Portable cooking station with interlocking grill grates and baking tray

Abstract

A portable cooking station with an interlocking grilling grate and a baking tray is disclosed. An example portable cooking station includes a grilling grate and a baking tray. The baking tray is configured to removably interlock to the grilling grate in a side-by-side arrangement.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 932,261, entitled “Portable Cooking Stations Having Interlocking Sear Grates and Griddles,” filed on July 17, 2020. The entire contents of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 932,261 are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to portable cooking stations and, more particularly, to portable cooking stations having interlocking sear grates and griddles. Background Art

[0004] Modular grate systems for grills are well known. Conventional modular grate systems include a central grate that is circumscribed and / or bounded by one or more peripheral grates and that is removably positioned, seated, and / or docked on the peripheral grates. Removal of the central grate from the peripheral grates results in the central opening of the peripheral grate being exposed. The central opening is configured to be selectively filled with and / or selectively covered by one of a variety of cooking accessories (e.g., a pizza stone, a wok, etc.), each of which is configured to be removably positioned, seated, and / or docked on the peripheral grates relative to the central opening. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example portable cooking station constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Front view of a portable cooking station.

[0007] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 Rear view of a portable cooking station.

[0008] Figure 4 yes Figures 1 to 3 Right side view of the portable cooking station.

[0009] Figure 5 yes Figures 1 to 4 Left side view of a portable cooking station.

[0010] Figure 6 yes Figures 1 to 5An overhead view of a portable cooking station.

[0011] Figure 7 yes Figures 1 to 6 Bottom view of the portable cooking station.

[0012] Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 The section AA is taken from Figures 1 to 7 A cross-sectional view of a portable cooking station.

[0013] Fig. 9 yes Figures 1 to 8 A perspective view of a separate grill grate for a portable cooking station.

[0014] Fig.10 yes Figures 1 to 9 Front view of the individual grill grate of a portable cooking station.

[0015] Fig.11 yes Figures 1 to 10 Rear view of the individual grill grate of a portable cooking station.

[0016] Fig.12 yes Figures 1 to 11 Right side view of the individual grill grate of a portable cooking station.

[0017] Fig.13 yes Figures 1 to 12 Left side view of the individual grill grate of a portable cooking station.

[0018] Fig.14 yes Figures 1 to 13 An overhead view of a separate grill grate of a portable cooking station.

[0019] Fig.15 yes Figures 1 to 14 Bottom view of the individual grilling grate of the portable cooking station.

[0020] Fig.16 It is along Fig.14 The cross section BB is taken Figures 1 to 9 A cross-sectional view of a separate grill grate of a portable cooking station.

[0021] Fig.17 yes Figures 1 to 8 A perspective view of a separate baking tray of a portable cooking station.

[0022] Fig.18 yes Figures 1 to 8 as well as Fig.17 Front view of a separate baking tray of a portable cooking station.

[0023] Fig.19 yes Figures 1 to 8 , Fig.17 as well as Fig.18Rear view of the individual baking trays of the portable cooking station.

[0024] Fig. 20 yes Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 19 Right side view of the individual baking trays of the portable cooking station.

[0025] Fig.21 yes Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 20 Left side view of the individual baking trays of the portable cooking station.

[0026] Fig. 22 yes Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 21 A top view of a separate baking tray of a portable cooking station.

[0027] Fig.23 yes Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 22 Bottom view of a separate baking tray of a portable cooking station.

[0028] Fig.24 It is along Fig.21 Section CC of Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 23 A cross-sectional view of a separate baking tray of a portable cooking station.

[0029] Fig.25 is a perspective view of an example cooking apparatus having an example modular grate system.

[0030] Fig.26 yes Fig.25 A three-dimensional diagram of a cooking device, wherein Fig.25 The central grate of the modular grate system has been removed.

[0031] Fig. 27 is docked at Fig.25 and Fig.26 The central opening of the modular grate system Figures 1 to 8 A perspective view of a portable cooking station.

[0032] Certain examples are shown in the above-mentioned drawings and are described in detail below. In describing these examples, the same or identical reference numerals are used to identify the same or similar elements. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and certain features and certain views of the drawings may be shown in scale or in schematic form for the sake of clarity and / or simplicity.

[0033] Descriptors "first," "second," "third," etc., are used herein when identifying multiple elements or components that can be referenced individually. Unless otherwise specified or understood based on the context of use, such descriptors do not refer to any meaning of giving priority or ordering in time, but are merely labels for individually referencing multiple elements or components to make it easy to understand the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor "first" can be used to reference an element in the detailed description, while in the claims, different descriptors such as "second" or "third" can be used to reference the same element. In such cases, it should be understood that such descriptors are only used to make it easy to reference multiple elements or components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The example portable cooking station disclosed herein includes an interlocking grilling grate and a baking tray. In some examples, the portable cooking station disclosed herein includes a grilling grate and a baking tray, and the baking tray is configured to interlock to the grilling grate in a side-by-side arrangement. The side-by-side arrangement of the grilling grate and the baking tray of the portable cooking station advantageously enables cooking one food on the grilling grate while cooking another food on the baking tray. The side-by-side arrangement of the grilling grate and the baking tray of the portable cooking station also advantageously enables cooking one food on the grilling grate at a first time while cooking another food on the baking tray at a second time (e.g., before or after the first time) without having to swap out a separate cooking station (e.g., a baking tray independent of the grilling grate) relative to the central opening of the modular grate system, and the portable cooking station is docked at the central opening.

