Portable kitchen assembly and portable food preparation apparatus

Abstract

This invention discloses a portable kitchen assembly comprising a rectangular container and retractable legs for supporting the container at a suitable height for upright food preparation. The rectangular container has a top wall, a bottom wall, a rear wall, a front wall, and first and second side walls. The front wall is configured to open to a kitchen counter position, and the retractable legs are attachable to one of the outer sides of the bottom wall.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross Reference

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 222,373, filed on July 15, 2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0003] The present invention relates to systems, devices and methods related to food preparation. Prior Art

[0004] The growing popularity of outdoor recreation has increased the demand for different ways to carry various recreational equipment in and on vehicles. One such activity, known as "hookup camping" or "car camping," involves campers staying close to their vehicles and, in some cases, using them for shelter, structure, and / or storage. Equipment for this type of camping has proliferated, including rooftop tents, roof-rack-mounted awnings, and onboard charging stations. One aspect of camping that benefits from practical, easy-to-use, well-designed equipment is food preparation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention provides systems, devices, and methods related to food preparation. In some examples, a portable kitchen assembly may include a rectangular container and retractable legs for supporting the container at a suitable height for standing food preparation. The rectangular container may have a top wall, a bottom wall, a rear wall, a front wall, and first and second side walls. The front wall may be configured to open to a kitchen counter position, and the retractable legs may be attached to the outside of the bottom wall.

[0006] In some examples, a portable food preparation device may include a body having a top wall, a bottom wall, and three side walls connecting the top and bottom walls. The body may further include a door hinged to an edge of the bottom wall and securable to the top wall; and an interior compartment defined by the top, bottom, and side walls. The door may have a transport position in which it is perpendicular to the top and bottom walls, and a food preparation position in which it is parallel to the top and bottom walls. The interior compartment may be configured to store food preparation equipment and / or food when the door is in the transport position. The interior of the door may be configured to serve as a work surface when the door is in the food preparation position.

[0007] In some examples, a method of outdoor food preparation may include enclosing food preparation equipment into a portable food preparation device and closing a door of the device. The method may further include transporting the device to an outdoor location by a vehicle, opening the door of the device, and attaching at least one accessory to the device. The method may further include using the enclosed device and the open door as a work surface to prepare food. []

[0008] The features, functions, and advantages can be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present invention or may be combined in other embodiments. Further details of the features, functions, and advantages can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings. Simple diagram description

[0009] [FIG. 1] is an isometric view of an illustrative portable kitchen according to an aspect of the present invention with the door in a transport position. [Figure 2] is an isometric view of the portable kitchen of Figure 1 with the door in the food preparation position and the hanging light rod and organizer accessories installed. [Figure 3] is an isometric view of the portable kitchen of Figure 1 on a countertop with the door in the food preparation position. [Figure 4] is an isometric view of the portable kitchen in Figure 1 as seen from below. [Figure 5] is an isometric detail view of the inside of the door latch of the portable kitchen of Figure 1. [Figure 6] is an exploded view of the door latch of Figure 5. [Figure 7] is an isometric view of the portable kitchen of Figure 5 with two side counter accessories and a set of legs installed. [Figure 8] is an isometric view of the disassembled set of legs of Figure 7. [Figure 9] is an isometric view of a set of assembled legs of Figure 7. [Figure 10] is a detailed view of the side wall of the portable kitchen in Figure 1, with the side rails installed. [Figure 11] is a detailed view of a cross section through the side wall of Figure 10 with the side deck accessories installed. Implementation Method

[0010] Various aspects and examples of portable food preparation devices, related accessories, and methods are described below and in the associated figures. Unless otherwise specified, portable food preparation devices and / or their various components in accordance with the teachings of the present invention may, but need not, include at least one of the structures, components, functionalities, and / or variations described, illustrated, and / or incorporated herein. Furthermore, unless specifically excluded, the process steps, structures, components, functionalities, and / or variations described, illustrated, and / or incorporated herein in conjunction with the teachings of the present invention may be included in other similar devices and methods, including being interchangeable between the disclosed examples. The following descriptions of various examples are merely illustrative in nature and are not intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses in any way. Furthermore, the advantages provided by the examples described below are illustrative in nature, and not all examples provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantages.

[0011] This implementation includes the following sections, which follow directly from the following: (1) Definitions; (2) Overview; (3) Examples, Components, and Alternatives; (4) Illustrative Combinations and Additional Examples; and (5) Conclusion. definition []

[0012] Unless otherwise indicated, the following definitions apply herein. Additionally, as used herein, like numbers refer to like parts.

