrier wall 430 and the second barrier wall 432 and between the second barrier wall 432 and the third barrier wall 434, so that the plug 200 is axially fixed (e.g., along the central axis 308) in place relative to the dishwasher inlet 126.

[0035] Similarly, during removal (or disassembly) the specific movement of the plug 200 relative to the dishwasher inlet 126 is also controlled by the contact / interaction between the first internal involute mounting lug 706 and the second internal involute mounting lug 708 and the first barrier wall 430, the second barrier wall 432, and the third barrier wall 434. More specifically, from the position of the plug 200 as... Figure 2 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 The fully installed position shown begins when the user moves the plug along with... Figure 2Removal is possible when rotated in the opposite direction to the direction indicated by the middle arrow 204. When this occurs, the forward-facing surface 710 of the first inner involute mounting lug 706 (see...) Figure 7 Along the rearward-facing surfaces 740 and 510 of the first barrier wall 430 (see...) Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Sliding tends to unscrew the plug 200 from the dishwasher inlet 126 and force the plug 200 axially outward from the channel 300, past the outer end edge 600. Although this is not the case in this embodiment, in some embodiments, the rearward-facing surface 760 of the second barrier wall 432 may also engage with the forward-facing surface of the second inner involute mounting lug 708 to also facilitate unscrewing the plug 200 from the dishwasher inlet 126. When the plug 200 is fully rotated, the first inner involute mounting lug 706 and the second inner involute mounting lug 708 enter the axial portions 504 of the first curved notch 426 and the second curved notch 428 (see...). Figure 4 and Figure 5 When the plug is removed, it can be completely axially removed from channel 300 and dishwasher inlet 126.

[0036] In addition to the aforementioned aspects of the process for installing and removing the plug 200 relative to the dishwasher inlet 126, several other aspects of these processes should also be considered. Figures 1 to 12 (and especially) Figures 2 to 10 It is evident that, firstly, at least in some embodiments such as this one, the user can apply appropriate force and / or torque (e.g., by inserting a hex wrench (not shown) into the hex keyhole 442) and applying appropriate force and / or torque (e.g., in...). Figure 2 The force / torque for installing and removing the plug 200 is applied in the direction of arrow 204 (either as torque for installation or as torque for removal in the opposite direction of arrow 204). Secondly, from... Figure 8 It should be understood that when the plug 200 is fully installed (e.g., screwed in) relative to the dishwasher inlet 126, the O-ring 410 is fully positioned within the channel 300 and extends completely around the circumference of the plug 200, thus forming a seal (e.g., a waterproof or fluid-resistant seal) at the entire circumferential junction between the plug and the inner wall 306 of the dishwasher inlet.

[0037] In addition, from Figure 2 , Figure 8 and Figure 10It should be understood that the installation of the plug 200, corresponding to rotation in the direction of arrow 204, causes the end portion 440 of the locking spring extension 422 to advance from the first region 1006 counterclockwise along the first inclined surface 1008 of the locking block 704 to the locking position 1010, which is exactly in the clockwise direction of the second inclined surface 1012 of the locking block and adjacent to the second inclined surface 1012 of the locking block (see details of the first region, locking position, first inclined surface, and second inclined surface). Figure 10 The reason why the end portion 440 of the locking spring extension 422 can travel from the first region 1006 through the locking block 704 to the locking position 1010 is that the locking spring extension has the flexibility to allow the end portion to be pushed radially inward as it passes the locking block.

[0038] Due to the shape and positioning of the locking spring extension 422 (including the end portion 440) and the locking block 704, and the relative positioning of the outwardly extending tab 414 and the rib 604, the end portion 440 reaches the locking position 1010 just as the outwardly extending tab contacts the rib 604. Therefore, when the end portion 440 reaches the locking position 1010, the plug 200 becomes rotatably locked in place due to the clockwise force applied to the end portion 440 by the second inclined surface 1012 and the clockwise force applied to the outwardly extending tab 414 by the rib 604. Furthermore, as long as the plug is rotatably in this position, the plug not only remains rotatably in place but also axially in place relative to the dishwasher inlet 126, assuming that the barrier walls 430, 432, and 434 and the first internal involute mounting lug 706 and the second internal involute mounting lug 708 are interlocked. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown.