[0035] When the disclosed portable cooking station is not in use, the baking tray can be unlocked from the grill grate and then placed in a face-to-face arrangement (e.g., as opposed to the interlocking side-by-side arrangement described above) relative to the grill grate. Placing the baking tray and grill grate in a face-to-face arrangement relative to each other reduces the overall footprint of the portable cooking station, which is beneficial for transporting, cleaning, and / or storing the portable cooking station.

[0036] The above-mentioned features and other advantageous features of the example portable cooking station disclosed herein are further described below in conjunction with the drawings of the present application. As used herein, the term "configured" refers to determining size, shaping, arranging, structuring, oriented, placed and / or positioning. For example, in the context of a first object configured to fit within a second object, the first object is sized, shaped, arranged, structured, oriented, placed and / or positioned to fit within the second object. As used herein, in the context of a first object circumscribing a second object, the term "circumscribing" refers to the first object being constructed around the second object and / or defining an area around the second object. When interpreting the term "circumscribing" as used herein, it is to be understood that the first object circumscribing the second object may include gaps and / or may be composed of a plurality of spaced-apart objects, so that the boundary formed by the first object around the second object is not necessarily a continuous boundary. For example, multiple trees may circumscribe a field.

[0037] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example portable cooking station 100 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A front view of a portable cooking station 100 is shown. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 A rear view of the portable cooking station 100 is shown. Figure 4 yes Figures 1 to 3 A right side view of the portable cooking station 100 is shown. Figure 5 yes Figures 1 to 4 1 is a left side view of the portable cooking station 100. Figure 6 yes Figures 1 to 5 A top view of the portable cooking station 100 is shown. Figure 7 yes Figures 1 to 6 A bottom view of the portable cooking station 100 is shown. Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 The section AA is taken from Figures 1 to 7 sectional view of a portable cooking station 100.

[0038] Figures 1 to 8 The portable cooking station 100 includes an exemplary grilling grate 102 . Fig. 9 yes Figures 1 to 8 A perspective view of a separate grill grate 102 of a portable cooking station 100 is shown. Fig.10 yes Figures 1 to 9 A front view of a separate grill grate 102 of a portable cooking station 100 is shown. Fig.11 yes Figures 1 to 10 1. A rear view of a separate grill grate 102 of a portable cooking station 100. Fig.12 yes Figures 1 to 11 A right side view of a separate grill grate 102 of a portable cooking station 100 is shown. Fig.13 yes Figures 1 to 12 1 is a left side view of a separate grill grate 102 of a portable cooking station 100. Fig.14 yes Figures 1 to 13 1. A top view of a separate grill grate 102 of a portable cooking station 100. Fig.15 yes Figures 1 to 14 A bottom view of a separate grill grate 102 of a portable cooking station 100 is shown. Fig.16 It is along Fig.14 The cross section BB is taken Figures 1 to 9 1 is a cross-sectional view of a separate grill grate 102 of a portable cooking station 100.

[0039] exist Figures 1 to 16 In the illustrated example of , the grilling grate 102 includes an example central portion 104 having an example upper surface 106, and an example lower surface 702 positioned opposite the upper surface 106 of the central portion 104. The grilling grate 102 is configured such that the upper surface 106 of the central portion 104 constitutes a surface for grilling (e.g., having a sear mark applied to) one or more food products (e.g., steaks, pork chops, etc.) placed in contact with the upper surface 106 of the central portion 104 when the grilling grate 102 is placed directly on and / or over a heat source below (e.g., when the grilling grate 102 is docked over and / or across a central opening of a modular grate system of a grill), wherein the upper surface 106 of the central portion 104 is oriented away from the heat source below, and the lower surface 702 of the central portion 104 is oriented toward the heat source below.

[0040] Figures 1 to 16 The grill grate 102 also includes an example front end 108, an example rear end 110, an example right side 112, an example left side 114, an example right angle 116, and an example rounded corner 118. Figures 1 to 16 In the illustrated example of FIG. 1 , a first right angle of the right angles 116 of the grilling grate 102 is formed between the front end 108 and the right side 112 of the grilling grate 102. A second right angle of the right angles 116 of the grilling grate 102 is formed between the rear end 110 and the right side 112 of the grilling grate 102. A first rounded corner of the rounded corners 118 of the grilling grate 102 is formed between the front end 108 and the left side 114 of the grilling grate 102. A second rounded corner of the rounded corners 118 of the grilling grate 102 is formed between the rear end 110 and the left side 114 of the grilling grate 102. In other examples, one or more of the right angles 116 of the grilling grate 102 may be configured as a rounded corner, a tapered corner, etc., and / or one or more of the rounded corners 118 of the grilling grate 102 may be configured as a right angle, a tapered corner, etc.

[0041] exist Figures 1 to 16In the illustrated example of , the grill grate 102 has a generally rectangular shape defined by a front end 108, a rear end 110, a right side 112, a left side 114, a right angle 116, and a rounded corner 118 of the grill grate 102. In other examples, the grill grate 102 can have a non-rectangular shape. For example, the grill grate 102 can have a semicircular shape, a triangular shape, a trapezoidal shape, etc.

[0042] Figures 1 to 16 The grilling grate 102 also includes example apertures 120 (e.g., through holes) extending through the central portion 104 of the grilling grate 102 (e.g., through the upper surface 106 and the lower surface 702 of the central portion 104). Respective apertures 120 are arranged relative to each other in a manner to provide an example sear pattern 122 for the central portion 104 of the grilling grate 102. Figures 1 to 16 In the illustrated example of the grilling grate 102, the opening 120 has a diamond shape. In other examples, the opening 120 of the grilling grate 102 can have a non-diamond shape. For example, the opening 120 of the grilling grate 102 can have a rectangular shape, a triangular shape, etc.

