Food processor having removable feed tube

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing food processing devices lack ease of use and functionality in terms of feed tube operation, as they often require complex attachment and detachment mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A food processor design featuring a removable feed tube that can be easily attached and detached from the lid, with a simple cover option to close the feed tube opening, enhancing user convenience and versatility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a fixed feed tube is integrated into the lid, then the device structure is simple and reliable, but the ease of operation is reduced due to complex attachment and detachment mechanisms required for removable feed tubes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeed tube attachment and detachmentVSAvoidfeed tube mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The feed tube is divided into a removable portion and a fixed portion. The removable portion can be easily detached from the lid, while the fixed portion remains integrated. This segmentation allows users to remove only the necessary part for cleaning or specific operations without complicating the overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The removable portion of the feed tube is extracted as a separate component that can be easily detached. This extracted portion can be removed for cleaning or when not needed, while the basic feed tube structure remains fixed and simple in the lid.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a removable feed tube is implemented, then the adaptability and versatility are improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components and attachment mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeed tube configurationVSAvoidlid structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The feed tube is segmented into removable and fixed portions, allowing flexible configuration. Users can attach or remove the removable portion based on specific processing needs, providing adaptability without requiring a completely complex reconfigurable system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The removable portion of the feed tube can serve multiple functions: it can be attached for adding ingredients during processing, removed for cleaning access, or replaced with alternative components. This multi-functionality provides versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.

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

3Ease of repair

If the feed tube is made removable for easy cleaning, then the ease of repair and maintenance is improved, but the reliability may worsen due to potential improper attachment or detachment issues

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeed tube cleaning and maintenanceVSAvoidfeed tube attachment stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The feed tube is segmented into removable and fixed portions with a designed attachment interface. This segmentation allows easy removal for cleaning while the interface is engineered to ensure proper reattachment, maintaining reliability through consistent mechanical engagement features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The removable portion is designed to be easily detached and reattached by the user without special tools or complex procedures. The self-service design includes intuitive attachment features that guide proper installation, reducing the risk of improper attachment while enabling easy cleaning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9635982B2Food processor having removable feed tube
Publication Date: 2017.05.02 CONAIR CORP
  • US9635982B2 patent drawing
  • US9635982B2 patent drawing
  • US9635982B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A food processor having a removable feed tube is provided. The food processor includes a work bowl and a lid configured to be selectively removable from the work bowl and having a feed tube opening. A removable feed tube is selectively attached to the lid and extends upwards from the feed tube opening when attached to the lid. The food processor also includes a simple cover that can be utilized in place of the removable feed tube to close off the feed tube opening.