Improved food processor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Food processors with larger feed tubes face issues of unwanted vibration and stress on components due to larger blades and motors, which can compromise safety and performance.
Innovation Solution
A food processor design featuring a safety interlock mechanism with a bayonet-style lid and bushing assembly for vibration damping, along with a safety rail system that ensures the motor only operates when the pusher is properly inserted, and a user interface for safety feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If larger feed tubes are used to accommodate more and larger ingredients, then productivity and convenience are improved, but unwanted vibration and stress on components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating vibration damping inserts made of elastomeric material between the processing bowl and the motor assembly. These inserts are positioned in advance to absorb and dampen vibrations before they propagate through the structure, thereby reducing unwanted vibration while maintaining the larger feed tube design that improves productivity
2Productivity
If larger blades and motors are used to match larger feed tubes, then processing capability is improved, but stress on components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions vibration damping inserts between the processing bowl and motor assembly to absorb shocks and reduce stress concentrations on mounting points and structural components before excessive stress can develop, enabling the use of larger blades and motors without proportionally increasing component stress
3Reliability
If safety interlock devices are added to prevent injury, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a safety interlock mechanism where the processing bowl itself contains a sensor that automatically detects whether the lid is properly closed. The system self-activates or deactivates the motor based on this detection, eliminating the need for separate complex interlock devices while maintaining safety through the bowl's own structural features and integrated sensing
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
The design enhances safety and usability by preventing motor operation without proper insertion of the pusher, reduces vibration through damping, and maintains performance while minimizing stress on components.
Implementation Method 1
a bushing assembly including a bushing, a cap and a vibration damping insert, the assembly being mounted in the lid and for receiving a tip of the spindle... the vibration damping insert is located between the bushing and an opening formed in the lid on a rotational centre line of the spindle, and is thereby arranged to reduce transfer of vibration from the bushing to the lid
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A food processor is provided with a wide feed tube. The food processor has a pusher that cooperates with a safety mechanism. The safety mechanism comprises a linkage assembly that prevents the food processor's motor from operating unless the pusher is inserted into the feed tube.