Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and method for operating a mixer grinder during power or sensor failure with power backup mode and manual override function. The present invention incorporates a power backup mode that enables the device to operate at reduced power consumption in the event of power failure. It allows the mixer grinder (100) to operate on any power backup source with a minimum battery capacity of 80AH, including battery inverters, diesel generators, and solar power systems. Additionally, the present invention incorporates a manual mode function in the mixer grinder that allows the user to continue using the device even when facing safety-sensor failures, bypassing the usual safety checks, and enabling the user to operate the mixer grinder in normal speed regulation. The present invention thereby provides an effective solution for maximizing user satisfaction by ensuring continuous operation of the device and avoiding downtime caused by power failure and sensor malfunction. (Figure to be published along with abstract: Figure 1).
DESC:FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to the field of kitchen mixer grinders and more particularly to a system and method for operating the mixer grinder in power backup mode on various power backup sources with reduced power consumption in the event of a power failure, and a manual override mode to bypass the safety-sensor checks to continue operating the mixer grinder in the event of safety-sensor(s) failure.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In modern kitchens, the reliance on household appliances has become integral for swiftly completing tasks with ease. Among these appliances, mixer grinders play a pivotal role in simplifying day-to-day kitchen activities. The user can carry out all the typical kitchen tasks such as grinding, mixing, and chopping easily with the help of mixer grinders. Mixer grinders significantly reduce the time and effort required for various culinary endeavors.
In the context of the Indian kitchen, the standard power consumption of a mixer grinder is 750 watts, reflecting its energy demand during operation. It becomes a limiting factor during power outages when attempting to connect with power backup sources such as battery inverters, generators, and solar power. When a high-wattage appliance like a mixer grinder is connected to a power backup source, several issues arise. First, the device may trip due to the inverter’s limited output capacity, which is often unable to handle the sudden surge in power demand. Alternatively, if the mixer grinder manages to run on the power backup sources, it can significantly drain the connected battery. The consequence of these challenges is that essential kitchen tasks, which rely on the mixer grinder, are left unattended during power failure. Users are forced to wait until the conventional AC power supply is restored, as attempting to operate the mixer grinder on power backup systems is impractical.
Furthermore, concerning modern mixer grinders, an array of safety sensors are employed to monitor if the mixer grinder’s jar and its lid are securely locked onto the mixer grinder’s housing, thereby allowing the motor to run. If the safety sensor detects any of the locks not being in a secure and intact state, it prevents the mixer grinder’s motor from running. These sensors collectively contribute to the safety and efficient operation of the mixer grinder.
The operation of the mixer grinder relies on sensors to perform various safety checks before allowing the device to operate. When a sensor fails, it disrupts the usual operation of the mixer grinder, causing inconvenience for the user, which makes it difficult for them to complete their culinary responsibilities. The user usually has to wait for a service expert to resolve the defect, which could be a time-consuming process. Therefore, the user’s reliance on the device is intricately tied to the stability of the main power source and the effective functioning of integrated sensors. When the main power source encounters disruptions, such as outages or fluctuations, the device’s ability to perform is directly affected. Also, in the event of sensor failure the usual operation of the device is interrupted, causing inconvenience for the user, and hindering their ability to fulfill culinary responsibilities. The combined impact of power and sensor failure underscores the need for innovative solutions that address these vulnerabilities, ensuring a more reliable and uninterrupted user experience.
To overcome these challenges posed by conventional mixer grinders, the present invention provides a system and method for operating a mixer grinder with a manual override function to bypass the sensor checks during sensor failure, and a power backup mode to keep the device operating with reduced power consumption in the event of a power failure.
The present invention incorporates a power backup mode function that enables the device to operate at reduced power consumption in the event of power failure. It allows the mixer grinder to operate on any power backup source with a minimum battery capacity of 80AH, including battery inverters, diesel generators, and solar power systems. The present invention employs button switches located on the front trim of the mixer grinder to activate the power backup mode, enabling users to continue their kitchen tasks during power failures or when AC power is not accessible. When the user selects the power backup mode, it enables users to operate at reduced power consumption in the event of power failure. The present invention aims to provide a convenient solution to address the common issue of the non-functionality of mixer grinders during power failures, ensuring continuous operation with reduced power from any power backup source thereby reducing downtime.