[0043] Figures 1 to 16 The grill grate 102 also includes an example interlocking pin hole 704 (e.g., through hole) extending through the central portion 104 of the grill grate 102 (e.g., extending through the upper surface 106 and the lower surface 702 of the central portion 104). The interlocking pin hole 704 of the grill grate 102 is configured to receive an interlocking pin of a baking tray of the portable cooking station 100, as further described below. Figures 1 to 16 In the illustrated example, the interlocking pin holes 704 of the grill grate 102 have a circular shape. In other examples, the interlocking pin holes 704 of the grill grate 102 can have a non-circular shape. For example, the interlocking pin holes 704 of the grill grate 102 can have an elliptical shape, a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, etc.

[0044] Figures 1 to 16 The grilling grate 102 also includes an example lip 124 that is coupled to the central portion 104 of the grilling grate 102 and extends upwardly therefrom. Figures 1 to 16 In the illustrated example of the grilling grate 102, the vertical edges 124 of the grilling grate 102 are integrally formed with the central portion 104 of the grilling grate 102, such that there are no joints, seams, and / or welds between the vertical edges 124 and the central portion 104, and / or such that the vertical edges 124 cannot be removed and / or separated from the central portion 104 without destructive measures. In other examples, the vertical edges 124 can be coupled to the central portion 104 via one or more permanent, temporary, and / or removable mechanical fasteners, adhesives, and / or bonding agents.

[0045] Figures 1 to 16 The vertical edge 124 of the grilling grate 102 includes an example outer surface 126 and an example inner surface 128 located opposite the outer surface 126 of the vertical edge 124. The vertical edge 124 of the grilling grate 102 is configured such that the inner surface 128 of the vertical edge 124 provides a peripheral boundary for food being cooked on the upper surface 106 of the central portion 104 of the grilling grate 102. Figures 1 to 16 In the illustrated example, the profile of the vertical edge 124 has a shape that is complementary and / or matching to the overall profile of the grill grate 102. In other examples, the profile of the vertical edge 124 may have a shape that is not complementary and / or matching to the overall profile of the grill grate 102.

[0046] In some examples, the vertical edge 124 of the grilling grate 102 may extend upward from the central portion 104 of the grilling grate 102 at an angle of 90 degrees relative to an example plane 802 defined by the upper surface 106 of the central portion 104, such that the vertical edge 124 is orthogonal to the central portion 104 and has neither an outward taper nor an inward taper relative to the central portion. In other examples, the vertical edge 124 of the grilling grate 102 may extend upward from the central portion 104 of the grilling grate 102 at an angle greater than 90 degrees relative to the plane 802, such that the vertical edge 124 has an outward taper as it extends upward away from the central portion 104. In still other examples, the vertical edge 124 of the grilling grate 102 may extend upward from the central portion 104 of the grilling grate 102 at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the plane 802, such that the vertical edge 124 has an inward taper as it extends upward away from the central portion 104.

[0047] Figures 1 to 16 The vertical edge 124 of the grill grate 102 also includes and / or forms example interlocking tab guides 130. The interlocking tab guides 130 of the grill grate 102 are individually and / or collectively configured to guide the interlocking tabs of a baking tray of the portable cooking station 100 into a position relative to the grill grate 102 that facilitates interlocking, connecting, and / or otherwise coupling the baking tray to the grill grate 102, as further described below. Figures 1 to 16 In the illustrated example of , the vertical edge 124 of the grilling grate 102 includes two interlocking tab guides 130. In other examples, the vertical edge 124 of the grilling grate 102 may include a different number (eg, 1, 3, 4, etc.) of interlocking tab guides 130.

[0048] Figures 1 to 16 The grilling grate 102 also includes an example foot 202 coupled to and extending downwardly from a lower surface 702 of the central portion 104 of the grilling grate 102. Figures 1 to 16In the illustrated example of the grilling grate 102, the legs 202 of the grilling grate 102 are integrally formed with the central portion 104 of the grilling grate 102, such that there are no joints, seams, and / or welds between the legs 202 and the central portion 104, and / or such that the legs 202 cannot be removed and / or separated from the central portion 104 without destructive measures. In other examples, the legs 202 can be coupled to the central portion 104 via one or more permanent, temporary, and / or removable mechanical fasteners, adhesives, and / or bonding agents.

[0049] Will Figures 1 to 16 The feet 202 of the grill grate 102 are configured to contact an underlying support surface (e.g., a countertop, tabletop, etc.) such that when the grill grate 102 is placed on the support surface, the lower surface 702 of the central portion 104 of the grill grate 102 is raised above and / or away from the underlying support surface. Figures 1 to 16 The feet 202 of the grill grate 102 are further configured to guide, position, position, and / or dock the grill grate 102 and / or more generally the portable cooking station 100 relative to the openings of the modular grate system, as further described below. Figures 1 to 16 In the illustrated example of FIG. 1 , the grill grate 102 includes four legs 202. In other examples, the grill grate 102 may include a different number of legs 202 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, etc.). Figures 1 to 16 In the illustrated example of the grilling grate 102, some of the legs 202 of the grilling grate 102 have a cylindrical shape, while other of the legs 202 of the grilling grate 102 have a rectangular cuboid shape. In other examples, one or more of the legs 202 may have a non-cylindrical shape and / or a non-cuboid shape. For example, one or more of the legs 202 may have a spherical shape, a conical shape, a pyramidal shape, etc.

