Blender Lid Closure Detection Using Optical Signal and Inductive Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blenders face issues with detecting the closure of the container lid due to contamination, design limitations with transparent materials, and inefficiencies in power consumption and coil interference, requiring multiple coils and separate power supplies.
Innovation Solution
A blender design utilizing one inductive coil in the main body and one in the container body for wireless power transmission, with a light signal detection mechanism that includes a unique signal pattern to accurately detect lid closure without MCU, using transparent conductive materials for electrical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a push rod and press detection part are used to detect lid closure, then the closure detection function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and contamination risk arises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical push rod and press detection part with an optical detection system. A light source emits light through the transparent container body, and a photodetector on the lid detects the light intensity changes when the lid is closed, converting a mechanical detection problem into an optical one to reduce mechanical complexity and contamination risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary medium between the container body and the lid detection system. The light passes through the transparent container body and interacts with the lid position, providing indirect detection of lid closure without requiring direct mechanical contact or exposed sensors that could be contaminated.
2Reliability
If a push rod is installed along the container body in longitudinal direction, then the closure detection is achieved, but the transparent material design cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical push rod that would physically block the transparent container body with an optical system. The light source and photodetector arrangement allows detection through the transparent material without obstructing it, maintaining both the transparency aesthetic and the detection function.
3Reliability
If multiple coils are used for wireless power transmission and detection, then the detection function is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the inductive coil serve multiple functions: it provides wireless power transmission to the container body and simultaneously enables lid closure detection through changes in inductive coupling when the lid position changes. This eliminates the need for separate detection coils, reducing overall system complexity and manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the power transmission function and detection function into a single inductive coil system. The same coil that transmits power also detects lid closure by monitoring variations in inductive coupling, combining what would traditionally require separate components into one integrated system.
4Ease of operation
If a separate power supply is provided in the container body for wireless communication module, then the wireless detection is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electronic wireless communication module requiring separate power supply with an optical detection system. The light source and photodetector arrangement provides wireless-like contactless detection without needing additional power supply circuits, reducing electrical complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
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
Accurately detects lid closure with low power, prevents contamination, maintains transparent design, and simplifies coil configuration, reducing manufacturing costs and safety risks.
Implementation Method 1
one inductive coil in the main body and one in the container body for wireless power transmission
Implementation Method 2
light signal detection mechanism that includes a unique signal pattern to accurately detect lid closure
Data Source
AI summary
Proposed is a blender, in which a main body operates when a closure of a container lid on a container body is detected. In the blender according to the present disclosure, when the closure of the container lid is detected, a voltage is transferred from a first inductive coil of the main body to a second inductive coil of the container body. By using the voltage transferred to the second inductive coil, a light emitting unit of the container body transmits a light signal to a light receiving unit of the main body, and the light signal has a predetermined signal pattern. When the light receiving unit receives the light signal of the signal pattern, the main body recognizes the closure of the container lid on the container body such that the main body operates.