Kitchen machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing kitchen machines lack versatility, safety, and ergonomic design, particularly in handling different cooking volumes and ensuring user safety during operation.
Innovation Solution
A kitchen machine with interchangeable containers of varying sizes, featuring a dual-direction rotating blade block, a locking mechanism for secure operation, and a weighing system for stability, along with a measuring cup for precise measurements and safety features to prevent liquid and particle projection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single kitchen machine design is used, then manufacturing and maintenance are simplified, but versatility for different cooking volumes and meal types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal machine body that can accommodate multiple container types (blender jar, food processor bowl, chopping bowl) through a standardized coupling mechanism. The drive shaft and sealing system are designed to work with all container variations, allowing one machine to perform multiple cooking functions without requiring separate appliances for different cooking volumes and types
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is implemented to ensure safety, then user safety during operation is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical locking systems with a sensor-based detection system. Load cells or optical sensors automatically detect when a container is properly installed and coupled, eliminating the need for manual locking mechanisms while maintaining safety through electronic control that prevents operation unless the container is correctly positioned
3Productivity
If dual-direction rotation is implemented for the blade block, then cooking versatility and efficiency are improved, but device complexity and energy consumption are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic rotation system where the blade block can rotate in both directions and adjust its speed based on the specific cooking task. The control system optimizes rotation direction and speed for different operations (e.g., blending vs. chopping), allowing the engine to operate at lower energy consumption levels by selecting the most efficient rotation pattern for each task rather than maintaining constant high-speed bidirectional rotation
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention applies to kitchen machines and aims to improve the operation, safety, ergonomics and versatility in using this house appliance. This house appliance consists essentially of: a machine body (1) inside which there is a main engine (3) with adjustable operation in both directions, and a control panel (2) through which the user interacts with the kitchen machine and is directly connected to the entire set of electronic components (4) intended to control and manage the machine operation, including: the operation speed of the main engine (3) and its direction of rotation, the heating temperature of the base of the container (5, 6) where food is cooked, the operation timing of the rotor driving the blade block (7), and also to manage the safety conditions of operation of the entire machine; two containers (5, 6) intended to contain the food to be cooked hereinafter referred as cup (5) or pan (6), each one possessing its own and independent lid (8, 9) whose function is to prevent unintentional access to the interior while the blade block is working (7) and prevent the projection of liquid and particles to the outside; a blade block (7) applicable at the bottom of the container (5, 6) characterized in that it can be removed by the user for cleaning and hygienisation, which comprises four rotating blades whose rotation speed is adjustable and can variate depending on the type of food and the type of cooking the user desires, for instance, in order to prevent overheating of the food in direct contact with the base of the container (5, 6) during the heating process, or in order to crush the food continuously or in a pulsed way. A set of four load cells (13) is incorporated in the machine body base (12) located at opposite ends thereof, which ensures greater operation stability of the kitchen machine and the optimization of the weighing process. A locking mechanism (14) is part of the machine and acts jointly between the lid (8, 9) and the container (5, 6), and between the container (5, 6) and the machine body (1), preventing the main engine (3) of being switched- on without these elements are properly placed in the kitchen machine. The measuring cup (32), which is the same for both lids (8, 9), allows measurement of small volumes of liquid while using the kitchen machine, without the need of using extra tools, because its clover leaf shape prevents the formation of vapor pressure inside the container (5, 6) and allow free handling of the lid (8, 9) without the occurrence of its unintentional detachment whenever the user wishes to fasten it.