Food Processor Base with Flush-Mounted Suction Release Mechanisms

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing food processors lack a convenient and aesthetically pleasing method for easily releasing the base from a surface while maintaining stability during operation.

Innovation Solution

A food processing system with a base featuring suction devices and independently operable release mechanisms that allow the base to be easily detached from a surface by moving the release mechanisms between positions, breaking the vacuum seal formed by the suction devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If suction devices are used to adhere the base to a surface, then stability during operation is improved, but ease of removal deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability during operationVSAvoidease of removal
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The release mechanism is divided into multiple independent segments (first release mechanism on first side, second release mechanism on second side), each controlling specific suction devices. This segmentation allows partial release or controlled removal while maintaining stability during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The release mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user and the suction devices. It provides a convenient interface (flush-mounted buttons or levers) that mediates the force required to break the vacuum seal, making removal easy without directly applying force to the suction cups themselves.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If release mechanisms are mounted on the housing, then ease of operation is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of releaseVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The release mechanisms are merged with the housing surface by mounting them flush with the outer surface. This integration combines the functional element (release mechanism) with the aesthetic surface, eliminating protrusions and creating a clean, streamlined appearance while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The housing surface acts as a thin film or shell that incorporates the release mechanisms within its plane. This allows the release mechanisms to be accessed and operated while remaining flush with the exterior, preserving the smooth aesthetic appearance of the housing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Stability of the object's composition

If multiple suction devices are used, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The multiple suction devices are segmented into groups, with each group controlled by a dedicated release mechanism. This segmentation simplifies the control system by creating independent, modular units rather than a single complex release system controlling all suction devices simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each release mechanism is designed to be universally applicable to its group of suction devices, using standardized mounting and control methods. This multi-functionality reduces overall complexity by repeating proven designs rather than creating unique solutions for each suction device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 easy removal of the base from a surface while maintaining stability and an aesthetically pleasing design, enhancing user convenience and safety.

Implementation Method 1

At least one suction device is mounted to the bottom surface and is configured to adhere the base to an adjacent surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVacuum: Vacuum

Implementation Method 2

breaking the vacuum seal formed by the suction devices

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure differential: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS10362904B2Food processor system
Publication Date: 2019.07.30 SHARKNINJA OPERATING LLC
  • US10362904B2 patent drawing
  • US10362904B2 patent drawing
  • US10362904B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A base for a food processing system is provided including a housing configured to couple with a complementary container. The housing includes a bottom surface. At least one suction device is mounted to the bottom surface and is configured to adhere the base to an adjacent surface. At least one release mechanism is mounted to mounted generally flush with an outer surface of the housing. The at least one release mechanism is operably coupled to at least one suction device and is movable between a first position and a second position to release the at least one suction device from the adjacent surface.