Modular Baking-Tool Apparatus

Abstract

A modular baking-tool apparatus 10 comprises (i) spherical handle part 12 which can engage with a rolling pin 16 and has a base (32, fig. 2), and (ii) vertical handle part 18 which connects to spherical handle part 12 and extends in a vertical direction with respect to the base to provide a support for at least one baking tool 20, 22. Spherical handle part 12 may have multiple rolling pin connectors 30 at different heights for engaging a rolling pin handle 14, such that a thickness to be rolled may be selected by attaching the handle 14 to a particular connector, with the connectors preferably having an associated thickness identifier 34 (see figures 2 & 3). Preferably, the vertical handle part 18 has a hooked base portion (52, figure 8) which releasably engages a corresponding slot 40 in the spherical handle part to fasten the handle parts together. Baking tools, for example cake smoother 20 or knife 22, preferably attach to vertical handle part 18 via clamps 24, 26. A pair of height-adjustable rolling pin handles is also claimed, each handle having rolling-pin connectors, e.g. apertures 30, at different heights for engaging with a rolling pin.

Description

The present invention relates to a modular baking-tool apparatus for the field of culinary arts, specifically baking and cookery. A traditional rolling pin is a freehand device that does not permit any quantitative adjustability to the user where this may be desired. In some circumstances, the user may wish to roll specific doughs or other food products to a desired thickness, be it for aesthetic reasoning, or a functional reason such as in more delicate baking situations. In the art, adjustable rolling pins either require the exchange of different end parts to alter height, or involve altering the ends with small adjustable elements which is detrimental to those with mobility and / or grip issues. Manipulation of gauges, cogs and other moving elements does not lead to an accessible and easy product for those who have issues with fine motor skills. Furthermore, baking tools such as knife attachments and cake scraping attachments are often handheld units that must be manipulated whilst being held onto and are not freestanding. For the above reasons, the typical arrangements of adjustable rolling pins and other knife attachments and cake scraping attachments are not particularly user friendly, particularly for those who experience mobility, joint or other physical issues. Adjustable rolling pins, knife attachments and cake scraper attachments in the art are unstable devices that are either difficult to adjust, hold or manage and are largely inaccessible to specific disabled users. It is an object of the present invention to reduce or substantially obviate the aforementioned problems. According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a modular baking-tool apparatus comprising: a first handle part engageable with a rolling pin, the first handle part having a base; and a second handle part, in-use connected to the first handle part and which extends in an in-use vertical direction with respect to the base to provide a support for at least one baking tool. This is advantageous because it provides a modular kit for increasing the accessibility and ergonomics of baking tools to provide a better experience to the user. The first handle part beneficially provides a grippable surface that, with another first handle part, can be used as an aid for a rolling pin. Additionally, it permits the use of baking tools at a vertical direction using the first handle as a means to support this use. Furthermore, the inclusion of the second handle part that is vertically upstanding allows a solid support for the attachment of baking tools, increasing accessibility and multifunctionality for the user. Optionally, the first handle part may have a plurality of rolling-pin connectors positioned at different heights relative to the base and / or the plurality of rolling-pin connectors have different sizes. This is advantageous as it provides a way to connect the protruding parts of the axle of a rolling pin at different heights to allow the user to tailor a specific height of clearance space between the rolling pin body and the worksurface. This permits the user to achieve a specific thickness of dough, fondant, marzipan, or other workable culinary or crafting material. Preferably, the or each of the plurality of rolling-pin connectors may be spaced from the or each other of the plurality of rolling-pin connectors. This is beneficial, as it allows the user to clearly differentiate between each height at which the rolling-pin connectors provide. A continuous channel would not be user-friendly and would require more adjustment which increases the inaccessibility to disabled users. Individual, disparate rolling-pin connectors being spaced out from each other allows for a simplified user experience. Furthermore, the rolling pin is less likely to move in a bespoke connector that is only used for one height, and does not allow for any possibilities of adjustment elements within a single hole failing, causing the user’s desired rolling pin height to change. Optionally, each of the plurality of rolling-pin connectors is formed as a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical bearing in the first handle part. Preferably, the modular baking-tool apparatus further comprises at least one internal support member of the first handle part engaged with the cylindrical or substantially cylindrical bearings. This is advantageous as the cylindrical bearings provide a smooth, easily-accessible surface area in which the protruding parts of the axle of a rolling pin can be received within the rolling-pin connectors. The cylindrical bearings also provide a means to connect to the at least one internal support