Preparation module and lid for preparation module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lid locking mechanisms in kitchen appliances are prone to misalignment during the locking process, particularly in automatic systems, leading to user discomfort and increased susceptibility to errors.
Innovation Solution
A preparation module with a support unit that prevents rotation of the lid while allowing axial movement, featuring a support element and counter-support element interaction to ensure proper alignment and secure locking, utilizing a translational movement mechanism for locking and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lid locking mechanism is implemented with rotation about an axis, then the lid can be locked and released, but misalignment occurs during the locking process reducing user comfort and increasing error susceptibility
Solution Approach 1:
A support unit is introduced as an intermediary component between the lid and the preparation vessel. This support unit includes a support element on the preparation vessel and a counter-support element on the lid that interact to guide the lid's axial movement and prevent rotation, thereby eliminating misalignment during the locking process while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The support elements are designed to engage in advance during the lid placement process. The counter-support element on the lid interacts with the support element on the preparation vessel before the locking operation begins, pre-aligning the lid axially and preventing rotational misalignment that would otherwise occur during locking
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 2c
AI summary
The present invention relates to a preparation module (1) for arrangement in a receiving area (2) of a kitchen appliance base (3) of a kitchen appliance (4), comprising at least one preparation vessel (1a), at least one lid (6), and at least one lid locking element (8), wherein the preparation vessel (1a) has at least one preparation chamber (5) for receiving food, and wherein the lid locking element (8) is rotatable about an axis of rotation (R) at least between a lid release position and a lid locking position. The preparation module (1) has at least one support unit (14). The support unit (14) prevents rotation of the lid (6) about the axis of rotation (R) and allows at least axial movement of the lid (6) in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation (R) when the lid (6) is placed on the preparation vessel (1a).