[0050] Figures 1 to 8 The portable cooking station 100 also includes an example baking tray 132 . Fig.17 yes Figures 1 to 8 1 is a perspective view of a separate baking tray 132 of a portable cooking station 100. Fig.18 yes Figures 1 to 8 as well as Fig.17 1. A front view of a separate baking tray 132 of a portable cooking station 100. Fig.19 yes Figures 1 to 8 , Fig.17 ,as well as Fig.18 1 is a rear view of the individual baking trays 132 of the portable cooking station 100. Fig. 20 yes Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 191 is a right side view of a separate baking tray 132 of the portable cooking station 100. Fig.21 yes Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 20 1 is a left side view of a separate baking tray 132 of the portable cooking station 100. Fig. 22 yes Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 21 FIG. 1 is a top view of a separate baking tray 132 of a portable cooking station 100 . Fig.23 yes Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 22 1 is a bottom view of a separate baking tray 132 of the portable cooking station 100. Fig.24 It is along Fig. 22 Section CC of Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 23 1 is a cross-sectional view of a separate baking tray 132 of a portable cooking station 100.

[0051] exist Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example of the present invention, the baking tray 132 includes an example central portion 134 having an example upper surface 136 and an example lower surface 706 positioned opposite the upper surface 136 of the central portion 134. The baking tray 132 is configured such that the upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 constitutes a smooth, flat surface for cooking one or more food products (e.g., eggs, pancakes, bacon, vegetables, etc.) placed in contact with the upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 when the baking tray 132 is placed directly on and / or over a heat source below (e.g., when the baking tray 132 is docked over and / or across a central opening of a modular grate system of a grill), wherein the upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 is oriented away from the heat source below and the lower surface 706 of the central portion 134 is oriented toward the heat source below.

[0052] Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The baking tray 132 also includes an example front end 138, an example rear end 140, an example right side 142, an example left side 144, an example right corner 146, and an example rounded corner 148. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24In the illustrated example of FIG. 1 , a first right angle among the right angles 146 of the baking tray 132 is formed between the front end 138 and the left side 144 of the baking tray 132. A second right angle among the right angles 146 of the baking tray 132 is formed between the rear end 140 and the left side 144 of the baking tray 132. A first rounded corner among the rounded corners 148 of the baking tray 132 is formed between the front end 138 and the right side 142 of the baking tray 132. A second rounded corner among the rounded corners 148 of the baking tray 132 is formed between the rear end 140 and the right side 142 of the baking tray 132. In other examples, one or more of the right angles 146 of the baking tray 132 may be configured as a rounded corner, a tapered corner, etc., and / or one or more of the rounded corners 148 of the baking tray 132 may be configured as a right angle, a tapered corner, etc.

[0053] exist Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example of FIG. 1 , the baking tray 132 has a generally rectangular shape defined by a front end 138, a rear end 140, a right side 142, a left side 144, a right angle 146, and a rounded corner 148 of the baking tray 132. In other examples, the baking tray 132 may have a non-rectangular shape. For example, the baking tray 132 may have a semicircular shape, a triangular shape, a trapezoidal shape, etc. Figures 1 to 8 In the illustrated example, the outer shape of the baking tray 132 has a shape that is complementary and / or matching to the outer shape of the grill grate 102, and the outer shape of the baking tray 132 is a mirror image of the outer shape of the grill grate 102. In other examples, the outer shape of the baking tray 132 may have a shape that is not complementary and / or matching to the outer shape of the grill grate 102.

[0054] The upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 defines an example plane 804. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example of FIG. 1 , the plane 804 has an inclined orientation, wherein a relatively high area is closest to the right side 142 of the baking tray 132, and a relatively low area is closest to the left side 144 of the baking tray 132. Thus, the upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 is inclined downward from the right side 142 of the baking tray 132 toward and / or toward the left side 144 of the baking tray 132. When the baking tray 132 is interlocked, connected, and / or otherwise coupled to the grill grate 102 (e.g., as Figures 1 to 8134 ), the plane 804 defined by the upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 is correspondingly tilted and / or angled relative to the plane 802 defined by the upper surface 106 of the central portion 104 of the grill grate 102. In other examples, the plane 804 can have a tilted orientation in which the relatively high area is closest to the left side 144 of the baking tray 132 and the relatively low area is closest to the right side 142 of the baking tray 132. In still other examples, the plane 804 can have a tilted orientation in which the relatively high area is closest to the front end 138 of the baking tray 132 and the relatively low area is closest to the rear end 140 of the baking tray 132. In still other examples, the plane 804 can have a tilted orientation in which the relatively high area is closest to the rear end 140 of the baking tray 132 and the relatively low area is closest to the front end 138 of the baking tray 132. In still other examples, the plane 804 can have a non-tilted orientation.