[0013] "Substantially" means conforming primarily to a particular size, range, shape, concept, or other aspect as modified by the term, such that a feature or component need not conform exactly as long as it is suitable for its intended purpose or function. For example, a "substantially cylindrical" object means that the object resembles a cylinder but may have one or more deviations from a true cylinder.

[0014] As used herein, "about" when referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, amount, time interval, etc., is intended to encompass variations of + / -10% or less, preferably +1-5% or less, more preferably + / -1% or less, and still more preferably + / -0.1% or less of the given value, as long as such variations are suitable for implementation within the present invention. It should be understood that the value to which the modifier "about" refers is itself also specifically and preferably disclosed. Overview

[0015] Generally speaking, a portable food preparation device may include a housing, case, box, storage bag, or main unit that organizes the equipment for storage and transport and also opens up to become a kitchen workspace. A user may package the unit along with cooking and / or food preparation equipment and / or ingredients at home, transport the unit to a campsite, campground, or other outdoor location, and then use the unit as a kitchen workspace.

[0016] The unit can be sized and configured for transport inside a vehicle's interior cargo area and / or on an external vehicle rack system such as a hitch rack, roof rack, truck rack, or trailer. When mounted on such a vehicle rack system, outside on the rear of the vehicle / tailgate, on another separate countertop, on a trailer, or supported by attachable, separate legs, the unit can be used as a kitchen workspace.

[0017] The portable food preparation device can be described as deployable from a transport or stowed mode to a food preparation mode. The main unit can be deployed by opening the front door, which then forms a work surface. Alternatively, the top wall of the unit can be used as a work surface, depending on the height of the surface or vehicle supporting the unit. The device can be configured to provide multiple work surfaces for multiple users in many different environments, achieving flexibility.

[0018] The work surface area can also be expanded by adding a countertop extension accessory to the main unit of a food preparation appliance. Such accessories may also be described as side counters, side counters, work surface extensions, or extensions. The work surface extension accessory may be supported on one side by the main unit. For example, the accessory may clip onto a side rail of the main unit, insert into an aperture in the main unit, or otherwise secure to the side wall of the main unit. For ease of use, the accessory may be configured for manual attachment and release from the main unit. For example, the accessory may be attached using a snap-fit ​​hook or a pull-to-release latch.

[0019] The work surface extension accessory may include a flat portion, such as a block of wood, a metal sheet, or a rigid plastic sheet. The accessory may further include legs and attachment parts for connecting to the main unit. The legs are removable by the user to allow the flat portion and / or legs to be stored inside the main unit during transport. The legs may be adjustable in length to allow leveling on variable surfaces and to position the main unit and / or work surface extension accessory at a variety of working heights.

[0020] The food preparation device can be configured for use at various heights. For example, the device can be used on different vehicle racks, vehicle interior surfaces, countertops, or tailgates at varying heights. To accommodate this height variation, the countertop extension can be configured to mount on the main unit at multiple heights or locations, depending on the user's needs. For example, the main unit can include multiple side rails, each suitable for mounting.

[0021] The food preparation device can be weather-resistant and designed for mounting on the exterior of a vehicle. For example, the main unit can have a rotationally molded HDPE body and a rugged IP54-rated housing. Features can be molded to reduce cost and weight, limit part count, and avoid the possibility of rust.

[0022] The main unit of the food preparation device can be configured to attach to a vehicle frame or other load-supporting system. For example, the main unit can include clamps designed to engage clamps of a versatile, adaptable, hook-mounted load-supporting system, such as those described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 376,038, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0023] Other accessories can be included with the food preparation device. Each accessory can be mounted to the main unit of the device and / or another accessory. For example, the device may include: a stove or grill accessory that is configured to be mounted in the same manner as the countertop extension accessory; a backboard organizer that is configured to be mounted vertically from the main unit and / or the countertop extension accessory; a foldable sink that is configured to be inserted into the countertop extension accessory; a water source for the sink, hand washing, or sanitizing station; and / or a pendant light that is suspended from a rod that is configured to be mounted to the main unit.

[0024] Supports, brackets, hooks, loops, or other features may be included on the main unit and / or accessories for supporting or attaching related equipment. For example, a countertop extension accessory may include a hose nozzle hook, a propane tank holder, and / or a towel rack.

