Foldable Side Cart Locking Mechanism for Portable Grill Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grill systems are often difficult to assemble and transport due to numerous components and complex setup processes, lacking portability and flexibility, while permanent outdoor installations are expensive and inflexible.
Innovation Solution
A grill system with a side assembly that includes a side cart transitionable between a folded and upright state, featuring a slidable locking member and a locking pin mechanism, allowing for easy assembly and storage, and providing a customizable outdoor kitchen environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a foldable stand is used to mount the firebox, then portability is improved, but the set-up process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The side cart is designed to be transitionable between a folded state for transport and an upright state for use. The locking mechanism dynamically changes the cart's configuration, allowing it to lock into the upright state during operation and fold back for storage, thereby simplifying the set-up process while maintaining portability
2Ease of manufacture
If a slidable locking member is used to lock the side cart, then ease of assembly is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slidable locking member is spring-biased to automatically engage with the aperture in the upright state without requiring manual intervention. The mechanism self-locks when the cart is raised, and self-unlocks when folded, eliminating the need for tools or complex assembly steps while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a grill system is provided. The grill system can include a grill assembly and a side assembly. The grill assembly can include a grill cart and a burner box coupled to a top portion of the grill cart. The side assembly is coupled to the grill assembly. The side assembly can include a side cart. The side cart includes a vertical support member and a slidable locking member disposed on the vertical support member. The side cart is transitionable between a folded state and an upright state. The slidable locking member is configured to slide along the vertical support member when the side cart is transitioned between the folded state and the upright state. The slidable locking member is further configured to lock the side cart into the upright state. Other embodiments are also included herein.