member. This arrangement increases the downward load tolerance of the cylindrical bearings which prevents deformation of the bearings when downward pressure is applied to the first handle parts. Overall, the arrangement lightens the weight of the first handle part whilst substantially retaining the strength thereof. Furthermore, this specific arrangement facilitates substantially constant wall thickness for the process of injection moulding during manufacture. Optionally, the or each of the plurality of rolling-pin connectors of the first handle part may have an identifier marker associated therewith indicative of a characteristic of the respective rolling-pin connector. Beneficially, this allows the user to know the exact height at which the rolling pin is engaged with the rolling-pin connectors without necessitating any additional measurements with additional tools such as rulers, thereby increasing simplicity and accessibility. Preferably, the first handle part may be substantially spherical or at least in part spherical. This is advantageous as it provides an easy grip surface for the user which has no sharp edges or corners. This allows the user to place more downward force onto the first handle parts without suffering injury and is designed for ambidexterity. The shape is a simple configuration that is straightforward for those with joint or mobility issues to grip and thus, increases accessibility. Optionally, the first handle part may be releasably engageable with the second handle part. This is beneficial as it permits the assembly of the modular baking-tool device so as to be used for other techniques that do not involve a rolling pin. The releasable engagement aspect also means that it is simple for the user to switch between a first handle part being used solely with a rolling pin and a first handle part being used for other processes utilising the second handle part. Preferably, the second handle part may comprise a spreading edge that is bevelled or at least in part bevelled, an upstanding body portion and a hooked base portion receivably engageable with the first handle part. Optionally, the first handle part may have a complementary engagement slot within which the hooked base portion of the second handle part is receivable. Preferably, the complementary engagement slot may be shape-matched to the hooked base portion. This is advantageous as it allows the second handle part to securely fit into the first handle part without undue movement or unstableness. The upstanding body portion is beneficial as it permits the attachment of various other tools to be used with the first handle part acting as a base. The complementary engagement slot being shape-matched to the hooked base portion permits a strong, but releasable connection. The presence of a spreading edge that is bevelled is advantageous as it permits the second handle part to also be used as a baking tool in addition to something that supports other baking tools. Optionally, the complementary engagement slot may have a chamber which is off a primary slot axis for receiving a tip of the hooked base portion so that the tip inhibits dislocation of the first handle part and the second handle part by contact with a body of the first handle part. This is beneficial as not only does it allow the second handle part to be in use upstanding and vertical, but also provides a way that the user can have a strong, stable connection without any difficult connection procedure. The tip inhibiting the dislocation rather than the whole hooked base portion doing so means that it is not arduous for a user to insert the hooked base portion into the complementary engagement slot, or remove it therefrom. As such, it increases overall accessibility by providing a strong but easily releasable engagement. Preferably, the modular baking-tool apparatus may comprise an attachment clamp selectably positionable on the second handle part, the attachment clamp having or being engageable with at least one baking tool. Optionally, the attachment clamp may further comprise an attachment clamp tool mount for releasable engagement with at least one baking tool. Beneficially, the attachment clamps permit the user to access a range of different baking tools on a stable surface. The first handle part provides said stable surface whilst the second handle part provides a means for attaching said attachment clamps holding various baking tools achieved through the attachment clamp tool mount. Furthermore, the attachment clamps being selectably positionable increases user versatility, as it allows the attachment clamps and thus, the baking tools, to be moved along the second handle part and secured at different points thereof, for different practical needs. Furthermore, the attachment clamp tool mount is releasably engageable with at least one baking tool, meaning that tools can be swapped and mixed and matched, further increasing modularity and versatility. Preferably, the attachment clamp may further comprise a second-handle-part engagement element to permit adjustable engagement along a length of the second handle part. This is advantageous as it increases user flexibility by allowing the attachment clamps and thus, the attached baking tools, to be useable across any length of the second handle part for different uses such as different heights for decorating different sized baked goods. Optionally, the modular baking-tool apparatus may further comprise a baking tool. Preferably, the baking tool may comprise a knife or a cake smoother. This is beneficial as it permits a great degree of flexibility to the user by allowing a number of different baking tools for use with the device. Furthermore, this allows the modular baking-tool apparatus to be sold as a single set with a series of different tools. The inclusion of a knife or a cake smoother is advantageous as