Additionally, the present invention incorporates a manual mode function in the mixer grinder that allows the user to continue using the device even when facing sensor failures, bypassing the usual safety checks, and enabling the user to carry out kitchen tasks. The present invention addresses the issue by providing an alternate manner of operating the device that does not rely on faulty sensors. By incorporating the manual mode feature, the device can still be operated safely, avoiding disruptions caused by sensor failures until a service specialist can address the issue. The present invention has another dedicated button located on the front trim of the kitchen mixer grinder, specifically above the speed control knob, making it easily accessible and convenient for the user to switch to manual mode. The present invention provides the option for the user to toggle the manual mode function when sensor failure occurs.
When the manual mode is activated, the sensor checks are bypassed, allowing the device to continue operating. Thus, the manual mode function empowers the users to take control of the appliance’s operation, especially in situations where automated sensor checks might impede normal functioning. The manual mode function in the present invention has a conceptual similarity with the Anti-lock braking System (ABS) used in vehicles. In both cases, the redundant functionality aims to ensure uninterrupted operation and enhance safety. In ABS, the system prevents wheels from locking up during emergency braking, enabling the driver to maintain control and avoid skidding. This backup function ensures that even if ABS fails, it reverts to normal braking, thus reducing the risk of accidents. The present invention provides an intelligent solution that enhances the overall user experience by ensuring uninterrupted operation and reducing downtime caused in the event of power and sensor failures.
VARIOUS PRIOR ARTS HAVE DISCLOSED SIMILAR SYSTEMS AND METHODS:
A product “Atomberg MG 1” refers to a mixer grinder that uses inverter technology which has a total of four speeds, with the first speed being the slowest at 5000 rpm. In case of power failure, users are not confined to operating at this speed. However, if the user habitually selects higher speeds, it can lead to battery drainage in the household inverter setup or may even cause the power backup system to trip due to high power consumption. It is notable that in the present invention, the users have the option to switch the mixer to operate from any power backup source with a minimum battery capacity of 80AH such as battery inverters, generators, and solar power systems. The present system intelligently restricts the wattage to around 120W, when the backup mode is toggled on, regardless of the speed selected by the user. The power backup mode in the present invention ensures reduced power consumption from the backup source, allowing the power backup system to supply power for an extended period without tripping. As a result, users can seamlessly complete their mixing/ grinding activities without interruption.
A research paper bearing ID: IJRASET42429, entitled “Design and Implementation of Juicer using BLDC motor” published in Volume 10, Issue V, May 2022 in the International Journal for Research in Applied Science & Engineering Technology refers to a juicer apparatus that operates with a BLDC motor designed for a maximum power of 300 Watts and operates at a single lower rpm of 3000 rpm. In contrast, the present invention is designed to operate at much higher rpm with a maximum power of 450 watts. The present invention incorporates a power backup mode feature in which the motor speed is controlled thereby reducing the power consumption from a power backup source in the event of a power failure from the grid.
To solve the aforementioned challenges in the prior art, the present invention provides a system and method for manual override in the event of sensor failure, and a power backup mode to keep the device operating with reduced power consumption in the event of a power failure. The power backup mode enables operation at significantly reduced power consumption of about 120W thereby addressing the challenge of high-power draw. Furthermore, the present invention includes a set of instructions in its firmware that is stored in the device’s memory, that directs the device on when and how to bypass the sensor checks in the event of sensor failure. The present invention improves the product’s value and convenience by offering a backup option for operating the device in case of sensor or power failure. The manual mode and the power backup mode functions are effective strategies for maximizing user satisfaction by ensuring the continuous operation of the device and avoiding downtime caused by sensor malfunctions/ power outages.
