Flush Electrical Contacts in Food Processor Bowl Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food processors with electric connections between the bowl unit and driving block complicate surface cleaning and pose a risk of short-circuits, especially in professional environments where quick and effective cleaning is necessary.
Innovation Solution
The design features electrical contact surfaces on the bowl unit and driving block that are substantially level with the external surfaces, allowing for easy cleaning and incorporating a mechanical safety device that ensures safe power supply, with options for low voltage or a mechanical safety mechanism that deactivates the power when the bowl unit is removed from its working position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional electric connections with pins and connectors are used, then electrical power supply is achieved, but cleaning becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the protruding pins and connectors from the cleaning surface by integrating the electrical contacts directly into the sealing structure. The sealing ring with integrated electrical contacts eliminates separate connection elements that would otherwise protrude and complicate cleaning, allowing the entire contact area to be flushed with water without obstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the electrical connection function with the sealing function into a single integrated component. The sealing ring simultaneously provides the waterproof seal and houses the electrical contacts, combining two previously separate functions into one element that simplifies both assembly and cleaning operations.
2Reliability
If protruding electric connections are used, then electrical contact is ensured, but short-circuit risks increase and cleaning effectiveness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention nests the electrical contacts within the sealing ring structure, embedding them into the waterproof barrier rather than exposing them on the surface. This nesting approach allows electrical contacts to be surrounded by the sealing material, providing inherent protection against water ingress and short-circuit risks while maintaining reliable electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies different properties to different parts of the sealing ring: the outer portion provides waterproof sealing, while the inner portion contains the electrical contacts. This local differentiation allows each region to optimize its function - the sealing surface remains smooth and waterproof, while the contact area maintains reliable electrical connection without exposing protruding elements.
3Reliability
If complex waterproof electric connections are used, then short-circuit prevention is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing ring serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the waterproof seal, houses the electrical contacts, and prevents short-circuits through its integrated design. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate waterproofing components, connection elements, and protective structures, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining all necessary functions.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention refers to a mechanical food treatment processor comprising a driving block topped by a bowl unit. The driving block comprises a motor connected to a rotation driving device configured to move a food treatment tool. The bowl unit comprises a functional element electrically supplied via an electric circuit connecting the bowl unit and the driving block. The electric circuit comprises at least two contacts between the bowl unit and the driving block. At least one of the contacts is achieved by the contact of two electrical contact surfaces, respectively located on an external surface of the bowl unit and on an external surface of the driving block. Each of the two electrical contact surfaces is substantially leveled with the external surface of the bowl unit or of the driving block. Such a configuration facilitates the cleaning of the external surfaces of the processor.