Accessory module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing add-on modules for food processing utensils cannot be connected to each other, limiting flexibility for users when preparing food, especially when using multiple modules with different functions simultaneously.

Innovation Solution

An additional module with a connection unit that allows for easy and flexible connection with other modules, featuring an electrically conductive connection element for energy and data transmission, and a mechanical or magnetic connection element for mechanical attachment, enabling the combination and operation of multiple modules with shared resources and enhanced functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple additional modules are used simultaneously for different food processing functions, then functionality and versatility are improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into separate additional modules, each providing a specific food processing function (e.g., heating, stirring, temperature control). These modular units can be independently designed, manufactured, and attached to the food processing dish, allowing users to select only the functions they need for each cooking task, thereby improving versatility without mandating complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The additional modules are designed with universal attachment mechanisms that allow them to be connected to various food processing dishes and to each other. The connection unit serves multiple purposes: mechanical attachment, electrical connection for power and data transmission, and functional integration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple additional modules are used simultaneously with separate energy sources, then functional independence is improved, but energy consumption and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional independenceVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the energy supply function into a centralized architecture where a single energy source (such as a power bank or battery integrated into the food processing dish or one of the modules) can supply power to multiple additional modules simultaneously through the connection unit. This eliminates the need for each module to have its own separate energy source, reducing overall energy consumption and cost while maintaining functional independence through electrical control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If additional modules are designed to be detachable for flexibility, then ease of operation is improved, but connection reliability and stability may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovedetachabilityVSAvoidconnection stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection functionality is extracted as a separate, dedicated connection unit that integrates multiple connection types (mechanical attachment, electrical contacts, data transmission) into a unified interface. This specialized connection mechanism can be easily attached and detached while maintaining reliable electrical and mechanical connections through its designed interlocking structure and contact elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This configuration enhances user convenience by allowing multiple modules to be used simultaneously, saving space, reducing energy consumption, and improving the operating experience through flexible and efficient use of modules with energy-intensive functions, while also providing a compact and versatile system with enhanced functionality.

Implementation Method 1

The connection unit has at least one electrically conductive connection element which is provided for energy transmission and/or for data transmission

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

The connection unit has at least one magnetic connection element for a magnetic connection of the further additional module

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3918961A1Accessory module

Publication Date: 2021.12.08 BSH HAUSGERATE GMBH

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Figure 3~4

AI summary

The invention relates to an additional module (10a-c) designed for attachment to a food processing vessel (12a; 12c), in particular a cooking vessel, comprising a functional unit (14a-c) for providing at least one function. To improve flexibility, it is proposed that at least one connection unit (16a-c) be provided, which allows for the connection of at least one further additional module (18a-c), in particular a further functional unit (20a-c) for providing at least one further function.