Food Processor Lid Spring-Loaded Latch for One-Step Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food processor lid locking mechanisms, such as bayonet systems and clamps, are cumbersome due to the need for multiple motions or actions to secure the lid, making them inefficient for easy mounting and removal.
Innovation Solution
A spring-loaded latch system with chamfered regions and a pushbutton mechanism that automatically locks the lid onto the bowl with a 'click' sound, allowing for one-step mounting and easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a bayonet locking system is used to secure the lid to the bowl, then the lid is firmly locked, but the mounting process becomes cumbersome due to requiring both vertical and turning motions
Solution Approach 1:
The lid locking system automatically performs the locking action when the lid is placed on the bowl. The spring-loaded latch self-actuates through the chamfered region interaction during normal placement, eliminating the need for manual manipulation or multiple motions required by bayonet systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch is pre-positioned with a chamfered region that automatically engages with the bulged region of the bowl edge during lid placement. This preliminary geometric configuration ensures the locking action occurs automatically as the lid is set down, before any manual locking action would be needed.
2Reliability
If manual clamps with hinges are used to lock the lid, then the lid can be secured, but multiple manual actions are required to move clamps into clamping position
Solution Approach 1:
The single spring-loaded latch automatically performs the entire locking function when the lid is placed on the bowl. The spring mechanism self-actuates through interaction with the chamfered region and bulged region, eliminating the need for multiple manual clamp operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is concentrated in a single latch element rather than multiple clamps. This segmentation into one primary locking component simplifies the system from multiple manual operations to a single automatic action.
3Ease of operation
If a spring-loaded latch with chamfered region is used, then automatic locking occurs with one motion, but additional parts like pushbuttons and levers are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pushbutton, lever, and spring mechanism are merged into an integrated assembly mounted on the connecting axis. This combination allows the release function to be achieved with minimal additional parts while maintaining the automatic locking benefit.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever serves multiple functions: it acts as a handle for removing the bowl from the food processor and simultaneously controls the latch release when pushed. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
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
Facilitates easy and secure lid mounting and removal with reduced complexity and effort, providing acoustic feedback for proper locking, while maintaining a smooth bowl interior for cleaning and minimizing parts for cost-effective production.
Implementation Method 1
a coil spring arranged to engage behind the latch and acting towards the front end of the latch so as to push the latch forward in use
Implementation Method 2
a first chamfered region at the front end of said spring loaded latch that cooperates with a bulged region at the edge of the bowl when the lid is put onto said bowl
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an appliance for a food processor with a lid (1) to be mounted onto a bowl (13) and a locking mechanism securing the lid on that bowl. To facilitate a secure positioning of the lid (1) on that bowl (3) there is a lock provided between lid (1) and bowl (13) having a latch (8) that is spring-loaded e.g. with a coil spring (10). The lock with this latch (8) can be opened e.g. by a pushbutton (7).