Interchangeable Grill Inserts With Latching Lift Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional grills have limited versatility in cooking options due to fixed wire or cast iron grates, restricting the types of foods that can be cooked and methods of preparation.
Innovation Solution
An interchangeable cooking insert system with a tool for easy removal and installation, featuring a handle, support arm with lifting hooks, and a latch mechanism, allowing various cooking surfaces to be used with outdoor grills, such as griddles, roasters, and trays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional wire or cast iron grates are used, then the grill structure is simple and stable, but the cooking versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The grill system is segmented into a fixed base grill structure and interchangeable cooking inserts. Each insert is a separate, self-contained unit that can be independently removed and replaced, allowing different cooking surfaces (griddles, roasters, trays) to be used with the same base grill without modifying the grill itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The base grill structure is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple types of cooking inserts through standardized support members and engagement features. This allows a single grill to perform multiple cooking functions by simply changing the insert, achieving multi-functionality without increasing the complexity of the grill itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable cooking inserts are added to enhance versatility, then cooking options increase, but the complexity of the grill system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooking inserts are designed as segmented, modular units with standardized components (support arms, lifting hooks, engagement features) that interface with the grill's support members. This segmentation allows each insert to be independently designed for specific cooking tasks while maintaining compatibility through standardized connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
Support members act as intermediaries between the grill structure and the various cooking inserts. These standardized support members provide a universal interface that simplifies the connection between the grill and different insert types, reducing the overall system complexity despite the variety of available inserts.
3Ease of operation
If a tool with latch member and support arm is used to remove inserts, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is designed to engage with self-service features on the cooking inserts, specifically the lifting hooks and lateral grooves. The lifting hooks automatically engage with the insert's lifting ears when the tool is positioned, and the support pin slides into the lateral groove without requiring additional alignment steps, making the operation intuitive and easy to perform.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool acts as an intermediary between the user and the cooking insert, providing mechanical advantage through its lever and latch mechanisms. The support arm and lifting hooks transfer the user's lifting force efficiently to the insert, while the latch member provides secure engagement, making insert removal easier despite the tool's moderate complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for removing an interchangeable cooking insert from a grill has a handle end and an engagement end. A handle extends from the handle end toward the engagement end. A support arm extends from the handle toward the engagement end. The support arm has a first lateral edge defining a first lifting hook and a second lateral edge defining a second lifting hook. The first lifting hook and second lifting hook are configured to engage a portion of the cooking insert. A support pin extends across the support arm between the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge. A latch member is pivotally coupled to one of the support arm and the handle. The latch member includes a first end selectively engageable with a portion of the cooking insert and a second end extending through the handle for actuation of the latching member by a user.