Lifting mechanism for food processor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food processors require separate motors for axial displacement and rotational actuation of the power shaft, increasing structural complexity and manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A lifting mechanism for a food processor that utilizes a single driving module to achieve both axial movement and rotational actuation of a cutter shaft through a threaded engagement between the drive sleeve and cutter shaft, facilitated by a rotational speed differential.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate motors are used for axial displacement and rotational actuation of the power shaft, then the desired functions are achieved, but the structural complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate driving functions (axial displacement and rotational actuation) into a single motor-driven system. The motor drives the cutter shaft rotationally, and through the threaded engagement between the drive sleeve and cutter shaft, the rotational motion is converted into axial displacement. This merging of functions reduces structural complexity while maintaining functional reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded structure (internal threaded structure in the drive sleeve and external threaded structure on the cutter shaft) acts as an intermediary mechanism that converts rotational motion into axial motion. This intermediary mechanism eliminates the need for a separate axial displacement motor, reducing device complexity while achieving both required functions through a single motor
2Reliability
If separate motors are used for axial displacement and rotational actuation, then the functions are achieved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the axial displacement function and rotational actuation function into a single motor-driven system with threaded conversion mechanism, the bill of materials is reduced (fewer motors and mounting components), directly lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining full functional capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single motor is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides rotational actuation directly and, through the threaded engagement mechanism, enables axial displacement. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed, simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs
3Device complexity
If a single driving module is used, then structural complexity is reduced, but the mechanism requires threaded engagement and speed differential control
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded engagement structure automatically converts rotational motion into axial displacement without requiring additional control mechanisms. The speed differential between the drive sleeve and cutter shaft self-regulates the axial movement, eliminating the need for complex control systems while maintaining structural simplicity
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
Simplifies the drive architecture, reduces component complexity and manufacturing costs, and enhances structural integration by eliminating the need for auxiliary components like guide rods.
Implementation Method 1
an internal threaded structure is formed within the installation bore, and the cutter shaft is provided with an external threaded structure, the internal threaded structure being in threaded engagement with the external threaded structure; when a rotational speed differential exists between the drive sleeve and the cutter shaft, the external threaded structure cooperates with the internal threaded structure to drive the cutter shaft to move along its axial direction
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the field of food processing equipment, and more specifically to a lifting mechanism for a food processor. The mechanism comprises a mounting platform; a cutter shaft rotatable and axially movable relative to the platform; a drive sleeve with an internal threaded structure; an external threaded structure on the cutter shaft in threaded engagement with the drive sleeve; and a driving module configured to rotate the cutter shaft. When a rotational speed difference exists between the drive sleeve and the cutter shaft, the threaded engagement causes axial movement of the cutter shaft. This design employs a single driving module to achieve both rotation and lifting, thereby reducing structural complexity and manufacturing costs.