these are two highly versatile baking tools that are dominant within the culinary arts. A knife can be used to cut many different foodstuffs whilst a cake smoother can be used to smooth different toppings on cakes or other baked goods. Optionally, the baking tool may comprise a left-hand tool portion and a right-hand tool portion. This is advantageous as it provides ambidexterity to the baking tool and increases user accessibility without the need to purchase or attach different elements or parts. This also increases overall simplicity and does not make the baking tool more bulky. Preferably, the baking tool may have a spreading edge that is bevelled or at least in part bevelled. This is beneficial as it allows the baking tool to be used from any direction, increasing ambidexterity and user accessibility. Optionally, the first handle part may have a substantially untextured outer surface. Advantageously, a substantially untextured outer surface increases user simplicity as it provides a surface that is easily cleanable or wipeable, increasing the speed at which cleaning occurs. Furthermore, it may increase accessibility as a smooth surface may be more desirable for those with skin problems or those that injure easily. It may also be more desirable for younger users or elderly users that are more likely to suffer injury when the device is in use, particularly if it did not have a smooth outer surface. Preferably, the first handle part has an at least in part textured outer surface. Optionally, the textured outer surface may comprise a plurality of grippable ribs. This is beneficial as it allows the first handle part to be substantially lighter in weight, increasing user accessibility to those who may not be able to lift or manoeuvre more weighted objects. As a means to increase accessibility further, the grippable ribs allow for a grippable surface that is easier to grasp and provides a more comfortable ergonomic experience. For users with a less powerful grip force, the grippable surface can help offset this by providing more user control. Furthermore, this specific arrangement facilitates substantially constant wall thickness for the process of injection moulding during manufacture. Preferably, the modular baking-tool apparatus may further comprise a rolling pin. This is advantageous as it allows the user to have everything necessary to use the rolling-pin connectors in the first handle part. The inclusion of a rolling pin increases the versatility of the modular baking-tool apparatus. According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a pair of height-adjustable rolling pin handles, each rolling pin handle comprising: a body having a base; and a plurality of rolling-pin connectors configured to engage with a rolling pin, each of the plurality of rolling-pin connectors being at a different height with respect to the base. Optionally, the plurality of rolling-pin connectors may be apertures. This is beneficial as it provides an apparatus for stabilising a rolling pin at a specific height with a process that is quick, simple, and accessible. The rolling-pin connectors being disparate and each at a different height prevents undue adjustment and increases simplicity, particularly for users that have reduced grip force or overall dexterity. The rolling-pin connectors being apertures is useful as this type of feature allows the protruding parts of the rolling pin axle to be receivable within said apertures easily and with minimal resistance, For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made by way of example only to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a modular baking-tool apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a first handle part of the modular bakingtool apparatus of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a top view of the first handle part of Figure 2; Figure 4 shows a side view of the first handle part of Figure 2; Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the first handle part of Figure 2; Figure 6 shows a cross-section view of an in-use arrangement of two first handle parts of the modular baking-tool apparatus with a rolling pin; Figure 7 shows a side view of the in-use arrangement of the modular baking-tool apparatus of Figure 6; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the second handle part of the modular-baking tool apparatus of Figure 1; Figure 9 shows a perspective view of the second handle part in-use engaged with the first handle part of the modular baking-tool apparatus of Figure 1; Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the modular baking-tool apparatus of Figure 9; Figure 11 shows a perspective view from below of the modular baking-tool apparatus of Figure 10; Figure 12 shows a perspective view of a smoother baking-tool attachment of the modular baking tool apparatus with the smoother attachment clamp in a free state and a clamped state; Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a modular baking-tool apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the invention in which the second handle part is in-use engaged with the first handle part; Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the modular baking-tool apparatus of Figure 13; Figure 15 shows a perspective view of a knife baking-tool attachment of the modular baking tool apparatus; Figure 16 shows a perspective view of a knife baking-tool attachment of the modular baking tool apparatus with the knife attachment clamp in a free state and a clamped state; Figure 17 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a first handle part of a modular baking-tool apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; and Figure 18 shows a bottom view of the second embodiment of the first handle part of the modular baking-tool apparatus of Figure 17. Referring firstly to Figure 1 there is shown