Weighing module device for a kitchen appliance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food processor weighing modules face challenges in maintaining stability and precision under dynamic loads, leading to inaccurate weight measurements due to the distribution of weight over multiple feet and potential surface unevenness.
Innovation Solution
The weighing module device employs a mushroom-head-like connector inserted into a suction base with two degrees of freedom, allowing adaptation to non-flat surfaces and preventing permanent deformation of the suction base, while a strain gauge and collar elements enhance stability and precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the food processor weight is distributed over at least three feet, then the feet provide stability, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to slight changes in trim affecting force sensor readings
Solution Approach 1:
The weighing function is segmented from the feet structure. Instead of integrating force sensors into the feet, the patent uses a separate weighing module with a sensor element that measures only the weight of goods, not the entire food processor weight. This segmentation allows the feet to provide stability while the dedicated weighing module ensures measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The weighing function is extracted from the feet and placed in a separate weighing module. The sensor element is positioned to measure only the weight of goods on the base plate, excluding the food processor's own weight and the dynamic loads from stirring and chopping that affect the feet.
2Device complexity
If a cylindrical connecting element is used to connect the sensor element to the base plate, then the structure is simple, but the suction base deforms permanently under dynamic load, reducing suction effect over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional connection geometry. Instead of a cylindrical male connector inserted into a female receptacle (which causes deformation), it uses a mushroom-head-like connector on the sensor element that fits into a corresponding opening in the suction base. This inversion allows the suction base to have two degrees of freedom for adaptation without permanent deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between the sensor element and suction base is made dynamic rather than rigid. The mushroom-head connector allows the suction base to pivot with two degrees of freedom, enabling it to adapt to non-flat surfaces dynamically while maintaining stable weight measurement.
3Measurement precision
If the suction base is rigidly connected to the sensor element, then the weight measurement is stable, but the suction base cannot adapt to non-flat surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The connection is made dynamic by allowing the suction base to pivot on the mushroom-head connector with two degrees of freedom. This enables the suction base to adapt to non-flat surfaces by adjusting its orientation while the sensor element remains stable for accurate weight measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The mushroom-head connector is nested within the suction base opening, allowing the suction base to move independently within a limited range while maintaining connection. This nested arrangement provides both adaptability and measurement stability.
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
This configuration ensures long-term stability and precise weight measurement by allowing the suction base to adapt to surface irregularities and resist shearing loads, maintaining high precision and extending the service life of the weighing module.
Implementation Method 1
a suction base (104) which is releasably connected to the sensor element (102), the suction base (104) acting as a suction base when the food processor is used as intended
Implementation Method 2
at least one force sensor (101) on a sensor element (102)
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6.1~6.2
AI summary
The invention relates to a weighing module device (100) for a food processor, comprising at least one force sensor (101) on a sensor element (102), at least one receiving device (103) for connecting the sensor element (102) to a base plate (201) of the food processor, a suction foot (104) which is detachably connected to the sensor element (102), wherein the suction foot (104) serves as a lower support for the sensor element (102) during the intended use of the food processor, and wherein the receiving device (103) serves as an upper support for the sensor element (102) during the intended use of the food processor, and wherein the weight force of the mass of the food processor and the material to be weighed therein acts on the sensor element (102) via the receiving device (103).According to the invention, the sensor element (102) has a mushroom-shaped connector (105) which is inserted into a corresponding central opening (106) in the suction foot (104), which, during normal use of the food processor, points upwards. This ensures that the suction foot (104) is subjected to even stress without deformation, thereby extending the service life of the suction foot (104) and allowing the weighing module device to operate reliably for a longer period.