[0055] Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The baking tray 132 also includes example openings 150 (e.g., through holes) extending through the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 (e.g., extending through the upper surface 136 and the lower surface 706 of the central portion 134). The openings 150 constitute a drain that enables liquid byproducts (e.g., grease, juices, water, etc.) generated by one or more foods being cooked on the upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 to be removed from the baking tray 132, which advantageously prevents these liquid byproducts from pooling on the baking tray. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example of FIG. 1 , the opening 150 is positioned at a lower area of ​​the inclined upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 closest to the left side 144 of the baking tray 132. The above-described location of the opening 150 advantageously allows the liquid byproduct to flow naturally (e.g., via gravity) along the inclined upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 (e.g., from a higher area of ​​the inclined upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 closest to the right side 142 of the baking tray 132) downward toward the opening 150, into the opening, and / or through the opening. In other examples, relative to Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The openings 150 of the baking tray 132 may be positioned at different areas and / or locations of the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 , as shown in FIG.

[0056] exist Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example of FIG, the baking tray 132 includes two openings 150. In other examples, the baking tray 132 may include a different number of openings 150 (e.g., 1, 3, 4, etc.). Figures 1 to 8as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example of the invention, the opening 150 of the baking tray 132 has a generally rectangular shape with rounded corners. In other examples, the opening 150 of the baking tray 132 may have a non-rectangular shape. For example, the opening 150 of the baking tray 132 may have a circular shape, an oval shape, a triangular shape, etc.

[0057] Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The baking tray 132 also includes an example upright edge 152 that is coupled to the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 and extends upwardly therefrom. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example of the invention, the vertical edge 152 of the baking tray 132 is integrally formed with the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132, such that there are no joints, seams, and / or welds between the vertical edge 152 and the central portion 134, and / or such that the vertical edge 152 cannot be removed and / or separated from the central portion 134 without destructive measures. In other examples, the vertical edge 152 can be coupled to the central portion 134 via one or more permanent, temporary, and / or removable mechanical fasteners, adhesives, and / or bonding agents.

[0058] Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The vertical edge 152 of the baking tray 132 includes an example outer surface 154 and an example inner surface 156 located opposite the outer surface 154 of the vertical edge 152. The vertical edge 152 of the baking tray 132 is configured so that the inner surface 156 of the vertical edge 152 provides a peripheral boundary for the food being cooked on the upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example, the outer shape of the vertical edge 152 has a shape that is complementary and / or matching to the overall outer shape of the baking tray 132. In other examples, the outer shape of the vertical edge 152 may have a shape that is not complementary and / or matching to the overall outer shape of the baking tray 132.

[0059] In some examples, the vertical edge 152 of the baking tray 132 extends upward from the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 at an angle of 90 degrees relative to the plane 804 defined by the upper surface 136 of the central portion 134, so that the vertical edge 152 is orthogonal to the central portion 134 and has neither an outward taper nor an inward taper relative to the central portion. In other examples, the vertical edge 152 of the baking tray 132 can extend upward from the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 at an angle greater than 90 degrees relative to the plane 804, so that when the vertical edge 152 extends upward away from the central portion 134, the vertical edge has an outward taper. In still other examples, the vertical edge 152 of the baking tray 132 can extend upward from the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the plane 804, so that when the vertical edge 152 extends upward away from the central portion 134, the vertical edge has an inward taper.

[0060] Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The baking tray 132 also includes an example interlocking tab 158 that is coupled to the upright side 152 of the baking tray 132 and extends outwardly therefrom. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example of the baking tray 132, the interlocking tabs 158 of the baking tray 132 are integrally formed with the uprights 152 of the baking tray 132, such that there are no joints, seams, and / or welds between the interlocking tabs 158 and the uprights 152, and / or such that the interlocking tabs 158 cannot be removed and / or separated from the uprights 152 without destructive measures. In other examples, the interlocking tabs 158 can be coupled to the uprights 152 via one or more permanent, temporary, and / or removable mechanical fasteners, adhesives, and / or bonding agents.

[0061] Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The interlocking tab 158 of the baking tray 132 includes an example upper surface 160, an example lower surface 806 positioned opposite the upper surface 160 of the interlocking tab 158, and an example outer edge 162 located between the upper surface 160 and the lower surface 806 of the interlocking tab 158. The interlocking tab 158 is configured so that when the baking tray 132 of the portable cooking station 100 is interlocked, connected, and / or otherwise coupled to the grill grate 102 of the portable cooking station 100, the upper surface 160 of the interlocking tab 158 faces away from the grill grate 102, the lower surface 806 of the interlocking tab 158 faces toward the grill grate 102, and the outer edge 162 of the interlocking tab 158 faces, abuts, and / or contacts the interlocking tab guide 130 of the grill grate 102. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24In the illustrated example, the interlocking tabs 158 have a trapezoidal shape. In other examples, the interlocking tabs 158 can have a non-trapezoidal shape. For example, the interlocking tabs 158 can have a circular shape, an oval shape, a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, etc.

[0062] Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The baking tray 132 also includes an example interlocking pin 708 that is coupled to the interlocking tab 158 of the baking tray 132 and extends outwardly from the interlocking tab. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example of the baking tray 132, the interlocking pins 708 of the baking tray 132 are integrally formed with the interlocking tabs 158 of the baking tray 132, such that there are no joints, seams, and / or welds between the interlocking pins 708 and the interlocking tabs 158, and / or such that the interlocking pins 708 cannot be removed and / or separated from the interlocking tabs 158 without destructive measures. In other examples, the interlocking pins 708 can be coupled to the interlocking tabs 158 via one or more permanent, temporary, and / or removable mechanical fasteners, adhesives, and / or bonding agents.

