Low-Pressure Cooking Pot Lid Lock With Automatic Steam Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure cookers are complex and require additional effort from the operator to release pressure, featuring a separate safety valve that must be manually depressed before the lid can be opened, making them more expensive and difficult to use.
Innovation Solution
The safety valve is integrated into the unlocking mechanism of the claws, allowing internal vapor pressure to escape during the unlocking process, eliminating the need for a separate operation to vent pressure, with a passage opening covered by a spherical closure body that automatically releases pressure when the lid is opened.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate safety valve with manual depression mechanism is provided, then safety is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The safety valve is integrated into the claw mechanism itself. The claw serves dual functions: both as a locking component and as the actuating mechanism for the safety valve. When the claw is in the locked position, it covers the safety valve opening; when released, it automatically opens the safety valve. This eliminates the need for a separate manually-depressable safety valve mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The claw is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides the primary locking function by engaging with the pot rim, and simultaneously serves as the safety valve actuator. The same mechanical component that secures the lid also controls the safety release mechanism, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining safety functionality.
2Reliability
If a separate safety valve requiring manual depression is used, then safety is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs the safety valve function automatically through the natural operation of the claw mechanism. When the user releases the locking mechanism, the claw automatically moves to its released position, which simultaneously opens the safety valve. No separate manual action is required from the operator to activate the safety release; the system serves itself by integrating the safety function into the normal unlocking sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The safety valve opening action is performed preliminarily and automatically as part of the unlocking sequence. The claw's movement to the released position inherently opens the safety valve before the lid can be fully removed, ensuring pressure is safely released in advance of lid removal without requiring an additional operator step.
3Reliability
If a separate safety valve mechanism is provided, then safety is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The safety valve mechanism is merged with the existing claw components rather than being implemented as a separate assembly. The claw itself forms part of the safety valve structure, with the safety opening positioned such that claw movement directly controls it. This integration reduces the number of parts, simplifies assembly, and lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining safety functionality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design simplifies the operation of the pressure cooker by automatically releasing pressure when the lid is opened, reducing the risk of injury from sudden steam release and eliminating the need for an additional operation to depress the safety valve.
Implementation Method 1
The seal is primarily created by the weight of the closure body resting on the passage opening
Implementation Method 2
when the claws are moved into the unlocked position, the safety valve is opened so that the internal vapor pressure can escape to the outside
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a low-pressure cooking pot, consisting of a pot (1) which is provided with a pouring edge (4) that is curved outwards, a lid (3) which matches the upper opening and which comprises a sealing ring (5) made of elastic material, a closure mechanism which is provided on the lid (3) and which is equipped with movable claws (6) in order to engage behind the pouring edge (4), a handle (7) which is provided on the lid (3), an actuating element (8) which is arranged on the handle (7) for releasing and locking the claws (6), and a pressure relief valve which is provided in the lid (3). The circumferential sealing region of the lid (3) should be designed so as to be producible in a simpler and easier manner. This is achieved in that the sealing ring (5) surrounds the outer circumference of the lid edge (14), and an upper flange (15) and a lower flange (16) of the sealing ring engage around the lid edge (14). A sealing lip (18) which extends outwards from the outer circumference of the sealing ring is provided on the sealing ring (5), said sealing lip being offset inwards to a certain extent and extending downwards. The sealing lip (18) rests against the inner face of the pot (1) under tension when the lid (3) is placed on the pot.