[0039] Therefore, when the plug 200 is inserted axially and then along... Figure 2 As shown by arrow 204, when the plug is rotated clockwise within the stopper relative to the dishwasher inlet 126, the interaction between the locking spring extension 422 and the locking block 704 causes the stopper to reach the end portion 440. Figure 10 The locking position 1010 shown rotates and locks in place. However, despite this rotational locking when the plug 200 is fully installed, the plug can still be removed if sufficient force (or torque) is applied to it. That is, even though the positioning of the locking block 704 against the locking spring extension 422 tends to keep the plug in the correct position, the plug can still be removed. Figure 10When the plug 200 is fully installed in the position shown, resisting any rotational movement of the plug 200 in the counterclockwise direction indicated by arrow 1004, the plug 200 can still rotate counterclockwise, such that if sufficient force / torque is applied in the direction of arrow 1004, the end portion 440 will first move radially inward and then counterclockwise past the locking block. Therefore, when the plug 200 is fully installed in the dishwasher inlet 126 but it is desired to remove the plug from the dishwasher inlet, it can be removed by moving along... Figure 10 The torque is applied in the direction of arrow 1004 to overcome the locking of the locking spring extension 422 relative to the locking block 704, and the plug can be completely axially removed from the dishwasher inlet 126 when the plug has been fully rotated in that direction (e.g., 90 degrees).

[0040] Despite the foregoing description, this disclosure is intended to cover numerous embodiments having features different from or additional to those described herein. For example, although Figures 2 to 10 The illustrated embodiment requires the plug to be fully installed relative to the dishwasher inlet by inserting the plug and rotating it 90 degrees or substantially 90 degrees (e.g., "quarter turn") in a first direction of rotation, and to be removed (after full installation) by rotating the plug 90 degrees or substantially 90 degrees in the opposite direction of rotation. However, in other embodiments covered herein, the plug can be inserted or removed relative to the dishwasher inlet by rotations involving substantially greater than 90 degrees (e.g., 120 degrees) or less than 90 degrees (e.g., 60 degrees). Again, for example, although... Figures 2 to 10 The illustrated embodiment requires the dishwasher inlet 126 to have a first internal involute mounting lug 706 and a second internal involute mounting lug 708, and to have a first curved notch 426 and a second curved notch 428, but in other embodiments, it may have fewer or more than two lugs and / or fewer or more than two curved notches.

[0041] Additionally, for example, although Figures 2 to 10 The embodiment requires a locking spring extension 422 and a locking block 704, but in other embodiments, there may be more than one locking spring extension and more than one locking block. Furthermore, for example, although this embodiment includes an O-ring 410, in other embodiments, there may be more than one O-ring or other sealing structures.

[0042] Furthermore, for example, while the above embodiments envision one or more protrusions (such as the first internal involute lug 706 and the second internal involute lug 708) formed as part of the inner wall of the dishwasher inlet (or other port) and projecting inward, and the plug including one or more curved notches or other receiving features into which the protrusions are received when the plug is mounted relative to the dishwasher inlet, this disclosure also covers embodiments with other arrangements of protrusions and receiving features. For example, this disclosure also covers embodiments in which the plug includes one or more protrusions along its outer surface that extend outward from the plug, and in which the inner wall of the dishwasher inlet (or other port) includes notches or other receiving features into which the protrusions are received when the plug is mounted relative to the dishwasher inlet. In fact, this disclosure is intended to cover any of the various embodiments in which various protrusions, receiving features, or other engaging features (e.g., complementary features) formed on the dishwasher inlet (or other port) and the plug are provided to facilitate desired, interrelated movement of the plug relative to the dishwasher inlet.

[0043] Furthermore, while specific configurations of dishwasher inlets (e.g., including cylindrical structures extending away from wall portions) have been described above, this disclosure covers many other arrangements or configurations of dishwasher inlets or other inlets, outlets, or ports. For example, in some alternative embodiments covered herein, a port that can be closed, sealed, or blocked by a plug may simply be a hole formed within a wall portion and does not include any cylindrical portion extending away from the wall portion. Furthermore, this disclosure covers embodiments relating not only to food waste disposers but also to any of a variety of other types of waste disposers. Additionally, this disclosure covers embodiments in which plugs or other sealing or closing components are employed to close, seal, or block any of various types of inlets, outlets, or other ports, whether these ports serve as dishwasher inlets or perform other functions.