a modular baking-tool apparatus, referenced globally at 10. The modular baking-tool apparatus 10 has a first handle part 12, which in this specific embodiment comprises two first handle parts 12 for engaging with each protruding part of the axle 14 of a rolling pin 16, and a second handle part 18 which is upstanding with respect to the first handle part 12. There are also two baking tools in the form of a smoother 20 and a knife 22 or slicer. Each of the smoother 20 and the knife 22 is engageable with the second handle part 18 via a respective attachment clamp 24, 26. Figures 2 to 4 show the first handle part 12 in more detail. The first handle part 12 has a spherical or substantially spherical shape, and here has an outer surface 28 which is or is substantially untextured. The first handle part 12 includes a plurality of rolling-pin connectors 30 which are spaced circumferentially around the outer surface 28, and which are positioned at slightly different heights relative to a base 32 thereof. A plurality of identifier markers 34 are positioned on a top part 36 of the outer surface 28 of the first handle part 12 that are each aligned with a respective rolling-pin connector 30, and which here are indicative of a thickness of a rolled substance when a rolling pin 16 is engaged. A second handle part marker 38 denotes a complementary engagement slot 40 to guide the user towards where the second handle part 18 should be positioned with respect to the first handle part 12. Specifically with reference to Figure 4, the rolling-pin connectors 30 are positioned at different heights relative to the base 32. These rolling-pin connectors 30 are apertures that have an inner surface 42 for frictional engagement with the protruding parts of the axle 14 of a rolling pin 16. The height identifier markers 34 are shown as indicating height in this particular embodiment, here in millimetres elevation of the rolling surface of the rolling pin, but may also indicate diameter, height, size, or a variation of multiple parameters. With specific reference to Figure 5, there is shown a cross-section of the first handle part 12. Visible is the complementary engagement slot 40 which gives access to a chamber 44 formed as an inner cavity thereof. The combination of the complementary engagement slot 40 and the chamber 44 permit releasable engagement of the first handle part 12 with the second handle part 18. The chamber 44 is complementarily shaped as an L-shape inner chamber to match the second handle part 18. The plurality of rolling-pin connectors 30 are cylindrical or substantially cylindrical but may also be of a different shape and / or adjustable in diameter. The rolling-pin connector 30 can also be seen, which is formed as a solid cylindrical bearing formed in a body 46 of the first handle portion 12. Figures 6 and 7 show two first handle parts 12 engaged with a rolling pin 16. The rolling pin 16 is shown engaged with the first handle parts 12. This is achieved via the protruding parts of the axle 14 of the rolling pin 16 being inserted into the rolling-pin connectors 30. The rolling pin 16 in-use is at a distance higher than the work surface 48. The chamber 44 is also shown in each of the first handle parts 12. Figure 8 shows the second handle part 18 in detail. The second handle part 18 has an upstanding body portion 50 and a hooked base portion 52. Specifically, the upstanding body portion 50 is formed as a substantially planar component having two primary side faces 54, a back face 56a and a front face 56b. The hooked base portion 52 forms a physical connection with the first handle part 12 to improve stability of the upstanding body portion 50 only when the second handle part 18 is in an in-use condition with the complementary engagement slot 40 of the first handle part 12. The hooked base portion 52 on the second handle part 18 is an L-shape component that is perpendicular to the upstanding body portion 50. The distalmost end of the hooked base portion 52 relative to the upstanding body portion 50 has a tip 58 that is also upstanding and parallel or substantially parallel to the upstanding body portion 50. The hooked base portion 52 is specifically dimensioned to be inserted into the complementary engagement slot 40, and the tip 58 is complementarily-shaped to a portion of the chamber 44 which thereby permits shape-matching engagement between the hooked base portion 52 of the second handle part 18 and the chamber 44 of the first handle part 12. The base 32 of the first handle part 12 is flat so can be seated on a flat surface for stable use on a worksurface 48. Figures 9 to 16 show separate baking tools: smoothers 20, in Figures 9 to 12; and knives 22, in Figures 13 to 16. With specific reference to Figures 9 to 12, there is a smoother attachment clamp 24, which has a smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 that engages with a smoother 20 through a smoother tool connector 62. The smoother attachment clamp 24 comprises a smoother clamp top portion 64, a smoother clamp middle portion 66, a smoother clamp bottom portion 68 and a smoother clamp support portion 70. There is a smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 in the smoother attachment clamp 24 which is formed as a slot on the smoother clamp top portion 64, smoother clamp middle portion 66 and smoother clamp bottom portion 68. The smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 has sufficient space at the distalmost end relative to the smoother clamp support portion 70 to be used also as a shared space for the upstanding body portion 50 to engage with the smoother attachment clamp 24. The smoother clamp support portion 70 contains a springing engagement mechanism. The smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 only has sufficient space within the smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 