Griddle Height Adjustor for Precise Platen Gap Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing griddles lack a reliable mechanism to adjust the spacing between the upper and lower platens for optimal cooking thickness of food products.
Innovation Solution
A height adjustor mechanism is integrated into the griddle system, allowing for the adjustable spacing between the upper and lower platens through a rotary input and distal support, which is rotatably indexed and axially translated to set the desired gap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a height adjustor mechanism is added to control platen spacing, then cooking thickness control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The height adjustor mechanism transforms the static platen spacing into a dynamically adjustable parameter. The rotary input allows the user to change the distal support height, which in turn adjusts the gap between platens during operation, enabling continuous adaptation to different cooking thickness requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism changes the physical parameter of platen spacing by converting rotational motion of the rotary input into axial translation of the distal support through threading. This parameter transformation allows precise control over the cooking gap without requiring complex electronic systems
2Measurement precision
If indexed positions are provided for height adjustment, then cooking precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to indexing mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The ball detent mechanism automatically indexes the rotary input to predetermined positions without requiring additional user action. As the user rotates the rotary input, the ball detent passively engages with the indexed positions, providing tactile feedback and automatic positioning without adding operational steps or complexity
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 precise control over the cooking thickness by allowing continuous or indexed adjustment of the platen gap, enhancing cooking performance and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
a distal support (44) extending from the transverse support (42), the distal support (44) threadably engaged with the rotary input (36) and blocked from rotation so that a rotation of the rotary input (36) is translated to an axial translation of the distal support (44)
Data Source
AI summary
A griddle system including a height adjuster setting the gap between the upper platen of an upper platen assembly and a lower platen in a closed position of the upper platen is disclosed.