Cylindrical Jar Lock with Spring-Mounted Tabs for Blender Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food processing devices, such as blenders, lack an effective mechanism to securely lock the jar in place while allowing for rotational and linear movement, leading to potential instability and wear during operation.
Innovation Solution
A cylindrical jar lock mechanism with radially inwardly extending locking tabs that engage with a collar around the jar, preventing vertical movement while permitting rotational and linear movement in the xy-plane, and a spring-mounted design for dampened vertical motion, ensuring secure engagement and reduced wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid locking mechanism is used to prevent vertical movement of the jar, then stability is improved, but the device cannot accommodate rotational and linear movement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic system where locking tabs can rotate and engage/disengage from the jar collar. The mechanism allows the jar to be locked vertically while permitting rotational movement during operation, and linear movement during loading/unloading.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system is divided into separate functional elements: locking tabs on the base, a jar collar with engagement features, and a spring mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together as a unified system.
2Reliability
If a secure locking system is implemented to prevent vertical movement, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism automatically engages the locking tabs with the jar collar when the jar is placed on the base, and automatically disengages when vertical force is applied during loading or unloading. The system self-regulates without requiring manual intervention or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring acts as an intermediary element between the locking tabs and the jar collar, providing the necessary force for engagement while allowing controlled disengagement. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the overall system by eliminating the need for motors, sensors, or complex control circuits.
3Stability of the object's composition
If continuous contact between the jar and base is maintained, then stability is improved, but wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism dynamically adjusts the contact between the jar and base based on operational needs. During blending, the jar is securely locked to prevent vertical movement. During loading and unloading, the spring allows controlled vertical movement and disengagement, reducing friction and wear on contact surfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A food processing machine having a base and a cylindrical jar lock extending upwardly from a top surface of the base. A jar assembly has a jar and a collar that extends downwardly from the jar. The collar is adapted to fit circumferentially around the cylindrical jar lock. A plurality of locking tabs extend radially inwardly from the collar. The locking tabs engage with the cylindrical jar lock and prevent vertical movement of the jar while allowing rotational movement of the jar and linear movement of the jar with respect to the base in the xy-plane. The cylindrical jar lock is optionally spring-mounted to the base to provide dampened movement in the vertical direction of the cylindrical jar lock with respect to the base.