[0063] Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The interlocking pins 708 of the baking tray 132 of the portable cooking station 100 facilitate interlocking, connecting, and / or otherwise coupling the baking tray 132 of the portable cooking station 100 to the grill grate 102 of the portable cooking station 100. In this regard, the interlocking pins 708 of the baking tray 132 are configured such that when the baking tray 132 of the portable cooking station 100 is interlocked, connected, and / or otherwise coupled to the grill grate 102 of the portable cooking station 100, the interlocking pins 708 of the baking tray 132 are inserted and / or seated within the interlocking pin holes 704 of the grill grate 102. Inserting the interlocking pins 708 of the baking tray 132 into the interlocking pin holes 704 prevents lateral movement between the interlocked baking tray 132 and the grill grate 102. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example, the interlocking pin 708 has a circular shape. In other examples, the interlocking pin 708 can have a non-circular shape. For example, the interlocking pin 708 can have an elliptical shape, a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, a trapezoidal shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, etc.

[0064] Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The baking tray 132 also includes an example foot 204 that is coupled to and extends downwardly from a lower surface 706 of the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24In the illustrated example of the baking tray 132, the legs 204 of the baking tray 132 are integrally formed with the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132, such that there are no joints, seams, and / or welds between the legs 204 and the central portion 134, and / or such that the legs 204 cannot be removed and / or separated from the central portion 134 without destructive measures. In other examples, the legs 204 can be coupled to the central portion 134 via one or more permanent, temporary, and / or removable mechanical fasteners, adhesives, and / or bonding agents.

[0065] Will Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The feet 204 of the baking tray 132 are configured to contact an underlying support surface (e.g., a countertop, a tabletop, etc.) such that when the baking tray 132 is placed on the support surface, the lower surface 706 of the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 is raised above and / or away from the underlying support surface. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The feet 204 of the grilling grate 132 are further configured to guide, position, position, and / or dock the baking tray 132 and / or more generally the portable cooking station 100 relative to the openings of the modular grate system, as further described below. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example of FIG, the baking tray 132 includes four feet 204. In other examples, the baking tray 132 may include a different number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, etc.) of feet 204. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 In the illustrated example of the baking tray 132, the legs 204 have a rectangular cuboid shape. In other examples, one or more of the legs 204 may have a non-cuboid shape. For example, one or more of the legs 204 may have a spherical shape, a cylindrical shape, a conical shape, a pyramidal shape, etc.

[0066] The baking trays 132 of the portable cooking station 100 may be removably interlocked, connected, and / or otherwise coupled to the grill grate 102 of the portable cooking station 100 in a side-by-side arrangement, such as Figures 1 to 8 When the baking tray 132 is interlocked, connected, and / or coupled to the grill grate 102, the left side 144 of the baking tray 132 faces, abuts, and / or contacts the right side 112 of the grill grate 102, and the right angle 146 of the baking tray 132 is oriented toward the right angle 116 of the grill grate 102. By inserting the interlocking pin 708 of the baking tray 132 into the interlocking pin hole 704 of the grill grate 102, it can be facilitated to Figures 1 to 8The side-by-side arrangement shown is used to interlock, connect, and / or otherwise couple the baking tray 132 to the grill grate 102, and such insertion is guided by the outer edges 162 of the interlocking tabs 158 of the baking tray 132 and the interlocking tab guides 130 of the grill grate 102. When the grill grate 102, the baking tray 132, and / or more generally the portable cooking station 100 are not in use, the baking tray 132 can be unlocked, disconnected, and / or otherwise separated from the grill grate 102 by removing the interlocking pins 708 of the baking tray 132 from the interlocking pin holes 704 of the grill grate 102. Once the baking tray 132 has been unlocked, disconnected, and / or otherwise separated from the grill grate 102, the baking tray 132 and the grill grate 102 can be placed in a face-to-face arrangement relative to each other (e.g., with the upper surface 136 of the central portion 134 of the baking tray 132 facing the upper surface 106 of the central portion 104 of the grill grate 102). Placing the baking tray 132 and the grill grate 102 in a face-to-face arrangement relative to each other reduces the overall footprint of the portable cooking station 100, which is beneficial for transporting, cleaning, and / or storing the portable cooking station 100.

[0067] In some examples, the above-described relationship between the interlocking pin holes 704 and interlocking tab guides 130 of the grilling grate 102 on the one hand and the interlocking pins 708 and interlocking tabs 158 of the baking tray 132 on the other hand may be modified and / or reversed. For example, the portable cooking station 100 may alternatively be configured such that the grilling grate 102 includes the interlocking pins 708 and interlocking tabs 158, and the baking tray 132 includes the interlocking pin holes 704 and interlocking tab guides 130. As another example, the portable cooking station 100 may alternatively be configured to include multiple instances and / or implementations of the above-described interlocking structures (e.g., two interlocking pin holes 704, two sets of interlocking tab guides 130, two interlocking pins 708, and two interlocking tabs 158).

[0068] In some examples, Figures 1 to 16 The grill grate 102 may include a combination of Figures 1 to 16 One or more additional structures and / or components to those shown and described. In other examples, the grill grate 102 may be provided with respect to a combination of Figures 1 to 16 In some examples, the structures and / or components shown and described may be omitted. Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24 The baking tray 132 may include a combination of Figures 1 to 16 as well as Figures 17 to 24 One or more additional structures and / or components to those shown and described. In other examples, the baking tray 132 may be provided with respect to the combination Figures 1 to 8 as well as Figures 17 to 24Those structures and / or components are shown and described with one or more structures and / or components omitted. Figures 1 to 8 The portable cooking station 100 may include a combination of Figures 1 to 8 One or more additional structures and / or components to those shown and described. In still other examples, the portable cooking station 100 may be configured with respect to a combination of Figures 1 to 8 Those structures and / or components are shown and described with one or more structures and / or components omitted.

