Food Grater Hinge Mechanism for Multi-Position Locking and Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food graters lack versatility and compact storage solutions, as they often require multiple devices for different grating positions and do not easily collapse for space-saving storage.
Innovation Solution
A food grating apparatus with a hinge mechanism that allows the arms to be fixed in multiple positions, enabling easy conversion between usage modes and compact storage, featuring a rotating drum and biasing spring for smooth operation and secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a food grater is designed with fixed arms for multiple grating positions, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by designing arms that can be positioned and locked at multiple angles rather than being fixed in a single position. The hinge mechanism with locking holes allows the arms to dynamically adjust to different grating configurations while maintaining stability during use, thus achieving versatility without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by creating a single grater device that can perform multiple grating functions through adjustable arm positions. The main body and arms are designed to work together in various configurations, allowing one device to replace multiple specialized graters, thereby improving versatility while avoiding the need for multiple separate devices.
2Volume of moving object
If a food grater is designed to collapse into storage position, then space efficiency is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the grater into separable components - the main body and the arms connected by hinge mechanisms. This segmentation allows the arms to be folded back against the main body for compact storage, reducing volume while maintaining ease of operation through simple hinge-based connections that require minimal effort to assemble and disassemble.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a hinge mechanism is added to enable position adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through the spring-loaded locking mechanism that automatically engages with locking holes when the arms are positioned. The spring maintains constant pressure to ensure secure locking without requiring additional fasteners or complex adjustment procedures, thereby achieving adaptability while minimizing the added complexity of the hinge mechanism.
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 apparatus provides a versatile grating solution that can be easily stored and used in various configurations, enhancing user convenience and space efficiency while maintaining effective grating functionality.
Implementation Method 1
biasing spring for smooth operation and secure locking
Implementation Method 2
hinge mechanism to connect arms of an apparatus in multiple fixed positions
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention comprises a food triturating device with a first extension, a second extension and a hinge device therebetween. The hinge device is located within a housing, and comprises a hinge bar, a rotating drum mounted on a hinge bar. The rotating drum is slidable between a first position and a second position and rotatable between any one of three rotating positions. The hinge also comprises a engagement wall positioned within the housing and having a shelf and at least one locking slots. A locking member is formed on the rotating drum and cooperates with the engagement wall to lock the rotating drum into any one of the three rotating positions with the rotating drum is in the first sliding position. A biasing spring, located within the housing, biases the rotating drum toward the first sliding position.