[0025] The food preparation device's accessories can be configured for assembly in a variety of possible combinations and / or configurations. Multiple threaded inserts can be molded into the main unit to mount parts and accessory assemblies. Users can select accessories and / or mounting locations based on the needs of a specific location, application, or food preparation task. [] Examples, Components, and Alternatives

[0026] The following sections describe selected aspects of exemplary portable food preparation devices and related systems and / or methods. The examples in these sections are intended for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting the entire scope of the present invention. Each section may include one or more different examples and / or scenarios or related information, functionality, and / or structure. A. Illustrative Portable Kitchen

[0027] As shown in Figures 1 to 11, this section describes an illustrative portable kitchen assembly 100. The kitchen 100 is an example of a portable food preparation device, as described above. The kitchen includes a substantially rectangular main unit or box 102, as depicted in Figures 1 and 4, having a door 104 and a housing 106.

[0028] Housing 106 includes a top wall 107, a bottom wall 109, a first side wall 111, a second side wall 113, and a rear wall 115. Rear wall 115 may also be referred to as a third side wall. First side wall 111, second side wall 113, and rear wall 115 may be described as connecting top wall 107 to bottom wall 109. Each wall of housing 106 may be described as having an exterior side and an interior side.

[0029] A pair of handles 108 are secured to the top wall 107 for lifting the box 102. One of the handles is positioned adjacent to each of the side walls 111, 113. The top and side walls 107, 111, 113 are shaped to form a recess around each handle 108, providing space for a user's hand between the handles and the box 102. A single user can lift the box 102 using both handles, or two users can collaboratively lift the box by each using one of the handles. Collaborative lifting using both handles allows for easy lifting even when the box 102 is loaded with heavy food and / or equipment.

[0030] In this example, the housing 106 is rotationally molded from single-wall high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and the door 104 is rotationally molded from double-wall HDPE. All exterior surfaces of the box 102 are textured, and the door includes an ethylene propylene diene monomer (EDPM) seal. The lift handle 108 is injection-molded nylon. In some examples, the housing 106 and door 104 may comprise other plastics and be formed in other ways. In some examples, the housing and door may comprise other strong and lightweight materials, such as aluminum. In some examples, the box 102 may include insulating material.

[0031] The door and walls of box 102 include deeply recessed geometries for structural strength. Door 104 and walls 107, 109, 111, 113, and 115 each include multiple grooves. Deep channel "breakaways" increase rigidity and torsional stability, and are wider when tilted for easier cleaning. An in-mold cup holder 112 is incorporated into top wall 107.

[0032] The box 102 has a transport mode 117, shown in Figures 1 and 4, and a food preparation mode 119, shown in Figures 2, 3, and 7. The box can also be described as having a storage position and a use position. In the transport mode 117, the door 104 is closed. When closed, the door is upright, perpendicular to the top and bottom walls, and parallel to the rear wall.

[0033] When closed, the door 104 is secured to the housing 106 by two locking, over-center latches 110. Each latch is positioned at an upper corner of the door 104 to engage a catch at the front edge of the upper corner of the box 102, where the top wall 107 meets the first and second side walls 111, 113. The latches 110 are described in more detail below with reference to Figures 5 and 6. To open the door 104, the user unlocks and releases the latches 110, then pulls on the finger-pull groove 116 at the top of the door 104.

[0034] In FIG2 , the cabinet 102, along with its attached accessories, is positioned in food preparation mode 119 . In food preparation mode, the door 104 is open. When open, the door 104 is horizontal, parallel to the top and bottom walls of the housing 106 , and can be described as being in a flat, or kitchen counter, position. The door opens approximately 90 degrees from the housing 106 and is supported in the open position by a pair of folding steel door supports 114 . The door may additionally or alternatively include any effective support to maintain a horizontal position. The door 104 is hinged to the front edge 123 of the bottom wall of the housing 106 . The metal components of the hinge are enclosed by the rotationally molded HDPE of the door and bottom wall to prevent environmental exposure.

[0035] In this example, the housing 106 includes a front flange on the top, bottom, and side walls. The front flange is shaped to contact the inner surface 121 of the door 104. The edge formed on the flange may include or retain a gasket or seal to form a seal between the door 104 and the housing 106 when the door is closed. This seal can help maintain a desired temperature inside the box 102 during transport, prevent spilled ingredients from leaking, and / or weatherproof the box and prevent the intrusion of dust, dirt, or water from the environment.

