Bench Mixer Whipping Monitor Using Infrared Feedback Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bench mixers lack the ability to automatically monitor and adjust the mixing process in real-time, requiring manual intervention to determine when modifications or termination of the mixing process are necessary.
Innovation Solution
A processor system integrated into the mixer, utilizing an infrared sensor to detect changes in the substance within the mixing bowl by measuring reflection intensity and distance, which controls the motor operation based on predetermined criteria, allowing for automated process monitoring and endpoint detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual monitoring of mixing process is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and precision are worsened due to continuous human intervention requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an infrared sensor that continuously monitors the mixing process by detecting reflected infrared radiation from the substance in the bowl. The controller receives sensor signals, analyzes changes in reflection intensity, and automatically adjusts motor operation or terminates the process when predetermined criteria are met, eliminating the need for manual monitoring while maintaining simple device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The mixing system performs self-monitoring and self-adjustment through the integrated sensor and controller. The system automatically detects substance changes via infrared reflection and modifies its own operation without external human intervention, improving productivity while keeping the device relatively simple
2Manufacturing precision
If automated sensor-based control is implemented, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and mechanical monitoring with an optical infrared sensing system. The infrared sensor detects substance changes through reflected radiation, providing precise automated control without requiring complex mechanical sensors or contact-based measurement devices
Solution Approach 2:
The infrared sensor serves multiple functions: it monitors substance volume changes, detects mixing progress, and determines process termination points. This multi-functionality achieves high manufacturing precision while minimizing the number of additional components required
3Measurement precision
If continuous manual monitoring is required, then measurement precision can be maintained through human observation, but loss of time occurs due to continuous intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The infrared sensor operates continuously throughout the mixing process, constantly detecting reflected radiation and monitoring substance changes. This continuous automated measurement eliminates interruptions and human intervention time while maintaining precise detection of mixing progress and endpoint determination
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
Enables precise and automated control of the mixing process, ensuring optimal outcomes such as stopping whipping when a stable volume is reached or modifying parameters based on mixing progress, thereby improving efficiency and consistency.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor to produce a sensor beam to be directed at the interior so as to produce a reflection from the substance in the interior and to produce a signal indicative of the reflection; Preferably, the sensor is an infrared sensor that produces the sensor beam, with the sensor beam being an infrared beam
Data Source
AI summary
A bench or stand mixer includes a bowl that contains ingredients, a motor that drives an accessory, for example a beater, to process the ingredients, and a sensor. The sensor provides a signal indicative of a change in the ingredients, with the sensor cooperating with a controller, for example a processor, to control the speed of the motor, in response to the change in condition of the ingredients.