[0044] According to embodiments, one or more embodiments covered herein may have or achieve one or more advantages. For example, at least some embodiments covered herein relate to a plug and dishwasher inlet, wherein the plug can be easily and repeatedly installed / inserted, removed / removed, and reinstalled / reinserted without losing effectiveness (e.g., the plug does not break during removal). Furthermore, such embodiments may be easier to install, remove, and reinstall than some conventional embodiments, in which the plug for the dishwasher inlet is held in place by an external snap-fit ​​arm. Additionally, at least some embodiments covered herein have two retaining features for stability (e.g., a first internal involute mounting lug 706 and a second internal involute mounting lug 708), and this may also contribute to the effectiveness of the plug in preventing fluid leakage through (e.g., outflow) from the dishwasher inlet. Furthermore, at least some embodiments covered herein enable the plug to be installed or removed / removed relative to the dishwasher inlet by only a small rotation (e.g., 90 degrees or a "quarter turn"), and the installation or removal / removal can be achieved with less user-applied force than in some conventional embodiments implementing a plug with respect to the dishwasher inlet.

[0045] Furthermore, at least some embodiments covered herein employ a locking spring that resists rotation of the plug away from the fully installed rotational position (e.g., due to the positioning of the locking spring extension end portion 440 against the locking block 704), thereby axially holding the plug in place so that axial removal can only be achieved when the plug is in a different rotational position. Additionally, at least some embodiments covered herein have a hexagonal keyway utilizing the same internal hexagonal dimensions as anti-clogging wrenches already included in garbage disposers (e.g., as standard components). Furthermore, at least some embodiments covered herein employ a plug with an outwardly extending tab that helps determine when the plug is fully installed. This arrangement is particularly helpful in preventing damage to the plug that can occur due to overtightening, as the tab, combined with the ribs formed on the dishwasher inlet, acts as a stop for the plug's rotation relative to the dishwasher inlet (e.g., the rib 604 forms a stop against which the outwardly extending tab 414 abuts). Furthermore, at least some of these embodiments with plugs having outwardly extending tabs are also advantageous because, when the plug is installed, the tabbed plug makes it more difficult for the user to connect / hook the dishwasher inlet hose to the garbage disposal's dishwasher inlet. Additionally, at least some embodiments covered herein include O-rings for sealing / leak prevention, the O-rings having a reduced cross-section and being positioned away from the stop groove that can be formed on the plug.

[0046] This disclosure is also intended to cover additional embodiments in which a dishwasher inlet or other auxiliary port (or other port) having the same or substantially similar features as the dishwasher inlet 126 (at least in terms of the features that allow the port to be closed or sealed (or blocked) by a plug that is the same or substantially similar to the plug 200) is formed on a different device or structure other than the garbage disposal unit. Such additional embodiments can be understood to include different devices or structures having auxiliary ports (or other ports) formed thereon, in addition to plugs that are the same or substantially similar to the plug 200. Furthermore, in some such embodiments, the different devices or structures may be completely independent of any garbage disposal unit (such as a food waste disposer) and do not serve any purpose associated with any garbage disposal unit (such as a food waste disposer). Furthermore, in some other embodiments, the different devices or structures may be auxiliary devices that are engaged with or coupled to a garbage disposal unit (such as food waste disposer 102). Additionally, in some alternative embodiments, such different devices or structures may include not just one but more ports having features identical or substantially similar to those of the dishwasher inlet 126, features that allow each port to be closed or sealed (or blocked) by a plug identical or substantially similar to plug 200, at least in relation to the features of each port. Such alternative embodiments may also include more than one plug identical or substantially similar to plug 200.

[0047] Furthermore, for example, in this regard, Figure 1 An auxiliary device 140, comprising both an auxiliary device input port 142 and an auxiliary device output port 144, is also shown, wherein a plug 146 identical or substantially similar to the plug 200 (e.g., in terms of having an outwardly extending tab 148 identical to the outwardly extending tab 414 and two or more of the aforementioned blocking walls 430, 432, and 434) is shown positioned within the auxiliary device input port 142. The auxiliary device 140 and the plug 146 are shown in dashed lines because these structures are considered optional components of the combined system 100.

