Removable Gearbox Lid for Dishwasher-Safe Stick Mixer Processors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food processors driven by stick mixers require a speed-reducing gearbox, which is typically permanently housed in the lid, making it non-dishwasher safe and difficult to clean.
Innovation Solution
A removable gearbox is integrated between the stick mixer motor and the food processor's mechanical input, allowing the lid to be washed in a dishwasher and featuring a safety mechanism to prevent direct spindle engagement, with optional clear molding for visibility and storage solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a gearbox is permanently housed within the lid of the food processor, then the speed reduction function is achieved, but the lid cannot be submerged or dishwasher cleaned
Solution Approach 1:
The gearbox is separated from the lid, allowing the lid to be removed for dishwasher cleaning while the gearbox remains in the base unit. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling the lid to be cleaned without the gearbox present.
Solution Approach 2:
The gearbox is extracted from the lid and placed in the base unit. This extraction allows the lid to be dishwasher safe while the gearbox continues to provide speed reduction functionality in its new location.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the lid is made opaque to house the gearbox, then the gearbox is protected, but visibility of food within the processor is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The gearbox is extracted from the lid and placed in the base unit, allowing the lid to remain transparent for food visibility while the gearbox is housed elsewhere where it does not require transparency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into transparent lid and base unit containing the gearbox, allowing each component to have optimal properties - the lid remains transparent for visibility while the gearbox is protected in the base.
3Device complexity
If the stick mixer spindle can directly engage the food processor spindle, then the coupling is simple, but safety hazards occur from direct rotation capability
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate coupling mechanism acts as a mediator between the stick mixer spindle and food processor spindle. It allows power transmission only when the lid is properly attached, preventing direct engagement and ensuring safety while maintaining reasonable coupling simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate coupling mechanism automatically engages or disengages based on whether the lid is properly attached. When the lid is attached, the mechanism enables power transmission; when detached, it automatically prevents engagement, providing safety without requiring additional controls.
Data Source
AI summary
A food processing lid is used with a cooperating bowl and a stick mixer handle. The lid has a feed tube and a recess for receiving a removeable gearbox that is driven by a stick mixer.