[0036] The inner surface 121 of the door 104 is configured for use as a food preparation work surface. In some examples, the kitchen 100 may include a separate cover or cutting board formed to cover the inner surface 121. In some examples, structural recesses or other features of the door 104 may be covered by a flat inner layer forming the inner surface 121.

[0037] The housing 106 defines an interior compartment or storage space 120. The case 102 further includes an interior shelf 118, which can be described as dividing the housing's interior space 120 into an upper compartment and a lower compartment. An appliance drawer 122 is mounted on slides in the lower compartment, on the underside of the shelf 118. This drawer can be removed to increase storage capacity in the lower compartment. In some examples, a flat floor can be installed at the bottom of the lower compartment, covering any channels or recesses on the inside of the bottom wall 109.

[0038] In addition to the box 102, the kitchen 100 also includes a plurality of accessories. Users can add accessories as needed, allowing them to transport a different selection of accessories for each use of the portable kitchen. Some of the accessories can be folded and / or disassembled into components sized to fit within the interior space 120 of the box 102. The box may include any apertures, fasteners, structures, or other features suitable for mounting accessories. In this example, the box 102 includes mounting apertures 124 and side rails. More specifically, each sidewall 111, 113 of the box 102 includes a nut insert 127 for the middle and lower rails, as further described below with reference to Figures 10 and 11.

[0039] In Figure 2, a vertical organizer 138 is mounted in the mounting socket 124 on the main unit. The vertical organizer 138 can also be mounted to a side counter accessory, as described below with respect to Figure 7. In this example, the back panel accessory is a soft goods organizer and includes a fabric body attached to a linear hoop. The ends of the hoop are received by the mounting socket 124 on the box 102 or a similar socket in the side counter accessory. The fabric body includes versatile pockets of various sizes, including mesh expansion pockets. The vertical organizer 138 can be used to store and organize cooking tools or appropriately sized ingredients such as sauces and spices during food preparation.

[0040] Also in FIG2 , a rod 142 for a hanging light (not shown) is mounted near the rear wall and second side wall 113 through an aperture 143 in the top wall 107. A corresponding aperture 143 is located in the top wall 107 near the first side wall 111 as an alternative location for the rod. The rod 142 extends through the top wall 107 to be received in a socket in the interior shelf 118 for added stability. The aperture in the top wall 107 may include a flexible and / or removable seal to prevent water intrusion into the interior space 120 when the rod 142 is not installed. In some examples, the rod 142 may be configured to interface with the mounting socket 124 in place of the vertical organizer 138. The rod 142 may be foldable to allow storage within the case 102.

[0041] In some examples, the kitchen 100 may include additional or alternative accessories that mount to the sockets 124 and / or the apertures in the top wall 107. In some examples, the box 102 may include additional or alternative features for mounting accessories. The user may use other devices in conjunction with the accessories of the kitchen 100. For example, the user may suspend a camping lantern or any other suitable light source from the pole 142.

[0042] In FIG3 , the portable kitchen 100 is deployed on the picnic table 90 in food preparation mode 119. The user can use any available supports at a suitable height for food preparation. The picnic table is typically used at a campsite or other outdoor recreational location, or the user can position the box 102 on the open tailgate of a truck or in the rear of a vehicle. Preferably, supports extend under the door 104 to prevent tilting when force is applied to the door during use as a food preparation surface.

[0043] Both the housing 106 and the outer surface 105 of the door 104 contact the countertop 90. In this example, cleats 131 are mounted on the bottom of the housing 106 and support the housing on the countertop. The door 104 is hinged to the housing 106 so that, in the open position, the outer surface 105 of the door lies flat on top of the countertop. The contact between the two cleats 131 and the majority of the outer surface 105 and the countertop 90 prevents vibration and provides a secure food preparation surface.

[0044] Clamps 131 are further depicted in FIG4 , which is an isometric view from below the box 102. These cleats are wedge-shaped rails secured to the bottom wall 109 and are configured for attachment to a vehicle hitch rack. In some examples, cleats 131 may be omitted, and / or other attachment features may be included on the box 102.

[0045] The bottom wall 109 further includes a molded rectangular channel 133 between the cleats 131. The channel is configured to receive an interface portion of a leg assembly, as further described below with reference to Figures 8 and 9. A pair of fastener apertures 135 extend through the rear wall 115 into the rectangular channel 133 to allow the leg assembly to be fastened to the box 102.