The present invention, when put in use with the distinctive tower blade (as disclosed in Patent Application No: 202343031659 filed by the Applicant), further enhances the efficiency of the mixer grinder when the motor operates in power backup mode at 120W supply. The unique blade design of the tower blade with stacked and offset blades enhances grinding efficiency even at lower speeds, achieving desirable results without requiring
high-speed operation. The blade structure in the tower blade design creates a higher vortex and increases the impact of grinding multiple times, enabling faster and more efficient grinding at low power consumption. In the preferred embodiment, the present invention employs a BLDC motor coupled with the tower blade's unique design, this enables the mixer grinder to function at 120W. This is a notable reduction compared to the higher wattage consumption of BLDC motor-equipped mixers, especially when used with power backup sources. The combination of reduced noise, preserved food flavor, minimized heat generation, and the capability to function at just 120W makes this invention well-suited for usage with power backup systems and in regions with unstable power supplies. It is noteworthy that the present invention addresses power challenges and enhances overall mixer grinder performance.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
It is the main object of the present invention to provide a system and method for operating the mixer grinder in power backup mode with reduced power consumption in the event of a power failure and a manual override mode to bypass the safety-sensor checks to continue operating the mixer grinder in the event of safety-sensor(s) failure.
It is the primary object of the present invention to provide energy-efficient, inverter-compatible, and high-performance kitchen equipment that addresses power challenges by enabling the device to operate on various power backup sources such as home inverter systems, solar power, and generators thereby offering enhanced usability and sustainability.detachment and ensure safety.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a power backup mode for kitchen mixer grinders to enable operation at significantly reduced power consumption of about 120W thereby addressing the challenge of high-power draw.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a power backup mode coupled with a BLDC motor that can run at lower RPM and lower wattage.
It is another object of the present invention to provide users with easy access to the power backup and manual mode toggle switches ensuring a seamless transition between these modes and regular mode as and when required.
It is another object of the present invention to reduce the device’s dependency on the main power source and integrated sensors by allowing the user to switch to power backup and manual override mode to continue operating the mixer grinder, thus minimizing the impact of power and sensor failure.
It is yet another object of the present invention to incorporate a manual mode function in the mixer grinder by providing an alternative way to use the device until the sensor is restored to its optimal functioning state.
It is another object of the present invention to enable the user to bypass the sensor checks and make the device operable during sensor failure.
It is another object of the present invention to reduce the downtime by avoiding the need to wait for troubleshooting or repair service i.e., the user can continue using the device until a service specialist can address the sensor failure in the due course of time.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a system to reduce the device’s dependency on sensors for safety checks and avoid complete reliance on the sensor’s functionality during sensor failure.
It is another object of the present invention to enhance the overall user experience of the device by ensuring uninterrupted operation and reducing downtime.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a system and method for operating a mixer grinder during power or sensor failure with power backup and manual override modes. In the event of power failure, the power backup mode enables the device to continue its operation on various power backup sources such as battery inverters, diesel generators, solar power systems, etc., with reduced power consumption. Additionally, the present system provides a manual override function that enables the device to operate even during the event of a sensor failure. The manual mode disables the sensor checks and allows the user to continue operating the mixer grinder to complete their tasks until the service specialist arrives to address the sensor defect. By incorporating these techniques, the present system enhances the overall user experience of the mixer grinder by ensuring uninterrupted operation thereby reducing the downtime caused due to power or sensor failure. The present system employs a switch that can be located on the front trim of the mixer grinder to toggle the power backup and manual mode as and when required.
