Support device of a lid of a cooking recipient

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lid support devices for cooking recipients are either specific to certain containers, making them non-accessory items, or have complex coupling systems that complicate removal during use, leading to limited user acceptance.

Innovation Solution

A support device with an annular element that rests on the container rim, a hinged support arm with attachment means for the lid, and blocking and stop mechanisms allowing the lid to move between closed and raised positions, enabling easy access and removal without requiring specialized containers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the support device is specifically made for a given container, then the coupling between the support device and container is secure, but the device cannot be associated with different containers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling securityVSAvoidcontainer compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support device is designed with a universal annular element that can be placed on the rim of various cooking containers regardless of their specific dimensions or shape. The annular element's generic design allows it to adapt to different container types (pots, pans, casseroles) while maintaining secure coupling through friction and geometric compatibility, thus achieving multi-functionality across different container specifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If the lid is held in a fixed closed position, then the container is securely closed, but the user cannot access the compartment without completely removing the lid

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclosure securityVSAvoidaccess convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The support arm with hinge connection enables the lid to dynamically change position between closed and accessed states. When the support arm is in the lowered position, the lid securely closes the compartment. When the support arm is raised, the lid moves away to allow free access to the compartment. This dynamic positioning eliminates the need to completely remove the lid for access, while maintaining secure closure when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The closure system is segmented into movable components: the lid, support arm, and annular element. The support arm acts as an independent segment that can rotate between positions, allowing the lid to be held in different states (closed or accessed) without requiring complete removal. This segmentation enables the lid to function both as a secure closure and as an accessible component during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 solution provides a versatile and user-friendly lid support system that can be easily attached and detached from standard cooking recipients, offering convenient access and storage without complicating the use of the container.

Implementation Method 1

A support arm is hinged to this annular element 12. Said support arm 14 is provided with attachment means 16 for connection to the lid 5, for example threaded means. The latter is movable between a lowered position, in which it allows the lid 5 to rest on the annular support element 12 so as to close the compartment 6 of the container 2, and a raised position, wherein the lid 5 moves away from said annular element to allow access to said compartment 6.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHinge: Hinge

Data Source

PatentEP3102072B1Support device of a lid of a cooking recipient
Publication Date: 2019.08.14 PRANDELLI VIGILIO
  • EP3102072B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3102072B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3102072B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A support device of a lid (5) of a cooking recipient such as a pan, pot or casserole, comprising an annular element (12) suitable to rest on the rim of the container that delimits the opening of the compartment of the cooking recipient containing the food, and a support arm (14) hinged to said annular element (12). Said support arm is provided with attachment means (16) to the lid and is movable between a lowered position, in which it permits the lid to rest on said annular element (12) so as to close said compartment of the cooking recipient, and a raised position, in which it distances the lid from said annular element to permit access to said compartment.