[0046] Figures 5 and 6 are isometric and exploded views of one of the latches 110. The other latch may be substantially equivalent in structure. The latch 110 includes a latch body 170 pivotally connected to a latch plate 184, which is secured to the door. The latch plate can be secured to the door via at least two of the four apertures in the plate. The two apertures may be diagonally adjacent and are selected based on which side of the door the latch 110 is mounted on. In some examples, the latch plate 184 may include only two apertures or may be secured to the door via four fasteners.

[0047] The latch body 170 includes a pin 172, which is received by a hook 174 on a bracket 176. The bracket is fixed to the housing of the main unit. The latch body 170 further includes a lower pivot frame 178 fixed between two tabs 173 of the latch body 170. The lower pivot frame 178 is connected to an upper pivot frame 182 by a connecting rod 180. The upper pivot frame is fixed between two tabs 183 of the latch plate 184.

[0048] The latch body 170 can pivot about upper and lower pivot frames, as constrained by the link 180, to engage or disengage the pin 172 and the hook 174. In the latched position, the pin 172 can be received by the hook 174, and the latch body 170 can be constrained in position, substantially parallel to the latch plate 184. In the unlocked position, the pin 172 can be disengaged from the hook 174, and the latch body 170 can freely pivot relative to the latch plate 184. The latch 110 can be described as a withdrawn latch, or an over-center latch.

[0049] The latch 110 is also locked and further includes a lock cylinder 186. The lock cylinder is fixed in the latch body 170 and rotates the cam plate 188 into and out of engagement with the lower tab 187 of the latch plate 184. When engaged with the latch plate 184, the cam plate 188 prevents the latch body 170 from pivoting about the upper pivot bracket 182 and thereby prevents the pin 172 from disengaging from the hook 174.

[0050] FIG7 depicts a kitchen 100 having two side counter accessories and a leg assembly 136. In food preparation mode 119, the cabinet 102 is supported on the leg assembly 136. The leg assembly 136 includes a set of four retractable legs 145, as further illustrated in FIG8 and FIG9. These legs are adjustable to raise the door 104, top wall 107, and / or accessories mounted to the cabinet 102 to a suitable height for use as a work surface while standing. A suitable height for standing food preparation can be understood as being between approximately hip height and chest height of the user and / or as an ergonomically appropriate working height. The leg assembly 136 can be configured to support the cabinet 102 at a plurality of discrete heights, from which the user can select the most suitable height.

[0051] For example, the inner surface 121 of the door 104 and the outer surface of the top wall 107 can each be positioned at approximately a standard kitchen counter height of 91.5 centimeters (cm) or 36 inches (in). The door and / or top wall can also be positioned at a height ranging from approximately 60 cm (24 in) to 120 cm (48 in) to allow for comfortable working heights for a variety of users.

[0052] The leg assembly 136 can be used in place of a countertop, as depicted in Figure 3, particularly in situations where suitable supports are unavailable. The legs can also be independently adjusted to different lengths to allow the kitchen 100 to be leveled on uneven terrain.

[0053] As shown in FIG8 , the leg assembly 136 is constructed to allow for disassembly for storage and transport. The leg assembly can also be described as stowable and / or foldable. The leg assembly 136 includes a set of four retractable legs 145, an upper frame 147, and a pair of fasteners 153.

[0054] Each leg 145 is independently adjustable and comprises an inner member with a circular aperture and an outer member with a channel having a plurality of side grooves. The inner member is extendable relative to the outer member and can be secured in place by fasteners extending through grooves aligned with the circular apertures. The first end of each leg comprises a foot. The second end of each leg comprises a clamping fastener and is configured to be received by the upper frame 147.

[0055] The upper frame 147 includes a rectangular interface portion 149 configured to engage the channel 133 of the bottom wall 109 of the box 102, as shown in Figure 4. The interface portion 146 includes four rectangular elongated members, including a rear member having apertures 155 configured to align with the fastener apertures 135 when the interface portion is received in the channel 133. The upper frame 147 further includes a sleeve 151 at each of the four corners of the interface portion 149 to receive the second end of each of the legs 145.

[0056] In FIG9 , the leg assembly 136 is depicted assembled. A user can assemble the legs 145 and upper frame 147 and, as depicted in FIG7 , adjust the legs to a level below the desired height before mounting the bin 102 on the assembly. The user can then place the bin onto the leg assembly 136, with the interface portions received in corresponding channels in the bottom wall, and install fasteners 153 ( FIG8 ) to secure the bin to the leg assembly. Securing the bin 102 to the leg assembly 136 prevents tilting when force is applied to the door 104 during use as a food preparation surface.