By toggling the power backup mode, the user can continue their kitchen tasks during a power failure or when AC power is not accessible. The present invention aims to provide a convenient solution to address the common issue of the non-functionality of mixer grinders during power failures, ensuring continuous operation with reduced power from any power backup source. In the context of Indian kitchens, the conventional power consumption of 750W for mixer grinders poses challenges when using home inverters during power outages due to their limited output capacity. This mismatch in power consumption hinders the practicality of running high-wattage appliances with power backup sources, such as inverter systems. To address this, the present invention can be used with any type of motor including a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor, known for its efficient performance at lower wattages. BLDC motors capitalize on energy efficiency and are particularly crucial for appliances like mixer grinders that are used extensively. When the main AC power supply fails, the user can toggle the power backup mode which can control the motor power, enabling the operation of any motor at around 120W from any power backup source with a minimum of 80 AH capability. It is noteworthy to emphasize that the present system ensures that the motor does not drain the power backup source even during a prolonged run time. Moreover, if the user is running the mixer grinder when the main AC power is on and subsequently after the power outage if the home power supply switches to the inverter, the conventional mixer grinders tend to start running at the same speed that was set earlier thereby
power-tripping the entire battery power supply. The present invention restricts the device from turning on with maximum efficiency after the power failure and when the power backup mode is toggled on, and it ensures that the motor runs only at around 120W irrespective of the speed chosen by the user ensuring that the power backup sources are not affected. The power backup mode can be particularly useful in areas with frequent power outages or emergencies, ensuring that the users can still use the device until the regular power supply is resumed.
The latest mixer grinders rely on sensors to perform various checks before allowing the device to operate for safety purposes. When a sensor fails, it disrupts the usual operation of the mixer grinder, causing inconvenience for the user and making it difficult for them to complete their culinary responsibilities. Usually, the user has to wait for a service expert to resolve the defect which is a time-consuming process. Whereas, in such a situation, the present invention also provides an option for the user to toggle the manual mode function to bypass sensor safety checks thereby allowing the user to continue using the mixer grinder for their kitchen tasks until the service specialist arrives to address the sensor problem.
The user can carry out all the typical grinding, mixing, chopping, and other tasks without being hampered by a faulty or defective sensor and this system is especially useful when the user has immediate kitchen tasks or when waiting for a service specialist is not immediately feasible. The present invention thereby provides an effective solution for maximizing user satisfaction by ensuring continuous operation of the device and avoiding downtime caused by power failure and sensor malfunction. The present invention in various tests demonstrates the efficiency, safety, and reliability of the power backup mode and manual override function confirming its practicality for everyday use.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 provides a visual representation of the components of the mixer grinder system, including power backup and manual mode operations’ toggle switches.
Figure 2 illustrates the process flowchart outlining the operation of the mixer grinder in the event of power failure, with the power backup mode.
Figure 3 illustrates the process flowchart outlining the operation of the mixer grinder in the event of sensor failure, with a manual override function.
Provided below is the list of components of the present invention along with its reference numerals:
PART DESCRIPTION REFERENCE NUMERAL
Mixer Grinder 100
Motor Unit 102
Main Power Switch 104
Speed Control Knob 106
Microcontroller 108
LED Indicators 110
Inverter Mode Toggle Switch 112
Manual Mode Toggle Switch 114
Buzzer 116
While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of examples in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in the present specification and claims should not be construed as limited to ordinary or dictionary terms, and the inventor should appropriately interpret the concept of the term appropriately to describe its own invention in the best way. The present invention should be construed as meaning and concept consistent with the technical idea of the present invention based on the principle that it can be defined. Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are only the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that equivalents and modifications are possible.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION WITH RESPECT TO THE DRAWINGS
The present invention as embodied by "A system and method for operating mixer grinder with power backup and manual override modes” succinctly fulfils the above-mentioned need(s) in the art. The present invention has objective(s) arising as a result of the above-mentioned need(s), said objective(s) being enumerated below. In as much as the objective(s) of the present invention are enumerated, it will be obvious to a person skilled in the art that, the enumerated objective(s) are not exhaustive of the present invention in its entirety and are enclosed solely for the purpose of illustration. Further, the present invention encloses within its scope and purview, any structural alternative(s) and/or any functional equivalent(s) even though, such structural alternative(s) and/or any functional equivalent(s) are not mentioned explicitly herein or elsewhere, in the present disclosure. The present invention therefore encompasses also, any improvisation(s)/ modification(s) applied to the structural alternative(s)/functional alternative(s) within its scope and purview. The present invention may be embodied in other specific form(s) without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof.
