Device for holding utensils
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional containers for utensils are limited to storage and transport, unable to accommodate large-format items and lack multifunctional use in various settings, such as event catering and workspaces.
Innovation Solution
A device with a flat base body featuring multiple transverse folds forming sections, allowing for a stable standing surface during transport and storage, and a detachable top section for easy access, using magnets or clamps for connection, enabling versatile use and space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional containers with side walls and lids are used for utensil storage, then storage and transport functions are fulfilled, but the device cannot accommodate large-format utensils and lacks multifunctional use
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a storage container during transport, provides a stable base for utensils during use, and can be configured in different spatial arrangements. The flat base body with foldable sections allows the same structure to accommodate various utensil types and sizes without requiring different containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into a flat base body and multiple foldable sections that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the sections to be folded during transport for compact storage and unfolded during use to provide additional support surfaces and accommodate larger utensils, thereby increasing versatility without permanently increasing complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If packaging rolls with rubber loops are used for holding utensils, then production costs are reduced and small-format objects can be stored, but large-format utensils cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a single rolled structure, the device uses a flat base body with multiple detachable foldable sections that can be configured to accommodate different utensil sizes. This segmented approach maintains manufacturing simplicity while providing the volume flexibility needed for large-format utensils.
3Productivity
If conventional containers are used for event catering, then utensils can be stored, but considerable time is required for setup and transformation of spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions dynamically between compact transport configuration and expanded use configuration. The foldable sections can be quickly deployed and repositioned, allowing rapid setup of utensil arrangements when transforming event spaces from conference to dining configurations, thereby reducing productivity loss during space transformation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a flat base body with foldable sections is used to accommodate large-format utensils and enable multifunctional use, then adaptability and utensil capacity are improved, but device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the structure into a simple flat base body and separate foldable sections that can be independently manipulated. This segmentation allows the complex functionality to be achieved through simple, modular components rather than a single complicated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The foldable sections provide dynamic adaptability, allowing the device to transform between compact and expanded states. This dynamic capability enables the accommodation of various utensil sizes and configurations without requiring multiple different devices, thereby justifying the moderate increase in structural complexity through enhanced versatility.
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
Enables efficient setup and conversion of spaces, such as conference to dining rooms, by allowing utensils to be easily arranged and removed, reducing setup time and space requirements, while accommodating diverse utensil sizes and shapes.
Implementation Method 1
at least one connection means for the detachable, non-positive and/or positive connection of the section forming the top surface to the angled portion is provided
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6
AI summary
A device for receiving utensils (1, 2) is specified which is inexpensive, offers space for utensils of different shapes and opens up the possibility of multifunctional use in various areas of gastronomy, the world of work and learning. For this purpose, the device comprises a flat base body (3) with at least three transverse folds (4, 5, 6, 7) for the formation of sections (9, 10, 11, 12) that can be folded relative to a main section (8), with and storage condition of the device • the main section (8) forms the standing surface (13) for at least one utensil (1) by means of its inner surface and a contact surface (14) to the base (15) by means of its outer surface, • on opposite sides of the main section (8 ) adjacent sections (10, 11) extend at an angle to the main section (8) and • a section (9) adjacent to an angled section (10) forms a cover surface (16) and at least one connecting means for detachable, non-positive and/or positive locking Connection of the top surface (16) forming section (9) is provided with the angled section (11) which is arranged on the opposite side of the main section (8).