when squeezing and when there is subsequent deflection of the opposing smoother clamp top portion 64 and smoother clamp bottom portion 68. Both the smoother clamp top portion 64 and the smoother clamp bottom portion 68 are connected through the springing engagement mechanism and remain in a free state until pressure is applied by the user to transition to a clamped state. The clamped state is then maintained in-use, as the front face 56b of the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18 physically abuts the end surface 72 of the smoother 20, preventing the smoother attachment clamp 24 returning to the free state. This is also the case for the knife attachment clamp 26. This is exemplified in detail in Figure 12, which shows the smoother attachment clamp 24 in a free state 24’ and a clamped state 24”. The smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 engages with the smoother 20 through the smoother tool connector 62 which is shaped to fit within the smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60, the latter of which can then be used to fit onto the upstanding body portion 50 through the same smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60. The smoother 20 being engaged with the smoother tool connector 62 allows a back surface 72 of the smoother 20 to physically abut the upstanding body portion 50, stabilising the connection when the upstanding body portion 50 is engaged with the smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 when in-use with the smoother 20. In the exemplary use case shown in Figure 9, the hooked base portion 52 of the second handle part 18 is shown inserted into the complementary engagement slot 40 and thereby engaged with the chamber 44. The sides of the first handle part 12 have the complementary engagement slot 40 which is in physical connection with the side faces 54 and back face 56a of the upstanding body portion 50 when in-use. Also shown engaged is a smoother attachment clamp 24 engaged with a smoother 20. The smoother 20 is connected to the smoother attachment clamp 24 through the smoother tool connector 62 on the smoother 20. The smoother attachment clamps 24 engage with the smoother 20 and the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18 through the smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 which is on the smoother clamp top portion 64, the smoother clamp middle portion 66 and the smoother clamp bottom portion 68. When in-use, the back surface 72 of the smoother 20 is in connection with the side faces 54 of the upstanding body portion 50, increasing horizontal stability of the smoother 20. With specific reference to Figure 10, there is shown a cross-sectional representation of the first handle part 12 engaged with the second handle part 18. The hooked base portion 52 of the second handle part 18 is inserted into the complementary engagement slot 40 so as to engage with the chamber 44. Specifically shown is part of the smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 engaging with the smoother tool connector 62. Specifically, the smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 also uses part of the smoother clamp support portion 70 which is a securing means for engaging with the smoother through the smoother tool connector 62. Referring to Figure 11, there is shown a perspective view of the smoother 20 tool in-use with the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 12 showing a spreading edge 74a of the smoother 20 from an underside view. This shows that the spreading edge 74a is designed as a continuous bevelled surface along the width and length of the smoother 20. The bevelled edge permits the smoother 20 to be used in both a lefthanded or right-handed arrangement, as the smoother 20 can go forwards and backwards in either smoothing direction. Also shown is the spreading edge 74b of the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18. This spreading edge 74b also has a continuous bevelled surface along the width and length of the front face 56b of the upstanding body portion 50. In the depicted embodiment, the bevelled edge may be formed by two bevelled edges meeting at the centres of the spreading edge 74a, 74b and the front face 56b so that left and right hand use is of the apparatus 10 is facilitated. With specific reference to Figures 13 to 16, the knife attachment clamp 26 similarly comprises a knife clamp top portion 76, a knife clamp middle portion 78, a knife clamp bottom portion 80 and a knife clamp support portion 82. The knife clamp support portion also contains a springing engagement mechanism to control the engagement of the knife attachment clamp 26 with the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18. Conversely to the smoother attachment clamp 24 which uses a single smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 as a means to engage both the smoother attachment clamp 24 to the smoother 20 and the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18, the knife attachment clamp 26 has separate parts for these two roles. The knife clamp middle portion 78 has a knife attachment clamp tool mount 84 which is a slot on the outward face of the knife clamp middle portion 78. This releasably engages with a knife tool connector 86 that engages with a knife 22. Unlike the smoother attachment clamp 24, the knife attachment clamp 26 has a separate knife second-handle-part engagement element 88 for releasable engagement with the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18. The knife second-handle-part engagement element 88 is a slot within the knife clamp top portion 76, knife clamp middle portion 78 and knife clamp bottom portion 80 with matching dimensions to the width, length and thickness of the upstanding body portion 50 so as to slidably engage across the length of the upstanding body portion 50. As