[0057] 7 , a first side counter accessory 128 is shown mounted to the first side wall 111, and a second side counter accessory 130 is mounted to the second side wall 113. The side counter 128 may also be referred to as a sink counter or sink support, and the side counter 130 may also be referred to as a side countertop, work counter, or kitchen counter accessory.

[0058] Each side counter 128, 130 includes a flat, unfolded portion 129, retractable legs 132, and a pair of connectors 144. The flat, unfolded portion 129 of the first side counter 128 includes an opening into which a collapsible sink 134 is mounted. In some examples, the sink 134 may be removable and / or replaceable with other inserts, such as a cutting board. The second side counter 130 further includes a utility rack 137, which can be used for towels and / or other hanging items. In some examples, one or both side counters may include additional features, such as removable brackets for a propane tank, a water source, and / or a hose sprayer attachment for use with the sink 134.

[0059] Each side counter 128, 138 can alternatively be attached to the box 102 on either side wall 111, 113. Each side counter is supported in a horizontal orientation by being connected to the box 102 at one end and to retractable legs 132 at the opposite end. Legs 132 can be constructed similarly to legs 145 of assembly 136 (FIG. 8). These legs can also be removable for storage and transport.

[0060] Each side counter can be selectively attached to a rung on the box 102 via connectors 144. As shown in Figures 1 and 4, the side walls 111 and 113 of the box 102 each include a nut insert 127 for securing two rail structures or rungs to the outside. In Figure 10, the middle rung 126B and the lower rung 126C are shown secured to the second side wall 113. In this example, the middle rungs and the lower rungs comprise stamped steel round frames. The top rung 126A is formed in each of the lifting handles 108 and is formed into two separate sections. The first side wall 111 can be similarly constructed, and the user can install the middle rung 126B and the lower rung 126C on either or both of the side walls as desired.

[0061] The top, middle, and bottom rails provide three mounting heights for the side accessories. Referring again to FIG7 , the first side counter 128 and the second side counter 130 are each depicted mounted on the middle rail. The legs 132 have been adjusted to match the height of the middle rail of the case 102, thereby leveling the respective side counter.

[0062] In some examples, the box 102 may include grooves, apertures, or other features for attaching side counter accessories. The side counter accessories may be selectively attached at multiple working heights.

[0063] The connector 144 of the side counter is constructed to attach to any of the three tracks at the side of the main unit. A cross section of the second side wall 113 of the second side counter 130 and one connector 144 is shown in Figure 11, where the side wall is depicted as transparent.

[0064] In this example, connector 144 is a bracket secured to the edge of flat extension 129, with a hook positioned above crosspiece 126. A clamping screw extends through an aperture in the bracket to engage the crosspiece and secure connector 144 to the crosspiece. In some examples, connector 144 may include a latch-type mechanism with a pivotable latch structure. In some examples, connector 144 may be a plastic injection-molded hook with a barbed snap feature. Connector 144 may also be configured to engage other features of the sidewall and / or may include any effective engagement structure. Illustrative Combinations and Additional Examples

[0065] This section describes, but is not limited to, additional aspects and features of the portable food preparation device presented as a series of paragraphs, some or all of which may be numeralized for clarity and efficiency. Each of these paragraphs may be combined in any suitable manner with one or more other paragraphs and / or with disclosures from elsewhere in this application (including materials incorporated by reference in cross-references). Some of the following paragraphs explicitly refer to and further limit other paragraphs, providing, but not limiting, examples of some of the suitable combinations.

[0066] A0. A portable food preparation device comprising: A subject, which includes: a top wall and a bottom wall, Three side walls connecting the top wall and the bottom wall, a door hinged to an edge of the bottom wall and securable to the top wall, and an internal compartment defined by the top wall, the bottom wall, and the side walls, wherein the door has a transport position perpendicular to the top wall and the bottom wall, and a food preparation position wherein the door is parallel to the top wall and the bottom wall, and The interior compartment is configured to store food preparation equipment when the door is in the transport position, and an interior side of the door is configured to serve as a work surface when the door is in the food preparation position.

[0067] A1. The device of A0, wherein the door is latched to the top wall in the transport position and unlocked from the top wall in the food preparation position.

[0068] A2. A device as in A0 or A1, further comprising a plurality of accessories attachable to the body.