[0069] Fig.25 is a perspective view of an example cooking apparatus 2500 having an example modular grate system 2502 . Fig.25 The cooking device 2500 is a grill (eg, a charcoal fuel grill, a gas fuel grill, a pellet fuel grill, etc.). Fig.25 The modular grate system 2502 includes an example central grate 2504 circumscribed and / or bounded by one or more example peripheral grates 2506. Fig.25 In the illustrated example of the modular grate system 2502, the central grate 2504 of the modular grate system 2502 has a circular shape. In other examples, the central grate 2504 of the modular grate system 2502 can have a non-circular shape. For example, the central grate 2504 of the modular grate system 2502 can have an elliptical shape, a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, etc.

[0070] You can Fig.25 The modular grate system 2502 is configured such that the central grate 2504 is removably placed, seated, and / or docked on the peripheral grate 2506. Fig.26 yes Fig.25 A three-dimensional diagram of a cooking device, wherein Fig.25 The central grate 2504 of the modular grate system 2502 is removed. Removing the central grate 2504 from the peripheral grate 2506 results in the exposure of the example central opening 2602 of the peripheral grate 2506. The central opening 2602 is configured to be selectively filled with and / or selectively covered by various cooking accessories (e.g., pizza stones, woks, etc.), each of which is configured to be removably placed, seated, and / or docked on the peripheral grate 2506.

[0071] Will Figures 1 to 8 The portable cooking station 100 is configured with Fig.25 and Fig.26 The modular grate system 2502 can be connected and used, and vice versa. For example, Fig. 27 is docked at Fig.25 and Fig.26 The central opening 2602 of the modular grate system 2502, Figures 1 to 8 A perspective view of a portable cooking station 100. Fig. 27 In the illustrated example of FIG. 2 , the central grate 2602 of the modular grate system 2502 has been removed from the peripheral grate 2506 of the modular grate system 2502. The central opening 2602, which would otherwise be exposed in response to the removal of the central grate 2504, is covered by the grilling grate 102 and the baking tray 132 of the portable cooking station 100. The feet 202 of the grilling grate 102 and the feet 204 of the baking tray 132 of the portable cooking station 100 guide, position, seat, and / or dock the grilling grate 102 and the baking tray 132, and / or more generally the portable cooking station 100, relative to the central opening 2602, such that the grilling grate 102 and the baking tray 132, and / or more generally the portable cooking station 100, cannot slide relative to the central opening 2602 (e.g., along the cooking surface of the peripheral grate 2506).

[0072] In light of the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the example portable cooking station disclosed herein includes an interlocking grilling grate and a baking tray. In some examples, the portable cooking station disclosed herein includes a grilling grate and a baking tray, and the baking tray is configured to interlock to the grilling grate in a side-by-side arrangement. The side-by-side arrangement of the grilling grate and the baking tray of the portable cooking station advantageously enables cooking one food on the grilling grate while cooking another food on the baking tray. The side-by-side arrangement of the grilling grate and the baking tray of the portable cooking station also advantageously enables cooking one food on the grilling grate at a first time while cooking another food on the baking tray at a second time (e.g., before or after the first time) without having to swap out a separate cooking station (e.g., a baking tray independent of the grilling grate) relative to the central opening of the modular grate system, to which the portable cooking station is docked.

[0073] When the disclosed portable cooking station is not in use, the baking tray can be unlocked from the grill grate and then placed in a face-to-face arrangement (e.g., as opposed to the interlocking side-by-side arrangement described above) relative to the grill grate. Placing the baking tray and grill grate in a face-to-face arrangement relative to each other reduces the overall footprint of the portable cooking station, which is beneficial for transporting, cleaning, and / or storing the portable cooking station.

[0074] In some examples, a portable cooking station is disclosed. In some disclosed examples, the portable cooking station includes a grilling grate and a baking tray. In some disclosed examples, the baking tray is configured to removably interlock to the grilling grate in a side-by-side arrangement.

[0075] In some disclosed examples, a grilling grate includes a central portion having an upper surface, a lower surface positioned opposite the upper surface, and a branding pattern formed by openings extending through the upper and lower surfaces.

[0076] In some disclosed examples, the grill grate includes interlocking pin holes configured to receive interlocking pins of a bakeware tray.

[0077] In some disclosed examples, a grilling grate includes an upright edge coupled to and extending upwardly from a central portion of the grilling grate.

[0078] In some disclosed examples, the standing edge of the grilling grate includes interlocking tab guides that guide interlocking tabs of the baking tray into a position that facilitates interlocking the baking tray to the grilling grate.

[0079] In some disclosed examples, the grill grate includes a foot coupled to and extending downwardly from a central portion of the grill grate. In some disclosed examples, the foot is configured to be positioned within a central opening of the modular grate system when the portable cooking station is docked on the modular grate system.

[0080] In some disclosed examples, a baking tray includes a central portion having an upper surface and a lower surface positioned opposite the upper surface.

[0081] In some disclosed examples, the central portion of the baking tray includes a drain port formed by an opening extending through an upper surface and a lower surface of the central portion of the baking tray.

[0082] In some disclosed examples, an upper surface of a central portion of the baking tray is inclined relative to an upper surface of a central portion of the grill grate.

[0083] In some disclosed examples, the baking tray includes an interlocking pin configured to be inserted into an interlocking pin hole of the grill grate.

