Wireless Mixing Ball Assembly for Portable Drink Vortexing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mixing devices for potable liquids face issues with size, mobility, durability, and effectiveness, often being cumbersome and inefficient in mixing fluids.
Innovation Solution
A drink mixing device featuring a ball assembly in wireless communication with a base assembly, utilizing a motor-driven propeller for efficient mixing, with features like removable components for easy cleaning and charging, and adjustable speed settings via a button or dial interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional mixing devices are used for potable liquids, then mixing function is provided, but size becomes large and mobility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing device is divided into two separate components: a base assembly that remains stationary and a ball assembly that moves freely within the container. The base assembly contains the power source and control electronics, while the ball assembly contains the mixing propeller. This segmentation allows the mixing function to be delivered without requiring the entire device to be large or stationary, thereby improving mobility while maintaining mixing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
A wireless communication system serves as an intermediary between the base assembly and the ball assembly. The base assembly transmits control signals and power wirelessly to the ball assembly, eliminating the need for physical connections or cables. This intermediary communication system enables the ball assembly to move freely within the container without being constrained by physical tethers, thereby improving mobility while maintaining control and power supply.
2Reliability
If conventional mixing devices are used, then mixing capability is provided, but durability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the mixing function into a dedicated ball assembly with a protected propeller, the design isolates the wear-prone mixing components from the control and power components in the base assembly. The ball assembly can be easily removed, cleaned, and replaced if needed, while the base assembly remains protected from liquid exposure and wear, thereby improving overall durability without compromising mixing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The propeller in the ball assembly is protected by a metal spiral cage structure that prevents the propeller blades from bending or breaking during operation. This protective structure acts as a cushion against potential damage from container walls or other obstacles, thereby improving the durability of the mixing components while maintaining full mixing capability.
3Device complexity
If conventional mixing devices are used, then mixing function is provided, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ball assembly is designed to be self-contained with its own motor, propeller, and protective cage, allowing it to function independently once activated. The wireless control system automatically establishes communication between the base and ball assemblies, eliminating the need for complex manual setup or configuration. Users simply place the ball assembly in the container and press a button to start mixing, greatly simplifying operation despite the sophisticated internal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The base assembly serves multiple functions: it houses the power source, control electronics, wireless communication system, and charging port. The ball assembly serves as both the mixing device and a portable unit that can be removed for cleaning or storage. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components or complex assembly procedures, thereby reducing perceived device complexity while maintaining ease of use.
4Productivity
If a motor-driven propeller is used for mixing, then mixing effectiveness is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing device operates in periodic cycles rather than continuously. The motor-driven propeller activates only when mixing is needed, creating vortex patterns that efficiently mix liquids through periodic motion. This periodic operation reduces overall energy consumption compared to continuous mixing, while maintaining effective mixing performance through high-intensity intermittent action that creates thorough liquid circulation and blending.
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
The device effectively creates a vortex for thorough mixing of liquids in various containers, offering improved durability and mobility, along with efficient energy transfer and user-friendly operation.
Implementation Method 1
The motor turns a propeller external to but affixed to the exterior of the ball assembly when the motor is powered and turned on
Implementation Method 2
a ball assembly in wireless communication with a base assembly. The base assembly comprises a casing for storing a first battery, a transmitter that receives power from the first battery
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a drink mixing device generally characterized as having a ball assembly in wireless communication with a base assembly. The base assembly comprises a casing for storing a first battery, a transmitter that receives power from the first battery, a base assembly wireless coil, a power port receiving for external power and host or peripheral connection, a button located along the casing wherein the button is electronically connected to the transmitter. The ball assembly comprises a casing for storing a second battery, a motor, a ball assembly wireless coil, and a receiver. The motor turns a propeller external to but affixed to the exterior of the ball assembly when the motor is powered and turned on. The propeller is protected by a metal spiral.