[0069] A3. The device of A2, wherein the accessories include one or more of (a) a sink, (b) a grill, (c) a light, (d) an organizer, (e) a shelf, (f) a drawer, or (g) a countertop.

[0070] A4. The device of A2 or A3, wherein the internal compartment is configured to store the plurality of accessories.

[0071] A5. The device of any one of A0 to A4, wherein one of the three side walls comprises a track structure on an outer side, and the portable food preparation device comprises an accessory mountable to the track structure.

[0072] A6. The device of A5, wherein the accessory comprises a work surface having a leg and a pair of connectors configured for removable attachment to the track structure.

[0073] A7. The apparatus of A6, wherein the legs are adjustable in length and the sidewalls include a plurality of track structures on the outer side whereby the work surface can be secured at a plurality of working heights.

[0074] A8. The device of A6 or A7, wherein each of the pair of connectors comprises a deformable material and is attachable to the track structure by a snap-fit ​​mechanism.

[0075] A9. A device as described in any of items A6 to A8, wherein each of the pair of connectors includes a pivotable latch portion and a channel constructed to receive the track structure, the track structure urges the latch portion to pivot when received in the channel, and once the track structure is received in the channel, the latch portion prevents removal of the track structure.

[0076] A10. The device of A9, wherein the latch portion is manually pivotable to release the track structure from the channel.

[0077] A11. The device of any one of A0 to A10, wherein the top wall includes a pair of handles for lifting the portable food preparation device.

[0078] A12. The device of any one of A0 to A11, further comprising a set of legs for supporting the body, the set of legs being removably attached to the bottom wall.

[0079] A13. The device of any one of items A0 to A12, further comprising a mounting structure fixed to the bottom wall, the mounting structure being adapted to be connected to a vehicle-mounted load carrier.

[0080] A14. The device of A13, wherein the mounting structure comprises a pair of wedge-shaped clamps.

[0081] A15. The device of any one of A0 to A14, wherein the door is secureable to the top wall by a pair of over-center latches, each of the over-center latches further comprising a cam lock.

[0082] B0. A method for preparing food outdoors, comprising: Encapsulating food preparation equipment into a portable food preparation device, Close one of the doors of the device, The device is transported to an outdoor location by a vehicle. Open the door of the device, installing at least one accessory to the device, Prepare food using the enclosed equipment and the open door as a work surface.

[0083] B1. The method of B0, further comprising mounting the device to a load carrier mounted on the vehicle.

[0084] B2. The method of B0 or ​​B1, wherein mounting one or more accessories to the device includes receiving a rail portion of the device in each of a pair of connectors of the at least one accessory.

[0085] B3. The method of any one of B0 to B2, wherein mounting the at least one accessory to the device comprises inserting a support rod of the accessory into a corresponding aperture of the device.

[0086] C0. A portable kitchen assembly, comprising: A rectangular container having a top wall, a bottom wall, a rear wall, a front wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall, the front wall being configured to open to a kitchen counter position, and A retractable leg, which can be attached to an outer side of the bottom wall, The retractable legs are used to support the container at a suitable height for standing preparation of food.

[0087] C1. A portable kitchen as in C0, wherein the legs are adjustable to a plurality of heights.

[0088] C2. The portable kitchen of C0 or C1, further comprising a first side counter member, the first side counter member being attachable alternately to an outer side of the first side wall and an outer side of the second side wall.

[0089] C3. The portable kitchen of C2, wherein the outer side of each of the first side wall and the second side wall has a plurality of rail structures for fastening the first side counter at a plurality of different heights.

[0090] C4. The portable kitchen of C2 or C3, wherein the first side counter has a retractable leg for supporting the first side counter in a horizontal orientation.

[0091] C5. The portable kitchen of C2 to C4, wherein the first side counter has an opening configured to support a sink.

[0092] C6. The portable kitchen of any one of C0 to C5, further comprising a second side counter member, the second side counter member being attachable alternately to the outer side of the first side wall and the outer side of the second side wall.

[0093] C7. The portable kitchen of any one of C0 to C6, further comprising a kitchen utensil organizer configured to be attached to an outer side of the top wall.

[0094] C8. The portable kitchen of any one of C0 to C7, further comprising an interior shelf and a utensil tray suspended from the interior shelf.

[0095] C9. The portable kitchen of any one of C0 to C8, further comprising a gas source configured to be attached to the container or a side counter and connected to a stove.

[0096] C10. The portable kitchen of any one of C0 to C9, further comprising a light fixture attachable to the top wall or one of the side walls of the container.