Throughout this specification, the use of the word "comprise" and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising" may imply the inclusion of an element or elements not specifically recited.
The present invention provides a system and method for manual override in the event of sensor failure, and a power backup mode to keep the device operating with reduced power consumption in the event of a power failure. The power backup mode enables the user to continue operating the device even during an AC power outage with reduced power consumption on various power backup sources such as home inverters, generators, solar power systems, etc.
Figure 1 provides a visual representation of the components of the mixer grinder system, including power backup and manual mode operations’ toggle switches.
The present system embodied by a mixer grinder (100) comprises (i) a motor unit (102), (ii) a main power switch (104), (iii) a speed control knob (106), (iv) a micro-controller (108), (v) two momentary latching switches (112) & (114), (vi) LED indicators (110), (vii) a buzzer (116).
The speed of the motor that is housed within the main enclosure is controlled by the user using the speed control knob (106) provided on the front panel of the mixer housing. The speed set by the user is then communicated to the microcontroller (108) which then computes the desired speed, power, and torque for that speed setting.
The different speed settings are displayed through LEDs provided on the front panel for each speed setting. There are special LEDs to indicate any error conditions such as over voltage/ under voltage or if the system is not locked into position for the motor to start its normal operations.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the system comprises two modes of operation during the power or sensor failures of the mixer grinder, wherein the two modes are “Power Backup Mode” and “Manual Mode”.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the motor unit is housed within a main enclosure.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the main power switch (104) provides the AC power supply to the mixer grinder (100).
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the speed control knob (106) is located on the front panel of the enclosure to adjust the motor speed levels according to specific grinding needs.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the two momentary latching switches: Inverter Mode Toggle Switch (112) & Manual Mode Toggle Switch (114) are located at the front panel of the enclosure for toggling the power backup and manual override modes.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the microcontroller (108) is provided to perform functions based on user inputs.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the hardware port pin / General purpose input output port (GPIO) of the microcontroller (108) is configured as input and connected to the power backup mode switch (112) and when the switch is held for 2 seconds, the pin detects the logic level and the power backup mode is activated.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the hardware port pin / General purpose input output port (GPIO) of the microcontroller (108) is configured as input and connected to the manual mode switch (114) and when the switch is held for 2 seconds, the pin detects the logic level and the manual mode is activated.
When the user selects the manual mode, it initiates the manual override function, by passing all sensor checks. When the user selects the Inverter mode, it invokes the inverter mode function by restricting the motor speed to ensure that the system's power consumption always remains below 120W.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sensors are Jar/lid detection sensor of the mixer grinder (100) and hall sensor which detects the Jar type and decides the speeds at which grinding happens.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the LED indicators (110) are positioned at the front panel indicate the state of the mixer grinder (100).
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the buzzer (116) is provided to alert the user to return the speed adjustment knob (106) to the powered-off state during the power transition from the main supply to the power backup source.
Fig 2 illustrates the process flowchart outlining the operation of the mixer grinder with a power backup mode function, in the event of power failure. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the method for operating mixer grinder with power backup modes, the method comprising of:
i. During a power failure from the main power grid, the motor (102) in the mixer grinder (100) stops functioning.
ii. Consequently, when the power is restored by the power backup sources such as a battery inverter, diesel generator, or solar grid and if the motor speed adjustment knob (106) is in the powered-on state with any speed, the motor becomes inactive, the orange LED indicator (110) positioned at the front trim of the present system illuminates, and the buzzer (116) tends to continuously emit short beeps alerting the user to return the speed adjustment knob (106) to powered-off state.
iii. Once the user returns the speed adjustment knob (106) to the powered-off state, the orange LED indicator (110) powers off and the buzzer (116) stops beeping. Consequently, the blue LED indicator (110) positioned at the front trim of the present system illuminates indicating to the user that the mixer grinder (100) is in normal powered-off state.
