Batch-Feed Switch System for Food Waste Disposer Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Continuous-feed food waste disposers lack the ability to operate in a batch-feed mode, which is more efficient for processing discrete quantities of waste, as they do not have a mechanism to selectively activate and deactivate the grinding process between batches.
Innovation Solution
A batch-feed switch system and a lock ring are introduced to retrofit a continuous-feed food waste disposer, allowing for selective activation and deactivation of the grinding process by using a stopper, extension tube, and switch unit, enabling the processing of discrete batches while maintaining a secure and sealed connection to the sink flange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a continuous-feed food waste disposer is used, then the motor can operate continuously without interruption, but the ability to process discrete batches of food waste efficiently is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the drain opening selectively switchable between open and closed positions. The activation member can be moved to different positions: when closed, it blocks the drain opening to enable batch-feed operation; when open, it allows continuous-feed operation. This dynamic positioning capability allows the disposer to adapt between different operating modes, resolving the contradiction between batch processing efficiency and operating mode flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a batch-feed mechanism is added to a continuous-feed disposer, then batch processing capability is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing the activation member to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a drain plug to block the drain opening and as a switch actuator to control the motor. The same component that seals the drain opening also mechanically triggers the switch mechanism when moved to the closed position. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate batch-feed components, thereby adding batch-feed capability while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the nested doll principle by integrating the switch mechanism within the existing structure of the disposer. The switch is positioned inside the motor housing, and the activation member extends through the drain opening to engage with the switch. This nested arrangement allows the batch-feed switch system to be embedded within the continuous-feed disposer's existing architecture, minimizing additional complexity while achieving batch-feed functionality.
3Productivity
If the motor is activated continuously, then the grinding process can handle continuous waste flow, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the periodic action principle by enabling the motor to operate in discrete on-off cycles rather than continuously. When the activation member blocks the drain opening, the motor is activated to grind the accumulated batch of food waste. After the grinding cycle completes, the motor deactivates, allowing energy savings. This periodic operation pattern maintains productivity by efficiently processing waste in batches while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus for selectively activating a food waste disposer for a sink comprises a housing (360) and an activation member (306). The housing comprises a switch (362) and a first magnet (364). The first magnet is movable relative to the housing and the switch between first and second positions whereby movement of the first magnet from the second position to the first position causes corresponding movement of the switch from an off-position in which electrical current is prevented from reaching a motor of the disposer to an on-position allowing electrical current to the motor. The activation member comprises a second magnet (324) and is received in a tubular member (308) through which waste drains and can be positioned relative to the tubular member to place the second magnet in proximity to the first magnet to generate a repulsive magnetic force that moves the first magnet between the first and second positions.