Abstract: A disposal system includes a sink; a disposal unit located under the sink and connected in fluid communication with a drain of the sink; a control unit configured to operate the disposal unit; and means for detecting an unintended object that passes through the drain of the sink and enters the disposal unit, resulting in stopping operation of the disposal unit. The means for detecting an unintended object that enters the disposal unit resulting in stopping operation of the disposal unit comprises a sensor and associated circuitry that detects an unintended object and triggers the control unit to stop operation. In different preferred embodiments the sensor respectively includes a capacitive sensor; a capacitive plate; magnetic shielding surrounding the disposal unit in the area of the sensor; a double “D” coil arrangement; a concentric detection coil for detecting magnetic ringdown; an ultrasonic sensor; a microphone; and combinations thereof.

Abstract: A disposal system includes a sink; a disposal unit located under the sink and connected in fluid communication with a drain of the sink; a control unit configured to operate the disposal unit; and means for detecting an unintended object that passes through the drain of the sink and enters the disposal unit, resulting in stopping operation of the disposal unit. The means for detecting an unintended object that enters the disposal unit resulting in stopping operation of the disposal unit comprises a sensor and associated circuitry that detects an unintended object and triggers the control unit to stop operation. In different preferred embodiments the sensor respectively includes a capacitive sensor; a capacitive plate; magnetic shielding surrounding the disposal unit in the area of the sensor; a double “D” coil arrangement; a concentric detection coil for detecting magnetic ringdown; an ultrasonic sensor; a microphone; and combinations thereof.