Mixer Assembly Shield and Heated Base to Contain Splatter and Steam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mixer assemblies face challenges in containing splatter and steam during mixing operations, leading to potential fluid contact with the drive system and condensation issues that can cause rust and affect the mixer's longevity.
Innovation Solution
A mixer assembly with a shield that includes a rotational inner ring, gasket, and drip guard, along with a heated base and locking mechanism, which minimizes fluid contact by creating a seal and directing condensation away from critical components, while allowing for controlled temperature maintenance and secure bowl attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a shield is added to contain splatter and steam, then protection of the drive system is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shield is divided into multiple functional components: a main shield body, a rotational inner ring, and a gasket system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function (containment, rotation with mixer, sealing) while collectively providing comprehensive protection to the drive system without requiring a monolithic complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational inner ring is nested within the shield structure, and the gasket is nested between the inner ring and the shield body. This nesting arrangement allows multiple protective and functional elements to be integrated in a compact manner, providing enhanced protection without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a rotational inner ring with gasket is used to create a seal, then fluid contact with drive system is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A gasket (flexible sealing element) is used to create the seal between the rotational inner ring and the shield body. This flexible component effectively prevents fluid contact with the drive system while being relatively simple to manufacture and install compared to rigid sealing mechanisms.
3Reliability
If a drip guard is added to direct condensation away from components, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drip guard function is merged with the existing shield structure rather than being a separate component. The shield body incorporates features that direct condensation away from critical components, providing reliable protection without adding separate complex structures.
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 solution effectively contains splatter and steam, protects the drive system from corrosion, and maintains the mixer's components in a safe and efficient state, extending the mixer assembly's useful life by ensuring safe operation and reducing maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
a gasket 24 coupled to the rotational inner ring 22, such that the rotational inner ring 22 is disposed between the gasket 24 and the stationary attachment portion 20
Implementation Method 2
a heated base 26 operably coupled to the pedestal 14 and configured to receive a mixing bowl 28
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A heated base (26) for a mixing assembly (10) includes a housing (130) that has an upper rim (140) and a lower bowl (142). A heating feature (133) is disposed within the lower bowl (142) of the housing. An engagement clip (160) is operably coupled to the housing (130). A locking member (30) operably coupled to the engagement clip (160) and is configured to selectively engage the engagement clip (160) in a first position (32) and a second position (34).