Eating utensil system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing eating utensils often require separate tools for different functions, taking up more space and being less convenient for transport, and there is a need for hybrid combinations that offer improved functionality and convenience.
Innovation Solution
A combination fork and spoon system with an interlocking mechanism that allows the fork and spoon to nest or connect end-to-end, featuring a fork with chamfered tines for cutting and a spoon with a pentagonal bowl for efficient food handling, made from glass-reinforced thermoplastic for durability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate eating utensils (fork, spoon, knife) are used for different functions, then functional versatility is improved, but storage space and transport convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple eating utensils (fork, spoon, and knife) into a single integrated unit. The fork and spoon are merged through an interlocking mechanism where the spoon handle fits into the fork handle, while the knife is integrated into the spoon structure. This merging allows all three utensils to occupy the space of a single item during storage and transport, directly resolving the contradiction between functional versatility and storage volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested configuration where the spoon is inserted into the fork handle, and the knife is nested within the spoon structure. This nesting arrangement allows the utensils to be compactly stored within each other, minimizing the overall volume required for storage and transport while maintaining the ability to separate and use each utensil independently when needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate utensils are carried, then functional capability is improved, but ease of transport deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the fork, spoon, and knife into a single portable unit with an interlocking mechanism, the patent enables users to carry all necessary eating utensils in one compact item. This eliminates the need to separately manage multiple utensils during transport, directly improving ease of transport while preserving full functional capability through the integrated design.
3Volume of moving object
If a combination utensil is created, then storage space is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the combination utensil into distinct functional segments (fork portion, spoon portion, and knife portion) that can independently perform their respective functions. Each segment is designed with simple geometry and can be separated from the other segments through straightforward manual manipulation. This segmentation reduces the complexity of the overall structure by avoiding complex mechanical linkages while still achieving the space-saving combination effect.
Data Source
AI summary
A combination spoon and fork system capable of being stored in a nested configuration or used as a combination eating utensil with the spoon and fork connected end to end. An interlocking mechanism can interlock the spoon and fork in either the nested position or in the end to end configuration. The interlocking system allows the handle of the spoon to slide between rails on the handle of the fork and to snap and lock the spoon in place either nested with the fork or end to end with the fork to form an elongated combination eating utensil. The spoon and fork of the system can also be used separately from one another.