[0097] C11. The portable kitchen of any one of C0 to C10, further comprising a clamp device for connecting the container to a vehicle hitch rack.

[0098] D0. A portable kitchen comprising A rectangular box comprising a shell and a front door, the front door opening 90 degrees to a flat position, A horizontal shelf mounted in the housing, a utensil tray suspended from the horizontal shelf, and An organizer has a plurality of pockets and is selectively mountable on top of the housing in a vertical orientation.

[0099] D1. The portable kitchen of D0, wherein the housing and the door comprise rotationally molded plastic.

[0100] D2. A portable kitchen as in D0 or D1, wherein the door and each wall of the housing include a plurality of grooves. in conclusion

[0101] It is believed that the disclosure set forth herein encompasses multiple distinct inventions with independent utility. Although each of these inventions has been disclosed in its preferred form, the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense, as numerous variations are possible. The subject matter of the present invention includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions, and / or properties disclosed herein. Similarly, where a claim recites "a" or "a first" element or its equivalent, such claim should be understood to include incorporation of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements.

[0102] The various structural components disclosed herein can be constructed of any suitable material or combination of materials, such as metal, plastic, nylon, plastic, rubber, or any other material having sufficient structural strength to withstand the loads generated during use. The material can be selected based on its durability, flexibility, weight, and / or aesthetic qualities.

[0103] While the present invention has been presented with reference to the aforementioned operating principles and specific examples, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The present invention is intended to encompass all such alternatives, modifications, and variations. Where the present invention lists "a," "a first," or "another" element or its equivalent, this should be interpreted as including one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. Furthermore, any aspect shown or described with reference to a particular embodiment should be interpreted as being compatible with any other embodiment, alternative, modification, or variation.

[0104] It is believed that the following claims specifically indicate that certain combinations and subcombinations are directed to one of the disclosed inventions and are novel and non-obvious. Inventions embodied in other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements, and / or properties may be claimed by amending the present claims or presenting new claims in this or a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether directed to different inventions or the same invention, and whether different from, broader than, narrower than, or equal in scope to the original claims, are also deemed to be included within the subject matter of the present invention.

Claims

1. A portable kitchen assembly comprising: a substantially rectangular container having a top wall, a bottom wall, a rear wall, a front wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall, the front wall being configured to open to a kitchen counter position, retractable legs attachable to an outer side of the bottom wall, the retractable legs being used to support the container at a suitable height for standing food preparation, wherein the legs are adjustable to a plurality of heights; a first side counter component and a second side counter component, the first side counter component and the second side counter component alternatively attached to an outer side of the first side wall and an outer side of the second side wall, wherein the outer side of each of the first side wall and the second side wall has a plurality of track structures for positioning the first side counter component or the second side counter component at a plurality of different heights, and the first side counter component having a retractable leg for supporting the first side counter component in a horizontal orientation.

2. A portable food preparation device, comprising: a main body, which includes: The enclosure comprises a top wall and a bottom wall, three side walls connecting the top wall and the bottom wall, a door hinged to one edge of the bottom wall and fixable to the top wall, an internal compartment defined by the top wall, the bottom wall and the side walls, and a set of legs for supporting the main body, the set of legs being removably attached to the bottom wall and adjustable to a plurality of heights, wherein the door has a transport position perpendicular to the top wall and the bottom wall, and wherein the door is parallel to one food preparation position of the top wall and the bottom wall, and wherein the internal compartment is configured to store food preparation equipment when the door is in the transport position, and one inner side of the door is configured to serve as a work surface when the door is in the food preparation position.

3. The portable food preparation device of claim 2, wherein the door is latched to the top wall in the transport position and unlocked from the top wall in the food preparation position.

4. The portable food preparation device of claim 2, wherein one of the three sidewalls includes a track structure on an outer side, and the portable food preparation device includes an accessory that can be mounted to the track structure.

5. The portable food preparation device of claim 4, wherein the accessory includes a working surface having a leg and a pair of connectors configured for removable attachment to the track structure.

6. The portable food preparation device of claim 5, wherein the leg is adjustable in length and the sidewall includes a plurality of track structures on the outer side, thereby allowing the working surface to be fixed at a plurality of working heights.

7. The portable food preparation device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the top wall includes a pair of handles for lifting the portable food preparation device.

8. The portable food preparation device of claim 2, wherein the door can be secured to the top wall by means of a pair of over-center latches, each of the over-center latches further comprising a cam lock.

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