Single-Button Speed Control for Compact Kitchen Appliances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current kitchen appliances, such as bar blenders, require separate switches for power on-off and speed control, making them less convenient for users due to the need for multiple inputs and limited movement space for handheld devices, which complicates the integration of a single user interface.
Innovation Solution
A compact push button arrangement that combines power on-off and speed control functions using a single movable button, with separate actuators for mechanically actuating the power switch and controlling the motor speed, incorporating a travel sensing circuit for resistance, capacitance, or inductance to manage speed adjustments, and providing tactile, audible, or visual feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a combined on-off and speed regulation switch is provided, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to circuit separation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The switch is divided into two independent actuators (first actuator for power switch, second actuator for speed control) that operate on the same carrier. This segmentation allows each actuator to be optimized for its specific function while sharing common structural elements, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier serves multiple functions: it carries both actuators, provides mechanical support for the power switch actuation, and enables speed control through the second actuator. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, improving ease of operation without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a single movable button is used for both power and speed control, then ease of operation is improved, but the movement path length increases which reduces manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 1:
The movement path is segmented into two distinct phases: first actuator movement for power switching and second actuator movement for speed control. This segmentation allows each phase to have a short, precise movement path while still providing comprehensive control functionality, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a single linear movement path, the design uses two actuators that can move in different dimensions or directions on the same carrier. This dimensional separation allows each actuator to have a short movement path while collectively providing full control functionality.
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 a one-switch solution for power on-off and speed control, reducing the movement distance required for operation, enhancing user convenience and control, while maintaining reliability and compactness, suitable for various kitchen appliances including handheld and tabletop devices.
Implementation Method 1
The travel sensing circuit can have a resistance, capacitance or inductance which is a function of the amount of travel
Implementation Method 2
The travel sensing circuit can have a resistance, capacitance or inductance which is a function of the amount of travel
Implementation Method 3
The travel sensing circuit can have a resistance, capacitance or inductance which is a function of the amount of travel
Implementation Method 4
The first actuator can comprise a spring-loaded pin carried by the carrier, beneath the button, for mechanically engaging with the power switch when the button is first moved
Implementation Method 5
The spring loading enables the pin to retract after it has engaged the power switch
Data Source
AI summary
A kitchen appliance has a power switch for controlling supply of power to a motor and a separate control circuit (18) for controlling the speed. A button (14) for control by the user is provided for controlling both the actuation and speed. A carrier (40) carries the button, and also carries a first actuator (44, 86) for mechanically actuating the power switch when the button is first moved. When the button is further moved, the motor speed is controlled.