Whisk-Based Agitator Control Using Rotor Motion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid foodstuff agitation apparatuses have spatially split human/machine interaction and a multitude of external controls, which mar the design and prevent a clean, non-technological appearance.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a whisk that serves as both an agitator and a user interface, using an electromotor assembly with a rotor and stator for electromagnetic interaction to detect and execute user-controlled rotational movements, eliminating the need for external controls and allowing for spatially focused interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external controls are provided on the side of the apparatus for setting parameters, then the functionality and control capability are improved, but the design appearance is marred and the device loses a clean, non-technological appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface is merged with the whisk assembly itself. The whisk assembly includes a control element that allows users to adjust parameters directly on the whisk, eliminating the need for separate external controls on the side of the apparatus. This integration maintains the clean aesthetic appearance while preserving full control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The whisk assembly is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the agitation tool and the control interface. By incorporating parameter adjustment capabilities directly into the whisk assembly, the device achieves multi-functionality without adding separate control components that would compromise the design appearance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If controls are distributed on the side of the apparatus, then parameter adjustment is possible, but the human/machine interaction becomes spatially split and less intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is integrated into the whisk assembly, which is positioned centrally within the liquid foodstuff container. This consolidation brings all control functions to a single spatial location, allowing users to interact with the device in a focused manner rather than having to move between different control points on the side of the apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The whisk assembly serves as an intermediary between the user and the agitation system. By placing the control element on the whisk assembly, users can adjust parameters directly at the point of action, creating a more intuitive and spatially coherent interaction experience.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple external controls are provided for basic functions, then comprehensive control is achieved, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The whisk assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that combines agitation with control capabilities. By integrating parameter adjustment functions directly into the whisk assembly, the device reduces the total number of separate controls needed while maintaining comprehensive control over all basic functions.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple control functions are merged into a single control element on the whisk assembly. This consolidation allows users to access and adjust multiple parameters through one integrated interface, reducing device complexity while preserving 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 intuitive control over agitation parameters like direction, velocity, and temperature, providing a clean design by integrating all controls into the whisk, thus enhancing user experience and aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
a stator of the electromotor assembly, said stator being configured to electromagnetically drive the rotor in rotation, and including at least one magnetic sensor configured to provide a signal that reflects positional changes of the at least one rotor magnet relative to the magnetic sensor
Implementation Method 2
a stator of the electromotor assembly, said stator being configured to electromagnetically drive the rotor in rotation
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus (1) for agitating liquid foodstuff, comprising (i) a whisk (40) that includes a magnetic rotor (48) of a brushless electromotor assembly, and (ii) a main body (10) including a liquid foodstuff container (24) in which the whisk is receivable such that it is rotatable around a rotation axis (L) thereof, and a stator (20a) of the electromotor assembly. The stator is configured to electromagnetically drive the rotor in rotation, and includes at least one magnetic sensor configured to provide a signal that reflects positional changes of the magnetic rotor relative to the magnetic sensor. The main body also includes a controller (22a) configured to detect an initial, manually effected rotational movement of the whisk around its rotation axis from the signal of the magnetic sensor, and, once such initial movement of the whisk is detected, to operate the apparatus in dependence of said initial, movement.