Sifter scale attachment for stand mixer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food-product handling devices lack an integrated solution for efficiently sifting and weighing ingredients while allowing for controlled addition to a mixing bowl, as they often require separate devices for sifting and weighing, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A combination sifter and scale attachment for a stand mixer that includes a sifter unit with a housing and basket, and a scale assembly with an annular weight-sensing unit, allowing for simultaneous weighing and sifting of ingredients with controlled dispensing into a mixing bowl or other containers, utilizing a sweeper crank and output chute for efficient ingredient handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate devices are used for sifting and weighing ingredients, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the device complexity and operational efficiency deteriorate due to requiring multiple separate tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a sifter unit and a scale assembly into a single integrated attachment that couples to a stand mixer. The sifter unit includes a housing with a sifter basket, while the scale assembly has a body with an annular weight-sensing unit. These two previously separate functions (sifting and weighing) are merged into one device, allowing simultaneous operation without requiring multiple separate tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated attachment serves multiple functions: it sifts ingredients through the sifter basket, weighs ingredients using the annular weight-sensing unit, and controls dispensing into the mixing bowl. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate sifter and scale devices, improving versatility while maintaining optimized performance for each specific function through dedicated components.
2Productivity
If separate devices are used for sifting and weighing, then manufacturing and maintenance become simpler for each individual device, but productivity deteriorates due to the need to switch between devices
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the sifter and scale into a single attachment that couples to the stand mixer, the patent eliminates the need to switch between separate devices during ingredient preparation. The simultaneous sifting and weighing capability allows continuous operation, directly improving productivity by eliminating device-switching time.
3Ease of operation
If an integrated sifter and scale attachment is used, then operational efficiency and productivity improve, but the device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to the integrated mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment is segmented into distinct functional modules: a sifter unit with housing and basket, and a scale assembly with body and weight-sensing unit. These modules are designed to work together but maintain separate functional identities, making the integrated device easier to understand and operate while preserving the benefits of integration.
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 efficient weighing, sifting, and controlled addition of ingredients directly into a mixing bowl or other containers, enhancing kitchen workflow by integrating these functions into a single device that operates independently of the mixer's power source.
Implementation Method 1
a scale assembly having a body defining an upper opening and an opposite lower opening and having an annular weight-sensing unit surrounding the upper opening
Data Source
AI summary
A food-product handling device includes a sifter unit having housing defining an open upper side, a mount extending outwardly from the first housing along a first axis, and a lower side opposite the upper side. A sifter basket has an interior and is aligned with and inset within the open upper side. The device further includes a scale assembly having a body defining an upper opening and an opposite lower opening and having an annular weight-sensing unit surrounding the upper opening. The body is positionable on the housing of the sifter unit with the opening in communication with the open upper side of the housing. A hopper is positionable on the weight-sensing unit.