iv. While in the normal powered-off state, the user can initiate the power backup mode momentary latching switch (112) that is provided on the front panel. The user has to press the switch for two seconds to invoke the power backup mode.
v. When the hardware port pin of the microcontroller (108) senses that the pin has been held at a particular logic level for 2 seconds, the power backup mode gets activated.
vi. Upon activation of the power backup mode, the user can rotate the speed knob (106) to any speed level. Regardless of the speed chosen by the user, the motor speed will be restricted such that the system ensures that the power consumed is always less than 120W.
vii. Finally, once the AC main supply is restored, the user can press the momentary latching switch (112) for two seconds, and the internal logic of the microcontroller reverts the mixer grinder (100) back to the normal functioning mode with the main AC power supply.
Fig 3 illustrates the process flowchart outlining the operation of the mixer grinder with a manual override function, in the event of sensor failure. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the method for operating mixer grinder with manual override modes, the method comprising of:
i. During a sensor failure, the mixer grinder’s motor (102) stops functioning.
ii. Consequently, the orange LED indicator (110) positioned at the front trim of the present system illuminates indicating to the user that the motor is non-functional.
iii. To continue operating the mixer grinder in the event of safety-sensor(s) failure, the user can invoke the manual override mode by pressing the manual mode momentary latching switch (114) that is positioned on the front trim for two seconds.
iv. When the hardware port pin of the microcontroller (108) senses that the pin has been held at a particular logic level for around 2 seconds, the system initiates the logic to invoke the manual override function bypassing all the sensor checks.
v. Upon activation of the manual mode, the user can rotate the speed knob (106) to any speed level to continue the normal operation of the mixer grinder (100) without additional safety checks.
vi. Finally, once the sensor defect is rectified, the user can press the momentary latching switch (114) for two seconds and the internal logic of the microcontroller (108) reverts the mixer grinder (100) back to its normal functioning state with all the safety checks.
Thus, the present invention enhances the product’s value and convenience by providing a backup option for operating the device in the event of power or safety-sensor(s) failure. Generally, the mixer grinder (100) can operate at considerably higher RPMs, and in the event of a power failure, when the user activates the power backup mode, the device restricts power consumption to 120 watts from various backup sources, regardless of user-selected speed. This not only reduces the power consumption from the backup source, allowing the inverter system to provide prolonged power but also prevents supply interruptions. Furthermore, when the user activates the manual override mode during safety-sensor(s) malfunctions, it bypasses all the safety-sensor checks and allows the user to continue the operation of the mixer grinder (100). Therefore, it enables users to accomplish their kitchen tasks without any interruptions.
EXAMPLE
The present invention provides a system and method for manual override in the event of sensor failure, and a power backup mode to keep the device operating with reduced power consumption in the event of a power failure. The power backup mode enables the user to continue operating the device even during an AC power outage with reduced power consumption on various power backup sources such as home inverters, generators, solar power systems, etc.
During power outages, the motor (102) in the mixer grinder (100) becomes non-functional. When the power is restored from a backup source and the speed knob (106) is in a position other powered-off state, an orange light activates, accompanied by continuous short beeps from a buzzer, prompting the user to return the speed knob (106) to the powered-off position. The motor (102) remains dormant until the user complies by turning the speed knob (106) to the powered-off position. Upon the user turning the speed knob (106) to the powered-off position, the orange light (110) deactivates, the buzzer (116) alert ceases, and a blue- light illuminates, indicating the mixer grinder (100) has returned to normal operational condition. During this stage, the user can activate the power backup mode by pressing the momentary latching switch (112) for 2 seconds. If the hardware port pin of the microcontroller (108) detects that the pin has been held at a particular logic level for approximately 2 seconds, it triggers the logic to activate the power backup mode. In power backup mode, the mixer grinder (100) continues to operate at a reduced power consumption of about 120 watts, drawing power from available backup sources with a minimum battery capacity of 80AH, including a battery inverter, generator, and solar power systems. The user is free to adjust the speed knob (106) to any position between low and high speed. However, the software logic will limit the speed to ensure that the power consumption always remains below 120 watts, regardless of the user-set speed. To exit the power backup mode, the user has to press the switch (112) again for 2 seconds, triggering internal logic to revert the mixer grinder (100) to normal mode. The present invention provides a seamless transition between the power sources and enhances the user's control and safety.