[0084] In some disclosed examples, the baking tray includes an upright edge coupled to and extending upwardly from a central portion of the baking tray.

[0085] In some disclosed examples, the baking tray includes an interlocking tab that is coupled to and extends outwardly from a vertical edge of the baking tray. In some disclosed examples, the interlocking tab is configured to abut an interlocking tab guide of the grilling grate when the baking tray is interlocked to the grilling grate.

[0086] In some disclosed examples, the baking tray includes a foot coupled to and extending downwardly from a central portion of the baking tray. In some disclosed examples, the foot is configured to be positioned within a central opening of the modular grate system when the portable cooking station is docked on the modular grate system.

[0087] In some examples, a grill grate for a portable cooking station is disclosed. In some disclosed examples, the grill grate includes a central portion having an upper surface, a lower surface positioned opposite the upper surface, and a branding pattern formed by openings extending through the upper surface and the lower surface. In some disclosed examples, the grill grate also includes an interlocking pin hole configured to receive an interlocking pin of a baking tray of the portable cooking station to interlock the baking tray to the grill grate in a side-by-side arrangement.

[0088] In some disclosed examples, the grilling grate further includes an upright edge coupled to and extending upwardly from a central portion of the grilling grate.

[0089] In some disclosed examples, the standing edge of the grilling grate includes interlocking tab guides that guide interlocking tabs of the baking tray into a position that facilitates interlocking the baking tray to the grilling grate.

[0090] In some examples, a baking tray for a portable cooking station is disclosed. In some disclosed examples, the baking tray includes a central portion having an upper surface, a lower surface positioned opposite the upper surface, and a discharge opening formed by an opening extending through the upper surface and the lower surface. In some disclosed examples, the baking tray also includes an interlocking pin configured to be inserted into an interlocking pin hole of a grill grate of the portable cooking station to interlock the baking tray to the grill grate in a side-by-side arrangement.

[0091] In some disclosed examples, an upper surface of a central portion of the baking tray is inclined relative to an upper surface of a central portion of the grill grate.

[0092] In some disclosed examples, the baking tray further includes a standing edge coupled to the central portion of the baking tray and extending upwardly from the central portion.

[0093] In some disclosed examples, the baking tray further comprises an interlocking tab coupled to and extending outwardly from a vertical edge of the baking tray. In some disclosed examples, the interlocking tab is configured to abut an interlocking tab guide of the grilling grate when the baking tray is interlocked to the grilling grate.

[0094] Although certain example methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture are disclosed herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture fairly falling within the scope of the claims of this patent.

Claims

1. A portable cooking station, comprising: A grilling grate, the grilling grate comprising a first central portion, a first vertical side, and an interlocking pin hole, the first central portion having a first upper surface and a first lower surface opposite to the first upper surface, the first vertical side being coupled to the first central portion and extending upwardly from the first central portion, the first vertical side comprising a first interlocking tab guide and a second interlocking tab guide, the first interlocking tab guide and the second interlocking tab guide respectively extending inwardly from a peripheral boundary formed by the first vertical side, so that the outer surface of the first interlocking tab guide and the outer surface of the second interlocking tab guide are positioned opposite to and facing each other, the interlocking pin hole is located between the first interlocking tab guide and the second interlocking tab guide, and the interlocking pin hole extends through the first upper surface and the first lower surface of the first central portion; as well as a baking tray configured to be removably interlocked to the grill grate in a side-by-side arrangement, the baking tray comprising a second central portion having a second upper surface and a second lower surface positioned opposite the second upper surface, a second upright edge coupled to and extending upward from the second central portion, an interlocking tab coupled to and extending outward from the second upright edge, the interlocking tab having an outer edge, the interlocking pin coupled to and extending downward from the interlocking tab, and an interlocking pin configured to be inserted into the interlocking pin hole; wherein the first interlocking tab guide and the second interlocking tab guide are respectively configured to contact the outer edge of the interlocking tab to guide the interlocking pin into the interlocking pin hole in connection with interlocking the baking tray to the grill grate, and wherein inserting the interlocking pin into the interlocking pin hole prevents the baking tray from moving laterally relative to the grill grate along a plane defined by the first upper surface of the first central portion of the grill grate.

2. The portable cooking station according to claim 1, wherein: The grill grate includes a branding pattern formed by diamond-shaped openings extending through the first upper surface and the first lower surface.

3. The portable cooking station according to claim 1, wherein: The grill grate includes a first leg coupled to and extending downwardly from the first central portion, the first leg being configured to be positioned within a central opening of the modular grate system when the portable cooking station is docked thereon.

4. The portable cooking station according to claim 1, wherein: The second central portion includes a discharge port formed by an opening extending through the second upper surface and the second lower surface.

5. The portable cooking station according to claim 4, wherein: The second upper surface of the second central portion of the baking tray is inclined relative to the first upper surface of the first central portion of the grill grate, and wherein the second upper surface of the second central portion of the baking tray is inclined downwardly toward the discharge opening.

6. The portable cooking station of claim 1, wherein: When the baking tray is interlocked to the grill grate, the outer edge of the interlocking tab abuts the first interlocking tab guide and the second interlocking tab guide.

7. The portable cooking station of claim 1, wherein: The baking tray includes a second foot coupled to and extending downwardly from the second central portion, the second foot being configured to be positioned within the central opening of the modular grate system when the portable cooking station is docked on the modular grate system.

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