Fire Pit Lid Latch Assembly for Inversion-Proof Ash Containment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable fire pits often experience ash and debris spillage during transport and storage, as the existing designs do not effectively secure the lid when the fire pit is tilted or inverted.
Innovation Solution
A fire pit lid with latch assemblies that secure the lid to the fire pit, either under the upper wall or to the body of the fire pit, ensuring the lid remains in place regardless of the fire pit's orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the fire pit is made portable with a handle for carrying, then ease of transport is improved, but ash and debris spillage occurs when tilted or inverted
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is equipped with latch assemblies that can be engaged before transport to preliminarily secure the lid in position. This preliminary action prevents ash and debris from falling out during transport, even when the fire pit is tilted or inverted, while maintaining the portability benefit of the handle design
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the lid is designed to fit the fire pit opening, then protection from debris is improved, but the lid falls off during movement and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The lid design segments the retention function into multiple independent latch assemblies (at least two) spaced around the perimeter. Each latch assembly independently secures the lid to the fire pit body, preventing the lid from falling off during movement and storage while maintaining debris protection when upright
3Reliability
If latch assemblies are added to secure the lid, then lid retention is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assemblies are designed with resilient latches that automatically engage with the fire pit body when the lid is placed on the fire pit. The resilient nature of the latches provides automatic self-latching without requiring manual intervention, reducing operational complexity while maintaining reliable lid retention
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
The latched lid effectively prevents ash, dust, and debris from falling out during transport and storage, maintaining the cleanliness and usability of the fire pit.
Implementation Method 1
Each latch assembly includes a resilient latch
Data Source
AI summary
A lid for a fire pit includes a latch that connects the lid to the body of the fire pit. In one configuration, the lid is latched under an overhanging upper wall of the fire pit. The latch maintains the position of the lid when the fire pit is upright, placed or carried on its side, or turned upside down.