When the sensor malfunctions, the motor (102) in the mixer grinder (100) becomes non-functional, as indicated by the orange light (110). This disruption affects the normal operation of the mixer grinder (100), causing inconvenience to the user and hindering their ability to fulfill culinary responsibilities. Now, the user can activate the manual mode by pressing the momentary latching switch (114) for 2 seconds on the front panel of the mixer grinder. When the hardware port pin of the microcontroller (108) detects that the pin has been held at a particular logic level for approximately 2 seconds, it triggers the logic to activate the manual mode, by passing the logic of all sensor checks. The user is then free to adjust the speed knob (106) to any position between low and high speed, continuing normal operation without additional safety checks until a service specialist can address the sensor failure in due course. To exit manual mode, the user has to press the switch (114) again for 2 seconds, triggering internal logic to revert the mixer grinder (100) to normal mode. This feature proves especially valuable in situations where immediate attention to kitchen tasks is necessary or when waiting for a service specialist is not immediately feasible.
ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION:
• The power backup mode safeguards against immediate trip or rapid drainage of battery when utilizing backup sources in the event of power outages.
• It is compatible with various backup sources with a minimum battery capacity of 80AH. This includes house inverter systems, generators, and solar power systems.
• It provides a user alert system for returning the speed knob to the powered-off position when the power is restored from backup sources. This is achieved with an orange light accompanied by a continuous beep, serving as notifications to prompt the user.
• Power backup mode is beneficial in areas with frequent power outages, providing uninterrupted power during disruptions.
• During sensor failure, the user can immediately resume operation with a manual override function to bypass the sensor checks. They are not required to wait for a service specialist to address the sensor issues.
• Manual override function minimizes downtime by enabling continuous operation in the event of sensor failure.
• The incorporation of a tower blade structure in this invention adds value by achieving high-speed efficiency in grinding, even when the device operates at low speeds.
• The user-friendly nature of the device is enhanced by its seamless switching capability between power backup mode or manual mode from the normal mode.
Although the proposed concept has been described as a way of example with reference to various models, it is not limited to the disclosed embodiment and that alternative designs could be constructed without deviating from the scope of invention as defined above.
It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the above description is for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered as limiting. Various modifications, additions, alterations, and improvements without deviating from the scope of the invention may be made by a person skilled in the art. ,CLAIMS:We claim,
1. A system for operating mixer grinder with power backup and manual override modes, comprising of:
a mixer grinder (100) with an enclosure is provided with:
(i) a motor unit (102) housed within the enclosure;
(ii) a main power switch (104) which provides the AC power supply to the mixer grinder (100);
(iii) a speed control knob (106) provided on a front panel of the mixer housing, wherein the speed of the motor that is housed within the enclosure is controlled using the speed control knob (106);
(iv) a micro-controller (108) provided with a hardware port pin;
(v) two momentary latching switches (112) & (114) provided on the front panel of the enclosure;
(vi) LED indicators (110), wherein the different speed settings are displayed through the LEDs (110) provided on the front panel for each speed setting;
(vii) a buzzer (116),
characterized in that, the system comprises of two modes of operation during the power or sensor failures of the mixer grinder, wherein the two modes are:
i. a power backup mode that enables operation of the mixer grinder (100) at a reduced power consumption during a power failure by activating a power backup mode using an Inverter Mode Toggle switch (112), wherein the power backup mode controls switching between the power backup mode and a normal mode; and
ii. a manual override mode that allows continued operation of the mixer grinder (100) during a sensor failure by bypassing safety sensor checks when a manual mode is invoked using a Manual Mode Toggle Switch (114),
wherein the two momentary latching switches Inverter Mode Toggle Switch (112) and Manual Mode Toggle Switch (114) enables toggling between the “power backup mode” and “manual mode”.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microcontroller initiates the manual override function when the user selects the manual mode and when the user selects the inverter mode, the microcontroller (108) invokes the inverter mode function by restricting the motor speed to ensure that the system's power consumption always remains below 120W.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the LED indicators (110) indicate the state of the mixer grinder (100).