with the smoother, the knife attachment clamp 26 can be moved when there is disengagement of the knife clamp top portion 76 and the knife clamp bottom portion 80 through the spring engagement which transitions the knife attachment clamp 26 from a clamped state 26” to a free state 26’ which is specifically exemplified in Figure 16. There is only sufficient clearance to move the attachment clamp when the knife clamp top portion 76 and knife clamp bottom portion 80 are disengaged through a squeezing action. Only when the knife clamp top portion 76 and the knife clamp bottom portion 80 are opposingly deflected by squeezing via the springing engagement mechanism in the knife clamp support portion 82, is movement capable. This transitions the knife attachment clamp 26 from a free state 26’ to a clamped state 26”, the clamped state allowing the knife clamp support portion 82 and the ends of the knife second-handle-part engagement element 88 to physically abut the front face 56b and the back face 56a of the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18. Whilst the smoother attachment clamp 24 has a single aperture which is the smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 in the smoother clamp top portion 64, the smoother clamp middle portion 66 and the smoother clamp bottom portion 68, to engage with the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18 and the smoother 20, it could be envisaged differently. It may be that, like the knife attachment clamp 26, the smoother attachment clamp 24 could have a smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 for exclusively accepting the smoother 20, similar to the knife second-handle-part engagement element 88. In specific reference to Figure 13, there is shown an in-use arrangement of the first handle part 12 with the second handle part 18. The second handle part 18 is engaged to the first handle part 12 via the complementary engagement slot 40 in the side of the first handle part 12. The hooked base portion 52 of the second handle part 18 is inserted into the complementary engagement slot 40 so as to engage with the chamber 44. When this engagement occurs, the back face 72 of the smoother 20 engages with the complementary engagement slot 40. This forms an extra support that prevents sway and flexible movement of the upstanding body portion 50. Also shown is a knife attachment clamp 26 engaged with a knife 22. The knife tool connector 86 is engaged to the knife attachment clamp 26 through the knife attachment clamp tool mount 84. The knife attachment clamps 26 are connected to the upstanding body portion 50 through the knife second-handle-part engagement elements 88 present on the knife clamp top portion 76 and the knife clamp bottom portion 80. With specific reference to Figure 14, there is shown a cross-sectional representation of the first handle part 12 engaged with the second handle part 18. The hooked base portion 52 of the second handle part 18 is inserted into the complementary engagement slot 40 so as to engage with the chamber 44. Specifically shown is part of the knife tool connector 86 that engages with a knife 22. The shape and arrangement of the knife tool connector is shown in more detail in Figure 14 where it comprises a cutout at an end of the knife 22 which is complementarily-shaped to engage with the knife tool connector 86. The smoother clamp support portion 70 of the smoother attachment clamp 24 is a structural support element that physically engages to support the smoother clamp top portion 64 and the smoother clamp bottom portion 68. Similarly, the knife clamp support portion 82 of the knife attachment clamp 26 is also a structural support element that physically engages to support the knife clamp top portion 76 and the knife clamp bottom portion 80. Both the smoother clamp support portion 70 and the knife clamp support portion 82 also provide the springing engagement mechanism to allow the smoother attachment clamp 24 and the knife attachment clamp 26 to transition between a free state 24’, 26’ and a clamped state 24”, 26”. The smoother clamp support portion 70 and the knife clamp support portion 82 allow the opposing deflection of the smoother clamp top portion 64 and the smoother clamp bottom portion 68 and the knife clamp top portion 76 and the knife clamp bottom portion 80, respectively. Using the spring force, the smoother attachment clamp 24 and the knife attachment clamp 26 can be engaged with the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18. To affix them in a single position, they can be transitioned to a clamped state 24”, 26” which causes physical contact with both the smoother clamp support portion 70, knife clamp support portion 82, the ends of the smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 and the ends of the knife second-handle-part engagement element 88 to cause physical contact with the front face 56b and the back face 56a of the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18, thereby securing the smoother attachment clamp 24 and the knife attachment clamp 26 in place. When a smoother 20 is engaged with the smoother attachment clamp 24 through the smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60, the smoother physically abuts the smoother clamp support portion 70, increasing support of the smoother 20 therein. Similarly, when a knife 22 is engaged with the knife attachment clamp 26 through the knife tool connector 86, the knife physically abuts the knife clamp support portion 82, increasing support of the knife 22 therein. The smoother clamp support portion 70 and the knife clamp support portion 82 are in physical contact with the side faces 54 of the upstanding body portion 50 when connected. The smoother 20 when connected to the smoother attachment clamp tool mount 60 via the smoother tool connector 62 has extra support by