[0048] More specifically, in this exemplary embodiment including the auxiliary device 140, the auxiliary device output port 144 can be formed in a complementary manner to the dishwasher inlet 126, such that (as with the distal end 138 of the hose 134) the auxiliary device output port can be coupled to the dishwasher inlet 126 (e.g., when the plug 200 is removed from the dishwasher inlet). Furthermore, the auxiliary device input port 142 can be structurally identical to the dishwasher inlet 126, particularly in terms of features configured to engage with the plug 146 (e.g., the channel 300 and the first internal involute mounting lug 706 and the second internal involute mounting lug 708) and features allowing another structure (such as the hose 134) to be coupled to the auxiliary device input port. Therefore, although... Figure 1 An auxiliary device 140 is shown after being detached from the hose 134 of the food waste disposer 102 and dishwasher 104. However, it should be understood that not only can the auxiliary device output port 144 be connected to the dishwasher inlet 126 (from which the plug 200 is removed), but also the distal end 138 of the hose 134 can be connected to the auxiliary device input port 142 (from which the plug 146 is removed). Alternatively, the auxiliary device output port 144 can be connected to the dishwasher inlet 126 of the food waste disposer 102, but the auxiliary device input port 142 can be detached from the hose 134, wherein the plug 146 is positioned relative to the auxiliary device input port as shown to prevent flow from the interior of the auxiliary device 140 through the auxiliary device input port 142. Although... Figure 1 The auxiliary device 140 is described as an optional example of a device or structure (other than a garbage disposal unit) having a port and a plug capable of sealing or closing the port, but it should be understood that this disclosure covers many other variations and embodiments of devices and structures in addition to this example.

[0049] Specifically, this utility model is not limited to the embodiments and descriptions contained herein, but includes modifications to those embodiments, parts of the embodiments, and combinations of elements from different embodiments, all of which are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A food waste disposer, characterized in that, The food waste disposer includes: A food conveying section, a motor section, and a grinding section between the food conveying section and the motor section; The housing, each of the food conveying section, the motor section, and the grinding section, is located within the housing, and the housing also includes a dishwasher inlet. The dishwasher inlet includes an inner wall that is cylindrical and defines a channel extending from a first location along the exterior of the housing and a second location along the interior of the housing, wherein the inner wall includes a first protrusion extending radially inward toward a first central axis of the channel; and A stopper having a first end and a second end, wherein the stopper is substantially cylindrical in shape and includes an outer surface having a first barrier wall portion and a second barrier wall portion, the first barrier wall portion and the second barrier wall portion together at least partially defining a first curved notch. The first curved notch extends axially from the second end toward the first end, and also extends circumferentially by ninety degrees between the second end and the first inner end of the first curved notch. The dishwasher inlet and the plug are configured such that when the plug is supported within the dishwasher inlet in a fully installed position, in which the first protrusion extends into the first curved recess to contact or approach the first inner end, the plug is at least partially held axially relative to the dishwasher inlet along the first central axis through contact between the first protrusion and one or both of the first and second barrier wall portions.

2. The food waste disposer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dishwasher inlet and the plug are further configured such that the plug can be removed from the dishwasher inlet when the plug is rotated 90 degrees away from the fully installed position in a first rotational direction.

3. The food waste disposer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plug also includes a spring extension having an end portion, wherein the dishwasher inlet includes a block portion extending radially inward from the remainder of the inner wall, and wherein when the plug is supported within the dishwasher inlet in the fully installed position, the end portion engages the block portion, thereby resisting rotation of the plug in the first rotational direction.

4. The food waste disposer according to claim 3, characterized in that, Despite the resistance, the spring extension can be compressed in response to the torque applied to the plug, such that the end portion passes over the block portion as the plug rotates away from the fully installed position in the first rotational direction.

5. The food waste disposer according to claim 4, characterized in that, The plug also includes an outwardly extending tab at the front end, wherein the dishwasher inlet includes a cylindrical portion extending outwardly from a wall portion of the housing, wherein the cylindrical portion includes an outer edge at the first location, wherein the outer edge includes a discontinuity at which radially extending ribs are present, and When the plug is in the fully installed position, the outwardly extending tab is positioned adjacent to the radially extending rib, and the radially extending rib is used to prevent the plug from rotating additionally in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

6. The food waste disposer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The food waste disposer also includes an O-ring extending circumferentially around the plug between the first end and the second end, wherein the O-ring, in its uncompressed state, has an outer diameter greater than the channel diameter, such that when the plug is in the fully installed position, a seal is formed along the joint between the O-ring and the inner wall, the joint extending completely around the circumference of the plug.