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the buzzer (116) is provided to alert the user to return the speed adjustment knob (106) to the powered-off state during the power transition from the main supply to the power backup source.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensors are a Jar or lid detection sensor of the mixer grinder (100) and a hall sensor which detects the Jar type and decides the speeds at which grinding happens.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the method for operating mixer grinder with power backup mode, comprising of:
i. During a power failure from the main power grid, the motor (102) in the mixer grinder (100) stops functioning;
ii. Consequently, when the power is restored by the power backup sources such as a battery inverter, diesel generator, or solar grid and if the motor speed adjustment knob (106) is in the powered-on state with any speed, the motor becomes inactive, and the orange LED indicator (110) positioned at the front panel of the system illuminates, and the buzzer (116) continuously emits short beeps alerting the user to return the speed adjustment knob (106) to powered-off state;
iii. Once the user returns the speed adjustment knob (106) to the powered-off state, the orange LED indicator (110) powers off and the buzzer (116) stops beeping. Consequently, the blue LED indicator (110) illuminates indicating to the user that the mixer grinder (100) is in normal powered-off state;
iv. While in the normal powered-off state, the user initiates the power backup mode momentary latching switch (112), wherein the user presses the switch for two seconds to invoke the power backup mode;
v. The hardware port pin of the microcontroller (108) is configured as input and connected to the power backup mode switch (112) and when the switch is held for 2 seconds, the pin detects the logic level, and the power backup mode is activated;
vi. Upon activation of the power backup mode, the user rotates the speed knob (106) to any speed level and subsequently the motor speed is restricted such that the system ensures that the power consumed is always less than 120W;
vii. Finally, once the AC main supply is restored, the user can press the momentary latching switch (112) for two seconds, and the internal logic of the microcontroller reverts the mixer grinder (100) back to the normal functioning mode with the main AC power supply.
7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the method for operating mixer grinder with manual override mode, comprising of:
i. During a sensor failure, the mixer grinder’s motor (102) stops functioning;
ii. Consequently, the orange LED indicator (110) illuminates indicating to the user that the motor is non-functional;
iii. The user invokes the manual override mode by pressing the manual mode momentary latching switch (114) for two seconds, to continue operating the mixer grinder in the event of safety-sensor(s) failure;
iv. The hardware port pin of the microcontroller (108) is configured as input and connected to the manual mode switch (114) and when the switch is held for 2 seconds, the pin detects the logic level and the manual mode is activated;
v. Upon activation of the manual mode, the user rotates the speed knob (106) to any speed level to continue the normal operation of the mixer grinder (100) without any additional safety check;
vi. Finally, once the sensor defect is rectified, the user can press the momentary latching switch (114) for two seconds and the internal logic of the microcontroller (108) reverts the mixer grinder (100) back to its normal functioning state with all the required safety checks.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202441002737-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [12-01-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-01-12 |
| 2 | 202441002737-PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION [12-01-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-01-12 |
| 3 | 202441002737-POWER OF AUTHORITY [12-01-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-01-12 |
| 4 | 202441002737-FORM 1 [12-01-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-01-12 |
| 5 | 202441002737-DRAWINGS [12-01-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-01-12 |
| 6 | 202441002737-Proof of Right [14-02-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-02-14 |
| 7 | 202441002737-DRAWING [11-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-11 |
| 8 | 202441002737-CORRESPONDENCE-OTHERS [11-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-11 |
| 9 | 202441002737-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [11-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-11 |