Mixer Implement Retainer Coupling for Small-Shaft Torque Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing attachment mechanisms for mixing implements on smaller mixers face challenges due to size and space limitations, making it difficult to adapt to smaller size mixers and implements.

Innovation Solution

A mixing implement attachment system featuring a connecting portion with a drive pin receiving recess and a retainer mechanism, where the retainer is biased to move inward and can be retracted outward, allowing secure coupling and torque transfer on smaller mixer shafts with varying recess depths and tapered surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a bayonet style connection or traditional attachment arrangement is used, then secure attachment and torque transfer are achieved, but the mechanism becomes too complex and large for smaller size mixers and mixing implements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidattachment mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a retainer member with first and second engagement features, a shaft with corresponding recesses and drive pins. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall structure for smaller mixers while maintaining secure attachment through multiple engagement points

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The retainer member serves multiple functions: it provides vertical support through the first engagement feature (recess and drive pin interface) and torque transfer through the second engagement feature (protrusion and recess interface). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate support and torque transfer mechanisms, reducing overall complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If traditional attachment arrangements are used, then adequate support and torque transfer are provided, but the mechanism cannot be adapted to smaller size mixers and mixing implements due to space limitations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevertical supportVSAvoidattachment mechanism volume

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The retainer member is designed to be received within the connecting portion of the mixing implement, with the retainer body positioned inside the implement body. This nested arrangement minimizes the overall volume of the attachment mechanism while maintaining adequate vertical support through the drive pin engagement, making it suitable for smaller mixers

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Reliability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque transferVSAvoidattachment mechanism volume

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The torque transfer function is extracted and concentrated into a specific second engagement feature (protrusion and recess interface) rather than relying on a complex distributed mechanism. This extracted simplification maintains adequate torque transfer capability while significantly reducing the volume required for the attachment mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Device complexity

If a simplified attachment mechanism is used for smaller mixers, then the volume and complexity are reduced, but secure attachment and reliable torque transfer may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment mechanism complexityVSAvoidattachment security

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The vertical support and torque transfer functions are merged into a single retainer member that engages the shaft through two distinct but integrated features. This merging maintains reliability by ensuring both functions are provided by one securely attached component rather than multiple separate elements, while keeping the overall mechanism simple

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables secure attachment and efficient torque transfer of mixing implements to smaller mixer shafts, accommodating various sizes and shapes, and facilitating easy replacement and cleaning.

Implementation Method 1

A spring is positioned within the retainer and bears against the actuator to bias the retainer toward the inward position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

the shaft includes a tapered surface that engages the retainer to transfer torque from the shaft to the mixing implement

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20060193201A1Mixer, mixing implement and associated attachment mechanism

Publication Date: 2006.08.31 PREMARK FEG LLC

AI summary

A mixing implement includes a body having a mixing portion and a connecting portion, the connecting portion having an upper shaft receiving opening formed therein and a side opening that leads to the shaft receiving opening, the shaft receiving opening having a drive pin receiving recess, the side opening and the drive pin receiving recess located substantially diametrically opposite each other with the side opening at a height corresponding to at least part of the drive pin receiving recess. A retainer is movably coupled with the connecting portion through the side opening and biased into an inward position in which an inner portion of the retainer is normally positioned within the shaft receiving opening, the retainer movable to an outward position in which the inner portion of the retainer is at least partially retracted from the shaft receiving opening.