Removable Cooking Vessel Heater Lock Using Temperature-Dependent Catch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food processing appliances with heating components pose a risk of discomfort or harm when users disconnect them while still hot, as they may burn skin or damage kitchen surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A temperature-dependent catch assembly that locks the heating component to the vessel above a certain temperature threshold and unlocks below it, preventing removal until it cools safely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the heating component is made removable for cleaning and maintenance, then ease of manufacture and maintenance is improved, but user safety deteriorates due to risk of burning from hot surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing a temperature-dependent locking mechanism that proactively prevents removal of the heating component while it is still hot. The catch assembly automatically engages to lock the heating element in place when temperature exceeds a threshold, before any user attempt to remove it, thereby preventing burn injuries before they can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary mechanism - the temperature-dependent catch assembly - that mediates between the heating component and the user. This intermediary automatically locks or unlocks based on temperature conditions, preventing direct interaction between the user and the hot heating element, thus eliminating the need for users to judge temperature safety themselves.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a temperature-dependent locking mechanism is added to prevent hot removal, then user safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing the physical property of materials that change state or properties with temperature. The catch assembly incorporates a temperature-sensitive element (such as a bimetallic strip or thermally responsive plastic) that automatically changes its mechanical properties at a threshold temperature, causing the locking mechanism to engage or disengage without requiring external sensors, power sources, or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature-dependent catch assembly is designed to be self-regulating and self-actuating. It automatically senses the temperature condition and independently performs the locking or unlocking action without requiring external control systems, motors, sensors, or user intervention. This self-service capability maintains safety functionality while minimizing added 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
Prevents user discomfort and kitchen surface damage by ensuring the heating component is safely handled only when cool enough to touch or place on surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
A temperature dependent catch assembly is configured to retain the at least one latch in the locked position above the temperature threshold and release the at least one latch below the temperature threshold
Data Source
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AI summary
A food processing appliance (10) includes a base (12) and a heating component (14) operably connected to the base (12) and configured to selectively receive a vessel (16) and generate heat above a temperature threshold. At least one latch (18) includes a locked position that secures the heating component (14) to the vessel (16) and an unlocked position that permits removal of the heating component (14) from the vessel (16). A temperature dependent catch assembly (20) is configured to retain the at least one latch (18) in the locked position above the temperature threshold and release the at least one latch (18) below the temperature threshold.