Mandoline Slicer Pusher Telescoping Spring Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mandoline slicers require users to apply constant force against a post that extends above the hand guard, which can be awkward and difficult for individuals with limited dexterity, strength, or finger length, especially when initially using the device.
Innovation Solution
A telescoping post and spring mechanism within the pusher of a mandoline slicer allows the lower plate to move telescopically, with a spring urging the plate downward to assist in pushing food items, reducing the need for constant user force and improving usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a post extends through the top of the hand guard cap to allow user pressing, then the pusher can push food items against the mandoline, but it requires constant user force and is awkward for users with limited dexterity or hand strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing a telescoping post that can extend and retract. The post extends above the cap when needed for user pressing, then retracts afterward. This dynamic movement allows the system to provide mechanical advantage only when necessary, reducing the constant force requirement while maintaining ease of operation during the actual pushing action.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism automatically provides downward force on the lower plate without requiring continuous user input. After the user initiates the pushing action, the spring maintains pressure on the food item, allowing the system to serve itself rather than requiring constant user force application.
2Force
If a spring is incorporated to provide downward force against the lower plate, then the pusher can assist in pushing food items, but the post still extends through the top of the cap requiring user manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping post is nested within the cap structure, with the post being able to extend from and retract into the cap. This nesting arrangement allows the post to be contained within the cap when not in use, eliminating the need for users to manipulate a protruding post while still providing the necessary extension for operation when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the lower plate is capable of retracting upwardly within the cap, then it can accommodate larger food items, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the retracting mechanism with the telescoping post mechanism. The same telescoping action that allows the post to extend for user pressing also enables the lower plate to retract upwardly within the cap. By combining these functions into a single mechanical system, the patent achieves adaptability for different food item sizes without proportionally increasing device complexity.
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 telescoping post and spring mechanism simplify the pushing action, making it easier for users to slice food items by providing consistent downward pressure, enhancing user experience and accessibility for those with limited dexterity or hand strength.
Implementation Method 1
the spring has a first end connected to the cap and a second end connected to the lower plate, the spring urging the lower plate away from the cap in a direction from the upper end toward the lower end
Data Source
AI summary
A pusher for use with a mandoline slicer includes a cap having an upper and a lower end, the cap defining an interior space. A lower plate is attached to a pillar, which is attached to a telescoping post. The pillar and telescoping post are telescopically moveable with respect to one another along the central axis and trained for movement by a guide within the cap. Stops are provided along the guide to restrict the length of travel of the telescoping post and pillar. A spring is connected to the cap and the lower plate to urge the lower plate away from the cap in a direction from the upper end toward the lower end.