physically abutting the front face 56b of the upstanding body portion 50. Similarly, the knife when connected to the knife attachment clamp tool mount 84 through the knife tool connector 86 also physically abuts the front face 56b of the upstanding body portion 50, increasing stability. Figure 16 shows the different in-use conditions between a free state 26’ and a closed state 26” of the knife attachment clamp 26 which is carried out using the same mechanism as the smoother attachment clamp 24. The knife clamp top portion 76 and the knife clamp bottom portion 80 are prevented from re-entering a free-state as the front face 56b of the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18 physically abuts the knife attachment clamp 26. In reference to Figures 17 and 18, there is shown an alternative embodiment of the first handle part 112. This embodiment is specifically designed to reduce overall weight of the first handle part 112. This is achieved by having a largely hollow internal body and having a design based on ribbed supports 190 each with an external gap 192. There is still a complementary engagement slot 140 which gives access to a chamber 144 however the chamber 144 in this specific embodiment is a different size and the base 132 is formed and supported by a circumferential edge of the first handle part 112, rather than the entire diameter of the first handle portion 112 as is the case in the first embodiment. The rolling-pin connectors 130 are embedded within the ribbed supports 90. The rolling-pin connectors 130 are substantially cylindrical and are in contact with quasi-cylindrical internal support members 194 which are formed as non-linear supporting struts, and a central support member 196, which is a hollow cylindrical member. The quasi-cylindrical shape of the internal support members 194 is shape-matched to the cylindrical protruding part of the axle 14 of a rolling pin 16. The combination of these features permit the user to apply downward loading force onto the first handle part 112 without deformation of the rolling-pin connectors 130 whilst still retaining significant space-saving for a substantially less heavy embodiment of the first handle part 112. There are also stabilising parts 198 in the complementary engagement slot 140 to steady the upstanding body portion 50 when inserted into said complementary engagement slot 140 and the central support member 198. The stabilising parts 198 are opposing and act as interference with the side faces 54 of the upstanding body portion 50 of the second handle part 18. This interference thereof provides a degree of frictional retention between the first handle part 12 and the second handle part 18. The tip 58 of the hooked base portion 52 inserts into the central support member 196 which acts as a chamber 144. To allow clearance for the tip 58 of the second handle part 18 to be removed from the small space of the central support member 196, a clearance channel 199 is also present. Whilst it has been envisioned that the modular baking-tool apparatus is shaped to be used with multi-dexterity in mind, it may be that left-hand and right-hand baking tools are available for specific users, rather than combined into a single tool. There may also be modifications to the first and / or second handles to accommodate this. Whilst the first handle part has been described in this particular embodiment as being spherical or substantially spherical, it may be that these are of a different ergonomic shape. Whilst a knife or slicer and smoother tool have been included as possible embodiments of baking tools, this does not preclude the engagement of other different baking tools of different sizes, shapes, and functionalities, including but not limited to shaping tools, icing tools, and sculpting tools. The first and second handle parts are releasably engageable with one another, but could be formed as a unitary component. Equally, the baking tools could be fixedly engaged with the second handle part, and a plurality of second handle parts provided which can be selectably engaged with the first handle part according to need. Whilst a simple releasable engagement between the first and second handle parts via the slot is shown, it will be apparent that a stronger locking arrangement could be provided in which the second handle part is more securely held in place. The knife tool and the smoother tool in the exemplified embodiments are shown to be releasably engageable with the knife tool clamp and smoother tool clamp, respectively. However, it may be that the knife tool and the smoother tool are integrally formed and thus permanently attached to the respective knife tool clamps and smoother tool clamps. Provided herein is a modular baking-tool apparatus for culinary and / or craft use. The modular baking-tool apparatus has several constituent parts for increasing overall accessibility of baking tools. Specifically, there is provided a first handle part and a second handle part, the first handle part has rolling-pin connectors for engaging with a rolling pin, and the second handle part is engageable with the first handle part and a number of attached baking tools. This makes for a versatile apparatus. The words ‘comprises / comprising’ and the words ‘having / including’ when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof. It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. The embodiments described above are provided by way of example only, and various changes and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A modular baking-tool apparatus comprising:a first handle part engageable with a rolling pin, the first handle part having a base; anda second handle part, in-use connected to the first handle part and which extends in an in-use vertical direction with respect to the base to provide a support for at least one baking tool.

2. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first handle part has a plurality of rolling-pin connectors positioned at different heights relative to the base and / or the plurality of rolling-pin connectors have different sizes.

3. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the or each of the plurality of rolling-pin connectors is spaced from the or each other of the plurality of rolling-pin connectors.

4. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of rolling-pin connectors is formed as a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical bearing in the first handle part.

5. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in claim 4, further comprising at least one internal support member of the first handle part engaged with the cylindrical or substantially cylindrical bearings.

6. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the or each of the plurality of rolling-pin connectors of the first handle part have an identifier marker associated therewith indicative of a characteristic of the respective rolling-pin connector.

7. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first handle part is substantially spherical or at least in part spherical.

8. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first handle part is releasably engageable with the second handle part.

9. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second handle part comprises a spreading edge that is bevelled or at least in part bevelled, an upstanding body portion and a hooked base portion receivably engageable with the first handle part10. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein the first handle part has a complementary engagement slot within which the hooked base portion of the second handle part is receivable.

11. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed claim 10, wherein the complementary engagement slot is shape-matched to the hooked base portion.

12. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in anyone of claims 9 to 11, wherein the complementary engagement slot has a chamber which is off a primary slot axis for receiving a tip of the hooked base portion so that the tip inhibits dislocation of the first handle part and the second handle part by contact with a body of the first handle part.

13. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, comprising an attachment clamp selectably positionable on the second handle part, the attachment clamp having or being engageable with at least one baking tool.

14. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in claim 13, wherein the attachment clamp further comprises an attachment clamp tool mount for releasable engagement with at least one baking tool.

15. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the attachment clamp further comprises a second-handle-part engagement element to permit adjustable engagement along a length of the second handle part.

16. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a baking tool.

17. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in claim 16, wherein the baking tool comprises a knife or a cake smoother.

18. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the baking tool comprises a left-hand tool portion and a right-hand tool portion.

19. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the baking tool has a spreading edge that is bevelled or at least in part bevelled.

20. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first handle part has a substantially untextured outer surface.

21. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the first handle part has an at least in part textured outer surface.

22. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in claim 21, wherein the textured outer surface comprises a plurality of grippable ribs.

23. A modular baking-tool apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a rolling pin.

24. A pair of height-adjustable rolling pin handles, each rolling pin handle comprising:a body having a base; anda plurality of rolling-pin connectors configured to engage with a rolling pin, each of the plurality of rolling-pin connectors being ata different height with respect to the base.

25. A height-adjustable rolling pin handle as claimed in claim 24, wherein the plurality of rolling-pin connectors are apertures.

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