Food Processor Lid Locking for Overpressure and Steam Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical food processors pose safety risks when opening the lid, as pressure from liquid columns or steam can cause the lid to be abruptly ejected, leading to potential injury from hot liquids or steam.
Innovation Solution
A safety device is implemented that blocks the lid from opening when a significant force is exerted parallel to its axis of rotation, preventing abrupt ejection and including a mechanism to prevent the motor from working unless the lid is securely closed, along with an off-centered food introduction opening and a steam evacuation conduit to manage overpressure and liquid overflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lid is made openable for user access, then ease of operation is improved, but safety is worsened due to risk of abrupt ejection from pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The safety device performs a preliminary check of internal pressure conditions before allowing the lid to open. The blocking means prevents lid opening until pressure indicators show that internal pressure has normalized, eliminating the need for users to judge safety conditions themselves and preventing premature opening under hazardous pressure.
2Productivity
If the motor is allowed to run freely, then productivity is improved, but safety is worsened due to operation without closed lid
Solution Approach 1:
The safety device creates a feedback loop between lid position and motor operation. The blocking means physically prevents the lid from opening while the motor is running, and the motor control system receives feedback about lid closure status. This ensures the motor only operates when the lid is properly closed, eliminating unsafe operating conditions while maintaining productivity.
3Reliability
If the lid blocking mechanism is added, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The safety device is segmented into distinct functional components: pressure indicators that visually display internal pressure status, and a blocking means that mechanically prevents lid opening. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently and makes the overall device easier to manufacture, assemble, and maintain despite adding safety functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a mechanical food treatment processor comprising a driving block topped by a bowl. The driving block comprises a motor connected to a rotation driving means. The processor further comprises a food treatment tool with means of coupling with the rotation driving means. The bowl is topped by a lid with an opening/closing system placed on the bowl and operable to rotate about a substantially vertical axis. The lid is provided with a safety device operable to block the opening of the lid when a force, substantially parallel to the axis of rotation, is exerted on the lid. The claimed device is operable to avoid a brutal ejection of the lid and/or emissions of extreme burning steam in the event of an overpressure in the bowl.