7. The food waste disposer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the dishwasher inlet includes a second protrusion extending radially inward toward the first central axis of the channel, the second protrusion being closer to the second location than the first protrusion. The outer surface of the plug further has a third barrier wall portion, wherein the second barrier wall portion and the third barrier wall portion together at least partially define a second curved notch. The second curved notch extends axially from the second end toward the first end, and also extends circumferentially by ninety degrees between the second end and the second inner end of the second curved notch, the second inner end being closer to the second end than the first inner end. The dishwasher inlet and the plug are configured such that when the plug is supported within the dishwasher inlet in the fully installed position, the second protrusion extends into the second curved recess to contact or approach the second inner end.

8. The food waste disposer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first curved notch is helical, and wherein, when the plug is in the fully installed position, the second end of the plug is slightly recessed along the interior of the housing relative to the second position.

9. The food waste disposer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The food waste disposer also includes a hexagonal keyway formed along the front end and configured to receive a complementary wrench through which torque can be applied to the plug.

10. A combined system, characterized in that, The combined system includes a food waste disposer and a dishwasher according to any one of claims 1-9.

11. A garbage disposal unit, characterized in that, The garbage disposal unit includes: The housing includes an inlet port, an outlet port, and other ports. The additional port includes an inner wall that is cylindrical and defines a channel extending from a first location along the exterior of the housing and a second location along the interior of the housing, wherein the inner wall includes a first protrusion extending radially inward toward a first central axis of the channel; and A stopper having a first end and a second end, wherein the stopper is substantially cylindrical in shape and includes an outer surface having a first barrier wall portion and a second barrier wall portion, the first barrier wall portion and the second barrier wall portion together at least partially defining a first curved notch. The first curved notch extends axially from the second end toward the first end, and also extends circumferentially by ninety degrees between the second end and the first inner end of the first curved notch. The plug further includes a spring extension, which includes an end portion. The additional port and the plug are configured such that when the plug is supported within the additional port in a fully installed position, in which the first protrusion extends into the first curved notch to contact or approach the first inner end, the plug is at least partially held axially relative to the additional port along the first central axis through contact between the first protrusion and one or both of the first and second barrier wall portions. The additional port includes a block portion extending radially inward from the remainder of the inner wall, wherein when the plug is supported within the additional port in the fully installed position, the end portion engages the block portion, causing resistance to rotation of the plug in the first rotational direction.

12. The garbage disposer according to claim 11, characterized in that, The additional port and the plug are configured such that the plug can be removed from the additional port when the plug is rotated 90 degrees away from the fully installed position in the first rotational direction.

13. The garbage disposer according to claim 11, characterized in that, Despite the resistance, the spring extension can be compressed in response to the torque applied to the plug, such that the end portion passes over the block portion as the plug rotates away from the fully installed position in the first rotational direction.

14. The garbage disposer according to claim 11, characterized in that, The plug also includes an outwardly extending tab at the first end, wherein the additional port includes a cylindrical portion extending outwardly from a wall portion of the housing, wherein the cylindrical portion includes an outer edge at the first location, wherein the outer edge includes a discontinuity at which radially extending ribs are present, and When the plug is in the fully installed position, the outwardly extending tab is positioned adjacent to the radially extending rib, and the radially extending rib is used to prevent the plug from rotating additionally in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

15. The garbage disposer according to claim 11, characterized in that, The waste disposer also includes an O-ring extending circumferentially around the plug between the first end and the second end, wherein the O-ring, in its uncompressed state, has an outer diameter greater than the channel diameter, such that when the plug is in the fully installed position, a seal is formed along the joint between the O-ring and the inner wall, the joint extending completely around the circumference of the plug.

16. The garbage disposer according to claim 11, characterized in that, The inner wall of the additional port includes a second protrusion extending radially inward toward the first central axis of the channel, the second protrusion being closer to the second location than the first protrusion. The outer surface of the plug further has a third barrier wall portion, wherein the second barrier wall portion and the third barrier wall portion together at least partially define a second curved notch. The second curved notch extends axially from the second end toward the first end, and also extends circumferentially by ninety degrees between the second end and the second inner end of the second curved notch, the second inner end being closer to the second end than the first inner end. The additional port and the plug are configured such that when the plug is supported in the additional port in the fully installed position, the second protrusion extends into the second curved notch to contact or approach the second inner end.

Images